LSPA 4th Annual Environmental Symposium

Advances in nature-based remediation are reshaping how we understand and leverage the hidden biological networks that govern contaminant behavior belowground. This session brings together two cutting‑edge perspectives on the power of plant–microbe and fungal systems to transform remediation outcomes. From microbial-assisted phytoremediation that enhances plant resilience and broadens the reach of traditional phyto‑technologies, to lab‑on‑a‑chip experiments revealing how filamentous fungi mobilize trapped hydrocarbons by altering pore‑scale flow, these talks will illuminate the remarkable capabilities of living systems to control, degrade, and redistribute contaminants. Attendees will gain new insight into the mechanisms driving these interactions, the emerging tools used to study them, and the growing potential of biologically driven strategies to support long‑term, sustainable site management.

This session is important to LSPs and other environmental professionals because it introduces emerging, biologically driven remediation approaches that can complement traditional remedies and support sustainable site management under the MCP. It helps practitioners better understand how plant–microbe and fungal systems influence contaminant fate, informing remedy selection, optimization, and long-term performance.

A detailed description of each instructor's presentation is available here. The course will conclude with a question-and-answer session.