This volume provides a clear understanding of how microbes,
following their degradative processes, contribute maximally to the
benefit of mankind through biotransformations of waste materials as
well as a wide variety of health-risk compounds.
The book contains twenty four chapters contributed by leading
scientists from different parts of the world, covering various
aspects of bioremediation of xenobiotics such as toxic,
carcinogenic, teratogenic, and mutagenic compounds, which include
halogenated aromatics, derivatives of heavy metals, microbial
toxins, tannins, dyes, sulfur compounds of coal and petroleum and
pesticides. The bioremediation of agricultural residue, industrial
as well as municipal wastes, fuel oils, lubricants, natural rubber
products, and other synthetic polymers, which pollute the
environment substantially, also constitutes an important component
of the book. All biotechnological aspects of microbial
transformations pertaining to biodegradation/bioremediation of
hazardous wastes, ranging from screening methods for microbes with
degradative potential, processes of degradation, strain improvement
for enhanced biodegradation and elimination of xenobiotics of
health and environmental concern have been dealt with.
The book intends to widen the scope of Applied Microbiology and
Biotechnology in general and biotransformations in particular. It
will provide an opportunity for scientists in the areas of
biochemistry, food industry, environmental science and engineering
and their implications in technologically feasible, environment
friendly and economically viable bioremediation options. Also, it
forms an interface between agro-industrial establishments and the
academic world and will generate new thought provoking ideas for
scientists of future generations for the safeguard of both human
and animal health as well as the environment.