Indoor Air Cartoon Journal

Indoor Air Cartoon Journal, February 2024, Volume 7, #151

[Cite as: Fadeyi MO (2024). Impact of odour from drainpipes on human mental and physical efforts in high-rise residential buildings. Indoor Air Cartoon Journal, February 2024, Volume 7, #151.]

Fictional Case Story (Audio – available online) – Part 1

Fictional Case Story (Audio – available online) – Part 2

.…………………………….

Human survival is greatly influenced by indoor environmental quality, particularly indoor air, as humans spend most of their time indoors, and air is vital to human life. Poor indoor air quality (IAQ) or perceived IAQ can impede breathing, compromising both mental and physical health, as well as one’s ability to perform tasks. In extreme cases, it can lead to death. Thus, prioritising eliminating factors compromising IAQ and its perception is paramount. Breathing is essential for human existence, and its quality directly impacts the quality of life. Despite the crucial role of IAQ and IAQ perception in healthy living and human survival, efforts to ensure their delivery in public, old, and poorly maintained high-rise residential buildings in various housing estates have been inadequate in a country called Hingland. Neglecting complaints from building occupants regarding odour from drainpipes persists in the country, even after repeated complaints. The outcry from these occupants captured the attention of a woman who had endured similar circumstances and experienced their detrimental effects on her quality of life. This woman exposed the problem, shedding light on its causes and effects. The journey of this woman, from her youth to adulthood, and her contributions to improving industry and community practices for healthy living are the focus of this short fiction story.

1.…………………………….

Ifunanya Okoli was a girl born with a silver spoon. Her father, Mr. Chukwudi Okoli, was a successful businessman known for his generosity. Ifunanya’s father was one of the richest people in Namunda, a developing country and a contender in the continent. Ifunanya’s mother was a homemaker. Ifunanya’s mother, Adunni Okoli, had millions of dollars in her account even when she was not working. The family’s richness resulted from Ifunanya’s father being very close to the country’s military government and top military officers. He got several multi-million-dollar projects within and outside the country due to his connection to the military rulers.

Ifunanya’s father and mother were not born with a silver spoon. When Ifunanya’s father and mother married, they rented two rooms in a “face me, I face you” building. A “face me, I face you” building consists of one or more floors and has several rooms occupied by several families, often sharing common facilities such as bathrooms, toilets, and kitchens. In the building where Ifunanya’s father and mother were tenants, there was a ratio of more than 25 people to one toilet and one bathroom. Ifunanya’s father had just started his business at that time and was struggling to make ends meet, and they did not get any help from their families and parents.

Ifunanya’s grandparents did not agree with Ifunanya’s father and mother marrying each other as Ifunanya’s parents came from different tribes who were at war, a civil war, with one another. When Ifunanya’s parents decided to go ahead with the marriage without getting Ifunanya’s grandparents’ consent and relocated to the country’s capital, Labus State, the grandparents disowned Ifunanya’s parents. A year later, after marriage, Ifunanya’s elder brother, Ifeanyi Okoli, was born. Ifunanya was born 13 years after her elder brother was born.

When Ifunanya was born, her parents were already very rich, residing in a grand mansion in Labus State. The mansion was perched majestically upon a seaside cliff. This opulent mansion had 50 lavish rooms overlooking the sea. Its grandiose exterior, adorned with towering columns and cascading fountains, sets the tone for the extravagant luxury found within.

The meticulously landscaped grounds resemble a botanical garden, featuring a sprawling infinity pool, a state-of-the-art spa, and a fully equipped fitness center. A private cinema, game room, and a fleet of prestigious automobiles complete the estate’s array of luxurious amenities. Every detail in building finishes and furniture speaks to the unparalleled wealth and sophistication of Ifunanya’s father, solidifying the mansion’s status as one of the most prestigious residences in the country and continent.

All house chores were done for Ifunanya to the extent that she could not do anything herself, apart from eating, going to the toilet and bathroom, and doing her school work without calling the house helpers. Even as a pre-teenage girl, Ifunanya had her own personal assistants aside from the house helpers in the mansion. Ifunanya knew no hardship. To her, life was a bed of roses.

Ifunanya’s father was not only rich, but he was also very influential. Ifunanya’s parents did not want their children to experience the hardship they experienced when they were growing up and got married. Although, Ifunanya’s brother tasted a bit of hardship when he was 6 years and below, Ifunanya was born into richness.

As years passed, Ifunanya’s brother became a graduate of one of the best business schools in the world. He graduated from Harnord Business School, Harnord University, United States of Abeorique (USA). He returned home from abroad after graduation and started working for his father as the deputy chairman of the Okoli group of companies when he was in his early twenties.

When Ifunanya was 14 years old, there was a coup in Namunda. Fortunately for the military government, the coup failed, and the coup plotters were arrested. The insecurity felt by the military government made them ruthless in the penalty they gave to the coup plotters and the alleged funders of the coup. Unfortunately, Ifunanya’s father and brother were arrested as one of the funders of the failed coup.

Even though there was no evidence to suggest Ifunanya’s father and brother funded the failed coup, they were sent to death along with the coup plotters by the court marshal set up by the military government. Ifunanya’s father and brother were convicted based on prosecutor witnesses. Ifunanya’s father and brother pleaded not guilty, but their plead fell on deaf ears.

Ifunanya’s father and brother, military officers, and other people sent to death for their part in the failed coup were publicly paraded on the streets of Labus state, disgraced, and executed by the firing squad. Ifunanya’s father and brother were executed on her 15th year birthday. The humiliation of Ifunanaya’s family did not stop there.

The corrupt military government seized all of Ifunanya’s father’s business and personal properties. The government seized all bank accounts belonging to the family, with little or no money left for Ifunanya and her mother. Ifunanya and her mother were chased out of the mansion without letting them take a cent out of the house. It was a daylight robbery approved by the government. They even threatened to jail Ifunanya’s mother when she begged for some money for her and her daughter, Ifunanya, to survive. Ifunanya and her mother were only allowed to take a few clothes with them.

The fear of the military government and the public disgrace of Ifunanya’s father and brother made families, workers, friends, and associates dissociate themselves from Ifunanya and her mother. No one was even willing to offer Ifunanya’s mother employment when she tried to look for a job to take care of herself and Ifunanya. Ifunanya, a year three student and the best student in her cohort in her high school, when her father and brother were executed, was sent out of the school she was attending as her mother could not afford the school anymore.

Ifunanya and her mother, who were very poor then, eventually found themselves living in a slum called Tanbolo. Tanbolo had stilt houses built directly over the murky and smelly waters of the lagoon. These structures, constructed from various materials, including wood, bamboo, and corrugated metal, are elevated above the water to mitigate flooding and provide a semblance of stability. The community’s primary mode of transportation is via canoes, with residents navigating the maze-like waterways to access essential services and connect with neighboring areas.

The government had forgotten the people in the Tanbolo. The new home of Ifunanya and her mother was a far cry from the luxury they once knew, but it was a place where Ifunanya’s mother could afford it in the hope of surviving their shattered lives. The few dollars Ifunanya’s mother had were from the clothes they sold. The conditions in Tanbolo were very hard for 15-year-old Ifunanya, who had known richness all her life. She fell sick several times with little or no medical intervention.

Ifunanya’s mother enrolled Ifunanya in a makeshift school to ensure she continued her education. Her new school was a far cry from her previous school, which was filled with children of the wealthy people in the country. In Tanbolo, a foul smell permeates the environment, creating a constant distraction for students trying to learn and teachers attempting to teach.

The pervasive odour, originating from polluted waters and waste accumulation in the area, poses a significant challenge to the functioning of students and teachers in schools and residents in their residential spaces. The adverse effects of the poor conditions in Tanbolo were significant for Ifunanya and her mother because of their previous living condition.

Despite the detrimental effects on health, concentration, and motivation to function, both students and teachers became accustomed to this unfortunate situation. Over time, they have learnt to adapt to the foul smell as a part of their daily reality, although it continues to compromise their learning and teaching capabilities.

The effect of the foul smell was more obvious in Ifunanya. Ifunanya’s journey from a high-performing student in her previous wealthy school with a healthy environment to struggling academically in Tanbolo painted a poignant picture of the impact of environmental factors on educational outcomes.

In her previous school, Ifunanya was known as an excellent student. She consistently excelled in her studies, earning top grades and garnering praise from teachers for her dedication and intelligence. The school provided a conducive environment for learning, with modern facilities, well-equipped classrooms, and a supportive community of peers and educators.

However, the condition in Tanbolo made Ifunanya’s academic performance decline rapidly. In addition to the effect of the foul smell, the lack of resources and support systems in schools made of stilt, broken furniture, low-quality teachers, poor living conditions, and regular sickness further hampered her academic progress and her interest in studying.

Ifunanya failed her high school certificate (HSC) and university entrance examinations. She did not fail her HSC examination just once. She failed it three times. She did not even attempt the university entrance examination after failing it the first time. She wanted to pass the HSC examination before attempting the university entrance examination again. The weight of disappointment grew heavier with each unsuccessful attempt at the HSC examination, gradually eroding her confidence and diminishing her motivation to further her studies.

By the time Ifunanya received the results of her third failed attempt at the HSC examination, she was 22 years old. The cumulative effect of her failures led her to make a difficult decision. She chose not to pursue the HSC examination again because she was unsure she could pass it. She was also concerned about the financial burden she was placing on her mother by failing her examinations repeatedly.

Ifunanya made a commitment to support her mother financially by joining her in hawking fish. This transition marked a significant departure from her aspirations of furthering her education and achieving her academic goals. However, life as fish hawkers in Tanbolo was far from easy. Ifunanya and her mother encountered numerous hardships, including financial instability and physical dangers. The absence of external support exacerbated their struggles, leaving them to navigate the harsh realities of their environment alone.

The image of their canoe subsiding in the water serves as a poignant metaphor for their precarious existence, teetering on the brink of disaster with each passing day. Despite their efforts to persevere, Ifunanya and her mother were confronted with constant challenges that tested their resilience and strength.

Ifunanya’s life took a hopeful turn when she and her mother, struggling to make ends meet in Tanbolo, had a chance encounter with Mr. and Dr. William, who had returned from Hingland for a holiday and do business in Namunda.

2.…………………………….

Mr. William and his wife, Dr. William, visited Tanbolo. They went there to serve Dr. William’s needs. Dr. William, a Professor of Public Health, wanted to use the opportunity of their trip to Namunda to explore the possibility of conducting a research study on public health problems in underserved communities.

Dr. William intended to conduct preliminary interviews and gather data on the health challenges faced by residents of Tanbolo. Her husband, a citizen of Hingland, who was curious, followed his wife. Mr. Williams, being a successful businessman with a heart for social impact, was also exploring potential areas for community development projects in his wife’s country, Namunda.

The meeting between Mr. and Dr. William with Ifunanya and her mother occurred by chance as they saw Ifunanya and her mother from far away selling fish from their canoe and struggling to maintain balance on the canoe, hoping to make enough money to sustain themselves for another day.

Mr. and Dr. William were struck by the sight of the mother and daughter diligently working to support themselves amidst the challenging conditions of the terrain in which they were working. They waved to Ifunanya and her mother to come to their side. Hoping they had new customers, Ifunanya and her mother paddled hurriedly to Mr. and Dr. William’s side. Mr. and Dr. William chose to buy everything Ifunanya and her mother had left and gave them extra money. Ifunanya and her mother were pleasantly surprised.

Mr. and Dr. William further engaged them in discussion to know more about them. As they engaged in conversation, Ifunanya’s mother shared their story, recounting the hardships they had faced since the passing of Ifunanya’s father, who had once been a wealthy and influential figure.

It was at this point that Dr. Williams realised Ifunanya’s mother was the wife of the late rich Mr. Okoli, who was executed. Ifunnaya shared her history because she thought Dr. Williams was also a foreigner like her husband, as her accent did not suggest she was a citizen of Namunda. Dr. Willima held dual citizenship, a citizen of both Namunda and Hingland.

Ifunanya and her mother felt ashamed and insecure when Dr. William told them in their native language that she knew the late Mr. Okoli and what happened to him and his son. As Dr. William saw how uncomfortable Ifunanya and her mother felt, she quickly told them that she knew the late Mr. Okoli to be a good man and philanthropist.

Dr. William further explained how late Mr. Okoli sponsored her and her twin brother to Hingland for university education, no strings attached, without even knowing or related to them when her parents bravely sought his help as they could not afford to fund their overseas university education and pay for their flight tickets.

Dr. William’s twin brother became a neurosurgeon. Dr. William said Mr. Okoli’s and, by extension, the Okoli family’s contributions were vital to what she and her brother became professionally and personally. Dr. William said her late parents were very grateful to Mr. Okoli and the family. She said Mr. Okoli told her, her parents, and her twin brother to pay it forward.

Ifunanya and her mother felt relieved and happy to hear someone talking nicely about Mr. Okoli and her family, something they had not experienced in a long time. The connection between Ifunanya’s late father and Dr. Williams played a significant role in the decision of Mr. and Dr. Williams to provide additional support to Ifunanya and her mother. Recognising the need for stable housing, Mr. and Dr. Williams took immediate action.

Mr. and Dr. William rented a fully furnished one-bedroom flat apartment for Ifunanya and her mother in the mainland of Labus state in Namunda, providing them a secure and comfortable place to live. Mr. and Dr. William also generously covered the rent fees three years in advance, ensuring Ifunanya and her mother would not have to worry about housing expenses for the foreseeable future.

In addition to securing housing, Mr. and Dr. William understood the importance of financial stability for Ifunanya and her mother. They provided Ifunanya’s mother with the necessary capital to start her own business, empowering her to generate income and achieve financial independence.

Understanding the need for Ifunanya to continue her education, Mr. and Dr. William went a step further. They arranged for Ifunanya to attend highly expensive but tested and trusted tuition classes in preparation for the HSC and university entrance examinations. They covered all associated expenses, including tuition fees, study materials, and transportation costs.

Mr. and Dr. William’s support not only provided Ifunanya and her mother with the means to meet their immediate needs but also opened up new opportunities for their future. Their kindness, generosity, and unwavering commitment to the wellbeing of Ifunanya and her mother were a beacon of hope in their lives, inspiring them to continue to persevere in the face of adversity and pursue their dreams with renewed determination.

Ifunanya approached her studies with determination and diligence, pouring her heart and soul into mastering the material and honing her test-taking skills. She attended classes regularly, participated actively in discussions, and sought help whenever she encountered challenging concepts.

Under the guidance of her dedicated tutors, Ifunanya made significant strides in her academic performance. Her understanding of key subjects deepened, her problem-solving abilities sharpened, and her confidence grew with each passing day. She embraced the opportunity to learn and grow, fueled by a burning desire to succeed against all odds.

As the examination date drew near, Ifunanya’s hard work and dedication began to pay off. She consistently scored well on practice tests and assessments, demonstrating her readiness to excel in the upcoming examinations. Her teachers and mentors marveled at her progress and applauded her resilience in the face of adversity.

Finally, the day of reckoning arrived, and Ifunanya approached the examination halls with a mixture of nerves and excitement. Armed with the knowledge and skills she had acquired during her months of preparation. She tackled each question with confidence and determination.

Months later, as the results were released, Ifunanya’s hard work and perseverance were rewarded in full. She achieved outstanding scores on her HSC and university entrance examinations, surpassing even her own expectations. Her success was a testament to her resilience, her commitment to excellence, and the unwavering support of her mother and Mr. and Dr. William.

With her academic achievements in hand, Ifunanya received offers of admission from several prestigious universities in Namunda, including her dream university, the National University of Namunda. Overjoyed and filled with gratitude, she eagerly accepted the opportunity to pursue her passion for civil and environmental engineering at the National University of Namunda.

Ifunanya’s choice of civil and environmental engineering stemmed from her experience living in Tanbolo. The poor living conditions in Tanbolo exposed Ifunanya to the harsh realities of inadequate housing and infrastructure and poor environmental conditions. Witnessing firsthand the challenges faced by her community, Ifunanya was motivated to pursue a bachelor degree in civil and environmental engineering with the goal of designing and building safe, sustainable, and resilient structures that can withstand the environmental challenges present in places like Tanbolo.

After years of dedicated study and hard work, Ifunanya proudly graduated with a second-class (upper division) honours degree in civil and environmental engineering at the age of 30. Her achievement was a testament to her perseverance, intellect, and unwavering determination to succeed against all odds.

At the graduation ceremony, Ifunanya’s mother looked on with tears of joy streaming down her cheeks, overwhelmed with pride and happiness at her daughter’s accomplishments. Seeing Ifunanya walk across the stage, adorned in her cap and gown, filled her heart with immense gratitude and a sense of fulfillment. Despite their challenges, she knew that her daughter had emerged victorious, ready to take on the world with confidence and grace.

Throughout her undergraduate studies, Ifunanya was mentored and supported by Dr. William, who became a guiding light in her academic journey. Recognising Ifunanya’s potential and passion for furthering her education, Dr. Williams encouraged Ifunanya to pursue a master’s degree in building science at the prestigious Oxylord University in Hingland.

Despite being based abroad, Dr. William ensured that Ifunanya’s mother was well taken care of in Ifunanya’s absence. She hired a personal doctor to attend to her needs and provided financial assistance to ensure she had everything she required for a comfortable and dignified life.

During her MSc degree at Oxylord University, Ifunanya’s interest in indoor air quality was sparked by a series of lectures and research projects she participated in with the professors. She became fascinated by the impact of indoor air pollution, particularly poor perceived indoor air quality, on human health and wellbeing, and she dedicated her master’s dissertation to exploring innovative solutions for improving indoor air quality in residential buildings. Ifunanya’s dissertation focused on the experimental study of the impact of building materials on perceived indoor air quality and building occupants’ health and comfort.

Ifunanya’s MSc journey, including her dissertation, reminded her of the poor perceived air quality she experienced when she lived at Tanbolo. She thought of furthering the indoor air quality research at PhD level to examine the poor perceived indoor air quality on humans, particularly on how they function. Impressed by the excellence and originality of her dissertation, Ifunanya’s professors also encouraged her to pursue a PhD to explore her research interests further and contribute to advancing knowledge in indoor air quality.

As Ifunanya celebrated her achievement of completing her MSc degree in building science, she found herself at a crossroads in life. At 33 years old, she realised that time was passing quickly, and she yearned to fulfill another aspect of her life and her mother’s wish: starting a family. Additionally, her beloved mother, now 71 years old, had been her rock throughout her academic journey and life, and Ifunanya longed to see her become a grandmother and share in the joys of family life.

It was during this time, at 33 years old, that Ifunanya caught the attention of a 35-year-old oil-rich businessman from Hingland. The man saw Ifunanya for the first time at one of the social gatherings organised by Mr. and Dr. William. The man was related to Mr. William. Entranced by her intelligence, grace, and beauty, he sought Ifunanya’s hand in marriage after several meetings. Ifunanya also loved him very much. Seeing an opportunity to fulfill her dreams of marriage and motherhood while also providing a comfortable life for her mother, Ifunanya accepted his proposal.

At the age of 34, Ifunanya walked down the aisle, radiant in her bridal gown, as her mother looked on with tears of joy. The marriage took place in Hingland. Mr. and Dr. Williams and their children were present at the wedding. Dr. William’s twin brother was also present with his wife and children. The wedding was a celebration of love, unity, and new beginnings, and Ifunanya felt blessed to have her mother by her side on this momentous day. Although she would have loved her father and brother to be at the wedding, Ifunanya accepted the fate of life.

Following the wedding, Ifunanya and her husband arranged for Ifunanya’s mother to stay in Hingland permanently. Ifunanya’s mother was embraced with warmth and kindness. Ifunanya’s husband, recognising the importance of family, took it upon himself to ensure that Ifunanya’s mother was well taken care of, providing her with love, respect, and all the comforts she could ever need. Ifunanya’s mother lived with Ifunanya and her husband in a resort-like mansion with many workers at their disposal. Ifunanya’s husband’s business was booming. He was filthy rich. Ifunanya’s matrimonial home reminded her of the life she was used to when she was 14 years old and below.

A year later, at the age of 35, Ifunanya experienced the greatest joy of her life as she held her newborn baby girl in her arms. Becoming a mother filled her heart with overwhelming love and fulfillment, and she cherished every moment she spent with her precious child. Ifunanya named her daughter after her mother. She named her Adunni. The joy Ifunanya’s mother felt as a grandmother was out of this world. As she described it, it was a joy she had never felt before. She became a grandmother at the age of 73. For many years, it had only been her and Ifunanya.

Despite the joys of motherhood, Ifunanya’s passion for furthering her education burned brightly. She felt she had an unfinished business. At the age of 37, with the support of her husband and the blessing of her mother, Ifunanya made the decision to return to school to pursue her PhD in healthy and sustainable buildings at Phombridge University, Hingland.

Ifunanya’s determination to pursue PhD study was reignited by recent news reports highlighting the prevalence of complaints about odour emanating from drainpipes in public housing high-rise residential buildings. Ifunanya could not shake off the memories of her own struggles with poor indoor air quality during the period of her life when she lived in Tanbolo with her mother and how the odour compromised her learning and academic performance and almost stopped her from pursuing a university education.

Ifunanya desired to delve deeper into the issue. She was driven by a strong conviction that the poor perceived indoor air quality, caused by odour from drainpipes, could significantly compromise human mental and physical efforts needed for learning and functioning in high-rise residential buildings. She had lived experience, but there was little or no evidence in the literature to support her lived experience.

Based on the knowledge and understanding she gained from the literature review she did during her MSc degree and the quick literature review she did after hearing the news, Ifunanya was surprised about the gap in the literature. Ifunanya was surprised to find that little or no research had been conducted on the practical implications of poor perceived indoor air quality on human learning and functioning in the indoor environment. Many related studies only focused on the health effects of poor indoor air quality and poor perception.

Inspired by her own experiences and fueled by a desire to make a meaningful contribution to the field, Ifunanya embarked on her PhD journey with a clear mission in mind: to answer the question of how odour emanating from drainpipes can affect human mental and physical efforts leading to comprised human capability in performing tasks in indoor environments.

Armed with her expertise in civil and environmental engineering, building science, and a passion for creating healthier indoor environments, Ifunanya was determined to conduct groundbreaking research that would shed light on the hidden consequences of poor perceived indoor air quality.

Ifunanya chose to pursue her PhD degree at Phonebridge University because of a famous and well-respected professor of healthy and sustainable buildings, Professor Bilal Benson. Professor Bilal Benson was known for his meticulous and rigorous approach to uncovering the source and how buildings affect human mental and physical efforts, influencing human capability for performing tasks in indoor environments.

With guidance and support from Professor Bilal Benson, Ifunanya’s research proposal was funded with a multi-million-dollar research grant from a consortium of ministries in Hingland due to the promising nature of the proposal and Professor Bilal Benson’s reputation.

The consortium includes the Ministry of Health, Ministry of National Development, and Ministry of Sustainable Built Environment. Ifunanya’s journey at Phonebridge University, Hingland was not just about earning a PhD degree but about uncovering the truth that can be used to support advocacy for evidence-based solutions to improve the wellbeing and productivity of building occupants everywhere. Provided below are the research objectives to which Ifunanya’s PhD studies were anchored. Also provided are summaries of the research methodologies adopted to fulfill the objectives and findings from the research efforts.

3.…………………………….

Objective 1: Investigate the sources and characteristics of odour from drainpipes in high-rise residential buildings.

Understanding the sources and characteristics of odour from drainpipes is essential for developing effective mitigation strategies and improving living conditions within such buildings. The origin and nature of odour from drainpipes were investigated through a multifaceted approach involving on-site inspections, data collection, and chemical and biological analyses.

A mixed methods approach that combines qualitative and quantitative techniques was employed. The primary methodology involved conducting on-site inspections and interviews. These inspections involved visually examining the drainage systems and identifying any visible signs of leaks, blockages, or other issues that may contribute to odour emissions with artificial intelligent-based robotic solutions. Interviews were conducted with residents, building managers, and maintenance personnel from the public housing authority to gather insights into the potential sources of odour from drainpipes.

In addition to on-site inspections and interviews, portable gas sensors were utilised to measure odour concentrations at various locations within the studied buildings. These sensors were strategically placed on different floors and rooms and near drainage systems to capture spatial variations in odour levels. Continuous monitoring over an extended period was adopted to provide comprehensive data on the temporal dynamics of odour emissions.

Rigorous analysis of data collected was done to characterise the chemical composition of odour emitted from drainpipes. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was employed as the primary analytical technique to identify specific compounds present in the odour samples. The GC-MS analysis enabled the separation and identification of individual chemical constituents of gases in the odour based on their unique mass spectra to pinpoint the key compounds contributing to the odour profile.

Furthermore, statistical analysis techniques were employed to explore correlations between odour concentrations and potential contributing factors such as building characteristics, drainage system design, and occupancy patterns. By integrating qualitative insights from on-site inspections with quantitative data from gas sensor measurements and chemical analysis, a comprehensive understanding of the sources and characteristics of odour from drainpipes in the studied high-rise residential buildings with odour problems was provided.

Air samples emanating from the drainpipes were collected through microbial air sampling. A portable air sampler was used to collect air onto agar plates. These samples were then incubated in a controlled environment, allowing microbes present to grow. After an incubation period, colonies were counted and identified using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique. The analysis methods helped detect and quantify the types and concentrations of microbes in the sampled air.

The research revealed multiple contributing factors to odour emanating from drainpipes in the studied high-rise residential buildings with odour problems. Inadequate ventilation in the plumbing system, improper slope, incorrect pipe size, trap seal loss, cross-contamination, poor design and construction, poor maintenance, structural settling (sinking of building foundation), and frequency and amount of solid and liquid waste were found to be key contributing factors to detected foul odour from drainpipes in the studied buildings that had odour problems. It was also found that poor ventilation design in kitchens, toilets, and other indoor spaces increased occupants’ exposure and the effects.

Improperly sloped drainpipes led to stagnant water and organic matter accumulation, resulting in foul odour, especially in warm environments. Incorrect pipe sizes were found to cause blockages and microbes growth due to restricted water flow. A trap seal is meant to hold water to prevent sewer gases from entering the building. However, there was a prevalence of trap seal loss in the studied building that had odour problems.

The trap seal loss, caused by poor design or installation, was found to cause odour to escape into living spaces from drainpipes. It was also found that when cross-contamination of air between damaged wastewater and potable water pipes occurred, there was an increase in health risks due to contaminated potable water. The contamination was due to inadequate separation or breaches in the plumbing systems of the studied high-rise buildings that had odour problems.

The odour emitted from drainpipes exhibited a complex composition, comprising a mixture of organic and inorganic compounds. Chemical analysis using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) identified several key compounds contributing to the odour profile, including hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), ammonia (NH₃), hydrogen sulfide, methane, and several volatile organic compounds of interest. These compounds are known for their pungent, foul-smelling characteristics and are commonly associated with sewage and wastewater.

Gas sensor measurements revealed spatial and temporal variations in odour concentrations within the studied buildings that had odour problems. Higher concentrations of odour were consistently detected in areas near drainpipes, particularly in bathrooms, kitchens, and utility rooms. Temporal fluctuations in odour levels were observed, with peaks corresponding to periods of increased wastewater flow, such as during morning and evening usage peaks. Microbial analysis revealed high concentrations of bacteria and fungi of different species. The spatial and temporal variation in the concentrations of bacteria and fungi species follow the same pattern as that of detected chemical compounds.

Statistical analysis identified significant correlations between odour concentrations and various building characteristics. Buildings with older plumbing systems, inadequate maintenance practices, and higher occupancy rates tended to exhibit higher odour levels, microbial levels, and concentrations of chemical compounds. Additionally, poorly ventilated areas, leaking water traps, and stagnant water traps were associated with increased odour emissions, microbial levels, and concentrations of chemical compounds.

Objective 2: Examine the impact of odour exposure on the mental wellbeing of residents in high-rise residential buildings.

To achieve this objective, the research employed a mixed-methods approach combining surveys and psychological assessments. The methodology involved administering standardised surveys and psychological assessments to residents to evaluate their mental wellbeing in relation to odour exposure.

Self-reported information was gathered from residents of the selected highrise buildings regarding their perceived odour intensity, frequency of exposure to odour from drainpipes, and any associated mental health symptoms. Surveys include questions designed to assess stress levels, mood fluctuations, poor concentration, anxiety, depression, and decreased quality of life. Additionally, demographic information and details about living conditions were collected to account for potential confounding factors.

Residents were asked to provide subjective ratings of odour intensity and annoyance levels using Likert scale rating systems. The Likert scale was designed for residents to provide insights into their perceived impact of odour exposure on residents’ mental wellbeing.

The collected data was analysed to identify correlations between data collected on odour exposure and mental health outcomes. Regression analysis was employed to assess the strength and direction of associations between variables while controlling for potential confounding factors such as age, gender, socioeconomic status, and pre-existing mental health conditions.

Furthermore, subgroup analyses were conducted to explore variations in the impact of odour exposure on different demographic groups and individuals with varying levels of sensitivity to odour. The analyses were done to elucidate potential risk factors and vulnerable populations that may be more susceptible to the adverse effects of odour exposure on mental health.

The survey results indicated a significant association between perceived odour exposure from drainpipes and various mental health symptoms among residents of high-rise buildings. Residents who reported higher levels of odour intensity and frequency of exposure were more likely to experience symptoms of stress levels, mood fluctuations, poor concentration, anxiety, depression, and decreased quality of life. Poor concentration on tasks was also commonly reported among individuals exposed to odour from drainpipes.

Self-reported data revealed that residents consistently rated odour intensity and annoyance levels as moderate to high, indicating a substantial impact on their daily lives and wellbeing. Likert scale ratings were effective in capturing residents’ subjective experiences of odour exposure and its perceived effects on their mental health.

Statistical analysis revealed strong correlations between odour exposure and mental health outcomes, even after controlling for potential confounding factors such as age, gender, socioeconomic status, and pre-existing mental health conditions. Regression analysis confirmed the significant impact of odour exposure on stress levels, mood disturbances, and overall mental wellbeing, with higher levels of odour intensity and frequency associated with greater psychological distress.

Subgroup analyses identified specific demographic groups and individuals with varying levels of sensitivity to odour who may be at increased risk of experiencing adverse mental health effects. Vulnerable populations, such as elderly residents, individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions, and those living in overcrowded or poorly ventilated conditions, were particularly susceptible to the negative consequences of odour exposure on mental wellbeing. The findings underscored the urgent need for intervention and prevention strategies to address odour-related mental health issues in high-rise residential buildings.

Objective 3: Evaluate the physical health effects of exposure to odors from drainpipes on residents.

A methodology that integrates medical surveys and respiratory health assessment was employed to achieve this objective. Medical surveys were conducted among residents to gather information on respiratory symptoms (i.e., coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath), allergies (i.e., allergic rhinitis, asthma), and other health complaints potentially associated with odour exposure from drainpipes. Additionally, demographic information, lifestyle factors, and environmental exposures were collected to account for potential confounding variables that may influence physical health outcomes.

Respiratory health assessments involved clinical evaluations conducted by healthcare professionals to verify reported symptoms and diagnose and document respiratory conditions among residents in the studied high-rise buildings. These assessments included lung function tests (spirometry method), allergy tests (skin prick test method), and physical examinations to identify any abnormalities or health issues related to respiratory function.

Analysis was done to evaluate the prevalence and severity of respiratory symptoms and allergies and reported odour levels from drainpipes. The analyses were done for reported perceived odour by the residents and objectively measured odour levels using odour-measuring instruments.

Analyses were conducted to explore potential differences in physical health effects based on demographic factors (e.g., age, gender, pre-existing health conditions) and duration of exposure to odours from drainpipes. These analyses were done to help identify vulnerable populations and potential risk factors associated with adverse physical health outcomes related to odour exposure.

Medical surveys revealed a significant association between residents’ perceived odour exposure from drainpipes and the prevalence of respiratory symptoms. Residents who reported higher perceived odour intensity and frequency exhibited a greater likelihood of experiencing respiratory symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Analysis of self-reported data demonstrated a dose-response relationship, with individuals reporting more severe odour exposure also reporting more severe respiratory symptoms. This association persisted even after controlling demographic factors and lifestyle variables.

Objective odour measurements using specialised instruments corroborated residents’ self-reported perceptions of odour exposure. Buildings with higher objectively measured odour levels corresponded to increased prevalence and severity of respiratory symptoms among residents. Statistical analysis revealed a strong correlation between objectively measured odour levels and respiratory health outcomes, further supporting the link between odour exposure from drainpipes and adverse respiratory effects.

Analyses revealed that demographic factors and duration of exposure are important modifiers of the relationship between odour exposure and respiratory health effects. Vulnerable populations, such as elderly residents and individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, experienced heightened susceptibility to the adverse effects of odour exposure on respiratory health. Longer durations of exposure were associated with increased severity of respiratory symptoms and allergies, underscoring the cumulative impact of prolonged odour exposure on respiratory function.

Objective 4: Examine how the impact of odor exposure from drainpipes on residents’ mental and physical well-being affects their capability to perform in high-rise buildings.

Surveys and assessments explored how odour exposure’s impact on residents’ mental and physical efforts influences their ability to perform in indoor environments. The tasks examined include cooking, cleaning, sleeping, concentrating, socialising, and relaxing.

Cooking meals is a fundamental task performed within residential environments, but the presence of odour from drainpipes can influence residents’ cooking experience. Through Likert scale surveys, residents were asked to rate the impact of odour on their ability to cook meals. The scale ranged from “No impact” to “Severe impact,” to provide insights into the degree of discomfort or difficulty experienced during meal preparation.

Maintaining cleanliness within indoor spaces is essential for residents’ wellbeing, yet odour from drainpipes may interfere with cleaning tasks. Likert scale surveys were administered to assess the impact of odour on residents’ cleaning routines. The scale was designed to provide insights on the varying degrees of difficulty, from “No impact” to “Severe impact,” to highlight the challenges faced in maintaining a hygienic environment amidst odour concerns.

Quality sleep is crucial for residents’ health and productivity, but the odour from drainpipes may disrupt sleep patterns. Survey responses were collected using Likert scale to gauge the impact of odour on residents’ ability to sleep comfortably. The scale ranged from “No impact” to “Severe impact,” to illustrate the extent to which odour affected residents’ sleep quality and overall wellbeing.

Residents often engage in tasks that require concentration, such as studying or working, but odour from drainpipes may hinder their ability to focus. Likert scale surveys were employed to evaluate the impact of odour on residents’ concentration levels. The scale ranged from “No impact” to “Severe impact” to shed light on the challenges faced in maintaining focus amidst odour concerns.

Social interactions play a vital role in residents’ daily lives, but the odour from drainpipes may impact their ability to socialise comfortably. Likert scale surveys were employed to capture residents’ feedback on the impact of odour on socialising activities. The scale was designed to reflect varying degrees of discomfort, from “No impact” to “Severe impact,” to indicate the potential implications of odour on residents’ social wellbeing.

Engaging in leisure activities, such as watching TV or reading, is essential for residents’ relaxation and stress relief. However, odour from drainpipes may disrupt these activities. Likert scale surveys assessed the impact of odour on residents’ ability to relax and unwind. The scale was designed to range from “No impact” to “Severe impact,” to highlight the challenges encountered in finding respite amidst odour concerns.

Chi-square tests were utilised to assess differences in survey responses between sub-groups, aiming to identify any significant associations or patterns. These sub-group analyses were done to provide valuable insights into the diversity of experiences among residents and helped pinpoint specific populations that may be particularly susceptible to the effects of odour exposure from drainpipes. Additionally, the correlation between residents’ perceived impact of odour on their mental and physical efforts and the reported impact of odour on tasks performed indoors was evaluated.

The findings shed light on the significant impact of odour exposure from drainpipes on residents’ daily tasks and overall wellbeing. Residents reported varying degrees of difficulty in cooking meals due to the presence of odour from drainpipes. While some residents indicated minimal impact on their cooking experience, others reported severe disruptions, including discomfort and difficulty in food preparation. This suggests that odour can significantly influence residents’ ability to engage in fundamental tasks such as cooking, thereby affecting their overall quality of life.

Maintaining cleanliness within indoor spaces proved to be challenging for residents affected by odour from drainpipes. Survey responses indicated that odour interference often made cleaning routines more arduous and less effective. Residents reported difficulties maintaining a hygienic environment, highlighting the tangible impact of odour on their daily activities and wellbeing.

The research findings revealed a notable correlation between odour exposure and disrupted sleep patterns among residents. Residents reported varying degrees of discomfort and difficulty sleeping comfortably due to odour from drainpipes. This underscores the critical role of a conducive indoor environment in promoting quality sleep and overall health.

Residents faced challenges in maintaining focus and concentration amidst odour concerns. Survey responses indicated that odour interference hindered residents’ ability to concentrate on tasks requiring mental acuity, such as studying and working. This suggests that odour exposure can impair cognitive function, affecting residents’ productivity and performance in indoor settings.

The impact of odour on residents’ social interactions was evident, with many reporting discomforts and avoidance of socialising activities within the indoor environment. Residents expressed varying degrees of difficulty socialising comfortably due to odour concerns, highlighting the potential social implications of odour exposure in indoor environments.

Engaging in leisure activities for relaxation and stress relief proved challenging for residents affected by odour from drainpipes. Survey responses indicated that odour interference disrupted residents’ ability to unwind and find respite within the indoor environment. This underscores the importance of addressing odour-related issues to promote residents’ overall wellbeing and quality of life.

Chi-square tests identified significant associations between demographic variables and residents’ reported impact of odour on tasks performed indoors, underscoring the importance of considering individual differences when addressing the impact of odour perception and tolerance on human capability in performing tasks in indoor environments.

Main Conclusion: The PhD journey unraveled the complexities surrounding the prevalence of odour emanating from drainpipes and its profound impact on human mental and physical efforts within high-rise residential buildings. Through rigorous research and analysis, the study illuminated the significant challenges posed by odour exposure in indoor environments, shedding light on its detrimental effects on residents’ overall wellbeing and capability to perform tasks.

One notable observation from the research was the poor design or location of windows in the studied highrise buildings having odour problems. When windows were opened, especially when odour was emanating from drainpipes, the intensity of odour decreased significantly. However, it was observed that many residents did not open their windows fully or at all because of concerns for privacy.

When windows were opened, neighbours could easily see all activities going on inside. Many times, windows were closed because of concerns for the impact of air pollutants or pervasive odour from neighbour cooking in indoor environments. The concerns for thermal comfort and energy savings when using air-conditioning systems also contributed to residents not fully utilising the benefits inherent in having openable windows. When windows were closed or not fully opened, the intensity of odour from drainpipes increased significantly.

The findings underscored the urgent need for attention to odour-related issues in high-rise residential settings and recognised the critical role of indoor environmental quality in shaping human health and productivity. By elucidating the nuanced interplay between odour exposure and human capability, the research paved the way for targeted interventions and strategies aimed at fostering healthier and more conducive living environments.

It was recommended that it is imperative to translate the research findings into actionable policies and practices that prioritise the mitigation of odour and the enhancement of indoor air quality in high-rise residential buildings and other indoor environments. It was suggested that actionable efforts would safeguard their residents’ health, comfort, and performance, ultimately fostering environments where individuals can flourish and thrive to their fullest potential.

4.…………………………….

Ifunanya’s PhD research outputs garnered widespread attention within the scientific community, earning her numerous accolades and awards, including the prestigious Best PhD award from her university, Phonebridge University. The impact of her work extended beyond academia, resonating with policymakers, industry professionals, and the general public alike.

Several of Ifunanya’s research papers, with Professor Bilal Benson and other researchers, were published in world-renowned scientific journals, serving as seminal contributions to the field of indoor environmental quality. Her work also featured prominently in prestigious international conferences, where she presented her findings to esteemed colleagues and experts from around the globe. Ifunanya’s PhD works made many experts in the field see her as a promising researcher to be reckoned with in the field.

As recognition for her outstanding contributions continued to grow, Ifunanya was offered multiple faculty positions at top-tier universities around the world. Her demonstrated expertise and leadership qualities made her a sought-after candidate, with universities eager to welcome her into their research teams.

Despite the success Ifunanya experienced with her PhD work, it was not smooth sailing. She finished her PhD studies in five and a half years instead of the four years students typically take to finish their PhD studies at Phonebridge University. Ifunanya got pregnant for the second time when she was in the third year of her PhD studies.

At that time, she had just completed her field studies and was about to start the analysis of data she had collected. A few months later, when her pregnancy was five months old, her gynecologist advised her to stop working or anything else that could cause stress to her.

The gynecologist advised her to do so because of a pregnancy complication that threatened the life of Ifunanya and her baby. Ifunanya was experiencing gestational hypertension. Her gynecologist attributed it to the stress that comes with her PhD research study. To save herself and her baby, Ifunanya immediately applied for a leave of absence from PhD studies. Ifunanya’s pregnancy was better after that, and she delivered a healthy baby boy with no health complications to herself. She only returned to continue her PhD work when her baby boy, whom she named after her father, Chukwudi, was six months old.

Ifunanya’s mother, who was now 82 years old, helped to take care of Ifunanya’s son and her grandson. The Ifunanya’s mother’s workload in caring for her grandson was offloaded by female workers working in the mansion. Ifunanya and her husband, who had lost both of her parents when he was in his twenties, were very grateful to Ifunanya’s mother. They, in turn, took very good care of Ifunanya’s mother. Ifunanya’s mother was grateful to God for the opportunity to take care of his grandson. She enjoyed every moment with her grandchildren, Adunni and Chukwudi.

The happiness Ifunanya’s mother felt when her daughter, Dr. Ifunanya, was called on stage and received prizes and praises during her PhD graduation ceremony could not be quantified. She was very proud of her daughter and her accomplishments, especially her perseverance and indomitable spirit.

Tears started to roll down from Ifunanya’s mother when she thought of how Ifunanya’s academic journey could have been cut short when she decided not to proceed with her HSC and university entrance examinations again. Mr. and Dr. William, who were still close to Ifunanya’s mother and husband, were very proud of her, too. They were also grateful to God for making them make meaningful impacts on the lives of Ifunanya and her mother.

After the confirmation of her PhD degree, Ifunanyawho, now 44 years old, accepted a faculty position at Oxylord University, the university where he did her MSc. Ifunanya was employed at Oxylord University as an Assistant Professor of healthy and sustainable buildings. The major factor that influenced her decision to accept the offer from Oxylord University, in addition to the university’s research capability, was the university’s closeness to her matrimonial home.

While she took her academic role seriously, Ifunanya took her role as a mother, wife, and daughter more seriously. She set up a research Lab called Healthy and Sustainable Buildings (HSB) Lab. She benefited greatly from her mentor, Professor Bilal Benson, in setting up a world-class research lab at Oxylord University.

Three years after Ifunanya started her faculty position, Ifunanya’s mother died at the age of 85 after a brief illness. Ifunanya was devastated. She felt an important part of her life was dead. She was only able to cope with the unbearable loss with the love and care of her husband.

Something interesting happened in the life of Ifunanya and her mother three years before Ifunanya’s mother died. Unknown to Ifunanya and her mother, one of the major witnesses in the coup case that led Ifunanya’s father and brother to the firing squad confessed. He confessed that Ifunanya’s father and brother did not know anything about the coup, and they were not involved in any way in the coup. He confessed that he and many witnesses who were also charged in the coup were assured by certain business rivals of Ifunanya’s father and brother. He said they were told that if they made false allegations against Ifunanya’s father and brother, their families (i.e., the witnesses’ families) would be well cared for if they were convicted.

The man who confessed was sent to life imprisonment and was on his deathbed due to a cancer health problem when he confessed. Two other compromised witnesses who were sent to life imprisonment were still alive in the prison and corroborated his allegation after pressure from the police. Other compromised witnesses were executed with Ifunanya’s father and brother. The man making the allegation said that some of the military judges involved in the case were also paid by the business rivals of Ifunanya’s father and brother. He provided some valid evidence, which made the government of the day take the allegation seriously.

The civilian government of the day, whose mission was to rescue the country, Namunda, from decades of corruption, conducted thorough investigations. After a thorough investigation, it was very evident that Ifunanya’s father and brother had nothing to do with the coup and were innocent like many other citizens of the country. Many of Ifunanya’s father and brother’s business rivals and judges who were involved and still alive were charged in court and were sentenced to life imprisonment for the remainder of their lives. Several people who were involved in sharing Okoli’s family and business properties that were still alive were convicted and sent to prison for a long time.

A year before Ifunanya’s mother died, the civilian government made a personal and public apology to Ifunanya and her mother, who were put through irreparable torture and life difficulties for a crime they did not commit. The event and the public apology became global news. The civilian government made it clear for the record that Ifunanya’s father and brother were not involved in the coup, for they were convicted and killed. The government offered financial restitution to Ifunanya and her mother.

The government named a popular express road after Ifunanya’s father. They named a popular and longest bridge in the country, located in Labus State, after Ifunanya’s brother. In fact, the prison vans that were used to carry Ifunanya’s father and brother and other people who were killed on that day passed through the bridge.

Ifunanya and her mother accepted the apologies. However, they told the government of Namunda the financial restitution, which was in tens of millions of dollars, to be paid to charity organisations around the world Ifunanya and her mother provided. Ifunanya and her mother decided not to take a cent out of the money. The government made public the payment and the beneficial charity organisations.

Ifunanya’s mother died a year after the government made the personal and public apology. It seems Ifunanya’s mother died after the psychological load she had been carrying for many years was lifted. She died peacefully after his husband and son’s names were cleared from being involved in the coup that occurred many decades ago in Namunda. God answered her longtime prayer of her family’s dignity being restored in Namunda.

As a professor and leader of the globally respected Healthy and Sustainable Buildings Lab at Oxylord University, Ifunanya ascended to become a global scientific icon in the realm of indoor air quality research. Her ascension was nothing short of extraordinary. It all began with her unwavering dedication to unraveling the intricate complexities surrounding the impact of poor indoor air quality on human health and work performance in high-rise residential buildings..

Ifunanya and her team demonstrated an insatiable curiosity and a relentless pursuit of knowledge in the healthy and sustainable buildings field. Ifunanya’s passion for understanding the nuances of indoor environments and their profound effects on human wellbeing propelled her toward groundbreaking discoveries that would shape the course of scientific inquiry for years to come.

Ifunanya’s research journey took her to the far reaches of the globe, where she embarked on ambitious projects aimed at uncovering the hidden dangers lurking within our indoor spaces. Armed with cutting-edge technologies and innovative methodologies, she delved deep into the intricacies of indoor air pollutants, meticulously documenting their adverse effects on human health and cognitive function.

Her pioneering studies garnered international acclaim, earning her recognition as a leading authority in indoor air quality. Her research findings, published in prestigious scientific journals and presented at renowned conferences worldwide, served as a rallying cry for action in addressing the urgent public health crisis posed by poor indoor air quality.

As Ifunanya’s reputation as a trailblazing scientist continued to soar, she became a sought-after speaker and thought leader, sharing her expertise and insights with audiences around the globe. Her impassioned advocacy for healthier indoor environments resonated with policymakers, industry leaders, and the general public, sparking a global movement towards cleaner and safer living and working spaces.

Ifunanya’s daughter and son also benefitted from her expertise and her profession as an educator and scientist. For example, there was a time when his son, who was born during her PhD study, leveraged her mother’s expertise to do his school homework. The interaction between mother and son went like this:

“Mom! My science teacher gave us the assignment to write an essay on an indoor source of the odour. I know you are an indoor air expert. Help me, Mom!” Ifunanya’s son said. “No problem, dear! Come and see an article I wrote about odour from drainpipes. In fact, I wrote the article during my PhD studies when you were just born.” Ifunanya said. Ifunanya further said, “The odour is due to pollutants emitted from drainpipes.

Oh! Odour from drainpipes can be due to each and a combination of hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, methane, volatile organic compounds, microbes, etc.” Ifunanya’s son said. Ifunanya then proceeded to share the following information from the article she wrote. Ifunanya’s son reflected and thought critically about the information her mother shared with him to prepare her science homework essay. His key takeaway from her mom’s sharing was:

Occupants’ discomfort and inconvenience compromised their mental and physical efforts, compromising their capability for solving problems or performing tasks. Mental effort is the energy exerted to utilise the brain to demonstrate cognitive ability. Physical effort is the energy exerted to utilise muscular movements to perform tasks or solve problems. These efforts should be utilised effectively.”

Health problems caused by indoor air pollutants can reduce the oxygen supply to the muscles and brain needed for physical and mental efforts. The physical or mental pain, i.e., discomfort, experienced by occupants can increase their perceived pain involved in engaging, i.e., inconvenience, in physical and mental efforts, causing distraction and reducing motivation to engage. Poor ventilation design in plumbing systems, kitchens, toilets, and other indoor spaces can increase occupants’ exposure and the effects.”

Ifunanya’s daughter and son excelled in their studies. Ifunanya’s daughter became an economist, and Ifunanya’s son followed his father’s footsteps to become a petroleum engineer. Ifunanya’s daughter and son also graduated from the MBA programme at Harnord Business School, Harnord University, United States of Abeorique, like their late maternal uncle, Ifeanyi. Ifunanya’s daughter and son worked for their father and held leadership positions in their father’s billion-dollar oil company.

Ifunanya became a full professor of healthy and sustainable buildings at Oxylord University at age 58, fourteen years after being an assistant professor at the same university. Throughout her illustrious career, Ifunanya remained steadfast in her commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and improving people’s lives worldwide. Her groundbreaking research shed light on the critical importance of indoor air quality and paved the way for innovative solutions and interventions to safeguard human health and enhance indoor productivity.

Professor Ifunanya, who is now professor emeritus at Oxylord University after she retires from the university, stands as a beacon of inspiration and hope in the scientific community, her legacy enduring as a testament to the power of dedication, perseverance, indomitable spirit, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the pursuit of scientific discovery and survival in life. The End!