Health Risk Assessment of Airborne Particulate Matter Emissions from Uncontrolled Garri Processing Kilns in Bayelsa State, Nigeria

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Greener Journal of Environment Management and Public Safety

ISSN: 2354-2276

Vol. 13(1), pp. 19-27, 2025

Copyright ©2025, Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International.

https://gjournals.org/GJEMPS

DOI: https://doi.org/10.15580/gjemps.2025.1.021325027

Article’s title & authors

Health Risk Assessment of Airborne Particulate Matter Emissions from Uncontrolled Garri Processing Kilns in Bayelsa State, Nigeria

Lelei, KE; Angaye TCN

Department of Biological Sciences, Niger Delta University, Bayelsa State, Nigeria.

ABSTRACT
The air quality around Garri factories in Bayelsa State, Nigeria, was checked to see how much airborne particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) was being released. The use of “different kinds” of flammable materials as fuel has made these emissions a problem. We randomly selected five locations (L1, L2, L3, L4, and L5) and took meteorological measurements (temperature, wind speed, and relative humidity). Carbon monoxide (CO), oxides of nitrogen (NOₓ), and oxides of sulphur (SOₓ) concentrations were checked at the sites to see how they compared to the WHO and EGASPIN Guidelines for air pollution. We evaluated PM2.5 and PM10, determined the air quality index (AQI), and compared it with the guidelines. The obtained data were statistically analyzed using a one-way ANOVA (P<0.05). According to the results, temperature and relative humidity showed slight variations between the locations but were within normal ranges. The CO, NOₓ, and SOₓ concentrations showed variations between the locations but were below the recommended 24-hour levels. For PM2.5 levels, which ranged from 16.39 to 29.44 µg/m³, and PM10 from 27.98 to 68.61 µg/m³, they were above the guidelines. The AQI indicated Level 2 to Level 4 air pollution levels around the locations, with Level 1 having the highest AQI level of Level 4. Thus, the air quality around these locations is unhealthy and dangerous to Garri producers and nearby residents. Therefore, we should discourage the use of such materials as fuel sources.
ARTICLE’S INFO
Article No.: 021325027

Type: Research

Full Text: PDF, PHP, EPUB, MP3

DOI: 10.15580/gjemps.2025.1.021325027

Accepted: 15/02/2025

Published: 12/03/2025

Keywords: Garri production, particulate matter, air quality index, hazard

*Corresponding Author

Dr. Angaye T.C.N.

E-mail: tcnangaye@ ndu.edu.ng

Phone: +2347037889063

Article’s QR code

       

INTRODUCTION

Air pollution refers to the alteration of both indoor and outdoor conditions by any chemical, physical, or biological agent that alters the natural properties of the atmosphere (WHO, 2021). It is a significant risk factor for non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, lung disease, and cardiovascular diseases (WHO, 2020). Air pollution is the second biggest cause of NCD-related fatalities, after cigarette smoking (WHO, 2021). Air pollution from natural and man-made sources has health and environmental implications (WHO, 1987; Fagorite et al., 2021). Over two million deaths worldwide from air pollution yearly result from damage to the lungs and the respiratory tract (Shah et al., 2013). According to reports by Chuang et al. (2011) and Shah et al. (2013), fine particulate matter contributed to approximately 2.1 million of these fatalities. These health problems include people with heart or lung diseases dying too soon, asthma getting worse, heart attacks, irregular heartbeats, lungs not working as well, and breathing problems Like cough, airway irritability, or difficulty breathing (Atkinson et al., 2010; Cadelis et al., 2014).

Anthropogenic aerosols called suspended particulate matter (SPM) can be released when things are burnt openly or when dust particles react with chemicals in the air. They can pollute the air. Suspended particulate matter is mainly grouped into fine (≤2.5 µm) and coarse (>2.5 µm) particles based on their diameter (United States Environmental Protection Agency, 2017). Other subtypes of SPM include thoracic particulate matter and respirable particulate matter (Brown et al., 2013). SPMs can be further grouped into PM 1.0, PM 2.5 (fine particulate), and coarse SPM, which include PM 4.0, PM 7.0, and PM 10 (Angaye, 2018). To obtain total suspended particulates (TSP), all SPM aggregates must be added.

There are some compounding factors on which the source and fate of SPM depend, but in most cases, the meteorological state of the environment is a major determinant factor (Angaye, 2018). According to the World Health Organization, PM 1.0 which is the finest particle, is carcinogenic and has been rated the most lethal among all SPM. PM 1.0 has been reported to cause infant mortality; if accumulated, it can poison the blood, reach vital organs such as the lungs, and even cause mutations (United States Environmental Protection Agency, 2010). In 2013, there were over 300,000 cases of SPM toxicity ranging from 22 to 36% of lung cancer from PM 1.0 (Ole Raaschou-Nielson et al., 2013). The adverse health effects of SPMs have been reported to include acute and chronic respiratory syndromes, heart diseases, lung dysfunction, cancer of the lung and infant death (Guaita et al., 2011; Perez et al., 2012; World Health Organization 2018; Oloyede et al., 2020).

Garri, processed from the tubers of cassava is a staple food source, a product of Nigeria’s rich agricultural heritage. Nigeria, among the world’s greatest producers of Garri (FAO, 2013), is known for its pre-gelatinized grit, abundant in fiber and carbohydrates. Garri is available in fine and coarse textures with particle sizes varying from less than 10µm to over 2000µm (Nwankpa, 2010). The production method includes peeling of the cassava tubers, grinding, fermentation, filtration, and dehydration procedures in locally built kilns to diminish moisture content, succeeded by frying (Ozigbo et al., 2020) and the storage for use. The selection of fuel and briquette for the local kiln utilized in the frying process is increasingly becoming a significant source of public health concern.

During garri processing, individuals involved, use ‘different sorts’ of inappropriate items as sources of fuel; some of which are ‘hazardous fuel enhancers’ in addition to the firewood used. These include used plastic containers, nylon, pet bottles, shavings, etc.  The levels of SPM and other airborne contaminants bellowing around these sites are worthy of attention. In addition, the sources of fuel used in this process are not regulated and pose environmental hazards; even the processors are at risk of exposure to the hazards therein, owing to the non-use of personal safety gear. The exposure of garri processors to ambient air pollution and the associated heightened risks of respiratory symptoms have been documented (Oloyede et al., 2020), although, the extent of exposure and health concerns remain inadequately examined. It is crucial for researchers, public health officials, and individuals interested in food production and health to address the occupational risks linked to the emission of airborne particulate matter in Garri production. Therefore, this study focused on the health risk assessment of airborne particulate matter emissions from uncontrolled Garri processing kilns in Bayelsa State, Nigeria.

MATERIALS AND METHOD

2.1 Study Area

Bayelsa State, situated in Nigeria’s southern region, is a diverse wetland rich in natural resources, notably oil reserves and agricultural activities, especially fishing. Nigeria’s economy derives significant advantages from Bayelsa State’s varied cultural, economic, and natural landscapes, especially the Niger Delta wetlands. The industrial characteristics of the state have drawn various business sectors, illustrating its diversity. The state serves as an industrial center due to crude oil exploration, exhibiting a diverse and rapidly increasing population driven by ongoing migration from various regions; agriculture serves as the predominant occupation. Along its southern coast, the area shows an equatorial climate marked by monthly average temperatures between 25 and 29℃ and yearly precipitation ranging between 2000 and 4000mm. From March to October the area has a unique rainy season; from November to February it has a dry season, sometimes referred to as the harmattan period. While the harmattan season is defined by the influence of tropical continental air masses originating from the desert, August usually experiences a brief dry phase linked to Southwest monsoon winds that move rainfall from the ocean (Lala et al., 2023). The study area comprised of five monitoring stations and a control station situated in the Garri processing zones of Bayelsa State. Mobile air sampling instruments were deployed at the designated stations to assess the air quality.

2.2 Sampling

Sampling was carried out thrice at 24-hours at the five different Garri processing sites randomly selected in Bayelsa State. After doing extensive site reconnaissance evaluations, and having detailed conversations with relevant parties. A variety of hand-held portable equipment were employed, including AEROQUAL-513, SPM Met-One, and KESTREL (4500NV).

2.2.1 Metrological Indicators

Meteorological indicators such as, wind speed, humidity and temperatures were measured using the KESTREL 4500NV-USA meteorological meter. The meter was powered on and positioned at a height of 1.5meters above ground level, orientated in a windward direction. The meter’s screen readings were recorded in triplicates.

2.2.2 Air Quality

Air quality was measured based on; carbon monoxide (CO), oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and oxides of sulfur (SOx), as well as, Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM)- PM2.5 (fine type) and PM10 (coarse type). The levels of CO, NOx and SOx were measured using AEROQUAL Meter (AEROQUAL-Series 300_Newzealand). The levels of SPM (PM2.5 and PM10) associated with the sites were measured using AEROCERT-531S (Met One _Washinton, USA). During sampling, the meters were powered on and measurements were taken in triplicates at height of 1.5meters with the probe facing the windward direction.

2.2.3 Risk Assessment

Health risk evaluation was conducted by juxtaposing the mean air quality values with the acceptable limits established by the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) and the World Health Organization (USEPA, 2014; USEPA, 2018; WHO, 2021) as shown in Table 1. The ambient air condition was indexed across a region using an indication tool called the Air Quality Index (AQI), which also evaluated the health risk connected with particulate matter intake within particular places. Reports on daily air quality and knowledge on the hazards related to poor air intake on human health can be given via AQI. Air quality modeling was conducted utilizing the Air Quality Index-AQI (USEPA, 2014; USEPA, 2018) and the methodologies established by Wang et al. (2017). Calculated from the equation below, daily mean values of the measured levels of daily air quality index (AQI):

AQIPM2.5 = PM2.5 Concentration × 100 / WHO Standard

AQIPM10 = PM10 Concentration × 100 / WHO Standard

Table 1: Air Quality Index (USEPA, 2014; USEPA, 2018)

AQI Health Concern Level AQI Daily Colour Code Air pollution Level
0 – 50 Good   Level 1
51 – 100 Moderate   Level 2
101-150 Unhealthy for Sensitive people   Level 3
151-200 Unhealthy   Level 4
201-300 Very Unhealthy   Level 5
>301 Hazardous   Level 6

Using colour codes to classify the degree of air pollution, the six main AQI categories define level of health risk. Level 1 using a green colour code denotes good air quality with either little or no risk for health problems. Level 2 refers to a moderate or tolerable air pollution level; yellow is the representative colour code. For a tiny number of very sensitive to air pollution, this category denotes a modest health issue. Level 3 with orange colour code represents poor air quality for sensitive and fragile population group. While susceptible groups include elderly and younger—that is, children—sensitive groups are those of people with underlying diseases including lung and heart disease. Level 4 with a red colour code denotes poor (unhealthy) air quality. The general populace will suffer unfavourable health consequences from this; more major health consequences will affect sensitive and vulnerable groups of people. Level 5 with purple colour code indicates more severe health repercussions (very unhealthy) for the sensitive groups and a major public health alert overall. Finally, level 6 with maroon colour code denotes hazardous air quality level and will cause an emergency notice of health issues thereby influencing the whole exposed population (USEPA, 2014; USEPA, 2018).

2.3 Statistical Analysis

Data obtained were expressed as mean ± standard deviation using Version 23 of SPSS for the statistical analysis. One-way Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used for the separation of the variations in the means at P < 0.05 while Duncan’s Post-hoc test was used to establish the degree of significance.

3.1 RESULTS

The mean (± SD) meteorological values of temperature, relative humidity, and wind speed measured at the selected sampling locations (Table 2) where Garri is processed showed that, temperature ranged from 27.96±0.033 to 31.05±0.059 OC with L5 having the highest value while L4 had the least temperature value. Temperature, relative humility and wind speed had values that were significantly different (P < 0.05) between the sampling locations. The relative humidity had values that ranged from 62.41±9.33 to 79.73±7.33%; L4 had the highest relative humidity level amongst the sampling locations while L5 had the lowest value. For wind speed, the mean values were from 0.51±0.00 – 1.31±0.33m/s with L1 having the highest mean level of 1.31±0.33m/s.

Table 2: Mean (± SD) values of the Temperature, Relative Humidity and Wind Speed at the Selected Sampling Locations where Garri is processed in Bayelsa State

Sampling Location GPS Coordinates Temperature (OC) Relative Humidity (%) Wind speed (m/s)
L1 4o58’39’’N 6o6’30’’E 28.37±0.09b 76.41±2.71e 1.31±0.33d
L2 4o32’28’’N 6o24’33’’E 29.53±0.043c 69.81±4.11c 0.55±0.04a
L3 5o9’31’’N 6o11’37’’E 30.01±0.07d 66.31±5.53b 0.51±0.00a
L4 4o42’27’’N 6o19’35’’E 27.96±0.033a 79.73±7.33a 0.71±0.03b
L5 4o41’33’’N 6o19’38’’E 31.05±0.059e 62.41±9.33d 0.93±0.41c

Key: Means with the same superscripts down the columns are not statistically different at P<0.05

The mean values of the air pollutants- carbon monoxide (CO), oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and oxides of sulphur (SOx) measured at the sampling locations L1, L2, L3, L4 and L5 (Table 3) indicated slight differences (P< 0.05) in the variations in the concentrations of these gases across the locations with respect to CO and NOx, The CO concentrations ranged from 0.010±0.000 – 0.057±0.003ppm with L1 having the highest CO level. NOx concentration with range of 0.010±0.000 – 0.079±0.000ppm had the highest concentration level at L2. While SOx concentration ranged from <0.010±0.000 to 0.025±0.000ppm. These values were compared with International Guidelines (WHO, 2021); and National Standards of FEPA (1991) and EGASPIN (2002) as shown in the table and were observed to be lower for all the sampling locations. These values were also lower than the SO2 – 0.1ppm, CO – 10ppm Guidelines of the Federal Ministry of Environment (1991).

 

Table 3: Mean (±SD) Concentrations of the Carbon monoxide (CO), oxides of nitrogen (NOx) are pollutants of air, and Oxides of Sulphur around the Selected Sampling Locations in Bayelsa State and Guidelines of WHO (2021), EGASPIN (2002) and FEPA (1991)

Sampling Location GPS Coordinates Levels of Air Polluting Gases at 24-Hour
Carbon monoxide

(CO) in ppm

Oxides of Nitrogen

(NOx) in ppm

Oxides of Sulphur

(SOx) in ppm

L1 4o58’39’’N 6o6’30’’E 0.057±0.003b <0.010±0.000a 0.011±0.000a
L2 4o32’28’’N 6o24’33’’E 0.050±0.021b 0.079±0.000b 0.025±0.000a
L3 5o9’31’’N 6o11’37’’E 0.023±0.000a <0.019±0.000a <0.010±0.000a
L4 4o42’27’’N 6o19’35’’E 0.010±0.000a <0.010±0.000a <0.010±0.000a
L5 4o41’33’’N 6o19’38’’E 0.031±0.000a <0.010±0.000a <0.010±0.000a
WHO (2021) 24-Hr Limits 4.0ug/m3 25.0ug/m3 40.0ug/m3
EGASPIN (2002) 24-Hr Limits 10ug/m3 (0.01 mg/m3) 150ug/m3 (0.15 mg/m3) 100–150ug/m3 (0.1–0.15mg/m3)
FEPA (1991) 24-Hr Limits 10mg/m3 350–1000mg/m3 30–3000mg/m3

Key: Values with same superscripts in the columns are not significantly different at P 0.05; FEPA (1991) – Federal Environmental Protection Agency; EGASPIN (2002) – Environmental Guidelines and Standards for the Petroleum Industry in Nigeria; WHO (2021)- World Health Organisation regarding Ambient Air Quality Standards

From the results on the particulate matter for PM2.5 and PM10 (Figure 1), PM2.5 levels at the selected sampling locations ranged from 16.39 – 22.44µg/m3 with L1 having the highest PM2.5 level while PM10 levels ranged from 27.98 to 68.61µg/m3 with L1 also having the highest PM10 level.

Figure 1: Showing 24-hour PM2.5 and PM10 levels at the selected Garri Processing locations in Bayelsa State

The PM values at the sampling locations were compared with the WHO (2021) recommended 24-hour average time limit presented in Table 4. The values determined from the selected Garri processing locations (L1, L2, L3, L4 and L5) indicated that, for PM 2.5 which ranged from 16.39 -29.44µg/m3 were at levels higher than the recommended 15ug/m3 while for PM10 which ranged from 27.98 – 68.61µg/m3, L1 and L3 had levels higher than the recommended 45ug/m3. L1 had the highest particulate matter levels with PM2.5 at 29.44µg/m3 and PM10 at 68.61µg/m3. Interestingly, L5 had the lowest PM levels (PM2.5 at 16.39µg/m3 and PM10 at 27.98µg/m3), as well as, the lowest humidity (62.41±9.33%) but highest temperature (31.05±0.059℃).

Table 4: PM2.5 and PM10 Levels at the Sampling Locations Compared with the WHO (2021) Recommended 24-hour Air Quality Levels

Sampling Locations GPS Coordinates Levels of Suspended Particulate Matter (µg/m3) at 24-hour Air Pollution Level
PM 2.5 PM10 PM 2.5 PM10
L1 4o58’39’’N 6o6’30’’E 29.44 68.61 Level 4 Level 4
L2 4o32’28’’N 6o24’33’’E 19.09 39.97 Level 3 Level 2
L3 5o9’31’’N 6o11’37’’E 22.47 47.33 Level 3 Level 3
L4 4o42’27’’N 6o19’35’’E 20.71 43.27 Level 3 Level 2
L5 4o41’33’’N 6o19’38’’E 16.39 27.98 Level 3 Level 2
WHO (2021) 24-hr Air Quality Level 15.0 45.0 NA

Risk Assessment

The health risks connected with these emissions (pollutants) were assessed using an air quality index (AQI) derived from the World Health Organisation (WHO, 2021) criteria. The AQI values determined for the quantified PM2.5 and PM 10 values for the sampling stations L1, L2, L3, L4 and L5 as shown in Table 4 were between Levels 2 to 4 with L1 having the highest AQI levels (as indicated in the values of PM2.5 at 29.44µg/m3 and PM10 at 68.61µg/m3). L5 had the lowest PM and AQI levels also reflected in their values (PM2.5 of 16.39µg/m3 and PM10 of 27.98µg/m3 at Level 3 and Level 2 respectively).

4.1 DISCUSSION

The climate of the study area is tropical with alternating wet and dry seasons. The mean monthly temperature ranges from 25 to 38℃ (Obafemi and Omiunu, 2014). Angiamowei et al. (2019), in their study around Gbaran – Ubie Gas Processing Plant, Bayelsa State, Nigeria reported 2.80 – 3.75m/s wind speed, relative humidity values ranged between 37.15 – 98.80% with temperature between 24.80 – 31.05℃. Abulude et al. (2022), gave results of temperature of 24-31℃, wind speed of 3.3-12.5m/s, and relative humidity of 60-91% for Yenegoa, Nigeria. From this study, the 24- hour meteorological values for temperature, wind speed and relative humidity during the sampling time ranged from 27.96 to 31.05OC, 0.51 – 1.31m/s and 62.41 to 79.73% respectively. Which except for temperature were lower than the previous findings, attributable to the specific locations, sampling time, and presence of vegetative cover. Variations observed in the meteorological values between the sampling locations were also attributable to these factors- specific locations, sampling time, and presence of vegetative cover. These implied that these values were within the expected ranges for ambient environment.

Among the most important and alarming air pollutants mentioned by Lala et al. (2023) are oxides of nitrogen (NOx), oxides of sulphur dioxide (SOx), carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), and particulates (PM1, PM2.5 and PM10), and other uncontrolled emission activities of great relevance. Angiamowei et al. (2019), in their report for study around Gbaran – Ubie Gas Processing Plant, Bayelsa State, Nigeria gave the values for that of SO2 to range between 0.50 – 1.50ppm and CO at 0 .50 – 6.00ppm. Onakpohor et al. (2020) conducted a study on air pollution from artisanal refinery operations in the Niger Delta, Nigeria gave values of 3215.67–9001.07mg/m3 for CO, 233.00–437.68mg/m3 for NOx, and 160.25–350mg/m3 for SO2. Yorkor et al. (2023), field measurement of air pollutants (SO2, NO2, CO,) reported that, except for CO, exceeded permissible limits around Tombia-Edepie, Swali, Igbogene and Yenegoa which they attributed to vehicular movement. Angaye et al. (2024), reported carbon monoxide (0.01–0.07µg/m3), NOx (< 0.01µg/m3) and SOx (0.01–0.04µg/m3) for gases related with Bayelsa State’s artisans’ petroleum refining. The air pollutants measured at the sampling locations L1, L2, L3, L4 and L5 in this study at 24-hour showed variations between the sampling stations especially for CO and NOx. The sampling locations had values for these gases that were lower than the recommended 24-hour limits of WHO (2021), EGASPIN (2002) and FEPA (1991). These values indicated that these air polluting gases were not at obnoxious levels as to result in environmental or/and health implications, hence, pose no threat.

The differences in the concentrations of these gases amongst the studies are attributable to the anthropogenic activities that resulted in the various gaseous emissions that are air pollutants. The temperature, humidity, wind speed, and wind direction are primary meteorological factors that correlate with airborne pollutant concentrations (Zhang et al., 2015). As observed in the findings of this study, the values for the meteorological readings and the air polluting gases- CO, NOx and SOx were relatively low.

The PM2.5 (fine particles) poses a greater risk than PM10 (coarse particles). The surface area to volume ratio of PM2.5 is significantly higher than that of PM10, which renders PM2.5 more dangerous, particularly when inhaled and gets into the bloodstream. Assessing the extent to which humans are exposed to air pollutants based on air quality monitoring is important for developing policy frame works, guidelines, regulations for their regulation to improve air quality and human health through controlled/reduced emission.

Abulude et al. (2022), in their study on air quality index levels of PM2.5 in Yenegoa, gave PM2.5 result of 11.1-26.2µg/m3. Yorkor et al. (2023), field measurement of PM10 and PM2.5 had values that exceeded permissible limits around Tombia-Edepie, Swali, Igbogene and Yenegoa which they attributed to vehicular movement. Lala et al. (2024), in their findings in the Niger Delta Region showed that, majority of the dispersed particles of PM2.5 assessed were located between 0m and 500m and ranged between 145.50μg/m3 and 425.23μg/m3. Angaye et al. (2024), reported 0.09–18.00 and 22.00– 55.13µg/m3 for PM 2.5 and PM 10 respectively associated with artisanal refining of crude oil in Bayelsa State. In this study, the 24-hour PM 2.5 which ranged from 16.39 -29.44µg/m3 across the sampling locations were at levels higher than the WHO (2021) recommended 24-hour limit of 15ug/m3 while PM10 which ranged from 27.98 – 68.61µg/m3, had L1 and L3 with levels higher than the WHO (2021) recommended 24-hour limit of 45ug/m3. These findings were similar in that, PM values were higher than the recommended levels indicating airborne emissions that pose threat to the environment and health.

The air quality index (AQI) reported by Abulude et al. (2022) indicated results ranging from 46 to 80 for PM2.5, categorizing it as Level 1 air pollution. Lala et al. (2024) found that the AQI levels during the period studied ranged from unhealthy for those who are sensitive (145.50μg/m3) to hazardous (425.23μg/m3) air quality. Their findings led to the conclusion that the residents of the Niger Delta region of Nigeria are at risk of adverse health effects due to prolonged exposure to elevated levels of PM2.5 in the area. From this study, the AQI at the selected Garri processing locations indicated Level 2 (with yellow colour code) to Level 4 (with red colour code), with L1 having the highest AQI levels at Level 4 for PM 2.5 and PM 10 (as indicated in the values of PM2.5 at 29.44µg/m3 and PM10 at 68.61µg/m3) while L5 had the lowest PM and AQI levels at Level 2 (with yellow colour code) reflected in their values (PM2.5 of 16.39µg/m3 and PM10 of 27.98µg/m3 at Level 3 and Level 2 respectively).

The implications of these AQI values are that the air quality around these Garri processing locations at Level 2 indicates a moderate air pollution level, presenting an acceptable standard with some health concerns for a small subset of individuals who are particularly sensitive to air quality issues. Level 3 indicates an unhealthy air condition for sensitive and vulnerable populations. The sensitive group includes individuals with underlying health issues, such as lung and heart diseases, while the vulnerable groups consist of the elderly and children. Level 4 indicates that the air quality is unhealthy. This will lead to adverse health consequences for the general population and more severe health impacts on sensitive and vulnerable groups- which is case for L1, Confirming the allusion of Lala et al. (2024), that, “inhabitants of these areas are liable to hazardous health effects over a prolong exposure to the high level of PM2”These are probably due to the use of ‘different sorts’ of combustible materials used in the kilns for frying of Garri in these locations that pose hazard to the environment and health of exposed persons.

The scientific basis for particle pollution mainly consists of epidemiological studies evaluating the morbidity and mortality impacts of both acute and chronic exposure to particle pollution (Abulude et al., 2022). Ephraim-Emmanuel et al. (2023) demonstrated a significant correlation between soot-containing air pollutants, such as PAHs (a component of particulate matter), and the prevalence of respiratory health issues in specific populations in Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Hence, the need to create awareness about the hazards and discourage the use of such materials as sources of fuels in such production activities; and more research in this area is encouraged.

Acknowledgement

The authors would like to express their gratitude to TETFUND for their invaluable support and funding, which facilitated the completion of this research.

CONCLUSION

Garri, processed from the tubers of cassava is a staple food source in Nigeria, with Bayelsa State not being an exception. Its production has increased with increase in population and has resulted in resorting to the use of ‘different sorts’ of combustible materials as sources of fuels during the frying. These materials have had resultant impacts on ambient air quality which was the thrust of this study. In which the findings showed that, at 24-hour average time, the air polluting gases- CO, NOx and SOx were not particularly affected since they were lower than the WHO (2021) recommended guidelines but PM2.5 and PM10 were at levels higher than the recommended levels. The AQI values at Level 2 to Level 4 indicated that the PM levels were hazardous and pose threat to the environment (air quality) and health of individuals (as they inhale the polluted air) involved in the Garri production, as well as, those who live close to the sampled locations. Hence, the need to create awareness about the hazards and discourage the use of such materials as sources of fuels in such production activities.

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Cite this Article:

Lelei, KE; Angaye, TCN (2025). Health Risk Assessment of Airborne Particulate Matter Emissions from Uncontrolled Garri Processing Kilns in Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Greener Journal of Environmental Management and Public Safety, 13(1): 19-27, https://doi.org/10.15580/gjemps.2025.1.021325027.

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