2024, Vol. 7, Issue 7, Part I

author(s)
Kamble Vivek, Robert Wayembam, Princy Thakur and Meraj Ahmed

abstract
The extensive contamination of heavy metals caused by human activities has resulted in a significant global concern regarding soil pollution. The application of agrochemicals and the use of irrigation water that is contaminated have resulted in increased concentrations of chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), cobalt (Co), cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb) in arable soils. This has had a negative influence on the overall health of the soil and the ecosystems it supports. These metals, which are resistant to decomposition and cannot be broken down by natural processes, infiltrate the food chain, so presenting substantial hazards to the health of both humans and animals. Volcanic eruptions and forest fires are natural sources of heavy metals, but human activities, particularly industrial processes, greatly worsen contamination. The remediation of soils polluted with heavy metals is a difficult and expensive process that requires the use of physical, chemical, and biological techniques. Conventional treatments frequently disturb soil characteristics and the indigenous microorganisms. Phytoremediation, on the other hand, provides a sustainable and cost-effective approach by using hyperaccumulators and microbes to trap and remove dangerous metals. Phytoextraction, Phyto stabilization, phytovolatilization, and Rhizo-filtration are methods that utilize plants' ability to absorb, stabilize, or volatilize pollutants, therefore converting polluted areas into safer surroundings. Nevertheless, the effectiveness of phytoremediation is restricted by the amount of plant biomass and the capacity of plants to absorb metals, which requires improvement using chemical agents, agronomic techniques, and genetic engineering. Novel techniques, such as rhizo-degradation and phytodegradation, utilize the interactions between plants and microbes to break down organic contaminants. Similarly, modern technologies like Phyto desalination and wetland restoration employ halophytic vegetation and artificial wetlands to control levels of salt and toxins. Although there have been notable breakthroughs, there are still obstacles to overcome in enhancing the absorption of metals, increasing biomass output, and ensuring the proper disposal of contaminated plant waste. Genetically modified plants and energy crops have the potential to produce greater amounts of biomass and recover metals, however, they encounter obstacles related to regulations and safety. By integrating these many tactics, the total effectiveness of phytoremediation can be improved. This holistic strategy helps to reduce heavy metal contamination in soils, safeguard ecosystems, and ensure the safety of food.