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The editorial discusses the use of by-product amendments for remediating metal and metalloid contaminated soils, highlighting the detrimental effects of heavy metals on ecosystems and human health. It emphasizes the need for sustainable and cost-effective alternatives to traditional remediation techniques. The research presented in the article explores the effectiveness of various by-product amendments, such as biochar and iron slag, in reducing metal bioavailability and improving soil health. The studies aim to provide practical insights for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers to address the global challenge of contaminated soils. [Extracted from the article]

Comparative performance tests of perennial grasses for biomass yield, quality, and soil nutrient removal are needed to guide decisions toward meeting European Union targets for renewable energy production. We compared hybrid miscanthus (Miscanthus × giganteus Greef and Deuter ex Hodkinson and Renvoize) and switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) cultivars Cave-in-Rock, (upland type), Alamo, and Kanlow (lowland types) for biomass yield and changes in soil macronutrient levels and removal rates in a humid Spanish environment. Soil and plant nutrient and C levels were measured after each annual biomass harvest for 4 yr. Plant nutrient concentrations were multiplied by biomass yield to express nutrient removal. Yield ranking (4-yr mean) was miscanthus (17.6 Mg ha-1) > Kanlow (13.3 Mg ha-1) = Alamo (13.0 Mg ha-1) > Cave-in-Rock (7.7 Mg ha-1). Miscanthus biomass yield peaked in the third year at 27.0 Mg ha-1. The high yield of miscanthus together with its relatively low macronutrient concentrations and intermediate removal rates, indicate its advantages over switchgrass as a biomass crop choice. Alamo and Kanlow usually removed more macronutrients than Cave-in-Rock, suggesting a greater long-term fertilizer requirement for the lowland types. Soil C stocks increased by a mean of 2850 kg ha-1 over 4 yr at 0- to 20-cm depth. Phosphorus was the macronutrient most likely to become deficient after repeated harvests. Miscanthus and lowland switchgrass cultivars performed well in the Atlantic maritime region of Spain, therefore the choice of crop would rely on economics of establishment and long-term stand maintenance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]