Recent trends in polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons pollution distribution and counteracting bio-remediation strategies

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are distributed worldwide due to long-term anthropogenic pollution sources. PAHs are recalcitrant and highly persistent in the environment due to their inherent properties, such as heterocyclic aromatic ring structures, thermostability, and hydrophobicity. They are highly toxic, carcinogenic, immunotoxic, teratogenic, and mutagenic to various life systems. This review focuses on the unique data of PAH sources, exposure routes, detection techniques, and harmful effects on the environment and human health. This review provides a comprehensive and systematic compilation of eco-friendly biological treatment solutions for PAH remediation, such as microbial remediation approaches utilizing microbial cultures. In situ and Ex situ bioremediation of PAH methods, including composting land farming, biopiles, bioreactors bioaugmentation, and phytoremediation processes, are discussed in detail, as is a summary of the factors affecting and limiting PAH bioremediation. This review provides an overview of emerging technologies that use multi-process combinatorial treatment approaches and answers to generating value-added by-products during PAH remediation.