Bioremediation of Alpechin

Olive oil extraction produces large amounts of residues. These olive-mill wastes are known as alpechin. Alpechin-polluted waste waters are resistant to degradation. They are regarded as a severe environmental problem because of their high organic content, largely simple phenolic compounds that are both antimicrobial and phytotoxic. During the past years, most of the investigations related to alpechin treatment focused on the microbial degradation of the alpechin polyphenols. However, the actual perspectives are based on both the bioremediation of alpechin and on the modification of the technology used in olive-oil extraction. In this article we will describe the most relevant biotreatment systems that can be used for the recycling of alpechin wastes. We will also discuss for each system their prospects for future uses. The various systems we will discuss include the following: (I) Bioremediation for use as fertiliser or soil conditioner. (2) The utilisation as a medium for grown edible mushrooms. (3) The application as a growth medium for algae in open basins. (4) Biopolymeric substances production from alpechin, focusing on polysacharide and biodegradable plastics production. (5) The use as a bioenergetic source (or for biogas production). (6) The employment of alpechin as a source of biopharmaceuticals.