Groundwater Implications of Water Pollution in Pakistan: A Review on Sustainable Environmental Management of Solid Waste

Abstract

Water pollution is a significant environmental challenge in Pakistan, with direct implications for both public health and the economy and finding sustainable management solutions are paramount to the wellbeing of the country. This review examines the sources and effects of water contamination, particularly focusing on groundwater, which is vital for the country’s population. Various pollutants, including heavy metals, pathogens, and chemical effluents, have rendered a large portion of Pakistan’s surface and groundwater unsafe for human consumption. The review underscores the role of industrialization, outdated waste management practices, and rapid urbanization as major contributors to this crisis. Addressing these challenges requires the adoption of sustainable waste management practices, with a focus on the 3Rs—Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle. Furthermore, community engagement and awareness campaigns are crucial to fostering a culture of environmental responsibility. It was realized that improving solid waste management, promoting sustainable practices, and implementing stricter regulations, is capable of mitigating the harmful effects of water pollution. Most significantly, the study offers valuable insights for policymakers, environmental engineers, and researchers aiming to develop more sustainable water management solutions in Pakistan. Innovative approaches, such as the use of nanomaterial’s for pollutant removal and advanced wastewater treatment technologies, are proposed as viable solutions for enhancing water quality and protecting groundwater resources.