Evaluation of phytoremediation in the Ogoni wasteland of southern Nigeria

Abstract

Phytoremediation offers an effective strategy for managing environmental degradation in the Ogoni wastelands of southern Nigeria, but its benefits and socio-economic implications have not been adequately studied. This study investigates the effectiveness of phytoremediation on soil contamination and community perception of, and participation in, environmental restoration. Soil samples were collected from 15 sites in the Ogoni wasteland and pollutant concentrations were analysed; selected plant species were used for phytoremediation, and microbial activity was assessed from CO₂ production rates. Household surveys and interviews were conducted to measure community perceptions of, and involvement in, remediation programmes. Soil analysis revealed a significant decrease in contaminant concentrations after phytoremediation, with concentrations decreasing to as low as 23.456 mg/kg, while plant biomass increased from 0.234 to 4.901 kg/m² over 15 months, indicating differences between species in pollutant uptake. Microbial activity increased after phytoremediation, with CO₂ production rising from 0.567 to 1.345 mg CO₂/g/h. The household survey showed a positive attitude towards the effectiveness of phytoremediation, with an average score of 4.012 on a scale of 1 to 5. The findings indicate that phytoremediation can be a sustainable solution for soil pollution in the Ogoni wastelands and provide evidence on the environmental, social, and economic dynamics of ecological restoration in post-conflict settings.