Uncontrolled Dumpsite Activities as a Catalyst for Ecosystem Services Distortion and Biodiversity Loss in the Aluu Precinct of Rivers State

Authors: NWAKIRI N*, BROWN I and IYAMA WA

DOI: 10.23880/oajwx-16000194

Volume 7, Issue 1

Abstract

The processes of disposing of household and industrial waste have in recent times become a daunting task for waste managers in growing economies like Nigeria. It has become so difficult to find a suitable site to locate receptacles that most waste managers choose to harness and convert derelict mine sites such as borrow pits as final dumpsites. Such actions have over time caused colossal damage to the environment leading to other health-related hazards and distortions in the ecosystem in addition to phenomenal biodiversity loss. This study was designed to assess the effects of waste dumpsites on biodiversity and ecosystem services within the Aluu Precinct of Rivers State. The study is a cross-sectional survey that adopted the quantitative strategy as it aims to measure and test the effect of waste dumpsites on biodiversity and ecosystem services within the Aluu Precinct using objective and reliable methods. A representative sample of airborne bacteria was collected at three different points within the dumpsite using a High-Volume Air Sampler (HVAS). The study used a plate count method to identify and quantify the airborne bacteria from the HVAS samples, and further deployed descriptive statistics to analyse the data and answer the research questions. Findings indicate that there is a concentration of airborne microorganisms in the three samples collected at different distances from the dumpsite, result indicates that dumpsite activities have a negative impact on the biodiversity and ecosystem services in the study area, as the concentration of almost all the microorganisms except E. coli exceeds the safety limits in all three samples, implying a high level of bioaerosol contamination in the air near the dump site. The study recommends amongst others constant engagement with the local authorities, communities, and waste management agencies to ensure effective waste disposal and minimize environmental harm. Establish long-term monitoring programs to track biodiversity recovery. Measure changes in species diversity, soil quality, and vegetation.

Keywords: Aluu Precinct; Biodiversity; Catalyst; Dumpsite; Ecosystem Services

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