BIOREM – A Biopreparation for Soil Remediation from Chlorinated Pesticide Contamination with Simultaneous Growth-Stimulating Action on Plants

BIOREM is a biopreparation developed at the D.K. Zabolotny Institute of Microbiology and Virology, NAS of Ukraine, designed for the remediation (healing) of soils contaminated with chlorinated pesticides through their biological degradation, as well as for stimulating the growth and development of plants grown on contaminated land.

BIOREM can be used in agricultural practice for detoxifying soils after the application of a range of chlorinated pesticides (such as hexachloran, lindane, hexachlorobenzene, trichloroethylene, DDT, DDE, and others). Under open soil conditions or in greenhouses, the biopreparation is effective in thoroughly neutralizing pesticide residues from previous growing seasons, preparing the soil for growing certified organic crop production (including in household plots).

Strains of the BIOREM preparation synthesize a complex of phytohormones that stimulate the growth and development of plants on contaminated land, contributing to phytoremediation – the process of cleaning the soil of chlorinated toxins with the help of plants. Regular treatment of contaminated soils with BIOREM (3-4 applications during the growing season) results in a 72-95% reduction in the level of chlorinated pesticide contamination compared to the initial levels. The effectiveness may vary depending on the type and content of contaminants and the soil-climatic conditions.

Application Method
BIOREM can be applied at the beginning of the spring fieldwork season, throughout the growing period, and after harvest by introducing the diluted microbial suspension (0.5-1.5 L/m² depending on contamination levels) into the soil at a depth of up to 10 cm (surface tillage depth). The concentrate of living cells is diluted with water in a 1:10 ratio before being applied to the soil. The resulting solution is used for irrigation, followed by loosening the topsoil. The optimal effectiveness of BIOREM occurs at temperatures between +18°C and +30°C. The microorganisms in the BIOREM biopreparation meet sanitary and hygienic requirements, are non-toxic to warm-blooded animals, bees, and humans, and do not pollute the environment.

Storage Conditions
The product is released in liquid form in plastic bottles and should be stored at a temperature range of +4°C to +10°C. The shelf life of the preparation is 1 month.