Impact of Solid Waste on Physico-Chemical Properties of Ferrealsol in Owerri, Nigeria

Abstract

The effects of municipal solid waste on selected physico-chemical properties of ferralsol in Owerri were examined. Soil samples were collected at different depths of 0-30cm and 30-60cm from polluted and unpolluted (control) areas. Selected physical and chemical properties such as bulk density, pH, total nitrogen, organic carbon, exchangeable bases, available phosphorus, and heavy metals (Pb, Cr, and Fe) were determined using standard methods. The findings show that the bulk density (1.15-1.5g/cm) and pH (4.6-5.4) were lower in the polluted area than in the control. Other parameters such as organic matter (2.06-5.21%), organic carbon (1.90-3.20%), total nitrogen (0.24-0.61%), available phosphorus (4.2-5.1ppm), and the exchangeable bases were higher in the polluted area than the control. The results further indicate that the heavy metals with values above the control and permissible limits posed the greatest danger to animals and humans. There is a need therefore for proper management of municipal solid waste in Owerri.