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Advancing Phytoremediation: A Review of Soil Amendments for Heavy Metal Contamination Management

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  • Ahmed Abderrafaa Tamma

    (Institute of Environmental Engineering, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, 50-363 Wrocław, Poland)

  • Krzysztof Lejcuś

    (Institute of Environmental Engineering, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, 50-363 Wrocław, Poland)

  • Wiesław Fiałkiewicz

    (Institute of Environmental Engineering, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, 50-363 Wrocław, Poland)

  • Daria Marczak

    (Institute of Environmental Engineering, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, 50-363 Wrocław, Poland)

Abstract

Heavy metal (HM) contamination poses a major threat to environmental health, agriculture and human well-being, requiring effective and sustainable remediation strategies. Phytoremediation, an eco-friendly and cost-effective approach, is widely used for the remediation of HM-contaminated soils. Although phytoremediation holds considerable potential in the extraction, stabilisation and degradation of HMs, its effectiveness is often constrained by limited metal bioavailability, plant stress under toxic conditions and slow metal uptake rates. To address these limitations, this review examines the integration of various soil amendments—the application of biochar, compost, plant exudates, microbial agents and chelating agents—to enhance phytoremediation efficiency. This review critically evaluates empirical evidence on the effectiveness, scalability, economic feasibility and environmental impact of these amendments. By synthesising recent studies, this review advances the understanding of amendment-assisted phytoremediation as a viable solution for treating HM-contaminated soils. In addition, this review identifies practical applications, discusses limitations and explores the potential synergies of these amendments to optimise phytoremediation strategies, ultimately contributing to more effective and sustainable environmental cleanup efforts.

Suggested Citation

  • Ahmed Abderrafaa Tamma & Krzysztof Lejcuś & Wiesław Fiałkiewicz & Daria Marczak, 2025. "Advancing Phytoremediation: A Review of Soil Amendments for Heavy Metal Contamination Management," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(13), pages 1-34, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:13:p:5688-:d:1683534
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Paliza Shrestha & Korkmaz Bellitürk & Josef H. Görres, 2019. "Phytoremediation of Heavy Metal-Contaminated Soil by Switchgrass: A Comparative Study Utilizing Different Composts and Coir Fiber on Pollution Remediation, Plant Productivity, and Nutrient Leaching," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 16(7), pages 1-16, April.
    2. K. Břendová & P. Tlustoš & J. Száková, 2015. "Biochar immobilizes cadmium and zinc and improves phytoextraction potential of willow plants on extremely contaminated soil," Plant, Soil and Environment, Czech Academy of Agricultural Sciences, vol. 61(7), pages 303-308.
    3. Luísa Andina Bender & Carolina Faccio Demarco & Simone Pieniz & Filipe Selau Carlos & Maurízio Silveira Quadro & Robson Andreazza, 2025. "An Integrated Approach to Pb Bioremediation: Role of Bacteria in Enhancing Phytoremediation," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(4), pages 1-18, February.
    4. Yue You & Junfeng Dou & Yu Xue & Naifu Jin & Kai Yang, 2022. "Chelating Agents in Assisting Phytoremediation of Uranium-Contaminated Soils: A Review," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 14(10), pages 1-22, May.
    5. Emanuela D. Tiodar & Cristina L. Văcar & Dorina Podar, 2021. "Phytoremediation and Microorganisms-Assisted Phytoremediation of Mercury-Contaminated Soils: Challenges and Perspectives," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(5), pages 1-37, March.
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