Environmental Biotechnology

Environmental Biotechnology: A Biosystems Approach introduces a systems approach to environmental biotechnology and its applications to a range of environmental problems. A systems approach requires a basic understanding of four disciplines: environmental engineering, systems biology, environmental microbiology, and ecology. These disciplines are discussed in the context of their application to achieve specific environmental outcomes and to avoid problems in such applications. The book begins with a discussion of the background and historical context of contemporary issues in biotechnology. It then explains the scientific principles of environmental biotechnologies; environmental biochemodynamic processes; environmental risk assessment; and the reduction and management of biotechnological risks. It describes ways to address environmental problems caused or exacerbated by biotechnologies. It also emphasizes need for professionalism in environmental biotechnological enterprises. This book was designed to serve as a primary text for two full semesters of undergraduate study (e.g., Introduction to Environmental Biotechnology or Advanced Environmental Biotechnology). It will also be a resource text for a graduate-level seminar in environmental biotechnology (e.g., Environmental Implications of Biotechnology). - Provides a systems approach to biotechnologies which includes the physical, biological, and chemical processes in context
- Case studies include cutting-edge technologies such as nanobiotechnologies and green engineering
- Addresses both the applications and implications of biotechnologies by following the life-cycle of a variety of established and developing biotechnologies

Professor Daniel A. Vallero is a renowned environmental scientist and engineer with four decades of experience. He has advised U.S. government agencies on critical issues like PBTs, climate change, acid rain, and chemical risks. At Duke University, he led the Engineering Ethics program and taught courses on air pollution, sustainable design, and ethics. Vallero has served on the National Academy of Engineering's Online Ethics Committee and the National Institute of Engineering Ethics. An expert in emerging technologies, he focuses on societal, ethical, and public health challenges related to nanotechnology and environmental biotechnology. His work also encompasses emergency response and homeland security, making him a leading voice in environmental risk and ethics.

1 Environmental biotechnology: An overview2 A question of balance: Using versus abusing biological systems 3 Environmental biochemodynamic processes4 Systems5 Environmental risks of biotechnologies6 Reducing biotechnological risks7 Applied microbial ecology: Bioremediation8 Biotechnological implications: a systems approach9 Environmental risks of biotechnologies: economic sector perspectives10 Addressing biotechnological pollutants11 Analyzing the environmental implications of biotechnologies12 Responsible management of biotechnologiesAppendix1 Background information on environmental impact statements2 Cancer slope factors3 Verification method for rapid polymerase chain reaction systems to detect biological agents4 Summary of persistent and toxic organic compounds in North America, identified by the United Nations as highest priorities for regional actions5 Sample retrieval from ECOTOX database for Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) exposed to DDT and its metabolites in freshwater