Current trends of phytoremediation in wetlands: Mechanisms and applications

Abstract

This study is being done to integrate global scientific research on phytoremediation and to assess current trends of pollutant removal by wetlands. It focuses on phytoremediation of excessive organic and inorganic pollutants from contaminated sites. The concecpt of natural and constructed wetlands based on phytoremediation is a cost-effective and green emerging technology for cleaning up organic (phosphorus, nitrogen, pathogens) and inorgagnic (metals and pesticides) pollutants. Wetlands can remove pollutants by absorbing and binding them and make them a part of sediment. Mechanisms of pollutant removal include phytoextraction, phytostabilization, phytovolatilization, and rhizofiltration. Phytoremediation strategy used for removal depends on pollution level, plant species, and climatic conditions of that wetland. Some plants have natural ability to degrade or render harmless contaminants in soils, water, or air that pose serious threat to humans and animals. This review paper provides information on recent progress in research and practical applications of phytoremediation in wetland.