Assessment of Health Consequences of Prolonged Ozone Pollution as a Disaster on Urban Communities in Central-Western Part of Kano State, Nigeria

Abstract

Prolonged ozone (O₃) pollution at high levels poses a significant threat to both human health and the sustainability of livelihoods. Hence, the objective of this paper is to assess the health consequences of prolonged ozone (O₃) pollution as a disaster on urban communities in the Central-Western part of Kano State, Nigeria. The concentrations of O₃ were monitored and analysed using various standard methods. Results revealed that O₃ levels were consistently high throughout all seasons, with the highest concentrations observed in the commercial and industrial areas. The concentrations of the pollutant are not significantly different and exceed the permissible standards (0.06 ppm) set by the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA). It is concluded that prolonged exposure to O₃ threatens human health. It was recommended that there should be enforcement of minimum permissible emission of the pollutant by industries, motorist among others. Also, the public should be enlightened on the consequences of exposure to the pollutant.