Institute for Environment and Sanitation Studies
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Item Environmental Monitoring of Effluent from Barima Fuel Service Center (Mallam-Accra) and Environmental Audit of Some Fuel Service Stations in Accra-Tema Metropolitan Areas of Ghana(University of Ghana, 1998) Onwona-Kwakye, M.; Gordon, C.; Asare, C.; University of Ghana, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, Institute for Environment and Sanitation StudiesCity authorities the world over are lamenting on the ever increasing liquid and solid waste management problems, and are in continuous search for inexpensive and easy solutions to these waste problems. Ghana, like many other developing countries, in its effort to controlling these problems enacted an Act (Act 490) through Parliament in 1994, which charged the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to demand for Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) on all developmental projects which are likely to impact significantly on the environment. The operation of fiiel service stations happens to be one such projects of concern. Since not much work has been done on the compliance to this Act, this. Study was designed to monitor a fuel service station to generate data on pollution levels. Subsequently an environmental audit was conducted on some seventy-five (75) fuel service stations made up of fifteen each from Mobil, Shell, Elf, Total and Goil oil companies to assess their compliance to the Act. The study employed two methods i.e., laboratory analysis and questionnaire administration. The focus was on fuel service station managers and their attendants. The physical and laboratory analysis revealed that except for pH, and nitrate concentration all the parameters determined were well above the EPA permissible levels. The results showed that the surrounding of the station was polluted indicated by the elevated levels of Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), Oil/Grease and low Dissolved Oxygen (DO) concentration. There was significant positive and negative correlation between some parameters, which indicated that the effluent from the Barima Service Station in Accra has contributed to the pollution of a stream at least within its environs. Other human activities also contribute. The Environmental Audit of fuel service stations was scored in percentages. A lowest best performance score of 50 and a high of 100 were used._ The study revealed that, all the fuel service stations (100%) of all the marketing companies (Mobil, Shell, Elf, Total and Goil) dispensed petrol and diesel. Total had the highest of 73.3% for kerosene and 33.3% for Shell being the lowest. Vehicle lubrication was 93.3%, 80%, 73.3%, 66.7% and 60% for Mobil, Shell, Elf, Goil and Total respectively. Sales of LPG filled cylinders, 73.3%, 73.3%, 60%, 40% and 20% for Mobil, Total, Elf, Shell and Goil respectively. Most of the enterprises audited had shopping marts and restaurants attached. They were 100%, 100%, 66.7%, 60% and 60% for Mobil, Shell, Elf, Total and Goil respectively. Washing bay, which is fast becoming a prominent feature in fuel service station design was 46.7%, 40%, 33.3%, 33.3% and 20% for Shell, Mobil, Elf, Goil and Total. Pollution control/minimization measures determined revealed the following mean percentage best performance of 47.73% to 45.17%. Traffic congestion and control showed mean best performance of 100% to 86.67%. Fire hazards management was 65.96% - 56.31%. Waste management was 100% for all companies. Occupational health and safety management, 99%-94% and Public participation/perception of enterprise was 93.34%-77.79%. It is evident from the findings that stringent enforcement measures are needed from Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), which is the enforcement authority to control the effluent that operators of fuel service stations release into the environment. Further, adequate monitoring is required of EPA to determine problems that proponent of fuel service stations and the public encounter so that they are addressed to avoid operational conflicts.Item Water Quality of the Kpong Headpond(University of Ghana, 2001) Anku, E. A.; Gordon, C.; Biney, C.; University of Ghana, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, Institute for Environment and Sanitation StudiesThe Kpong Headpond was formed in 1982 when the Lower Volta River was dammed at Akuse. The main uses of the water in the Headpond are for hydroelectric power generation, domestic and industrial use and for irrigation. Several activities however, tend to put this body of water at risk of pollution. These include poor waste disposal, poor farming practices and extensive human and animal contact with the water. An eightmonth field study was undertaken to monitor the water quality of the Kpong Headpond and the impact of the surrounding lakeside communities on the water quality. The study involved physicochemical and bacteriological analysis as well as macroinvertebrate analysis and social surveys. The study identified two potential point sources of pollution to the Kpong Headpond. These are the Akosombo Textiles Limited (ATL) effluent discharge and the Akosombo Sewage Treatment Plant (ASTP) effluent discharge. The general water quality in terms of physicochemistry was satisfactory. With the exception of one site (which received ATL effluent), the parameters measured at all the other sites fluctuated within the limits expected in similar freshwater bodies. ATL effluent had a drastic impact on the water quality at the site of discharge, which include low oxygen levels, high nutrient concentrations, high alkalinity, high conductivity and high turbidity values. The ASTP outfall was also identified to be a major source of nutrients and coliform bacteria to the Headpond. All the sites were contaminated with feacal coliform, an indication of the probable presence of pathogens. The social survey of the lakeside communities revealed that most of the settlements lacked basic sanitation facilities like toilets and appropriate refuse disposal sitesItem Chemical and Biological Characteristics of Some Marketed Solid Waste Composts in Ghana(University of Ghana, 2002-12) Hogarh, J. N.; Carboo, D.; University of Ghana, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, Institute for Environment and Sanitation StudiesThe study assessed the chemical and biological characteristics of composts made from municipal solid waste in Accra and agricultural waste in Kade in Ghana. In Accra, compost samples were taken at residential level (Household composting), decentralised community level (Asiedu- Keteke composting facility) and at large-scale metropolis level (Teshie composting plant). The compost samples from Kade were produced at the University of Ghana Agricultural Research Station. Composting operations at Teshie and Asiedu-Keteke were from mixed feed stock of organic material, newspapers, bottles, plastics, etc. and represented composting of un-segregated solid waste. The Household compost was produced from kitchen waste, whilst the Kade compost was produced from agricultural wastes (a mixture of cocoa pod husk, poultry droppings and saw dust). The Household and Kade composts were, thus, from purely organic sources. Public interest in composting in general was also assessed by way of questionnaires. The results indicated that the nutrient value, mainly nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in the Accra composts, which were from municipal solid waste (MSW) were low compared to the compost from Kade, which was from agricultural waste. The differences in nutrient value reflected differences in feed-stocks for the composting. The composts from the mixed waste stream (Teshie and Asiedu-Keteke) did contain higher concentrations of heavy metals such as * lead and cadmium compared to the composts from pure organic sources (Household and Kade). However, the concentrations of the heavy metals found in the mixed waste composts, were not of levels that would pose significant health risk. The Asiedu-Keteke composts were found not to be matured and thus, may have restrictions for its use, particularly, for crop cultivation. All the other composts studied were found to be matured. The social survey indicated that respondents were less familiar with MSW derived composts in comparison to their knowledge on animal manure or yard waste composts. However, there was a potential for a positive public response to solid waste composting.Item Environmental Impact of Small-Scale Salt Mining on Socio-Economic Activities in the Komenda-Edina-Eguafo-Abrem District in the Central Region(University of Ghana, 2004-06) Anipam, A.D.; Nyame, F.K.; Ofoli-Danson, P.K.; Aseidu, A.B.; University of Ghana, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, Institute for Environment and Sanitation StudiesThe study involved analysis of water samples from wells, salt pans and lagoons as well as soil samples in the proximity of areas in communities where small-scale salt mining activities is undertaken in the Komenda-Edina-Eguafo-Abrem (KEEA) District. In addition, a social survey and detailed observation o f anthropogenic activities were also made to determine the effects o f small-scale salt mining on the environment, and how these environmental impacts affect socio-economic activities in the study area. Results obtained from analysis of water taken from the wells gave values ranging from 4.1 to 8.3 (mean=6.7), 1730|.iS/cm to 9900|j.S/cm (mean=4628|rS/cm), I.4NTU to 4.7NTU (mean=4.7NTU), 895mg/l to 3790mg/l (mean=1904mg/l) for pH. conductivity, turbidity and TDS. respectively. Salinity. Ca. Mg and Cu. had values ranging between 0.8mg/l and 6.0mg/l (mean=2.6mg/l), 80mg/l and 400mg/l (216mg/l). 146mg/l and 534mg/l (mean=224mg/l) and 0.1 mg/1 and 7.5mg/l (2.3mg/l) respectively. Faecal coliform contents recorded also ranged between 40cfu/100ml and 300cfu/100ml (134cfu/f00ml). All these were far above the EPA (Ghana) acceptable limits. The results obtained from analysis of the lagoons and the salt pans were also higher than the EPA acceptable limit, though those recorded for the wet season were lower than those recorded in the dry season. A combination o f the above has rendered water from wells in the study area unfit for domestic use. Salinity content and total hardness of the water are at such levels that the water is very difficult to use for drinking, washing and other domestic purposes. As a result, water for domestic use and other commercial activities is bought at an extra cost to the residents in some of the communities in the study area. Results obtained from analysis of water taken from the wells gave values ranging from 4.1 to 8.3 (mean=6.7), 1730|.iS/cm to 9900|j.S/cm (mean=4628|rS/cm), I.4NTU to 4.7NTU (mean=4.7NTU), 895mg/l to 3790mg/l (mean=1904mg/l) for pH. conductivity, turbidity and TDS. respectively. Salinity. Ca. Mg and Cu. had values ranging between 0.8mg/l and 6.0mg/l (mean=2.6mg/l), 80mg/l and 400mg/l (216mg/l). 146mg/l and 534mg/l (mean=224mg/l) and 0.1 mg/1 and 7.5mg/l (2.3mg/l) respectively. Faecal coliform contents recorded also ranged between 40cfu/100ml and 300cfu/100ml (134cfu/f00ml). All these were far above the EPA (Ghana) acceptable limits. The results obtained from analysis of the lagoons and the salt pans were also higher than the EPA acceptable limit, though those recorded for the wet season were lower than those recorded in the dry season. A combination o f the above has rendered water from wells in the study area unfit for domestic use. Salinity content and total hardness of the water are at such levels that the water is very difficult to use for drinking, washing and other domestic purposes. As a result, water for domestic use and other commercial activities is bought at an extra cost to the residents in some of the communities in the study area.Results obtained from analysis of water taken from the wells gave values ranging from 4.1 to 8.3 (mean=6.7), 1730|.iS/cm to 9900|j.S/cm (mean=4628|rS/cm), I.4NTU to 4.7NTU (mean=4.7NTU), 895mg/l to 3790mg/l (mean=1904mg/l) for pH. conductivity, turbidity and TDS. respectively. Salinity. Ca. Mg and Cu. had values ranging between 0.8mg/l and 6.0mg/l (mean=2.6mg/l), 80mg/l and 400mg/l (216mg/l). 146mg/l and 534mg/l (mean=224mg/l) and 0.1 mg/1 and 7.5mg/l (2.3mg/l) respectively. Faecal coliform contents recorded also ranged between 40cfu/100ml and 300cfu/100ml (134cfu/f00ml). All these were far above the EPA (Ghana) acceptable limits. The results obtained from analysis of the lagoons and the salt pans were also higher than the EPA acceptable limit, though those recorded for the wet season were lower than those recorded in the dry season. A combination o f the above has rendered water from wells in the study area unfit for domestic use. Salinity content and total hardness of the water are at such levels that the water is very difficult to use for drinking, washing and other domestic purposes. As a result, water for domestic use and other commercial activities is bought at an extra cost to the residents in some of the communities in the study area. The nutrient contents o f the soil in the study area were not far below the Booker Tropical Soil Manual acceptable range for most crops. The organic contents of the soil are, however, very low with values ranging between 0.2% and 2.0% and 0.3% and 3.4% recorded. Recorded conductivity values were between 80mS/cm and 5430mS/cm. Values recorded for nitrogen and potassium were between 0.01% and 0.1 % and 10.5 and 66.5mg/kg, respectively. This is an indication that soils in the study area are not fertile probably due to the activities o f small-scale salt mining in the study area. Gardening at the immediate outskirts o f the communities, which was a previous pastime of most inhabitants, has reduced. Those who are involved in full time farming are also moving further inland to farm. The social survey and the observations made indicated that large tracts o f mangrove forest along the banks o f the lagoons have been cleared to make way for the construction o f salt pans. The mangroves served as source o f fuel for domestic use in some o f the communities as well serve as firewood for fish smoking and boiling of brine in the production o f salt. Again, areas occupied by the mangroves served as hunting grounds for fish, crabs and migratory birds which are either consumed or sold for money. Destruction o f mangroves has led to a reduction in the above mentioned activities. Despite the apparently negative impacts that small-scale salt mining may be having on the environment, many inhabitants in the study area, especially women still want salt mining activities to be undertaken of the benefits derived by way o f employment and income. Construction o f salt pans in the coastal scrub and grassland vegetation belt, and the replanting o f mangrove trees in abandoned salt pans, should be encouraged to reduce the impact o f small-scale salt mining on the environment.Item Evaluation of Agricultural and Agro- industrial Residues for Composting for Agricultural Use in Ghana(University of Ghana, 2005-05) Adamtey, N.; Ofosu-Budu, K.G.; Danso, S.K.A.; University of Ghana, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, Institute for Environment and Sanitation StudiesGhana produces several hundred million tons of agricultural and agro industrial residues annually. In the Kwaebibirem District in the Eastern Region of Ghana the processing of fruits of the major tree crops such as oil palm and cocoa together with the large cultivation of rice and maize generate high amounts of agricultural and agro industrial residues. Oil palm residues comprising empty fruit bunches (EFB), palm oil mill effluent (POME), mesocarp fibre (MF) and palm kernel cake (PKC) are significant among the agricultural and agro industrial residues, because of the quantities generated and their impact on the environment. The management of these residues is often a major problem for many oil producing countries. The purpose of this study was to characterize and quantify the major residues of oil palm processing, determine their impact on the environment, their potential uses in agriculture and to recommend appropriate management methods. To achieve these objectives surveys were conducted through interviews and administration of questionnaires translated in the local languages. Samples of POME were taken from both large and small scale palm oil processing mills and characterised. Different combinations of the oil palm residues (EFB, MF, PKC and POME) were composted with and without cocoa pod husks (CH) or poultry waste (PW) to increase the K and P values of the compost. Rock phosphate (RP) was also used because composting was found to increase its solubility and to increase P content of compost where poultry waste was not available. Monitoring of the biochemical changes during composting was also carried out to ascertain the best indicator of maturity for such compost mixtures. The parameters monitored during composting included: pH, temperature, carbon dioxide evolution, C/N, ammonium and nitrate nitrogen concentration and seed germination index. The resultant compost treatments were tested over eight months in a field experiment (2003-2004) at the University of Ghana Agricultural Research Station. The effects of the compost treatments on the growth and nutrient uptake of two different oil palm varieties (OPRI and La Me seedlings) were evaluated at the pre-nursery and the nursery stages using a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD). The treatments were Flanamite (imported organic fertilizer, T5), 15:15:15NPK (T11) and nine different compost treatments: T1(EFB+POME), T2 (EFB +POME+MF), T3 (EFB + PKC +Water), T4 (EFB+PKC+CH+ POME), T6(EFB + PKC + CH + PW + Water), T7 (EFB+PKC+CH+PW+POME), T8 (EFB+EFB+PKC+CH+RP+POME) , T9 (EFB+PKC+POME) and TI0 (EFB+ Water) The findings by the author showed that about 33,025 metric tonnes of EFB and 73,229 m3 of POME were generated in the Kwaebibirem District. The pH values of MF and PKC ranged between 4.5 and 6.0 while that of the fresh POME and EFB were 4.6 and 9.0. Nitrogen content of the POME ranged between 1.30-1.80%. PKC showed highest phosphorus content (0.7%) while MF recorded the least (0.20%). Potassium content was highest in EFB (2.10%) and lowest in POME (0.06%). Whereas the large scale oil palm processing mills treated their POME through anaerobic digestion, the small and medium scale oil palm processing Mills did not. The untreated POME which is usually discharged into the environment had low pH (below 5), high Electrical Conductivity (31,300 /μS/cm,), high Total Dissolved Solids, TDS (181,200mg/l), Chemical Oxygen Demand, COD(133,760mg/l ), Biological Oxygen Demand, BOD (44,566mg/l) and oil content (560,250mg/l) higher than critical values supplied in the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA of Ghana) for waste water quality standard guidelines for discharges into water bodies, and the Malaysian Standards for oil mill effluent for watercourse discharge. The POME was partly found to account for the high BOD (14.40mg/l), COD (166.70mg/l and low dissolved oxygen (0.93-1.23mg/l) of water bodies near the small scale oil palm processing Mills. The composting mixtures matured after 138 days of composting. Correlation of maturity parameters with germination index showed that alkaline pH, CO2 evolution, temperature and nitrates were found to correlate best with percent tomato seed germination test in determining the maturity of compost from agricultural and agro-industrial residues. The mixture of POME, PKC, cocoa pod husks, poultry waste or phosphate rock as composted material significantly improved the nutrient content of the compost .Percent nitrogen (N) ranged between 2% in T10 to about 5% in T3. Highest phosphorus (P) was recorded in T8 (4.4%) and potassium (K) in T4 (3.97%). Oil palm seedlings (OPRI and La Me) grown in compost treatments recorded higher number of leaves, leaf width, leaf length, seedling height, bole diameter, root volume and total dry matter yield than seedlings grown on inorganic fertilizer(T11) or imported organic fertilizer (T5 Flanamite). Uptake values of NPK by La Me seedlings were higher (920mg/plant,166 mg/plant, 740 mg/plant respectively) than by OPRI seedlings (836.76 mg/plant, 95.83 mg/plant, 489.97 mg/plant respectively ) in the same compost treatments. The correlations between dry matter yield (DMY) and nutrient uptake in both OPRI and La Me seedlings were strong and positive (r = 0.9 and 0.96 respectively). Surveys conducted with questionnaires and interviews on the perception and willingness of the managers of the mills and potential compost users (200 respondents) revealed that 92 to 96% of the respondents perceived compost as good and were ready to compost and use the compost for agricultural purposes. It is recommended therefore that composting could be considered as an effective method of managing agricultural and agro-industrial waste and in particular for the oil palm industry, it should be given utmost priority.Item An Environmentally-Friendly and Participatory Approach to the Management of an Invasive Aquatic Weed(University of Ghana, 2010-06) Awuni, S.; Wilson, D.D.; DeGraft-Johnson, K.A.A.; Akpabey, F.J.K.; University of Ghana, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, Institute for Environment and Sanitation StudiesBiological control of water fern, Salvinia molesta was studied in concrete tanks of area 4 m2 each at the insectary of the Department of Animal Biology and Conservation Science (DABCS), University of Ghana, Legon and Jewi Wharf in the Western Region. The impact of Cyrtobagous salviniae on S. molesta was studied in Legon and Jewi Wharf. Results show that there was damage inflicted on S. molesta by the C. salviniae which manifested with increase in percentage and area damage of S. molesta with time in both locations (correlation coefficient = 0.99 in both cases). The damage became evident when leaves turned brown due to infestation, with the leaves being more likely to fall off during handling The rate of multiplication of C. salviniae was also studied through the numbers recovered per quadrat Population estimation using a 0.25 m * 0.25 m quadrat during sampling yielded up to 525 adult weevils in the tank at Legon in two months, giving a 6.4 fold increase in population and a density of 131 adult weevils per square metre, that of Jewi Wharf yielded 608 adult weevils in the tank by the third month giving a 16.4 fold increase in population and a density of 152 adult weevils per square metre. The results indicated that C. salviniae was able to survive and reproduce on S. molesta. The results also indicated that S. molesta reduced in area coverage due to damage and the population of C. salviniae also reduced in a predator-prey relationship pattern. Assessment of biological control potential of a closely related species, Salvinia nymphellula in a large plastic pool at DABCS and on the lower Volta (Big Ada) in the Greater Accra Region was also carried out. The impact of C. salviniae released was monitored over a five month period in Legon and in the lower Volta. Sampling was done to determine the percentage damage of S. nymphellula by C. salviniae. The results indicated that C. salviniae could not survive and reproduce on S. nymphellula. As a result, there was no damage characterized by C. salviniae. The results confirm the fact that C. salviniae is host-specific to S. molesta and will not even feed on a closely related species, 5. nymphellula. The results of the community perceptions on invasive weeds and their control indicated that the communities prefer manual control of weeds to any other method. The Jewi Wharf community was aware of biological control of weeds but not that of the lower Volta. Jewi Wharf community however had mixed perceptions of biological control and did not prefer the method. It was again indicated that perceptions on the invasive water weeds were based on the socioeconomic effects which they encounter from the spread of the weeds, as it has always been the case in other parts of the world where the weeds are prevalent.Item Monitoring Shoreline Change Using Medium Resolution Multi-Temporal Satellite Imagery: A Case Study of Keta, Ghana(University of Ghana, 2011-07) Quashigah, P-N.J.; Addo, K.A.; Kufogbe, S.K.; University of Ghana, College of Basic and Applied Sciences, Institute for Environment and Sanitation StudiesShoreline change analysis provides important information upon which most coastal zone management and intervention policies rely. Such information is however mostly scarce for very large and inaccessible shorelines mostly due to expensive field work. This study investigated the reliability of medium resolution satellite imagery for mapping shoreline positions and for estimating historic rate of change. Both manual and semi-automatic shoreline extraction methods for multi-spectral satellite imageries were explored. Five shoreline positions were extracted for 1986, 1991, 2001, 2007 and 2011 covering a medium term of 25 years period. Two additional shoreline positions for 2010 and 2011 were extracted and used for accuracy assessment. Rates of change statistics were calculated using the End Point Rate and Weighted Linear Regression methods. Approximately 283 transects were cast at simple right angles along the entire coast at 200m interval. Uncertainties were quantified for the shorelines ranging from ±4.1m to ±5.5m accuracy of mapping the shoreline at 15m resolution estimated to be ±11m. The results show that the Keta shoreline is a very dynamic feature with average rate of erosion estimated to be about 2m/year ±0.44m. Individual rates along some transect reach as high as -16m/year near the estuary and on the east of the Keta Sea Defence site. The study confirms earlier rates of erosion calculated for the area and also reveals the influence of the Keta sea defence on erosion along the eastern coast of Ghana. The research shows that shoreline change can be estimated using medium resolution satellite imagery.Item Assessment of the Effects of Quarrying Activities on Some Selected Communities in the Lower Manya Krobo District(University of Ghana, 2011-12) Nene, N.J.; Nartey, V.K.; Nyame, F.K.This study assessed the effects of quarrying activities on some selected communities in the Lower Manya Krobo District. Questionnaires targeting inhabitants around the quarry sites, observations, collection of health records from well patronized hospitals/clinics and dust (PM 10 ) sampling were used as data gathering instruments. The study revealed that some of the men have been employed as quarry workers and a substantial number of women in the area have become food vendors at the quarry sites. In terms of infrastructural development, the Bueryonye-Klo- Begoro road has been gravelled and made motorable even in the wet season. The District Assembly collects tolls from haul trucks as a means of generating revenue. Despite these benefits quarrying activities in the study area have distorted the balance of the environment. The distortions include encroachment upon limited prime agricultural land, destruction of buildings, pollution of water bodies, incapacitation of farmlands by run offs due to poor drainage, air pollution from quarry dust and noise from vehicles, machinery and blasting. Environmental parameters such strong winds and dry weathers have facilitated emission of dust. Gravimetric concentrations of PM 10 measured during the period of study were very high. Results of the study showed that PM 10 concentrations recorded in the study area in January are 125μgm -3 , 116.2μgm -3 , and 109.3μgm -3 for Bueryonye, Odugblase and Klo-Begoro respectively. Only two concentrations, 69.4μgm -3 and 54.6μgm -3 , recoded in June are below EPA’s permissible limit of 70μgm -3 . This means that PM 10 concentration is high during the dry season and quite low during the wet season. Thus, dust suppression during the dry season should be very effective. The controlled sampling site, Oterkpolu, had 50.5μgm -3 in January and 29.0μgm -3 in June. The distance of Oterkpolu from the quarries may have accounted for the low impact of dust on the community. The indication is that communities close to quarries are impacted by quarrying activities more than those far away from the sites. The data collected from hospital records of the inhabitants portrayed their health profile. The prevalent health problems of the residents were elicited from a questionnaire survey conducted in three selected neighbouring communities of the quarries. Records obtained from health facilities most patronized have shown that respiratory tract infections and malaria have hiked since the establishment of the quarries in 2004/2005. Health problems suffered by the residents before the advent of the quarries include cough (33.3%), catarrh (25%), asthma (30%), headache (40%), malaria (5%) etc. These health problems hiked during the quarrying period as cough, catarrh, asthma and headache increased to 60%, 45%, 39%, 57%, and 40% respectively. Although, the residents of neighbouring communities are aware of risks associated with living near quarry sites, their general low socio-economic status made them incapable of taking any decisive measure towards relocating elsewhere. Approval for quarry operation should mandate environmental impact assessment and ensure strict implementation of outlined mitigation measures so as to guarantee environmental sustainability. Enforcement of regulations and laws through effective monitoring by the required institutions will create a balanced and sustainable environment.Item Latrines and Household Well Water Quality in Wa(University of Ghana, 2013-06) Braimah, J.A.; Gordon, C.; Yirenya-Tawiah, D.In many developing countries of the world, the utilization of ground water is very common due to factors such as water scarcity and its relative good quality. On the other hand, basic sanitation is a challenge in many developing countries with most rural and peri-urban communities relying on on-site sanitation systems which are often poorly managed. This study, conducted in Wa the Upper West region of Ghana, aimed at assessing the influence of on-site sanitation systems on hand dug well water quality. Samples were randomly collected from thirty wells and tested using standard methods for physico-chemical and microbiological indicators of water quality. Questionnaires were administered to assess the general knowledge and perception of respondents on the quality of the water they used for domestic purposes. Also, observation was made on the general conditions of wells from which samples were collected and available sanitation structures. It was found from the study that, all the parameters assessed were within the WHO recommended limits except bacteria (of faecal origin) and turbidity. Significant variations in conductivity, total dissolved solids, temperature and turbidity were observed between the dry and the rainy seasons. All the water samples were found to be positive for bacteria. The study also revealed majority that of respondents were content with their well water quality. Educational campaigns need to be undertaken to create awareness about the quality of well waters, human activities that adversely impact on the quality of well waters. Wells should be located at a minimum distance of 50 meters from a pit latrine in order to reduce contamination. The government through the Municipal Assembly should make available disinfectants to enable residents disinfect their waters.Item Use of Human Urine and Other Soil Amendments in Tomato and Pepper Production(University of Ghana, 2013-06) Adjoa, A.M.; Ofosu-Budu, K.G.; Boateng, S.D.; Amoah, P.; International Water Management Institute (IWMI)Human urine is a valuable plant nutrient resource however; there is very little information on using urine. This research examined the use of human urine as nutrient source as well as biochar and compost as growing media for tomato (cv M2) and pepper (Capsicum annum cv bird eye) production. This was studied under greenhouse and field conditions. It further examined the perception and willingness of farmers, marketers’ and consumers to grow, sell and consume vegetables fertilized with urine. The green house experiment was designed using biochar alone and biochar amended with compost (1:1v/v) as growing media. It further evaluated different nutrient sources- urine diluted at the ratio 1: 6, 1: 5, 1: 4 urine/water (urine treatments); 30mg N/L, 50mg N/L and 70mg N/ L (inorganic treatments) and water as a control.. Seedlings were dipped into the nutrient solutions until saturation through capillary action for three weeks. Similarly, a pot experiment was carried out under field conditions using a split plot design. Diluted urine (1:4 urine/water ratio) applied once, twice and thrice a week on five different media treatments were evaluated. The media treatments were; (1) Soil + RHB 1:1; (2) Soil + Compost 1:1; (3) Soil+ Compost+ RHB 1:1:1; (4) Soil + Compost+ RHB 1:1:2 (5) Soil + Compost+ RHB 1:2:1. Applications of inorganic fertilizer and water were used as controls. Vegetative parameters such as chlorophyll content, plant height, dry matter, stem diameter, number of leaves and root to shoot ratio, yield and yield components were monitored. It was observed that, when biochar was amended with compost, all vegetative parameters increased significantly than biochar alone. For instance, compost amended media increased tomato plant height and root length by 2.4 fold and 3.3 fold while biochar alone increased by just over 100% and 1.2 folds respectively. In the nutrient sources treatments, it was also observed that the shoot dry weight of tomato transplant produced by DU 1:6 (0.46 mg/plant) was comparable to that produced by In-Fert 1 (0.49 mg/plant) and In-Fert 3 (0.42 mg/plant) treatments. In the field, the highest yield 961 g/plant and fruit numbers 60 fruits/plant was in plants grown in Soil + Compost+ RHB 1:1:2 fertigated with 0.45 g N/pot. This was 37% and 5.3 fold greater than in the inorganic fertilizer and (water) treatments (p<0.05). Generally, corresponding decreases in yield were recorded with high irrigation frequencies. The questionnaire survey revealed that most respondents were not aware of urine as fertilizer. Farmers were willing to use urine if it will improve agriculture. Marketers were not willing to disclose to their clients if the vegetables are fertilized with urine. Some consumers were willing to consume urine fertilized crop if only it was safe to consume. The study concluded that urine combined with compost and biochar is a good source of plant nutrients, especially nitrogen.Item Influence of Human Activities on Insect Diversity and Abundance in the Wetland Environment(University of Ghana, 2013-06) Mensah, B.A.; Kyerematen, R.; Annang, T.The Wetland environment is a unique with unique biota, including insects. Insects serve as indicators of environmental health. However, the recent spate of human encroachment on wetlands would affect this unique biota structure. This phenomenon could pose a threat to the wetland environment. The physical and chemical quality of these habitats would provide background information for comparison against established quality standard of the wetland environment. Information gathered could help manage threatened wetlands better. The study involved reconnaissance surveys, trapping of insects, physico-hemical and bacteriological assessment of water and social surveys to determine how human activities influence insect diversity and abundance in and around the wetland environment. Of the 5541 individual insects recorded, a total of 22 orders belonging to 112 families were collected and identified from different sites along the Sakumono, Kpeshie and Muni – Pomadze Wetlands. The distribution of species was significantly different among the various locations with the most diverse site being Kpeshie where 2128 individuals were collected. Principal component analysis indicated that species assemblage on sampled site were related to some environmental and water quality parameters. In the case of Kpeshie the water was badly polluted but still had a positive correlation with insect diversity and abundance. The social survey of the selected communities showed that majority of the residents had low level of education and this has affected their appreciation of issues involved in environmental pollution. Majority of the communities also lack proper toilet facilities and publicly demarcated waste disposal sites and there was no coordinated and concerted effort to manage the three lagoons. Activities such as the establishment of farms, improper fishing practices, discharge of domestic garbage, industrial and human waste into the lagoon are creating very serious problems for the lagoons.Item Groundwater Contamination with Toxic Metals through Small Scale Mining within the Lower Pra Basin(University of Ghana, 2013-06) Dorleku, M.; Carboo, D.; Nukpezah, D.Small-scale gold mining in Ghana is mainly an informal industry employing thousands of people. The generally undeveloped nature of the industry has resulted in lack of proper monitoring and supervision by relevant authorities. As a result, there is wanton destruction of farm lands and indiscriminate pollution of water bodies. These water bodies serve us recharge zones for groundwater, thereby polluting them. This study assessed the effects of small-scale gold mining on quality of groundwater in the Lower Pra Basin in terms of heavy metal and other physico-chemical pollution. The analysis shows that pH values are generally low in the Basin. More than 95 % of dry season and almost all the wet season values are acidic or slightly acidic. Approximately 35 % of boreholes in the wet season recorded values for Cadmium above W.H.O guideline value of 3.0 μg/l. Only two boreholes recorded values above W.H.O guideline value for the dry season. The higher wet season pollution suggests anthropogenic origin for Cd. Generally, high values were recorded for Iron, Manganese, Lead, Aluminium and Hg. Approximately 15% and 18 % of dry and wet season values respectively for Fe were above W.H.O recommended limit of 300 μg/l for drinking water with a mean of 218 μg/l and a median of 166 μg/l. Manganese concentration was in the range 2.5 - 1544 μg/l with a mean of 142 μg/l. Roughly 5 % and 11 % of the dry and wet season values respectively, were above the W.H.O recommended value of 500 μg/l. The concentration of Lead was higher than 10 μg/l (W.H.O guideline value) in 43% and 41% of the dry and wet season values respectively with a mean of 15.8 μg/l and 20.1 μg/l for dry and wet seasons respectively. About, 88% and 42% of the dry and wet season values, respectively, were above the W.H.O limit of 1.0μg/l for mercury. Dry season values ranged between 0.005 and 10.1μg/l with the wet season recording values between 0.005 to 16.4 μg/l. Approximately 17 % and 11 % of dry and wet seasons respectively recorded values above the W.H.O recommended limit of 200 μg/l for Aluminium. Other heavy metals present but were generally below W.H.O guideline values or were in insignificant concentrations include Copper, Arsenic, selenium and Zinc. Values recorded for Phosphate, Sulphate and Nitrate are within acceptable limits. In general, Lead, Copper, Cadmium, and Manganese showed higher wet season values than dry season suggesting anthropogenic influence .Item Faecal Sludge Reuse in Urban and Peri-Urban Crop Production(University of Ghana, 2013-06) Nartey, E.G.; Ofosu-Budu, K.G.; Boateng, S.D.; Amoah, P.; Nikiema, J.; Pradhan, S.; International Water Management Institute (IWMI), West African Office, Accra – GhanaOrganic wastes, such as faecal sludge (FS), cocoa pod husk (CPH) and empty fruit bunch (EFB) abound in large quantities in the Ghanaian environment. They contain considerable amounts of nutrients and organic matter which can be recycled to improve soil organic matter content and boost soil fertility status. This study was conducted to characterize and quantify FS produced in Sekondi- Takoradi metropolis (STMA), co-compost FS with EFB and CPH, evaluate the suitability of the co-composts and compost tea as a growing medium and nutrient source, respectively and then ascertain the perception of farmers and consumers on FS composting and use in crop production. Samples of FS were collected from the new liquid waste treatment facility in Sekondi-Takoradi and analysed for physico-chemical parameters (pH, EC, TS, BOD, COD, N, NH 4 -N, NO 3 -N, P and K) and pathogens (E. coli, faecal coliforms and helminth eggs). Dewatered FS was co-composted with EFB and CPH at 5 different treatment ratios: 1FS:1EFB, 1FS:1CPH; and FS: EFB: CPH in ratios of 1:1:1, 2:1:1, and 2:2:1. Temperature, pH, pathogen reduction, and nutrient content were monitored. One co-compost was evaluated for its suitability as a potting medium and compost tea for raising pepper and tomato transplants. Media treatments were prepared by mixing carbonated rice husk (CRH) and co-compost at 5 different ratios 0:1, 1:3, 1:1, 3:1 and 1:0 ratio v/v. The compost teas were prepared by steeping 2.5 kg of compost in 15 L of distilled following the bucket-fermentation method. Questionnaires were administered to 10 vegetable farmers and 10 consumers in Accra to ascertain their perception on human waste composting and use in crop production. Results from this study showed that, the average biological oxygen demand (BOD) of septage and public toilet sludge in STMA were 1080 and 6200 mg/L respectively. This showed the septage was more stabilised than the public toilet sludge. Co-composting FS, EFB and CPH was viable and the process lasted for 12 weeks, however not all treatment ratios produced sanitized co-composts. This was because the different feedstock affected the C/N ratio, temperature, pH and the microbial community in each treatment. The feedstock: FS, EFB and CPH in the ratio of 2: 2: 1 was found to be the best quality co-compost and this ratio supports the idea of using composting as a waste management solution as more human waste is used which can subsequently improve sanitation. The best growth media for tomato transplant production was compost and CRH ratio of 1:1, whiles the ratio of 1: 1 to 1: 0 was found to be optimum for pepper transplants. These ratios provided the optimum nutrient balance and EC for transplant growth. Compost tea had positive effect on both transplant growth, however it was comparable to the inorganic N fertilizer of 100 mg N/L for pepper transplants. Only 33% of vegetable farmers interviewed had knowledge about the use of human waste reuse. However, they were willing to compost FS and subsequently apply to their crops provided training could be offered to them.Item Effect Of Insanitary Conditions On The Physico Chemical Quality Of Groundwater In Select Coastal Communities In Keta(University of Ghana, 2013-07) Norvivor, F.A.Groundwater issues in coastal communities are usually associated with seasonal salinization, due to sea water intrusion and seasonal flooding, however the main objective of this study was to assess the physical and chemical water quality of hand dug wells in Atorkor, Srogbe and Whuti, which are located close to possible contamination sources and further from these contamination sources. Thirty selected hand dug wells in households were used for this study. The uses, dependency, knowledge on possible contamination sources and some aesthetic parameters for water quality were assessed. Important physico chemical water quality parameters namely, pH, temperature, turbidity, TDS, TSS, hardness, conductivity, Nitrate, Phosphate, Sulphate, Calcium and Magnesium were assessed and compared with WHO guideline values for drinking water quality. Results from this study showed that, there were possible contamination sources of groundwater in each of the three communities. The local people depend on groundwater abstracted from hand dug wells for domestic purposes such as cooking, washing, and drinking. The study also found out that they had very little knowledge on possible contamination from the identified sources; this was also confirmed by the fact that, they did not treat water before using it for drinking purposes and the fact that, they did not ensure strict sanitary conditions around well head. Physico chemical water parameters analyzed on hand dug wells all wells in Srogbe, Whuti and Atorkor recorded relatively high concentration of conductivity, turbidity, TDS, TSS, Hardness, Calcium, Magnesium and Phosphates, irrespective of their proximity to potential contamination sources. Nitrates however, were low in all sampling points. Only Phosphate was also particularly high near a specific contamination source. Microbiological analysis, done on some selected wells also showed that irrespective of proximity of contamination sources, microbial contamination was still evident. Therefore, irrespective of the proximity to potential pollution sources, physico chemical water was not significantly affected.Item Assessment Of Air Quality Impacts On Women And Children In The Accra Metropolis(University of Ghana, 2013-07) Pardie, S.P.P.Women and children within developing countries and for that matter Ghana are engaged in domestic and commercial activities that make them prone to inhalation of outdoor particle pollution, which may have effects or exacerbate existing respiratory diseases. It is for this reason that this study investigated the adverse health effects of air quality on women and children. This was done through the measurement of particulate matter sizes less or equal to 10 microns (PM10) on major roadside stations and the collection of respiratory data from various public hospitals. The MiniVol air sampler model TAS - 5.0 was used for collection of PM10 on a 24-hour schedule every sixth day for five (5) months unto a glass fibre filter in which the mass concentration was determined gravimetrically. Respiratory data on women and children composed of diagnoses recorded by the six hospitals around the PM10 sampling stations from 2010 to 2012 were used for the statistical analysis. Questionnaires were distributed to the female population above 15years to ascertain responses on exposure and awareness of Air Pollution. Meteorological data was also acquired to determine whether the changes in temperature and relative humidity have effect on the PM10 concentration and the rate of respiratory cases. Excel and SPSS software were used for the data analysis and to determine the correlation among PM10, meteorological data and respiratory data. The results indicated that respiratory cases were higher in children below five years and in women between the ages 20 and 49 years. Also, majority of the PM10 measurements along roadside stations were above EPA-Ghana, WHO and USNAAQS reference levels and therefore the air quality along major roads are unhealthy and impacting on the health of the largest active reproductive working class of women in our society as well as children that can be described as future leaders. Finally, the correlations among mean PM10 concentration, temperature, relative humidity and respiratory data for the study period were statistically significant (P < 0.05 and P < 0.01) indicating an association between the environmental variables.Item An Assessment of Heavy Metal Contamination in Soils and Vegetation: A Case Study of Korle Lagoon Reclamation Site(University of Ghana, 2013-07) Addae, E.; Nyame, F.K.; Fosu-Mensah, B.Y.This study investigated the concentration of heavy metals and vegetation around the Korle Lagoon Reclamation site in Accra (Ghana). The dispersion of heavy metals such as Pb, Hg, Cd, As, Zn, Sn, Ni, Cu and Cr within the soil profile from a depth of 0 – 60cm (at 20cm intervals) were assessed. A total of ninety (90) soil samples were taken from the e- waste zone (EW), central gardens zone (GZ), recreational zone (KD), reclaimed zone (RZ) and estuary zone (ES) and eighteen (18) soil samples were sampled from the control zone (CZ) at the Korle-Bu flats. Ten (10) samples of forage grasses (Panicum maxima and Imperata cylindrical) were also taken from each of the sampling zones and ten (10) samples each of lettuce (Latuca sativa) and bissap (Hibiscus sabdariffa) were taken from central garden zone (GZ) and the control zone (CZ). At the depth of 0 – 20cm, the ranges of heavy metal concentrations recorded were Hg (<0.001 – 0.67), Pb (1.28 – 183.66), Cu (3.47 – 202.99), Zn (0.83 – 37.33), Cr (2.28 – 56.00), Cd (<0.001 – 103.66), Ni (0.91 – 72.00), Sn (8.77 – 705.32) and As (0.04 – 3.67) in mg/kg. At the depth of 20 – 40cm, Hg (<0.001 – 0.67), Pb (1.12 – 167.96), Cu (2.57 – 199.99), Zn (0.73 – 34.33), Cr (0.11 – 49.99), Cd (0.04 – 68.32), Ni (0.55 – 66.65), Sn (8.67 – 334.25) and As (0.21 – 15.66) in mg/kg. At the depth of 40 – 60cm, Hg (0.00 – 0.00), Pb (0.96 – 134.00), Cu (1.49 – 98.66), Zn (0.52 – 27.66), Cr (1.13 – 52.67), Cd (0.04 – 68.32), Ni (0.55 – 66.65), Sn (8.67 – 334.25) and As (0.21 – 10.99) in mg/kg. The levels of Pb, Cd and As analyzed from some of the zones exceeded international thresholds for agriculture lands. The ranges of heavy metal concentrations in the vegetation were: Hg (<0.001 – 0.08), Pb (<0.001 – 36.72), Cd (0.16 – 1.64), Cr (0.24 – 3.84), Cu (0.16 – 95.56), Zn (1.16 -34.92), Ni (0.40 – 7.00), As (<0.001 – 0.32) and Sn (2.52 – 28.52) in mg/kg with Cu, Pb and Cd exceeding the acceptable limits of heavy metals in plants. The enrichment factor of the heavy metals had a general trend of Cr = Ni < Zn < Cu < Hg < As < Pb < Cd < Sn. The geoaccumaltion index also had a general trend of Cr < Ni < Zn < Cu < As < Cd < Pb < Hg < Sn. The pollution index also recorded a general trend Cr < ZnItem DNA Barcoding as a Tool for Sustainable Harvesting of Medicinal Plants used in the Treatment of Diarrhoea and Male Sexual Weakness in Ghana(University of Ghana, 2013-07) Thomas, G.; Ameka, G.K.; Annang, T.Y.Due to high poverty levels coupled with high patients to doctor ratio in Ghana, most people especially the urban poor and rural dwellers resort to herbal medicines which are quite cheap for their primary healthcare. Developing measures to maximize the medicinal potentials of indigenous plants will reduce the number of lives lost through diseases. A major setback is that most herbal products sold in public places lack scientific evidence for safety, quality and efficacy. As the safety of herbal medicine depends on the ability to correctly identify the plants used in their preparation, this study sought to use DNA barcoding as (i) an identification tool in the authentication of herbal medicines and (ii) their sustainable management in southern Ghana. Silica- dried leaves samples from thirty seven different medicinal tree species covering 24 families, used in the treatment of diarrhoea and male sexual weakness from three different conservation areas: Ankasa, Bia and Kakum, were sequenced at the rbcL gene region. A success sequence rate of 94.59% was achieved for the rbcL gene region. To verify the authenticity of the reference DNA database produced from the thirty five medicinal tree sequences in the proper identification of medicinal plants species, silica-dried samples of eleven tree species from farmlands within the Akuapem North district of the Eastern region (specifically around Aburi and its environs) were sequenced in the rbcL gene region. All the eleven tree species had their counterparts successfully sequenced in the reference DNA database. A sequence success rate of 90.91% was achieved, and each of the sequences in the verification data perfectly matched their counterparts in the reference database implying that DNA barcoding can be used in the identification of all medicinal plants species to ensure the safety of herbal medicines in Ghana. The study also sought to find out: (i) the medicinal tree species used in the treatment of diarrhoea, male sexual weakness or both, (ii) how herbalists identify the plants species they use, (iii) their availability, distribution abundance, (iv) the quantity of medicinal plants used in the treatment of diarrhoea and male sexual weakness per month, (v) the parts and sources of the plants species used and (vi) the awareness of forest conservation in southern Ghana. Structured questionnaire and interview guides were used to seek information from a purposive group including herbalists, commercial medicinal plants collectors and sellers in two different markets; Kasoa and Nyanyano, and the communities around the three selected conservation areas; Ankasa, Bia and Kakum. The traditional method of identification was the only available method used for identification of medicinal plant species by both practicing herbalists and commercial plant collectors. Seventy three plants species were found to be effective for the treatment of diarrhoea and male sexual weakness or both. Roots were the commonly used part of the plants in herbal medicine preparation. The parts of plants used, and the rate of collection of some medicinal plants were found to affect the survival of some plants species. There was a hundred percent level of awareness of forest conservations in southern Ghana. DNA barcoding is the best identification tool for medicinal plants species which when accepted for use will completely eliminate misidentification and help in the proper documentation of medicinal plants species. This will inform on the proper conservation and management options for the protection of threatened species as well as the controlled harvesting and trade in vulnerable and important medicinal plants.Item Sustainable Bioenergy: Biodiesel Production From Microalgae Occurring In Ghana(University of Ghana, 2013-07) Onwona-Agyemang, R.Due to increasing oil prices and climate change concerns, biodiesel has gained attention as an alternative energy source. Biodiesel derived from microalgae is a potentially renewable and carbon–neutral alternative to petroleum fuels. This study was carried out to determine the potentials of producing biodiesel from microalgae obtained from freshwater bodies in Ghana to serve as an environmentally sustainable fuel and an alternative to the use of fossil diesel. In the study, water samples with algal blooms were collected from the Weija reservoir, wastewater ponds in and near University of Ghana, main campus, Prampram and a freshwater pond at Teshie in Accra. Based on their morphology and ease of cultivation, four (4) microalgae were isolated and identified as Oedogonium sp., Chroococcus sp., Spirogyra sp. and Closterium sp. These isolates were : (i) cultured in a 2 litre reagent bottle Photobioreactor (improvised) using sunlight as the energy source, (ii) harvested by filtration to reduce their water content and centrifuged into pastes, (iii) dried and ground into powder to extract algal oil and (iv) the algae oils were transesterified into biodiesel. Results indicated a significant growth in terms of percentage dry weight in Oedogonium sp. (55.8%) and a lower dry weight of 40.1% in Closterium sp., with Chroococcus sp. and Spirogyra sp. ranging between 50.2 and 50.0 % respectively. Results also indicated that under room temperature, air, natural source of light and appropriate medium these species can grow profusely. Significant amounts (20- 38%) of microalgal oil were efficiently extracted with hexane and diethyl ether and transmuted into biodiesel. Closterium sp. yielded very significant amount of biodiesel of 94 %, while a yield of 80% was produced from Chroococcus sp. The percentage yield for Oedogonium sp. was 49% and the least percentage biodiesel yield was 33% for Spirogyra sp. This work was able to isolate and identify four freshwater microalgae which are rarely used in research works for biodiesel production. In producing biodiesel, it can be concluded that, Oedogonium sp., Closterium sp., Spirogyra sp. and Chroococcus sp. are viable species which can provide substantial amount of algal oil for biodiesel production. Hence, investments must be made to develop a better and economically viable technology for large scale cultivation of algae for the production of biodiesel in Ghana. Also an in-depth economic analysis should be performed on each aspect of the algae to biodiesel production process. This can reduce the cost of producing biodiesel, and ultimately making it a better alternative to fossil diesel in Ghana.Item Spatial Mapping Of Noise Exposure Zones Derived From Religious Activities And Perceptions In Residential Neighbourhoods: The Case Of Ashaiman Municipality, Ghana(University of Ghana, 2013-07) Zakpala, R.N.Religious noise pollution is gradually becoming rampant and a nuisance in most residential areas in Ghana. This study set out to assess the levels of religious noise produced in some selected communities in the Ashaiman Municipality. A Geographical Positioning System (GPS) was used to obtain the coordinates of the churches and mosques and the distances of 50 m, 100 m, 150 m and 200 m away from the churches/mosques. Noise exposure zones were then mapped using ARCGIS 10.1 software and surface interpolation of the point data was carried out using Kriging technique and classified into classes of exposure levels. The perceptions of the residents in the respective communities regarding noise levels as well as the relevant actions and strategies taken by the communities that had high exposure to religious noise levels were also determined. The results showed that all of the churches and mosques sampled produced high levels of religious noise which far exceeded the permissible noise levels of EPA, Ghana; that is, 55dB for day (0060 – 2200h) and 48dB for night (2200 – 0060h). A few communities were within the Extremely High noise exposure zones but most were within the Moderately High and Very High noise exposure zones. Majority of the respondents (64.1%) did not regard the noise as a nuisance including those within the Extremely High noise exposure zones. However, 35.9% of the participants considered the noise as a nuisance. Education of the public on the harmful effects of noise on individuals and enforcement of noise guidelines in residential neighbourhoods are highly recommended.Item Assessment of Marine Debris and Water Quality Along the Accra-Tema Coastline of Ghana(University of Ghana, 2013-07) Himans, I.P.; Nunoo, F.K.E.; Lawson, E.T.With an estimated population of 3 million people living along Accra's coast, Ghana is facing major challenges in managing its waste especially solid waste in metropolitan areas. A survey of marine debris was therefore carried out over a period of sixteen weeks at four beaches along the Accra - Tema coastline namely Sakumono, La Pleasure, Mensah Guinea and Korle Gonno beach. The main objective of the study was to determine the beach and water quality at the study locations. A 10 x100 m belt transect was demarcated on each beach. Accumulated debris and one litre seawater samples were collected from the belt transects on all four beach sites on a weekly basis and analysed. A total of 18241 items of marine debris which weighed 297.59 kg were collected from the four beaches. Out of 51 individual marine debris items identified, 9 were found on the world‘s ̳dirty dozen‘ list. Plastic materials dominated the debris collected accounting for 63.72% of total debris. Marine debris from land- based source formed the largest proportion of debris collected (93% of items/m 2 and 85% kg/m 2 ). Water quality analysis revealed high mean levels of coliforms and E.coli above World Health Organisation (WHO) levels on all four beach locations. A social survey that mainly targeted beach users was also conducted over the same period. Respondents were in the habit of littering and acknowledged marine debris as a problem. They also believed that Ghana‘s beaches are not clean and identified beach users as the main source of litter generation on the beaches. Intensive education remains key to combating the issue of debris on Ghana‘s coastlines. Water quality levels should be constantly monitored to avoid disease outbreaks. Where the levels are deemed life threatening, the beach should be closed off to the general public until such a time when it is safe. Ultimately, enforcement of appropriate policy initiatives and continuous monitoring is vital to addressing marine debris along Ghana‘s coastlines.