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Green technologies for soil remediation: a systematic review
Summary
Soil pollution from things like heavy metals, oil residues, microplastics, and pesticides doesn't just hurt the environment, it can work its way into the food we grow and eat, potentially raising risks of cancer and other health problems. This review rounds up existing research on eco-friendly cleanup methods, like using special plants, charcoal-like soil additives, and natural minerals to soak up or break down these toxins without harsh chemicals. The takeaway: safer, greener ways to clean contaminated soil already exist and could help protect both farmland and the safety of our food supply.
Heavy metals, petroleum hydrocarbons, microplastics, and pesticides exhibit mutagenic, carcinogenic, immunotoxic, and teratogenic properties, leading to significant changes in the soil’s physical, chemical, and microbiological characteristics. This poses a substantial threat to overall ecosystem health. Consequently, addressing soil contamination requires the prompt adoption of sustainable physico-chemical and bio-based remediation approaches. This review provides a systematic analysis of current soil remediation methods that utilise green technologies. Particular attention is given to phytoremediation techniques, the use of soil conditioners such as biochar, hydrochar, and biopolymers, as well as the application of layered double hydroxides. The mechanisms by which these technologies mitigate pollutants such as heavy metals, organic contaminants, and nutrients are analysed, highlighting their role in enhancing soil health while minimising ecological impact. By integrating these green approaches, sustainable soil remediation can be achieved, supporting environmental restoration and agricultural productivity. This review offers valuable insights for researchers and policymakers in advancing eco-friendly soil rehabilitation strategies.