Residents Perceptions on Artisanal Refining of Crude Oil and Its Impact on Air Quality in Rural Communities in Rivers State, Nigeria

This study carried out investigation on residents’ perceptions on artisanal refining of crude oil and its impact on air quality in rural communities in Rivers State, Nigeria. The study was based on descriptive (cross-sectional) research design to accomplish its objectives. The instruments used to gather information from the field were questionnaire, participant observer technique, Bosean multi gas finder, EG Air quality indicator, GPS gadget and met meter. From 6 local government areas, out of which 18 communities (3 from each LGA) were randomly chosen for the administration of questionnaire and assessment of air quality for both the dry and wet seasons. The discoveries of the examination reports that the study area of interest was engaged in artisanal refining of crude oil (74.5%). They affirmed that there was no other job opportunity they could be engaged with than the artisanal refining activity (74.6%) which they did in order to survive the suffering in the community (74.5%). However, some of the air pollutants such as CO, O3, NH3, PM2.5 and PM10 were above the permissible limit of WHO air quality guidelines. It was recommended that, educating the public, especially in rural areas, about the sources of air pollution and its health impacts is crucial. This may include promoting practices such as the use of clean cooking technologies, responsible waste disposal, and reducing biomass burning as well as the stoppage of artisanal refining activities in the areas where it is being carried out.