Phytoremediation - A Nature-based Solution (NbS) for Soil Heavy Metals Pollution
Institutions:
1. Kansas State University, Manhattan, USA
2. Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, Illinois, USA
3. Michigan Technological University, Houghton, USA
In The Pursuit of Healthier Soil
Growing up in the small town of Georgetown, Penang, Dr. Chuck's interest in soil pollution and bioremediation was solidified during his early undergraduate studies.
He joined Xiamen University Malaysia (XMUM) Selangor as a PHD holder from the University of Malaya in 2020 and as an Assistant Professor at the China-Asean College of Marine Sciences (CAMS) , while studying environmental technology within the same academic institution.
Chuck Chuan will be attached to three institutions in the United States of America—Kansas State University, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, and Michigan Technological University—as he pursues his research entitled 'Phytoremediation - A Nature-based Solution (NbS) for Soil Heavy Metals Pollution’. Phytoremediation, deriving from the words ‘phyto’ meaning plants and ‘remediation’ meaning cleaning, is a type of environmentally friendly technique that uses plants to remove, degrade, or stabilise contaminants, such as metal, in soil, water, or air.
His research aims to address the challenge of heavy metal pollution in soil by using specific types of plants to cost-effectively revegetate contaminated areas. This approach not only promises to tackle societal challenges effectively, but also benefits both people and the environment.
Widening the understanding of healthier soil
Dr. Chuck believes that the soil that makes up our earth is the foundation of life which further emphasises the significance of his research. And if it becomes contaminated, it can lead to detrimental health problems for mankind.
Through his attachment in the USA, Dr. Chuck wants to enhance the efficiency and address limitations of phytoremediation for on-site and off-site remediation in the USA and Malaysia, and contribute to the development of baseline data, policy briefs, and guideline recommendations specifically for phytoremediation of heavy metal-contaminated soil in Malaysia.
He is confident that the international attachment resonates with his global outlook and commitment to local action and can be achieved through the transfer of knowledge and technology back to Malaysia.
Which is why, he also intends to organise more community activities focused on the environment, such as interactive outdoor learning to educate young Malaysians on soil assessment fundamentals, emphasising the significance of land rehabilitation and soil restoration in the country.
Enriching the young minds for the good earth
As a lecturer, he consistently encouraged his students to embrace new challenges, a principle he also applies to his research endeavours. Throughout the years, he has been extensively involved in environmental education initiatives that extend beyond conventional classroom settings, actively participating in citizen-science projects aimed at promoting scientific awareness and improving soil quality in Malaysia.
With passion and deep interest as his motivation, he is focused on bringing science to benefit people and society.
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