ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF SAND HARVESTING IN NIGER STATE, NIGERIA
Abstract
Purpose of the Study: The main purpose of the study was to evaluate the environmental impact of sand harvesting in Niger state, Nigeria.
Methodology: The study used a desk top review of literature.
Result: The findings were; Sand mining activities have contributed to land use and land cover changes that are impacting on ecosystem goods and services. Of primary concern are impacts on plant and animal species, soil degradation that reduces the ability of biological system to support the needs of the local communities. Natural plant communities get disturbed and the habitats become impoverished, mostly resulting in retarded plant growth, reduced vegetation cover, erosion of soil and pollution of air and water.
Conclusion: Without considering the precise gift provided by nature, commercial exploitation for short term gains by pumping out the sand indiscriminately from the rivers, dunes and beaches will destroy whole environment.
Recommendation: For individual projects, where harvesting is allowed, there then needs to be an environmental impact assessment which would highlight what mitigation measures need to be put in place to minimise damage.
Keywords: Sand harvesting, Environmental impact, sand mining, land degradation, Pollution.
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