Biodegradation is the breakdown of organic matter by microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi. It is a natural process that is essential for recycling nutrients in the environment. It is also a key technology in a variety of industries, including waste management and bioremediation.
The process of biodegradation has been known for centuries. For thousands of years, people have used composting to recycle organic waste. In the 19th century, Louis Pasteur discovered that microorganisms were responsible for decomposition, and he was the first to use the term "biodegradation" to describe the process. In the 20th century, the discovery of new microorganisms and their role in biodegradation led to the development of new methods of waste management and bioremediation.
Today, biodegradation is used in a wide variety of applications. It is used to treat a variety of wastes, including sewage, food waste, and agricultural waste. It is also used to clean up contaminated sites, such as oil spills and industrial sites. The field of biodegradation is growing rapidly, with new technologies and applications emerging all the time.