Journal of Global Ecology and Environment
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Radiological and Chemical Risk Assessment of Uranium in Underground Water around Mining Site, Saki, Nigeria
No full textUranium is present in most underground water sources and it properties as a heavy metal and radioactive elements can determine the safety of such water when consumed. Consumption of elevated uranium as a heavy metal and a radioactive element in drinking water can lead to non-cancer. The activity concentrations of Uranium in 20 well and 20 borehole water in Saki around mining site were measured using Sodium Iodide detector. The results obtained were used to calculate chemical and radiological risk over lifetime consumption by the population in the area. The mass concentration values in the borehole water samples ranged from 139.84 to 378.40 Bql-1 and that of well water samples ranged from 233.73 to 367.12 Bql-1. Both the mass concentration values of borehole water and well water samples exceeded the recommended safe limit of uranium in drinking water of agencies like WHO and USEPA. This shows a chemical risk associated to the consumption of the water samples. The excess cancer mortality risk of the samples investigated ranged from 2.02x10-4to 5.41 x10-4 for the borehole and 3. x10-4to 5.32 x 10-4 the well water while the excess cancer morbidity risk of uranium in the samples are 3.06 x 10-4 to 8.30 x 10-4 and 5.13 x10-4 to 8.15 x10-4 for borehole and well water respectively. Both its excess mortality and morbidity risk fell below the permissible value of 10-3. Therefore the water samples are radiologically safe for drinking and pose no radiological hazard to the consumers
Potentials and Challenges of Ecotourism: A Study of Okrika, Oyigbo and Choba Communities in Rivers State
No full textThis study examined the potententials and challenges of ecotourism in Okrika, Oyigbo and Choba in Rivers State.The aim of the study was to identify the potentials of ecotourism in the three study locations. The study covered the Okrika Town coastline, Imo River in Oyigbo and New Calabar River in Choba community. Data was collected using structured questionanaires and oral interviews with fisherfolks/hunters/farmers and as well as visual observation of study areas. The data gathered was analyzed for biodiversity (terrestrial and aquatic animals) and ecotourism features distribution in percentage, and suitability of each study location for ecotourism was rated. Okrika was rated highest with 78.6% and 100% percentage distribution for biodiversity and ecotourism features, respectively while Oyigbo and Choba were rated medium with (57.1% and 50%), and (57.1% and 66.7%) percentage distribution for biodiversity and ecotourism features, respectively. Aquatic animals and fishes found in Okrika study location include whales, sharks, dolphins, sea turtles, periwinkles, sardine, golden fish. While some freshwater fishes and animals common in the New Calabar (Choba) and Imo Rivers (Oyigbo) include African catfish, crocodile, alligator, water snail, prawn, grabs, tilapia, pythons, water antelope etc. Some common ecotourism features identified in the study area include sea, river, beaches, mangrove forests, cool breeze and cultural activities. Based on the findings, the various study locations have a potential for the establishment of coastal ecotourism. Therefore, government at both the local and state levels in collaboration with the communities are encouraged to invest in coastal ecotourism as a means of diversifying the economy and creating employment for the youths, and as well as conserving the bioresources in these locations
The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Environmental Monitoring for Sustainable Development and Future Perspectives
No full textArtificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly revolutionizing environmental monitoring and conservation practices, presenting significant advancements over traditional methodologies in areas such as precise disaster forecasting, accurate pollution source identification, and comprehensive evaluations of air and water quality. AI is proving instrumental in tackling environmental challenges through various applications. For instance, in climate modeling, AI algorithms analyze vast datasets to generate more accurate predictions of future scenarios. Furthermore, AI is used for real-time pollution tracking by processing data from sensors and satellite imagery to identify sources and monitor levels. These specific applications demonstrate AI\u27s potential in providing data-driven insights for environmental protection and management. This paper underscores the paramount importance of robust environmental monitoring in effectively understanding and managing the intricate complexities of ecological challenges, particularly those intensified by increasing pollution stemming from population growth, industrialization, and urbanization. It delivers a comprehensive overview of the diverse and impactful applications of AI within this critical domain. These applications encompass the utilization of AI-enabled remote sensing technologies, including sophisticated satellite imagery analysis, drone-based surveillance, and extensive wireless sensor networks, for the efficient and precise collection of vast amounts of environmental data across diverse spatial and temporal scales. Furthermore, the paper explores the pivotal and increasingly crucial roles of AI-driven image recognition, advanced acoustic monitoring, and high-precision GPS tracking in significantly enhancing wildlife conservation efforts and providing vital support for the protection of endangered species and their habitats. It also meticulously examines the application of AI in the comprehensive monitoring of overall ecosystem health, encompassing the timely and accurate detection of pollution incidents, the detailed analysis of deforestation patterns, and the effective preservation of critical habitats. Moreover, the research investigates the substantial potential of AI-powered predictive modeling in enhancing our ability to forecast a wide range of environmental changes, extending from long-term climate patterns to the imminent risks of natural disasters, thereby enabling the implementation of proactive measures for effective mitigation and strategic adaptation. By adeptly processing and analyzing extensive and diverse datasets, seamlessly integrating crucial information derived from historical climate records, comprehensive biodiversity databases, and real-time environmental sensors, AI provides invaluable and actionable insights for informed decision-making in the development and implementation of effective conservation strategies, ultimately highlighting the central role of Artificial Intelligence in Environmental Monitoring for Sustainable Development
Characterization and Resource Potential of Household Solid Waste in Dhaka, Bangladesh: A Pathway to 3R Optimization and Sustainable Energy Recovery
No full textIn the face of rapid urbanization and escalating environmental challenges, effective household solid waste (HSW) management has become a critical priority for climate-vulnerable megacities such as Dhaka, Bangladesh. This research presents a comprehensive characterization of HSW generated across diverse socio-economic zones in Dhaka, aiming to assess its composition, quantify its energy potential, and identify scalable pathways for 3R (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) optimization and sustainable energy recovery. Employing a stratified sampling framework, household waste samples were collected and analyzed from high-, middle-, and low-income communities across both Dhaka North and South City Corporations. Complementary qualitative data were gathered through semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders, including municipal officials, waste workers, and informal recyclers, to triangulate findings and inform context-responsive recommendations. The compositional analysis revealed that biodegradable and organic waste accounted for approximately 69.1% of the total waste stream, followed by plastics (11.3%), paper (7.4%), metals (1.5%), and inert materials (10.7%). Proximate and ultimate analyses confirmed that the calorific value of the combustible fraction averaged 3,850–4,400 kcal/kg, indicating significant energy recovery potential via thermal or bioenergy routes. However, high moisture content in biodegradable fractions necessitates pre-treatment or segregation strategies to enhance processing efficiency. The findings underscore both the environmental burden and the latent resource potential embedded within Dhaka\u27s HSW. Spatial and socio-economic disparities in waste generation patterns highlight the need for decentralized and equity-focused 3R frameworks. Integrating community-based sorting mechanisms, digital monitoring systems, and AI-enhanced material recovery could substantially boost recycling rates and reduce landfill dependency. The study proposes a multi-tiered intervention model combining behavioral change, policy incentives, and technology-enabled waste valorization, aligning with national circular economy goals and international climate resilience agendas. This research provides actionable insights for policymakers, municipal planners, and development agencies seeking to transition Dhaka toward a circular and low-carbon waste economy. It also establishes a replicable methodology for waste characterization in other Global South megacities grappling with similar sustainability challenges
Biodiversity Conservation and Business in Nigeria: Evaluating Priorities across Key Business Sectors
No full textBiodiversity loss presents an escalating threat to ecological stability and economic resilience, particularly in developing economies such as Nigeria, where land-use pressures from business operations are intensifying. This study critically examines how biodiversity conservation is prioritized and integrated within corporate sustainability disclosures across five key business sectors in Nigeria: Oil & Gas/Power, Agriculture, Infrastructure, Manufacturing, and Financial Services, selected based on their ecological footprint and prominence in Nigeria’s economy. Drawing on content analysis of 100 publicly available sustainability reports, the research evaluates biodiversity inclusion using a custom framework aligned with international standards such as the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI 304) and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. Six criteria with 30 Attributes were applied to assess sectoral performance. The findings reveal a systemic underperformance in the overall biodiversity disclosure, with only 14% of attributes fully addressed, 21.5% partially addressed, and a striking 64.5% not addressed at all. While the agriculture and oil & gas/power sectors demonstrated comparatively stronger integration, performance across infrastructure, manufacturing, and financial services was consistently weak. Key areas such as biodiversity monitoring, restoration, and institutional investment were largely absent from corporate reporting. This study concludes that biodiversity remains a marginal concern in Nigerian corporate ESG frameworks and sustainability reports. To address this gap, the research advocates for enforceable, sector-specific biodiversity disclosure requirements, improved access to ecological data, and incentive-based mechanisms to encourage biodiversity-positive business practices. Embedding biodiversity as a core pillar of corporate sustainability is critical not only for ecological preservation but also for long-term economic resilience
Physicochemical Properties and Heavy Metal Analysis of Sewage and Leachate Wastewater Collected from the Sewage Tank at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka and the First Market Municipal Dumpsite, Ifite-Awka, Anambra State
No full textThis study assessed the level of contamination in sewage wastewater from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, and leachate wastewater from a municipal dumpsite at First Market, Ifite-Awka, Anambra State both located in the South-Eastern region of Nigeria. The investigation aimed to evaluate the physiochemical properties, chemical constituents, and heavy metal concentrations in the samples, and to compare the findings with permissible limits set by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Federal Environmental Protection Agency (FEPA). Physicochemical analyses were conducted using various parameters, chemical components were identified using Gas Chromatography (GC), and heavy metals were analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS). Results showed that turbidity, colour, chemical oxygen demand (COD), biological oxygen demand (BOD), chloride, and total solids were significantly higher than the permissible limits. The pH values indicated slight acidity in the sewage sample (6.9) and strong acidity in the leachate sample (4.3). Heavy metal analysis for cobalt, lead, arsenic, cadmium, and chromium revealed that their concentrations exceeded the permissible limits (ranging from 0.02 to 0.05 mg/L), indicating potential health risks. GC analysis detected 62 volatile and 26 non-volatile compounds in the sewage sample, and 66 volatile and 16 non-volatile compounds in the leachate. These identified compounds suggest the presence of hazardous organic pollutants. The findings indicate that the wastewater samples do not meet the required environmental standards for safe disposal. Therefore, proper treatment is essential prior to disposal to prevent public health hazards and environmental degradation, particularly in agricultural zones
Physicochemical and Bacteriological Quality Assessment of Ogbunike Abattoir Wastewater Anambra State, Nigeria for Irrigation Purpose
No full textThe physicochemical and bacteriological properties of abattoir wastewater from Ogbunike abattoir in Anambra State, Nigeria was evaluated to ascertain its fitness for irrigation purposes. Physicochemical parameters which include the heavy metal concentrations, temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, colour, total dissolved solid (TDS), total suspended solid (TSS), turbidity, nitrate, total amount of sulphate, total amount of phosphate, total amount of chloride, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) were evaluated according to standard methods for the examination of water and wastewater. Bacteriological quality of abattoir wastewater was also conducted using standard microbiological methods. Result from the physicochemical analyses showed mean values of 1,431.81pcu for colour, temperature (28.9 oC), pH (6.30), conductivity (4,560 µS/cm), TDS (3,420 mg/L), TSS (367 mg/L), turbidity (13564 NTU), BOD (895 mg/L), COD (4,280 mg/L), phosphate (10.19 mg/L), sulphate (180.85 mg/L), nitrate (77.78 mg/L) and chloride (1,086.75 mg/L). These values exceeded the WHO/NESREA limits for water quality, except pH and temperature with values within the permissible limits. Data from the heavy metal analysis presented mean concentrations of Cadmium (0.111 mg/L), Chromium (0.065 mg/L), Lead (0.738 mg/L), Copper (1.467 mg/L) and Nickel (0.075 mg/L). All the heavy metals analyzed exceeded the WHO/NESREA permissible limits, indicating high levels of pollutant in the wastewater. The abattoir wastewater presented total coliform counts of 8.2 x 105 CFU/100mL. The study revealed that the discharge of effluents from abattoir into the environment poses a great threat to the environment and pretreatment should be carried out before discharge
Ambient Air Particulate Matter Levels in Some Industrial Communities in Rivers State, Nigeria
No full textThis study evaluates the ambient air quality in selected communities in Port Harcourt, Eleme and Okrika Local Government Areas (LGA) of Rivers State, Nigeria, by quantitatively measuring the concentrations of key pollutants. Utilizing an experimental approach, the research involved systematic sampling and analysis of particulate matter (PM) across multiple residential and industrial areas. The data collection aimed to capture both seasonal and spatial variations. The study also assessed the meteorological parameters such as temperature, humidity, and wind speed, highlighting how these influence particulate matter across different locations. The results indicate that pollutant levels frequently exceed both national and international air quality standards, in the study areas. The results showed that pollutant levels were higher during the dry season and that there were significant spatial differences among industrial zones. PM2.5 concentrations were highest at Onne Industrial Area, Eleme (95.8 µg/m3) and lowest at Aleto, Eleme (36.7 µg/m3), with Old GRA (Control) recording 34.3 µg/m3. The highest PM10 concentration was observed at the Okrika Refinery Area (185.1 µg/m3) and the lowest at Aleto, Eleme (158.2 µg/m3), with Old GRA (Control) recording 129.1 µg/m3. PM2.5 concentrations also reduced, with the highest at Onne Industrial Area, Eleme (95.8 µg/m3) and the lowest at Aleto, Eleme (36.7 µg/m3), while Old GRA (Control) recorded 32.2 µg/m3. These elevated levels of particulate matter exceeded the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). The study recommends stringent enforcement of environmental regulations, adoption of advanced emission control technologies, and enhanced public awareness initiatives. These findings provide critical insights for policymakers and health professionals, contributing to the development of effective air quality management strategies tailored to the unique spatial dynamics of industrial regions
User Perceptions of Environmental Design in Community Clinics: Evidence from Chattogram, Bangladesh
No full textEnvironment plays a crucial role in shaping user experiences, health outcomes, and accessibility of healthcare services in resource-restricted settings. For marginalised populations, community clinics serve as the foundational layer of rural health care in Bangladesh. Despite their critical role, these clinics frequently suffer from poor environmental design as well as inadequate ventilation to spatial inefficiency and cultural insensitivity. This study examines how patients and users perceive the environmental design of 15 community clinics in Chattogram, Bangladesh. As part of the qualitative, contextual experience-based methodology, data were gathered through semi-structured interviews, participant observations, and visual documentation, and then analysed thematically with NVivo. Both functionality and psychological well-being are adversely affected by environmental factors such as thermal and visual discomfort, pest intrusion, and inadequate spatial planning. However, context-responsive adaptations, such as elevated flooring and shaded outdoor spaces, highlight the potential for community-informed design strategies. A user-centred, climate-resilient, and culturally sensitive environment is essential to enhancing clinic users\u27 safety, and health, the study concludes. As part of the recommendations, structural resilience should be enhanced, ventilation and lighting should be improved, spatial organisation should be strengthened, and locally relevant design elements should be incorporated. Insights such as these may help to rethink community healthcare environments in Chattogram and other underserved regions locally and globally
Totems Practices and Wildlife Conservation in Uganda: A Case of Selected Clans in the Buganda Kingdom
No full textTotems were originally animals or plants that had a special symbolic meaning to a group of people and were regarded as sacred objects that were worshiped and surrounded by various ritual activities. The current study aimed to synthesize the contribution of totems practices to wildlife conservation and derive a mechanism to integrate Buganda totems practices into wildlife conservation as an alternative to modern conservation practices of wildlife species and their habitats". Specifically, the study objectives focused on exploring the cultural values, beliefs and norms of totemic practices to wildlife conservation in the Buganda kingdom; and evaluated the relationship between totem practices and wildlife conservation, emphasizing the potential mediating effects of certain interventions in this nexus. The researcher employed a cross-sectional research design to achieve the stated objectives. This was because the study was based on the people’s experiences within a particular group of people. Both the qualitative and quantitative study approaches were used to collect the data. A sample size of 388 respondents were included from a target population of 13,500 individuals from the study area. The target population from which the sample was drawn included 1,500 from Mawokota, 8,000 from Busiro, and 4,000 from Buddu counties who were proportionately selected. The study also included a total of 50 key informants who were purposively selected from organisations like Buganda Heritage and Tourism Board (BTHB), Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC), and Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) who had some requisite information about the study variables. Interviews, questionnaire survey and focus group discussions were used to collect the primary data. The data obtained from the questionnaire survey were analyzed using SPSS version 23.0 and the qualitative data collected were thematically analyzed to augment on the quantitative findings. The study revealed that totemic practices of Buganda kingdom were very significant towards wildlife conservation and species’ habitat protection. The Totemic Integration Practices Sustainability Model (TIPSM) was formulated from the study findings aimed at strengthening existing conservation strategies of both totemic animals and plants in Buganda. The study affirmed that there is a need for community involvement in wildlife resources management by involving cultural institutions in Buganda while integrating them with the Buganda kingdom totemic practices. The integration of indigenous technical knowledge based on Buganda totemic practices ranks as the best solution towards wildlife threats from poaching, overharvesting, prevention of human-wildlife conflicts and countering of climate change effects in the Buganda kingdom, Uganda and world at large. The study recommends that wildlife management agencies in Uganda to involve Cultural Institutions by integrating totemic practices and modern scientific conservation strategies towards protecting and conserving wildlife resources