A Comprehensive Study of Leachate Characteristics from Three Soluos Dumpsites in Igando Area of Lagos State, Nigeria

Abstract

Leachate from dumpsites is a threat to soil, vegetation, surface and groundwater within the vicinity of the dumpsites. This work was carried out to comprehensively study the leachates from three Soluos dumpsites with a view of establishing correlation matrix for the leachate parameters in each of the dumpsites. The locations of the dumpsites were identified using Global Positioning System (GPS). Four different leachate samples were taken in each of the dumpsites and all the samples were analysed for thirty four leachate parameters according to the America Public Health Association (APHA). The results of the analysis were used to develop correlation matrices using the in-built Pearson product moment correlation coefficient solver tool in Microsoft Excel version 7. The results of the analysis reveal that some parameters such as biochemical oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand, copper and chromium exceeded the permissible limits of the regulatory bodies. The correlation matrices showed a strong relationship among the leachate parameters and it was therefore recommended that the current practise of waste mix in the dumpsites should be stopped and the dumpsites leachates should be treated.   Keywords: Soluos dumpsites, solid waste, leachates, contaminants, correlation matrices.