Integrated Assessment of Olive Mill Wastewater as a Sustainable Soil Amendment: Effects on Some Soil Properties in Semi-Arid Agricultural Systems

Document Type : Original Article

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Environmental Protection Department, Fac. Environ. Agric. Sci., Arish University, Egypt

Abstract

Managing olive mill wastewater (OMW), a byproduct of olive oil production, is crucial due to its environmental impact, which arises from its high organic content and toxicity. Various treatment approaches are being explored to reduce organic load, mitigate toxins, and investigate potential utilization in irrigation and fertilization, especially in the context of global challenges such as climate change and water scarcity. This study explores the influence of olive mill wastewater (OMW) on soil properties in a semi-arid region. A comparison is drawn between a control system irrigated with the farm's irrigation water without fertilization, and another system incorporating treated olive mill wastewater (OMW). The treated wastewater, subjected to physical, physiochemical, and advanced physiochemical methods, is applied to an experimental field. Cultivation involves two crops, Vicia faba (beans) and Hordeum vulgare (barley), in both treated and untreated soil. Analysis of various physiochemical parameters reveals that controlled OMW application enhances soil properties and provides essential nutrients for plant growth. The second treatment demonstrates a balanced and positive impact on multiple soil indicators, supporting the economic viability of OMW as a sustainable soil amendment in agriculture. Effective OMW management practices are emphasized, highlighting its potential as a beneficial resource for soil improvement in semi-arid regions, with suggestions for further studies to optimize its utilization and minimize environmental impact.
 

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