As zeolites were developed as environmentally friendly alternatives to phosphates as builders in detergents, extensive research was done on the potential impact of zeolite on the environment.
All these studies revealed that zeolites display no harmful influence on aquatic organisms, nor does it promote the growth of algae.
Zeolites are insoluble in water. They are virtually inert and have no known adverse effect on the environment (neither impact biodegradation nor have potential for bioaccumulation). Zeolites are not classified as PBT of vPvB.
Zeolite causes no problems in sewage treatment plants, where it will settle with the sewage sludge. It is not classified as hazardous waste under Directive 2008/98/EC (and amendments) and can be disposed of by landfill in according with local regulations.