Sulfate-reducing bacteria in removal of pollutants: a promising candidate for bioremediation

Industrial processes contribute significantly to environmental pollution, particularly by releasing sulfate-rich wastewater containing toxic metals and organic pollutants. Sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB), being anaerobic microorganisms, are capable of reducing sulfate to sulfide, which precipitates harmful heavy metals and facilitates bioremediation. This review explores the potential of SRB in industrial wastewater treatment, focusing on their roles in the bioremediation of sulfates, heavy metals, and persistent organic pollutants (POPs). Laboratory-scale experiments demonstrated that SRB effectively reduces sulfate concentrations and removes heavy metals such as zinc, cadmium, and chromium through sulfidogenesis. The treatment process shows promise as an eco-friendly alternative to conventional chemical methods. However, challenges related to hydrogen sulfide emissions and process scalability persist. Future research focuses on enhancing SRB activity through optimized bioreactor designs while effectively controlling H₂S release. This review emphasizes SRB as a promising candidate for industrial applications in wastewater treatment and environmental management.