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Beyond Cleansing: Ecosystem Services Related to Phytoremediation.
Werther Guidi Nissim1,2, Stefano Castiglione3,2, Francesco Guarino3,2
1Department of Biotechnology and Biosciences, University of Milano Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 2, 20126 Milan, Italy.
Phytoremediation of urban brownfields faces time constraints. Re-evaluating its goal to include ecosystem services (ESs) like improved urban green spaces and climate resilience makes it a valuable green transition tool.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Urban Ecology
- Green Technology
Background:
- Phytoremediation for urban brownfields is slow due to pollutant and plant limitations.
- Current phytoremediation struggles to compete with conventional methods.
- Existing approaches often overlook broader environmental benefits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the knowledge gap regarding ecosystem services (ESs) in phytoremediation.
- To propose a re-evaluation of phytoremediation's primary goal beyond simple decontamination.
- To advocate for phytoremediation as a tool for urban greening and climate resilience.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on phytoremediation limitations and potential benefits.
- Analysis of ecosystem services provided by vegetation on remediated sites.
- Synthesis of findings to support a broader evaluation of phytoremediation.
Main Results:
- Phytoremediation of brownfields can provide regulating ESs: improved urban hydrology, heat mitigation, noise reduction, biodiversity support, and carbon sequestration.
- Provisional ESs include bioenergy and valuable chemicals.
- Cultural ESs encompass aesthetic improvements, social cohesion, and health benefits.
Conclusions:
- Acknowledging ecosystem services is crucial for a comprehensive assessment of phytoremediation.
- Phytoremediation, when considering ESs, offers a sustainable and resilient approach for urban brownfield reclamation.
- This perspective can drive the green transition in urban planning and enhance city livability.
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