ABSTRACT
Anthropogenic activities have severely altered the innate state of the environment and the damage incurred had manifested itself as a catastrophe. One of the best examples is the recent occurrence of the COVID-19 pandemic. Also, a significant increase in the presence of pathogenic viruses including the novel coronavirus in the wastewater due to medical discharge is an alarming concern. COVID-19 was almost inevitable a year ago, but the rigorous efforts of the scientific community made it possible. Incorporation of several tools of biotechnology was made for diagnosis, for continuous mass production of therapeutics and vaccines, viral genome editing, etc. to combat the virus. The bioreactor is one such tool;it forms the core of biological processes and is constantly emerging as a powerful tool in several applications namely biopharmaceuticals, bioenergy production, industrial products synthesis, wastewater treatment, solid waste management, etc. Matrix is an integral part of bioreactor providing conducive environment for the occurrence of biological process. This study highlights the recent progress in the novel design and applications of bioreactors from the perspective of the matrix. The facets on how bioreactors can help in post-covid waste management are also discussed. © 2022 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.