Sustainable Low Carbon and Bioaugmentation Strategies for Bioremediation of Oil-Contaminated Acidic Wetlands

This chapter delves into the critical issue of remediating oil-contaminated acidic wetlands, which pose significant ecological threats globally. These wetlands, vulnerable to pollution, particularly from hydrocarbons, have driven the adoption of various remediation strategies, prominently bioremediation techniques. Biostimulation, enhanced natural attenuation, and bioaugmentation have been at the forefront of efforts to restore these contaminated ecosystems. Despite the implementation of these bioremediation approaches, studies have often revealed only moderate success rates, with removal efficiencies averaging around 40% to 50% within a typical 6-month timeframe. To enhance the effectiveness of these methods, extensive research has been conducted to stimulate microbial activity, resulting in some strategies achieving removal rates between 55% and 80% within shorter durations. This chapter comprehensively reviews the prevalent remediation methods employed in acidic wetlands, with a specific focus on the Niger Delta wetlands in Nigeria. It critically analyses existing literature to provide an updated overview of the advancements, challenges, and limitations concerning the remediation of these acidic wetlands contaminated with petroleum hydrocarbons. Furthermore, it examines the emerging trends in remediation techniques, emphasizing sustainable bioremediation approaches and their successes in contaminated wetland soils. Overall, this chapter aims to offer a comprehensive understanding of the current state of remediation strategies for oil-contaminated acidic wetlands. By assessing the advancements and constraints in this field, it seeks to contribute to the development of more effective and sustainable techniques to restore these fragile ecosystems.