Physico-Chemical Parameters of Industrial Effluents from a Brewery Industry in Imo State, Nigeria

Abstract

This work examined some physicochemical parameters of effluents from a Brewery Industry in Imo state. This company discharged effluents in non-compliance with the Nigerian National Regulations as confirmed from the Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Electrical Conductivity (EC), Nitrogen, and Turbidity results from this research. From the results of the elemental analysis of the Industrial effluent of the company, the values for Cd, Co, Cr, Fe, Mg, Ni, Mn and Zn fell within the range of the limit set by FEPA. The concentrations of Lead and Copper in the effluents of the Brewery industry were within the range of FEPA approved limit. The heavy metals have concentrations that were within WHO/FEPA limits. The study has shown that the Brewery Industry effluents had their BOD, COD, EC, Turbidity and Colour above the required WHO/FEPA standards. This undoubtedly has negative impacts both on the environment and living things including human beings. Since the results of analyses have shown that the Brewery Industry effluents are not well treated, it has been recommended that Regulatory agencies of states and Nigeria should monitor and ensure compliance of proper effluent treatment by Industries. These confirmed results posed health risks to several rural communities which rely on the receiving water bodies as their primary source of domestic water. There is need for the intervention of appropriate regulatory agencies to ensure production of high quality treated final effluents. This scenario is typical of most industries in developing nations where enforcement of environmental regulations are deficient. To avoid pollution, Regulatory Authorities should closely monitor compliance by industries.