TMU researcher highlights need for greater regulation of antibiotics entering freshwater environments

Toronto, ON (March 19, 2025) — Increases in the production and use of pharmaceutical drugs–like antibiotics, antidepressants and pain relievers–are contributing to the contamination of Canada’s freshwater resources. It’s not just an environmental issue, but one that may pose risks to public health.

As pharmaceutical chemicals enter waterways, they can alter the reproduction, development and feeding patterns of fish; accumulate in the food chain; and encourage antibiotic resistance, which can have long-term consequences for both human and environmental health.

Toronto Metropolitan University PhD student Joseph Aladekoyi is studying the impacts of pharmaceuticals on Canada’s freshwater ecosystems and how the country is working to manage them. 

“One of the primary ways pharmaceuticals enter the environment is through wastewater from industry, hospitals and homes. Canada’s wastewater treatment plants were built decades ago and while they are effective at removing conventional pollutants like nutrients and metals, they were not designed to filter out pharmaceuticals effectively,” said Aladekoyi.

His research highlights solutions that can prevent pharmaceuticals from entering water sources such as:

• Strengthening medication return programs to encourage safe disposal of unused pharmaceuticals.
• Expanding public education efforts so more people understand proper medication disposal methods.
• Encouraging pharmaceutical companies to adopt greener production practices.
• Implementing regulations that will require pharmaceutical industries to treat their wastewater before discharge.

“By improving how we manage pharmaceuticals, we can protect aquatic life from unintended exposure to chemicals, ensure cleaner water for future generations and support sustainable waste management and responsible pharmaceutical use,” said Aladekoyi. “Protecting our water now makes it possible for future generations to have continued access to clean and sustainable freshwater.”

Ahead of World Water Day on March 22,  Joseph Aladekoyi is available to speak to media about his research and the consequences of pharmaceutical drugs entering freshwater ecosystems. To arrange an interview, contact Michelle below.

Read “Accumulation of antibiotics in the environment: Have appropriate measures been taken to protect Canadian human and ecological health? (external link) ” in the journal Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety.

Michelle LePage
PR and Communications Specialist
Toronto Metropolitan University
michelle.lepage@torontomu.ca