The Role of Microalgae in Heavy Metal Removal from Wastewater: A Review

Abstract

The excessive discharge of heavy metals (HMs) into water bodies exerts significant threat to the environment, specifically the aquatic ecosystems, and human health. Microalgae-based technology has emerged as a promising eco-friendly alternative to conventional treatment methods for wastewater management owing to microalgae’s cost-effectiveness, pollutant removal capacity and high adaptability to varying conditions. Adopting microalgae for wastewater treatment has been found to support the principles of circular economy by valorising its biomass into various value-added products. This critical review delves into the mechanisms of HM removal by microalgae and explores the potential contribution of their biomass in circular economy.