Pilot demonstration of phytoremediation and phytomining technologies begins at the Lavrion Technological Cultural Park
Date : 29/10/2025
On Wednesday, 29 October 2025, partners of the XTRACT project officially launched the pilot activities for the implementation of phytoremediation and phytomining technologies at the Lavrion Technological Cultural Park (LTCP).
A team from NTUA/AMDC, the Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry (LAMMC), and the Technical University of Crete (TUC) met at LTCP together with Mr. A. Chadoumelis, manager of the Park, to plant a series of carefully selected tree species and shrubs. These plantings mark the beginning of Pilot 4 activities under XTRACT—focused on applying green, plant-based technologies to mitigate soil contamination and recover valuable resources.
Phytoremediation is an environmentally friendly method that uses plants to clean up contaminated soil, water, and sediment by containing, sequestering, removing, or degrading pollutants like metals, pesticides and other chemicals. Phytomining goes a step further, enabling the recovery of raw materials from the biomass of these plants. Both approaches offer cost-effective and non-invasive alternatives to traditional remediation technologies.
Following extensive laboratory studies, the XTRACT scientific team selected four tree species—Salix caprea, Betula pendula, Alnus glutinosa, and Quercus robur—and planted 20 seedlings of each (80 total) at the LTCP site. Additionally, 240 shrubs (Lantana camara and Atriplex halimus) were planted to support soil decontamination efforts.
Over the coming months, the team will monitor plant development and environmental conditions. Sample collection from roots, branches, and leaves is planned for summer 2026, enabling the evaluation of pollutant and heavy-metal uptake, including substances such as arsenic, lead, and cadmium.
LTCP is one of the four pilot sites of the XTRACT project. Insights gained from these activities will contribute to developing sustainable, nature-based solutions for contaminated sites across Europe.
🔗 Read the LTCP announcement here.
