Microbial Strain Engineering for Microplastics Removal in Soils

Microplastic contamination has become a significant environmental issue due to its ubiquitous presence in many ecosystems, particularly soil. Such tiny plastic particles, which are usually smaller than 5 mm, can contaminate the environment for decades, harming ecosystem health and soil welfare. Finally, the threats posed by microplastics in soil, particularly their impacts on soil health and biological systems, urge immediate consideration and adequate mitigation measures. Microbial strain engineering is an effective technique for enhancing microplastic removal in soil because microorganisms play a significant role in the degradation of microplastics. In recent years, microbial strain engineering has become a potential technique for eliminating microplastics from soil. This approach comprises removing microplastic particles from the soil environment by modifying or choosing specific microbial strains with enhanced degradability. The aim of this chapter is to examine recent advances in microbial strain engineering for the remediation of soil. It will navigate several techniques for enhancing microbial plastic breakdown abilities and discuss possible implications for soil restoration and environmental sustainability. This chapter will give an extensive overview of microbial strain engineering for microplastic removal in soil, outlining the mechanisms involved, their genetic basis, engineering techniques, and case studies. Additionally, it will discuss the possible ethical and environmental consequences of employing genetically engineered microorganisms for soil remediation. The chapter will conclude with potential possibilities and challenges in this developing subject, underlining the significance of the ongoing study and appropriate use of microbial strain engineering for the administration of soil sustainability.