Ambient Air Quality of Sulfur Dioxide (So₂) and its Implications for Public Health: A Study in the Densely Populated Retail Area of Manado City

Natalita Camelia Rarung; Oksfriani Jufri Sumampouw; Sri Seprianto Maddusa

doi:10.59890/ijaamr.v3i11.140

Authors

Natalita Camelia Rarung Universitas Sam Ratulangi
Oksfriani Jufri Sumampouw Universitas Sam Ratulangi
Sri Seprianto Maddusa Universitas Sam Ratulangi

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.59890/ijaamr.v3i11.140

Keywords:

Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂), Ambient Air, Air Quality, Urban Area, Environmental Health

Abstract

Air pollution, particularly from vehicular emissions of Sulfur Dioxide (SO₂), poses a significant threat to public health in urban areas. Although previous studies in Manado City have reported SO₂ concentrations below quality standards, long-term exposure to low levels remains a risk for vulnerable populations such as street vendors. The Jumbo Swalayan Area is a commercial hub with high traffic density, creating potential for pollutant accumulation. This study aimed to measure ambient SO₂ concentrations in this area and analyze their implications for public health and policy. This descriptive study was conducted in the Jumbo Swalayan Area of Manado City. Ambient air sampling was carried out at three points during morning, afternoon, and evening hours, yielding a total of 9 samples. SO₂ concentration measurement followed standard procedures. The obtained data were analyzed using univariate analysis to determine mean, standard deviation, minimum, and maximum values, and compared against national ambient air quality standards (Government Regulation No. 22 of 2021). The average SO₂ concentration in the Jumbo Swalayan Area was 14.1 µg/m³ (SD=8.7), ranging from 5-32 µg/m³. The highest concentration (32 µg/m³) was detected at the exit point during morning hours. All measured values remained well below the national standard of 350 µg/m³. These findings are consistent with previous studies in Manado reporting low SO₂ levels. Quantitatively, the ambient air quality based on SO₂ parameter in the Jumbo Swalayan Area is good and meets quality standards. However, concentration variations and the potential for long-term exposure to these low levels warrant vigilance, particularly in protecting the health of vendors as a vulnerable group. Preemptive measures such as traffic management, routine monitoring, and health promotion should be intensified to prevent future concentration increases

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