Impact of cement dust pollution on physiochemical and microbiological properties of soil around cement bagging factory and distribution site

The study was conducted to investigate the impact of cement dust on physiochemical and microbiological properties of soil around cement bagging factory in Rivers State. Soil samples were collected at three different locations within the study area, analysed and compared with the control site. Comparison of various soil physico-chemical parameters (pH, Total Organic Matter, Calcium, Magnesium andPhosphorus, revealed that cement dust emanating from cement plant factories has changed the soil quality in the surrounding areas of cement factory. A mean pH of (5.3) was recorded in soils sampled from the cement factory and (7.85) in the control site. There was increase in the concentration of P, Ca, and Mg. Organic Matter content range from 1.16- 2.20%. Results revealed a decrease in bacterial count in soils from the factory as compared with the control (1.3 X104 to 13.6 X104 ). It has been known that the physicochemical properties of the soils around and within the factory have been altered due to the constants deposit of cement dust as it is adversely affecting the composition of soils thereby affecting the nutrients required for plants growth and also affecting the soil micro flora and fauna.