APPRAISAL OF LOCATIONAL CHARACTERISTICS OF ABATTOIR IN AKURE, NIGERIA.

Abstract

This study appraises the locational characteristics of abattoirs and the associated environmental effects in Akure, Nigeria. The environmental hygiene in conformity with planning standard for abattoir and its location are discussed. These discussions are intended to provide an empirical base for analyzing the impact of location of abattoir on the people’s health, facilities, sanitation and environmental quality. It examines the various stakeholders involvement and subsequent government efforts on policies with regard to abattoir location. The study adopts stratified and random sampling techniques to elicit information from respondents, through structured questionnaires administered to 120 residents and 179 abattoir operators. The tools for analysis are descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings from the study revealed that, abattoir activities and management have negative impact on the environment vis-a-vis land, air and water qualities especially abattoir where effective waste disposal system is not practiced. It also revealed that there is environmental pollution, lack of adequate management, Poor enforcement of planning laws, toilet facilities, waste water and solid waste disposal method. Policies that address implications of the research findings are highlighted with appropriate recommendations like adherence to adequate planning standard, intervention of waste management board, public environmental campaign, assistance through funding from International Bodies, establishment of Orientation Agency, stringent planning laws, and Public participation of the stakeholder and host of others. Conclusively, it is recommended that there should be urgent need to give more attention to the physical planning standard and regulation in the siting and location of abattoir in Akure, so that hygiene, comfort, aesthetic and other environmental fitness can be achieved.