EFFECTS OF DUMPSITES ON THE AVAILABILITY OF SELECTED METALS IN THE SOIL

Heavy metal pollutions have been traced to poorly managed dumpsites. This study analyzed the elemental composition of soil samples collected from dumpsites and virgin soil in Akungba Akoko, Nigeria, to investigate the impact of waste dumping on soil pollution. A total of 4 samples (each from three (3) dumpsite and 1 from control sites: 20 km way) were randomly collected using soil auger (0-30 cm depth), processed and analyzed for each metal using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The concentrations of metals were in the orders: Fe > Cu > P > Pb > Zn for Akungba Akoko solid waste dumpsites, receptively. The control soil samples had significantly lower (p>0.05) metal contents. The results showed that the soil samples from the dumpsites had significantly higher concentrations of heavy metals, including P, Fe, Pb, and Cu, compared to the virgin soil sample. The high concentrations of heavy metals in the soil samples relative to the control reference sites could be associated with high anthropogenic input indicating that the dumping of waste in the study area has led to contamination of the soil. These heavy metals were found to be above the permissible limits stipulated by NESREA for Nigerian soils, highlighting the potential risks to human health and the environment. Therefore, proper waste management practices should be put in place to prevent further contamination of the soil in the study area, and it is essential to monitor the levels of heavy metals in soil to protect human health and the environment.