Assessment of ambient air quality resulting from anthropogenic emissions

Abstract

Adamu Yunusa Ugya1, Tijjani Sabiu Imam2

Introduction: Rapid urbanization and industrialization in developing countries like Nigeria has resulted in loss of greenhouse effect which is causing an imbalance in nature. Aim: This research is aimed at monitoring and evaluating pollution of ambient air resulting from anthropogenic emissions. Methods: Particular matter samples were collected for 24h at four different sites daily using a high volume air sampler for the period of two years (March 2015-March, 2017). The determination of SO2 and CO in the sample was done using spectrophotometric method. Result: The obtained result shows higher CO Concentration of 7000µg/m in 2015/2016 and 8000µg/m in 2016/2017. The result also shows higher SO2 of 140µg/m in 2015/2016 and 180µg/m in 2016/2017. Conclusion: The concentration of SO2 and CO obtain are above the recommended limit by World Health Organization (WHO). The high concentration of SO2 and CO could be attributed to the anthropogenic activities of the study area. It is thereby recommended that government should imposed Carbon tax and provides adequate social amenities to discourage the use of generators and private vehicles, incessant falling of trees etc.