Abstract

Biodegradation: Mechanisms and Applications in Environmental Sustainability

Author(s): Rajesh Verma

Biodegradation is the natural or accelerated breakdown of organic and inorganic substances by microorganisms or enzymatic processes into simpler, non-toxic compounds. It plays a vital role in maintaining ecological balance by recycling nutrients and mitigating environmental pollution. Biodegradation is widely applied in the treatment of waste, contaminated soils, water systems, and industrial effluents. This article provides an overview of biodegradation, emphasizing the underlying mechanisms, microbial actors, factors affecting the process, and its applications in environmental sustainability. Challenges, limitations, and recent advancements in enhancing biodegradation efficiency are also discussed.