Emerging prospects of Bacillus species in attaining the sustainable development goals

The world is witnessing a serious challenge of poverty which is reflected as hidden hunger and simultaneously overpopulation puts a grave burden on our ecosystem. In order to overcome these serious issues, the sustainable development goals (SDGs) serve a very significant role. Concurrently, the contribution of microorganisms in achieving the SDGs cannot be overlooked. Bacillus species as a probiotic has led to the development of various commercial fermented products that are available in the market. Additionally, the formulated products have been clinically validated for their health benefits. Bacillus species have also been reported to serve as bio-preservatives and biocontrol agents because they aid in preserving and maintaining the final food product as well as post-harvest goods. The utilization of Bacillus spp. as probiotics has significantly contributed to the overall well-being of animals. Moreover, many different species of Bacillus have been reported to be utilized as bio-cementing agents. All the aforementioned roles of Bacillus species contribute to addressing zero hunger (SDG 2), good health and well-being (SDG 3), and industry, infrastructure, and innovation (SDG 9). KEY POINTS: • Role of Bacillus spp. as probiotic have been successfully proven by clinical studies. • Prescence of antimicrobial genes in the Bacillus spp. genome play important role in bio-preservation and biocontrol. • In animal feeds Bacillus spp. are a good alternate of antibiotics and use of Bacillus spp. in cement industry is innovative approach.