"Neem Leaves as a Green Catalyst for Dairy Effluent Remediation"

The dairy industry generates substantial volumes of wastewater rich in organic pollutants, nutrients, and other contaminants, which pose significant environmental challenges if not properly treated. This study explores the use of neem leaves (Azadirachta indica) as a green catalyst for the effective remediation of dairy effluent. Neem leaves, known for their phytochemical richness, including bioactive compounds such as azadirachtin, nimbin, and quercetin, exhibit potent antimicrobial, adsorptive, and coagulative properties. The research investigates their efficiency in reducing chemical oxygen demand (COD), biological oxygen demand (BOD), total suspended solids (TSS), and nutrient levels from dairy wastewater under varying conditions of pH, temperature, and contact time. Batch experiments were conducted to optimize treatment parameters, revealing significant pollutant reduction when neem leaves were utilized in dried, powdered form. Comparative analyses with conventional treatment methods underscored the advantages of this eco-friendly, cost-effective, and sustainable approach. The study also delves into the mechanisms of action, highlighting the adsorption of pollutants onto the neem leaf surface and the role of bioactive compounds in breaking down organic matter. The findings demonstrate that neem leaves can serve as an innovative, green catalyst for wastewater treatment, offering a dual benefit of pollution control and sustainable resource utilization. This approach contributes to the development of eco-compatible solutions for industrial effluent management, aligning with the goals of sustainable development and environmental conservation.