Air quality impact of open tyre burning: analysis of particulate matter and gases

Abstract

Open tyre burning remains a significant environmental concern due to the release of harmful pollutants such as particulate matter (PM), toxic gases, and heavy metals including Cu, Cd, Pb, and Ni. This study assessed the impact of tyre burning on air quality in Makurdi metropolis using a 4-in-1 multi-gas detector, high-volume respirable dust sampler (APM 460NL Model), and Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (AAS). Results show that the concentrations of Cu (228.40 mg/kg), Cd (104.80 mg/kg), Pb (919.20 mg/kg), and Ni (304.60 mg/kg) exceeded recommended safety limits, while Zn (165.70 mg/kg) remained within acceptable levels. Similarly, the mean concentrations of CO (17 µg/m³), SO₂ (93 µg/m³), and NO₂ (110 µg/m³) exceeded the World Health Organization (WHO) guideline limits of 4, 40, and 25 µg/m³, respectively. Particulate matter analysis showed a mean PM₂.₅ concentration of 10 µg/m³, which was slightly below the WHO limit of 15 µg/m³, while PM₁₀ recorded a mean concentration of 52 µg/m³, substantially exceeding the recommended limit of 45 µg/m³.The Air Quality Index (AQI) indicated that CO levels fell within the “good” category, NO₂ showed occasional spikes, SO₂ frequently exceeded safe levels, and PM₂.₅ posed the highest risk due to moderate to unhealthy concentrations. These findings highlight the severe public health implications of open tyre burning and underscore the need for regulatory action, public awareness, and adoption of safer waste-management alternatives.