The two sides of contaminant sequestration in soil
Keywords:
Soil pollution, sequestration, bioavailabilityAbstract
The sequestration of contaminants is a process by which substances such as hydrocarbons, antibiotics, or pesticides become immobilized through physical, chemical, and biological interactions with the soil matrix, reducing their bioavailability. Sequestration is a dynamic process that depends on the type of soil, the nature of the contaminant, and environmental conditions. This phenomenon can be beneficial because it limits the spread of contaminants and their entry into the food chain; however, it can also have negative effects, as it makes contaminants more difficult to quantify and remediate and may alter soil fertility.
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