ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book focuses on a peripheral consequence: new chemicals or compounds that end up in the environment as a result of technology manufacturing or human use. It focuses mainly on groundwater, and employs two terms: “emerging contaminants” and “contaminants of emerging concern.” The development of new technologies and the underlying science that makes them possible is the foundation of human progress. Technology has allowed for huge leaps forward in our quality of life. In the United States, the USEPA has a huge influence on identification, and later regulation, of emerging contaminants. The book aims to incorporate global perspectives associated with emerging contaminants.
