Microalgae Based Sustainable Bioremediation of Water Contaminated by Pesticides

Abstract

The use of pesticides in agriculture reduces the loss of crops and increases crop productivity. Agricultural discharge into water bodies increases pesticide toxicity in water. A pesticide, when entered into water bodies, attacks non-targeting species, which disturbs the aquatic life. Because of low-cost taking, high material removal efficiency, low sludgy amount, and generated biomass for economic benefit, biological bioremediation methods are mostly preferred. Algae are used to remove pollutants from the environment or to convert them into harmless forms. Bioremediation by algae is highly preferred as biomass generated is used in biogas and biofuel production. Algae fix carbon dioxide (CO2) and release oxygen (O2) by photosynthesis and increase BOD (biological oxygen demand) in contaminated water. Therefore, it is necessary to reduce the use of pesticides or dispose of them in the best manner. To be on the safer side and make our water bodies less toxic, it is necessary to make efficient water treatment arrangements. This review paper is to discuss everything about pesticides and bioremediation, the use of microalgae and fungi for the treatment of water contaminated by pesticides, and the factors affecting pesticide bioremediation.