Study reveals castor plant could clean polluted areas

A new study by Indian researchers, has revealed that castor bean plant can be used in remediation of areas with highly polluted soil of heavy metals caused by industrial pollution.

The study was conducted by the researchers from the Plant Sciences Department, University of Hyderabad, Boda Ravi Kiran and Prof MNV Prasad. 

The study confirmed that castor bean plant was seen growing in four industrial areas and tests on them showed the roots contained lead, a toxic metal in as high as 19.53 milligrams per gram of the roots. 

Similarly, smaller quantities of lead were found in the leaves and stems of the plant.

 Again, due to presence of chelators, which enhances the capability of the plant to accumulate heavy metals, castor plant is observed to accelerate the remediation of polluted soils.