In the context of solving pollution problems, what is/are the advantage/advantages of bioremediation technique?

1. It is a technique for cleaning up pollution by enhancing the same biodegradation process that occurs in nature.
2. Any contaminant with heavy metals such as cadmium and lead can be readily and completely treated by bioremediation using microorganisms.
3. Genetic engineering can be used to create microorganisms specifically designed for

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

Bioremediation is a technique that utilizes naturally occurring organisms to break down hazardous substances into less toxic or non-toxic substances by enhancing the biodegradation process.

Statement 1 is correct.

Extreme statements should be approached with caution. Bioremediation is generally a slow process. Heavy metals like cadmium and lead are not readily or completely absorbed or captured by microorganisms.

Statement 2 is not correct.

Genetic engineering can be employed to create microorganisms specifically designed for bioremediation. For example, Alcanivorax, a bacteria with oil-eating abilities, can be genetically modified to enhance its capacity to clean up oil spills.

Statement 3 is correct.

Hence, statements 1 and 3 are correct.

Sources:

• ScienceDaily - Genetically engineered bacteria for cleaning oil spills
• Scientific American - How Microbes Clean Up Oil Spills