SURVEY OF VEHICULAR EMISSION WITHIN AKURE METROPOLIS, NIGERIA AND IMPLICATIONS FOR AIR QUALITY

Abstract

The primary purpose of this exploratory research is to conduct air pollution surveys by observing the concentration of carbon monoxide (CO) - a vehicular emission, noise level at selected points and comparing with the standards proposed by the Nigeria Federal Ministry of Environment (FMEnv.), United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and World Health Organization (WHO). Seven sampling areas which are located along the central road traversing the city of Akure, have been chosen for the study. Data for this research were collected in real-time through the use of a portable, Digital Flue gas analyser (Model DWYER 1207A) and a Digital Noise Meter. A key result from this study is that out of the seven sampling areas monitored, two hot spots have been detected in the city, namely Araromi and Olukayode where standard organization limits were exceeded with CO concentration of 36ppm and 38ppm respectively. Also, the highest noise level was recorded at Olukayode (110dB, 115dB), for both morning and evening observation. Results further revealed that motor vehicle remains the dominant sources of urban air and noise pollution as revealed in the relationship between the traffic counts and CO emissions; and between noise level and traffic congestion. The study reveals that transport-related pollution in Akure is significant and suggests improvements in the public transportation system with regulations and incentives to encourage the use of lesspolluting or non-polluting alternatives so as to maintain the air quality levels within the tolerable limits.