Environmental Science
A. Rakhmawati; B. Octavia; S. Marwati; D. Kristanti
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The utilization of disposable masks during and subsequent to the COVID-19 pandemic has led to the emergence of mask waste. The bacteria that thrive on mask waste have special characteristics. The objective of this research was to identify, choose, and analyze the bacteria present ...
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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The utilization of disposable masks during and subsequent to the COVID-19 pandemic has led to the emergence of mask waste. The bacteria that thrive on mask waste have special characteristics. The objective of this research was to identify, choose, and analyze the bacteria present in discarded face masks at landfill sites (Piyungan, Yogyakarta and Jatibarang, Semarang), coastal areas (Tanjung Pasir, Tangerang, and Marina, Semarang), as well as mangrove forests (Teluk Naga, Tangerang, and Tirang, Semarang) situated in Java, Indonesia.METHODS: The bacterial isolation was performed using minimal salt medium. Bacterial isolates were screened in a minimal salt medium supplemented with three types of masks (black duckbill, blue medical, white Korean filter) as the sole carbon and energy source at the various potential of hydrogen levels (5, 7, 9), temperatures (10, 30, 50 degrees Celsius), and sodium chloride concentrations (2.5, 5.0, 7.5 percent). The bacterial strains with the highest optical density values across all treatments were determined through the sequencing of the 16S ribosomal ribonucleic acid gene. These selected bacteria were then evaluated for their ability to produce biofilms under different potential of hydrogen and salt concentrations. The resistance to heavy metals (lead, copper, iron) and antibiotics (penicillin, chloramphenicol, tetracycline, erythromycin, ciprofloxacin, kanamycin) was also investigated.FINDINGS: A grand total of 183 bacterial strains were obtained, comprising 80 isolates from landfills, 47 isolates from beaches, and 56 isolates from mangroves. The selected bacteria identified as Bacillus cereus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus mirabilis, Staphylococcus sciuri, and Staphylococcus arlettae based on 16 svedberg ribosomal ribonucleic acid gene analysis. The chosen strains exhibited the capacity to generate biofilm across various potential of hydrogen and salinity conditions. Furthermore, these strains displayed resilience to heavy metals (such as lead, copper, and iron) as well as resistance to antibiotics (including penicillin, chloramphenicol, tetracycline, erythromycin, ciprofloxacin, and kanamycin).CONCLUSION: Mask waste discovered in landfills, beaches, and mangroves can promote bacterial growth. This study indicated that the selected bacteria are capable of flourishing through the utilization of various mask types as their exclusive carbon and energy source across a wide range of potential of hydrogen levels, temperatures, and salinity concentrations. The ability to produce biofilms, withstand antibiotics, and endure heavy metal ions provides a protective environment for bacteria, enhancing their resilience against environmental stresses, and antimicrobial agents. Analysis of bacterial profiles reveals the intricate connections between microorganisms and their surroundings. The results of this study have implications for public health, environmental pollution, and ecosystem dynamics.
Environmental Management
M. Kadłubek
Abstract
In this study, an investigation of long-term forecasts relating to the development of the transport sector in Poland is performed, including the ones by 2030 and 2050. Selected transport development forecasts from the perspective of the membership of Poland in the European Union are presented and most ...
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In this study, an investigation of long-term forecasts relating to the development of the transport sector in Poland is performed, including the ones by 2030 and 2050. Selected transport development forecasts from the perspective of the membership of Poland in the European Union are presented and most of all, from the perspective of national studies. The basement for the review was the prognosis of European Commission, Central Statistical Office, International Monetary Fund, Department of Economic, Sectoral and Agricultural Market of BGZ BNP PARIBAS S.A., Motor Transport Institute, Wise Europa Institute of Warsaw Transport Institute, as well as prognosis of the scientific experts. Despite temporary economic downturns, the demand for freight transport is steadily growing and, as shown by the forecasts, it will grow in the future. In 2018 the situation on the freight transport market was expected to remain stable, mainly due to the continuous high demand for international carriages.
Environmental Engineering
M. Hazbehiean; N. Mokhtarian; A. Hallajisani
Abstract
More than 5.5 trillion cigarettes are manufactured, and approximately 4.5 trillion cigarette butts are being scattered across the globe per year. These cigarette butts are considered as one of the most hazardous wastes and environmental threats in the world. Thermochemical techniques can be used to turn ...
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More than 5.5 trillion cigarettes are manufactured, and approximately 4.5 trillion cigarette butts are being scattered across the globe per year. These cigarette butts are considered as one of the most hazardous wastes and environmental threats in the world. Thermochemical techniques can be used to turn biomass and solid wastes into valuable final products. Pyrolysis is a comfortable thermochemical technique for turning biomass into biochars, biofuels, briquette solid fuels, and further valuable products such as activated carbons, carbon black, and printing ink. In this study, it was attempted to review the available researches about pyrolysis of cigarette butts with an emphasis on transforming them into carbonated solid and liquid products. It was found that, in addition to the process variables, the type of cigarette butts treatment has a significant effect on the yield and quality of the finished goods. Further studies on the pyrolysis of cigarette butts, especially microwave-assisted pyrolysis and hybrid waste pyrolysis, seemed to be necessary. Solving the technical issues associated with the pyrolysis of cigarette butts to produce the value-added goods would contribute to their application in waste disposal and recycling of other resources. Future studies should focus on the separation methods with the help of gas products to provide the heat required in the reactor. Moreover, mixing the sewage sludge material, as a feed, with cigarette butts and application of appropriate models and experiments to attain the products with specific properties are recommended. The results of this study can be used to eliminate the hazards of the cigarette butts scattered in the environment and create the added value for the pyrolysis process.
Environmental Science
N. Robertson; B. Oinam
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Land suitability analysis is a technique of attaining optimum utilization of natural available land resource. This study is the first attempt to map the potential rice suitability zone besides the existing rice cultivation zone in Imphal-Iril River catchment. The overriding ...
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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Land suitability analysis is a technique of attaining optimum utilization of natural available land resource. This study is the first attempt to map the potential rice suitability zone besides the existing rice cultivation zone in Imphal-Iril River catchment. The overriding objective of this study is to identify the land suitability potential zones for rice crop cultivation. The study was carried-out in Imphal-Iril River catchment, Manipur, India.METHODS: The suitability analysis was carried-out based on soil, climate and topographic parameters as the input variable using integrated geographical information system and analytic hierarchy process, a multi criteria decision based approach. To compute criteria weight for various suitability classes, pairwise comparison matrix was applied using analytical hierarchy process and the resulting weights were used for assigning criteria ranking.FINDINGS: The study result indicates that the major section of high and moderate potential suitability zones of rice is concentrated in the flatter valley regions of the catchment. The result also indicates that there is 79.15 km2 of the area which can be potentially cultivated other than the existing agriculture cover. The major patches of such zones are found in the north-western portion of the valley region in the catchment.CONCLUSION: This study clearly indicates, the potential zones lying in the foothills in the north-western which are still not under the agriculture cover have the potential to be cultivated as per the model result. The model result clearly indicates the potential of geographical information system integrated with analytical hierarchy process technique can be utilized to decide the weights of each individual parameter using experts’ opinions which can serve as a versatile tool to carry-out such kind of analysis which can aid policy makers.
Environmental Engineering
A. Bdour; A. Hejab; L. Almakhadmeh; M. Hawa
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Energy efficiency plays a crucial role in the success and sustainability of desalination technologies. Energy considerations are intricately linked with every aspect of planning, management, and operation in water desalination. This study aims to evaluate and enhance energy ...
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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Energy efficiency plays a crucial role in the success and sustainability of desalination technologies. Energy considerations are intricately linked with every aspect of planning, management, and operation in water desalination. This study aims to evaluate and enhance energy requirements, energy efficiency, and the economic feasibility of the Hashemite University photovoltaic brackish water reverse osmosis desalination plant at Hashemite University.METHODS: This study’s aims were achieved by conducting an energy audit and detailed assessment to identify the energy efficiency considerations that should be integrated into the facility’s planning, management, and operation strategies. To ensure accurate and reliable data collection and enable a comprehensive analysis of the plant’s energy performance, portable energy analyzers and loggers were employed to measure energy consumption, and measurements and verification techniques were recommended and implemented to establish the required baseline. A regression model was utilized to determine the potential energy savings resulting from energy conservation measures. This involved determining the expected savings by calculating the area between two curves: the new actual consumption of the brackish water reverse osmosis plant after implementing energy conservation measures and the curve generated by the model representing the usual consumption in the absence of energy conservation measures.FINDINGS: This study underscores the challenges faced by desalination, particularly regarding intensive energy consumption. It also presents innovative ways to achieve sustainability by emphasizing energy efficiency, integrating renewable energy, and advocating for a holistic water management approach. It was determined that the maximum specific energy consumption of the Hashemite University photovoltaic brackish water reverse osmosis plant was 0.625 kilowatts per cubic meter. This reflects the actual consumption and energy performance of the plant, which was found to be 192 percent more efficient than the estimated specific energy and 144 percent more efficient than the calculated specific energy. No energy conservation measures were implemented at this stage, as the plant was already operating efficiently. The measured data shall be considered as a baseline for future investigations and monitoring and evaluation of the plant. Many challenges were identified during the current work, including the low quality of raw water and minimal demand for freshwater, which resulted in lower operation hours outside of sun peak hours, while the direct utilization of photovoltaic energy is recommended.CONCLUSION: Renewable energy and energy recovery were recognized as potential sources for energy savings to achieve sustainable and long-term feasible operation and cost recovery at the Hashemite University photovoltaic brackish water reverse osmosis plant. The feasibility of the plant showed a fast payback period of up to 1.1 years. Utilizing clean solar photovoltaic energy to power the brackish water reverse osmosis plant led to a considerable reduction of greenhouse gases (mainly carbon dioxide). The estimated amount of carbon dioxide reduction during the project’s lifetime was 1,289,600 kilograms. The integration of solar energy showed promise for further enhancing energy efficiency and sustainability. This study contributes to making the desalination sector more environmentally friendly and economically viable, which is of paramount importance in addressing global water scarcity concerns.
Environmental Science
D. Sivakumar; P. Srikanth; P. W. Ramteke; J. Nouri
Abstract
The amount of agricultural waste generated by agro-based industries such as palm oil, rubber, and wood processing plants have more than tripled. Selangor, Perak, and Johor account for 65.7 percent of the total number of recognised pollution sources in the manufacturing and agro-based sectors. Livestock ...
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The amount of agricultural waste generated by agro-based industries such as palm oil, rubber, and wood processing plants have more than tripled. Selangor, Perak, and Johor account for 65.7 percent of the total number of recognised pollution sources in the manufacturing and agro-based sectors. Livestock dung is another major cause of pollution, contributing significantly to increase pollution levels in the environment. Large portion of agro-industrial waste is untreated and unused, it is frequently disposed of by replicating or dumping then again off the cuff landfilling. These untreated wastes wreak havoc on natural change by releasing ozone-depleting chemicals. Aside from that, the usage of fossil fuels is also leading to an increase in ozone-depleting compounds. Agro-waste is a huge environmental hazard in the current epidemic situation. The management of agro-waste and the conversion of agro-waste into a usable product through the application of biotechnological technologies in agriculture are receiving a lot of attention in today''s world. Solid state fermentation is the finest approach for converting agro-waste into valuable bio products among biotechnological instruments. Various agro-wastes such as wheat straw, barley straw, cotton stalks, sunflower stacks, and oil cakes from various agriculture goods, as well as major horticulture wastes such as apple, mango, orange peels, and potato peels, were used to create beneficial products in this review. All aspects of the production of industrial products from various agro-waste by using microorganisms such as Amycolatopsis Mediterranean, Xanthomonas campestries, and Aspergillus niger producing biopolymers such as polysaccharides, similar to starch, cellulose, agar, hemi-celluloses, gelatin, alginate, and carrageenan are covered in the current revels. Yeasts and cyanobacteria are commonly employed to make bio-lipids, whereas Bacillus species are utilised to make proteins and bio-enzymes. Cucumber and orange strips, on the other hand, have recently been employed to create proteins and bio-enzymes. As a result, this review covers the many forms of agro-wastes and their by-products as well as biotechnological technologies used to treat them.
Environmental Management
L. Sulistyowati; N. Nurhasanah; E. Riani; M. R. Cordova
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Heavy metals are categorized as hazardous pollutants due to their incapability in decomposing and undergoing bioaccumulation and biomagnification. Heavy metal pollution is a global issue, particularly in emerging nations such as Indonesia. In this case, sediments contribute ...
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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Heavy metals are categorized as hazardous pollutants due to their incapability in decomposing and undergoing bioaccumulation and biomagnification. Heavy metal pollution is a global issue, particularly in emerging nations such as Indonesia. In this case, sediments contribute to pollution dispersion because they can transport, mobilize, and redistribute toxic compounds. The Cisadane river is one of 15 watersheds in Indonesia with the highest restoration priority. Therefore, it is essential to conduct study on the sediment quality of this river. This investigation aimed to evaluate the levels of cadmium, chromium, and lead in the sediments to assess the conditions of the Cisadane River.METHODS: At eight stations (representing the midstream and downstream region), surface sediment samples were collected using a van Veen sediment grab based on the hypothesis that heavy metal pollution originated from land-based activities and migrated down river estuaries. The Thermo Scientific iCAP 7400 was utilized to assess heavy metals (cadmium, chromium, and lead) by adopting prior research methodologies and method guidelines.FINDINGS: Except for lead, which surpassed the interim sediment quality standard, the levels of heavy metals observed in the midstream and downstream sections of the Cisadane River were found to be well below the guideline level. In this case, lead was the metal with the highest concentration in the sediments of the Cisadane River, followed by chromium and cadmium. The enrichment of heavy metals in river sediments was most likely caused by soil leaching, municipal and industrial sewage, as well as land waste disposal. After the landfill area, there were two areas with the highest concentration. Therefore, this investigation indicated the existence of landfills as point sources of heavy metals. Regarding specifics, two sites following the landfill constitute the apex of heavy metal amplification.CONCLUSION: This analysis shows that the sediment's cadmium, chromium, and lead contents are below the standards' threshold and safe for the habitat. Cadmium, chromium and lead exceed sediment quality requirements in sample sites after landfills, assumed to be due to leachate discharge and landfill activities. This study further also reveals that landfills are point sources of heavy metals. In this case, the heavy metals are two to four times higher in one kilometer from the landfill's leachate discharge. Therefore, the Enforcement of the Indonesia Waste Law Number 18 Year 2008 would have replaced unsanitary dumping including implementation of physicochemical, biological, and combination remediation techniques, with a vastly superior waste management system.
Environmental Management
V. G. Shcherbak; I. Brizgan; V. Chevhanova; L. Svistun; O. Hryhoryeva
Abstract
This study provides a comprehensive scientific analysis of contemporary problems resulted from the forced migration of the Ukrainian population and its impact on the sustainable development of 47 host communities of Poltava region. By means of cluster analysis 4 clusters of 26 rural territories were ...
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This study provides a comprehensive scientific analysis of contemporary problems resulted from the forced migration of the Ukrainian population and its impact on the sustainable development of 47 host communities of Poltava region. By means of cluster analysis 4 clusters of 26 rural territories were identified. They differ in the size of local budgets and the involvement level of forcedly displaced population into the local economy. Factor analysis showed that the involvement level of forcedly displaced population in the region's economy is determined by 2 groups according to 10 indicators. 8 indicators of the first factor determine 2/3 of the dispersion of refugees' impact on rural economy. The first factor reduces the gross regional product by 61.75%. The indicators of the second factor shows a positive impact and determines 15% of the dispersion. The use of game theory to identify conflicts of interest between refugees and host communities was justified. The reasonability to use the taxonomy method to construct a map of positioning rural areas according to the size of local budgets and the degree of integration of refugees is justified. The use of the created map identified the “growth points” in particular clusters. As a result of the implementation of the proposed conflict resolution mechanism between refugees and host communities, the budget of the rural areas of the first cluster increased by 18%, the second cluster by 14.5%, the third cluster by 13%, the fourth by 8%, refugee participation by 30%.
Environmental Science
G. Kowmudi; V. Rashmi; K. Anoop; N. Krishnaveni; S. Naveen
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Determining food composition and bioactivity is critical to both theoretical and applied research in food science and technology. This is frequently used to determine the nutritional value and overall acceptance of the food by consumers. The current study's goal is to determine ...
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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Determining food composition and bioactivity is critical to both theoretical and applied research in food science and technology. This is frequently used to determine the nutritional value and overall acceptance of the food by consumers. The current study's goal is to determine the macronutrient, mineral and antioxidant activity of selected wheat and soybean varieties with the potential to be useful in the food industry to develop value-added products that are safe for consumption.METHODS: The proximate and mineral composition, gluten characterization, total phenolic contents, and antioxidant activity of three wheat cultivars and five soybean cultivars that are indigenous to India were studied.FINDINGS: Wheat varieties were found to be rich in carbohydrates (65.8-68.8 percent) and gluten (27.2-28.6 percent), whereas soybean varieties were found to be the richest source of protein (32.8-33.7 percent), fat (17.1-17.6 percent), fiber (21.7-28.8 percent), polyphenols (2.76-3.59 milligram gallic acid equivalent per gram, and antioxidant activity (97-123 microgram ascorbic acid equivalent per gram). These samples were also found to have significant content of essential minerals.CONCLUSION: The tested samples had a high nutritional value and energy content and could be a good source of nutrition for a large population. A comprehensive report on the proximate and mineral composition, total phenolic content and antioxidant activity of the wheat and soybean varieties collected from the Rewa district, India, was reported.
Environmental Management
. Nuraeni; N.I. Hawa; D. Utari; E. Parahyanti
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: A lousy environment has the potential to be a predictor of disease transmission, which ultimately results in malnutrition among children. Meanwhile, the mother's role is crucial in the first 1000 days of life. This research aimed to determine the determinants of maternal behavior ...
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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: A lousy environment has the potential to be a predictor of disease transmission, which ultimately results in malnutrition among children. Meanwhile, the mother's role is crucial in the first 1000 days of life. This research aimed to determine the determinants of maternal behavior in preventing chronic malnutrition in children on the basis of environmental aspects.METHODS: This cross-sectional study with a quantitative design was conducted in Surabaya, Indonesia, with a sample of 208 pregnant women and 222 mothers of toddlers. A questionnaire was used to identify information related to the dependent variable, chronic malnutritional prevention behavior, on the basis of environmental aspects, and independent variables related to the determinants of maternal behavior. Data were analyzed via Chi-square test using the Statistical Program for Social Sciences.FINDINGS: As many as 80.8 percent of pregnant women and 65.8 percent of mothers under five had good chronic malnutritionchronic malnutrition prevention behavior. The perception of behavioral control in using clean water is significantly related to the behavior of pregnant women and mothers of toddlers, with significance values of 0.012 and 0.013, respectively. The perceived behavioral control towards washing hands with soap has a significant relationship with the behavior of pregnant women and mothers of toddlers, with significance values of 0.003 and 0.005, respectively. Pregnant women with poor behavioral control in washing their hands with clean water and soap were 2.963 times more likely to have poor chronic malnutritionchronic malnutritional prevention behavior than the comparison group. Subjective norms of using clean water and washing hands with clean water and soap in pregnant women are significantly related to chronic malnutritionchronic malnutrition prevention behavior, with significance values of 0.011 and 0.049, respectively, and odds ratios of 2 and 2.280, respectively.CONCLUSION: Environment-based chronic malnutritionchronic malnutritional prevention behavior in mothers is primarily influenced by perceived behavioral control and subjective norms. The family can be part of the subjective norms that drive aspects of attitudes and perceptions of behavioral control related to environment-based chronic malnutritionchronic malnutrition prevention practices. Meanwhile, the aspects of controlling maternal behavior can be intervened through efforts to minimize obstacles and increase the perception of benefits from behavior to prevent chronic malnutrition. Maternal behavioral change interventions could encourage the implementation of good behavior in preventing malnutrition in children. In the end, children could learn the behavior given by their mothers and adopt it.
Environmental Science
D. Pringgenies; W. Ari Setyati; F. Feliatra; D. Ariyanto
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Mangroves are known to contain tannins, flavonoids, and quinones, which have the potential to be antibacterial, effective even against multidrug-resistant bacteria. Mangroves also have antifungal and antiviral properties. Although, mangroves are known for their use as medicinal ...
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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Mangroves are known to contain tannins, flavonoids, and quinones, which have the potential to be antibacterial, effective even against multidrug-resistant bacteria. Mangroves also have antifungal and antiviral properties. Although, mangroves are known for their use as medicinal ingredients, information regarding symbiont bacteria’s antibacterial and antifungal potential is still scarce. Therefore, this study aimed to examine symbiont bacteria in the fruit and leaves of Xylocarpus granatum as additional raw materials for anti-acne cosmetic creams and moisturisers.METHODS: Symbiont bacteria were isolated using the pour plate method through Zobell 2216E and incubated for 2 x 24 hours at 27.5 Celcius degree. Afterwards, 13 isolates were successfully isolated and characterised based on their morphology. Further, everal tests were conducted, including the antibacterial test, antifungal test, molecular identification, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The pathogenic bacteria used in the antibacterial test were Staphylococcus aureus, Vibrio harveyi, and Vibrio alginolyticusFINDINGS: The antibacterial test results showed that eight isolates were capable of producing an inhibition zone against S. aureus, seven isolates were positive for antibacterial activity against Vibrio harveyi, and 10 isolates were positive for antibacterial activity against Vibrio alginolyticus. The pathogenic fungi used in the antifungal test were Malassezia furfur and Candida albicans. The antifungal test results demonstrated that six isolates could produce inhibition zones against Malassezia furfur and Candida albicans. Furthermore, molecular identification was carried out on six potential isolates based on the antibacterial and antifungal tests, which were X2.52, X1.65, X1.64, X1.53, X1.54, and X1.63. The molecular identification results revealed the occurrence of four species in the Xylocarpus granatum mangroves, namely, Sinomicrobium oceani, Proteus mirabilis, Pseudomonas khazarica, and Alcaligenes aquatilis.CONCLUSION: The study found that the mangrove symbiont bacteria had antibacterial and antifungal potential. The compound with the highest concentration in six isolates was 9-octadecenoic acid, methyl ester. This type of content has antibacterial potential and is also predicted to have antifungal potential.
Environmental Engineering
O. Phewnil; T. Pattamapitoon; N. Semvimol; W. Wararam; K. Duangmal; A. Intaraksa; K. Chunkao; P. Maskulrath; S. Hanthayung; P. Wichittrakarn
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Landslide disasters in Thailand between 1970 and 2011 revealed a notable pattern: they primarily originated on mountain slopes, distinguished by a deeper soil profile. This soil profile comprised clay loam and sandy loam textures and was situated over aged geological formations ...
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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Landslide disasters in Thailand between 1970 and 2011 revealed a notable pattern: they primarily originated on mountain slopes, distinguished by a deeper soil profile. This soil profile comprised clay loam and sandy loam textures and was situated over aged geological formations of granite and shale rocks. The affected areas included the southern and northern provinces of Thailand.This study investigated the consequences of landslide hazards on stream water and sediment quality in two watersheds: the Mae Phul–Mae Prong watershed in Uttaradit province, the northern part of Thailand, and the Klong Kram watershed in Surat Thani province, the southern part of Thailand. These watersheds had experienced recurrent landslides, primarily on mountain slopes characterized by deep clayey and sandy loam soils over old granite and shale rock types as well as old granite limestone.METHODS: During wet and dry periods in April and November 2015, 108 samples were collected from 18 stations (9 stations in the Klong Kram watershed and 9 stations in the Mae Phul–Mae Prong watershed). These samples included upland soil, stream water, and sediments. For upland soils, 1 kilogram samples were collected through auger and V-shaped pit techniques using a stainless-steel spade, with composite sampling conducted at 0–30 centimeters across all 18 stations. Stream water was collected in one part using a 1-L polyethylene bottle at 30 centimeter from the stream layer, while other samples were compositely collected in sterilized glass bottles to determine coliforms. Soil and sediment samples were compositely collected from the bottom using a stainless-steel spade. All samples were stored at 4 degrees Celsius and transported to a laboratory for analysis. The insight gained from these collection efforts elucidated the dynamics of landslide impacts at the spatial scale for the two watersheds.FINDINGS: Most water samples met Thai surface water quality standard for various parameters; however, microbial contamination of the water samples attributed to community activities along stream banks was detected. Notably, arsenic was consistently detected in upland soil, stream water, and sediment samples. For Uttaradit, the average arsenic concentrations were 0.22 ± 0.09 milligram per kilogram, 0.01 ± 0.14 milligram per liter, and 9.74 ± 4.42 milligram per kilogram in upland soil, water, and sediment samples, respectively. For Surat Thani, arsenic concentrations were 87.63 ± 208.83 milligram per kilogram, 0.01 ± 0.01 milligram per liter, and 19.44 ± 36.38 milligram per kilogram in upland soil, water, and sediment samples, respectively, particularly near landslide scars where the arsenic concentrations were significantly higher in sediments and upland soils compared with stream water, highlighting the role of landslides near streams. These data suggest that sediment transport from upland soil in the landslide scar into stream water affects water quality, particularly in terms of arsenic concentration near the landslide scar, often surpassing natural standards.CONCLUSION: The study concluded that stream water was directly affected by landslides as these watersheds were unsuitable for consumption due to arsenic and microbial contaminations. This conclusion emphasizes the critical need to incorporate landslide hazard considerations into watershed management practices to safeguard downstream communities and preserve water resources.
Environmental Engineering
N. Nurmiati; P. Periadnadi; K. Kartiwan; T.W. Edelwis
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Trichoderma species (Trichoderma sp.) is commonly found in nature, particularly in soil and roots, often thriving in plants rich in cellulose such as oil palm. Therefore, this study aimed to characterize Trichoderma sp. in each substrate as well as to assess cellulolytic and ...
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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Trichoderma species (Trichoderma sp.) is commonly found in nature, particularly in soil and roots, often thriving in plants rich in cellulose such as oil palm. Therefore, this study aimed to characterize Trichoderma sp. in each substrate as well as to assess cellulolytic and ligninolytic potential in vitro using a specific medium. Characterization and utilization of the plant were examined to efficiently manage empty fruit bunch (EFB) waste in Indonesian oil palm plantations. By exploring the biological, ecological, and biochemical attributes of Trichoderma sp., this study examined the mechanisms associated with efficacy in bioconversion processes and waste remediation.METHODS: A survey method was used to determine sampling locations, and purposive sampling was utilized in the field. Furthermore, several stages were undertaken including isolation, identification, as well as testing of morphology and potential in vitro.RESULTS: The results showed that the growth characteristics of Trichoderma sp. in filling a petri dish spanned approximately five days, forming colonies with a dark green hue. Microscopically, the isolates consisted of conidiophores, phialides, and conidia. Meanwhile, in vitro potential was assessed through cellulolytic and lignocellulolytic assays, with each isolate demonstrating varying capabilities in breaking down cellulose and lignocellulose. The highest cellulase activity (3.55 units per gram) was observed in enzyme starter granules treated with air drying. The highest viability per gram was found in spore inoculum (17.0 x 107) with air drying treatment. The greatest reduction in weight of oil palm EFB waste (65.3 percent) was achieved through the application of Trichoderma sp. enzyme starter granules with air drying treatment. Furthermore, eight isolates demonstrated cellulolytic and ligninolytic potential. Isolates sourced from soil had rapid growth on starter and baglog mediums, indicating potential for subsequent field applications as a biodegradation agent for organic waste.CONCLUSION: Based on the macroscopic (shape and color of mycelium) and microscopic characteristics (mycelium form), a total of eight Trichoderma sp. isolates were obtained. During the potential test, it was observed each isolate had different cellulolytic and ligninolytic activities. This study provided valuable insights into the diversity and enzymatic potential of Trichoderma sp. fungi, underscoring the importance of selecting suitable strains and optimizing cultivation conditions for various biotechnological applications. By exploring cellulolytic and ligninolytic capabilities, the results contributed to the development of more efficient and sustainable strategies for organic waste management and bioconversion. In general, this study represented a significant milestone in the quest for sustainable waste management solutions in agriculture, offering a promising pathway towards mitigating environmental impact and promoting the long-term sustainability of oil palm cultivation.
Environmental Engineering
V. Babenko; V. Sidorov; Y. Koniaieva; L. Kysliuk
Abstract
This article discusses the prospects for the development of the implementation of scientific and technical cooperation. On the example of international cooperation between Ukraine and Chile, there are approaches to improving the procedure for developing cooperation priorities. The current state of these ...
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This article discusses the prospects for the development of the implementation of scientific and technical cooperation. On the example of international cooperation between Ukraine and Chile, there are approaches to improving the procedure for developing cooperation priorities. The current state of these relations does not reflect real trends in the development of international economic relations in the vector of strengthening the scientific and technical component. Based on the analysis of analytical materials, one of the priority areas of the joint development of scientific and technical issues may be the use of non-traditional renewable energy technologies. Both in Ukraine and in Chile there are objective factors (natural, resource, socio-economic, environmental-technological) for their development. For Ukraine, it is interesting the experience of the scientific and production implementation of these technologies and the organizational and economic support of these priorities in the context of state and regional policy. All these aspects, including through the exchange of intellectual products, will make it possible to increase the effectiveness of support policies, the innovative susceptibility of subjects of production and business activities of Ukraine and the corresponding development of producers and consumers' motivation to non-conventional renewable energy technology.
Environmental Engineering
L. Salvaraji; R. Avoi; M.S. Jeffree; S. Saupin; H.R. Toha; S.B. Shamsudin
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Air pollution is associated with population growth and economic advancement. Severe cardiovascular complications that require extensive medical service are aggravated by air pollutants. This study illustrates the trend and correlation of cardiovascular disease hospital admission ...
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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Air pollution is associated with population growth and economic advancement. Severe cardiovascular complications that require extensive medical service are aggravated by air pollutants. This study illustrates the trend and correlation of cardiovascular disease hospital admission with air pollutants in Sabah for the past 9 years (2010–2019). The additional information obtained from this study will be useful to enhance proper environmental management and reduce air pollution in the cities of Sabah.METHOD: Ecological study design was utilized with cardiovascular disease hospital admission and ambient air pollutants in Sabah retrospective data. Data were collected from four districts with established continuous air quality monitoring stations. Collected data were analysed spatially and statistically. Autoregressive integrated moving average modelling was implemented to forecast the cardiovascular disease hospital admission.FINDING: Kota Kinabalu recorded the highest hospital admissions for cardiovascular disease, followed by Sandakan, Tawau and Keningau. The cardiovascular disease hospital admission prevalence rate in Kota Kinabalu was 12.45 per 1,000 population, followed by Sandakan, Tawau and Keningau (4.54; 4.18; and 5.88 per 1,000 population) in 2019. The cardiovascular hospital admissions increased in Kota Kinabalu, Sandakan and Tawau. The nitrogen dioxide (<0.04 ppm), carbon monoxide (<9 ppm), ozone (<0.05 ppm) and PM10 (<100 µg/m3) gases detected are below the national standard limit levels. In the later years of the series, the ozone and fine particulate gases intensify. Carbon monoxide has the highest positive correlation with cardiovascular disease hospital admission compared to other air pollutants. The autoregressive integrated moving average (0,1,1) with carbon monoxide and ozone as external regressors is the model with minimum Akaike information criterion.CONCLUSION: The carbon monoxide concentration in ambient air illustrates a potential risk for the increasing cardiovascular disease hospital admission number in Sabah. The study findings provide evidence-based source for the healthcare management team, policymakers, and community to sustain clean and safe ambient air.
Environmental Management
A.D. Santoso; F.D. Arianti; E.S. Rohaeni; B. Haryanto; M.D. Pertiwi; L.P. Panggabean; A. Prabowo; S. Sundari; S.P. Wijayanti; I.N. Djarot; F.D. Kurniawati; F.L. Sahwan; T. Prasetyo; A. Barkah; T.A. Adibroto; R. Ridlo; I. Febijanto; A.A. Wasil; S. Lusiana; R. Rosmeika; R.B. Heryanto
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Substantial quantities of livestock waste and organic pollutants, such as nitrogen and phosphate, which pose environmental risks are generated from agriculture activities. A combination of paunch manure and rice straw is used as organic fertilizer. Therefore, this study confirmed ...
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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Substantial quantities of livestock waste and organic pollutants, such as nitrogen and phosphate, which pose environmental risks are generated from agriculture activities. A combination of paunch manure and rice straw is used as organic fertilizer. Therefore, this study confirmed sustainability of organic fertilizer from paunch manure and rice straw waste.METHODS: Data were collected through focus group discussions and the closure of questionnaires which contained 29 attributes related to environmental, economic, social, and technological dimensions. The data collected was analyzed using the Multidimensional Scaling method, Rapfish software, and Monte Carlo analysis to ascertain the level of sustainability status and leverage attributes, and examine scoring errors and variations.RESULTS: Sustainability index for organic fertilizer production was 74.55 percent. The result showed that the method contributed to the growth of sustainability in various operational phases, including the processing and commercialization of organic fertilizer. According to analysis of the four dimensions, the environmental dimension held the highest leverage value at 90.1 percent, followed by social, economical, and technological dimensions at 70.50 percent, 63.69 percent, and 73.93 percent, respectively. This study identified seven leverage attributes that are very influential to sustainability of organic fertilizer production. These include water use and raw material efficiency, potential business scale increase, market absorption, the potential for public unrest, the manager or worker level of expertise in the manufacture of organic fertilizer as well as the process used to determine its quality and output.CONCLUSION: The proposed inquiry conducted within the context of this study identified the pivotal factors that influenced organic fertilizer supply framework as the quality, quantity, and market absorption of organic production. As a result, the o use of agricultural waste as a valuable addition to a perfect social, economical, and technological development system needs to be encouraged. The study is significant because it offered information about the viability of producing organic fertilizer in Indonesia, which the government and other stakeholders may use to guide their policies and programs.
Environmental Management
S. Syafrudin; J.M. Masjhoer; M. Maryono
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Population growth and economic activity in rural areas are factors driving the waste generation rate. Rural waste management generally still applies conventional patterns and has the potential to damage the environment and threaten human health. Challenges and remedial measures ...
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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Population growth and economic activity in rural areas are factors driving the waste generation rate. Rural waste management generally still applies conventional patterns and has the potential to damage the environment and threaten human health. Challenges and remedial measures for solid waste management in rural areas differ from urban ones. The first step in planning a waste management system is to identify the generation and characteristics of waste. Unfortunately, data on waste generation and characteristics in rural areas in developing countries are still minimal. The problems are mainly caused by the development of the tourism industry, and it certainly requires waste management as the solution. However, due to the unavailability of waste generation data, this study aims to measure and analyze waste characteristics in the southern zone of Gunungkidul Regency.METHODS: Primary data collection was taken from 16 randomly selected villages in six sub-districts in Gunungkidul Regency. A door-to-door survey was carried to 110 residential and 160 non-residential samples for eight consecutive days using the Indonesian National Standard 19-3964-1994 method. The processed data were analyzed using a quantitative descriptive method.FINDINGS: The results showed that the average waste generation was 0.29 kilograms per person per day. It shows that the waste generation in the study area is categorized in small-town classification. 75 percent of solid waste generated is food waste and leaves. Meanwhile, paper, plastic, glass, wood, other materials, and fabrics were calculated at 11.8 percent, 10.1 percent, 1.7 percent, 0.5 percent, 0.5 percent, and 0.4 percent respectively. Housing produced less recycled waste as indicated by a high density of 110.6 kilograms per cubic meter. Waste generation and composition are influenced by socioeconomic factors such as economic activity and lifestyle, geographic conditions, and downtown attractiveness.CONCLUSION: The characteristics of the waste produced by the southern zone of Gunungkidul Regency are not much different from most rural areas in developing countries. Rural waste management needs to see organic waste as the main management material. Organic waste processing through composting can be a future solution, but the active role of residents determines its success. In addition, this method can help extend the life of the landfill capacity because the volume of organic waste will be reduced by half.
Environmental Engineering
P. Saxena; S. Sonwani
Abstract
The indoor air quality is much more matter of concern as relative to ambient or outdoor air quality, especially in the context of human health. However, very few studies have been reported for remediation of indoor ozone by plant species. The main objective of this study is to evaluate ozone deposition ...
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The indoor air quality is much more matter of concern as relative to ambient or outdoor air quality, especially in the context of human health. However, very few studies have been reported for remediation of indoor ozone by plant species. The main objective of this study is to evaluate ozone deposition velocities and ozone removal effectiveness of three indoor ornamental plant species (Dracaena deremensis, Tagetes erecta and Lilium candidum) that can be used in the remediation of indoor ozone. Ozone deposition velocity was estimated through measurement of leaf surface areas of selected plant species and exposing them to 3-regular daytime cycles where ozone concentrations under controlled conditions first increased from 8 h followed by 16 h in the absence of ozone. Values of ozone deposition velocity after the completion of first exposure were found maximum (7.7 m/h) in case of Dracaena deremensis and minimum (0.5 m/h) after the completion third exposure in Lilium candidum. The ozone removal effectiveness found in the range of 0.7 to 13% for leaf surface area to room volume ratio of 0.06/m with reference to an air exchange system and background loss present in an indoor environment. Among the selected plant species, Dracaena deremensis has got the highest ozone deposition velocity as well as ozone removal effectiveness and Lilium candidum has got the lowest values. Hence, this study concludes with the sustainable use of ornamental plant species in the remediation of the indoor ozone pollution, which can further help in improving the health condition of the residents.
Environmental Engineering
A.M. Vazquez; A. Samudio-Oggero; H.D. Nakayama; I. Cantero-García
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The Municipal Park of Areguais is located in the Central Department of Paraguay. Part of this Park is within the area of influence of Ypakarai Lake, which is widely recognized by vacationersfor its natural spaces. Despite being one of the most representative ecological reserves ...
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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The Municipal Park of Areguais is located in the Central Department of Paraguay. Part of this Park is within the area of influence of Ypakarai Lake, which is widely recognized by vacationersfor its natural spaces. Despite being one of the most representative ecological reserves in the country, annual waterquality reports indicate the presence of a high content of pollutants; mainly nitrogen, phosphorus, andfecalcolifoirs, among others. These conditions promote the proliferation of cyanobacteria which consume the available oxygenand compromise the reserve’s flora and fauna. Following several laboratory tests, the present work has the objective of evaluating the impact of thepark’s recently constructed wetland’son the treatment of residual waters.There are several parameters evaluated in thisstudy of final wastewater discharge disposal treatmentthrough a constructed wetland of horizontal flow with Typhadomingensis. The objective is to develop an adequate system for the treatment of residual waters that can be replicated in places with similar conditions.METHODS: The evaluation consisted of analyzing the residual water and finding the removal percentage for each of the following parameters such as chemical oxygen demand; biochemical oxygen demand; total phosphorus; total nitrogen; fecal coliforms; hydrogen potential; and temperature. The quality of the treated water was determined by comparing it with the limits established in Article 7 of Resolution Number 222/02 of the Environment Secretary for effluents. The results demonstrate that this system is aviableoption for the removal of fecal coliforms and nutrients such as phosphorus and nitrogen.FINDINGS: In terms of the quality of the treated water, the parameters studied are within the limits,established by Resolution Number 222/02of the Environment Secretary for Class 2 waters, for water to be discharged into the receiving body. The results obtainedwere: 88.9 percent fecal coliform removal; 84.9 percent total nitrogen; 73.3 percentchemical oxygen demand; 61.4 percent biochemical oxygen demand; and 14.2 percent Total Phosphorus. Considering Resolution 222/02, the biochemical oxygen demand, Total Nitrogen, and Total Phosphorus were outside the admissible limits.CONCLUSION: It is very feasible for wastewater generated in public parks to be treated through the construction of sub-surface flowwetlands.This study confirms that the treated wastewater is within the establishedlimitsfor all the parameters: temperature, hydrogen potential, biochemical oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, and fecal coliforms. This model of water treatment can be easily adopted.
Environmental Engineering
D. Utari; N.I. Hawa; G. Fizumli; H. Agustina
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Plastic pollution is increasing globally along with the growing consumption patterns of the global community, leading to practicality (social behavior). The primary contributors to pollution are single-use plastic (SUP) items and inadequate waste management techniques. This ...
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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Plastic pollution is increasing globally along with the growing consumption patterns of the global community, leading to practicality (social behavior). The primary contributors to pollution are single-use plastic (SUP) items and inadequate waste management techniques. This research attempts to examine local communities’ determinants and behavioral patterns regarding plastic waste management.METHODS: This cross-sectional analytical study includes 195 respondents and conducted at Antang Lake, Makassar. The social sciences statistical package version 26 was used to perform chi-square tests and multiple regression analysis to examine the main elements influencing individual behavior toward plastic waste management. A survey instrument was provided to participants for data collection.FINDINGS: The chi-square test results show that the knowledge variable has a statistically significant relationship with plastic waste management behavior at home, with a test statistical value of 0.002. Respondents with limited knowledge are 2.603 times more likely to have poor household plastic waste management behavior than those with substantial knowledge. The knowledge variable is also significantly related to household plastic waste management behavior simultaneously with a statistical test value of 0.000, showing a strong relationship. This variable influences 11.8 percent of the behavior in question. Attitude and action variables do not have a significant relationship partially or simultaneously with household plastic waste management behavior.CONCLUSION: Increased plastic consumption has led to microplastic pollution, environmental damage, and deteriorating health conditions. Thus, intervention is required to improve optimal waste management behavior in the community. Increasing awareness about environmental management and educating the public on the impact of microplastics on family health can contribute to enhanced knowledge awareness. This research aims encourage greater awareness of environmental condition to minimize toxicity resulting from the negative impacts of plastic waste.
Environmental Science
K. Narozhnykh
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Elemental status is associated with the biochemical processes occurring in the body. Beef, consumed worldwide, is an excellent source of iron in terms of quantity and bioavailability, providing up to 18 percent of the daily requirement. The level of iron in muscle tissue affects ...
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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Elemental status is associated with the biochemical processes occurring in the body. Beef, consumed worldwide, is an excellent source of iron in terms of quantity and bioavailability, providing up to 18 percent of the daily requirement. The level of iron in muscle tissue affects beef quality. Current methods used to assess iron content in cattle muscles are laborious and complex. Accordingly, the current study aimed to develop a fast and simple method to assess the elemental status of animals in vivo and in a minimally invasive way based on an effective model for iron-level prediction by using blood-analysis results toward ecological well-being. This method can overcome the shortcomings of currently used approaches.METHODS: Samples of diaphragmatic muscle weighing 100 grams, as well as blood samples, were obtained from Hereford cattle bred under typical conditions of an industrial complex in the south of Western Siberia, Russia. Elemental analysis was performed by atomic absorption method with electrothermal atomization. Regression analysis was conducted to estimate the relationships between iron level in the muscle tissue of Hereford cattle and independent values (blood parameters). An optimum model for predicting the iron level was established. The coefficients of regression models were calculated using the least squares method, and the values of the dependent variable corresponded with the Gaussian ones. A high correlation existed between independent variables.FINDINGS: An optimum model for predicting the iron level in the muscle tissue of Hereford cattle was established. It contained three predictors, namely, number of erythrocytes, color index, and globulin, as a result of selection based on internal and external-quality criteria. The model meets the necessary assumptions: the residuals are normally distributed, no autocorrelations exist, and the observations are influential. Furthermore, no signs of multicollinearity exist between the main effects of the model (variance-inflation factor = 1.2–1.7).CONCLUSION: The model can be used for the intravital analysis of iron level in the muscle tissue of cattle. In contrast to currently used methods, the approach proposed can be used for intravital analysis of the level of iron in muscle tissue, which is the most important advantage of the developed approach. The results can be used in ecology to assess ecological well-being and determine the allowable load of iron in animals. For veterinary medicine, the resulting model enables the evaluation of the iron level in the muscle tissue of Hereford cattle during their lifetime. Studying the effect of different factors on meat quality may allow to decrease or avoid useless measures used in farming, such as the excessive use of feed additives. In turn, these measures can decrease resource exploitation and increase farming productivity. Therefore, the results can guide the further development of sustainable farming.
Environmental Science
W.O.S. Rizki; E. Ratnaningsih; D.G.T. Andini; S. Komariah; A.T. Simbara; R. Hertadi
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Petroleum-based plastics produce tremendous amounts of plastic waste every year, which contributes to environmental problems. Biological polymers, such as polyhydroxybutyrate, have caught attention as an ecofriendly substitute to petroleum-based plastics. The present study ...
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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Petroleum-based plastics produce tremendous amounts of plastic waste every year, which contributes to environmental problems. Biological polymers, such as polyhydroxybutyrate, have caught attention as an ecofriendly substitute to petroleum-based plastics. The present study focused on the production, enhancement, and characterization of polyhydroxybutyrate from the prospective local bacterium Halomonas elongata. This research aimed to develop an environmentally sustainable material for reducing the accumulation of plastic waste in the ecosystem.METHODS: A local bacterial strain from Mud Crater Bledug Kuwu, Grobogan, Central Java, Indonesia, was isolated and identified as Halomonas elongata. Nile red staining method confirmed that this bacterium accumulated polyhydroxybutyrate. The effect of incubation time, sodium chloride concentration, nitrogen, and carbon sources were evaluated via gas chromatography to enhance its productivity. The functional groups of isolated polyhydroxybutyrate were analyzed using nuclear magnetic resonance and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Morphology and composition were demonstrated by scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy. Thermogravimetric analysis, differential thermogravimetry, and differential thermal analysis were used to analyze thermal stability.FINDINGS: Halomonas elongata produced polyhydroxybutyrate utilizing glucose as a carbon source, as evidenced by orange-fluorescence colonies under ultraviolet light. The optimum condition of polyhydroxybutyrate production was achieved when the bacterium was cultivated in a high medium containing 5 percent sodium chloride, 0.2 percent yeast extract, and 5 percent glucose (as measured by weight per volume) after 72 hours of incubation. The maximum polyhydroxybutyrate production in this medium reached 2.93 ± 0.03 gram per liter dry cell weight and 78 ± 1 percent polyhydroxybutyrate concentration. Structural elucidation studies revealed that the biopolymer produced by this bacterium was high-purity polyhydroxybutyrate, as proven by the presence of functional groups and proton resonance signals in the monomer structure. The isolated polyhydroxybutyrate consisted of 14 percent carbon and 86 percent oxygen. Thermal stability analysis showed that the isolated polyhydroxybutyrate had a maximum decomposition temperature of 270 degrees Celsius. Micrographically, the isolated polyhydroxybutyrate appeared as a sheet structure with interconnected fibers measuring 0.7–0.8 micromter in length. This finding also demonstrates that the isolated polyhydroxybutyrate has good thermal stability given that fibers linked each polyhydroxybutyrate molecule, which boosted the structure of polyhydroxybutyrate.CONCLUSION: This study successfully synthesized polyhydroxybutyrate using a local strain of Halomonas elongata, with glucose as a carbon source. Physicochemical characterization revealed that polyhydroxybutyrate from this bacterium has a high thermal stability. The yield of polyhydroxybutyrate can be increased through the improvement of production parameters. This research emphasizes an important milestone toward the large-scale production of polyhydroxybutyrate for application as food packaging while reducing environmental issues.
Environmental Science
E. Pratiwi; P. Lestari; Y. Nugraha; W. Hartatik; Z. Susanti; I.G.M. Subiksa; A. Kasno; T.A. Adriany; Y.S. Fatma; A.F. Nababan; A.A. Rivaie
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Zinc deficiency is a significant global health concern, affecting around two billion people due to insufficient dietary intake. The extensive utilization of cereal-based meals with inadequate zinc content and limited bioavailability stands as the primary cause for this issue. ...
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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Zinc deficiency is a significant global health concern, affecting around two billion people due to insufficient dietary intake. The extensive utilization of cereal-based meals with inadequate zinc content and limited bioavailability stands as the primary cause for this issue. Children who possess low levels of zinc experience stunted growth and developmental delays. They also have higher rates of morbidity from pneumonia, diarrhoea, and malaria. Inadequate zinc intake has been correlated with a heightened risk of mortality in children due to specific diseases. It is crucial to secure a satisfactory level of zinc in rice grains because of its indispensable function in various biochemical processes that are fundamental for the growth and advancement of plants. A deficiency in zinc can lead to reduced grain yield and nutritional value in rice. Recently, the utilization of registered biofertilizers and microbial technology is widely recognized in contemporary intensive farming practices. Some indigenous zinc-solubilizing bacterial strains discovered can increase rice yield and zinc content in grains. The objective of this study was to impact of a biofertilizer formula consisting of native zinc solubilizer strains on the growth, productivity, and zinc concentration in the grains of three rice varieties, namely Inpari IR Nutrizinc, Inpari 48, and Inpago 13 Fortiz. The study was conducted in a paddy field located in the Inceptisol of Subang Regency, West Java, during the year 2023.METHODS: The field trial was conducted to study the impact of a biofertilizer comprising a group of non-pathogenic zinc-solubilizing bacteria, including Enterobacter cloacae, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Serratia marcescens, Bacillus thuringiensis, and Enterobacter bugandensis on rice growth, yield, zinc levels, and uptake in grains. The rhizosphere soils were the origin of these bacteria, which were obtained using agar media containing zinc oxide as insoluble zinc compounds. Prior to this, the bacterial strains were evaluated for their capacity to dissolve zinc and generate the plant hormone indole-3-acetic acid. To gauge their zinc-solubilizing prowess, Pikovskaya agar media, supplemented with insoluble zinc oxide and calcium phosphate, respectively, were utilized. The presence of distinct clear areas surrounding the colonies demonstrated the effectiveness of the microbes in converting insoluble zinc and phosphorus into soluble forms. The concentration of the plant hormone indole-3-acetic acid was measured using the Salkowski reagent. The field trial was organized using a split-plot design with three replications. The application of the biofertilizer mixture as a seed treatment was carried out before the transplantation of the rice nursery. The seedlings were prepared individually for each rice variety, with a comparison made between those treated with the biofertilizer and those that were not.FINDINGS: The study found that the consortium of indigenous non-pathogenic zinc-solubilizing bacteria significantly increased the yield of rice varieties by about 5.6 percent and zinc content in grains by 16.3 percent. However, the application of zinc containing fertilizer treatments did not enhance the rice yield and zinc content in grains in this Inceptisol paddy soil. In terms of zinc content in grains, the rice variety Inpago 13 Fortiz exhibited a notable increase compared to the Inpari IR Nutrizinc variety, with levels of 40.3 milligrams per kilogram as opposed to 34.1 milligrams per kilogram.CONCLUSION: the utilization of a native combination of carefully chosen zinc-solubilizing bacterial strains could augment the productivity, zinc concentration, and absorption in rice grains of various varieties in a paddy field with Inceptisols soil type, characterized by a moderate to high overall zinc content and limited zinc accessibility. The addition of zinc containing fertilizer treatments did not enhance rice yield compared to the addition of other tratments or control. This is probably because of the medium-high level of the total zinc content of the soil, suggesting that the addition of Biofertizinc will reduce or delete the crop requirement for zinc fertilizer in Inceptisol paddy fields. This implies that the biofertilizer is ecologically sustainable as it eliminates the use of harmful chemicals, reduces the reliance on synthetic fertilizers, and lowers costs.
Environmental Management
D. Wielgórka; W. Szczepaniak
Abstract
Eco-innovation is any innovation that leads to sustainable development by limiting the negative impact of production activities on the environment, increasing the resilience of nature to loads or ensuring greater efficiency and responsibility in the use of natural resources. Eco-innovations are the opportunity ...
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Eco-innovation is any innovation that leads to sustainable development by limiting the negative impact of production activities on the environment, increasing the resilience of nature to loads or ensuring greater efficiency and responsibility in the use of natural resources. Eco-innovations are the opportunity for enterprises. Their introduction contributes to reducing the costs of doing business, allows you to take advantage of new opportunities development and positively affects the company's image. The main goal of the research is to recognize the situation and the level of eco-innovation in Poland, including the micro, small and medium enterprises sector and to compare the obtained results with the ones from European Union countries. The result of the research is indicating the barriers and opportunities to support the development of eco-innovation in the micro, small and medium enterprises sector in Poland. Lack of financial resources for eco-innovation was indicated as the largest barrier by MSMEs in Poland. The most significant barriers to eco-innovation in Poland are mainly of an economic nature, including the high cost of implementation, difficult access to capital, uncertain return on investment and the weak system of economic and fiscal incentives encouraging eco-innovation.
Environmental Management
A. Escobar; J. Luna; A. Caraballo
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Sustainable innovation is crucial, because it is a key strategy for ensuring the long-term survival of companies in a world with limited resources. Consequently, understanding the barriers faced by companies in achieving sustainable innovation, such as high initial cost, lack ...
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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: Sustainable innovation is crucial, because it is a key strategy for ensuring the long-term survival of companies in a world with limited resources. Consequently, understanding the barriers faced by companies in achieving sustainable innovation, such as high initial cost, lack of technical knowledge, or unclear regulations, is important for developing appropriate policies, strategies, and solutions that promote and facilitate its adoption.METHODS: This study aims to analyze the relevant and most important scientific evidence and research topics on barriers to sustainable innovation through a bibliometric analysis combined with concurrence networks and cluster analysis using VOSViewer.FINDINGS: Research on barriers to innovation was developed on a larger scale in 2012 with an average growth of approximately 43 percent until 2022. During this period, the study on green innovation has been predominant and on the social component of sustainable innovation to a lesser extent. Asia, specifically China, is leading the research on this topic mainly on the environmental component of sustainable innovation. In terms of barriers, the majority of the literature focus on financial constraints. The research agenda focus on the following areas or clusters: sustainability, barriers to sustainable innovation, and social innovation.CONCLUSION: The major barriers to sustainable innovation are financial and government regulations. The current research tackles the environmental component of sustainable innovation. Therefore, future research should focus on market and knowledge barriers in developed and less developing countries and on the social component of sustainable innovation. Potential areas of research (which are underexplored) exist and can be important for future research on enhancing knowledge about barriers to sustainable innovation: applied research that considers regional effects and country-specific analysis, in particular in developing countries. Research on the social component of sustainable innovation could be relevant. Social innovation is essential, because it addresses concrete societal problems and promotes collective action and inclusion in novel ways within companies.
