Remediation of toxic environmental pollutants using nanoparticles and integrated nano-bio systems

Abstract

Rapid industrialization and urbanization have led to the release of many toxic contaminants in the environment. Environmental pollution is a major concern as it affects health and well-being of all organisms. The toxicity and health hazards associated with the environmental pollutants requires clean-up from the soil and water. Remediation using nanotechnology is an effective alternative to conventional physicochemical methods as it is eco-friendly and economical. In this chapter we emphasize the use of nanoparticles in the remediation of toxic environmental pollutants such as heavy metals, hydrocarbons, antibiotics, hormones, dyes, and recalcitrant agro-based and organohalide compounds. Nanoparticles are synthesized biogenically which involves its synthesis using plants and microorganisms. Nanobioremediation is a technology that integrates microbial bioremediation and nanoremediation. This chapter provides a brief outlook on applications of nanobioremediation through integrated nano-bio systems in removal of organic or inorganic toxic pollutants and discusses the implications of using these integrated systems on a larger scale. The benefit of this collaboration is the development of more efficient, cost-effective, environmentally friendly solutions in remediation of toxic environmental pollutants.