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.