The U.S. government is investing $10 million in research and development of “phytomining,” a new process that uses living plants to extract metals from the ground. This revolutionary approach could potentially replace traditional mining methods that harm the environment and destroy natural habitats.
Hyperaccumulators, a select few plant species that absorb high concentrations of metal from the soil, are at the forefront of this innovative process. When these plants are burned, they produce ash that is rich in metal, particularly nickel, which is crucial for manufacturing high-capacity batteries used in electric vehicles and clean energy grids.
The potential benefits of phytomining are immense. Not only could it reduce air, water, and soil pollution caused by traditional mining activities, but it could also help clean up contaminated areas and utilize land that is naturally too metal-rich for crops to grow on.
The Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy is seeking a native North American species, possibly from the sunflower or mustard family, that can be selectively bred or genetically altered to efficiently extract metals from the soil. This research could pave the way for a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional mining practices.
With the support of the U.S. government and ongoing advancements in phytomining technology, the future of metal extraction could be rooted in the natural world, offering a greener and more sustainable solution for meeting our growing metal demands.
