Synergistic integration of Kayu apu (Pistia stratiotes) and EM4 for sustainable landfill leachate treatment: A green approach to pollutant reduction

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Department of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Science, Universitas PGRI Adi Buana Surabaya

2 Department of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Science, Universitas PGRI Adi Buana Surabaya, Indonesia

10.22104/aet.2026.7943.2226

Abstract

This study investigates the synergistic integration of phytoremediation using Pistia stratiotes (Kayu Apu) and microbial bioaugmentation with Effective Microorganisms 4 (EM4) as a sustainable strategy for landfill leachate treatment. Experiments were conducted using a batch system with EM4 concentrations of 0%, 10%, 20%, and 30%, and residence times of 3, 6, and 9 days to evaluate pollutant removal efficiency. The results demonstrated that the combination of Pistia stratiotes and EM4 significantly improved leachate quality, with the optimum performance observed at 30% EM4 concentration and a 9-day residence time, achieving reductions of 41.5% in BOD, 37.3% in COD, and 38% in TSS, alongside a 488.24% increase in DO levels. The findings confirm the strong synergistic effects between plant-based phytoremediation and microbial enhancement, leading to effective degradation of organic pollutants and improved aerobic conditions. This integrated approach provides a cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and scalable alternative for treating landfill leachate, especially in developing regions with limited access to advanced wastewater technologies. Further research is recommended to optimize operational parameters, assess long-term stability, and ensure compliance with environmental discharge standards.

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Advances in Environmental Technology

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 20 February 2026

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History

  • Receive Date: 17 October 2025
  • Revise Date: 13 February 2026
  • Accept Date: 20 February 2026

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