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THE PROBLEM
Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) is a group of compounds that has to be added to the list of potentially hazardous chemicals ending up in the aquatic environment. The main source of APIs in the environment is municipal waste water since present waste water treatment techniques are not suitable for degradation of a wide range of APIs. The existence of APIs in the aquatic environment is certainly a cause for concern, but existence alone is only one prerequisite for adverse outcomes. The fact that all APIs are designed for potent interactions with biological systems significantly adds to this concern and a risk to aquatic species cannot easily be dismissed. It is already known that estrogens from contraceptives may contribute to the feminization of male fish living in waters polluted by domestic wastewater effluents. Knowledge on the possible adverse effects of other APIs in aquatic organisms is scarce.HOW CAN THE PROGRAMME CONTRIBUTE TO A SOLUTION TO THE PROBLEM?
The main purposes of the programme are to: Identify high risk APIs. MistraPharma will use an approach that enables us to consider all 1200 APIs currently available on the Swedish market. This is, as far as we know, a uniquely comprehensive approach. Recommend techniques to improve wastewater treatment technologies.
For the 30 highest ranked APIs we will evaluate the present loading of APIs, and the discharge of these compounds from the different types of Swedish wastewater treatment plants. This evaluation will form the basis for defining, evaluating and development of promising methods for removal of a APIs through wastewater treatment. In this procedure we can work with bench, pilot and, when possible, full-scale investigations.
Improve risk identification strategies.
Up-stream risk management will also be addressed.
Strengthen the contacts and the communication within the Swedish and international network of sceientists and stakeholdersn.
The MistraPharma programme has been developed, and will continue to work, in close cooperation with stakeholders and the end-users of the research
WHO WILL BENEFIT FROM THE RESULTS?
The main end users that have been identified and who have also cooperated in the development of the programme application are: - Authorities, mainly the Swedish Medical Products Agency, the Swedish Environment Protection Agency and the Swedish Chemicals Agency.
- Companies/organizations responsible for sewage treatment and/or distribution of drinking water.
- The public health care
- The pharmaceutical industry.
