Air Quality Assessment at Charcoal Production Site, Korowa, Oke-Oyi, Kwara State

Abstract:

The study examined the air parameters which are PM2.5 PM10, and TVOC. Evaluation of air quality monitoring data demonstrated that all emissions from charcoal kilns exceeded the prescribed limit during production as stipulated by WHO (1995). Charcoal production is found to contribute to the high levels of PM2.5 PM10, and TVOC. The charcoal workers who work within close proximity to charcoal kilns are subjected to high emissions generating a potential health risk. Traditional charcoal kilns use highly inefficient technology and release significant amounts of air emissions. Based on the empirically reviewed work, the study concludes that charcoal production has significant effect on air quality. Priority should be given to the establishment of air monitoring stations in all urban centers of the country in order to provide accurate and continuous information on air quality. The study therefore recommended that adoption of efficient modern charcoal p