Enhancing Water Quality in the Niger Delta: Sustainable Treatment of Oily Wastewater with Cassava Peel Biochar and Bio-Sand Filtration

This study evaluates the efficacy of cassava peel biochar in treating oily wastewater through bio-sand filtration in the Niger Delta, with a particular focus on heavy metals and hydrocarbon content removal. An analysis of physicochemical parameters, heavy metal concentrations, and organic pollutants in sample water before and after treatment unveils substantial improvements in various water quality parameters. The results indicate a notable reduction in pH levels, rendering the water more suitable for environmental discharge. Moreover, the study achieves a commendable reduction in turbidity, total suspended solids, and organic pollutant concentrations, leading to enhanced water clarity and quality. The research also demonstrates significant reductions in heavy metal concentrations, specifically lead, nickel, and vanadium, highlighting cassava peel biochar's potential in mitigating heavy metal contamination. Most notably, the data showcases the successful removal of hydrocarbons, represented by a significant reduction in total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) concentrations. A near-perfect linear relationship quantifies the efficiency of cassava peel biochar in removing organic and inorganic pollutants. These findings resoundingly support the use of cassava peel biochar as a sustainable, cost-effective solution for enhancing water quality and addressing the impact of oily wastewater in the Niger Delta and beyond. The study not only aligns with global sustainability objectives but also underscores the importance of ongoing optimization for broader application, exemplifying the essence of multidisciplinary and globally relevant scientific inquiry.