Phytoremediation of salt-affected soils: a review of processes, applicability, and the impact of climate change

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2015

Authors

João Jesus (Author) FEUP; Anthony Danko (Author) FEUP; António Fiúza (Author) FEUP; Borges, MT (Author) FCUP

Journal

Title: Environmental Science and Pollution Research

Vol. 22 No. 9

Pages: 6511-6525

ISSN: 0944-1344

Publisher: Springer Nature

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 115 Citations

Scopus - 129 Citations

Scientific classification

FOS: Engineering and technology > Environmental engineering

CORDIS: Natural sciences > Environmental science > Global change

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00G-1Y9

DOI: 10.1007/s11356-015-4205-4

Abstract (EN): Soil salinization affects 1-10 billion ha worldwide, threatening the agricultural production needed to feed the ever increasing world population. Phytoremediation may be a cost-effective option for the remediation of these soils. This review analyzes the viability of using phytoremediation for salt-affected soils and explores the remedial mechanisms involved. In addition, it specifically addresses the debate over plant indirect (via soil cation exchange enhancement) or direct (via uptake) role in salt remediation. Analysis of experimental data for electrical conductivity (ECe) + sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) reduction and plant salt uptake showed a similar removal efficiency between salt phytoremediation and other treatment options, with the added potential for phytoextraction under non-leaching conditions. A focus is also given on recent studies that indicate potential pathways for increased salt phytoextraction, co-treatment with other contaminants, and phytoremediation applicability for salt flow control. Finally, this work also details the predicted effects of climate change on soil salinization and on treatment options. The synergetic effects of extreme climate events and salinization are a challenging obstacle for future phytoremediation applications, which will require additional and multi-disciplinary research efforts.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 15