Globally, environmental challenges have been recognised as a matter of concern. Among
these challenges are the reduced availability and quality of drinking water, and greenhouse gases
that give rise to change in climate by entrapping heat, which result in respirational illness from smog
and air pollution. Globally, the rate of demand for the use of freshwater has outgrown the rate of
population increase; as the rapid growth in town and cities place a huge pressure on neighbouring
water resources. Besides, the rapid growth in anthropogenic activities, such as the generation of
energy and its conveyance, release carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases, warming the planet.
Polymer nanocomposite has played a significant role in finding solutions to current environmental
problems. It has found interest due to its high potential for the reduction of gas emission, and
elimination of pollutants, heavy metals, dyes, and oil in wastewater. The revolution of integrating
developed novel nanomaterials such as nanoparticles, carbon nanotubes, nanofibers and activated
carbon, in polymers, have instigated revitalizing and favourable inventive nanotechnologies for
the treatment of wastewater and gas separation. This review discusses the effective employment of
polymer nanocomposites for environmental utilizations. Polymer nanocomposite membranes for
wastewater treatment and gas separation were reviewed together with their mechanisms. The use of
polymer nanocomposites as an adsorbent for toxic metals ions removal and an adsorbent for dye
removal were also discussed, together with the mechanism of the adsorption process. Patents in
the utilization of innovative polymeric nanocomposite membranes for environmental utilizations
were discussed.
Eiremiokhae Stanley
