Water pollution: one of the main Limnology challenges in the Anthropocene

Abstract

Abstract: Humankind is defining a new geological time. The Anthropocene epoch is marked by changes in the geological processes, hydrological regimes, biosphere structure, among other processes, due to human expansion over the landscape worldwide. Biogeochemical cycle’s acceleration, the high load of pollutants in water resources, rampant deforestation, increase in the greenhouse gas emissions to the atmosphere, eutrophication and biodiversity losses are some indications that reflect human’s pressure over several ecosystems, especially aquatic ones. Therefore, here we reviewed some aspects from a huge anthropogenic influence on ecosystems: water pollution. For decades, humankind has increasingly placed demands on aquatic environments without any concern. As an effect, lakes, rivers, and reservoirs are being globally degraded. Although the interactive effects of future anthropic processes are complex, much of current knowledge suggests that these pressures are likely to increase in magnitude and frequency over the next years. Hence, scientific results need to be articulated in an integrative perspective to expand our understanding of the aquatic resources management. The ecological knowledge generated by scientists must be applied to solve environmental problems enabling human progress sustainably. It is urgent to improve communication and understanding among different sectors of society in favor of water management. Therefore, it will be possible to ensure the preservation of natural resources for future generations by using transdisciplinary tools to understand, mitigate and recover the water resources from these anthropogenic pressures.