Socio-Environmental Impacts Assessment of Tank Farm Location and Operation in Port Harcourt Municipality, Rivers State

Abstract

Tank farms serve a key role in the storage and transportation of petroleum products, although their placement and operating influence on the surrounding environment and populations remain matters of concern. This study analyses the socio-environmental impacts coming from the location and operation of tank farms in Port Harcourt Municipality, Rivers State. Employing a passive observational research design, this research dug into the multifarious effects (both positive and negative) related with the installation and running of the tank farms in the study area. The paper investigates the positive impacts of tank farm locations, assesses the negative impacts originating from both geographical and operational characteristics, and recommends realistic strategies to offset the discovered negative impacts. Through Google earth map data, the real size of the tank farm was caught as roughly 92734.53 square meters which is 9.273453 Hectares. Through questionnaire surveys delivered to 398 heads of households in vicinity to the tank farms, the study gathered community perspectives and experiences. The findings reflect a multifaceted environment, displaying a combination of positive and negative impacts. Tank farms have significantly contributed to job possibilities and produced different economic impacts to the local economy. However, the neighborhood also cites substantial worries over air and water quality, indicating possible environmental threats. Additionally, infrastructural challenges, such as increased traffic congestion and road damage, have surfaced as tangible impacts on the area's quality of life. Proposed mitigation measures from the community underline the importance of installing air pollution control systems (42.21%), implementing regular water quality monitoring (49.75%), and holding regular community meetings (44.72%). These recommended techniques correspond with previous literature recommendations, highlighting the necessity for rigorous environmental management and improved community engagement.