Estimation of Emission Levels of Carbon Dioxide from Selected Sources and Its Correlation with Atmospheric Parameters

Estimation of carbon dioxide concentration levels from three selected sources(dump sites, traffic junctions, gasoline generating sets) and its correlation with some atmospheric parameters (temperature, relative humidity, and wind speed) were carried out within Port Harcourt city and Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State with the help of a carbon dioxide gas sensor, digital thermometer, hygrometer, and anemometer for a period of two weeks. The geographical coordinates of the locations of the selected sources were determined using a global positioning system (GPS). Analyses of the concentration levels of carbon dioxide and atmospheric parameters data obtained from the selected sources for the period under study showed that Obiri-Ikwerre dump site had the highest mean CO2 concentration of 649.79 ppm, while the lowest levels were observed at IAUE Business Centre with a mean value of 477.57 ppm. Correlation analysis showed that as the wind speed increases from 1.10 to 3.40 m/s, CO2 concentration decreases correspondingly, while increased relative humidity (65% to 82%) and temperature (21°C to 28°C) were associated with higher CO2 levels, particularly at dump sites. All measured CO2 levels were below the WHO threshold of 1,000 ppm, but exceeded the baseline atmospheric concentration of approximately 400 ppm recommended by the EPA. Based on these findings, recommendations were made to enhance waste management practices, urban planning, and regulatory framework to reduce CO2 emissions, improve air quality and abate climate change.