International Journal of Academic Research in Education and Review

Vol. 12(2), pp. 101-108, May 2024

ISSN: 2360-7866

https://doi.org/10.14662/ijarer2024400

 

Full Length Research

 

 

Evaluation of Leachate Contaminants from Dumpsites Environments on Groundwater Quality in the State Capitals in Niger Delta, Nigeria

 

1Otalekor Isaiah, 2Akpobire Oghenekome and 3Erhijivwo Ovo

 

1.2,3Department Science Laboratory Technology, School of Sciences and Technology, Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara, Delta State

 

Accepted 20 May 2024

Abstract

Abstract: This study evaluates the environmental impact of leachate contaminants from dumpsites on groundwater quality in the state capitals of the Niger Delta region, Nigeria. Groundwater samples were collected from five selected dumpsite namely Uyo Dumpsite A, Ekeki Dumpsite B, Lemna Dumpsite C, Ikpoba Hill Dumpsite D, and Mile 3 Dumpsite E—during both the rainy and dry seasons. The study aimed to assess the physicochemical, biological, and heavy metal concentrations in groundwater, calculate the Leachate Pollution Index (LPI), and investigate the speciation of heavy metals in leachate samples. Results showed significant contamination, with LPI values ranging from 7.5 ± 0.2 (Ikpoba Hill Dumpsite D) to 13.0 ± 0.7 (Mile 3 Dumpsite E) in the dry season, indicating high to moderate pollution levels. The heavy metals detected included lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), and mercury (Hg), with proportions of free ion lead (Pb²⁺) at 60%, cadmium (CdCl⁺) at 70%, and mercury (CH₃Hg⁺) at 80%. Toxicity tests revealed that fish LC50 for groundwater samples ranged from 48 mg/L to 6 mg/L in leachate, far exceeding safe drinking water thresholds. The study highlighted the severity of groundwater contamination due to leachates, with implications for public health and the need for improved waste management and groundwater protection strategies. These findings underscore the urgent need for regulatory policies to mitigate the adverse effects of dumpsite leachates on groundwater resources in the Niger Delta region.

 

Key Words: Leachate, Groundwater Quality, Dumpsites, Leachate Pollution Index, Heavy Metals, Toxicity, Niger Delta

Paper type: research