Bioremediation is an eco-friendly technique that uses living organisms—such as bacteria, fungi, algae, or plants—to break down or remove pollutants from contaminated soil, water, or air. These organisms convert harmful chemicals into harmless substances through natural processes like metabolism, absorption, or decomposition.
Why it matters:
- Reduces environmental pollution without using harsh chemicals
- Restores ecosystems affected by industrial waste, oil spills, pesticides, and heavy metals
- Often more affordable and sustainable than mechanical or chemical cleanup methods
Examples:
- Oil-eating bacteria cleaning marine oil spills
- Fungi breaking down pesticides in farmland
- Plants (phytoremediation) absorbing arsenic or lead from soil