Integrated Assessment of Heavy Metal Contamination in Urban Road Dust: Implications for Human Health and Ecosystem Sustainability in Abeokuta, Nigeria

Abstract

This research aims to comprehensively investigate the heavy metal contamination in road dust within the rapidly expanding urban area of Abeokuta, Nigeria. Focusing on potentially hazardous metals such as Cr, Co, As, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cd, Fe, and Pb, the study employs multivariate statistical techniques to identify sources, assess ecological and health hazards, and determine metal concentrations. Through the analysis of twenty road dust samples, variations in metal concentrations are observed, leading to the application of the geo-accumulation index, contamination factor, contamination degree, and pollution load index for contamination assessment. The results reveal varying degrees of contamination, with notable concentrations of Pb and Ni, indicating a deteriorating urban environment. Ecological risk assessments underscore potential threats to local flora and wildlife, while health risk evaluations emphasize urgent corrective actions needed, particularly for children exposed to heightened carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic hazards. Factor analysis and correlation studies unveil common anthropogenic origins for several metals, shedding light on the need for pollution mitigation techniques in the face of rapid urbanization and industrialization. The research contributes valuable insights to environmental and public health evaluations in the Abeokuta region, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making for policymakers and the public.