In the heart of Ogun State, Nigeria, a groundbreaking study is reshaping our understanding of how land use patterns influence soil thermal properties, with significant implications for the energy sector. Led by Saheed Adekunle Ganiyu of the Department of Physics at the Federal University of Agriculture, this research delves into the intricate relationship between land management practices and soil thermal characteristics, offering valuable insights for sustainable agriculture and environmental preservation.
The study, published in the journal ‘Discover Geoscience’ (which translates to ‘Geowissenschaften entdecken’), focuses on two distinct geological formations: the basement complex in Odeda and the cretaceous sedimentary formation in Sagamu. By examining various land use patterns—football pitches, abattoir sites, dumpsites, and cement brick-making areas—Ganiyu and his team have uncovered crucial data that could influence future land management decisions.
“Understanding soil thermal properties is essential for managing soil thermal regions under different land use patterns,” Ganiyu explains. The team measured thermal properties in situ using a KD2 Pro Thermal Properties Analyzer and determined soil physical parameters through standard laboratory techniques. Their findings revealed that the highest mean thermal conductivity values were observed in dumpsites and football pitches, with significant variations between the basement and sedimentary formations.
One of the most striking discoveries was the variation in thermal resistivity (TR) values. The mean TR values for football pitches, abattoir sites, and brick-making areas in the sedimentary formation, as well as for dumpsites in the basement complex, were within the recommended threshold for safe telecommunication signals and positioning of oil and gas conduits. This finding is particularly relevant for the energy sector, as it provides a scientific basis for optimizing the placement of infrastructure to ensure safety and efficiency.
Ganiyu’s research also highlighted the impact of lithology and land management practices on soil thermal characteristics. The regression models used in the study revealed that the double-log model outperformed both the pair linear and semi-log models for predicting thermal conductivity, achieving a perfect R2 value of 100%. This level of accuracy is a game-changer for predicting soil thermal behavior and making informed decisions about land use.
The implications of this research extend far beyond Ogun State. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and sustainable development, understanding the thermal properties of soil under different land use patterns becomes increasingly important. For the energy sector, this knowledge can guide the placement of critical infrastructure, ensuring both safety and efficiency.
“Our findings will assist land users in making the best choices for appropriate land management practices,” Ganiyu notes. This research not only contributes to sustainable agriculture but also paves the way for innovative solutions in environmental preservation and energy sector development.
As we look to the future, Ganiyu’s work serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the power of scientific inquiry to drive meaningful change. By understanding the intricate relationship between land use and soil thermal properties, we can make informed decisions that benefit both the environment and the energy sector, ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.