Phytostabilization. A green approach to contaminant containment

Phytostabilization involves the establishment of a plant cover on the surface of the contaminated sites with the aim of reducing the mobility of contaminants within the vadose zone through accumulation by roots or immobilization within the rhizosphere, thereby reducing off-site contamination. The process includes transpiration and root growth that immobilizes contaminants by reducing leaching, controlling erosion, creating an aerobic environment in the root zone, and adding organic matter to the substrate that binds the contaminant. Microbial activity associated with the plant roots may accelerate the degradation of organic contaminants such as pesticides and hydrocarbons to nontoxic forms. Phytostabilization can be enhanced by using soil amendments that immobilize metal(loid)s combined with plant species that are tolerant of high levels of contaminants and low-fertility soils or tailings. Although this technology is effective in the containment of metal(loid)s, the site requires regular monitoring to ensure that the stabilizing conditions are maintained. Soil amendments used to enhance immobilization may need to be periodically reapplied to maintain their effectiveness. We critically examine the applicability of this technology to manage metal(loid)s contaminated soils and identify fertile areas for future research.