EDTA and HCl leaching of calcareous and acidic soils polluted with potentially toxic metals: Remediation efficiency and soil impact

► Leaching with EDTA and HCl removes PTMs and decreases their accessibility. ► EDTA is a more efficient leachant compared to HCl. ► EDTA increased the pH of the acidic soil. ► HCl significantly dissolved carbonates from calcareous soil. ► HCl had a negative impact on soil microbial and enzyme activity in both soils.