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Synergistic effects of biochar and vegetation on microplastic and nanoplastic removal from stormwater runoff in bioretention systems
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A lab study tested systems that filter stormwater using charcoal-like material (biochar) and plants, to see how well they remove tiny plastic particles. Both treated and untreated biochar removed nanoplastics early on, while plants reduced plastic leaking out over time and showed signs of absorbing microplastics into their roots.
Microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) are emerging contaminants in stormwater runoff, posing potential ecological and human health risks. Bioretention systems offer promising nature-based stormwater treatment, yet their performance remains highly variable. Biochar, particularly post-processed biochar, has demonstrated strong potential for contaminant removal; however, its effects on MNP removal, leachate quality, and plant performance in green infrastructure remain poorly understood. Here, we investigated the combined effects of untreated and thermal air-oxidated (hereinafter: treated) biochars and native vegetation ( Rudbeckia hirta ) on the removal of polystyrene MNPs (0.02, 0.2, and 1 μm) from synthetic stormwater runoff, leachate quality and plant performance in bioretention systems. Both biochars effectively removed nanoplastics during the early MNP-spiked storm events. Vegetation substantially reduced MNP leaching during subsequent simulated rainfall events, supported by the detection of microplastics within root tissues, indicating plant uptake. Vegetation also reduced nutrient leaching, with larger plants exhibiting more pronounced effects, highlighting the importance of enhancing plant growth for contaminant removal. Although treated biochar reduced total organic carbon leaching during initial spiking events, both biochars increased P, K, and S leaching. Overall, our findings demonstrate synergistic effects of biochar and vegetation in enhancing contaminant retention in bioretention systems, advancing green infrastructure design and sustainable stormwater management.
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