The addition of protein hydrolysate solution to soil contaminated with diesel fuel was investigated for effects on diesel degradation. The application of protein hydrolysate solution led to an increase in the removal of diesel from the soil. At the end of the 21d experimental period the amount of diesel removed from the soil was 21% greater with the addition of protein hydrolysate solution when compared to a control system. This increased removal was linked to increases in both the number of hydrocarbon degrading micro-organisms, and an extension to their period of activity. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Inc. All rights reserved.