Role of microbes in bioremediation of hydrocarbon associated pollution

Abstract

Almost two-thirds of the energy source of the world depends on petroleum and hydrocarbon production and there is an increase in demand. There are various reports about the spillage of crude oil around the world and is of major concern for our environment. The traditional methods of remediation of crude oil spilled areas are unconventional, expensive, and leave toxic intermediates that are harmful to the environment and other living creatures including human beings. Such problems can be overcome by the use of microbes for remediation of spilled petroleum hydrocarbons and drawing the attention of researchers to improve the current conditions. Biodegradation by microbes is significantly less expensive and posed little to no harmful effects on the environment. In this review paper, a clear insight of microbial bioremediation is expressed and the advantages of implementing the role of microbes in the bioremediation of crude oil and hydrocarbon related pollution. In addition, the interaction between the microbe and the environment are discussed and the necessary research and development regarding this field. The advancements in the genetic engineering field of bioremediation and introduction of GMOs in the controlled environments and the processes that hinder field trials.

Keywords: bioremediation, crude oil, biodegradation, microbial remediation, oil-spills