Applications of Biotechnology in Environmental Management

Published on 13-Aug-2025

Applications of Biotechnology in Environmental Management

Effluents from Factories and Mines

Effluents from factories and mines cause environmental pollution. Cyanide, lead, mercury, copper, and zinc emitted from factories are highly toxic and chronic pollutants. Various microorganisms grow in these effluents and break down waste materials into simpler substances.

In France, Japan, Taiwan, and India, a type of bacteria found in the effluents of petroleum factories is used as a single-cell protein for animal and human food.
Lactic acid is produced from the waste (whey) of dairy factories with the help of microorganisms.
Waste from the pulp and paper industry supports the growth of Torula yeast, which contains a high protein content. Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Torula utilis also grow in such waste, producing amino acids.
Chlorine pollution from paper bleaching can be quickly removed using various fungi.
Cellulosic wastes from jute, textile, and sugar industries can be converted into useful products by bacteria and fungi, leading to:
- Organic acids (acetic, citric, lactic, tartaric acid)
- Ethanol
- Proteins
- Vitamins
- Amino acids
- Acetone
- Glycerin
- Butanol

This approach both reduces pollution and creates valuable by-products.

Oil Spills in the Sea

Oil pollution in the sea, whether accidental or intentional, has serious consequences.

Oil is insoluble and lighter than water, forming a glossy layer on the surface.
This layer harms marine plants and animals.
Hydrocarbon-oxidizing microorganisms in the ocean attach to oil droplets and, in the presence of oxygen, break them down into simpler components, reducing contamination.
If oil sinks to the ocean floor, it can remain unchanged for years because these microorganisms require oxygen to function.

Notable microorganisms:

Pseudomonas
Nocardia
Mycobacteria
Certain yeasts and molds

Through genetic engineering, a new strain of Pseudomonas has been developed to degrade oil and hydrocarbons more rapidly, helping clean the environment faster.

Wastewater or Sewage Assimilation

Sewage consists of organic and inorganic waste from homes, villages, and farms. Stormwater can also mix with sewage.

Inorganic matter (mud, sand, etc.) is removed by mechanical and chemical methods.
Organic matter is a cause of water pollution, so biological treatment is applied to prevent contamination of food or drinking water.

Microorganisms involved:

Algae
Fungi
Protozoa
Aerobic and anaerobic bacteria

These organisms break down organic matter into CO₂ and CH₄ (methane), which can be used as fuel.

Biological Sewage Treatment Process

Activated Sludge Method – used worldwide.
Tanks Used:
- Aeration Tank: Rich in microorganisms that break down organic matter into CO₂ and water.
- Sedimentation Tank: Water is stabilized, solids settle at the bottom, and purified water is released into rivers or lakes.