Multidimensional interaction mechanisms and synergistic remediation strategies for heavy metal with co-occurring pollutants: A review

Heavy metal pollution has become a major global concern due to its serious threats to ecosystem stability and public health. Although significant progress has been achieved in physical, chemical, and biological remediation technologies, it is critical to recognize that heavy metals seldom occur as isolated contaminants in the environment. This study presents a comprehensive review of pollutants that commonly coexist with heavy metals, including organic contaminants, nutrient elements, and other metal species, as well as the environmental conditions that influence their behavior such as pH and dynamic environmental conditions. It elucidates the major sources of co-contamination, the interfacial interactions between heavy metals and coexisting pollutants, and the latest advances in corresponding remediation strategies. Based on system analysis, it is believed that in addition to new materials and microbial technologies, the spatio-temporal synergy of multiple methods can better enhance the repair efficiency. By deciphering the antagonistic and synergistic effects among pollutants, this work unravels the inherent complexity of co-contaminated systems and provides technical references for the comprehensive management of the coexistence of heavy metals and other pollutants. • Reviews on remediation of heavy metals with co-contaminants remain limited. • Sources of heavy metals with co-contaminants were systematically summarized. • Interaction mechanisms between heavy metals and co-contaminants were elucidated. • Synthesized recent advances in synergistic remediation strategies. • Pressing challenges, potential strategies and future directions were presented.