Integrated Approaches to Land Rehabilitation and Sustainable Fuel Development under Environmental Stress Conditions

Environmental degradation from soil salinization and pollution remains a major global challenge, particularly in Iraq. This study investigates two approaches to address these issues. First, the biochemical performance of Tamarix spp., a halophytic shrub, was assessed in the highly saline soils of Al-Najaf District. Although Tamarix spp. is adapted to saline environments through specialized salt-excreting glands, findings revealed that extreme salinity levels led to excessive salt accumulation within plant tissues, suggesting a potential limitation of its physiological resilience. Secondly, in response to increasing plastic waste and used oil pollution, the study examined a sustainable fuel alternative by blending plastic-derived fuel (PDF) with waste engine oil (WEO). Through pyrolysis and subsequent blending, the resulting fuel demonstrated improved combustion efficiency and reduced emissions, offering a promising solution for energy recovery and pollution mitigation. The investigations highlight the integrated importance strategies for ecological restoration and the sustainable energy resources development.