THE IMPACT OF ABATTOIR EFFLUENTS ON SURFACE WATER AND SEDIMENTS: A REVIEW

Abstract

This review focuses on the impact of abattoir effluents on surface water and sediments based on reports from different parts of Nigeria. Many authors reported that the location and operation of abattoirs are generally unregulated in Nigeria. They are usually located near water bodies where access to water for processing is guaranteed. Animal blood and other abattoir based pollutants are released untreated into the flowing stream. Research has shown that, consumable parts of the slaughtered animals are washed directly into the flowing water and they form the basis for contamination. From reports, these effluents have negative impact on the physicochemical and biological parameters of the receiving water bodies and neighboring wells thereby reducing the quality of water. Infection causing pathogenic organisms and their association with abattoir activities are reported in this review. Activities of abattoirs need to be regulated, controlled and monitored to mitigate their effect on the environment especially the receiving water bodies.