How Bacteria Work Bacteria, living one cell microorganisms, are present throughout our environment. However, we are only concerned with friendly bacteria who help degrade waste and control odors. All bacteria must eat to stay alive. Bacteria produce enzymes which break down organic waste into liquids that can be absorbed by the bacteria. The bacteria convert the absorbed liquids into carbon dioxide and water which are harmless to the environment.
Enzymes are actually catalysts which initiate the chemical processes involved in digestion.
Bacteria are like sponges that absorb organic waste which has been liquefied by enzymes. After a short period of feeding on liquefied waste matter, each bacteria subdivide into two identical and fully functional duplicates of the original. Increased bacteria count means increased enzymatic activity which results in faster decomposition and digestion of organic waste. The role of bacteria is to eliminate organic waste and consequent odors.