Phytoremediation of Contaminated Soil - December 2003

Phytoremediation of Contaminated Soil - December 2003

Phytoremediation is a technology that uses plants to clean up contaminated soil and water. This technology is particularly effective against contamination by heavy metals and toxic chemicals, and is attracting attention as an environmentally friendly method with relatively low costs. Plants absorb contaminants from the soil and accumulate them in their roots and leaves, thereby reducing contamination. For example, sunflowers and ferns have the ability to efficiently absorb certain heavy metals. In recent years, genetic modification technology has been used to develop plants that absorb pollutants even more efficiently. However, depending on the type and concentration of pollutants and the extent of contamination, phytoremediation alone may not be sufficient.