Summary
This review examines the practical challenge of managing biomass accumulated during phytoremediation of contaminated terrestrial and aquatic environments. It synthesises current knowledge on both organic and inorganic pollutant fate within plant material and explores valorisation pathways—including pyrolysis, composting and energy generation—whilst evaluating residual contamination risks. The paper likely addresses the tension between resource recovery potential and environmental safety, informing evidence-based management decisions for contaminated biomass.
Regional applicability
Relevant to UK land remediation practice, particularly where phytoremediation is deployed on contaminated industrial or former mining sites. Findings inform regulatory frameworks around secondary use of remediation biomass and may support development of circular economy approaches within UK environmental remediation policy.
Key measures
Contaminant speciation and mobility in plant biomass; processing efficiency and contaminant removal/concentration during pyrolysis, composting and biochar production; risk thresholds for safe land application; energy yield and emissions from biomass valorisation
Outcomes reported
The review synthesises evidence on disposal and resource recovery pathways for biomass generated from phytoremediation of contaminated land and water, examining contaminant fate and risk assessment across multiple valorisation technologies. It evaluates the technical and environmental feasibility of pyrolysis, composting, energy generation and other end-use options whilst identifying knowledge gaps in contaminant behaviour during biomass processing.
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