Journal of Geography, Meteorology and Environment
Journal of Geography, Meteorology and Environment is a publication of the Department of Geography and Meteorology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. Areas of research focus include: Applied Ecology, Biodiversity Conservation, Water Resources Use and Management, Hydrology, Geomorphology and Geological Applications, Environmental Economics, Population and Demography, Waste and Pollution Management, Environmental Impact Assessment, Energy Efficiency, Use and Transition, Resource Management, Tourism and Hospitality, Climate Science, Aviation and Agro-Meteorology, Global Environmental Change.
Department of Geography and Meteorology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Anambra State Nigeria
Frequency and Distribution Patterns of Maximum Consecutive Dry and Wet Spell in North Western Nigeria
This study analyses the frequency and distribution pattern of maximum consecutive dry and wet spells in Northwestern Nigeria during the growing season from June to September, using the Anderson-Darling Normality Test. Daily rainfall data were sourced from the archives of the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, Abuja, covering the period from 1980 to 2021. The frequency of the Maximum Consecutive Dry Days (MCDD) and Maximum Consecutive Wet Days (MCWD) was calculated using a frequency programme in Microsoft Excel. The results showed that maximum consecutive dry periods ranged from 4 to 7 days, while maximum consecutive wet days ranged from 1 to 5 days. Irregular distribution patterns of wet and dry spells were observed across all states, except in Katsina, where results indicated a uniform distribution pattern, with a P-value of -0.049 for dry spells in July. Information regarding the distribution pattern of maximum consecutive dry and wet spell lengths needs to be well understood at the grassroots levels to avoid the risk of drought and flooding and ensure food security.
Climate Change Challenges for Cattle Farmers in Fundong Sub- Division, North West Region, Cameroon
This study assessed the vulnerability of cattle production to climate variability in Fundong Subdivision, with a focus on understanding the specific climatic risks faced by cattle farmers. To achieve this, a mixed research approach was adopted. Rainfall and temperature data from the Fundong sub-divisional delegation for Agriculture was used to established the actual state of climate variability in the area from 1981-2023. A total of 80 questionnaires were successfully administered to purposively selected rearers and interviews conducted with stakeholders in the Agro-pastoral sector. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were employed for data analysis. Findings revealed that climate variability is high. The inter-annual rainfall stands at 170 mm, with a declining trend. Rainfall has been on a downward trend since 2000, and the trend appears irreversible as the rainfall has been unreliable during the 2011- 2021 decade. This is associated with a decreasing average number of rainy days. In the same light, the mean annual temperature has been increasing temperature trend in Fundong since 2001. Between 1981 and 2023, the mean temperature has increased by 7.8oC, much higher than the global mean of 1.5oC. Rising temperatures against a backdrop dropping rainfall has negative impacts on crop production systems and other sources of livelihoods. Farmers perceived that their output has been decreasing as a result of climate and other production factors. The impacts of climate variability on the Fundong rangeland are pasture degradation, outbreak of climate related diseases, invasion by noxious plants species, reduction in the volume of water courses, conflict between rearers and farmers over resources as well as the modification of the agro-pastoral calendar. To reduce the effect of climate variability and change, pastoralist should incorporate different water harvesting and irrigation technologies with their local adaptation strategies
Geospatial Analysis of Land Cover Change Impact on Flood Risk in Anambra East Local Government Area of Anambra State, Nigeria
This study was driven by the need to determine the effect of vegetation loss, topography modification and structural development to persistent flooding in Anambra East Local Government Area of Anambra State. The research employed Geographic Information System and Remote Sensing methodology for its data gathering, visualization and spatial analysis. Multi-temporal Landsat TM, ETM+ and OLI of 2001, 2012 and 2023 imageries were obtained at 11years interval. The LULC analysis revealed the dominance of five (5) classes - Bare Land, Built Up, Dense Vegetation, Farmland/Sparse Vegetation, and Water Body. The Built-up and water Body classes were observed to consistently increase over time in the study area. Built up increased by 22.1sq km from 2001 to 2023, and water bodies increased by 1.2 sq.km. Dense vegetation though appreciated to 26.6sq.km within the period but was confined mainly in southern part and along Oyi River valley. However, Farmland/sparse vegetation lost 17.6sqkm of its spatial extent within the same time, and Bare land lost its 32.4sqkm spatial extent too. It was observed that built-up class and paved surfaces increased both in spatial extent and density over the period, and extended heavily along Anambra River floodplains. It was further observed that continuous extension of built up into flood prone areas posed dangers of increasing overland flow, constricting the natural river flow, braiding river channels, aiding river depositional processes and increasing chances of severe flooding in the area during torrential rainfalls. The study therefore recommended among others that government should enforce extant city and building regulations and initiate intensive agro forestry and green belt developments along Anambra River and areas experiencing massive urbanization to regulate surface runoff and annual inundation of the river banks
Indoor Relative Humidity Characteristics in Selected Low-Income Buildings in the Different Ecological Belts of Rivers State: Implication for Thermal Comfort Condition
This study examined the indoor relative humidity (RH) characteristics of selected low-income residential buildings across three ecological belts (Derived Savannah, Coastal Vegetation, and Rain Forest) of Rivers State, Nigeria. The thrust of the study was to examine RH observed and implications for thermal comfort in low-income buildings in the area. The study deployed the experimental research design to establish the variation in Relative humidity characteristics in the area. RH data were collected from 15 three-bedroom bungalows (five per ecological belt) for a period of six months (January to June 2024). The Acurite 00613 data loggers with ±1% precision was used. Data were logged at four climatological hours daily (00:00, 06:00, 12:00, and 18:00). ANOVA was applied to determine the spatial variations in RH across the ecological belts. Results revealed that RH was high across all belts, and exceeded ASHRAE's recommended 30–60% comfort range. Peak RH was recorded in June in the Derived Savannah (81.4% ± 1.11), followed by Coastal Vegetation (78.3% ± 1.17) and Rain Forest (76.9% ± 1.03). The lowest RH was in April in the Rain Forest (65.1% ± 1.24). Notably, March RH was highest in the Coastal belt (73.2% ± 1.14), with standard deviations ranging from ±0.89 to ±2.11 across the sampled months. ANOVA results showed statistically significant spatial RH difference in March (F = 8.4, p = .000) and June (F = 7.0, p = .001), but not in January, February, April, or May (at p > .05). A consistent diurnal RH pattern emerged with RH peaked at 00:00 hrs. (85% in June) and dropped by 12:00 hrs. (68%). Performed spatial mapping revealed highest RH in Khana, Andoni, and Ahoada West (69.58%), and lowest in urbanized LGAs like Port Harcourt (65.72%). These findings emphasize the urgent need for ecologically responsive building designs targeted at managing the excess indoor humidity, while enhancing thermal comfort in low-income housing.
Land Suitability Analysis for the Commercial Cultivation of Jatropha Curcas Linneaus in Yobe State, Nigeria
This study assessed land suitability for the commercial cultivation of Jatropha curcas L. in Yobe State, Nigeria, using geospatial techniques and multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA). Eight criteria were analyzed: rainfall, temperature, soil texture, soil pH, land use/land cover, slope, proximity to roads, and proximity to gas stations. Each criterion was mapped and standardized using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and reclassified in ArcGIS 10.8 to identify optimal sites for cultivation and estimate potential biofuel and electricity output. Results showed that suitability levels varied across the state. Highly suitable areas covered approximately 11.15%–49.72% of the land depending on the factor considered. AHP weights revealed rainfall (21.1%), soil texture (14.9%), and temperature (14.5%) as the most influential factors, while road proximity (7.6%) had the least impact. Overlay analysis indicated that 23.32% of the southern region is highly suitable, 34.56% moderately suitable, and 42.12% marginally suitable for large-scale cultivation of J. curcas. The estimated energy generation potential from these areas was 689,726.05 m³ of biofuel which could be produced through transesterification, suitable for industrial lubricants, cosmetics, agro-biopesticides, and livestock feed supplements. Additionally, the fuel has the potential to generate approximately 7,138,664.6 kWh of electricity annually, offering an opportunity to power homes and devices, particularly in rural communities with limited access to energy. The findings underscore the economic and environmental importance of site selection for bioenergy projects. It recommends strategic investments in both small-and large-scale cultivation of J. curcas in identified suitable areas to support energy access, climate resilience, and rural development.
Determination of Groundwater Producing Zones in Kaduna Metropolis, Kaduna State, Nigeria
This study investigated groundwater producing zones in Kaduna metropolis using remote sensing and GIS techniques. The data used are Landsat 8 (OLI) 30m, Aster (30m), geologic, soil and topographic maps of the study area to generate the land use-land cover, slope, geologic rock types, soil textures and drainage density. All the attributes of each factor were rated and classified according to their importance to groundwater occurrence. Each factor was also weighted according to their importance to groundwater by using the Modified DRASTIC Model for simulation and integration. The weighted overlay technique was used in ArcGIS 10.0 to determine groundwater-producing zones. Groundwater potential map generated were classified into four classes that describe the productivity of each cell in the study area for groundwater exploration. These classes are poor, moderate, good and very good. It was found that about 30% of the area was classified as very good and found to be concentrated in the central part of the study area. About 26% and 23% of the area were classified as good and moderate areas respectively. The rest of the study area (21%) was classified as poor and found in northeast and southwest part of the study area. This result was verified against existing well data and field observations to validate the accuracy of the model. Geology and geomorphology were the most effective among the six factors as the major chief determinants of groundwater accumulation. The study recommends that other factors that affect groundwater accumulation should be incorporated in future research.
Geographical Analysis of Gully Erosion Site in Ekwueme Square, Awka Using Remote Sensing and GIS Techniques
This research work focused on the Geographical Analysis of Alex Ekwueme Square Gully Erosion Site Awka, employing advanced techniques in Remote Sensing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Key findings include a V-shaped head indicating subsoil resistance, a trapezoidal mid-section suggesting increased bank erosion, and a flat-tailed end signifying initial intense runoff. The site's elevations varied from 90m to 103m at the head, indicating erosion-resistant subsoil. Elevations at the tail ranged from 58m to 64m, showcasing a consistent cross-section profile and intense surface runoff during initial development. The gully site is located at the foot of the Ifite hill, sloping towards the Obibia River. Slope analysis revealed inclined landscapes ranging from 0° to 21.5°, contributing to surface runoff and erosion. The highest slope regions, predominantly facing eastward and north-eastward, converge in the gully site, indicating potential for increased gully erosion. Land use and land cover changes from 2012 to 2023 revealed urban development encroaching on vegetated areas, with built-up areas increasing from 0.51 sq.km. in 2012 to 0.83 sq.km. in 2023. The vegetation class suffered significant spatial losses, indicating an increasing trend of urban development impacting densely vegetated areas. Over the period the gully's length fluctuated, peaking at 1,384m in 2018, which prompted Nigeria Erosion and Watershed Management Project (NEWMAP) to commence GRASS project. This research paper recommends establishing monitoring systems using remote sensing and GIS technologies to track changes in the gully site over time.
Analysis of Soil Heavy Metal Pollution in Automobile Workshops in Nnewi North, Anambra State
Heavy metal contamination from activities in automobile workshops is of public health concern. These heavy metals can remain in the environment over time. This study examined the concentration of soil heavy metal pollution in automobile workshops. To achieve the main objective, purposive sampling was adopted and 8 sites were identified of which 5 out of eight automobile workshops were selected and another sampling site which has no influence of automobile workshop activities was selected as the control. Soil samples from these areas were collected at a depth of 0-15cm using a locally fabricated stainless soil auger and a control sample was also collected for result comparison. The contamination level of the soil was calculated using the geo-accumulation index, the 5-sample site for Cd ranged from 1.6 - 73.93 mg kg-1,0.84 mg kg-1- 6.39 mg kg- 1 Cu, 0.06 – 5.28 mg kg- 1Pb, 1.16 – 1.99 mg kg-1 Zn, 0.4 – 2.13 mg kg-1 As, 1.56 – 3.03 mg kg-1Hg. Samples 1,2,3,4,5 indicated a non-contamination level for Ni while Zn and As values for sampled site 1, 2, 3 and 4 ranging from 0.4 -2.13 mg kg 1indicate an uncontaminated to moderately contaminated level. One-tailed ANOVA was employed to test the statistical difference in the concentration of heavy metals in the sampled sites. The result from the statistics showed a p-value of 0.002 which is <0.05. This suggests that the different sampled sites contribute differently to the concentration of heavy metals. There is a need for strict enforcement of safe waste-handling methods to reduce soil contamination around automobile workshops.
Application of Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis in Determining Suitable Waste-To-Energy Technology for Awka, Anambra State
This paper explored use of multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) to select waste-to-energy (WTE) technology for Awka, Nigeria necessary for addressing urgent urban solid waste issues. Urbanization has intensified waste generation, yet conventional waste management remains unsustainable despite government efforts. The study sought to identify suitable waste-to-energy (WtE) options through waste characterization, review of current practices, and identification of WtE choices. A survey design combining literature review data and primary data from questionnaires was used. Data was analysed through descriptive statistics and analytical hierarchy process (AHP) methodology. The AHP methodology was used to evaluate the WtE technologies and select the most appropriate technology for Awka. The WtE technologies were assessed through pairwise comparison of three main criteria and nine subcriteria assessed by 10 experts. Findings indicate that food waste is the most common waste type in Awka, followed by polyethylene/sachet water waste. The AHP-based pairwise comparison revealed that landfill gas is the most suitable WtE technology for Awka, followed by anaerobic digestion. The study portends the effectiveness of AHP for selecting sustainable waste management solutions and for resolving Awka’s waste challenges while promoting urban sustainability. The study recommends implementing WtE technology, adopting improved waste management methods, enhancing public engagement, and ensuring government support and policy enforcement towards circular economy in the State.
Response of Stream Flow peak to Climate Change in Kainji and Shiroro Hydroelectric Power Generations, Niger State, Nigeria
Climate changes impact hydrological processes and control stream flow at the basin scale. This study was carried out to examine the potential influence of climate change on stream flow peaks in Kainji and Shiroro Hydropower Projects, Niger State for the period 1967-2017. The study uses long term historical data on rainfall, minimum and maximum air temperature, runoff peak discharge and evapotranspiration to investigate observed hydro-climatic variability and climate change. The Mann–Kendall and Sen’s slope estimator tests were used to detect monotonic trends in the hydro-climatic variables and their magnitude with MAKESENS_1_0 software. The contribution of climate changes to stream flow was revealed by climate elasticity model. The results showed an increasing trend in minimum and mean temperature, rainfall and stream flow while evapotranspiration and maximum temperature showed decreasing trend. Mean annual rainfall and runoff changes in Kainji and Shiroro showed an increasing trend that is statistically insignificant. The precipitation elasticity of stream flow was 1.0 in Shiroro and 0.99 in Kainji indicating that 1 percent change in precipitation caused a corresponding 1 percent increase in runoff and revealed that stream flow increases with increasing precipitation, whereas the evapotranspiration elasticity of stream flow is -0.12191in Kainji indicating that a 1 percent increase in potential evapotranspiration produces 0.122decrease in stream flow and -0.533 for Shiroro indicating a 1 percent increase in evapotranspiration results in 0.5 percent decrease in stream flow Peak due to rainfall events are increasing in both stations.
Hydrological Modelling of Ungauged Mamu River Basin Using SWAT Model
Hydrological modeling of ungauged basins is necessary for decision and policymaking in water resources management. The Mamu River Basin is characterized by a wide range of environmental pressures such as erosion-caused devastation. The impact of climate change is likely to have considerable implications for water resource planning in the Basin. Despite these challenges, there is no gauged data available to evaluate the water resources of the Mamu River Basin. The objective of this study is to simulate river discharge in the ungauged Mamu River Basin using Soil and Water Assessment Tools (SWAT). A regionalization approach was employed to simulate the river flow at the Ebenebe axis of the Mamu River. Calibrated and validated model parameters from gauged Imo River were transferred to the Mamu River Basin. Shuttle Radar Topographic Misson-Digital Elevation Model (SRTM-DEM), land use, soil data, and rainfall data for the Mamu River Basin were used to improve the model. The SWAT model simulated streamflow for the basin and this was validated using discharge measurements along the Mamu River from 01/01/2021to 31/12/2022. During the validation process, the model performance indicators, NSE, R2, and PBIAS values were 0.77, 0.95, and 15 respectively. This study showed that the SWAT model can simulate river discharge in an ungauged river basin and will enhance our understanding of the hydrological response of the ungauged Mamu River Basin to environmental changes.
Geospatial Analysis of Public Water Supply Facilities in Awka Capital Territory, Anambra State Nigeria
Functional public water supply scheme remains an integral part of liveable cities. However, access to functional government water supply scheme has remained elusive in several states including Anambra State. Despite successive efforts on the part of government to mitigate associated problems, the results seem not to be evident yet. This paper examined water supply facilities in Awka Anambra State and its geospatial distribution. Percentage, mean and standard deviation were used to analyze data generated from distributed questionnaire. GPS and ArcGIS (version 10.5) were also used for acquiring coordinates and plotting as well. Quadrat analysis and Kolmogorov Smirnov test were used to determine the geographical distribution of water facilities in the area. The results showed that Government water supply facilities were found to be moribund. Residents depend on water vendors for daily supply or resort to personal wells and boreholes amongst other sources. This translates to proliferation of wells and boreholes as well as residents patronizing sources of questionable quality. Government water supply facilities were also found to be randomly distributed but access to its services is found to be lopsided. The implication of this is that some residents have better access to borehole locations than others. The Awka Capital Territory Development Authority (ACTDA) and the Anambra State Physical Planning Board were enjoined to take up the responsibility of ensuring good planning of the water supply facilities to guarantee access to majority of consumers. This paper also suggests proper reticulation be done to ensure water supply to the nooks and crannies of the study area.
Assessment of the Effects of Dry Spell on the Yield of Maize During the Growing Season in Sokoto State, Nigeria (2010-2019)
This work examined the effects of dry spells on the yield of maize in Sokoto State in Nigeria using the daily rainfall data obtained from Nigeria Metrological Agency (NIMET) Abuja for a period of 10 years (2010-2019); used to determine the trends in the dates of onset and cessation of dry spells using MAKESENS while the data on the yield of maize was collected from Agricultural Development Program (ADP) office in Sokoto state for a period of 10 years (2010-2019), used together with the frequency of dry spells to determine the perceived effects of dry spells on the yield of maize. Trends on the occurrence and frequency of dry spell were also determined focusing only on the raining months (May to October).LinearRegression analysis and correlation analysis was done to determine the effects of dry spell on maize yield. The results showed that the onset of dry spells ranged from 9th April, in 2015 to 1st June in 2012; showing fluctuations in three months (April, May & June) as well as in date in the months. The cessation dates of dry spells occurred in two months (September & October) but was stable in October, it fluctuated within the month, having the maximum cessation dates to be 25th October and the minimum date to be 22th September. It was concluded that there are changes in the onset and cessation of dry spells of rainfall due to the changes in rainfall characteristics which also affected the variability of the onset and cessation of dry spells. The studyalso shows recent changes in the trends of dry spells from year to year. The perceived effects of dry spells of rainfall showed negativecorrelation with maize yield,implying a significant relationship between dry spells and the yield of maize.
Examination of Trend and Patterns of Rainfall and Temperature in Awka, Anambra State (1975 – 2020)
The study examined the trend and patterns of rainfall and temperature in Awka, Anambra State from 1975-2020. The study used long term historical data on rainfall, minimum and maximum air temperature to investigate observed climatic variability. Monthly rainfall, minimum and maximum temperature data were obtained from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NIMET), Abuja. The study usedMann–Kendall and Sen’s slope estimator tests to detect monotonic trends in the mean annual and total rainfall, minimum, maximum and mean temperature and their magnitude with MAKESENS_1_0 application in EXCEL format. The result indicated an increasing trend in rainfall and temperature in the area. Rainfall pattern was characterized in terms of standardized anomaly index and seasonality index while temperature was characterized in terms of anomaly index. The result of rainfall seasonality index showed that annual rainfall has witnessed a shift from months to extreme seasonality. The rainfall and temperature standardized anomaly index showed that rainfall fluctuated in the area from dry and wet years. The maximum Standardized Rainfall Anomaly Index (SRAI) was 3.460 in 2019 indicating an extremely wet year while the minimum SRAI was -1.241 indicating moderately dry year. The maximum Seasonality Index(SI) was 1.5311 indicating an almost all rain in 1- 2 months while the minimum SI was 0.4256 indicating rather seasonal rainfall with a short drier season.
Welding Activities and their Associated Impacts in an Urban Area
Welding is an important aspect of industrial process and a viable source of income for a vast majority. It is however characterized by occupational and environmental risks and constitutes much harm due to poor standards and regulations. This study assessed welding activities and its impact on air quality in welding workshops with a view to provide insights on environmental regulations required. Data on air pollution were obtained from 7 welding workshops in Awka town following standard procedures. Notable pollutants identified within the welding environments were: Particulate Matter (PM1.0, PM10, and PM2.5) µg/m3 and chemical compounds: HCHCO (Formaldehyde) mg/m3, Total Volatile Organic Compound (TVOC) mg/m3 , Carbon Monoxide (CO) mg/m3 , and then the Air pollution level (A.P.L). Each of the pollutants contributed to the total air pollution levels without anyone significantly contributing more than others. Particulate matter (PM1.0) and CO were much correlated to the air pollution level than others; and the risks associated with such pollutants used to show the risks and harm welding constituted in the region. With weak regulations and standards as it pertains to the workshops, work ethics and precautionary measures in the area, both welders and non-welders were seen to be prone to the risks emanating from such processes. Adherence to standard procedures and regulations were advocated for safer welding processes.
Forms of Environmental Degradation in Mamu River Basin of South Eastern Nigeria.
Environmental degradation is a current challenge emanating from the man’s quest for survival. River environment are not spared from such unwholesome development. The varying forms of environmental degradation have been studied in 5 sub basins covering the entire drainage basin. In this study, physico-chemical –cum- biological analysis covering the selected 18 water quality parameters were analyzed in dry and rainy seasons to determine their levels of concentration in the laboratory. Soil samples were also collected from the sub basins to analyze the physica properties. The result of the analysis was subjected to statistical analysis. Principal Component Analysis explained 84% of the total variation in water quality and the parameters that loaded highly were mainly metals and heavy minerals. Paired sample T’ test indicated a significant difference in turbidity, dissolved oxygen, temperature, manganese and iron (p ≤ 0.05) while total suspended solids, iron, turbidity, sulphate, temperature, magnesium, calcium, and carbon showed a positive and strong correlations in the rainy and dry seasons. Thus, the tests showed that water quality parameters respond to seasons. The result of the physical properties of the soil revealed a degraded soil orchestrating from poor aggregate stability index of less than 28.77%. Solid waste disposal, excavation of land and other forms of man’s socio-economic activities have also exposed the basin more to degradation and hence posit the need for robust eco-friendly practices within the watershed.
Appraisal of Reticulation and Largescale Reuse of Treated Municipal Wastewater for Nonportable Purposes in FCT, Abuja Nigeria.
Municipal wastewater can be treated and reused for several purposes. This measure does not only reduce pollution, but relieves pressure on fresh waters. This study was carried out to determine treated municipal wastewater reuse schemes in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria. The study involved interviews and questionnaire administration (30 and 492 respondents respectively). The results show that treated municipal wastewater is only used for generator cooling and watering of lawn within the wastewater treatment facility. Before the installation of water boreholes to supply drinking water for Jidu Village in 2010, the treated wastewater which is discharged into Wupa River was used for washing, bathing, swimming amongst other purposes by villagers who make use of the river where the wastewater is discharged into. The result has shown that no planned large-scale reuse arrangement of the treated wastewater exists in the study area. This can be attributed to lack of infrastructure and arrangement for industrial or agricultural reuse of the treated wastewater. In addition, the result also revealed that fear of billing for reuse and psychological reasons could hinder the use of treated wastewater. Following the schematic model as proposed, the study recommends that the treated wastewater should be reused for agricultural and industrial purposes after political, health/environment, social/economic, and technological considerations as outlined by the proposed schematic.
The Role of TVET in Mitigating Climate Change among SMEs
Business enterprises, particularly small and medium scale enterprises (SMEs) are the mainstay of many economies, but are faced with a lot of challenges, including climate change impacts. This work investigated the role of TVET in mitigating climate change among SMEs. Questionnaire survey was conducted on 210 SMEs randomly selected in the three economic hubs: Awka, Onitsha and Nnewi in southeast Nigeria. Results showed that the level of awareness on climate change was low and that even though businesses contribute to it, they were mostly not aware of that. Much of the SMEs use sources of power that is less climate friendly (generators) than other more environmentally friendly options (mainly solar energy). The SMEs have requisite knowledge about their businesses but their level of awareness on TVET and adaptive capacity to climate change are low. Their levels of education did not determine or influence their knowledge on TVET; hence the need to expose firms and the society to its rudiments. Formal education was perceived as a better method of teaching TVET, but needs to be combined with informal education so that much of the staff of SMEs could be reached more effectively. Transfer of information on green industrialization was deemed necessary and methods such as: using experienced entrepreneurs,seminars/workshops, annual training, government enforced training and short courses/internships (in decreasing order of effectiveness) were identified as veritable pathways to achieving that. There is need to sensitize the SMEs to have plans for managing climate risks and promote the use of technologies that are not only recent, but are climate friendly and green. TVET has the capacity to actualize the desired green industrialization and climate change adaptations among SMEs, but will require proactive measures such as promoting new forms of education for employees, ongoing training within companies, establishing vocational centres and exposing the younger generation to such initiatives all through their formal education process.
Copyright (c) 2021 Journal of Geography, Meteorology and Environment
ASSESSMENT OF FOREST LOSS AND DEGRADATION IN NDOKWA-WEST, DELTA STATE
This study examined the extent of forest loss and degradation between 1972 and 2018 in Ndokwawest LGA, Delta State, Nigeria. Landsat multispectral images of 1972, 1987, 2002, 2004, 2014 and 2018 were employed for the study. Image classifications were done using ArcGIS 10.5 and four major classes were identified, namely: forest, settlement, bareground and waterbodies. NDVI values of the images were also calculated using ArcGIS 10.5, while additional NDVI data of the study area were obtained from FORTH Remote Sensing Lab. Data were analysed using charts, time series graphs and multiple regression analysis to determine the extent of change in forest canopy cover and forest health. The protective function of the forests was also observed while examining the change in land surface temperature through the years under study. Results showed that much of the forest cover were lost; about 904km2 of forest between 1972 and 2018, mainly from changes to settlements and bare ground. Time series graph showed a decline in the NDVI from 1972 to 2018; an indication of decline in forest health. Significant relationship between forest loss and Land Surface Temperature (LST) with R²= 0.729 was established and the declining NDVI values of the study area was seen to correspond with increasing LST values through the study years. This is an indication of a loss in the protective function of the forests in the study area. NDVI and LST results revealed that the forest zone experienced fragmentation, decline in forest health and protective function within the study period. The study recommended forest conservation and management across the zone and advocated that both the government, stakeholders and individuals contributes to actualizing the target and in turn reduces environmental change impacts in the region.
SEDIMENT CONTAMINATION AND THE IMPLICATIONS OF ITS MINING IN THE ANAMBRA DRAINAGE BASIN, SOUTHEAST NIGERIA
River sediments are mined in the Anambra drainage basin despite its contaminant loading. During the rainy and dry seasons, sediment samples were obtained from the six sub-basins at the upper and downstream segments and were subjected to geochemical and geotechnical analyses using X-ray fluorescence (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) imaging. The soil samples collected were also analysed to determine its physical properties. It was noted that potential toxic elements (PTEs) - Zn, Ni, Mn, Fe, Cr, Pb, V, Mo, Sc and Eu, were within the World Health Organization recommended limits while contamination degree (CD), modified degree of contamination (mCd) and pollution load index (PLI) revealed that the sediment PTEs’ concentrations ranged between slight contaminations to severely polluted. Better sediment quality exists at the upstream during the rainy season. From, SEM, sediments showed high content of quartz. Particle size distribution (PSD), porosity –cum- bulk density, aggregate stability (AS), mean weight diameter (MWD), dispersion ratio (DR) and Roslan and Mazidah (ROM) scale of the soil suggests intense erosion as within the basin. Erosion and anthropogenic activities are major source of sediments and PTEs into the river channels.
AN ASSESSMENT OF THE CHARACTERISTICS AND DISTRIBUTION OF MICROCLIMATIC ELEMENTS IN ENUGU URBAN
This paper examined the characteristics and distribution of microclimatic parameters in Enugu Urban. The data were obtained from Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet). Descriptive and inferential analytical techniques were employed for data analysis. Correlation analysis was employed to determine the degree of linear association among the microclimatic elements. The result shows that annual rainfall is clustered around 1200mm and 1900mm. The skewness and kurtosis of annual rainfall estimate show positive kurtosis of 0.17. The distribution result of maximum temperature is clustered around 29.1 o C and 33.9 o C with a mean of 32.0 o C and a standard deviation of 0.7 o C. The close spread indicates that the series are not volatile. From the skewness and kurtosis statistics, it is shown that the series is negatively skewed and has an excess kurtosis of about 4.98. The result also shows that the minimum rainfall was 760.09mm, recorded in the year 1983 while the maximum was 2070.10mm in the year 2012. The minimum temperature of the area ranges between 21.6 o C to 24.5 o C with a mean value of 22.4 o C and a standard deviation of 0.5 o C. The minimum value of wind speed is 2.70 knots while the maximum value is 6.90knots. The series is skewed to the left and without excess kurtosis. The relative humidity in the area stood at an average of 57.32% with a standard deviation of 2.39%, indicating the non-volatile nature of the data series. The minimum value for the period was 51.0% seen in 2015 while the maximum was 63.0% observed in 2008. The characteristics result of sunshine for the study period shows that the sunshine values (in hours) per day ranges from 5.1 to 5.8 having a mean value of 5.4 and associated standard deviation of 0.2. The series are normal, positively skewed and without excess kurtosis. The correlation analysis result shows that there is no multicollinearity problem among the variables. Rainfall interacts negatively and insignificantly with temperature, sunshine and wind speed, and positively with relative humidity. There is also a significant negative link between relative humidity and sunshine. The study therefore, reveals some evidence of urban heat island and recommends urban forestry and tree planting. It also suggests increasing the albedo of surfaces as a good mitigating measure.
Energy Demands and the Place of Biofuel Technology and Forest Management Initiatives
Energy is an indispensable driver of development in our society and depended on to run daily activities and functions. To a great extent, the bulk of the energy supply are from fossil fuel; whose costs are increasing becoming huge and its inherent consequences and impact on the environment glaringly undeniable. This work reviewed the impact of the growing energy consumption trend, major sources, need for an alternative that is friendly to the environment and devoid of financial, political and trade uncertainties. Various forms of bio-fuel were seen as viable options to consider in the quest for improved energy provision. Among the various forms of bio-fuels, forest based bio-fuel was seen as a potential source of the much needed clean energy considering its ubiquitous nature. This however needs to be sustainably utilized and optimized across different spatial scales by adhering to stipulated forest management guidelines and use efficiencies. The study advocates that there should be a gradual reduction on fossil-based fuel use and maximizes bio-fuels which are much readily available in different forms in our environment. Through such concerted efforts, fossil fuel-driven climate change associated impacts and uncertainties will likely become much reduced.
Copyright (c) 2020 Journal of Geography, Meteorology and Environment
Bags are essential items in the day to day activities of man, therefore, their continued use seem undeniably essential and unstoppable for many consumers. At present plastic bags have dominated the bag market against other alternatives. However, the dominant use of plastic bags have been queried as a result of its non-biodegradable nature and its environmental impact. This paper takes a cursory look at plastic bags and some available alternatives in order to highlight their impact on the environment throughout their life cycle. Plastic bags have alternatives in form of paper bags, tote bags, hemp bags, woollen bags, and degradable plastic bags. This paper is based on the concept of best practicable environmental option(s) (BPEO) and waste management hierarchy (WMH). BPEO advocates adopting the option that provides the most benefits and the least damage to the environment, as a whole, at acceptable cost, in the long term as well as the short term. While WMH promotes waste avoidance and reduction principle ahead of recycling and disposal principles. The review discovered that despite the myriad of proffered alternatives, none exist with zero impact on the environment. This paper recommends that all options be extensively juxtaposed from the process of resource extraction to the final waste disposal stage to determine best practicable environmental options. Waste management hierarchy which advocates reduction, reuse and recycling will be pivotal in reducing observed impacts from recommended bag type when employed in waste management planning.
Effectiveness of Drainage Networks on Floods in Calabar Metropolis, Nigeria
The study examined the effects of drainage networks on floods in Calabar metropolis. The rapid increase in urbanization without corresponding infrastructures in the city of Calabar has led to increased incidences of flood as the available drainage channels cannot contend with the volume of storm water. In view of this, the study established gauging stations for the measurement of drainage run off using measuring steel tape. The volume of flood water was determined using stop watch method (Velocity of flow) and copies of questionnaire were administered to 400 households proportionally to the seven sample units. Results from the work revealed that the frequency of flood is compounded with much intensity as over 59% of the sampled population agreed that flood is very high in Calabar. The study also revealed that the drainage were very narrow and shallow and contributed to the frequent floods in the city. The incessant flood often led to water inundating compounds (64.5%), preventing people from going out (11.25%), distortion of the scenic beauty of the environment (6.25%) and landslide (4.75%). Based on these findings, the study recommended that since Calabar is located in a tropical zone characterized by heavy rainfall, the government should take proactive measure to mitigate storm water. The present drainage systems should be cleared by the people on a regular basis to allow for a free flow of storm water.
Species Diversity and Modification in Freshwater Swamp Forest Ecosystem: Implications for Conservation and Climate Change
Freshwater swamp forests are wetland ecosystems found across the tropics in seasonally or permanently waterlogged soils. Although they provide valuable ecosystem services, they are poorly known when compared to other tropical forest ecosystems. Beyond its description and few inventories, not much is known with regards to its richness, structure and modifications across the Niger Delta, where it is the most extensive across West Africa. This study assessed the species richness, diversity and modification across 8 one hectare forest plots. Total number of species across the disturbed sites was higher than the ones in the intact sites. In terms of species richness and diversity, the ecosystem was found to be poor when compared with other tropical forest ecosystems. The disturbed forest sites were found to be more modified in its floristic composition, as most pioneer species were replaced with more-light tolerant flora. Such replacements were mostly made up of palms which are less carbon dense when compared with the other native species. Ensuring that forest modification is reduced across the ecosystem are steps towards ensuring that the biodiversity of the ecosystem are conserved and that it remains resilient and capable of coping with future climatic changes in the region.
Evaluating the Solid Waste Dump Site within Lokoja Metropolis using Geospatial Techniques
Solid waste management has become a complex global environmental problem in both developed and less developing Countries. The problem is widely noticeable in Lokoja area of Kogi State, Nigeria. This is mostly caused by poor planning and lack of adequate information need to tackle urban solid waste management. Therefore, adequate information on solid waste dump site (SWDS) is required to mitigate future hazards that may emanate from these wastes within Lokoja Metropolis. This study applied Geospatial Techniques to assess the trend of the Solid Waste Dump site within the period of three years. Due to different parameters involved, the study adopted the principle of Separation Distances as recommended by the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) Landfill Manual 2006. The separation distances parameters considered in the monitoring of the Dump Site include; the distance of the dump site to water body (>960m), the slope of the Dump Site (0 o -5 o ), distance of the dump site to the road (100m-1000m), and distance to the residential areas (>8000m). LandSat ETM imagery of 2014, 2016, and 2018 of the study area was used for the supervised classification as well as the distance analysis over the years. ASTER imagery, and Quickbird satellite imagery were used to generate the slope, extraction of the roads/buildings and delineation of rivers within the study area. The study revealed that the distance of the dumpsite to the road accounted for 160m in 2014, 57m in 2016, and 14m in 2018. The distance of the dumpsite to the built-up areas accounted for 1547m in 2014, 1287m in 2016, and 876m in 2018. It can be seen from the analysis that the slopes were 3 0 in 2014 and 2016, and 5 0 in 2018. It is recommended that the existing dumpsite be relocated to another area. Suitability analysis should be carried out before siting new dumpsites.
Challenges of Quarrying Activities for Sustainable Quality Water Resources in Abakaliki and Environs
This paper examines the challenges of quarrying activities on sustainable quality water resources in Abakaliki and environs and the socio-economic implications of the effects on the people in order to find strategies to mitigate the effects. Data collection yielded 7 water samples and administration of 400 copies of questionnaires, interviews and photographs from 5 quarrying sites and one control site. Water samples were analyzed for physico-chemical properties at PRODA, Enugu. Analyses of data were by descriptive statistics, correlation and Principal Components Analysis (PCA). The result showed that the methods of quarrying and crushing of the rock lumps were generating dust and acidic waste water pollutants through runoff into the surrounding surface water bodies. PCA identified that pollution makes the water hard, low in oxygen and contains heavy metals above permissible limits. Parameters like Pb, As, Fe, Cu, Zn, Cd which contributed in pollution of the waters were found to affect aquatic plants, animals, human health and the ecosystem. Remediation was advanced as plausible mitigation measure to stem the increasing pollution trend, ensure safety of the environment, man and the attainment of the SDGs.
An Analysis of the Thunderstorm and Disturbance Lines Induced Rainstorm in Ibadan, Nigeria
Rainstorms being the single most important physical environmental factor affecting agricultural activities in Nigeria has provoked many climatological studies. Analyses of rainstorms over Nigeria have however largely been confined to the rainstorm characteristics relevant to moisture availability for agricultural purposes in which the indices of seasonality and variability were mainly employed. The characteristics–the sequence of rainstorm events, duration of rainstorms, rainfall amount, rainfall intensity and the areal coverage of rainstorm events due to thunderstorm and those due to disturbance lines–which determine the exact amount of moisture available, have been relatively neglected. The present study, based on an analysis of 154 rainstorms recorded in Ibadan between 2013 and 2014, is an attempt to examine the effect of these characteristics–duration of rainstorms, rainfall amount and rainfall intensity on areal coverage of rainstorms in Ibadan, Nigeria. Daily rainstorms data, especially the sequence of rainstorm events (percentage), duration of rainstorms (minutes), rainfall amount (millimetre) and the rainfall intensity (millimeter/hour) were processed for 50 rain gauge stations. The areal coverage of rainstorms (square kilometre) was determined using the square method. Data collected were analysed using multiple regression at pâ‰¤0.05. The results indicated a close relationship between a number of rainstorm characteristics. In fact, the correlation coefficient produced between the rainstorms characteristics, showed that a close relationship exist between the duration and rainfall amount, and between the rainfall amount and intensity due to thunderstorm and those due to disturbance lines, which were highly significant (.000 and .000). The results of the analysis showed among other things that the duration of rainstorms, rainfall amount and rainfall intensity were significantly contributed to the areal coverage of rainstorms, though the predictors did not significantly explained the areal coverage of rainstorms in Ibadan.
Variability in the Long-Term Trends of Rainfall and Temperature over Southern Nigeria
This study investigated the variability in the long-term trends of rainfall and temperature over southern Nigeria. The relationship between the trends of temperature and rainfall was also explored. The results show no significant increasing/decreasing trend in monthly, seasonal and annual rainfall, with a decadal sequence of alternately increasing and decreasing rainfall trend. A significant increasing trend of annual maximum, minimum and mean temperature was detected at the rate of 1.1°C, 1.4°C and 1.2°C / 61 years, respectively, with the highest significant monthly increases observed in February and March. The study identifies two distinct climatological time-periods over southern Nigeria. The first period (1950 – 1980) is characterised by annual mean temperature below the climatological average whilst the second period (1981 – 2010) show a rising annual mean temperature consistently above the climatological average with the exceptions of years 1992 and 1994. Although there was no direct relationship between increasing rainfall and maximum temperature in southern Nigeria, a broad spatial-temporal dependence of rainfall on minimum temperature was observed in the dry season.
Rainfall Variability during Onset and Cessation of the Growing Season in the Sudano-Sahelian Region of Nigeria
Onset and cessation of rainfall is fundamental to crop production, especially in areas with variable climate and predominance of rain-fed farming practice. This paper, therefore, examined rainfall trends during onset and cessation of the growing season in the Sudano-Sahelian region of Nigeria using 64 years (1951-2014) rainfall data for 8 synoptic weather stations (Sokoto, Gusau, Katsina, Kano, Potiskum, Nguru, Maiduguri and Yola). Simple regression was used to analyse the trends of rainfall during the onset and cessation. The results revealed that rainfall declined in Katsina, Nguru and Yola at annual rates of -0.036 mm, -0.197mm and -0.143 mm respectively during the onset while Sokoto, Kano, Potiskum and Maiduguri witnessed increase at annual rates of 0.040 mm, 0.188 mm, 0.269 mm, 0.026 mm and 0.025 mm respectively. Sokoto, Katsina, Potiskum, Nguru and Yola experienced decreasing rainfall trend at annual rates of -0.232 mm, -0.112 mm, -0.082 mm, -0.153 mm and -0.360 mm respectively during cessation while Kano and Maiduguri recorded increase at annual rates of 0.180 mm, 0.246 mm and 0.037mm respectively. Rainfall trends were significant in Kano and Yola during onset and cessation respectively. The mean rainfall of 1983-2014 negatively deviated from that of 1951-1982 in Kano during onset and cessation while the negative deviation in Sokoto and Potiskum was only recorded during onset. While the rainfall pattern shows increasing spatial variation during onset of the growing season, generally it is more varied during cessation. The paper recommends early maturing crops, irrigation and/or staggering of planting in line with prevailing rainfall trends during onset and cessation, especially in Sokoto, Katsina, Potiskum, Nguru and Yola.