Rapid industrialization, increased urbanization and improved agricultural production methods have led to an increase in heavy metal pollution in the environment. Weedy Amaranthus species commonly found on roadsides and abandoned lands, such as Amaranthus spinosus were selected for this study. Seedlings of the experimental plants were grown in soil containing USW (Urban Solid Waste) collected from three selected sites in the state of Kerala, India, namely, Vilappilsala, Chavara and Plachimada. Soil parameters such as soil moisture, soil pH, soil organic carbon and alkalinity were estimated. After measuring the initial heavy metal concentrations at the three selected locations, the test plant seedlings were allowed to grow in soil collected from the respective dumpsites for 60 days, and the percentage reduction in heavy metal content was determined. Post-harvest analysis showed a reduction of more than 50% in heavy metal concentration at each site.

Soil is one of the most significant component of ecosystem on earth and is responsible for the homeostasis of the environment. It has a tremendous capacity to balance the water & air quality around it but also shelters some of the most significant micro-organisms under it. This virtue of soil makes it even better than other components of the ecosystem. It also harbors the organic matter in it which is crucial for the modern-day nutritional attributes in the crop. Soil management therefore is very important exercise to maintain the soil health and its quality for a sustainable ecosystem. It also is reservoir many essential micronutrients or trace elements which then becomes the part of the food chain by entering the plant system. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of its importance in a balanced ecosystem and in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).