The Aftereffects of Palm Oil Mill Effluents (POME) Discharge on Some Soil’s Physical and Chemical Properties

Abstract

Palm oil mill effluent (POME) is an important waste product of oil palm milling process. It contains relatively high amount of plant nutrients, which when released into the soil enhance soil fertility. However, effects of POME on the soils of an environment could be positive or negative, depending on its disposal and management methods. The effects of palm oil mill effluents from local (LOPM) and modern (MOPM) oil palm processing mills at Aare-Ekiti and Temidire-Ekiti, in Ekiti State were evaluated on some properties of nearby soils, in the year 2019. Surface soil samples were taken at 0 m, 10 m, 20 m, 30 m, 40 m, 50 m, 60 m, 70 m, 80 m and 100 m from production points at the two processing sites. Soil properties were improved by POME, indicating that POME could be helpful in soil enrichment. Results indicated that soils near palm oil milling sites, from 10 m and farther, from the exact milling point (0m), could be good for crop production, if the discharge of the effluent is properly managed. With proper management and attention, POME would positively impact our soils. Awareness on proper disposal and management of palm oil effluent (POME) is therefore necessary