Monitoring of urban transport air pollution in Nansana Municipality

Abstract

Air pollution is one of the global developmental and environmental challenges threatening the existence of humanity and nature today. Different actions have been undertaken to mitigate and adapt to it in different parts of the world including Uganda. These actions include; implementing stricter emission regulations, promoting renewable energy sources, improving public transportation, promoting sustainable agriculture, and raising awareness about the health and environmental impacts of air pollution. However, given the growing population of Uganda with youths having the highest percentage (78%), these youths are not aware about air pollution. In Nansana Municipality, the number of youths who are aware and participative in Air pollution actions is still low. The study explored Urban transport contribution to air pollution in Nansana Municipality, Wakiso district, Uganda. The study employed a survey research design with a sample size of 147 respondents which was obtained using a random sampling method for purposes of convenience and time. The study employed both qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques which included direct observation and questionnaires. The questionnaires were used to collect data that was then coded, edited, entered and analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Scientists. From the conducted research it revealed that 21.8% of the respondents noted that vehicle exhaust emissions are the major source of air pollution, 25.9% stated that it’s from industrial emissions near roads, 27.2% denoted its construction and road activities and 17.0% denoted its informal businesses near roads. Findings showed that 70.1% of the respondents were aware about the contribution of transport to air pollution and 29.9% of the respondents were not aware about the contribution of Urban transport to air pollution. The respondents were questioned about the factors that they thought hinder the adoption of mitigation measures to minimize air pollution. And results were as follows, 17.0% denoted lack of awareness and education, 12.9% denoted cost of implementing mitigation measures, 18.4% denoted resistance from industries and stakeholders, 14.3% denoted inadequate government regulations and enforcement, 16.3% denoted lack of public support and participation, 12.2% denoted technical challenges and limitations. And 8.2% denoted other hindrances which included, corruption and embezzlement of funds by the government officials. The study recommends that respondents should look out for information about air pollution in order to increase their awareness and knowledge about air pollution actions.