From Contamination to Cleanup: The Role of Microorganisms in Modern Bioremediation Practices

• Vijayalaxmi Rajiv Shinde,*  
• Neha Nitin Pai,  
• Pranav Suresh Tambe,  
• Asif Sandu Shaikh,  
• Siraj Babulal Shaikh

Abstract

Environmental pollution caused by introduction of harmful chemicals such as toxic gases, particulates, heavy metals, hydrocarbons and other hazardous chemicals that threaten the ecosystem, has recently been recognized as a significant threat to both human health and the environment. Due to their toxicity and resistance to degradation, a variety of pollutants, including heavy metals, polychlorinated biphenyls, plastics, and different agrochemicals, contaminate our surroundings. Bioremediation has emerged as an effective method for cleaning up toxic waste from polluted areas. This technique utilizes various microorganisms, both aerobic and anaerobic, to treat contaminated sites. In bioremediation, microorganisms play a crucial role by eliminating, degrading, detoxifying, and immobilizing hazardous wastes and pollutants. The primary objective of bioremediation is to degrade pollutants and convert them into less harmful forms. Depending on factors like cost, pollutant types, and concentration, either ex situ or in situ bioremediation methods is chosen. This review highlights the latest advancements in bioremediation techniques, the processes by which microorganisms break down different pollutants, and the future prospects for bioremediation in reducing global pollution levels.

Keywords

Polychlorinated biphenyls, Environmental pollution, Hydrocarbon, Agrochemicals