ABSTRACT
With increased soil pollution, the decontamination of soil is getting importance worldwide. Different physical, chemical and engineering methods have been found effective in eliminating the soil contaminants but use of these methods has negative impact on the environment. Hence, the use of ecological tools such as microbes, plants, and organic amendments in remediating soil pollution have become popular. The efficacy of bioremediation method depends on characteristics of soil and types of pollutants. In the present chapter, we will discuss about the characteristics of different soil pollutants and ecological tools used for remediation of contaminated soils with special emphasis on the role of biosurfactants in restoration of polluted soil. Success stories of bioremediation from Indian context will be presented as an applied example. Insight on use of biotechnology as a future weapon to remediate soil contamination by strengthening various microbial strains will be discussed.
