Focusses on the role of microorganisms in a wide range of ecosystems and deterioration processes Explains underlying concepts of environment, interlinks them from an ecological point of view and describes the approaches for waste treatment Describes the concepts and fate processes of environmental contaminants, contaminant patterns in soil, groundwater, and surface water. Includes novel research findings and applications of biosurfactants Discusses biodegradation as a key process in the bioremediation of recalcitrant compounds

This book is divided in 4 parts. Part-I is devoted to issues of intellectual property rights (IPRs). It is intended as a primer for those who are involved or associated with understanding the needs for improving the integrity of scientific documentation. Part-II addresses the technical aspects of biosafety in research. Part-III is oriented to bioethics. It describes emerging legal, social and policy issues pertaining to biotechnology and intellectual property laws. Part-IV deals with entrepreneurship activities in biotechnology. It also outlines the opportunities in the field of biotechnology, ethical considerations, key issues and practical matters for entrepreneurs in biotechnology. Salient Features: Provides basic and comprehensive knowledge pertaining to intellectual property rights. Provides information on intellectual property management concepts and practical implementation to those needing such guidance. Provides information on means of controlling and monitoring the release of biohazardous materials. Will help the readers to understand the ethical, legal and social issues generated by biotechnology. Differentiates between innovation and entrepreneurship in the biotechnology context.