Environmental impacts of swine production in residential areas of Ibadan, Nigeria

Type Journal Article - Agricultural Science, Engineering and Technology Research
Title Environmental impacts of swine production in residential areas of Ibadan, Nigeria
Author(s)
Volume 1
Issue 2
Publication (Day/Month/Year) 2013
Page numbers 10-15
URL http://asetr.org/ASETR_Vol. 1, No. 2, August 2013/ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS.pdf
Abstract
Many people in residential areas are now engaging in swine production due to its economic importance without
considering the environmental and public health impacts. Swine production is associated with intense odour, noise,
dust, fly breeding, rat infestation of premises, pollution of surface and groundwater and sometimes conflicts with
neighbours. This study attempts to assess and quantify these effects of swine production in Ibadan, a highly
urbanized Nigerian city. The study was conducted in some residential areas in Ibadan where swine operations are
being practiced intensively. Water samples were collected from wells in the neighbourhood and were analyzed for
pH, TDS, NO3, Fe, Pb, DO, BOD, COD, SO4, alkalinity, total hardness, Cl and coliforms. The results were
compared with the WHO drinking water standards. Also, odour intensity and noise levels generated around swine
facilities were examined. The noise levels were compared with the noise exposure limits of Nigeria’s Environmental
Protection Agency. Findings showed that the average values for some water parameters were impacted due to swine
production. The odour intensity level was strong while the odour character had choky and rotten egg-like smell.
This could be due to the emissions of hydrogen sulphide and ammonia from swine manure. The noise levels ranged
between 83.0 -99.2dBA which when compared with standards has exceeded the limits. Typical cases of headache,
nose irritation, nausea, mood disturbances and typhoid were reported in the study area. The study therefore
concluded that swine production in residential areas had effects on the residents of the study area. Residents of the
study area should treat their wells to curb the effects of water quality impact from swine production.

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