Nature-based solutions for the remediation of contaminated soils

• Autores: June Hidalgo Castañeda
• Directores de la Tesis: José María Becerril Soto (dir. tes.), Carlos Garbisu Crespo (codir. tes.), Antonio Hernandez Hernandez (tut. tes.)
• Lectura: En la Universidad del País Vasco - Euskal Herriko Unibertsitatea ( España ) en 2025
• Idioma: inglés
• Programa de doctorado: Programa de Doctorado en Agrobiología Ambiental por la Universidad del País Vasco/Euskal Herriko Unibertsitatea y la Universidad Pública de Navarra
• Enlaces
  • Tesis en acceso abierto en: ADDI
• Resumen

  • Anthropogenic activities have caused the simultaneous accumulation of both organic and inorganic contaminants in soils. Remediating these soils is vital for transforming degraded urban areas into sustainable green spaces, thus reducing risk to ecosystems and human health. Beyond traditional contaminants, emerging pollutants like antibiotics can cause a selective pressure on microbial communities, promoting the spread of antibiotic resistance. Phytomanagement strategies are promising alternatives for mixed-contaminated soil remediation, as they can integrate complementary strategies while prioritizing ecological, social, and economic benefits. Overall, metals (Zn, Hg, Pb, Cu) and organic contaminants [PAHs, PCBs, TPHs, lindane, benzo(α)pyrene, anthracene, and oxytetracycline] were detected across all the studied soils. This work evaluates different remediation strategies for the recovery of contaminated soils with highly variable characteristics: (i) phytoremediation using energy crops or native species; (ii) mycoremediation with mushroom substrates; (iii) biostimulation using organic amendments (OAs); and (iv) nanoremediation with nZVI. Mechanisms driving the spread of antibiotic resistance linked to the use of OAs was also assessed.

    OAs were most effective in reducing contamination, improving soil health, and promoting plant establishment. Amendments like composted sewage sludge and mushroom substrates are beneficial for stimulating microbial parameters and degrading organic contaminants. When OAs are combined with nZVI, metal toxicity reduction and organic contaminant elimination is further improved. Medicago sativa and Brassica napus are excellent options for phytomanagement systems. Copper drives oxytetracycline resistance, likely via co-selection. Combining multiple techniques offers the best remediation outcomes. Pre-treatment of OAs is essential to ensure safe and sustainable long-term soil recovery.