Abstract

This study assessed the effects of sawmill activities on air and noise quality in selected locations within Benin City, Southern Nigeria. Air quality parameters such as temperature, relative humidity, formaldehyde (HCHO), total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs), particulate matter (PM_1.0, PM_2.5, PM₁₀), carbon monoxide (CO), and carbon dioxide (CO₂), were measured at three sawmill locations and a control site using standard methods. Noise levels were assessed to determine the extent of noise pollution in the study area. Additionally, 200 structured questionnaires were administered to residents near sawmill areas to evaluate their perception of air and noise pollution and associated health impacts. The results revealed that air pollutant concentrations were consistently higher in sawmill locations compared to the control site. Formaldehyde concentrations ranged from 0.03–0.09 mg/m³, TVOC levels varied from 0.16–0.3 mg/m³. Particulate matter (PM_1.0, PM_2.5, PM₁₀) concentrations ranged from 21-41 µg/m³, 43-71 µg/m³ and 73-113 µg/m³, carbon monoxide ranged from 0-2 ppm, while carbon dioxide levels fluctuated between 381–460 ppm. Noise levels in sawmill areas were significantly above WHO and FMEnv guidelines, ranging from 72.8–99.3 dB. Demographic analysis indicated that a large proportion of respondents (84%) were within the economically active age group (18–44 years) and 50% of them had lived in the area for over six years. A significant percentage of respondents (41%) agreed that sawmill activities contribute to poor air quality, 51% agreed that children and elderly are vulnerable to sawmill operations, 52% agreed to difficulty in concentration due to excessive noise from sawmill operations, and 50% agreed that presence of sawmills around residential areas should not be allowed. The study draws the conclusion that sawmill activities contribute to air and noise pollution in residential areas, with potential health risks for nearby residents. It recommends stricter environmental regulations, proper zoning of sawmill operations and the implementation of emission control measures to mitigate the adverse effects of sawmill activities on public health and environmental quality.

Keywords: Sawmill operations, Air pollution, Noise pollution, Total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs), Residential areas