Ecological and human health exposure risks to heavy metals in Oji River sediments: effect of abattoir and power station

Abstract

In this study, the ecological and human health exposure risks due to the effects of abattoir and power station on heavy metal input into the sediments of Oji River in Enugu State Nigeria were assessed. Heavy metals in the sediments were measured using atomic absorption spectrometry. Pollution of the sediments was assessed using: contamination factor (CF), degree of contamination (CD), geochemical accumulation index (I geo ) and pollution load index (PLI), whereas the ecological risk was assessed using potential ecological risk index. Non-carcinogenic risks of exposure by humans to the heavy metals were assessed using hazard index. Obtained results indicate that the abattoir contributed to heavy metal input into the sediments significantly (unlike the power station) and most likely due to the use of waste tires at the abattoir as fuel. All pollution parameters (CF, CD, I geo and PLI) reveal that pollution of the sediment with heavy metals around the abattoir is most profound and the ecological risk of heavy metals in the sediments is very high. Non-carcinogenic risk of exposure to heavy metals due to inadvertent ingestion and contact with sediments is insignificant.

Evaluation of heavy metal pollution for River Gomti, in parts of Ganga Alluvial Plain, India

“…The increased settlements due to population growth in the river vicinity has led to overexploitation and excessive water quality depletion. Thus, the resultant modifications in the aquatic ecology and riverine processes have affected the aquatic flora and fauna structure and decreased biodiversity [5]. The surface water sources have undergone various quantitative and qualitative changes while sustaining the pressure of increasing human activities.…”

Addressing Heavy Metal Pollution in Nigeria: Evaluating Policies, Assessing Impacts, and Enhancing Remediation Strategies

“…This indicates that heavy metal contamination can spread from underground water sources to other water sources, amplifying the environmental and health risks associated with it. Furthermore, the assessment of ecological and human health exposure risks to heavy metals in Oji River sediments in Enugu State, Nigeria, has revealed the influence of abattoir and power station activities on heavy metal input into the sediments (Ugochukwu et al, 2019). This highlights the specific sources of heavy metal contamination and their contribution to the overall environmental impact.…”