Authors:
Mendez, M.O. and R.M. Maier
Publication Date:
2008
Abstract/Summary:
Harsh climatic conditions in arid and semiarid environments along with the innate properties of mine tailings require specific considerations. Plants suitable for phytostabilization must be native, be drought-, salt-, and metal-tolerant, and should limit shoot metal accumulation. Factors for evaluating metal accumulation and toxicity issues are presented. Also reviewed are aspects of implementing phytostabilization, including plant growth stage, amendments, irrigation, and evaluation. Phytostabilization of mine tailings is a promising remedial technology but requires further research to identify factors affecting its long-term success by expanding knowledge of suit-able plant species and mine tailings chemistry in ongoing field trials.
Resource Type:
Peer-reviewed Article
Source:
Environmental Health Perspectives