The study filled a significant gap in our understanding of the possible effects of pesticide contamination on nitrogen removal in wastewater treatment. Pesticides, which are extensively utilized in agriculture, can enter wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) through a variety of routes, including runoff and leaching. Biological wastewater treatment processes rely on the coordinated activity of microorganisms to effectively remove pollutants from the systems. Therefore, understanding the structure of microbial communities and their relationships to changing environmental conditions is crucial for the development and optimization of these systems. While limited research exists on the impact of pesticides on nitrogen removal in wastewater treatment, this study extrapolated findings from existing literature on pesticide impacts in soil environments. The research identified that pesticide concentrations in wastewater range from 1 to 16 000 ng l−1, raising concerns about environmental consequences. It was shown that pesticides could significantly alter nitrogen removal processes by affecting microbial populations and enzymatic pathways. Despite lower pesticide concentrations in wastewater than in soil, even trace levels could impede nitrification and denitrification processes. The study emphasized the importance of conducting extensive investigations on pesticide impacts in wastewater systems, considering the specific variables and treatment processes involved. This review increased worldwide understanding on the topic by laying the groundwork for future research and emphasizing the importance of reducing pesticide impacts on wastewater treatment to safeguard the environment and public health.