Biomining
Biomining is a process that uses living organisms, such as bacteria and fungi, to extract valuable metals from ores and waste materials. This environmentally friendly technique can recover metals like copper, gold, and nickel more sustainably than traditional mining methods, which often involve harmful chemicals.
In biomining, microorganisms break down minerals and release the metals they contain. This process can occur in two main ways: bioleaching, where microbes dissolve metals from ores, and biooxidation, where they help oxidize minerals to make metals more accessible. Biomining is gaining popularity due to its lower environmental impact and cost-effectiveness.