Phytotechnologies broadly refers to the use of plants to address contamination in the environment, including soil, groundwater, surface water, sediment, and waste streams such as leachate, acid mine drainage, and wastewater. Phytotechnologies are generally less energy-intensive, and less costly and require less operation and maintenance than more active treatment methods, such as excavation or pump and treat. The CLU-IN Phytotechnologies Focus Area has been updated to reflect the current state of the science, with an emphasis on design and monitoring considerations as well as applications for remediation and containment.

The Interstate Technology & Regulatory Council (ITRC) is accepting proposals that address important environmental issues and advance innovative technologies and practices. Selected proposals will begin in January 2022. All applicable environmental topics will be considered, but evaluation criteria will give preference to proposals that address the needs listed in the 2022 ITRC Environmental Priorities list, or proposals which update existing ITRC documents. Proposers are reminded to review the evaluation criteria. The first round of pre-proposals are due by April 6, 2021.

On February 8, 2021 the Department of Defense's (DoD) Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program (SERDP) and Environmental Security Technology Certification Program (ESTCP) released a solicitation for both small and large businesses. This announcement is to declare DoD SERDP's and ESTCP's intent to competitively fund research and development for environmental research that addresses the topic areas set forth in the Announcements.