ZenToks Publication

Chapter 10

Bio-Remediation Technology

Abstract/Preface

Every year, large amounts of organic and inorganic substances enter the environment as a consequence of human activities. Some of these substances are released intentionally under controlled and regulated processes, such as emissions from industrial operations, while others are discharged unintentionally through incidents like oil leaks or chemical accidents. Many of these compounds are hazardous and resistant to degradation, allowing them to persist in both land and water environments. When their concentrations exceed acceptable limits, they contaminate soil, rivers, lakes, and underground water sources. Human well-being is strongly dependent on environmental quality. In earlier times, natural resources were widely regarded as limitless; however, it has become clear that careless exploitation and unsustainable practices have led to widespread environmental damage. One of the most pressing global environmental challenges today is land contamination. In many instances, this problem originates from past industrial activities conducted before the risks associated with hazardous materials were fully recognized. As a result, international efforts have increasingly focused on cleaning up contaminated land, either to reduce potential harm or to enable safe redevelopment. Historically, remediation efforts have focused on the removal of contaminated soil for disposal in landfills or the isolation of pollutants at the site through capping. However, both methods have significant shortcomings. Soil excavation does not resolve contamination permanently, as it simply shifts the problem elsewhere and introduces additional risks during the excavation, transportation, and disposal of hazardous materials. Moreover, the availability of suitable landfill facilities has decreased, resulting in increased costs and logistical constraints. In contrast, capping and containment strategies provide only a temporary remedy, since contaminants remain in situ, requiring continuous monitoring, regular maintenance, and long-term financial and legal accountability. A more sustainable remediation approach involves the destruction or detoxification of contaminants rather than their relocation or confinement. To this end, advanced treatment technologies, including high-temperature incineration and chemical degradation processes such as base-catalyzed dechlorination and ultraviolet oxidation, have been developed. While these methods can effectively reduce pollutant concentrations, their application is often limited by technical complexity, high operational costs—particularly for small-scale sites—and public concern. Incineration, in particular, has faced resistance due to perceived risks of increased exposure to hazardous substances for site workers and surrounding communities.