Environments

24 pages, 2301 KiB

Open AccessReview

Air-Polluting Emissions from Pyrolysis Plants: A Systematic Mapping

by Alberto Pivato, Hamad Gohar, Diogenes L. Antille, Andrea Schievano, Giovanni Beggio, Philipp Reichardt, Francesco Di Maria, Wei Peng, Stefano Castegnaro and Maria Cristina Lavagnolo

Environments 2024, 11(7), 149; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11070149 - 12 Jul 2024

Viewed by 239

Abstract

There is a growing interest in the use of pyrolysis plants for the conversion of solid waste into useful products (e.g., oil, gas, and char) and the analysis of air-polluting emissions associated with such a process is an emerging research field. This study [...] Read more.

There is a growing interest in the use of pyrolysis plants for the conversion of solid waste into useful products (e.g., oil, gas, and char) and the analysis of air-polluting emissions associated with such a process is an emerging research field. This study applied a systematic mapping approach to collating, describing, and cataloging available evidence related to the type and level of air pollutants emitted from pyrolysis plants, the factors affecting emissions, and available mitigation strategies that can be adopted to reduce air pollution. The scientific literature indexed in Scopus and Google Scholar, as well as available industry reports, was interrogated to document the evidence. A database comprising 63 studies was synthesized and cataloged from which 25 air pollutants from pyrolysis plants were considered, including volatile organic compounds and persistent organic pollutants. Air pollutant levels varied depending on the scale of the pyrolysis plants, their operating conditions, and the feedstock used. Various technologies, such as wet scrubbers, electrostatic precipitators, and baghouse filters, are available and have been utilized to reduce emissions and comply with the existing EU regulations for waste incineration (2010/75/EU). The systematic mapping identified several knowledge gaps that need to be addressed to inform relevant environmental policymaking, technology development, and the adoption of best practices for the mitigation of emissions from pyrolysis plants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Thermochemical Treatments of Biomass)

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26 pages, 2828 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Svalbard Fjord Sediments as a Hotspot of Functional Diversity and a Reservoir of Antibiotic Resistance

by Gabriella Caruso, Alessandro Ciro Rappazzo, Giovanna Maimone, Giuseppe Zappalà, Alessandro Cosenza, Marta Szubska and Agata Zaborska

Environments 2024, 11(7), 148; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11070148 - 12 Jul 2024

Viewed by 331

Abstract

The sea bottom acts as a key natural archive where the memory of long-term timescale environmental changes is recorded. This study discusses some ecological and chemical features of fjord sediments that were explored during the AREX cruise carried out in the Svalbard archipelago [...] Read more.

The sea bottom acts as a key natural archive where the memory of long-term timescale environmental changes is recorded. This study discusses some ecological and chemical features of fjord sediments that were explored during the AREX cruise carried out in the Svalbard archipelago in the summer of 2021. The activity rates of the enzymes leucine aminopeptidase (LAP), beta-glucosidase (GLU), and alkaline phosphatase (AP) and community-level physiological profiles (CLPPs) were studied with the aim of determining the functional diversity of the benthic microbial community, while bacterial isolates were screened for their susceptibility to antibiotics in order to explore the role of these extreme environments as potential reservoirs of antibiotic resistance. Enzyme activity rates were obtained using fluorogenic substrates, and CLPPs were obtained using Biolog Ecoplates; antibiotic susceptibility assays were performed through the standard disk diffusion method. Spatial trends observed in the functional profiles of the microbial community suggested variability in the microbial community’s composition, presumably related to the patchy distribution of organic substrates. Complex carbon sources, carbohydrates, and amino acids were the organic polymers preferentially metabolized by the microbial community. Multi-resistance to enrofloxacin and tetracycline was detected in all of the examined samples, stressing the role of sediments as a potential reservoir of chemical wastes ascribable to antibiotic residuals. This study provides new insights on the health status of fjord sediments of West Spitsbergen, applying a dual ecological and biochemical approach. Microbial communities in the fjord sediments showed globally a good functional diversity, suggesting their versatility to rapidly react to changing conditions. The lack of significant diversification among the three studied areas suggests that microbial variables alone cannot be suitable descriptors of sediment health, and that additional measures (i.e., physical–chemical characteristics) should be taken to better define environmental status. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Monitoring and Assessment of Environmental Quality in Coastal Ecosystems Volume III)

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30 pages, 2848 KiB

Open AccessReview

Life Cycle Assessment in Renewable Energy: Solar and Wind Perspectives

by Francisco Portillo, Alfredo Alcayde, Rosa Maria Garcia, Manuel Fernandez-Ros, Jose Antonio Gazquez and Nuria Novas

Environments 2024, 11(7), 147; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11070147 - 12 Jul 2024

Viewed by 197

Abstract

The growing urgency for sustainable energy solutions necessitates a deeper understanding of the environmental impacts of renewable technologies. This article aims to synthesize and analyze Life Cycle Assessments (LCA) in this domain, providing a comprehensive perspective. We systematically categorized 2923 articles into four [...] Read more.

The growing urgency for sustainable energy solutions necessitates a deeper understanding of the environmental impacts of renewable technologies. This article aims to synthesize and analyze Life Cycle Assessments (LCA) in this domain, providing a comprehensive perspective. We systematically categorized 2923 articles into four sectors: (1) photovoltaic systems, (2) wind energy systems, (3) solar thermal systems, and (4) materials for auxiliary industry supporting these systems. A comparative analysis was conducted to identify methodological consistencies and disparities across these sectors. The findings reveal diverse methodological approaches and a range of environmental impacts, highlighting the complexities in assessing renewable energy systems. The article underscores the significance of material selection in photovoltaic, solar, and wind systems, providing a critical overview of the current state of LCA research in renewable energy and stressing the need for standardized methodologies. It also identifies gaps in recent research, offering insights for future studies focused on integrating environmental, economic, and social considerations in renewable energy assessments. Integrating environmental assessments provides a robust framework for making informed decisions on sustainable technologies. The findings are critical for projects that balance technological needs with sustainability goals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Balancing Energy and Environment: A Life Cycle Assessment Perspective)

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18 pages, 5327 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Towards a Consensus Method for the Isolation of Microplastics from Freshwater Sediments

by Daniel E. Enenche, Christine M. Davidson and John J. Liggat

Environments 2024, 11(7), 146; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11070146 - 12 Jul 2024

Viewed by 174

Abstract

Environmental pollution caused by plastic waste is of global concern. There is growing interest in the study of microplastics in freshwater systems. However, the lack of harmonized analytical methodology makes it difficult to compare results obtained by different laboratories. This work compared methods [...] Read more.

Environmental pollution caused by plastic waste is of global concern. There is growing interest in the study of microplastics in freshwater systems. However, the lack of harmonized analytical methodology makes it difficult to compare results obtained by different laboratories. This work compared methods for the recovery of microplastics from freshwater sediments based on density separation by flotation followed by digestion of organic matter. Simulated sediment was spiked with virgin polypropylene, polystyrene, polyamide (PA), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and polyvinyl fluoride (PVF) pellets, and post-consumer polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) fragments. Density separation was carried out using distilled water and NaCl, CaCl₂, ZnCl₂, and NaI solutions, both for intact pellets/fragments and following grinding and sieving to three size fractions (<1 mm, 1–2 mm, and >2 mm). Digestions with HNO₃, NaOH, and Fenton’s reagent were compared. Only NaI quantitatively recovered all types of polymers. However, CaCl₂ and ZnCl₂ recovered all but PVF and PTFE. Different flotation patterns were observed for different size fractions of the same polymer, highlighting the fact that density is not the only factor affecting recovery. Digestion efficiencies were 6–78% in HNO₃, 4–45% in NaOH, and 49–80% in Fenton’s reagent. Overall, CaCl₂ is recommended for density separation and Fenton’s reagent for organic matter removal. Full article

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12 pages, 420 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Simple Sugars Alter the Odorant Composition of Dairy Cow Manure

by John H. Loughrin, Getahun E. Agga and Nanh Lovanh

Environments 2024, 11(7), 145; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11070145 - 9 Jul 2024

Viewed by 302

Abstract

A study was conducted to determine if the odor profile of Bos taurus manure could be altered by the addition of the simple saccharides glucose, lactose, and sucrose. Sucrose was added to manure slurry at 0, 12.5, 25, 50, or 125 g L [...] Read more.

A study was conducted to determine if the odor profile of Bos taurus manure could be altered by the addition of the simple saccharides glucose, lactose, and sucrose. Sucrose was added to manure slurry at 0, 12.5, 25, 50, or 125 g L⁻¹, while glucose and lactose were added at 0, 6.45, 13.2, 26.4, or 65.8 g L⁻¹. One hundred mL slurries were incubated in capped bottles at 30 °C for four weeks. Biogas production was measured throughout the incubations, and the pH and concentrations of short-chain fatty acids were measured at the end of the incubations. Odor compounds of the final manure slurries were isolated by stir bar sorptive extraction and identified by stir bar gas chromatography/mass spectroscopy. Unamended manure had high concentrations of the typical manure malodorants phenol, p-cresol, p-ethylphenol, indole, and skatole. The addition of the sugars decreased these malodors in a dose-dependent manner. The addition of sugars shifted odor production to aliphatic esters including ethyl butyrate and propyl propanoate. The sugar-amended manure therefore had a different odor profile than the unamended manure did. The addition of sugar also caused the accumulation of short-chain fatty acids and, thus, decreased the pH of the manure. The production of lactic acid was particularly enhanced at high concentrations of sugar, suggesting that lactic acid bacteria could be responsible for changes in the odor profile. Future research will investigate if the addition of lesser concentrations of sugars or agricultural and food wastes rich in carbohydrates can reduce manure malodor. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environments: 10 Years of Science Together)

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22 pages, 2339 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Urban Biodiversity Index for Trees: A Climate Adaptation Measure for Cities Based on Tree Inventories

by Nefta-Eleftheria Votsi, Orestis Speyer, Danai-Eleni Michailidou, Athanasios Koukoulis, Charalampos Chatzidiakos, Ine Vandecasteele, Christiana Photiadou, Jose Miguel Rubio Iglesias, Jean-Philippe Aurambout and Evangelos Gerasopoulos

Environments 2024, 11(7), 144; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11070144 - 8 Jul 2024

Viewed by 301

Abstract

A historically large percentage of the world’s population has moved to urban areas in the past few decades, causing various negative effects for the environment, such as air, noise, water, and light pollution; land degradation; and biodiversity loss. Under the current climate crisis, [...] Read more.

A historically large percentage of the world’s population has moved to urban areas in the past few decades, causing various negative effects for the environment, such as air, noise, water, and light pollution; land degradation; and biodiversity loss. Under the current climate crisis, cities are anticipated to play an essential part in adaptation strategies to extreme atmospheric events. This study aims at developing indicators at an urban scale that can highlight adaptation progress by investigating relevant data (especially in situ) and statistics at a pan-European level in support of the EU’s strategy for adapting to the impacts of climate change. The proposed indicator, Urban Biodiversity Indicator for Trees (UBI4T), which can be derived from city tree inventories, assesses one essential component of urban biodiversity by computing the proportion of native, alien, invasive, and toxic tree species spatially across a city. According to our findings (applying the UBI4T for Amsterdam and exploring its policy potential for Barcelona), the UBI4T can offer crucial information for decision and policy makers, as well as stakeholders of a city, with the aim of conducting dedicated and effective strategic initiatives to restore, improve, and protect nature in the urban environment, thus contributing to adaptation and resilience to extreme atmospheric events in cities. 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)

15 pages, 3628 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enhancement of Sustainable Recycling Systems for Industrial Waste in South Korea via Hazardous Characteristics Analysis

by Su-Han Jang, Na-Hyeon Cho, Tae-Woo Kim, Young-Yeul Kang, Young-Sam Yoon and Heung-Min Yoo

Environments 2024, 11(7), 143; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11070143 - 8 Jul 2024

Viewed by 305

Abstract

The South Korean government has implemented an acceptance system to promote the high-quality recycling of waste. Industrial waste generators must provide “hazardous characteristics data” to recycling operators. Nonetheless, ~80% of industrial safety accidents in South Korea occur during recycling, most involving fire or [...] Read more.

The South Korean government has implemented an acceptance system to promote the high-quality recycling of waste. Industrial waste generators must provide “hazardous characteristics data” to recycling operators. Nonetheless, ~80% of industrial safety accidents in South Korea occur during recycling, most involving fire or explosions. Moreover, a gap in safety management exists during ‘Circular Resource’ acceptance if the target substance is not regarded as waste. In this study collected data on hazardous waste characteristics. From 62 waste generators, 72 waste samples were collected, accounting for most of the resources accepted for recycling, including waste synthetic polymers, slag, dust, waste sand, and waste foundry sand. Then, the hazardous characteristics, as stated in the Ministry of Environment notifications, were assessed. Leaching toxicity was detected in one slag sample and six dust samples. The Cd, Cu, As, Pb, Zn, Ni, Hg, F, and CN levels dissatisfied the Soil Contamination Warning Standard in 31 samples. Explosivity was not detected in any sample, whereas flammability was detected in one waste synthetic polymer sample. The results revealed 15 cases of potential flammability. Flammability is legally defined as below the criteria if the combustion speed criterion is not met. However, in the case of flame ignition, which could cause large fires and safety accidents, the relevant notification should be revised. In this study, we aimed to improve the gap between the hazardous waste management systems and industrial fields through actual measurements of hazardous characteristics. By doing so, we seek to contribute to the prevention of environmental and safety accidents. By continuously accumulating data and utilizing actual measurements, we aim to revise and enhance relevant regulations, ultimately improving the hazardous characteristics of waste management systems. Full article

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25 pages, 2846 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Small Decentralized Technologies for High-Strength Wastewater Treatment and Reuse in Arid and Semi-Arid Regions

by Khaja Zillur Rahman, Shamsa Al Saadi, Mohamed Al Rawahi, Manfred van Afferden, Katy Bernhard, Jan Friesen and Roland A. Müller

Environments 2024, 11(7), 142; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11070142 - 5 Jul 2024

Viewed by 353

Abstract

Rural and semi-urban areas in arid/semi-arid regions are facing severe water scarcity and a series of environmental challenges nowadays, specifically due to rapid urbanization and economic development, climate change, population growth, increasing water demand, influxes of refugees caused by war and regional political [...] Read more.

Rural and semi-urban areas in arid/semi-arid regions are facing severe water scarcity and a series of environmental challenges nowadays, specifically due to rapid urbanization and economic development, climate change, population growth, increasing water demand, influxes of refugees caused by war and regional political conflict, etc. To solve the emerging problems, the safe reuse of treated wastewater in agriculture can provide an additional water resource for countries with high water scarcity. The aim of this study was to investigate the treatment performance and effectiveness of small decentralized wastewater treatment (DWWT) technologies treating high-strength wastewater with concentrations far beyond the European Union testing ranges of parameters such as five-day biochemical oxygen demand (BOD₅ > 500 mg/L), chemical oxygen demand (COD > 1000 mg/L), or total suspended solids (TSS > 700 mg/L). Four (4) commercially available DWWT technologies with a design capacity of 4–8 PE (population equivalent) were selected and operated with various wastewater compositions in Leipzig, Germany. The technologies were (i) the moving bed biofilm reactor (MBBR), (ii) the sequencing batch reactor (SBR), (iii) the membrane bioreactor (MBR) and (iv) the aerated vertical-flow constructed wetland (AVFCW). This study results clearly demonstrated that the EU-certified small DWWT technologies are quite capable of treating high-strength wastewater and can provide high-quality treated water for safe reuse in rural communities of arid and semi-arid regions. During operation with high-strength wastewater with a mean inflow BOD₅, COD and TSS concentrations of 1532 ± 478, 2547 ± 830 and 546 ± 176 mg/L, a low mean BOD₅ (<10 mg/L), COD (<70 mg/L) and TSS (<15 mg/L) in the outflow of the four systems showed removal efficiency of BOD₅ (>99%), COD (>97%) and TSS (>97%), and met the maximum allowable limit value of water quality class A for reuse in agriculture according to Jordanian and Omani standard. The MBR showed almost a complete removal of Escherichia coli (E. coli) in a range of 6.1–6.9-log removal in the outflow during all three experimental phases and performed best for BOD₅, COD, TSS and pathogen removal when treating high-strength wastewater if properly maintained to prevent potential fouling and clogging of the membrane. Before the final permitting process, long-term monitoring under local temperature and climatic conditions as well as guidelines based on local needs (e.g., in Jordan, Oman, etc.) should be developed to guarantee a minimum level of performance standards of such small DWWT technologies and requirements for operation and maintenance (O&M). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Technologies of Water and Wastewater Treatment)

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16 pages, 2755 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Microplastics in the Mississippi River System during Flash Drought Conditions

by Kendall Wontor, Boluwatife S. Olubusoye and James V. Cizdziel

Environments 2024, 11(7), 141; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11070141 - 3 Jul 2024

Viewed by 478

Abstract

The Mississippi River System is of great ecological and economic importance, making it crucial to monitor contaminants within it. While nutrient pollution is well studied, there are little data on microplastics (MPs) in the Mississippi River System (MSRS), especially during drought conditions. Herein, [...] Read more.

The Mississippi River System is of great ecological and economic importance, making it crucial to monitor contaminants within it. While nutrient pollution is well studied, there are little data on microplastics (MPs) in the Mississippi River System (MSRS), especially during drought conditions. Herein, we characterize MP pollution from seven sites across the MSRS during both flash drought and non-drought periods using FTIR microspectroscopy (µ-FTIR). Additionally, we evaluate the impact of multiple water level conditions on MP polymer composition across five time points at a single sampling site. Of all MPs identified, polyethylene terephthalate (PET, 22%), resin (17%), and polyethylene (PE, 10%) were the most abundant polymers. Average concentrations ranged from 16 to 381 MPs/L across seven sites, with no significant difference in concentration between conditions. Irregular particles were the most common morphology, with most MPs falling in the lowest size range measured (30–100 μm). Drought condition had a significant (p < 0.001) impact on polymer composition, and polymers most strongly correlated with flash drought were mostly fluoropolymers. For the single sampling site, concentrations differed, but not significantly, across the five timepoints. These results demonstrate the complex relationship between MP concentration and drought condition, and also highlight the importance of fully characterizing MPs in environmental studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microplastics Pollution in Aquatic Ecosystems: Challenges and Perspectives)

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17 pages, 2394 KiB

Open AccessReview

Navigating Environmental Concerns: Assessing the Ecological Footprint of Photovoltaic-Produced Energy

by Halina Falfushynska

Environments 2024, 11(7), 140; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11070140 - 1 Jul 2024

Viewed by 424

Abstract

The European Union’s Green Deal concept prioritizes the installation of photovoltaic and wind turbine systems, with the aim of significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions and expanding the use of renewable energy. The inclusion of metals/metaloids such as Cd, Pb, Ni, and As to [...] Read more.

The European Union’s Green Deal concept prioritizes the installation of photovoltaic and wind turbine systems, with the aim of significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions and expanding the use of renewable energy. The inclusion of metals/metaloids such as Cd, Pb, Ni, and As to PV panels may be a matter of concern because they may provoke numerous negative environmental effects, especially after decommissioning. Although the release of Pb and Cd from solar panels is generally low, these releases may increase, posing long-term harm. Cd and Pb, if only released from solar panels, can enter the environment, including soil and water, posing a significant risk to human health and ecosystems. Cd, in particular, can have profound and lasting negative impacts on animals and humans, affecting cellular responses, enzyme operations, and immune system functionality. Pb exposure, in turn, can induce oxidative stress and neurotoxicity, disrupt ion regulatory pathways, and impair immune function. Despite efforts to reduce the release of toxic metals from PV panels, controlling their disposal and avoiding environmental contamination remains challenging. Discovering substitute materials for PV panel manufacture, implementing enhanced recycling procedures, performing bioremediation, and enforcing stronger restrictions are among the strategies to mitigate environmental concerns. Full article

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32 pages, 3565 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Environmental Management Performance in Wineries: A Survey-Based Analysis to Create Key Performance Indicators

by Jesús López-Santiago, Amelia Md Som, Luis Ruiz-Garcia, Sergio Zubelzu Mínguez and María Teresa Gómez Villarino

Environments 2024, 11(7), 139; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments11070139 - 1 Jul 2024

Viewed by 807

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 [...] Read more.

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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27 pages, 23168 KiB

Open AccessArticle

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 - 29 Jun 2024

Viewed by 425

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 [...] Read more.

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)

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19 pages, 1602 KiB

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 - 28 Jun 2024

Viewed by 628

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 [...] Read more.

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, the Environment, and Agroecosystems)

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13 pages, 8668 KiB

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

Viewed by 409

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 [...] Read more.

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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16 pages, 2128 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Short-Term Associations of Road Density and Road Features with In-Vehicle PM_2.5 during Daily Trips in the Washington, D.C. Metro Area

by 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

Viewed by 823

Abstract

Increased daily exposure to fine particulate matter air pollution (PM_2.5) 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 [...] Read more.

Increased daily exposure to fine particulate matter air pollution (PM_2.5) 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 PM_2.5 exposure during commutes. For 2311 min of commutes, corresponding to 25 participants, we obtained in-vehicle PM_2.5 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 PM_2.5 by applying linear mixed-effects models with random intercepts and autoregressive errors. The difference in log PM_2.5, 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 PM_2.5. 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 PM_2.5 exposures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Air Quality, Health and Climate)

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21 pages, 3402 KiB

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

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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, [...] Read more.

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)

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27 pages, 4500 KiB

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

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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 [...] Read more.

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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27 pages, 4455 KiB

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

Viewed by 435

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 [...] Read more.

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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Environments, Volume 11, Issue 7 (July 2024) – 18 articles

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