What is enhanced bioremediation?

Enhanced bioremediation refers to the process of accelerating the natural degradation of harmful contaminants in the environment through the intentional addition of microorganisms and/or nutrients that facilitate the degradation process. In this approach, specific microbes are often introduced or stimulated in contaminated environments, allowing for more efficient breakdown of pollutants like hydrocarbons, heavy metals, and other toxic compounds.

This method harnesses the natural metabolic processes of microorganisms, enhancing their ability to break down complex pollutants into less harmful substances. By providing an optimal environment for these microbes—through the addition of oxygen, nutrients, or even genetically modified organisms—the bioremediation process is significantly expedited compared to natural degradation.

The other options, while related to environmental remediation, do not correctly define enhanced bioremediation. For instance, using plants to absorb contaminants pertains to phytoremediation, while replacing contaminated soil involves physical remediation rather than biological enhancement. Implementing crop rotation is a sustainable agricultural practice that can improve soil health but does not address the breakdown of contaminants through microbial activity.