What does "bioremediation" involve in the context of groundwater treatment?

Bioremediation involves the use of microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, or other natural organisms, to degrade and remove contaminants from groundwater. This process harnesses the natural metabolic processes of these microorganisms, allowing them to break down hazardous substances into less harmful or non-toxic compounds. Bioremediation is particularly effective for organic pollutants and certain heavy metals, making it a valuable strategy in groundwater treatment.

The process can be implemented in situ (treating the groundwater at the site) or ex situ (treating water extracted from the site). The environmental conditions such as temperature, pH, and availability of nutrients are also optimized to enhance the activity and efficiency of the microorganisms involved. This method is generally seen as environmentally friendly and sustainable, as it utilizes natural processes rather than introducing artificial chemicals or physical methods that may disrupt the ecosystem.