ASSESSMENT OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY OF A UNIVERSITY CAMPUS

ABSTRACT

All over the developed world the environment is seen to add value and beauty to its inhabitants, but the reverse is the case in most developing countries which are influenced by a continuous increase in population. The aim of this study was to determine the environmental quality of Ugbowo campus, University of Benin. Selected variables were used to determine the quality of the campus. The survey research design was utilized for the study using 200 copies of questionnaire. The study revealed that noise pollution, littering/improper waste disposal, and presence of overgrown grasses were the major variables which contribute to and determine the low quality of the campus at different scales. Relevant recommendations were made such as regulation of refuse disposal points, placing sign posts at strategic points to caution noise makers, formulation of student clubs for educating the students on the use of the environment and punishment of defaulters among others. The study concluded that although such is the case of most institutions in developing countries, what is most important is the response by not only the students but the relevant university management authorities. This therefore calls for attention on the present state of the environment in order to sustain the welfare of students and staff of the university.