A global perspective on the nature and fate of heavy metals polluting water ecosystems, and their impact and remediation

Abstract

One of the greatest challenges facing global environmental science is the protection of aquatic from heavy metal contamination stemming from human activities. This article is intended as a response to the global dynamic evolution of industries, transportation, increased extraction of fossil fuels, ever-rising consumption patterns, and unregulated discharge of wastewater resulting in increasing of environmental pollution with heavy metals. The aim of the article extends beyond the mere identification of heavy metals in the environment; it encompasses a comprehensive analysis of their modes of transportation and fate, a thorough evaluation of their impacts on various trophic levels, and an in-depth exploration of their potential toxicity. Furthermore, this article looks toward a fresh era in environmental stewardship, characterized by a deep-seated commitment to improving the removal of such damaging pollutants from our environment. To continue to foster ecological and economic sustainability, as set out in the Sustainable Development Goals 2015, and develop global environmental policy, there is an increasing need for pioneering and comprehensive methods of environmental reclamation aimed at eradicating heavy metals from surface waters. Such comprehensive methods include ecohydrological biotechnologies and Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) based on knowledge of geochemical and molecular processes. Both are presented in this article under the global principle of ‘One Health’ - the health of the environment, people and animals. Due to its extensive effects on ecosystems, and the resulting need for international cooperation, it is crucial that the problem of heavy metal contamination is addressed on the global scale.