The presence of heavy metals in aquatic systems and atmosphere is
attributed to metal plating, chemical synthesis, catalysis, battery, fertilizer, paint, paper,
and mining industries. Heavy metals enter the soil through anthropogenic activities and
industrial discharges. They enter the human body through plants and vegetables. Heavy
metals can cause various acute and chronic diseases in human beings. Heavy metal
consumption by fishes and other aquatic animals affect aquatic life and also people
consuming them as food. Reduction of the developmental growth, deformities, and
increase of developmental anomalies are some of the toxic effects of heavy metals on
fishes and aquatic invertebrates. Removal of heavy metals from wastewater is
becoming an increasingly important aspect of wastewater treatment. Physico-chemical
methods such as filtration and adsorption are simple and effective. These methods can
be used to remove heavy metals from wastewater when they are present in very high
concentration. Removal method can be selected depending upon the influent
concentration, acceptable limit, and amount of effluent. Chemical treatment methods
like coagulation, chlorination, flocculation, and precipitation can be used for the
treatment of wastewater containing colloids and metal ions due to their simplicity and
robustness. Biological treatment methods like advanced oxidation, trickling filters,
aeration, activated sludge, aerobic. and anaerobic digestion can be used for heavy metal
treatment.
Keywords: Control methods, Heavy metals, Health effects, Pollution, Sources.
