From war zones to mine sites: The start-up using plants to clean toxic soils

RemePhy, a start-up from Imperial College London, has developed genetically modified and non-GM plants designed to extract heavy metals from contaminated soils far more efficiently than current phytoremediation methods. The company aims to address pollution from war and mining, targeting mining sites first due to simpler regulations and clear incentives for land remediation. Field trials of the non-GM plants are beginning in the UK, with commercial applications in mining expected as early as 2027 and potential agricultural use following later. RemePhy’s business model includes both seed sales with full-service remediation and licensing options, potentially offering a significantly cheaper and faster solution for cleaning toxic soils worldwide.