1.1 Introduction
The built environment refers to human-made surroundings that provide the setting for human activity, ranging from buildings and roads to parks and infrastructure (Bourdeau, 2004). It is a critical component of sustainable development as it supports the social, economic, and cultural functions of society. On the other hand, oil spillage is defined as the accidental or deliberate release of petroleum products into the environment, particularly water bodies, soil, and land areas, resulting in environmental degradation and socio-economic disruption (Okoh & Okafor, 2019).
Oil spills are frequently reported in oil-producing regions, especially in developing countries where extraction and distribution activities are intensive. Oil spillage is known to have adverse effects on the built environment by contaminating the soil and water that support infrastructure, leading to structural instability and accelerated deterioration of buildings, roads, and other physical assets (Nwilo & Badejo, 2005).
As a prelude to other parts of this study, this chapter will discuss the background upon which this study was initiated, the statement of problems that led to this study, the Aim and Objectives of the study. Others are Significance of the study, Scope of work, Research hypothesis and questions, Limitation of the study and Definition of terms.
1.2 Background of the Study
Historically, oil exploration and production in Nigeria began in the late 1950s, with the first commercial oil discovery at Oloibiri in 1956. Since then, the expansion of oil activities has been accompanied by recurring oil spills, which have progressively affected the physical and socio-economic structures of surrounding communities (Nwilo and Badejo, 2005). Oil spillage has also had socio-economic implications. Bourdeau (2004) affirmed that contaminated environments discourage investment in property development and urban expansion, as the risk of infrastructural failure deters developers and homeowners. Communities affected by oil spills often face property devaluation, relocation pressures, and a decline in public infrastructure quality.
Oil spillage is a major environmental challenge that significantly affects the built environment, particularly in oil-producing regions of the world. According to Nwilo and Badejo (2005), oil spills occur due to operational failures, pipeline leaks, sabotage, and poor handling of petroleum products, leading to extensive contamination of land and water. They reported that oil contamination weakens the structural integrity of buildings and other infrastructure, resulting in rapid deterioration and increased maintenance costs. Eze and Okoye (2021) asserted that communities exposed to repeated oil spill incidents experience both economic and social disruptions, as property values decline and repair costs escalate. They further stated that oil spillage reduces the usability of land for construction purposes, as contaminated soils lose their bearing capacity, making them unsuitable for long-term infrastructural development.
Okoh and Okafor (2019) contended that oil pollution contributes to environmental hazards such as soil infertility and water contamination, which indirectly compromise the sustainability of the built environment and urban development. Furthermore, it is affirmed that oil spills negatively influence urban planning and public infrastructure projects. Bourdeau (2004) reported that the integration of contaminated sites into urban settlements without proper remediation increases vulnerability to structural failure and environmental health risks. The recurring nature of oil spills is often linked to insufficient monitoring, lack of strict enforcement of environmental regulations, and inadequate community awareness, which exacerbate the susceptibility of the built environment to degradation (Okoh & Okafor, 2019).
The impact of oil spillage extends beyond immediate physical damage; it also influences long-term planning and investment in infrastructure. According to Eze and Okoye (2021), areas affected by frequent spills experience stagnation in property development and reduced confidence among investors and stakeholders in urban development projects (Eze and Okoye, 2021). This study is set against the backdrop of these persistent challenges, aiming to investigate the extent and nature of oil spillage impacts on infrastructure, assess the vulnerability of structures, and recommend practical strategies for sustainable urban and infrastructural development in affected regions.
1.3 Statement of Problems
Investigation revealed that oil contamination in residential areas is associated with weakening of building foundations, increased susceptibility to erosion, and deterioration of construction materials (Okoh and Okafor, 2019). On the other hand, oil spillage is responsible for economic losses in communities, as residents and local governments face high costs for repair, remediation, and environmental management. The disruption of normal urban functions and public services due to spillage is reported to reduce property values and hinder urban development (Nwilo & Badejo, 2005).
Additionally, poorly managed oil spills contribute to environmental hazards such as contamination of water sources and soil infertility, which indirectly affects the built environment by discouraging sustainable land use and construction practices.
Furthermore, the persistent occurrence of oil spillage is linked to inadequate monitoring, lack of enforcement of environmental regulations, and insufficient public awareness of oil spill consequences (Eze & Okoye, 2021). It is against this backdrop that this study seeks to examine the extent and nature of oil spillage impacts on the built environment, assess the vulnerability of structures, and identify practical measures for mitigation and sustainable development in affected areas.
1.4 Aim and Objectives of the Study
The primary aim of this study is to examine the impact of oil spillage on the built environment.
The specific objectives of this study are:
- To evaluate the extent of infrastructural damage caused by oil spillage in affected areas.
- To assess the economic implications of oil spillage on property and public infrastructure.
- To examine the effectiveness of existing environmental management and regulatory frameworks.
- To identify sustainable strategies for protecting and rehabilitating the built environment.
1.5 Research Questions
Based on the stated objectives, the study will address the following research questions:
- What is the extent of infrastructural damage caused by oil spillage in affected areas?
- How does oil spillage impact the economic value of properties and public infrastructure?
- How effective are existing environmental management and regulatory frameworks in mitigating oil spillage effects?
- What strategies can be adopted to protect and rehabilitate the built environment in oil-affected regions?
1.6 Significance of the Study
The outcome of this research will raise public awareness about the consequences of oil pollution on buildings and urban planning. The research will also support environmental regulatory bodies in assessing the effectiveness of existing policies and improving enforcement mechanisms to mitigate oil spill impacts.
Furthermore, communities will benefit as the study will raise awareness about risks and encourage proactive property protection. In addition, the research will provide urban planners and engineers with data to design resilient buildings and public works.
Lastly, investors and property developers will use the findings to make informed decisions about construction and land use in oil-affected areas.
1.7 Research Hypothesis
In order to pursue the objective of this study, the following generalized statements have been designed to guide and aids in obtaining the result for the experiment to be conducted. For this work, the null hypothesis will be represented with H0 while the alternative hypothesis will be represented with hypothesis H1.
- H0: Oil spillage does not have a significant impact on the built environment in oil-producing areas of Nigeria.
- H1: Oil spillage has a significant impact on the built environment in oil-producing areas of Nigeria.
1.8 Scope of the Study
The scope of this research is focused on the impact of oil spillage on the built environment in Rivers State, Nigeria, particularly in communities surrounding major oil companies such as Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC).
1.9 Limitations of the Study
During the course of this study, there were some problems encountered which stood as limitations to the research work. Some of the limitations include:
- Time Constraint: The time frame given to accomplish this project was very short due to school academic calendar and it was carried out under pressure which made the researcher not to implement some necessary features.
- Financial Constraint: Insufficient fund tends to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire and interview).
- Initial Cooperation Delay from Respondents: A particular limitation of this work came as a result of the respondent refusal to offer their cooperation at the initial time they were contacted. This contributed in making the success of this research study difficult.
1.10 Definition of Terms
Built Environment: Refers to human-made surroundings that provide the setting for human activity, including buildings, roads, parks, and infrastructure (Bourdeau, 2004).
Oil Spillage: The accidental or deliberate release of crude oil or petroleum products into the environment, especially soil and water, leading to pollution and environmental degradation (Okoh & Okafor, 2019).
Infrastructure: Physical structures such as buildings, roads, bridges, and drainage systems that support human settlements and economic activities (Eze & Okoye, 2021).
Environmental Management: The practice of monitoring, controlling, and mitigating human activities that impact the environment, including policies and regulations aimed at preventing oil pollution (Nwilo & Badejo, 2005).
Urban Planning: The process of designing and regulating land use and infrastructure in urban areas to promote sustainable development, health, and safety of communities (Bourdeau, 2004).
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