This research discovered a beneficial fungus living inside the roots of a metal-accumulating tree that can help clean up copper-polluted soils. The fungus helps the tree grow better and move more copper from its roots to its leaves, making the cleanup process more effective. This natural partnership between fungus and tree offers an environmentally friendly way to deal with metal pollution. Impacts on everyday life: • Provides a sustainable solution for cleaning up metal-contaminated sites • Offers a cost-effective alternative to chemical cleanup methods • Helps restore polluted land for safe use • Demonstrates nature-based solutions for environmental problems • Could improve success rates of environmental restoration projects