Congolese thesis studies compost to tackle oil pollution in soil
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Brazza Infos
Researcher Vitaline Vanessa Morabo Okoletimou presented a thesis at Marien Ngouabi University on the biological treatment of soil contaminated by oil residues. Her work examines landfarming, which stimulates the action of microorganisms and can use organic amendments such as compost and manure, Brazza Infos reports.
Congolese researcher Vitaline Vanessa Morabo Okoletimou recently defended a thesis at Marien Ngouabi University on the biological treatment of soil contaminated by sludge from oil activities. Her work examines landfarming, a method that stimulates the action of microorganisms to accelerate the breakdown of certain organic pollutants, Brazza Infos reports.
The research examines in particular the use of compost and horse manure as organic substrates. These materials can provide nutrients and strengthen biological activity in soil contaminated by hydrocarbons. However, the method requires monitoring of the quantities, sites and residues in order to assess the clean-up, according to Brazza Infos.
The study addresses an issue affecting Pointe-Noire and industrial areas in Congo-Brazzaville, among others, where oil activities have left soil contaminated. It proposes making use of locally available organic resources rather than relying exclusively on imported equipment, the Congolese media outlet reports.
