Abstract

This study examined the impact of climate change on oil-producing communities in Ahoada West, located in Nigeria’s Niger Delta region. It explored the causes of climate change in Ahoada West and assessed the response of multinational oil and gas companies to the resulting issues. A total of 260 participants were randomly chosen for the study. The Impacts of Climate Change on Oil Producing Communities in Ahoada West Structured Questionnaire (ICCOPCAWSQ) was given to all participants and successfully collected without any invalid responses. The data was analyzed using simple percentages. The findings showed that burning fossil fuels, industrial activities by oil and gas companies (like exploration and extraction), agricultural practices (such as livestock farming and rice growing), and emissions from transportation (including cars and planes) all significantly contribute to climate change. Additionally, burning bushes, clothes, and papers, as well as methane emissions from natural sources like wetlands and termites, were also identified as contributing factors. The study concluded that human activities are the main cause of increased atmospheric carbon dioxide levels. Based on these results, it was recommended that oil and gas companies should stop gas flaring to reduce environmental damage. Instead, the flared gas should be converted into cooking gas for household use.

Keywords: Climate Change, long-term shifts, Chemistry Students’ Attitude, and climatic conditions

Impact Statement

Climate change, seen as a gradual alteration of earth’s climate pattern over a long period of time, has been implicated in most environmental degradation. Causes are both natural and anthropogenic. Effects of Climate change has so negatively imparted on the people of the affected areas. People are displaced from their homes, buildings and agricultural plants submerged in water, while some persons have lost their lives. Reduction in emission of greenhouse gases is germane in mitigating Climate change. Most importantly, with collective action, we can work towards a sustainable future, which can minimize the negative impacts of climatic change.

About Author/s

ZUDONU, Onisoman Chuks obtained his PhD in Science Education (Chemistry Education) and M.Ed. in Science Education (Chemistry Education) all from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka in 2018 and 2013 respectively, a B.Ed. in Chemistry Education and an NCE in Chemistry/Mathematics both from former Rivers State College of Education, Rumuolumeni, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, an affiliate of University of Ibadan in 1996 and 1993 respectively. His research areas or interests are in Science Education & Chemistry Education Pedagogy.

Ndukwu Didacus Emeka obtained his B.Sc. in Biochemistry from University of Benin, T.T.C from Federal College of Education (Technical) Omoku, an M.Ed. in Educational Planning and Administration, University of Calabar, an M.Sc. in Environmental Chemistry from Federal University of Technology Owerri and currently a Ph.D. student of Environmental Chemistry at the Federal University of Technology Owerri. His research interest focuses on use of effective methods of teaching Chemistry concepts as well as use of biomass precursors in water remediation of heavy metals.

Iroro, Patricia E obtained her B.Sc. Ed in Chemistry in FCE(T) Omoku, affiliate of University of Nigeria, Nsukka, in 2021, and had her West African School Certificate (WASC) in 2016. 

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