Transforming Bottom Ash Waste into Nutrient-Rich Vermicompost, Enhances Plant Growth Promotion in Maize

Soil contamination from chemical pollutants affects both environmental health and agricultural productivity. With millions of hectares of polluted land worldwide, effective soil restoration methods are urgently needed. Bottom ash, a waste byproduct of coal-fired power plants, poses a significant environmental risk due to its accumulation, yet it holds potential as a source of nutrients in agricultural applications. This study explores the conversion of bottom ash into nutrient-enriched vermicompost to enhance plant growth and mitigate pollution. The research focused on treating maize plants with vermicompost derived from bottom ash. Various concentrations (0, 100 mg of vermicompost in 2 kg/soil, 200 mg of vermicompost in 2 kg/soil, and 300 mg of vermicompost in 2 kg/soil) of this enriched compost were applied to assess improvements in plant morphology, photosynthetic pigment levels, water retention and biochemical properties, particularly antioxidant enzyme activity, proline content, and phenolic compounds. Notably, plants treated with 200 mg of vermicompost in 2 kg/soil vermicompost showed optimal root development, increased chlorophyll and carotenoid levels, and enhanced water content, indicating improved physiological resilience. Biochemical assays revealed higher antioxidant enzyme activities in treated plants, suggesting enhanced oxidative stress defense. Additionally, significant correlations were observed between root growth, antioxidant levels, and the accumulation of osmoprotectants like proline. This study underscores the potential of transforming pollution-causing waste, such as bottom ash, into valuable biofertilizers, presenting a promising sustainable solution for soil rehabilitation and crop productivity. These findings could pave the way for eco-friendly waste management practices that support sustainable agriculture and environmental health.