Exploring the Potentials of Halophytes in Addressing Climate Change-Related Issues: A Synthesis of Their Biological, Environmental, and Socioeconomic Aspects

Abstract

Halophytes are naturally salt-tolerant plants with immense potential to become alternate crops for saline lands. While their economic benefits have gained increasing attention, often, the roles of halophytes in addressing different climate change-related issues are overlooked. Halophytes can be a renewable resource for clean ‘carbon-neutral’ energy by serving as biofuel or biogas feedstock, help in the sequestration of rising CO2 as well as the phytoremediation of various pollutants, can be a good source of food and fodder thereby help in achieving food security in arid/saline areas, can help in protection and biodiversity conservation in various ecosystems, and can provide livelihood to poor local communities inhabiting barren lands. This review also attempts to highlight various usages of halophytes in connection with a global change perspective. However, there are still many challenges such as economic viability, customer preferences, environmental impacts, and scale-up challenges, which need further research, innovation, effective policies, and collaboration. In general, this review provides a synthesis of various biological, environmental, and socioeconomic aspects of halophytes to fully exploit the potential of halophytes for human welfare and combating global climate changes.

Systematic Characterization of Cow Manure Biochar and Its Effect on Salicornia herbacea L. Growth

“…Notably, this finding aligns with a previous study that demonstrated approximately threefold variation in glasswort length based on salinity [43]. Hameed et al [44] reported that halophytes have the potential to be used as a sustainable source of food, fuel, feed, fiber, essential oil, and medicine. These hardy plants thrive in high-salinity and drought conditions, accumulate salts and toxic metals, and require minimal maintenance during growth.…”

Neuroprotective and Mental Health Benefits of Salt-Tolerant Plants: A Comprehensive Review of Traditional Uses and Biological Properties

“…Salt-tolerant plants, or halophytes, can thrive in highly saline (≥200 mM sodium chloride) environments, such as salt marshes and coastal dunes. Salinity stress triggers the development of specialised adaptations, including the synthesis of osmolytes (proline, sugars), antioxidative enzymes (superoxide dismutases, catalases, peroxidases), or the synthesis of non-enzymatic antioxidants, crucial for the plant's defence mechanisms and survival [21]. Besides their role in plant welfare, these metabolites also have significant pharmacological potential, including various flavonoids, phenolic acids, and alkaloid derivatives, which are well-documented for their potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties [22].…”