Analysis of Lead and Cadmium Contamination in Selected Dumpsites of Ndufu Echara Village

Heavy metal pollution in soils from anthropogenic sources continues to pose significant environmental and public health challenges. In Ndufu Echara village, the proximity of dumpsites to residential and agricultural areas amplifies the risks of heavy metal contamination. Two dumpsites were studied: Ndufu Echara Junction Market Dumpsite (Dumpsite A), located near an active market where the waste is primarily organic with little inorganic content, and Gracious Lodge Neighborhood Dumpsite (Dumpsite B), situated near farmland and surrounded by residential homes. The study focused on determining the levels of lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) in soil samples from these sites, given the long-term risks these metals pose to the environment and public health. Four soil samples were collected from each dumpsite, and the heavy metal concentrations were analyzed using atomic absorption spectroscopy after digestion. The results showed that Dumpsite A had higher levels of lead, with concentrations of 0.2 µg/g and 0.4 µg/g detected in two samples, while cadmium was found in one sample at 0.2 µg/g. In Dumpsite B, lead was detected in only one sample at 0.3 µg/g, but cadmium contamination was present in two samples at the same concentration (0.2 µg/g). Statistical analysis using t-tests revealed no significant difference in the levels of lead and cadmium concentration between the two dumpsites. The mean concentrations and standard error (SE) for each metal were calculated to assess the overall pollution levels. Lead concentrations mean±SE in Dumpsite A and Dumpsite B are 0. 150±0.096 and 0.075±0.617 µg/g , respectively, while cadmium concentrations mean±SE in Dumpsite A and Dumpsite B are 0.050±0.050 and 0. 100±0.058 µg/g, respectively. Compared to the World Health Organization (WHO) limits, the concentrations of both lead and cadmium were below the maximum allowable limits for agricultural soils, but the presence of these toxic metals in even small amounts signals potential risks over time. When both dumpsites were compared, Dumpsite B was more contaminated (CF: 0.034) than Dumpsite A (CF: 0.018). Factors contributing to the contamination in Dumpsite A include the high volume of organic waste from the nearby market, while the proximity of Dumpsite B to agricultural and residential areas may explain the cadmium contamination. This study highlights the need for regular monitoring of soil quality in dumpsites, particularly those near sensitive areas such as markets, farms, and homes, to mitigate the long-term risks of heavy metal contamination. Improved waste management practices and public awareness are essential to minimize future pollution and protect environmental and human health in the region.