Emerging Petroleum Pollutants and Their Adverse Effects on the Environment

The petroleum sector's contribution to the global economy is significant and remarkable, with a vast spectrum of products utilised in transportation, industry, and household consumption. However, the petroleum industry generates a vast amount of emerging petroleum pollutants. As petroleum pollutants have a detrimental effect on human health and the environment, these pollutants are rising sources of concern. One highly concerning emerging petroleum contaminant is Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). PAHs have been related to cancer, and adverse effects on development and reproduction are among other health issues. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are another emerging pollutant extensively employed in industrial and commercial applications as coolants and lubricants in electrical equipment. But cancer and immune system malfunction are some health issues connected to PCB exposure. These pollutants are joined by perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), utilized in various applications. They may penetrate the food chain and harm wildlife. These contaminants may harm many creatures, from tiny plankton to bigger fish and mammals, and have long-term repercussions on the environment. These toxins may accumulate in these species' tissues and damage animals who consume them. Nitrogen-containing compounds, oxygenated compounds, Endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs), nanoparticles, and flame retardants are some of the emerging petroleum pollutants that are notoriously difficult to eliminate and pose severe human and environmental health risks. Emerging petroleum pollutants constitute a significant problem that must be addressed to safeguard human health and the natural environment. The removal of these contaminants will need substantial efforts in the areas of research, regulatory reform, and environmental cleaning.