M. Camara; N.R.B. Jamil; A.F.B. Abdullah; R.B. Hashim
Abstract
Predicting land use change is an indispensable aspect in identifying the best development and management of land resources and their potential. This study used certified land-use maps of 1997, 2006, and 2015 combined with ancillary data such as road networks, water bodies and slopes, obtained from the ...
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Predicting land use change is an indispensable aspect in identifying the best development and management of land resources and their potential. This study used certified land-use maps of 1997, 2006, and 2015 combined with ancillary data such as road networks, water bodies and slopes, obtained from the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Surveying and Mapping in Malaysia, respectively. The prediction of future land use changes in the Selangor River basin in Malaysia was performed using the Cellular Automata Markov model. The transition probability matrices were computed using the land use conditions of the periods 1997-2006, 2006-2015, 1997-2015. The performance of the model was very good in its overall ability to simulate the actual land use map of 2015, with the index values of 0.92% and 0.97%, respectively for Kappa for no information and Kappa for grid-cell level location which indicated the reliability of the model to successfully simulate land use changes in 2024 and 2033. Based on the expected results, the future urban area will grow faster (33%) over the next two decades, leading to a decline in forest area that is expected to lose 8% of its total space during these periods. Agricultural land will increase to 4%, while water bodies will change slightly increasing to 1%, and other areas of land use will likely become reservoirs of water, topsoil or new green spaces shrinking at 30%. Given the importance of knowledge of future land use in addressing the problems of uncontrolled development on environmental quality, this study could be valuable for land use planners of the river basin largely covered by natural forest. The study however, suggests future research to integrate geospatial techniques with biophysical and socio-economic factors in simulating land use trends.
Environmental Management
C. Le Dinh; T. Fujiwara; M. Asari; S.T. Pham Phu
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Hoi An City was one of the most famous tourist destinations in the world. This led to a rapid increase in solid waste generation, leading to problems and challenges in solid waste collection and management. This problem is also being experienced ...
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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Hoi An City was one of the most famous tourist destinations in the world. This led to a rapid increase in solid waste generation, leading to problems and challenges in solid waste collection and management. This problem is also being experienced by other developing countries of the world. Despite the existence of established waste management strategies, targets set for the collection of recyclable waste have not been met. This study introduces solutions to the problems and challenges faced by the waste management sector in Hoi An city and other developing countries. This study aimed to i) optimize the map of the recovery recycling stations in an urban community, ii) develop an effective solid waste collection system, and iii) provide management tools to enhance recycling activities, contributing to improving waste management in Hoi An city.METHODS: The RRSs were integrated into a solid waste collection system in the urban communities of Hoi An City, were conducted through location-allocation analysis in a geographic information system environment. Routing problems of carts were solved in the combination of the rescheduling of existing solid waste collection activities in the study site. The economic evaluation by scenarios was also calculated for ten years to assess the feasibility of scenarios.FINDINGS: Thirty-four locations were identified and optimized to accommodate the RRSs and new collection routes. The distances travelled and working time increased in proportion to the increase in waste separation effectiveness. Waste separation is vital to the effectiveness of the new solid waste collection system. The optimal solid waste practice model (in scenarios 2 and 4) revealed the positive results in improving the solid waste collection system, operating economy, and local adaptation.CONCLUSION: This study redesigned the solid waste collection system to solve the current problems in the tourism destination of Hoi An city. This study contributed as a case study of integrating urban recovery recycling stations into optimizing a solid waste collection system in a tourism destination. Introducing strict waste separation was the pivotal first step in systematically upgrading the solid waste collection system in Hoi An City. This study’s findings provide government officials and service providers with methods that can be applied to solve the problems faced by Hoi An city's existing solid waste collection and management system.
Environmental Science
O. Calderon; H. Porter-Morgan; J. Jacob; W. Elkins
Abstract
Newtown Creek is an industrial waterway and former tidal wetland in New York City. It is one of the most polluted water bodies in the United States and was designated as a superfund site in 2010. For over a century, organic compounds, heavy metals, and other forms of industrial pollution have disrupted ...
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Newtown Creek is an industrial waterway and former tidal wetland in New York City. It is one of the most polluted water bodies in the United States and was designated as a superfund site in 2010. For over a century, organic compounds, heavy metals, and other forms of industrial pollution have disrupted the creek’s environment. The creek is also impacted by discharges from twenty combined sewer overflow pipes, which may deposit raw sewage or partially treated wastewater directly into the creek during heavy or sustained rain events. Combined sewer overflow events and associated nutrient over-enrichment at the creek drive eutrophication and subsequent hypoxia. At the current study, three sites were sampled one week apart during a dry period and a wet period, where indication of a combined sewage overflow event could be detected. 16s rRNA high-throughput sequencing from these three sites collectively yielded over 1000 species of bacteria belonging to twenty-two classes. Based on these data, it is hypothesized that differences identified in the microbiome on wet versus dry days are as a result of combined sewage overflow, street runoff, and additional fluctuations in the creek’s environment associated with rain. It was found that after a combined sewer overflows event, the levels of Gamma Proteobacteria increased while the levels of Actinobacteria decreased. However, levels of bacteria stayed relatively unchanged at a site further away from combined sewer overflows discharge. Species found in Newtown Creek include pelagic, marine, human and animal pathogens, hydrocarbonoclastic, and other environmental microbes.
Environmental Science
L.S. Vanzela; D.C. Pereira; L.D.S.C. Lima; K.U. Khan; C.F.M. Mansano
Abstract
Floating platforms at the hydropower plant reservoirs are attractive sites for aquaculture, fishing and other recreational activities. However, the unregulated construction of these platforms may negatively affect the fauna, flora and water quality of reservoirs. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the ...
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Floating platforms at the hydropower plant reservoirs are attractive sites for aquaculture, fishing and other recreational activities. However, the unregulated construction of these platforms may negatively affect the fauna, flora and water quality of reservoirs. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the impact of floating platforms on the limnological aspects of Nova Ponte hydropower plant reservoirs at the Center-West of Minas Gerais State of Brazil. The obtained data were analyzed using the correlation and regression analysis. Dissolved oxygen, biochemical oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand, total coliforms and thermotolerant bacteria were plotted against the density of floating platforms. The density of platforms significantly (p-value > 0.05) impacted the analyzed limnological aspects of reservoirs. Based on the present results, 4 floating platforms/km2 (1 platform per 25 hectares) of surface water should be the maximum density in order to avoid the deterioration of water quality of reservoirs. With 4 platforms/km2, the expected values in fishing period were estimated to be 5.4 mg/L for biochemical oxygen demand, 375 most probable number per 100 mL of sample for thermotolerant bacteria and 6.1 mg/L for chemical oxygen demand. In fishing-ban period, the expected values were estimated to be 4.1 mg/L for dissolved oxygen, 3.4 mg/L for biochemical oxygen demand, 379 most probable number per 100 mL of sample for thermotolerant bacteria and 4.2 mg/L for chemical oxygen demand. This finding provides important base-line information which could help policy makers to take effective measurements for the appropriate management of surface water resources.
Environmental Management
C. Loukrakpam; B. Oinam
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Soil erosion is considered one of the major indicators of soil degradation in our environment. Extensive soil erosion process leads to erosion of nutrients in the topsoil and decreases in fertility and hence productivity. Moreover, creeping erosion leads to landslides in the ...
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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Soil erosion is considered one of the major indicators of soil degradation in our environment. Extensive soil erosion process leads to erosion of nutrients in the topsoil and decreases in fertility and hence productivity. Moreover, creeping erosion leads to landslides in the hilly regions of the study area that affects the socio-economics of the inhabitants. The current study focuses on the estimation of soil erosion rate for the year 2011 to 2019 and projection for the years 2021, 2023 and 2025.METHODS: In this study, the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation is used for estimation of soil erosion in the study area for the year 2011 to 2019. Using Artificial Neural Network-based Cellular Automata simulation, the Land Use Land Cover is projected for the future years 2021, 2023 and 2025. Using the projected layer as one of the spatial variables and applying the same model, Soil Erosion based on Revised Universal soil loss equation is projected for a corresponding years.FINDINGS: For both cases of projection, simulated layers of 2019 (land use land cover and soil erosion) are correlated with the estimated layer of 2019 using actual variables and validated. The agreement and accuracy of the model used in the case land use are 0.92 and 96.21% for the year 2019. The coefficient of determination of the model for both simulations is also observed to be 0.875 and 0.838. The simulated future soil erosion rate ranges from minimum of 0 t/ha/y to maximum of 524.271 t/ha/y, 1160.212 t/ha/y and 783.135 t/ha/y in the year 2021, 2023 and 2025, respectively.CONCLUSION: The study has emphasized the use of artificial neural network-based Cellular automata model for simulation of land use and land cover and subsequently estimation of soil erosion rate. With the simulation of future soil erosion rate, the study describes the trend in the erosion rate from past to future, passing through present scenario. With the scarcity of data, the methodology is found to be accurate and reliable for the region under study.
S.S. Hosseini; K. Yaghmaeian; N. Yousefi; A.H. Mahvi
Abstract
Anaerobic decomposition of organic compounds in landfills is responsible for generation of greenhouse gases. The present study aimed to determine the total gas and methane emission from a landfill located in Hamedan (west of Iran) from 2011 to 2030. LandGEM 3.02 model was used to estimate the gas emission ...
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Anaerobic decomposition of organic compounds in landfills is responsible for generation of greenhouse gases. The present study aimed to determine the total gas and methane emission from a landfill located in Hamedan (west of Iran) from 2011 to 2030. LandGEM 3.02 model was used to estimate the gas emission with the volumetric methane percent of 60%, production potential of 107, and methane generation rate of 0.2. Spatial distribution of annual methane and total landfill gas emission rate in the study area at three decades were provided through ArcGIS software. The results showed that organic and food wastes had the maximum amounts in the solid waste stream (over 75%). The results showed that 4.371×108 m3 methane would be produced after 20 years, mostly (4.053×106m3) in the first year. In addition, methane production capacity in Hamedan landfill site was 107 m3/Mg. According to the results, the maximum and minimum gas generation rates are in summer (the hottest season) and winter (the coldest season) respectively. The results of the LandGEM model represented that the total gas and methane generation rates will be significant in the first 10 years. The potential of rapidly degradable organic compounds for gas emission will be higher than that of slowly degradable organic compounds. The results obtained in the present study can be beneficially used in planning for energy production and other applications in landfill sites.
Environmental Management
N. Nurhasanah; L. Sulistyowati; E. Riani; M. R. Cordova
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: For enhanced environmental management of the Ciliwung River, toxic pollutions such as cadmium dan lead data are required. Cadmium and lead have widespread industrial applications. However, cadmium and lead are poisonous and classified as cancer-causing non-essential elements. ...
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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: For enhanced environmental management of the Ciliwung River, toxic pollutions such as cadmium dan lead data are required. Cadmium and lead have widespread industrial applications. However, cadmium and lead are poisonous and classified as cancer-causing non-essential elements. Moreover, cadmium and lead accumulation in Ciliwung River-caught eels has not yet been examined. Consequently, it is essential to acquire the gathered data from this study. The primary objective of this study was to explore the accumulation of cadmium and lead in sediments and eel organs along the Ciliwung River and to estimate the weekly cadmium and lead intake from eel consumed by the people.METHODS: Sediment and eel samples were collected at six sampling locations ranging from the upstream, midstream, and downstream regions. Method of 3051a of the United States Environmental Protection Agency was applied to analyze the metal yield from the sediment samples and targeted eel organs (gills, digestive tract, and flesh). In addition, quality control and quality assurance standards were employed, and Certified Reference Materials were used to ensure the quality of data and instruments.FINDINGS: The average concentrations of cadmium (0.7825±0.3768 milligram per kilogram) and lead (36.9333±14.9040 milligram per kilogram) were greater than their natural levels. The average cadmium concentration in riverine sediment was below the interim sediment quality guidelines. However, the lead concentration exceeded the guidelines. The cadmium and lead accumulation patterns in the sediment and eels were found to be lowest in the upstream and found increased in the downstream are. In this case, the gills acquired the most concentration of cadmium (1.4571±0.3433 microgram per gram) and lead (43.2489±18.6775 microgram per gram). The fact that eel gills accumulated the highest cadmium and lead indicates the presence of heavy metals in their environment. The accumulation of cadmium and lead in the eel surpassed the permitted levels. According to the Provisional Tolerable Weekly Intake estimation, this research showed 0.0328 milligram/week for the cadmium and 1.2826 milligram/week for the lead.CONCLUSION: The prevalence of cadmium and lead in riverine sediments and eels in the Ciliwung River is believed to be predominantly the result of inefficient wastewater management. However, cadmium and lead pollution must be handled with extreme caution because it interferes with the physiological processes of the biota, hence decreasing the population of eels and posing a health risk if consumed. In general, Asian swamp eels from the Ciliwung River are still edible. As a result, it is hoped that enhanced management will reduce the number of pollutants entering the riverine ecosystem.
V. G. Shcherbak; L. Ganushchak-Yefimenko; O. Nifatova; P. Dudko; N. Savchuk; I. Solonenchuk
Abstract
This study seeks to provide insights on understanding the contemporary problems of energy efficiency in Ukrainian universities by developing a comprehensive energy efficiency management framework that encompasses its participating subjects, objects and key drivers along with suggesting its implementation ...
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This study seeks to provide insights on understanding the contemporary problems of energy efficiency in Ukrainian universities by developing a comprehensive energy efficiency management framework that encompasses its participating subjects, objects and key drivers along with suggesting its implementation mechanism and tools. Emphasis should be given that the current situation of inefficient and irrational consumption of energy resources within the system of higher education in Ukraine challenges the development of an integrative approach to energy saving and energy efficiency management. It is argued that the key elements of this integrative approach to energy management are energy auditing, energy certification and energy monitoring based on the consistent use of ISO 9000 international standards. Over the last 10 years energy consumption in Ukrainian higher education institutions against the world best practice exceed by 30-40%. This triggers a critical need to building an integrative approach to energy saving and energy efficiency management. The findings revealed that disincentives reduce the degree of energy efficiency by 25%. Constructing energy profiles by a hierarchical clustering method demonstrated that 68% of the campus buildings belong to a 5th class out of 7, i. e. being highly energy intensive. Following the DGNB (German Sustainable Building Council) approach to evaluate energy efficiency has enabled to eliminate 17% of the G category classrooms (extra energy intensive) from the University heating facilities. The clustering method to assess 15 University buildings by 16 performance indicators identified 5 clusters in terms of energy consumption and energy efficiency.
Environmental Management
N.I.D. Arista; H.A. Negoro; D.E. Purba
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Environmental degradation, especially that related to water, has the potential to result in an unhealthy life. Humans drinkable water for basic needs, but poor water quality can cause disease. One of the solutions of households to obtain drinkable water is to subscribe to water ...
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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Environmental degradation, especially that related to water, has the potential to result in an unhealthy life. Humans drinkable water for basic needs, but poor water quality can cause disease. One of the solutions of households to obtain drinkable water is to subscribe to water companies. This study presents the notion of community engagement related to urban drinkable water supply, specifically by examining the willingness of community members to pay for such services in response to environmental pressures.METHODS: This study used purposive sampling methods to determine the value of willingness to pay, identified challenges in the community through a questionnaire on drinkable water in Jakarta, Indonesia, and conducted estimation using ordinary least squares. This research used a sample of 503 households in Jakarta.FINDINGS: The coefficient values of the control variables, namely, daily income (0.448), education level (4.344), and age (628.1), exhibited a positive correlation and statistically significant impact. Results indicate a positive and statistically significant association between the coefficient values of the variables of interest, namely, water quality (8.663) and water source (21.248), in willingness to pay for drinkable water. A one-unit increase in the coefficient score impacts the willingness to pay value, measured in Indonesian rupiahs. Findings indicate that the majority of the respondents expressed readiness to pay for drinkable water valued below 100,000 Indonesian rupiah per month, which is equivalent to under 6.30 United States Dollars. The suggested strategies for addressing the diverse issues encompass the necessity of implementing structural reforms involving the engagement of local leaders to enhance empowerment. This approach holds promise for effectively resolving the drinkable water crisis. Technical effort in shaping the behavior of urban communities in using and appreciating water is also essential to sustain the environment.CONCLUSION: Environmental contamination issues have become a reason for households to subscribe to water companies. Customers are willing to pay to obtain clean and potable water. This study is essential as a basis for formulating policies that can be used by drinkable water companies regarding community members’ ability to pay for water, preferences, and participation in protecting the environment.
Environmental Science
M. Piri; E. Sepehr
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Phosphorus is an essential and limiting nutrient for all living organisms. Although phosphorus is a finite resource on earth, it is usually wasted today. Precipitation of struvite from waste residues is mainly carried out to recover phosphorus. This study aimed to investigate ...
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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Phosphorus is an essential and limiting nutrient for all living organisms. Although phosphorus is a finite resource on earth, it is usually wasted today. Precipitation of struvite from waste residues is mainly carried out to recover phosphorus. This study aimed to investigate the percentage of phosphorous recovery from sewage sludge in the presence of grape-biochar via the formation of biochar/struvite precipitates. METHODS: Different amounts of grape-biochar were applied to recover nutrients (phosphorus, nitrogen, and magnesium) from sewage sludge via the formation of struvite by digestion of sewage sludge with H2SO4 and the molar ratio of magnesium/ ammonium/ phosphorus in 2:1:1 at pH=8.5. Solubility and release properties of the precipitates were determined and the equations, such as first-order, parabolic diffusion, power function, and simple Elovich models, were fitted to the kinetic data.FINDINGS: The phosphorus recovery from sewage sludge increased by application of grape biochar in the precipitation system, and the accumulation release of nutrients (phosphorus, nitrogen, and magnesium) from samples increased in the presence of grape biochar, especially in high amounts. Increasing the remove and recovery of phosphorus from sewage sludge by application of grape-biochar decreased the incidence of eutrophication, as an environmental dilemma, and provided the requirement for phosphorus-fertilizers by solid waste management. The solubility of the samples was 0.5 mole per liter hydrochloric acid > in 20 gram per liter citric acid > water. The results showed that the phosphorus - cumulative - release of composites in water good fitted the parabolic kinetic model (R2=0.97-0.99), whereas it followed the simple Elovich model (R2=0.86-0.92) in 0.5 mole per liter hydrochloric acid and first-order kinetics model (R2=0.76-0.92) in 20 gram per liter critic acid.CONCLUSION: The results indicated that the presence of grape-biochar for recovery of phosphorus from sludge as struvite had a good potential for increasing the release of nutrients for the formation of struvite, and these precipitates had a high potential to be used as a slow-release phosphorus-fertilizer.
Environmental Engineering
K. Manatura; U. Samaksaman
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The needs of fuel pellets from varied feed stocks have opened up opportunities and challenges for pellets production from non-woody biomass. Wastes of plastic recycling and wood sawing contained a high potential for energy source and suited for pelletizing as a solid fuel. METHODS: ...
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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The needs of fuel pellets from varied feed stocks have opened up opportunities and challenges for pellets production from non-woody biomass. Wastes of plastic recycling and wood sawing contained a high potential for energy source and suited for pelletizing as a solid fuel. METHODS: The characteristics and combustion kinetics of fuel pellets made using a mixture of waste of polyethylene terephthalate and biomass (Tectona grandis Linn.f) with a polyethylene terephthalate to biomass ratio of 9:1. The investigation covered physico-chemical properties and their functional group analysis, heavy metal concentration and ionic leachability testing, and ash analysis. In this context, thermogravimetric analysis was used in an atmosphere of oxygen gas, over a temperature range of 50-800 °C and at different heating rates. The work ends with discussion of the kinetics study via three comparative evaluations and the feasibility of fuel pellets for energy utilization. FINDINGS: Pelletizing with this ratio (9:1) was present the durability of PET/biomass pellets, a uniform dimension, ease handling, storage, and transportation common as woody pellets. Some technical challenges such as low moisture content and high volatile matter content were feedstock dependent. The major characteristics were a combination of those from both the constituent materials. Functional groups of the pellets were contributed by terephthalate and lignocellulose. The addition of a small amount of biomass in pellets could improve their thermal decomposition behavior. The properties of the polyethylene terephthalate/biomass pellets indicated that were fit for combustion with a high heating value equal to 19.20 MJ/kg. Heavy metals and ionic contaminants were below the maximum limits of the standards because of the cleanliness of the raw materials. However, the minor effects of earth materials and a caustic soda detergent were resulted in the alteration of residue chemicals. The pellets had lower ignition, devolatilization, and burnout temperatures than the original polyethylene terephthalate waste; likewise, the peak and burnout temperatures shifted to a lower zone. The activation energy values obtained using the Kissinger-Akahira-Sunose, Ozawa-Flynn-Wall, and Starink models were similar and in the range 142–146 kJ/mol. CONCLUSION: These findings may provide crucial information on fuel pellets from blended polyethylene terephthalate/biomass to assist the design and operation of a co-combustion system with traditional solid fuels. Such modifications of fuel pellets suggest the possibility of operating in large-scale furnace applications and can further be upgraded to other fuels production via modern bioenergy conversion processes.
Environmental Engineering
S. Dhanasekar; R. Sathyanathan
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Recent investigations indicated that continuous use of fertilizers and pesticides in agricultural fields not only deteriorated soil health but also caused a deleterious effect on surface and groundwater bodies. Treating such wastewater using microalgae has shown higher nutrient ...
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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Recent investigations indicated that continuous use of fertilizers and pesticides in agricultural fields not only deteriorated soil health but also caused a deleterious effect on surface and groundwater bodies. Treating such wastewater using microalgae has shown higher nutrient removal and biomass efficiency. Moreover, microalgae are proven to be miniature factories that augment the huge potential of biofuel. The aim of this study is to evaluate the different light intensities required for Chlorella vulgaris algae to remove nutrients from synthetic agricultural wastewater in a fabricated bubble column photobioreactor. Additionally, the research findings focus on assessing the degradation of organic pollutants and biomass generation under different light conditions.METHODS: In this study, synthetic agrochemical wastewater was treated in a bubble column photobioreactor with blue, red, sunlight, and white light conditions. The treatment was conducted in a batch process with a hydraulic retention time of 21 days, using light intensity of 1800–2800 luminescence and a temperature maintained at 25–28° degrees Celsius.FINDINGS: Under different lighting conditions, the blue light condition exhibited a higher biomass concentration of 3.99 gram per liter, with an estimated heat energy value of 1.278 kilojoule per liter. Moreover, in the blue light condition, scanning electron microscopy analysis showed no significant changes in the shape of Chlorella vulgaris and energy-dispersive X-ray analysis elemental composition exhibited the lowest oxygen-to-carbon ratio (1.03). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was used to illustrate the functional group of microalgae under different lighting conditions. The lipid, protein, carbohydrate, and amino acid contents were 3329–3332, 2116–2139, 1636–1645, and 545–662 per centimeter, respectively. The higher biomass potential from the wastewater treatment shows significant benefit in terms of feedstock and biofuel production.CONCLUSIONS: The present investigation identified the nutrient reduction and biomass productivity to be more in blue light condition for Chlorella vulgaris algae. The investigation also assessed the potential of lipid, carbohydrate, and protein content in Chlorella vulgaris, which indirectly evaluates the biofuel potential of the species.
Environmental Science
F. Fuentes Gandara; I. Piñeres Ariza; A. Zambrano Arevalo; G. Castellar Ortega; C. Herrera Herrera; S. Castro Muñoz; G. Peluffo Foliaco; J. Pinedo-Hernández
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The textile industry is known to produce large amounts of dyes and other harmful contaminants. This issue is of great importance as it adversely affects both water resources and the well-being of organisms. To address this issue, biochar is frequently used as a sustainable ...
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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The textile industry is known to produce large amounts of dyes and other harmful contaminants. This issue is of great importance as it adversely affects both water resources and the well-being of organisms. To address this issue, biochar is frequently used as a sustainable and environmentally friendly material for removing chemical contaminants during wastewater treatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the viability of utilizing biochar obtained from banana peels as a promising bioadsorbent for reducing environmental pollution caused by direct navy blue dye. The research investigated various factors such as temperature, potential of hydrogen levels, particle size, and concentrations to determine the effectiveness of biochar in dye removal.METHODS: The biochar obtained was separated into powdered and granular forms based on particle sizes of 425 and 850 micrometer, respectively. The biochar's textural characteristics were assessed through nitrogen adsorption/desorption isotherms. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and the Boehm method were employed to analyze and measure organic functional groups, specifically acidic groups, for identification and quantification purposes. Batch experiments were performed to ascertain the effects of the initial concentration and potential of hydrogen on the adsorption capacity and removal percentage.FINDINGS: The results indicated that the powdered biochar obtained at 500 degrees Celsius had the higher surface area, with a value of 80.4 square meter per gram. The biochar demonstrated remarkable removal percentages, achieving 97 percent at the lowest concentration and 89 percent at the highest concentration, when the potential of hydrogen was adjusted to a value of 6. The Freundlich model gave the best fit to the experimental data for this biochar and obeyed pseudo second order kinetics, with correlation coefficients of 0.93 and 0.99, respectively. CONCLUSION: This study provides evidence of the high removal efficiency achieved by biochar derived from banana peel waste in the removal of direct navy blue dye. Precise temperature control during the calcination process is essential to ensure its favorable chemical and textural properties. The unique attributes of banana peel biochar position it as an exceptionally promising adsorbent material. Not only is it cost-effective and environmentally friendly, but it also outperforms current wastewater treatment technologies in terms of competitiveness. Its remarkable ability to reduce contaminants, particularly the removal of dyes, further solidifies its potential as a highly effective solution.
Environmental Science
Purwantoro .; R.D. Purwaningrahayu; H. Kuntyastuti; A. Harsono; N. Nuryati; A. Sulistyo; Z. Yursak; R. Soehendi; Trustinah .; H. Kuswantoro; M.J. Mejaya; D. Harnowo
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The cultivation of soybeans in Indonesia frequently encounters challenges related to water saturation and drought, which ultimately leads to reduced productivity. The objective of this study was to determine how various soybean varieties react to waterlogging and drought in ...
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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The cultivation of soybeans in Indonesia frequently encounters challenges related to water saturation and drought, which ultimately leads to reduced productivity. The objective of this study was to determine how various soybean varieties react to waterlogging and drought in order to identify soybean cultivars that exhibit tolerance to both types of stressors.
METHODS: The study was conducted at the greenhouse of the Indonesian Legumes and Tuber Crops Research Institute, spanning from June to August 2022. A factorial randomized block design was employed, utilizing pots as the experimental units, with three replicates. The first factor is the availability of groundwater, namely optimal water available (field capacity), 40 percent of field capacity (drought stress), and water-saturated soil (waterlogging stress). The soybean variety is the second factor to consider, which includes Dering 1 (known for its drought tolerance), Dering 2 (also drought tolerant), Deja 1 (tolerant to water saturation), Deja 2 (also tolerant to water saturation), Devon 1 (noted for its high isoflavone content), and Dega 1 (specifically adapted for irrigated lowland conditions).
FINDINGS: The results showed that Dering 2 and Deja 2 varieties grown in soil moisture levels at 40 percent field capacity were capable of achieving similar growth outcomes in terms of plant height, shoot/root ratio, number of pods per plant, seed yield, and 100 seed weight compared to those grown in optimal soil moisture conditions. The stress tolerance index of the two varieties in the soil moisture at 40 percent of field capacity reached 1.03 and 0.83, respectively. The yields of Dering 2 and Deja 2 varieties at the optimal soil moisture reached 4.53 gram per plant and 6.28 gram per plant, and in soil moisture of 40 percent field capacity were 4.68 gram per plant and 5.69 gram per plant respectively. In flooded soil, the Dering 2 and Deja 1 varieties can develop the weight of 100 seeds, number of branches, and plant height as same as in optimal soil moisture, with relatively lower yield reduction compared to other varieties, with stress tolerance index values of 0.66 and 0.54.
CONCLUSION: The Dering 2 and Deja 2 cultivars exhibit tolerance to drought stress levels of up to 40 percent of field capacity, whereas the Dering 2 and Deja 1 cultivars demonstrate tolerance to water-saturated soil. A noteworthy finding is the identification of soybean cultivars capable of thriving in both drought and waterlogged environments, exemplified by the Dering 2 variety. Originally bred to combat drought-related challenges, the Dering 2 cultivar has shown promising results in waterlogged soil conditions as well. Similarly, the Deja 2 variety, which was designed and released for water-saturated environments, was found in this study to be tolerant of drought conditions.
Environmental Science
H. Janadeleh; A. Hosseini Alhashemi; S.M.B. Nabavi
Abstract
The major aim of the present study was to investigate element (Fe, Ni, Pb, V, Zn) concentrations in sediment and different tissues of Phragmities australis and Typha latifolia in Hor al-Azim Wetland Southwest Iran. Sampling of sediments and aquatic plants was carried out during spring and summer 2014. ...
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The major aim of the present study was to investigate element (Fe, Ni, Pb, V, Zn) concentrations in sediment and different tissues of Phragmities australis and Typha latifolia in Hor al-Azim Wetland Southwest Iran. Sampling of sediments and aquatic plants was carried out during spring and summer 2014. Results showed that the mean concentrations of elements in Phragmities australis in root and stem-leaf were as follows: Iron:4448 mg/kg, Nickel: 28 mg/kg, Lead:8 mg/kg, Vanadium:10 mg/kg and Zinc 15.5 mg/kg in root and: Fe:645 mg/kg, Ni:15 mg/kg, Pb:4 mg/kg, V:4 mg/kg and Zinc 16 mg/kg respectively. Also, the mean concentrations of Fe, Ni, Pb, V and Zn in roots of Typha latifolia were 8696 mg/kg, 34 mg/kg, 5 mg/kg, 19 mg/kg and 27 mg/kg respectively. The mean concentrations of Fe, Ni, V, Pb, Zn in stem-leaves of Typha latifolia were as follows: 321 mg/kg, 3 mg/kg, 7 mg/kg, 2 mg/kg and 14 mg/kg respectively. The mean concentrations of Fe, Ni, V, Pb and zinc were as: 40991 mg/kg, 65 mg/kg, 60 mg/kg, 31 mg/kg, 60 mg/kg respectively in surface sediment of study area. Concentration pattern of elements in sediment were as: Fe>Ni>Zn>V>Pb. The highest concentration of elements in the plant was seen in the roots. Also, Typha latifolia can uptake more concentration of elements than Phragmities australis. Based on the enrichment factor, Ni in summer had the highest EF values among the elements studied and it has a moderate enrichment.
Environmental Management
T. Kalashnikova; І. Кoshkalda; O. Тrehub
Abstract
The sectoral structure of most agricultural enterprises is unbalanced and uncoordinated, which underlies the need in deepened research of its improvement. This paper is dedicated to the formation and evaluation of the sectoral structure with the use of mathematical methods of data processing. Mathematical ...
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The sectoral structure of most agricultural enterprises is unbalanced and uncoordinated, which underlies the need in deepened research of its improvement. This paper is dedicated to the formation and evaluation of the sectoral structure with the use of mathematical methods of data processing. Mathematical economic modeling based on optimization and simulation models has been applied for the formation and evaluation of sectoral structure in agricultural enterprises. The approbation of the aforementioned models has been carried out in a certain agricultural enterprise. The simulation modeling has been used to develop a production model by the types of products that enterprise does not produce (milk, fish products and honey). The optimization model has been developed taking into account the rational use of the enterprise’s land with the prospect of livestock sector development. Obtaining the maximum net income (proceeds) from products sales has been chosen as the optimality criterion. According to calculations, the maintenance of cows is unprofitable; the production of fish and honey is profitable. Due to the diversification of the sectoral structure, the enterprise’s profitability level will increase from 16.6 to 45.8 percent. The implementation of optimization and simulation models allows to assess the existing level of sectoral structure in agricultural enterprise and to form its optimal sectoral structure with ensuring the rational use of resources and obtaining profit.
Environmental Management
S.M. Hatefi
Abstract
Today, urban transportation has attracted urban planners’ and researchers' attention because of air and noise pollution problems associated with it. In Shahrkord city in Iran, no plans have been made for sustainable transportation, and the available poor transportation infrastructure is not responsive ...
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Today, urban transportation has attracted urban planners’ and researchers' attention because of air and noise pollution problems associated with it. In Shahrkord city in Iran, no plans have been made for sustainable transportation, and the available poor transportation infrastructure is not responsive to the growing population of the city. This issue has inflicted the city with serious problems, including environmental pollution, traffic jams, and car accidents. Therefore, it is necessary for urban managers and planners to conduct necessary planning and analysis for the development of urban transportation system through a strategic perspective. In this study, the strengths and weaknesses as well as the opportunities and threats of Shahrkord transportation system are identified using strength, weakness, opportunity, threat (SWOT) analysis. Status of the city's transportation system is determined through evaluation of internal and external factors. The results of SWOT analysis and the matrix of internal and external factors indicate that the internal and external evaluation factors are equal to 2.330 and 3.367, respectively, which means that Shahrekord transportation system holds a conservative situation. Considering the identified status, several strategies are proposed to improve the status quo. Finally, the proposed strategies are evaluated based on sustainable development indices, namely economic, environmental, and social indices, by using the fuzzy complex proportional assessment (COPRAS) method. The results show that the best proposed strategy is attraction of private investors to set up pedestrian bridges equipped with escalators and the concession of using them for the establishment of environmental advertisement.
A. Oglanis; M. Loizidou
Abstract
The effective and sustainable environmental performance of a business is a result of various factors and most important the integrated outcome of the environmental management. Likewise, the integration of environmental protection into the armed forces functions has also gain interest for the military ...
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The effective and sustainable environmental performance of a business is a result of various factors and most important the integrated outcome of the environmental management. Likewise, the integration of environmental protection into the armed forces functions has also gain interest for the military sector internationally. Therefore, the environmental management system (EMS) is recognized as one of the most widely used tools. This study provides a review on environmental management issues related to the military activities and their assessment globally. The multitasking characteristics of the defence sector result in the need for the eco-friendly related issues to be directed in a holistic and integrated way, with the help of a certified environmental management system. North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) itself and NATO countries, like USA, UK, Canada, Holland, Denmark, Czech Republic, Greece, as well as non-NATO countries like Sweden and Australia have an environmental management system structure in place to assist military environmental management and studies reveal that the armed forces could anticipate positive outcomes from environmental management system. A case-by-case approach, of the above, is examined and based on the results, appropriate recommendations are presented, which may contribute to the environmental management system considerations as the most important tool for effective management framework and most importantly to evaluate its effectiveness as a structure for the defence sector’s activities.
Environmental Management
O. Gryshchenko; V. Babenko; O. Bilovodska; T. Voronkova; I. Ponomarenko; Z. Shatskaya
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Environmental guidelines and principles of sustainable development are becoming increasingly popular and are a priority for most business areas. One of the widely developing eco-destinations is green tourism, which is gaining a profitable and priority status, especially for ...
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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Environmental guidelines and principles of sustainable development are becoming increasingly popular and are a priority for most business areas. One of the widely developing eco-destinations is green tourism, which is gaining a profitable and priority status, especially for lower middle-income countries. The purpose of the article is to determine the strategic marketing support for the development of green tourism on the example of Ukraine and its regions based on an approach to its assessment in terms of environmental and tourism competitiveness.METHODS: The authors used general scientific and specific methods: comparative, critical and system analysis, synthesis to search and group indicators of ecological and tourism competitiveness. Distance method, ranking, economic and statistical analysis were implemented to analyze the green tourism potential in each region in Ukraine and reveal the leaders and outsiders among them. For the accumulation, processing, visualization of data and forming the matrix of green tourism, based on data for 2015-2019, potential Microsoft Excel, Figma and Canva tools, Harrington scale were applied.FINDINGS: The approach to estimate the green tourism potential based on the ecological and tourism regional competitiveness according to the author’s list of 37 indicators were proposed, the matrixes of green tourism potential of Ukrainian regions in 2019 and 2020 were developed, and strategic marketing support according to sustainable development for green tourism business were proposed. Strategic marketing support of green tourism development in Ukrainian regions was defined based on ecological and marketing strategies.CONCLUSION: The author's approach makes it possible to systematically assess the potential of green tourism using up-to-date statistical information. According to the tourism and environmental competitiveness rating, the regions with the most significant and worst potential were found. The positive dynamics of the development of green tourism in 2019-2020 were revealed. The results are the basis for providing comprehensive environmental and marketing support to ensure sustainable development and gain additional competitive advantages in the green tourism business.
A. Cruz-Salomón; E. Ríos-Valdovinos; F. Pola-Albores; S. Lagunas-Rivera; R. Meza-Gordillo; V.M. Ruíz-Valdiviezo; K.C. Cruz-Salomón
Abstract
The expanded granular sludge bed bioreactor appears today as a cheap, robust and more popular technology because it operates using a fluidized bed, which allows increasing in organic load and in cell retention times, generating higher treatment efficiencies (up to 95 %) and renewable energy (i.e., biogas, ...
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The expanded granular sludge bed bioreactor appears today as a cheap, robust and more popular technology because it operates using a fluidized bed, which allows increasing in organic load and in cell retention times, generating higher treatment efficiencies (up to 95 %) and renewable energy (i.e., biogas, biomethane, and biohydrogen). Nevertheless, the efficiency of this bioreactor mainly depends on the operating conditions. Thus, the content presented in this review paper focuses on the analysis of the operating conditions and performance of expanded granular sludge bed bioreactor for treating different types of industrial, agro-industrial and domestic wastewaters (e.g., agro-food, beverage, alcohol distillery, tannery, slaughterhouse, chemical, pharmaceutical, municipal sewage, among others). Because of this reason, this study aimed to analyze the operating conditions and type of substrate, which has been used in these bioreactors to improve future research to wastewater treatment and renewable energy production. According to the review, it is concluded that the EGSB bioreactor is a novel sustainable alternative to treat different types of wastewaters and consequently change the paradigm of wastewater management from "treatment and disposal" to "beneficial use" as well as "profitable effort".
Environmental Science
M. Tadjuddah; . Abdullah; S. Kamri; N.I. Wianti
Abstract
Wakatobi National Park has a tropical marine ecosystem with typically dynamic aquatic resources, and it also has a potentially massive number of groupers such as red (Plectropomus leopardus) and black groupers (Plectropomus areolatus). However, the sustainability of the grouper resources has not been ...
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Wakatobi National Park has a tropical marine ecosystem with typically dynamic aquatic resources, and it also has a potentially massive number of groupers such as red (Plectropomus leopardus) and black groupers (Plectropomus areolatus). However, the sustainability of the grouper resources has not been managed effectively and environmentally friendly. This study aims to determine the susceptibility level of red and black groupers in the research area based on the productivity and susceptibility analysis. This study was conducted from May to November 2018, in which the data were collected from the grouper’s fishermen using hand line with simple random methods as a fishing gear in Wanci and Tomia islands of Wakatobi. Based on the collected data, productivity attribute of red groupers is at 1.8, and the susceptibility level is at 2.08, while the black groupers have 1.7 for the productivity attributes and 2.0 for their susceptibility level. Based on the susceptibility index of both types of fish, it indicates that red groupers are at 1.61, and the black groupers’ susceptibility level is at 1.64. This study implies that the susceptibility index of red and black groupers at Wakatobi National Park is moderate which means that the groupers as a matter of fact experience fishing pressure. Therefore, some sustainable efforts to effectively and environmentally friendly manage the fishing activity in the island need to be done in the future.
Environmental Science
M.I. Moreno Pallares; M.A. Bonilla Gómez; G.H. Guillot Monroy; A.C. Torregroza-Espinosa
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Odonate larvae play an important role in macroinvertebrate trophic networks and are excellent proxies for wetland quality. However, despite their ecological importance, research on odonates and how they interact with their environment is scarce. This study aims to assess macroinvertebrate ...
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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Odonate larvae play an important role in macroinvertebrate trophic networks and are excellent proxies for wetland quality. However, despite their ecological importance, research on odonates and how they interact with their environment is scarce. This study aims to assess macroinvertebrate composition as determinants of larval abundance in Miathyria marcella (Odonata: Anizoptera: Libellulidae).METHODS: 29 samples were collected from six wetlands with different hydrological influence using standardized invertebrate sampling techniques in the Department of Atlántico, northern Colombia. Standardized invertebrate sampling techniques were used in 29 sampling points. Obtained data were used to analyze invertebrate abundance and a non-parametric multidimensional scaling analysis was applied. In addition, a correlation analysis was conducted between macroinvertebrate composition and Miathyria marcella larval abundance.FINDINGS: A total of 2586 larvae, and 12925 individual macroinvertebrates were collected, distributed in 25 orders and 58 families. The most abundant orders were Neotaenioglossa (26 percent), Odonata (15 percent) Calanoida (10 percent) and Diptera (8 percent). Heatmap and scaling analysis indicated different macroinvertebrate compositions in the sampled wetlands. A high positive correlation between Miathyria marcella and the orders Odonata (R2 = 0.84, p-value ≤ 0.05), Coleoptera (R2 = 0.52, p-value ≤ 0.05), Basommatophora (R2 = 0.60, p-value ≤ 0.05) and Hemiptera (R2 = 0.50, p-value ≤ 0.05).CONCLUSION: The results suggest that the abundance of Miathyria marcella responds to the accompanying macroinvertebrates, the composition of which depends on the type of hydrological influence. Approaches focused on the relationships between macroinvertebrate taxa are important conservation tools for biodiversity assessment. Results from this study will serve as a baseline to propose monitoring and follow-up strategies on the environmental sustainability in wetlands in this region.
Environmental Science
G. Manjarrez Paba; R. Baldiris Ávila; D. Baena Baldiris
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:The objective of this study isto present a description of the main characteristics of azo dyes and the different treatment methods used to remove them from water. There is a special emphasis given to the benefits associated with biological treatment, predominantly those related ...
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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:The objective of this study isto present a description of the main characteristics of azo dyes and the different treatment methods used to remove them from water. There is a special emphasis given to the benefits associated with biological treatment, predominantly those related to the use of bacteria, which has to do with its competitive advantages over other microorganisms in the dye degradation processes.METHODS: The topic to be addressed was first defined through workshops with the research group. The literature review was carried out following several inclusion/exclusion criteria: the year of publication, as the selection was limited to studies published between 2010 and 2020, the focus of the investigation, which had to be related to the efficiency of different techniques for the remediation of ecosystems contaminated with azo dyes and, lastly, that the studies also discussed the use of environmental bacteria in dye degradation processes.FINDING: The efficiency of bacteria to degrade azo dyes ranges from 63-100%, the most efficient being: Marinobacter sp, Sphingobacterium sp, Enterococcus faecalis, Enterococcus casseliflavus. The bacteria that, reportedly, have greater efficiency for simultaneously removing the dye-metal complex are Bacillus circulans and Acinetobacter junii.CONCLUSION: Traditional strategies for the treatment of effluents contaminated with azo dyes are limited to physical and chemical processes that have a high energy and economic cost. For these reasons, current challenges are focused on the use of environmental bacteria capable of transforming dyes into less toxic compounds.
Environmental Management
M.A. Budihardjo; I.B. Priyambada; A. Chegenizadeh; S. Al Qadar; A.S. Puspita
Abstract
Municipal solid waste management has evolved from direct disposal to recycling and resource recovery, driven by sustainability. Life cycle assessment has played a crucial role in analyzing the environmental implications of different waste management strategies and selecting the most ecologically feasible ...
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Municipal solid waste management has evolved from direct disposal to recycling and resource recovery, driven by sustainability. Life cycle assessment has played a crucial role in analyzing the environmental implications of different waste management strategies and selecting the most ecologically feasible options. Establishing best practices in municipal solid waste management based on competent life cycle assessment work is essential for policymakers to make informed decisions. This study reviewed 34 life cycle assessment studies on solid waste management systems in Asian countries, examining their life cycle stages, assessment techniques, and key outcomes. The analysis highlights include functional units, various life cycle assessment models (such as SimaPro and GaBi), life cycle impact assessment methods, impact categories, and alternative waste management methods. It is necessary to prioritize recycling, resource generation (such as decomposition, incineration, and anaerobic digestion), and waste reduction over landfilling to attain a high level of environmental friendliness. However, it is essential to observe that technologies necessitating large upfront investments and skilled labor are better suited for high-income countries. Conversely, low-income countries should prioritize waste reduction through recycling, waste depots, and methods that correlate with their existing capabilities to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills. By sharing existing methods, developing integrated municipal solid waste management systems can be accelerated in low-income nations, which can have a substantial positive economic impact. Therefore, decision-makers should consider social, economic, and environmental impacts when selecting an appropriate refuse management strategy for their nation. This analysis provides valuable insights into the scope of life cycle assessment studies and contributes to the selection of sustainable municipal solid waste management systems. These findings can be utilized by life cycle assessment practitioners, stakeholders, and Asian governments to inform policy development and decision-making processes.
F.S. Alavipoor; S. Karimi; J. Balist; A.H. Khakian
Abstract
This study recommends a GIS-based (Geographic Information Systems) and multi-criteria evaluation for site selection of gas power plant in Natanz City of Iran. The multi-criteria decision framework integrates legal requirements and physical constraints related to environmental and economic concerns. It ...
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This study recommends a GIS-based (Geographic Information Systems) and multi-criteria evaluation for site selection of gas power plant in Natanz City of Iran. The multi-criteria decision framework integrates legal requirements and physical constraints related to environmental and economic concerns. It also builds a hierarchy model for gas power plant suitability. The methodologies used for site selection include analytic hierarchy process (AHP), fuzzy set theory and weighted linear combination. The AHP (analytic hierarchy process) is a multi-criteria approach which is used to establish the relative importance of criteria. The AHP makes pair-wise comparisons of relative importance between hierarchy elements categorized by environmental decision criteria. In the next step, the fuzzy set theory is used to standardize criteria through different fuzzy membership functions and fuzzy layers are formed by using fuzzy operators in ArcGIS environment. Subsequently, they are categorized into 6 classes using Reclassify Function. Weighted linear combination is used to combine the criteria layers. Finally, the two approaches are analyzed in order to locate the most suitable site to establish a gas power plant. According to the results, using GAMMA fuzzy operator is considered suitable for this site selection.
