(1) To understand and exploit natural attenuation in groundwater and soil (demonstration, modelling, 
prediction, definition of operating window).  
(2) To improve engineered in-situ bioremediation, interfacing microbiology with engineering 
and hydrogeology; dealing with heterogeneity, improved process control and optimisation.  
(3) To translate the results of laboratory studies into the field (scale-up).  
(4) To position bioremediation within a risk management framework - bioavailability, risk-based 
end points and residue behaviour.  
(5) To develop the ability to monitor in-situ microbial processes.  
(6) To understand the constraints on in-situ microbial processes.  
(7) To integrate bioremediation with other technologies.  
(8) To quantify human health impacts of bioremediation and develop surrogate testing.  
(9) To address socio-economic issues- perception of bioremediation technologies and decision-support 
mechanisms. 

The Bioremediation LINK Programme was launched in April 2001 to support the development of technologies 
that will provide UK industry with the multidisciplinary capability necessary to enable the commercial 
exploitation of biotechnology for the clean up of contaminated land, air and water.   
  
The programme closed to new applications in 2004. A diverse portfolio of 12 projects have received 
around £5M of funding towards total project costs of almost £10M. Projects will continue to run until 
autumn 2008.