Protecting the World's Natural Resources: Water Pollution

Freshwater ecosystems worldwide are increasingly threatened by complex mixtures of emerging contaminants, necessitating advanced analytical approaches for detection, monitoring, and mitigation. This symposium will examine recent scientific advances addressing persistent and emerging pollutants in water systems. Topics include the occurrence and bioaccumulation of pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) in aquatic environments; the environmental persistence, mobility, and analytical challenges associated with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS); and the formation, toxicity, and control of disinfection byproducts (DBPs) during drinking water treatment. In addition, the role of advanced mass spectrometric techniques in the analysis of nanomaterials, microplastics, and biomolecular markers from wastewater-based epidemiology will be explored. Emphasis will be placed on innovative methodologies including high-resolution mass spectrometry, non-targeted screening, and quantitative risk assessment strategies. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the analytical complexities posed by diverse contaminants and the integration of advanced instrumentation to support regulatory frameworks and environmental protection efforts. This symposium will appeal to researchers, environmental chemists, public health scientists, and policymakers committed to developing solutions for safeguarding global water quality in the face of emerging chemical threats.