ABSTRACT

The study focused on assessing the impact of Sawmilling Activities on Environment of two Selected Locations in Abia State, Nigeria. The instrument used for the collection of primary data was a simple random administration of structured questionnaire, physical observation and oral interview. Two (2) sawmills are located in different locations within the cities of (Umuahia and Aba), 80 questionnaires were used and were administered on the resident, sawmill operators, laborers etc. Data collected were subjected to descriptive statistical analysis such as frequency, percentage, graphs and scattered diagrams. The results showed that sawmill operations are mostly done by males at 78.8% while female was 21.2%, while the educational qualification ranges SSCE, BSC/HND respectively. The study also revealed that similar species were seen present in both Umuahia and Aba sawmills, Milicia exclesa ranked first, followed by Techtona grandis, Gmelina arborea, Gacinia kola etc. while Lophira alata, Terminalia ivorensis were the least ranked in both cities. Assessment of waste generation reveals off-cut slab and sawdust, result on waste disposal, open burning and landfill ranked highest while on health associated with sawmill activities are irritation, asthma, ear problems etc. result on perception impacts of sawmill reveals that sawmill activities provide job opportunities, domestic use and furniture production as well as providing social amenities which entails contributing to economic development of the society. The Study thus recommends for deliberate efforts by the private sector and government towards regeneration and tree planting of the species used by the industry. Hence, investment in the resource base will ensure sustainable supply of raw materials for the continued existence of the furniture industry and its contribution to economic growth and development.