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Submit a ProposalHeavy Metal Remediation
One Line Description
Seamlessly bridging fundamental science, engineering, and policy, this essential guide equips researchers, engineers, and policymakers with the cutting-edge, sustainable remediation strategies needed to combat critical heavy metal contamination in our air, water, and soil.
Description
Industrial growth has increased, and with it, heavy metal contamination risks that cause serious environmental degradation and health problems. This book investigates modern solutions to reduce heavy metal contamination found throughout the environment. It examines the sources of heavy metals and their environmental effects while exploring the mechanisms of pollution in soil, water, and air and their devastating influences on humans and the ecosystem. Presenting scientific knowledge about heavy metals, the book examines their physical and chemical qualities, their availability to organisms, and their reactions within biological systems and earth structures. It connects the fundamental concept of environmental science with principles of chemistry and engineering to deliver foundational knowledge of traditional and modern remediation technologies. Emphasizing sustainability, the book underscores the necessity for remediation solutions that are both effective and compatible with environmental and economic standards. The book connects scientific research with technological progress and policy execution to provide essential knowledge for researchers, engineers, environmentalists, and policymakers looking for solutions for sustainable remediation development.
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Industrial growth has increased, and with it, heavy metal contamination risks that cause serious environmental degradation and health problems. This book investigates modern solutions to reduce heavy metal contamination found throughout the environment. It examines the sources of heavy metals and their environmental effects while exploring the mechanisms of pollution in soil, water, and air and their devastating influences on humans and the ecosystem. Presenting scientific knowledge about heavy metals, the book examines their physical and chemical qualities, their availability to organisms, and their reactions within biological systems and earth structures. It connects the fundamental concept of environmental science with principles of chemistry and engineering to deliver foundational knowledge of traditional and modern remediation technologies. Emphasizing sustainability, the book underscores the necessity for remediation solutions that are both effective and compatible with environmental and economic standards. The book connects scientific research with technological progress and policy execution to provide essential knowledge for researchers, engineers, environmentalists, and policymakers looking for solutions for sustainable remediation development.
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Author / Editor Details
Prangya Rath, PhD is a Council of Scientific and Industrial Research Senior Research Fellow and NET-qualified researcher interested in the fields of life sciences and environmental sciences with more than five years of experience. She has more than 60 publications to her credit, including two edited books, and many book chapters and research articles. Her work focuses on biotechnology and environmental sciences.
Prangya Rath, PhD is a Council of Scientific and Industrial Research Senior Research Fellow and NET-qualified researcher interested in the fields of life sciences and environmental sciences with more than five years of experience. She has more than 60 publications to her credit, including two edited books, and many book chapters and research articles. Her work focuses on biotechnology and environmental sciences.
Laxmi Kant Bhardwaj, PhD is part of the Scientific Staff at the Amity Institute of Environmental Toxicology, Safety and Management (AIETSM), Noida, Uttar Pradesh, India. He has published several research articles and book chapters in reputed journals and books. His research interests include the estimation of pollutants such as persistent organic pollutants (POPs), microplastics, heavy metals, and phthalates in wastewater, water, and soils.
Amit Kumar, PhD is a Council of Scientific and Industrial Research Senior Research Fellow at the National Botanical Research Institute. He has published 36 research papers, as well as many book chapters and magazine articles. His work focuses on various aspects of metal and metalloid phytoremediation, and biochemical and molecular approaches with a special emphasis on reducing heavy metal accumulation.
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Table of Contents
Preface
1. Overview of Heavy Metals
Shisak Sharma, Imotila T. Longchar, Raplang Steven Umdor and Dipak Sinha
1.1 Introduction
1.2 Heavy Metal (HM) Pollution
1.2.1 Sources of Heavy Metals (HMs)
1.2.1.1 Mercury (Hg)
1.2.1.2 Cadmium (Cd)
1.2.1.3 Arsenic (As)
1.2.2 Properties of Heavy Metals (HMs)
1.3 Heavy Metals (HMs) in Soil, Water, and Air
1.3.1 Air Pollution by Heavy Metals (HMs)
1.3.2 Soil Pollution by Heavy Metals (HMs)
1.3.3 Water Pollution by Heavy Metals (HMs)
1.4 Mechanism of Heavy Metals (HMs) Toxicity
1.4.1 Mercury (Hg) Toxicity
1.4.2 Cadmium (Cd) Toxicity
1.4.3 Arsenic (As) Toxicity
1.5 Effects of Heavy Metals (HMs) on Plants
1.5.1 Effects of Mercury (Hg)
1.5.2 Effects of Cadmium (Cd)
1.5.3 Effects of Arsenic (As)
1.6 Effects of Heavy Metals (HMs) on Human Health
1.6.1 Effects of Mercury (Hg)
1.6.2 Effects of Cadmium (Cd)
1.6.3 Effects of Arsenic (As)
1.7 Remediation and Management Strategies
1.7.1 Chemical Coagulation-Flocculation
1.7.2 Chemical Precipitation
1.7.3 Adsorption
1.7.4 Bioremediation
1.7.5 Phytoremediation
1.8 Recommendations
1.9 Conclusion and Future Prospects
List of Abbreviations
References
2. Tracing the Silent Threat: Unraveling Heavy Metal Contamination Pathways and Impacts across Environmental Matrices
Qudrat Ullah, Laxmi Kant Bhardwaj, Waqas Haider and Tassaneem Yuttasa-Ard
2.1 Introduction to Heavy Metal (HM) Contamination
2.2 Sources of Heavy Metals (HMs) in Water, Soil, and Air
2.2.1 Anthropogenic Sources: Industrial and Agricultural Contributions
2.3 Pathways of Heavy Metal (HM) Distribution across Environmental Matrices
2.3.1 Transport Mechanisms in Water and Soil
2.3.2 Atmospheric Dispersion and Deposition
2.4 Impacts on Ecosystems: Soil Fertility, Aquatic Life, and Air Quality
2.4.1 Effects on Soil Microbial Communities and Plant Growth
2.5 Human Health Effects: Bioaccumulation and Toxicity Risks
2.5.1 Pathways of Human Exposure: Ingestion, Inhalation, and Dermal Contact
2.5.2 Toxicological Impacts: Oxidative Stress and Carcinogenic Risks
2.6 Case Studies: Shazand Plain, Iran, and Nile Tilapia in Egypt
2.6.1 Shazand Plain: Groundwater and Soil Contamination Analysis
2.6.2 Nile Tilapia: Heavy Metal (HM) Accumulation in Aquatic Food Chains
2.7 The Need for Targeted Remediation Strategies
2.8 Recommendations
2.9 Conclusion
List of Abbreviations
References
3. Assessment and Monitoring Techniques for Heavy Metal Detection
Souravi Bardhan and Dipak Kr. Chanda
3.1 Introduction
3.2 Sources and Ecological Impacts of Heavy Metals (HMs)
3.3 Sampling and Pre-Treatment Procedures
3.3.1 Sampling Strategies
3.3.1.1 Water Sampling
3.3.1.2 Soil and Sediment Sampling
3.3.1.3 Biological Sampling
3.3.2 Pre-Treatment Procedures
3.3.2.1 Acid Digestion
3.3.2.2 Alkaline Leaching and Fusion
3.3.2.3 Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) and Pre-Concentration
3.3.2.4 Filtration and Centrifugation
3.4 Analytical Methods
3.4.1 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS)
3.4.2 Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES)
3.4.3 Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS)
3.4.4 X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) Spectroscopy
3.4.5 Electrochemical Techniques
3.4.6 Ultraviolet–Visible (UV–Vis) Spectrophotometry
3.5 Nanotechnology (NT) and Biosensing-Based Methods
3.5.1 Principles of Biosensing for Heavy Metals (HMs)
3.5.2 Nanomaterials (NMs) as Signal Amplifiers and Transducers
3.5.3 Electrochemical Biosensors
3.5.4 Optical Biosensors
3.5.5 Whole-Cell and Enzyme-Based Biosensors
3.6 Remote Sensing and Spectroscopic Monitoring
3.6.1 Fundamentals of Remote Sensing in Heavy Metal (HM) Assessment
3.6.2 Spectroscopic Monitoring: Principles and Modalities
3.6.2.1 Colorimetric Sensing
3.6.2.2 Fluorometric Sensing
3.7 Limitations and Challenges in Detection
3.7.1 Matrix Complexity and Interferences
3.7.2 Speciation and Bioavailability
3.7.3 Sensitivity and Detection Limits
3.7.4 Selectivity and Cross-Reactivity
3.7.5 Instrumentation and Field Deployment
3.7.6 Standardization and Ethical Issues
3.8 Future Prospects and Conclusion
List of Abbreviations
References
4. Remediation Technologies: Science and Innovation
Prabhat Kumar Patel and Ramagopal V.S. Uppaluri
4.1 Introduction
4.2 Research Gaps
4.3 Comparative Efficacy of Chitosan-Derived Sorbents in Wastewater Treatment
4.4 Challenges and Prospects
4.4.1 Strategies for the Real World Rather Than in a Laboratory Setting
4.4.2 Industrialization Encounters
4.4.3 Innovations in Regeneration Strategies
4.4.4 Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) Algorithms
4.4.5 Techno-Economic Considerations
4.4.6 Greener Synthesis
4.5 Recommendations
4.6 Conclusion
List of Abbreviations
References
5. Chelation Strategies for Remediation of Heavy Metals from Municipal Solid Waste Compost: A Sustainable Approach
Vivek Raj, Santosh Kumar Karn, Ashish Kumar, Laxmi Kant Bhardwaj, Arti Chamoli, Arun Kumar, Abhinav Chauhan and Arun Lal Srivastav
5.1 Introduction
5.2 About Heavy Metal (HM) Contamination in Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) Compost
5.3 Environmental and Agricultural Needs
5.4 Current Status of Heavy Metal (HM) Remediation in Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) Compost
5.4.1 Various Chemical-Assisted Leaching Techniques
5.5 Major Parameters Influencing Efficiency of Chelation-Based Remediation
5.5.1 Process Parameters
5.5.1.1 Concentration of Chelating Agents
5.5.1.2 pH of the Chelating Solution
5.5.1.3 Liquid to Solid Ratio
5.5.1.4 Temperature
5.5.1.5 Contact Time
5.5.1.6 Agitation
5.5.1.7 Flow Rate
5.5.2 Operational Modes of Chelating
5.5.2.1 Batch Chelating
5.5.2.2 Continuous Column Mode of Operation
5.6 Proposed Future Research and Directions
5.7 Recommendations
5.8 Conclusion
List of Abbreviations
References
6. Sustainable Approaches to Heavy Metals Remediation
Prangya Rath, Laxmi Kant Bhardwaj and Amit Kumar
6.1 Introduction
6.2 Conventional Approaches to Heavy Metal (HM) Remediation
6.2.1 Physical Methods
6.2.2 Chemical Methods
6.2.3 Limitations and Environmental Concerns of Conventional Methods
6.3 Sustainable and Green Approaches to Heavy Metal (HM)
Remediation
6.3.1 Biological Methods
6.3.1.1 Phytoremediation/Phytomanagement
6.3.1.2 Microbial Remediation
6.3.2 Nature-Based and Eco-Engineered Systems
6.3.2.1 Constructed Wetlands and Assisted Natural Attenuation (ANA)
6.3.2.2 Biochar-Enhanced Systems
6.3.2.3 Integration of Green Infrastructure for Urban Heavy Metal (HM) Mitigation
6.3.3 Emerging Technologies for Heavy Metal (HM) Remediation
6.3.3.1 Genetic Engineering and Biotechnological Enhancements
6.3.3.2 Green-Synthesized Nanoparticles (NPs) and Nano-Bioremediation
6.3.3.3 Biochar-Based Nanocomposites
6.4 Socioeconomic and Policy Dimensions of Sustainable Remediation
6.5 Challenges, Gaps, and Future Perspectives
6.6 Recommendations
6.7 Conclusion
List of Abbreviations
References
7. Rhizobacteria Can Act as a Sustainable Asset to Mitigate
Heavy Metal and Organic Pollution Stress and Induce Plant Growth
Sakshi Tomar, Induja Mishra, Pashupati Nath, Bhupendra Singh and Prabhat K. Chauhan
7.1 Introduction
7.2 The Brutal Impact of Heavy Metal (HM) and Emerging Contaminant (EC) on Crop Production
7.3 Mechanisms and Functions of Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR)
7.3.1 Removal of HMs and Plant Growth Promotion
7.3.2 For the Removal of Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) and Plant Growth
7.4 Future Remarks
7.5 Recommendations
7.6 Conclusion
List of Abbreviations
References
8. Socioeconomic and Policy Considerations
Samarendra Singh, Saloni Guleria, Aditya Raj, Gautam Singh and Navjot Kaur Sandhu
8.1 Introduction
8.2 Socioeconomic Impacts of Heavy Metal (HM) Contamination
8.2.1 Health Impacts and Vulnerable Populations
8.2.2 Economic Costs and Livelihood Disruption
8.2.3 Social Inequities and Environmental Justice
8.3 Environmental Justice in Heavy Metal (HM) Remediation
8.3.1 Disproportionate Impacts on Marginalized Groups
8.3.2 Case Studies Illustrating Environmental Injustice
8.3.3 Principles of Environmental Justice in Remediation
8.4 Policy and Regulatory Frameworks
8.4.1 International and National Legal Frameworks
8.4.2 Effectiveness and Limitations of Current Policies
8.5 Governance and Institutional Arrangements
8.5.1 Stakeholder Roles
8.5.2 Transparency, Accountability, and Enforcement
8.5.3 Collaborative Governance Models
8.6 Public Participation in Remediation Efforts
8.6.1 Importance of Community Involvement
8.6.2 Methods and Challenges
8.6.3 Methods Facilitating Public Participation
8.6.3.1 Public Hearings and Consultations
8.6.3.2 Community Advisory Boards (CABs)
8.6.3.3 Participatory Mapping and Risk Assessment
8.6.3.4 Citizen Science and Monitoring
8.6.3.5 Grievance Mechanisms
8.6.4 Challenges to Meaningful Participation
8.6.4.1 Technical Complexity
8.6.4.2 Information Access
8.6.4.3 Mistrust
8.6.4.4 Social Exclusion
8.7 Economic Valuation Methods
8.8 Challenges and Opportunities in Policy and Practice
8.8.1 Barriers to Effective Policy Implementation
8.8.2 Emerging Trends and Innovations
8.9 Recommendations
8.10 Conclusion
List of Abbreviations
References
9. The Effects of Heavy Metals from Dumpsite Leachate on Water Resources, Human Health Risks, and Management Strategies in Developing Countries
Demamu Tagele Haligamo, Tamru Tesseme Aragaw and Esayas Alemayehu
9.1 Introduction
9.1.1 Characteristics of the Reviewed Landfill Sites
9.1.2 Characterization of Landfill Leachate, Groundwater, and Surface Water Quality
9.1.3 Heavy Metals (HMs)
9.1.3.1 Iron (Fe) Concentration
9.1.3.2 Zinc (Zn) Concentration
9.1.3.3 Cadmium (Cd) Concentration
9.1.3.4 Chromium (Cr) Concentration
9.1.3.5 Lead (Pb) Concentration
9.1.3.6 Nickel (Ni) Concentration
9.1.4 Objectives of the Critical Review
9.2 Review of Literature
9.3 Public Health Risks of Groundwater Near Landfills
9.4 Challenges and Obstacles to Waste Disposal in Developing
Countries
9.4.1 Institutional Capability, Functions, and Responsibility
9.4.2 Political Dedication and Sociocultural Elements
9.4.3 Financial Factors and Technical Standards
9.4.4 Capacity of Waste Recycling and Treatment Facility
9.4.5 Legislation and Legal Aspects
9.5 Technologies for Heavy Metal (HM) Removal from Landfill Leachate
9.5.1 Precipitation
9.5.2 Adsorption
9.5.3 Ion Exchange
9.5.4 Phytoremediation
9.5.5 Artificial Wetlands
9.6 Case Studies from Two Different Countries
9.7 Recommendations
9.8 Conclusion
List of Abbreviations
References
10. Breaking Barriers, Seizing Solutions: Navigating Challenges and Opportunities in Heavy Metal Remediation
Qudrat Ullah, Laxmi Kant Bhardwaj, Waqas Haider and Muhammad Waqar
10.1 Introduction to Heavy Metal (HM) Contamination and Remediation Challenges
10.2 Challenges in Removal of Heavy Metals (HMs) from Soil,
Water, and Air
10.3 Techniques for Estimation of Heavy Metal (HM) Contamination
10.3.1 Analytical Method: Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS)
10.3.2 Advanced Technique: Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS)
10.4 Techniques for Removal of Heavy Metal (HM) Contamination
10.4.1 Conventional Methods: Coagulation-Flocculation and Its Limitations
10.5 Bodies Involved in Heavy Metal (HM) Remediation and Their Challenges
10.5.1 Global Organizations: United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) and World Health Organization (WHO) Initiatives
10.6 Opportunities for Overcoming Remediation Challenges
10.6.1 Innovations in Sustainable Remediation Technologies
10.6.2 Economic Incentives: Bio-Energy Crops and Circular Economy (CE)
10.7 Recommendations
10.8 Conclusion: Bridging Challenges with Sustainable Innovations
List of Abbreviations
References
11. Charting the Horizon: Future Innovations and Global Strategies for Heavy Metal Remediation
Qudrat Ullah, Laxmi Kant Bhardwaj, Waqas Haider and Tassaneem Yuttasa-ard
11.1 Introduction
11.2 Future Environmental Impacts of Heavy Metal (HM) Contamination
11.2.1 Effects on Soil Fertility and Agricultural Productivity
11.3 Future Effects on Human Health
11.3.1 Long-Term Exposure Risks: Neurological and Carcinogenic Effects
11.3.2 Impacts on Vulnerable Populations
11.4 Emerging Technologies for Heavy Metal (HM) Removal
11.4.1 Nanoremediation: Immobilizing Heavy Metals (HMs) in Soil
11.4.2 Metagenomics and Hybrid Methods for Water and Air
11.5 Policies and Regulations for Sustainable Remediation
11.5.1 Global Standards: Alignment with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs)
11.6 The Role of Global Collaboration in Future Remediation
11.6.1 Sharing Best Practices across Regions
11.7 Recommendations
11.8 Conclusion: A Roadmap for Sustainable Heavy Metal (HM) Remediation
List of Abbreviations
References
12. Innovating with Nature and Nanotech: Multidisciplinary
Case Investigations into Sustainable Heavy Metal Remediation Techniques
R. Venkatesh, K. Subramani and Laxmi Kant Bhardwaj
12.1 Introduction to Sustainable Heavy Metal (HM) Remediation
12.2 Case Study 1: Nano-Enhanced Phytoremediation in Industrial Soil
12.2.1 Site Profile and Contaminants
12.2.2 Methodology: Nanoparticle (NP) Assisted Hyperaccumulators
12.2.3 Outcomes and Challenges
12.3 Case Study 2: Biosynthesized Nanoparticles (NPs) for River Sediment Clean-Up
12.3.1 Problem Context: Mining-Related Heavy Metal (HM) Discharge
12.3.2 Microbial Synthesis of Remediation Agents
12.3.3 Results and Environmental Performance
12.4 Case Study 3: Biochar-Nanocomposite Filters in Urban Water Systems
12.4.1 Urban Wastewater and Metal Contamination
12.4.2 Filter Design and Deployment
12.4.3 Evaluation of Efficiency and Reusability
12.4.4 Challenges and Limitations
12.5 Cross-Case Synthesis and Lessons Learned
12.5.1 Phytoremediation and Nanotechnology Synergies
12.5.2 Biosynthesized Nanoparticles (NPs) and Biochar-Based Filtration
12.5.3 Success Factors and Limitations
12.6 Future Directions and Recommendations
12.7 Conclusion: Toward Scalable, Nature-Inspired Nanotech
Solutions
List of Abbreviations
References
Index
Back to Top
Preface
1. Overview of Heavy Metals
Shisak Sharma, Imotila T. Longchar, Raplang Steven Umdor and Dipak Sinha
1.1 Introduction
1.2 Heavy Metal (HM) Pollution
1.2.1 Sources of Heavy Metals (HMs)
1.2.1.1 Mercury (Hg)
1.2.1.2 Cadmium (Cd)
1.2.1.3 Arsenic (As)
1.2.2 Properties of Heavy Metals (HMs)
1.3 Heavy Metals (HMs) in Soil, Water, and Air
1.3.1 Air Pollution by Heavy Metals (HMs)
1.3.2 Soil Pollution by Heavy Metals (HMs)
1.3.3 Water Pollution by Heavy Metals (HMs)
1.4 Mechanism of Heavy Metals (HMs) Toxicity
1.4.1 Mercury (Hg) Toxicity
1.4.2 Cadmium (Cd) Toxicity
1.4.3 Arsenic (As) Toxicity
1.5 Effects of Heavy Metals (HMs) on Plants
1.5.1 Effects of Mercury (Hg)
1.5.2 Effects of Cadmium (Cd)
1.5.3 Effects of Arsenic (As)
1.6 Effects of Heavy Metals (HMs) on Human Health
1.6.1 Effects of Mercury (Hg)
1.6.2 Effects of Cadmium (Cd)
1.6.3 Effects of Arsenic (As)
1.7 Remediation and Management Strategies
1.7.1 Chemical Coagulation-Flocculation
1.7.2 Chemical Precipitation
1.7.3 Adsorption
1.7.4 Bioremediation
1.7.5 Phytoremediation
1.8 Recommendations
1.9 Conclusion and Future Prospects
List of Abbreviations
References
2. Tracing the Silent Threat: Unraveling Heavy Metal Contamination Pathways and Impacts across Environmental Matrices
Qudrat Ullah, Laxmi Kant Bhardwaj, Waqas Haider and Tassaneem Yuttasa-Ard
2.1 Introduction to Heavy Metal (HM) Contamination
2.2 Sources of Heavy Metals (HMs) in Water, Soil, and Air
2.2.1 Anthropogenic Sources: Industrial and Agricultural Contributions
2.3 Pathways of Heavy Metal (HM) Distribution across Environmental Matrices
2.3.1 Transport Mechanisms in Water and Soil
2.3.2 Atmospheric Dispersion and Deposition
2.4 Impacts on Ecosystems: Soil Fertility, Aquatic Life, and Air Quality
2.4.1 Effects on Soil Microbial Communities and Plant Growth
2.5 Human Health Effects: Bioaccumulation and Toxicity Risks
2.5.1 Pathways of Human Exposure: Ingestion, Inhalation, and Dermal Contact
2.5.2 Toxicological Impacts: Oxidative Stress and Carcinogenic Risks
2.6 Case Studies: Shazand Plain, Iran, and Nile Tilapia in Egypt
2.6.1 Shazand Plain: Groundwater and Soil Contamination Analysis
2.6.2 Nile Tilapia: Heavy Metal (HM) Accumulation in Aquatic Food Chains
2.7 The Need for Targeted Remediation Strategies
2.8 Recommendations
2.9 Conclusion
List of Abbreviations
References
3. Assessment and Monitoring Techniques for Heavy Metal Detection
Souravi Bardhan and Dipak Kr. Chanda
3.1 Introduction
3.2 Sources and Ecological Impacts of Heavy Metals (HMs)
3.3 Sampling and Pre-Treatment Procedures
3.3.1 Sampling Strategies
3.3.1.1 Water Sampling
3.3.1.2 Soil and Sediment Sampling
3.3.1.3 Biological Sampling
3.3.2 Pre-Treatment Procedures
3.3.2.1 Acid Digestion
3.3.2.2 Alkaline Leaching and Fusion
3.3.2.3 Solid Phase Extraction (SPE) and Pre-Concentration
3.3.2.4 Filtration and Centrifugation
3.4 Analytical Methods
3.4.1 Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS)
3.4.2 Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES)
3.4.3 Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS)
3.4.4 X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) Spectroscopy
3.4.5 Electrochemical Techniques
3.4.6 Ultraviolet–Visible (UV–Vis) Spectrophotometry
3.5 Nanotechnology (NT) and Biosensing-Based Methods
3.5.1 Principles of Biosensing for Heavy Metals (HMs)
3.5.2 Nanomaterials (NMs) as Signal Amplifiers and Transducers
3.5.3 Electrochemical Biosensors
3.5.4 Optical Biosensors
3.5.5 Whole-Cell and Enzyme-Based Biosensors
3.6 Remote Sensing and Spectroscopic Monitoring
3.6.1 Fundamentals of Remote Sensing in Heavy Metal (HM) Assessment
3.6.2 Spectroscopic Monitoring: Principles and Modalities
3.6.2.1 Colorimetric Sensing
3.6.2.2 Fluorometric Sensing
3.7 Limitations and Challenges in Detection
3.7.1 Matrix Complexity and Interferences
3.7.2 Speciation and Bioavailability
3.7.3 Sensitivity and Detection Limits
3.7.4 Selectivity and Cross-Reactivity
3.7.5 Instrumentation and Field Deployment
3.7.6 Standardization and Ethical Issues
3.8 Future Prospects and Conclusion
List of Abbreviations
References
4. Remediation Technologies: Science and Innovation
Prabhat Kumar Patel and Ramagopal V.S. Uppaluri
4.1 Introduction
4.2 Research Gaps
4.3 Comparative Efficacy of Chitosan-Derived Sorbents in Wastewater Treatment
4.4 Challenges and Prospects
4.4.1 Strategies for the Real World Rather Than in a Laboratory Setting
4.4.2 Industrialization Encounters
4.4.3 Innovations in Regeneration Strategies
4.4.4 Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) Algorithms
4.4.5 Techno-Economic Considerations
4.4.6 Greener Synthesis
4.5 Recommendations
4.6 Conclusion
List of Abbreviations
References
5. Chelation Strategies for Remediation of Heavy Metals from Municipal Solid Waste Compost: A Sustainable Approach
Vivek Raj, Santosh Kumar Karn, Ashish Kumar, Laxmi Kant Bhardwaj, Arti Chamoli, Arun Kumar, Abhinav Chauhan and Arun Lal Srivastav
5.1 Introduction
5.2 About Heavy Metal (HM) Contamination in Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) Compost
5.3 Environmental and Agricultural Needs
5.4 Current Status of Heavy Metal (HM) Remediation in Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) Compost
5.4.1 Various Chemical-Assisted Leaching Techniques
5.5 Major Parameters Influencing Efficiency of Chelation-Based Remediation
5.5.1 Process Parameters
5.5.1.1 Concentration of Chelating Agents
5.5.1.2 pH of the Chelating Solution
5.5.1.3 Liquid to Solid Ratio
5.5.1.4 Temperature
5.5.1.5 Contact Time
5.5.1.6 Agitation
5.5.1.7 Flow Rate
5.5.2 Operational Modes of Chelating
5.5.2.1 Batch Chelating
5.5.2.2 Continuous Column Mode of Operation
5.6 Proposed Future Research and Directions
5.7 Recommendations
5.8 Conclusion
List of Abbreviations
References
6. Sustainable Approaches to Heavy Metals Remediation
Prangya Rath, Laxmi Kant Bhardwaj and Amit Kumar
6.1 Introduction
6.2 Conventional Approaches to Heavy Metal (HM) Remediation
6.2.1 Physical Methods
6.2.2 Chemical Methods
6.2.3 Limitations and Environmental Concerns of Conventional Methods
6.3 Sustainable and Green Approaches to Heavy Metal (HM)
Remediation
6.3.1 Biological Methods
6.3.1.1 Phytoremediation/Phytomanagement
6.3.1.2 Microbial Remediation
6.3.2 Nature-Based and Eco-Engineered Systems
6.3.2.1 Constructed Wetlands and Assisted Natural Attenuation (ANA)
6.3.2.2 Biochar-Enhanced Systems
6.3.2.3 Integration of Green Infrastructure for Urban Heavy Metal (HM) Mitigation
6.3.3 Emerging Technologies for Heavy Metal (HM) Remediation
6.3.3.1 Genetic Engineering and Biotechnological Enhancements
6.3.3.2 Green-Synthesized Nanoparticles (NPs) and Nano-Bioremediation
6.3.3.3 Biochar-Based Nanocomposites
6.4 Socioeconomic and Policy Dimensions of Sustainable Remediation
6.5 Challenges, Gaps, and Future Perspectives
6.6 Recommendations
6.7 Conclusion
List of Abbreviations
References
7. Rhizobacteria Can Act as a Sustainable Asset to Mitigate
Heavy Metal and Organic Pollution Stress and Induce Plant Growth
Sakshi Tomar, Induja Mishra, Pashupati Nath, Bhupendra Singh and Prabhat K. Chauhan
7.1 Introduction
7.2 The Brutal Impact of Heavy Metal (HM) and Emerging Contaminant (EC) on Crop Production
7.3 Mechanisms and Functions of Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR)
7.3.1 Removal of HMs and Plant Growth Promotion
7.3.2 For the Removal of Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) and Plant Growth
7.4 Future Remarks
7.5 Recommendations
7.6 Conclusion
List of Abbreviations
References
8. Socioeconomic and Policy Considerations
Samarendra Singh, Saloni Guleria, Aditya Raj, Gautam Singh and Navjot Kaur Sandhu
8.1 Introduction
8.2 Socioeconomic Impacts of Heavy Metal (HM) Contamination
8.2.1 Health Impacts and Vulnerable Populations
8.2.2 Economic Costs and Livelihood Disruption
8.2.3 Social Inequities and Environmental Justice
8.3 Environmental Justice in Heavy Metal (HM) Remediation
8.3.1 Disproportionate Impacts on Marginalized Groups
8.3.2 Case Studies Illustrating Environmental Injustice
8.3.3 Principles of Environmental Justice in Remediation
8.4 Policy and Regulatory Frameworks
8.4.1 International and National Legal Frameworks
8.4.2 Effectiveness and Limitations of Current Policies
8.5 Governance and Institutional Arrangements
8.5.1 Stakeholder Roles
8.5.2 Transparency, Accountability, and Enforcement
8.5.3 Collaborative Governance Models
8.6 Public Participation in Remediation Efforts
8.6.1 Importance of Community Involvement
8.6.2 Methods and Challenges
8.6.3 Methods Facilitating Public Participation
8.6.3.1 Public Hearings and Consultations
8.6.3.2 Community Advisory Boards (CABs)
8.6.3.3 Participatory Mapping and Risk Assessment
8.6.3.4 Citizen Science and Monitoring
8.6.3.5 Grievance Mechanisms
8.6.4 Challenges to Meaningful Participation
8.6.4.1 Technical Complexity
8.6.4.2 Information Access
8.6.4.3 Mistrust
8.6.4.4 Social Exclusion
8.7 Economic Valuation Methods
8.8 Challenges and Opportunities in Policy and Practice
8.8.1 Barriers to Effective Policy Implementation
8.8.2 Emerging Trends and Innovations
8.9 Recommendations
8.10 Conclusion
List of Abbreviations
References
9. The Effects of Heavy Metals from Dumpsite Leachate on Water Resources, Human Health Risks, and Management Strategies in Developing Countries
Demamu Tagele Haligamo, Tamru Tesseme Aragaw and Esayas Alemayehu
9.1 Introduction
9.1.1 Characteristics of the Reviewed Landfill Sites
9.1.2 Characterization of Landfill Leachate, Groundwater, and Surface Water Quality
9.1.3 Heavy Metals (HMs)
9.1.3.1 Iron (Fe) Concentration
9.1.3.2 Zinc (Zn) Concentration
9.1.3.3 Cadmium (Cd) Concentration
9.1.3.4 Chromium (Cr) Concentration
9.1.3.5 Lead (Pb) Concentration
9.1.3.6 Nickel (Ni) Concentration
9.1.4 Objectives of the Critical Review
9.2 Review of Literature
9.3 Public Health Risks of Groundwater Near Landfills
9.4 Challenges and Obstacles to Waste Disposal in Developing
Countries
9.4.1 Institutional Capability, Functions, and Responsibility
9.4.2 Political Dedication and Sociocultural Elements
9.4.3 Financial Factors and Technical Standards
9.4.4 Capacity of Waste Recycling and Treatment Facility
9.4.5 Legislation and Legal Aspects
9.5 Technologies for Heavy Metal (HM) Removal from Landfill Leachate
9.5.1 Precipitation
9.5.2 Adsorption
9.5.3 Ion Exchange
9.5.4 Phytoremediation
9.5.5 Artificial Wetlands
9.6 Case Studies from Two Different Countries
9.7 Recommendations
9.8 Conclusion
List of Abbreviations
References
10. Breaking Barriers, Seizing Solutions: Navigating Challenges and Opportunities in Heavy Metal Remediation
Qudrat Ullah, Laxmi Kant Bhardwaj, Waqas Haider and Muhammad Waqar
10.1 Introduction to Heavy Metal (HM) Contamination and Remediation Challenges
10.2 Challenges in Removal of Heavy Metals (HMs) from Soil,
Water, and Air
10.3 Techniques for Estimation of Heavy Metal (HM) Contamination
10.3.1 Analytical Method: Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS)
10.3.2 Advanced Technique: Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS)
10.4 Techniques for Removal of Heavy Metal (HM) Contamination
10.4.1 Conventional Methods: Coagulation-Flocculation and Its Limitations
10.5 Bodies Involved in Heavy Metal (HM) Remediation and Their Challenges
10.5.1 Global Organizations: United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP) and World Health Organization (WHO) Initiatives
10.6 Opportunities for Overcoming Remediation Challenges
10.6.1 Innovations in Sustainable Remediation Technologies
10.6.2 Economic Incentives: Bio-Energy Crops and Circular Economy (CE)
10.7 Recommendations
10.8 Conclusion: Bridging Challenges with Sustainable Innovations
List of Abbreviations
References
11. Charting the Horizon: Future Innovations and Global Strategies for Heavy Metal Remediation
Qudrat Ullah, Laxmi Kant Bhardwaj, Waqas Haider and Tassaneem Yuttasa-ard
11.1 Introduction
11.2 Future Environmental Impacts of Heavy Metal (HM) Contamination
11.2.1 Effects on Soil Fertility and Agricultural Productivity
11.3 Future Effects on Human Health
11.3.1 Long-Term Exposure Risks: Neurological and Carcinogenic Effects
11.3.2 Impacts on Vulnerable Populations
11.4 Emerging Technologies for Heavy Metal (HM) Removal
11.4.1 Nanoremediation: Immobilizing Heavy Metals (HMs) in Soil
11.4.2 Metagenomics and Hybrid Methods for Water and Air
11.5 Policies and Regulations for Sustainable Remediation
11.5.1 Global Standards: Alignment with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs)
11.6 The Role of Global Collaboration in Future Remediation
11.6.1 Sharing Best Practices across Regions
11.7 Recommendations
11.8 Conclusion: A Roadmap for Sustainable Heavy Metal (HM) Remediation
List of Abbreviations
References
12. Innovating with Nature and Nanotech: Multidisciplinary
Case Investigations into Sustainable Heavy Metal Remediation Techniques
R. Venkatesh, K. Subramani and Laxmi Kant Bhardwaj
12.1 Introduction to Sustainable Heavy Metal (HM) Remediation
12.2 Case Study 1: Nano-Enhanced Phytoremediation in Industrial Soil
12.2.1 Site Profile and Contaminants
12.2.2 Methodology: Nanoparticle (NP) Assisted Hyperaccumulators
12.2.3 Outcomes and Challenges
12.3 Case Study 2: Biosynthesized Nanoparticles (NPs) for River Sediment Clean-Up
12.3.1 Problem Context: Mining-Related Heavy Metal (HM) Discharge
12.3.2 Microbial Synthesis of Remediation Agents
12.3.3 Results and Environmental Performance
12.4 Case Study 3: Biochar-Nanocomposite Filters in Urban Water Systems
12.4.1 Urban Wastewater and Metal Contamination
12.4.2 Filter Design and Deployment
12.4.3 Evaluation of Efficiency and Reusability
12.4.4 Challenges and Limitations
12.5 Cross-Case Synthesis and Lessons Learned
12.5.1 Phytoremediation and Nanotechnology Synergies
12.5.2 Biosynthesized Nanoparticles (NPs) and Biochar-Based Filtration
12.5.3 Success Factors and Limitations
12.6 Future Directions and Recommendations
12.7 Conclusion: Toward Scalable, Nature-Inspired Nanotech
Solutions
List of Abbreviations
References
Index
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