Phytoremediation by Bio-Energy and Aromatic Plants: A Multidimensional and Ecologically Feasible Method of Remediation

Abstract

Heavy metals have been considered to be a serious environmental threat that has adverse impacts on human health as well. To reduce its risk, a new integrated phytoremediation-bioenergy approach could be a viable solution. These crops offer double advantage of phytoremediation as well as the production of valuable by-products like essential oil and this approach contributes to the circular bioeconomy. The growth of aromatic and bioenergy plants keeps heavy metals out of the food chain. It allows for the long-term use of contaminated land, which creates new approaches to addressing pollution problems. This review article mainly highlights how phytoremediation is coupled with bioenergy and essential oil production, along with managing post harvested biomass. The current review also offers a thorough summary of these plants’ utilization in years to address pollution issues and their potential to produce essential oil and bioenergy to meet future energy needs.