Mapping Air Quality Levels in Jos Urban Area of Plateau State, Nigeria.

Abstract

This research is aimed at mapping Air quality levels in Jos metropolis. The research made use of data collected by the use of structured questionnaires. Solid waste constitute the highest source of air pollution with 43.72% followed by automobile with 31.69% from the research. In mapping the air quality levels, air quality metre was used in taking measurements of the air quality index (AQI). Fourteen locations in the study area were measured. Generally, the air quality of Jos is either good or moderate. No neighborhood registered unhealthy air quality standards which is an interesting finding seeing that Jos is probably the most urbanized town in North Central Nigeria. Angwan Rukuba had the highest air quality measurement with 64. This figure falls within the moderate class of EPAs (Environmental Protection Agency) categorization. The least in terms of air quality measurement was mazah with 17 which is regarded by the EPA standard as good. It was observed that the reason for this low figure was because of the surrounding vegetation with low human population in the area. The study recommends that this air quality index should maintained and improved upon by ensuring that environmental air quality standards are set, maintained and monitored. Therefore, the research concludes that good management of the environment is not just a personal responsibility, but a public value.