June. 2020. Vol. 17, No.1 ISSN 2311-2484 International Journal of Research In Earth & Environmental Sciences © 2013-2020 IJREES & K.A.J. All rights reserved www.ijsk.org/ijrees POLLUTANT STANDARD INDEX AND AIR QUALITY INDEX OF THE DRY SEASON CRITERIA AIR POLLUTANTS OF PORT HARCOURT AND ITS ENVIRONS, NIGER DELTA, NIGERIA Antai, Raphael E.1; Osuji, Leo C. 2; Obafemi, Andrew A.3 and Onojake, Mudiaga C.4 1 Institute of Natural Resources, Environment and Sustainable Development, University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria. 1 Inter - Environments Limited, Rumudara, Port Harcourt, Nigeria. 2,4 Department of Pure and Industrial Chemistry, University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria. 3 Department of Geography and Environmental Management, University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Corresponding Author:
[email protected] ABSTRACT Pollutant standards indices (PSI) were computed for each study area to indicate the concentration level of each pollutant in the study area, while air quality indices were computed to show the degree of air pollution effects on human health in Port Harcourt and its environs. The Air Quality index (AQI) revealed the health effects on people in the respective study area may be experienced. Results of AQI indicated that Eleme, Obio/Akpor and Port Harcourt are most polluted areas compared to Oyigbo, Ikwerre Local Government Area (LGA) and Etche in the dry season. Keywords: Pollutant Standard Index, Air Quality Index, Dry Season, Criteria Air Pollutants. 1. INTRODUCTION Generally, the study revealed that Eleme, Obio/Akpor and Port Harcourt areas are exposed to high pollutants concentrations, especially sulphur dioxide, methane, nitrogen dioxide and particulate matter, which may adversely affect public health or aggravate the health conditions of the exposed population (Chelana, et al., 2002; Longhurst, 2005; Efe, 2006; and Antai et al., 2016).