Assessment of the Risk and Benefit of Microbiological Remediation Application in Industrial Wastewater and Contaminated Soils to Human and Environmental Health
Authors
SYED NADEEM GILLANI, ASIA NOUREEN, ABDULGHAFOOR SEDIQI, MURAD KHAN and ABDUL SHAKOOR
Abstract
This study investigates the effectiveness of microbiological remediation in industrial wastewater and contaminated soils, employing quantitative analyses, multivariate techniques, and risk assessments. Results demonstrate significant reductions in hydrocarbon and heavy metal concentrations following microbial application, with hydrocarbon concentrations decreasing by 60% (from 1200 mg/kg to 480 mg/kg) and heavy metal levels reduced by 60% (e.g., lead concentrations decreased from 25 mg/L to 10 mg/L). Multivariate analyses reveal intricate relationships between microbial diversity and environmental variables, such as Actinobacteria and Firmicutes exhibiting increased abundance post-remediation. Positive changes in soil and water quality parameters are observed, with soil pH increasing from 5.2 to 6.8 and chemical oxygen demand (COD) in wastewater decreasing from 800 mg/L to 300 mg/L. Continuous monitoring of environmental variables and rigorous risk assessments indicate the safety and feasibility of microbial remediation strategies. However, research gaps persist, highlighting the need for further investigations into long-term efficacy, microbial diversity, and the impact of environmental variables. This study contributes valuable insights to the field, offering a holistic understanding of microbiological remediation's potential and informing future advancements in sustainable pollution mitigation.