Blog

Heavy metals such as cadmium, lead, and mercury are pervasive environmental pollutants resulting from industrial activities, mining, and agricultural practices. These metals pose significant threats to plant health by disrupting physiological processes, leading to reduced growth and productivity. Plants, however, have evolved various mechanisms to tolerate and detoxify heavy metals, making them potential candidates for phytoremediation—a green technology for environmental cleanup. This review explores the sources and types of heavy metals, their impact on plant physiology, and the intricate mechanisms plants employ for heavy metal tolerance. Additionally, it examines the current and potential future applications of phytoremediation strategies, including phytoextraction, phytostabilization, phytovolatilization, and rhizofiltration. Through case studies and examples, the review highlights successful applications and the challenges associated with phytoremediation. It concludes with a discussion on future perspectives, emphasizing advances in genetic engineering and the integration of sustainable practices and policies to enhance the effectiveness and adoption of phytoremediation.