Antibiotics and antibiotic resitant bacteria: from hotspots into the aquatic environment

Abstract

There is a vast literature on the occurrence of antibiotics and antibiotic resistant bacteria (ARB) of human or animal origin in natural aquatic ecosystems as result of anthropogenic activitie. Although hotspots for AR discharge in the environment were identified, that include: sewage and wastewater treatment plants (WWTP), industrial drug manufacurers, food and animal production, agriculture and aquaculture, and clinical settings such as hospitals, efficient current regulations to mitigate this pollution are lacking. The aim of this review is to provide insights regarding the spread of antibiotics and ARB from hotspots into aquatic environment and also an overview of current EU and UN regulations for combating AR pollution of our natural ecosystems.