Philippine E-Journals

Assessment of Heavy Metal Concentration in the Soil of Ugwuaji Solid Waste Dump Environs, Enugu Nigeria

CHINONSO E. EMELUMONYE | Andrew M Oroke | ERIC I. NWAFOR | ALOYSIUS C. EZE | CRISTAH JEAN J ALMONTE

 

Abstract:

Solid waste is a major environmental threat globally, and Nigeria is not an exception. The problem of improper disposal of solid waste is further compounded by population growth and economic development, which leads to the generation of an enormous amount of solid waste. The resultant effects are environmental pollution with various pollutants such as toxic heavy metals. This research determined the heavy metal concentration in the soil of Ugwuaji solid waste dump environs in Enugu, Nigeria. The oil samples were collected and transported to the laboratory for analysis. The soil samples were analyzed for heavy metal using Atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS). The study concludes that poor waste management and accumulation of tons of solid waste in the dumpsite negatively affects the soil quality in the area. Further, the open solid waste dumping exposed the soil to serious contamination with heavy metals (Cd, Pb, Cu, Zn, and Fe). This implies to serious human and animal health due to possible bioaccumulation and bio magnifications through plant uptake from the soil. It was recommended that proper waste management involving the use of 3R (reduce, reuse and recycle) and sanitary landfills and environmental principles and laws should be implemented to ensure the sustainability of the environment in the area.