1. WHAT IS BIOREMEDIATION
Bioremediation has been a natural process since the beginning of time. For our purposes, we can
define bioremediation as the process by which organic hazardous materials (such as
hydrocarbons) are biologically degraded or "broken down", usually into innocuous materials
such as carbon dioxide, water inorganic salts and biomass.
This very simple basic process has few requirements. Assuming nothing has been done to
destroy microbial colonies such as excessive heat, certain chemicals or soil sterilization – the key
ingredients are:
1. Microbes – indigenous or supplied
2. Available oxygen supply
3. Energy source – heat
4. Supplemental nutrients – nitrogen, phosphorus, food, and water
By following simple land-farming techniques, we can greatly enhance the bioremediation
process.
Both extensive research and actual field usage has proven a variety of contaminant compounds
respond well to bioremediation. Petroleum hydrocarbons are at the top of this list, followed by
wood preservants (creosote) and chlorinated solvents.
This process benefits end users in the oilfield, petrochemical refineries, wood processors, and
industry in general. It provides one of the most cost-effective ways for waste treatment and
significant risk reduction.