Phytoremediation: Removal of Heavy Metals from Soil using Helianthus Annuus

Heavy metals are among the most important sorts of contaminant in the environment. These are very hazardous pollutants to the environment. Heavy metals contamination of the soil is still an unsolved problem; several methods already used to clean up the environment from these kinds of contaminants, but most of them are costly and difficult to get optimum results. Currently, phytoremediation is an effective and affordable technological solution used to extract or remove inactive metals and metal pollutants from contaminated soil and water. This technology is environmental friendly and potentially cost effective. This paper aims to compile some information about heavy metals sources, effects and their treatment. It also reviews deeply about phytoremediation technology, including the heavy metal uptake mechanisms. It was found that accumulation of the metals was minimal in this plant (helianthus annuus). Additionally, it describes several sources and the effects of heavy metals on the environment. Some recommended plants which are commonly used in phytoremediation and their capability to reduce the contaminant are also reported.