Microbial Remediation of Heavy Metal Contamination in Soils

Natural ecosystems face pollution from organic contaminants, toxic wastes, and heavy metals, posing threats to human, animal, plant, and microbial well-being. Despite good intentions, many countries’ chemical and physical treatment approaches are time-consuming, costly, and limited in efficacy, especially in regions affected by metal contamination. In response to these challenges, bioremediation using microorganisms has emerged as a viable and environmentally sustainable approach for remediating heavy metal-contaminated soils and streams. Microbial remediation, gaining popularity for its cost-effectiveness and efficacy, relies on beneficial microorganisms like fungi and bacteria. Whether naturally occurring or genetically engineered, these microorganisms can sequester, convert, or detoxify heavy metals, facilitating ecosystem restoration and safeguarding living organisms. This chapter emphasizes the concepts, applications, and future potential of microbial remediation as a means to mitigate environmental pollution and promote sustainable, nature-based remediation of heavy metal pollutants.