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Environmental Wellness in Nigeria: Air and Water Pollution

Tecy Igbadume
Air and Water Pollution

Vanguard News

  In Nigeria, environmental pollution, including air and water pollution, takes a backseat to discussions on economic factors and poverty alleviation. However, overlooking these environmental issues can lead to severe consequences. Pollution risks human health and impedes economic progress by depleting natural resources crucial for livelihoods. Moreover, environmental degradation exacerbates poverty by reducing agricultural yields, increasing healthcare expenses, and limiting access to clean water.
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Air pollution in Nigeria

Air pollution presents a significant challenge in Nigeria, particularly in densely populated cities like Lagos and Port Harcourt, due to a variety of intertwined factors. The primary contributors include unchecked industrial emissions, escalating vehicular exhaust, and extensive deforestation coupled with widespread biomass burning. Industries, operating with minimal oversight, discharge substantial volumes of harmful pollutants, exacerbating the air quality crisis. Likewise, the surge in vehicular traffic across Nigerian roads significantly adds to emissions such as carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides. The repercussions of this pollution are severe, especially for public health. Respiratory ailments like asthma and bronchitis are rampant, especially affecting vulnerable demographics like children and the elderly. Moreover, prolonged exposure to polluted air has been directly linked to increased instances of cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, these emissions play a role in exacerbating climate change, further disrupting the delicate environmental balance. Resolving Nigeria’s air pollution dilemma demands coordinated action on various fronts, including the enforcement of stricter regulations on industrial emissions, investment in cleaner technologies, promotion of public transportation, and adoption of sustainable land management practices.

Water Pollution in Nigeria

Water pollution in Nigeria, particularly in the Niger Delta region, presents a grave challenge with profound repercussions. The discharge of industrial waste, runoff from agriculture, and inadequate sanitation systems all contribute to the contamination of water sources, posing significant risks to both human health and the environment. In the Niger Delta region, this issue is especially severe due to extensive oil extraction operations. Communities here are compelled to reside amidst polluted waters, as oil spills and leaks contaminate their primary water sources of rivers and creeks. Consequently, aquatic ecosystems suffer severe disruption, leading to a decline in biodiversity.
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Waterborne illnesses like cholera, typhoid, and dysentery are rampant in these contaminated waters, perpetually threatening the health of residents. Moreover, the pollution of drinking water sources exacerbates health risks, perpetuating a cycle of illness and hardship. Beyond its impact on human health, water pollution severely affects aquatic life and ecosystems. The loss of biodiversity is substantial, with once-thriving ecosystems succumbing to pollution’s toxic effects. Disruption of aquatic habitats further diminishes fish populations, exacerbating food insecurity in local communities. Addressing water pollution in Nigeria, especially in the Niger Delta region, requires urgent and concerted action. Efforts must be made to improve waste management practices, enforce stricter regulations on industrial discharge, and invest in sustainable sanitation systems. Additionally, accountability measures must be put in place to ensure that oil extraction activities do not continue to devastate the delicate balance of the region’s ecosystems.

The Solution

  1. The Role of the Government

Governments play a pivotal role in addressing air and water pollution by employing a range of regulatory and enforcement actions. This involves establishing and ensuring compliance with environmental standards, conducting extensive monitoring and research efforts, and actively advocating for the adoption of clean technologies. Moreover, governmental bodies should engage in partnerships with industries, communities, and international entities to craft strategies aimed at curbing pollution levels and safeguarding public health and the environment. Through the implementation of policies such as emissions standards and regulations governing water quality, governments at various levels can effectively minimize the adverse effects of pollution and foster the creation of a healthier, more sustainable environment for everyone.

  1. Community Engagement and Awareness

The responsibility for addressing air and water pollution doesn’t solely rest with the government; community engagement and awareness are equally critical. Education and outreach initiatives empower communities to understand the root causes and consequences of pollution, nurturing a profound sense of environmental accountability. This newfound awareness often sparks behavioural shifts, such as waste reduction and adopting sustainable practices. Moreover, community involvement extends to organizing clean-up drives, lobbying for policy reforms, and backing local sustainability endeavours. By actively participating in such efforts, communities can significantly impact pollution mitigation and foster a culture of environmental stewardship.

  1. Technological Solutions

Technological innovations are pivotal in addressing air and water pollution, offering promising solutions to these urgent environmental issues. From advanced filtration systems to renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, these innovations have the potential to significantly lower pollution levels and promote sustainability. In tackling air pollution, advancements in clean energy sources provide alternatives to fossil fuels, reducing harmful emissions. Similarly, developments in more efficient combustion engines and emission control technologies contribute to cleaner transportation and industrial practices. Regarding water pollution, innovative wastewater treatment methods like membrane filtration and advanced oxidation processes play a crucial role in removing contaminants from water sources.
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Conclusion

Technological innovations offer promising solutions to combat air and water pollution, with advanced filtration systems, renewable energy technologies, and innovative wastewater treatment methods leading the charge. However, effective action requires collaboration among government, communities, and industries. Governments must enact and enforce stringent environmental regulations, while communities engage in advocacy for policy changes. Industries also play a vital role by adopting cleaner technologies and sustainable practices. Collective efforts are essential for achieving environmental wellness in Nigeria. Addressing pollution is not only crucial for sustainable development but also for safeguarding biodiversity and promoting resilient communities. By prioritizing environmental protection alongside economic growth, Nigeria can chart a course toward a more prosperous and sustainable future.
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Sources: Niehs.nih.gov | Nrdc.org/stories
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