Estudo da aplicação da foto-ozonização no tratamento de efluentes hospitalares - uma revisão sistemática da literatura

Abstract

The improper disposal of pharmaceuticals in the environment is a growing problem, with negative impacts on both public health and ecosystems. Improperly disposed of pharmaceuticals can contaminate water bodies, soils, and groundwater, affecting aquatic organisms and contributing to antimicrobial resistance. The presence of pharmaceutical substances in hospital effluents is a challenge, since conventional treatment plants are not effective in removing these compounds. In Brazil, the lack of specific regulations on the release of pharmaceuticals into water bodies aggravates this situation. This paper reviews the use of advanced oxidation processes, with emphasis on photo-ozonation, as a solution for the treatment of hospital effluents contaminated by pharmaceuticals. Photo-ozonation combines ozone and UV radiation to degrade recalcitrant substances such as antibiotics and hormones, presenting an efficiency of over 90% in the removal of these contaminants and improving the quality of the treated effluent. However, the formation of by-products during the process can result in intermediate compounds with residual toxicity, which requires constant monitoring and additional studies to ensure environmental safety. The conclusion of the study highlights the urgent need to improve Brazilian environmental legislation, with the aim of establishing clear limits for emerging contaminants in water bodies and encouraging the implementation of more effective treatment technologies. Proper management of pharmaceutical waste should be integrated into public health and sanitation policies, aiming to balance treatment efficiency, economic viability and environmental safety, ensuring the sustainability of processes and the protection of aquatic ecosystems.