Closing Blank Spots and Illuminating Blind Spots in Research on Emerging Contaminants: The Source–Pathway–Receptor–Impact–Mitigation (SPRIM) Continuum as an Organizing Framework

Emerging contaminants (ECs) include: (1) high-technology rare earth elements, (2) nanomaterials, (3) antibiotic/antimicrobial resistance, (4) microplastics, and (5) synthetic organic chemicals, which are currently unregulated. ECs continue to attract considerable research public attention due their potential human ecological health risks. However, an organizing conceptual framework for framing on is missing. Lacking a framework, only few aspects frequently well-studied (i.e., bandwagon/Matthew effect), while other equally important topics receive cursory attention. In this Editorial perspective, the Source–Pathway–Receptor–Impact–Mitigation (SPRIM) continuum proposed as guide ECs. First, description of SPRIM its components presented. Compared prevailing seemingly ad hoc approach predominant in emerging contaminants, novelty applying that it addresses bandwagon, or Matthew, effect. As decision-support tool, serves dual function checklist identify key knowledge gaps frame future research, primer promoting collaborative application big data analytics contaminants. Collectively, envisaged will provide comprehensive balanced understanding various relative current approach. The challenges tool also discussed. Future directions discussed light concept. This closes with concluding remarks look ahead. issues cross-cutting generic, thus relate several groups ECs, including (EOCs), focus Special Issue. Issue, entitled ‘Emerging Organic Contaminants Aquatic Systems: A Focus Continuum’, calls high-quality contributions addressing EOCs aquatic systems. Guest Editor, I welcome forward at least one component entire spectrum continuum.