Article

The University of Oulu has developed a modified pine bark solution that effectively removes pharmaceutical residues from wastewater, achieving removal efficiencies over 90% for specific antibiotics and antidepressants. In a pilot study, the modified material eliminated approximately 99.7% of trimethoprim and 93.7% of venlafaxine, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional methods like activated carbon. This research addresses challenges posed by the EU's updated Urban Wastewater Directive and explores the potential of other natural materials for wastewater treatment.