What aspect of biotechnology can contribute to environmental sustainability?

The use of biological processes for waste treatment is a significant aspect of biotechnology that can contribute to environmental sustainability. This approach utilizes microorganisms and natural biological systems to break down and process waste, transforming potentially harmful substances into less toxic forms or even entirely harmless products. This method not only helps in managing waste effectively but also reduces the environmental impact associated with traditional waste disposal methods, such as incineration or landfilling, which can produce harmful emissions and other pollutants.

Moreover, biological treatment methods often require less energy compared to chemical processes, leading to lower greenhouse gas emissions, thus further promoting sustainability. This aligns with the principles of circular economy, where waste is minimized and resources are reused, contributing to a healthier environment.

In contrast, other choices highlight aspects that are generally detrimental to environmental sustainability. High energy consumption during production and increased reliance on fossil fuels emphasize resource depletion and environmental degradation, while limiting the use of renewable resources directly opposes the goals of sustainability efforts, which aim to promote the use and conservation of such resources.