What does “bioremediation” involve?

Bioremediation involves the use of microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, or plants, to break down and clean up hazardous materials in the environment. This process harnesses the natural metabolic processes of these living organisms to degrade or detoxify pollutants and contaminants, making the affected areas safer and less toxic over time.

The appeal of bioremediation lies in its eco-friendliness and efficiency, as it can often take place in situ (on-site), minimizing the need for transportation or disposal of hazardous materials. Additionally, it can be a cost-effective alternative to other methods of hazardous material removal, often requiring less energy and resources compared to chemical or physical cleanup methods.

In contrast, the other options involve different approaches to handling hazardous materials. The application of chemical agents refers to a more direct method of neutralization, while physical removal involves excavating contaminated soil rather than using biological processes. The installation of barriers is a preventive measure rather than a cleanup strategy. Each of these alternatives has its place in environmental management, but bioremediation stands out for its biological method of addressing contamination through natural processes.