MICROLIFEPAQS · Modeling mICRObial LIFE in Polluted AQuiferS

Modeling mICRObial LIFE in Polluted AQuiferS

The MICROLIFEPAQS project (Modelling mICRObial LIFE in Polluted AQuiferS) addressed one of the pressing environmental challenges of our time: groundwater pollution. Groundwater contamination by industrial pollutants, such as chlorinated ethenes, poses risks to human health and ecosystems. Natural biological processes, driven by microorganisms capable of breaking down these pollutants (e.g., Dehalococcoides), offer a promising solution. However, understanding and predicting the behaviour of these microorganisms in complex groundwater systems is challenging. The MICROLIFEPAQS project aimed at developing a new modeling approach to assess and optimize chlorinated ethene biodegradation in groundwater. By integrating advanced molecular biological data into numerical Reactive Transport Models (RTMs), the project sought to link chlorinated ethene biodegradation to functional gene expression and reductive dehalogenase enzyme production in Dehalococcoides, which were considered both mobile and immobile in saturated porous media. This innovative method allows for more accurate simulations of how degrading bacteria interact with chlorinated ethenes in groundwater, enabling better design and monitoring of remediation strategies. Scientific specific objectives were defined to meet the overall aim of the project: 1) To compile and homogenize existing data into a comprehensive database and define a detailed conceptual model of the evolution of chlorinated ethene contamination in the selected case study. 2) To collect and analyze groundwater samples and perform molecular biological analyses to quantify target biomarkers. 3) To develop and integrate a kinetic model into RTMs to simulate chlorinated ethene biodegradation. The following non-scientific specific objectives were additionally considered to ensure successful MICROLIFEPAQS project implementation and maximise its impact at different levels: 4) To disseminate findings effectively to maximize scientific and societal impact. 5) To manage and coordinate activities for successful project implementation. The MICROLIFEPAQS project aligns with the European Union’s “Zero Pollution for Air, Water and Soil” Action Plan and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, striving to contribute to pollution elimination by 2050 and 2030, respectively.

Текст от CORDIS, на английски · Данни: CORDIS, © Европейски съюз