Biomining Revolution: Bacteria Extract Gold Sustainably

Scientists in Finland have developed a groundbreaking sustainable mining technique that utilizes specialized bacteria to extract gold from mining waste with an efficiency of up to 83%. The process utilizes extremophile bacteria, such as Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans and Leptospirillum ferrooxidans, which have evolved unique abilities to process minerals in highly acidic environments. Unlike traditional gold mining that uses toxic cyanide leaching, this biotechnological approach eliminates harmful chemicals while reducing water consumption by 60% and carbon emissions by 72%. Particularly valuable in Finland's cold climate, researchers have identified cold-adapted bacterial strains that remain active at temperatures as low as 4°C, thereby extending the operational season by 4-5 months annually. Beyond gold, the technology shows promise for extracting copper, zinc, rare earth elements, and even processing electronic waste, with laboratory tests demonstrating 92% gold recovery from circuit boards. This approach transforms mining economics by making low-grade materials economically viable while aligning financial incentives with environmental objectives.

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