Eco-remediation of light petroleum-impacted soils: a case for sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) application

This study investigates the use of Hippophae rhamnoides L. (sea buckthorn) for phytoremediation of oil-contaminated soils in the Balakhani Oil Field, Azerbaijan.The region is affected by petroleum extraction, resulting in significant soil contamination.To assess the remediation potential, 40 soil samples were collected and analyzed for total petroleum hydrocarbons, heavy metals, and physicochemical properties.TPH concentrations ranged from 6% to 9%, indicating moderate contamination.Soil pH varied between 6.94 and 7.93, reflecting a neutral to slightly alkaline environment suitable for plant growth.Heavy metals including lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), arsenic (As), and nickel (Ni) were detected within permissible limits, although Pb showed slightly elevated levels (20-31 mg/kg).The presence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons ECO-REMEDIATION OF LIGHT PETROLEUM-IMPACTED SOILS: A CASE FOR SEA BUCKTHORN