ASSESSMENT OF PARTICULATE MATTER CONCENTRATION AMONG LAND USE TYPES IN OBIGBO AND ENVIRONS IN RIVERS STATE NIGERIA

Air pollution has become a serious issue especially in fast developing urban areas. Particulate matter (PM) inhalation is injurious to man at significant concentration because it can accumulate in the lungs and some of the particulate compositions have been established as carcinogenic. This study assessed the level of particulate matter (PM) mass concentration in selected oil operating areas in Rivers State in Nigeria. Areas around other land use types were considered such as schools (SCH), market (MKT), commercial center (COM), bus stops (BST), residential areas (RES), hospitals (HSP) and vegetation (VEG). PM1, PM2.5, PM4, PM7 and PM10 were monitored using a digital read out electronic instrument, Aerocet Model 531. Meteorological parameters (wind speed, temperature and humidity) were monitored using Kestrel 3000 portable weather tracker.