Constance Chifuniro Utsale

Ms. Constance Chifuniro Utsale


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

3Years (2024-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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1 May 2024 in Air
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
CUConstance Chifuniro Utsale
Constance Chifuniro Utsale
CKChikumbusko Kaonga
Chikumbusko Kaonga
FTFabiano Gibson Daud Thulu
Fabiano Gibson Daud Thulu
IKIshmael Kosamu
Ishmael Kosamu
FTFred Thomson
Fred Thomson
HSHiroshi Sakugawa
Hiroshi Sakugawa
The increase in industrial activities has raised concerns regarding air quality in urban areas within Malawi. To assess the source apportionment of air quality parameters (AQPs) and noise levels, concentrations of AQPs (CO, TSP, PM 2.5, PM10) and noise levels were monitored at 15 sites in Makata, Limbe, Maselema, Chirimba, and Maone during dry and wet seasons, respectively. Active mobile multi-gas monitors and a Dylos DC1100 PRO Laser Particle Counter (2018 model) were used to monitor AQPs, while Integrated Sound Level Meters were used to measure noise levels. Monitoring and analysis were guided by the World Health Organization (WHO) and Malawi Standards (MS). A Positive Matrix Factorization (PMF) model was used to determine the source apportionment of AQPs, and matrix trajectories analysed air mass movement. In the wet season, the average concentration values of CO, TSP, PM10, and PM2.5 were 0.49 ± 0.65 mg/m3, 85.03 ± 62.18 µg/m3, 14.65 ± 8.13 µg/m3, and 11.52 ± 7.19 µg/m3, respectively. Dry season average concentration values increased to 1.31 ± 0.81 mg/m3, 99.86± 30.06 µg/m3, 24.35 ± 9.53 µg/m3, and 18.28 ± 7.14 µg/m3. Noise levels remained below public MS and WHO standards (85 dB). Positive correlations between AQPs and noise levels were observed, strengthening from weak in the dry season to moderately strong in the wet season. PMF analysis identified key factors influencing AQP accumulation, emphasizing the need for periodic sampling to monitor seasonal pollution trends, considering potential impacts on public health and environmental sustainability. Further studies should look at factors affecting the dynamics of PMF in Blantyre City.