Ecological risk

Microplastic pollution poses a growing threat to aquatic ecosystems and biodiversity due to its persistence and potential harm to human health. This study examines the occurrence, distribution, and ecological impact of microplastics in surface water from River Nun, Bayelsa Central, Nigeria. Sampling was conducted at six locations over six months (January–March and July–September 2024). Samples were processed using NOAA techniques, including filtration, density separation, and microscopy, while FTIR and GC-MS were used for polymer and additive analysis.

Industrial processes, including scrap yards, can contaminate surface waters with heavy metals, posing a risk to aquatic habitat and human health. Thus, the concentrations, ecological and health risks of heavy metals in surface water and sediment of the Ogun River in Lagos was investigated. Surface water and sediments collected from the Ogun River were analyzed for some physicochemical parameters and heavy metals using standard procedures.