Pharmaceutical substances constitute a significant group of modern environmental pollutants, with their presence in soil and air becoming more pronounced due to intensive production and widespread use of drugs in human and veterinary medicine, as well as in agriculture. Although they were originally developed to preserve human and animal health, their biological activity and chemical stability contribute to their persistence in various environmental components. In recent decades, pharmaceutical substances have been recognised as so-called emerging pollutants, whose effects on ecosystems and human health are increasingly being investigated within the framework of environmental protection. The paper analyses the main sources and pathways by which pharmaceutical substances reach the soil and air. The pharmaceutical industry, healthcare institutions, households, and agricultural and veterinary activities are identified as significant sources. During the production, use, and disposal of medicines, these substances enter wastewater, from which, due to the insufficient efficiency of standard purification systems, they spread further into the environment. The role of improper disposal of unused medicines, as well as the use of veterinary antibiotics that reach the soil through manure, is particularly emphasised. Atmospheric deposition is also an important, but often neglected, route for the dissemination of pharmaceutical substances. The paper provides an overview of the most frequently detected groups of pharmaceutical substances in the environment, including antibiotics, analgesics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, hormones, and other biologically active substances. Special attention is given to antibiotics due to their link with the development of microorganism resistance, which represents one of the greatest global health and environmental challenges. Hormonal preparations are also analysed for their potential to cause endocrine disruption in animals and humans. The paper examined the behaviour and fate of pharmaceutical substances in the environment, including processes such as adsorption in the soil, microbiological and chemical decomposition, air transport, and bioaccumulation in organisms. It was noted that long-term exposure to even low concentrations of these substances can disrupt the microbiological balance, reduce biodiversity, and pose potential risks to human health through the food chain. Based on the analysed data, it was concluded that the problem of pharmaceutical pollutants is complex and requires an integrated approach within the framework of environmental protection. Improving wastewater treatment technologies, proper management of pharmaceutical waste, stricter regulation, and public education are key measures to reduce their negative impact. Continuous monitoring and further research are necessary to ensure effective management of these modern pollutants and to preserve the stability of the ecosystem.
M. Stojadinovic, M. Nujkić· Zbornik radova· 0 citations
Plastic materials are among the most widespread products of modern society, but they also pose one of the greatest environmental problems due to their slow degradation and accumulation in the environment. Biodegradable plastic was developed as a potential solution to this issue, designed as a material that can be broken down by microorganisms into simpler, more environmentally friendly compounds. However, although it is often regarded as a more sustainable alternative to conventional plastics, its actual impact on the environment and ecosystems is still not fully understood. The aim of this paper is to analyse and review the impact of biodegradable plastics on various components of the environment, including soil, aquatic ecosystems, plants, animals, and potential effects on human health. A review of previous research shows that biodegradable plastic can help reduce long-term pollution, as it breaks down into carbon dioxide, water, and mineral substances under certain conditions. However, numerous studies indicate that complete decomposition often occurs only in controlled industrial or laboratory settings, while in the natural environment decomposition may be incomplete, leading to the formation of microplastics. These tiny particles can persist in soil or water for long periods and potentially affect organisms and ecosystems. Analysis of scientific papers shows that the most studied types of biodegradable plastics are polylactic acid (PLA), polybutylene adipate-co-terephthalate (PBAT), polybutylene succinate (PBS), and polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA). Most research has been conducted under laboratory conditions and over a relatively short period, usually less than a few months, which limits the ability to observe long-term ecological effects. The results of numerous studies indicate that biodegradable plastics can affect soil physicochemical properties, including changes in pH, soil structure, and nutrient availability. In some cases, there is a decrease in soil nitrogen content and changes in microbial communities, which can influence plant growth and development. Experiments have shown that the presence of biodegradable plastic can slow the growth of various plant species, including wheat, soybeans, maize, and lettuce, as well as reduce the content of chlorophyll and other important biochemical compounds. The impact of biodegradable plastics has been observed in both terrestrial and aquatic organisms. In certain invertebrates, such as earthworms and insects, negative effects on growth, reproduction, and survival have been recorded, while in some organisms these effects were minimal or statistically insignificant. In aquatic ecosystems, plastics can cause metabolic disturbances, reduced growth, and organ damage in fish and other organisms, especially at higher concentrations and with longer exposure times. In addition to environmental effects, potential risks to human health are also considered. Microplastics can enter the human body through food, water, and air, and some research indicates that biodegradable plastic can serve as a carrier of microorganisms and pollutants. During decomposition, small plastic particles can affect the balance of microorganisms in the digestive system and potentially cause inflammatory processes. In conclusion, although biodegradable plastics represent a promising alternative to conventional plastic materials, their environmental effects depend on the type of plastic, concentration, duration of exposure, and environmental conditions. Previous research indicates that they can have both positive and negative impacts on ecosystems. Therefore, long-term research is needed to better understand their real effects and enable safe and sustainable use in the future.
Veljko Jovanović, M. Nujkić· Zbornik radova· 0 citations
