Trace Metals Load in Environment: Ecological Impact Assessment of Aluminum Smelting Activities in South West, Nigeria using Geochemical Methods

Abstract

The trace metals load burden in the environment is increasing continuously, particularly in the soil due to various anthropogenic activities. The quality  impacts evaluation of Aluminum smelting processes, a main source of trace metals in the root zone of soil is investigated using geochemical methods.  Thirty (30) top and sub composite soil samples, and ten (10) bark samples of Magnifera indica (Mango tree) and Azadirachta indica (Dogonyaro) plants  were collected each from Agege, Lagos State, and Iseyin, Oyo State, South west, Nigeria and analyzed for trace metals employing standard method of  United State Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA).Data obtained were analyzed using various multivariate geostatistical techniques including;  Enrichment Factor (EF), Pollution Load Index (PLI), Pollution Classification (PC), Geoaccumulation Index (Igeo) and Potential Ecological Risk Index (RI) so as  to reveal the environmental impact of the trace metals analyzed in the soil environment. Lead (Pb) has the highest mean concentration of 216 mg/kg  and iron (186 mg/kg) in Agege and Iseyin respectively. Aluminum showed positive chemical association with iron in Agege and with zinc in Iseyin soil. The  PLI reveals deteriorations of the soil thus implicating the smelting activities in the study areas. Hence, there is need for measures to avoid continuous  build-up of trace metals in the environment, as well as regular monitoring to ensure the safety of lives and sustainable environment.