Exploring Strategies to Overcome Antibiotic Resistance in Wastewater Treatment Plants: A Review

Abstract

Antibiotic resistance is a growing global concern, with wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) serving as critical hotspots for the proliferation of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). This review explores various strategies to mitigate antibiotic resistance within WWTPs, focusing on their efficiency, feasibility, and environmental implications. Key approaches include advanced treatment technologies such as membrane bioreactors, ozonation, and advanced oxidation processes, alongside bioremediation techniques leveraging microbial consortia. The review identifies gaps in current practices, highlighting the need for integrating innovative technologies with routine operations to ensure sustainability and effectiveness. By providing a comprehensive synthesis of existing strategies, this work aims to guide future research and policymaking in addressing antibiotic resistance within WWTPs, ultimately contributing to global efforts to combat this escalating public health threat.