Abstract

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This study investigated the heavy metal status of soils around waste dumpsites in Ughell, metropolis, Delta State, Nigeria. Two different dumpsites were used for this study. For the metal analysis, soil samples were collected at 0-15cm depth. The soil samples were air dried for five days and sieved. 2.0g of the soil sample was digested with HNO3/HClO4 mixture and analysed for heavy metals (Fe, Pb, Cd, Zn, Cu and Mn) concentration using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS) Buck 200A model. The result obtained ranged from18.23-32.31mg/kg for Fe; 1.28-1.36mg/kg for Pb; 4.72-6.23mg/kg for Cd; 13.6-17.62mg/kg for Zn; 1.32-1.35mg/kg for Cu and 26.36-29.82mg/kg for Mn. The mean concentration of all the metals in the two sampling stations is in the order: Mn>Fe>Zn>Cd>Cu>Pb. The results when compared with the control site were quite higher indicating the metal enrichment of soil from the waste in the dumpsites. The results were within DPR target value except cadmium. The level of Cadmium in the present study calls for concern, considering the location of the sites and toxicity of cadmium. All hands must therefore be on deck to check the effect of these metals now and in the future in order to promote a healthy environment for sustainable development

Keywords: heavy metals, dumpsites, soil, concentration, waste, samples