Superhero Plants!
What is the process where plants clean up toxins from the environment?
Phytoremediation
This process happens when plants absorb heavy metals and store them inside.
Phytoaccumulation or Phytoextraction
What plant, often found in backyards, can help remove contaminants?
Bermuda grass
Name one pollutant that plants can help clean from soil or water.
Heavy metals, pesticides, petroleum, or pharmaceuticals.
In this process, plant roots keep contaminants in place, so they don’t spread.
Phytostabilization
What plant with big, yellow petals can remove toxins from soil?
A Sunflower
What do plant roots do with contaminants in phytostabilization?
They hold onto them tightly to keep contaminants from spreading.
What is the name of the process where plants clean up water?
Rhizofiltration
Why don’t we use phytoremediation everywhere right now?
It takes a long time and plants must be in the right place.
What do plants turn toxic chemicals into during phytovolatilization?
Gas!
This process happens when plants break down toxins into less harmful substances.
Phytodegradation
True or False: Some plants can clean up pollution in as little as a week.
False! (It can take 3-5 years!)
Why do scientists like phytoremediation as an environmental solution?
It is natural, inexpensive, and good for the planet.
What process is used when plants absorb salt to help make the soil healthy again?
Phytoremediation with salt-tolerant plants.
What is one challenge of phytoremediation after plants absorb toxins?
Toxins stay inside the plant and must be removed safely.