Phytoremediation of petroleum-polluted soils

Abstract

Soil pollution from the discharge of petroleum and its products is among the most extensive environmentally damaging pollution problem in the world today. The presence of toxic organics in the soil and surrounding water bodies constitutes potential threats to humans and the ecosystem. The potential of using phytoremediation, a process whereby green vegetation is used to remediate petroleum-polluted soils, is examined. Considerable attention has been focused on hydrocarbons linked with phytoremediation, categories of phytoremediation, enhancement of phytoremediation, environmental factors affecting phytoremediation, plants/legumes associated with phytoremediation and advantages and limitations of phytoremediation. In spite of these, several methods have been used in the past to remediate petroleum-polluted soils. The application of phytoremediation has proven to be one of the most efficient, cost-effective and environmentally friendly technologies. Phytoremediation with enhancement should be strongly encouraged.