Advancements in biopile-based sustainable soil remediation: a decade of improvements, integrating bioremediation technologies and AI-based innovative tools

Abstract

Soil degradation has become a significant global issue, driven by unsustainable practices such as intensive agriculture, deforestation, and overgrazing. These activities accelerate erosion and ecosystem deterioration, necessitating effective remediation strategies to restore soil health. Bioremediation, particularly biopile technology, offers an environmentally friendly approach by leveraging microbial activity to degrade pollutants. The efficiency of biopiles depends on key factors such as moisture, temperature, nutrient availability, oxygen levels, and microbial diversity. Additionally, sustainable materials, including nanotechnology-based solutions like nanoparticles and biosurfactants, further enhance the bioremediation process, improving pollutant removal and promoting long-term soil health. This review explores these techniques and their role in sustainable remediation. While not the primary focus, artificial intelligence (AI) tools, such as VOSviewer, provide added value by analyzing research trends and optimizing bioremediation strategies.