What kind of pollutants does the EPA aim to protect humans and the environment from in wastewater?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) aims to protect humans and the environment from a variety of pollutants found in wastewater, making "all of the above" an accurate assessment of their focus. Heavy metals, such as lead, mercury, and cadmium, are toxic substances that can accumulate in the food chain and pose serious health risks to humans and wildlife. Microplastics, although a relatively newer research focus, have increasingly been identified as environmental contaminants that can harm aquatic ecosystems and potentially affect human health through the food chain. Biological pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites, pose direct health risks to humans, particularly through the contamination of drinking water supplies and recreational waters.

By recognizing all these pollutants, the EPA's guidelines and regulations aim to address the complexity of wastewater and its impact on both human health and ecological integrity. The comprehensive approach to managing these various types of pollutants is crucial for developing effective wastewater treatment processes and ensuring the safety of our water resources.