Recent advances in microbial-aided phytostabilization of trace element contaminated soils
Résumé
Soil contamination by trace elements (TE) has been a major concern worldwide, regarding human health and environmental quality. Phytotechnologies are nowadays offering cost-effective and eco-friendly risk-management, and remediation methods toward TE–contaminated soils. Phytostabilization, in particular, relying on the ability of plants and their associated microorganisms to immobilize soil contaminants, is of great interest. Additionally, it may be greatly enhanced by the addition of microbial amendments, susceptible to improve TE immobilization, and to promote vegetation establishment and growth. The combination of this green technology with profitable site management, besides the contamination risk-management and the restoration of ecosystem services, provides economic value to the site. Thus, the aim of this chapter is to highlight the key criteria towards a successfully aided phytostabilization, yet taking into account the current limitations that this phytotechnology is facing. Additionally, a suitable valorization channel for biomass produced on contaminated sites will be further investigated.