# Rapid Reduction of Phytotoxicity in Green Waste for Use as Peat Substitute: Optimization of Ammonium Incubation Process

## TL;DR

This study develops a low-cost method to convert green waste into a sustainable peat substitute by reducing its phytotoxicity using ammonium incubation.

## Contribution

The paper introduces an optimized ammonium incubation process for detoxifying green waste as a peat alternative.

## Key findings

- Ammonium carbonate at 1.5% significantly reduced phytotoxicity in green waste.
- Optimal detoxification occurred at 30 °C for 5 days with regular aeration.
- Treated green waste supported lettuce growth as a partial peat substitute.

## Abstract

The rapid growth of the horticultural industry has increased demand for soilless cultivation substrates. Peat, valued for its physical and chemical properties, is widely used in soilless cultivation. However, peat is non-renewable, and over-extraction poses serious ecological risks. Therefore, sustainable alternatives are urgently needed. Ammonium incubation, a novel method to reduce phytotoxicity, offers the potential for green waste, a significant organic solid waste resource, to substitute peat. This study optimized the ammonium incubation process to reduce green waste phytotoxicity. It systematically examined different nitrogen salts (type and amount) and environmental conditions (temperature, aeration, duration) affecting detoxification efficiency. Results show a significant reduction in phytotoxicity with ammonium bicarbonate, carbonate, and sulfate, especially carbonate, at 1.5%. Optimal conditions were 30 °C for 5 days with regular aeration. Under these conditions, ammonium salt-treated green waste significantly reduced total phenolic content and stabilized germination index (GI) at a non-phytotoxic level (127%). Using treated green waste as a partial peat substitute in lettuce cultivation showed promising results. This low-cost, low-energy method effectively converts green waste into sustainable peat alternatives, promoting eco-friendly horticulture and environmental conservation.