Contamination remediation and risk assessment of four typical long-residual herbicides: A timely review

In agricultural weed management, the use of long-residual herbicides provides benefits such as reduced application frequency and labor savings. However, as with any approach, there are potential limitations. Long-residual herbicides may have adverse effects on subsequent sensitive crops, soil health, and non-target beneficial organisms. Currently, numerous studies concentrate on contamination remediation technologies and risk assessment for effectively managing the environmental impacts of long-residual herbicides. This review highlights recent advancements in contamination remediation technologies and risk assessment for four representative long-residual herbicides (atrazine, nicosulfuron, fomesafen, and imazethapyr). Remediation techniques currently employed for long-residual herbicides, including bioremediation, physicochemical remediation, and hybrid remediation approaches, were systematically compared. Furthermore, the risk assessment framework integrates ecological and health dimensions to ensure a comprehensive evaluation. Additionally, future research priorities have been proposed. The overarching aim is to provide scientific insights and strategic recommendations for effectively controlling and mitigating contamination caused by long-residual herbicides in agricultural systems.