The Consumption of Water Hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) as Bokashi Balls to

Improve Contaminated Bodies of Water

Babon, Freesia Maya O.

Cabalquinto, Angela S.
Dadulo, Arianne S.
Duran, Aliyah Gabrelle C.
Santos, Noah Siddharta M
Sunio, Bianca Mikaela P.
Tumapat, River Alden S.

Integrated Basic Education Department (IBED)

Siena College of Taytay
Science Investigatory Project
Grade 10 - Critical Thinker | Group 6

Mrs. Marimay Michelle Lumaban, LPT, MAT

Research Adviser

Ms. Jemaima S. De Leon, LPT

Research Teacher

Mrs. Kristel Anne S. Orozo, LPT

English Teacher

March 2024
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Title Page............................................................................................................................................... 1
Table of Contents................................................................................................................................... 2
List of Tables..........................................................................................................................................3
Abstract.................................................................................................................................................. 4

INTRODUCTION................................................................................................................................. 5
RRLs.......................................................................................................................................... 5
Research Gap............................................................................................................................. 7
Scope and Delimitations............................................................................................................ 7
Statement of the Problem...........................................................................................................8
Hypothesis..................................................................................................................................8
Significance of the Study........................................................................................................... 8
Definition of Terms....................................................................................................................9

METHODS......................................................................................................................................... 10
Research Design...................................................................................................................... 10
Locale of the Study.................................................................................................................. 10
Sampling Techniques.............................................................................................................. 10
Participants of the Study.......................................................................................................... 10
Research Instruments............................................................................................................... 11
Data Gathering Procedures...................................................................................................... 11
Statistical Treatment and Data Analysis.................................................................................. 13
Ethical Considerations............................................................................................................. 13

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION.......................................................................................................... 14

Conclusions..............................................................................................................................17
Recommendations ...................................................................................................................17

REFERENCES.................................................................................................................................... 18
PROPONENTS....................................................................................................................................21
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LIST OF TABLES

Table Number Table Titles Page

1 The effectiveness of the water hyacinth 14

bokashi balls alone in cleansing the

polluted water.

2 The effectiveness of water hyacinth 15

bokashi balls in cleaning polluted water

depends on the extract’s concentration.

3 Difference between the pH level of 16

polluted water when bokashi balls are

incorporated
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ABSTRACT

Bokashi balls are compact spheres made of beneficial microorganisms used in composting to
accelerate organic matter decomposition, improve soil health, and minimize odors. Adding them to
compost bins or soil speeds up the decomposition of organic waste and creates nutrient-rich
compost. Eichhornia crassipes, also known as water hyacinth, is an invasive species often found in
polluted rivers. Despite their invasiveness, they are occasionally utilized in water treatment systems
to absorb pollutants and excess nutrients from contaminated water sources.

This study aims to address river water pollution by using water hyacinths to decrease their
population and simultaneously improve contaminated water bodies. The researchers employed an
experimental research method to create and output and collect data through observations. The
researchers formulated the following questions: (1) How effective are Water Hyacinth Bokashi Balls
in treating contaminated water? (2) Could the concentration of water hyacinth extract influence its
efficacy in purifying contaminated water, such as when mixing ml of extract or more than 15 ml of
extract? (3) What is the resulting pH level of the polluted water once the Bokashi Balls are
submerged?

Results indicate that Water Hyacinth Bokashi Balls, when submerged in water, elevate the pH
level of polluted water to an alkaline state. This implies that Water Hyacinth Bokashi Balls are
capable of treating contaminated waters.
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INTRODUCTION

Review of Related Literature

Sources and Causes of Water Pollution. According to an article from Al-Taai, S. (2021), water

pollution arises from the discharge of solid waste and oxygen-depleting organic substances,

primarily originating from untreated urban sewage systems and industrial outlets. These

contaminants include trace pollutants such as toxic chemicals and metals like mercury, zinc, lead,

and cadmium. Additionally, thermal pollution, a form of water pollution, occurs when power plants,

factories, and cooling systems release heated water into water bodies, leading to elevated

temperatures and disrupting the aquatic ecosystem.

Polluted Waters. Denchak M. (2018) summarizes extensive literature on water pollution sources,

such as industrial and agricultural runoff, improper waste disposal, and urban stormwater runoff,

introducing pollutants like heavy metals, chemicals, nutrients, and pathogens. Studies underscore the

harmful effects on aquatic ecosystems, including reduced biodiversity and disrupted food chains,

posing risks to aquatic life and human health through contaminated fish or water consumption,

resulting in waterborne diseases and long-term health concerns.

Effectiveness of Water Hyacinth in remediating Polluted Water. According to Moyo, P. et al.

(2013) the purpose of their study was to determine how well Eichhornia crassipes, or water hyacinth,

cleaned up a dirty river. Water hyacinth was purifying the river, as evidenced by the significant drops

in electrical conductivity (25%) and total dissolved solids (TDS) (26%), as well as in sulphates

(45%), phosphates (33%) and total hardness (37%), between sampling locations SR1 and SR3. A

statistical analysis revealed no significant change in the other metrics.

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The Usage of Bokashi Balls in Improving Boracay’s Wetlands. According to Recuenco, A.

(2022), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) used to improve the water

quality in Boracay's wetlands as part of the rehabilitation of its beaches according to the Muntinlupa

Public Information Office.

Effectivity of Bokashi balls in purifying Polluted Water. Research by Arora, V. et al. (2018).

Bokashi balls have the potential to pause algae growth. It can also be used to mitigate the production

of sludge thus removing foul smells such as ammonia and methane. Microbial activities are restored

in the water, nutrients, and other organic particles such as sediments are consumed in the water.

Invasiveness of Water Hyacinths in Pasig River. According to Eugenio, A. (2020) The

Department of Environment and Natural Resources stated that the presence of a large number of

water hyacinths in a section of Pasig River in Quiapo Manila is a result of water pollution caused by

fertilizer runoffs from aquaculture farming and domestic waste.

Water Hyacinth and its Antibacterial Properties. Research from Daninha, P. (2017) reveals that

water hyacinth contains phytochemicals like alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, and phenolic acids,

known for their potential antimicrobial properties. Studies have explored the antibacterial effects of

water hyacinth extracts on pathogens such as Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and

Salmonella spp., showing inhibition of their growth. While literature suggests the antibacterial

potential of water hyacinth, further research is needed to understand mechanisms, improve extraction

methods, and investigate practical applications for developing antibacterial agents.

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Research Gap

Water hyacinth bokashi balls effectively remediate polluted water, offering innovative

solutions for contamination in water bodies, resource utilization, soil health, waste management, and

community engagement. With its antibacterial properties, water hyacinth aids in water purification

and serves as a bio-sorbent due to its carbon and oxygen composition. Its petiole, containing 37.95%

holocellulose, can be utilized as an adsorbent material after treatment, benefiting riverbanks invaded

by this species. Reducing water hyacinth alongside water remediation can purify riverbanks, even in

small increments (Priya & Selvan, 2017; Salas-Ruiz et al., 2019).

Scope and Delimitation

The main focus of the study is to determine if water hyacinths are capable of replacing the

main ingredient in bokashi balls, which is effective microorganisms. This research does not

encompass any topic related to bacteriology, as the researchers are focusing on the effect in the

difference of pH level. Any data gathered beyond the scope or timeframe were not considered.

Statement of the Problem

1. How effective are Water Hyacinth Bokashi Balls in treating contaminated water?

2. Could the concentration of water hyacinth extract influence its efficacy in purifying

contaminated water:

2.1. If 15 ml of extract is mixed;

2.2. If more than 15 ml of extract is mixed?

3. What is the resulting pH level of the polluted water once the Bokashi Balls are submerged?
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Hypothesis

H⁰ 1: The Eichhornia Crassipes bokashi balls can remediate polluted water effectively.

H⁰ 2: There is no significant difference between the effectiveness of bokashi balls when

incorporating either 15 ml or more of the extract.

H⁰ 3: The resulting pH level of the polluted water reaches a suitable level for using bokashi balls to

remediate water pollution.

Significance of the Study

This study is deemed necessary and significant. To the body of knowledge, this study aims at

the potential use of water hyacinth by creating "Bokashi balls" and testing its effectiveness as a

beneficial product. The researchers investigated a new way to utilize the invasive plant. The research

is focused on assisting communities residing close to contaminated rivers and water sources, as well

as individuals engaged in environmental restoration initiatives. Additionally, future researchers

seeking to enhance this project could find value in the study.

To the Siena College of Taytay community, we strive to pursue these core values:

Community Builder and God-Centered. Following this value is being a Steward of God's Creation.

The researchers were inspired by the seminar conducted by Siena College of Taytay’s Ecosavers’

Club discussing the benefits of bokashi balls in polluted waterways.

Definition of Terms

Aquaculture - The breeding, rearing, and harvesting of fish, shellfish, algae, and other organisms in

all types of water environments.

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Bokashi - Bokashi is a process that converts food waste and similar organic matter into a soil

amendment which adds nutrients and improves soil texture.

Eichhornia Crassipes - scientific name of Water Hyacinth. A free-floating plant growing in

freshwater.

pH Level - The pH scale gauges the acidity or alkalinity of a substance, spanning from 0 to A pH of

7 denotes neutrality, with values below 7 indicating acidity and values above 7 indicating alkalinity.

Water Pollution - Water pollution occurs when substances are discharged into water bodies,

rendering the water unsuitable for human consumption and disrupting aquatic ecosystems.
 10

METHODS

Research Design

In this study, the researchers performed an experimental research approach to examine the

effectiveness of how Eichhornia Crassipes changes the pH of the contaminated water. As Sirisilla

(2023) stated, experimental research design helps researchers execute their research objectives with

more clarity and transparency. This study examines the cause and effect of using the leaves of water

hyacinth to clean and purify contaminated water.

Locale of the Study

The study took place at the Siena College of Taytay in the academic year of 2023-2024. This

specific institution was selected as the research site due to its extensive resources and facilities that

were essential for conducting the study effectively.

Sampling Technique

The researchers did not utilize sampling methods due to the absence of respondents. Instead,

they relied solely on observation to acquire their data.

Participants of the Study

The researchers relied entirely on their observations in this study as the basis for their

findings, eliminating the need for any participants to respond to the research questions.

Research Instrument

Weekly monitoring and observations were conducted to assess the effectiveness of using

Eichhornia Crassipes as bokashi balls for remediation of polluted water bodies. Additionally, the pH

levels of the contaminated water were regularly observed and tested.

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Data Gathering Procedures

Materials

- 1 kg Water Hyacinth

- Soil

- Polluted water

Equipment

- Thermometer

- Spatula

- Beaker

- Mortar and Pestle

- Bunsen Burner

- Tripod

- Stirring Rod

- pH Paper

- Coffee Filter

- Paper/Plastic Cup

- Plastic Spoon

Extraction using Herbal Infusion

1. With the use of the mortar and pestle, mash the leaves, stems and petals of the water

hyacinth. Make sure to not include the seeds of the plant.

2. While mashing the water hyacinth, boil water in a beaker until it turns 30ºC to 50ºC.

3. Using the spatula, transfer the mashed water hyacinth into the beaker.

4. After you pour the water hyacinth into the beaker, leave it alone for at least 8 hours.
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5. Once the extract is done, use a coffee filter to strain the liquid.

6. Transfer the residue and extract into two different containers.

Soil mixture

1. With the use of a mixing bowl, bind the soil and the extract to make the outer layer of

the Bokashi Balls. Use a 1 cup:5 tbsp ratio for the soil and the extract.

2. Once the mixture is enough for the soil to be intact, take a few handfuls of the soil

and roll it around your palms until you make a sphere.

Bokashi Balls

1. Place the soil on a level surface and press it down with your hands to flatten it. This

should result in a circular shape with an even surface.

2. Roll the water hyacinth residue into a ball and place it in the center of the soil.

3. Cover the water hyacinth with soil and roll it into a ball.

Product Testing

1. Put the bokashi ball inside the container where the polluted water is.

2. After 24 hours, the bokashi ball will break down and sink to the bottom. Mix it up

until the soil dissolves with the water.

3. Test the water with pH paper by dipping the colored side for 1-3 seconds.

Statistical Treatment & Data Analysis

The researchers relied entirely on their observations in this study as the basis for their

findings, eliminating the need for any participants to respond to the research questions.
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Ethical Considerations

This study considered the different ethical standards in conducting the research. (1) Honesty

and Integrity. All information gathered and used ensures transparency. Researchers examined

pre-existing data, documents, or events relevant to the subject of their study. (2) Objectivity. This

study avoided bias in any aspect, such as design, data analysis. interpretation, and peer review. The

researchers disclose any personal or financial interest that may affect the study. (3) Respect for

Intellectual Property. All the references that were used in this research are credited to their rightful

owner and were not plagiarized by the researchers. (4) Legality. All the private information such as

address and contact number that was revealed is respected and will not be revealed on other

platforms and has authorization both from the parents and researchers. All the researchers agreed

and were not forced to reveal their private information if they did not wish to reveal it.
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RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

Table 1

The effectiveness of the water hyacinth bokashi balls alone in treating the polluted water

Statement Result

Water hyacinth bokashi balls were used to Based on the pH testing conducted, the bokashi
remediate the polluted water, bringing its balls were proven to be effective, as it brought it
quality back to par with that of pure water. to an alkaline level. The effectiveness of the
bokashi balls is shown by their ability to absorb
nutrients and contaminants.

Table 1 states that the study about bokashi balls showed the ability to clean polluted water,

and were comparable with the quality of pure water. According to Dr. Sruthi M., the study suggests

that fully pure water usually has a pH of 7, making it neutral on the pH scale. However, most water

contains substances that can shift its pH, varying from 6.5 (slightly acidic) to 8.5 (basic or alkaline).

Through the pH testing, it proved the capability of the bokashi balls’ cleansing ability, which was

shown through its ability to absorb nutrients and contaminants in polluted water. This process can be

proven by the bokashi balls having components that can enhance the quality of water. This is

relevant to the study of Corman et al., 2023, wherein they saw the capability of water hyacinths in

changing the quality of polluted water, and did tests to prove the statement, and they concluded that

it really did a lot for the water.

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Table 2

The effectiveness of water hyacinth bokashi balls in cleaning polluted water depending on the

extract’s concentration

Indicator Discussion

If 15 ml of extract is mixed. The water hyacinth is not mixed enough with

the soil to coat it.

If more than 15 ml of extract is mixed. The concentration of water hyacinth is better if

the water hyacinth is mixed and coated.

Table 2 depicts the efficacy of water hyacinth bokashi balls in purifying polluted water, with

a particular emphasis on how the concentration of the extract impacts their cleaning ability. This

investigation aims to provide insights into the optimal concentration levels of the extract for

achieving the most effective water remediation results. According to the study of Amber Anderson

and Arturo Flores, soil porosity is categorized based on the dimensions of individual pores. It's vital

to acknowledge that water retention between soil particles is facilitated by the amalgamation of

adhesive and cohesive bonds. From the findings, it becomes evident that a quantity exceeding 15

milliliters of extract is required to be thoroughly blended and applied to the soil surface. This implies

that a higher concentration of extract is necessary for optimal efficacy when coating the soil, thereby

enhancing the remediation process for polluted water sources.

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Table 3

Difference between the pH level of polluted water when bokashi balls are incorporated

Indicator Polluted Water

Resulting pH Levels pH Level 6

Resulting pH levels after diluted with Water pH Level 8

Hyacinth Bokashi Balls

It can be inferred that when bokashi balls are added to polluted water, there is a contrast in

pH levels compared to drinking water. Typically, drinking water tends to have a neutral pH around 7,

whereas polluted water often exhibits lower pH levels due to contamination from various sources. In

reference to the website Bokashi Living, the soil near the bokashi pre-compost becomes slightly

acidic initially, but the soil web rapidly neutralizes the bokashi. Test results show that within a week

or two of burial, the soil pH fully neutralizes, creating optimal conditions for plant growth. In lieu of

this, by introducing the bokashi balls into polluted water initiates a process where compounds and

microbes are released, leading to a neutralization of acidic compounds and an increase in pH levels.

As a result, polluted water transitions towards a more alkaline state, facilitated by the remedial

action of the bokashi balls. This is relevant to the study of Brown et al.(2020) through which it is

stated that water hyacinths serve as a catalyst for the absorption of waterborne contaminants.
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Conclusion

The researchers have drawn the conclusion that polluted waters can be effectively cleansed

through the use of bokashi balls. This suggests that employing bokashi balls could serve as a

solution for addressing contamination in these bodies of water. According to the data we have

gathered, Tables 1 and 3 effectively improve contaminated water— from polluted water with the pH

levels of 6 to pH level 8 after treating polluted water with Bokashi Balls. Table 2 suggests using

more than 15 ml of extract to compact soil for making bokashi balls; in line with this, soil is not the

only thing to be considered when making bokashi balls, but also the type of soil to be used.

Removing the water hyacinths from riverbanks is a laborious operation; using the water hyacinths to

clean the polluted water is similar to doing two tasks at once or in one motion.

Recommendations

The researchers aimed to utilize biodegradable materials or various plants in bokashi balls

and explore different methods to enhance their production. It is suggested to increase the water

hyacinth content in the balls to improve their performance over a larger area, while also considering

factors like microorganism presence and water clarity. It is also recommended to utilize other

extraction techniques for more precise and greater yield of water hyacinth. Furthermore, the

researchers would like to propose further studies of using these bokashi balls in cleaning-up and

reducing water pollution so that it will minimize or balance the growth of invasive species.
 18

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THE PROPONENTS

Name of Member 1: Babon, Freesia Maya O.

Address: B6 L18-B Himalayas Road (Kaliwa-Kaliwa), Montevista Heights,
Dolores, Taytay, Rizal
Email and Contact Number: [email protected] / 09617178477
Main Task: Product Making, Research Gap, Results and Discussion, Ethical
Considerations, Conclusion

Name of Member 2: Cabalquinto, Angela S.

Address:#74 Bldg 5 Foundation of Saint Joseph the worker Rosario, Pasig city
Email and Contact Number: [email protected] / 09493260366
Main Task: Product Making, Review of Related Literature

Name of Member 3: Dadulo, Arianne S.

Address: Blk 31 Lot 22 Sunrise St. Ridgemont Executive Village Brgy. San Isidro
Taytay Rizal
Email and Contact Number: [email protected]
Main Task: Product Making, Review of Related Literature, References, Scope and
Delimitation, Results and Discussion, Recommendations

Name of Member 4: Duran, Aliyah Gabrelle C.

Address: B1L27 Graham St. Anila Park Havila, Brgy. San Roque, Antipolo City
Email and Contact Number: [email protected]/0915-753-5949
Main Task: Product Making, Abstract, Review of Related Literature, Statement of the
Problem, Hypothesis, Definition of Terms,Locale of the Study, Data Gathering
Procedures, Tables, Proofreading and Paraphrasing

Name of Member 5: Santos, Noah Siddharta M.

Address: L9B6 Metroview Antipolo Beverly Drive
Email and Contact Number: ritosent9000@gmailcom +639692049705
Main Task: Product Making, Significance of the Study

Name of Member 6: Sunio, Bianca Mikela P.

Address: blk 4 lot 2 Tokyo Street Zuri Residences Barangay Dolores Taytay, Rizal
Email and Contact Number: [email protected] 09774076738
Main Task: Product Making, Scope & Delimitations, Research Design, Tables,
Hypothesis

Name of Member 7: Tumapat, River Alden S.

Address: 57 Hazelton st. Vista Verde Country Homes Antipolo, Rizal
Email and Contact Number: [email protected]/09476175200
Main Task: Product Making, Review of Related Literature, Significance of the Study,
Sampling Technique, Research Instrument, Tables