Cecilia Tortajada

npj Clean Water • 2020

Abstract Water resources are essential for every development activity, not only in terms of available quantity but also in terms of quality. Population growth and urbanisation are increasing the number of users and uses of water, making water resources scarcer and more polluted. Changes in rainfall patterns threaten to worsen these effects in many areas. Water scarcity, due to physical lack or pollution, has become one of the most pressing issues globally, a matter of human, economic and environmental insecurity. Wastewater, whose value had not been appreciated until recently, is increasingly recognised as a potential ‘new’ source of clean water for potable and non-potable uses, resulting in social, environmental and economic benefits. This paper discusses the potential of recycled wastewater (also known as reused water) to become a significant source of safe water for drinking purposes and improved sanitation in support of the Sustainable Development Goals.

Dylan G. Boucher, Emily Carroll, Zachary A Nguyen et al.

Angewandte Chemie International Edition • 2023

Bioelectrocatalytic synthesis is the conversion of electrical energy into value-added chemicals via a biocatalyst. Bioelectrosynthetic methods utilize the specificity and selectivity of biocatalytic enzymatic or microbial species to carry out chemical redox transformations while utilizing electricity as a stoichiometric redox equivalent. As a merging of biocatalysis and electrocatalysis, these methods directly address challenges in green and sustainable synthesis of pharmaceuticals, commodity chemicals, fuels, feedstocks and fertilizers. Despite the rising importance of bioelectrochemical transformations across these industries, there remains a high barrier for adoption due to the specialized experimental setups and domain knowledge for bioelectrocatalysis. This review aims to introduce the key concepts and design features of bioelectrosynthetic systems. A tutorial on the methods of biocatalyst utilization and the setup of bioelectrosynthetic cells is provided, as well as an overview of the analytical methods used for assessing bioelectrocatalysts. Key studies illustrating the vital applications of bioelectrosynthesis are outlined, such as ammonia production, small-molecule synthesis, and multi-carbon product formation. Finally, we address future directions for both microbial and enzymatic electrosynthetic methods. In summary, this review provides a critically necessary introduction to the field and a collection of resources for the non-specialist interested in pursuing a research program in bioelectrosynthesis.

M. Tahir, M. F. Malik, Adeel Ahmed et al.

International Journal of Environmental Analytical Chemistry • 2020

ABSTRACT In this review, the evolution of hydrogen in a combined cell system of photoelectrocatalytic and microbial fuel is discussed. Hydrogen is used as chemical fuel and being produced through photoelectrocatalytic method. The semiconductor material was put into the water and irradiated with solar light. After that, the hydrogen is produced by different steps and accumulated. Production of hydrogen also takes place in a microbial fuel cell system. These are electrochemical devices that are initially used to treat the wastewater. But now, this cell has entered into a very interesting field of research which is Bioelectrochemical system (BES). BES produces hydrogen by using biomass as a catalyst and small consumption voltage rather than simple electrolysis of water. The first section explains how hydrogen can be produced individually by these two methods. Then, a comprehensive review is presented on the evolution of hydrogen by combining microbial fuel and photoelectrocatalytic cell system. The continuous production of hydrogen by using (PEC-MFC) hybrid device, sunlight and splitting of water and electro-hydro genesis of microbial cell in fusion device (PEC-MFC) are also reported. This method gives continuous production of hydrogen using wastewater under solar light and also gives the treatment of wastewater. It is a clean energy source and also fulfils today’s demand for energy. At last, a review on the production of hydrogen by the microbial photoelectrochemical system is constructed by photocathode of semiconductor material and an anode of microbial. Production of hydrogen was continuously achieved without external voltage under ultraviolet irradiation.

G. Pankratova, D. Pankratov, C. Bari et al.

ACS Applied Energy Materials • 2018

A combination of thylakoid membranes (TMs) as photobiocatalysts with high-surface-area electroactive materials could hold great potential for sustainable “green” solar energy conversion. We have studied the orientated immobilization of TMs on high-surface-area graphene electrodes, which were fabricated by electroreduction of graphene oxide and simultaneous electrodeposition with further aminoaryl functionalization. We have achieved the highest performance to date under direct electron transfer conditions through a biocompatible “wiring” of TMs to graphene sheets. The photobiocurrent density generated by the optimized mediator-free TM-based bioanodes yielded up to 5.24 ± 0.50 μA cm–2. The photobioelectrochemical cell integrating the photobioanode in combination with an oxygen reducing enzymatic biocathode delivered a maximum power output of 1.79 ± 0.19 μW cm–2. Our approach ensures a simplified cell design, a greater load of photosynthetic units, a minimized overpotential loss, and an enhanced overall perf...

Jenny Tschörtner, Bin Lai, J. Krömer

Frontiers in Microbiology • 2019

Biophotovoltaics is a relatively new discipline in microbial fuel cell research. The basic idea is the conversion of light energy into electrical energy using photosynthetic microorganisms. The microbes will use their photosynthetic apparatus and the incoming light to split the water molecule. The generated protons and electrons are harvested using a bioelectrochemical system. The key challenge is the extraction of electrons from the microbial electron transport chains into a solid-state anode. On the cathode, a corresponding electrochemical counter reaction will consume the protons and electrons, e.g., through the oxygen reduction to water, or hydrogen formation. In this review, we are aiming to summarize the current state of the art and point out some limitations. We put a specific emphasis on cyanobacteria, as these microbes are considered future workhorses for photobiotechnology and are currently the most widely applied microbes in biophotovoltaics research. Current progress in biophotovoltaics is limited by very low current outputs of the devices while a lack of comparability and standardization of the experimental set-up hinders a systematic optimization of the systems. Nevertheless, the fundamental questions of redox homeostasis in photoautotrophs and the potential to directly harvest light energy from a highly efficient photosystem, rather than through oxidation of inefficiently produced biomass are highly relevant aspects of biophotovoltaics.

Kailin Gao, Xin Wang, Junjie Huang et al.

Applied and Environmental Microbiology • 2021

Converting CO2 to CH4 through bioelectrochemistry is a promising approach to the development of green energy biotechnology. This process, however, requires low cathode potentials, which entails a cost. ABSTRACT Electromethanogenesis refers to the process whereby methanogens utilize current for the reduction of CO2 to CH4. Setting low cathode potentials is essential for this process. In this study, we tested if magnetite, an iron oxide mineral widespread in the environment, can facilitate the adaptation of methanogen communities to the elevation of cathode potentials in electrochemical reactors. Two-chamber electrochemical reactors were constructed with inoculants obtained from paddy field soil. We elevated cathode potentials stepwise from the initial −0.6 V versus the standard hydrogen electrode (SHE) to −0.5 V and then to −0.4 V over the 130 days of acclimation. Only weak current consumption and CH4 production were observed in the bioreactors without magnetite. However, significant current consumption and CH4 production were recorded in the magnetite bioreactors. The robustness of electroactivity of the magnetite bioreactors was not affected by the elevation of cathode potentials from −0.6 V to −0.4 V. However, the current consumption and CH4 production were halted in the bioreactors without magnetite when the cathode potentials were elevated to −0.4 V. Methanogens related to Methanospirillum were enriched on the cathode surfaces of magnetite bioreactors at −0.4 V, while Methanosarcina relatively dominated in the bioreactors without magnetite. Methanobacterium also increased in the magnetite bioreactors but stayed off electrodes at −0.4 V. Apparently, the magnetite greatly facilitates the development of biocathodes, and it appears that with the aid of magnetite, Methanospirillum spp. can adapt to the high cathode potentials, performing efficient electromethanogenesis. IMPORTANCE Converting CO2 to CH4 through bioelectrochemistry is a promising approach to the development of green energy biotechnology. This process, however, requires low cathode potentials, which entails a cost. In this study, we tested if magnetite, a conductive iron mineral, can facilitate the adaptation of methanogens to the elevation of cathode potentials. In two-chamber reactors constructed by using inoculants obtained from paddy field soil, biocathodes developed robustly in the presence of magnetite, whereas only weak activities in CH4 production and current consumption were observed in the bioreactors without magnetite. The elevation of cathode potentials did not affect the robustness of electroactivity of the magnetite bioreactors over the 130 days of acclimation. Methanospirillum strains were identified as the key methanogens associated with the cathode surfaces during the operation at high potentials. The findings reported in this study shed new light on the adaptation of methanogen communities to the elevated cathode potentials in the presence of magnetite.

Graziela C. Sedenho, R. N. Colombo, R. M. Iost et al.

Applied Physics Reviews • 2024

Electron transfer (ET) is a fundamental process that underlies various phenomena in physics, chemistry, and biology. Understanding ET mechanisms is crucial for developing sustainable energy solutions and synthesizing value-added compounds efficiently. In this context, the present review provides the fundamental aspects of ET involving bioinspired, biomimetics, and biological entities and its significance for sustainable energy and green electrosynthesis fields. Among the theoretical and experimental cornerstones, Marcus Theory, electronic conductance, computational modeling, biomolecular thermodynamics, electrochemical and kinetic theories, protein film voltammetry, and the emergence of in situ and operando techniques are explored. Theoretical modeling is vital for understanding and predicting ET processes. Additionally, the significance of experimental techniques for investigating the ET process in biological entities and interfaces is discussed. Protein film voltammetry is a valuable and consolidated technique for studying ET processes at the protein-electrode interface, whereas in situ and operando techniques for interrogating ET processes in real time provide insights into the dynamics and mechanisms of ET. The concept of quantum conductance in biological structures is addressed, evidencing a trend and power of single-entity analysis. Aspects of extracellular and interfacial ET processes are presented and discussed in the electrochemical energy conversion systems. A deep understanding of these processes can improve the design of efficient bioinspired catalysts. Therefore, this multidisciplinary work aims to fill the gaps between different scientific fields related to ET involving bioentities to develop innovative energy and value-added compound synthesis solutions.

Pedro Henrique da Rosa Braun, Anne Kuchenbuch, Bruno Toselli et al.

Materials for Renewable and Sustainable Energy • 2024

Abstract 3D-printed anodes for bioelectrochemical systems are increasingly being reported. However, comparisons between 3D-printed anodes and their non-3D-printed counterparts with the same material composition are still lacking. In addition, surface roughness parameters that could be correlated with bioelectrochemical performance are rarely determined. To fill these gaps, slurries with identical composition but different mass fractions were processed into SiOC anodes by tape-casting, freeze-casting, or direct-ink writing. The current generation was investigated using electroactive biofilms enriched with Geobacter spp. Freeze-cast anodes showed more surface pores and the highest surface kurtosis of 5.7 ± 0.5, whereas tape-cast and 3D-printed anodes showed a closed surface porosity. 3D-printing was only possible using slurries 85 wt% of mass fraction. The surface pores of the freeze-cast anodes improved bacterial adhesion and resulted in a high initial (first cycle) maximum current density per geometric surface area of 9.2 ± 2.1 A m −2 . The larger surface area of the 3D-printed anodes prevented pore clogging and produced the highest current density per geometric surface area of 12.0 ± 1.2 A m −2 . The current density values of all anodes are similar when the current density is normalized over the entire geometric surface as determined by CT-scans. This study highlights the role of geometric surface area in normalizing current generation and the need to use more surface roughness parameters to correlate anode properties, bacterial adhesion, and current generation.

Nosheen Asghar, Alamdar Hussain, D. A. Nguyen et al.

Journal of Nanobiotechnology • 2024

Environmental pollution is a major issue that requires effective solutions. Nanomaterials (NMs) have emerged as promising candidates for pollution remediation due to their unique properties. This review paper provides a systematic analysis of the potential of NMs for environmental pollution remediation compared to conventional techniques. It elaborates on several aspects, including conventional and advanced techniques for removing pollutants, classification of NMs (organic, inorganic, and composite base). The efficiency of NMs in remediation of pollutants depends on their dispersion and retention, with each type of NM having different advantages and disadvantages. Various synthesis pathways for NMs, including traditional synthesis (chemical and physical) and biological synthesis pathways, mechanisms of reaction for pollutants removal using NMs, such as adsorption, filtration, disinfection, photocatalysis, and oxidation, also are evaluated. Additionally, this review presents suggestions for future investigation strategies to improve the efficacy of NMs in environmental remediation. The research so far provides strong evidence that NMs could effectively remove contaminants and may be valuable assets for various industrial purposes. However, further research and development are necessary to fully realize this potential, such as exploring new synthesis pathways and improving the dispersion and retention of NMs in the environment. Furthermore, there is a need to compare the efficacy of different types of NMs for remediating specific pollutants. Overall, this review highlights the immense potential of NMs for mitigating environmental pollutants and calls for more research in this direction. Graphical Abstract

Divakar Dahiya, P. Nigam

Applied Sciences • 2020

This article aims to provide information on two aspects: firstly, waste management of residual biological agro-industrial materials generated from agriculture, and secondly, for the sustainable remediation of textile wastewater. Annually, huge amounts of solid renewable biomass materials are generated worldwide from agricultural and farming sectors. The generation of these vast amounts of solid wastes could be utilised as a valuable and renewable natural resource for various applications. The goal of promoting sustainable development has increased the interest in recycling wastes economically and in an eco-friendly way. This article reviews the published research on this topic and discusses the usage of these solid substrates in the remediation of a major environmental component, textile dye-contaminated water. The purpose of this article is to discuss an integrated and cross-disciplinary approach to sustainable solid and liquid waste management and remediation of environmental components and to report the biological approaches and their efficiency in a chemical-free and economically viable bioremediation process for large volumes of dye-contaminated water resources.

R. Lacalle, J. Becerril, C. Garbisu

Journal of Environmental Science and Public Health • 2020

Soil is one of our most important resources as it supports many critical ecological functions and ecosystem services. Nonetheless, due to a wide variety of environmentally-unsustainable anthropic activities, sadly, our soils are currently contaminated at a global scale with a myriad of potentially toxic inorganic and organic compounds. Regrettably, most, if not all, traditional physicochemical methods of soil remediation are frequently based on economically-infeasible and/or environmentally-destructive techniques. In consequence, in the last years and decades, more sustainable and innovative biological methods of soil remediation (belonging to the sometimes called “gentle remediation options”) are being developed in an attempt to combine: (i) an efficient removal of soil contaminants (in terms of a decrease of total and/or bioavailable contaminant concentrations), (ii) a reduction of soil ecotoxicity, (iii) the legally- and ethically-required minimization of risk for environmental and human health, and, concomitantly, (iv) a recovery of soil health and (v) associated ecosystem services. Ideally, any soil remediation method should not only decrease the concentration of soil contaminants below regulatory limits but should also recover soil health and alongside the provision of essential ecosystem services. Unquestionably, all this must be achieved in full compliance with the binding environmental regulations and, most importantly, via the implementation of economically-feasible (preferably, profitable) strategies of soil remediation.

A. Periyasamy

Sustainability • 2024

Water makes up most of the Earth, although just 0.3% is usable for people and animals. The huge oceans, icecaps, and other non-potable water resources make up the remaining 99.7%. Water quality has declined in recent decades due to pollution from population growth, industry, unplanned urbanization, and poor water management. The textile industry has significant global importance, although it also stands as a major contributor to wastewater generation, leading to water depletion and ecotoxicity. This issue arises from the extensive utilization of harmful chemicals, notably dyes. The main aim of this review article is to combine and assess the impacts of textile wastewater that contains dyes and chemicals, and to examine their potential consequences on human health, aquatic health, and the environment. Moreover, the dedicated section presents an in-depth review of various environmentally sustainable approaches for the management and treatment of wastewater in the textile industry. These approaches encompass bio adsorbents, biological methods, membrane technology, ion exchange, advanced oxidation processes, as well as physicochemical and biochemical processes. Furthermore, this study also evaluates the contemporary progressions in this particular domain, taking into account the corresponding advantages and disadvantages. Finally, this article highlights the significance of recovering and reusing dyes, alkalis, and electrolytes in wastewater treatment. Additionally, it emphasizes the necessity of performing technoeconomic analyses and life cycle assessments (LCA) on wastewater treatment plants.

E. O. Dada, K. Njoku, A. Osuntoki et al.

Ethiopian Journal of Environmental Studies and Management • 2015

Soil plays crucial and strategic life-supporting roles as man and many other living organisms depend directly or indirectly on if for food and shelter. In spite of this fact, the soil is constantly subjected to various forms of abuse, including heavy metals pollution. The ecological destructive effect, high cost, and intensive labour requirement associated with ex situ physico-chemical remediation methods make the search for in situ remediation techniques inevitable. This paper gives an update on the remediation techniques that can be carried out in situ. Included in the review are more recent biological remediation methods, like vermiremediation, which are especially eco-friendly, cost effective, and sustainable. Key Words: Bioremediation, bioaccumulation, heavy metals, soil

R. Wu, Fangting Yao, Xiaoya Li et al.

Microorganisms • 2022

Manganese (Mn), as a cofactor of multiple enzymes, exhibits great significance to the human body, plants and animals. It is also a critical raw material and alloying element. However, extensive employment for industrial purposes leads to its excessive emission into the environment and turns into a significant threat to the ecosystem and public health. This review firstly introduces the essentiality, toxicity and regulation of Mn. Several traditional physicochemical methods and their problems are briefly discussed as well. Biological remediation, especially microorganism-mediated strategies, is a potential alternative for remediating Mn-polluted environments in a cost-efficient and eco-friendly manner. Among them, microbially induced carbonate precipitation (MICP), biosorption, bioaccumulation, bio-oxidation are discussed in detail, including their mechanisms, pivotal influencing factors along with strengths and limitations. In order to promote bioremediation efficiency, the combination of different techniques is preferable, and their research progress is also summarized. Finally, we propose the future directions of Mn bioremediation by microbes. Conclusively, this review provides a scientific basis for the microbial remediation performance for Mn pollution and guides the development of a comprehensive competent strategy towards practical Mn remediation.

Martin J. Hamper

Remediation Journal • 2020

Abstract Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) came onto the scene as an environmental threat quickly after they were discovered in humans and wildlife by Jensen in 1966. By October 1970, it was reported that PCBs were “truly ubiquitous pollutants” as PCBs were found at detectable concentrations in environmental samples throughout the world. Before 1971, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reported that 26% of PCBs sold were used in open‐end use applications, such as caulks, sealants, plasticizers, surface coatings, ink, adhesive, and carbonless paper. Processing and distribution of PCBs in commerce were largely banned in the U.S. after July 1979 with certain continued uses authorized by the EPA. While PCBs were banned a long time ago, the ban had no immediate tangible effect on the continued use of regulated levels of PCBs in buildings constructed before the bans were implemented. Legacy buildings with PCB‐containing building materials continue to represent potential sources of indoor air, dust, outdoor air, and soil contamination. Where PCBs are present in building materials, they have the potential to pose a risk to building occupants. Proper removal of PCB‐containing materials is a highly effective approach to abating the risk. The removal can range from targeting specific building PCB‐containing materials through demolition of the building. Engineering and administrative controls can also be useful tools when addressing the risks posed by PCB‐containing materials.

O. González, M. Esplugas, C. Sans et al.

Water Science and Technology • 2008

A combined strategy of a photo-Fenton pretreatment followed by a Sequencing Batch Biofilm Reactor (SBBR) was evaluated for total C and N removal from a synthetic wastewater containing 200 mg L−1 of the antibiotic Sulfamethoxazole (SMX). Photo-Fenton reaction was performed with two different H2O2 concentrations (300 and 400 mg L−1) and 10 mg L−1 of Fe2 + . The pre-treated effluents with the antibiotic intermediates as sole carbon source, together with a nutrients solution, were used as feed for the biological reactor. The SBBR was operated under aerobic conditions to mineralize the organic carbon and the hydraulic retention time (HRT) was optimized down to 8 hours. Then, an anoxic denitrification stage of 24 hours of HRT was added right after the aerobic stage of the same duration in order to remove the NO3− generated along the chemical–biological treatment. TOC, COD and SMX concentrations together with O2 uptake rate (OUR) profiles were monitored in purpose of assessing the performance of the system. NO3−, NH4+ and total N concentrations were analyzed to find out the fate of N contained in the initial SMX molecule. A start up strategy resulted in the correct formation of a biofilm over the volcanic support. The total TOC removals achieved with the combination of the chemical and the biological processes were 75.7 and 87.7% for the low and the high H2O2 concentration pretreatments respectively. Practically all N present in the SMX solution was eliminated in the SBBR when the aerobic–anoxic strategy was used.

Peter Phillips, Judith Bender

Federal Facilities Environmental Journal • 1995

Abstract Although for regulatory purposes, mixed waste contains both a hazardous component as well as a radioactive component, the biotreatment technology described here remediates waste in the form of organic and metal mixtures and radionuclides and mixed metals. The Biomat TM , a proprietary microbial consortium, is photosynthetic, using atmospheric carbon dioxide and water to produce oxygen, and is nitrogen‐fixing (i.e., it uses atmospheric nitrogen to make usable nitrogen compounds for its growth). It contains anoxic (without oxygen) and oxic (with oxygen) zones in close proximity, which are assumed, for example, to simultaneously facilitate dechlorination and cleavage of aromatic carbon rings, respectively, in such difficult organic contaminants as PCBs and chlordane. It produces negatively charged, flocculating macromolecules which likely bind to metals. The Biomat TM tolerates chemical toxins and various pH, salinity, and temperature levels. In the laboratory, it has removed an array of heavy metals and metalloids, mineralized pesticides, PCB, solvents, oils, and explosives to carbon dioxide, and removed mixed waste in a continuous flow system. In the field, it has removed manganese, zinc, and other heavy metals (e.g., silver, chromium, cadmium, copper, lead, nickel, and iron) from mine drainage and BTEX, a gasoline mixture of benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene, from contaminated groundwater. Landfill leachate is a mixture of toxic organics, metals, and ammonia. Waste Management, Inc., Microbial & Aquatic Treatment Systems, Inc., and the University of Louisville are currently collaborating in a pilot project testing simultaneous remediation of leachate with the Biomat TM .

Itziar Alkorta, Carlos Garbisu

Frontiers in Environmental Science • 2021

The field of soil biological remediation was initially focused on the use of microorganisms. For organic contaminants, biostimulation and bioaugmentation were the strategies of choice. For heavy metals, bioremediation was centered on the feasibility of using microorganisms to reduce metal toxicity. Partly due to the impossibility to degrade metals, phytoremediation emerged proposing the use of plants to extract them (phytoextraction) or reduce their bioavailability (phytostabilization). Later, microbial-assisted phytoremediation addressed the inoculation of plant growth-promoting microorganisms to improve phytoremediation efficiency. Similarly, plant-assisted bioremediation examined the stimulatory effect of plant growth on the microbial degradation of soil contaminants. The combination of plants and microorganisms is nowadays often recommended for mixed contaminated soils. Finally, phytomanagement emerged as a phytotechnology focused on the use of plants and associated microorganisms to decrease contaminant linkages, maximize ecosystem services, and provide economic revenues. Although biological remediation methods have been in use for decades, the truth is that they have not yet yielded the expected results. Here, we claim that much more research is needed to make the most of the many ways that microorganisms have evolutionary developed to access the contaminants and to better understand the soil microbial networks responsible, to a great extent, for soil functioning.

Tibor Pasinszki, Melinda Krebsz

Nanomaterials • 2020

Present and past anthropogenic pollution of the hydrosphere and lithosphere is a growing concern around the world for sustainable development and human health. Current industrial activity, abandoned contaminated plants and mining sites, and even everyday life is a pollution source for our environment. There is therefore a crucial need to clean industrial and municipal effluents and remediate contaminated soil and groundwater. Nanosized zero-valent iron (nZVI) is an emerging material in these fields due to its high reactivity and expected low impact on the environment due to iron’s high abundance in the earth crust. Currently, there is an intensive research to test the effectiveness of nZVI in contaminant removal processes from water and soil and to modify properties of this material in order to fulfill specific application requirements. The number of laboratory tests, field applications, and investigations for the environmental impact are strongly increasing. The aim of the present review is to provide an overview of the current knowledge about the catalytic activity, reactivity and efficiency of nZVI in removing toxic organic and inorganic materials from water, wastewater, and soil and groundwater, as well as its toxic effect for microorganisms and plants.

Alena Luptakova, Tomislav Spaldon, Magdalena Balintova

Advanced Materials Research • 2007

The formation and treatment of acid mine drainage is the biggest environmental problems relating to mining and processing activities in the worldwide. Various methods are used for the sulphates and heavy metals removal from acid mine drainage in the world, but any of them is universal. Main aim of the paper is the interpretation of chemical and biological-chemical methods for the metals and sulphates removal from acid mine drainage sample. The chemical method is based on the sulphates precipitation by the sodium aluminate in combination with the calcium hydrate. The biological-chemical method is based on the application of sulphate-reducing bacteria (SRB). A sample of acid mine drainage from the abandoned and flooded deposit of Smolník located in Slovak republic was used in this study.

M. D. Ratliff

SPE Health, Safety and Environment in Oil and Gas Exploration and Production Conference • 1994

ABSTRACT The paper discusses two different approaches to the remediation of contaminated soil and groundwater. The information was obtained from two case studies where these methods were utilized to treat contaminants. The first approach involves the treatment of hydrocarbon-contaminated soil with microorganisms which digest the hydrocarbons releasing carbon dioxide and water. The use of microbes in this manner is commonly referred to as biotreatment. The case study was conducted in Kenai, Alaska. The second case study involved the treatment of gasoline-contaminated groundwater through the use of active permeable barrier trench systems. Trenches were installed below the surface of the groundwater and air was pumped into the groundwater, stripping the volatile hydrocarbons which were evacuated by a vapor recovery system. Because of the low hydraulic conductivity of the soil in the area, more traditional treatment options, such as the standard pump and treat operation, were not viable alternatives. The active permeable barrier trench system is being utilized at a Halliburton field facility in Artesia, New Mexico.

Rui C Martins, Rosa M. Quinta-Ferreira

International Journal of Chemical Reactor Engineering • 2010

This work deals with a real environmental problem related with milk whey wastewater. Even if a high depuration degree can be achieved using aerobic biological processes, the final effluent does not accomplish the legal regulation for disposal. In this context, we studied the application of ozone oxidation after an activated sludge treatment in order to obtain an effluent suitable to be discharged into the natural water courses. Even if the pH increase improved single ozonation efficiency, the treated wastewater was not yet able to be disposed of. The introduction of hydrogen peroxide at low concentrations enhanced the ozone action over the pollutants, and this combination led to residual water within the environmental law conditions to be released on the surroundings. Furthermore, heterogeneous catalytic ozonation over Mn-Ce-O 70/30 (prepared in our laboratory) and the commercial N-150 catalyst (Fe2O3-MnOx) was very efficient on the wastewater depuration. Nevertheless, the high amount of carbon adsorbed on the recovered catalysts disable the industrial implementation of this technology.

Yuan Yuan

Applied Mechanics and Materials • 2013

Nuclear energy, due to having rich savings, great power, and less air pollution, gradually uses in civilian life widely. However, when this new energy is booming, some serious problems has appeared,such as radiation damage, the pollution of radioactive wastewater.etc .So how to make an effective protection and remediation to radiation injury has become a hot spot around the world. Here we will resport the relationship between a biological nanomaterials --Mollusk shell and the nuclear radiation, and we find that Mollusk shell not only can adsorb radionuclides, but also can repair the radiation injuries.This new function may contrubute to the design and synthesis of new radiation resistant materials.

Hossain Md Anawar, Rezaul Chowdhury

Sustainability • 2020

Selection of appropriate river water treatment methods is important for the restoration of river ecosystems. An in-depth review of different river water treatment technologies has been carried out in this study. Among the physical-engineering processes, aeration is an effective, sustainable and popular technique which increases microbial activity and degrades organic pollutants. Other engineering techniques (water diversion, mechanical algae removal, hydraulic structures and dredging) are effective as well, but they are cost intensive and detrimental to river ecosystems. Riverbank filtration is a natural, slow and self-sustainable process which does not pose any adverse effects. Chemical treatments are criticised for their short-term solution, high cost and potential for secondary pollution. Ecological engineering-based techniques are preferable due to their high economic, environmental and ecological benefits, their ease of maintenance and the fact that they are free from secondary pollution. Constructed wetlands, microbial dosing, ecological floating beds and biofilms technologies are the most widely applicable ecological techniques, although some variabilities are observed in their performances. Constructed wetlands perform well under low hydraulic and pollutant loads. Sequential constructed wetland floating bed systems can overcome this limitation. Ecological floating beds are highly recommended for their low cost, high effectiveness and optimum plant growth facilities.

Colin Hayes, Michael Worth Calfee, Timothy Boe

Remediation Journal • 2023

Abstract Large‐scale biological contamination incidents pose unique yet significant challenges to remediation operations. Previous incidents have demonstrated the utility of readily available commercial and municipal equipment for conducting remediation tasks. Preidentification and evaluation of such equipment could reduce lag time for response initiation and enhance overall response effectiveness and efficiency. The current study aimed to identify commercial and municipal equipment that could be beneficial in wide‐area biological remediation operations. Equipment were identified by market research, their utility was assessed by a group of subject matter experts, and a subset of those equipment was observed under operational conditions in a realistic urban environment. Observations and feedback from demonstration participants are presented within the article. This information is intended to support rapid decision‐making following large‐scale biological incidents, broaden the universe of potentially useful equipment to support the response, enhance response operations, and reduce the impact on the public.

Melissa Schmitt, Srinivasa Varadhan, Sandra Dworatzek et al.

Remediation Journal • 2017

Abstract Laboratory and field demonstration studies were conducted to assess the efficacy of enhanced biological reduction of 1,2,3‐trichloropropane (TCP) in groundwater. Laboratory studies evaluated the effects of pH and initial TCP concentrations on TCP reduction and the activity of a microbial inoculum containing Dehalogenimonas ( Dhg ). Laboratory results showed successful reduction at a pH of 5 to 9 with optimal reduction at 7 to 9 and at initial TCP concentrations ranging from 10 to over 10,000 micrograms per liter (μg/L). Based on findings from the laboratory study, the effects of TCP concentration, geochemical conditions, and amendment concentration on bioremediation efficacy were investigated during a field demonstration at a site with relatively low initial concentrations of TCP (< 2 μg/L). The field demonstration included injection of emulsified vegetable oil (EVO) and lactate as a carbon substrate for biostimulation, followed by bioaugmentation using the microbial inoculum containing Dhg . Post‐injection performance monitoring demonstrated reduction of TCP to below laboratory detection limits (< 0.005 μg/L) after an initial lag period of approximately six months following injections. TCP reduction was accompanied by generation of the degradation byproduct propene. A marginal increase in TCP concentrations, potentially due to an influx of upgradient aerobic groundwater containing TCP, was observed eight months after injections thereby demonstrating the sensitivity of this bioaugmentation application to changes in geochemical parameters. Despite this marginal increase, performance monitoring results indicate continued TCP biodegradation 15 months after implementation of the injection program. This demonstration suggests that enhanced biodegradation of TCP by combining biostimulation and bioaugmentation may be a promising solution to the challenges associated with remediation of TCP, even when present at low part per billion concentrations in groundwater.

Patrick M. Woodhull, Douglas E. Jerger

Remediation Journal • 1994

Abstract Slurry‐phase bioremediation is an engineered process for treating contaminated soils or sludges. Slurry‐phase biological treatment can be applied to a variety of contaminated wastes amenable to microbial degradation, including manufactured gas plant wastes, wood‐treating wastes, refinery wastes, petroleum hydrocarbons, and select chlorinated compounds, including PCBs. This article describes the process by which a commercial slurry‐phase treatment system was used to bioremediate contaminants at two sites–a wood treatment facility and a manufactured gas plant. A process description of the system and an analysis of project costs are provided. Bioremediation offers two advantages over other remediation alternatives: on‐site destruction of the contaminant(s) and lower total remedial costs. Slurry‐phase biological treatment offers several advantages over conventional bioremediation technologies (i.e., land treatment). Slurry‐phase biological treatment can achieve increased degradation rates, higher treatment efficiencies, greater control of environmental and operating conditions, and smaller treatment area requirements. Slurry‐phase biological treatment costs range from approximately $200 to $230 per cubic yard, which is comparable to other on‐site remediation technologies.

, Shahzad Ali

Indian Journal of Pure & Applied Biosciences • 2022

Such elements have an atomic density of more than 4g/cm3 or 5 times or more than water is heavy metals, i.e. Nical (Ni), silver (Ag), cobalt (Co), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), lead (Pb), arsenic (As) and cadmium (Cd). In these, some are essential, i.e. iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), molybdenum (Mo) and Nical (Ni). Rapid increments in industry, agriculture, and urbanization produce non-degradable toxic materials, i.e. heavy metals. Heavy metals are also produced by natural resources but higher values reflect anthropogenic accumulation. Soil is one of the valuable, essential, non-regenerative resources. Many soil properties, i.e. pH, organic contents, ion exchange capacity, texture, microbial growth, microbial density or metabolic processes, are deteriorated by the heavy metals accumulation. Heavy metals are a non-degradable part of the soil environment. Soil remediation is necessary due to high productive pressure with food security concerns. Different Physico-chemical and biological practices are in practice to remediate the soil environment. Mainly use of amendments (liming material, organic contents and adequate fertilizer rate) and plants (phytoremediation and phytodegration) are the most economical cost-effective and environmentally well-sounded techniques for cleanup of the soil environment. Amendments help to reclaim the soil's Physico-chemical properties, microbial community establishment and bond different heavy metals to reduce their mobility. Prevention of the entry of heavy metals into the food chain is a major goal of phytoremediation. Physical with genetic engineering approaches must be practiced to make new genetically controlled plants used in future prospects to remediate the soil.

Sanjoy K. Bhattacharya

Remediation Journal • 1992

Abstract Because bioremediation must satisfy the fundamental biological tastes of specific organisms, environmental engineers must create a nutritious waste stew. Waste‐hungry organisms need a proper electron acceptor. Oxygen is preferred; if it is not available, nitrate, sulfate, or carbon dioxide may work. The waste itself is a source of carbon and energy. Macronutrients are next—including phosphorus, nitrogen, and certain metals, if they are not already present in the wastewater—as well as micronutrients. Other factors, including pH, temperature, aeration, and mixing must suit the organisms' natural temperaments. This article explores how bioengineers can combine these ingredients in precise quantities and proportions in both conventional and innovative aerobic and anaerobic bioprocesses, including in situ treatment and even composting, to make the organisms healthy, happy, and inexpensive.

Xue-ling Wu, Yichao Gu, Xiao-yan Wu et al.

Microorganisms • 2020

As an environmental pollutant, tetracycline (TC) can persist in the soil for years and damage the ecosystem. So far, many methods have been developed to handle the TC contamination. Microbial remediation, which involves the use of microbes to biodegrade the pollutant, is considered cost-efficient and more suitable for practical application in soil. This study isolated several strains from TC-contaminated soil and constructed a TC-degrading bacterial consortium containing Raoultella sp. XY-1 and Pandoraea sp. XY-2, which exhibited better growth and improved TC degradation efficiency compared with single strain (81.72% TC was biodegraded within 12 days in Lysogeny broth (LB) medium). Subsequently, lab-scale soil remediation was conducted to evaluate its effectiveness in different soils and the environmental effects it brought. Results indicated that the most efficient TC degradation was recorded at 30 °C and in soil sample Y which had relatively low initial TC concentration (around 35 mg/kg): TC concentration decreased by 43.72% within 65 days. Soil properties were affected, for instance, at 30 °C, the pH value of soil sample Y increased to near neutral, and soil moisture content (SMC) of both soils declined. Analysis of bacterial communities at the phylum level showed that Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Acidobacteria, and Chloroflexi were the four dominant phyla, and the relative abundance of Proteobacteria significantly increased in both soils after bioremediation. Further analysis of bacterial communities at the genus level revealed that Raoultella sp. XY-1 successfully proliferated in soil, while Pandoraea sp. XY-2 was undetectable. Moreover, bacteria associated with nitrogen cycling, biodegradation of organic pollutants, soil biochemical reactions, and plant growth were affected, causing the decline in soil bacterial diversity. Variations in the relative abundance of tetracycline resistance genes (TRGs) and mobile gene elements (MGEs) were investigated, the results obtained indicated that tetD, tetG, tetX, intI1, tnpA-04, and tnpA-05 had higher relative abundance in original soils, and the relative abundance of most TRGs and MGEs declined after the microbial remediation. Network analysis indicated that tnpA may dominate the transfer of TRGs, and Massilia, Alkanibacter, Rhizomicrobium, Xanthomonadales, Acidobacteriaceae, and Xanthomonadaceae were possible hosts of TRGs or MGEs. This study comprehensively evaluated the effectiveness and the ecological effects of the TC-degrading bacterial consortium in soil environment.

R. Ammeri, W. Hassen, Y. Hidri et al.

International Journal of Phytoremediation • 2021

Abstract This study has contributed in the description of bioaugmentation-phytoremediation efficiency process using Typha angustifolia concerning PCP tolerance and removal from wastewater. Samples of wastewater were collected from industrial wastewater plants, namely row wastewater effluent “E.WW”, primary wastewater “P.WW”, secondary wastewater “S.WW”, clarified wastewater “AC.WW”. These effluents were spiked with PCP at different rate (100, 500, and 1000 mg.L−1), physical, chemical and biological properties were monitored. A second experiment was set up in order to check the efficiency of phytoremediation treatments of the different effluents artificially contaminated with 200 mg.L−1 PCP after 20 days lab scale experiment. An important PCP removal by indigenous bacteria was showed in S. WW with values from 1000 to 72.2 mg.L−1 from T0 (start of the experiment) to TF (end of the experiment), respectively. Phytoremediation process allowed a decrease of PCP rate from 200 to 6.4 mg.L−1, a decrease of chloride content from 14.0 to 4.0 mg.L−1 in S.WW samples was observed. Furthermore, a significant increase of bacterial number in S.WW and AC.WW to 1.700 × 106 and 1.450 × 106 CFU.mL−1, respectively was observed. In addition, the DGGE analysis showed that after bioaugmentation-phytoremediation treatments, the highest species richness and relative abundance in wastewater effluent was observed. Novelty statement Pentachlorophenol (PCP) is one of highly toxic of polychlorophenols and required to continuously monitor in environment. This paper presenting a sensitive method phytoremediation and bioaugmentation for PCP biotransformation in wastewater. The novelty is the choice of a macrophyte Typha angustifolia, which is still used for the elimination of heavy metals but it not used for pesticide and pollutant removal in wastewater. Also, there are different analysis that was performed in order to check phyto-technique process (DGGE and HPLC). On the other side, in this study, the phyto-techniques with Typha angustifolia positively affected intrinsic microorganisms in order to promote pollutant remediation. So, the intrinsic microorganisms in wastewater with the macrophyte presence have a great capacity to reduce this pollutant and improve the bioremediation process.

Jin-wook Kim, Y. Hong, H. Kim et al.

Toxics • 2021

Soil washing and landfarming processes are widely used to remediate total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH)-contaminated soil, but the impact of these processes on soil bacteria is not well understood. Four different states of soil (uncontaminated soil (control), TPH-contaminated soil (CS), after soil washing (SW), and landfarming (LF)) were collected from a soil remediation facility to investigate the impact of TPH and soil remediation processes on soil bacterial populations by metagenomic analysis. Results showed that TPH contamination reduced the operational taxonomic unit (OTU) number and alpha diversity of soil bacteria. Compared to SW and LF remediation techniques, LF increased more bacterial richness and diversity than SW, indicating that LF is a more effective technique for TPH remediation in terms of microbial recovery. Among different bacterial species, Proteobacteria were the most abundant in all soil groups followed by Actinobacteria, Acidobacteria, and Firmicutes. For each soil group, the distribution pattern of the Proteobacteria class was different. The most abundant classed were Alphaproteobacteria (16.56%) in uncontaminated soils, Deltaproteobacteria (34%) in TPH-contaminated soils, Betaproteobacteria (24%) in soil washing, and Gammaproteobacteria (24%) in landfarming, respectively. TPH-degrading bacteria were detected from soil washing (23%) and TPH-contaminated soils (21%) and decreased to 12% in landfarming soil. These results suggest that soil pollution can change the diversity of microbial groups and different remediation techniques have varied effective ranges for recovering bacterial communities and diversity. In conclusion, the landfarming process of TPH remediation is more advantageous than soil washing from the perspective of bacterial ecology.

A. Castaño, A. Prosenkov, D. Baragaño et al.

Frontiers in Microbiology • 2021

Nanoscale Zero-Valent Iron (nZVI) is a cost-effective nanomaterial that is widely used to remove a broad range of metal(loid)s and organic contaminants from soil and groundwater. In some cases, this material alters the taxonomic and functional composition of the bacterial communities present in these matrices; however, there is no conclusive data that can be generalized to all scenarios. Here we studied the effect of nZVI application in situ on groundwater from the site of an abandoned fertilizer factory in Asturias, Spain, mainly polluted with arsenic (As). The geochemical characteristics of the water correspond to a microaerophilic and oligotrophic environment. Physico-chemical and microbiological (cultured and total bacterial diversity) parameters were monitored before and after nZVI application over six months. nZVI treatment led to a marked increase in Fe(II) concentration and a notable fall in the oxidation-reduction potential during the first month of treatment. A substantial decrease in the concentration of As during the first days of treatment was observed, although strong fluctuations were subsequently detected in most of the wells throughout the six-month experiment. The possible toxic effects of nZVI on groundwater bacteria could not be clearly determined from direct observation of those bacteria after staining with viability dyes. The number of cultured bacteria increased during the first two weeks of the treatment, although this was followed by a continuous decrease for the following two weeks, reaching levels moderately below the initial number at the end of sampling, and by changes in their taxonomic composition. Most bacteria were tolerant to high As(V) concentrations and showed the presence of diverse As resistance genes. A more complete study of the structure and diversity of the bacterial community in the groundwater using automated ribosomal intergenic spacer analysis (ARISA) and sequencing of the 16S rRNA amplicons by Illumina confirmed significant alterations in its composition, with a reduction in richness and diversity (the latter evidenced by Illumina data) after treatment with nZVI. The anaerobic conditions stimulated by treatment favored the development of sulfate-reducing bacteria, thereby opening up the possibility to achieve more efficient removal of As.

C. Campillo-Cora, D. Soto-Gómez, M. Arias-Estévez et al.

Agronomy • 2022

The assessment of remediation on metal-polluted soils is usually focused on total and/or bioavailable metal content. However, these chemical variables do not provide direct information about reductions in heavy metals pressure on soil microorganisms. We propose the use of bacterial communities to evaluate the efficiency of three remediation techniques: crushed mussel shell (CMS) and pine bark (PB) as soil amendments and EDTA-washing. A soil sample was polluted with different doses of Cu, Ni, and Zn (separately). After 30 days of incubation, the remediation techniques were applied, and bacterial community tolerance to heavy metals determined. If bacterial communities develop tolerance, it is an indicator that the metal is exerting toxicity on them. Soil bacterial communities developed tolerance to Cu, Ni, and Zn in response to metal additions. After remediation, bacterial communities showed decreases in bacterial community tolerance to Cu, Ni, and Zn for all remediation techniques. For Cu and Ni, soil EDTA-washing showed the greatest reduction of bacterial community tolerance to Cu and Ni, respectively, while for Zn the soil amendment with PB was the most effective remediation technique. Thus, bacterial community tolerance to heavy metals successfully detect differences in the effectiveness of the three remediation techniques.

N. Agarwal, V. S. Solanki, A. Gacem et al.

Water • 2022

Biological treatment methods for the biodegradation of anthropogenic toxic pollutants are eco-friendly in nature and are powered by a variety of microbial enzymes. Green chemistry and enzymes play a crucial role in catalyzing the biodegradation of organic and inorganic pollutants including azo dyes; polyaromatic hydrocarbons; lead; organic cyanides; aromatic amines; mono-, di-, and polyphenols; polymers; and mercury. Laccases form a prospective group of multifunctional oxidoreductase enzymes with great potential for oxidizing different categories of organic and inorganic pollutants and their diversified functions, such as pigment formation, lignin degradation, and detoxification of industrial wastes including xenobiotics mainly from the pharmaceutical, paper textile, and petrochemical industries. Therefore, it is very important to study laccases as green and environmentally friendly alternatives for the degradation of xenobiotics. This review article will cover comprehensive information about the functions and properties of bacterial laccases for a deep understanding of their scope and applications for effective bioremediation of recalcitrant xenobiotics.

Zhong-Fei Xue, W. Cheng, Lin Wang et al.

Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology • 2022

Lead and copper ions from wastewater induced by metallurgical processes are accumulated in soils, threatening plant and human health. The bioinspired calcium carbonate precipitation is proven effective in improving the cementation between soil particles. However, studies on capsulizing heavy metal ions using the bioinspired calcium carbonate precipitation are remarkably limited. The present study conducted a series of test tube experiments to investigate the effects of bacterial culture and calcium source addition on the remediation efficiency against lead and copper ions. The calcium carbonate precipitation was reproduced using the Visual MINTEQ software package to reveal the mechanism affecting the remediation efficiency. The degradation in the remediation efficiency against lead ions relies mainly upon the degree of urea hydrolysis. However, higher degrees of urea hydrolysis cause remediation efficiency against copper ions to reduce to zero. Such high degree of urea hydrolysis turns pH surrounding conditions into highly alkaline environments. Therefore, pursuing higher degrees of urea hydrolysis might not be the most crucial factor while remedying copper ions. The findings shed light on the importance of modifying pH surrounding conditions in capsulizing copper ions using the bioinspired calcium carbonate precipitation.

Xiaoyun Chai, Mutian Wang, Xiaowen Fu et al.

Frontiers in Environmental Science • 2023

Introduction: Bioremediation has been shown to be an effective strategy for removing toxic pollutants from the environment, particularly organic chemicals such as petroleum hydrocarbons. This paper investigates the changes in toxicity of petroleum-contaminated soil as a result of microbial remediation processes. Methods: Changes in the ecotoxicity of the contaminated soil were examined using a plant, earthworm, enzyme activity and luminescent bacteria toxicity tests. Results: The results showed that bioremediation could effectively degrade petroleum hydrocarbon (C10–C40) pollutants. After 42 days of remediation, the petroleum hydrocarbon (C10–C40) content of Group A (bioaugmented polluted wetland soil) decreased from 1.66 g/kg to 1.00 g/kg, and the degradation rate was 40.6%. The petroleum hydrocarbon (C10–C40) content of Group B (bioaugmented polluted farmland soil decreased from 4.00 g/kg to 1.94 g/kg, and the degradation rate was 51.6%. During the microbial remediation progress, the ecological toxicity of petroleum-contaminated soil first increased and then decreased. The photosynthetic pigment content index in the higher plant toxicity test, the earthworm survival index and the soil catalase activity all showed good agreement with the relative luminescence index of extracted DCM/DMSO in the luminescent bacterial toxicity test. The soil toxicity decreased significantly after remediation. Specifically, the photosynthetic pigment content of wheat were inhibited in the soil during the whole process (remediation for 42 days), and decreased to the minimum on remediation day 21. The 7-day and 14-day survival rate of earthworms in Group A and Group B gradually decreased in the soil remediation process, and then gradually increased, survival rate at the end of remediation was higher than at the beginning. Soil catalase activity was significantly negatively correlated with petroleum hydrocarbon (C10–C40) content (−0.988, −0.989). The ecological toxicity of contaminated soil reached to the maximum on the 21st day of remediation, relative luminosity of luminescent bacteria in dichloromethane/dimethyl sulfoxide extracts from Group A and Group B were 26.3% and 16.3%, respectively. Conclusion: Bioremediation could effectively degrade petroleum hydrocarbon (C10–C40) pollutants. Wheat photosynthetic pigment content, earthworm survival rate, soil catalase activity and relative luminescence of luminescent bacteria can better indicate the ecological toxicity of petroleum-contaminated soil in bioremediation process.

Dongchu Guo, Zhouzhou Fan, Shuyu Lu et al.

Scientific Reports • 2019

Abstract Mining and smelting activities are the major sources of antimony (Sb) contamination. The soil around Xikuangshan (XKS), one of the largest Sb mines in the world, has been contaminated with high concentrations of Sb and other associated metals, and has attracted extensive scholarly attention. Phytoremediation is considered a promising method for removing heavy metals, and the diversity and structure of rhizosphere microorganisms may change during the phytoremediation process. The rhizosphere microbiome is involved in soil energy transfer, nutrient cycling, and resistance and detoxification of metal elements. Thus, changes in this microbiome are worthy of investigation using high-throughput sequencing techniques. Our study in Changlongjie and Lianmeng around XKS revealed that microbial diversity indices in the rhizospheres of Broussonetia papyrifera and Ligustrum lucidum were significantly higher than in bulk soil, indicating that plants affect microbial communities. Additionally, most of the bacteria that were enriched in the rhizosphere belonged to the Proteobacteria, Acidobacteria, Actinobacteria, and Bacteroidetes. In Changlongjie and Lianmeng, the diversity and abundance of the microbial community in the B . papyrifera rhizosphere were higher than in L . lucidum . In parallel, the soil pH of the B . papyrifera rhizosphere increased significantly in acidic soil and decreased significantly in near-neutral soil. Redundancy analyses indicated that pH was likely the main factor affecting the overall bacterial community compositions, followed by moisture content, Sb, arsenic (As), and chromium (Cr).

Paul Bardos

Remediation Journal • 2014

In the past decade or so, management of historically contaminated land has largely been based on prevention of unacceptable risks to human health and the environment, to ensure a site is “fit for use” (i.e., achieves suitability for beneficial uses). More recently, interest has been shown in including sustainability as a decision‐making criterion. Sustainability concerns include the environmental, social, and economic consequences of risk‐management activities themselves, and also the opportunities for wider benefit beyond achieving risk‐reduction goals alone. This article provides a global roundup of progress by these initiatives and their key documentation. It reviews common themes and points of divergence. The information is based on a literature review and surveying the various networks involved, with a particular focus on recent developments in the United Kingdom. The global roundup updates a previous global roundup presented in Europe in 2013 at Aquaconsoil 2013 (Bardos et al., 2013a, 2013b). © 2014 Paul Bardos

Paul Nathanail

Remediation Journal • 2011

Abstract Sustainable remediation is at a crossroads. In a few short years it has become a mainstream topic while simultaneously maintaining its chimeral status. Sustainable remediation is a term claimed by many yet a concept apparently understood by few. Its characterization has necessitated the development of a plethora of metrics and tools yet its essence readily emerges. U.S.‐led initiatives have been adopted around the globe. Relative sustainability appraisal is easy to carry out and potentially sufficient for most site circumstances. The need to adequately protect human health and the environment has been recognized. Now the industry needs to focus our attention on protection and restoration that itself has a reasonably maximized net benefit. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.