An eco-sustainable green approach for heavy metals management: two case studies of developing industrial region |
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Authors: | Prabhat Kumar Rai |
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Institution: | (1) Pollution Ecology Research Laboratory, Centre of advanced study in Botany, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221005, India;(2) Centre for Environmental Science and Technology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221005, India |
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Abstract: | Multifaceted issues or paradigm of sustainable development should be appropriately addressed in the discipline of environmental
management. Pollution of the biosphere with toxic metals has accelerated dramatically since the beginning of the Industrial
Revolution. In present review, comparative assessment of traditional chemical technologies and phytoremediation has been reviewed
particularly in the context of cost-effectiveness. The potential of phytoremediation and green chemicals in heavy metals management
has been described critically. Further, the review explores our work on phytoremediation as green technology during the last
6 years and hand in hand addresses the various ecological issues, benefits and constraints pertaining to heavy metal pollution
of aquatic ecosystems and its phytoremediation as first case study. Second case study demonstrates the possible health implications
associated with use of metal contaminated wastewater for irrigation in peri-urban areas of developing world. Our researches
revealed wetland plants/macrophytes as ideal bio-system for heavy metals removal in terms of both ecology and economy, when
compared with chemical treatments. However, there are several constraints or limitations in the use of aquatic plants for
phytoremediation in microcosm as well as mesocosm conditions. On the basis of our past researches, an eco-sustainable model
has been proposed in order to resolve the certain constraints imposed in two case studies. In relation to future prospect,
phytoremediation technology for enhanced heavy metal accumulation is still in embryonic stage and needs more attention in
gene manipulation area. Moreover, harvesting and recycling tools needs more extensive research. A multidisciplinary research
effort that integrates the work of natural sciences, environmental engineers and policy makers is essential for greater success
of green technologies as a potent tool of heavy metals management. |
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