bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Management of Free-floating Aquatic Weeds by Making Compost and Testing its Efficacy against Root-knot Nematode on Tomato
Authors: Pakeerathan K.  , Samaraweera I.D.D.J.  , Aruchchunan N.  , Mikunthan G.
Published: February 2024

Aquatic weeds are one of the prime pollution causing agents in fresh water bodies of Sri Lanka. In Sri Lanka, free-floating aquatic weeds such as Salvinia molesta, Eichhornia crassipes, Azolla spp and Pistia stratiotes are proliferating quickly and invading rapidly to new water bodies where threatening biodiversity by impeding light penetration and altering BOD and COD of the waterbody. This research was aimed to manage the aquatic weeds by composting and testing its efficacy on root-knot nematodes. Aquatic weeds were collected, mixed with fresh cow dung in 1:1 ratio and allowed for decomposition for 21 days. The recommended dose of prepared different compost was applied to tomato along with garden compost as control. The experiment was conducted in Complete Randomized Design (CRD) with four replicates. The data on nutritional qualities of the compost, plant growth parameters, and gall index were recorded. The data were subjected to ANOVA using SAS 9.1 and Tukey's HSD multiple comparison test was used to determine the best treatment combination at P<0.05. Total Nitrogen (N) content of composts were ranging from 1.42% to 5.6%. The highest significant N value of 5.6% was recorded in the Azolla spp based compost whereas the lowest N value of 1.42% was recorded in control. The highest total Phosphorus (P) content of 3.47% was observed in P. stratiotes based plant sample, whereas the lowest P value of 1.32% was recorded in the E. crassipes based compost. The total Potassium (K) content of this plant sample ranging from 1.3% to 24.4%. The highest K value of 24.4% was recorded in P. stratiotes based compost. The lowest K content of 1.3% was observed in control. Significantly higher shoot height (37.57 cm, 36.53), root length (18.75 cm and 17.5 cm), lower gall index (3.5,1.0), lower goal length (1.5 mm and 1.2 mm) and lower goal diameter (0.95 mm and 0.8 mm) were recorded in the application of S. molesta and Azolla spp based compost, respectively (P<0.05). Considering superiority of N, P and K level, and nematode suppressing efficacy, S. molesta and Azolla spp. based composts are superior than other composts. Therefore, findings conclude that the compost made from aquatic weeds are good source of plant nutrition, and can be substitute to chemical nematicieds to manage the nematodes in organic agriculture. Extensive field studies are needed for recommendation 

Keywords: Aquatic weeds, Azolla spp., Compost, Root-knot Nematode
Ammonia Capturing Capacity of Biochar and Kaolinite
Authors: Perera A.J.S.L  , Atapattu N.S.B.M.
Published: February 2024

Emission of ammonia from poultry litter has numerous negative impacts on poultry, poultry house workers and the environment. When applied as a litter amendment, acidified biochar (ABC) and Kaolinite are reported to lower the emission of ammonia. Apart from reducing ammonia formation, both amendments have a capacity to capture ammonia before being released into the environment. However, capacity of those materials to capture ammonia has not been estimated. The objective of this study was to determine the ammonia capturing capacity of ABC, kaolinite and three different mixtures of them; 75% Kaolinite and 25% ABC, 50% kaolinite and 50% ABC and 25% kaolinite, 75% ABC. Each of the five amendment mixture was tested in five separate completely randomized design experiments. Poultry litter samples were incubated in ten sealed-conical flasks; each fitted with flexible tubes through which emitting ammonia was conveyed to another sealed-flask containing either a known weight of amendment (five replicate flasks) or Styrofoam; control (five replicate flasks). The weight of the amendment or Styrofoam was adjusted to have same volume of material in flasks. A flexible tube originating from the second flask was connected to another sealed-flask containing a boric acid solution so that ammonia that has not been captured by the amendment or Styrofoam in the second flask is captured. A set of tubes originating from each of the ten boric acid flasks were fitted to a vacuum pump.N content, pH, dry matter percentage of the litter before and after the incubation and the amount of N captured by the boric acid were determined. The difference between N released and that captured by the boric acid solution was considered to be captured by the material added to the second flask. Though assumed to have no capacity to capture ammonia, in all five experiments, Styrofoam reported significantly higher ammonia capturing capacity compared to respective amendments. Ammonia capturing capacity of Styrofoam was as high as 1.24g/100g/hr while that of ABC and Kaolinite were 0.40g/100g/hr and 0.14g/100g/hr), respectively. In all five experiments, the percentages of ammonia captured (of the total released during incubation) were not significantly different between tested amendments and the Styrofoam. Percentage capture of ammonia by ABC, Kaolinite and Styrofoam were 91%, 83% and 84%, respectively. The study concludes that acidified biochar, Kaolinite and Styrofoam have capacity to capture ammonia releasing from poultry litter. Further studies are needed to understand the nature of capturing. 

Keywords: Ammonia, Biochar, Kaolinite, Litter, Poultry
Influence of Biochar on Plant Uptake of Personal Care Products: Caffeine and Triclosan
Authors: Keerthanan S.  , Jayasinghe C.  , Vithanage M.
Published: February 2024

The use of personal care products (PCPs) extends a person's longevity. Nonetheless, because of its uncontrolled burden on the environment, it is regarded as an emerging contaminant. The goal of this research is to determine the influence of cinnamon wood biochar (CWBC) on plant uptake of caffeine (CFN) and triclosan (TRI) from the soil. Ipomeoa aquatica was cultivated for 4 weeks in soil with a 2.5% CWBC amendment and spiked with 100 mg/kg CFN and 200 mg/kg TRI. Ultra- High-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) was used to quantify the CFN and TRI in the plant. The surface morphology of CWBC was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area. The gasification of biomass which increased the CWBC's surface area to 589 m2/g, due to the development of a porous structure. The CFN accumulated more in the shoot of the plant whereas TRI accumulated in the root. The addition of 2.5% CWBC significantly (p<0.05) decreased the root and shoot accumulation of CFN by 40.4% and 70.9%, whilst those for TRI by 38.9% and 19.9%, respectively. The relative bioconcentration factors (RBF) of CFN and TRI in shoot and root was calculated by the ratio of bioconcentration factor (BCF) using RBF=〖BCF(CWBC amended soil)⁄〖BCF_soil and the results suggested that the addition of 2.5% CWBC decrease the RBF below the one indicating the effectiveness of CWBC towards mitigating the plant uptake of PCPs. Overall, the present study suggested the application of biochar to soil significantly decreased the plant uptake of PCPs, thus, can reduce the potential risk caused by the unintentional consumption of contaminated vegetables. 

Keywords: Personal Care Products, Soil amendment, Health risk, Plant uptake
Determining Formaldehyde Phytoremediation Efficacy of Selected Ornamental Plants
Authors: Premadasa M.D.P.P.  , Caldera H.I.U.  , Kaumal M.N.
Published: February 2024

In the recent past, deterioration of indoor air quality has become a serious concern due to the increased energy efficiency and reduced air exchange rate inside urban buildings. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are a major category of indoor air pollutants that can lead to adverse health outcomes such as headaches, allergies and asthma in those exposed for prolonged periods. Formaldehyde, the VOC used in the present study is a common contaminant of indoor air which originates from particle board, plywood, paper products, certain adhesives, tobacco smoke and other sources. The use of plants for the mitigation of indoor air pollution is viewed as a cost effective and eco-friendly method with untapped potential. The main objective of the present study was to determine the formaldehyde removal efficacy of selected plant species while investigating the mechanisms used by these plants in the removal process. The selected plant species were Zamioculcas zamiifolia, Hedera helix, Dracaena sanderiana and Ficus sp. Plants of the same age were used with three replicates from each species. Phytoremediation potential was assessed by exposing the plants for 24 hours to gaseous formaldehyde (2.0 μL L-1) in air tight chambers made of Plexiglass (an inert material for VOCs) with dimensions of 0.9 m height×0.58 m length×0.55 m width. Formaldehyde removal was measured using GC-MS and the result was expressed as removal percentages. Several leaf anatomical characters (cuticle thickness, epidermal thickness and mesophyll layer thickness), stomatal characters (stomatal density, stomatal index, guard cell length and potential conductance index) and physiological characters (stomatal conductance and photosynthetic rate) were measured to study the possible mechanisms involved in the formaldehyde removal process. The data were subjected to ANOVA and Pearson correlation test. According to the results obtained, Ficus sp. had the highest formaldehyde removal percentage (92.80%) while Hedera helix had the lowest (56.86%). The study further showed that stomatal density and stomatal conductance play a major role in formaldehyde removal by these plants while cuticle and epidermal thickness act as hindrances to this process. This conclusion was further confirmed by Pearson‘s correlation values in correlation analysis. The current study was carried out for 24 hours of exposure and it would be of interest to explore, the long term behavior of the plants through further studies. Overall, the results justify future studies on a cross-section of diverse plant species for formaldehyde removal efficiency to determine species with superior removal efficiencies for a better phytoremediation process. 

Keywords: Phytoremediation, VOCs, Formaldehyde, GC-MS technology
Upgrading of Pyrolytic Char Generated from Waste Tyre Pyrolysis for Solid Tyre Industry
Authors: De Zoysa D.M.D.A.  , Hewage J.S.  , Sudusingha Y.C.Y.  , Ranaweera S.A.
Published: February 2024

In Sri Lanka, accumulation of tons of low-quality pyrolytic char (PT-char) in pyrolysis plants is a significant issue in waste tyre management. Finding a solution to upgrade low-quality PT-char is urgent in Sri Lankan context as it initiates a method of finding a solution to the disposal issue of PT-char. As a result, the current study introduces an efficient and cost-effective routine for upgrading low grade PT-char into value-added products which is not being successful before. The upgrading method entails carefully regulating size reduction of the low-grade PT-char (particle size<50 μm) and following optimization of acid-base demineralization parameters. After the size reduction of PT–char, demineralization procedure was introduced using low char: acid/base ratios (1:2), diluted acids and bases (2 M HCl and 2 M NaOH), low temperatures (30 0C-60 0C), and short reaction times (30-60 minutes). Purity and surface characteristics of upgraded char were investigated using XRD, elemental analysis, SEM, and TGA. Based on a CHN analysis, 67% (w/w) of initial carbon content of crude C-PT char was increased up to 91% (w/w) by washing it twice with 2 M HCl and once with 2 M NaOH (2 M H2+2 M S) while reducing ash content from 17.65% (w/w) to 3.59% (w/w). Significance removal of metals such as Zn (1.14% w/w) , Fe (0.34% w/w), Mg (0.25% w/w) and Ca (2.71% w/w) from C-PT char were observed after treating with 2 M H2+2M S (Zn 0.36%w/w , Fe 0.06%w/w, Mg 0.01%w/w and Ca 0.01% w/w). Removal of Zn from C-PT char further confirmed by XRD and surface modification was confirmed by SEM images. Additionally, the rheological and physico-mechanical properties of the upgraded char incorporated solid tyre base compounds were evaluated and compared with commercial grades of carbon black; N 330, and N 660. It was observed that tensile strength, tear strength, hardness and compression properties of purified PT-char incorporated rubber compounds were not significantly different and exhibit resemble properties to the samples prepared using commercial carbon black grades. Overall, it can be confirmed that upgraded PT char has a significant potential to be used as an economical alternative for reinforcement filler in solid tyre industry and upgrading procedure is efficient and economically viable than the conventional methods. 

Keywords: Pyrolytic char, Demineralization, Purification, Modification
Assessment of Phytotoxicity of Potable Water Treatment Plant Sludge-bound Compost Pellets on Seed Germination of Radish (Raphanus sativus L.)
Authors: De Silva R.S.D.  , Amarasinghe S.R.  , Ranawaka R.A.A.K.
Published: February 2024

Binding loose compost into pellets needs different binding materials. Maintenance of pellet stability highly depends on the binding materials used. Potable water treatment plant sludge (WTPS) has the potential to be used as a binding material due to the high content of clay, organic matter, and nutrients. However, compost and WTPS may contain heavy metals, toxic compounds, salts, and growth inhibitors. Therefore, the determination of the phytotoxicity of WTPS bound compost pellets is essential before amending them to the soil. The present study aimed to assess the phytotoxicity of different pelleted compost using seed germination bioassay of Raphanus sativus L. Four compost pellets were considered (T1: commercial compost pellet (100% compost), T2: commercial integrated pellet (90% compost+10% inorganic fertilizer), T3: WTPS-bound compost pellet (90% compost+10% WTPS), T4: WTPS-bound integrated pellet (80% compost+10% WTPS+10% inorganic fertilizer)) and pellet aqueous extracts (PAE) were prepared, respectively. Distilled water was used as the control. The dilution sequence of PAE as 50% and 100% were tested for seed germination in Petri dishes in a randomized design with three replicates. pH, EC, and selected heavy metals (Al, Zn, Cu and Cr) were determined in PAE. RSG% (Relative Seed Germination %), RRG% (Relative radicle Growth %), and GI% (Germination Index) were calculated for all the PAE after 72 hours. The PAE had a pH range from 6.8-7.2. The Cr was not detected in all 100% PEA. The highest levels of Al and Zn were detected in 100% PAE of T1. All the treatments in both 50% and 100% PAE showed GI% higher than 80% except the 100% PAE of commercial integrated pellet (T2) and WTPS-bound integrated pellet (T4). The PAE from the T2 and T4 showed low RSG% and RRG% and thereby the GI% is low due to high EC in PAE. The GI% of 100% PAE in T2 and T4 was 32.33% and 67.25%, respectively. The lowest values for RSG% and RRG% were recorded for T2 as 44.44% and 72.75%, respectively. Spearman‘s Rank Correlation coefficients were calculated for EC with RSG%, RRG%, and GI% and all variables showed negative correlations as (-0.44), (-0.97), and (-0.69), respectively. This indicates that high EC reduces radical growth and seed germination. PAE at 100% concentration levels of commercial integrated pellet showed high phytotoxicity, and WTPS-bound integrated pellet showed less phytotoxicity while other treatments did not show any sign of phytotoxicity. All the PAE at 50% concentration level were free from phytotoxicity. Hence, 10% WTPS in w/w basis can be used as a binding agent in pelletizing loose compost. Different WTPS concentrations should be tested in binding process for its optimum utilization. 

Keywords: Bioassay, Compost, Phytotoxicity, Radish, Water treatment plant sludge
Photocatalytic Degradation of Rhodamine B under UV Light Catalyzed by Alpha Titanium Phosphate and Metal Modified Titanium Phosphate
Authors: Jayasinghe K.W.P.V.  , Palliyaguru L.  , Jayaweera P.M.
Published: February 2024

Wastewater management is a crucial issue in most emergent nations with ever-growing global industrialization. From textiles to food, mankind uses dyes and pigments which pose a threat to the environment due to organic non-biodegradable dyes contained in wastewater. Rhodamine B (RhB) is a conventional colorant in many industries producing a large amount of dye effluent, thus becoming a serious threat to the environment as well as human health. Additionally, RhB is dangerous even at extremely low quantities, making treatment of the RhB effluent more essential. Even though TiO2 is considered as the best photocatalyst to remove many organic pollutants, acceptable alternatives are needed due to being uneconomical in large-scale usage. Synthesis of titanium bismonohydrogen orthophosphate (α-TiP) can be achieved by refluxing ilmenite with phosphoric acid via a previously reported novel method. Solid state reactions of α-TiP and oxides of Co and Cu at 800° C result in various metal titanium phosphates (M-TiP) with unique colors. XRD, FTIR, and Diffuse reflectance UV-vis techniques were used for characterization of the obtained solids. Bandgap of α-TiP changed with the modification of different transition metal cations lowering bandgap from 4.01eV (α-TiP) to 3.57 eV (Cu-TiP). Aqueous RhB degradation under UV irradiation was used to investigate the photocatalytic abilities of these catalysts. For that 0.2 g sample of catalyst was added to a solution that contained 200 mL of a 5 mg L-1 Rh B which was kept for 15 mins in dark to reach adsorption-desorption equilibrium before exposing the sample to UV irradiation for 3 h. A clear enhancement of photocatalytic activity was observed from using Co- TiP as the catalyst, which only took around 80 min to remove almost all Rh B contained in the sample compared to α-TiP which took close to 3 h to become colorless. It was in alignment with spectrometer results where a clear reduction of intensity can be seen in wavelength at 552 nm. Photocatalytic activities of these catalysts decreased in the following order: Co-TiP>α-TiP>Cu-TiP. The Co-modified TiP showed degradation of 99.5% after 3 h of UV irradiation and pseudo first- order kinetics were followed by the degradation. 

Keywords: Titanium Phosphate, Photocatalyst, Rhodamine B, Wastewater management
Mycoremediation Approach to Green Air: Phenanthrene and Anthracene Degrading Ability by Fusarium solani Isolate P11M-46
Authors: Dharmasiri R.B.N.  , Undugoda L.J.S.  , Nilmini A.H.L.  , Manage P.M.  , Nugara N.N.R.N.  , Udayanga D.
Published: February 2024

There are many health issues associated with air pollution that are rapidly increasing with time across the globe. Among many air pollutants, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are of particular concern because of their carcinogenicity, genotoxicity, and long persistence in the environment. The majority of these PAHs release into the air through anthropogenic activities and natural sources. After releasing into the air, PAHs usually return to the ground due to their high molecular weight. These hydrocarbon depositions can be categorized as wet or dry depositions. One of the most prominent deposition surfaces of these pollutants is the phyllosphere. Microorganisms such as fungi perform a key role in PAHs elimination through bioremediation processes. Epiphytic fungi such as Fusarium solani isolate P11M-46 utilizes the deposited phenanthrene and anthracene on the phyllosphere and convert those PAHs in to non-toxic levels. The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of F. solani isolate P11M-46 to degrade phenanthrene and anthracene, through a mycoremediation approach. Leaf samples were collected from Panchikawatta, Orugodawatta, Pettah, Maradana, Colombo Fort, and Sapugaskanda urban areas in Sri Lanka. Furthermore, PAH degradation ability of isolated F. solani isolate P11M-46 was confirmed through High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). The effects of by-products produced from the biodegradation process on living beings were evaluated using Artemia salina and the by-products were identified using Gas Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry (GCMS). According to HPLC results, F. solani isolate P11M-46 showed 68% of degradation percentage in phenanthrene while exhibiting 76% degradation in anthracene within 6 days. The GCMS analysis confirmed that the by-products were Phenol, 2-(phenylmethyl) from phenanthrene and 9, 10-anthracenedione from anthracene. Toxicity assay with A. salina confirmed that these byproducts were not toxic to the phyllosphere. The findings of the present study revealed the potential use of phyllosphere F. solani isolate P11M-46 in the remediation of environmental pollutants phenanthrene and anthracene. And also the by-products produced during their degradation mechanism were also confirmed as nontoxic compounds. Therefore, F. solani isolate P11M-46 could be effectively used in the bioremediation of phenanthrene and anthracene in polluted environments as a bioremediator. 

Keywords: Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, Bioremediation, HPLC, GCMS, Toxicity
Chemically Modified Coconut Shell Biochar for Removal of Losartan Potassium in Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Perera W.P.A.  , Pathirana C.D.K.  , Kannan N.
Published: February 2024

Emerging contaminants (EC) are newly recognized significant water pollutants and conventional wastewater treatment facilities are not sufficient at removing these trace contaminants. Biochar is well-known effective adsorbent for the removal of complex inorganic contaminants and organic contaminants from water. The present study, comprehensively investigates the sorption removal of Losartan potassium (LOS) through chemically modified biochar (CMBC) developed from green coconut (Cocous nucifera) shell. Effect of pyrolysis temperature (400o C, 500o C and 600o C), initial concentration of LOS (20−150 mg L−1), pH (3–11), temperature (20−400 C), dose of adsorbent (1.0–5.0 g L−1) and contact time (15−1620 mins) on the adsorption of LOS onto CMBC has been analyzed using a successive batch study. Biochar treated with 5% H3PO4 and pyrolyzed at 600o C shows the optimum result which is 60.72% removal of LOS with initial LOS concentration of 20 mg L−1, pH∼6, temperature 20o C, dose of adsorbent 5 mg L−1, agitation speed 150 rpm and contact time 24 h. The kinetic data of the adsorption study was best fitted into pseudo-2nd-order kinetics model. The Langmuir, Temkin and Freundlich isotherm models were studied and the experimental data were best represented by the Freundlich model. The thermodynamic study reveals the LOS adsorption was non-spontaneous, exothermic nature on CMBC. 

Keywords: Biochar, Emerging Contaminant, Isotherm, Kinetics, Thermodynamics, Losartan Potassium, Pyrolysis
Economic Feasibility of Reverse Osmosis (RO) Water Treatment Plants: A Case Study from Dimbulagala, Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka
Authors: Bandara T.  , Witharana A.
Published: February 2024

Social wellbeing is strongly linked with economic feasibility when it needs to attain with the technological advancements. Installation of Reverse Osmosis (RO) water treatment plants have been considered as a promising solution to provide clean water for human consumption, especially in the areas where the CKDu (chronic kidney disease of unknown etiology) prevails. At present, over 2,000 RO treatment plants were installed in the dry zone of Sri Lanka, yet economic feasibility for operation and maintenance of RO plants has not been assessed so far. The present study was intended to identify economic feasibility of operation and maintenance of RO plants. Investigations were carried out in six community RO plants which provided drinking water for over 17,000 people which accounts for 20% of total population in Dimbulagala Divisional Secretariat over a period of 12 months. Six in-depth interviews and questionnaire survey were caried out with RO plant operators. The operational cost per production of cubic meter of filtered water was computed by considering electricity consumption bills. The maintenance costs and service charges were also obtained from the records available with RO plant operators. The results found that the average electricity consumption to produce 1 cube of filtered water is approximately 9kWh and cost is LKR 734 (based on 2021 rates). The average water selling price ranged between LKR 1.00-2.50 per liter. The average monthly income generation from one RO plant is approximately between LKR 561- 875 per cube of filtered water and it largely depended on the type of water source, climatic conditions. It was found that the income generated from RO plants was sufficient enough to cover the operation cost (monthly electricity bill) and for the subsequent maintenance and service charges whenever required. It can be concluded that the use of RO treated water is an economically viable option to provide portable drinking water. 

Keywords: CKDu, Economic sustainability, Drinking water, Purification cost
Determination of Heavy Metals in Etroplus suratensis from Koggala Lagoon in Southern, Sri Lanka
Authors: Abeysooriya A.P.S.W.  , Wijesinghe R.D.N.  , Bandara E.G.K.Y.C.  , Sanjaya H.L.K.
Published: February 2024

Fish is one of the best organisms in many scientific studies to evaluate heavy metal pollution and human health hazards as they are well-understood organisms in the aquatic environment. The present study was carried out to examine the level of heavy metals in different tissues of Etroplus suratensis (Green chromide) in Koggala lagoon, Sri Lanka. Atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS) was used to determine the levels of copper (Cu2+), cadmium (Cd+3), lead (Pb+2) and Chromium (Cr+3) ions in the different tissues (skin, liver, gill, and flesh) of fish belonging to three different sizes; small (7.8-10.2) cm, medium (14.1-16.6) cm, and large (19.8-25.2) cm. The number of thirty-six fish were collected from the lagoon randomly. According to available sizes, 12 fish for each size class were used for the analysis. Furthermore, the histological analysis was carried out to identify the changes at the tissue levelling the gill and liver of fish in three different size classes. Heavy metal concentration in fish samples were compared with the standard levels of heavy metals. Heavy metal concentrations in body tissues of three different body sizes of fish were found to be mainly in the order of Cu>Pb>Cr> Cd. The highest concentrations (P<0.05) of heavy metals were found in the fish flesh and skin, while the lowest concentrations were found in the gills. The range of heavy metal concentrations (g g-1 dry weight) in body tissue of small size, E. suratensis fish were, Cu: 0.0443-0.6210, Cd: 0.0110–0.0214, Pb: Below Detection Level (BDL)- 0.46 and Cr: BDL-39.633, Medium size fish were, Cu: 0.0713–0.6210, Cd: 0.0134-0.0170, Pb: BDL-40.906, Cr: 0.0014–0.0500 and large fish were, Cu: 0.0553–0.345, Cd: 0.0110–0.0256, Pb: 0.0204–0.2103 and Cr: 0.0194–0.0773. However, Cd, Cr and Pb concentrations of flesh tissues were under the standard recommended limits referred by the FAO. Through the Cu concentration in flesh, tissues exceeded the standard limits of FAO. It is not considered as a toxic heavy metal. Histological analysis revealed that the deviation of shape of hepatic cells in the liver may due to the exposure to heavy metals in the lagoon. According to the overall result, biomagnification nature of heavy metals, and the consumption of E. suratensis in the Koggala the bioaccumulation and lagoon may create health hazards to consumers. 

Keywords: Green chromide, Koggala Lagoon, Heavy metals, Histology
Ayurveda Perspective of Environmental Sustainability for the Economic Crisis–A Review
Authors: Kaushalya H.B.D.  , Gunawardhana R.M.R.  , Nishan S.P.A.S.
Published: February 2024

Ayurveda, the science of life is a comprehensive system of health care of great antiquity, based on experiential knowledge and grown with perpetual expansion. Ayurveda treatment combines products of plant derivatives as well as animal, metal, and mineral, diet, exercise, and lifestyle. According to WHO 88% of all countries are estimated to use traditional medicine, such as herbal medicines, acupuncture, yoga and indigenous therapies. U.S. Environmental protection Agency defines, Environmental sustainability is the responsibility to conserve natural resources and protect global ecosystems to support health and well-being, now and in the future. The objective of this study has been aimed to review on Ayurveda system of medicine for environmental sustainability. The study was carried out as a review study and data was collected from Ayurveda authentic texts, previously published research papers and journal articles. As per findings, Ayurveda provides clear guidelines for lifestyle and nutrition, all of which fit within the framework of Dharma (Moral principles) which promotes responsibility for the whole society. According to Ayurveda, lifestyle helps to protect a healthy environment and support nature. It also means the natural care of sustainable food sources and agriculture preserves not only life but also responsible and safe ways of nutrition, careful approach and planning to preserve and guarantee the abundance of all medicinal plants in nature. Sustainable food aims to avoid damaging or wasting natural resources. The major four elements of environmental sustainability which are air and water management and risk reduction have been described in Ayurveda authentic texts. As adaptations the concepts such as the knowledge of Ritucharya (regimen for various seasons) and Dina Charya (daily regimen) in Ayurveda, are the key to survival, thus essential to maintain a healthy life which helps to free from lifestyle diseases in humans and leads to maintaining good relationship with their environment. The predictive approach of Ayurveda based on the constitutional knowledge about human being shall assist to solving a serious challenge of the modern life. Modern drug-based medicine is becoming increasingly inaccessible to the majority of the world‘s poor. The neglect of environmental, spiritual and psychological factors behind health and disease does not allow a simple, abstemious lifestyle. Ayurveda offers a sound, millenary natural alternative to the prevailing medical system on its way to individual well-being, improving health economy and social-economic development. 

Keywords: Ayurveda perspective, Economic crisis, Environmental sustainability
Influence of Environmental Factors in Determining Tourist Destinations
Authors: Karunarathna M.M.S.A.
Published: February 2024

Tourism is a growing industry in many countries of the world and for many countries it is a potential source of economic growth and employment opportunities. Focusing on Sri Lanka in terms of tourism, tourism is the third largest foreign exchange earner in Sri Lanka. It is important to correctly identify the internal tourist destinations in Sri Lanka, as well as the environmental factors that influence those destinations' decisions, so that development projects can be made. Accordingly, through this study, the environmental factor has been studied in determining the tourist destinations. The three places chosen as the study area of this research are Sinharaja Rainforest in Kalawana Divisional Secretariat Division of Ratnapura District of Sri Lanka, Bopath Ella Waterfall located in Kuruvita Divisional Secretariat Division and Sitawaka Botanical Garden located in Seethawaka Divisional Secretariat Division of Colombo District. The judgment-based method was used to select the three tourist destinations. Also, 120 people were used as a sample for data collection. A simple random sampling method was used. Primary data and secondary data were used for this study. Participant observation, interview method and questionnaire method were used to collect primary data. IBM SPSS-26 version software was used for data analysis and a Binary Logistic model was used to identify how much influence the environmental factor has in determining tourist destinations. Accordingly, it was studied here whether the environmental factor affecting the decision of a tourist destination changes according to variables such as age, gender, marital Status, education level, occupation, income level etc. According to the results of the research, the Chi- square value is 56.435. The P value is statistically significant at the 1% level. That means the P value of the model is 0.000 (P<0.01). That means that the model is statistically significant. That is, according to the independent variables used above, it can be concluded that there is a change in the influence of the environmental factor to determine a tourist destination. In the analysis, the statistical significance of each independent variable was tested by the Wald test, which can identify the effect of each independent variable on the model. Accordingly, it was clear from this research that the variables of profession and education have a significant effect on the environmental factor that affects the decision of a tourist destination. 

Keywords: Education, Environmental factor, Profession, Tourist destinations
Effectiveness of a Disaster Management Education Program among Youth: A Case Study in Three Disaster-prone Provinces
Authors: Perera M.A.U.  , Gunawardena U.A.D.P.
Published: February 2024

Environmental Education has emerged to integrate knowledge on the need to conserve and to protect the natural environment and to minimize hazards associated with the polluted environment and natural disasters. The present study aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of an environmental education programme conducted among participants of National Youth Corps (NYC) training centres. NYC recruits two batches per annum within the age group of 15–26 years. The survey was carried out in year 2019 for its first batch at three provinces: Southern, North Central and Sabaragamuwa. A workshop was conducted for all the trainees by the Disaster Management Centre followed by a two-day disaster drill programme to apply the theoretical knowledge into practice. Total intake of 5688 NYC recruits were reported in this year. 1062 of them were selected from 8 NYC training centres out of 14 total centres located within the three provinces that are considered as prone to natural disasters. A quota sampling approach was used to obtain a representative sample from these districts. Selected participants were advised to complete two self-administered questionnaires: one before the workshop and the other soon after completion. Knowledge and attitudes were measured, and the scores were compared with the hypothesis that participants reported higher scores after the workshop. Knowledge and attitudes toward disaster preparedness was evaluated before and after conducting the workshop. 71% from Southern province (Tsunami); 60% from Sabaragamuwa (landslide); and 75% of North Central province (flood) reported prior experience of natural disasters. The level of awareness of having either a local disaster management plan or a local person responsible for disaster preparedness was low. Only 14.8% from Southern, 11.0% from North Central, 17.0% from Sabaragamuwa Province knew the presence of a local DMP in which 15.0%, 19.3% and 21.6% respectively, knew the presence of the DM personal. About 75% from Southern province, 64% from North Central province and 84% from Sabaragamuwa province were not aware of the existence of an early warning system. An increase in the positive attitude was observed and the perceived change in behavioral change of the trainees have increased after the study. They were highly motivated in assisting disasters in a real situation and were willing to volunteer in minimizing the environmental hazards associated with environmental degradation. Despite the high motivation, lack of experience indicates the need for inclusion of disaster management training into National Youth Corps curriculum with annual educational activities after the initial training. The assessment framework established by this study could facilitate regular inspection and verify various disaster management tasks, in-order to enhance youth capability in response to disasters.

Keywords: Environmental education, Disaster management, Youth, Knowledge enhancement, Attitude change
Study of Consumption and Disposal Practices Related to Polythene Shopping Bags
Authors: Karunaratne C.M.W.  , Gunawardena U.A.D.P.
Published: February 2024

The widespread use of polythene shopping bags raises significant environmental concerns about adverse effects to marine ecosystems, wild life and impacts resulting from litter all of which require public resources to mitigate or manage. The main objective of this study is to understand the consumer behaviour on polythene bag usage, their awareness on adverse impacts and their willingness to pay for a tax on reducing polythene bag usage. Data were collected from 100 respondents selected from different locations in Sri Lanka conveniently using a structured online questionnaire. In investigating an economic instruments for reducing pollution from polythene bags, payment from the polluter was obtained from two different methods such increasing the price of the polythene bag and imposing a tax on production of polythene shopping bags. In this analysis, it was considered two different dependent variables and the four independent variables. Those dependent variables are willingness to pay for polythene shopping bag and imposing tax on production. Four independent variables were considered for each regression models such as Household income, number of times of usage of polythene shopping bags, environmental impacts and adequacy about government initiatives. The results indicate that among the respondents 86% have all types of polythene waste and 81% separate polythene waste from their collected waste stream, 60% sort polythene waste as clean and unclean before disposal, 61.50% hand over polythene waste to municipal solid waste collectors and 18% of respondents dump the garbage pit in the backyard and 13% of respondents burn it. Most (85%) of respondents don‘t agree that burning polythene is harmful to life and 92% don‘t agree that dumping polythene bags to garbage pits will provide breeding grounds to mosquitos. Majority is using the bags only one or two times but printed /branded bags are being used one to five times. Majority (36%) of respondents suggests a tax of Rs. 5.00 to pay for a polythene shopping bag which can carry 2-3kg per bag and 31 per cent respondents suggested Rs. 2.00. Most of the respondents prefer to switch to a bio-degradable or reusable bag completely if the government put a blanket ban on polythene. The study suggests that educating and making awareness related to the usage and disposal practices related to the polythene shopping bags is very important for the behaviour of the consumer. Introducing an economic instrument related to increasing the price of the polythene shopping bag or imposing a tax at the production or switch to a reusable bag or any other environmentally friendly alternative as a substitute for polythene shopping bags would be a timely action as the majority of the selected sample is ready and willing to embrace these alternatives.

Keywords: Polythene, Shopping bags, Reusable, Consumer behaviour, Price
Sri Lankan Contribution to Climate Change by Enteric Fermentation of Large Ruminants: An Overview
Authors: Manewa R.M.S.S.  , Madumadhawa M.H.D.  , Palliyaguru O.G.  , Senaratne D.
Published: February 2024

The Sri Lankan livestock sector (LS) which is essential to rural households' food systems and means of subsistence, contributed to 0.6% of the GDP in 2020. The cattle industry has contributed <40% to the LS. The objective of the review was to determine how Sri Lankan LS, especially ruminants contributed to climate change (CC) by emitting greenhouse gasses (GHG). In the year 2020, in total there were 1 426 570 cattle, including neat cattle and buffaloes. Sri Lanka has experienced various impacts of CC as it is a tropical island in the Indian Ocean. The cattle industry is involved in CC directly and indirectly. Global warming (GW) is a predominant factor in CC. The emission of GHG in different ways is a root cause of GW. As a GHG, 17% of methane emissions in the atmosphere are accounted by the enteric fermentation of ruminants, especially by the large ruminants; cattle, and buffaloes. It is a complex process that occurs within the fore stomach (rumen) of ruminants where gases are released outside via a process called eructation. As a GHG, methane (CH4) contributes to GW 28 times higher than carbon dioxide produced in large ruminants by enteric fermentation. In Sri Lanka, the majority of the local indigenous cattle and buffaloes are used to eat low-quality grasses, straws, and other roughage which significantly increases the emission of CH4. A past study revealed that the CH4 emission factor estimated according to the IPCC (2006) Tier 2 methodology for an improved dairy cattle is 42 kg /head /year while a local dairy cow is 52 kg /head /year and 65 kg /head /year for dairy buffalo in Sri Lanka and the values are lower compared to default emission factors given by the IPCC (2006). The expected temperature rise in Sri Lanka, which would be primarily caused by GHG, will be slightly less than the average worldwide. However, the highest emission scenario predicts a 2.9o C–3.5o C increase in temperature by the 2090s. Therefore, instead of focusing solely on production, it is important to investigate measures to minimize GHG emitted by large ruminants under local management conditions.

Keyword: Climate change, Enteric fermentation, Livestock, Methane
A GIS-based Binary Logistic Regression Model for the Inundation Analysis; A Case Study on Elapatha DS Division, Ratnapura District, Sri Lanka
Authors: Ekanayaka H.D.M.  , Jayasinghe G.Y.  , Priyankara P.
Published: February 2024

Flood susceptibility analysis (FSA) is a prerequisite for adopting flood mitigation and adaptation techniques. A number of technologies and models have emerged through time, and this study focuses on the Binary Logistic Regression Model (BLRM) to investigate flood vulnerability of Elapatha Divisional secretariat (DS), Ratnapura District, Sri Lanka where has high impact from inundation. Rainfall, land use and land cover (LULC), elevation, slope, slope aspect, distance to the river, topographic wetness index (TWI), and stream power index (SPI) were the factors used in the model construction. These components were investigated in terms of their contribution to flood susceptibility using all location data and field plotting of responsible parameters in the study area using Geographic Information System (GIS) software, and all extracted data points were 96489, of which 50% were used for BLRM development using SPSS statistical software and remaining 50% for model validation. The coefficient of rainfall parameters, log value of elevation in meters, the tan value of slope in degrees, radiant value of aspect in degrees, (distance from the river)0.1, the ratio between SPI and TWI (SPI/TWI) and LULC band values of built-up area, water bodies and vegetations were 0.023, -2.254, -1.018, -0.005, -0.164, -0.003, 2.707, -.067 and -0.004 respectively. The accuracy was validated using Mean standard error (MSE) and area under curve (AUC) analysis, with values of 0.031 and 0.724 respectively. The Built-up area, elevation, and slope had the most impact on the inundation Elapatha DS division, and model performance represents 72.4% accuracy. Therefore, mitigation of inundation problems can be achieved through proper landscaping in the area.

Keywords: Binary logistic Regression, Flood susceptibility Analysis, GIS software, Spatial analysis
Assessment of the Spatiotemporal Variability of Urban Heat Island Intensity in Colombo Metropolitan Area
Authors: Withana P.M.  , Lokupitiya E.Y.K.  , Rajapaksha I.
Published: February 2024

During the last few decades, the Colombo Metropolitan Area (CMA) has experienced rapid population growth and unplanned urbanization, resulting in the replacement of natural landcover with more impervious surfaces. The primary approach of current study was to determine the gradients of air temperature and assess the spatiotemporal variation of atmospheric urban heat island (AUHI) intensity in the CMA considering a range of rural sites extending in different radial directions from the urban center. A total of sixteen rural observation sites that extend from an urban center in four directions were selected within the CMA, with four sites 3.5 km apart from each other in any direction. The air temperatures at each site were measured using HOBO UX-100-003 temperature data loggers for an 8-day period from 21st to 28th, of February 2022. The normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) and normalized difference building index (NDBI) were used to determine the influence of land use/land cover on air temperatures. The results revealed that air temperature had a strong positive correlation with NDBI. Thus, the current study suggests that the impervious surface/s is a significant predictor of air temperature over the study area. The higher air temperatures were observed at the urban center in relation to the selected suburban and rural observation sites. Hence, the current study confirms that AUHI exists within the selected study area over the CMA. It was found that AUHI tends to be present throughout the day in the CMA. However, it becomes strong between 12.00 A.M. and 6.00 A.M and mostly weakens in the late afternoon hours. Furthermore, this study found that the timing and magnitudes of AUHI vary from direction to direction across the study area depending on the site-specific characteristics of the rural observation sites. The current study emphasizes that site-specific land use/land cover characteristics can have a significant impact on the interpretation of UHI study results even within a single metropolitan area. Therefore, taking only one rural site might not be effective in determining the UHI intensity and a range of sites need to be considered (to select from) for in-depth analysis of UHI in any given area. The findings of the current study will provide firsthand knowledge for urban planners to identify future trends in UHI in the CMA and will promote further UHI research in this area.

Keywords: Rural observation site, Atmospheric urban heat island, Normalized Difference Vegetation Index