ABSTRACT
This chapter explores two emerging remediation technologies based on “agronomic” or “low-tech” solutions. Several approaches have been investigated to overcome the obstacles described above. Some researchers have examined the fundamental soil and plant processes influencing plant uptake of metals and tried to optimize these processes by agronomics, and more recently by genetic engineering. Although the use of chelates in lead (Pb) phytoextraction still requires a considerable amount of refinement, these chemicals appear to provide a plausible commercial level process that may be adaptable to a range of site conditions. In-place inactivation stabilizes soil Pb both chemically and physically through the use of soil amendments and a vegetative cover. Phytostabilization is becoming an attractive possibility for the remediation of many different sites. Economics are a necessary consideration in the choice of remediation technique for any site. Soil washing to remove the fine material is the second most expensive decontamination technique.
