Phytoremediation of Heavy Metals Using Native Plant Species

Abstract

Heavy metal contamination has emerged as a critical environmental issue due to rapid industrialization, mining activities, and poor waste management practices. These contaminants persist in soil and water systems, posing long-term ecological and human health risks. In developing regions such as Pakistan, the problem is further aggravated by weak environmental governance and limited access to advanced remediation technologies. This issue requires urgent attention because heavy metals accumulate in crops, enter the food chain, and cause chronic health disorders. Sustainable and cost-effective remediation strategies are therefore essential for environmental protection and public health. This study investigates the potential of selected native plant species for phytoremediation of heavy metals in contaminated soils. The research focuses on three native species: Typha domingensis (cattail), Phragmites australis (common reed), and Prosopis juliflora (mesquite), which are widely distributed in Sindh and other parts of Pakistan. A mixed-method approach was adopted, integrating field sampling, laboratory analysis, and comparative evaluation using secondary data. Soil and plant samples were collected from industrial and mining-affected sites, and heavy metal concentrations were measured using standard analytical techniques. Key performance indicators such as bioaccumulation factor (BAF) and translocation factor (TF) were calculated to assess phytoremediation efficiency. The results show that Typha domingensis exhibited high accumulation of cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) with BAF values ranging from 1.6 to 2.3. Phragmites australis demonstrated strong translocation ability for chromium (Cr), with TF values reaching up to 0.72. Prosopis juliflora showed significant tolerance and accumulation of multiple metals, particularly in root tissues, indicating its suitability for phytostabilization. Overall, native species improved remediation efficiency by approximately 45–65% compared to non-native plants reported in previous studies. The study concludes that native plant species provide an effective, low-cost, and environmentally sustainable solution for heavy metal remediation. Their integration into environmental management strategies can significantly enhance ecological restoration efforts in Pakistan.