Environmental Implications of Sculpture Landscape in Ancient Cities with Reference to Enugu, Nigeria

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Chukwurah, Gladys Ogochukwu | Maryclara, Aguome Njideka | Nwafor, Ifeanyichukwu^{; *} | Ubaka, Azani Nwabukwu | Evangeline, Aso Nkiruka | Enoguanbhor, Evidence Chinedu | Ugwu, Dubem

Affiliations: Department of Urban & Regional Planning, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria | Department of Architecture and Planning, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana | Department of Estate Management, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria | Department of Urban & Regional Planning, University of Delta, Agbor, Nigeria | Department of Estate Management, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria | Department of Geography, Humboldt University of Berlin, Germany

Correspondence: [*] Corresponding Author. ifeanyichukwu.nwafor@unn.edu.ng

Abstract: The study aimed to examine the environmental implications of landscape sculptures in Enugu, with the objective of examining the historical record and awareness of the cultural connotation of Landscape sculptures to the city development. Based on a qualitative approach, this study examines six landscape sculptures situated in the central business district of the city. The study employs mainly the primary sources of data which include; site visits and interviews, focus group discussions, and secondary data such as Archives and internet search engines. Using a purposive and simple random sampling technique, a sample size of 60 community elders and youth were interviewed through focus group discussion (FGD), and oral interview with the aid of a questionnaire. Data were qualitative and quantitative analysed. Findings identified six major landscape sculptures without and with cultural connotations; the Otigba Statue, the White Lion statue, and the status of Park Lane hospital, while others; were sculptures of the three wise monkeys, coal miners, and Edward Anike statue. Findings discovered that more than 90% of the youth are not aware of the historic record and connotation of the landscape sculptures in the city. Keys findings show non-marketable values of environmental implication. The Chi-square result (X2 = P-Sig > 0.05) shows that the environmental implications of the sculpture landscape have no statistical relationship to the economic value of city development, but the non-marketable values show a positive implication of environmental and social implications to city development. The study suggests public enlightenment to enhance landscape sculpture preservation. Further examination of landscape sculpture preservation techniques should be considered for sustainable city development.

Keywords: Landscape sculpture, environmental implication, connotation, historical record

DOI: 10.3233/AJW240060

Journal: Asian Journal of Water, Environment and Pollution, vol. 21, no. 5, pp. 57-63, 2024