With the high demand for construction on a worldwide scale, this necessitates more volume of aggregates (gravel and sand) to be extracted from quarry sites, including the Province of Isabela in Northern Philippines. Hence, this study has investigated the social and environmental impact and health-related problems experienced by residents living nearby the quarry sites. The study has utilized concurrent mixed method research design to cross-validate and corroborate findings. Results were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as frequency and percentage counts as well computing for mean values which was interpreted by a 5-point Likert Scale. Interview document analysis had also been and by taking pictures during the field observation. The quarry sites were chosen purposively considering it to be the biggest and abandoned quarry sites in the province. The investigation yielded that among the five quarry sites, the social and environmental effects of the gravel and sand quarrying operations which the respondents strongly agree with their mean values were dust (4.89), and noise (4.86) pollution, unproductive wastelands (4.74), property damage (4.67), diversion of rivers stream and farming areas (4.63), soil erosion and sedimentation and surface water dust deposition (4.54). On the other hand, the most common reported health-related problems experienced by the respondents was respiratory problems such as cough and cold and asthma. In spite of the benefit of quarrying to the economy, it brings about impact especially to the loves of the people and the environment as a whole. Hence, strict implementation of government mitigation measures should be strictly observed.
Volume 12 | 08-Special Issue
Pages: 746-752
DOI: 10.5373/JARDCS/V12SP8/20202577