Bioremediation is not without any limitations.

Common disadvantages or limitations to bioremediation technologies are

(1) Some highly chlorinated contaminants and high molecular weight PAHs are not readily amenable to microbial degradation and

(2) Microbial degradation of some chemicals may lead to the production of more toxic and mobile intermediates than the parent compound.

 For example, reductive dehalogenation of TCE can result in accumulation of vinyl chloride, a toxic product and a carcinogen.

Thus, bioremediation is a research-intensive technology that requires a prior thorough understanding of microbial processes. Otherwise, the consequences could be more serious than the original contaminant to the ecosystem.

Warm Regards,
Jessie
Journal Manager
Journal of Bioremediation & Biodegradation