Oil Spillage: a temporary problem?

Oil spillage is a significant environmental issue that poses threats to marine and terrestrial ecosystems.

When accidents occur during oil extraction, transportation, or storage, vast amounts of oil are released into the environment, causing severe ecological damage. Bioremediation has emerged as a promising solution to mitigate the environmental impact of oil spills and can potentially become an effective environmental hack to reverse some of the effects of climate change, and here at Spilltech Ireland, we are proud to be part of that movement.

Oil Spillage Technologies

Oil spillage refers to the release of crude oil or petroleum products into the environment, typically occurring in oceans, rivers, or land. It is generally caused by human activities such as oil tanker accidents, pipeline leaks, or offshore drilling mishaps. Oil spills have detrimental effects on aquatic life, birds, and other wildlife, as well as on coastal communities that rely on harvesting and gathering ecosystems for their livelihoods.

Thanks to massive biochemical developments which were founded on the bioremediation work developed by petroleum engineer, George M. Robinson in the 1960s, oil spillage removal is now extremely accessible and is no longer the ecological disaster it once was. Bioremediation works by harnessing the metabolic capabilities of microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, to degrade hydrocarbons found in crude oil. These microorganisms utilise the spilt oil as a source of energy and carbon, converting it into less harmful byproducts which can be absorbed and photosynthesized. The process can be facilitated by providing optimal conditions for microbial growth, including the right temperature, pH, and nutrient levels.

Types of Bioremediations

In-Situ Bioremediation

In-situ bioremediation involves treating the contaminated site without removing the polluted soil or water. This technique introduces microorganisms and necessary nutrients directly into the affected area, allowing them to naturally degrade the oil pollutants. Our professional In-situ bioremediation is often employed in cases where excavation or disturbance of the site is not feasible.

Ex-Situ Bioremediation

Ex-situ bioremediation involves the removal of contaminated soil or water from the site and treating it in a controlled environment. This technique allows for more intensive treatment and monitoring of the bioremediation process. We place the contaminated material is typically placed in bioreactor systems, where microorganisms break down the oil contaminants before the treated material is returned to the environment.