Effect of Urban Expansion on Air Quality in Uyo Metropolis and Its Environs

This study focused on assessing the effects of urban expansion on air quality in Uyo Metropolis and its environs. To achieve its aim, 20 villages were sampled for the study. Survey design approach was adopted, and study data was from both primary and secondary sources. The data products used were Landsat TM imagery of 1986 and 2023, map of the study area and air quality data. A random sampling technique was used in administering 669 questionnaires to the sampled size in the 20 selected villages. Air quality data were collected in twenty points. The Landsat TM imageries were put into ArcGIS environment for bands composite, ground trothing was also carried out to ensure the accuracy of the data. Digital image analysis was carried out through K-mean unsupervised classification using ArcGIS, and three land cover classes were identified in the study area. The extent and yearly level of change were extracted from the land covers of 1986 and 2023. The findings showed that, there was land cover change with a shift from agriculture (farmland) and natural vegetation to built-up urban areas. The annual change rate was 18.84 km² per year, indicating a rapid urban expansion. The study found three levels of air quality in the study area, which were good, moderate and unhealthy for sensitive group. Population was seen as dominant factor that influenced urban expansion in the study area. Based on these findings it was recommended that sustainable and integrated urban planning that prioritizes green spaces, promotes efficient public transportation, and enforces zoning regulations that control industrial emissions should be adopted and implemented.