Date of Award

Spring 5-30-2025

Document Type

Campus Access Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

Environmental Sciences

First Advisor

Dr Michael F Tlusty

Second Advisor

Dr Georgia Mavrommati

Third Advisor

Dr Lorena M Estrada-Martínez

Abstract

My dissertation investigates the development of a smart fish smoking technology for catfish aquaculture in the Niger Delta, Nigeria, focusing on the challenges and limitations of current traditional smoking methods. Fish smoking is a key preservation technique in the region due to the absence of cold storage facilities, yet it poses significant health and environmental risks, such as exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and excessive wood usage. This study uses a Needs Assessment Research (NAR) methodology, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative data from key informants (KIs) and focus group discussions (FGDs) to explore the perceptions of stakeholders, including fish farmers, processors, and policymakers.

Through extensive fieldwork in Ekpan, Warri, Delta State, the research identifies key barriers to adopting new technologies and highlights the desire for a safer, faster, and more user-friendly fish smoking method. The dissertation proposes a hybrid smoking technology combining solar and biomass components, aiming to reduce health risks, lower environmental impact, and improve product quality and profitability. Laboratory testing of the technology confirms compliance with EU safety standards and indicates market potential based on consumer preference for a specific smoking duration. Despite higher initial costs, the new hybrid smoker is shown to be economically viable in the long term.

The study concludes with recommendations for stakeholder collaboration, training programs, and policy support to facilitate the adoption of this technology, contributing to sustainable development in Nigeria’s fishery sector and improving the livelihoods of fish processors, especially women.

Comments

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