IMPACT OF GAS FLARING ON THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT : THE CASE OF OGBA/EGBEMA/NDONI LOCAL GOVT AREA, RIVERS STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This research was conducted to determine the Impact of Gas flaring i.e. Associated Gas (AG) on the built environment by Oil and Gas production and prospecting companies operating in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area (ONELGA), Rivers State of Nigeria. Data for the study was obtained from both primary and secondary sources. Instruments such as Questionnaire, Interview and Observation methods were used for data collection from individuals and Oil and Gas companies in the area while simple percentage and tables were used for data analysis. The study came up with the following findings that; Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni area is immensely polluted with various pollutants ranging from acid rain, carbon monoxides, heavy metals and lead compounds. The impacted variables include corrosion, leakage, staining and cracking on buildings/structures, artifacts, monuments, human health among others. However, given these findings, the study has been able to proffer recommendations which if taken into effective practice will help mitigate the consequences on the people and the built environment.