Surfactants Harm Ecosystems

The book reveals how increasing surfactant production since the mid-20th century has led to greater concentrations in waterways, affecting aquatic life from microorganisms to fish. It highlights that even low-level, chronic exposure to these chemicals, often deemed safe, can have considerable environmental consequences.

The book examines the sources, transport, and degradation of surfactants in aquatic environments and their toxicological effects on various species. It connects environmental chemistry, toxicology, and ecology to analyze the surfactant problem holistically.

The book progresses from an introduction to surfactant chemistry and applications to exploring pollution pathways, impacts on trophic levels, and potential mitigation strategies like advanced wastewater treatment.

The book argues for a reevaluation of current risk assessments that often underestimate the cumulative effects of surfactants combined with other pollutants, advocating for more informed environmental regulations and responsible chemical use.