Groundwater Organic Pollution Remediation Using Microbial Techniques: A Study of Palm Oil Industrial Areas

Abstract

Groundwater contamination from palm oil mill effluent (POME) poses significant environmental challenges in Malaysia. This study highlights microbial remediation as a sustainable solution, utilizing indigenous and engineered microbial communities to degrade organic pollutants through key enzymes like lipases and catechol dioxygenases. Techniques such as biostimulation, bioaugmentation, and anaerobic-aerobic systems are examined, along with optimization strategies like nutrient supplementation and pH control. Case studies demonstrate significant reductions in BOD, COD, and phenolic levels, showcasing microbial remediation’s potential for sustainable groundwater management in palm oil industrial areas.