Bioremediation aims at using organisms to solve environmental problems such as soil and groundwater contamination

Abstract

Bioremediation aims at using organisms to solve environmental problems such as soil and groundwater contamination. In a  non-polluted  environment,  bacteria,  fungi,  protists,  and  other  heterotrophic  microorganisms  are  constantly  degrading  organic  matter  to
obtain energy. When organic pollutants such as fuel or oil accidentally spill, some of the indigenous microorganisms may die, while those capable of degrading the fuel may survive. Bioremediation enhances the activity of the later by providing fertilizers, oxygen, and by creating optimum  conditions  for  rapid  growth.  These  organisms  may  then  be  able  to  degrade  the  organic  pollutant  at  a  faster  rate.  Cleaning  up pollution is thus performed by enhancing natural biodegradation processes. Depending on the site and the contaminants, bioremediation may be safer and less expensive than alternative solutions such as incineration and landfilling of contaminated materials.