The federal contaminated sites inventory lists over 1000 soil and groundwater sites contaminated with BTEX compounds (Benzene, Toluene, Ethylbenzene, and Xylenes). BTEX present significant risks to human and environmental health, especially benzene, a known carcinogen. Benzene is also particularly challenging to remediate due to its slow biodegradation in the absence of oxygen. Genomics-based modeling of the microbial populations associated with BTEX biodegradation will allow for the development of additional bioremediation culture formulations and associated genomics monitoring tools, which can function in complex site-specific geochemical conditions present at many contaminated sites. As this new remediation approach is successfully demonstrated, users will recognize cost savings using a sustainable and low carbon footprint technology. Such lower cost yet effective remediation strategies will benefit society at large by promoting cleanup of impacted soils and groundwater that would otherwise have been left untreated.