Mapping Research on Microbial Remediation of Metals in Soil (2020–2025)

This study involved a systematic literature review using bibliometric analysis to examine the evolution and current trends of Biological Remediation studies. The bibliometric analysis was used for the descriptive, intellectual, social, and conceptual network analyses, while systematic reviews were used to identify the application of the Biological Remediation. A total of 4835 papers were selected and extracted from Scopus between 2020 and 2025. The publication trends, most influential countries and articles, leading journals, collaboration networks, coupling networks, and application of the Biological Remediation in various disciplines were described. This study summarized the research agenda of the Biological Remediation field, which would be helpful for researchers and funding agencies. This article highlights four new research directions in Current Bioremediation Trends: (1) understanding the interactions between petroleum hydrocarbons and heavy metals in composite pollution systems; (2) exploring microbial community succession during bioremediation; (3) utilizing biosurfactants to enhance contaminant solubilization and biodegradation; and (4) developing integrative, multi-mechanistic remediation approaches.