ENHANCED PHYTOREMEDIATION OF HEAVY METALS IN ENTISOLS THROUGH PALM OIL MILL EFFLUENT (POME) SLUDGE AMENDMENT AND SUBSEQUENT PLANT UPTAKE

Background: Heavy metal contamination in Entisols poses significant environmental and health risks, necessitating effective remediation strategies. Palm Oil Mill Effluent (POME) sludge, rich in organic matter and nutrients, may enhance phytoremediation by improving soil properties and metal bioavailability. Objective: This study investigates the effect of POME sludge amendment on the phytoremediation efficiency of heavy metals in Entisol soils and assesses subsequent metal uptake by selected hyperaccumulator plants. Methods: Entisol samples contaminated with heavy metals were treated with varying concentrations of POME sludge. Hyperaccumulator plants were cultivated, and soil and plant tissues were analyzed for heavy metal concentrations using atomic absorption spectroscopy. Soil physicochemical properties were also monitored. Results: POME sludge amendment significantly improved soil nutrient content and microbial activity, enhancing heavy metal bioavailability and uptake by plants. Treated soils showed a marked reduction in heavy metal concentrations, with corresponding increases in plant tissue accumulation, indicating effective phytoremediation. Conclusion: Incorporating POME sludge in Entisols can substantially enhance phytoremediation of heavy metals, offering a sustainable and cost-effective approach to soil remediation in contaminated agricultural lands.