Highly efficient phytoremediation potential of metal and metalloids from the pulp paper industry waste employing Eclipta alba (L) and Alternanthera philoxeroide (L): Biosorption and pollution reduction

•Discharged pulp and paper waste contains metal and metalloids.•Eclipta alba (L.) and Alternanthera philoxeroide (L.) have phytoremediation potential of pulp and paper mill.•Physico-chemical pollution parameter reduced more than 60%, respectively.•Selective plant showed >1.0 Bioconcentration factor.•This study may be effective technology for ecorestoration of polluted site. The aims of the study was the evaluation of phytoremediation potential by Eclipta alba (L) and Alternanthera philoxeroide (L) of pulp and paper mill waste after secondary treatment which a source of aquatic and soil pollution due to huge discharge of organometallic compounds per tone of paper production. The result revealed 50% reduction of pollution parameters after in-situ phytoremediation. The comparative analysis of metal and metalloids showed the highest accumulation of Fe (2251.24 ± 64.74) in both plants. The antioxidant activity, chlorophyll and carotenoid content were increased in E. alba (L.) and A. philoxeroide (L.) respectively. From the results, it was concluded that E. alba (L.) and A. philoxeroide (L.) could be effectively used for the removal of metals and metalloids from effluent and sludge of pulp and paper mill waste that may help to reduce adverse health effects of metal accumulation in humans and animals via their food chain.