Assessment of Wastewater from Different Point Sources in a Nigerian University Using Water Quality Index

Abstract

Civil and environmental engineers have copious assignments to do to ensure a hygienic and greener environment that is void of contamination of the environment and various point sources. This research examined wastewater from different point sources (hostels, colleges, laundry, cafeterias and bakery) in a Nigerian University. Wastewater from different point sources was monitored for six months and various laboratory tests were carried out. The physicochemical characteristics of the wastewater were determined following standard procedure and their qualities were assessed using the Water Quality Index (WQI). Ammonia, dissolved oxygen and turbidity were 0.52 mg/L, 7.78 mg/L and 38.62 NTU making the wastewater moderately polluted according to WQI. Wastewater from selected sources was within acceptable limits specified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The bacterial composition of lake water, in particular, may alter as a result of contamination coming from the point sources within the watershed Quality Index limit of the wastewater provided substantiates the fact that there are environmental issues and contamination of water bodies traceable to improper wastewater management from various point sources in developing countries. Wastewater may become a point source of pollution if it is not managed properly, which might be dangerous for both the environment and human populations' health. Periodic assessment of wastewater will assist decision-making regarding public health and environmental sustainability in communities and institutions of developed and developing nations of the world.