Environmental applications of Effective Microorganisms: a review of current knowledge and recommendations for future directions

Abstract Nowadays, beneficial microorganisms are getting wider applicability. One example is referred to as Effective Microorganisms (EM) having its composition kept a secret. EM is a product in liquid form, which consists of a variety of not only effective and beneficial microorganisms but also nonpathogenic ones, with admirable coexistence between aerobic and anaerobic types of microorganisms. The aim of this narrative review is to provide a summary of the different uses and applications of EM, their applications, their benefits, and the expected results when using them in different applications. This is the first review to focus on the uses of EM in environmental engineering systems and processes such as wastewater treatment processes. Originally, EM was manufactured to be utilized in organic farming, but at the moment, this substance is getting wider applications such as in medicine, environment, livestock sector, forestry, and agriculture. When it comes to the protection of the environment, EM helps in waste deodorization, eutrophication control, and wastewater. Investigation on EM use in water quality restoration, wastewater treatment, the treatment of sludge, and composting has been undertaken by researchers. This review provides an overview of the current situation of environmental application of EM in various fields including water quality, wastewater treatment, sludge treatment, and composting.