ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY AND THE MANAGEMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION IN NIGERIA: SOURCES, EFFECTS AND SUSTAINABLE CONTROL STRATEGIES

Abstract

Environmental chemistry is an important branch of science that examines the chemical composition of the environment, the movement and transformation of chemical substances in nature, and the effects of these substances on humans, animals, plants and ecosystems. Its importance has increased because of growing environmental pollution arising from industrial activities, oil exploration, agricultural practices, transportation, urbanisation, poor waste disposal and the indiscriminate use of chemicals. In Nigeria, environmental pollution is a major concern, particularly in communities experiencing oil spills, gas flaring, contaminated water, poor sanitation, air pollution and the accumulation of solid and hazardous waste. These problems affect public health, agricultural productivity, biodiversity and sustainable economic development. This paper examines environmental chemistry and its relevance to the management of environmental pollution in Nigeria. It discusses the meaning of environmental chemistry and environmental pollution, the major sources and forms of pollution, the chemical processes responsible for environmental contamination, the effects of pollution and practical strategies for controlling it. The paper argues that environmental pollution cannot be effectively managed without understanding the chemical behaviour of pollutants, their sources, pathways and effects. It therefore emphasises environmental monitoring, enforcement of environmental laws, cleaner industrial production, proper waste management, public education, remediation of contaminated sites and the adoption of environmentally friendly technologies. The paper concludes that environmental chemistry should be given greater attention in Nigeria's educational, industrial and environmental management systems because scientific understanding is essential for protecting natural resources and achieving sustainable development.