Role of Microbes and Microbiomes in Bioleaching and Bioremediation for Polluted Ecosystem Restoration

Abstract

In an environmental degradation era, improving microbial activity in sustainable mining and pollutant removal has become necessary for the green economy's future. Bioleaching (microbial leaching) is being studied intensively for metal extraction since it is a cost-effective and environmentally benign technique. Bioleaching with acidophiles involves the production of ferric (Fe III) and sulfuric acid. Cyanogenic microorganisms, in particular, can extract metal(s) by creating hydrogen cyanide. Furthermore, environmental degradation and its rehabilitation are serious issues worldwide. Hydrocarbons, pesticides, heavy metals, dyes, and other contaminants are the principal factors significantly degrading the environment. Residual pollutants might also be challenging to remove. Bioremediation is one of the most effective approaches for reducing environmental contaminants since it restores the damaged site to its original state. So yet, only a tiny number of microorganisms (culturable bacteria) have been used, leaving a vast amount of microbial diversity undiscovered. Various bioremediation approaches, such as chemotaxis, bioaugmentation, biostimulation, genetically engineered microbes, biofilm formation, and advanced omics, have been widely used to improve the microbe’s metabolic activity, degradation potential of persistent pollutants and restoration of polluted habitats. Microorganisms contribute to the rehabilitation of polluted ecosystems by cleaning up trash in an ecologically friendly way and producing harmless products. This chapter addresses the critical processes in improving bioremediation and current breakthroughs in bioremediation, including bacteria and plants.