Reviews an article by RobertaFarrell which appears in <i>Tappi Journal</i>, vol. 67, no. 10, discussing the use of microorganisms -- both bacteria and fungi-for removal or modification of lignin. Ligninase, the first enzyme ever purified to depolymerize lignin, is now being cloned in an organism that makes no cellulose-degrading enzymes. Another enzyme catalyzes aromatic ring cleavage. The purified enzymes can augment or replace existing bleaching methods and can assist in the processing of pulp. This development, important for the production of permanent/durable paper, is important for application in pulp mills. -- AATA