Profiles, drivers, and prioritization of antibiotics in China’s major rivers

Through a systematic review of literature references from 2007 to 2022, we compiled a comprehensive national dataset comprising over 67,000 records and covering information on 129 antibiotics detected in the surface water and sediments of China’s major rivers. Our analysis revealed notably high antibiotic concentrations in the Liaohe and Yellow Rivers. Among the antibiotics examined, sulfonamides, quinolones, and tetracyclines exhibited relatively high median concentrations in river water. Regional distribution analysis highlighted increased antibiotic levels in Shandong and Tianjin compared to other areas. Partial least squares path modeling revealed that animal production and pollution discharge positively influenced antibiotic levels in river water, whereas natural and socioeconomic factors had negative impacts. Based on the ecological risk assessment, we formulated a prioritized national list of antibiotics, with sulfonamides having the largest number of entries, followed by quinolones. Importantly, our analysis revealed a declining trend in antibiotic concentrations and the associated risk levels across China during the study period. This study not only enhances our understanding of antibiotic distribution in China's water systems, but also contributes to the development of a scientifically sound approach for prioritizing antibiotics. Ultimately, these findings will inform targeted antibiotic management and control strategies. Antibiotics, posing threats to ecosystems and human health, exhibit pseudo-persistence in the environment. we compiled a national dataset of over 67,000 records on antibiotics, our study scrutinized antibiotic distribution in China's major river water and sediment. Through this analysis, we identified key factors influencing distribution patterns and crafted a national priority ranking for antibiotics. These findings deepen our understanding of antibiotic presence and contribute to the development of targeted management strategies aimed at minimizing environmental impact. [Display omitted] •A national dataset comprising 129 antibiotics found in China’s rivers was compiled.•Shandong and Tianjin showed higher antibiotic concentrations in their river water.•Animal production had the greatest effect on antibiotic levels in river water.•A national-level priority rank list of antibiotics was proposed.