Pollution from Small and Medium Size Enterprises: Less Understood and Neglected Sources in Nigerian Environment

Abstract

Small and Medium Size Enterprises (SMEs) are encouraged by Nigerian Government to develop and sustain the economy and promote employment. They range from process industries, fabrication workshops, service centres, food and drink premises, and several others. A majority of these sprawled up in urban areas though they are also seen in peripheral and rural areas. These centres play significant role in the national economy. At the same time, they also produce a variety of end products and byproducts in solid, liquid or gaseous forms which affect the environment negatively by polluting air, water and soil. This has resulted in eutrophication of water bodies, contamination of groundwater, soil and affected quality of life in the cities. There are well laid out pollution control regulations and guidelines in the country. The Federal Ministry of Environment, The National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA) with five Zonal offices implement these regulations. But in spite of these, SMEs sector which is mostly private driven escapes from being questioned on their poor environmental upkeep and disposal of untreated waste products. This paper has drawn examples from selected major urban areas in Nigeria and highlights some of the issues, challenges and possible mitigation measures to safeguard the fragile Nigerian environment.