Nonylphenol and its derivatives: Environmental distribution, treatment strategy, management and future perspectives

In recent years, emerging pollutants, including nonylphenol (NP) and nonylphenol ethoxylate (NPE), have become a prominent topic. These substances are also classified as persistent organic pollutants. NP significantly affects the hormone secretion of organisms and exhibits neurotoxicity, which can affect the human hippocampus. Therefore, various countries are paying increased attention to NP regulation. NPEs are precursors of NPs and are widely used in the manufacture of various detergents and lubricants. NPEs can easily decompose into NPs, which possess strong biological and environmental toxicity. This review primarily addresses the distribution, toxicity mechanisms and performance, degradation technologies, management policies, and green alternative reagents of NPs and NPEs. Traditional treatment measures have been unable to completely remove NP from wastewater. With the progressively tightening management and regulatory policies, identifying proficient and convenient treatment methods and a sustainable substitute reagent with comparable product effectiveness is crucial. [Display omitted] •Stricter nonylphenol (NP) regulation is required owing to its environmental impact as an emerging pollutant.•The widespread presence of NPs in urban and natural environments raises concerns.•NP's neurotoxic and endocrine-disrupting properties raise health and ecosystem-related concerns.•Efficient chemical technologies show promise in NP treatment and remediation.•Effective NP governance requires the implementation of strict policies, comprehensive planning, and proactive measures.