Phytoremediation Technology - February 2004

Phytoremediation Technology - February 2004

Phytoremediation technology is a technology that uses plants to purify the environment, especially in areas where industrial pollution is serious. For example, soil contamination by heavy metals has been a longstanding problem in Amagasaki City, Hyogo Prefecture, particularly lead, cadmium, arsenic, and other toxic substances. In this area, phytoremediation technology has been introduced on a trial basis, and plants such as sunflower and canna are used to purify the soil. These plants absorb heavy metals such as lead and cadmium through their roots and accumulate them in their bodies, thereby reducing toxic substances in the soil.

Specifically, planting approximately 3,000 sunflowers on one hectare of land has been shown to be effective in removing approximately one ton of toxic substances per year. The technology was developed by Sumitomo Forestry, known for its development of environmental technologies, and is being promoted as a joint project with Amagasaki City. This technology has also been introduced on a trial basis not only in Hyogo Prefecture, but also in contaminated areas in Fukushima Prefecture following the nuclear power plant accident, in an effort to absorb radioactive cesium.

Phytoremediation technology is expected to spread further in the future because it is less costly and less environmentally hazardous than conventional chemical or physical treatment. With companies and local governments working together to implement this technology, its practical application is being considered for a wider range of areas, particularly in industrial and agricultural areas in Japan.