The Dynamics of Phytoremediation of Heavy Metals: Recent Progress and Future Perspective

Abstract

The gradually accelerating and intensive pollution of biosphere with toxic elements has threatened the living beings. This phenomenon seems to be inexorable and unacceptable for the sustainable development, moreover the contamination of abiotic-factors; for instance, water and soil with metal(loid)s and radionuclei, are poisonous and unfit for the cultivation of plants in the biosphere. Ecological engineering is the new discipline of environmental biotechnology to manage/control pollutants in environment by the usage of living materials, mainly plants. Phytoremediation (cost-effective and resource-conservative approach), widely used as promising eco-friendly and integrated method for environmental management, facilitates the plant to obtain the nutrients from the soil. The biophilic design provide multiple benefits including functional and economical benefits and promote sustainable and climate-resistant smart urban environment. Increasing investments in natural capital preservation and plant biodiversity can reduce urban air pollution, promote physical activity, minimize traffic congestion, and reduce environmental health costs for vulnerable groups in particular. The aim of this chapter is to highlight significant dynamics of phytoremediation techniques as current advancements in the discipline of environmental biotechnology in general as well as phyto- and bio-remediation in specific and its potential to be employed in urban infrastructural designing.