Nano-bioremediation: A prospective approach for environmental decontamination in focus to soil, water and heavy metals

Abstract

The escalating influx of harmful contaminants and toxic metals into the environment, fueled by rapid technological advancements and population growth, has emerged as a pressing concern. There are numerous physical, chemical, and biological remediation technologies, but their efficacy often falters due to intricate processes. In recent years, many new technologies have been developed to remove toxic pollutants. Among the technologies, bioremediation in combination with nanotechnology is considered the most effective method. Nano-bioremediation is a modern technique of employing plants and microbes for the disintegration of toxic materials, either ex situ or in situ, to combat environmental contamination. Nano-bioremediation provides a versatile array of solutions for reducing pollutants in groundwater, wastewater, and sediment contaminated with heavy metals and hydrocarbons. Silver (Ag) nanoparticles, in particular, have gained recognition as effective catalysts for disinfection across air, water, and surfaces. Its utilization promises a less hazardous, efficient, and sustainable means to mitigate the menace of toxic contaminants in the environment.