Recent Strategies for Natural Bioremediation of Emerging Pollutants: Development of a Green and Sustainable Environment
P. Visvanathan, Dharmalingam Kirubakaran, Kuppusamy Selvam, Peraman Manimegalai, Manickam Rajkumar, K. Vasantharaj
Abstract
Green bioremediation is an innovative and rapidly expanding technique that holds great promise for tackling the issue of toxic waste in polluted environments. Our planet is burdened with a wide array of contaminants, ranging from heavy metals and polychlorinated biphenyls to plastics and agrochemicals. These pollutants persist in the environment due to their resistance to biodegradation, posing a significant threat to ecosystems and living organisms. The primary objective of bioremediation is to break down these harmful substances into less toxic compounds. However, the continuous release of pollutants from various industries presents a daunting challenge, as they accumulate at a faster rate than they can be eliminated. Urgent attention is required to address contaminants derived from pesticide or agricultural residues, pharmaceutical industries, personal care product waste, and biomedical waste. While numerous methods have been developed to tackle this problem, the search for safe and effective solutions remains ongoing. Natural remediation methods have emerged as the most viable and environmentally friendly approaches to managing emerging pollutants. These methods encompass the use of constructed wetlands, phytoremediation, and the employment of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, cyano-bacteria, and algal-based remediation. Microorganisms play a pivotal role in the success of bioremediation, as they possess the remarkable ability to eliminate, degrade, detoxify, and immobilize hazardous wastes and pollutants. The process involves the utilization of various types of microorganisms, including aerobes and anaerobes, to treat contaminated sites effectively. This comprehensive review provides an in-depth exploration of all the natural remediation methods available for eliminating emerging pollutants. It serves as an invaluable guide for the global scientific community, offering insights and knowledge to foster an eco-friendly and sustainable environment. Together, we can work towards a cleaner and healthier future for our planet.