Published in Scientific Papers. Series B, Horticulture, Vol. LXIII, Issue 1
Written by Andreea BALINT-PONICI, Alexandru BALINT, Cristina MĂNESCU, Sorina PETRA, Florin TOMA
UNEP defines phytoremediation in its Freshwater Management Series no. 2 newsletter as “the efficient use of plants to remove, detoxify or immobilise environmental contaminants in a growth matrix (soil, water or sediments) through the natural biological, chemical or physical activities and processes of the plants”. Although multiple studies have been developed for heavy metals contaminated sites, most of the phytoremediation methods include low cost vegetation with minor landscape value. There are a small number of studies which have taken into consideration the landscaping design in the context of urban areas by using ornamental plants for phytoremediation, thus improving both the quality of the natural resources and the urban or industrial landscape of a given area. Integrating site remediation with landscape design is a necessity for remediation cost reduction, urban planning improvement and it may be considered as a measure for improving the companies’ social responsibility commitment. The current study aims at identifying the current state of the research and general practice regarding the usage of ornamental plants for phytoremediation of contaminated sites.
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