A polyphasic approach for assessing the suitability of bioremediation for the treatment of hydrocarbon-impacted soil

► Molecular/chemical tools were used to predict hydrocarbon bioremediation potential. ► Pyrosequencing showed microbial capacity for soil hydrocarbon degradation. ► Bioaccessibility assays predicted that total hydrocarbons would be reduced by < 50%. ► Predictions were validated at pilot scale illustrating the success of this strategy.