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

Nurhayati, Indah; Afifah, Evi; Al Kholif, Muhammad

doi:10.22104/aet.2026.7943.2226

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

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

Indah Nurhayati

Evi Afifah

Muhammad Al Kholif

Department of Environmental Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Science, Universitas PGRI Adi Buana Surabaya. 60234, Jawa Timur, Indonesia

10.22104/aet.2026.7943.2226

Abstract

This study evaluates the synergistic integration of phytoremediation using Pistia stratiotes (Kayu Apu) and microbial bioaugmentation with Effective Microorganisms 4 (EM4) for treating landfill leachate. A batch system was employed with EM4 concentrations of 0%, 10%, 20%, and 30% and residence times of 3, 6, and 9 days. The results indicate that the highest pollutant removal efficiency was achieved with 30% EM4 and a 9-day residence time, resulting in 41.5% BOD reduction, 37.3% COD reduction, and 38% TSS reduction. Additionally, DO levels increased significantly by 488.24%, indicating improved aerobic conditions, which are essential for microbial activity. These findings demonstrate the potential of integrating Pistia stratiotes and EM4 as a sustainable, eco-friendly approach to treating landfill leachate. Further research is recommended to optimize operational parameters, scale up the system, and ensure compliance with regulatory discharge standards.

Graphical Abstract