Bioremediating Butuanon: Investigating the Potential of Termite Nest Microbes and Banana Peel Biochar in Improving Water Quality

Termite nest microbes and banana peel biochar are natural, nutrient-rich materials with potential applications in sustainable bioremediation. This study evaluated their effectiveness as low-cost treatment agents for improving the water quality of the critically polluted Butuanon River in Mandaue City, Cebu. Using a posttest-only true experimental design under a quantitative research approach, polluted river water samples were treated with termite nest microbes and banana peel biochar prepared via pyrolysis at 350°C applied individually and in combination at varying concentrations (1g, 2g, and 3g). The effects of the treatments were assessed based on changes in pH level, turbidity, odor, color, and selected heavy metal concentrations across three trials. Water samples were collected from the field and analyzed under controlled laboratory conditions during the academic year 2024–2025. Statistical analysis using one-way ANOVA and Tukey HSD post hoc tests revealed that all treatments significantly altered water parameters (p < 0.05). The findings indicate that banana peel biochar demonstrated stronger performance in enhancing clarity, color, and odor due to its high adsorption capacity and porous structure. In contrast, combined treatments produced greater, dose-dependent increases in pH levels, attributed to the synergistic buffering effect of mineral-rich termite material and alkaline biochar. However, higher combined dosages also increased turbidity, likely due to suspended particles from the added materials. While no heavy metals were detected, the presence of non-metal contaminants like sulfite and fluoride was noted. Overall, the results highlight the potential of termite nest microbes and banana peel biochar as effective, low-cost, and environmentally sustainable alternatives for water quality improvement. These findings support the application of locally available natural materials in community-based environmental remediation efforts.