Bioremediation, regulatory agencies, and public acceptance of this technology

Bioremediation involves the utilization of microorganisms to degrade enviro nmental pollutants. This technology therefore involves the exploitation of biochemical capabilities of microbial-based processes already functioning i n nature. That is, the dangers and consequences of the use of bioremediatio n processes should be more predictable than if such processes were based on novel technologies. The role of regulatory agencies in the utilization and exploitation of bioremediation technologies is discussed. Factors influenc ing the public acceptance of bioremediation as a tool for cleaning up the e nvironment are reviewed relative to developments in other areas of biotechn ology.