Phthalates (also known as phthalic acid esters, or PAEs) are used as plasticisers in many consumer products, such as plastics and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and as solvents in adhesives, cosmetics and paints. Phthalates are one of the most common organic contaminants in the environment, but data about human exposure to them are limited.

Applying biochar to soil has been shown to improve carbon sequestration and soil health, and remediate contaminated soil and water resources. Biochar is valuable as a nutrient source and a soil amendment, to remediate contaminated soil and aquatic ecosystems.

Plastics can pollute the air, land and water during all stages of their life cycle from manufacture to disposal. Synthetic plastics do not biodegrade and tend to accumulate in the environment. Particulate plastics of varying physical size fractions are becoming major sources of pollutants in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.

Elevated nitrate concentration is a multifaceted problem. In surface water and groundwater, it can cause eutrophication. When present in drinking water, nitrate can threaten human health – for example, it can cause methemoglobinemia in infants. Thus, finding a way to remove nitrates from water is important for human and environmental health.