Air Pollution Assessment from Plastic Waste Combustion in Residential Areas near Dumpsites in Port Harcourt

Abstract

The The combustion of plastic waste near urban dumping and incineration sites in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria, poses significant environmental and public health challenges. This study evaluated air quality and health risks at five major dumpsites Eneka, Igbo-Etche, Bori, Oyigbo, and Rukpokwu during the dry season. Key air pollutants, including particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), carbon monoxide (CO), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and dioxins, were measured. Results showed PM2.5 concentrations ranging from 85 µg/m³ to 170 µg/m³, far exceeding the WHO's 24-hour guideline of 15 µg/m³. Similarly, NOx levels peaked at 240 ppb, surpassing the 100 ppb limit. Contamination Factor (CF) analysis revealed severe contamination levels for PM2.5 (CF: 5.7–11.3) and NOx (CF: 2.4), while the Degree of Contamination (DC) indicated an alarming cumulative pollution level across all sites (DC: 45–78). Health risk assessments showed a 35% higher prevalence of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases among residents within 2 km of the sites, with children and the elderly being the most affected. The findings underscore the urgent need for improved waste management, stricter environmental policies, and community education to mitigate the adverse effects of plastic waste combustion. By presenting critical data on contamination and associated health risks, this research aims to guide policymakers in developing sustainable strategies to protect vulnerable populations and improve urban air quality in Port Harcourt, Nigeria.