Emerging pollutants (EPs)—substances including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, pesticides, detergents, and micro-plastics—enter aquatic environments through various waste streams. These chemicals accumulate in organisms and magnify through food chains, posing risks of cancer and neurological damage.

Fish exposed to these contaminants exhibit reduced productive ability, stunted growth, deformities, and compromised immune systems. Humans consuming contaminated seafood face real exposure risks.

KMFRI's research efforts include water quality studies and advanced analytical techniques like chromatography and mass spectrometry to identify pollution hotspots and assess ecological risks.

Solutions proposed include improving wastewater treatment infrastructure, strengthening regulations on waste disposal, promoting eco-friendly products, and raising public awareness.

A notable finding: trace amounts of caffeine, painkillers, and birth control pills have been detected in fish globally, with documented behavioral and reproductive changes in affected populations.

Author: Eugene Kasuku