What is bioremediation primarily used for?

Bioremediation is primarily utilized for rehabilitating contaminated environments through the use of microorganisms, plants, or other biological entities to break down or remove pollutants from soil, water, and other ecosystems. This process harnesses the natural metabolic capabilities of living organisms to transform harmful substances into less toxic or non-toxic compounds. By applying bioremediation techniques, it is possible to effectively clean up areas affected by hazardous waste, oil spills, heavy metals, and other environmental contaminants, promoting the restoration of ecosystems and making the environment safer for living organisms.

The focus on environmental restoration distinguishes this purpose from the other options provided. For instance, generating energy from crops pertains to bioenergy, and while agriculture can intersect with bioremediation through phytoremediation or the use of biofuels, it is not the primary goal of bioremediation itself. Similarly, while improving crop yields and developing new pesticides focus on agricultural advancement and pest control, they do not directly address the remediation of contaminated environments. Thus, bioremediation stands out as a specialized process aimed at restoring ecological balance and reducing pollution, which is why it is the correct choice.