INVESTIGATING THE BARRIERS TO EFFECTIVE IMPLEMENTATION OF PHYTOREMEDIATING PLANTS IN BIORETENTION SYSTEMS.
Project Statement
Urban water bodies are widely impaired by excess nutrients and sediments from stormwater.6 Studies have found that contaminants from increased development and impervious surfaces threaten water quality in our natural systems and are linked to chronic illness from exposure through drinking water and physical contact.1 Science has proven that vegetation in bioretention systems produces measurable water quality and hydrological performance benefits in green stormwater infrastructure.3However, the science behind pollutant removal is still emerging. Knowledge and communication gaps among scientists, engineers and horticulturalists have contributed to the lack of effective resources for designers to implement vegetated bioretention systems for pollutant removal.