With the exponential increase in the change of the environment, environmental researchers grapple with effective solutions to these changes. The contaminants produced by human processes and the excess of said processes are the leading causes of a shift in the environment. However, in the first experimental trial of 1968, George M. Robinson has contributed to this cause with the discovery of bioremediation [1].
Bioremediation is a natural process that utilizes microorganisms, plants, and fungi to remove or neutralize pollutants and contaminants from the environment. This process is an effective, eco-friendly solution to reduce polluted soil and increase water resources. This environmental phenomena is a complex process that involves multiple scientific disciplines, inclusive of the fields of microbiology, biochemistry, ecology, and environmental science. [2]
The science behind bioremediation involves understanding the types of pollutants present in the environment and the microorganisms that can break down these pollutants. Bioremediation is classified into two categories: in situ bioremediation and ex-situ bioremediation. In situ-bioremediation is a process that involves treating pollutants in their original location, while ex-situ bioremediation is a process that involves removing polluted soil or water and treating it in a different location.
In situ-bioremediation is often used to treat contaminated groundwater. Groundwater can become contaminated when pollutants seep into the ground and enter the water supply. In situ-bioremediation involves introducing microorganisms into the contaminated groundwater to break down the pollutants. This process is often more cost-effective than ex-situ bioremediation because it does not require the removal and transportation of contaminated water.
Ex-situ bioremediation is often used to treat contaminated soil. Contaminated soil can be removed from the contaminated site and transported to a treatment facility. At the treatment facility, the soil is treated with microorganisms to break down the pollutants. The treated soil can then be returned to the site or used for other purposes.
Microorganisms are the key players in bioremediation. They are responsible for breaking down the pollutants into harmless byproducts such as carbon dioxide, water, and other harmless substances. The microorganisms used in bioremediation are typically naturally occurring in the environment, but they can also be engineered or introduced from other locations. These microorganisms can be bacteria, fungi, or algae.
One of the most common types of microorganisms used in bioremediation is bacteria. Bacteria are single-celled microorganisms that are ubiquitous in the environment. They are known for their ability to break down organic matter, including pollutants. Bacteria break down pollutants through a process called biodegradation. Biodegradation is a complex process that involves the breakdown of complex organic molecules into simpler molecules. Bacteria use enzymes to break down pollutants into simpler molecules, which can then be used as a source of energy for the bacteria.
Fungi are another type of microorganism used in bioremediation. Fungi are both single-celled and multicellular organisms that are known for their ability to break down complex organic matter. Fungi break down pollutants through a process called mycoremediation. Mycoremediation is a process that involves the breakdown of pollutants by fungi. Fungi produce enzymes that break down the pollutants into simpler molecules, which can then be used as a source of energy for the fungi.
Plants are also used in this interesting process. These organisms can absorb pollutants from the soil and water through their roots. Once absorbed, the pollutants are broken down into harmless byproducts by the plants or the microorganisms living in the plants' roots. This process is known as phytoremediation. The criteria for these plants to go through phytoremediation is still being extensively researched and is unbeknownst to many as well.
Bioremediation can be used to clean up a wide range of pollutants, including organic pollutants, such as petroleum hydrocarbons and chlorinated solvents, and inorganic pollutants, such as heavy metals and radionuclides. This process is often used to clean up contaminated sites, such as landfills, industrial sites, and oil spills. Overall, bioremediation seems to be a continuously researched topic but sets the stage for the future of environmental engineering and salvation.