We spoke to Dr Adenike Akinsemolu, one of an increasing number of researchers turning to microbes in the fight for a more sustainable future. Sustainability advocate, researcher and educator, Dr Akinsemolu is an honorary associate professor at the University of Birmingham and senior research fellow at Afe Babalola University in Nigeria. She also promotes sustainable innovation and development through The Green Institute, which she founded in 2015.
How useful could bacterial solutions be in fighting emissions?
Bacterial solutions that prevent further emissions are highly useful, particularly in industries such as construction where the environmental impact is substantial. Bacteria such as Bacillus pseudofirmus or Bacillus cohnii can induce calcium carbonate precipitation, effectively healing cracks in concrete. This process not only extends the structure's life, but also significantly reduces the frequency of repairs and replacements, lowering the overall carbon footprint.
For instance, microbial calcium carbonate precipitation can be integrated into self-healing concrete, leading to a reduction in maintenance costs and the environmental damage associated with frequent concrete manufacturing.
Where else could bacteria be used?
Bacteria could play a crucial role in addressing plastic pollution. Specific bacterial species have demonstrated the ability to degrade plastics, transforming them into less harmful substances. For instance, the bacterium Ideonella sakaiensis has been identified for its ability to break down polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a common plastic used in bottles and packaging, into simpler and less environmentally-damaging compounds.
At the Green Microbiology Lab located in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Birmingham, and at The Green Institute, Nigeria, under the leadership of Dr Helen Onyeaka and myself, we are actively researching ways to harness bacteria to help solve plastic pollution. Our work focuses on identifying and engineering bacterial strains that can efficiently consume and break down plastic waste, potentially integrating these biological solutions into waste management systems to mitigate the impact of plastic pollution. This research is part of a broader initiative to develop sustainable and biologically-based technologies to address critical environmental challenges.
Will there be future growth in this area?
The opportunities to use bacteria to improve sustainability are vast. Microbial technologies are being explored across various applications including waste degradation, pollution remediation, and sustainable manufacturing.
The versatility of microbes to adapt to different environmental conditions makes them particularly valuable for sustainability efforts. For instance, during my doctoral research, I explored how microbes can be used for bioremediation of oil-polluted sites.
I have also authored a paper that provides a comprehensive overview of the role of microorganisms in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. This work highlights how microbial technologies can contribute to diverse goals, ranging from clean water and sanitation to affordable and clean energy.
Given the pressing global challenges of climate change and environmental degradation, the demand for innovative and effective solutions such as microbial technologies is expected to grow, supported by advancements in biotechnology and increasing investment in research and development.
What are some of the main challenges for widespread use of green microbial solutions?
One of the primary challenges is scaling up laboratory-scale processes to industrial-scale applications. Many microbial technologies demonstrate promising results in controlled, small-scale experiments, but face hurdles in maintaining efficiency and effectiveness at larger scales.
Economic viability is another major concern. The initial cost of developing and implementing microbial technologies can be high, and without clear economic benefits or incentives, industries may be hesitant to adopt these green solutions.
Public acceptance and understanding of biotechnological solutions also pose significant barriers. Misconceptions about the safety and implications of using genetically modified organisms or live bacteria in open environments can lead to resistance.
The interdisciplinary collaboration required to develop and optimise these technologies is complex, involving microbiologists, engineers, environmental scientists, and policy-makers.
The environmental impact is also not fully understood. It is essential to conduct thorough environmental impact assessments to ensure that these solutions do not inadvertently contribute to biodiversity loss or other ecological imbalances.
Want the best engineering stories delivered straight to your inbox? The Professional Engineering newsletter gives you vital updates on the most cutting-edge engineering and exciting new job opportunities. To sign up, click here.
Content published by Professional Engineering does not necessarily represent the views of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers.