Current Approaches to Bioremediation of Newly Discovered Contaminants
摘要
The increasing prevalence of emerging contaminants—such as pharmaceuticals, personal care products, pesticides, endocrine-disrupting chemicals, microplastics, and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)—poses a significant challenge to traditional environmental remediation methods. This chapter reviews the latest advancements in bioremediation strategies aimed at addressing these pollutants, which often exhibit persistence, toxicity, and resistance to conventional treatment. Emphasis is placed on microbial bioremediation, highlighting the roles of bacteria, fungi, and algae in degrading complex contaminants through enzymatic and metabolic pathways. Case studies demonstrate the successful application of techniques such as bioaugmentation, biostimulation, and phytoremediation, while advanced technologies—including genetically modified organisms, nanotechnology, and integrated bioremediation systems—offer enhanced degradation efficiency and specificity. The chapter also explores future directions, including metagenomics, artificial intelligence applications, and the need for regulatory frameworks to safely implement novel solutions. Through a multidisciplinary lens, this work underscores bioremediation’s potential as a sustainable, scalable approach to managing environmental contamination from newly discovered pollutants.