The article discusses the importance of mineral deposits in the Earth’s crust and the increasing demand for metals, particularly in the face of climate change. The extraction and processing of these minerals have significant environmental and social implications, including the potential for environmental damage and public health risks. The use of cost-cutting measures in mining and metal refining has led to a deterioration in public confidence. However, research is being conducted to develop more sustainable and environmentally friendly methods for extracting and processing metals.
One promising approach is the use of biological processes, such as biosorption and bioaccumulation, to remove heavy metals from wastewater. These processes use living organisms to absorb and concentrate heavy metals, reducing the need for chemical treatment and the potential for environmental harm. The article reviews various biological phenomena that have been explored for their potential in bio-heavy metal remediation, including genetically engineered microorganisms.
The use of transgenic microorganisms to remove heavy metals from wastewater is a promising approach, as it can be more cost-effective and environmentally friendly than traditional methods. However, more research is needed to fully understand the potential of these technologies and to address any environmental and social concerns. The article highlights the need for a more comprehensive approach to heavy metal removal and emphasizes the importance of considering not just technical feasibility but also environmental and social sustainability.