In the 1990s, remediation methods that use plants to investigate and extract contaminations were developed. According to their proponents, these technologies have considerable potential for greening remediation and to develop a more sustainable trajectory for revitalization. Although a great deal of research has been conducted on these technologies they have, so far, rarely been applied in European countries.

This article will contribute a perspective from social science to this debate. By taking an approach inspired by social science practice theories, attention will be drawn to a specific socio-cultural aspect: dealing with nonknowledge. The analysis of remediation practices reveals how the phenomenon of nonknowledge becomes relevant in the process of inventing and applying new technologies. This allows for a better understanding of technological innovation processes in remediation. Based on this understanding strategies are suggested which might increase the use of plant-based technologies in remediation and site management.