PHYTOREMEDIATION OF LEAD FROM WASTEWATER USING AQUATIC PLANTS

摘要

Increasing urbanization, industrialization and over population is one of the leading causes of environmental degradation and pollution. Heavy metals such as Pb, Zn, Cd, As etc. are the most toxic pollutants which show hazardous effects on all living things. Lead is one such pollutant which disrupts the food chain and is lethal even at low concentrations. The prevailing purification technologies used for removal of contaminants are not only very costly but causes negative impact on ecosystem subsequently. Phytoremediation, an eco-friendly technology which is both ecologically sound and economically viable is an attractive alternative to the current cleanup methods that are very expensive. This technology involves efficient use of aquatic plants to remove, detoxify or immobilize heavy metals. The purpose of this review is to assess the current state of phytoremediation as an innovative technology and to discuss its usefulness and potential in the remediation of lead contaminated water.