THE CONTRIBUTION OF ATMOSPHERIC POLLUTION TO CLIMATE CHANGE IN KADUNA METROPOLIS, NIGERIA

Purpose: This study assessed the contribution of air pollution and the effects of selected atmospheric pollutants on climate conditions in Kaduna metropolis. Specifically, it examined the types of air pollution present, the concentration levels of selected gaseous pollutants, and their implications for the local climate.

Design/methodology/approach: The study adopted an experimental research design involving fieldwork and direct observation. Air quality measurements were conducted using an MSA Altair 5X gas detector, rented from the Kaduna Environmental Protection Authority (KEPA). Data were collected across four sampling locations—Command Junction, Refinery Junction, Sabo Market, and Leventis Roundabout—representing major traffic and urban activity zones. The data were analyzed using mean values and presented in tables and charts.

Findings: The results revealed Particulate matter (PM_2.5 and PM₁₀) concentrations at all sampling points were within the Federal Ministry of Environment (FMEnv) and NESREA daily permissible limit of 100 ppm, indicating minimal immediate health risk at the time of measurement. However, nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) concentrations recorded at the four sampling points—0.093 ppm, 0.202 ppm, 0.059 ppm, and 0.086 ppm—exceeded the FMEnv and NESREA recommended limit of 0.008 ppm. This suggests significant anthropogenic influence, mainly from vehicular emissions, with potential adverse environmental and climatic effects.

Research limitations/implications: The study was limited to four sampling points and focused on selected pollutants over a short monitoring period, which may not fully capture seasonal variations. Despite these limitations, the findings provide valuable baseline data for air quality assessment and climate-related studies in Kaduna metropolis.

Practical implications: The study highlights the need for continuous air quality monitoring, stricter enforcement of emission control policies, and the establishment of dedicated environmental monitoring teams to mitigate pollution and protect public health and the environment.

Originality/value: This study contributes empirical evidence on spatial air pollution patterns in Kaduna metropolis using direct field measurements, offering location-specific data that can inform environmental policy, urban planning, and sustainable development strategies.