THE MITIGATING EFFECTS OF LANDSCAPE DESIGN ON ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTIONS IN THE SELECTED PUBLIC SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN OYO TOWN, NIGERIA

Abstract

Environmental pollution is an urbanization-related challenge associated with cities globally with varying effects. In combating this challenge, numerous researches have attempted various approaches towards ameliorations. However little is known about the human response to vegetated urban landscapes, its links to the health and academic performances as well as its mitigating effects against pollution in academic environments. To this end, this study seeks to understand the remedial capabilities of good landscape design on environmental pollution, as well as to emphasize the issues related to pollution in the public secondary schools in Oyo town, Nigeria. A standardized questionnaire was used to collect quantitative data from 250 respondents, along with direct observations. It was discovered that a moderately significant but negative relationship exists between the availability of landscape features and environmental pollution in the study area (p=0.001, r = -0.211). This suggests a demonstrable and huge variety of detrimental effects that schools’ environments without adequate landscaping features imposed on students' academic activities and performances. Furthermore, the attributes of landscape design in producing tranquil, balanced, conducive academic environment, and offset the impacts of environmental pollution is much-admired.