Endophytic degrader bacteria for improving phytoremediation of organic xenobiotics

Objective

Phytoremediation is an experimental soil cleaning technology. One problem, presently limiting its applicability for certain organic pollutants, is insufficient degradation of the pollutants by the plants. As a result, the original compound or its metabolites build-up in the plants (poisoning the plants) or are volatilised through the leaves (causing a new environmental problem). This project aims to develop and test specific entophytic (-plant-internal) bacteria capable of degrading key pollutants. These new bacteria, when inoculated to the inside of plants, will degrade the pollutants as they are being transported from the roots to the leaves. This will reduce phytotoxicity and volatilisation of the pollutants. As a result, phytoremediation technology will be applicable to more toxic compounds or higher pollutant concentrations, and will maintain its social and regulatory appeal.

Programme(s)

• FP5-LIFE QUALITY - Specific Programme for research, technological development and demonstration on "Quality of life and management of living resources", 1998-2002

Topic(s)

• 1.1.1.-3. - Key action The "Cell factory"

Funding Scheme

Coordinator

Participants (6)