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Acoustic Characterization of Potential Quiet Areas in Dortmund, Germany
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Correlating Quantitative and Genomic SARS-CoV-2 Wastewater Data with Clinical Metrics in Metropolitan Perth, Western Australia
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Stream Chemistry and Forest Recovery Assessment and Prediction Modeling in Coal-Mine-Affected Watersheds in Kentucky, USA
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Zeolite and Winery Waste as Innovative By-Product for Vineyard Soil Management
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Tungsten Bioaccessibility and Environmental Availability in Tungsten-Spiked Agricultural Soils
Journal Description
Environments
Environments
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on environmental sciences published monthly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, ESCI (Web of Science), PubAg, AGRIS, GeoRef, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Environmental Sciences) / CiteScore - Q1 (Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 25.7 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 3.7 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first half of 2024).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Testimonials: See what our editors and authors say about the Environments.
Impact Factor:
3.5 (2023);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.5 (2023)
Latest Articles
Assessment of Environmental Management Performance in Wineries: A Survey-Based Analysis to Create Key Performance Indicators
Environments 2024, 11(7), 139; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11070139 (registering DOI) - 1 Jul 2024
Abstract
This study assesses the adoption and operational effectiveness of Environmental Management Systems (EMSs) in Italian wineries, focusing on ISO 14001:2015. It evaluates commitment, planning, communication strategies, emergency preparedness, and employee training practices. Using a comprehensive survey-based methodology, the research elucidates the dynamics of
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This study assesses the adoption and operational effectiveness of Environmental Management Systems (EMSs) in Italian wineries, focusing on ISO 14001:2015. It evaluates commitment, planning, communication strategies, emergency preparedness, and employee training practices. Using a comprehensive survey-based methodology, the research elucidates the dynamics of EMS implementation across various scales of winery operations. The research reveals a strong commitment among wineries to environmental objectives such as waste reduction and efficient electricity and water use. However, significant deficiencies were identified in EMS policy implementation, emergency preparedness, and the uptake of ISO 14001:2015 certification, with larger wineries showing more robust engagement in environmental training than smaller ones. The study incorporates five key performance indicators (KPIs) and a predictive model using logistic regression and Random Forest to analyze the likelihood of ISO 14001 certification based on the analyzed variables. The model highlights established processes, environmental policies, and frequent reviews as significant predictors of certification. These findings contribute original value by identifying critical leverage points and barriers affecting EMS effectiveness within the wine sector. The research uncovers nuanced interactions between the scale of operations and management engagement influencing EMSs’ success. It proposes novel, survey-based KPIs essential for assessing EMS performance in wineries, demonstrating their practical utility in pinpointing areas for improvement. The research limitations include potential biases from varying participation rates among surveyed wineries, affecting extrapolation to the broader Italian wine industry. Despite these limitations, the study provides substantive practical implications, suggesting that wineries can enhance both environmental sustainability and a competitive edge by addressing gaps in EMS implementation.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environments: 10 Years of Science Together)
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Development of a 3D Digital Model of End-of-Service-Life Buildings for Improved Demolition Waste Management through Automated Demolition Waste Audit
by
Muhammad Omer, Yong C. Wang, Mikel Quintana Roma, Stanislav Bedrich, Václav Nežerka, Juan Ferriz-Papi, Jesus J. Moros Montanes and Ines Diez Ortiz
Environments 2024, 11(7), 138; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11070138 (registering DOI) - 29 Jun 2024
Abstract
This paper presents the development of a 3D digital model of end-of-service-life buildings to facilitate a step change in preparation of pre-demolition protocols that can eliminate problems of inadequate documentation and extensive time spent in preparing pre-demolition audits. The 3D digital model consists
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This paper presents the development of a 3D digital model of end-of-service-life buildings to facilitate a step change in preparation of pre-demolition protocols that can eliminate problems of inadequate documentation and extensive time spent in preparing pre-demolition audits. The 3D digital model consists of the following four main components: (i) digitization of paper-based drawings and their conversion to CAD; (ii) automated generation of a 3D digital model from CAD; (iii) corrections to the 3D digital model to account for changes in the lifetime of a building; (iv) a sub-model for performing pre-demolition audit. This paper proposes the innovative approaches of incorporating a minimal amount of human intervention to overcome numerous difficulties in automated drawing analysis, application of augmented reality (AR) in corrections to the 3D digital model, and data compatibility for pre-demolition audit. These processes are demonstrated using one building as case study. Using the digital model, a pre-demolition audit can be prepared in minutes rather than the many days required in current practice without a digital model. The accurate quantification of the quantities and locations of different demolition waste materials and products in buildings to be demolished will enable a systematic and quantitative evaluation of potentials of material and product reuse and eliminate contamination of different demolition waste streams (which may contain hazardous waste), which is the main cause of environmental degradation and downcycling of demolition waste materials.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Science and Technologies for the Management of Natural Ecosystems and the Sustainable Development of Urban Areas II)
Open AccessArticle
Ecotoxicity of Pesticides Approved for Use in European Conventional or Organic Agriculture for Honeybees, Birds, and Earthworms
by
Lena Goritschnig, Helmut Burtscher-Schaden, Thomas Durstberger and Johann G. Zaller
Environments 2024, 11(7), 137; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11070137 (registering DOI) - 28 Jun 2024
Abstract
Pesticides affect biota inside and outside agricultural fields due to their intrinsic mode of action. This study investigated whether pesticide active substances (AS) approved for conventional agriculture in Europe differ in their ecotoxicity from AS approved for organic agriculture. The evaluation was based
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Pesticides affect biota inside and outside agricultural fields due to their intrinsic mode of action. This study investigated whether pesticide active substances (AS) approved for conventional agriculture in Europe differ in their ecotoxicity from AS approved for organic agriculture. The evaluation was based on official ecotoxicological data for surrogate honeybee, bird, and earthworm species, which also serve as a reference for official environmental risk assessments in the pesticide authorization process. In October 2022, 268 chemical-synthetic AS approved for conventional and 179 nature-based AS approved for organic agriculture were listed in the EU Pesticide Database. Ecotoxicological data were only available for 254 AS approved for use in conventional agriculture and 110 AS approved for use in organic agriculture. The results showed a higher ecotoxicity of conventional AS: 79% (201 AS), 64% (163 AS) and 91% (230 AS) were moderately to acutely toxic to honeybees, birds, and earthworms, respectively, compared to 44% (48 AS), 14% (15 AS) and 36% (39 AS) of AS approved for organic agriculture. We have only considered the potential ecotoxicities of individual substances in this assessment; actual exposure in the field, where multiple AS formulations with other chemicals (including impurities) are applied, will be different. Nevertheless, these results emphasize that an increase in organic agriculture in Europe would reduce the ecotoxicological burden on biodiversity and associated ecosystem services.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pesticide Contamination to Non-target Organisms and Environment in Agroecosystem)
Open AccessArticle
The Formation and Stability of HA–Fe/Mn Colloids in Saturated Porous Media
by
Junhao Zheng, Mei Jiang, Qingzhu Li and Weichun Yang
Environments 2024, 11(7), 136; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11070136 - 27 Jun 2024
Abstract
Fe/Mn (hydr)oxides are metallic compounds that exhibit significant redox activity in environmental media and play a pivotal role in geochemical processes, thereby influencing the fate of metals in porous media. The morphology of Fe/Mn (hydr)oxides in natural environments and their interactions with trace
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Fe/Mn (hydr)oxides are metallic compounds that exhibit significant redox activity in environmental media and play a pivotal role in geochemical processes, thereby influencing the fate of metals in porous media. The morphology of Fe/Mn (hydr)oxides in natural environments and their interactions with trace metals are significantly influenced by the presence of natural organic matter (NOM). However, there is limited understanding regarding the formation, transport, and stability of Fe/Mn (hydr)oxides in the environment. The present study employed humic acid (HA) as a representative NOM material to investigate the positive influence of HA on the formation of Fe/Mn colloids. However, there remains limited comprehension regarding the formation, transport, and stability of Fe/Mn (hydr)oxides in the natural environment. In this study, we investigated the positive effect of natural organic matter (NOM) on the formation of Fe/Mn colloids using humic acid (HA) as a representative NOM material. We comprehensively characterized the chemical and physical properties of HA–Fe/Mn colloids formed under various environmentally relevant conditions and quantitatively analyzed their subsequent aggregation and stability behaviors. The findings suggest that the molar ratios of C to Fe/Mn (hydr)oxide play a pivotal role in influencing the properties of HA–Fe/Mn colloids. The formation and stability of HA–Fe/Mn colloids exhibit an upward trend with increasing initial molar ratios of C to Fe/Mn. Redox and metal–carboxylic acid complexation reactions between HA and hydrated iron/manganese oxides play a pivotal role in forming colloidal HA–Fe/Mn complexes. Subsequent investigations simulating porous media environments have demonstrated that the colloidal structure resulting from the interaction between HA and Fe/Mn facilitates their migration within surrounding porous media while also enhancing their retention in the surface layers of these media. This study offers novel insights into the formation and stabilization mechanisms of HA–Fe/Mn colloids, which are pivotal for comprehending the behavior of Fe/Mn colloids and the involvement of Fe/Mn (hydr)oxides in geochemical cycling processes within porous media.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Coupled Iron–Carbon Biogeochemical Processes)
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Open AccessArticle
Short-Term Associations of Road Density and Road Features with In-Vehicle PM2.5 during Daily Trips in the Washington, D.C. Metro Area
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Jenna R. Krall, Jonathan Thornburg, Ting Zhang, Anna Z. Pollack, Yi-Ching Lee, Michelle McCombs and Lucas R. F. Henneman
Environments 2024, 11(7), 135; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11070135 - 26 Jun 2024
Abstract
Increased daily exposure to fine particulate matter air pollution (PM2.5) is associated with increased morbidity, yet high exposures over shorter timeframes (e.g., hourly) may also play a role. Transportation is a milieu for increased transient pollution exposures. Both the road traveled
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Increased daily exposure to fine particulate matter air pollution (PM2.5) is associated with increased morbidity, yet high exposures over shorter timeframes (e.g., hourly) may also play a role. Transportation is a milieu for increased transient pollution exposures. Both the road traveled and nearby roadways (i.e., surrounding road density) may play a role in increased PM2.5 exposure during commutes. For 2311 min of commutes, corresponding to 25 participants, we obtained in-vehicle PM2.5 exposures using personal monitors and, through GPS data, road features, including road density and road type (e.g., highway vs. local roads). We considered the density of both the surrounding highways and the local roads at 500 m and 1000 m resolutions. We estimated associations of road features with minute-averaged in-vehicle PM2.5 by applying linear mixed-effects models with random intercepts and autoregressive errors. The difference in log PM2.5, comparing the highest vs. lowest quartile of highway road density at 1 km resolution, was 0.09 log μg/m3 (95% confidence interval: 0, 0.19), which was similar to the difference between driving on highways vs. local roads (0.07 log μg/m3 (95% confidence interval: 0.00, 0.14)). Estimated differences were attenuated for local road density and 500 m resolution. The results were robust to adjustment for meteorology and ambient PM2.5. Unlike road features such as speed and road type, the surrounding road density is less modifiable during transportation. Therefore, road choice may not have a large impact on personal PM2.5 exposures.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Air Quality, Health and Climate)
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Open AccessArticle
The Effects of Different Combinations of Cattle Organic Soil Amendments and Copper on Lettuce (cv. Rufus) Plant Growth
by
Chiara De Carolis, Valentina Iori, Alessandra Narciso, Davide Gentile, Barbara Casentini, Fabrizio Pietrini, Paola Grenni, Anna Barra Caracciolo and M. Adelaide Iannelli
Environments 2024, 11(7), 134; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11070134 - 25 Jun 2024
Abstract
In modern agricultural production, cattle manure waste recovery is considered as a sustainable approach to agricultural waste management, reducing environmental pollution and chemical fertilizer use. This study aimed to investigate the effects of manure and digestate derived from a pilot-scale livestock waste-recycling system,
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In modern agricultural production, cattle manure waste recovery is considered as a sustainable approach to agricultural waste management, reducing environmental pollution and chemical fertilizer use. This study aimed to investigate the effects of manure and digestate derived from a pilot-scale livestock waste-recycling system, in combination with a low copper concentration as a fungicide, on the physiological response of lettuce cv Rufus (Lactuca sativa L.) plants and the associated soil microbiome. A five-week microcosm experiment was conducted in a greenhouse under environmental conditions. Lettuce plant performance was assessed in terms of biomass, leaf area index, photosynthetic activity, chlorophyll measurements, lipid peroxidation, total phenolic content, and nutrient uptake. The results suggested that incorporating digestate into the potting soil mix significantly enhanced crop yields compared to the control and manure treatments. The soil microbial activity increased in the presence of fertilizers, improving the soil chemical and biological properties. The addition of copper negatively affected the growth and physiological performance of the lettuce plants under both the control and manure-treated conditions, except for those grown in the presence of digestate, where copper accumulation was reduced. These findings highlight the potential of growing horticultural crops using organic fertilization through livestock waste anaerobic digestate, establishing a waste-to-food recycling system.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Soil Remediation and Improvement through the Application of By-Product Amendments)
Open AccessArticle
Future (2020–2099) Carbon and Water Dynamics of Lehigh Valley Based on Land Use and Land Cover Change
by
Benjamin S. Felzer and Christopher Andrade
Environments 2024, 11(7), 133; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11070133 - 24 Jun 2024
Abstract
Increased urbanization has reduced the amount of green space, resulting in a reduced carbon sink potential across urban landscapes. Through the use of biogeochemical modeling, different land use scenarios have been developed and run for the future (2020–2099) to compare and quantify the
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Increased urbanization has reduced the amount of green space, resulting in a reduced carbon sink potential across urban landscapes. Through the use of biogeochemical modeling, different land use scenarios have been developed and run for the future (2020–2099) to compare and quantify the potential for change in carbon and water dynamics by having more tree cover and reducing impervious surfaces or turf lawns in Lehigh Valley, PA. These results show that the effect of deforestation is larger than the effect of reforestation. Due to young-stand age trees having a lower capacity for carbon storage than mature trees, the loss of the mature trees has a more immediate impact. The conversion of lawns or impervious surfaces to forests has somewhat similar effects, although the higher nutrients of lawns allow the forest to grow better. However, replacing impervious surfaces with trees reduces runoff more. This study shows that within the city of Bethlehem, the most socially vulnerable area benefits the most from increasing the number of trees. When converting 25% of the impervious area to forest, South Bethlehem significantly increased its vegetation carbon, productivity, and carbon storage, reduced its runoff, and generally created a safer and cleaner environment for residents.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Carbon Sequestration Potential of Urban Parks)
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Open AccessArticle
Rhythm of Exposure in Town Centres: A Case Study of Lancaster City Centre
by
Ekpo Otu, Kirsti Ashworth and Emmanuel Tsekleves
Environments 2024, 11(7), 132; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11070132 - 24 Jun 2024
Abstract
This study proposes a novel air pollution exposure index (APEI) metric, drawing from traditional elements in rhythmanalysis and public-life studies to help understand how people are exposed to air pollution in their urban environment and when the risks are greatest. It expands on
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This study proposes a novel air pollution exposure index (APEI) metric, drawing from traditional elements in rhythmanalysis and public-life studies to help understand how people are exposed to air pollution in their urban environment and when the risks are greatest. It expands on the notion of rhythm as a socially constructed natural phenomenon connected to urban life and spaces. Air quality monitoring data, as well as bus times and in situ traffic and pedestrian counts, from Cable Street and Dalton Square in Lancaster were applied to define the APEI, which combines an air pollution index (NO2 and PM10), a surrogate for ambient air pollution level, with a population index, a surrogate for population flow. The index values were subsequently ranked in numeric order, i.e., a higher ranking shows increased exposure risk and vice versa, to determine total exposure on an individual level. This metric proves valuable in defining air pollution exposure status and recognizing factors associated with high pollution and population levels. Similarly, by comparing APEI values, one could evaluate exposure levels in different locations and seasons to verify when the APEI has increased at a given location and the different rhythms and flows responsible for an individual’s exposure. Hence, it has potential use for urban planners and the city council’s policymakers who are involved in Lancaster Air Quality Management.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Air Pollution in Urban and Industrial Areas II)
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Open AccessArticle
Chronic Heat Exposure Modulates Innate and Adaptive Immune Responses in Firefighters
by
Brijesh Yadav, Afzaal Nadeem Mohammed, Brittney Graham, Amit Bhattacharya and Jagjit Singh Yadav
Environments 2024, 11(6), 131; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11060131 - 19 Jun 2024
Abstract
Global fire activities, which are getting worse due to climate change, cause both environmental and human health hazards. Firefighters, being the first responders, are frequently exposed to heat which may impact their immune system and overall health. However, the nature of the impact
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Global fire activities, which are getting worse due to climate change, cause both environmental and human health hazards. Firefighters, being the first responders, are frequently exposed to heat which may impact their immune system and overall health. However, the nature of the impact of chronic heat exposure on immune function has not been studied in-depth in firefighters. In this study, 22 firefighters exposed to “heavy-smoke fires (structural fires)”, categorized as the “high-exposure group” (>0.15 structural fires/week) and “low-exposure group” (<0.15 structural fires/week), were sampled. Peripheral blood was examined for immune cell profile based on total and differential cell counts, immune function based on the transcriptional expression of drivers of innate and adaptive immunity and key inflammation mediators, and heat stress marker HSP70. The white blood cell (WBC) count, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, and absolute and segmented neutrophil counts decreased below the normal range in both exposure groups. The gene transcript levels for toll-like receptors (TLR2, TLR4, but not TLR7) and their adaptor protein MYD88 were lower whereas those for T-cell transcription factors (RORC/RORγ, FoxP3) and inflammatory mediators (TNF-α, Granzyme-B) were higher in the “high-exposure group”, indicating mixed response; however, the ratios between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory transcription factors of adaptive immunity, namely T-bet/FoxP3 (Th1/Treg) and RORC/FoxP3 (Th17/Treg), were lower. Collectively, decreased immune cell landscape, downregulated key innate immunity receptors, and Tregs’ dominance suggested that chronic heat exposure in firefighters dysregulated innate and adaptive immunity, skewed towards an overall immunosuppressive condition with inflammation.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environments: 10 Years of Science Together)
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Open AccessArticle
Heavy Metals in Pyrolysis of Contaminated Wastes: Phase Distribution and Leaching Behaviour
by
Erlend Sørmo, Gabrielle Dublet-Adli, Gladys Menlah, Gudny Øyre Flatabø, Valentina Zivanovic, Per Carlsson, Åsgeir Almås and Gerard Cornelissen
Environments 2024, 11(6), 130; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11060130 - 19 Jun 2024
Abstract
Pyrolysis is a recognized alternative for the sustainable management of contaminated organic waste, as it yields energy-rich gas, oil, and a carbon-rich biochar product. Low-volatility compounds, however, such as heavy metals (HMs; As, Cd, Cu, Cr, Ni, Pb, and Zn) typically accumulate in
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Pyrolysis is a recognized alternative for the sustainable management of contaminated organic waste, as it yields energy-rich gas, oil, and a carbon-rich biochar product. Low-volatility compounds, however, such as heavy metals (HMs; As, Cd, Cu, Cr, Ni, Pb, and Zn) typically accumulate in biochars, limiting their application potential, especially for soil improvement. The distribution of HMs in pyrolysis products is influenced by treatment temperature and the properties of both the HMs and the feedstock. There is a significant knowledge gap in our understanding of the mass balances of HMs in full-scale industrial pyrolysis systems. Therefore, the fate of HMs during full-scale relevant pyrolysis (500–800 °C) of seven contaminated feedstocks and a clean wood feedstock were investigated for the first time. Most of the HMs accumulated in the biochar (fixation rates (FR) >70%), but As, Cd, Pb, and Zn partly partitioned into the flue gas at temperatures ≥ 600 °C, as demonstrated by FRs of <30% for some of the feedstocks. Emission factors (EFs, mg per tonne biochar produced) for particle-bound HMs (<0.45 µm) were 0.04–7.7 for As, 0.002–0.41 for Cd, 0.01–208 for Pb, and 0.09–342 for Zn. Only minor fractions of the HMs were found in the condensate (0–11.5%). To investigate the mobility of HMs accumulated in the biochars, a novel leaching test for sustained pH drop (at pH 4, 5.5 and 7) was developed. It was revealed that increasing pyrolysis temperature led to stronger incorporation of HMs in the sludge-based biochar matrix: after pyrolysis at 800 °C, at pH 4, <1% of total Cr, Cu, Ni, and Pb and < 10% of total As and Zn contents in the biochars were leached. Most interestingly, the high HM mobility observed in wood-based biochars compared to sewage-sludge-based biochars indicates the need to develop specific environmental-management thresholds for soil application of sewage-sludge biochars. Accordingly, more research is needed to better understand what governs the mobility of HMs in sewage-sludge biochars to provide a sound basis for future policy-making.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Thermochemical Treatments of Biomass)
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Open AccessArticle
Copper Distribution and Binding Affinity to Size-Fractioned Dissolved and Particulate Organic Matter in River Sediment
by
Ming-Yuan Hung, Wei-Hsiang Huang, Hsiang-Chun Tsai, Chi-Ying Hsieh and Ting-Chien Chen
Environments 2024, 11(6), 129; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11060129 - 18 Jun 2024
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This study investigated the distribution of copper in sediment dissolved and particulate organic matter (DOM and POM) based on their size. The DOM and alkaline extracted POM (AEOM) were separated into five size fractions using a cross-flow ultrafiltration (CFUF) system. The results showed
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This study investigated the distribution of copper in sediment dissolved and particulate organic matter (DOM and POM) based on their size. The DOM and alkaline extracted POM (AEOM) were separated into five size fractions using a cross-flow ultrafiltration (CFUF) system. The results showed that Cu mass was mainly distributed in the low molecular weight (<1 kDa, LMW) fraction of the DOM with an average range of 78.1–83.1%. Conversely, the high molecular weight (1 kDa–0.45 μm, HMW) AEOM fraction had a higher distribution of Cu mass with an average range of 92.6–93.3%. The Cu and AEOM binding affinity ratios (CuBAAEOM) ranged from 17.0 to 149.6 μmol/g-C in site-1 and from 20.6 to 143.7 μmol/g-C in site-2. The HMW CuBAAEOM ratios were significantly higher than the LMW ratios. The Cu and DOM binding affinity ratios (CuBADOM) ranged from 5.6 to 358.6 μmol/g-C and 17.2 to 126.6 μmol/g-C in site-1 and site-2, respectively. However, the LMW CuBADOM ratios were significantly higher than the HMW ratios. Optical indices suggested that the AEOM had more aromaticity and terrestrial and allochthonous contributions than the DOM. The optical indices were significantly correlated with the CuBAAEOM ratios but weakly correlated with the CuBADOM ratios. Sediment exchange between POM and DOM may affect copper distribution. DOM has a low-molecular-weight composition, while POM retains high-molecular-weight organic matter.
Full article
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Open AccessArticle
Concentrations and Oxidative Potential of PM2.5 and Black Carbon Inhalation Doses at US–Mexico Port of Entry
by
Rita Zurita, Penelope J. E. Quintana, Yanis Toledano-Magaña, Fernando T. Wakida, Lupita D. Montoya and Javier Emmanuel Castillo
Environments 2024, 11(6), 128; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11060128 - 18 Jun 2024
Abstract
Located between Mexico and the US, the San Ysidro/El Chaparral Land Port of Entry (SYPOE) is one of the busiest border crossings in the world. People with activities at the SYPOE are exposed to vehicular pollutants, especially particles with aerodynamic diameters < 2.5
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Located between Mexico and the US, the San Ysidro/El Chaparral Land Port of Entry (SYPOE) is one of the busiest border crossings in the world. People with activities at the SYPOE are exposed to vehicular pollutants, especially particles with aerodynamic diameters < 2.5 µm (PM2.5) and black carbon (BC), both associated with adverse health effects. This study presents the first PM2.5 and BC concentration measurements collected on the Mexican side of the SYPOE. The oxidative potential (OP) for PM2.5 and the inhalation dose of BC for people at the border were also evaluated. Autumn and winter showed the highest PM2.5 concentrations (at 28.7 μg m−3 and 28.2 μg m−3, respectively). BC concentration peaked in the winter of 2017 (at 5.7 ± 6 μgm−3), demonstrating an increase during periods with low wind speeds. The highest OPDTT of PM2.5 was reached in winter, with a value of 18.5 pmol min−1 µg−1 (0.6 nmol min−1m−3). The highest average daily inhalation dose for pedestrians was registered in the autumn of 2018 (5.9 μg for a 60-min waiting time), whereas, for workers, it was in the winter of 2017 (19 μg for a 10-h shift on average). Decreasing waiting times for pedestrians and adjusting work schedules for border workers on high concentration days could ameliorate environmental justice.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Air Quality, Health and Climate)
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Open AccessArticle
Association between Combined Metals and PFAS Exposure with Dietary Patterns: A Preliminary Study
by
Augustina Odediran and Emmanuel Obeng-Gyasi
Environments 2024, 11(6), 127; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11060127 - 18 Jun 2024
Abstract
Background: The global burden of chronic diseases has been increasing, with evidence suggesting that diet and exposure to environmental pollutants, such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and heavy metals, may contribute to their development. The Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII) assesses the inflammatory
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Background: The global burden of chronic diseases has been increasing, with evidence suggesting that diet and exposure to environmental pollutants, such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and heavy metals, may contribute to their development. The Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII) assesses the inflammatory potential of an individual’s diet. However, the complex interplay between PFAS, heavy metals, and DII remains largely unexplored. Objective: The goal of this cross-sectional study was to investigate the associations between diet operationalized as the DII with individual and combined lead, cadmium, mercury, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) exposures using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2017–2018. Methods: Descriptive statistics, a correlational analysis, and linear regression were initially used to assess the relationship between the variables of interest. We subsequently employed Bayesian kernel Machine regression (BKMR) to analyze the data to assess the non-linear, non-additive, exposure–response relationships and interactions between PFAS and metals with the DII. Results: The multi-variable linear regression revealed significant associations between the DII and cadmium and mercury. Our BKMR analysis revealed a complex relationship between PFAS, metal exposures, and the DII. In our univariate exposure–response function plot, cadmium and mercury exhibited a positive and negative linear relationship, respectively, which indicated a positive and negative relationship across the spectrum of exposures with the DII. In addition, the bivariate exposure–response function between two exposures in a mixture revealed that cadmium had a robust positive relationship with the DII for different quantiles of lead, mercury, PFOA, and PFOS, indicating that increasing levels of cadmium are associated with the DII. Mercury’s bivariate plot demonstrated a negative relationship across all quantiles for all pollutants. Furthermore, the posterior inclusion probability (PIP) results highlighted the consistent importance of cadmium and mercury with the inflammatory potential of an individual’s diet, operationalized as the DII in our study, with both showing a PIP of 1.000. This was followed by PFOS with a PIP of 0.8524, PFOA at 0.5924, and lead, which had the lowest impact among the five environmental pollutants, with a PIP of 0.5596. Conclusion: Our study suggests that exposures to environmental metals and PFAS, particularly mercury and cadmium, are associated with DII. These findings also provide evidence of the intricate relationships between PFAS, heavy metals, and the DII. The findings underscore the importance of considering the cumulative effects of multi-pollutant exposures. Future research should focus on elucidating the mechanistic pathways and dose–response relationships underlying these associations in a study that examines causality, which will enable a deeper understanding of the dietary risks associated with environmental pollutants.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environments: 10 Years of Science Together)
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Open AccessArticle
Constraints on Organic Matter Stability in Pyrenean Subalpine Grassland Soils: Physical Protection, Biochemical Quality, and the Role of Free Iron Forms
by
Pere Rovira, Teresa Sauras-Yera and Rosa Maria Poch
Environments 2024, 11(6), 126; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11060126 - 14 Jun 2024
Abstract
The stability of soil organic matter (SOM) depends on its degree of physical protection, biochemical quality (q), and mineralogical features such as the abundance of iron or aluminum oxyhydroxides: All constraints stabilize SOM, but the relevance of each is herein discussed.
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The stability of soil organic matter (SOM) depends on its degree of physical protection, biochemical quality (q), and mineralogical features such as the abundance of iron or aluminum oxyhydroxides: All constraints stabilize SOM, but the relevance of each is herein discussed. We studied from this point of view the stability of SOM in four grassland soils. The SOM in these profiles was characterized for its physical protection (ultrasonic dispersion + size fractionation) and its q (acid hydrolysis, carbohydrates, phenolics, and unhydrolyzable carbon). The profiles were also analyzed for free iron forms extracted with several chemicals: dithionite-citrate-bicarbonate, citric acid, oxalic-oxalate (Tamm’s solution), and DTPA. Soil horizons were incubated under optimal conditions to obtain the C lost after 33 days (Cresp33) and basal respiration rate (BRR). The microbial C was obtained at the end of the incubation. The microbial activity rate (MAR: mg C respired per g microbial C per day) was obtained from these measures. The sum soluble + microbial C was taken as the active C pool. As expected, the stability of SOM depends on its distribution between the size fractions: The higher the proportion of particulate organic matter (POM: >20 µm size), the higher the soil respiration rate. In contrast, q barely affects SOM decomposition. Both physical availability (size fractionation) and q (acid hydrolysis) affect the size of the microbial C pool, but they barely affect MAR. The effects of free iron on SOM stability are complex: While dithionite-extracted Fe negatively affected Cresp33, BRR, and MAR, the Fe extracted by smoother methods (Tamm’s reagent and DTPA) positively relates to Cresp33, BRR, and MAR. Free iron apparently modulates soil microbial metabolism because it is the only studied parameter that significantly affected MAR; however, the precise effect depends on the precise free Fe fraction. From our data, SOM stability relies on a net of constraints, including physical availability and free Fe forms, with q being of minor relevance. Our dataset suggests a role for free iron as a modulator of microbial activity, deserving future research.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Coupled Iron–Carbon Biogeochemical Processes)
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Open AccessReview
Environmental Stressors of Mozambique Soil Quality
by
Mario J. S. L. Pereira and Joaquim Esteves da Silva
Environments 2024, 11(6), 125; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11060125 - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
Mozambique is one of the poorest countries in the world. However, it has natural resources, and if they are managed under sustainable development principles, it can overcome its current problems. In the present socio-economic status, soil is one of its most important resources
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Mozambique is one of the poorest countries in the world. However, it has natural resources, and if they are managed under sustainable development principles, it can overcome its current problems. In the present socio-economic status, soil is one of its most important resources and must be protected from pollution and degradation. This review identifies and discusses the main soil quality stressors, namely soil fertility; deforestation and its sources: agriculture, timber harvesting, charcoal production, and uncontrolled fires; mining activities, manly gold artisanal explorations, and industrial open-pit coal mining; and solid wastes management. The sustainable use of natural resources is mandatory for future generations to continue to profit from this nature-based wealth.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights in Soil Quality and Management)
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Open AccessReview
A Review on Electrochemical Advanced Oxidation Treatment of Dairy Wastewater
by
Ashish Kumar Das and Lide Chen
Environments 2024, 11(6), 124; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11060124 - 11 Jun 2024
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Dairy wastewater (DW) contains a high concentration of organic and inorganic pollutants. In recent years, extensive research has been conducted to develop more efficient techniques for the treatment of DW. Electrochemical advanced oxidation processes (EAOPs) have gained significant attention among the various treatment
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Dairy wastewater (DW) contains a high concentration of organic and inorganic pollutants. In recent years, extensive research has been conducted to develop more efficient techniques for the treatment of DW. Electrochemical advanced oxidation processes (EAOPs) have gained significant attention among the various treatment approaches. EAOPs rely on electrochemical generation of hydroxyl radicals (•OH) which are considered highly potent oxidizing compounds for the degradation of pollutants in DW. In this paper, we provide an overview of the treatment of DW using various EAOPs, including anodic oxidation (AO), electro-Fenton (EF), photo electro-Fenton (PEF), and solar photo electro-Fenton (SPEF) processes, both individually and in combination with other techniques. Additionally, we discuss the reactor design and operating parameters employed in EAOPs. The variation in degradation efficiency is due to different oxidizing agents produced in specific approaches and their pollutant degradation abilities. In AO process, •OH radicals generated on electrode surfaces are influenced by electrode material and current density, while EF procedures use Fe2+ to create oxidizing agents both on electrodes and in the DW solution, with degradation mechanisms being affected by Fe2+, pH, and current density; additionally, PEF and SPEF approaches enhance oxidizing component production and pollutant degradation using ultraviolet (UV) light. Integration of EAOPs with other biological processes can enhance the pollutant removal efficiency of the treatment system. There is a scope of further research to exhibit the effectiveness of EAOPs for DW treatment in large scale implementation.
Full article
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Open AccessReview
Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment of Waste to Energy Systems in the Develo** World: A Review
by
Oluwaseun Nubi, Richard Murphy and Stephen Morse
Environments 2024, 11(6), 123; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11060123 - 11 Jun 2024
Abstract
The global move towards a circular economy, as well as that of achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), has necessitated the search for several sustainable solutions in various sectors. Given this, the provision of sustainable waste management and electricity systems constitute
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The global move towards a circular economy, as well as that of achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), has necessitated the search for several sustainable solutions in various sectors. Given this, the provision of sustainable waste management and electricity systems constitute a significant part of the SDGs, and the waste-to-energy (WtE) concept has recently become a key topic given that it can potentially help reduce the dependence on fossil fuels for energy generation, as well as minimizing the need to dispose of waste in landfill. However, to date, the sustainability assessments of WtE generation technologies have been limited in scope concerning the three-dimensional sustainability framework (economic, environmental, and social). Life Cycle Sustainability Assessment (LCSA) has been proposed as a potential approach that could comprehensively address these three pillars of sustainability simultaneously based on life cycle thinking. LCSA, as a holistic method, could also potentially deal with the complexity associated with decision-making by allowing for the consideration of a full range of possible sustainability consequences. LCSA is an analytical tool that integrates the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), Life Cycle Costing (LCC), and Social Life Cycle Assessment (sLCA) methodologies, which already exist and continue to be developed. Individually, these life-cycle approaches tend to be used to point out particular ‘hotspots’ in product or service systems, and hence focus on direct impacts in a given sustainability domain, neglecting the indirect ones. LCSA aims for a more holistic sustainability perspective and seeks to address the associated challenge of integrating these three pillars of sustainability into an overall and more comprehensive sustainability assessment. This need for harmonization within the LCSA methodology is a major challenge in its operationalization. In recent years there has been steady progress towards develo** and applying LCSA, including for WtE. The aim of this paper is to review the most recent trends and perspectives in develo** countries, especially regarding how LCSA could help inform decision-making. The paper also analyses the LCSA literature to set out the theoretical and practical challenges behind integrating the three methods (LCA, LCC, and sLCA). The review was conducted via a search of keywords such as LCSA, waste, and energy in the Web of Science databases, resulting in the selection of 187 publications written in English. Of those, 13 articles operationalized LCSA in specific waste and WtE related case studies. The review provides a review of the application of LCSA for researchers, technological experts, and policymakers through published findings and identifies perspectives on new research. These include uncertainty, subjectivity in weighting, double-counting, the low maturity of sLCA, and the integration of the interconnection between the three dimensions (environmental, economic, and social dimensions) of LCSA results in decision-making. In addition, gaps (such as the integration of the interconnection between the three dimensions) that need to be addressed via further research are highlighted to allow for a better understanding of methodological trade-offs that come from using the LCSA analytical approach to assess the sustainability of WtE generation technologies, especially in develo** countries. It is hoped that this study will be a positive contribution to environmental and energy policy decisions in develo** countries faced with the dual problems of waste management and electricity supply along with their sustainable development goals.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Balancing Energy and Environment: A Life Cycle Assessment Perspective)
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Open AccessArticle
Are Ecological Risk Indices for Trace Metals Relevant for Characterizing Polluted Substrates in the Katangese Copperbelt (DR Congo) and for Assessment of the Performance of Remediation Trials?
by
Serge Langunu, Jacques Kilela Mwanasomwe, Gilles Colinet and Mylor Ngoy Shutcha
Environments 2024, 11(6), 122; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11060122 - 11 Jun 2024
Abstract
This study aims to contribute to the characterization of Katangese Copperbelt’s (DR Congo) mining wastes and soils polluted with trace metals, using pollution indices and direct concentration measurements. This study also evaluated the use of these indices in assessing the success of remediation
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This study aims to contribute to the characterization of Katangese Copperbelt’s (DR Congo) mining wastes and soils polluted with trace metals, using pollution indices and direct concentration measurements. This study also evaluated the use of these indices in assessing the success of remediation projects. Data from previous studies and samples collected from six types of discharge and one polluted soil were used to address the first objective. Soil and plant samples were collected at Kipushi and Penga Penga for the second objective. The results reveal very high concentrations of As, Cd, Co, Cu, Mn, Pb, and Zn in all mine tailings and polluted soils, compared with local references. The degree of contamination (DC) values (from 72 to 5440) and potential ecological risk (RI) values (from 549 to 162,091) indicate very high-risk situations associated with polluted discharges and soils. Regarding revegetation trials, the results show lower concentrations and RIs in tree rhizospheres compared with unamended areas at both sites. However, trace metal concentrations are higher in tree rhizospheres compared with local references, and RI values are in the considerable risk range for Penga Penga (RI = 533) and in the very high range (>1500) for Kipushi. Bioconcentration factor values are below 1, indicating low accumulation in roots, wood, and leaves, and low risk of contamination of the trophic chain. In this context, it seems that the pollution indices used are suitable for characterizing pollution and prioritization for remediation. However, there seems unsuitable for assessing the effectiveness of phytotechnology processes based on metal stabilization. Direct plant performance measurements combined with direct measurements of metals in substrates and plants to assess transfer and efficiency are more appropriate.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights in Soil Quality and Management)
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Open AccessArticle
What Occurs within the Mangrove Ecosystems of the Douala Region in Cameroon? Exploring the Challenging Governance of Readily Available Woody Resources in the Wouri Estuary
by
Jean-François Bissonnette, Kossivi Fabrice Dossa, Celestin Arnaud Nsangou, Yangue Abidah Satchie, Haman Moussa, Yann Emmanuel Miassi, Nathalie Gravel, Guillaume Marie and Raphaël Onguene
Environments 2024, 11(6), 121; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11060121 - 7 Jun 2024
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Mangrove ecosystems provide key ecosystem services in coastal areas. This study describes the riparian mangrove of the Wouri estuary, in the Douala region (Cameroon), emphasizing the changes in this ecosystem over the past decade and its current state. It highlights the different groups
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Mangrove ecosystems provide key ecosystem services in coastal areas. This study describes the riparian mangrove of the Wouri estuary, in the Douala region (Cameroon), emphasizing the changes in this ecosystem over the past decade and its current state. It highlights the different groups of actors who participate in the management and regulation of the resource. Finally, an analysis of the governance of the mangrove wood resource based on the theory of common goods by Elinor Ostrom (1990) is proposed by examining the results obtained from the previous points. The scientific interest lies in contributing to a better understanding of the socio-ecological changes in the mangrove in the context of increasing anthropogenic pressures, highlighting the governance challenges and conservation opportunities in a strategic region of Central Africa. This research reveals complex processes that characterize mangrove ecosystems on the Manoka and Cap Cameroon Islands. The lack of urbanization regulations, continued infrastructure growth, repeated flooding, and coastal erosion all have a negative impact on natural landscapes and forests. The use of wood for smoking and fishing, as well as coastal pollution resulting from deficient garbage management, also have a considerable influence. Strategic interventions are needed to ensure sustainable ecosystem management. Recommendations include the application of rules to prevent forest overexploitation.
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Open AccessReview
A Review of the Multi-Stakeholder Process for Salmon Recovery and Scenario Map** onto Stability Landscapes
by
Gregory M. Hill and Steven A. Kolmes
Environments 2024, 11(6), 120; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11060120 - 6 Jun 2024
Abstract
We review and draw distinctions between positions held by various federal agencies, tribal agencies, and civil society organizations to identify distinct stakeholder scenarios for salmonid recovery in the Columbia River Basin. We view the Columbia River Basin through a resilience lens from the
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We review and draw distinctions between positions held by various federal agencies, tribal agencies, and civil society organizations to identify distinct stakeholder scenarios for salmonid recovery in the Columbia River Basin. We view the Columbia River Basin through a resilience lens from the point of view of the resident endangered salmonid populations. Using the resilience concept of multiple stable states we describe a stability landscape for the basin as a social–ecological system. We use a shared stability landscape as a common locus for map** and comparing multiple scenarios representing distinct stakeholder perspectives of pathways towards salmon recovery. We found that the potential of using this approach goes well beyond the specifics of the Columbia River Basin.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environments: 10 Years of Science Together)
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