Enzyme biocatalysis and sustainability

Enzymes are biological catalysts capable of recognizing a substrate and catalyze reactions of hydrolysis and synthesis. The most significant property of enzymes is their high specificity toward their substrates since they are able to recognize and act upon a molecule from a pool of similar compounds. Enzymes are labile catalysts at certain operative conditions that may severely affect their stability. However, the attachment of enzymes to solid supports has proven to be a good solution to stabilize them and, thus, to preserve their catalytic performances. The fundamentals of enzyme biocatalysis in sustainable processes are summarized in this chapter. The advantages of immobilized enzymes in environmental applications and sustainable processes will be addressed considering the most suitable materials and the most common immobilization methods. The use of biocatalysts in bioremediation, biofuel production, and in the valorization of waste streams is reviewed.