Influence of Oil-Biodegrading Effect of Compost Organic Wastes in Phytoremediation of Crude Oil-Contaminated Soil Using Zoysia matrella (L) Merr. (Manila grass)

Abstract

Soil degradation has been a serious problem throughout the world; it is more rampant in tropical areas wherein the nature of the properties of the soil is far different from the temperate region. In the Philippines, it is one of the most serious ecological problems thus identified as a major threat to food security. Numerous investigations opted phytoremediation as an environmental-friendly technology to remediate contaminants. However, phytoremediation takes time to fully remediate the contaminated site leading to delayed preservation of the soil’s flora and fauna. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the effects of the addition of cow dung in the phytoremediation of crude oil contaminated soil utilisingZoysia matrella (L.) Merr. (Manila grass).In focus, four set-ups SS-NT (No Treatment), SS-CD (Cow Dung Application), SS-PT (Plant Application) and SS-CDPT (Plant + Cow Dung Application) were tested for pH and NPK and assessed for SEM and FTIR before and after contamination process. Each of which contained the same amount of soil and crude oil but only varied in terms of the treatment. Results revealed thatSS-CD and SS-PT restored the soil after the contamination process, however, didn’t brought the normal state of the soil in accordance to their infrared spectrums. Concurrently, SS-CDPT presented data signified that it was the best for it was capable of remediating crude oil contaminated soil and bringing it back to its natural condition. Thus, cow dung provides the huge impact that could greatly enhance phytoremediation of crude oil contaminated soil using Zoysia matrella (L.) Merr. (Manila grass).