Effects of Open Burning of Agricultural Waste on Air Quality in Farming Communities in Gombe State, North East Nigeria

The open burning of agricultural residues is a widespread post-harvest practice across Nigerian farming communities and contributes substantially to ambient air pollution, affecting respiratory health. This study examined the effects of open burning of crop residues on ambient air quality in farming communities in Yamaltu-Deba Local Government Area, Gombe State, North East Nigeria. Air quality measurements, specifically particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), carbon monoxide, and black carbon, were conducted using portable monitoring devices at burning sites and at residential areas one, three, and five kilometres downwind during and after burning events. A cross-sectional health survey assessed respiratory symptoms among 350 residents across four farming communities. Results showed that PM2.5 concentrations during active burning events reached up to 420 micrograms per cubic metre at monitoring sites immediately adjacent to burning fields, exceeding the WHO daily guideline of 15 micrograms per cubic metre by a factor of twenty-eight. Carbon monoxide levels were also significantly elevated. Respiratory symptoms, including coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath, were reported by sixty-three percent of respondents, with children and the elderly exhibiting higher symptom prevalence. The study recommends promotion of alternative crop residue management practices such as composting and mulching, alongside community awareness campaigns targeting farmers in Gombe State. Keywords: agricultural burning, air quality, particulate matter, Gombe, respiratory health.