Abayomi Isaac Adeleke, Bamidele Sunday Fakinle, Olayemi Abosede Odunlami and Jacob Ademola Sonibare
The study investigated the heavy metal flux around the vicinity of a steel recycling factory using passive biomonitoring technique with several pollution indices to assess the…
Abstract
Purpose
The study investigated the heavy metal flux around the vicinity of a steel recycling factory using passive biomonitoring technique with several pollution indices to assess the quality of the ambient environment.
Design/methodology/approach
The vegetation around the facility was identified, and the most abundant species were selected for analysis. The collected samples were dried, milled, sieved and analyzed for elemental composition using energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (ED-XRF). Pollution indices were used to quantitatively assess the data.
Findings
Results show that maximum contamination occurs at the vicinity of factory. Generally, the deterioration of the ambient air around the vicinity of the steel recycling plant decreases with increasing distance from the steel recycling plant. However, for the radius considered in this study – 1 km, the ambient air at 1 km of the steel recycling facility is quickly deteriorating, and there is an urgent need for measures to mitigate the air quality impact of the steel recycling facility.
Originality/value
The study shows that the metal recycling process emits high levels of heavy metals to the environment, and there is an urgent need for personal protective equipment for the human population working in and around the close proximity of the recycling plant.
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O.B. Okedere, J.A. Sonibare, B.S. Fakinle and L.A. Jimoda
The aim of this paper is to provide basic information on the types of particulate cyclones separators used in the chemical and process industries, their principles of operation…
Abstract
Purpose
The aim of this paper is to provide basic information on the types of particulate cyclones separators used in the chemical and process industries, their principles of operation and factors affecting their performance.
Design/methodology/approach
A general review of the types of particle cleaning cyclones used in the chemical and process industries was carried out and the principles guiding their operation and performance discussed. Information which could aid the choice of cyclone for new applications is also discussed.
Findings
It was concluded that the choice of cyclone for any application is associated with a trade‐off between two contrasting performance indicators (collection efficiency and pressure drop). Adequate and accurate data gathering is essential right from the design stage for smooth operation of cyclone.
Originality/value
The paper highlights the general principle of operation of cyclone separators and the factors that affect their performance.
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Jamiu Adetayo Adeniran, Rafiu O. Yusuf, Michael O. Amole, Lukuman Adekilekun Jimoda and Jacob Ademola Sonibare
The introduction of mobile telecommunication services in Nigeria led to the development of base transceiver stations (BTS) across the country. Inadequate power supply from the…
Abstract
Purpose
The introduction of mobile telecommunication services in Nigeria led to the development of base transceiver stations (BTS) across the country. Inadequate power supply from the national grid has led to massive use of diesel-fueled back-up generators (BUGs). The purpose of this paper is to attempt to quantify and inform relevant stakeholders about air quality implications of BTS BUGs.
Design/methodology/approach
Seven major telecommunication network operators were identified. Emission factor approach was used to estimate the quantity of important air pollutants such as NOx, CO, SO2, PM10, PM2.5, PAH and TVOC that are emitted from the use of the BUGs based on fuel consumption rate and generators’ capacity. Fuel-based emission inventory and emission factor from the United States Environmental Protection Agency AP-42 and National Pollution Inventory were used to estimate pollutants emission from diesel-powered generators used in the BTS sites and amount of diesel consumed. Land distribution and per capita dose of the estimated pollutants load were calculated.
Findings
The study showed that the deployment of BUGs will lead to increase emissions of these air pollutants. The states that are most affected are Lagos, Kano and Oyo, Katsina and Akwa Ibom states with respective total air pollutants contribution of 9,539.61, 9,445.34, 8,276.46, 7,805.14 and 7,220.70 tonnes/yr.
Originality/value
This study has estimated pollutant emissions from the use of diesel-fueled BUGs in mobile telecommunications BTS sites in Nigeria. The data obtained could assist in policy making.
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Andrew Ebekozien, Marvelous Aigbedion, Okechukwu Saviour Dominic Duru, Oguike Hyginus Udeagwu and Ibeabuchi Lawrence Aginah
Studies have proved that wood sawmill workers are exposed to high occupational risks if not well managed. In developing countries, many wood sawmills are found in urban and…
Abstract
Purpose
Studies have proved that wood sawmill workers are exposed to high occupational risks if not well managed. In developing countries, many wood sawmills are found in urban and semi-urban areas. Studies exploring how residents near these wood sawmills perceive and react to these risks is scarce in Nigeria. The application of the fourth industrial revolution (4IR) technology is possibly one of the ways to manage the likely hazards. This study aims to investigate the possible hazards associated with timber sawmills in residential areas and the role of 4IR technologies in proffering feasible solutions to mitigate them in Nigeria’s cities.
Design/methodology/approach
Data were sourced from three cities and nine sawmills across Nigeria. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with authoritative participants (residents, environmentalists, government agencies, sawmill owners, 4IR technology experts and medical experts) who have been championing the regulation and safety of timber sawmill locations within the cities (Lagos, Benin City and Owerri) via a phenomenology type of qualitative research and supplemented by secondary sources.
Findings
Findings show that timber sawmills are located across the three cities in Nigeria and may have contributed to the health and environmental challenges of the people living in the neighbourhood. The identified hazards were grouped into three sub-themes (physical, health and environmental hazards). Findings identify robots, modularisation, cyber-physical systems, the internet of things and services and human-computer interaction as the digitalised technology that can be used in sawmills to mitigate hazards for the benefit of mankind.
Research limitations/implications
The paper is limited to hazards that residents in timber sawmills locations may face in Nigeria’s cities and data collected via face-to-face 23 interviews. The paper’s referral to past publications in the findings and discussion section compensated for the small sample size.
Practical implications
As part of this paper’s implications, the emerged recommendations will strengthen collaboration with relevant stakeholders regarding control measures via the use of 4IR technologies in timber sawmills. This will stir up policymakers to develop possible policies that will promote and create the platform for the implementation of 4IR technologies in city sawmills.
Originality/value
Apart from probably being the first paper to explore the hazards of residents in timber sawmill locations and proffer solutions via the usage of the 4IR technology, this paper’s contribution emphasis the need for in-depth future studies regarding the risk perceptions of Nigeria’s residents living in timber sawmill area.
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Solomon O. Giwa, Collins N. Nwaokocha and Hezekiah O. Adeyemi
Nigeria, a prominent country in Sub-Sahara Africa, is plagued with a protracted, erratic and low power supply. The purpose of this paper is to present an experimental…
Abstract
Purpose
Nigeria, a prominent country in Sub-Sahara Africa, is plagued with a protracted, erratic and low power supply. The purpose of this paper is to present an experimental investigation of the noise levels and pollutants’ (CO, CO2 and particulate matter (PM2.5)) concentrations associated with the prevalent use of diesel-powered generators in the country. It is aimed to provide information on the level of gaseous, particulate and noise pollutants that are related to diesel-powered generators that could assist in policy formulation and create public awareness on the possible health risks.
Design/methodology/approach
Diesel-fueled generators (105) with age and installed capacity ranging from 0.5 to 14 years and 10 to 500 kVA, respectively, were engaged in this work at Sango area of Ogun State, Nigeria. Standard measuring instruments were placed at 1 m from the diesel-powered generators to determine the noise levels and concentrations of CO, CO2 and PM2.5.
Findings
Ranges of 72.6–115.6 dB, 19–198 ppm, 501–5,805 ppm and 221–492 µg/m3 for the noise level, CO, CO2 and PM2.5 concentrations, respectively, were obtained. Both the averages and ranges of the noise levels and pollutants’ concentrations were considerably higher than the recommended maximum limits. Thus, this study substantiated the pollution of ambient noise and air because of the operation of diesel-fueled generators. Furthermore, the health risks connected to the exposure to CO and PM2.5 as implied via the evaluation of the air quality index revealed very unhealthy and hazardous conditions, respectively.
Research limitations/implications
The measurement of the pollutants’ concentrations at the tips of the exhaust pipes of the diesel-powered generators was desirable but could not be achieved using manually logged devices. Nonetheless, adequate pollutants’ concentration data that satisfactorily represent the level of air pollution associated with diesel-fueled generators’ operations were obtained at around 1 m from the exhaust pipes.
Practical implications
The study provided additional knowledge on the levels of noise and pollutants, and the public health risks connected to the operations of diesel-powered generators that will be beneficial to the public and policymakers.
Originality/value
The results revealed a considerably high level of noise and air pollution, and the inherent environmental and public health problems connected to diesel-powered generators’ usage in Nigeria. This could serve as a viable tool for formulating environmental policy and providing the necessary societal awareness in this regard.
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Hüccet Vural, Ayşenur Akbana and Alperen Meral
One of the problems that urbanization creates on the ecosystem is the increase of heavy metal accumulation of the urban lands. Due to constant urbanization and industrialization…
Abstract
Purpose
One of the problems that urbanization creates on the ecosystem is the increase of heavy metal accumulation of the urban lands. Due to constant urbanization and industrialization in many parts of the world, metals are constantly spreading to the environment and pose a great threat to human health. The purpose of the study is to determine the effect of heavy metal accumulation values of the lands located in Bingöl city center on the urban ecosystem by examining them in terms of zonal and land-use classification.
Design/methodology/approach
The research was conducted on 30 samples taken from five zones and six land-use classes (traffic area-TA, school area-SA, commercial-industry area-CA, green space-GS, residential area-RA and open space-OS). Heavy metal deposits of soil samples were determined in accredited laboratories using the Inductively Coupled Plasma – Mass Spectrometer (ICP-MS) and Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (AAS) device. The study employed the SPSS program for statistical analysis of laboratory results, and ArcGIS Pro programs were used to determine spatial pollution distribution.
Findings
Although the heavy metal contents of soil samples pose no problems in terms of national and international standards, a number of zones carry risks for the future. In the analyzes, traffic and settlement area soils in terms of land-use classifications and Zone 5 soils in terms of zonal distribution were determined as ecologically risky areas.
Originality/value
The study provided suggestions on what should be done to use the results of the research in planning the physical development of the city.
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Rachida El Morabet, Roohul Abad Khan, Soufiane Bouhafa and Larbi Barhazi
Air quality and its assessment in urban areas has become a necessity. This is attributed to the increasing air pollution in urban landscape from anthropogenic activities necessary…
Abstract
Purpose
Air quality and its assessment in urban areas has become a necessity. This is attributed to the increasing air pollution in urban landscape from anthropogenic activities necessary for economic growth and development. This study investigates air quality and potential health risk posed from nitrogen dioxide (NO2) to the residents of low town of Mohammedia city, Morocco.
Design/methodology/approach
The NO2 concentration was measured on an hourly basis for the winter season of the year 2014, 2015 and 2016. The air quality was assessed in terms of Air Quality Index (AQI). Noncarcinogenic risk assessment was done to evaluate possible health risk to the inhabitant of low town from NO2 exposure.
Findings
The maximum concentration reached 85–96 µg/m3 (at 6 p.m., 2014), 96–104 µg/m3 (7–9 p.m., 2015) and 102–117 (8–11 p.m., 2016). The AQI during maximum NO2 levels (peak hours) ranged between 0–50 µg/m3 (good) to 51–100 µg/m3 (unhealthy for sensitive group). The risk quotient (RQ) was calculated for average daily intake and average hourly intake of NO2. RQ was found to be less than 1 (no potential health risk, lifetime and hourly) for all three years. However, increase in RQ value from 0.84 (2014) to 0.98 (2016) indicates increase in potential health risk. Hence, policy and measures should be adopted to reduce the potential health risk.
Originality/value
This study is very first of its kind for the area and hence can serve as reference study for future works. Further studies are required to assess air pollution in other seasons (summer, spring, autumn), impact of climatic condition and parameters on air quality. Also, for direct impact assessment number of cases attributed to air pollution needs to be investigated.
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Jacob Ademola Sonibare, Jamiu Adetayo Adeniran, Bamidele Sunday Fakinle, Ismaila O. Latinwo, Lukuman Adekilekun Jimoda and Olusesan Abel Olu-Arotiowa
– The aim of this paper is to investigate the impacts of the noise from the diesel engine power generators used for production activities in an urban environment.
Abstract
Purpose
The aim of this paper is to investigate the impacts of the noise from the diesel engine power generators used for production activities in an urban environment.
Design/methodology/approach
This study has used the Enterprise Edition of NoiseMap 2000 Version 2.7.1 to investigate the impacts of the noise from the diesel engines electric power generators used in a factory in Ikorodu, an urban environment in Lagos, Nigeria. Five sections of the factory with diesel engines electric power generators were considered. The immediate and distant environments covering about 10 km of the factory host environment were considered as receptors to the noise for this study.
Findings
It was found out that when all the generators operate simultaneously in the factory, the ambient noise was 30.0-152.5 dB(A) with the minimum contribution within the factory being 70.0-84.4 dB(A) and the maximum contribution of 57.2-70.8 dB(A) outside the factory fence line. Though the maximum noise is 152.5 dB(A), the maximum noise of 70.8 dB(A) beyond the fence line shows a compliance with 70 dB(A) industrial and commercial area limit but breaches the 45 dB(A) and 55 dB(A) residential area limit of the World Bank.
Research limitations/implications
As much as it would be desirable ambient noise level could not be measured in all the receptors’ locations covered by the modeling. However, the capability of the modeling software adopted makes this to have no negative impact on the quality of the findings of this study.
Practical implications
The study will assist the public to determine the noise level safe region around diesel engine electric power generators.
Originality/value
The paper highlights the challenges in which ambient noise from the use of off-grid generators used for industrial purposes could pose to the neighboring receptor environments.
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Luosong Jin, Weidong Liu, Cheng Chen, Wei Wang and Houyin Long
With the advent of the information age, this paper aims to apply risk analysis theories to study the risk prevention mechanism of information disclosure, thus supporting the green…
Abstract
Purpose
With the advent of the information age, this paper aims to apply risk analysis theories to study the risk prevention mechanism of information disclosure, thus supporting the green electricity supply.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper conducts a comprehensive evaluation and analysis of the impact of power market transactions, power market operations and effective government supervision, so as to figure out the core risk content of power market information disclosure. Moreover, AHP-entropy method is adopted to weigh different indicators of information disclosure risks for the participants in the electricity market.
Findings
The potential reasons for information disclosure risk in the electricity market include insufficient information disclosure, high cost of obtaining information, inaccurate information disclosure, untimely information disclosure and unfairness of information disclosure.
Originality/value
Some suggestions and implications on risk prevention mechanism of information disclosure in the electricity market are provided, so as to ensure the green electricity supply and promote the electricity market reform in China.