Environmental impact of phenolic compounds and their distribution and transformation in aquatic environments

Phenolic compounds are highly toxic and difficult-to-degrade environmental pollutants. Due to their widespread use in industrial production, agriculture, and daily life, they have become one of the main water pollutants, posing a potential threat to aquatic organisms and ecosystems. This paper reviews the research progress on the toxic effects, distribution characteristics, and degradation mechanisms of phenolic compounds in natural waters globally. Through statistical analysis of research on phenolic compound pollution worldwide, the study reveals the distribution of phenolic compounds in water bodies in different countries and regions, with notable pollution in developing countries and highly industrialized nations, up to tens of μg·L−1. Additionally, the paper reviews the in-situ degradation mechanisms of phenolic compounds in water and the influencing factors. Degradation pathways include abiotic and biotic degradation, with interactions between different mechanisms affecting their migration and fate in water bodies. Improving the in-situ degradation efficiency of phenolic compounds and assessing their environmental safety is crucial for developing effective pollution control and water resource management strategies.