| Abstract Scope |
Bio-remediation of contaminated soils poses serious challenges in developing countries. Plants
and microorganisms are useful ecofriendly biomaterials for sustainable agriculture. In this study,
whey and compost were produced as biomaterials for eco-friendly treatments from Panicum
maximum, a low-value plant. Physico-chemical properties of the biomaterials such as pH,
electrical conductivity, total organic matter, total organic carbon, nitrate, phosphate, nitrogen,
phosphorus, and potassium were analyzed and microbial levels were monitored. Improved pH
balance, higher nutrient ion availability, and increased carbon and nitrate content were observed in
the whey. Alkaline pH, high conductivity, total organic matter in the compost revealed its capacity
for nutrient retention and organic matter stabilization for sustained pollutant degradation. Results
showed that the biomaterials (whey and compost) offered balanced physicochemical properties
and high microbial activity, making them highly effective for bioremediation of contaminated
soils. |