High Concentration of Emerging Micropollutants (EMPs) in Septic Tanks and River in Surabaya

Research on emerging micro-pollutants (EMPs) in Indonesia is scarce. Studies indicate that even at relatively low concentrations (µg/L), these substances pose health risks to aquatic biota. This study aimed to identify EMPs in septic tanks and the Surabaya River and assess the influence of social factors such as habits and sanitation levels. Solid-phase extraction (SPE) and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) were used to determine EMPs concentrations in samples. SPE and HPLC were selected for their high sensitivity, selectivity, and efficiency, with SPE enabling sample pre-concentration and purification, while HPLC ensured precise separation and quantification of trace contaminants. The results showed high paracetamol levels (15.54 mg/L) in septic tanks and significant caffeine concentrations (10.31 mg/L) in the Surabaya River. This trend was linked to residents' habit of urinating on bathroom floor drains instead of using toilets, allowing contaminants to flow into drainage systems and the river. Societal consumption habits influenced the types of EMPs in urine, with high caffeine concentrations attributed to the widespread consumption of over-the-counter medications and beverages such as tea and coffee. The lack of regulations on pollutant concentrations in Indonesian rivers increases the risk of contaminants entering clean water treatment systems. Given these findings, stricter monitoring and comprehensive regulations are urgently needed to mitigate potential public health risks and environmental impacts.