Impact of Solid Waste Disposal on Groundwater Quality in Eleme Local Government Area, Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract

This research work examines the impact of solid waste disposal on groundwater quality in Eleme Local Government Area in Rivers State, Nigeria. Water samples were taken for this investigation from four (4) separate boreholes close to disposal sites in the study region. The physicochemical characteristics were then analyzed and compared to the WHO drinking water standard. Results indicated that, with the exception of pH, which varies between 4.5, 5.6, and 5.7 for dumpsites 1, 2, and 3, most of the samples examined are within the WHO drinking water standard. This may have been the result of the existence of weak acids, especially carbon (IV) oxide, as well as occasionally protein and fatty acids, which are created by the actions of microorganisms on organic waste and infiltrate into the groundwater through rainfall. The overall quality of groundwater was assessed using the Water Quality Index (WQI), and it was found that the Aleto borehole had a higher WQI score of 84.26, indicating potential dumpsite pollution. However, the low values of 20.80, 23.68, and 30.12 at the boreholes in Alesa, Akpajo, and Okrika, respectively, indicate a higher quality of groundwater. According to the study, the WQI determines the quality of groundwater, hence the boreholes in Alesa, Akpajo, and Okrika are fit for human consumption. In addition to deep groundwater excavation and adherence to resource management principles, recommendations are provided to promote the analysis of raw waters.