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Environments, Volume 12, Issue 1 (January 2025) – 33 articles

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20 pages, 8720 KiB  
Article
Impacts of an Intermittent Bus Lane on Local Air Quality: Lessons from an Effectiveness Study
by Neelakshi Hudda, Isabelle S. Woollacott, Nisitaa Karen Clement Pradeep and John L. Durant
Environments 2025, 12(1), 33; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12010033 - 20 Jan 2025
Viewed by 344
Abstract
Bus lanes with intermittent prioritization (BLIPs) have been proposed as a way to reduce traffic burden and improve air quality along busy urban streets; however, to date, the impacts of BLIPs on local-scale air quality have not been thoroughly evaluated, due in part [...] Read more.
Bus lanes with intermittent prioritization (BLIPs) have been proposed as a way to reduce traffic burden and improve air quality along busy urban streets; however, to date, the impacts of BLIPs on local-scale air quality have not been thoroughly evaluated, due in part to challenges in study design. We measured traffic-emission proxies—black carbon aerosol and ultrafine particles—before and after the installation of a BLIP in the Boston area (Massachusetts, USA) in 2021, and compared our data with traffic measurements to determine whether changes in air quality were attributable to changes in traffic patterns. We used both stationary and mobile monitoring to characterize temporal and spatial variations in air quality both before and after the BLIP went into operation. Although the BLIP led to a reduction in traffic volume (~20%), we did not find evidence that this reduction caused a significant change in local air quality. Nonetheless, substantial spatial and temporal differences in pollutant concentrations were observed; the highest concentrations occurred closest to a nearby highway along a section of the bus lane that was in an urban canyon, likely causing pollutant trapping. Wind direction was a dominant influence: pollutant concentrations were generally higher during winds that oriented the bus lane downwind of or parallel to the highway. Based on our findings, we recommend in future studies to evaluate the effectiveness of BLIPs that: (i) traffic and air quality measurements be collected simultaneously for several non-weekend days immediately before and immediately after bus lanes are first put into operation; (ii) the evaluation should be performed when other significant changes in motorists’ driving behavior and bus ridership are not anticipated; and (iii) coordinated efforts be made to increase bus ridership and incentivize motorists to avoid using the bus lane during the hours of intermittent prioritization. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Urban Air Pollution)
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15 pages, 1727 KiB  
Article
Oxygen Consumption and Carbon Budget in Groundwater-Obligate and Surface-Dwelling Diacyclops Species (Crustacea Copepoda Cyclopoida) Under Temperature Variability
by Tiziana Di Lorenzo, Agostina Tabilio Di Camillo, Sanda Iepure, Diana M. P. Galassi, Nataša Mori and Tatjana Simčič
Environments 2025, 12(1), 32; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12010032 - 20 Jan 2025
Viewed by 528
Abstract
This study explores the metabolic response and carbon budget of two cyclopoid copepod species, Diacyclops belgicus Kiefer, 1936 (a stygobitic, groundwater-adapted species) and Diacyclops crassicaudis crassicaudis (Sars G.O., 1863) (a stygophilic, predominantly surface-associated species). We measured oxygen consumption rates (OCRs), carbon requirements (CRs), [...] Read more.
This study explores the metabolic response and carbon budget of two cyclopoid copepod species, Diacyclops belgicus Kiefer, 1936 (a stygobitic, groundwater-adapted species) and Diacyclops crassicaudis crassicaudis (Sars G.O., 1863) (a stygophilic, predominantly surface-associated species). We measured oxygen consumption rates (OCRs), carbon requirements (CRs), ingestion (I) rates, and egestion (E) rates at 14 °C and 17 °C, representing current and predicted future conditions in the collection habitats of the two species. Diacyclops belgicus displayed OCRs (28.15 and 18.32 µL O2/mg DW × h at 14 and 17 °C, respectively) and carbon budget (CR: 0.14 and 0.10 µg C/mg × d at 14 and 17 °C) lower than those of D. crassicaudis crassicaudis (OCR: 55.67 and 47.93 µL O2/mg DW × h at 14 and 17 °C; CR: 0.3 and 0.27 µg C/mg × d at 14 and 17 °C). However, D. belgicus exhibited metabolic rates and carbon requirements comparable to those of other epigean species, challenging the assumption that low metabolic rates are universal among stygobitic species. Temperature variations did not significantly affect the metabolic responses and carbon requirements of the two species, suggesting that they may cope with moderate temperature increases. Full article
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21 pages, 3112 KiB  
Article
Environmental and Economic Life Cycle Impacts of Using Spent Mushroom Substrate as a Soil Improver
by Hasler Iglesias, Ana Paredes Ortiz, José M. Soriano Disla and Andrés J. Lara-Guillén
Environments 2025, 12(1), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12010031 - 20 Jan 2025
Viewed by 472
Abstract
The cultivation of white button mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus) generates significant quantities of spent mushroom substrate (SMS), a byproduct traditionally treated as waste despite its nutrient- and organic-carbon-rich composition. The EU-funded project FER-PLAY identified SMS as one of the most promising circular [...] Read more.
The cultivation of white button mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus) generates significant quantities of spent mushroom substrate (SMS), a byproduct traditionally treated as waste despite its nutrient- and organic-carbon-rich composition. The EU-funded project FER-PLAY identified SMS as one of the most promising circular fertilizers (i.e., those produced from waste streams, transforming them into value-added products). Within the project, a life cycle assessment (LCA) and life cycle costing (LCC) analysis of SMS were conducted with a cradle-to-gate-to-grave scope across three European regions, comparing it to a non-renewable mix with equivalent N, P, K, and C inputs. The LCA results reveal substantial environmental benefits of SMS over the non-renewable baseline, particularly in land use, fossil resource depletion, freshwater ecotoxicity and climate change, which together account for 98% of total impacts. Although SMS exhibits higher water consumption, it represents only 2% of total impacts. LCC highlights the critical effects of fresh mushroom substrate composition on yield, economies of scale, and revenue generation. Overall, this study highlights the significant environmental and economic potential of repurposing SMS as a soil improver, offering a compelling case for its integration into agricultural systems as part of a sustainable, circular economy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Waste Management and Life Cycle Assessment)
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17 pages, 2610 KiB  
Article
Ecotoxicological Effects of the Herbicide Metribuzin on Tenebrio molitor Hemocytes
by Maria Luigia Vommaro, Michela Guadagnolo, Martina Lento and Anita Giglio
Environments 2025, 12(1), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12010030 - 19 Jan 2025
Viewed by 455
Abstract
Herbicides are synthetic chemicals that are extensively employed in agricultural practices with the objective of enhancing crop yield and quality. Despite their selectivity for plant systems and being generally regarded as non-toxic to animals, there is a paucity of understanding surrounding the sublethal [...] Read more.
Herbicides are synthetic chemicals that are extensively employed in agricultural practices with the objective of enhancing crop yield and quality. Despite their selectivity for plant systems and being generally regarded as non-toxic to animals, there is a paucity of understanding surrounding the sublethal effects on non-target organisms, including animals. This gap underscores the necessity for ecotoxicological research that prioritizes the identification of suitable models and develops reliable biomarkers for the early assessment of environmental impact. In this context, hemocytes—circulating immune cells found in invertebrates—have been identified as a crucial system for assessing sublethal toxicological effects, given their role in immune defense and overall organism health. Tenebrio molitor, a beetle pest of stored grain, was used as a model for the assessment of the effects of a metribuzin-based herbicide (MTB, Feinzin DF 70, 70% metribuzin, 0.25 kg ha−1). Following a 96 h exposure to MTB, the males (7–10 days post-eclosion) were examined for multiple biomarkers in their hemocytes, including cell density, phagocytic activity, lysosomal membrane stability, and cytological changes. Although no mortality was observed, exposure to MTB resulted in a reduction in the phagocytic index and an increase in blast-like cells, indicating the potential for immunotoxicity. Lysosomal membrane stability was reduced, though no significant changes in hemocyte density or nuclear morphology were observed. These responses indicate potential immune system impairment, which could affect the beetle’s fitness and reproductive potential. This study highlights the potential of hemocytes for assessing sublethal herbicide effects, raising concerns about the ecological impact of herbicides in agroecosystems and their potential risks to both wildlife and human health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pesticide Contamination to Non-target Organisms, the Environment, and Agroecosystems)
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15 pages, 3699 KiB  
Article
Contrasting Perfluorooctanoic Acid Removal by Calcite Before and After Heat Treatment
by Zhaohui Li, Yating Yang, Yaqi Wen, Yuhan Li, Jeremy Moczulewski, Po-Hsiang Chang, Stacie E. Albert and Lori Allen
Environments 2025, 12(1), 29; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12010029 - 17 Jan 2025
Viewed by 326
Abstract
Calcites before and after calcination at 1000 °C were evaluated for their potential removal of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) from water. After heat treatment, the PFOA sorption capacity increased by 25%, from 3.2 to 3.9 mg g−1, and the affinity increased by [...] Read more.
Calcites before and after calcination at 1000 °C were evaluated for their potential removal of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) from water. After heat treatment, the PFOA sorption capacity increased by 25%, from 3.2 to 3.9 mg g−1, and the affinity increased by 2.7 times, from 0.03 to 0.08 L mg−1. Kinetically, the initial rate, rate constant, and equilibrium sorption were 8.7 mg g−1 h−1, 2.6 g mg−1 h−1, and 1.8 mg g−1 for heat treated calcite, in comparison to 6.4 mg g−1 h−1, 3.1 g mg−1 h−1, and 1.4 mg g−1 for calcite without heat treatment. X-ray diffraction analyses showed phase changing from calcite to calcium oxide after calcination. However, after contact with PFOA solutions for 24 h, the major phase changed back to calcite with a minute amount of Ca(OH)2. These results suggest that using raw cement materials derived from heat treatment of limestone may be a good option for the removal of PFOA from water. Thus, further studies are needed to confirm this claim. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Occurrence, Behavior, Fate, Risk Assessment, and Treatment of per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances)
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16 pages, 6877 KiB  
Article
Accumulation of Nanoplastics in Biomphalaria glabrata Embryos and Transgenerational Developmental Effects
by Leisha Martin, Carly Armendarez, Mackenzie Merrill, Chi Huang and Wei Xu
Environments 2025, 12(1), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12010028 - 17 Jan 2025
Viewed by 316
Abstract
(1) Background: Nanoplastics are emerging environmental pollutants with potential toxic effects on aquatic organisms. This study investigates the toxicity of NPs in Biomphalaria glabrata, a freshwater snail species widely used as a bioindicator species in ecotoxicology studies.; (2) Methods: We exposed three [...] Read more.
(1) Background: Nanoplastics are emerging environmental pollutants with potential toxic effects on aquatic organisms. This study investigates the toxicity of NPs in Biomphalaria glabrata, a freshwater snail species widely used as a bioindicator species in ecotoxicology studies.; (2) Methods: We exposed three generations (F0–F2) of B. glabrata snail embryos to different sizes of polystyrene nanoparticles and assessed responses.; (3) Results: We observed severe effects on F0 to F2 B. glabrata embryos, including size-dependent (30 to 500 nm) increases in mortality rates, size and dosage-dependent (1 to 100 ppm) effects on hatching rates with concentration-dependent toxicity in the 30 nm exposure group. The F2 generation embryos appear to be most responsive to detoxification (CYP450) and pollutant metabolism (HSP70) at 48-h-post-treatment (HPT), while our developmental marker (MATN1) was highly upregulated at 96-HPT. We also report a particle-size-dependent correlation in HSP70 and CYP450 mRNA expression, as well as enhanced upregulation in the offspring of exposed snails. We also observed significant reductions in hatching rates for F2.; (4) Conclusions: These findings indicate that F2 generation embryos appear to exhibit increased stress from toxic substances inherited from their parents and grandparents (F1 and F0). This study provides valuable insights into the impact of plastic particulate pollution on multiple generations and highlights the importance of monitoring and mitigating plastic waste. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microplastics Pollution in Aquatic Ecosystems: Challenges and Perspectives)
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31 pages, 11303 KiB  
Article
Integrated Surface and Tropospheric Column Analysis of Sulfur Dioxide Variability at the Lamezia Terme WMO/GAW Regional Station in Calabria, Southern Italy
by Francesco D’Amico, Teresa Lo Feudo, Daniel Gullì, Ivano Ammoscato, Mariafrancesca De Pino, Luana Malacaria, Salvatore Sinopoli, Giorgia De Benedetto and Claudia Roberta Calidonna
Environments 2025, 12(1), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12010027 - 16 Jan 2025
Viewed by 399
Abstract
Sulfur dioxide (SO2) can be of natural and anthropogenic origin and is one of the sulfur compounds present in the atmosphere. Among natural sources, volcanoes contribute with relevant annual outputs, and major eruptions lead to spikes in these outputs. In the [...] Read more.
Sulfur dioxide (SO2) can be of natural and anthropogenic origin and is one of the sulfur compounds present in the atmosphere. Among natural sources, volcanoes contribute with relevant annual outputs, and major eruptions lead to spikes in these outputs. In the case of anthropogenic pollution, SO2 emissions are mostly correlated with the sulfur content of fuels, which has been the focus of specific emission mitigation policies for decades. Following other examples of cyclic and multi-year evaluations, an analysis of SO2 at the Lamezia Terme (code: LMT) WMO/GAW (World Meteorological Organization—Global Atmosphere Watch) station in Calabria, Southern Italy, was performed. The coastal site is characterized by wind circulation patterns that result in the detection of air masses with low or enhanced anthropic influences. The presence of the Aeolian Arc of active, quiescent, and extinct volcanoes, as well as Mount Etna in Sicily, may influence LMT observations with diffused SO2 emissions. For the first time in the history of the LMT, a multi-year analysis of a parameter has been integrated with TROPOMI data gathered by Sentinel-5P and used to test total tropospheric column densities at the LMT itself and select coordinates in the Tyrrhenian and Ionian seas. Surface and satellite data indicate that SO2 peaks at the LMT are generally linked to winds from the western–seaside wind corridor, a pattern that is compatible with active volcanism in the Tyrrhenian Sea and maritime shipping to and from the Gioia Tauro port located in the same region. The findings of this research provide the basis for enhanced source apportionment, which could further differentiate anthropogenic sources in the area from natural outputs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Urban Air Pollution: 2nd Edition)
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30 pages, 2183 KiB  
Review
Biobased Strategies for E-Waste Metal Recovery: A Critical Overview of Recent Advances
by Diogo A. Ferreira-Filipe, Armando C. Duarte, Andrew S. Hursthouse, Teresa Rocha-Santos and Ana L. Patrício Silva
Environments 2025, 12(1), 26; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12010026 - 16 Jan 2025
Viewed by 966
Abstract
The increasing e-waste volumes represent a great challenge in the current waste management landscape, primarily due to the massive production and turnover of electronic devices and the complexity of their components and constituents. Traditional strategies for e-waste treatment focus on metal recovery through [...] Read more.
The increasing e-waste volumes represent a great challenge in the current waste management landscape, primarily due to the massive production and turnover of electronic devices and the complexity of their components and constituents. Traditional strategies for e-waste treatment focus on metal recovery through costly, energetically intensive, and environmentally hazardous processes, such as pyrometallurgical and hydrometallurgical approaches, often neglecting other e-waste constituents. As efforts are directed towards creating a more sustainable and circular economic model, biobased alternative approaches to these traditional techniques have been increasingly investigated. This critical review focuses on recent advances towards sustainable e-waste treatment, exclusively considering studies using e-waste sources. It addresses, from a critical perspective, approaches using inactive biomass, live biomass, and biogenic compounds, showcasing the diversity of strategies and discussing reaction parameters, advantages and disadvantages, challenges, and potential for valorization of generated by-products. While ongoing research focuses on optimizing operational times and metal recovery efficiencies, bioprocessing approaches still offer significant potential for metal recovery from e-waste. These approaches include lower environmental impact by reducing energy consumption and effluent treatments and the ability to recover metals from complex e-waste streams, paving the way for a more circular economy in the electronics industry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Deployment of Green Technologies for Sustainable Environment III)
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18 pages, 6918 KiB  
Article
Assessing Water Temperature and Dissolved Oxygen and Their Potential Effects on Aquatic Ecosystem Using a SARIMA Model
by Samuel Larance, Junye Wang, Mojtaba Aghajani Delavar and Marwan Fahs
Environments 2025, 12(1), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12010025 - 14 Jan 2025
Viewed by 461
Abstract
Temperature and dissolved oxygen (DO) are of critical importance for sustainable aquatic ecosystem and biodiversity in the river systems. This study aims to develop a data-driven model for forecasting water quality in the Athabasca River using a seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average model [...] Read more.
Temperature and dissolved oxygen (DO) are of critical importance for sustainable aquatic ecosystem and biodiversity in the river systems. This study aims to develop a data-driven model for forecasting water quality in the Athabasca River using a seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average model (SARIMA) for forecasting monthly DO and water temperature. DO and water temperature observed at Fort McMurray and Athabasca from 1960 to 2023 were used to train and test the model. The results show the satisfied model performance of DO with a coefficient of determination (R2) value of 0.76 and an RMSE value of 0.79 for training and 0.67 and 0.92 for testing, respectively, at the Fort McMurray station. At the Town of Athabasca station, the RMSE and R2 of DO were 0.92 and 0.72 for training and 0.77 and 0.86 for testing, respectively. For the modeled temperature, RMSE and R2 were 2.7 and 0.87 for training and 2.2 and 0.95 for testing, respectively, at Fort McMurray and were 2.0 and 0.93 for training and 1.8 and 0.97 for testing, respectively, in the Town of Athabasca. The results show that DO concentration is inversely proportional to the temperature. This implies that the DO could be related to water temperature, which, in turn, is correlated with air temperature. Therefore, the SARIMA model performed reasonably well in representing the dynamics of water temperature and DO in the cold climate river. Such a model can be used in practice to reduce the risk of low DO events. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hydrological Modeling and Sustainable Water Resources Management)
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10 pages, 455 KiB  
Article
Energy Use and Environmental Impact of Three Lithium-Ion Battery Factories with a Total Annual Capacity of 100 GWh
by Ákos Kuki, Csilla Lakatos, Lajos Nagy, Tibor Nagy and Sándor Kéki
Environments 2025, 12(1), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12010024 - 14 Jan 2025
Viewed by 419
Abstract
The rapid evolution of Li-ion battery technologies and manufacturing processes demands a continual update of environmental impact data. The general objective of this paper is to publish up-to-date primary data on battery manufacturing, which is of great importance to the scientific community and [...] Read more.
The rapid evolution of Li-ion battery technologies and manufacturing processes demands a continual update of environmental impact data. The general objective of this paper is to publish up-to-date primary data on battery manufacturing, which is of great importance to the scientific community and decision-makers. The environmental impacts have been calculated and estimated based on publicly available data disclosed under Hungarian government regulations and official decrees. The gate-to-gate energy use, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, water consumption, and N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) consumption are estimated for three battery factories in Hungary, with a total annual capacity of approximately 100 GWh. The factories use around 30–35 kWh energy per kWh of battery capacity and the associated GHG emissions are around 10 kgCO2eq per kWh of cell production. The water consumption varies considerably among factories, with one plant using 28 L per kWh and the other two using 56 and 67 L per kWh. The specific consumption of NMP was calculated for two factories, resulting in close values of 0.51–0.56 kg per kWh of cell production. As a new approach, we distinguish between global and local GHG emissions related to battery production. The main component of the latter is carbon dioxide from the combustion of natural gas, but the local transport related to the battery factories is also a source of emissions. Our estimations include not only the consumptions required directly for the manufacturing technology, but also those for social purposes (e.g., heating offices), giving a more complete picture of the factory’s environmental impact. We believe that up-to-date primary data are crucial for ensuring transparency and holds significant value for both the scientific community and decision-makers. Full article
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18 pages, 6063 KiB  
Article
Seasonal Dynamics and Environmental Drivers of Phytoplankton in the Albufera Coastal Lagoon (Valencia, Spain)
by Juan Víctor Molner, Isabel Mellinas-Coperias, Clara Canós-López, Rebeca Pérez-González, María D. Sendra and Juan M. Soria
Environments 2025, 12(1), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12010023 - 13 Jan 2025
Viewed by 611
Abstract
The Albufera of Valencia is a hypereutrophic, oligohaline lagoon that has experienced significant changes in phytoplankton composition and state in recent decades due to human activities. These activities affect phytoplankton biomass and community structure, which are key indicators of ecosystem health. In this [...] Read more.
The Albufera of Valencia is a hypereutrophic, oligohaline lagoon that has experienced significant changes in phytoplankton composition and state in recent decades due to human activities. These activities affect phytoplankton biomass and community structure, which are key indicators of ecosystem health. In this study, phytoplankton samples from the lagoon were analyzed to identify dominant groups and genera, and their seasonal cycles were determined using biovolume measurements with the Utermöhl method. Various environmental variables were also measured. Diversity was assessed using richness, equitability, and the Shannon–Wiener index. Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA) and Pearson correlation revealed that temperature and phosphorus significantly influence phytoplankton abundance. A species that exhibited seasonal abundance, resulting in a change in the lagoon’s color from green to brown, was identified. Water quality was assessed using the trophic state index, indicating that the lagoon is in poor condition and hyper-eutrophic. Cyanobacteria were the most dominant group, peaking in November, contrary to previous studies, followed by Chlorophyceae and Bacillariophyceae. Phytoplankton are vital bioindicators for assessing ecosystem health, underscoring the need for further research in this area. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multiple Approaches for Environmental Assessment of Transitional and Coastal Waters II)
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15 pages, 2330 KiB  
Article
Optimization of Capillary Electrophoresis by Central Composite Design for Separation of Pharmaceutical Contaminants in Water Quality Testing
by Eman T. Elmorsi and Edward P. C. Lai
Environments 2025, 12(1), 22; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12010022 - 12 Jan 2025
Viewed by 611
Abstract
Many pharmaceutical active compounds are prepared as hydrochlorides for quick release in the gastrointestinal tract upon oral administration. Their inadvertent escape into the water environment requires efficient analytical separation for accurate quantitation to monitor their environmental fate. The purpose of this study is [...] Read more.
Many pharmaceutical active compounds are prepared as hydrochlorides for quick release in the gastrointestinal tract upon oral administration. Their inadvertent escape into the water environment requires efficient analytical separation for accurate quantitation to monitor their environmental fate. The purpose of this study is to demonstrate how best to optimize a capillary electrophoresis method for the separation of four model pharmaceutical hydrochlorides. Concentration of sodium dibasic phosphate in the background electrolyte solution, pH adjustment with HCl or NaOH, and applied voltage across the capillary were the three key factors chosen for optimization. The peak resolutions and total migration time were examined as the response indicators to complete a central composite design in response surface methodology. The examination revealed that CE separation was driven significantly by a linear regression model and minimally by a quadratic regression model, based on the coefficient of determination, the lack of fit, the total sum of squares, and the p values. Under optimal conditions of the background electrolyte concentration of 75 mM, pH 9, and the applied voltage of 10 kV, the model hydrochlorides were separated within five minutes in the migration order of metformin (first) > phenformin > mexiletine > ranitidine (last). The limits of UV detection/quantification attained under optimal CE conditions were 0.015/0.045, 0.020/0.060, 0.142/0.426, and 0.017/0.051, respectively. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research on Micropollutants in Water)
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19 pages, 4709 KiB  
Article
Performance of Colilert-18 and qPCR for Monitoring E. coli Contamination at Freshwater Beaches in Michigan
by James N. McNair, Richard R. Rediske, John J. Hart, Megan N. Jamison and Shannon Briggs
Environments 2025, 12(1), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12010021 - 12 Jan 2025
Viewed by 485
Abstract
Fecal contamination is a common cause of impairment of surface waters. In monitoring studies, it is usually assessed by measuring concentrations of fecal indicator bacteria such as Escherichia coli (E. coli), a common monitoring target in freshwater systems. In this study, [...] Read more.
Fecal contamination is a common cause of impairment of surface waters. In monitoring studies, it is usually assessed by measuring concentrations of fecal indicator bacteria such as Escherichia coli (E. coli), a common monitoring target in freshwater systems. In this study, we assess the advantages and disadvantages of two common and previously validated methods for monitoring E. coli concentrations at freshwater beaches: Colilert-18®, with a turnaround time of ca. 18 h, and real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR), with a turnaround time of ca. 3–4 h. Based on data comprising 3081 pairs of Colilert-18 and qPCR estimates of E. coli concentrations in split samples from Michigan’s annual beach monitoring program in 2019 and 2020, we found that qPCR monitoring detected a high percentage of exceedances of the state’s water quality standard for E. coli contamination that went undetected on the day of sampling with Colilert-18 monitoring because qPCR concentration estimates were available on the day of sampling but Colilert-18 estimates were not. However, Colilert-18 data were more useful than qPCR data for the statistical comparison of contamination levels at different beaches, probably in part because Colilert-18 data showed a much lower percentage of concentration estimates outside the method’s range of quantification. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Monitoring of Contaminated Water and Soil)
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12 pages, 1884 KiB  
Article
Air Bubbling Assisted Soil Washing to Treat PFAS in High Organic Content Soils
by Kaushik Londhe and Arjun K. Venkatesan
Environments 2025, 12(1), 20; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12010020 - 12 Jan 2025
Viewed by 420
Abstract
The soil-washing technique has been successfully utilized for the remediation of PFAS-contaminated soils. Prior studies have shown that the organic carbon (OC) content and grain size of soil determined the efficiency of PFAS removal during washing. However, most of the past studies have [...] Read more.
The soil-washing technique has been successfully utilized for the remediation of PFAS-contaminated soils. Prior studies have shown that the organic carbon (OC) content and grain size of soil determined the efficiency of PFAS removal during washing. However, most of the past studies have focused on soils with a low OC content, typically ranging from 0–3%. In this study, we explored the use of a novel process where soil washing was combined with air bubbling (or foam fractionation) to aid in the removal of PFAS from high OC-content soils (~4–20%). Treatment with air bubbling of high OC soil (~20%) with perfluorobutane sulfonate (PFBS) and perfluorooctanoate (PFOA) did not enhance their removal, as they featured low surface activity. However, we observed an improvement in the extraction of perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) from 27% to 42% with bubbling, consistent with the higher surface activity of PFOS compared to PFOA and PFBS. Perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDA) was irreversibly adsorbed to the high OC soil and was not removed efficiently by both bubbling and soil washing. A slight improvement in PFDA removal (6–13%) was observed when a co-surfactant (cetyltrimethylammonium chloride) was added and when the OC content was reduced to ~4% by the addition of nonorganic sand to the contaminated soil prior to soil washing. This suggested that the interaction of PFDA with OC was the dominant factor determining its extraction from soil. In conclusion, our results indicated that soil washing alone was sufficient for the removal of short-chain PFAS from soil. Although bubbling had a mild effect on the removal of some long-chain PFAS from the solution, it did not help in the overall removal of PFAS from high OC soils, highlighting the difficulty in the treatment of high OC-content soils and that immobilization of PFAS would be an ideal approach in managing such contaminated sites. Full article
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25 pages, 3076 KiB  
Article
A Comparison Between Industrial Energy Efficiency Measures in Guatemala and the United States
by Radhika Khosla, Angel Martinez Rodriguez, Ryan J. Milcarek and Patrick E. Phelan
Environments 2025, 12(1), 19; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12010019 - 12 Jan 2025
Viewed by 401
Abstract
Energy auditing has been cited as a key tool in closing the gap between the actual energy consumption in industrial facilities and what should be at an environmentally sustainable level. Several factors affect the likelihood that energy audits will be effective in closing [...] Read more.
Energy auditing has been cited as a key tool in closing the gap between the actual energy consumption in industrial facilities and what should be at an environmentally sustainable level. Several factors affect the likelihood that energy audits will be effective in closing that gap, and more analysis is needed to understand these factors, especially for developing nations. This study compares three energy efficiency measures (EEMs) frequently recommended in both the United States and Guatemala, namely, installing solar panels to generate electricity, installing higher-efficiency lighting, and upgrading to premium efficiency motors. The implementation of each of these EEMs contributes to more sustainable energy consumption, and each of these EEM’s payback periods is affected by capital costs, energy costs, and other local factors analyzed in this study. Projected payback periods for each EEM based on Guatemalan and U.S. capital cost and energy cost ranges are assessed via EEM-specific payback period calculations and compared to the energy audit data from each country. While lower capital costs incentivize EEM implementation and reduce payback periods, there is an interplay between energy cost and capital cost that impacts the trends in the U.S. and Guatemala. As in the case of the solar panel installation EEM, though Guatemalan companies pay ~110% more for electricity than U.S. companies, when Guatemalan capital costs are lower, payback periods are lower than in the U.S. Conversely, in cases where Guatemalan capital costs are higher—as for higher-efficiency lighting and motor installation—Guatemalan payback periods are roughly the same as those in the U.S. because of the higher Guatemalan energy costs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environments: 10 Years of Science Together)
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18 pages, 644 KiB  
Article
Adaptive Degenerate Space-Based Method for Pollutant Source Term Estimation Using a Backward Lagrangian Stochastic Model
by Omri Buchman and Eyal Fattal
Environments 2025, 12(1), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12010018 - 10 Jan 2025
Viewed by 353
Abstract
A major challenge in accidental or unregulated releases is the ability to identify the pollutant source, especially if the location is in a large industrial area. Usually in such cases, only a few sensors provide non-zero signal. A crucial issue is therefore the [...] Read more.
A major challenge in accidental or unregulated releases is the ability to identify the pollutant source, especially if the location is in a large industrial area. Usually in such cases, only a few sensors provide non-zero signal. A crucial issue is therefore the ability to use a small number of sensors in order to identify the source location and rate of emission. The general problem of characterizing source parameters based on real-time sensors is known to be a difficult task. As with many inverse problems, one of the main obstacles for an accurate estimation is the non-uniqueness of the solution, induced by the lack of sufficient information. In this study, an efficient method is proposed that aims to provide a quantitative estimation of the source of hazardous gases or breathable aerosols. The proposed solution is composed of two parts. First, the physics of the atmospheric dispersion is utilized by a well-established Lagrangian stochastic model propagated backward in time. Then, a new algorithm is formulated for the prediction of the spacial expected uncertainty reduction gained by the optimal placement of an additional sensor. These two parts together are used to construct an adaptive decision support system for the dynamical deployment of detectors, allowing for an efficient characterization of the emitting source. This method has been tested for several scenarios and is shown to significantly reduce the uncertainty that stems from the insufficient information. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Editorial Board Members' Collection Series: Air Quality Assessment and Management, 2nd Edition)
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18 pages, 5042 KiB  
Article
The Influence of Different Land Uses on Tungstate Sorption in Soils of the Same Geographic Area
by Gianniantonio Petruzzelli and Francesca Pedron
Environments 2025, 12(1), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12010017 - 8 Jan 2025
Viewed by 380
Abstract
The growing use of tungsten (W) in industrial applications has made it a critical element in modern production processes. This increasing demand is also contributing to the element’s wider dispersion in the environment, including in soil. In addition to mining areas, it is [...] Read more.
The growing use of tungsten (W) in industrial applications has made it a critical element in modern production processes. This increasing demand is also contributing to the element’s wider dispersion in the environment, including in soil. In addition to mining areas, it is necessary to evaluate the possible environmental effects of tungsten even in non-contaminated areas. The mobility and bioavailability of W in soil are essentially determined by the sorption processes that regulate its distribution between the liquid and solid phases of the soil. In this study, the effect of different land uses—natural, agricultural, and urban—on the sorption of W in soils of the same geographical area was addressed. The results showed that the maximum sorption can be found in natural soils, with a value of 528 mg/kg, while for agricultural and urban soils, the mean values are 486 and 392 mg/kg, respectively. Anthropic interventions seem to reduce this capacity in agricultural soils by about 8%, probably due to agronomic practices, and by even more, 26%, in urban soils, where the use of different materials can modify the original characteristics of the soils. These results show that variations in some of the main characteristics of soils, such as pH and organic matter content, also derived from different land uses, influence the sorptive properties of the soils. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environments: 10 Years of Science Together)
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20 pages, 2981 KiB  
Article
Purification and Biochemical Characterization of Trametes hirsuta CS5 Laccases and Its Potential in Decolorizing Textile Dyes as Emerging Contaminants
by Guadalupe Gutiérrez-Soto, Carlos Eduardo Hernández-Luna, Iosvany López-Sandin, Roberto Parra-Saldívar and Joel Horacio Elizondo-Luevano
Environments 2025, 12(1), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12010016 - 7 Jan 2025
Viewed by 458
Abstract
This study explores the purification, characterization, and application of laccases from Trametes hirsuta CS5 for degrading synthetic dyes as models of emerging contaminants. Purification involved ion exchange chromatography, molecular exclusion, and chromatofocusing, identifying th ree laccase isoforms: ThIa, ThIb, and ThII. Characterization included [...] Read more.
This study explores the purification, characterization, and application of laccases from Trametes hirsuta CS5 for degrading synthetic dyes as models of emerging contaminants. Purification involved ion exchange chromatography, molecular exclusion, and chromatofocusing, identifying th ree laccase isoforms: ThIa, ThIb, and ThII. Characterization included determining pH and temperature stability, kinetic parameters (Km, Kcat), and inhibition constants (Ki) for inhibitors like NaN3, SDS, TGA, EDTA, and DMSO, using 2,6-DMP and guaiacol as substrates. ThII exhibited the highest catalytic efficiency, with the lowest Km and highest Kcat. Optimal activity was observed at pH 3.5 and 55 °C. Decolorization tests with nine dyes showed that ThII and ThIa were particularly effective against Acid Red 44, Orange II, Indigo Blue, Brilliant Blue R, and Remazol Brilliant Blue R. ThIb displayed higher activity towards Crystal Violet and Acid Green 27. Among substrates, guaiacol showed the highest Kcat, while 2,6-DMP was preferred overall. Inhibitor studies revealed NaN3 as the most potent inhibitor. These results demonstrate the significant potential of T. hirsuta CS5 laccases, especially ThIa and ThII, as biocatalysts for degrading synthetic dyes and other xenobiotics. Their efficiency and stability under acidic and moderate temperature conditions position them as promising tools for sustainable wastewater treatment and environmental remediation. Full article
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19 pages, 2156 KiB  
Article
Associations of Exposure to 24 Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals with Perinatal Depression and Lifestyle Factors: A Prospective Cohort Study in Korea
by Nalae Moon, Su Ji Heo and Ju Hee Kim
Environments 2025, 12(1), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12010015 - 6 Jan 2025
Viewed by 502
Abstract
During pregnancy, reproductive hormonal changes could affect the mental health of women, such as depression and anxiety. Previous studies have shown that exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) is significantly associated with mental health symptoms; however, the results were inconsistent. We aimed to [...] Read more.
During pregnancy, reproductive hormonal changes could affect the mental health of women, such as depression and anxiety. Previous studies have shown that exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) is significantly associated with mental health symptoms; however, the results were inconsistent. We aimed to examine the association between 24 endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in maternal urine and perinatal depression and their association with dietary and lifestyle factors. Participants were recruited from the “No Environmental Hazards for Mother–Child” cohort in Korea. Structured questionnaires asking dietary and lifestyle factors and evaluation of depressive symptoms were administered during antepartum (14 weeks of gestation) and postpartum (within four weeks after birth) periods. Urine samples were collected from 242 and 119 women during antepartum and postpartum periods, respectively. To assess perinatal depression, we used the Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression Scale and the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. Antepartum depression and mono(2-ethyl-5-carboxypentyl) phthalate (MECPP) (1.50, 1.01–2.23) and 1-hydroxypyrene (1-OHP) (0.05, 0–0.89) showed significant positive association. Additionally, postpartum depression showed significant associations with mono(2-ethyl-5-oxohexyl) phthalate (MEOHP) (2.78, 1.00–7.70), mono(2-ethyl-5-hydroxyhexyl) phthalate (MEHHP) (2.79, 1.04–7.46), 2-hydroxynaphthalene (2-NAP) (7.22, 1.43–36.59), and 2-hydroxyfluorene (2-FLU) (<0.01, 0–0.004). Some dietary factors (consumption of fish, fermented foods, cup noodles, and popcorn) and consumer product factors (use of skin care, makeup, perfume, antibiotics, sunscreen, nail polish, new furniture, plastic tableware, detergent, polish, paint, and pesticide) were associated with the concentration level of chemicals. We found that exposure to several EDCs during pregnancy and the postpartum period was associated with perinatal depression and dietary–lifestyle factors. Women in childbirth need to actively seek out information about exposure to EDCs and make efforts to avoid them for their own and fetal health. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthy and Safe Environments across Occupational and Environmental Contexts)
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40 pages, 5371 KiB  
Article
Coupling Advanced Geo-Environmental Indices for the Evaluation of Groundwater Quality: A Case Study in NE Peloponnese, Greece
by Panagiotis Papazotos, Maria Vlachomitrou, Despoina Psarraki, Eleni Vasileiou and Maria Perraki
Environments 2025, 12(1), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12010014 - 4 Jan 2025
Viewed by 881
Abstract
Water and its management have played a pivotal role in the evolution of organisms and civilizations, fulfilling essential roles in personal use, industry, irrigation, and drinking from ancient times to the present. This study seeks to evaluate groundwater quality for irrigation and drinking [...] Read more.
Water and its management have played a pivotal role in the evolution of organisms and civilizations, fulfilling essential roles in personal use, industry, irrigation, and drinking from ancient times to the present. This study seeks to evaluate groundwater quality for irrigation and drinking in the Northern Peloponnese region, specifically the wells of Loutraki and Schinos areas and the springs of the Gerania Mountains (Mts.), using geo-environmental indices and ionic ratios. For the first time, geo-environmental indices have been applied to a region where groundwater serves multiple purposes, addressing the challenge of understanding their dynamics to optimize their application in environmental science and groundwater pollution research. To achieve this, 68 groundwater samples from the study area were utilized, and a total of 25 geo-environmental indices were calculated to assess water quality. These indices examined: (i) drinking suitability (NPI, RI, PIG, WQI, and WPI), (ii) irrigation suitability (SAR, KR, %Na, PS, MAR, RSC, SSP, TH, PI, IWQI, and TDS), (iii) potentially toxic element (PTE) loadings (Cd, HEI, and HPI), and (iv) major hydrogeochemical processes, expressed as ionic ratios (Ca/Mg, Ca/SO4, Ca/Na, Cl/NO3, Cl/HCO3, and Si/NO3). Data processing involved descriptive statistics, hydrogeochemical bivariate plots, Spearman correlation coefficients, and multivariate statistical analyses, including factor analysis (FA) and R-mode hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA). Results revealed that all groundwater samples (100%) from the Loutraki area and the Gerania Mts. were of good quality for both drinking and irrigation purposes. In contrast, groundwater from the Schinos area exhibited lower quality, with most samples (93.9%) considered suitable only for irrigation. The deterioration in the coastal aquifer of the Schinos area is attributed to elevated concentrations of Cl−, Na+, NO3−, As, and Cr resulting from salinization and relatively limited anthropogenic influences. The study highlights that relying on individual geo-environmental indices can yield misleading results due to their dependence on factors such as researcher expertise, methodological choices, and the indices’ inherent limitations. Consequently, this research emphasizes the necessity of combining indices to enhance the reliability, accuracy, and robustness of groundwater quality assessments and hydrogeochemical evaluations. Last but not least, the findings demonstrate that calculating all available geo-environmental indices is unnecessary. Instead, selecting a subset of indices that either reflect the impact of specific elemental concentrations or can be effectively integrated with others is sufficient. This streamlined approach addresses challenges in optimizing geo-environmental index applications and contributes to improved groundwater resource management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research Progress in Groundwater Contamination and Treatment)
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15 pages, 1559 KiB  
Article
Impact of Long-Term Changes in Ambient Erythema-Effective UV Radiation on the Personal Exposure of Indoor and Outdoor Workers—Case Study at Selected Sites in Europe
by Gudrun Laschewski
Environments 2025, 12(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12010013 - 4 Jan 2025
Viewed by 473
Abstract
Given the persistently high incidence of skin cancer, there is a need for prevention-focused information on the impact of long-term changes in ambient solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) on human personal radiation exposure. The exposure categories of the UV Index linked to protection recommendations [...] Read more.
Given the persistently high incidence of skin cancer, there is a need for prevention-focused information on the impact of long-term changes in ambient solar ultraviolet radiation (UVR) on human personal radiation exposure. The exposure categories of the UV Index linked to protection recommendations show long-term shifts in the frequency of occurrence with regional differences in direction and magnitude. The patterns of change for sites in the humid continental climate differ from those for sites in other climate zones such as the humid temperate or Mediterranean climate. The diversity of the individual exposures of indoor and outdoor workers can be described using probability models for personal erythema-effective UVR dose (UVD). For people who work indoors, the largest share of the total individual annual UVD is due to vacation, whereas for people who work outdoors, it is occupational exposure. The change in ambient UVDs at the residential locations is only partially reflected in the individual UVDs. For eight selected European sites between 38° and 60° northern latitude, the median of the individual annual total UVD (excluding travel) during the period 2009–2019 is 0.2 to 2.0% higher for indoor workers and 0.6 to 3.2% higher for outdoor workers compared to the period 1983–2008. Changes in the choice of an exemplary holiday destination offer both indoor and outdoor workers the potential to compensate for the observed long-term trend at their place of residence and work. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Pollutant Exposure and Human Health)
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22 pages, 1272 KiB  
Systematic Review
Advancing Environmental Sustainability in Healthcare: Review on Perspectives from Health Institutions
by Bárbara Badanta, Anabel Porcar Sierra, Saray Torner Fernández, Francisco Javier Rodríguez Muñoz, José Miguel Pérez-Jiménez, María Gonzalez-Cano-Caballero, Manuel Ruiz-Adame and Rocío de-Diego-Cordero
Environments 2025, 12(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12010009 - 3 Jan 2025
Viewed by 587
Abstract
Hospitals play a key role in promoting sustainable and healthy living. Few studies have taken this perspective into account. Therefore, we explored the role of hospital institutions in the development and implementation of sustainability strategies linked to the provision of health services. Applying [...] Read more.
Hospitals play a key role in promoting sustainable and healthy living. Few studies have taken this perspective into account. Therefore, we explored the role of hospital institutions in the development and implementation of sustainability strategies linked to the provision of health services. Applying the PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic review of the PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, PsycINFO and Web of Science databases and the references of the resulting articles in Mendeley Desktop v1.19.8. Articles peer-reviewed between 2016 and 2023 were eligible if they analyzed sustainable healthcare, activities derived from services provided and professional involvement. From the 27 articles that constituted the final sample, two themes were identified: (a) environmental sustainability in healthcare and (b) involvement of healthcare professionals in environmental sustainability. Proposals for sustainable actions to reduce the environmental impact of healthcare related to the use of natural resources, sustainable food, sustainable transport and waste management were reviewed. The role of healthcare workers, their attitudes and perceptions of sustainability and global health improvement were investigated. Reducing health pollution involves addressing excessive or inappropriate consumption of resources and minimizing the environmental footprint of healthcare activities. The different contexts reveal the heterogeneity of the sustainability interventions existing in the healthcare industry, both in terms of subject matter and in terms of the number of publications from each country. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthy and Safe Environments across Occupational and Environmental Contexts)
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16 pages, 2438 KiB  
Article
Bioaccumulation Patterns in Different Tissues of Twelve Species of Elasmobranchs from the Tyrrhenian and Ionian Sea (Calabria, Southern Italy)
by Samira Gallo, Francesco Luigi Leonetti, Francesca Romana Reinero, Primo Micarelli, Luigi Passarelli, Gianni Giglio, Concetta Milazzo, Sandra Imbrogno, Donatella Barca, Massimiliano Bottaro and Emilio Sperone
Environments 2025, 12(1), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12010012 - 3 Jan 2025
Viewed by 425
Abstract
Marine ecosystems are increasingly threatened by pollutants, including trace elements (TEs) such as heavy metals, which bioaccumulate and pose risks to both marine fauna and human health. Sharks and rays are particularly susceptible to metal uptake and retention, making them sentinel species for [...] Read more.
Marine ecosystems are increasingly threatened by pollutants, including trace elements (TEs) such as heavy metals, which bioaccumulate and pose risks to both marine fauna and human health. Sharks and rays are particularly susceptible to metal uptake and retention, making them sentinel species for assessing environmental contamination. This study investigated the bioaccumulation of 16 TEs across 12 elasmobranch species sampled from the Ionian and Tyrrhenian coasts of Calabria, southern Italy, over an 11-year period. Muscle tissue was analyzed for all species, while additional comparisons among skin, muscle, and brain tissues were conducted for Galeus melastomus. Statistical analyses revealed significant variability in TEs concentrations across trophic levels (TRLs), with higher levels observed in species occupying higher trophic positions. Positive correlations were noted for elements such as Al, Ba, and Se, while negative correlations were found for Co, Cu, Mn, and U, indicating species-specific metabolic adaptations. Tissue-specific analyses identified the skin as a primary site for TEs accumulation, likely due to its barrier functions and external exposure. This study highlights the complex interplay of ecological, dietary, and physiological factors influencing TEs bioaccumulation in elasmobranchs and emphasizes the need for further research to understand the implications for marine food webs and conservation strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomonitoring and Risk Assessment of Marine Ecosystems)
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15 pages, 8583 KiB  
Article
How Do Vegetation Biomass, Area, and Shape Attributes Influence the Cooling Effect of Urban Green Spaces?
by Zahra Mokhtari, Alessio Russo and Raffaele Lafortezza
Environments 2025, 12(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12010011 - 3 Jan 2025
Viewed by 448
Abstract
Despite the increasing volume of research exploring the impact of various characteristics of urban green spaces (UGS) on land surface temperature (LST), findings remain inconsistent, particularly in arid climatic zones. In this research, we examined UGS change and their temperature and analyzed the [...] Read more.
Despite the increasing volume of research exploring the impact of various characteristics of urban green spaces (UGS) on land surface temperature (LST), findings remain inconsistent, particularly in arid climatic zones. In this research, we examined UGS change and their temperature and analyzed the relationship between pertinent variables of vegetation biomass, area, and shape of green patches and LST in Karaj city, an Iranian semi-arid urban area in 2000 and 2020. Linear regressions were used to model the relationship between green patches’ variables and LST. The results showed that vegetation biomass of green patches was more effective in reducing temperature in comparison with area and shape complexity. Moreover, larger patches with more vegetation biomass and higher shape complexity showed lower temperatures. These results can guide urban landscape optimization by providing a clear understanding of which factors contribute most significantly to temperature mitigation in arid and semi-arid urban areas. For instance, areas identified as green but thermally not significantly cold need to be prioritized for improvements such as planting denser vegetation or introducing more heat resilient species. Full article
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21 pages, 929 KiB  
Review
Genotoxicity of Microplastics on Living Organisms: Effects on Chromosomes, DNA and Gene Expression
by Kuok Ho Daniel Tang
Environments 2025, 12(1), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12010010 - 3 Jan 2025
Viewed by 634
Abstract
Microplastic exposure has become unavoidable, leading to their presence in living organisms. One area of particular concern is the genotoxicity of microplastics, which has implications for reproductive health and cancer development. This review aims to highlight the genotoxic effects of microplastics on different [...] Read more.
Microplastic exposure has become unavoidable, leading to their presence in living organisms. One area of particular concern is the genotoxicity of microplastics, which has implications for reproductive health and cancer development. This review aims to highlight the genotoxic effects of microplastics on different organisms, focusing on their impacts on chromosomes, DNA, and gene expression. More than 85 papers, primarily published in the last five years, have been reviewed. This review indicates that microplastics can cause clastogenesis and aneugenesis at the chromosome level. Clastogenesis results in chromosome damage, while aneugenesis leads to failures in chromosome segregation without causing direct damage. Additionally, microplastics can fracture and damage DNA. These effects arise from (1) the direct genotoxicity of microplastics through interactions with chromosomes, DNA, and associated proteins; and (2) their indirect genotoxicity due to the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by oxidative stress induced by microplastics. Microplastics can trigger the activation of genes related to oxidative stress and the inflammatory response, leading to increased ROS production. Furthermore, they may alter gene expression in other biological processes. The genotoxicity linked to microplastics can stem from the particles themselves and their associated chemicals, and it appears to be both size- and dose-dependent. Full article
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4 pages, 155 KiB  
Editorial
Environmental Impact Assessment—Exploring New Frontiers
by Manuel Duarte Pinheiro
Environments 2025, 12(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12010008 - 31 Dec 2024
Viewed by 504
Abstract
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) legislation is a critical component of the decision-making process of projects with potential effects (i [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Impact Assessment II)
30 pages, 7187 KiB  
Review
Underlying Causes of Long-Term Environmental Pollution by Waste from an Abandoned Metal Mining District: When Legislative and Remediation Measures Are Ineffective
by Gregorio García and Guadalupe Rosique
Environments 2025, 12(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12010007 - 30 Dec 2024
Viewed by 735
Abstract
Since ancient times, mining activities have been recognised as having a strong environmental impact. Due to the extraordinary amount of waste and impacts on the landscape, environmental concerns caused by mining can be found worldwide. The risks associated with mining waste are of [...] Read more.
Since ancient times, mining activities have been recognised as having a strong environmental impact. Due to the extraordinary amount of waste and impacts on the landscape, environmental concerns caused by mining can be found worldwide. The risks associated with mining waste are of great concern, especially when these residues come from metal mining and its associated potentially toxic elements that can be released into the environment. The reality of many of these metal mining areas is that, despite the extensive regulatory frameworks and remediation techniques applied, they continue to have high levels of contamination, posing a source of environmental and public health risk to their surroundings. The issues underlying this situation are details that can only be detected by experience in the management and thorough knowledge of the dynamics of these tailings in the long term. And in many cases, the key is in the details. For this purpose, the case of the former metal mining district of Cartagena-La Unión (SE Spain), one of the most affected areas in the European continent by these metal mining wastes, has been analyzed. In conclusion, it has been shown that the legal status of these waste and mining operations and the lack of control and effectiveness of rehabilitation activities are behind the worrying environmental situation of these areas. The interaction between the legal framework and the environmental and technical knowledge of these tailings and mining areas reveals practical issues beyond the scope of general analysis. This case study, conducted in the main Spanish metal mining area, concerns waste volume, and its findings offer the potential to improve the safety and environmental quality of metal mining regions elsewhere. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Pollution Risk Assessment)
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20 pages, 3149 KiB  
Article
Evaluation of Petroleum Hydrocarbon-Contaminated Soil Remediation Technologies and Their Effects on Soybean Growth
by Dengyu Jiang, Tao Li, Xuanhe Liang, Xin Zhao, Shanlong Li, Yutong Li, Kokyo Oh, Haifeng Liu and Tiehua Cao
Environments 2025, 12(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12010006 - 28 Dec 2024
Viewed by 643
Abstract
The application of persulfate (PS) for the remediation of petroleum hydrocarbon contamination is among the most widely employed in situ chemical oxidation (ISCO) techniques, and it has received widespread attention due to its limited impact on soil integrity. This study employed a FeSO [...] Read more.
The application of persulfate (PS) for the remediation of petroleum hydrocarbon contamination is among the most widely employed in situ chemical oxidation (ISCO) techniques, and it has received widespread attention due to its limited impact on soil integrity. This study employed a FeSO4-activated PS oxidation method to investigate the feasibility of remediating soil contaminated with total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPHs). The factors tested included the TPH concentration, different PS:FeSO4 ratios, the reaction time for remediation, soil physical and chemical property changes before and after remediation, and the effect of soil before and after remediation on soybean growth. The TPH degradation rate in soil was highest for high-, medium-, and low-TPHs soils—81.5%, 81.4%, and 72.9%, respectively, with minimal disruption to the soil’s physicochemical properties—when PS:FeSO4 = 1:1. The remediation verification results indicated that the condition of the soybeans was optimal when PS:FeSO4 = 1:1. Under this condition, the net photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, intercellular CO2 concentration, and transpiration rate all remained high. Therefore, the best remediation effect was achieved with PS:FeSO4 = 1:1, which also minimized the damage to the soil and the effects on crop growth. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Soil Pollution and Remediation: Multidisciplinary Approaches to a Global Challenge)
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21 pages, 1513 KiB  
Article
Enhancing Circularity in Urban Waste Management: A Case Study on Biochar from Urban Pruning
by Rocco Pavesi, Luigi Orsi and Luca Zanderighi
Environments 2025, 12(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12010005 - 28 Dec 2024
Viewed by 473
Abstract
This study investigates the potential of biochar production from urban pruning waste as a sustainable solution within a circular economy framework. Urban green waste, often underutilized, typically increases landfill burden and greenhouse gas emissions. Converting pruning waste into biochar reduces landfill reliance while [...] Read more.
This study investigates the potential of biochar production from urban pruning waste as a sustainable solution within a circular economy framework. Urban green waste, often underutilized, typically increases landfill burden and greenhouse gas emissions. Converting pruning waste into biochar reduces landfill reliance while enabling stable carbon sequestration. Utilizing the circular triple-layered business model canvas (CTLBMC), biochar’s impact is evaluated across economic, environmental, and social dimensions. This structured analysis is based on a theoretical framework and uses secondary data to illustrate the model’s applicability. As a result of the conducted studies, it was found that biochar derived from urban green waste not only improves soil phytotoxicity and enables long-term carbon sequestration, but also offers economic benefits, including municipal cost savings in waste management and diversified revenue streams from biochar sales. Socially, biochar production promotes community engagement in sustainable practices and supports urban greening initiatives, enhancing local ecosystems. The findings suggest that biochar production, assessed through the CTLBMC framework, represents a viable circular business model. This approach provides significant environmental, economic, and social benefits over conventional disposal, offering valuable insights for policymakers, waste management professionals, and urban planners advancing circular economy solutions. Full article
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18 pages, 3017 KiB  
Article
Examining Microplastics Along the Calabrian Coastline: Analysis of Key Characteristics and Metal Contamination
by Luana S. Brunetti, Costanza Piersante, Mauro F. La Russa, Emilio Cellini, Eduardo Bolea, Francisco Laborda and Silvestro A. Ruffolo
Environments 2025, 12(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments12010004 - 27 Dec 2024
Viewed by 921
Abstract
Plastic pollution is a major concern today. Microplastics (MPs), due to their small size, can enter the food chain and cause serious harm to living organisms. The Mediterranean Sea is the sixth largest accumulation area for plastic waste, including MPs, worldwide. In this [...] Read more.
Plastic pollution is a major concern today. Microplastics (MPs), due to their small size, can enter the food chain and cause serious harm to living organisms. The Mediterranean Sea is the sixth largest accumulation area for plastic waste, including MPs, worldwide. In this study, we analyzed the distribution, shape, color, size, and polymer composition of MPs (having dimensions between 330 µm and 5 mm), collected from the water surface in six areas along the Calabrian coast, Italy. A prevalence of polyethylene was detected, with higher concentrations of MPs found in the Gioia Tauro and Cetraro areas. Additionally, heavy metals were identified within the MPs, suggesting that these particles could act as environmental carriers of such elements into the food chain. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microplastics Pollution in Aquatic Ecosystems: Challenges and Perspectives)
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