This article describes biotechnological modes, updated in terms of environmental remediation while exploiting natural resources. Modern biotechnology embraces not only the principles of using various organisms but also the techniques of doing so. Both the aspects are dealt with in detail. Removal of arsenic from aquifer is also discussed as it is a pressing problem in the shallow aquifers in the Bengal basin seriously affecting agricultural products and drinking water. Treatment of tannery effluents is a complex problem in India; more so, when reverse osmosis involves unaffordable cost. In such a situation, an integrated approach combining mineral processing techniques, nanotechnology and biotechnology is recommended.