How You Can Protect Yourself Against Pollution

According to an article from the Environmental Quality Management published 27 January 2017, pollution is one of the most common causes of health concerns in Nigeria.
Unfortunately, the current initiatives aimed at reducing the problem are inadequate. The scale of pollution that Nigerians are exposed to on a daily basis and its impact remain deeply concerning. It will take the action of every citizen to make a difference.
Pollution is the presence or the introduction of a substance into the environment which has harmful effects. There are different variants of pollution, but in this case, we will be addressing the three most common types of pollution in the Nigerian society. Air Pollution, Noise Pollution and Water Pollution.
When it comes to air pollution, studies show that air pollution across the countries many cities is a major contributing factor to numerous respiratory challenges many Nigerians face.
Onitsha was listed as one of world’s most polluted cities by CNN in 2016 and Gaurdian newspaper in 2017. The burning of fossils amongst many other things has these cities largely air-polluted.
Similarly, the city of Port Harcourt in the southern part of Nigerian has recently been facing major concerns of air pollution where constant flaring of gas and oil activities leaves a residue called ‘Black soot’. The health of the locals is constantly at risk as the heavy air pollution continues.
What are the major contributors to air pollution?
● Gas flaring from factories
● Burning of fossil fuels
● Exhaust pipes of vehicles and generators
What can you do about air pollution?
Here are some ways in which you can combat air pollution in your day to day life.
● Invest in solar power as green energy is eco friendly with no risks to health
● Reduce the number of car journeys you take so the amount of fumes expelled in the air will be largely reduced
● Recycle your unwanted items rather than sending them to a land fill where they will be burnt causing toxic fumes that go back into the environment

Noise pollution in Nigeria (as in other countries) is no new concept. Everyday, in big cities such as Lagos, the amount of noise pollution  adversely  effects residents of the city.
Not only does noise pollution reduce the level of productivity in many individuals, it also heightens stress levels in some which could lead to some underlying health complications.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports in a session that the state had taken active steps for noise abatement in 2018 and even shut down some ‘noisy churches and mosques’, while micromanaging Alimosho (a local government area within the state).

What are the major contributors to noise pollution?
● Traffic Jams
● Congregational Gatherings
● Use of Generators/ heavy machines
What can you do about noise pollution?
Here are some ways in which you can combat noise pollution in your day to day life:
● Leave for work or business in time to avoid traffic jams
● Use solar power for your home appliances as it does not act as a noise pollutant
● Avoid crowded areas as much as possible
● Enjoy quiet time to help you relax and recuperate after long days

Water pollution occurs in both rural and urban areas of Nigeria. Organizations such as the USAID have made attempts to improve the access to clean water and general sanitation in Nigeria.
Due to factory activities as well as poor handling of the citizens, numerous water bodies across the country are contaminated. In dire cases, the present state of the waters put the health of the locals at risk as they serve as breeding ground for a variety of organisms which transmit illnesses.
In a statistics report collected by The Conservation, numbers show that at least 90% of Nigerian households had consumed Escherichia coli contaminated water at some point.
What are major contributors to water pollution?
● Industrial waste
● Use of harmful chemicals
● Residential dumping of refuse into water
What can you do about water pollution?
Here are some ways in which you can combat air pollution in your day to day life.
● Avoid using the toilet as a general waste basket. Non toilet waste should be discarded appropriately.
● Avoid flushing down drugs or other chemicals down the drain
● Use the minimum amount of detergent and/or bleach when you are washing clothes or
dishes.
● Use only phosphate free soaps and detergents.

Protect yourself and your family in every positive way that you can. Remember, health is wealth. To make a positive power change, call or WhatsApp 08089982052