- Suy nghĩ bên ngoài mối liên hệ giữa đại dương và khí hậu: Hướng tới việc ra quyết định dựa trên hệ thống trong một thế giới đang thay đổi nhanh chóng.

- Đánh giá dấu chân khí hậu của quá trình nhiệt phân chất thải nhựa và tác động đến hệ thống quản lý chất thải của Đan Mạch.

- Đánh giá các ứng dụng học máy trong nghiên cứu đánh giá vòng đời.

- Cải thiện chất lượng không khí trong nhà bằng phương pháp lọc và tia UV-C để giảm thiểu các hạt vật chất và vi khuẩn trong không khí: Giám sát và lập mô hình. 

- Tác động của các ưu tiên môi trường công cộng và các quy định môi trường của chính phủ đối với phát thải ô nhiễm của doanh nghiệp.

- LCA để phân tích chuyển hóa lãnh thổ: Ứng dụng vào quy hoạch quản lý chất thải hữu cơ.

- Phản ứng của các nguyên tố vi lượng trong quá trình lắng đọng đô thị đối với phát thải ở thành phố thuộc loại thung lũng sông Tây Bắc: 2010–2021.

- Mô hình hóa sự biến đổi nước thải sinh hoạt theo không gian và thời gian: Ý nghĩa của việc đo lường hiệu quả xử lý.

- Các khoản đầu tư vào R&D và công nghệ thông tin và truyền thông về hiệu quả năng lượng có thúc đẩy sự bền vững về môi trường ở Thụy Điển không? Một cuộc điều tra KRLS lượng tử trên lượng tử.

- Sự tồn tại của đường cong Kuznets môi trường: Cái nhìn phê phán và ý nghĩa tương lai đối với quản lý môi trường.

- Làm sáng tỏ các nguồn hỗn hợp hydrocarbon thơm đa vòng (PAH) trong đất đô thị bằng cách mô tả trực quan các chất nền và hạt than do con người tạo ra, 71 PAH và các mẫu PAH được kiềm hóa.

- Sử dụng phương pháp học chuyển sâu và hình ảnh vệ tinh để ước tính chất lượng không khí đô thị ở những vùng thiếu dữ liệu.

- Ứng dụng máy lọc không khí ven đường trong các hẻm núi đường phố đô thị: Một nghiên cứu quy mô thí điểm ở Hồng Kông.

- Xác định các nguồn phát thải đô thị và sự đóng góp của chúng đối với khả năng oxy hóa của vật chất hạt mịn (PM2.5) ở Kuwait.

- Tổng quan về ô nhiễm vi nhựa trong môi trường tại siêu đô thị Thượng Hải giai đoạn 2013–2022.

- Xác định nguồn phát thải nitơ hữu cơ và thành tạo thứ cấp trong vùng không khí đô thị ven biển thông qua kỹ thuật đồng vị ổn định.

- Một cách tiếp cận tích hợp đối với các biến số ra quyết định trên hệ thống nước đô thị bằng cách sử dụng công cụ hỗ trợ quyết định sử dụng nước đô thị (UWU).

- Ô nhiễm vi mô trên mặt tiền lịch sử: ‘chìm’ tiềm ẩn hay mối đe dọa đô thị?

- Đổi mới công nghệ năng lượng tái tạo và hiệu quả kinh tế xanh đô thị.

- Các quy trình sinh học đầy hứa hẹn để loại bỏ hiệu quả kháng sinh và gen kháng kháng sinh khỏi nước thải đô thị và bệnh viện: Tiềm năng của hệ thống hạt hiếu khí.

- Nhận dạng và phân loại vi nhựa hiệu quả và chính xác trong vùng nước đô thị bằng cách sử dụng mạng lưới thần kinh tích chập.

- Mô phỏng mối quan hệ qua lại giữa dân số, nước, sinh thái và kinh tế trong các quần thể đô thị dựa trên cách tiếp cận động lực hệ thống.

- Khám phá mối tương quan và các yếu tố thúc đẩy giữa các dịch vụ hệ sinh thái điển hình ở Vành đai kinh tế sông Dương Tử, Trung Quốc.

- Dự đoán hai chiều về đặc điểm cacbon hóa thủy nhiệt của chất thải nông lâm kết hợp và chăn nuôi với các thành phần thay đổi: Tái chế chất thải được hỗ trợ bằng mô hình học tập đồ thị.

- Đặc điểm phân chia theo kích thước của tiềm năng oxy hóa hòa tan trong nước ở đô thị Hạ Môn: Các yếu tố thúc đẩy tiềm năng và tác động đối với sức khỏe con người.

- Tác động lan tỏa phát thải carbon xuyên khu vực của Trung Quốc do quá trình đô thị hóa và chuyển dịch công nghiệp.

- Loại bỏ kỵ khí các chất gây ô nhiễm đang là mối quan tâm mới trong nước thải đô thị: Đánh giá rủi ro độc tính sinh thái và lựa chọn chiến lược xử lý tối ưu.

- Đặc điểm mô hình không gian và chính sách tối ưu hóa mức độ đổi mới carbon thấp trong các cụm đô thị ở lưu vực sông Hoàng Hà.

- Dấu chân khu vực xây dựng đô thị (UBAF): Một phương pháp mới để đánh giá sức chứa sinh học đô thị và độ nhạy sinh thái' Mối liên hệ giữa gió biển và vật chất hạt ở năm địa điểm đô thị ven biển ở Ấn Độ.

- Tác động ngắn hạn của việc tiếp xúc với PM2.5 trong môi trường xung quanh và các thành phần của nó đối với việc nhập viện do dọa sẩy thai và tự phát: Một nghiên cứu trường hợp chéo ở nhiều thành phố ở Trung Quốc.

The Environmental Management Special Section is pleased to present to our valued readers the International Environmental Bulletin No. 11-2023, featuring the following key topics: 

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT / QUẢN LÝ MÔI TRƯỜNG 

Science of The Total Environment, Volume 910, 1 February 2024, 168228

Abstract

Despite repeated calls for more inclusive practices, approaches used to address current challenges within the ocean-climate nexus do not sufficiently account for the complexity of the human-social-ecological system. So far, this has prevented efficient and just decision-making and policies. We propose to shift towards systems-informed decision making, which values transdisciplinary system-thinking and cumulative impact assessments, and encourages multi-system collaboration among decision-makers in order to address the recurring technicality of policies and to foster just solutions that account for the needs of varied actors across the sustainable development spectrum.

Journal of Environmental Management, Volume 351, February 2024, 119780

Abstract

Increased plastic recycling is necessary to reduce environmental impacts related to manufacturing and end-of-life of plastic products, however, mechanical recycling (MR) – currently the most widespread recycling option for plastic waste – is limited by quality requirements for inputs and reduced quality of outputs. In this study, pyrolysis of plastic waste is assessed against MR, municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) and fuel substitution through climate footprint assessment (CFA) based on primary data from pyrolysis of plastic waste sourced from Danish waste producers. Results of the CFA are scaled to the Danish plastic waste resource in an impact assessment of current Danish plastic waste management, and scenarios are constructed to assess reductions through utilization of pyrolysis. Results of the CFA show highest benefits utilizing pyrolysis for monomer recovery (−1400 and −4800 kg CO2e per ton polystyrene (PS) and polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), respectively) and MR for single polymer polyolefins (−1000 kg CO2e per ton PE). The two management options perform similarly with mixed plastic waste (200 kg CO2e per ton plastic waste). MSWI has the highest impact (1600–2200 kg CO2e per ton plastic waste) and should be avoided when alternatives are available. Scaling the results of the CFA to the full Danish plastic waste resource reveals an impact of 0.79 Mt CO2e in year 2020 of current plastic waste management. Utilizing pyrolysis to manage MR residues reduces the system impact by 15%. Greater reductions are possible through increased separation of plastic from residual waste. The best performance is achieved through a combination of MR and pyrolysis.

Science of The Total Environment, Volume 912, 20 February 2024, 168969

Abstract

Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is a foundational method for quantitative assessment of sustainability. Increasing data availability and rapid development of machine learning (ML) approaches offer new opportunities to advance LCA. Here, we review current progress and knowledge gaps in applying ML techniques to support LCA, and identify future research directions for LCAs to better harness the power of ML. This review analyzes forty studies reporting quantitative assessment with a combination of LCA and ML methods. We found that ML approaches have been used for generating life cycle inventories, computing characterization factors, estimating life cycle impacts, and supporting life cycle interpretation. Most of the reviewed studies employed a single ML method, with artificial neural networks (ANNs) as the most frequently applied approach. Both supervised and unsupervised ML techniques were used in LCA studies. For studies using supervised ML, training datasets were derived from diverse sources, such as literature, lab experiments, existing databases, and model simulations. Over 70 % of these reviewed studies trained ML models with less than 1500 sample datasets. Although these reviewed studies showed that ML approaches help improve prediction accuracy, pattern discovery and computational efficiency, multiple areas deserve further research. First, continuous data collection and compilation is needed to support more reliable ML and LCA modeling. Second, future studies should report sufficient details regarding the selection criteria for ML models and present model uncertainty analysis. Third, incorporating deep learning models into LCA holds promise to further improve life cycle inventory and impact assessment. Finally, the complexity of current environmental challenges calls for interdisciplinary collaborative research to achieve deep integration of ML into LCA to support sustainable development.

Journal of Environmental Management, Volume 351, February 2024, 119757

Abstract

Spatial conflicts of land use (SCLU) arise during land-use change, which causes an imbalance of land-use spatial patterns and negatively affects society, the economy, and ecology. Previous research has focused on identifying and measuring SCLU, with less attention on the negative effects. The incorporation of risk assessment methods to evaluate potential conflict risks has been limited. The current study presents methods for measuring SCLU and assessing potential conflict risks from the ecological environment perspective. The spatial comprehensive conflicts index and potential conflict risk index were used to identify and measure the SCLU and to assess and warn against potential conflict risks, respectively, based on a case study in the Ili River Valley in China. The impacts of terrain restriction and land-use change on the SCLU were explored. Results indicate that (1) the SCLU area in the Ili River Valley decreased by 2,608 km2 from 2010 to 2020, compared to the previous decade, the degree of conflict weakened, and the main body of the SCLU gradually shifted northwest. (2) The potential risk areas cover 20,268 km2 in 2020–2030 and are mainly distributed in the "Khorgas City–Huocheng County–Yining City–Yining County” group of towns, as well as along the Ili–Kunes rivers and in the ecological protection zone in the south of the Ili River Valley, which shows the clustering along the city and distribution along the river in the spatial pattern. (3) Topography had a significant impact on the SCLU, and the main types of land-use change in the severe-conflict zone were the reduction of grassland and the expansion of arable and built-up land. For future conflict mitigation in the Ili River Valley, cautioning against urban sprawl and safeguarding land ecological security is critical. This study systematically investigates and analyzes SCLU across three dimensions: theory, methodology, and application to produce a theoretical and practical framework to identify SCLU and assess potential conflict risks.

Science of The Total Environment, Volume 912, 20 February 2024, 168997

Abstract

Background

China has a serious air pollution problem and a high prevalence of obesity. The interaction between the two and its impact on all-cause mortality is a public health issue of great concern.

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the association between long-term exposure to particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter ≤ 1 μm (PM1) and all-cause mortality, as well as the interaction effect of body mass index (BMI) in the association.

Methods

A total of 33,087 participants from 162 counties in 25 provinces in China were included, with annual average PM1 exposure being estimated based on the county address. The PM1-mortality relation was evaluated using the time-varying Cox proportional hazards models, with the dose-response relationship being fitted using the penalized splines. Besides, the potential interaction effect of BMI in the PM1-mortality relation was evaluated.

Results

The incidence of all-cause deaths was 76.99 per 10,000 person-years over a median of 8.2 years of follow-up. After controlling for potential confounders, the PM1-mortality relation was approximately J-shaped. The full-adjustment analysis observed the hazard ratio (HR) of all-cause mortality was 1.114 [95 % confidence interval (CI): 1.017–1.220] corresponding to a 10 μg/m3 rise in PM1 concentration. Further stratified analyses suggested the adverse effects of PM1 might be more pronounced among the underweight.

Discussion

Higher PM1 concentrations were associated with an increase in all-cause mortality. The BMI might further alter the relation, and the underweight population was the sensitive subgroup of the population that needed to be protected.

Journal of Environmental Management, Volume 351, February 2024, 119764

Abstract

Indoor air, especially with suspended particulate matter (PM), can be a carrier of airborne infectious pathogens. Without sufficient ventilation, airborne infectious diseases can be transmitted from one person to another. Indoor air quality (IAQ) significantly impacts people's daily lives as people spend 90% of their time indoors. An industrial-grade air cleaner prototype (filtration + ultraviolet light) was previously upgraded to clean indoor air to improve IAQ on two metrics: particulate matter (PM) and viable airborne bacteria. Previous experiments were conducted to test its removal efficiency on PM and airborne bacteria between the inlet and treated air. However, the longer-term improvement on IAQ would be more informative. Therefore, this research focused on quantifying longer-term improvement in a testing environment (poultry facility) loaded with high and variable PM and airborne bacteria concentrations. A 25-day experiment was conducted to treat indoor air using an air cleaner prototype with intermittent ON and OFF days in which PM and viable airborne bacteria were measured to quantify the treatment effect. The results showed an average of 55% reduction of total suspended particulate (TSP) concentration between OFF days (110 μg/m3) and ON days (49 μg/m3). An average of 47% reduction of total airborne viable bacteria concentrations was achieved between OFF days (∼3200 CFU/m3) and ON days (∼2000 CFU/m3). A cross-validation (CV) model was established to predict PM concentrations with five input variables, including the status of the air cleaner, time (h), ambient temperature, indoor relative humidity, and day of the week to help simulate the air-cleaning effect of this prototype. The model can approximately predict the air quality trend, and future improvements may be made to improve its accuracy.

Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 440, 10 February 2024, 140934

Abstract

Motivated by the emerging prospects regarding the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and cleaner production, we specifically examine the role of AI in affecting enterprises’ environmental performance. Based on a theoretical model and firm-level empirical evidence from China, we reveal that: (1) AI significantly reduces pollution emission intensity and enhances the environmental performance of Chinese enterprises; (2) The key mechanisms driving the effects are the improvement of total factor productivity, the increase in fixed investments dedicated to pollution reduction, and the optimization of factor input structure; (3) These effects are more pronounced in enterprises with stronger environmental restriction, higher factor intensity, and lower financing constraints. As enterprises strive to adopt more sustainable practices, our findings not only showcase how AI becomes a linchpin for achieving cleaner production goals while also serving as a foundation for informed policymaking in the pursuit of environmental responsibility.

Journal of Environmental Management, Volume 351, February 2024, 119766

Abstract

The Chinese government has attached great importance to pollution emission reduction. Since public environmental preference plays an important role in curbing polluting emissions by companies, this paper aims to explore the impact of public environmental preference and government environmental regulation on corporate pollution emissions. The coordinating role of environmental preference in the implementation of environmental regulatory policies is analyzed using pollution emission data of Chinese enterprises. The results show that both environmental preference and environmental regulation have significant inhibitory effects on corporate pollution emissions. The inhibitory effects are achieved by promoting the green technology progress. With high environmental preference, environmental regulation can effectively curb corporate emissions. This paper is helpful for policy makers to formulate ecological and environmental protection policies and cultivate public environmental preferences.

Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 441, 15 February 2024, 141051

Abstract

The management of biodegradable waste in landfills is associated to a range environmental impacts and refers to a linear model regarded as unsustainable. At the same time, many agricultural and urban soils present low organic matter content. Composting is emerging as a good practice for converting organic waste into a new resource able to improve soil properties, thus providing regulation Ecosystem Services. Considering a territorial metabolism perspective, this work discusses the potential contribution to regional planning of a transferable methodology for quantifying environmental impacts and benefits associated to waste management, based on a combined use of Life Cycle Assessment and Geographic Information Systems, and considering Ecosystem Services deriving from the application of compost in agricultural soils. The approach was tested through a site-dependent analysis based on primary data, referring to year 2019 and focusing on the Veneto Region, Italy. Results indicate that direct benefits associated to the use of compost and the thermal energy to district heating are compensating from 29 % to 51 % of the impacts associated to compost production, while waste transports represent the largest share of the impacts, covering between 52 % and 78 % of the total flows considered. The proposed methodology is applied for comparing the reference condition to alternative scenarios, in the perspective of providing support in Strategic Environmental Assessment procedures. In this context, results shown markedly lower impacts associated to compost production, with respect to organic waste treatment, for 5 out of 6 of the considered categories (freshwater eutrophication 100:1, climate change 5:1), with the notable exception of water resource depletion. Scenarios produced are discussed with respect to the choice between centralized and non-centralized plants, and the characterization of potential benefits at the territorial scale associated to compost use for urban green infrastructures. With respect to this latter point, results showed an underdeveloped use of compost-related ES flow, compared to its capacity, suggesting an interest for further research aimed at estimating compost requirements by urban and peri-urban soils.

Journal of Environmental Management, Volume 351, February 2024, 119399

Abstract

Investigating the CO2 abatement potential of urban residential building from systematic perspective is essential to reach the urban carbon neutrality target. However, previous studies on building CO2 emission trend forecasting were mainly focused on the building operational phase. In this study, a new framework that includes four building stages under a system dynamic model is developed to simulate urban residential building carbon emission changes and the related reduction potentials under three scenarios in Jiangxi Province up to 2060. Results showed that the overall process carbon emission dynamic had already peaked in 2014 under the three scenarios, with a peak value of 38.52 Mt. It then fell to 9.56 Mt in 2060 under the baseline (BAU) scenario. More importantly, seven carbon abatement measures were adopted during four building activities in this study, and the total carbon reduction was not the sum of the carbon reduction potential of the individual measures. Some carbon abatement strategies displayed synergistic effects such as low-carbon electrification where the combination of electrification and clean energy power generation was the largest contributor to reduced carbon emissions during building operation as a comprehensive carbon reduction measure. By contrast, extending a building's lifetime restrained the carbon abatement potential during the demolition stage, and it inhibited the carbon emission reduction by 24.84 Mt. These results highlight the significant need for effective policy interventions for clean production and the need to improve prefabricated building proportions, promote electrification, improve energy efficiency, strengthen recycling practices, and extend building lifetimes to promote decarbonization of urban residential building system development.

Science of The Total Environment, Volume 913, 25 February 2024, 169547

Abstract

Anthropogenic activities release significant quantities of trace elements into the atmosphere, which can infiltrate ecosystems through both wet and dry deposition, resulting in ecological harm. Although the current study focuses on the emission inventory and deposition of trace elements, their complex interactions remain insufficiently explored. In this study, we employ emission inventories and deposition data for eight TEs (Cr, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Cd, Pb) in Lanzhou City to unveil the relationship between these two aspects. Emissions in Lanzhou can be roughly divided into two periods centered around 2017. Preceding 2017, industrial production constituted the primary source of TEs emissions except for As; coal combustion was the primary contributor to Cr, Mn, and As emissions; waste incineration played a significant role in As, Zn, and Cd emissions; biomass combustion influenced Cr and Cd emissions; and transportation sources were the predominant contributors to Pb and Cu emissions. With the establishment of waste–to–energy plants and the implementation of ultra–low emission retrofits, emissions from these sources decreased substantially after 2017. Consequently, emissions from industrial production emerged as the main source of TEs. The deposition concentrations of Cr, Mn, Ni, Cu, and Pb followed a similar trend to the emissions. However, Cd and As exhibited lower emissions and a less pronounced response relationship. Moreover, Zn concentrations fluctuated within a narrow range and showed a weaker response to emissions. The consistent changes in emissions and TEs deposition concentrations signify a shift in deposition pollution in Lanzhou city from Coal–fired pollution to that driven by transportation and industrial activities. Within this transition, the industrial production process offers significant potential for emission reduction. This insight provides a crucial foundation for managing TEs pollution and implementing strategies to prevent ecological risks.

Journal of Environmental Management, Volume 351, February 2024, 119680

Abstract

Continuously measuring the efficiency of wastewater treatment plants is crucial to progress in sanitation management. Regulations for decentralized wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) can include rudimentary specifications for sporadic sampling, unencouraging continuous monitoring, and missing crucial domestic wastewater (DW) variability, especially in low- and middle-income countries. However, few studies have focused on modeling and understanding spatiotemporal DW variability. We developed and calibrated an agent-based model (ABM) to understand spatial and temporal DW variability, its role in estimated WWTP efficiency, and provide recommendations to improve sampling regulations. We simulated DW variability at various spatial and temporal resolutions in Santa Ana Atzcapotzaltongo, Mexico, focusing on chemical oxygen demand (COD) and total suspended solids (TSS). The model results show that DW variability increases at higher spatiotemporal resolutions. Without a proper understanding of DW variability, treatment efficiency can be overestimated or underestimated by as much as 25% from sporadic sampling. Sensor measurements at 6-min intervals over 3 hours are recommended to overcome uncertainty resulting from temporal variability during heavy drinking water demand in the morning. Reporting of sewage catchment areas, population sizes, and sampling times and intervals is recommended to compare WWTP efficiencies to overcome uncertainty resulting from spatiotemporal variability. The proposed model is a useful tool for understanding DW variability. It can be used to estimate the impact of spatiotemporal variability when measuring WWTP efficiencies, support improvements to sampling regulations for decentralized sanitation, and alternatively for designing and operating WWTPs.

Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 440, 10 February 2024, 140832

Abstract

In recent decades, climate change and ecological degradation have risen as highly intricate and disputed global concerns, despite the mounting global consensus advocating for prompt action on these pressing issues. This study examines the influence of investments in energy efficiency R&D, information and communication technologies, and structural changes on environmental degradation indicators like CO2 emissions and ecological footprint within the context of Sweden, utilizing data spanning from 1981 to 2021. Acknowledging the departure of the data series from normal distribution, alongside their manifestation of nonlinearity and instability, the study advocates for a nonlinear approach. To address this, the Quantile-on-Quantile Kernel-Based Regularized Least Squares (QQKRLS) methodology was introduced to delve into this interrelationship. The findings obtained from QQKRLS underscore the positive impact of investments in energy efficiency R&D, advancements in information and communication technologies, and structural changes in mitigating CO2 emissions and ecological footprint across a significant portion of quantiles, ultimately leading to an improvement in ecological quality. In light of these insights, it is suggested that the Swedish government undertakes a restructuring of its energy sector to tackle both carbon emissions and production losses simultaneously. This involves encouraging the adoption of environmentally friendly and efficient technologies in the production process, along with a transition towards a more service-oriented economy. This strategic shift aligns with both economic growth ambitions and ecological sustainability objectives.

Journal of Environmental Management, Volume 351, February 2024, 119648

Abstract

Against the backdrop of the great challenge of climate change and growing global environmental concerns, this study deals a systematic literature review of research related to Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) from 1991 to 2023, details the background, definition, significance, critiques, theoretical foundations and model specifications of EKC, and summarizes the data, variables, econometric methods and findings used in over 100 EKC studies. This study focuses on EKC studies that examine the relationship between energy consumption, economic growth and environmental degradation, with most of the studies reviewed using global pollutants (carbon emissions) to measure the level of environmental degradation. This study found that EKC still has great research potential, and with the development of energy diversification, energy consumption in EKC studies have been further subdivided into renewable or non-renewable energy consumption; innovative EKC studies in the last few years have favoured the use of novel environmental and economic indicators and econometric method, and have validated the existence of EKC at the sectoral level rather than the national level. Finally, the present study summarizes the development and innovations of EKC and provides suggestions for future research aimed at advancing the development of EKC and environmental management.

Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 440, 10 February 2024, 140874

Abstract

To combat climate change and achieve climate-related Sustainable Development Goals, countries have been applying environmental taxes in various areas. Accordingly, this research analyzes the role of environmental tax in ensuring environmental quality. In doing so, the study focuses on G7 countries excluding Canada and Italy because of data unavailability, considers tax-based environmental taxes as the proxy of environmental precautions, uses load capacity factor (LCF) as the most recent environmental quality proxy, makes disaggregated and aggregated level analysis, performs novel quantile methods, and uses data from 1995/Q1 and 2020/Q4. The results present that at higher quantiles (i) energy-related environmental tax stimulates LCF in the United Kingdom (GBR) and the USA; (ii) resources-related environmental tax is beneficial to LCF in GBR, whereas it is partially helpful in France and Germany, and harmful in Japan and USA; (iii) transport-related environmental tax is beneficial for GBR, whereas it is partially helpful for France and Japan, and harmful for environmental quality in Germany and USA; (iv) total environmental taxes are good for GBR, whereas it is partially beneficial for France and harmful for environmental quality in Germany, Japan, and USA; (v) disaggregated and aggregated level environmental taxes have a causal impact on LCF across various quantiles; (vi) robustness of the results is validated. Thus, the study highlights the varying role of environmental taxes across countries, quantiles, and tax types on environmental quality. Hence, G7 policymakers should consider the changing structure in environmental policy formulation so that environmental tax practices can be beneficial in supporting environmental quality.

Journal of Environmental Management, Volume 351, February 2024, 119716

Abstract

Several cities in the developing world, of which the capital city of India, New Delhi, is an example, often experience air quality in which pollutant levels go way above the levels considered hazardous for human health. To bring down the air quality to within permissible limits quickly, the measures typically taken involve shutting down certain high-polluting activities for some time to enable the air quality to recover temporarily. This paper presents a first-ever model based on artificial neural networks to forecast the extent of reduction in air quality parameters that can be achieved and the time period within which a change can be experienced when the source of the emissions is cut off temporarily. The model is based on the extensive data on the extent of reduction in air quality parameters that occurred during the lockdown that was imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic. The non-linear autoregressive exogenous network-based model chosen for the purpose employs the hour since stopping of emissions, relative humidity, wind speed, wind direction, and ambient temperature as input parameters to predict the rate of change of PM2.5 with respect to the concentration at the start of the stopping of the emissions. Air quality data from a key monitoring station in New Delhi was used to develop the model. The model predicted the rate of drop in PM2.5 with an R and MSE of 0.0044 and 0.9736, respectively, while training and 0.0095 and 0.9583 while testing. The model was then tested with data from 19 other stations in New Delhi, and accuracy of the model was found to be exceptionally accurate, with the correlation between the measured and the predicted PM2.5 levels ranging from 0.74 to 0.94 and the MSE ranging from 0.0110 to 1.0746. Thus, the model can be employed to determine the number of hours of temporary stoppage of emissions required for the PM2.5 concentration to reach safe levels. The methodology of development of the model can be extrapolated to construct models tailored for use in other parts of the world as well.

URBAN ENVIRONMENT/ MÔI TRƯỜNG ĐÔ THỊ 

Science of The Total Environment, Volume 910, 1 February 2024, 168610

Abstract

The potential deleterious effects of microplastics on environmental integrity and human health have elicited global attention. Particularly vulnerable to microplastics are Danxia landforms, characterized by their unique topographical features and ecologically fragile milieu. Notwithstanding, empirical studies assessing the prevalence of microplastics in these unique landforms remain strikingly limited. The present investigation comprehensively examined the abundance of microplastics in surface water, sediment, and groundwater across six cities and six counties within the Danxia landforms. Comparative analysis revealed a moderate level of microplastic contamination in the urban rivers of the Danxia region relative to other freshwater rivers. Anthropogenic activities, notably urban wastewater treatment and tourism, emerged as principal contributors to microplastic pollution. Sedimentary microplastics exhibited an accumulative trend from upstream to downstream locations. The risk assessment revealed a high potential ecological risk in counties and a moderate risk in cities. Cluster analysis suggested that groundwater microplastics were a confluence of hydraulic interactions between surface and subsurface waters within the Danxia region. This investigation elucidates the microplastic contamination profile, origins, migratory patterns, and associated risks in Danxia's urban rivers, thereby furnishing scientific underpinning for health and ecological preservation strategies within urbanized Danxia landscapes.

Environmental Pollution, Volume 342, 1 February 2024, 123029

Abstract

The identification of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) sources in heterogeneous urban soils containing pyrogenic and/or petrogenic anthropogenic substrates is a common task for risk assessment. Here, for the first time, the results of source identification using analysis of 71 PAH, alkylated PAH patterns and PAH Alkylation Index were related to visually identified and quantified anthropogenic substrates in 50 soil samples. Only the combination of chemical methods with visual characterization enabled the deeper understanding of varying alkylated PAH patterns used for source apportionment and their superimposition if multiple sources occur. Pyrogenic substrates show homogenic slope-shape PAH patterns despite large visual variety. Petrogenic substrates (bituminous coals), show prevailingly bell-shape patterns but pyrogenic patterns also occur, probably due to residues from industrial processes and/or sorption of other pyrogenic PAH. Superimposition of both PAH patterns within a sample results in intermediate patterns, which are determined by the abundance of substrates and their individual PAH contents. A discrepancy between the share of petrogenic substrates and petrogenic PAH was observed due to low-medium PAH contents from coals/tailings. This may lead to misinterpretations if only chemical source identification methods are applied. With increasing proportion of petrogenic PAH in the mixture, the intermediate V-shape pattern (later bell-shape) appears in lower molecular weight PAH and moves progressively to higher molecular weight PAH. ∑71 PAH contents vary from 1.77 to 326.5 mg/kg (median 26.5 mg/kg). Non-EPA PAH measured include highly toxic ∑4 dibenzopyrene isomers (0.045–6.23 mg/kg, median 0.79 mg/kg) and 7H-benzo[c]fluorene (0.008–1.57 mg/kg, median 0.12 mg/kg). Most common anthropogenic substrates are bottom ashes, slags, bituminous coals/tailings and coke/coke ash. The PAH Alkylation Index identifies reliably samples dominated by either petrogenic (<0.4) or pyrogenic (>0.9) PAH, independently of the PAH content. Mixed or primarily pyrogenic PAH sources (0.4–0.9) need further investigations, like the presented combination of methods, which enables a reliable source apportionment.

Science of The Total Environment, Volume 911, 10 February 2024, 168632

Abstract

The takeaway food and delivery market is developing rapidly in China, raising concerns about the impacts of takeaway dishes on both health and the environment. Here, we compare the environmental impact and nutritional performance of 32 popular takeaway dishes, which stem from the top 10 best-selling takeaway dishes in 10 large cities in China. We select water footprint and water scarcity footprint indicators to represent the environmental impact, and the Food Compass Score to measure nutritional quality. Our results show that 24 out of 32 takeaway dishes contains meat, which has a higher water footprint. The inhabitants of water stressed Chinese cities, mainly located in northern China, tend to favor meat dishes, resulting in a larger water scarcity footprint. The results also highlight the lower nutrition quality of the majority of takeaway dishes, with only three takeaway dishes meeting acceptable environmental and nutritional standards. Our study highlights the importance of analyzing dishes rather than individual foods, which can facilitate sustainable dietary choices for consumers.

Environmental Pollution, Volume 342, 1 February 2024, 122914

Abstract

Urban air pollution is a critical public health challenge in low-and-middle-income countries (LMICs). At the same time, LMICs tend to be data-poor, lacking adequate infrastructure to monitor air quality (AQ). As LMICs undergo rapid urbanization, the socio-economic burden of poor AQ will be immense. Here we present a globally scalable two-step deep learning (DL) based approach for AQ estimation in LMIC cities that mitigates the need for extensive AQ infrastructure on the ground. We train a DL model that can map satellite imagery to AQ in high-income countries (HICs) with sufficient ground data, and then adapt the model to learn meaningful AQ estimates in LMIC cities using transfer learning. The trained model can explain up to 54% of the variation in the AQ distribution of the target LMIC city without the need for target labels. The approach is demonstrated for Accra in Ghana, Africa, with AQ patterns learned and adapted from two HIC cities, specifically Los Angeles and New York.

Science of The Total Environment, Volume 912, 20 February 2024, 168671

Abstract

The implementation of roadside air purifiers has emerged as an effective active control measure to alleviate air pollution in urban street canyons. However, technical questions raised under real conditions remain challenging. In this study, we conducted a pilot-scale investigation involving seven units of self-designed roadside air purifiers in an urban street canyon in Hong Kong. The air cleaning effects were quantified with an air quality sensor network after rigorous quality control. The removal efficiencies of Nitrogen dioxide (NO2), Fine suspended particulates (PM2.5), Carbon monoxide (CO), and Nitric oxide (NO) were determined by comparing with simultaneously measured ambient concentrations, with hourly average efficiencies of 14.0 %–16.9 %, 3.5–10.0 %, 11.9 %–18.7 %, and 19.2 %–44.9 %, respectively. Generally, the purification effects presented variations depending on the ambient pollutants' levels. Higher ambient concentrations of NO2, PM2.5, CO correlated with increased purification effects, while NO presented the opposite trend. The influence of interval distance combined with spatial distribution indicated the operation of purifiers will induce local NO2 attenuation even at an interval distance of four meters. Statistical analysis delivered evidence the air cleaning ability exhibited optimal performance when relative humidity level is ranged from 70 % to 90 %, aligning with the prevailing conditions in Hong Kong. Additionally, improved purification effects were observed at the downwind direction, and their performance was enhanced when the wind speed exceeded 2.5 m/s. Moreover, we estimated the operational lifetime of the air purifiers to be approximately 130 days, offering crucial information regarding the filter replacement cycle. This work serves as a pioneering case study, showcasing the feasibility and deployment considerations of roadside air purifiers in effectively controlling air pollution in urban environments.

Environmental Pollution, Volume 343, 15 February 2024, 123165

Abstract

In this study, we investigated the seasonal variations, chemical composition, sources, and oxidative potential of ambient PM2.5 (particles with a diameter of less than 2.5 μm) in Kuwait City. The sampling campaign was conducted within the premises of Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research from June 2022 to May 2023, covering different seasons throughout the year. The personal cascade impactor sampler (PCIS) operated at flow rate of 9 L/min was employed to collect weekly PM2.5 samples on PTFE and quarts filters. These collected samples were analyzed for carbonaceous species (i.e., elemental and organic carbon), metals and transition elements, inorganic ions, and DTT (dithiothreitol) redox activity. Furthermore, principal component analysis (PCA) and multi-linear regression (MLR) were used to identify the predominant emission sources and their percentage contribution to the redox activity of PM2.5 in Kuwait. The results of this study highlighted that the annual-averaged ambient PM2.5 mass concentrations in Kuwait (59.9 μg/m3) substantially exceeded the World Health Organization (WHO) guideline of 10 μg/m3. Additionally, the summer season displayed the highest PM2.5 mass concentration (75.2 μg/m3) compared to other seasons, primarily due to frequent dust events exacerbated by high-speed winds. The PCA identified four primary PM2.5 sources: mineral dust, fossil fuel combustion, road traffic, and secondary aerosols. The mineral dust was found to be the predominant source, contributing 36.1% to the PM2.5 mass, followed by fossil fuel combustion and traffic emissions with contributions of 23.7% and 20.3%, respectively. The findings of MLR revealed that road traffic was the most significant contributor to PM2.5 oxidative potential, accounting for 47% of the total DTT activity. In conclusion, this comprehensive investigation provides essential insights into the sources and health implications of PM2.5 in Kuwait, underscoring the critical need for effective air quality management strategies to mitigate the impacts of particulate pollution in the region.

Science of The Total Environment, Volume 912, 20 February 2024, 168986

Abstract

Microplastics (MPs) are emerging pollutants that have been globally found in the environment, and have become a focus of intensive management for the Shanghai government in China. Although there are several studies reporting the abundance of microplastics (MPs) in different matrices in Shanghai city, the general data are still limited. This work comprehensively reviews microplastic (MP) pollution in the water, sediment, atmosphere, and soil of Shanghai during 2013–2022. A summary of characteristics such as the abundance, shape, and polymer composition of MPs is presented. Additionally, the pollution trends, traceability, and ecological risks of MPs are analyzed and evaluated. Based on the analytical results, we find that the inland water in Shanghai city is the most contaminated with the highest abundance of MPs at 14.76 × 103 particles/m3 on average, while the abundances of MPs in the external water, inland sediment, external sediment, indoor atmosphere, outdoor atmosphere, inland soil, and external soil are 2.78 × 103 particles/m3, 0.80 × 103 particles/kg, 1.37 × 103 particles/kg, 0.03 × 103 particles/m3, 0.08 × 103 particles/m3, 0.27 × 103 particles/kg, and 0.18 × 103 particles/kg, respectively. Polyethylene and polypropylene are the top two detected polymer compositions of MPs. Results of ecological risk assessment using risk index and pollution load index models indicate that the risks of MPs in the water and sediment of the Yangtze Estuary are high. It is noteworthy that the abundances of MPs at the junction site of Suzhou Creek and the Huangpu River as well as in the Yangtze Estuary exhibited an increasing trend between 2017 and 2019. This work contributes to a comprehensive overview of MPs in the environment of Shanghai city during 2013–2022 and provides important data for local governments to develop urgent strategies for the management of MP pollution. However, more investigations are increasingly needed for better understand the production, migration, ecological risk, and management of MPs in the environment of Shanghai city.

Environmental Pollution, Volume 343, 15 February 2024, 123152

Abstract

Organic nitrogen (ON) has been excluded in the majority of atmospheric N studies. However, dissolved organic nitrogen (DON) deposition influences coastal water quality and primary production creating an urgent need for comprehensive atmospheric ON characterization, especially in coastal airsheds. This study measured the concentration and isotopic composition of rainwater DON (δ15N-DON) and applied stable isotope mixing models to determine the ON emission source apportionments in a small-sized coastal city. The DON concentration averaged 10.6 ± 7.6 μM (n = 42), which was 29% of the total dissolved nitrogen in rainwater and produced a deposition flux of 1.5 kg N·ha−1·yr−1. The average rainwater δ15N-DON value was 8.3 ± 5.3‰ and isotope mixing model results suggested vehicles as a dominant source, overall contributing 35 ± 15% of ON emissions, followed by marine emissions (24 ± 16%), organic amines (18 ± 11%), organic nitrates (17 ± 11%), and biomass burning (8 ± 3%). Although secondary ON formations (i.e., organic amines and nitrates) had less contributions than primary emission sources (i.e., vehicles, marine, and biomass burning), it can be significant and rival primary emissions when the fertilizer application started. Our results fill knowledge gaps of ON wet deposition and emission sources in small-sized coastal cities and inform future atmospheric N mitigation strategies and coastal watershed restoration plans in similar regions. We call for further research determining the isotopic composition of ON emission sources and fractionation associated with primary emission and secondary formation in anticipation of creating a similar isotope-based foundation that has been used for decades to investigate inorganic nitrogen emissions.

Science of The Total Environment, Volume 912, 20 February 2024, 168865

Abstract

In response to pressing global challenges like climate change, rapid population growth, and an urgent need for sustainable infrastructure, cities face an immediate and crucial necessity to transition swiftly toward an integrated approach to managing urban water resources. This shift is not merely an option but an imperative, driven by the rapidly evolving urban landscape. In addressing this imperative, a crucial decision support tool that has emerged as an asset in the domain of urban water planning and management is the Urban Water Use (UWU) tool. This tool offers an integrated approach for strategic planning, promoting urban water conservation and environmental health through the investigation of interventions in urban infrastructure under different scenarios. In this study, the latest version of this UWU tool was deployed in a case study conducted in Almirante Tamandaré, Brazil. The objective was to evaluate how an integrated decision-making approach concerning urban water systems influences the efficiency and effectiveness of interventions, ultimately contributing to achieve widespread adoption, accessibility, and relevance of urban water services. The refined UWU tool evaluates a spectrum of measures across diverse scenarios, incorporating various drivers, focusing on the stakeholders' visions for the locality. These visions are composed of sustainability indicators, specifying different sets of target values and importance weights for each indicator. The approach followed in this study demonstrates how the effectiveness indexes can vary based on stakeholders' perception. Measures under Water Sensitive Urban Design and Water Demand Management strategies were deployed to simulate the response of urban water systems under three distinct scenarios, embracing the complexities of social dynamics and of climate change. The findings of the study emphasize that realizing a desired vision through selected measures relies significantly on the adoption of an integrated approach within the decision-making process. The stakeholders' perception of how indicators should be weighted while defining the vision was found to significantly impact the effectiveness range of these measures.

Environmental Pollution, Volume 343, 15 February 2024, 123172

Abstract

Ammonia control has attracted attention due to the possibility for fine particles (PM2.5) mitigation. Based on past decade ammonia emissions assessments and future predictions, this study seasonally evaluated the ammonia emissions reduction potential in 2025 and 2030 in Wuhan, a Central China megacity, according to the short-term and long-term predictable policies. Furthermore, combined with the reduction potential, PM2.5 components observation and thermodynamic model, the effectiveness of implementing ammonia emission control to reduce PM2.5 by 2025 and 2030 was explored seasonally. Results indicated that the total ammonia emissions are expected to decrease by 19.6–33.9% in 2025 and 2030 under positive reduction scenarios, or increase by 8.9–11.7% in the absence of any intervention. Livestock holds the largest potential for reducing ammonia emissions accounting for 46.4–52.5% of the total. Improvement of human excrement management in rural regions also contributes a 35–37% potential. Despite the implementation of exhaust requirements, ammonia emissions from vehicles in 2030 are expected to continue to increase by 55.3% and 23.5% under the regular (S1) and enhanced (S2) reduction strategy scenarios, respectively. Seasonally, the most potential source of ammonia reduction in spring, summer and fall remains livestock. While in winter, non-agricultural sources dominate the reduction potential. Further results indicated that by ammonia control is expected to decrease PM2.5 concentration up to 5% (less than 1 μg m−3) in 2025–2030. Despite the better effectiveness in winter, ammonia control won't be an effective way to reduce PM2.5 in Central China in future, from the management policies and areal ammonia-rich conditions.

Journal of Environmental Management, Volume 353, 27 February 2024, 120113

Abstract

The growing incidence of urban flood disasters poses a major challenge to urban sustainability in China. Previous studies have reported that climate change and urbanization exacerbate urban flood risk in some major cities of China. However, few assessments have quantified the contributions of these two factors to urban flood changes in recent decades at the nationwide scale. Here, surface runoff caused by precipitation extremes was used as the urban flood hazard to evaluate the impacts of climate change and urbanization in China's 293 major cities. This study assessed the contributions of these drivers to urban flood hazard changes and identified the hotspot cities with increased trends under both factors during the past four decades (1980–2019). The results showed that approximately 70% of the cities analyzed have seen an increase of urban flood hazard in the latest decade. Urbanization made a positive contribution to increased urban flood hazards in more than 90% of the cities. The contribution direction of climate change showed significant variations across China. Overall, the absolute contribution rate of climate change far outweighed that of urbanization. In half of the cities (mainly distributed in eastern China), both climate change and urbanization led to increased urban flood hazard over the past decade. Among them, 33 cities have suffered a consecutive increase in urban flood hazard driven by both factors.

Environmental Pollution, Volume 343, 15 February 2024, 123128

Abstract

Despite the increasing concerns surrounding the health and environmental risks of microplastics (MPs), the research focus has primarily been on their prevalence in air and the oceans, consequently neglecting their presence on urban facades, which are integral to our everyday environments. Therefore, there is a crucial knowledge gap in comprehending urban MP pollution. Our pioneering interdisciplinary study not only quantifies but also identifies MPs on historic facades, revealing their pervasive presence in a medium-sized urban area in the UK. In this case study, we estimated a mean density of 975,000 fibres/m^2 (0.10 fibres/mm^2) for fibre lengths between 30 and 1000 μm with a ratio of 1:5 for natural to artificial fibres.

Our research identifies three groups of fibre length frequencies across varied exposure scenarios on the investigated urban facade. Sheltered areas (4m height) show a high prevalence of 60–120 μm and 180–240 μm fibres. In contrast, less sheltered areas at 3m exhibit lower fibre frequencies but similar lengths. Notably, the lowest area (2-1.5m) features longer fibres (300–1000 μm), while adjacent area S, near a faulty gutter, shows no fibres, highlighting the impact of exposure, altitude, and environmental variables on fibre distribution on urban facades.

Our findings pave one of many necessary paths forward to determine the long-term fate of these fibres and provoke a pertinent question: do historic facades serve as an urban ‘sink’ that mitigates potentially adverse health impacts or amplifies the effects of mobile microplastics? Addressing MP pollution in urban areas is crucial for public health and sustainable cities. More research is required to understand the multi-scale factors behind MP pollution in large cities and to find mitigation strategies, paving the way for effective interventions and policies against this growing threat.

Journal of Environmental Management, Volume 353, 27 February 2024, 120130

Abstract

Green economy efficiency is the core-factor of urban economic and environmental development. As a sustainable instruments, renewable energy technology innovation (RETI) not only reflects the low energy-consumption, but also promotes the reasonable and balanced relationship between resources utilization and urban economy. In this regard, this paper selects China's cities to investigate the effect of RETI on urban green economy efficiency from 2004 to 2020 based on theoretical analyses and previous studies. The paper finds that RETI can promote urban green economy efficiency significantly, passing a series of robustness test, and its effect has connected differently with the factor of regional factor, cleaner production level and environment pollution. Meanwhile, RETI promotes urban green economy efficiency by reducing CO2 emission and polluting manufacturing agglomeration. To date, this study has discovered the green economy efficiency improvement effects of RETI, providing theoretical basis and practical recommendations for government, technological agency and urban industries.

Environmental Pollution, Volume 343, 15 February 2024, 123239

Abstract

A total of 84 PM2.5 (fine particulate matter) aerosol samples were collected between October 2020 and August 2021 within an urban site in Hangzhou, an East China megacity. Chemical species, such as organic carbon (OC), elemental carbon (EC), as well as char, soot, and n-alkanes, were analyzed to determine their pollution characteristics and source contributions. The mean yearly concentrations of OC, EC, char, soot, and total n-alkanes (∑n-alkane) were 8.76 ± 3.61 μg/m3, 1.44 ± 0.76 μg/m3, 1.21 ± 0.69 μg/m3, 0.3 ± 0.1 μg/m3, and 24.2 ± 10.6 ng/m3. The OC, EC, and ∑n-alkanes were found in the highest levels during winter and lowest during summer. There were strong correlations between OC and EC in both winter and spring, suggesting similar potential sources for these carbonaceous components in both seasons. There were poor correlations among the target pollutants due to summertime secondary organic carbon formation. Potential source contribution functions analysis showed that local pollution levels in winter and autumn were likely influenced by long-range transportation from the Plain of North China. Source index and positive matrix factorization models provided insights into the complex sources of n-alkanes in Hangzhou. Their major contributors were identified as terrestrial plant releases (32.7%), traffic emissions (28.8%), coal combustion (27.3%), and microbial activity (11.2%). Thus, controlling vehicular emissions and coal burning could be key measures to alleviate n-alkane concentrations in the atmosphere of Hangzhou, as well as other Chinese urban centers.

Journal of Environmental Management, Volume 353, 27 February 2024, 120129

Abstract

Greenhouse gas emissions from the use of fossil energy are the main drivers of global warming. China's dominant consumption of fossil energy necessitates adjustments in its energy consumption structure to break free from the carbon lock-in (CLI) phenomenon. Market-based environmental regulations, represented by the carbon trading market (CTM), play an important role in achieving the dual carbon goals of China. Using panel data of 270 prefecture-level cities in China from 2005 to 2020, this study applies a difference-in-difference model to identify the effect of CTM on urban CLI, analyze its transmission mechanism, and further examine the impact of urban characteristic heterogeneity on policy effects from multiple perspectives. Results show that the construction of CTM significantly reduces the degree of CLI of pilot cities; (2) CTM mainly affects urban CLI by promoting urban green technology innovation, industrial structure upgrading, and public green behavior; and (3) the inhibitory effect of CTM on CLI is more significant in cities with high carbon price, industrialization, and digital finance levels. The primary paths toward realizing carbon unlocking include optimizing the institutional design for CTM, enhancing the effective promotion and application of low-carbon technologies, cultivating the green awareness of the public, and increasing government investments in energy-saving and emission reduction techniques.

Environmental Pollution, Volume 342, 1 February 2024, 123115

Abstract

The use, overuse, and improper use of antibiotics have resulted in higher levels of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) and antibiotic-resistance genes (ARGs), which have profoundly disturbed the equilibrium of the environment. Furthermore, once antibiotic agents are excreted in urine and feces, these substances often can reach wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), in which improper treatments have been highlighted as the main reason for stronger dissemination of antibiotics, ARB, and ARGs to the receiving bodies. Hence, achieving better antibiotic removal capacities in WWTPs is proposed as an adequate approach to limit the spread of antibiotics, ARB, and ARGs into the environment. In this review, we highlight hospital wastewater (WW) as a critical hotspot for the dissemination of antibiotic resistance due to its high level of antibiotics and pathogens. Hence, monitoring the composition and structure of the bacterial communities related to hospital WW is a key factor in controlling the spread of ARGs. In addition, we discuss the advantages and drawbacks of the current biological WW treatments regarding the antibiotic-resistance phenomenon. Widely used conventional activated sludge technology has proved to be ineffective in mitigating the dissemination of ARB and ARGs to the environment. However, aerobic granular sludge (AGS) technology is a promising technology—with broad adaptability and excellent performance—that could successfully reduce antibiotics, ARB, and ARGs in the generated effluents. We also outline the main operational parameters involved in mitigating antibiotics, ARB, and ARGs in WWTPs. In this regard, WW operation under long hydraulic and solid retention times allows better removal of antibiotics, ARB, and ARGs independently of the WW technology employed. Finally, we address the current knowledge of the adsorption and degradation of antibiotics and their importance in removing ARB and ARGs. Notably, AGS can enhance the removal of antibiotics, ARB, and ARGs due to the complex microbial metabolism within the granular biomass.

INDUSTRIAL AREA ENVIRONMENT / MÔI TRƯỜNG KHU CÔNG NGHIỆP 

Science of The Total Environment, Volume 912, 20 February 2024, 168715

Abstract

Water contamination caused by heavy metals, nutrients, and organic pollutants of varying particle sizes originating from domestic and industrial processes poses a significant global challenge. There is a growing concern, particularly regarding the presence of heavy metals in freshwater sources, as they can be toxic even at low concentrations, posing risks to human health and the environment. Currently, membrane technologies are recognized as effective and practical for treating domestic and industrial wastewater. However, these technologies are hindered by fouling issues. Furthermore, the utilization of conventional membranes leads to the accumulation of non-recyclable synthetic polymers, commonly used in their production, resulting in adverse environmental consequences. In light of our previously published studies on environmentally friendly, biodegradable polylactic acid (PLA) nanocomposite mixed matrix membranes (MMMs), we selected two top-performing PLA-based ultrafiltration nanocomposite membranes: one negatively charged (PLA-M−) and one positively charged (PLA-M+). We integrated these membranes into systems with varying arrangements to control fouling and eliminate heavy metals, organic pollutants, and nutrients from raw municipal wastewater collected by the local wastewater treatment plant in Abu Dhabi (UAE). The performance of two integrated systems (i.e., PLA-M+/PLA-M− and PLA-M−/PLA-M+) was compared in terms of permeate flux, contaminant removal efficiencies, and fouling mitigation. The PLA-M+/PLA-M− system achieved removal efficiencies of 79.6 %, 92.6 %, 88.7 %, 85.2 %, 98.9 %, 94 %, 83.3 %, and 98.3 % for chemical oxygen demand (COD), nitrate (NO3−-N), phosphate (PO43−-P), ammonium (NH4+-N), iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), nickel (Ni), and copper (Cu), respectively. On the other hand, the PLA-M−/PLA-M+ system recorded removal efficiencies of 85.8 %, 95.9 %, 100 %, 81.9 %, 99.3 %, 91.9 %, 72.9 %, and 98.9 % for COD, NO3−-N, PO43−-P, NH4+-N, Fe, Zn, Ni, and Cu, respectively. Notably, the PLA-M−/PLA-M+ system demonstrated superior antifouling resistance, making it the preferred integrated system. These findings demonstrate the potential of eco-friendly PLA nanocomposite UF-MMMs as a promising alternative to petroleum-based polymeric membranes for efficient and sustainable wastewater treatment.

Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 441, 15 February 2024, 141036

Abstract

Due to the immense pressure of environmental pollution, economic growth and energy usage, green growth is recognized as the fundamental development strategy in Europe. This paper assesses environmental efficiency (ENE) of 54 industries from 28 European countries across the three sectors of an economy over the 2000–2014 period using a non-radial directional distance function (DDF). The aim of this study is to shed light and provide a deeper understanding of the different levels of technological heterogeneity that exist among industries by incorporating the metafrontier approach under distinct sector and country-specific production frontiers. The results reveal that industries present higher levels of environmental efficiency within their sectors while manufacturing industries achieve the lowest progress in environmental efficiency. Thus, it is critical to introduce and implement sector-oriented policies rather than common guidelines for all European countries.

Science of The Total Environment, Volume 913, 25 February 2024, 169636

Abstract

Industrial extraction of unconventional petroleum results in notable volumes of oil sands process water (OSPW), containing elevated concentrations of naphthenic acids (NAs). The presence of NAs represents an intricate amalgamation of dissolved organic constituents, thereby presenting a notable hurdle for the domain of environmental analytical chemistry. There is growing concern about monitoring the potential seepage of OSPW NAs into nearby groundwater and river water. This review summarizes recent studies on sample preparation, characterization, monitoring, risk assessment, and treatment of NAs in industrial wastewater and surrounding water. Sample preparation approaches, such as liquid-liquid extraction, solid phase microextraction, and solid phase extraction, are crucial in isolating chemical standards, performing molecular level analysis, assessing aquatic toxicity, monitoring, and treating OSPW. Instrument techniques for NAs analysis were reviewed to cover different injection modes, ionization sources, and mass analyzers. Recent studies of transfer and transformation of NAs provide insights to differentiate between anthropogenic and natural bitumen-derived sources of NAs. In addition, related risk assessment and treatment studies were also present for elucidation of environmental implication and reclamation strategies. The synthesis of the current state of scientific knowledge presented in this review targets government regulators, academic researchers, and industrial scientists with interests spanning analytical chemistry, toxicology, and wastewater management.

Environmental Research, Volume 243, 15 February 2024, 117777

Abstract

Oil spills and micropollutants have become thorny environmental issues, posing serious threat to ecosystem and human health. To settle such dilemma, this study successfully constructed a robust and environmentally-friendly MOFs-COFs hybrid-based membrane (FS-50/COF(MATPA)-MOF(Zr)/PDA@PVDF) for the first time through solution synthesis and solvothermal method, combined with surface modification of FS-50 molecule. Importantly, we employed a simple two-step strategy to obtain the high-aspect-ratio MOFs fibers: (1) solvent regulation to generate smaller needle-like whiskers during the in-situ growth of MOFs on COFs; (2) high pressure induced directional crystallization in filtration process. The introduction of polydopamine (PDA) greatly improved the adhesion between coating and PVDF membrane. The in-situ growth of high length-diameter ratio MOFs fibers on blocky COFs greatly enhanced the specific surface area of MOFs-COFs hybrid, thus provided sufficient absorption sites. The functional groups of FS-50 endowed the hybrid membrane with superhydrophilicity and superoleophobicity, which facilitated to selectively penetrate water molecules and repel non-polar pollutants. The separation efficiency and decontamination mechanism of hybrid membrane to the simulated oily wastewater (containing various MPs, dyes, and pesticides) were investigated through experiments and theoretical calculations. The hybrid membrane could selectively and synchronously adsorb various dyes (20 mg/L–120 mg/L, almost 100% removal) and pesticides (10 mg/L for DIF and TET, adsorption rates 93.2% and 90.9%, respectively) from oil-water emulsion (50 mL). The large-scale coated sponge (6 cm × 4.5 cm × 3 cm) could quickly achieve separation of oil-water mixture (almost 100%) with a water permeability of more than 162 L m−2·h−1·bar−1, and simultaneously remove various MPs (PP-2000, PP-100, PE-2000, PS-100, 0.2 g/300 mL for each), Sudan Ⅲ (C0 = 200 mg/L), and DIF (C0 = 10 mg/L) from a simulant oily wastewater (300 mL), with the removal rates of almost 100% for MPs, 99.7% for Sudan Ⅲ, and 95.8% for DIF. Furthermore, we elucidated the removal mechanism of pesticide and dyes through simulating the theoretical adsorption energy and potential adsorption sites. The hybrid membrane not only provides a promising candidate for the removal of multiple pollutants from oil-water emulsion, but also opens a new strategy for achieving efficient and clean aquatic environment restoration.

Food Research International, Volume 177, February 2024, 113859

Abstract

Most Listeria monocytogenes found in the food industry are listeriosis-causing pathogens and possess the ability to form biofilms on food and food contact materials (FCMs). This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of the combination treatment of natural aromatic compounds (thymol, eugenol, carvacrol, and citral) with a Listeria-specific phage cocktail in mitigating the threat posed by L. monocytogenes in the food industry. In vitro combination treatment of 1 minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of natural aromatic compound with phage cocktail at multiplicity of infection (MOI) 100 reduced more than 4 log CFU/mL of L. monocytogenes planktonic cells and inhibited biofilm formation. In addition, the expression of virulence-related genes (flaA, motB, hlyA, prfA, and actA) and the stress response (sigB) gene were significantly downregulated. The combination of natural aromatic compound with phage cocktail reduced the biofilm cell population on contaminated celery by more than 2 log CFU/g and by more than 2 log CFU/cm2 on already-formed biofilm on FCMs, but it was less effective on chicken meat, with an approximate reduction of only 1 log CFU/g. The antibiofilm activity toward preformed L. monocytogenes biofilms was also observed using field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). COMSTAT analysis of the structural change of biofilms revealed that major biofilm structure parameters (biovolume, thickness, diffusion distance, and microcolonies at substratum) were reduced after treatment. Our findings suggest that the combination of natural aromatic compounds with a phage cocktail has enormous potential as an antimicrobial and antibiofilm agent for controlling L. monocytogenes in the food industry.

Applied Soft Computing, Available online 24 February 2024, 111428

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to make evaluation related to the significant determinants of the effectiveness of the carbon footprint-based investments while constructing a novel decision-making model. At the first stage, selected five determinants are evaluated with multi stepwise weight assessment ratio analysis (M-SWARA) methodology based on quantum picture fuzzy rough sets. In the second part, sustainable industry alternatives are ranked by quantum picture fuzzy rough sets extended multi-objective optimization on the basis of ratio analysis (MOORA) technique. Similarly, elimination and choice translating reality (ELECTRE) approach is also taken into consideration to make a comparative evaluation. The main contribution of this study is that a novel methodology is proposed by integrated picture fuzzy row sets and quantum theory. While using the combination of rough sets and picture fuzzy logic, uncertain data in the complex process can be evaluated in a more effective manner. Moreover, due to the criticisms to stepwise weight assessment ratio analysis (SWARA) methodology by not considering causal relationship of the determinants, this methodology is extended with the help of some improvements so that a new approach (M-SWARA) is proposed to overcome this deficiency by creating impact direction map of the items. The ranking results of these two techniques are the same that indicates the coherency of the findings. It is concluded that carbon-free project financing with green bonds is the most important indicator for this situation. On the other side, the ranking results demonstrate that renewable energy investment is the most appropriate sustainable industry alternative. Considering the results obtained in this study, the development of green bonds should be given priority. Establishing an international certification system is important in terms of clearly defining green bonds. Government supports are also of critical importance in the development of green bonds. Tax reductions provided by governments can increase the profitability of green bonds. This may contribute to investors showing more interest in green bonds.

Environmental Research, Available online 21 February 2024, 118508

Abstract

Industrial processes and municipal wastes largely contribute to the fluctuations in iron (Fe) content in soils. Fe, when present in unfavorable amount, causes harmful effects on human, flora, and fauna. The present study is an attempt to evaluate the composition of Fe in surface soils from paper mill and municipal landfill sites and assess their potential ecological and human health risks. Geochemical fractionation was conducted to explore the chemical bonding of Fe across different fractions, i.e., water-soluble (F1) to residual (F6). Different contamination factors and pollution indices were evaluated to comprehend Fe contamination extent across the study area. Results indicated the preference for less mobile forms in the paper mill and landfill, with 26.66% and 43.46% of Fe associated with the Fe–Mn oxide bound fraction (F4), and 57.22% and 24.78% in the residual fraction (F6). Maximum mobility factor (MF) of 30.65% was observed in the paper mill, and 80.37% in the landfill. The enrichment factor (EF) varied within the range of 20 < EF < 40, signifying a high level of enrichment in the soil. The individual contamination factor (ICF) ranged from 0 to >6, highlighting low to high contamination. Adults were found to be more vulnerable towards Fe associated health risks compared to children. The Hazard Quotient (HQ) index showed the highest risk potential pathways as dermal contact > ingestion > inhalation. The study offers insights into potential Fe contamination risks in comparable environments, underscoring the crucial role of thorough soil assessments in shaping land use and waste management policies.

Bioresource Technology, Volume 393, February 2024, 130149

Abstract

The pursuit of carbon neutrality goals has sparked considerable interest in expanding bioplastics production from microbial cell factories. One prominent class of bioplastics, polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), is generated by specific microorganisms, serving as carbon and energy storage materials. To begin with, a native PHA producer, Cupriavidus necator (formerly Ralstonia eutropha) is extensively studied, covering essential topics such as carbon source selection, cultivation techniques, and accumulation enhancement strategies. Recently, various hosts including archaea, bacteria, cyanobacteria, yeast, and plants have been explored, stretching the limit of microbial PHA production. This review provides a comprehensive overview of current advancements in PHA bioproduction, spanning from the native to diversified cell factories. Recovery and purification techniques are discussed, and the current status of industrial applications is assessed as a critical milestone for startups. Ultimately, it concludes by addressing contemporary challenges and future prospects, offering insights into the path towards reduced carbon emissions and sustainable development goals.

Sustainable Cities and Society, Volume 101, February 2024, 105161

Abstract

As a result of the evolution of the smart grid, the new energy market has been restructured in urban systems, whereby domestic users play a more active role in the demand response (DR) programs with a view to balancing production and demand. DR incentive signals, though, are difficult to respond to due to limited understanding by users. As a result, an Energy Management Controller (EMC) has been expanded for responding to DR signals and solving energy management problems. The EMC employs a whale optimization algorithm (WOA) for automatically responding to the DR signal and solving energy management issues by planning 3 kinds of domestic load: non-interruptible, interruptible, and hybrid. With the WOA, the EMC generates the best home load plan for reducing power costs, carbon emissions, PARs, and customer dissatisfaction. Simulations were accomplished in order to evaluate the offered WOA against current algorithms such as particle swarm optimization (PSO), differential evaluation (DE), and teaching learn optimization algorithm (TLBO). The outcomes indicated that the suggested WOA reduces electricity costs, carbon emissions, PARs, and consumer dissatisfaction better than other algorithms.

International Journal of Medical Informatics, Volume 182, February 2024, 105304

Abstract

Backgrounds

Healthcare is a social and economic challenge in many countries, exacerbated by today’s increasing demand. Many studies demonstrate that hospitals that move towards smartness, and some of their processes are smart, can provide more appropriate treatments and deal with problems more flexibly. It is axiomatic that implementing smart hospitals and healthcare tools requires a clear objective. However, the concept of a smart hospital lacks a comprehensive and broadly accepted definition, leading to varied interpretations and misconceptions. Many developments touted as 'smart' merely digitize existing hospital environments without truly embracing the full potential of smart technology. Furthermore, research studies have neglected to consider industrial perspectives, which will soon cause a gap between industry and academics in this concept.

Objectives

This research aims to explore the attributes of a smart hospital and use them to propose a definition for it, considering both scholarly and industrial viewpoints.

Method and results

The PRISMA method is employed to select academic and practical papers providing definitions and insights into smart hospitals or healthcare. 17 studies are analyzed, and a total, 83 characteristics are identified to describe the smart hospital. These features are categorized into three primary categories: "technologies”, "services”, and "goals”. The most important features are determined by analyzing the frequencies of these characteristics across all the studies. In the results section, these data are presented in graphical form, highlighting both academic and industrial perspectives separately, as well as a combined analysis. Furthermore, an attempt is made to uncover trends in smart hospitals from 2015 to 2023.

Conclusion

A comprehensive definition of the smart hospital, encompassing both academic and industrial perspectives, is proposed using the investigated characteristics. This study also presents research opportunities and discusses the existing gap between academia and industry concerning smart hospitals.

Construction and Building Materials, Volume 417, 23 February 2024, 135246

Abstract

With the rising global population and an increasing demand for enhanced built environments, the construction industry faces a critical challenge with rising greenhouse gas emissions, particularly carbon dioxide. Approaching a tipping point, these emissions could contribute to irreversible climate change, surpassing the Earth's capacity to neutralize them through the natural carbon cycle. In response, the imperative adoption of technologies capable of capturing and sequestering CO2 becomes crucial, especially in industries like construction and building. This urgency is essential to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of cement-based material production and induce positive climate change. This review emphasizes consolidating information from recent studies on biochar derived from agro-sources used as an admixture in cement-based applications. It delves into the origins of biomass and the methods employed in its production while highlighting the advantageous impacts of biochar on carbon capture for various properties of cementitious applications. Moreover, biochar, valued for its inexpensive, carbon-efficient, and sustainability gains, has increasingly been applied in cementitious materials. This study provides an exhaustive review of the impact of engineered biochar in the development and performance of carbon-negative cement-based composites, focusing on durability, mechanical, fresh, and microstructural characteristics, as well as carbon-sequestration capacity. Notably, biochar enhances hardened biochar-cement composites' physical, durability, and microstructural characteristics, with an optimal cement replacement of 1–2% wt. Adding biochar further improves endurance against permeability, shrinkage, sulfate attacks, and chloride-induced corrosion. Biochar's potential to reduce concrete permeability is consistent across different pyrolysis temperatures. Positive effects on durability (up to 5% by wt.) are ascribed to Improved hydration and enhanced physical filling, leading to a more compact microstructure, which hinders the penetration of ions and water.

Environmental Pollution, Available online 28 February 2024, 123684

Abstract

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), known for their health risks, are prevalent in the environment, with the coking industry being a major source of their emissions. To bridge the knowledge gap concerning the relationship between environmental and dietary PAH exposure, we explore this complex interplay by investigating the dietary exposure characteristics of 24 PAHs within a typical Chinese coking plant and their association with environmental pollution. Our research revealed Nap and Fle as primary dietary contaminants, emphasizing the significant influence of soil and atmospheric pollution on PAH exposure. We subjected our data to non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS), Spearman correlation analysis, Lasso regression, and Weighted Quantile Sum (WQS) regression to delve into this multifaceted phenomenon. NMDS reveals that dietary PAH exposure, especially within the high molecular weight (HMW) group, is common both within and around the coking plant. This suggests that meals prepared within the plant may be contaminated, posing health risks to coking plant workers. Furthermore, our assessment of dietary exposure risk highlights Nap and Fle as the primary dietary contaminants, with BaP and DahA raising concerns due to their higher carcinogenic potential. Our findings indicate that dietary exposure often exceeds acceptable limits, particularly for coking plant workers. Correlation analyses uncover the dominant roles of soil and atmospheric pollution in shaping dietary PAH exposure. Soil contamination significantly impacts specific PAHs, while atmospheric pollution contributes to others. Additionally, WQS regression emphasizes the substantial influence of soil and drinking water on dietary PAHs. In summary, our study sheds light on the dietary exposure characteristics of PAHs in a typical Chinese coking plant and their intricate interplay with environmental factors. These findings underscore the need for comprehensive strategies to mitigate PAH exposure so as to safeguard both human health and the environment in affected regions.

Energy Economics, Volume 130, February 2024, 107307

Abstract

This paper systematically examines the impact of green credit regulation on the efficiency of corporate green investment. The results show that green credit policy significantly decreases green investment efficiency for heavily polluting firms. This is further evidenced through the fact that these firms are more inclined to make symbolic efforts to pursue more credit resources rather than engaging in substantive green investments to drive real green transition. This negative effect is more pronounced for small, non-state-owned and non-foreign-funded firms. Our further analysis suggests that the intensity of environmental law enforcement, the level of financial development, and intellectual property protection can mitigate this negative effect of green credit policy on green investment efficiency. Our study is groundbreaking in that it makes the first attempt to calculate the future value that green investment can create, which serves the basis for analyzing the economic effects of green investment at the industry level. The findings indicate that labor-intensive industries with close ties to consumers' daily lives have a higher future value for green investment. Conversely, capital-intensive industries such as the metallurgical industry have a lower future value for green investment. These findings emphasize the need to improve green credit regulation and make genuine green investment to accelerate real green transition in emerging economies.

Journal of Environmental Management, Volume 352, 14 February 2024, 120027

Abstract

The environment is a major issue for both society and industry. Stakeholder demands, environmental ethics and environmental awareness may all have a substantial impact on a company's environmental performance. In this research, we investigate the impact of stakeholders' pressures, environmental ethics, and environmental awareness on environmental performance, which is mediated through the concept of green innovation. A survey questionnaire is used in the study to gather information from 410 managers working in different Chinese manufacturing firms. Structural equation modeling (SEM) is used to assess the data and test the assumptions that have been put forward. According to the study's results, stakeholders' pressures in terms of regulatory pressures, customer pressures, and competitor pressures; environmental ethics, and environmental awareness all had a positive effect on both green product innovation and green process innovation, which in turn had a favorable impact on environmental performance. Moreover, both green product and process innovation partially mediated the link between stakeholders' pressures, environmental ethics, and environmental performance except in the case of environmental awareness. These findings provide light on the significance of stakeholder demands, environmental ethics, and environmental awareness in encouraging green innovation and increasing environmental performance.

Journal of Membrane Science, Volume 693, February 2024, 122361

Abstract

dynamics (MD) simulations and experiments to explore lysozyme fouling in water, as well as four organic solvent environments, namely, 30 % v/v and 50 % v/v isopropyl alcohol (IPA), and 30 % v/v and 50 % v/v dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). Experimentally, flux declines were least with IPA and worst with DMSO. Biased simulations indicate the worst fouling in DMSO is tied to the most attractive lysozyme-membrane energy in the presence of DMSO. However, the relative attractive energies for IPA and water do not agree with the relative flux declines, indicating other factors are more influential when the interaction energies are similar. To understand the gentler flux decline for IPA despite the more attractive lysozyme-membrane energy, radial distribution functions (RDFs) were obtained from unbiased simulations. Analyss of the water and solvent films around both the membrane and the lysozyme molecule reveal that the denser water film around both entities induced by the presence of IPA serves as a barrier for fouling and thus leads to less flux decline. The results underscore the complexity of fouling in organic solvent systems, cautioning against direct use of the understanding based on aqueous systems.

Finance Research Letters, Volume 60, February 2024, 104828

Abstract

This paper created a quasi-natural experiment to investigate the effect and mechanisms of big data infrastructure on new enterprise entry, by applying the data from Chinese Industrial and Commercial Registered Enterprise Database, and utilizing National Big Data Comprehensive Pilot Zone as an exogenous policy shock. The findings confirmed the causal effects from big data development on new businesses entry, with industrial and human capital agglomeration effects acting as the pathways. Moreover, big data development policies are particularly effective for high-tech firms and service industry. This research reveals the "data code" underlying the vitality of market participants from a novel perspective.