bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Urban Indian Environment in the Context of a Pandemic
Authors: S. Abhijith. , S. N. Akshara , Raj P. P. Nikhil
Published: March 2024

The spread of the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has impacted human life severely since November 2019. The urban centers in the world, especially, were highly affected by the diseases. Several socioeconomic and environmental factors probably enhanced the spread of the pandemic and consequent mortality. Many studies examining environmental factors, such as air quality, in urban centers indicate the roles of those factors in the spread of diseases and consequent mortality. However, other socioeconomic factors that directly or indirectly elevate the mass death of people are seldom studied. The present study explores the socioeconomic factors and air quality influencing COVID-19 deaths in urban India. We randomly selected 19 Indian cities and collected each city’s socioeconomic and air quality data from reliable and open sources. The data were analyzed using multivariate data analysis techniques using R statistics. The results showed significant positive relationships, population, and total area of the urban centers.
The Suitability of Fe3O4/Graphene Oxide Nanocomposite for Adsorptive Removal of Methylene Blue and Congo Red
Authors: Cao Viet , Cao Phuong Anh , Han Duy Linh , Ngo Minh Tuan , Vuong Truong Xuan , Manh Hung Nguyen
Published: March 2024

In this study, Fe3O4/GO nanocomposite was synthesized by hydrothermal method and tested for its efficiency in removing methylene blue (MB) and congo red (CR) from water. The synthesized nanocomposite was characterized using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The optimal values for MB and CR removal were determined to be pH 6.0, an adsorbent weight of 50.0 mg, and a contact time of 10 min. The adsorption isotherms of the contaminants on the nanocomposite were analyzed using the Freundlich model, indicating a heterogeneous distribution of active sites on the adsorbent surface. The highest adsorption capacity of MB and CR is 135.1 and 285.7 mg.g-1, respectively. Moreover, Fe3O4/GO nanocomposite recycled five cycles with proper adsorption capacity. Overall, the Fe3O4/GO nanocomposite holds great promise for efficient and sustainable water treatment, providing safe and clean water globally.
Competitive Adsorption of Cd(II) and Zn(II) on Biochar, Loess, and Biochar-loess Mixture
Authors: Li Y. W. , Zhao B. W. , Wang L. , Li Y. Q. , Wang T. , Jia Y. H. , Zhao M. L.
Published: March 2024

Combined heavy metal contamination in soil is a common phenomenon. Biochar amendment into the soil is considered to be an alternative for immobilization remediation of soil contaminated with heavy metals due to its adsorption and alkalization. However, much attention has been paid to the adsorption and immobilization of single heavy metals by biochar. In this paper, the competitive adsorption of Cd(II) and Zn(II) on biochar derived from cotton straw and pig manure at 500℃ (BCS500 and BPM500), loess and biochar-loess mixtures were investigated using the batch equilibrium method. The results showed that the adsorption capacities of biochars, loess, and biochar-loess mixtures to Cd(II) and Zn(II) in the mixed Cd-Zn systems increased with the increase of initial metal concentrations of Cd(II) and Zn(II). The adsorptive capacities of BCS500 and BPM500 to Cd(II) in mixed Cd-Zn system were 33% and 35% less than those in the single Cd(II)systems, while the adsorptive capacities to Zn(II) were 62% and 56% less than those in the single Zn(II) systems. The adsorptive capacities of loess to Cd(II) and Zn(II) in mixed Cd-Zn systems were 29% and 55% less than those in the single metal systems. The adsorptive capacities of loess-BCS500 (LBCS) and loess-BPM500 (LBPM) to Cd(II) in mixed Cd-Zn system were 40% and 38% less than those in the single Cd(II) systems, while the adsorptive capacities to Zn(II) were 63% and 60% less than those in the single Zn(II)systems. Moreover, the competitive adsorptive capacity of Cd(II) is greater than that of Zn(II). It can be seen that when heavy metal pollution with similar nature of multiple elements exists in soil, the amount of adsorbent should be increased to resist the possible weakened adsorption caused by competitive adsorption in order to guarantee an effective absorption treatment.
Effectiveness of Cadmium on Biochemical Shift of Pea Plant Treated with Mycorrhiza and Putrescine
Authors: Kumar Prasann , Dey Shipa Rani , Choudhury Debjani
Published: March 2024

Heavy metals like cadmium (Cd), mercury (Hg), bismuth (Bi), and arsenic (As) are potent and harmful poisonous sources that cause havoc on health conditions for the population of the world. However, the response of our crop species to these potent heavy metals-related toxicity is still left to be fully understood. It is a matter of great concern, as we are heavily dependent on crop species like rice, wheat, peas, etc. Our study here aims to learn about the defensive mechanism of Pisum sativum L. aided with putrescine and mycorrhiza against the stress created by Cd-related toxicity. We quantified physiological parameters such as the membrane-related injury and stability index. We further measured the total free proline content, lipid peroxidation content, and SOD activity. We executed our quantitative experiments on the stressed pea plants due to the exogenously applied Cd-toxicity in the presence and absence of mycorrhiza and putrescine. Insights of our significant results will improve the understanding of readers of the role of mycorrhiza and putrescine in improvising the tolerance level of a pea plant over Cd-related toxicity.
Analysis and Characterization of Municipal Solid Wastes Generated in Ifugao State University Potia Campus: A Basis For Planning of Waste Management
Authors: Latugan P. , Carabacan J. J. , Bonicillo G. , Cayog J. , Eyawa M. Q. , Cairel M. T. , Ngohayon J. M.
Published: March 2024

The end of the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in the total return of students and employees in Ifugao State University Potia Campus, a higher education institution located in Potia, Alfonso Lista, Ifugao, Philippines. However, the return of the pre-pandemic operations on campus caused problems in managing the generated municipal solid wastes. Hence, an analysis and characterization of the generated municipal solid wastes was conducted to determine important data that can be used for future waste management planning. The generated municipal solid wastes were gathered from the various waste generators within the campus for five consecutive days. The total generated municipal solid waste on the campus was about 140.10 kg.day-1, most of which was contributed by the canteens (20.86%). The generated municipal solid wastes were dominated by biodegradable waste (48.65%) and recyclable waste (37.26%). In addition, most of the generated municipal solid wastes were related to people’s food and beverage consumption behavior. The total volume of the MSW generated daily was about 5.647 m3. It is recommended that the campus create and enforce its waste management plan to specifically address the aforementioned characteristics of the generated municipal solid wastes.
Mapping and Quantifying Integrated Land Degradation Status of Goa Using Geostatistical Approach and Remote Sensing Data
Authors: Gaonkar V. G. Prabhu , Nadaf F. M. , Kapale Vikas
Published: March 2024

Globally, land degradation is becoming a grave concern. Over the years, conditions such as drought, extreme weather events, pollution, changes in land use land cover, and desertification have intensified and led to land degradation, affecting both ecological and economic processes. Equally, during the last two centuries, population and urbanization have amplified manifold and increased the demand for additional food and shelter, resulting in alteration in land use land cover, over-grazing, and over-cultivation, loss of nutrient-rich surface soil, greater runoff from the more impermeable subsoil, and reduced water availability. Geographically, Goa is a highly diversified state. It is sandwiched between the West Coast and the Western Ghats. The state is blessed with beaches, mangroves, backwaters, wetlands, wildlife sanctuaries, evergreen forests, barren lands, and other vital ecosystems. The State of Goa, on average, receives more than 3000 millimeters of rainfall annually with high surface runoff. Using both primary and secondary data, this study sought to investigate and quantify the state’s land degradation. Secondary data came from satellites and other sources, while primary data came from field observation and ground truthing. Land degradation factors related to soil loss and the spatial pattern of soil erosion are predicted and evaluated using the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) method. Landsat-8 OLI-TIRS images were utilized to decide land use and cover (C factor), while DEM information was utilized to assess (LS factor). A soil map and rainfall data were collected to acquire a better understanding of soil erodibility (K factor) and rainfall erosivity (R factor). The kriging interpolation technique was used to gain a deeper comprehension of land degradation.The purpose of this paper is to comprehend the concept of integrated land degradation and how it affects the environment of Goa. Using remote sensing data and geostatistical methods, the study creates a comprehensive map of land degradation in the region by identifying and analyzing the various forms of land degradation in Goa. The paper also looks at how rainfall and the amount of land cover affect the rate of soil erosion in Goa. According to the findings, intense rainfall makes the eastern part of Goa particularly susceptible to soil erosion, and bare soil has a greater potential for erosion than vegetated land. The paper concludes that comprehensive land degradation mapping can be a useful tool for developing efficient land management strategies to preserve soil and encourage sustainable development in the region.
Effective Utilization of Bio and Industry Wastes to Produce Thermal Insulation Concrete: A Novel Solution for Energy-Saving Buildings
Authors: Regin Jerlin , Antony Maria Rajesh , Al-Zaabiya Raya Said Mohammed , Balushi May Darwish Ali Al , Al Shehhi Hamdah Ali Ahmed , Al-Farsi Nooralsnaa Abdallah Mohammed , Al-Saadi Athari Khalifa Handi
Published: March 2024

The research addressed the effective and sustainable ways to enhance the thermal insulation properties of concrete without compromising its structural integrity. Traditional methods of enhancing thermal insulation in buildings, such as using thick layers of insulation materials, can be costly and may not always be practical in certain settings. Additionally, the disposal of waste materials such as date palm fiber, shopping plastic bags, and thermocol beads presents an environmental challenge. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the potential use of these waste materials as additives in concrete to improve its thermal insulation properties while also providing a sustainable solution for waste disposal. Date palm fiber is a natural material that is widely available in the Gulf region. Plastic bags are a huge waste from the shops every day, and from the packing materials, this thermocol is a huge waste product. We have to recycle it very efficiently to protect the environment. Three types of special materials, such as thermocol beads (30%), date palm fiber (3%) & shopping plastic bag fiber (3%), were tested in this research. Thermocol beads, when used, reduce their strength and increase the thermal resistance of concrete, while date palm fiber and shopping bag waste fiber, when used, increase the strength of concrete and also increase the thermal resistance of concrete, so it is an excellent reinforcing material and thermal barrier for shopping plastic bags fiber and date palm fiber. Based on this research result, when thermocol beads are used, they prevent heat by 42 percent, while when added with date palm fiber and plastic fiber, they also block heat by an average of 30% percent; thus, all three ingredients are considered excellent thermal insulation material. The reduction in thermal conductivity was attributed to the formation of air voids and the low thermal conductivity of the waste materials. The density of the concrete decreased with the addition of the waste materials. The study suggests that the incorporation of date palm fiber, shopping bag waste fiber, and thermocol beads can be an effective way to enhance the thermal insulation properties of concrete while also providing an environmentally sustainable solution for waste disposal. It will boost green energy technology in the construction industry.
Water Resource Impacts of Irrigation: The Case of the Main Irrigation Canal from the M’Pourie Plain to Rosso in Mauritania
Authors: Med Fadel Mewgef El Ezza dite Hanane Djieh Cheikh , Dick B. A. , S’Id E. C. , Ammar M. B. , Sidi Y. M. , Mohamed L. S. , Semesdy A. , Yehdhih M. L. , Fekhaoui M.
Published: March 2024

An important factor in determining agricultural production is the availability of irrigation water in the main canal of the M’Pourie plain. This factor affects both the intensification of crops and the size of the irrigation areas. The main Senegal River canal in Rosso, Mauritania, runs across the Plaine of M’Pourie. This study aims to assess the physicochemical quality of the water used for irrigation and agriculture in the main irrigation canal on the M’Pourie plain. The measurements were made from 2021 to 2022, and the following physical and chemical parameters were monitored: pH, temperature, electrical conductivity, salt content, calcium, magnesium, sodium, and potassium; ammonium bicarbonate; chloride; nitrite; nitrate; nitrogen; sulfate; and sodium adsorption ratio (SAR). These measurements were analyzed using volumetric, spectroscopic, and spectrophotometric methods. After conducting statistical analysis and comparing the results with Moroccan quality standards for surface water utilized in irrigation, it has been discovered that the average pH value is 7.51, indicating a neutral state. However, the average nitrite and ammonium values exceed Moroccan standards at 5.16 mg.L-1 and 0.41 mg.L-1, respectively. The water’s low mineralization is attributed to its low electrical conductivity, with an average of 52.2 μS.cm-1. Based on the analysis of the Senegal River water used for irrigation in the M’Pourie plain, it has been determined that its sodium adsorption ratio and electrical conductivity classify it as belonging to class C1S1. This indicates that the water has low salinity and is excellent for irrigation, with a low risk of alkalinization.
Farmers’ Perception and Adaptation Strategies Towards Climate Change: A Village Level Study in India
Authors: Ratakonda Dharma Teja , Dash Ajit Kumar , Mishra Amritkant
Published: March 2024

The present study attempted to observe the perception and adaptation strategies of farmers in the context of climate change. It observes that the majority of the farmers are aware of climate change and understand that they are facing problems due to it. The major problems faced by the farmers are the long duration of dryness due to lack of rainfall, weed pressure, very high temperatures, and crop disease. However, farmers are not very aware of technological adaptation and have changed the cropping time due to changes in the time of monsoon. The study recommends that there is a need for intensive micro and macro policy initiatives in terms of modern green sustainable technology along with awareness and skill development of the farmers. The government should also focus more on policy initiatives for sustainable agricultural practices in line with sustainable development goals.
Feasibility Analysis of Municipal Wastewater Reinjection Technology
Authors: Hu Haijie , Zhang Huan , Han Lei , Zhang Le , Yu Tao , Qu Chengtun
Published: March 2024

To study the feasibility of using municipal sewage as a reserve water source for oilfield reinjection, the water sample treated by the municipal sewage treatment plant and the produced water of the Chang 2 reservoir were taken as the research objects. Through the analysis of water quality and compatibility, the optimal ratio of reinjection water samples was determined. At the same time, the clay swelling experiment and reservoir damage experiment were carried out. The experimental results show that the salinity of municipal sewage is low, and the content of scale ions is low. When the ratio of produced water to municipal sewage is 7:3, the scale formation amount can reach 42.5 mg.L-1, and when the scale inhibitor is added, the scale formation amount can be reduced to 10.4 mg.L-1. The mixed water sample will not cause clay expansion. Meanwhile, Chang 2 reservoir is moderately weak water sensitive and weak acid sensitive. The oil content, suspended solids content, and median particle size of the mixed water sample during reinjection should be controlled at 5 mg.L-1, 5 mg.L-1, and 5 μm to ensure that the reinjected water sample does not cause damage to the reservoir.
Mapping and Monitoring of Land Use/Land Cover Transformation Using Geospatial Techniques in Varanasi City Development Region, India
Authors: Tiwari Atul K. , Pal Anindita , Kanchan Rolee
Published: March 2024

Assessing the dynamics and patterns of Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) and its transformation is an important practice of urban planners and environmentalists for a variety of applications, including land management, urban climate modeling, and sustainability of any urban region. Monitoring changes in LULC using geospatial techniques can help to identify areas at risk for indefensible land use, low-grade environment, and especially for sustainable urban planning. This study aims to analyze the changing pattern, dynamics, and alteration of LULC using Google Earth Engine (GEE) and Machine Learning Applications for the years 1991, 2001, 2011, and 2022 in the Varanasi City Development Region (VCDR). The LULC classification was divided into seven classes using random forest classification, and Landsat-5(TM) and 9(OLI-2) satellite data were used. Saga GIS has been utilized for the detection of LULC change during the 1991-2022 period. For validation of classification results, accuracy assessment was estimated using error matrices and through user, producer, and overall accuracy estimation. The Kappa statistics were applied for the reliability of the accuracy assessment result. As a result, the built-up area increased by 507.8 percent, and other classes like agricultural, barren, fallow land, and vegetation cover rapidly declined and altered into concrete areas over the period. Water bodies and river sand classes have been slightly converted into different classes. The finding explains that 114.8 km2 of fertile agricultural land, 14.81 km2 barren land, and 12.93 km2 of vegetation cover transformed into impervious surface, which is unsustainable and causes various problems like food scarcity, environmental degradation, and low quality of urban life. This study can be a useful guide for urban planners, academicians, and policymakers by providing a scientific background for sustainable urban planning and management of VCDR and other cities as well.
Determinants Influencing the Environmental Impact Assessment Compliance Rate by Industries in Aba City, Southeast, Nigeria
Authors: Sam-Amobi C. , Ubani O. J. , Efobi K. , Ajukwara Nathan
Published: March 2024

A United Nations (UN) report on the severity of pollution in cities around the world in 2020 rated Aba City, Nigeria, as the most polluted city in the world. This has become a source of worry and embarrassment for environmental policymakers in the country. The matter of whether industries are efficiently managing their wastes came to the fore, and policymakers questioned the compliance of these industries with environmental laws and Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) guidelines and the reasons behind the seemingly non-compliance of the industries with these guidelines. The study aimed to investigate the determinants that influence compliance with EIA guidelines by industries in Aba. A survey research method was employed in the study. Questionnaires and interviews were also used to elicit data from industrialists and environmentalists in the study area. 384 industries were sampled in the study. Principal Component Analysis was used to test the hypothesis. The study revealed seven factors that influenced the compliance rate of EIA guidelines by industries, and they include weak public participation (65.5%), ignorance (54.5%), an effective legal system and legislation (42.4%), the cost of compliance (40.5%), weak coordination along the line of departments (town planning officers and consultants) (35.5%), delay in approval (30.5%), and limited scope (28.9%). It was recommended that the government strengthen the legal system as it relates to the implementation of EIA; then, there is a need to involve affected stakeholders in the preparation of EIA documents.
Machine Learning-based Calibration Approach for Low-cost Air Pollution Sensors MQ-7 and MQ-131
Authors: Rathnayake L. R. S. D. , Sakura G. B. , Weerasekara N. A. , Sandaruwan P. D.
Published: March 2024

Air quality is a vital concern globally, and Sri Lanka, according to WHO statistics, faces challenges in achieving optimal air quality levels. To address this, we introduced an innovative IoT-based Air Pollution Monitoring (APM) Box. This solution incorporates readily available Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) sensors, specifically MQ-7 and MQ-131, for measuring concentrations of Carbon Monoxide (CO) and Ozone (O3) ,Arduino and "ThingSpeak" platform. Yet, those COTS sensors are not factory-calibrated. Therefore, we implemented machine learning algorithms, including linear regression and deep neural network models, to enhance the accuracy of CO and O3 concentration measurements from these non-calibrated sensors. Our findings indicate promising correlations when dealing with MQ-7 and MQ-131 measurements after removing outliers.
Threshold Effect of Trade on Climate Change in South Africa
Authors: Mosikari Teboho J. , Mmelesi Kesaobaka
Published: March 2024

The relationship between trade and climate change is not a simple linear relationship. In this paper, using the threshold regression model, we estimated the effect of trade on climate change in South Africa. The paper applied the LM test to examine the nonlinear inference approach to test whether nonlinearity existed and if the threshold model was relevant to the study. The results show that when energy use is set as the threshold variable, the relationship between trade and climate change measured as methane is U-shaped. Also, in other models of GHG as climate change indicators, the results show that the effect of trade on climate change is not dynamic. This result supports the idea that high and low trade effects may have different impacts on climate change indicators. It is, therefore, recommended that all exporters in South Africa resort to more innovative environmental mechanisms to reduce the contribution to climate. The suggestion for future studies is to consider exports of different sectors to climate change. This approach will avoid the generalization of exporting firms as the worst emitters.
Effect of Humic Acid Fertilizer on Mercury Release from Greenhouse Soils
Authors: Zhao Z. , Long L. Y. , Gu H. , Sun R. G.
Published: March 2024

The elemental mercury (Hg0) release characteristics from the Hg-contaminated soil applied with Humic acid fertilizer (HAF) in the greenhouse were identified. The adsorption features of mercuric ion (Hg2+) on HAF under different reaction times and pH were investigated to elucidate the influencing mechanism of HAF on soil Hg0 release. Besides, the microstructure of HAF loading with Hg2+ was characterized by using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron micrograph-energy dispersive spectrometry–EDS). The results showed that with the increasing HAF dosage, soil oxidation-reduction potential (Eh), and organic matter (SOM) content, as well as the decreasing soil pH, the soil Hg0 release fluxes showed a decreasing tendency. The soil pH, Eh, SOM, and total Hg content are the key factors that can affect the soil Hg0 release fluxes. The interior air temperature, light intensity, soil moisture, and soil temperature have little impact on soil Hg0 release fluxes when the greenhouse soil is applied with HAF. The HAF can immobilize Hg2+ and reduce its activity by surface precipitation and specific adsorption, then affecting the soil Hg0 release fluxes. The results of this study provide a basis for the application of HAF to reduce soil Hg0 release fluxes in the greenhouse of Hg-contaminated areas.
Impact of Cadmium-Induced Stress on Physiological Traits with Induced Osmolyte and Catalase-Mediated Antioxidative Defense in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Yomso J. , Siddique A.
Published: March 2024

Cadmium is one of the most carcinogenic and hazardous heavy metals on the earth for causes many serious diseases and disorders in the plant body. The presence of Cd in the soil is equally harmful to the production of rice crops and human beings. A pot experiment was conducted to analyze the consequences of cadmium-induced stress on the antioxidative defense system in rice plants. The assessment of antioxidative defense mechanism based on the cadmium-induced stress in the range of 100 to 300 ppm while the parameters, Chlorophyll Content Index (SPAD), nitrogen (%), relative water content (%), membrane stability index (%), proline content (μg.g-1), and catalase activity (nm H2O2 mg-1.min-1) were used. The highest reduction in the Chlorophyll Content Index (CCI), nitrogen (%), RWC (%), and MSI (%) was recorded at the highest concentrations of Cd Cl2 (300 ppm). However, at the same time, an increase in proline content (μg.g-1) and catalase activity (nm H2O2 mg-1.min-1) were also detected at all the intervals of the study. The activity of CCI, amino acid, and enzyme were presented in % increase/decrease over the control of Cd-induced stress in rice plants. The reduction (%) in CCI (SPAD) and RWC (%) was recorded maximum at 75 Days after transplanting (DAT), while nitrogen (%) and MSI (%) were recorded at 50 DAT. However, the increase (%) in proline and Catalase activity was maximum at 75 and 50 DAT.
Why Renewable Energy Gained Attention and Demand Globally?
Authors: As’ad S.
Published: March 2024

Energy security and stable supply are the most important aspects for any nation. The rising need for energy, caused by both population growth and economic activity, is a problem for many nations throughout the world. Consequently, they have to find a way to meet energy demand while also making sure it is inexpensive and sustainable. The use of renewable energy has gradually become one that is being given a lot of attention since it does not cause any harm to the environment. On the other hand, renewable energy is gaining popularity for a variety of different reasons. A paradigm shift toward renewable resources is relevant, as they have the ability to lessen reliance on fossil fuels and decrease environmental consequences; this article will provide several reasons why renewable energy is attracting attention on a global scale. Indeed, renewable energy is plentiful, clean, and might one day provide all of our energy needs. A country's carbon footprint and reliance on fossil fuels may be reduced by investing in renewable energy sources. In addition, there are several health and environmental problems associated with air and water pollution; nevertheless, renewable energy may assist decrease these problems.
Extraction of Environment-Friendly Biodegradable Poly-Hydroxy Butyrate Using Novel Hydrodynamic Cavitation Method
Authors: Lad A. A. , Gaikwad V. D. , Gaikwad S. V. , Kulkarni A. D. , Kanekar S. P.
Published: March 2024

Polyhydroxy butyrate (PHB) is one of the best environment-friendly bioplastic alternatives for petroleum-based plastic due to its biodegradability. However, it has less commercial popularity owing to the high cost of downstream processing that involves repeated centrifugation and the use of costly harmful solvents, as well as a labor-intensive process. Hydrodynamic Cavitation (HC) offers easy and simple mechanisms for downstream processing. Also, biopolymer extracted for haloarchea show an advantage of least contamination under the halophilic condition on an industrial level. In this paper, a haloarchaeal consortium producing biopolymer isolated from commercial rock salt has been subjected to HC as well as distilled water lysis. A maximum of 23 g.L-1 PHB was extracted in 40 min run with 50 passes and 0.10 cavitation number at 3.9 bar pressure. The extracted biopolymer was characterized and was found to be PHB. Comparative analysis shows that HC results in a substantial reduction in the downstream processing time. Moreover, it has double the efficiency of PHB extraction as compared to the distilled water lysis method. This paper reports the HC process as a techno-commercial alternative to industrial PHB extraction.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices on Climate Change Among Rice Farmers in Central Luzon, Philippines
Authors: Farin E. N. , Sazon R. R. , Sazon R. A. , Rogayan Jr. D. V. , Manglicmot K. B. , Mendoza S. G. , Cabal E. M.
Published: March 2024

The Philippines has been listed as the topmost affected country by climate change. One of the sectors affected by this climatic change is the agricultural sector. This study aimed to document the knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAPs) on climate change among rice farmers as a baseline study in disseminating the practices on disaster risk reduction management to rice farmers in Central Luzon to reduce risks and improve the rice yield and income of rice farmers. A total of 969 respondents were randomly sampled from the seven provinces of Central Luzon. A survey questionnaire and an unstructured questionnaire were used as instruments in gathering the needed data. Descriptive and thematic analysis were used in analyzing the data. Results revealed that rice farmers are knowledgeable and have favorable attitudes toward the impact of climate change on farming. They sometimes practice climate-smart agricultural practices. Generally, the farmers are affected by weather and climatic conditions as well as the hazards that cause a reduction in rice yield. Climate change has affected farmers in their social well-being, economic aspect, and rice production. In terms of climate change disaster adaptation measures, the farmers sometimes adopt measures in terms of flood and drought and seldom adopt measures in typhoons, erosion, and volcanic eruptions. The study recommends the conduct of capability training on disaster risk reduction in rice production (such as early planting and planting of high-yielding varieties) based on the specific needs of each province.
Impact of Small Anaerobic Digester on Household Economy of Bangladeshi Livestock Farmers
Authors: Sultana N. , Khanam J. S. , Huque K. S. , Roy B. K. , Huda N. , Alam M. K.
Published: March 2024

An extensive survey was performed covering all the regions of the country to find out the overall impacts of bio-digester on the economy of livestock farmers. Five districts were selected; ten farmers with having bio-digester of 3.2 m3 on average and ten farmers who have no bio-digester were selected from each district. Through direct interviewing and farm monitoring, all farm characteristics, i.e., diurnal biogas production, power generation, cooking time, income and expenditures, farmer’s gross earnings, and manure management practices data were collected accordingly. Descriptive statistics and student t-test was made to express the comparison response of the farms by using XL and SPSS software. It was observed that the owners of anaerobic digesters earned significantly (p < 0.001) more than the traditional farmers by selling animals and biogas (1715 & 306; 1146 & 0.00 USD, respectively). Not only that, by selling milk and fresh manure, the owners of bio-digester harvested more (p < 0.05) annual income than non-bio-digester farmers (4162, 3408 & 60.91, 44.63 USD, respectively). Though the expenditure of farmers having digester was high, but in a single fiscal year, they earned more (p < 0.05) profit than the conventional farmers (USD 4329 & 2842, respectively). However, owners of bio-digester used 67.2 % of their produced manure for gas production. Regarding storing manure as biomass and using it for cooking purposes significant difference (p < 0.001) was observed that was also reflected in the total manure management system of a farm. The farmers having no bio-digester stored 71.95% of their total manure in solid form, whereas the farmers who had bio-digester only stored 20.4% of their manure, which made a significant (p < 0.001) difference. From the biogas chamber, in an average one farmer used a gas stove for 4-5 hours and a gas lamp for 6-8 hours, which saved at least the expenditure of 18 USD per month/household. The notable thing was that the bio-digester alone contributed 7% to those farmers’ gross economy by producing gas. It can be recommended that the rural householders could generate power by installing bio-digester and turn a small bio-digester as a beneficial avenue of their household economy.
Removal of Nickel from Industrial Wastewater by an Agro-based Composite Adsorbent
Authors: Bhagat R. M. , Khandeshwar S. R.
Published: March 2024

For many years, especially in emerging nations like India, the environment has been threatened by the increased output of industrial wastes and heavy metal toxicity. The usage of inexpensive adsorbents has recently attracted a lot of attention in studies on the removal of heavy metals like nickel from industrial wastewater. The use of agro-based adsorbent is an alternative to conventionally used activated charcoal. In this research, adsorption experiments were carried out using agro-based adsorbent prepared from rice husk, wheat husk, and soybean husk to reduce nickel from industrial wastewater. The adsorption process is simple, economical, and effective is the most preferred method used for the removal of toxic metals like nickel from industrial wastewater. Adsorbents prepared from these husks can be effectively used for adsorption due to low cost & high availability. Characterization of agricultural material by various tests like XRF, proximate analysis, bulk density, and iodine number was conducted on agro-based adsorbents to know the co-relation between removal efficiency and adsorption capacity. The effect of turbidity and pH parameters on Ni removal efficiency is also studied. Results indicated that wheat husk adsorbent appeared to be the most effective for the adsorption of Ni from wastewater as compared to soybean husk and rice husk adsorbent. Wheat husk, soybean husk, and rice husk have removal efficiency in the range of 62.50 to 73.33. Composite absorbents CA-2 with the proportion of 50% wheat husk, 33% soybean husk, and 17% rice husk have 82.50% efficiency, and CA-3 has 80.83% efficiency in removing Nickel. Wheat husk adsorbent, CA-2, and CA-3 are more effectively and sustainably used for the treatment of industrial wastewater to remove heavy metals.
A Projection Study of Gaseous Pollutants Formed, Potential Health Effects and Clinical Codification in Piyungan Landfill
Authors: Fikri E. , Firmansyah Y. W. , Afifah A. S. , Dewi R. K.
Published: March 2024

The world is currently facing significant environmental challenges due to increasing urbanization and globalization. Human activities can produce greenhouse gases (GHGs) such as CO2 and CH4. One of the contributors to GHG generation is the open dumping of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW), particularly because much of the waste is organic. It undergoes anaerobic decomposition, leading to the formation of GHGs, particularly methane. However, CH4 has a high potential for energy generation, and if harnessed properly, it can be highly beneficial. This study aims to assess the total air pollutants emitted from the landfill gas (LFG), including methane (CH4), carbon dioxide (CO2), and nonmethane organic compounds (NMOC) at the Regional Piyungan landfill in D.I. Yogyakarta province. The study also projected the year when the production of these gaseous pollutants would peak and when they are expected to be exhausted. Additionally, the study aimed to identify the potential health problems and clinical codification caused by these gaseous pollutants. To achieve these objectives, the LandGEM 3.03 version of the model developed by USEPA was used for the period 2023-2071. Clinical coding used the 2019 version of the ICD-10 reference. The estimated values for total LFG were 1.648E+04 (2024) and 1.584E+04 (2025) Mg/year, while CH4 was estimated at 4.403E+03 (2024) and 4.230E+03 (2025) Mg/year. CO2 was estimated to be 1,208E+04 (2024) and 1,161E+04 (2025) Mg/year, and NMOC was projected at 2,839E+01 (2024) and 2,727E+01 (2025) Mg/year. Some of the toxic effects that can occur cause respiratory, visual, and mental disorders with a variety of clinical codes.
A Short-Term Autoregressive Model for the Prediction of Daily Average NO2 Concentration in Nagercoil, Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Muthukrishnan P. , Sharma R. Krishna
Published: March 2024

Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) is one of the pollutants that can cause potential damage to the ecosystem. NO2 emitted from vehicles forms the primary precursor for ground-level ozone. In this study, an analysis of the daily average of NO2 concentration with meteorology measured for two years 2021 and 2022 is being carried out. It is evident from the analysis that NO2 concentration followed an apparent diurnal pattern with a maximum value in the morning hours and a minimum during the afternoon hours. Summer months recorded the highest, and North East Monsoon (NEM) recorded the lowest values of NO2. A statistically significant positive correlation was found between NO2 and Temperature. An autoregressive model was formulated to forecast the daily average values of NO2 concentration. Unit root test was performed to check the stationarity of the data points, which is important in determining trends and seasonal changes. From the model procedure, the order that best fits the data was identified as AR (4), in which the process has the current value based on the previous three values. The Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) and Schwartz Criterion (SC), which are estimators of prediction error for AR (4), are low. The Jarque confirmed the normal distribution-Bera test, which again approves the satisfactoriness of the model.
Effects of Addition of Humic and Fulvic Acids on Soil Properties and Germination Percentage of Cucurbit Plants (Zucchini and Cucumber)
Authors: Khashroum A. O. , Fawadleh Y. Kh. , Hamad H. J. , Saewan Sh. A. , Almashagbeh I. , Alalawneh M. O. , Daradkeh S. M. , Saqr Abeer
Published: March 2024

This research was conducted to study the effect of adding humic and fulvic acids to the irrigation water on soil properties and germination percentage of two cucurbit plants: zucchini and cucumber. The study was conducted in an open field in Sokhna District in the governorate of Zarqa (Jordan). The field soil was transported to calcareous sandy soil. In the beginning, the weeds and stones were removed, and the land was smoothed and plowed. Effort was made to control weeds and insects at all stages of plant growth. Then, an irrigation network was installed. The fulvic acid-humic acid (FA-HA) biostimulant mixture was incorporated with the irrigation water, and irrigation was practiced three days per week for four weeks. During this period, every irrigation round lasted for two to three hours. A mixture of humic acid (8.0%) and fulvic acid (8.0%) was added to the irrigation water. Three treatments were considered, corresponding to three acid mixture concentrations: 0.50 mL.L-1, 1.00 mL.L-1, and 1.50 mL.L-1. The acid mixtures were added continuously at all stages of plant growth until plant maturity and harvest. Four replicates of the experiment were made. The plant growth variables of interest were germination percentage, number of leaves, date of fruition, size of fruit, and overall mass of fruits. Meanwhile, the soil parameters of interest were soil pH and soil salinity (electric conductivity (EC)) before and after adding the FA-HA mixture. The study found that the 0.5 mL.L-1 acid mixture treatment led to the early growth of the zucchini plant seeds and that fruition took place 12 days after planting. In addition, the results showed an increase in plant germination under the 0.5 mL.L-1 acid mixture treatment in light of the increase in the number of male and female plant flowers, with fruiting taking place on time. In conclusion, the relationship between zucchini growth and yield with FA-HA mixture concentration is non-linear. It is also concluded that the optimum acid mixture concentration and application rate are crop-specific. Hence, for each crop, the most appropriate acid mixture concentration should be determined first before the broad-scale application of amendments to the soil to ensure the contribution of this environmentally friendly practice to sustainable agriculture.
The Association Between CO2 Emission and Temperature in Thailand
Authors: Srivichai Piyavadee
Published: March 2024

The important source of carbon dioxide (CO2) emission is identified to be energy usage, which the demand is gradually increasing. Currently, many people are exposed to increasing temperatures, which affects to health, environment, and quality of life. Moreover, there are many worries about its continuously increasing trend. This work is interested in studying the association between the annual CO2 emission and the annual mean temperature in Thailand. At a confidence interval of 90%, a statistically significant association between the annual CO2 emission and the annual mean temperature was observed. The appropriate predictive equation represented that the CO2 emission at 0.481 M ton increased the annual mean temperature by about 1°C. The results are useful for planning the reduction of CO2 emissions in Thailand. Fascinatingly, the largest source comes from electricity production, and the most significant energy type is finished oil. Therefore, they should be controlled as the priority. Integrated methods are considered as more efficient strategies for the CO2 crisis.
Energy Requirement of Wastewater Treatment Plants: Unleashing the Potential of Microalgae, Biogas and Solar Power for Sustainable Development
Authors: Gupta Urvashi , Chauhan Abhishek , Tuli Hardeep Singh , Ramniwas Seema , Shahwan Moyad , Jindal Tanu
Published: March 2024

Sustainable energy legislation in the modern world is the primary strategy that has raised the benchmark for energy and environmental security globally. The rapid growth in the human population has led to rising energy needs, which are predicted to increase by at least 50% by 2030. Waste management and environmental pollution present the biggest challenge to developing countries. The improvement of energy efficiency while ensuring higher nutritional evacuation wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) is a significant problem for many wastewater treatment plants. Some treatment techniques require high energy input, which makes them expensive to remediate water use. Pollutants like chemical pesticides, hydrocarbons, colorants (dyes), surfactants, and aromatic compounds are present in wastewater and are contributing to other problems. Israel consumes 10% of the global energy supply, significantly more than other countries. The lagoon and trickling filters are the most widely used technologies in South African WWTPs, where the electricity intensity ranges from 0.079 to 0.41 kWh.m-3 (Wang et al. 2016). Korea and India use almost the same energy (0.24 kWh.m-3). An estimated one-fifth of the energy used in a municipality’s WWTPs is used for overall public utilities, and this percentage is anticipated to rise by 20% over the next 15 years owing to expanding consumption of water and higher standards. In this review paper, we examined the potential for creating energy-self-sufficient WWTPs and discussed how much energy is currently consumed by WWTPs. The desirable qualities of microalgae, their production on a global level, technologies for treating wastewater with biogas and solar power, its developments, and issues for sustainable development are highlighted. The scientific elaboration of the mechanisms used for pollutant degradation using solar energy, as well as their viability, are the key issues that have been addressed.
System of Wheat Intensification: An Innovative and Futuristic Approach to Augment Yield of Wheat Crop
Authors: Singh Maninder , Singh Arshdeep , Jaswal Anita , Sarkar Shimpy
Published: March 2024

There is a new method of wheat production called the System of Wheat Intensification (SWI) that manages seed treatment, seed rate, spacing, weeding, and watering. The SWI and traditional methods of wheat sowing differ from each other in terms of potential yield. In comparison to the traditional method of wheat sowing, SWI allows seed treatment, which increases the number of tillers, the number of grains in spike, and the weight of the grain. Wheat seeding in the traditional approach is done at a much closer distance than in the SWI method, which results in faulty germination as a result of increased competition between the plants. In SWI, proper root formation in the early stages of crop growth can be encouraged by increasing the space between plants and rows, as well as increasing the density of plants. For small and medium-sized farmers, it is a great way to boost productivity and income while reducing food poverty at the same time. Using organic manure instead of chemical fertilizer is a new strategy that helps support sustainable agriculture. To help the poorest farmers and enhance their productivity and profit, SWI should be recommended.
Experimental Investigations on the Effect of Pretreatment in Anaerobic Digestion of Coir Pith Agro Waste
Authors: Warrier Smitha Krishna , Sindhu P.
Published: March 2024

The coir industry in India’s southern coastal regions, especially in the state of Kerala, is becoming increasingly concerned about the environmental impact of the accumulation and incremental increase of coir pith each year. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of pretreatment on the anaerobic digestion of coir pith. The characterization study of coir pith shows high organic content, which can be anaerobically digested to produce biogas. But, the high lignin content (30.91%) makes the process slow. To overcome this, a biological pretreatment method was tried using two microbial cultures belonging to fungal genera known to be lignin decomposers, viz., Trichoderma and Pleurotus. By using Trichoderma, lignin content was reduced by 3.7%, and the maximum gas production was obtained in a shorter time (19 days) in comparison with the sample without any pretreatment (24 days). When Pleurotus was used for lignin degradation, the lignin content was reduced by 6.78%, and the maximum gas production was obtained in a much shorter time period (14 days) in comparison with the former two methods. The gas produced comprises 74 ppm of methane, which has fuel value. The sludge after digestion was tested, which indicated a marginal increase in NPK value and hence can be used as fertilizer. The results of the study appear to be quite promising in the transition towards green energy by providing scope for the process of biomethanation, with the conclusion that further research can transform coir pith into a good renewable energy resource.