SOIL POLLUTION ASSESSMENT LINKED TO WASTE DISPOSAL IN NSUKKA ENVIRONMENT

Abstract

Rapid urban growth and population increase in Nigeria have exacerbated the problem of solid waste management, resulting in widespread environmental challenges. Studies indicate that household waste generation in Nigeria ranges between 0.44 and 0.66 kg per person per day, with an estimated annual solid waste production of approximately 45 million tonnes. This high volume of waste is often improperly disposed of, accumulating along roadsides, commercial areas, and even within educational institutions. In Southeastern Nigeria, particularly Enugu State, improper disposal of industrial, domestic, and agricultural waste has become a significant environmental concern. Soil, as a vital component of the ecosystem, plays a crucial role in supporting food production, water filtration, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity. The interaction between waste disposal and soil quality is critical, as unregulated dumping can lead to soil contamination, reduced fertility, and long-term environmental degradation. This study evaluates the health of soils in relation to waste disposal sites at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, with the aim of understanding the impact of solid waste on soil properties and ecosystem services. The findings provide insight into sustainable waste management practices and strategies for preserving soil functionality in urban and peri-urban environments.