Swot analysis of utilization of palm oil mill effluent to improve soil quality and crop productivity (case study at PT X, Lampung, Indonesia)

Abstract

Crude Palm Oil (CPO) manufacturing in palm oil processing plants produces by- products known as palm oil mill effluent (POME). POME can improve the physical and chemical properties of the soil because it contains nutrients N, P, K, Mg, and Ca. One of the companies that have processed and utilized POME is PT X, Lampung Province, Indonesia. This study was conducted to analyze the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) of the effect of using POME on oil palm plantations for waste quality, physical soil conditions, soil chemical conditions and productivity of oil palm plants. The methodology of the research was using descriptive statistical methods of the secondary data and SWOT analysis. The results showed that the palm oil effluent applied in the PT X complied with the national quality utilization and waste management standards. The POME application has a beneficial effect on soil conditions. The involved area had higher pH, N, P, K, Ca, and Mg than control, but C- Organic and CEC in the application area were lower. Furthermore, the application of palm oil effluent tends to increase crop productivity in a range of 7.57 - 63.23%. The primary strategy obtained from the SWOT analysis is that it is necessary to conduct an intensive assessment and to implement appropriate and proper management and application. This recommended strategy is to get the value of the application of palm oil liquid waste suitable for a long-term sustainable waste application for soil and plants to improve the physical and chemical properties of the soil optimally.