Themed collection Environmental Science Advances Recent Review Articles
Carbon dots: a promising path towards environmental sustainability
CDs provide unique potential for environmental monitoring and remediation. This perspective article emphasizes the role of co-formed molecules and purification, exploring current trends and future prospects in pollutant detection and removal.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2024,3, 1513-1523
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4VA00273C
Chemical transformation, exposure assessment, and policy implications of fluorotelomer alcohol partitioning from consumer products to the indoor and outdoor environment—from production to end-of-life
Much is known about fluorotelomer alcohols (FTOHs) in consumer products and FTOHs release to the environment. This Perspective provides some understanding of the release of FTOHs to the environment throughout the lifetime of consumer products.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2024,3, 1364-1384
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4VA00019F
Solving freshwater conservation challenges through next-generation sequencing approaches
Traditional aquatic biomonitoring has limitations in resolution and understanding ecosystem dynamics. Next-generation sequencing methods offer a more comprehensive assessment of biodiversity and ecosystem functioning, overcoming these constraints.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2024,3, 1181-1196
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4VA00112E
Global monitoring of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in biota, water and sediments: its role in screening for unregulated POPs, in compiling time trends of regulated POPs under the Stockholm Convention (SC) and their relevance for biodiversity in a changing climate
This paper considers elements of the dynamic process of production dispersal and monitoring of persistent organic pollutants in the environment that has unfolded over the past 100 years.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2024,3, 1111-1123
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4VA00023D
AI-guided electro-decomposition of persistent organic pollutants: a long-awaited vision becoming reality?
AI-assisted design of high-entropy alloys for electro-degradation of POPs could greatly accelerate and improve the design–synthesis–test cycle, hence providing a practical strategy to solve the challenges we might face during mitigation of POPs.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2023,2, 1302-1305
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3VA00175J
Enhanced plastic economy: a perspective and a call for international action
The current plastic circular economy lacks a uniform framework. It overfocuses on recycling, reuse and energy recovery. An enhanced plastic economy drives innovation and concerted effort in reducing plastic pollution and waste management.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2023,2, 1011-1018
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3VA00057E
Healthy diets for sustainable food systems: a narrative review
Healthy and sustainable diets should be put at the center of food systems planning if we want to feed the growing population while making a sustainable use of natural resources and to protect biodiversity.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2023,2, 684-694
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2VA00214K
People, plastic, and behaviour change – a comment on drivers of plastic pollution, barriers to change and targeted behaviour change interventions
Few studies consider human behaviour and relationship impacts on how people use and manage plastic.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2023,2, 551-557
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2VA00248E
The emergence of microplastics: charting the path from research to regulations
This paper summarizes recent groundbreaking research and regulations for microplastics and provides critical recommendations to overcome additional barriers.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2023,2, 356-367
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2VA00275B
“Advanced materials” and the challenges on the horizon for testing their (eco)toxicity and assessing their hazard
“Advanced Materials” (AdMas) represent the next technology frontier.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2023,2, 162-170
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2VA00128D
Policy options to account for multiple chemical pollutants threatening biodiversity
Chemical pollution poses a threat to biodiversity on a global scale.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2023,2, 151-161
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2VA00257D
Below zero
Massive CO2 removals will be necessary to avoid climate tipping. Comparing removals with past, current and future carbon stocks and flows reveals the importance of avoiding fossil emissions completely and developing scalable technical solutions.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2022,1, 612-619
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2VA00168C
Machine learning for screening active metabolites with metabolomics in environmental science
The current challenges and opportunities for machine learning in the interdisciplinary fields of metabolomics and environmental science.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2022,1, 605-611
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2VA00107A
Microplastics in ecosystems: their implications and mitigation pathways
Microplastic (MP) pollution is an emerging threat to terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2022,1, 9-29
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1VA00012H
Microplastics analysis: from qualitative to quantitative
This review provides a critical overview of the literature on analytical techniques of MPs in environmental and food matrices, emphasizing the latest methods for MP separation, identification, and quantification.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2024,3, 1652-1668
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4VA00244J
Life cycle assessment methods for investigating novel food packaging systems
The high volume of plastic waste generated and its potential harm to wildlife and ecosystems are negative consequences of poor end-of-life food packaging management.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2024,3, 1337-1350
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3VA00380A
Greening the waves: experimental and chemometric approaches in spectroscopic methods for organic pollutant determination in natural waters
The review paper explores new experimental and chemometric methods in spectroscopy for detecting organic pollutants in natural waters, aiming to improve sustainability and monitoring accuracy.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2024,3, 1072-1086
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4VA00028E
Battery waste-derived functional materials for the capture and removal of harmful gases
The waste-to-wealth concept of utilizing battery-waste derived functional materials in toxic gas removal application.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2024,3, 1087-1096
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4VA00140K
Fate and occurrence of microplastics in wastewater treatment plants
This review discusses the most recent research focused on the abundance and removal of microplastics in wastewater treatment plants.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2023,2, 1616-1628
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3VA00167A
Recent advances on value-added biocarbon preparation by the pyrolysis of renewable and waste biomass, their structure and properties: a move toward an ecofriendly alternative to carbon black
The production of renewable biocarbon from waste biomass through pyrolysis as a sustainable and ecofriendly alternative to carbon black poses major scientific challenges for value-added uses in plastic and composite industries.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2023,2, 1282-1301
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3VA00107E
Advancements in catalysis for plastic resource utilization
The widespread production and utilization of plastic products have become ingrained in our society, resulting in a staggering amount of plastic waste, severe environmental challenges, and resource depletion.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2023,2, 1151-1166
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3VA00158J
Bacterial transformation of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances: a review for the field of bioremediation
Biotransformation of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) has received growing attention as more research becomes available indicating that bioremediation may have a future role to play in addressing PFAS contamination.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2023,2, 1019-1041
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3VA00031A
Byproduct formation in heterogeneous catalytic ozonation processes
Heterogeneous catalytic ozonation (HCO) is a promising advanced oxidation process (AOP) that can effectively degrade recalcitrant organic pollutants; but formation of harmful byproducts should be carefully evaluated.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2023,2, 558-569
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2VA00216G
Review of analytical techniques for arsenic detection and determination in drinking water
This review presents an overview of various analytical techniques for arsenic determination in drinking water, and will enhance awareness and appreciation of their role in informing and protecting our environment and water resources, globally.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2023,2, 171-195
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2VA00218C
Significance of anaerobic oxidation of methane (AOM) in mitigating methane emission from major natural and anthropogenic sources: a review of AOM rates in recent publications
AOM rates in literature were analyzed and anaerobic methanotrophs significantly cut methane emissions in oceans but not in wetlands, rice paddy, and fresh water. The trophic and metabolic patterns of microorganisms may be limiting the AOM rates.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2022,1, 401-425
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2VA00091A
Management of phyto-parasitic nematodes using bacteria and fungi and their consortia as biocontrol agents
Phyto-parasitic nematodes are one of the risks to the agroecosystem that cause agricultural output to decline in a variety of crops around the world.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4VA00216D
A review of research progress on prevention and control technologies for arsenic and cadmium composite pollution in paddy soil
Arsenic and cadmium in paddy soils pose food safety risks in China due to their transfer to rice grains. This review explores various remediation techniques, highlighting the need for integrated, region-specific solutions to reduce contamination.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4VA00293H
Innovative approaches to sustainable wastewater treatment: a comprehensive exploration of conventional and emerging technologies
Access to clean water is under threat due to population growth, climate change, and pollution, emphasizing the need for effective wastewater treatment.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4VA00136B
Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate and type 2 diabetes
This review evaluates almost two decades of epidemiological and experimental studies investigating the link between DEHP exposure and type 2 diabetes. Further research is required to comprehend the implications of the proposed association in humans.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2024,3, 1679-1697
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4VA00121D
A review of the toxic effects of microplastics based on studies on mammals and mammalian cell lines
In vivo studies showed that adverse effects were observed at 0.01–0.15 mg day−1 for polystyrene microplastics and 0.125 mg day−1 for polyethylene microplastics. In vitro studies yielded variable results depending on the cell types.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2024,3, 1669-1678
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4VA00227J
A critical review of a hidden epidemic: examining the occupational and environmental risk factors of chronic kidney disease of unknown etiology (CKDu)
A form of chronic kidney disease has been described in people without any known risk factors. These cases are referred to as chronic kidney disease of an unknown etiology (CKDu).
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4VA00304G
Hydroxyapatite/urea hybrid materials: what is the basis for the enhanced nutrient efficiency?
Urea molecules are reacted with the surface of hydroxyapatite crystals to create a moderate bonding strength system, which hinder the release of N and P into the soil and support the thermal stability.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4VA00197D
Laccase-mediated degradation of emerging contaminants: unveiling a sustainable solution
Source of contaminants in the environment and their removal using lacasse.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2024,3, 1500-1512
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4VA00173G
Advancements in visible light-driven micro/nanomotors for photodegradation of environmental pollutants
Recent advances (2020–2024) in visible light-driven motors to enhance pollutant photodegradation are reviewed. An overview of challenges and perspectives for future research is provided.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2024,3, 1474-1499
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4VA00230J
Bimetallic nanoparticles: advances in fundamental investigations and catalytic applications
Bimetallic nanoparticles provide promising active sites for many reactions, and such materials can be synthesized with different spatial distributions, such as disordered alloys, core–shell structures, and Janus-type heterogeneous structures.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4VA00241E
Monitoring plastic pollution using bioindicators: a global review and recommendations for marine environments
Monitoring the movement of plastic into marine food webs is central to understanding and mitigating the plastic pollution crisis.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4VA00174E
A brief review on flue gas desulfurization gypsum recovery toward calcium carbonate preparation
A brief review on flue gas desulfurization gypsum carbonation to prepare calcium carbonate via a direct way and an indirect way.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2024,3, 1351-1363
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4VA00179F
Exploring sustainable adsorbents to mitigate micro-/nano-plastic contamination: perspectives on electrospun fibrous constructs, biochar, and aerogels
A schematic representation showing the exploration of the limitations of conventional MNP removal techniques, highlighting the potential of biochar, electrospun fibrous constructs, and aerogels as sustainable and effective solutions for MNP removal.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2024,3, 1217-1243
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4VA00039K
A review on waste biomass-to-energy: integrated thermochemical and biochemical conversion for resource recovery
Integrating thermochemical–biochemical methods overcomes the single-path limits for bioenergy production. This synergy lowers costs and enhances energy sustainability, highlighting waste-to-energy's vital role in the circular economy transition.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2024,3, 1197-1216
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4VA00109E
Bioremediation – the recent drift towards a sustainable environment
This review includes insights on the impacts of azo dyes; the principles of bioremediation and its strategies, advantages, and limitations; and future prospects involving nanobioremediation.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2024,3, 1097-1110
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3VA00358B
Advancements in the stability, protection and lead-free strategies of perovskite solar cells: a critical review
Lead toxicity is a challenge for the large-scale commercial production and the field implementation of photovoltaics.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2024,3, 1004-1029
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3VA00401E
Glyphosate: a review on its widespread prevalence and occurrence across various systems
Glyphosate (GLY), a versatile herbicide with several applications, has become quite popular for controlling weed growth in residential, commercial, and agricultural settings.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2024,3, 1030-1038
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4VA00085D
Ongoing legacy contamination from a military radar station in Iceland: a case study
The Dew line radar station at Heidarfjall in 1958 (https://www.radomes.org/museum/acwgrnland.php).
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2024,3, 972-982
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4VA00049H
A review of current developments in graphene oxide–polysulfone derived membranes for water remediation
Water pollution has become a major issue due to the presence of hazardous pollutants resulting from ever-increasing industrial growth, and researchers are actively seeking innovative solutions for water treatment.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2024,3, 983-1003
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4VA00058G
Cross-cutting research and future directions under the GAPS networks
The GAPs networks are engaging in cross-cutting studies across fields of science and policy to address future challenges.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2024,3, 798-807
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4VA00034J
Iron oxide nanoparticles: a narrative review of in-depth analysis from neuroprotection to neurodegeneration
Iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) are ubiquitous in nature. They can play dual functions, one in neuroprotection and other in neurodegeneration.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2024,3, 635-660
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4VA00062E
Implementation of the Stockholm Convention on persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in Africa – progress, challenges, and recommendations after 20 years
The Stockholm Convention on persistent organic pollutants is an effective global instrument for the eradication of hazardous chemicals known as persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in the environment.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2024,3, 623-634
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3VA00347G
Carbon farming: a circular framework to augment CO2 sinks and to combat climate change
Addressing the climate crisis stands as one of the paramount challenges of this era.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2024,3, 522-542
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3VA00296A
Environmental contamination and climate change in Antarctic ecosystems: an updated overview
The review presents a complete update of previous reviews on the topics of environmental contamination, climate change and human impact on Antarctic ecosystems.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2024,3, 543-560
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3VA00113J
Challenges for reliable analysis of uranium in natural waters using laser-induced fluorimetry/LED-fluorimetry in the presence of fluoride and diverse humic substances in hot arid regions and future advances – review
There is large variations in diverse water samples due to time interval between sample collection and analysis in the presence of fluoride and humic substances in hot arid regions.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2024,3, 511-521
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3VA00318C
Metal oxide-based electrochemical sensors for pesticide detection in water and food samples: a review
The increasing need for food and agricultural resources necessitates using pesticides to protect plants, but this approach also poses pesticide poisoning and environmental hazards.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2024,3, 154-176
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3VA00313B
Promising approaches and kinetic prospects of the microbial degradation of pharmaceutical contaminants
Pharmaceutical pollutants, stemming from waste disposal, animal discharge, and drug manufacturing, pose health risks to humans and animals through their biological activity.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2023,2, 1488-1504
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3VA00194F
Microplastic emerging pollutants – impact on microbiological diversity, diarrhea, antibiotic resistance, and bioremediation
Advanced economic development and technologies cause worldwide plastic waste to increase many folds, leaving policymakers with the dilemma of managing it.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2023,2, 1469-1487
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3VA00084B
Application of a differential technique in laser-induced fluorimetry/pulsed LED-fluorimetry: simple and reliable analysis of uranium raw materials in the nuclear fuel cycle – a mini-review
Application of differential technique is based on the comparison of the fluorescence of the standard with a sample of similar but unknown concentration on the same sample weight basis, by the use of H3PO4–NH4H2PO4 as a fluorescence-enhancing reagent.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2023,2, 1340-1350
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3VA00134B
Remediation and recycling of inorganic acids and their green alternatives for sustainable industrial chemical processes
Aqueous acidic wastes are generated as a result of various industrial processes, and remediation and recycling of inorganic acids are required to mitigate their negative environmental effects and extending the sustainability of their uses.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2023,2, 1306-1339
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3VA00112A
Integrated 3D pore architecture design of bio-based engineered catalysts and adsorbents: preparation, chemical doping, and environmental applications
An integrated strategy combining 3D architecture design and chemical doping holds great promise for enhancing the performance of bio-based engineered carbon materials in environmental applications.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2023,2, 1167-1188
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3VA00125C
Preservation, storage, and sample preparation methods for freshwater microplastics – a comprehensive review
Sampling, storage, preservation, pre-treatment, and extraction are essential components of microplastic detection. Hence, to obtain an accurate representation of microplastics, it is crucial to carefully choose the most suitable pre-analysis methods.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2023,2, 1060-1081
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3VA00043E
Biochar implications in cleaner agricultural production and environmental sustainability
Biochar production and utilization is proposed as an innovative approach for enhancing food production and climate change mitigation. Globally, biochar has the potential to increase crop productivity by ∼11% and reduces annual human-induced GHG emissions by ∼12%.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2023,2, 1042-1059
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2VA00324D
Non-enzymatic electrochemical sensors based on nanomaterials for detection of organophosphorus pesticide residues
Non-enzymatic nanocomposites and their modified electrodes, including carbon nanotubes, graphene, metal nanoparticles, metal oxides, conductive polymers, MOFs and derivatives, molecularly imprinted polymers are discussed in the rapid electrochemical sensing of OPPs.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2023,2, 933-956
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3VA00045A
Potential of microalgae and cyanobacteria to improve soil health and agricultural productivity: a critical view
Microalgae are a source of scientific curiosity and inspiration for their utilization as ‘inoculants’ in agriculture and the commercial production of high-value products.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2023,2, 586-611
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2VA00158F
Sustainable energy technologies for the Global South: challenges and solutions toward achieving SDG 7
Decentralization of energy generation to minimize energy distribution costs and maximize local energy production capacity.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2023,2, 570-585
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2VA00247G
Prospects of carbon capture, utilization and storage for mitigating climate change
CCUS have gained attention to combat rising climate change challenges. Transdisciplinary approaches are required for deploying large-scale CCUS projects. Acceptance of CCU seems higher than CCS while CCS is cost-effective compared to CCU.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2023,2, 409-423
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2VA00236A
Bibliometric study on the application of manganese dioxide in environmental catalysis worldwide from 1991 to 2021
Structure activity relationship, density functional theory, catalytic oxidation and mechanism have become the frontier in MnO2 environmental catalysis.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2023,2, 397-408
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2VA00276K
Fabrication of biodegradable fibrous systems employing electrospinning technology for effluent treatment
The fabrication of biopolymer fibers through electrospinning technology with the elucidation of the adsorption and biodegradation mechanism of the employed electrospun biopolymer fibers in wastewater treatment for the removal of toxic entities.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2023,2, 368-396
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2VA00244B
The reuse of electronic components from waste printed circuit boards: a critical review
As a key component of all electrical and electronic equipment, waste printed circuit boards (WPCBs) are an important target for waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) treatment.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2023,2, 196-214
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2VA00266C
Biofouling phenomena in membrane distillation: mechanisms and mitigation strategies
Membrane distillation (MD) is envisaged as a cost-effective water desalination technology. However, its industrial application has been limited by process inefficiencies caused by fouling, amongst other factors.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2023,2, 39-54
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2VA00161F
Application of neural network in metal adsorption using biomaterials (BMs): a review
ANN models for predicting wastewater treatment efficacy of biomaterial adsorbents.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2023,2, 11-38
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2VA00200K
What do we know about the production and release of persistent organic pollutants in the global environment?
As of 2020, a cumulative total of 31 306 kilotonnes of manmade persistent organic pollutants had been synthesized and commercialized worldwide, resulting in cumulative releases of 20 348 kilotonnes into the global environment.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2023,2, 55-68
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2VA00145D
Environmental persistence, detection, and mitigation of endocrine disrupting contaminants in wastewater treatment plants – a review with a focus on tertiary treatment technologies
Endocrine disrupting chemicals are a group of contaminants that have severe effects on humans and animals when exposed, like cancer and alterations to the nervous and reproductive systems.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2022,1, 680-704
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2VA00179A
Fluoride contamination, consequences and removal techniques in water: a review
Fluoride contamination has created a drinking water crisis globally.
Environ. Sci.: Adv., 2022,1, 620-661
https://doi.org/10.1039/D1VA00039J
About this collection
In addition to high quality research papers, Environmental Science: Advances features topical review articles. Reviews will be added to this webpage as soon as possible after publication.