Pulse Brain · Growing Health Evidence Index
Tier 4 — Narrative / commentaryPeer-reviewed

Microalgae-based bioremediation of refractory pollutants: an approach towards environmental sustainability.

El-Sheekh MM, El-Kassas HY, Ali SS.

Microb Cell Fact · 2025

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Summary

This narrative review examines the potential of microalgae-based systems to remediate refractory organic pollutants—compounds resistant to conventional treatment methods—as part of broader environmental sustainability objectives. The authors likely synthesise evidence on microalgal metabolism, enzymatic pathways, and operational parameters that enhance bioremediation efficacy. The work positions microalgal biotechnology as a cost-effective, photosynthetic approach to pollution control with potential co-benefits including biomass production.

UK applicability

Microalgal bioremediation may address UK contamination challenges in industrial legacy sites and agricultural runoff; however, application would require adaptation to UK climate conditions and integration with existing environmental regulation frameworks. The technology could complement UK soil health and water quality recovery initiatives under the Environment Act 2021.

Key measures

Pollutant removal rates; microalgal growth kinetics; degradation pathways; environmental sustainability indicators

Outcomes reported

The study likely reviews microalgal species and mechanisms for degrading refractory (persistent, resistant-to-degradation) pollutants in contaminated water and soil environments. Outcomes probably include assessment of pollutant removal efficiency, microalgal strain performance, and environmental sustainability metrics.

Theme
Farming systems, soils & land use
Subject
Biotechnological approaches to soil and water remediation
Study type
Narrative Review
Study design
Narrative review
Source type
Peer-reviewed study
Status
Published
Geography
International
System type
Biotechnology / Environmental remediation
DOI
10.1186/s12934-024-02638-0
Catalogue ID
NRmo3d4gae-00j

Topic tags

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