The Problem of Environmental Estrogens from the Wastewater Perspective

Abstract

Environmental estrogens are discharged from wastewater treatment plants and can cause physiological, developmental, and behavioral changes in fish and other aquatic organisms. Sources of environmental estrogens vary, with some sources under appreciated. In addition, the fate of these compounds in treatment plants and the environment is complicated, with degradation rates varying widely and degradation products sometimes causing physiological effects as well. Given this, how should we approach the management of these compounds? Do we impose regulations on the discharge of environmental estrogens, and if so, how? Finally, how do we pay for the treatment required to protect ecosystems?