bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A framework for implementing ISO 14000 in construction
Authors: Hui Zhang Zhi , Yin Shen Li , Love Peter E.D. , Treloar Graham
Published: July 2002

ISO 14000 has been developed as a new international standard series for promoting environmental protection and sustainable development. Since the introduction of ISO 14001 in September 1996 it has attracted great attention from organizations in various industries. ISO 14001 specifies the requirements and procedures for establishing an environmental management system. An increasing number of organizations from various industrial sectors have actively participated in implementing this new standard. However, very few construction companies – for example, in Australia – have actively pursued certification to this standard despite having an obligation to implement it, as the services and products they produce directly impact the environment. By reviewing the strategic issues posed by the entire family of ISO 14000 standards, this paper analyses its relevance to construction and the difficulties and problems that may be encountered in their implementation. A framework for implementing the standard in construction companies is proposed. It is suggested that the adoption of ISO 14000 by construction companies may enable them to improve their environmental performance as well as the built environment, which in turn will contribute to sustainable development.
Health not wealth as an institutional performance goal
Authors: Birkin Frank
Published: July 2002

The breadth of information that is required for appraising the sustainable development performance of our institutions is far larger than an economic understanding of wealth is capable of capturing. This paper argues that health and not wealth provides a more appropriate goal and measurement framework for sustainable development. The argument considers current industrial practice in which the emphasis has shifted from micro‐economic to physical‐units measures of performance such as in mass‐balancing as well as in environmental management system standards. The ecological aspects of production units are considered as the source of significant information which is beyond the scope and capabilities of economics to represent. A description is then provided of a tool that is being developed to account for the sustainable development achievements of islands tourism enterprises in Greece, Italy and Scotland. The goal of this tool, as well as sustainable development itself, is to measure increases in health and not in wealth.
Natural resource use in the Russian North: a case study of diamond mining in the Republic of Sakha
Authors: Yakovleva Natalia P. , Alabaster Tony , Petrova Palmira G.
Published: July 2002

The Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) has a rich diversity of mineral resources and produces 99 per cent of Russia’s diamonds, worth annually US$1.5 billion and amounting to between 20‐25 per cent of the world’s output. During the period 1974 to 1987, ten “peaceful” underground nuclear explosions were made in the diamond province. One of these directly supported the diamond mining operations, but it “back‐fired”, contaminating the surface with radionuclides such as caesium‐137, strontium‐90, plutonium‐239 and 240, and americium‐241. Furthermore, the low level of implementation of existing environmental legislation by the diamond mining company has resulted in contamination of the river systems which are the key sources of drinking water, and has significantly affected the health status of the population, which may have long‐lasting consequences, as there is increasing evidence of genetic abnormalities. This paper investigates the exploitation of diamond reserves in the Republic of Sakha and its environmental, social and health impacts, and reviews the actions taken by the Government of the Republic to tackle these problems.
A survey of requirements and needs in the field of environmental technology, with special emphasis on environmental employment, in Sweden
Authors: Leal Filho Walter , Larsen Katarina , Snickars Folke
Published: July 2002

This paper presents the main results of a research project looking at trends on environmental technology and environmental employment in Sweden. Entitled “FEESE” (Fostering Employment in the Environment Sector in Europe), the project analysed provisions and needs in respect of environmental training among a sample of Swedish companies, which are outlined in this paper. Some recommendations which may be useful to Sweden, but which are also applicable to other industrialised countries, are also presented.
The Baltic environmental information dissemination system: a tool for sustainable development in the Baltic Sea region
Authors: Leal Filho Walter
Published: July 2002

The on‐going economic development of EU‐countries as well of the countries in the Central and Eastern (C&E) European region has been leading to a significant use of a great deal of natural resources as well as to noticeable environmental problems. Focuses on the project “Baltic environmental information dissemination system (BEIDS)” which has been acting as a focal point for the circulation of intelligent information on aspects of the marine environment among a sample of seven Baltic countries: Denmark, Finland, Germany, Sweden (EU) and Lithuania, Poland and Russia (non‐EU), contributing to networking and know‐how exchange, complementing efforts towards transregional cooperation in sustainable spatial planning on the basis of Baltic 21. The results reached to date include: increased awareness of matters related to sustainable development in the six participant countries; enhanced communication exchange and networking among the sampled nations; improved information flow and increased participation in events, activities and programmes across the Baltic Sea region. BEIDS is a prime example of the feasibility of using marine research as a tool for sustainable development and the results reached over the first two years are reviewed in this paper.
ICP‐MS for Screening of Metal Ions in Algae and Waste Water
Authors: Johansson Erland , Willén Torbjörn , Mattsson Roland , Liljefors Torsten
Published: July 2002

By using Inductively Coupled Plasma‐Mass Spectrometry (ICP‐MS)
multi‐element analysis was performed on six toxic and one non‐toxic
cyanobacteria and waste water. A method was developed using a single
standard together with one SRM allowing multi‐element screening. This
technique simplifies the calibration procedure and allows exploration of
unforeseen elements in the mass spectrum in a couple of minutes. In this
investigation, reports the concentration of Mn, Cu, Zn, Rb, Sr, Cd, Ba,
La, Pb and U in the cyanobacteria. High concentration of Mn was
observed in Microcystis viridis. In the mass spectrum of the waste
water from the cleaning plant in Starogard, Poland, it was observed that
the concentration of Pb in water was higher after seven days than 120
days.
A Molecular Basis for Understanding the Benefits from Subharmful Doses
of Toxicants
Authors: van Wijk R. , Ooms H. , Wiegant F.A.C. , Souren J.E.M. , Ovelgönne J.H. , van Aken J.M. , Bol A.W.J.M.
Published: July 2002

In the past many scientists have published papers on hormesis, on
molecular stress responses, and on the similia principle in homoeopathy.
Very few, however, have stressed a common base of interdependence of
these fields. Reviews the most important of these studies to demonstrate
their evolution and their mutual importance. Furthermore, a
multidisciplinary approach is chosen to demonstrate research into the
beneficial effects of subharmful doses of toxicants administered in
suboptimal conditions (such as in stressed or injured organisms and
cells).
Transport and Air Pollution in California
Authors: Grant Wyn
Published: July 2002

The seriousness of California′s air quality problems has led to the
development of innovative policies to tackle air pollution exemplified
by the air quality management plan developed for the Los Angeles basin.
Discusses the plan, an important feature of which is the development of
low emission vehicles, including the requirement that by 2003, 10 per
cent of the vehicles sold in the state must be zero emission vehicles.
Attempts are also being made to tighten existing exhaust regulations.
Large employers are required to develop trip reduction plans. The
effectiveness of these measures is offset by the trend for the number of
miles travelled by motorists to outstrip population growth.
Networking in Human Ecology in Europe
Authors: Hens Luc
Published: July 2002

Describes the main structural lines of the Brussels master′s programme
in human ecology. Delineates its relationships with the European
Certificate of Human Ecology and the European Association of Human
Ecology. In this way describes two complementary networking structures
on human ecology (HE) in Europe. This overview of networking structures
is complemented by an enumeration of national and international HE
organizations in Europe. Discusses the possible involvement of the
Society for Human Ecology in two rather recent international
developments in the field: the growing number of academic initiatives in
East European countries; and the evaluation by international panels of
experts of interdisciplinary research products as state of the
environment studies which otherwise escape the test of international
scientific validation.
Distribution of Ozone in the Jiddah Atmosphere
Authors: Sabbak Omar Ali
Published: July 2002

The study of air pollution in Saudi Arabia is not only very important at
local level; it may also provide an improved understanding of air
pollution problems in other arid regions throughout the world. A
comprehensive field study of atmospheric ozone pollutants was conducted
in Jiddah, Saudi Arabia (one of the fastest growing cities in the world)
for the period 1984 to 1987. Ozone trends have been developed for five
stations in Jiddah. Daily, monthly and annual means, maximum and mean
maximum are reported. Average ozone concentration for these four years
is given. A slight decrease in ozone concentration from 1984 to 1987 was
observed. The observed reduction in the pollutant′s concentration during
1985‐87 was attributed to the implementation of motor vehicle periodical
inspection (MVPI). Background information for air quality standards and
the statistical significance of data are discussed. Analysis of data
shows a lower mean than any international air quality standard.
Impact of Environment on Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Acartürk Esmeray
Published: July 2002

Discusses environmental factors which may have harmful effects on the
cardiovascular system and cause acute or chronic disease. Classifies
these factors as chemical, physical, biological and psychosocial.
Concentrates on describing the chemical, physical and biological
elements which directly cause cardiovascular diseases, such as nicotine
and carbon monoxide (chemical); temperatue and electricity (physical)
and viral infections such as maternal coxsackie (biological). Concludes
by stressing the need for more intensive studies on this subject.
The Study of Ecology and Environmental Management:
Authors: Cairns John
Published: July 2002

While environmental protection legislation has been put in place to
prevent gross damage to natural systems, there is debate about how
successful these efforts have been. Legislation has reduced the ubiquity
of some kinds of gross damage while neglecting or expressly permitting
other kinds. However, in the developed world, expectations for
environmental protection have increased. Not only does society wish to
prevent damage, but it also wishes to maintain ecosystems in a healthy
and robust condition. Because human societies depend on the ecosystem
services provided by natural systems, these services must be protected
in order to maintain our standard of living. As populations increase,
demands increase, and undamaged natural areas capable of providing such
services decrease, the demands for ecosystem service production will
increase. Public policy must respond to this increased need.
Organic Composting (New Jersey Case) – A Viewpoint
Authors: Kennedy Patrick
Published: July 2002

New Jersey′s “garbage crisis” has resulted in the State mandating a 60 per
cent recycling goal by the end of 1995. Attainment of this goal will be
difficult as recovery of paper, glass, tin, aluminium and plastic
represent less than 60 per cent of the materials discarded by the Garden
State. Source separation and composting of clean organic materials such
as food, soiled paper, waxed corrugated and other food processing
residuals can help the State reach and surpass the 60 per cent goal. In
1993, American Soil, Inc. (ASI), a regional compost facility located in
Freehold, NJ, played a key role as the first company in the State to
integrate organic composting successfully as a recycling activity into
the State′s solid waste management hierarchy. New Jersey′s “regulatory
gauntlet”, developed since 1972, proved to be enormously burdensome to
ASI as it strived to gain final approval. For this to change, strong
leadership and co‐operation between the public and private sector
communities must be established and maintained.
Environmental, developmental and health perspectives in Egypt
Authors: Chukwuma Chrysanthus
Published: July 2002

Discusses environment and development improvement; the prevention and eradication of prevalent diseases and disabilities, as well as drastic abatement in both severe and moderate malnutrition in Egypt. The health of women and children in Egypt is a reflection of the general health of the population. Simultaneously, the religious and environmental climate influences the socio‐economic and health situation, as well as the living conditions of the citizens.
Activated sludge treatment of food‐processing wastewater with
bioaugmentation
Authors: Lo Howard H. , Hung Yung‐Tse
Published: July 2002

Evaluates the effect of bioaugmentation on the activated sludge
treatment of food wastewaters including those containing potato, starch,
sugar and milk. Parameters of study include live liquid microorganisms,
dosage, aeration time and wastewater strength. Concludes that
bioaugmentation with addition of live liquid micro‐organisms improves
total organic carbon (TOC) removal efficiency and reduces sludge
production. Aerobic bioaugmentation is effective in TOC removal from
potato, sugar and milk wastewater but not effective in the case of
starch wastewater.
Environmental health impact assessment in Flanders, Belgium
Authors: Janssens Peter , Hens Luc
Published: July 2002

Discusses the book of guidelines for environmental impact
assessment on human health published by the Flemish Government in an
attempt to introduce conformity in environmental impact statements.
Outlines these guidelines and how they should be used in an assessment.
Discusses the interrelationship between the environment and human
health.
Metal concentration of atmospheric inhalable particles in Jedda
Authors: Sabbak Omar Ali
Published: July 2002

Presents the measured concentrations of iron, zinc, cobalt,
chromium, nickel, lead, manganese and sodium in atmospheric inhalable
coarse and fine particles for the period September 1984‐April 1986 in
Jedda, Saudi Arabia. The results show that iron and sodium have the
highest concentrations, indicating that inhalable particles are of soil
and sea origin. The metal concentrations of fine inhalable particles are
much smaller than those of coarse inhalable particles, so that human
health is hardly affected.
Estuaries and saltmarshes: the interface between land and sea
Authors: Nedwell D.B.
Published: July 2002

Research over the last 20 years has had a major focus on the ecology of east coast estuaries, including the interaction between coastal seawater and saltmarshes. It is not possible to separate intertidal coastal saltmarshes from the rest of the coastal marine environment as they are involved in a truly interactive system. The significance of this system is attracting increasing attention as the effect of elevated nutrient concentrations on the ecology of the coastal zone has become apparent. It is only when we understand how the various chemical and biological processes influence the flux of nutrients through the estuarine interface between land and sea that any sensible management strategy can be developed.
Distributions of long‐term household exposure to ammonia
Authors: Sega Kresimir
Published: July 2002

Details how distributions of exposure to ammonia in living rooms were calculated by use of Duan’s Cartesianization method for four population groups of Zagreb inhabitants (high‐school students, university students, employed and retired persons), for summer and winter periods. Households were grouped in two categories, city centre and suburbs. The main difference between these two categories was the so‐called green areas (parks, gardens, etc.) in the neighbourhood. The exposure levels are lower in the city centre compared to the suburbs. The results show seasonally dependent contribution to exposure in households from outdoor sources by ventilation in suburbs. Exposure distribution functions could be represented by normal, or summation by proportion of normal, Weibull and Erlang distributions. Concludes that by the comparison of the results and proposed exposure guideline value, it could be argued that no ammonia exposure problem exists in Zagreb.
Relationship between summer and winter formaldehyde levels in kindergartens and primary schools
Authors: Kalinic Natasa , Sega Kresimir
Published: July 2002

Presents the results of formaldehyde (HCHO) concentration measurements undertaken in ten kindergartens and ten primary schools (one room in each) during the summer and the winter periods. The buildings were of differing age (1‐100 years) and structure (from conventional to prefabricated type), and particle‐board furniture was used in all premises. Results show that the proposed limit value of 120 μg/m3, recommended by WHO for living accommodation, was frequently exceeded. The seasonal differences of concentrations were statistically significant for nine kindergartens and seven schools.
Experimental studies on reproductive and perinatal effects of lead and cadmium
Authors: Piasek Martina , Kostial Krista
Published: July 2002

Lead is a known reproductive toxicant in humans and animals. Data on cadmium reproductive effects in humans are inconclusive, and in female animals are lacking. More information on the toxicokinetics and toxicity of Pb and Cd during the reproductive period and in developing young is needed. Experimental studies on rats conducted in laboratories in Croatia and in the USA separately and as collaborative research show that Pb or Cd have effects on reproductive function. Chronic or subchronic oral Pb or Cd exposure of the dams causes decreased pup weight and survival, and depressed serum progesterone concentration in Cd‐exposed dams at the term. No paternally mediated Pb effects were found in offspring. Organ Pb or Cd accumulation was accompanied by changes in essential element concentrations in both dam and foetus. Acute in vivo and in vitro exposure to Cd had specific effects on gonadal steroidogenesis in both males and females. Proposes possible sites of action of Cd in the steroidogenic pathway.
Perspectives for a sustainable society
Authors: Chukwuma Chrysanthus
Published: July 2002

Argues that a sound and efficient approach and policy for the protection of the environment and restoration of natural resources must include essential features which reflect the harmonization of national and global strategies expected for a sustainable society. The increasing awareness of governments and international organizations has culminated in several undertakings aimed at systematically facing the overwhelming problems encountered in the establishment of a global policy for environmental management and health for sustainable development. This takes account of environmental changes, patterns of economic development and sociocultural factors. A sustainable society supports the acquisition of basic needs with the extensive opportunity to aspire satisfactorily to a better life in the present and the future. Stresses that, for economic sustainability to occur, developmental action must be supported with available resources within society. The problem of the poverty‐ridden population must be recognized. Suggests that the resource base in a sustainable society can be fortified through effective, efficient and equitable use of available resources and economic growth without the massive introduction of untoward environmental pollutants.
Planktonic algal populations as an integral part of wastewater treatment
Authors: Shehata Salwa A. , Badr Sabah A.
Published: July 2002

Carries out an investigation to evaluate the performance of the maturation pond, one of an aerated oxidation pond system at the Mit Mazah Sewage Treatment Plant (Daquahliya Governorate, Egypt), with respect to phytoplanktonic structure and nutrient elimination during different seasons. Details how the study collected composite water samples from the maturation pond at monthly intervals. Observes that there are substantial changes in the distribution pattern of the algal community structure during different seasons. Concludes that to obtain considerable algal biomass in the maturation pond, the pond system must be subjected to performance control.
Accounting for the sustainable corporation
Authors: Birkin Frank , Woodward David
Published: July 2002

Presents a framework and methodology of accounting for the sustainable corporation which has the familiar accounting objectives of assessing and reporting corporate performance but that is where the similarities end. Instead of conceiving of the corporation in economic terms, this account is based on the principles of sustainable development and the information needs of both economic and non‐economic stakeholders. A new concept of the corporation is achieved by the integration of existing environmental engineering and ecological techniques with economic considerations. In this way, managerial horizons and responsibilities are widened and important communication channels are opened between key disciplines, public and private authorities and a range of communities. The account does not measure in absolute terms the sustainable development that a corporation has attained but provides a comparative mechanism so that corporations may assess their sustainable development in relation to other corporations.
Current problems in occupational and environmental health: overview
Authors: Phoon Wai‐On
Published: July 2002

Reports that among the major current problems in Asia‐Pacific countries are those due to heat, heavy metals, organic solvents, pesticides, carcinogens, dusts, reproductive hazards, biological hazards, and psychosocial problems, including work stress. The relative importance differs from country to country.
A special University of Occupational and Environmental Health in Japan
Authors: Okubo Toshiteru
Published: July 2002

Shows how the Occupational and Environmental Health University in Japan, with its Institute of Ecological Sciences, delivers several unique national and international courses for Japanese and foreign students. Staff of the university also provide advice and assistance to other training centres and industry.
The role of professional bodies in occupational and environmental health in the Asia‐Pacific region
Authors: Phoon Wai‐On
Published: July 2002

Acknowledges that professional associations and colleges and similar bodies have played a major part in the development of occupational and environmental health. Some notable bodies exist at both the national and regional levels.
Current research‐Psychosocial issues
Authors: Kogi Kazutaka , Kawakami Tsuyoshi
Published: July 2002

Points to the contrast between traditional working life patterns and the demands of an increasingly industrialized and high technology society, for the increase in workplace psychological problems in Asia and the pacific rim countries. Lists and discusses ten literature references relating to the title material. Mentions the effects of pollution, cases of observed mass hysteria, the relationship between overtime and absenteeism and finally cultural factors on employee mental health and productivity.
Occupational health for all: the strategy of the World Health Organization
Authors: Ivanovich Mikheev Mikhail
Published: July 2002

Observes that the World Health Organization (WHO) has promoted the goal of “Health for All” since 1977. The Workers’ Health Programme of WHO aims to: strengthen international and national policies for health at work; develop a healthy work environment; develop healthy work practices and health promotion; strengthen occupational health care and services; establish appropriate support for occupational health; develop occupational health standards which are science‐based; develop human resources for occupational health; establish appropriate information systems and raise public awareness; strengthen research; foster collaborative efforts.
Organization and services in occupational and environmental health
Authors: Kogi Kazutaka , Kawakami Tsuyoshi
Published: July 2002

Describes how many Asia‐Pacific countries have experienced a major shift in occupational health services in the last two decades. There is an extension of occupational health services with more co‐ordinated efforts of all social partners, action programmes with emphasis on practical risk assessment and primary prevention, and more active participation of managers and unions, supported by occupational health personnel.
Transfer of technology from north to south ‐ meeting the needs of a rural environment: a review of the Mtwara‐Lindi water project
Authors: Raheem Dele
Published: July 2002

Suggests that external inputs and interventions can be beneficial or a waste of resources, depending on many complex factors which are interrelated. Deals with how the approach used in the transfer of technology from an industrialized country to a developing country can be beneficial. The direct involvement of Finnish expertise in a remote region of Tanzania, to improve the water supply, when reverting to grassroots participation, led to positive results. Observes, in hindsight, that giving more space for local initiatives would have led to less dependence on foreign expertise and to faster growth of the indigenous engineering capacity.
Physiological and chemical responses of sunflower to the application of previous organic waste composts to sandy soil
Authors: Abd El‐Sabour M.F. , Abo El‐Seoud M.A. , Rizk M.
Published: July 2002

Describes field experiments to determine the effects of previous organic waste composts, using different types and application rates, on sunflower yield. Oil, carbohydrates and metal content were evaluated. Experiments were conducted in the Nuclear Research Centre Farm, in sandy, infertile soil. Results show a remarkable increase in dry matter and seed yields, due to previous single compost additions. A mixture of water hyacinth and biosolid compost showed an improvement. The results of this research indicate that application of organic waste composts is a feasible and valuable recycling method in sandy desert soils.
Telematics and environment in Greece
Authors: Aravantinou Mata
Published: July 2002

This article aims at giving a general overview of the telematics role in environmental information management in Greece. The main scope is to present the existing situation, the current problems and needs, as well as the possibilities and perspectives for the future. The topics of the article include first of all a description of current environmental information management in Greece and the production of information, as well as the presentation of the EPPER programme for the environment, together with the telematics applications used for environmental management in Greece. A brief introduction to the scope and objectives of the National Air Quality Network and National Environment Information Network is also given, together with an analysis of the needs for a National Catalogue of Data Sources. Last, the role of YPEXODE in the REMSSBOT project is presented, with the benefits obtained from this participation, as well as future perspectives for developments in the field of telematics and environment in Greece.
Integrating quality and environmental management as competitive business strategy for 21st century
Authors: Ahmed Aboulnaga Ismail
Published: July 2002

Today’s business world changes due to public demands, technology and global competition. Customers are considering environmental values into their supplier(s) selection and are increasingly buying products with identifiable environmental attributes. Therefore, to have a competitive leverage, companies should implement both ISO 9000 and ISO 14000 concurrently. In addition to the comparative analysis of both ISO 9000 and ISO 14000, zero defects (ZD) and clean (green) production concepts are clarified in this paper. The analogy of the fundamental thoughts behind them are highlighted. A practical strategy for implementing quality and environmental management scheme that copes with 21st century considerations is explored, emphasizing on three main elements i.e. methodology, competitiveness, and change effect.
Highlights I Determination of metals in cigarette smoke II On‐site mercury analyzer III Hazardous gas monitoring
Authors: Llaurado J.G.
Published: July 2002

I By adding an impaction plate in a graphite furnace it is possible to separate and collect 6µm particles which are found in cigarette smoke. This allows for the quantitative detection of Cd, Cr, Pb and Mn in air in a direct fashion and quasi real time. It is important to monitor not only direct inhalation of cigarette smoke, but also “second‐hand” smoking by innocent by‐standers.
Managing environmental risks from genetically modified organisms: the role of safety training
Authors: Ford Norma , Murphy Gai
Published: July 2002

Genetic modification (GM) has been called “the new biotechnology” and has been hailed as a leading enabling technology, facilitating major innovation in health care, as well as in the chemical, agricultural and food sectors. GM techniques facilitate the combination of DNA which would not occur naturally and, although there are no records of disease or accidents associated with GM work, potential risks do exist. Legislation designed to ensure that workers are adequately protected against hazards also limits the risk of environmental damage. Human error plays an important role in accident causation; therefore appropriate instruction, supervision and training for personnel working with GM/GMOs (genetically modified organisms) is essential. This article reviews the regulatory controls for GM work and discusses the findings of a preliminary study undertaken to identify the level, content, format and extent of biosafety training currently provided at sites undertaking GM work. While high levels of biosafety training were reported, the content, organisation and management varied between the establishments undertaking GM work. Recommendations are made regarding the management of biosafety training including the need to establish competency levels for all those working with, and supervising and managing work with, GMOs.
The European Union EIAS, EMAS and audits
Authors: Charlier Roger H.
Published: July 2002

Although EU directives were issued quite some time ago, implementation progresses slowly and at an unequal pace in Union member states. Certification of assessors, auditors and verifiers differs widely and is sometimes inordinately complicated; in some instances accountants have stepped into the “vacuum”, in others “certification” documents are issued by private organizations. Uniformity is far from being the rule. This paper takes Belgium as a case study. In opposition to what has developed in the USA where federal authority can be completed, even toughened by US regulations, but remained national (viz. federal), in our example responsibility has nearly entirely been devolved to the next (regional) level of authority. A survey was conducted of EMAS implementation in 11 European States: its results are disclosed and commented on.
Trace element contamination of rain water in the semi‐arid region of Kano, Nigeria
Authors: Ayodele J.T. , Abubakar M.B.
Published: July 2002

Atmospheric precipitation samples collected by a network of eight stations throughout the Kano metropolis were analysed for lead, chromium, copper, cadmium, zinc and nickel by atomic absorption. Values from all the stations averaged over approximately five months each year between 1993 and 1996 indicate human activity, the high temperatures reached by soils and the strong diurnal thermic turbulence resulting from these, as the primary source of these metals in atmospheric precipitation. The concentrations of lead, chromium and copper correlated with the industrial activities of the metropolis. Maximum concentrations of lead, copper, chromium and nickel were above 1.1μg/litre while cadmium and zinc were below the 0.11μg/litre.
Sustainable groundwater management under impacts of urban growth in a developing country ‐ a case study in the city of Shijadran, China
Authors: Yang Yuesuo , LIn X. , Zhou L. , Kalin R.M.
Published: July 2002

Urban groundwater is an important and valuable resource for Shijadran City, China. With the impact of rapid urban growth Shijadran is at risk of severe aquifer depletion, regional water table decline and supply facilities refurbishment. This paper presents a multi‐plan management of urban groundwater with two optimisation scenarios in order to alleviate and improve the environmental, social and economic situations caused by over‐exploitation of groundwater. It was developed based on the analysis of regional hydrogeology, water use and land use. A calibrated groundwater flow model was incorporated into the optimisation models through a water head response matrix of the Quaternary aquifer. The current supply optimisation not only met the increasingly growing need of water demand but also controlled and eliminated the various hazards caused by groundwater over‐pumping. Artificial recharge management, with conjunctive use of surface water and groundwater, provided a practical solution to the overall groundwater exhaustion and led to a solution for water table recovery, aquifer protection and sustainable water use. A comprehensive water management strategy for decision making was developed to reduce the negative impacts of urban growth on water use.
The biodegradation of cyanide in groundwater at gasworks sites, Australia: implications for site management
Authors: Meehan S.M.E. , Weaver T.R. , Lawrence C.R.
Published: July 2002

Cyanide is extremely toxic to both human and aquatic life and exists as a contaminant in soils and groundwater at decommissioned gasworks sites due to past industrial practices. This included the processing and disposal of gas purification wastes which contained cyanide. The biodegradability of cyanide at gasworks sites in south‐eastern Australia is investigated to determine the viability of in situ bioremediation. Two study sites show cyanide concentrations in groundwater of up to 5,300mg/L CN (total) in the vicinty of these sites. Laboratory experiments using column microcosms indicate both aerobic and anaerobic biodegradation of cyanide in water. Rates of degradation are typically first order with degradation microbiologically driven and are not simple oxidation‐reduction reactions. The rate of degradation is variable, depending on the existence of microbes, concentration and temperature. Even though both sites have cyanide contamination, only one requires remediation. In situ bioremediation is possible at this site thus providing an acceptable outcome to both site owner and the environment.
Electrokinetic remediation of metals‐contaminated sediments: a technology demonstration involving former waste lagoons
Authors: Wills Martin A. , Haley John C. , Fabian Gene L. , Bricka R. Mark
Published: July 2002

Electrokinetics (EK) is an emerging remediation technology for the in situ removal of heavy metals, volatile organic compounds, and radionuclides from soils and sediments. Naval Air Weapons Station Point Mugu, California will host an EK technology demonstration. The demonstration will consist of installing and operating an EK system, which is engineered to remove cadmium and chromium from former electroplating waste lagoons. The selected site is adjacent to and encroaches on an environmentally sensitive salt marsh are for a federally protected wildlife. The electrokinetic process will be used to mobilize and extract heavy metals from the metals‐contaminated soil by applying a low amperage direct current across an array of electrodes placed in the contaminated soil. The demonstration will focus on the effectiveness of the EK process for removing heavy metals from the tidal marsh area. The EK demonstration will be used to collect cost‐effective data necessary to address both the technical and economic feasibility of using this technology in areas where soils are porous, water is brackish, and the system is susceptible to tidal influences.
An analysis of the remediation of oil contaminated refinery sites
Authors: Mol J.J.W.
Published: July 2002

Petrochemical and refining operations can cause severe environmental damage due to emmisions to soil, air and ground‐ and surface water. The general framework for remedial actions is primarily determined by the legal framework and the actual risks associated with levels of contaminants present at a site. Within the basic framework of legal procedures, site specific constraints and economic motives, the best available techniques (BAT) for remedial action will have to be evaluated. In most cases this is part of an overall environmental improvement and investment program for a facility. This paper describes the general background of soil remediation at refineries and provides an overview of applicable remedial technologies.
Environmental impacts of groundwater exploitation using GIS
Authors: Hedges P.D. , Charnock T.W.
Published: July 2002

Although the environmental impacts of groundwater abstraction and water table recovery are now known, historically they were given scant recognition due to the ad hoc nature of the development of aquifers. This paper summarises the potential impacts of groundwater exploitation, and reviews the effects of rising water tables on urban areas following the cessation or reduction of pumping. The use of GIS in assessing the implications for the environment is considered, in particular the coupling of hydrological models to a GIS for evaluating the impact of the drawdown of shallow water tables on agriculture.
Air flow optimization and surfactant enhancement to remediate toluene‐contaminated saturated soils using air sparging
Authors: Reddy Krishna R. , Semer Robin , Adams Jeffrey A.
Published: July 2002

This paper presents the results of laboratory experiments that investigate the removal of volatile organic compounds from saturated soils through the use of air sparging. Three series of experiments were performed in a column test apparatus using two different soils to represent actual field conditions, namely, a fine gravel and a medium‐to‐fine Ottawa sand (both obtained from sources near Chicago, Illinois, USA) contaminated with toluene, a major constituent of petroleum products. The results showed that toluene was removed from gravel very efficiently using air sparging; complete removal was achieved using a variety of air flow rates. However the toluene removal rates in tests using sand were significantly less. Even at the highest air flow rate used during testing, complete toluene removal took eight times longer than in comparable tests using gravel. With low air flow rates this was not achieved even after 17 hours of testing. It was further found that the injection of foams generated with surfactants, SDS and witconol SN70, at low air flow rates during the use of air sparging was found to accelerate the bulk removal of toluene in sand, but the use of surfactants did not facilitate the removal of residual levels of contamination.
Calculation of ozone and other pollutants for the summer, 1996
Authors: Eiof Jonson Jan , Tarrason Leonor , Sundet Jostein
Published: July 2002

Presents results for April‐September 1996 from the Multi‐layer Atmospheric CHemistry model, Oslo (MACHO), a regional scale photo‐chemistry model, and compares to measurements. Initial and lateral boundary concentrations are provided by a global CTM (chemical tracer model). As a base run, monthly averaged concentrations for June 1996 are used as initial and lateral boundary concentrations. The sensitivity of the interior model domain to the lateral boundaries is analyzed by comparing the base run with a model run with lateral boundary concentrations updated at six‐hour intervals. In the boundary layer over Europe, differences between the two runs are small both for accumulated excesses and for concentrations on individual days, indicating that ozone levels here are determined predominantly by local European scale sources. in the free troposphere, however, the effects of the lateral boundary concentrations are shown to be significant.
Application of life cycle analysis: the case of green bullets
Authors: Bogard James S. , Yuracko Katherine L. , Murray Michael E. , Lowden Richard A. , Vaughn Norm L.
Published: July 2002

Life‐cycle analysis (LCA) provides a general framework for assessing and summarizing all of the information important to a decision. LCA has been used to analyze the desirability of replacing lead (Pb) with a composite of tungsten (W) and tin (Sn) in projectile slugs used in small arms ammunition at US Department of Energy (DOE) training facilities for security personnel. The analysis includes consideration of costs, performance, environmental and human health impacts, availability of raw materials, and stakeholder acceptance. Projectiles developed by researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) using a composite of tungsten and tin are shown to perform as well as, or better than, those fabricated using lead. A cost analysis shows that tungsten‐tin is less costly to use than lead, since, for the current number of rounds used annually, the higher tungsten‐tin purchase price is small compared with higher maintenance costs associated with lead. The tungsten‐tin composite presents a much smaller potential for adverse human health and environmental impacts than lead. Only a small fraction of the world’s tungsten production occurs in the USA, however, and market‐economy countries account for only around 15 per cent of world tungsten production. Concludes that stakeholders would prefer tungsten‐tin on the basis of total cost, performance, reduced environmental impact and lower human toxicity. However, lead is preferable on the basis of material availability. Life cycle analysis clearly shows that advantages outweigh disadvantages in replacing lead with tungsten‐tin in small‐caliber projectiles at DOE training facilities. Concerns about the availability of raw tungsten are mitigated by the ease of converting back to lead (if necessary) and the recyclability of tungsten‐tin rounds.
Protecting Europe’s groundwater: legislative approaches and policy initiatives
Authors: Judd Phyllis B. , Paul Nathanail C.
Published: July 2002

There have been many positive recent developments in the groundwater legislation and policies of the 15 European Community member States (excluding Luxembourg), as the States recognise the importance of implementing the EC Groundwater Directive, The Integrated Pollution Prevention Control Directive and other relevant EC directives. All member States recognise the importance of protecting groundwater and most have enacted legislation and/or established policies to do so. However, there are significant variations in their approaches; these variations are reflected in their approaches to site registration and classification schemes. Similarly, some member States do not yet have policies that specify explicit risk assessment procedures, while others have formal risk assessment procedures in place for registering, classifying and prioritising sites.
An overview of trends related to environmental reporting in Singapore
Authors: Perry Martin , Tse Sheng Teng
Published: July 2002

Environmental disclosure within company annual reports has become an increasing expectation of environmental regulators and campaigners in industrial countries. It is an indicator of business commitment to environmental improvement to the extent that the disclosures report progress in implementing environmental programmes. Perhaps more important, disclosure is a source of documentary evidence that can be used by external parties to evaluate company performance. The willingness by company managers to open the organisation to external scrutiny is often viewed as a necessary first step in obtaining business commitment to environmentally sustainable forms of business activity. This paper compares Western experience with environmental disclosure to that in Singapore. Information on environmental disclosure in Singapore is presented from a review of company annual reports (covering two years 1995/96 and 1996/97) and the responses to a questionnaire survey covering all public listed companies in Singapore. The surveys reveal a low commitment to environmental disclosure amongst Singapore organisations. Reasons for the low interest in disclosure are explained. Possible public policy responses and options for changing current business attitudes toward disclosure are outlined.
The impact of competitive intelligence and IS support in changing small business organizations
Authors: Guimaraes Tor
Published: July 2002

The voluminous body of literature on the management of change, including sub‐areas such as Business Process Reengineering (BPR), Total Quality Management (TQM), and product improvement, implicitly or explicitly propose that company strategic intelligence is a pre‐requisite for change, and that effective information systems (IS) support is a critical requirement for implementing change. While these two hypotheses are exceedingly important, the existing literature contains no empirical evidence supporting them. A field test of how effectively small business organizations are identifying strategic problems and opportunities, how effectively they implement business changes, and use IS technology to do so, was undertaken to empirically test their relationships. Despite the relatively small sample size, the results provide clear evidence about the importance of competitive intelligence and IS support for effectively implementing change in small business organizations. The items used for measuring the main constructs provide further insights into how managers should go about acquiring competitive intelligence and managing IS technology to effectively support business improvements.
A design of an ABC template for easy assimilation in SME
Authors: Chan M.F.S. , Keung K.F. , Chung W.W.C.
Published: July 2002

Technology has become an integral part of many businesses and, over time, new technology is deployed for business transformation process. It can come in the form of tools and its assimilation process is context sensitive. This paper invokes an empirical approach to design an ABC template and illustrates how it can be used as a tool for easy assimilation in an SME contextual environment. The approach uses the PROMISE conceptual framework as an interactive platform to exploit different best practices as tools for implementation. The assimilation process illustrated in the case study has been quite successful in a number of aspects, exhibiting an encouraging result valuable for further investigation. It is regarded as the first step in developing the necessary competence to tackle future SME transformation. Furthermore, the implications addressed are likely to be useful to managers who have the initiative for business process transformation and to academia looking for a promising area for future research.