Research Article, Geoinfor Geostat An Overview Vol: 13 Issue: 4

Spatial Distribution of Energy Stations and Monitoring of Air Quality in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria

Kponi Barinedum Valentine^1*, Enyinda Chike, Kpang² and Meelubari Barinua³

¹Department of Geography and Environmental Management, University of Port- Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria

²Department of Geography and Environmental, Rivers State University, Rivers State, Nigeria

*Corresponding Author: Kponi Barinedum Valentine
Department of Geography and Environmental Management, University of Port-Harcourt. Rivers State, Nigeria;
E-mail: barinedumkponi@gmail.com

Received date: 14 August, 2024, Manuscript No. GIGS-24-145359; Editor assigned date: 16 August, 2024, PreQC No. GIGS-24-145359 (PQ); Reviewed date: 30 August, 2024, QC No. GIGS-24-145359; Revised date: 06 August, 2025, Manuscript No. GIGS-24-145359 (R); Published date: 13 August, 2025, DOI: 10.4172/2327-4581.1000443.

Citation: Valentine KB, Chike E, Barinua KM (2025) Spatial Distribution of Energy Stations and Monitoring of Air Quality in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria. Geoinfor Geostat: An Overview 13:4.

Abstract

Keywords: Geospatial analysis, Energy station locations, Ambient air quality

Introduction

Direct and indirect effects of air pollution on human health include discomfort, illness, and death. According to research, the risk of death rises with prolonged exposure to air pollution [1]. A vast quantity of resources, such as electricity, water, and food, are needed to support our society's activities due to the fast economic development and soaring population expansion. Consequently, many forms of pollutants have been generated. Worldwide, people are worried about air pollution because of how pervasive it is, how it harms the environment, and how it might affect human health. We still rely significantly on fossil fuels for many things, including generating power, getting about town, heating homes and businesses, and more, even though many are worried about pollution in the air caused by humans. The degradation of air quality, especially in developing nations, is a clear consequence of this. These days, most people in big cities are worried about air pollution [2]. The term "air pollution" refers to any situation in which certain pollutants are present in the air at quantities high enough to cause damage to both humans and their natural surroundings. Conversely, all forms of life depend on clean air for their development and maintenance. The air we breathe has a direct impact on how long we live, both as humans and as other animals [3]. It should be noted that in order for metabolic processes to be facilitated and enhanced, people need oxygen for effective respiration. The existence of all life on Earth depends on air. thereby, making air an indispensable tool for the survival of man. A good air is supposed to be free and safe for human inhalation. Unfortunately, due to urbanization, and the introduction of several anthropogenic activities such as the sales of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), which has contributed to the contamination of the ambient outdoor air quality thereby posing serious health risks concern [4]. The rising urban population in Nigeria, together with its reliance on PMS, poses a greater threat to human health, as stated in a paper by Shola. According to Power et al., air pollution has a deleterious impact on ecosystems, humans, and the biosphere as a whole. In underdeveloped countries, where uncontrolled sectors like petrol stations are common, air pollution is a major problem. Animals and humans alike are vulnerable to the health risks posed by air pollutants like Sulphur Dioxide (SO2), Ground-Level Ozone (O₃), Carbon Monoxide (CO), Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂), and particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10). In addition, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has long highlighted the connection between air pollution and the escalating rates of respiratory, dermatological, cancer, asthma, and TB. According to the research of Mehta, et al., these health issues have led to a greater fatality rate than AIDS.

According to 2012 research by the World Health Organisation (WHO), air pollution was the cause of death for around 10% of the world's population and this affected over 7 million people [5]. The majority of the fatalities in 2019 occurred in underdeveloped countries, when the worldwide annual mortality rate reached 2.9 million persons [6]. Of worthy to note, fumes generated from vehicles at various energy stations contributes significantly to the problem of air pollution. Also, the purchase of PMS, gases releases from the nozzles from pumps at filling stations affects air quality and, in most cases, leads to mortality [7], listed emission of fumes from vehicles as a major pollutant of air quality in filling stations which causes difficulty in breathing, wheezing, and sneezing. Notably, this is as result of the concentration of gases that has engulfed the filling station environment. This problem is synonymous across all filling stations.

As stated by Ashmore, it is also suspected that industrialization and the presence of various business centers that emits carbons arising from their daily activities could be responsible for the indiscriminate emissions of the obnoxious gases. This in return could pose a serious health effect to the staff and those doing business in the filling station vicinity. To ascertain the air quality within the various energy stations, the distances of the locations of the energy stations were examined to verify if it falls within the permissible limit as specified by DPR (Department of Petroleum Resources).

Materials and Methods

Study area

The study area is situated within Port Harcourt metropolis which is made up of Obio-Akpor LGA and PHALGA. It is situated between 4°42 and 4°52' North and between latitudes 6°53' and 7°08' East. The area is known as the Niger Delta. Founded by the British Colonial authority under Lord Lugard to address the urgent economic demands of the Europeans, Port Harcourt is often referred to be the garden city of Nigeria. The study area is bounded by Obio-Akpor to the West, Eleme to the East, Oyigbo to the North and Degema LGA to the South. (Figure 1) the study area is highly characterized by the presence of filling stations across the study area. Due to the urbanization in the study area, it is characterized by several filling stations and with associated business centres which is likely to influence the air quality in these areas. The climate is defined by alternating dry and rainy seasons [8] with annual total rainfall of between 160 mm and 294 mm; relative humility of over 90% and mean temperature of 27°C. The detailed geology of the area has been described by Allen, Rayment, short and stauble. The local geology of the area consists of the stratified sediments starting with Benin Formation underlain by the Miocene Agbada formation and under compacted Akata formation respectively [9]. The Benin formation consists of massive highly porous sands and gravels of fluviatile origin. Agbata formation is also of Eocene-recent in age, and it consists of an admixture of inter-bedded sands, which are fluviatile coastal, fluvio-marine and shale in origin. Akata formation is also predominately shale or clay but is relatively under compacted [10].

The mean maximum temperature all the year round in the study area is 30°C. The dry season months of February, March, and April record the highest mean diurnal temperature for the period of ten years (1985-1994), the month of March recorded 36°C while February recorded 35°C ± 1°C. The temperature within the study area is 33°C.

Figure 1: Study area (Geospatial locations of filling stations within the study area).

Type of data/method of data collection

Primary data was used in this investigation. The primary data is the data that is gotten directly from the field through direct field measurements. This involves the use of field instruments to directly collect the sample for investigation. The various coordinate points were also collected with the use of hand-held GPS (Global Positioning System) device. The distances from the major road to the filling station locations were collected in the entire study area across the various filling stations sampled with a hand-held tape. Also, the air quality data were examined to ascertain their concentration levels in the atmosphere. The following pollutants were examined to ascertain their presence and concentrations [11]. They are PM10, PM2.5, Carbon Monoxide (CO), Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2), ground level Ozone (O3), and Sulfur Dioxide (SO2). The Air Quality Reader (AERO-QUAL 500 SERIES) was utilized in the data collection. The data was collected at different times of the day; 10 am, 12 pm and 5 pm respectively. This is done in accordance with the methods specified by Francis Tuluri, Amit Kr. Gorai, Aaron James. The air quality instrument is specified below (Figure 2).

Figure 2: Air quality reader.

All nine (9) petrol stations in the research region are shown in the Table 1 with their respective coordinates. In order to determine the positions of the several petrol stations distant from the main highways in the research region, field measurements were taken at different distances in metres. DPR is the sole regulatory agency that spearheads the activities of filling stations in Nigeria. They are the regulatory agency saddled with the responsibility of siting of filling stations across Nigeria. Furthermore, the latitude and longitude of the various filling stations were also recorded accordingly [12]. As specified by DPR, all filling stations must be situated within the distance of 15 metres from the road. Out of the identified energy stations, three (3) major marketers were used in the study to ascertain the quality of air. However, the various distances across the nine (9) energy stations were used in the study to also verify their distances if it falls within the permissible limit as specified by DPR [13].

Table 1: Coordinate locations of sample energy stations.

Method of data analysis: The various air quality data from different stations was investigated to ascertain the station that has the highest pollutants concentration using descriptive statistics (mean, and standard deviation). The result was further used to ascertain if it falls within NESREA (National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency), permissible limit for out-door air quality. To establish statistical significance, the one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was performed with a probability threshold set at (P<0.05).

This was done to ascertain if statistically, there exist a significant variation in the air quality across the filling stations within the study area.

The map presented in Figure 3 is a 15 metres buffer analysis of the various filling station locations in the study area. From the result of the analysis as presented in the map above, it is obvious that all the filling stations did not adhere to the DPR standard (decree) which states that the actual distance from the main road to the location of any filling station must be 15 metres. It is worth noting that the safety rules and regulations for petroleum filling stations, as amended by decree no. 37 of 1977, require the following fundamental conditions to be reported after a site assessment of a proposed filling station:

• The plot size that has been proposed.
• Whether the location is in the Right of Way (ROW) for a pipeline or an electrical high-tension wire.
• Minimum required distance of 15 metres from roadside to closest pump.
• Within a two-kilometer radius of the property, on each side of the road, there will not be more than four gas stations, including the one being considered.
• No less than 400 metres must separate the proposed station from an existing one.
• The Federal Highway Administration may need to provide a letter of approval if the location is located along a federal highway.
• DPR guided/supervised EIA study of the site by DPR accredited consultant.

This study is concerned with regulation number (iii) which state that:

Minimum required distance of 15 metres from roadside to closest pump.

Figure 3: 15 metres Buffer of filling station locations.

Results and Discussion

Presentation of air quality results across major filling stations

The result above reveals the various parameters and the associated results as presented in (Table 2). Six parameters were investigated in the different times of the day (10 am, 1 pm and 5 pm). This was done to ascertain the time that has the highest concentration of the gas. Carbon monoxide was absent in the morning while sulfur dioxide was minute with a value of 0.01, ground level ozone was absent also [14]. PM2.5 has a value of 0.008 while PM10 has a value of 0.010. However, carbon-dioxide was present with a value of 1077. In the afternoon, both Carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide and ozone were absent while PM2.5 and PM10 has a value of 0.002 and 0.001 which is lesser than the value in the morning and carbon-dioxide was 1025. In the evening, carbon monoxide was 1.8 while sulfur-dioxide was absent [15]. Also, ozone was not present while PM2.5 and PM10 has same reading of 0.003 respectively. Quite noticeable, carbon dioxide has a value of 1099. This is a clear indication that carbon is more concentrated in the evening than any other time of the day within NNPC filling station.

Table 2: NNPC filling station.

The result presented in Table 3 is the air quality result of total filling state. Six air quality parameters were tested at different times of the day (10 am, 1 pm and 5 pm). This was done to ascertain if there are presence of any of them and in what quantity. Nevertheless, it was found that many combustions sources release Carbon Monoxide (CO), a colourless and odourless gas that also emerges from incomplete combustion, including motor vehicles was present with a value of 0.8 (ppm) while sulfur dioxide was absent, however, ground level ozone was present with a value of 0.03 (ppm). Remarkably, it was discovered that PM2.5 has a value of 0.002 while PM10 has a value of 0.001 while carbon-dioxide was present with a value of 1051. In the afternoon, both carbon monoxide, sulphur-dioxide was absent [16]. Ground level Ozone was present with a value of 0.012 while PM2.5 and PM10 has a value of 0.002 and 0.002 respectively. However, carbon-monoxide was 998. In the evening, carbon monoxide was 1.0 while sulphur-dioxide was 0.1 while ground level ozone was absent. Coincidentally, PM2.5 and PM10 has same reading of 0.002. Nevertheless, it was found that many combustion sources release Carbon Monoxide (CO), a colourless and odourless gas that also emerges from incomplete combustion, including motor vehicles etc. has a value of 1016 which is far higher than the morning and afternoon.

Table 3: Total filling station.

The Table below shows the results of the air quality as presented in Table 4. Air quality data was collected from Mobil filling station along Port Harcourt Aba express way. However, it was discovered that Carbon monoxide was present with a value of 56.4, sulfur oxide was present with a value of 4.5 while ozone was absent. PM2.5 has a value of 0.008 while PM10 has a value of 0.007. Carbon dioxide has a value of 1121. In the afternoon, carbon monoxide has decline with a value of 37.5 and sulphur-oxide was totally absent alongside ozone. PM2.5 and PM10 was read at the same value of 0.006 and 0.008 respectively [17]. Carbon dioxide was present with a value of 989. In the evening, both carbon monoxide, sulfur oxide and ozone were absent. This could be because of reduced or absent of social activities. PM2.5 and PM10 was 0.006 and 0.012. Carbon oxide was present with a value of 976 which is lower than the morning and afternoon session. This is possible because of the reduced activities within the filling station during that time of the day.

Table 4: Conoil filling station.

Permissibility of air quality as specified by NESREA

The Table 5 depicts the air quality permissible limit as specified by NESREA (National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency). In comparison to the measured air quality within the major filling stations along Port Harcourt Aba Express way. Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a colourless and odourless gas that is produced by incomplete combustion and is allowed to escape from many different sources, including motor vehicles, according to the standards set by NESREA. The allowed concentration is 0.06 parts per million (ppm). Additionally, Sulphur Dioxide (SO2), a gas that is both colourless and pungently smelly. Sulphur is a byproduct of smelting sulfur-containing mineral ores and fossil fuel combustion; according to NESREA, its concentration should not go over 0.05 parts per million (ppm). No more than 0.06 parts per million (ppm) of ozone should be present at ground level; this is distinct from the ozone layer in the upper atmosphere, which is a key component of photochemical smog and is produced by reacting gases with sunlight. Common proxies for air pollution include Particulate Matter (PM) 2.5 and PM 10. The harmful effects on health from this pollution have been welldocumented. Black carbon, water, sulphates, nitrates, ammonia, sodium chloride, and mineral dust are the main ingredients of Particulate Matter (PM).

Table 5: Standard for air quality from industrial sources/operations.

NESREA specified that its concentrations should not exceed 0.2 and 0.4 (ppm) respectively. Finally, Carbon dioxide which is an important chemical needed for the survival of all life forms in the environment was also analysed to ascertain its concentration. The permissible limit as specified by NESREA is 400 (ppm). At high level, this pollutant becomes dangerous to human.

Findings

Carbon dioxide is an important greenhouse gas, it is a by-product of the burning of fossil fuel with a half-life of 50-200 years and global warming potential. CO₂ at high levels above permissible limits may result in environmental hazards such as ocean acidification. According to NESREA, the minimum permissible limit for CO2 is 400 (ppm), once it goes higher, it becomes hazardous. The values of CO₂ recorded across the different sample locations were higher than the standard given by NESREA. The highest concentration of CO₂ at 1521 ppm was obtained at Coinoil filling station. The high rate of CO₂ emission in the study area is as a result burning of in activities that goes on within the environment, the high influx of vehicles buying fuel and the fumes from their exhaust pipes, also from business generators, heavy duty trucks etc. This result agrees with the works of Tse and Oguama who also record high levels of CO₂ concentration in their study. One of the most significant pollutants to the environment is nitrogen dioxide. It is introduced into the air through gas stoves; it causes photo-chemical smog at high concentrations as well as other health effects such pulmonary edema and hemorrhage. This is because of the high rate of vehicular emissions from the cars and motor bikes which are constantly on the move. Indeed, motor vehicles produce more pollution than any other single human activities. Tse, et al. also recorded high concentrations of CO around commercial areas in their study and at filling stations. The incomplete combustion of fossil fuels in engines and vehicles produces carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas that is colourless, odourless, and tasteless. Carbon monoxide poisoning may harm the cardiovascular system and the neurological system. Pollution due to traffic constitutes 90-95% of the ambient CO levels might potentially endanger human health in a major way. The risk of the fuel pump attendants who inhale this gas in a daily basis is quite high and may have long term negative health consequences. The highest concentration of SO₂ was recorded as the various sampled energy stations with a value of 0.9 (ppm) and it is highly concentrated in the afternoon. This is because of emission from the fleet of cars that ome in and go out to purchase fuel. This finding is in tandem with the results of Tse, et al. who also recorded high levels of SO₂ in filling stations in their study. Sulphur Dioxide (SO₂) is an environmental pollutant and the main component of acid decomposition. The pollutant Sulphur Dioxide (SO₂) may be dispersed over a large area after being released into the air by several sources, including coal and oil power plants, oil refineries, smelters, generators, and cars. Excess concentration of SO₂ can lead to respiratory problems, severe headache, irritating lungs, and damage to vegetation. It can also cause increased rate of corrosion of iron, zinc, steel, and aluminum. Also, they were presence of particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM 10) at the various energy stations. Although their values were within the permissible limit as specified by NESREA. Other particulates recorded lower concentration of pollutants in many of the samples. Since PM2.5 particles are smaller, they may penetrate deeper into the lungs and inflict more damage, making it a more significant health risk. This result also agrees with the findings of Tse, et al., that compared the indoor and outdoor air quality as it relates to particulate matter within business environment and residential areas and found the concentration of particulates to be higher outdoor. The air quality within the study area can be said to be poor with high concentration of pollutants that deter the quality of air within the various filling stations. Air quality monitoring is a process used to evaluate the overall condition of the air in a certain area. It is an activity that must be carried out continuously at intervals; not just for the sake of measurement but to ensure that steps are taken to reduce the act of air pollution to the barest minimum. Any and all suspended solids or liquids are collectively known as particulate matter. Atmospheric suspended particles which cause impairment of visibility. The reduction of visibility is caused by buildup of the atmospheric particles. Because they may enter the bloodstream unfiltered and go deep into the lungs, particulates pose the greatest threat of air pollution, leading to early mortality, heart attacks, asthma, chronic bronchitis, cough catarrh, and lasting DNA alterations.

Conclusion

This study has reveals that, majority of the filling stations along the Port-Harcourt ABA express way is not situated in 15 metres away from the major road as specified by DPR. The result of the buffer analysis carried out resulted to this conclusion. This is a death trap for commuters as any activity that result to fire outbreak will cause a lot of harm and loss of lives and properties. The study also concludes the air quality within the various energy stations is polluted, but amongst other pollutants as observed, CO₂ is the major air pollutants with values higher than NESREA standards for outdoor air quality. The Anova result of the air quality within the energy stations indicates that (p>0.05) in the study area.

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