What is the primary benefit of using biotechnological methods in environmental remediation?

The primary benefit of using biotechnological methods in environmental remediation lies in the utilization of living organisms to clean up contaminated environments. This approach, often referred to as bioremediation, employs microbes, plants, or other living entities to degrade, transform, or remove pollutants from soil, water, or air. The process can effectively break down hazardous substances into less harmful or non-toxic compounds, thus restoring the health of ecosystems impacted by pollutants.

Biotechnological methods are advantageous as they can be more sustainable and cost-effective compared to traditional physical or chemical remediation techniques. Moreover, using natural processes aligns with the ecological balance, promoting a cleaner environment in a way that can often be more acceptable to surrounding communities and ecosystems.

In contrast, quickly depleting natural resources would lead to greater environmental harm rather than remediation. Increasing pollution levels for research does not contribute positively to resolving existing environmental issues; it instead exacerbates the problems. Lastly, reintroducing extinct species into ecosystems is not directly related to remediation processes and often raises significant ecological and ethical questions that don't address the immediate need for cleaning contaminated environments.