Speaker
Description
Background: Access to safe drinking water is a fundamental global goal envisioned by the UN, yet it remains a challenge for many developing countries, including Ghana. This is largely due to pollution from various human activities, such as illegal mining and agricultural runoff. Conventional water treatment methods are often costly, making them inaccessible to rural communities. Hence, there is a pressing need for affordable and eco-friendly alternatives.
Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Moringa oleifera seed and leaf extracts as natural coagulants to enhance water quality. Specifically, its effect on basic physicochemical parameters, nitrate concentration and heavy metals concentration.
Methods: Water samples were collected from three sources: a river impacted directly by illegal mining, a regular river, and three distinct ponds suspected of having high nitrate concentrations. The samples were treated with the respective optimum doses of the extracts, and key water parameters, including heavy metals and nitrates, were assessed before and after treatment.
Key Findings: The results indicated a general reduction in turbidity, with the most significant improvement (96.59% reduction) observed in the sample affected by illegal mining. A moderate reduction in nitrate concentration was also noted, while the effects of the extract on heavy metals showed varied results. Mercury levels were eliminated to an undetectable level, arsenic experienced a moderate reduction, but there was an unexpected 5% increase in lead concentration.
Implications: Overall, Moringa oleifera demonstrated significant potential as a low-cost coagulant for water purification. However, further studies are recommended to explore its capabilities as a bioadsorbent on a larger sample size to fully uncover its potential in this regard. An oral presentation of the work is preferred.