Agricultural Waste Materials and Air Pollution: A Survey on The Effects of Farm Animal Wastes on Air Quality

Agricultural waste, particularly from farm animals, has become a significant contributor to air pollution, posing environmental and public health challenges. This study reviews the various ways in which farm animal waste; comprising manure, urine, bedding materials, and feed residues, affects air quality. As livestock production intensifies to meet global food demands, the emission of harmful gases such as ammonia (NH₃), methane (CH₄), hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), and nitrous oxide (N₂O) from animal waste has increased. These pollutants not only degrade air quality but also contribute to greenhouse gas accumulation, odour nuisance, acid rain formation, marine ecosystem pollution and respiratory problems in both humans and animals. With 60 residents interviewed within the vicinity of 2km of six animal farms in Delta and Bayelsa State of Nigeria, the result shows high prevalence of respiratory symptoms among residents near animal farms, especially breathing discomfort (80%) and odour irritation (100%). Bayelsa reports more acute symptoms, while Delta shows greater awareness, with exposure to gases like NH₃ and CH₄ likely responsible. The study highlights urgent need for waste management reforms, while mitigation strategies such as improved waste handling, anaerobic digestion, composting, feed modification, and biofiltration should be considered by farmers. The study also underscores the need for integrated waste management systems and policy frameworks that promote sustainable livestock practices while protecting environmental integrity. It concludes that addressing air pollution from animal waste is essential for achieving cleaner air, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and ensuring public and ecological health.