Phytoremediation of radionuclides: A report on the state of the art

Abstract

Radionuclides mobilization through extraction from ores and processing for various applications has led to the discharge of these harmful elements into the environment. These contaminants pose a great risk to human health and environment. Remediation of radionuclides and toxic heavy metals deserves the proper attention. Conventional remediation methods used for polluted environments have many limitations including high costs, alteration in soil properties, and disruption in soil native microflora. Alternatively, phytoremediation can serve as a prospective method for decontamination and rehabilitation of polluted sites. The term phytoremediation actually refers to a diverse collection of plant-based technologies, i.e. either naturally occurring or genetically engineered plants are used for cleaning the contaminated environment. Phytoremediation techniques are eco-friendly, cost-effective, easy to implement, and offer an aesthetic value and solar-driven processes with better public acceptance. Practicing various agronomic alterations as well as spatial and successful combination of different plant species assures maximal phytoremediation efficiency. Plants and microorganisms can be genetically modified to remediate the contaminated ecosystems at an accelerated rate. We can harvest better results from phytoremediation technologies by learning more about the different biological processes involved. The future of phytoremediation comprises of ongoing research work and has to go through a developmental phase and several technical barriers. Several attempts still need to be performed with multidisciplinary approach for successful future phytoremedial programmes. This report comprehensively reviews the background, techniques, concept and future course in phytoremediation of heavy metals, particularly radionuclides.