Application of GIS Technique for Mapping of Day Time Air Quality Index in Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka Campus

Abstract

Air quality models play a very important role in formulating air pollution control and management strategies by providing information about better and more efficient air quality planning. This study involved the mapping and monitoring of Air Quality Index of various locations in Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka Campus. The Methodology of the project adopts the use of GIS (Geographical Information System) technique data analysis. This research was performed in order to identify air pollution levels of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka. Air quality parameters considered were, Carbon Dioxide (CO2), Total Volatile Organic Compounds (TVOC), Formaldehyde (HCHO), TEMPRATURE, and HUMIDITY. The respective Air quality data were captured using portable digital air pollution detecting device for creation of data. The sampling positions were recorded with the aid of a highly sensitive hand-held receiver of the Global Positioning System (GPS). GIS technology was used to integrates common database operation such as query and statistical analysis offered by maps and use to converts data between different data models (unlike most database and statistical software). Observations took a duration of one month which involved capturing of both morning and evening. The study area digitization was performed using maps downloaded from Google Earth Map. Digitization was carried out using Arc Map software. ArcGIS 10.1 software was used principally for mapping the recorded air pollution levels based on the computation.