Heavy metal

Today we are facing several environmental problems including the pollution occur by heavy metals present in soil and water. The present remediation technique of heavy metal removal from contaminated soil is being more cost-effective and fewer side effects than physical and chemical approaches. It has gained attention from scientist as increasing popularity in both academic and practical circles. Phytoremediation is an emerging technology for cleaning up contaminated sites, with several advantages and long term applicability. More than 450 plant species have been identified to have potential for soil and water remediation. The technology involves efficient use of plants for the removal of heavy metals, detoxify or immobilize environmental contaminants in a growth matrix (soil, water or sediments) through the natural, biological, chemical or physical activities or processes of the plants. A brief review on phytoremediation of heavy metals and its effect on plants have been provided for a wide applicability of phytoremediation.