Table 1.

Summary of the advantages of phytotechnology, with a particular focus on public health and community (adapted from ITRC, 2009)

Technical Advantages

passive and in situ inherently controls erosion, runoff, infiltration, and fugitive dust emissions applicable to remote locations, potentially without utility access (in some cases requires a supplemental source of irrigation, but this can be solar or wind powered) can be used to supplement other remediation approaches or as a polishing step can be installed as a preventative measure, possibly as a leak detection system can be used to identify and map contamination

Community benefits/capacity building

favorable public perception provides a community educational opportunity improves aesthetics, reduces noise creates habitat (can be a disadvantage—attractive nuisance) provides restoration and land reclamation during cleanup and upon completion can be cost-competitive has the potential for capacity building through involvement of community in maintenance, stewardship, etc.

Pollution Reduction and Resource Conservation

lower maintenance, resilient, and self-repairing considered a green technology and sustainable wind- and solar-powered improves air quality and sequesters greenhouse gases minimal air emissions, water discharge, and secondary waste generation