American Journal of Environment Studies

Impact of Urban Green Spaces on Air Quality in Metropolitan Areas

George Lorot — Sun, 07 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0300

Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the impact of urban green spaces on air quality in metropolitan areas.

Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.

Findings: Research on the impact of urban green spaces on air quality in metropolitan areas has yielded promising findings. This study indicate that the presence of green spaces, such as parks, gardens, and tree-lined streets, can significantly mitigate air pollution levels. Vegetation acts as a natural filter, trapping particulate matter and absorbing harmful pollutants like carbon dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, and ozone. The vegetation also facilitates the dispersion of pollutants through processes like deposition and absorption, thereby reducing their concentration in the air.

Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Biophilia hypothesis, ecosystem services framework and green infrastructure theory may be used to anchor future studies on assessing the impact of urban green spaces on air quality in metropolitan areas. Implement strategic urban planning initiatives that prioritize the preservation, expansion, and equitable distribution of green spaces within metropolitan areas. Develop evidence-based policies and regulations that incentivize the integration of green infrastructure into urban planning and development processes.

Influence of Land Use Changes on Biodiversity Conservation in Coastal Ecosystems

Mirriam Akinyi — Sun, 07 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0300

Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the influence of land use changes on biodiversity conservation in coastal ecosystems.

Findings: Land use changes significantly impact biodiversity conservation in coastal ecosystems, according to recent studies. The conversion of natural habitats such as mangroves, salt marshes, and coastal forests into urban, agricultural, or industrial areas leads to habitat loss and fragmentation, which directly threatens the survival of many species. These changes disrupt ecological processes, such as nutrient cycling and sediment deposition, which are crucial for maintaining the health of coastal ecosystems. Furthermore, altered land use patterns often result in increased pollution, sedimentation, and habitat degradation, further exacerbating the decline of biodiversity.

Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Meta-population theory, resilience theory and ecosystem services framework may be used to anchor future studies on assessing the influence of land use changes on biodiversity conservation in coastal ecosystems. Implement ecosystem-based management approaches that consider the interconnectedness of ecological processes and human activities in coastal areas. Advocate for the implementation of spatial planning measures, such as marine spatial planning and coastal zoning, to guide land use decisions and minimize conflicts between conservation and development objectives.

An Assessment of Waste Management in Slum Communities in Freetown. It’s Implications on the Health and Safety of Inhabitants

Dandeson Showers — Tue, 23 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0300

Purpose: The study objective is to assess the state of Solid Waste Management (SWM) in slum communities in Freetown, its factors and effects on the safety and wellbeing of slum dwellers together with the challenges faced by authorities in combatting inadequate SWM system in slum and to provide recommendations with regards to interventions to promote adequate waste management in slums.

Materials and Methods: The study took place in three slum areas around Freetown in Sierra Leone. A total sample size of 400 respondents comprising of household heads were selected. A self-administered structured questionnaire was given to a total of 400 respondents of household heads above eighteen years old. Only 392 of the 400 respondents that were initially targeted for the study completed their questionnaires at the end of the survey. The data collected was presented in tables and statistical analytical techniques or methods such as percentages and graphs were used to analyse the data and to find out the factors, effects and challenges associated with inappropriate solid waste management services in slum areas in Freetown.

Findings: According to the study, it was found that the major categories of waste generated in households were biodegradable and food (39%) while plastic remains (31%). Most households stored their wastes in polythene bags (59.1%) and sacks (20.2%) before disposal and 10.3% of the households did not have waste storage containers and kept their wastes outside the house in the open. Poor knowledge in waste segregation practices with very minimal recycling, reuse of wastes and a resultant poor waste management system were observed in slum communities. The study helps provide a much-needed data on solid waste management (SWM) in Freetown for authorities and other stakeholders as there are limited sources of data on waste management in Sierra Leone. It also provides further literature on waste management issues for further research, policy development by the authorities and recommendations for best practice by communities and stakeholders.

Implications to Practice and Policy: It was recommended that waste management should be prioritized as a social service, with adequate budget lines. Engage several stakeholders in the management of waste to generate a sense of responsibility and interest from all stakeholders.