Assessment of the Causes and Impacts of Pollution at the Obosi Automobile Junk Market, Southeastern Nigeria

This study investigated pollution at the Obosi automobile junk market in Anambra State, Southeastern Nigeria, through an in-depth field study, a review of relevant literature, and interactions with market occupants. The aim was to identify the causes of pollution within the market, assess its effects on both humans and the environment, and propose strategies for prevention and remediation. The study identified the primary causes of pollution as the lack of proper solid waste management infrastructure, improper disposal of used car oils and lubricants, ignorance, poor recycling habits, high volumes of vehicular traffic, and inadequate drainage systems. The nuisance value of recognizable wastes was ranked in the following order: plastic/rubber wastes > used car oils and lubricants >> metals > solvents and paints > textiles > battery wastes > electronic wastes > glass > food wastes. Waste characterization results showed that plastic/rubber wastes (30%) and used car oils and lubricants (25%) constituted the highest waste nuisance in the market. Findings revealed that pollution in the Obosi automobile junk market has significant impacts on both human health and the environment, underscoring the urgent need to adopt effective pollution control measures and environmentally sustainable remediation strategies. Recommendations included several pollution prevention measures and the application of a combination of eco-friendly, cost-effective, and versatile bioremediation techniques-such as microbial bioremediation, phytoremediation, and Verm remediation-to restore the market to a safe condition while maintaining its economic significance.