GEOSPATIAL APPLICATIONS FOR DETERMINATION OF PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENTAL ATTRIBUTES OF CEMENT INDUSTRIES IN SALT RANGE AREA

The cement industry plays a fundamental role in the economic growth of a country for both developed and under developed countries. However, it is posing a great threat to the environment. This study aimed to investigate key environmental risks associated with the cement industry. The environmental assessment was conducted for eight cement industries situated in the Salt Range area, Pakistan. Ambient air monitoring was carried out according to the USEPA prescribed merthods. Stack emissions were tested for 24 hours and the annual averages for TSP, COx, NOx, and SOx were estimated. The noise was also monitored across the study area. The results showed that airpollution is mainly caused by PM2.5, PM10, & TSP. Stack emissions exceeded Punjab Environmental Quality Standards (PEQS) for CO and Cl2. Noise pollution exceeded in day and night at 12 and 20locations respectively. The above-mentioned low environmental quality due to cement industries may intensify acute human diseases in the Salt Range area.