Biotechnological Interventions in the Removal of Emerging Pollutants

This book focuses on the most recent developments in bioremediation techniques, exploring how microorganisms can break down different pollutants and the future potential of bioremediation to reduce global pollution levels. It examines the impact of various emerging pollutants on the environment and the health of living organisms while highlighting recent advancements in bioremediation methods needed to degrade these pollutants. Addressing both inorganic and organic compounds from industrial and anthropogenic activities, including personal care products, endocrine disruptors, and pharmaceutical products, this book tackles pollutants that escape conventional water treatment processes, contaminating groundwater, soil, sediments, and oceans. The chapters also cover topics such as the toxicity and health impacts of emerging pollutants, ecotoxicological effects of nanoparticles, policies related to emerging pollutants, technologies for their detection, and technological aspects of their fate during wastewater treatment. Readers will find a comprehensive examination of the roles of microbes in bioremediation, including the elimination, degradation, detoxification, and immobilization of pollutants. The book also introduces enzyme biotechnology as a cost-effective, low-energy, eco-friendly technology for treating various pollutants. Furthermore, it discusses the combination of physical treatment and nanotechnology for sustainable pollutant removal. This book serves as a valuable resource for policymakers aiming to develop effective environmental regulations, educators seeking comprehensive educational material, researchers looking to expand their knowledge on advanced bioremediation techniques, climate change scientists dedicated to mitigating pollution, and undergraduate and graduate students studying agriculture, forestry, ecology, soil science, or environmental sciences.