The Role of Microorganisms in Waste Treatment

Dear Colleagues,

Microorganisms play an evidently critical role in waste treatment processes, serving as the indispensable backbone of biological waste management systems. Their natural metabolic activities have a profound impact on the decomposition and stabilization of organic matter. Microorganisms can break down complex organic matter molecules through complex biochemical reactions and transform them into simpler substances. Such a process not only significantly reduces environmental pollution but also converts waste into valuable and useful by-products. For example, certain microorganisms can convert organic waste into biogas, which can be used as an energy source. Moreover, the decomposition and transformation processes carried out by microorganisms contribute to he improvement of soil and water quality. In summary, the role of microorganisms in waste treatment is highly significant and has far-reaching implications for sustainable environmental management. As a part of this topic, authors are invited to submit original articles and reviews on the subject of the role of microorganisms in waste treatment. Contributions can cover the following areas: (I) the biological decomposition of organic matter (aerobic or anaerobic treatment), (II) pathogen removal, (III) nutrient recycling, (IV) the production of value-added products (such as biogas production and compost formation), (v) heavy metal and toxin removal, and (VI) emerging waste treatment technologies (such as bioelectrochemical systems and bioremediation).

Dr. Zuotao Zhang
Dr. Tan Chen
Dr. Bing Zhang
Topic Editors