Polyaromatic hydrocabons in soil – practical options for remediation

High levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in soil are regularly reported worldwide, particularly in industrialized areas. Through traffic and industrial production PAH generation will further increase. Although better insights in bioavailability of PAHs have led to more balanced decisions on intervention, at many locations PAH concentrations will exceed intervention values and remediation of soil will be necessary, e.g. for allowing a sustainable agriculture. This review summarizes recent practical options for remediation of PAH-contaminated soil, with their advantages and disadvantages. If time is available, phytoremediation, in combination with supporting techniques emerges as an environment-friendly and cost-effective technique that can be efficient at the same time, dependent of the degree and type of PAH pollution.