The Role of Microorganisms in

Recycling Processes
BY K.M. SEKGALO
2781491
Introduction:

 Microorganisms are tiny organisms that

play a significant role in breaking down
and recycling various types of waste,
decomposition of materials in the
environment and contributing to the
sustainability of our planet.
 Organic Waste Recycling
 Recycle Process:
 Organic waste recycling is the process of converting
organic materials, such as food scraps, yard waste,
and other biodegradable materials, into useful .
products like compost or bioenergy. The recycling
process typically involves several stages, including Bacillus subtilis
collection, sorting, processing, and utilization.
 Microorganism Involved: Microorganisms break down
organic matter into compost through decomposition.
 Complete List of Microorganisms:
 Bacteria: Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas putida.
 Fungi: Aspergillus spp., Penicillium spp.
 Actinomycetes: Streptomyces spp.
 Example Application: Community composting bins utilize
microorganisms to decompose food scraps, yard waste,
and other organic materials into nutrient-rich compost,
which can be used to enrich soil in gardens.
Streptomyces spp.
Metal Recycling:

• RECYCLE PROCESS:
• Metal recycling is a crucial process for sustainability and resource conservation, involving various stages to transform
scrap metal into reusable materials. The process typically includes collection, sorting, processing, melting, and refining.

• MICROORGANISMS INVOLVED: ACIDITHIOBACILLUS FERROOXIDANS, LEPTOSPIRILLUM FERROOXIDANS

• ROLE OF MICROORGANISMS:
• Facilitate the bioleaching process to extract metals from ores.

• - EXAMPLE:
• Bioleaching of copper, where microorganisms are used to extract copper from low-grade ores.

Leptospirillum
ferrooxidans

Acidithiobacillus
ferrooxidans
 Importance of Microorganisms in Recycling

 Microorganisms are essential in breaking down

complex organic compounds into simpler forms,
facilitating the recycling of nutrients back into the
ecosystem.
 Their metabolic activities help in the
decomposition of various types of waste, reducing
environmental pollution and conserving resources.
 Environmental Benefits: Reduced waste in
landfills, decreased greenhouse gas emissions
(e.g., methane from organic waste), and mitigation
of plastic pollution.
 Economic Benefits: Cost-effective waste
management solutions, production of renewable
energy (biogas), and creation of valuable compost
and soil amendments.
 Social Benefits: Promotion of sustainable
practices, community involvement in waste
management, and potential for job creation in
recycling industries.
 Conclusion and References

 Key Takeaways: Microorganisms play a vital role in recycling processes, contributing to

waste reduction, resource conservation, and environmental sustainability.
 Call to Action: Encourage individuals and communities to support and implement waste
recycling initiatives that harness the power of microorganisms.

 1. Smith, D. L., & Aziz, T. N. (2017). Microbial decomposition of organic matter and its impact on nutrient cycling and soil
fertility. In Microbial Inoculants in Sustainable Agricultural Productivity (pp. 95-114). Springer, Singapore.
 2. Mata-Alvarez, J., Macé, S., & Llabrés, P. (2000). Anaerobic digestion of organic solid wastes. An overview of research
achievements and perspectives. Bioresource Technology, 74(1), 3-16.
 3. Smith, J. (2019). The Role of Microorganisms in Waste Recycling. Environmental Science Journal, 10(2), 45-57.
 4. Jones, A. et al. (2020). Microbial Diversity in Composting: Implications for Waste Management. Journal of Microbiology
and Biotechnology, 15(3), 112-125.
 5. Brown, A. et al. (2019). The Role of Microorganisms in Sustainable Recycling. Environmental Science Today, 8(2), 112-
125.
 THANK YOU