Integrating Biochar, Bacteria, and Plants for Sustainable Remediation of Soils Contaminated with Organic Pollutants

Abstract

The contamination of soil with organic pollutants has been accelerated by agricultural and industrial development and poses a major threat to global ecosystems and human health. Various chemical and physical techniques have been developed to remediate soils contaminated with organic pollutants, but challenges related to cost, efficacy, and toxic byproducts often limit their sustainability. Fortunately, phytoremediation, achieved through the use of plants and associated microbiomes, has shown great promise for tackling environmental pollution; this technology has been tested both in the laboratory and in the field. Plant–microbe interactions further promote the efficacy of phytoremediation, with plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) often used to assist the remediation of organic pollutants. However, the efficiency of microbe-assisted phytoremediation can be impeded by (i) high concentrations of secondary toxins, (ii) the absence of a suitable sink for these toxins, (iii) nutrient limitations, (iv) the lack of continued release of microbial inocula, and (v) the lack of shelter or porous habitats for planktonic organisms. In this regard, biochar affords unparalleled positive attributes that make it a suitable bacterial carrier and soil health enhancer. We propose that several barriers can be overcome by integrating plants, PGPB, and biochar for the remediation of organic pollutants in soil. Here, we explore the mechanisms by which biochar and PGPB can assist plants in the remediation of organic pollutants in soils, and thereby improve soil health. We analyze the cost-effectiveness, feasibility, life cycle, and practicality of this integration for sustainable restoration and management of soil.

Microbial seed coating: An attractive tool for sustainable agriculture

“…They have an important role in rhizospheric bacterial chemotaxis and solubilization of phosphorus [ 41 ]. In addition, the PGPB has been documented to decrease pollutant levels and be useful for revitalizing organic pollutant-contaminated soils [ 42 ]. It has been reported that PGPB can induce the conversion of petroleum hydrocarbons, polychlorinated biphenyls, and pesticides into nontoxic products or minerals [ 42 ].…”

Conditioning of desert sandy soil and investigation of the ameliorative effects of poultry manure and bentonite treatment rate on plant growth

“…Organic additions, such as poultry manure, enhance soil characteristics by increasing organic matter content, which has a stimulating influence on structure and aggregate stability. When compared to other organic sources, poultry manure is an extraordinary source of organic fertiliser because it includes a high percentage of nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium, and other critical elements that are readily available for plant absorption (Xiang et al, 2022). It enhances soil physical properties and conditions, as well as nutrient absorption and crop yield (Arora et al, 2022).…”

Adsorption-Desorption Behavior and Pesticide Bioavailability of Biochar in Soil

“…The combined effect of the two pesticides reduced their bioavailability. Yu Xiangyang et al investigated the influence of pesticides on the killing effectiveness of target plants and pests by applying biochar made from wheat and rice straw to the soil and discovered that the herbicides Diuron (50) and clomazone (51) were successful in destroying weeds, but the efficacy has been reduced. In other words, pesticide absorption by target plants and pests is relatively low, reducing pesticidal efficacy.…”