Treatment and Removal of APIs and Hydrocarbon Solvents from Pharmaceutical Wastewater

The pharmaceutical industry plays a crucial role in promoting health and well-being around the world. However, production processes can significantly impact the environment – particularly when active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and other micropollutants are released in wastewater discharges.

As a pharmaceutical professional, you need to balance production efficiency with environmental responsibility.

We help you find practical solutions that protect the environment while supporting your business goals.

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APIs are bioactive compounds designed to have specific therapeutic effects on the human and animal body. However, when released into the environment - even in minimal concentrations - they can have harmful effects on ecosystems and the food chain. Additionally, as seen in the production of antifungal drugs, residual APIs in wastewater can contribute to the development of antibiotic resistance in bacteria, representing a serious threat to public health.

To address these challenges, pharmaceutical companies must adopt innovative and efficient wastewater treatment solutions to remove APIs and other micropollutants before water is discharged or reused. However, pharmaceutical wastewater is complex and site-specific. This is why Water Mapping, aligned with ISO 46001 tools, is often recommended before identifying the most suitable treatment train for the production site. This includes characterising the effluent, combined with lab feasibility testing, pilot systems, or rental units. This approach enables the selection of the optimal treatment train for removing APIs from wastewater.

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Our team is specialised in synthesis, fermentation, API extraction, and the production of solid or injectable forms. We can offer you the most suitable solutions with the right technologies to meet your treatment needs - while also considering your sustainability goals.

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Evaporation Systems

Evaled™ evaporation plants are ideal for wastewater that would otherwise require off-site disposal due to chlorides, APIs, or solvents. Evaled™ can reduce off-site disposal volumes by over 90%, and also produce water that can be reused internally as technical water.

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Ozone

Ozone systems are used to treat wastewater containing residual APIs with poorly biodegradable molecules. Applied either before or after evaporation or biological treatments, ozone ensures further breakdown of APIs or solvents such as H₂S and DMS.

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MBBR Systems

eXeno is a multistage process that leverages specialised microorganisms to degrade APIs and other organic compounds, ensuring high removal efficiency and excellent effluent quality. Ideal for new plants, for upgrading existing systems, or as tertiary post-treatment—especially effective at removing pharmaceuticals, carbon, and nitrogen even during peak loads.

MPPE

MPPE - (Macro porous polymer extraction)

MPPE technology is ideal for separating hydrocarbon solvents from wastewater streams. This system features automatic regeneration of its two vessels, providing continuous treatment without generating gas or residual sludge.

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The benefits of our solutions

By choosing Veolia for pharmaceutical wastewater treatment, you can benefit from:

  • Regulatory compliance and reduced environmental risks
  • Recovery and reuse of solvents, process water, and other valuable compounds
  • Significant reduction in disposal costs
  • Tailor-made and flexible solutions for site-specific needs
  • Expert technical support and assistance
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Working with Veolia

Veolia is the ideal partner for pharmaceutical companies seeking innovative, efficient and sustainable solutions for wastewater treatment and API removal. Contact us by filling out the form on top of the page to learn how we can support your environmental compliance and cost-reduction goals.

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