In a review published in Applied Surface Science Advances, Maryam Zahid and colleagues explore the use of biochar-derived photocatalysts for the removal of pharmaceutical waste, presenting a sustainable approach to water purification. The review addresses the growing concern of pharmaceutical compound pollution in water bodies and highlights the potential of biochar-based materials in advanced oxidation processes.

The authors note the substantial increase in pharmaceutical compound usage for human and animal diseases, leading to increased environmental pollution. Traditional wastewater treatment methods often fail to completely remove these pollutants, necessitating the development of more effective and sustainable remediation techniques.

Biochar-based photocatalysts have emerged as a promising solution. BiocharBiochar is a carbon-rich material created from biomass decomposition in low-oxygen conditions. It has important applications in environmental remediation, soil improvement, agriculture, carbon sequestration, energy storage, and sustainable materials, promoting efficiency and reducing waste in various contexts while addressing climate change challenges. More, derived from various biomassBiomass is a complex biological organic or non-organic solid product derived from living or recently living organism and available naturally. Various types of wastes such as animal manure, waste paper, sludge and many industrial wastes are also treated as biomass because like natural biomass these More sources, offers a sustainable and cost-effective platform for developing efficient photocatalytic materials. The review discusses the synthesis, characterization, and applications of biochar-based photocatalysts in the removal of pharmaceutical waste from aqueous solutions. The review emphasizes the importance of biochar-based photocatalysts as a sustainable remediation strategy. These materials offer a green alternative to conventional methods, contributing to water treatment innovation and promoting environmental sustainability. The insights provided by Zahid et al. (2025) offer valuable guidance for future research and development in this field.

SOURCE: Zahid, M., Khan, Z.U.H., Sun, J., Muhammad, N., Sabahat, S., Shah, N.S., & Iqbal, J. (2025). Biochar-derived photocatalysts for pharmaceutical waste removal, a sustainable approach to water purification. Applied Surface Science Advances, 26, 100721.