What is bioremediation and how does it work?

Bioremediation is the use of living organisms, primarily microorganisms, to degrade or transform environmental contaminants into less harmful substances. It works through metabolic processes where microbes use pollutants as carbon or energy sources. Types include: in situ bioremediation (treating contamination on-site without excavation), ex situ bioremediation (removing contaminated material for treatment elsewhere), intrinsic bioremediation (relying on naturally occurring microbes), and enhanced bioremediation (adding nutrients, oxygen, or microorganisms to accelerate degradation). Bioremediation is cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and can treat a wide range of contaminants including petroleum hydrocarbons, chlorinated solvents, pesticides, and heavy metals.