Microbial-assisted Bioremediation: A Greener Approach for Restoration of Heavy Metal-contaminated Soil

Heavy metals (HMs) pollution is a major environmental concern, posing serious threats to human health and ecological systems. Anthropogenic activities have increased the levels of HMs in the environment, and their pollution is a major issue. Exposure to high levels of these metals can have harmful effects on human health, and they can also damage soil structure, diminish microbial biodiversity, and inhibit plant growth and development. In addition, traditional remediation methods for HMs contaminated soil are often expensive and negatively impact the environment. In recent years, microbial-assisted bioremediation has emerged as a promising and eco-friendly alternative for HM remediation. This approach utilizes microorganisms to transform, immobilize, or detoxify HMs, making them less harmful and more accessible for removal. This chapter highlights the eco-friendly use of microorganisms, the mechanisms that contribute to the bioremediation of HMs, and their potential use in the future. 

Keywords: Bioleaching, Biosorption, Bioaccumulation, Biomineralization, Environment, Heavy metals, Microorganisms, Microbial-assisted bioremediation, Microbial diversity, Plant growth, Soil.