Environmental Biotechnology Volume 4

This book reviews the production of bioplastic from various raw materials and recycling wastewater into useful bioproducts by bacteria. In addition, it also addresses the recent advancement in pest control in rice plants, different methods to analyse genotoxicity on soil samples and the effect of phytocompounds on acrylamide-induced toxicity in Drosophilla. Interestingly, this book also discusses mesoporous silica nanoparticles' role as nanocarrier material for inhibiting the cancer cell, especially breast cancer and various biotechnological applications of marine fungal exopolysaccharides.

The past 30 years have seen the emergence of a growing desire worldwide that positive actions be taken to restore and protect the environment from the degrading effects of all forms of pollution – air, water, soil, and noise. Since pollution is a direct or indirect consequence of waste production, the seemingly idealistic demand for “zero discharge” can be construed as an unrealistic demand for zero waste. However, as long as waste continues to exist, we can only attempt to abate the subsequent pollution by converting it to a less noxious form. Three major questions usually arise when a particular type of pollution has been identi ed: (1) How serious is the pollution? (2) Is the technology to abate it available? and (3) Do the costs of abatement justify the degree of abatement achieved? This book is one of the volumes of the Handbook of Environmental Engineering series. The principal intention of this series is to help readers formulate answers to the last two questions above. The traditional approach of applying tried-and-true solutions to speci c pollution problems has been a major contributing factor to the success of environmental engineering, and has accounted in large measure for the establishment of a “methodology of pollution control. ” However, the realization of the ever-increasing complexity and interrelated nature of current environmental problems renders it imperative that intelligent planning of pollution abatement systems be undertaken.

This book brings together the most recent advances from leading experts in the burgeoning field of environmental biotechnology. The contributing chapters adopt a multidisciplinary approach related to environmental aspects of agriculture, industry, pharmaceutical sciences and drug developments from plant and microbial sources, biochemical chemical techniques/methods/protocols involved in different areas of environmental biotechnology. Book also highlights recent advancements, newly emerging technologies, and thought provoking approaches from different parts of the world. It also discusses potential future prospects associated with some frontier development of biotechnological research related to the environment. This book will be of interest to teachers, researchers, biotechnologists, capacity builders and policymakers, and will serve as additional reading material for undergraduate and graduate students of biotechnology, microbiology and environmental sciences.

Environmental Biotechnology: A Biosystems Approach introduces a systems approach to environmental biotechnology and its applications to a range of environmental problems. A systems approach requires a basic understanding of four disciplines: environmental engineering, systems biology, environmental microbiology, and ecology. These disciplines are discussed in the context of their application to achieve specific environmental outcomes and to avoid problems in such applications. The book begins with a discussion of the background and historical context of contemporary issues in biotechnology. It then explains the scientific principles of environmental biotechnologies; environmental biochemodynamic processes; environmental risk assessment; and the reduction and management of biotechnological risks. It describes ways to address environmental problems caused or exacerbated by biotechnologies. It also emphasizes need for professionalism in environmental biotechnological enterprises. This book was designed to serve as a primary text for two full semesters of undergraduate study (e.g., Introduction to Environmental Biotechnology or Advanced Environmental Biotechnology). It will also be a resource text for a graduate-level seminar in environmental biotechnology (e.g., Environmental Implications of Biotechnology). * Provides a systems approach to biotechnologies which includes the physical, biological, and chemical processes in context * Case studies include cutting-edge technologies such as nanobiotechnologies and green engineering * Addresses both the applications and implications of biotechnologies by following the life-cycle of a variety of established and developing biotechnologies

The application of biologically-engineered solutions toenvironmental problems has become far more readily acceptable andwidely understood. However there remains some uncertainty amongstpractitioners regarding how and where the microscopic, functionallevel fits into the macroscopic, practical applications. It isprecisely this gap which the book sets out to fill. Dividing the topic into logical strands covering pollution,waste and manufacturing, the book examines the potential forbiotechnological interventions and current industrial practice,with the underpinning microbial techniques and methods described,in context, against this background. Each chapter is supported by located case studies from a rangeof industries and countries to provide readers with an overview ofthe range of applications for biotechnology. Essential reading for undergraduates and Masters studentstaking modules in Biotechnology or Pollution Control as part ofEnvironmental Science, Environmental Management or EnvironmentalBiology programmes. It is also suitable for professionals involvedwith water, waste management and pollution control.

Intended as a text for the students of M.Sc. (Environmental Science), B.Tech. and M.Tech. (Environmental Engineering), B.Tech. (Biotechnology) and B.Sc. (Biotechnology), this thoroughly revised Third Edition incorporates the latest advances and trends in Environmental Biotechnology. The text focuses on the utilization of modern biological and biochemical tools, such as Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs), cell biological methods, biosensors, bioplastics and bio-fuels. It explains how to conserve the rapidly dwindling bio-resources and judiciously exploit the bio-sphere and also projects the future possibilities of this technology in the 21st century. This book can also serve as a useful guide to research scholars and practising professionals. The Third Edition includes: A new chapter (Chapter 10) containing some special emerging topics, viz. DNA sensing, polymer biodegradation and oil spill bio-remediation. Updated Chapters 5, 6, 9, 11 with latest information and developments in environmental biotechnology. KEY FEATURES: Covers all the aspects of environmental biotechnology--from ecosystem to genetic and molecular levels--supported by authentic data and information. Delineates strategies and protocols for the utilization of microbes in solving problems of environment, including the use of the well-known super-bug Pseudomonas putida. Discusses modern biotechnological tools in environmental monitoring and analysis. Uncovers the production processes and advantages of bio-fuels.

A deeper insight into the complex processes involved in this field, covering the biological, chemical and engineering fundamentals needed to further develop effective methodologies. The book devotes detailed chapters to each of the four main areas of environmental biotechnology -- wastewater treatment, soil treatment, solid waste treatment, and waste gas treatment -- dealing with both the microbiological and process engineering aspects. The result is the combined knowledge contained in the extremely successful volumes 11a through 11c of the "Biotechnology" series in a handy and compact form.

This book provides information essential to students taking courses in biotechnology as part of environmental sciences, environmental management, or environmental biology programs. It is also suitable for those studying water, waste management, and pollution abatement. Topics include biodiversity, renewable energy, bioremediation technology, recomb