Back to: Environmental Biology 200 Level
Welcome to class!
Hello smart learner! Have you ever thought about how scientists know when our air, water, or soil is polluted? This is possible through environmental monitoring. Today, we will learn about Environmental Monitoring Techniques — the methods used to observe, measure, and track the state of our environment to keep it safe and healthy.
Environmental Monitoring Techniques
What is Environmental Monitoring?
Environmental monitoring is the regular checking of environmental conditions like air quality, water cleanliness, soil health, and noise levels. It helps us identify changes, detect pollution, and make better decisions to protect nature.
Why is Environmental Monitoring Important?
It helps detect pollution early before it causes harm.
It provides data for creating environmental policies.
It helps industries and communities follow environmental safety standards.
It protects public health by ensuring clean air and water.
It supports conservation of natural resources.
Types of Environmental Monitoring
Air Quality Monitoring: Measures pollutants in the air like carbon dioxide, sulphur dioxide, and dust particles. For example, checking air quality in cities like Lagos due to traffic and industrial emissions.
Water Quality Monitoring: Examines rivers, lakes, and groundwater for contaminants like oil, chemicals, and bacteria. This is common in areas affected by oil spills in the Niger Delta.
Soil Monitoring: Checks soil for nutrients, toxic chemicals, or heavy metals to ensure it is healthy for farming.
Noise Monitoring: Measures noise levels in busy areas like airports or factories to protect human health.
Biodiversity Monitoring: Observes plants and animals to see how pollution or human activities affect ecosystems.
Techniques of Environmental Monitoring
Sampling and Laboratory Analysis: Collecting samples of water, air, or soil for testing in a lab.
Remote Sensing: Using satellites or drones to monitor forests, farmlands, or pollution spread.
GIS (Geographic Information Systems): Mapping and analysing environmental data for better planning.
Sensors and Detectors: Using devices like air quality monitors or water sensors to get real-time data.
Examples in Nigeria
Air quality monitoring in Abuja and Lagos due to increasing vehicle emissions.
Water testing in areas like Port Harcourt to check for oil and chemical pollution.
Soil monitoring in agricultural states like Benue and Kano to improve crop yield.
Summary
- Environmental monitoring is the process of measuring and tracking changes in air, water, soil, and biodiversity.
- It helps detect pollution and ensures public safety.
- Techniques include remote sensing, laboratory testing, GIS, and sensors.
- It is important for planning, policy-making, and protecting nature.
Evaluation
- What is environmental monitoring?
- Mention three types of environmental monitoring.
- Give two examples of environmental monitoring techniques.
- Why is environmental monitoring important for public health?
You are doing wonderfully! By learning about environmental monitoring techniques, you now understand how science keeps our world safe and sustainable. Keep learning with Afrilearn— your knowledge is your superpower.