Ligand enhanced heavy metals phytoextraction

Pollution of land with Pb and other heavy metals in EU and in Associated states from heavy metals is widespread, through area affected is not accurately determined. Remediation of large areas of agricultural land by conventional technologies developed for small areas of heavily contaminated sites is not feasible economically. The project aims at sustainable use of heavy-metal contaminated agricultural lands and simultaneous on-site phytoremediation of these lands with industrial crops such are energy plants (Miscanthus, Arundo spp.) and bio-diesel production crops (Brassicaceae spp.). Novel techniques of ligand enhanced soil phytoextraction will be introduced to reduce the pressure of phytoextraction on groundwater resources. Genetically engineered plants with increased potential for heavy metal accumulation will be tested. Advanced methods of soil chemistry and physics and soil microbial ecology will be used.