Environmental Pollution in Esit Eket, Sources and Health Impact

 

Esit Eket is a Local Government Area in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. It is one of the local government areas in the state and is located in the southern region of Nigeria. Esit Eket, like other local government areas, is responsible for providing basic administrative and public services to its residents. This includes areas such as healthcare, education, infrastructure development, and more.

Esit Eket Local Government Area in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, is surrounded by several other local government areas. Some of the neighboring local government areas include:

Eket Local Government Area: Eket is located to the west of Esit Eket and is a prominent local government area in Akwa Ibom State.

Onna Local Government Area: Onna is situated to the north of Esit Eket and shares a border with it.

Ibeno Local Government Area: Ibeno is to the east of Esit Eket and is known for its coastline along the Atlantic Ocean.

Mbo Local Government Area: Mbo is located to the southeast of Esit Eket.

These local government areas collectively make up the region of Akwa Ibom State and each has its own unique characteristics, administration, and local government services

Air Pollution: The Major factor or cause of air pollution in Esit Eket is the activities and operations of EXXON Mobil Nigeria Ltd. Mobil over time have pollute the air around it operational environment through gas flaring  

Sources: Industries, and household activities can release pollutants into the air, including particulate matter (PM), sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Health Impacts: Air pollution can lead to respiratory problems, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Long-term exposure to air pollutants is also linked to heart diseases and can worsen pre-existing health conditions.

Water Pollution:

Sources: Contaminants from industrial effluents, such as, oil spillage from activities of EXXONMobil, agricultural runoff, and improper waste disposal can enter water bodies, affecting both surface water and groundwater.

Health Impacts: Contaminated water can lead to waterborne diseases, gastrointestinal problems, and long-term exposure may result in chronic health issues like cancer and developmental problems.

Soil Pollution:

Sources: Soil pollution can occur due to the deposition of industrial waste, improper disposal of hazardous materials, and agricultural practices that involve the use of chemicals and pesticides.

Health Impacts: Contaminated soil can affect crop quality and food safety. It can also lead to exposure to harmful chemicals through direct contact or ingestion.

Noise Pollution:

Sources: Noise pollution can be generated by industries, such as that of EXXON Mobil and other oil companies, transportation (road, rail, and air), and other human activities.

Health Impacts: Prolonged exposure to high levels of noise can lead to stress, sleep disturbances, hearing loss, and other psychological and physiological issues.

Land Pollution:

 Sources: Land pollution can result from improper waste disposal, including the dumping of solid waste and hazardous materials.

Health Impacts: Land pollution can contaminate the environment and potentially harm the health of residents through exposure to toxic substances.

Deforestation and Habitat Loss:

Sources: Uncontrolled deforestation and habitat loss can disrupt ecosystems, affecting local flora and fauna.

Health Impacts: Loss of biodiversity can indirectly impact human health by reducing the availability of natural resources and potentially disrupting local ecosystems that provide essential services.

The health impacts of environmental pollution in Esit Eket can vary depending on the extent and type of pollution, as well as individual susceptibility. Vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions may be at greater risk. Efforts to mitigate environmental pollution and protect public health may include stricter regulations on industrial emissions, improved waste management practices, and community education and awareness campaigns.

Local authorities, environmental agencies, and community organizations in Esit Eket should work together to monitor and address environmental pollution issues to safeguard the health and well-being of their residents. It's also essential to stay updated on the latest environmental assessments and data specific to the region for a more accurate understanding of the current situation.

 Read More:  Gas Flaring in Ibeno; 4 Significant Negative Effects on Air