Introduction to Phytoremediation - CLU-IN

Abstract
Phytoremediation is the name given to a set of technologies that use different plants as a
containment, destruction, or an extraction technique. Phytoremediation as a remediation technology
that has been receiving attention lately as the results from field trials indicate a cost
savings compared to conventional treatments.
The U.S. EPA has a dual role in which it seeks to protect human health and the environment
associated with hazardous waste sites, while encouraging development of innovative technologies
that might more efficiently clean up these sites.
This Introduction is intended to provide a tool for site regulators, owners, neighbors, and managers
to evaluate the applicability of phytoremediation to a site. This document defines terms
and provides a framework to understand phytoremediation applications. It is a compilation of
research and remediation work that has been done to date. The format is intended to be accessible
to EPA RPMs, state regulators, and others who need to choose between alternate technologies,
as well for site owners, consultants, contractors, and students who are interested in
basic information. It is not a design manual, and is not intended to provide enough information
to choose, engineer, and install a phytoremediation application.
This work may also be used to help guide research, development, and regulation. Areas of
needed research have been identified. By compiling the published and unpublished work, research
repetition can be avoided, and areas of opportunity that need attention should be clear.
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