Speaker
Description
This research investigates soil pollution at the Sidi Bou Othmane landfill through physicochemical and ecotoxicological assessments. The findings reveal elevated levels of bioavailable phosphorus, organic carbon, and organic matter in the landfill soils when compared to the uncontaminated control soil. Statistically significant relationships between heavy metals (Cu, Fe, Ni, Pb, Zn) and soil type indicate widespread contamination across the site. Ecotoxicity evaluations demonstrated significant phytotoxic effects: the germination index values in the landfill samples are markedly lower than those recorded in the control soil (> 80%). Genotoxicity evaluations utilizing exposition of Vicia faba root in aqueous extract indicated a decrease in the mitotic index of up to 3.5% and an increase in micronucleus formation of up to 6.2‰, signifying genetic damage linked to polluted soil. Enzymatic assessments revealed an increase in peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities in response to toxic stressors found in landfill soil extracts, confirming physiological reactions associated with heavy metal toxicity and oxidative stress in plants situated in contaminated areas. These findings present strong evidence of significant environmental degradation at the Sidi Bou Othmane landfill, underscoring the need for immediate corrective action. Waste recycling and bioremediation are identified as the most appropriate remediation strategies for addressing contamination at the Sidi Bou Othmane landfill.
Keywords: Contamination, Household waste, Landfill, Sustainable management, Rehabilitation.
