Phytotechnology as green infrastructure: a nature-based approach for environmental problems in welang river basin, East Java

Abstract

This study aimed to review the concepts, mechanisms, applications, and future directions of phytotechnology—particularly phytoremediation—as a nature-based solution for river basin restoration, with a focus on the Welang River Basin in East Java, Indonesia. A literature- based review was conducted using nine key studies, including local field assessments of riparian vegetation and water quality. The review explored components of phytotechnology such as phytoremediation, phytofiltration, phytomonitoring, and phytostructure. Case studies from Poland, India, and Indonesia showed successful applications in addressing heavy metal and organic pollution. In the Welang Basin, species richness decreased downstream, correlating with increased pollutant levels, indicating the relevance of native phytoremediators. Advantages include low cost, ecosystem benefits, and public acceptance, while limitations involve slow remediation rates, pollutant tolerance issues, and site specificity. Phytotechnology offers a sustainable, low-impact alternative for improving river health and ecological function. Its integration into watershed management aligns with conservation goals and supports the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This review highlights its potential for broader application in tropical river systems and contributes to advancing green infrastructure approaches in environmental management.