The bioremediation of nitrogenous contaminents has been practiced for a long time, especially in wasewater treatment plants. However, most of these traditional treatments are ex situ requiring expensive pumping systems. Current research is exploring the possibilities offered by in situ treatment. The following strategies include both the established ex situ and novel in situ treatments.
Aeration: Contaminated water can be aerated to provide nitrifiying bacteria with oxygen as an electron acceptor in the oxidation of nitrate.
Injection Wells: Degradable carbon sources are added via injection wells to provide an electron donor source and ensure anaerobic conditions necessary for denitrification.
Phytoremediation: Plants can be used to eliminate nitrogenous pollution in both the air and the water.