BiologyNEB 2075 (old course)

Define 'bioremediation'.

1

Answer

Definition of Bioremediation

Bioremediation is a biotechnological process that uses living organisms (microbes, plants, fungi) or their enzymes to degrade, transform, or neutralize hazardous pollutants (e.g., heavy metals, petroleum hydrocarbons, pesticides) from contaminated environments such as soil, water, or air. It leverages the metabolic activities of organisms to break down toxic substances into less harmful or non-toxic byproducts, thus restoring ecological balance without causing further environmental harm.

Key features:

  • Eco-friendly (avoids chemical/physical methods).
  • Cost-effective and sustainable.
  • Can be in situ (on-site, e.g., phytoremediation) or ex situ (off-site, e.g., bioreactors).
  • Applied in oil spills, industrial waste, and radioactive contamination.

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