Plant-assisted bioremediation: Soil recovery and energy from biomass

Abstract Bioremediation technologies are useful and sustainable solutions for recovering pollutants from ecosystems. In particular, the plant-assisted bioremediation or phyto-assisted bioremediation (PABR) strategy, relying on the synergistic actions between plant root system and natural microorganisms (bacteria and fungi), can be effective for stabilizing, storing, and degrading contaminants of polluted soils. Plant species through release of root exudates can stimulate biodegradation activity of natural soil microorganisms in the rhizosphere. The use of organic amendments (e.g., biochar, compost) in PABR applications can also be useful for enhancing plant growth, soil quality and increase the biodegradation of some contaminants. Moreover, PABR technology produces biomass, a by-product, which can be profitably valorised for producing energy in line with a circular economy. Deeper investigations on the overall processes in order to improve PABR effectiveness and ensure its zero impact on environment are desirable.