CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of study

Chili plants, belonging to the Capsicum spp., are extensively cultivated and possess
considerable economic value due to their versatile applications in cooking and medicinal
uses. Successful cultivation of chili plants relies on various factors such as soil fertility,
nutrient availability, and organic matter content. Traditional agricultural practices have
heavily relied on chemical fertilizers to fulfill the nutritional needs of chili plants, ensuring
optimal growth and productivity. However, the excessive and indiscriminate use of chemical
fertilizers can result in environmental pollution, soil degradation, and health concerns
(Yunindanova, M., Agusta, H., & Asmono, Dwi., 2016).

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in exploring sustainable and
environmentally friendly alternatives to chemical fertilizers in agriculture. The utilization of
organic waste materials as fertilizers not only addresses waste management issues but also
promotes sustainable agricultural practices. In this context, oil palm waste, a byproduct of the
palm oil industry, emerges as a promising solution. Palm Oil Mill Effluent (POME) and
Empty Fruit Bunches (EFB) are two major forms of oil palm waste.

POME refers to the liquid waste generated during the processing of palm fruits into palm oil.
It contains organic matter, nutrients, and other compounds that can contribute to soil fertility
(Mohammad, S., et al., 2021). On the other hand, EFB represents the fibrous residue left after
extracting oil from palm fruits. With a high carbon-to-nitrogen ratio, EFB can serve as a
source of organic carbon and mulching material. Both POME and EFB exhibit potential as
organic fertilizers, supplying essential nutrients and organic matter to enhance soil fertility
and stimulate plant growth.

This study aims to examine the effects of different treatments on chili plant growth. The
treatments encompass a control group without any additional fertilization, individual
treatments involving POME or EFB, a treatment involving chemical fertilizer, and
combinations of POME and/or EFB with chemical fertilizer. By comparing these treatments,

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the study seeks to assess the efficacy of oil palm waste as a viable alternative to chemical
fertilizers for promoting the growth of chili plants.

The investigation of these treatments' impact on chili plant growth holds significant
importance for several reasons. Firstly, it sheds light on the potential utilization of oil palm
waste as a sustainable and environmentally friendly nutrient source for chili cultivation. By
recycling waste materials generated by the palm oil industry, this approach contributes to
waste management and diminishes the environmental footprint associated with conventional
farming practices (Tamidi, M., et al., 2017).

Moreover, the study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of oil palm waste in supporting chili
plant growth compared to chemical fertilizers. If oil palm waste demonstrates comparable or
superior efficacy, it could provide farmers with a viable alternative that reduces their
dependence on synthetic fertilizers while encouraging organic farming practices.

Ultimately, the findings from this study have the potential to contribute to the development of
sustainable agricultural practices by exploring the viability of oil palm waste as a valuable
resource for enhancing soil fertility and promoting the growth of chili plants.

1.2 Problem statement

The conventional practice of employing chemical fertilizers in the cultivation of chili plants
has been widely adopted to fulfill the plants' nutrient requirements and optimize their growth
and productivity. However, concerns have been raised about the adverse consequences of
excessive and indiscriminate use of chemical fertilizers, including environmental pollution,
soil degradation, and potential risks to human health. Therefore, there is a need to explore
alternative and sustainable fertilization approaches that can reduce dependence on chemical
inputs while maintaining or even enhancing chili plant growth.

Simultaneously, the palm oil industry generates a significant volume of waste, encompassing
Palm Oil Mill Effluent (POME) and Empty Fruit Bunches (EFB). Improper disposal of these
waste materials poses substantial environmental challenges, such as water contamination,
greenhouse gas emissions, and land degradation. However, POME and EFB contain organic

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matter, nutrients, and other compounds that can serve as valuable resources for organic
fertilization in agriculture.

Hence, the problem at hand revolves around determining the efficacy of utilizing oil palm
waste, particularly POME and EFB, as alternative organic fertilizers for chili cultivation. The
aim is to evaluate their impact on the growth, yield, and overall performance of chili plants
compared to conventional chemical fertilizers. Through this investigation, the feasibility and
practicality of utilizing oil palm waste as a sustainable and environmentally friendly nutrient
source for chili production can be ascertained.

By addressing this problem, the study seeks to provide valuable insights and practical
solutions for sustainable chili cultivation practices. It aims to offer farmers an alternative
fertilization approach that reduces reliance on synthetic chemicals, mitigates the
environmental impacts associated with conventional farming practices, and promotes the
utilization of agricultural waste. Additionally, comprehending the effectiveness of oil palm
waste as an organic fertilizer for chili plants can contribute to the development of sustainable
agricultural systems that align with the principles of circular economy and resource efficiency
(Ghazali, M. et al., 2018).

Overall, this research endeavor endeavors to bridge the gap between the palm oil industry and
chili cultivation by exploring the potential of oil palm waste as a valuable resource for
organic fertilization. By addressing the issues of chemical fertilizer dependency and waste
management, the study strives to enhance the sustainability, productivity, and profitability of
chili farming while minimizing environmental degradation and ensuring the long-term
viability of the agricultural sector.

1.3 Research objective

The research objectives of this research are to:

● Investigate the effects of different treatments (oil palm waste - POME and EFB, and
chemical fertilizers) on the growth of chili plants.
● Determine the most effective treatment for promoting chili plant growth.
● Compare and analyze the growth parameters of chili plants under different treatments.

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 ● Assess the potential synergistic effects or interactions between oil palm waste
treatments and chemical fertilizers.
● Contribute to the understanding of sustainable agricultural practices and waste
management in chili cultivation.

1.4 Research question

● How do the growth parameters of chili plants respond to the application of oil palm
waste (POME and EFB)?
● What are the growth outcomes observed in chili plants treated with chemical
fertilizers?
● How does the growth performance of chili plants treated with oil palm waste (POME
and EFB) compare to those treated with chemical fertilizers?
● Are there any synergistic effects or interactions between oil palm waste treatments
and chemical fertilizers that influence the growth of chili plants?
● Which treatment (POME, EFB, chemical fertilizer, or combinations) exhibits the
highest growth-promoting effects on chili plants?
● What is the impact of different treatments on the yield and quality attributes of chili
plants?
● What are the implications of utilizing oil palm waste as organic fertilizers for
sustainability and waste management in chili cultivation?

These research inquiries will guide the study in exploring the effects of diverse treatments on
chili plant growth and productivity, as well as provide insights into the potential of oil palm
waste as an organic fertilizer for promoting sustainable chili cultivation practices.

1.5 Significance of study

The significance of this study is broad and encompasses various important areas. Firstly, it
contributes to the advancement of sustainable agriculture practices by exploring alternative
fertilization methods. By investigating the effectiveness of oil palm waste (POME and EFB)
as organic fertilizers for chili cultivation, the study aims to reduce reliance on chemical inputs
and promote environmentally friendly farming practices. This research provides valuable

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insights into the utilization of agricultural waste as a resource, aligning with the principles of
sustainable and eco-conscious agriculture.

Secondly, the study addresses the issue of waste management in the palm oil industry. Proper
disposal and management of oil palm waste, such as POME and EFB, are crucial for
mitigating environmental concerns. By exploring the potential of using these waste materials
as organic fertilizers, the study offers practical solutions for waste reduction and resource
utilization, contributing to more sustainable waste management practices.

Furthermore, the findings of this study have implications for reducing dependency on
chemical fertilizers in chili cultivation. Excessive and indiscriminate use of chemical
fertilizers can have adverse effects on the environment, soil health, and human well-being. By
evaluating the growth responses of chili plants treated with oil palm waste and comparing
them to those treated with chemical fertilizers, the study seeks to identify effective
alternatives that minimize environmental pollution, soil degradation, and potential health
risks associated with chemical fertilizers.

From an economic perspective, the study is significant for farmers. If the effectiveness of oil
palm waste treatments proves comparable or superior to chemical fertilizers, it can provide
farmers with cost-effective options for fertilization. This, in turn, can enhance productivity
and profitability while reducing expenses related to chemical inputs.

Moreover, the study aims to contribute to the reduction of environmental impact associated
with conventional chili cultivation practices. By promoting the use of organic waste materials
as fertilizers, the study seeks to mitigate water pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and land
degradation, thereby fostering a more sustainable and environmentally conscious approach to
chili cultivation.

Finally, the study expands the existing knowledge by providing specific insights into the
effects of oil palm waste on chili plant growth. It adds to the understanding of the potential
benefits and challenges associated with utilizing oil palm waste as organic fertilizers, offering
valuable information for researchers, policymakers, and agricultural practitioners seeking
sustainable solutions for chili cultivation and waste management.

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In summary, this study holds significance in the domains of sustainable agriculture, waste
management, reduction of chemical fertilizer dependency, economic viability, environmental
impact, and knowledge expansion. Its findings have the potential to contribute to the
development of more sustainable and environmentally friendly practices in chili cultivation,
benefiting farmers, the environment, and society as a whole.

1.6 Scope of study

The scope of this study involves examining the impacts of different treatments on the growth
of chili plants, specifically focusing on oil palm waste (POME and EFB) and chemical
fertilizers. The objective is to compare the growth parameters, productivity, and quality
attributes of chili plants under varying treatment conditions.

The study will specifically assess the effects of POME treatment on chili plant growth by
evaluating factors such as plant height, leaf area, shoot biomass, and root development.
Similarly, the growth responses of chili plants treated with EFB as an organic fertilizer will
be analyzed, including an assessment of growth parameters and overall plant vigor.

A comparative analysis will be conducted to determine the growth performance of chili

Additionally, the study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of different treatments, including
POME, EFB, chemical fertilizer, and their combinations, in promoting chili plant growth.
The yield and quality attributes of chili plants under various treatment conditions will be
examined to identify the most effective treatment for enhancing growth and productivity.

The research will be carried out in controlled experimental conditions, focusing on the
growth stage of chili plants. The study will incorporate replicates and employ statistical
analysis to ensure the reliability and validity of the results. However, the study's scope does
not extend to investigating the long-term effects of the treatments on chili plants or their
impact on soil properties beyond the specific objectives of this study (Adu, M.O., Atia, K.,
Arthur, E. et al., 2022).

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The geographical scope of the study will depend on the location where the research is
conducted, and the findings and conclusions will be applicable to chili cultivation practices
where oil palm waste is available as a potential organic fertilizer.

Overall, this study aims to investigate the effects of oil palm waste and chemical fertilizers on
the growth of chili plants, with a primary focus on growth parameters, productivity, and
quality attributes. The study intends to provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of oil
palm waste as an alternative to chemical fertilizers for promoting sustainable chili cultivation
practices.

1.7 Limitation

The study has certain limitations that should be taken into account when interpreting the
findings. Firstly, time constraints may restrict the duration of data collection and
experimentation, potentially overlooking long-term effects and changes that could occur
beyond the specified timeframe. Additionally, the generalizability of the study's findings
may be constrained to the specific geographical location where the research is conducted,
as different environmental conditions and soil types in other regions may lead to different
outcomes (Tamidi, M., et al., 2017).

Moreover, while the study aims to provide valuable insights, the applicability of its findings
to all chili cultivation scenarios may be limited due to variations in chili varieties, cultivation
techniques, and regional conditions. Furthermore, the study primarily focuses on controlled
experimental conditions, which may not fully replicate real-world field-scale conditions, thus
limiting the practical implications of the treatments.

The study primarily concentrates on chili plant growth and does not extensively explore the
impact of treatments on soil properties or other aspects such as pest and disease
management. Additionally, external factors beyond the study's control, such as weather
fluctuations or variations in cultural practices, could introduce additional variability in the
results.

Although the range of treatments investigated in the study is comprehensive, it may not
encompass all potential treatments or combinations that could influence chili plant growth.
The sample size or number of replicates in the study may also be limited, which can impact
the statistical power and precision of the results.

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REFERENCES

Ghazali, M., Shahrum, S., Sahilah, A. M., Elias, A., & Ahmad, A. (2018). Application of
empty fruit bunches (EFB) and cow manure (CM) compost as planting medium on the
growth and yield of chilli (Capsicum annum) treated with different fertilizer. International
Journal of ChemTech Research, 11, 135-141. https://doi.org/10.20902/IJCTR.2018.111017

Adu, M.O., Atia, K., Arthur, E. et al. (2022). The use of oil palm empty fruit bunches as a
soil amendmentto improve growth and yield of crops. A meta-analysis. Agron. Sustain. Dev.
42, 13. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13593-022-00753-z

Mohammad, S., et al. (2021). Palm Oil Mill Effluent Treatment Processes—A Review.
Processes, 9(5), 739. https://doi.org/10.3390/pr9050739

Tamidi, M., et al. (2017). Effect of using oil palm waste as medium on the growth and yield
of Chili in a fertigation system.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/316039826_Effect_of_using_oil_palm_waste_as_m
edium_on_the_growth_and_yield_of_Chili_in_a_fertigation_system/citation/download

Yunindanova, M., Agusta, H., & Asmono, Dwi. (2016). Identification of Heavy Metal in
Palm Oil Empty Fruit Bunch Compost, Mulch from Palm oil Waste and Its Effect on Chili
(Capsicum annuum L.). Indonesian Journal of Physics and Nuclear Applications. 1. 85.
https://doi.org/10.24246/ijpna.v1i2.85-98