In the heart of Ibadan, Nigeria, a silent transformation has been unfolding over the past three and a half decades, one that is reshaping the landscape and, consequently, the quality of water in the Eleyele catchment area. A recent study, led by Emmanuel Sanu Ogundairo of the Environmental Systems and Climate Change Programme at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, has shed light on the profound impacts of land use and land cover (LULC) changes on water quality, with significant implications for the energy sector and beyond.
The study, published in the journal ‘Discover Water’ (which translates to ‘Discover Water’ in English), utilized advanced Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Landsat TM imagery from 1984 and 2019 to map and analyze changes in LULC. The results are stark: urban areas have expanded dramatically from 16.26 km² to 183.87 km², while forest areas have dwindled from 231.88 km² to 85.69 km². Agricultural lands have also seen a reduction from 196.92 km² to 172.5 km². These changes have not been benign; they have corresponded with a degradation in water quality, driven primarily by urbanization and industrial activities.
Ogundairo and his team assessed a comprehensive suite of water quality parameters, including temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, total solids, and various chemical and bacterial indicators. The findings underscore the intricate link between LULC changes and water quality degradation. “Urbanization and industrial activities have emerged as the primary drivers of water quality degradation,” Ogundairo noted, highlighting the urgent need for continuous monitoring and proactive management.
The implications for the energy sector are significant. Water is a critical resource for energy production, particularly in thermoelectric power plants, which rely on large volumes of water for cooling. Poor water quality can lead to increased operational costs due to the need for advanced treatment and maintenance, as well as potential regulatory penalties. Moreover, the degradation of ecosystems can have broader environmental impacts, affecting biodiversity and the overall health of the watershed.
The study’s recommendations offer a roadmap for mitigating these impacts. Ogundairo suggests strategies such as reforestation, afforestation, implementation of green infrastructure, and wetland protection and restoration. These measures not only aim to protect water quality but also to maintain the health of the ecosystem, which is crucial for sustainable development.
The research by Ogundairo and his team serves as a wake-up call for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and environmental advocates. It underscores the need for integrated approaches that balance economic development with environmental stewardship. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and sustainable development, such studies provide valuable insights and actionable recommendations for safeguarding our precious water resources.
In the words of Ogundairo, “The findings underscore the need for continuous monitoring of LULC effects on the catchment.” This call to action resonates beyond the borders of Nigeria, offering a blueprint for similar regions facing the dual challenges of rapid urbanization and industrialization. The study’s findings and recommendations are a testament to the power of scientific research in driving meaningful change and shaping a more sustainable future.