The Potential of Biochar in Synergistic Remediation of Heavy Metal Contaminated Soil

Biochar enhances in situ bioremediation by promoting plant stress tolerance, symbiosis regulation with beneficial microorganisms, and stabilizing heavy metals in soil. Its physicochemical properties activate crucial signaling pathways, contributing to eco-friendly soil remediation. Comprehensive guidelines are provided, addressing research gaps and fostering future advancements in the field.

March 9, 2024

1–2 minutes

Wu, Fu, et al (2024) BiocharBiochar is a carbon-rich material created from biomass decomposition in low-oxygen conditions. It has important applications in environmental remediation, soil improvement, agriculture, carbon sequestration, energy storage, and sustainable materials, promoting efficiency and reducing waste in various contexts while addressing climate change challenges. More as a partner of plants and beneficial microorganisms to assist in-situ bioremediation of heavy metal contaminated soil. *Science of the Total Environment.* https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171442

In response to the escalating issue of heavy metal (HM) contamination in soils, this review explores the often-overlooked potential of biochar (BC) as a crucial element in synergistic remediation alongside beneficial microorganisms (BM) and plants. The accumulation of HMs, resulting from various human activities, poses significant threats to ecosystems and human health, necessitating innovative and eco-friendly remediation approaches.

While in situ bioremediation emerges as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution, the collaboration between plants and BM faces challenges, such as low BM colonization and poor plant growth under heavy metal stress (HMS). Herein lies the role of BC, derived from biomassBiomass is a complex biological organic or non-organic solid product derived from living or recently living organism and available naturally. Various types of wastes such as animal manure, waste paper, sludge and many industrial wastes are also treated as biomass because like natural biomass these More, offering unique physicochemical properties that prove instrumental in enhancing plant resistance to HMs and improving the efficacy of in situ bioremediation.

This review delves into the multifaceted mechanisms through which BC contributes to remediation efforts. BC regulates symbiosis with BM by activating karrikin (KARs) signaling and nodule-initiating genes (NIN), stimulating the indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and abscisic acid (ABA) pathways to enhance plant tolerance. The substance also aids in soil HM stability through ion exchange, electrostatic adsorption, redox reactions, complex precipitation, and more.

Drawing from current research, the review provides practical guidelines for applying BC in remediating HM-contaminated soils. The guidance encompasses considerations such as BC properties, feedstockFeedstock refers to the raw organic material used to produce biochar. This can include a wide range of materials, such as wood chips, agricultural residues, and animal manure. More, and production conditions, ensuring an effective and targeted remediation approach.

In conclusion, this comprehensive review underscores the pivotal role of BC in addressing the challenges of HM-contaminated soils, shedding light on its mechanisms and providing valuable guidelines for practical application. By bridging gaps in our understanding of BC-assisted in situ bioremediation, this research sets the stage for further exploration and advancements in soil remediation technologies.