Assisted phytoextraction as a nature‐based solution for the sustainable remediation of metal(loid)‐contaminated soils

Abstract

Soil contamination is a significant environmental issue that poses a threat to human health and the ecosystems. Conventional remediation techniques, such as excavation and landfilling, are often expensive, disruptive, and unsustainable. As a result, there has been growing interest in developing sustainable remediation strategies that are cost‐effective, environmentally friendly, and socially acceptable. One such solution is phytoextraction: a nature‐based approach that uses the abilities of hyperaccumulator plants to uptake and accumulate metals and metalloids (potentially toxic elements [PTE]) without signs of toxicity. Once harvested, plant biomass can be treated to reduce its volume and weight by combustion, thus obtaining bioenergy, and the ashes can be used for the recovery of metals or in the construction industry. However, phytoextraction has shown variable effectiveness due to soil conditions and plant species specificity, which has led researchers to develop additional approaches known as assisted phytoextraction to enhance its success. Assisted phytoextraction is a remediation strategy based on modifying certain plant traits or using different materials to increase metal uptake or bioavailability. This review article provides a practical and up‐to‐date overview of established strategies and the latest scientific advancements in assisted phytoextraction. Our focus is on improving plant performance and optimizing the uptake, tolerance, and accumulation of PTE, as well as the accessibility of these contaminants. While we highlight the advantages of using hyperaccumulator plants for assisted phytoextraction, we also address the challenges and limitations associated with this approach. Factors such as soil pH, nutrient availability, and the presence of other contaminants can affect its efficiency. Furthermore, the real‐world challenges of implementing phytoextraction on a large scale are discussed and strategies to modify plant traits for successful phytoremediation are presented. By exploring established strategies and the latest scientific developments in assisted phytoextraction, this review provides valuable guidance for optimizing a sustainable, nature‐based technology. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2024;00:1–20. © 2024 SETAC