Pollution status and Fate Prediction of Dominant Polychlorinated Biphenyl (PCBs) Congeners in Major Dumpsites Around Warri Metropolis

Abstract

- PCBs are synthetic compounds serving as additives for many industrial processes. Bioaccumulation and biomagnification properties of PCBs have resulted in significant adverse health effect and loss of aquatic life. For contaminants to cause environmental deterioration, they must exist within the different matrices of the environment. The aim of this study was to determine the concentration of PCBs in soil and predict its fate in the different matrix of the environment. Soil samples were taken from five (5) major dumpsites in Warri metropolis and PCBs were extracted following standard procedures. The results show that dumpsites do not differ significantly in the concentration of PCBs, with dumpsite history playing a significant role in determining the dominant congeners. In addition, PCBs levels in the sites posed no threat, as PCB concentrations at all locations were below the regulatory limits set by other countries. Despite the low concentrations, humans could still be exposed via inhalations, and these contaminants could still leach into the ground water table. The major recommendations were for waste categorisations to be carried out before waste incinerations at the dumpsites and regular monitoring should be carried out on this location because of the proximity to residential areas.