GEOSPATIAL ASSESSMENT OF SUSPENDED PARTICULATE MATTER (SPM2.5)FOOTPRINTS ACROSS DOMINANT LAND USES IN CALABAR METROPOLIS, NIGERIA
Author(s): Josiah N. Obiefuna; Paul O. Ekaji; Iheoma Iwuanyanwu; Eludire O. O; Adedoyin A.T
Institute(s): 1,3 Department of Geography and Environmental Science, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, UNICAL; 2 Department of Urban and Regional Planning, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, UNICAL; 4 Department of Agricultural and Bioresources Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, University of Calabar; 5 Department of Estate Management, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, University of Calabar, Nigeria.
Volume 3 / Issue 1
Abstract
This study examined Suspended Particulate Matter, SPM 2.5 footprints in Calabar Metropolitan area using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) infrastructure. The area is a dynamic and sprawling city, comprising Calabar Municipality and Calabar South Local Government Areas, with diverse land uses. Data on the emission level of SPM were sourced within the period of 6 months in both dry 2.5 and wet seasons. The data logger used was the Crowcon Gasman. Point coordinates were collected using the Garmin GPSMap 60CSx device. An interpolation algorithm in (GIS) was employed to generate the composite map showing SPM 2.5 footprint for the metropolis. Relevant and related analytical techniques were also applied. Non-parametric statistics such as tables, graphs, charts, maps and standard deviation were also used to present the data in line with the study objectives. From the findings, F-ratio for both season and land use is significant for all the tested parameters (F- ratio for season is F(1,3224)= 511.669, at p<0.05, while for land use, F(3,3224)=299.015, at p<0.05). The interaction between seasons and land use (season * land use) for the parameters, F(3, 3224) = 211.488, P<0.05 is also significant. SPM 2.5 variability in Calabar Metropolis was found to be significant in relation to either land use types or seasons of the year. Based on the findings, mitigatory and control measures were recommended to ensure a sustainable, clean and green Calabar Metropolis.
Number of Pages: 9
Number of Words: 2862
First Page: 1
Last Page: 9