Biological Removal of Phenolic Pollutants from Wastewater – A Short Review

The article focuses on chemical compounds from the phenol group, which can persist in the natural environment and exert harmful effects on living organisms. Phenolic compounds have been listed as priority pollutants by both the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and the European Union (EU) due to their toxicity and significant effects on organisms. For example, some alkylphenols (APs), because of their chemical structure, are classified as xenoestrogens. Owing to their similarity to natural estrogens, they can interfere with the endocrine system, particularly by disrupting the metabolism of endogenous estrogens and impairing immune system function. Additionally, nonylphenol is considered a xenoestrogen compound that exerts toxic effects on many organisms by interfering with hormonal function. Against the background of the initially described physicochemical properties and environmental impact (including impact on living organisms) of phenol and phenolic compounds, this publication discusses methods for biodegrading these pollutants using bacteria, yeasts, fungi, and enzymes. Bioaugmentation techniques and hybrid treatment methods are also considered.