Cadmium (Cd), a heavy metal, poses significant environmental risks due to both natural processes and human activities. Inadequate regulation has led to its bio-accumulation in plants, endangering ecosystems and human health. Phytoremediation emerges as a potent solution, with innovations like biochar (BC) and nanoparticles (NPs) enhancing its effectiveness.

BC and NPs actively engage in Cd removal, mitigating plant toxicity. Factors such as metal form, pHpH is a measure of how acidic or alkaline a substance is. A pH of 7 is neutral, while lower pH values indicate acidity and higher values indicate alkalinity. Biochars are normally alkaline and can influence soil pH, often increasing it, which can be beneficial More, and exposure duration influence Cd toxicity. Phytoremediation economically mitigates heavy metal pollution, preserving ecosystems. BC enhances nutrient availability and microbial communities while reducing Cd toxicity. The synergistic effect of BC and NPs improves soil and plant health.

Cd’s stability and persistence in soil pose challenges for remediation efforts. Physical and chemical methods are expensive and can lead to secondary pollution. Bioremediation, particularly phytoremediation, offers a cost-effective and environmentally friendly approach. Phytoremediation utilizes plants to degrade, remove, or immobilize pollutants, offering advantages in various contaminated mediums.

This review focuses on the application of BC and NPs in Cd phytoremediation, examining their impact on plant growth, genetic regulations, structural transformations, and phytohormone dynamics. Research indicates the efficacy of BC and NPs in reducing Cd bioavailability and mitigating its harmful effects on plants. Overall, phytoremediation using BC and NPs presents a promising strategy for addressing Cd contamination and curbing its ecological damage.