POME is a byproduct of the extraction process of palm oil in palm oil mills. It is known for its high levels of organic matter, suspended solids, and nutrients, making it a highly polluting waste.
The discharge of untreated or poorly treated POME into rivers, streams, or other water bodies can have devastating effects on the environment. Some of the key environmental concerns associated with POME in the water cycle include:

1. Water pollution: POME contains high concentrations of organic matter, which depletes dissolved oxygen when discharged into water bodies. This leads to water pollution and negatively affects aquatic life, including fish and other organisms.
2. Eutrophication: The nutrient-rich composition of POME, including nitrogen and phosphorus, promotes the growth of algae and other aquatic plants. Excessive growth of these organisms can lead to eutrophication, a process where water bodies become enriched with nutrients, leading to oxygen depletion and harm to aquatic ecosystems.
3. Habitat destruction: POME discharge can result in the destruction of aquatic habitats due to the altered water quality and reduced oxygen levels. This can have cascading effects on the entire ecosystem, including the loss of biodiversity.
   To address these environmental concerns, various initiatives have been undertaken by the ecological movement. These include:
4. Sustainable palm oil production: Encouraging and promoting sustainable practices in palm oil production is an essential aspect of the ecological movement. This includes adopting environmentally friendly wastewater treatment technologies and practices to minimize the negative impacts of POME.
5. Regulatory measures: Governments and regulatory bodies play a crucial role in enforcing environmental regulations related to POME discharge. Strict enforcement and monitoring of wastewater standards help ensure compliance and reduce pollution.
6. Research and development: Continuous research and development are carried out to develop innovative and sustainable solutions for POME treatment and management. This includes the use of biogas capture systems, anaerobic digestion, and composting to convert POME into valuable byproducts.
7. Awareness and education: Raising awareness among stakeholders, including palm oil producers, consumers, and the general public, about the environmental impacts of POME is an important aspect of the ecological movement. This enables informed decision-making and promotes responsible consumption and production practices.
   By addressing the environmental impacts of POME discharge into the water cycle, the ecological movement aims to mitigate water pollution, protect ecosystems, and ensure the sustainable production of palm oil.