Environmental and Earth Sciences Proceedings

6 pages, 779 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Techno-Economic Performance Assessment of Malt Dust Derived Biochar Application for Municipal Wastewater Treatment: A Water Reuse Strategy

by Pelin Soyertaş Yapıcıoğlu and Mehmet İrfan Yeşilnacar

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2025, 32(1), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2025032012 - 19 Mar 2025

Abstract

Wastewater is a sustainable water supply which uses reclamation and reuse processes to protect freshwater resources. Biochar application is considered an efficient and low-cost wastewater reclamation and reuse technique in recent years. From this perspective, this paper mainly aimed to obtain reclaimed water [...] Read more.

Wastewater is a sustainable water supply which uses reclamation and reuse processes to protect freshwater resources. Biochar application is considered an efficient and low-cost wastewater reclamation and reuse technique in recent years. From this perspective, this paper mainly aimed to obtain reclaimed water using biochar application, with an aim of contributing to a circular economy. The major aim of this study was to assess the quality and reuse potential of treated water through the biochar adsorption process. The assessment was based on the EU (741/2020) wastewater reuse legislation. Turbidity, Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD₅), Total Suspended Solid (TSS), and E. coli analyses were performed to determine the effluent quality. In the end of the biochar adsorption process, a Class B reclaimed water quality according to EU legislation was obtained. This study validated that malt-dust-derived biochar is an efficient and low-cost adsorbent and can achieve a high quality of reclaimed water. An average reduction of 31.3% in operational costs was reported compared to an activated sludge system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 8th International Electronic Conference on Water Sciences)

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19 pages, 6951 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Numerical Analysis of Debris Impact Forces and Its Environmental Repercussions Using Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics

by Muhammad Khairi A. Wahab, Mohd Remy Rozainy Mohd Arif Zainol, Mohamad Aizat Abas and Norizham Abdul Razak

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2025, 33(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2025033007 - 13 Mar 2025

Abstract

Debris flow is a destructive event occurring in elevated terrains, causing significant damage to the affected areas. It results in casualties and significant harm to the environment and society. Hence, a comprehensive evaluation is essential in order to prevent, mitigate, and increase knowledge [...] Read more.

Debris flow is a destructive event occurring in elevated terrains, causing significant damage to the affected areas. It results in casualties and significant harm to the environment and society. Hence, a comprehensive evaluation is essential in order to prevent, mitigate, and increase knowledge of the consequences of debris flows. This paper focuses on evaluating the impact of the deposition board. The methodology involved a simulation of two cases to demonstrate the debris flow based on the steepness of the flume slope at 25° angles with full and half openings at the gate. The limestone particles with a total volume of 1 × 10³ m³ acted as debris and were released with water from the tank to the deposition board with an area of 1 m². The force of particle distribution from the flume that hit the building block on the deposition board was determined. Based on the numerical results, the maximum force was about 55.2 N and 47.3 N for each fully open and half open gate, respectively. In actual situations, the maximum impact force (5520 N) can be 100 times greater compared to model values (55.2 N). Research indicates that pressures over 100 kPa cause damage to reinforced concrete structures. Debris flow can pose a substantial risk to the impacted area in real-life scenarios. This study is valuable for conducting risk assessments, creating guidelines, and reducing the likelihood of debris flows in high-risk areas. Full article

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5 pages, 244 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Microwave Drying of Melia dubia and Its Effect on Mechanical Properties

by Rohit Sharma, Rakesh Kumar and Anil Kumar Sethy

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2024, 31(1), 19; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2024031019 - 12 Mar 2025

Abstract

This study explores the microwave (MW) drying of Melia dubia wood, with a comprehensive approach that addresses various facets. The primary objectives were to examine drying behavior and the evaluation of drying defects. The drying rates for various treatments were calculated both above [...] Read more.

This study explores the microwave (MW) drying of Melia dubia wood, with a comprehensive approach that addresses various facets. The primary objectives were to examine drying behavior and the evaluation of drying defects. The drying rates for various treatments were calculated both above and below the Fiber Saturation Point (FSP). The most optimal treatment, characterized by minimal defects, exhibited a drying rate of 0.4 g/min above FSP, 0.29 g/min below FSP, and an overall drying rate of 0.35 g/min. There were no observable drying-induced defects in the dried wood, suggesting a promising aspect of MW drying. Static bending and compression tests parallel to the grain were carried out to analyze the impact of MW drying on the mechanical properties. MW-dried wood exhibited reductions of 7 ± 3%, 10 ± 2%, and 9 ± 2% in the modulus of elasticity (MOE), modulus of rupture (MOR), and maximum compressive strength (MCS), respectively. The decline in mechanical properties may be attributed to the micro-cracks or damage in its microstructures. These findings emphasize the need for a balanced approach in optimizing MW drying methods to mitigate the reduction in mechanical properties while capitalizing on the advantages of reduced drying time and uniform drying. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 4th International Electronic Conference on Forests)

8 pages, 1260 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Early Detection of Invasive Species on Roadside Slopes in An-Dean Patagonian Forests of Austrocedrus chilensis (Argentina)

by Giselle Ailin Chichizola, Sofía Laura Gonzalez and Adriana Edit Rovere

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2024, 31(1), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2024031018 - 7 Mar 2025

Abstract

The invasion of exotic plants threatens biodiversity, affecting ecosystem services and ecological processes in native ecosystems. Road construction creates new environments and contributes to the introduction and spread of exotic and invasive plants. This study aimed to evaluate the representation of different functional [...] Read more.

The invasion of exotic plants threatens biodiversity, affecting ecosystem services and ecological processes in native ecosystems. Road construction creates new environments and contributes to the introduction and spread of exotic and invasive plants. This study aimed to evaluate the representation of different functional groups (annual/biannual herbs and grasses, perennial herbs and grasses, shrubs, trees) in the invasion of exotic species within the assemblage on roadside slopes in the Austrocedrus chilensis forest in northwest Andean Patagonia, Argentina. Roadside slopes (RS) and nearby reference areas (RA) were selected, and the cover of native, exotic, and invasive species from the functional groups was evaluated in 1 m² plots using the Braun-Blanquet method. It was found that invasive perennial herbs and grasses predominated on RS, with a cover (19.6 ± 3.0%) higher than that of RA (8.9 ± 1.5%). Agrostis capillaris and Rumex acetosella were the most abundant invasive species. Native shrubs and perennial herbs and grasses were predominant on RS, with Baccharis rhomboidalis and Acaena pinnatifida being the most abundant. This study demonstrates that the roadside slopes of the Austrocedrus chilensis forest harbor invasive exotic species that can invade nearby natural areas. Early detection of these species is important for proper management and control, thus promoting the conservation of biodiversity in forest environments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 4th International Electronic Conference on Forests)

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8 pages, 5067 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Flood-Risk Map for Büyükçekmece District Based on Socioeconomic Factors

by Gülşah Kılıç and Filiz Bektaş Balçık

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2025, 32(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2025032011 - 6 Mar 2025

Abstract

Büyükçekmece District, located on Istanbul’s European side, faces flood risks due to climate change, uncontrolled urbanization, and inadequate stream rehabilitation. This study aims to develop a flood-risk map of the district and link it to socioeconomic factors for the purpose of developing improved [...] Read more.

Büyükçekmece District, located on Istanbul’s European side, faces flood risks due to climate change, uncontrolled urbanization, and inadequate stream rehabilitation. This study aims to develop a flood-risk map of the district and link it to socioeconomic factors for the purpose of developing improved flood-management strategies. Key factors such as slope, elevation, land use, proximity to rivers, and precipitation were weighted, using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), to generate risk maps. The results indicate that 54% of Neighborhood 9 (Dizdariye) and 59% of Neighborhood 18 (Mimarsinan) fall into very high risk categories. Additionally, the Social Vulnerability Index (SVI), calculated through Principal Component Analysis (PCA), revealed that Ahmediye and Kumburgaz neighborhoods exhibit the highest socioeconomic vulnerabilities, while Alkent 2000 and Sinanoba have the lowest. The research identifies the need to prioritize high-risk neighborhoods and integrate social vulnerability into flood management to reduce risk and enhance community resilience in Büyükçekmece District. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 8th International Electronic Conference on Water Sciences)

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13 pages, 1624 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Granger Causality Analysis of Air Pollutants and Meteorological Parameters

by Wong Yee Ping, Zulkifli Abd Rais, Norazrin Ramli, Norazian Mohamed Noor, Ahmad Zia Ul-Saufie, Hazrul Abdul Hamid and Mohd Khairul Nizam Mahmad

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2025, 33(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2025033006 - 6 Mar 2025

Abstract

This study investigated the relationships between air pollutants (PM₁₀, SO₂, NO₂, O₃, CO) and meteorological parameters (wind speed, relative humidity, ambient temperature) across urban, suburban, and industrial areas in Malaysia from 2017 to 2021. Using [...] Read more.

This study investigated the relationships between air pollutants (PM₁₀, SO₂, NO₂, O₃, CO) and meteorological parameters (wind speed, relative humidity, ambient temperature) across urban, suburban, and industrial areas in Malaysia from 2017 to 2021. Using data from six monitoring stations, this research employed descriptive analysis, trend analysis, and Granger causality testing to uncover complex interactions. The results revealed distinct patterns: suburban areas showed strong ambient temperature-ozone (p-value = 0.0063) and relative humidity–nitrogen dioxide relationships (p-value = 0.0411); industrial zones exhibited bidirectional causality between SO₂ and PM₁₀ and had a strong nitrogen dioxide–PM₁₀ relationship (p-value = 0.0292); urban areas exhibited complex multi-pollutant interactions. Notably, the 2020 Movement Control Order significantly improved air quality. This research provides crucial insights for targeted air quality management strategies, contributing to public health improvements and aligning with global sustainability goals. Full article

8 pages, 750 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Assessment of Moving Average (MA) Method for Rainfall Prediction in Yogyakarta, Indonesia

by Nur Ain Jamal, Norazian Mohamed Noor, Izzati Amani Mohd Jafri and Gurawan Jati Wibowo

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2025, 33(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2025033005 - 6 Mar 2025

Abstract

This study investigated a time series model using a moving average (MA) for predicting rainfall trend in seven areas (Panggang, Gedangan, Kedung Keris, Ngawen, Wanagama, Tepus, and Playen) located in the Gunung Kidul Province, Yogyakarta, Indonesia. A database with daily rainfall data covering [...] Read more.

This study investigated a time series model using a moving average (MA) for predicting rainfall trend in seven areas (Panggang, Gedangan, Kedung Keris, Ngawen, Wanagama, Tepus, and Playen) located in the Gunung Kidul Province, Yogyakarta, Indonesia. A database with daily rainfall data covering the period of 2010–2019 obtained from the Central Statistical Body of Gunungkidul District (BPS), Indonesia, were analysed. In this study, the MA was developed using Microsoft Excel. Six performance indicators, including Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and Index of Agreement (IA), were used to evaluate the goodness-of-fit of the time series model. The results specify that the MA is a reliable model, with the RMSE and IA values in the ranges of 10.7–18.3 and 0.80–0.85, respectively. Small error and high agreement rates between the observed and predicted values indicates that prediction using MA method has good potential to be used as one of the prediction tools for rainfall modelling. Full article

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10 pages, 236 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Exploration of Forest Resources by Both Humans and Butterflies—A Case Study on Utilization of Medicinal Plants as Larval Resource by Nymphalinae Butterflies

by Panchali Sengupta

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2024, 31(1), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2024031017 - 4 Mar 2025

Abstract

India is renowned for its rich medico-cultural heritage. The chemical constituents of medicinally significant plants form the basis of host plant identification by butterflies. The documentation of such therapeutically significant food plants of nymphalinae butterflies (Family: Nymphalidae) along with the recognition of their [...] Read more.

India is renowned for its rich medico-cultural heritage. The chemical constituents of medicinally significant plants form the basis of host plant identification by butterflies. The documentation of such therapeutically significant food plants of nymphalinae butterflies (Family: Nymphalidae) along with the recognition of their medicinal potential was undertaken across the Himalayan landscape of West Bengal, India. Informant Consensus Factor (ICF), Utilization Value (Uv) and Fidelity levels (F_L) were determined, followed by the calculation of Host Plant Specificity (HPS) and Polyphagy Index (P_i). An ICF value of 1.000 was cited for diseases of the digestive and respiratory system. The maximum F_L was noted for Artemisia vulgaris, Dioscorea deltoides and Mimosa pudica. Urtica dioica and Hygrophila auriculata displayed the maximum Uv. Furthermore, Junonia lemonias, J. orithiya, Hypolimnas bolina and H. misippus possessed the highest HPS. A maximum P_i value was determined for Junonia lemonias. Besides providing an immense benefit to traditional healers, such plants enable the sustenance of butterflies through life history stages. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 4th International Electronic Conference on Forests)

6 pages, 1201 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Potential of Green Roofs to Support Urban Rainwater Management: Hydraulic Experimental Assessment

by Lineker Max Goulart Coelho, Solbritt Christiansen and Jesper Molin

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2025, 32(1), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2025032010 - 27 Feb 2025

Abstract

Green roofs are one of the most widely used nature-based technologies, but there are no consolidated design standards to estimate their rainwater volume retention at both the national and international levels. So, the goal of this study is to analyze the annual rainwater [...] Read more.

Green roofs are one of the most widely used nature-based technologies, but there are no consolidated design standards to estimate their rainwater volume retention at both the national and international levels. So, the goal of this study is to analyze the annual rainwater retention capacity of different types of green roofs based on experimental real-time monitoring data collected for 12 months. The experimental setup was installed at Ballerup in Denmark and consisted of three pitched roofs, each one with 25 m² of surface area. The green roofs presented variations in their annual rainwater retention capacity, ranging from 20% to 50%. Peak flow attenuation varied from 10% to 90% in both green roofs, depending on rain intensity and the duration of dry periods. These findings can be used as a baseline to support future studies addressing the definition of design standards and guidelines. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 8th International Electronic Conference on Water Sciences)

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9 pages, 1933 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Sugar Industry Wastewater Treatment Through Photosynthetic Microbial Desalination Cells: A Sustainable Approach

by Syeda Safina Ali and Zeshan Sheikh

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2025, 32(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2025032009 - 26 Feb 2025

Abstract

The expansion of the sugar industry has resulted in large amounts of untreated effluent, necessitating the development of energy-efficient treatment technologies, like microbial desalination cells (MDCs). However, the high cost and potential toxicity of chemical cathode catalysts limit MDC performance, making biocathodes a [...] Read more.

The expansion of the sugar industry has resulted in large amounts of untreated effluent, necessitating the development of energy-efficient treatment technologies, like microbial desalination cells (MDCs). However, the high cost and potential toxicity of chemical cathode catalysts limit MDC performance, making biocathodes a promising alternative. This study investigates the efficiency of a Scenedesmus obliquus-inoculated photosynthetic microbial desalination cell (PMDC) in the cathode chamber to treat sugar industry effluent, desalinate water, and generate electricity. The performance of the PMDC is compared to that of traditional MDCs. The results showed that the PMDC achieved 21.6% desalination, 73.8% anode COD removal, and a maximum power density of 6.8 mW/m², outperforming MDC by 6.43%, 18.5%, and 112.5%, respectively. These results demonstrate that the PMDC offers an effective, energy-efficient alternative to MDCs with added benefits of nutrient removal and algal biomass production at the cathode, making it a promising solution for water and wastewater treatment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 8th International Electronic Conference on Water Sciences)

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11 pages, 933 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Alleviating Health Risks for Water Safety: A Systematic Review on Artificial Intelligence-Assisted Modelling of Proximity-Dependent Emerging Pollutants in Aquatic Systems

by Marc Deo Jeremiah Victorio Rupin, Kylle Gabriel Cruz Mendoza and Rugi Vicente Rubi

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2025, 32(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2025032007 - 21 Feb 2025

Abstract

Emerging pollutants such as pharmaceuticals, industrial chemicals, heavy metals, and microplastics are a growing ecological risk affecting water and soil resources. Another challenge in current wastewater treatments includes tracking and treating these pollutants, which can be costly. As a growing concern, emerging pollutants [...] Read more.

Emerging pollutants such as pharmaceuticals, industrial chemicals, heavy metals, and microplastics are a growing ecological risk affecting water and soil resources. Another challenge in current wastewater treatments includes tracking and treating these pollutants, which can be costly. As a growing concern, emerging pollutants do not have lower limit levels and can be detrimental to aquatic resources in minuscule amounts. Thus, the assessment of multiple emerging water pollutants in community-based water sources such as surface water and groundwater is a prioritized area of study for water resource management. It provides a basis for the ecological health management of arising diseases such as cancer and dengue caused by unsafe water sources. Accordingly, by utilizing artificial intelligence, wide-range and data-driven insights can be synthesized to assist in water resource management and propose solution pathways without the need for exhaustive experimentation. This systematic review examines the artificial intelligence-assisted modelling of water resource management for emerging water pollutants, notably machine learning and deep learning models, with proximity dependence and correlated synergistic health effects for both humans and aquatic life. This study underscores the increasing accumulation of these emerging pollutants and their toxicological effects on the community and how data-driven modelling can be utilized to assist in addressing research gaps related to water treatment methods for these pollutants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 8th International Electronic Conference on Water Sciences)

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11 pages, 918 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Ecological Impact of Invasive Fish Species on Species and Ichthyocenotic Associations in Freshwater Aquatic Ecosystems of Romania

by Nicolai Crăciun, Lucian-Dorin Hanganu, Isabela Sadîca, George Cucu, Sorin Stegărescu, Ionut-Petrache Gheorghe and Marius Raischi

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2025, 33(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2025033004 - 18 Feb 2025

Abstract

The authors provide a list of the alien fish species that have entered the Romanian ichthyofauna fauna and specify the year, place of signaling and the ecological impact of the respective species. Further on, the authors describe some behavioral aspects of the following [...] Read more.

The authors provide a list of the alien fish species that have entered the Romanian ichthyofauna fauna and specify the year, place of signaling and the ecological impact of the respective species. Further on, the authors describe some behavioral aspects of the following species: Lepomis gibbosus (pumpkin seed sunfish), Carassius auratus gibelio (silver crucian carp) and Pseudorasbora parva (topmouth gudgeon). Full article

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9 pages, 1545 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Influence of Mechanochemical Synthesis Method on Photodegradability Characteristics of Hydroxyapatite/Zinc Oxide Composite

by Cristina Rodica Dumitrescu, Florina-Diana Gheorghe, Monica Matei, Larisa-Mădălina Ștefan and Elena Holban

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2025, 33(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2025033003 - 18 Feb 2025

Abstract

The ZnO/hydroxyapatite nanocomposite was prepared by attrition in a planetary mill from hydroxyapatite (HA) and ZnO nanopowders. The photocatalytic degradation of synthetic dye, methyl orange (MO), was evaluated under stirring and UV irradiations by measuring the spectroscopically UV-VIS absorbance of the solution in [...] Read more.

The ZnO/hydroxyapatite nanocomposite was prepared by attrition in a planetary mill from hydroxyapatite (HA) and ZnO nanopowders. The photocatalytic degradation of synthetic dye, methyl orange (MO), was evaluated under stirring and UV irradiations by measuring the spectroscopically UV-VIS absorbance of the solution in order to determine the remanent dye concentration. The samples CZH3 (75% ZnO) and CZH4 (25% ZnO) highlighted the best MO retention from aqueous solution by adsorption and photodegradation effects. The high absorbance of the proposed nanocomposites showed their potential to be used as photocatalysts for wastewater treatment to enable the retention of organic pollutants. Full article

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7 pages, 1892 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Assessing the Environmental and Economic Footprint of Leakages in Water Distribution Networks

by Athanasios V. Serafeim, Anastasios Perdios, Nikolaos Th. Fourniotis, George Kokosalakis and Andreas Langousis

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2025, 32(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2025032006 - 14 Feb 2025

Abstract

All urban and agricultural water distribution networks (WDNs), irrespective of their physical and operational characteristics, encounter substantial leakages which result in significant water losses, environmental degradation through increased carbon emissions, and noteworthy economic burdens. The current work aims to quantify both the environmental [...] Read more.

All urban and agricultural water distribution networks (WDNs), irrespective of their physical and operational characteristics, encounter substantial leakages which result in significant water losses, environmental degradation through increased carbon emissions, and noteworthy economic burdens. The current work aims to quantify both the environmental impact, estimated in terms of CO₂ emissions, and the economic implications associated with leakages and evaluate the effect of the most widely used leakage reduction strategies. The current approach is applied to the water distribution network of the city of Patras in Western Greece. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 8th International Electronic Conference on Water Sciences)

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7 pages, 2422 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Comparative Study Between Chloroquine Sulphate and Copper Sulfate in Aquaculture at Low Dosages

by György Deák, Abdulhusein Jawdhari, Elena Holban, Isabela Sadîca, George Cucu, Sorin Stegărescu, Grigore Gheorghe and Bodor Zsolt

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2025, 33(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2025033002 - 13 Feb 2025

Abstract

Aquaculture water was exposed to very low dosages of copper sulfate and chloroquine sulphate in order to observe their purgative effects at minimal concentrations, where both substances are commonly employed for their antimicrobial and antiparasitic properties in fish farming. It was observed that [...] Read more.

Aquaculture water was exposed to very low dosages of copper sulfate and chloroquine sulphate in order to observe their purgative effects at minimal concentrations, where both substances are commonly employed for their antimicrobial and antiparasitic properties in fish farming. It was observed that the well-known treatment using cooper sulphate is effective even at a low dosage, while the proposed novel treatment using chloroquine was not. The present study highlights the need of effective treatment while avoiding compromising medicine misusage which greatly leads to host resistance. Full article

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9 pages, 1595 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Innovative Solutions for Smart Water Grids: Insights from Patent Analysis

by Ahmed Fatimi

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2025, 32(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2025032005 - 11 Feb 2025

Abstract

The “Smart Water Grid” integrates the internet of things, information, and communications technologies for efficient, sustainable water management, using sensors and controls to tackle issues like leaks and overuse. Patent analysis aids this technology monitoring, revealing trends and solutions and enabling innovation to [...] Read more.

The “Smart Water Grid” integrates the internet of things, information, and communications technologies for efficient, sustainable water management, using sensors and controls to tackle issues like leaks and overuse. Patent analysis aids this technology monitoring, revealing trends and solutions and enabling innovation to overcome challenges in smart water distribution systems. This study highlights the global distribution of patent filings, and the leading companies and technologies involved in smart water grid innovation. Patent data reveals a focus on communication and control technologies, as well as data transmission and processing (as reflected by the dominant patent classifications) within the smart water grid space, highlighting the importance of communication technologies in this field. In summary, smart water grid innovation is driven by the integration of efficient water management, with a global focus led by the United States and China. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 8th International Electronic Conference on Water Sciences)

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9 pages, 2367 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Effective Microorganism (EM) Technology for Lake Conservation and Water Quality Restoration

by Irnis Azura Zakarya, Nursyazarena Azwa Mazwin, Tengku Nuraiti Tengku Izhar, Nur Adlina Mohd Hilmi and Muna’amirah Mohamad

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2025, 33(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2025033001 - 11 Feb 2025

Abstract

Water quality is a crucial determinant in decision-making processes aimed at optimizing resource allocation across various industries. Pollutant impurities that hinder the sufficient supply of water have a deleterious impact on the quality and are damaging to living species, especially aquatic life. Various [...] Read more.

Water quality is a crucial determinant in decision-making processes aimed at optimizing resource allocation across various industries. Pollutant impurities that hinder the sufficient supply of water have a deleterious impact on the quality and are damaging to living species, especially aquatic life. Various chemical and biological treatments are used to reduce water pollution levels. A technology involving a mixture of anaerobic and aerobic beneficial microbes is becoming popular for its eco-friendly characteristics. Effective Microorganism (EM) technology utilizes naturally existing microorganisms that can purify and restore the environment. The study investigated the application of Effective Microorganism-Activated Solution (EMAS), TeMo Decomposer (TeMo), and Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) to enhance water quality. Additionally, microbial testing will be carried out to identify bacteria present in each EM. EM-based rehabilitation of polluted and degraded water bodies significantly contributes to the restoration of aquatic habitats and ecosystems. This study aimed to assess the water quality at Tasik Alumni, Kampus Pauh, Perlis, Malaysia. Four sampling points in Tasik Alumni were chosen to reflect the water quality status of the lake. The sampling was conducted once at four points locations in Tasik Alumni. Seven water quality measures, including pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), ammoniacal nitrogen (NH₃-N), total suspended solid (TSS), and turbidity, were analysed ex-situ and categorised according to Water Quality Index (WQI) and National Water Quality Standard (NWQS) classifications. The Tasik Alumni was categorised as mildly contaminated. The results clearly showed the efficiency of this technique in restoring and conserving water quality in a degraded or polluted lake. Full article

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9 pages, 1915 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Rainwater Harvesting in Social Housing: An Analysis Across Twelve Cities in Brazil

by Maria Clara Sampaio Rosa e Silva, Igor Catão Martins Vaz and Enedir Ghisi

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2025, 32(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2025032004 - 7 Feb 2025

Abstract

Rainwater harvesting (RWH) has emerged as a promising technique to improve water security amid the escalating effects of climate change. However, a comprehensive evaluation of various rainwater harvesting solutions is needed to promote sustainable practices in the building sector. This study aims to [...] Read more.

Rainwater harvesting (RWH) has emerged as a promising technique to improve water security amid the escalating effects of climate change. However, a comprehensive evaluation of various rainwater harvesting solutions is needed to promote sustainable practices in the building sector. This study aims to evaluate the water saving potential in multi- and single-family social housing buildings in twelve cities in Brazil. Computer simulations were performed for 60 scenarios, comprising five social housing reference models and using rainfall data from twelve representative cities of Brazil’s bioclimatic zones. The results show that single-family houses presented a higher potential for potable water savings (20 to 22%) than multi-family housing models (2 to 3%), mainly due to their higher roof-area-to-resident ratio. Single-family buildings exhibit more significant variability in absolute savings (standard deviation), while multi-family buildings are more sensitive to variability relative to their means (higher CVs). Furthermore, due to uneven rainfall distribution and storage limitations, water savings potential does not correlate linearly with total annual rainfall. Normalised results reveal that buildings with a lower population density achieve higher water savings per area and inhabitant. This study demonstrated that building and climate characteristics influence rainwater harvesting, offering valuable insights for promoting sustainable water management practices in social housing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 8th International Electronic Conference on Water Sciences)

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14 pages, 3202 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Optimizing Silvicultural Interventions to Reduce Combustion Energy Load in Forest Ecosystems

by Valerio Prosseda

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2024, 31(1), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2024031016 - 6 Feb 2025

Abstract

Wildfires increasingly threaten forest ecosystems, particularly in arid Mediterranean regions impacted by climate change. This study presents a novel quantitative framework for optimizing silvicultural interventions to reduce combustion energy loads and enhance resource conservation. Using dendrometric equations, biomass removal calculations, and geospatial modeling [...] Read more.

Wildfires increasingly threaten forest ecosystems, particularly in arid Mediterranean regions impacted by climate change. This study presents a novel quantitative framework for optimizing silvicultural interventions to reduce combustion energy loads and enhance resource conservation. Using dendrometric equations, biomass removal calculations, and geospatial modeling (Ordinary Kriging, SAGA-GIS and Q-GIS), the methodology evaluates the spatial distribution of calorific energy before and after thinning interventions. The results show that a 20% thinning intervention reduced calorific energy by 13.45% and water demand by 8.38%, while thinning at 30% and 40% intensities achieved even greater reductions. Specifically, thinning reduced the higher calorific potential by 14,000 kJ/m² and saved approximately 861,390 L of water across the study area. These findings provide actionable insights for forest managers to balance ecological health, optimize thinning practices, and mitigate wildfire risks in vulnerable ecosystems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 4th International Electronic Conference on Forests)

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Environmental and Earth Sciences Proceedings

Vol. 32

ECWS-8

Vol. 31

IECF 2024

Vol. 30

Stand Alone Papers 2024

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