Author(s)
Ahmad-Tijani Usman, Silas Ojimaojo Umide, Adi Nwubu ATOHINKON
- Manuscript ID: 140872
- Volume: 2
- Issue: 7
- Pages: 647–665
Subject Area: Engineering
Abstract
Open burning of municipal solid waste (MSW) remains one of the major contributors to atmospheric pollution and environmental health challenges in developing countries. This study assessed the environmental and public health implications of open municipal solid waste burning in Ilorin Metropolis, Nigeria. Five major dumpsites located within residential areas namely Amilegbe, Zango, Gaa Imam, Asa Dam Road, and Lao Hajj Camp were selected for investigation. Waste characterization was conducted to determine the composition of municipal wastes, while particulate matter concentrations including PM1.0, PM2.5, PM4.0, PM10, and Total Suspended Particulates (TSP) were measured using an Aerocet 831 handheld particle monitor. Emission estimates of gaseous pollutants such as sulfur oxides (SOx), nitrogen oxides (NOx), carbon monoxide (CO), methane, and non-methane total organic compounds (TOC) were evaluated using emission factor approaches.
Results revealed significant variations in waste composition across the dumpsites, with plastics, paper, leather, and clothing materials dominating the waste streams. Measured 24-hour average PM10 concentrations ranged from 34.7 to 219.7 µg/m³, while PM2.5 concentrations ranged from 4.6 to 27.2 µg/m³. Dumpsites located at Zango, Asa Dam Road, and Lao Hajj Camp exceeded the World Health Organization (WHO) and National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) permissible limits for particulate matter. Zango dumpsite recorded the highest pollutant emission estimates with particulate emissions of 904.03 kg/yr and carbon monoxide emissions of 4746.17 kg/yr. Elevated particulate concentrations and gaseous emissions from open waste burning pose substantial risks to public health, including respiratory disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and environmental degradation.
The study concludes that uncontrolled open burning of municipal solid waste significantly deteriorates ambient air quality within Ilorin metropolis and exposes nearby residents to severe environmental and health hazards. The implementation of sustainable waste management strategies, stricter environmental regulations, and public awareness campaigns is therefore recommended to mitigate pollutant emissions and improve urban environmental quality.