Environmental assessment of soil and water quality around a nitrogen-based fertilizer blending facility in Zimbabwe: case study of Superfert (Pvt) (Ltd)

Abstract

This study assessed the possible environmental impact of Superfert Pvt Ltd, a fertilizer blending facility in Zimbabwe, on surrounding soil and borehole water quality. Using a quantitative, comparative case study design, samples were collected from impact locations near the facility and from control sites outside the expected zone of influence. Laboratory analyses focused on nitrate, ammonium, total soil nitrogen, soil pH, and electrical conductivity, applying standard methods and quality assurance procedures. The results showed consistently higher nitrate, ammonium, total nitrogen, and electrical conductivity at impact sites, together with lower pH values, suggesting a localized enrichment of nitrogen compounds and soluble salts associated with facility operations. Although the measured concentrations generally remained within accepted drinking-water guideline limits, the spatial pattern indicates a measurable environmental gradient linked to proximity to the blending plant. The study concludes that fertilizer handling activities may contribute to altered soil and water chemistry in the immediate surroundings and recommends continued monitoring, wider spatial sampling, and seasonal follow-up studies to better define the extent and persistence of the observed effects.