IIT Madras Develops Green Technology to Tackle Antimicrobial Resistance in Wastewater
New Delhi, March 3 (IANS) – IIT Madras researchers have developed a green technology to combat Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in wastewater. The technology known as ‘Advanced Oxidation Processes’ (AOPs) aims to address the global public health threat posed by AMR.
In 2029, bacterial AMR was directly responsible for the deaths of 1.27 million people globally, as stated by the World Health Organization (WHO). IIT Madras revealed that the technology was developed by Prof Indumathi and former student Dr. Sasikala Rathnavelu.
The pilot project on the Advanced Oxidation Processes is currently led by Prof. Indumathi Nambi and PhD scholar Ms. Thara M V. The technology eliminates the need for external chemical addition, simplifies handling, and can be easily integrated into existing treatment systems.
According to IIT Madras, the misuse and overuse of antimicrobials in humans, animals, and plants are the main drivers of drug-resistant pathogens. The institution highlighted the significance of the WHO’s ‘One Health framework’ in managing AMR across various sectors.
Furthermore, the researchers found that a large percentage of Indian hospitals lack proper wastewater treatment facilities, leading to increased antibiotic concentrations in environmental matrices. The technology developed by IIT Madras aims to curb AMR dissemination in the environment effectively.
