Plants saving the planet: New method cleans up toxic metals
Scientists are using plants to clean up the environment from toxic metals through a process called phytoremediation. This method has economic potential, is gaining public acceptance, and has regulatory considerations. Different technologies like phytoextraction, phytostabilization, and phytofiltration are being used to remove metals from the environment. Plants can also treat radionuclide pollution, stabilize mercury, and volatilize selenium. Some plants naturally accumulate metals, while others have mechanisms to resist and transport metals. Overall, phytoremediation offers a promising solution to environmental pollution caused by toxic metals.