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: CiteScore - Q1 (Ecology, Evolution, Behavior and Systematics)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 23.7 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 3.7 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- 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:
3.7 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.6 (2022)
Latest Articles
An Evaluation of the Influence of Meteorological Factors and a Pollutant Emission Inventory on PM2.5 Prediction in the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei Region Based on a Deep Learning Method
Environments 2024, 11(6), 107; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11060107 - 23 May 2024
Abstract
In this study, a Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) network approach is employed to evaluate the prediction performance of PM2.5 in the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei region (BTH). The proposed method is evaluated using the hourly air quality datasets from the China National Environmental Monitoring Center,
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In this study, a Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) network approach is employed to evaluate the prediction performance of PM2.5 in the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei region (BTH). The proposed method is evaluated using the hourly air quality datasets from the China National Environmental Monitoring Center, European Center for Medium-range Weather Forecasts ERA5 (ECMWF-ERA5), and Multi-resolution Emission Inventory for China (MEIC) for the years 2016 and 2017. The predicted PM2.5 concentrations demonstrate a strong correlation with the observed values (R2 = 0.871–0.940) in the air quality dataset. Furthermore, the model exhibited the best performance in situations of heavy pollution (PM2.5 > 150 μg/m3) and during the winter season, with respective R2 values of 0.689 and 0.915. In addition, the influence of ECMWF-ERA5’s hourly meteorological factors was assessed, and the results revealed regional heterogeneity on a large scale. Further evaluation was conducted by analyzing the chemical components of the MEIC inventory on the prediction performance. We concluded that the same temporal profile may not be suitable for addressing emission inventories in a large area with a deep learning method.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Urban Air Pollution)
Open AccessReview
Are Low Emission Zones Truly Embraced by the Public?
by
Ana Claudia Andriolli and Lígia Torres Silva
Environments 2024, 11(6), 106; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11060106 - 23 May 2024
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Rapid urbanization and car-centric mobility solutions have resulted in the degradation of environmental urban quality, impacting people’s health and well-being and city economies and harming urban ecosystems. Faced with the need to tackle traffic pollution, more than 300 low emission zones (LEZs) have
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Rapid urbanization and car-centric mobility solutions have resulted in the degradation of environmental urban quality, impacting people’s health and well-being and city economies and harming urban ecosystems. Faced with the need to tackle traffic pollution, more than 300 low emission zones (LEZs) have been implemented, causing some social controversy. Nonetheless, researchers have focused their studies on evaluating LEZ efficacy towards urban congestion and air pollutants reduction, health and well-being improvement. This study presents a literature review of what is known about acceptability and acceptance of the population regarding the implementation of LEZs, along with the main issues, best practices, and suggestions to promote a better perception and mobility behavior change. Based on research conducted in the Web of Science and Scopus databases, only 36 of 540 peer-reviewed articles on LEZs address public attitudes. Among the main findings, the following stand out: the existing gap in environmental urban quality approaches between countries, namely the Global North; the existence of few studies that evaluate perceptions before and after LEZ implementation; the lack of LEZ studies that consider noise and biodiversity, seeking a broader approach to this measure; and the importance of developing a support package measures that involves affected stakeholders and are adapted to each city’s characteristics.
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Open AccessArticle
Can Lagoons Serve as a Quaternary Treatment for Micropollutants in Wastewater Treatment Plants? Recent Implications for Compliance with the New Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive
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Lissette Díaz-Gamboa, Sofía Martínez-López, Luis Miguel Ayuso-García, Agustín Lahora and Isabel Martínez-Alcalá
Environments 2024, 11(6), 105; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11060105 - 22 May 2024
Abstract
This study explores the potential of storage lagoons as a quaternary treatment step in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), focusing on compliance with the recent European Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive (UWWTD), which mandates an 80% reduction in specific micropollutants. While conventional treatments effectively remove
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This study explores the potential of storage lagoons as a quaternary treatment step in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), focusing on compliance with the recent European Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive (UWWTD), which mandates an 80% reduction in specific micropollutants. While conventional treatments effectively remove residual nutrients and solids, the potential of storage lagoons as an additional treatment is not fully defined. This research aims to address this gap by assessing the efficacy of storage lagoons in refining the effluent quality at the Cabezo Beaza WWTP, considering recent UWWTD requirements. We conduct a comprehensive assessment of the water quality parameters and micropollutants, before and after the storage lagoon stage, at the Cabezo Beaza WWTP. The results indicate that this strategy of prolonged storage in lagoons manages to meet the reduction objectives established by the Directive, reaching elimination percentages greater than 80% for the majority of the analyzed micropollutants. Our findings suggest that lagoons significantly improve water quality and reduce contaminants beyond conventional treatments, offering environmental and economic benefits. This paper discusses the mechanisms behind these improvements, such as natural sedimentation, microbial activity, and potential phytoremediation. This study contributes to the research on advanced wastewater treatment and supports the integration of storage lagoons as a viable quaternary treatment solution that meets the UWWTD standards.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research on Micropollutants in Water)
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Open AccessReview
Fin Whale Balaenoptera physalus Historical Sightings and Strandings, Ship Strikes, Breeding Areas and Other Threats in the Mediterranean Sea: A Review (1624–2023)
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Rocío Espada, Adrián Camacho-Sánchez, Liliana Olaya-Ponzone, Estefanía Martín-Moreno, Daniel Patón and José Carlos García-Gómez
Environments 2024, 11(6), 104; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11060104 - 21 May 2024
Abstract
A review of the last 399 years (1624–2023) on fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus) in the Mediterranean Sea was conducted, based on an extensive compilation of records published in the scientific literature, technical reports, public databases, journals, and social media. A total
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A review of the last 399 years (1624–2023) on fin whales (Balaenoptera physalus) in the Mediterranean Sea was conducted, based on an extensive compilation of records published in the scientific literature, technical reports, public databases, journals, and social media. A total of 10,716 sightings and 575 mortality events have been computed, analysed by semesters and mapped in order to compare the summer–winter seasons especially and their implications on migration–residence. Visual and acoustic detections, feedings, migrations, primary production areas (chlorophyll), threats and causes of death and their relations have been addressed, and a mini-review on heavy metals and pollutants has been carried out on fin whales in the Mediterranean Sea. Mortality events were most frequent between November and April, coinciding with the decreased sighting period. Ship strikes posed the greatest threat, peaking between May and October, when marine traffic tends to increase in the Mediterranean Sea. Two populations coexist in the Mediterranean Sea, one resident and the other migratory, the latter using the Strait of Gibraltar for its biannual movements. Two areas with a presence of calves (up to 7 m in length) between October and February were detected: one scattered in the northern Mediterranean and the Strait of Gibraltar and its surroundings. A critical zone for collisions has been established according to the results for fin whales in the Mediterranean Sea.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environments: 10 Years of Science Together)
Open AccessArticle
A Microplastic Pollution Hotspot: Elevated Levels in Sediments from the San Francisco Bay Area
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Lara Dronjak, Joaquim Rovira, Diana Lin, June-Soo Park, Sutapa Ghosal, Nora Expósito, Marta Schuhmacher and Jordi Sierra
Environments 2024, 11(5), 103; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11050103 - 20 May 2024
Abstract
San Francisco Bay’s sediment is currently monitored for a variety of contaminants; however, data regarding the microplastics (MPs) in the area are still scarce. MPs’ occurrence in sediment samples has gained recognition as a reservoir for MP accumulation. Moreover, Bay sediment is also
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San Francisco Bay’s sediment is currently monitored for a variety of contaminants; however, data regarding the microplastics (MPs) in the area are still scarce. MPs’ occurrence in sediment samples has gained recognition as a reservoir for MP accumulation. Moreover, Bay sediment is also an important matrix for monitoring because sediment tends to accumulate certain contaminants and act as a source of contaminants in the Bay food web. This study analyzed MPs ranging from 25 µm to 5 mm in surface sediment grab samples (n = 8) and two sediment core samples (n = 2 cores analyzed with 11 samples from different depths). Our findings provide an evaluation of MP levels in different regions of the bay. The MP levels detected in Bay surface grab samples ranged from 2.1 to 11.9 MPs/g dry weight (n = 8), with a mean value of 6.2 MPs/g. The most abundant morphology was fibers, followed by fragments and films.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plastics Pollution in Aquatic Environments)
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Open AccessArticle
Iron Oxide-Activated Carbon Composites for Enhanced Microwave-Assisted Pyrolysis of Hardwood
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Amine Lataf, Andrew E. Khalil Awad, Bjorn Joos, Robert Carleer, Jan Yperman, Sonja Schreurs, Jan D’Haen, Ann Cuypers and Dries Vandamme
Environments 2024, 11(5), 102; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11050102 - 15 May 2024
Abstract
A commercial activated carbon (AC) was modified through iron oxide incorporation to obtain microwave absorbers (MWAs) for microwave-assisted pyrolysis. The influence of iron oxide content (5 and 20 wt% Fe3O4) and the modification methods were tested as follows: (1)
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A commercial activated carbon (AC) was modified through iron oxide incorporation to obtain microwave absorbers (MWAs) for microwave-assisted pyrolysis. The influence of iron oxide content (5 and 20 wt% Fe3O4) and the modification methods were tested as follows: (1) in situ co-precipitation + washing step with Milli-Q; (2) in situ co-precipitation + washing step with Milli-Q/ethanol; and (3) physical iron oxide blending. The resulting MWAs were evaluated on the microwave-assisted pyrolysis of hardwood in a Milestone Flexiwave microwave reactor. The biochar yield varied from 24 wt% to 89 wt% and was influenced by the modification method rather than the iron oxide addition. The MWAs with physically blended iron oxide resulted in biochar yields comparable to conventional biochar (450 °C). Furthermore, the addition of iron oxide-activated carbon composites during the microwave-assisted pyrolysis caused a significant decrease in the biochar’s 16 EPA polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, mainly by reducing the amount of pyrene in the biochar.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Thermochemical Treatments of Biomass)
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Open AccessArticle
Removal of Residual Chlorine from Stormwater Using Low-Cost Adsorbents and Phytoremediation
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Marina Valentukeviciene, Ieva Andriulaityte, Agnieszka Karczmarczyk and Ramune Zurauskiene
Environments 2024, 11(5), 101; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11050101 - 12 May 2024
Abstract
In recent decades, the pollution of water with micropollutants has become an increasing environmental concern. Since 2019, increased stormwater pollution from chlorine-based disinfectants has been recorded due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Runoff from disinfected areas and the residual chlorine present in stormwater are
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In recent decades, the pollution of water with micropollutants has become an increasing environmental concern. Since 2019, increased stormwater pollution from chlorine-based disinfectants has been recorded due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Runoff from disinfected areas and the residual chlorine present in stormwater are transported to surface water bodies, posing a risk to aquatic flora and fauna. The objectives of this study were (1) to evaluate the efficiency of different low-cost and recyclable filter materials in removing residual chlorine, and (2) to test plants’ ability to reduce residual chlorine concentrations through phytoremediation. Experiments were conducted in the laboratory (column and batch) and in the field (raised garden bed) to assess the efficiency of various filter materials (peat, wood chips, sawdust and the lightweight aggregates) in retaining residual chlorine to be implemented in green infrastructure. The best retainers of chlorine were sawdust (96%) and the LWA Leca (76%). No harmful effects of residual chlorine (changes in growth, color, leaf size, etc.) on plants (Tagetes patula or Pisum savitum) were observed and the residual chlorine in the leachate samples was below the equipment’s detection limit. Our research results will contribute to future studies aiming to remove various micropollutants from stormwater using remediation technologies.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research on Micropollutants in Water)
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Integrating Wastewater-Based Epidemiology and Mobility Data to Predict SARS-CoV-2 Cases
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Hannes Schenk, Rezgar Arabzadeh, Soroush Dabiri, Heribert Insam, Norbert Kreuzinger, Monika Büchel-Marxer, Rudolf Markt, Fabiana Nägele and Wolfgang Rauch
Environments 2024, 11(5), 100; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11050100 - 12 May 2024
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Wastewater-based epidemiology has garnered considerable research interest, concerning the COVID-19 pandemic. Restrictive public health interventions and mobility limitations are measures to avert a rising case prevalence. The current study integrates WBE monitoring strategies, Google mobility data, and restriction information to assess the epidemiological
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Wastewater-based epidemiology has garnered considerable research interest, concerning the COVID-19 pandemic. Restrictive public health interventions and mobility limitations are measures to avert a rising case prevalence. The current study integrates WBE monitoring strategies, Google mobility data, and restriction information to assess the epidemiological development of COVID-19. Various SARIMAX models were employed to predict SARS-CoV-2 cases in Liechtenstein and two Austrian regions. This study analyzes four primary strategies for examining the progression of the pandemic waves, described as follows: 1—a univariate model based on active cases; 2—a multivariate model incorporating active cases and WBE data; 3—a multivariate model considering active cases and mobility data; and 4—a sensitivity analysis of WBE and mobility data incorporating restriction policies. Our key discovery reveals that, while WBE for SARS-CoV-2 holds immense potential for monitoring COVID-19 on a societal level, incorporating the analysis of mobility data and restriction policies enhances the precision of the trained models in predicting the state of public health during the pandemic.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wastewater-Based Epidemiology Assessment)
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Mine Site Restoration: The Phytoremediation of Arsenic-Contaminated Soils
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Feizia Huslina, Leadin S. Khudur, Kalpit Shah, Aravind Surapaneni, Pacian Netherway and Andrew S. Ball
Environments 2024, 11(5), 99; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11050099 - 9 May 2024
Abstract
Arsenic (As) is considered one of the most toxic chemicals to both human and environmental health. Mining activities represent one of the main anthropogenic sources of As; the concentration of As in mine soil can reach 9300 mg kg−1. To overcome
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Arsenic (As) is considered one of the most toxic chemicals to both human and environmental health. Mining activities represent one of the main anthropogenic sources of As; the concentration of As in mine soil can reach 9300 mg kg−1. To overcome the major issue of soil As pollution, soil restoration is required. Biological restoration approaches are generally more cost-effective and environmentally sustainable than physical and chemical methods. In particular, phytoremediation, an environmentally friendly technique based on the use of plants to uptake contaminants from soil, has been successfully implemented to restore As-contaminated soils at mine sites. However, mine soils are generally depleted in essential plant nutrients, such as nitrogen (N). Recent research suggests that phytoremediation can be combined with other techniques (physical, chemical, and biological) to enhance the N content and plant biomass. The aim of this review is to assess the current state of knowledge in the field of the restoration of arsenic-impacted mine site soils, focusing on phytoremediation. We critically assess recent work examining the potential of the co-application of amendments with phytoremediation and identify promising technologies and key research gaps. More studies are required to test the effectiveness of using various soil additives to enhance the phytoremediation of As, not only in pot-scale experiments but also in the field, to enable an improved management strategy for mine site restoration in the future.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environments: 10 Years of Science Together)
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Assessment of the Potential Contribution of the Urban Green System to the Carbon Balance of Cities
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Maria Elena Menconi, Livia Bonciarelli and David Grohmann
Environments 2024, 11(5), 98; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11050098 - 7 May 2024
Abstract
Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is a crucial challenge in urban areas characterized by high energy consumption and reduced exposure to nature. In this context, the urban green system could play a pivotal role. In the literature, scholars have analyzed both the ability of
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Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is a crucial challenge in urban areas characterized by high energy consumption and reduced exposure to nature. In this context, the urban green system could play a pivotal role. In the literature, scholars have analyzed both the ability of species-specific and layout-specific green infrastructure to increase carbon sequestration and the best location sites for new green infrastructure to increase the provision of overall ecosystem services. There is a lack of studies helping green urban planners and designers choose where and which green infrastructure to implement based on vegetation species-specific performance and the local carbon emissions of city components. This paper uses tree inventory data from a medium-sized city in central Italy (Perugia) to develop a spatial analysis of urban park performance in carbon sequestration. Then, the method evaluates the carbon emission of a public city building to generate a spatialized balance between building demand and tree supply to support local decisions about the best locations for new green infrastructure and the choice between species. The paper contributes to GIS-based tools that vary the recommended location sites and species for new green infrastructure based on the demanded ecosystem service.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Carbon Sequestration Potential of Urban Parks)
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Second Life of Used Lithium-Ion Batteries from Electric Vehicles in the USA
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Jay Meegoda, Ghadi Charbel and Daniel Watts
Environments 2024, 11(5), 97; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11050097 - 7 May 2024
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This article focuses on the reuse and recycling of end-of-life (EOL) lithium-ion batteries (LIB) in the USA in the context of the rapidly growing electric vehicle (EV) market. Due to the recent increase in the enactment of both current and pending regulations concerning
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This article focuses on the reuse and recycling of end-of-life (EOL) lithium-ion batteries (LIB) in the USA in the context of the rapidly growing electric vehicle (EV) market. Due to the recent increase in the enactment of both current and pending regulations concerning EV battery recycling, this work focuses on the recycling aspect for lithium-ion batteries rather than emphasizing the reuse of EOL batteries (although these practices have value and utility). A comparative analysis of various recycling methods is presented, including hydrometallurgy, pyrometallurgy, direct recycling, and froth flotation. The efficiency and commercial viability of these individual methods are highlighted. This article also emphasizes the practices and capabilities of leading companies, noting their current superior annual processing capacities. The transportation complexities of lithium-ion batteries are also discussed, noting that they are classified as hazardous materials and that stringent safety standards are needed for their handling. The study underscores the importance of recycling in mitigating environmental risks associated with EOL of LIBs and facilitates comparisons among the diverse recycling processes and capacities among key players in the industry.
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Open AccessArticle
A Droplet-Based Microfluidic Impedance Flow Cytometer for Detection of Micropollutants in Water
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Mohammadreza Aghel, Somayeh Fardindoost, Nishat Tasnim and Mina Hoorfar
Environments 2024, 11(5), 96; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11050096 - 6 May 2024
Abstract
Microplastics as micropollutants are widely spread in aquatic areas that can have a toxic effect on aquatic life. To reduce the potential risk they pose, it is essential to detect the microplastics and the source of the contamination of the environment. Here, we
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Microplastics as micropollutants are widely spread in aquatic areas that can have a toxic effect on aquatic life. To reduce the potential risk they pose, it is essential to detect the microplastics and the source of the contamination of the environment. Here, we designed and developed a droplet-based microfluidic impedance flow cytometer for in situ detection of microplastics in water. Impedance spectroscopy enables the direct measurement of the electrical features of microplastics as they move in water, allowing for sizing and identification of concentration. To show the feasibility of the developed method, pure and functionalized polystyrene beads ranging from 500 nm to 6 μm in four size groups and different concentrations were used. Focusing on three different frequencies (4.4 MHz, 11 MHz, and 22.5 MHz), the changes in the signal phase at frequencies of 4.4 MHz and 11 MHz are a strong indicator of microplastic presence. In addition, the functionalized microplastics showed different magnitudes of the measured signal phase than the pure ones. A k-nearest neighbors classification model demonstrated our developed system’s impressive 97.4% sensitivity in accurately identifying microplastics based on concentration. The equivalent circuit model revealed that the double-layer capacity of water droplets is significantly impacted by the presence of the microplastics. Our findings show the potential of droplet-based microfluidic impedance flow cytometry as a practical method for detecting microplastics in water.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research on Micropollutants in Water)
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Drought Monitoring Using Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer-Derived NDVI Anomalies in Northern Algeria from 2011 to 2022
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Ramzi Benhizia, Kwanele Phinzi, Fatemeh Hateffard, Haithem Aib and György Szabó
Environments 2024, 11(5), 95; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11050095 - 4 May 2024
Abstract
Drought has emerged as a major challenge to global food and water security, and is particularly pronounced for Algeria, which frequently grapples with water shortages. This paper sought to monitor and assess the temporal and spatial distribution of drought severity across northern Algeria
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Drought has emerged as a major challenge to global food and water security, and is particularly pronounced for Algeria, which frequently grapples with water shortages. This paper sought to monitor and assess the temporal and spatial distribution of drought severity across northern Algeria (excluding the Sahara) during the growing season from 2011 to 2022, while exploring the relationship between the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) anomaly and climate variables (rainfall and temperature). Temporal NDVI data from the Terra moderate resolution imaging spectroradiometer (MODIS) satellite covering the period 2000–2022 and climate data from the European Reanalysis 5th Generation (ERA5) datasets collected during the period 1990–2022 were used. The results showed that a considerable portion of northern Algeria has suffered from droughts of varying degrees of severity during the study period. The years 2022, 2021, 2016, and 2018 were the hardest hit, with 76%, 71%, 66%, and 60% of the area, respectively, experiencing drought conditions. While the relationship between the NDVI anomaly and the climatic factors showed variability across the different years, the steady decrease in vegetation health indicated by the NDVI anomaly corroborates the observed increase in drought intensity during the study period. We conclude that the MODIS-NDVI product offers a cost-efficient approach to monitor drought in data-scarce regions like Algeria, presenting a viable alternative to conventional climate-based drought indices, while serving as an initial step towards formulating drought mitigation plans.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Risk and Climate Change II)
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Assessing the Interpretability–Performance Trade-Off of Artificial Neural Networks Using Sentinel Fish Health Data
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Patrick G. McMillan, Zeny Z. Feng, Tim J. Arciszewski, Robert Proner and Lorna E. Deeth
Environments 2024, 11(5), 94; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11050094 - 3 May 2024
Abstract
A number of sentinel species are regularly sampled from the environment near the Oil Sands Region (OSR) in Alberta, Canada. In particular, trout-perch are sampled as a proxy for the health of the aquatic ecosystem. As the development of the OSR began before
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A number of sentinel species are regularly sampled from the environment near the Oil Sands Region (OSR) in Alberta, Canada. In particular, trout-perch are sampled as a proxy for the health of the aquatic ecosystem. As the development of the OSR began before the environmental monitoring program was in place, there is currently no established measure for the baseline health of the local ecosystem. A common solution is to calculate normal ranges for fish endpoints. Observations found to be outside the normal range are then flagged, alerting researchers to the potential presence of stressors in the local environment. The quality of the normal ranges is dependent on the accuracy of the estimates used to calculate them. This paper explores the use of neural networks and regularized regression for improving the prediction accuracy of fish endpoints. We also consider the trade-off between the prediction accuracy and interpretability of each model. We find that neural networks can provide increased prediction accuracy, but this improvement in accuracy may not be worth the loss in interpretability in some ecological studies. The elastic net offers both good prediction accuracy and interpretability, making it a safe choice for many ecological applications. A hybridized method combining both the neural network and elastic net offers high prediction accuracy as well as some interpretability, and therefore it is the recommended method for this application.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Monitoring of Contaminated Water and Soil)
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Lithium Toxicity in Lepidium sativum L. Seedlings: Exploring Li Accumulation’s Impact on Germination, Root Growth, and DNA Integrity
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Valentina Iannilli, Gianluca D’Onofrio, Davide Marzi, Laura Passatore, Fabrizio Pietrini, Lorenzo Massimi and Massimo Zacchini
Environments 2024, 11(5), 93; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11050093 - 1 May 2024
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The predicted increase in demand for minor metals for modern technologies raises major concerns regarding potential environmental concentration increases. Among the minor metals, lithium (Li) is particularly noteworthy due to growing demand for battery production. Concerns have been raised about the impact on
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The predicted increase in demand for minor metals for modern technologies raises major concerns regarding potential environmental concentration increases. Among the minor metals, lithium (Li) is particularly noteworthy due to growing demand for battery production. Concerns have been raised about the impact on biota of increasing Li concentrations in the environment. To expand the knowledge of the effects of Li on plants, garden cress (Lepidium sativum L.), a model plant for ecotoxicity assay, was tested in a 72 h test in Petri plates. The results showed a stimulation effect of Li at the lowest concentration (Li chloride 10 mg L−1) on seed germination and primary root elongation. Conversely, higher Li concentrations (50 and 150 mg L−1) caused a progressive impairment in both parameters. A genotoxic effect of Li on root cells, evaluated through the alkaline comet assay, was observed at each concentration tested, particularly at 150 mg L−1 Li chloride. Elemental analysis showed that Li accumulated in the seedlings in a dose–concentration relationship, confirming its ability to be readily absorbed and accumulated in plants. Given the likely increase in Li levels in the environment, further research is required to clarify the toxicity mechanisms induced by Li on growth and nucleic acids.
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Open AccessCommunication
TiO2-Coated Meltblown Nonwoven Fabrics Prepared via Atomic Layer Deposition for the Inactivation of E. coli as a Model Photocatalytic Drinking Water Treatment System
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Alexander G. Aragon, Jaime A. Cárdenas Sánchez, Carlos Zimeri, Eunkyoung Shim, Xiaomeng Fang and Kyana R. L. Young
Environments 2024, 11(5), 92; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11050092 - 30 Apr 2024
Abstract
The controlled manufacturing of semiconductor photocatalysts is crucial to their development for drinking water treatment. In this study, TiO2-coated meltblown nonwoven fabrics prepared via Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) are applied for the inactivation of Escherichia coli (E. coli). It
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The controlled manufacturing of semiconductor photocatalysts is crucial to their development for drinking water treatment. In this study, TiO2-coated meltblown nonwoven fabrics prepared via Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) are applied for the inactivation of Escherichia coli (E. coli). It is observed that in the presence of an ultraviolet light-emitting diode (UV-LED) light source (255 nm), 1.35 log E. coli inactivation is achieved. However, exposure to catalyst-coated fabrics in addition to the light source resulted in >4 log E. coli inactivation, suggesting a much higher rate of hydroxyl radical formation on the surface, leading to cell death.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Technologies of Water and Wastewater Treatment)
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Searching for the Profitability of Energy Crops: An Agroecological–Economic Land Use Suitability (AE-landUSE) Model
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Mauro Viccaro, Severino Romano, Immacolata Rosalia and Mario Cozzi
Environments 2024, 11(5), 91; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11050091 - 29 Apr 2024
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The current geopolitical and energy market instability calls for speeding up the EU clean energy transition to increase energy security in all the European regions and make Europe the first climate-neutral continent by 2050. Among renewable energies, modern bioenergy is a promising near-zero-emission
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The current geopolitical and energy market instability calls for speeding up the EU clean energy transition to increase energy security in all the European regions and make Europe the first climate-neutral continent by 2050. Among renewable energies, modern bioenergy is a promising near-zero-emission fuel for increasing energy security in the heating, electricity and transport sectors while promoting growth and job creation, especially in rural areas. In such a context, energy crops will continue to play a key role. Since agricultural planning is a complex issue, especially when energy crops could compete with food ones, we propose an agroecological–economic land use suitability model (AE-landUSE model) to promote the sustainable use of land resources. The AE-landUSE model was developed by integrating cost–benefit analysis (CBA) and land use suitability analysis (LSA) within geographic information systems (GISs). Tested in the Basilicata region (Southern Italy), comparing two different energy crops (rapeseed and cardoon), the results show the model’s utility in identifying suitable areas for energy crops where the investments will be cost-effective. The proposed model will help decision-makers in energy-agricultural planning to increase energy security sustainably.
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Open AccessArticle
Aquatic Bacterial Community Connectivity: The Effect of Hydrological Flow on Community Diversity and Composition
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Javad Sadeghi, Clare J. Venney, Shelby Wright, James Watkins, Dana Manning, Edel Bai, Chelsea Frank and Daniel D. Heath
Environments 2024, 11(5), 90; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11050090 - 28 Apr 2024
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Microbial communities are vital components of freshwater ecosystems due to their role in nutrient cycling and energy flow; however, the mechanisms driving their variation are still being explored. In aquatic systems, water flow (hydrology) can impact microbial community composition through community connectivity; however,
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Microbial communities are vital components of freshwater ecosystems due to their role in nutrient cycling and energy flow; however, the mechanisms driving their variation are still being explored. In aquatic systems, water flow (hydrology) can impact microbial community composition through community connectivity; however, the details of hydrology’s effects on microbial connectivity remain unclear. To address this question, we used 16S rRNA metabarcoding to determine bacterial community composition and connectivity across flow transects in three connected Great Lakes waterbodies with very different water-flow regimes: the Little River (high flow), the Detroit River (moderate flow), and Lake Erie (low flow). Bacterial alpha diversity (Chao1) did not differ among the three locations or sample sites along the transects. Analyses of beta diversity using community dissimilarity matrices identified significant differences among the three locations and among sample sites within locations. Bacterial community connectivity varied among the three locations, with a significant distance–decay relationship observed only in the low-flow location, which is indicative of connectivity driven by spatial proximity. Directional analyses showed that the water-flow direction affected bacterial similarity, consistent with the expected hydrological effects on community connectivity and previous published work. Our results indicate that (1) microbial community composition varies within and among even geographically close sampling locations and (2) the specific water-flow regime appears to affect bacterial community connectivity. Including hydrology in models of bacterial community composition will improve our understanding of the relative roles of selection versus stochastic effects on bacterial community diversity and composition in freshwater ecosystems.
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Open AccessArticle
Detection and Screening of Organic Contaminants in A Riverine System of Georgia Using Non-Targeted Analysis
by
Gayatri Basapuram, Srimanti Duttagupta and Avishek Dutta
Environments 2024, 11(5), 89; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11050089 - 26 Apr 2024
Abstract
Numerous organic chemicals exist within aquatic environments, yet effectively screening and prioritizing them is a huge challenge. This study provides a comprehensive investigation into the ecological dynamics of the North Oconee River within Athens-Clarke County, Georgia, with a specific focus on the distribution
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Numerous organic chemicals exist within aquatic environments, yet effectively screening and prioritizing them is a huge challenge. This study provides a comprehensive investigation into the ecological dynamics of the North Oconee River within Athens-Clarke County, Georgia, with a specific focus on the distribution of 33 identified compounds, including a prominent pesticide. The research, conducted in the riverine ecosystems proximal to the Firefly trail, employs advanced analytical techniques to elucidate potential contamination sources arising from agricultural and urban runoff. Intriguingly, the study reveals North Oconee River near the Firefly Trail as a notable site for heightened pesticide contamination, warranting a meticulous exploration of its origins. Furthermore, the investigation unveils the intricate microbial degradation processes of malathion within the North Oconee River, elucidating the pivotal role played by microbial activity in river water. The detection of degradant byproducts prompts the considerations of bioavailability and toxicity, associating potential implications for the river’s overall ecological health. Ongoing research endeavors to precisely quantify environmental risks and unravel indigenous microbial degradation pathways, presenting pivotal contributions to the scientific community’s understanding of complex riverine ecosystems. This research serves as a foundational piece in informing sustainable environmental management practices and emphasizes the urgency of comprehensive stewardship in safeguarding aquatic ecosystems.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research on Micropollutants in Water)
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Plant-Wide Models for Optimizing the Operation and Maintenance of BTEX-Contaminated Wastewater Treatment and Reuse
by
Dániel Bencsik, Tanush Wadhawan, Ferenc Házi and Tamás Karches
Environments 2024, 11(5), 88; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11050088 - 25 Apr 2024
Abstract
Benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylenes, collectively known as BTEX compounds, are significant emerging contaminants in municipal wastewater. Stricter effluent quality regulations necessitate their removal, especially with concerns about organic micropollutant concentrations. Water scarcity further underscores the need for wastewater treatment to ensure safe
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Benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylenes, collectively known as BTEX compounds, are significant emerging contaminants in municipal wastewater. Stricter effluent quality regulations necessitate their removal, especially with concerns about organic micropollutant concentrations. Water scarcity further underscores the need for wastewater treatment to ensure safe agricultural or drinking water supplies. Although biological treatment partially reduces BTEX levels through processes like biodegradation and sorption, additional purification using physico-chemical methods is crucial for substantial reduction. This paper aims to outline plant-wide simulation methods for treating BTEX-contaminated sewage and facilitating reuse, adhering to IWA Good Modelling Practice Guidelines. The model, built upon the MiniSumo process model, incorporates equations detailing BTEX metabolism and removal kinetics, informed by an extensive literature review. Using a variant of the Benchmark Simulation Model with granular activated carbon for water reuse, the study examines strategies for improving effluent quality and minimizing operational costs. These strategies include adjusting the sludge retention time and airflow to enhance BTEX degradation and stripping, respectively, and comparing maintenance approaches for the GAC tower.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Technologies of Water and Wastewater Treatment)
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