ATBU Journal of Environmental Technology

Equipment acquisition and maintenance capability of construction firms in Abuja, Nigeria

2024-11-03T14:53:46+00:00

Research into construction equipment tends to focus on output and criteria for selection. However, investigations that examine the capability of construction firms to acquire and maintain equipment are limited. This study examines the capability of construction firms to acquire and maintain equipment in Abuja, Nigeria. A survey approach was adopted, and data was obtained through self-administered questionnaires to 45 construction practitioners from 45 construction firms purposively sampled in the Federal Capital Territory Abuja, Nigeria. The study used descriptive statistics to analyze the capabilities of firms, and the results showed that the method of acquisition ranked as the highest factor, with a mean score of 4.70, which affects the equipment management capability of firms. The results also showed that 65% of firms cannot outright purchase construction equipment, 56% rely largely on renting, and 62% often adopt an outsourced maintenance approach rather than in-house maintenance. This explains why many construction projects do not always benefit fully from the potential or output of construction equipment. The study argues that construction projects can benefit maximally from the potential of construction equipment when construction firms leverage their capabilities and project resources prudently. The study contributes to knowledge by shifting the debate in the literature on equipment and focusing on capabilities. The study has implications for construction firms that seek to develop capabilities that can promote their business interest and competitive advantage.

Effects of fourth industrial revolution biotechnological drivers on construction occupational-related diseases in Nigeria

2024-11-03T15:03:38+00:00

The persistence of diseases that affect the construction workforce as a result of activities on construction sites poses a danger to the sustainable development of the industry. This resulted in a huge loss of skilled labour and economic development for the entire country. The emergence of the fourth industrial revolution (4IR) technologies calls for a need to assess the effect of the technology's biological driver on construction occupation-related diseases. Therefore, this study assessed the effect of genome sequencing and neurotechnology on construction occupation-related diseases in Northern Nigeria. The study is quantitative in design through the administration of 650 questionnaires to project managers and health and safety (H&S) managers in the three geopolitical zones of Northern Nigeria using a proportionate sampling technique. A total of 400 were duly completed, representing a 61.5% esponse rate. The collected data was analyzed using the Warp PLS-SEM 8.0 software algorithm. The study found that the effects of the 4IR's biological driver variables ranged from moderate to high effects for genome sequencing (GENSE) and neurotechnology (NEURO), respectively. The combined predictive relevance of the two (2) variables predicts 64% of the construction occupation-related diseases. This implies that the adoption of the driver would help reduce the causes of construction-related diseases. The study recommends the adoption of the 4.0IR biological driver for the management of construction occupation-related diseases on construction sites for proper transformation of the sites.

Flood vulnerability assessment in Kogi State (Nigeria), using weighted linear combination of multi-criteria factors

2024-11-03T15:17:24+00:00

Floods and flood events are major natural disasters in Nigeria and around the world, their severity and impact result in numerous troubling consequences for human development and the displacement of people. This study used geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing techniques to produce maps of Kogi State, Nigeria's flood risk and vulnerable areas. This research used the AHP and MIF models. Data were sourced from multiple sources and analyzed using ArcGIS 10.8 software, generating nine thematic maps showing different factors that influence flooding, including the topographic wetness index, slope, elevation, rainfall, drainage density, land use, and land cover (LULC), soil type, distance from the river and distance from the road. Thematic layers were assigned weights according to their influence on flooding in the area. The weighted overlay tool in ArcGIS 10.8 combined each thematic map with their respective assigned weights, producing the ultimate flood vulnerability map for both the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Multi-Influence Factor (MIF) models. Flood zones were classified into four distinct classifications: low, moderate, high, and very high, according to the data analyzed that cover a significant part of the study area. According to the AHP and MIF model results, 0.66% and 2.18% of the area were classified as very high-risk zones, while 27.69% and 28.17% of the total land area were classified as high flood-vulnerable regions. The flood zones classified as moderate and low vulnerability covered 68.56% and 3.09% (according to the AHP), 59.91%, and 9.75% (according to the MIF), respectively. The results of this study will provide a framework for decision-making that can result in effective planning, allocation of resources, and creation of policies.

Assessment of effective usage of daylighting strategies in selected university libraries

2024-11-03T15:33:09+00:00

The use of daylighting has traditionally been a desirable building feature and a hallmark of good design. In educational facilities, daylighting has frequently been acknowledged as a practical source of energy savings and visual comfort. Efficient use of daylighting in library buildings has a positive impact on the wellbeing and productivity of users. However, the effectiveness of daylighting strategies requires a balance between visual comfort, energy savings, and the preservation of library collections. This paper employs qualitative method through desktop reviews for the international case studies and physical observation for assessing the selected Nigerian case studies. The Hebei University of Science and Technology Library, University of Birmingham's Library, Hezekiah Oluwasanmi Library (Obafemi Awolowo University), Kenneth Dike Library (University of Ibadan) were purposively selected to examine daylighting strategies used in the selected university library buildings and assess how effective these strategies are. The case studies were assessed in line with 5 daylighting strategies namely; building orientation, building form, window design and placement, shading devices and skylight on a scale of 1-5 where 1 is very bad usage and 5 is very good usage. The study revealed that building orientation in each case was rated "very good", building form was effectively employed in all four case studies, the window placement of all case studies was rated between very good and good and the use of shading devices and skylight was used in 3 of the case studies. To achieve proper or effective daylight in the design of university libraries, architects and other stakeholders should consider building orientation, building form, window design and placement, shading devices and skylights.

Daylight harvesting systems for energy efficiency in the tropics: a review

2024-11-03T15:48:21+00:00

This paper delves into daylight harvesting systems and their vital role in enhancing energy efficiency in the tropics. Growing energy consumption in these areas, driven by factors like urbanization and population growth, makes addressing this issue a pressing concern. Buildings are significant contributors, accounting for 20-40% of global energy use. Tropical regions, facing unique challenges, can benefit from daylight harvesting to curtail energy consumption. Through qualitative analysis via desktop reviews, fundamental principles and technologies of daylight harvesting are explored, alongside successful case studies showcasing successful daylight harvesting implementations in tropical regions, emphasizing energy savings and improved indoor comfort. Despite challenges like intense sunlight and humidity, opportunities abound in leveraging abundant daylight, integrating passive design, and reaping environmental and economic benefits. This study emphasizes addressing energy consumption in tropical regions, focusing on daylight harvesting systems for significant efficiency gains and improved indoor comfort. Region-specific research is crucial for tailored strategies, while integrated design and continuous monitoring ensure optimal performance. Awareness, policy support, innovation, and collaboration are essential for widespread adoption and sustainable development in tropical building practices.

Influence of corporate real estate management on organizational performance: a study of banking sector in Bauchi Metropolis, Nigeria

2024-11-03T16:03:29+00:00

Corporate real estate management (CREM) plays a vital role in enhancing organizational competitiveness and productivity. A research gap exists in understanding the specific CREM strategies adopted by banks in Bauchi Metropolis, Nigeria, and their direct impact on organizational performance. This study aims to address this gap by investigating CREM practices in the banking sector, focusing on its influence on performance. The study utilized a quantitative approach, collecting data from 78 staff across various banks in Bauchi Metropolis. It employed a stratified random sampling technique and a structured questionnaire with 5-point Likert-scale questions to measure respondents' perceptions on the impact of CREM practices on organizational productivity and performance; the key CREM variables affecting productivity and performance and understanding stakeholders' perceptions of CREM's added value. The study revealed that banks in Bauchi Metropolis recognized the significance of several CREM strategies. Moreover, tailoring CREM strategies to the local context was seen as vital for success. In terms of organizational performance, respondents agreed that effective CREM positively influenced financial performance, cost reduction, operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and the bank's reputation. The study oncludes that CREM significantly benefits the banking sector in Bauchi Metropolis, positively affecting performance across various aspects. To maximize these benefits, banks should adapt CREM strategies, foster innovation in workplaces, and implement evidence-based practices.

Drought stress genetic mediation mechanism of arbuscular mycorrhiza fungi (AMF)

2024-11-03T16:15:56+00:00

Plant development and productivity are adversely impacted by drought, a severe and complicated abiotic stress. Many research endeavors seek to identify the primary modulators of molecular and biochemical mechanisms linked to drought stress tolerance response. The development of drought stress tolerance involves the induction of several genes with diverse roles. AMF-induced production of drought-responsive genes in plants, such as aquaporins, dehydrins, and transcription factors involved in water transport, osmotic adjustment, and stress regulation. Therefore, in this review, we emphasized these three droughts-related genes. We also discussed the roles played by phytohormones, especially the strigolactone and abscisic acid as signaling molecules that help in the colonization process.

Development of a user's-friendly algorithm for gravimetric data processing Using Visushrink thresholds technique in a standalone tool

2024-11-03T16:28:07+00:00

Gravity is an efficient means of determining the shape and size of the Earth as well as the exploration of natural resources beneath the Earth's surface by examining the sudden variations in the fields (gravity anomalies) caused by the heterogeneous nature of Earth's
materials. To satisfactorily and optimally separate the gravity anomalies into regional (deep sources) and residual (shallow sources) components has constrained the use of gravimetric data for geodetic and geophysical exploration. In this paper, an attempt was made to optimally separate gravity anomalies into regional and residual components for geodetic and geophysical surveying using the Visushrink thresholds technique in the Discrete Wavelet domain. Gravity anomalies over an area in the Gongola Basin of Nigeria were obtained and used. The method was found to yield a good Regional Residual Ratio of 22.3113db and a regional anomalies variance of 6.2545 which is smoother and better than the Regional and Residual Ratio of 19.4197dB and a regional anomalies variance of 6.6488 obtained from theleast square collocation technique. In separating gravity anomalies into regional and residual components, the VisuShrink Thresholding technique of Discrete Wavelet Transformation is recommended.

Determinants of the causes and effect of inconsistency in compensation valuation

2024-11-04T05:10:09+00:00

Valuation as a core mandate of professional Estate Surveyors and Valuers is an important tool of financial and credit decisions for individuals, organisations and government. In order to ensure sound and reliable decisions, accurate and reliable valuation is indispensable. This study explored the determinants of the causes and effects of inconsistency in compensation valuation in Abuja, Nigeria. Using a cross-sectional survey research strategy, structured questionnaires were administered to a sample of 83 professional Estate Surveyors and Valuers in Abuja, Nigeria. A total of 62 questionnaires were used for analysis representing about 75 % response rate. A 5-Likert point scale was used to measure the response and data was analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean, standard deviation) and inferential statistics (Factor Analysis and Pearson's Correlation). It was found that a lack of in-depth knowledge of the cost of the latest building components and technology in the study area is the major cause of inconsistency in compensation valuation. Likewise, it was found that the effect of inconsistency in compensation valuation is more on the professional body as it leads to a poor image in society, whereas the effect on individual professionals is attributed to loss of trust from the client. Furthermore, small to medium positive relationships were established among the perceived effects and causes of inconsistency in valuation. The study recommends that valuers should upskill professionally to align with international standards and the growing user demand for more reliable valuation.

Geographical analysis of the physical aspect of Gashaka-Gumti National Park, North East Nigeria

2024-11-04T05:16:02+00:00

In this paper, the use of geospatial techniques for geographical analysis of the physical aspects of Gashaka-Gumti National Park (GGNP) in Nigeria was carried out. Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) was acquired and processed in ArcGIS 10.5 to produce the relief and rivers /streams within the park, while the names of the identified rivers and streams were obtained from topographical maps. Landsat 5 TM of 1991 and 2003 as well as Landsat OLI 8 of 2021 were obtained online to map the vegetation pattern of each year using NDVI indices. Changes in vegetation within the three-year study period were detected using the area calculation module in ArcGIS 10.5. Mean annual rainfall and temperature of fifty years were obtained online from Diva GIS which were interpolated to generate the spatial pattern of rainfall and mean temperature within the park. The results show that the relief of the national ranges from 286 to 2419 m, with Chapal Wadi mountain as the highest elevation of 2419 m above sea level. River Yim has the largest drainage basin of 1862.22 km², while River Kam is the longest with 93.7 km. Mean annual rainfall ranges from 1349.9 in the north to 1717.9 mm in the south. Mean temperature from 26.2 to 36.6̊ C. There are four geologic units in the park, but Porphroblastic Gneiss covers the largest area of 4588.03 km². Among the seven existing soil units, Leptosols alone covered 65.09% of the park. Forest areas that gained a total land area of 91.43km² between 1991 and 2003, lost 70.88km² between 2003 and 2021, while non-vegetation which decreased in size to 209.09km² between 1991 and 2003, increased to 241km² between 2003 and 2021. It was recommended that the management of Gashaka Gumti National Park should be more proactive in the preservation of the park to minimize the rate of vegetation depletion within the park.

Assessment of infrastructural development in the host communities of Kainji Lake National Park toward enhancing ecotourism in Nigeria

2024-11-04T05:22:57+00:00

This paper assessed the infrastructural development in the host communities of Kainji Lake National Park toward enhancing ecotourism in Nigeria. Cluster sampling was used to group all communities within ten (10) kilometres of the park into ten (10) units. Based on closeness to the Park one community was randomly selected from each of the ten (10) units for data collected. Focus group discussions and oral interviews were conducted to collect primary data from each selected community. Secondary data on the benefits of the projects to the communities were also obtained from the Park's official records. The results obtained from the analysis show several infrastructural development projects were implemented through the Kainji Lake National Park (KLNP) and Global Environmental Facility (GEF) in the host communities. Findings revealed that about 60% of water-related projects in the host communities were from the KLNP/GEF intervention program, and impacted the thirteen (13) communities studied. Other projects in the host communities include; education, health and road/transportation and water projects. The study further indicates that the Park has done much to enhance the standard of living of the host communities. The paper concluded with recommendations that the host communities should be allowed to choose further the Park engagement activities that best address their local needs and priorities.