ASSESSESSMENT OF AIR PARTICULATE MATTER IN FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF PETROLEUM RESOURCES ENVIRONMENT

ABSTRACT This study assesses the spatial and temporal distribution of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) concentrations within the Federal University of Petroleum Resources Effurun (FUPRE) environment, focusing on three primary locations: FUPRE Campus, Ugbomro Junction, and Federal Junction. Using a handheld particulate matter detector, PM measurements were collected over a four-day period and analyzed to determine the degree to which concentrations at each location aligned with air quality standards set by the World Health Organization (WHO) and Nigeria’s National Environmental Standards. The mean PM2.5 concentration at FUPRE Campus was observed to be 21.69 µg/m³, well within the WHO and Nigeria standards of 25 µg/m³. Conversely, Ugbomro Junction and Federal Junction recorded mean PM2.5 levels of 41.5 µg/m³ and 30.82 µg/m³, respectively, both exceeding the established standards and indicating potential health risks for populations in these areas. For PM10, the mean concentrations at FUPRE Campus, Federal Junction, and Ugbomro Junction were 26.92 µg/m³, 39.55 µg/m³, and 53.9 µg/m³, respectively. Only Ugbomro Junction exceeded the PM10 standards of 50 µg/m³, highlighting the junction as a critical area for air quality intervention. Statistical analysis using ANOVA revealed significant differences in PM levels between the three locations, with F- statistics of 15.92 for PM2.5 and 21.79 for PM10 (p-values of 1.11E-05 and 6.30E-07, respectively), underscoring the spatial variation in particulate matter distribution. The study concludes that Ugbomro Junction and Federal Junction consistently experience higher-than- recommended PM levels, potentially elevating the risk of respiratory and cardiovascular health issues among residents. These findings underscore the need for targeted pollution mitigation strategies, particularly in high-risk areas, as well as ongoing air quality monitoring to ensure environmental safety and public health protection.