Evaluation and Mitigation of Industrial Wastewater Pollutants from Soap Factories and Breweries in the Bafoussam City Vicinity (Western Highlands of Cameroon)

Abstract

The discharge of wastewaters of industries in the Bafoussam city vicinity deteriorate the quality of surface and underground water and soils. The purpose of this study is to determine the level of ecotoxicity in the different industries and ways to mitigate this pollution. The following physico-chemical parameters were determined: COD, BOD 5, OM, TP, Cu, Cd, Zn, Cr, Fe, Al, EC, Turbidity, NH 4 + and NO 3 - from wastewaters from two soap factories (SWC and SCS) and one Brewery (ASCB) in Bafoussam. Statistical analysis, were made to determine the correlation coefficient R and covariance. R varies from 0.715 to 0.897. These coefficients indicate a positive correlation different from 1; hence, we cannot predict the parameters of an industry based on the parameters of the other. Total heavy metals contents range from 118.66 mg/L for SCS to 39.58 mg/L for the SWC and to 2.45 mg/L for the ASCB. COD ranges from 122 to 959 mg/L; the highest value was obtained in the SCS. These results indicate that the SCS is the most polluting industry. To reduce the pollution we recommended that each industry recycle its wastewater and put in place specific treatment plants because pollutants to eliminate vary depending on the industry. The Municipal community is also advised to institute sensitization meetings with the promoters of these industries on proper wastewater handling and treatment. Penalties for pollution should be proportional to the degree of pollution.