The economic and industrial development that began in the early years of the 20th century caused the increase of dangerous substances in the environment, water and soil. Soils compartmentalize pollutants making them more available for absorption by plants and organisms. The microorganisms present in the soil can biodegrade pollutants thanks to their "adaptive" metabolism. Sometimes it is necessary to stimulate microbial biodegradation by biostimulation or bioaugmentation processes. Microcosm studies allow the development and optimization of biodegradation processes in the laboratory prior to in situ treatment.
