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VOL. 10, ISSUE 4 (2025)
Spatial and diurnal variations in air quality, noise, and microclimatic conditions of refinery-adjacent coastal communities in the warri–Effurun Industrial Corridor, Niger Delta, Nigeria
Authors
Adeyemi, Oyeyemi, Pronen Joseph Happy
Abstract
This study evaluated the spatial and diurnal variations in air quality
and microclimatic conditions of two refinery-adjacent coastal communities—Ekpan
and Ubeji, located within the Warri–Effurun industrial corridor of the Niger
Delta, Nigeria. The investigation focused on quantifying particulate matter (PM₀.
₃–PM₁₀), gaseous pollutants (CO₂, TVOC, HCHO, combustible gases, halogens), and
meteorological parameters (noise level, temperature, and humidity) during
morning and evening sessions over a 14-day period. Field data were collected in
triplicate and statistically analysed using Shapiro–Wilk tests, paired t-tests,
Wilcoxon signed-rank tests, and Cohen’s d to evaluate both statistical and
practical significance. Results revealed that particulate matter concentrations
were consistently higher in Ekpan than in Ubeji, reflecting stronger industrial
and vehicular emissions. CO₂ and TVOC levels ranged from 400–494 ppm and
0.009–0.115 ppm respectively, remaining within WHO safety limits but showing
mild evening elevations. Formaldehyde (HCHO) values averaged below 0.004 ppm,
confirming minimal indoor emission impact. In both communities, temperature
remained stable (31–33 °C; p > 0.05), whereas humidity significantly
decreased from morning to evening (p < 0.05), reflecting progressive
daytime drying. Noise levels rose markedly in the evening—from 55.03 ± 1.02 dB
to 56.58 ± 0.87 dB in Ekpan and from 55.12 ± 1.08 dB to 56.59 ± 0.64 dB in
Ubeji—both exceeding WHO’s 55 dB comfort threshold. The findings indicate that
human activity, industrial operations, and maritime climatic moderation jointly
influence local atmospheric stability, producing a coastal–industrial hybrid
microclimate. Although pollutant levels remain within acceptable limits, their
diurnal patterns highlight emerging environmental stress. The study contributes
baseline quantitative data for environmental policy, demonstrating how moderate
but persistent fluctuations in noise and humidity serve as early indicators of
atmospheric imbalance in industrial coastal ecosystems. Recommendations
emphasise continuous monitoring, green infrastructure, and stricter enforcement
of emission and acoustic control standards.
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Pages:191-201
How to cite this article:
Adeyemi, Oyeyemi, Pronen Joseph Happy "Spatial and diurnal variations in air quality, noise, and microclimatic conditions of refinery-adjacent coastal communities in the warri–Effurun Industrial Corridor, Niger Delta, Nigeria". International Journal of Advanced Scientific Research, Vol 10, Issue 4, 2025, Pages 191-201
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