Impact of Quarrying Activities on Selected Biochemical Properties and the Air Pollution Tolerance Index of Edible Tree Plants around Selected Quarries in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria
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Abstract
The research work assessed the impact of quarrying activities on some biochemical properties and their air pollution tolerance index of selected edible tree plants in areas around selected quarries in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. It specifically determines the biochemical properties and analysis of leaf extracts of selected edible plants, and also evaluates the Air Pollution Tolerance Index (APTI). Laboratory analysis of leaf extracts was one of the methodologies applied to carry out the research. ANOVA at a 0.05 level of Probability, T-test, were some of the statistical tools employed. Findings reveal that quarrying affects the biochemical properties and the APTI level of the plants. The biochemical properties of the leaf extracts were generally higher at the control site, except for the total chlorophyll content, indicating a relatively stressed plant, especially at a closer range from the quarry. The air pollution tolerance index (APTI) shows that the selected edible plants are generally sensitive. Regular soil and plant tissue tests, and monitoring; dust control policies, and public awareness of the negative effects of quarrying are some of the recommendations to mitigate the effects of quarrying activities.
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References
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