Antibiotic pollution and associated antimicrobial resistance in the environment

Antibiotic pollution, caused by the misuse of antibiotics to treat pathogenic microbial infections and inadequate waste treatment, is a growing global issue causing antibiotic- or antimicrobial-resistance (ABR/AMR) and increasing human morbidity. The widespread use of antibiotics in healthcare, agriculture, and aquaculture farming poses a threat to water, soil, and air, leading to antibiotic resistance. Governments are implementing guidelines and regulations to address this issue, but there is a need for more attention and research. This review aims to explain the escalation of antibiotic concentration and AMR in water, air, and soil environments, as well as strategies to mitigate its adverse impacts on healthcare infrastructure.