ABSTRACT

Pentachlorobenzene (PeCB), a chlorobenzene compound characterized by five chlorine atoms substituting the hydrogen atoms on the benzene ring, was designated a persistent organic pollutant under the Stockholm Convention in 2011. This compound poses significant risks to human health and the natural environment. The primary sources of PeCB in the environment include emissions from industrial production, unintentional releases during manufacturing processes, and its lasting presence in areas where it has been disposed of. In response to its hazards, China, Canada, and the European Union have established stringent management and control regulations.

To minimize or prevent the risks of environmental pollution and threats to human health associated with PeCB, bioremediation technology and proper risk management strategies are essential. When feasible, microbial degradation should be prioritized, since it provides an eco-friendly and cost-effective approach to addressing these challenges.