Science of The Total Environment, Volume 927, 1 June 2024, 172286

Abstract

Roadside greenery is an efficient strategy for maximizing ecosystem services, including carbon sequestration in urban settings. However, the quantification of carbon sequestration is not comprehensive because understory shrubs and soil respiration have not been thoroughly considered. We developed an integrated methodology that combined field measurements and greenhouse incubation to comprehensively assess carbon sequestration in roadside greenery systems. The system was defined as an 8 m long section comprising a single tree (Zelkova serrata), 79 shrubs (Euonymus japonicus), and soil. Annual carbon uptake by a tree was estimated using an allometric equation derived from an official government report. For shrubs, carbon uptake was measured in the field by monitoring CO2 concentration change in the chamber enclosing the leaves and stems. Annual carbon uptake by shrubs was estimated by using the regression equation among carbon uptake, air temperature, and photosynthetically active radiation. We also estimated shrub root respiration by combining net primary production (NPP) from the greenhouse incubation and measured pruning effect in the field. This enabled us to differentiate heterotrophic respiration from the total soil respiration. The overall methodology accurately assessed net ecosystem production (NEP) from the roadside greenery system, which is 0.528 kg C m−2 yr−1. If this figure is extended to all roads in the target city, it can offset daily carbon emitted from the total registered passenger vehicles in the target city. Considering that shrubs sequester an amount equivalent to 29.3 % of the carbon sequestered by tree species, the current greenhouse gas inventory should include shrubs as an important carbon sink. As we also revealed that roadside soil has high carbon vulnerability, proper soil management is needed to enhance NEP. Our systematic approach evaluating the carbon balance within the roadside greenery system can be applied to other cities, contributing to enhance global understanding of urban carbon cycle.

Science of The Total Environment, Volume 931, 25 June 2024, 173019

Abstract

Water is a defining element for cities and their inhabitants. Throughout urban systems, water is either produced or received, used, and finally disposed of as wastewater. As Latin American urbanization accelerates, problems related to wastewater are increasing due to its inclusion as the main source of river pollution, as well as the high cost of infrastructure development and maintenance. The consequences of wastewater disposal are particularly relevant in areas frequently associated with urban expansion, like peripheries whose growth follows constant transitions between rural, peri-urban, and urban areas. Such consequences are often related to heterogeneity, lack of urban services and sanitation infrastructure, water pollution and health risks, as well as the development of informal compensatory systems. A systematic literature review was conducted to broaden research panorama and identify spatial, temporal, and thematic trends and challenges present in wastewater assessments of Latin American urban peripheries, this using the SALSA (search, appraisal, synthesis, and analysis) protocol in a search through international databases Scopus and Web of Science Scielo, in English, Spanish, French, and Portuguese. In these databases, 228 papers satisfied selection criteria and show a growing trend of publications about urban wastewater since 1988. Most case studies are from Brazil (58 %), Mexico (14 %), and Argentina (9 %). Their main approaches are quantitative research (82 %) in urban contexts (57 %). Most studies were found to be operationalized using environmental geochemistry methodologies, suggesting a dominance of technical, reductionist approaches. Integrated and mixed perspectives including actors and other societal elements are suggested as a central research challenge. Without an integrated view, it will be unfeasible to enhance decision-making processes and governance in the pursuit of sustainable water management.

Environmental Research, Volume 251, Part 1, 15 June 2024, 118550

Abstract

Introduction

Current urban and transport planning practices have significant negative health, environmental, social and economic impacts in most cities. New urban development models and policies are needed to reduce these negative impacts. The Superblock model is one such innovative urban model that can significantly reduce these negative impacts through reshaping public spaces into more diverse uses such as increase in green space, infrastructure supporting social contacts and physical activity, and through prioritization of active mobility and public transport, thereby reducing air pollution, noise and urban heat island effects. This paper reviews key aspects of the Superblock model, its implementation and initial evaluations in Barcelona and the potential international uptake of the model in Europe and globally, focusing on environmental, climate, lifestyle, liveability and health aspects.

Methods

We used a narrative meta-review approach and PubMed and Google scholar databases were searched using specific terms.

Results

The implementation of the Super block model in Barcelona is slow, but with initial improvement in, for example, environmental, lifestyle, liveability and health indicators, although not so consistently. When applied on a large scale, the implementation of the Superblock model is not only likely to result in better environmental conditions, health and wellbeing, but can also contribute to the fight against the climate crisis. There is a need for further expansion of the program and further evaluation of its impacts and answers to related concerns, such as environmental equity and gentrification, traffic and related environmental exposure displacement. The implementation of the Superblock model gained a growing international reputation and variations of it are being planned or implemented in cities worldwide. Initial modelling exercises showed that it could be implemented in large parts of many cities.

INDUSTRIAL AREA ENVIRONMENT / MÔI TRƯỜNG KHU CÔNG NGHIỆP 

Science of The Total Environment, Volume 927, 1 June 2024, 172099

Abstract

Until now, bacteria able to degrade, 3,3′-iminodipropionitrile (IDPN), a neurotoxin that destroys vestibular hair cells, causing ototoxicity, culminating in irreversible movement disorders, had never been isolated. The aim of this study was to isolate a novel IDPN-biodegrading microorganism and characterize its metabolic pathway. Enrichment was performed by inoculating activated sludge from a wastewater treatment bioreactor that treated IDPN-contaminated wastewater in M9 salt medium, with IDPN as the sole carbon source. A bacterial strain with a spherical morphology that could grow at high concentrations was isolated on a solid medium. Growth of the isolated strain followed the Monod kinetic model. Based on the 16S rRNA gene, the isolate was Paracoccus communis. Whole-genome sequencing revealed that the isolated P. communis possessed the expected full metabolic pathway for IDPN biodegradation. Transcriptome analyses confirmed the overexpression of the gene encoding hydantoinase/oxoprolinase during the exponential growth phase under IDPN-fed conditions, suggesting that the enzyme involved in cleaving the imine bond of IDPN may promote IDPN biodegradation. Additionally, the newly discovered P. communis isolate seems to metabolize IDPN through cleavage of the imine bond in IDPN via nitrilase, nitrile hydratase, and amidase reactions. Overall, this study lays the foundation for the application of IDPN-metabolizing bacteria in the remediation of IDPN-contaminated environments.

Environmental Pollution, Volume 350, 1 June 2024, 123955

Abstract

The petrochemical industry is a major industrial emitter of greenhouse gas (CO2) and environmental pollution, posing health risks to nearby communities. Although previous studies have indicated that residents living near petrochemical industrial complexes are at a higher risk of cancer, they have focused on local or regional burdens. This study aimed to estimate the global cancer burden attributable to residential exposure to petrochemical industrial complexes. The geographical coordinates of petrochemical plants and oil refineries were retrieved and verified from published sources. The ArcGIS software and global population data were used to estimate the number of people living within specific distances (exposed population). The exposure time window was framed as ranging from 1992 to 2035, extending to the latest period of the exposure time window for all cancer types to estimate the attributable deaths between 2020 and 2040. The relative risk of cancer was estimated from 15 published studies. Population attributable fraction (PAF) method was used to estimate the risk of cancer attributable to residential exposure and calculate the number of cancer-related deaths. Our findings indicate that >300 million people worldwide will be estimated to live near petrochemical industrial complexes by 2040. The overall global burden of cancer-related deaths was 19,083 in 2020, and it is estimated to increase to 27,366 deaths by 2040. The region with the highest attributable cancer deaths due to exposure is the high-income region, which had 10,584 deaths in 2020 and is expected to reach 13,414 deaths by 2040. Residential exposure to petrochemical industrial complexes could contribute to global cancer deaths, even if the proportion is relatively small, and proactive measures are required to mitigate the cancer burdens among these residents. Enforcing emissions regulations, improving monitoring, educating communities, and fostering collaboration are vital to protecting residents’ health.

Environmental Research, Volume 251, Part 1, 15 June 2024, 118647

Abstract

In this work, the self-assembled SrTiO3 (STO) microstructures were synthesized via a facile one-step solvothermal method. As the solvothermal temperature increased from 140 °C to 200 °C, the STO changed from a flower-like architecture to finally an irregularly aggregated flake-like morphology. The photocatalytic performance of as-synthesized samples was assessed through the degradation of rhodamine B (RhB) and malachite green (MG) under simulated solar irradiation. The results indicated that the photocatalytic performance of STO samples depended on their morphology, in which the hierarchical flower-like STO synthesized at 160 °C demonstrated the highest photoactivities. The photocatalytic enhancement of STO-160 was benefited from its large surface area and mesoporous configuration, hence facilitating the presence of more reactive species and accelerating the charge separation. Moreover, the real-world practicality of STO-160 photocatalysis was examined via the real printed ink wastewater-containing RhB and MG treatment. The phytotoxicity analyses demonstrated that the photocatalytically treated wastewater increased the germination of mung bean seeds, and the good reusability of synthesized STO-160 in photodegradation reaction also promoted its application in practical scenarios. This work highlights the promising potential of tailored STO microstructures for effective environmental remediation applications.

Journal of Hazardous Materials, Volume 471, 5 June 2024, 134410

Abstract

Heavy metal (HM) pollution in agricultural soils has arisen sharply in recent years. However, the impact of main factors on available HMs concentrations in agricultural soils of the three main industries (smelting, chemical and mining industry) is unclear. Herein, soil properties (pH, cation exchange capacity (CEC) and texture (sand, slit, clay)), total and available concentrations were concluded based on the results of 165 research papers from 2000 to 2023 in Web of Science database. In the three industries, the correlation and redundancy analysis were used to study the correlation between main factors and available concentrations, and quantitatively analyzed the contribution of each factor to available concentrations with gradient boosting decision tree model. The results showed that different factors had varying degrees of impact on available metals in the three main industries, and the importance of same factors varied in each industry, as for soil pH, it was most important for available Pb and Zn in the chemical industry, but the total concentrations were most important in the smelting and mining industry. There was no significant correlation between total and available concentrations. Soil properties involved in this paper (especially soil pH) were negatively correlated with available concentrations. This study provides effective guidance for the formulation of soil pollution control and risk assessment standards based on industry classification in the three major industrial impact areas.

Environmental Research, Volume 251, Part 2, 15 June 2024, 118621

Abstract

Pollution and bycatch are two of the main threats for cetaceans worldwide. These threats are exacerbated for nearshore species particularly for those in regions with intense industrial and fishing activities. Burmeister's porpoise is endemic to South America, has a Near Threatened conservation status because of long-term mortality in fisheries. Burmeister's porpoise occur in Mejillones Bay, northern Chile, a hot spot for heavy metals pollution from the mining industry and an intense industrial and artisanal purse-seine fishing area. From 2018 to 2021, we conducted systematic marine surveys to assess the abundance, distribution and habitat use of Burmeister's porpoises. We responded to stranding reports from 2018 to 2022, and necropsied nine individuals. From five of these, we analyzed the metal concentrations (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Pb, Hg, Se and Zn) in muscle and skin tissues. Results showed an abundance of 76.17 individuals (CV = 25.9%) and an average density of 0.45 individuals/km2 (CV = 26%). Burmeister's porpoises were observed year round, 22.2% were mother-calf pairs present in austral summer at an average of 90.6 m depth in the southwestern bound of the bay. Two-thirds of stranded specimens died due to bycatch and one died due to bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) attack. We report a dead Burmeister's porpoise positive for avian flu virus A (H5N1). Metals analyzed were found in muscle and skin tissues of stranded Burmeister's porpoises in the following order (Zn > Cu > Cr > As > Hg > Pb > Cd). Although we could not assess pollution as a cause of mortality, Cr, As and Pb concentrations exceeded the concentrations found in other porpoises species worldwide. We conclude that bycatch and pollution as the main threats for Burmeister's porpoise survival in northern Chile. Future studies should investigate the use of acoustic deterrent alarms to mitigate the bycatch in the bay and consider the Burmeister's porpoise as a sentinel species of pollution in northern Chilean coast.

Science of The Total Environment, Volume 927, 1 June 2024, 172309

Abstract

The application of molecularly imprinted material (MIM) is widely employed as a material for removing phenolic pollutants from the water environment, owing to its exceptional capacity for selective adsorption and high sensitivity. In this paper, the preparation principle, bonding types, and preparation methods of MIM have been comprehensively introduced. Meanwhile, according to the binding type of MIM with phenolic pollutants, three categories of hydroxyl bonding, hydroxyl carboxyl bonding, and hydroxyl nitro bonding were carried out to explain its application to phenolic pollutants. Strategies for addressing the challenges of selective instability, high regeneration costs, and template leakage in MIM applications were summarized. These strategies encompassed the introduction of superior carriers, enhancements in preparation processes, and the utilization of molecular dynamics simulation-assisted technology. Finally, the prospects in the three aspects of material preparation, process coupling, and recycling. In summary, this paper has demonstrated the potential of utilizing MIM for the selective treatment of phenolic pollutants from the water environment.

Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 457, 10 June 2024, 142365

Abstract

Emerging industries and technologies are made up of objective, practical requirements and ideas that encompass broad hopes for what future newness might enable. The bioeconomy is one such emerging industry. Its recent evolution has involved a complicated and dynamic mix of promises, reality checks and subsequent ambivalences. This article frames and investigates the emerging algae-based bioplastics industry as one niche within this broader system envisaged for social, technological, economic, political and ecological change. As such, our paper presents two categories of knowledge that in practice interrelate: 1) specific and practical recommendations that can assist a future algal-based bioplastics industry to develop in Australia in ways that are conscious of socio-ecological and socio-cultural dimensions, and 2) critical extensions that go beyond the attributes of newness, impact, suddenness and universality often emphasised in both popular and scientific research into emerging green technologies. In particular, our analysis highlights the importance of specific temporal, tonal and spatial factors when framing the contextual factors associated emerging industries, technologies and the different pathways for change they might help support.

Fuel, Volume 366, 15 June 2024, 131298

Abstract

Selective catalytic reduction (SCR) is currently the most effective control method for NOx emission after fuel combustion. Spent selective catalytic reduction (SCR) catalysts from various industries have emerged as a novel solid waste. Toxic elements in spent SCR catalysts from various industries have not been given sufficient attention, resulting in its irrational disposal and potential environmental threats. This study investigates the presence and leaching behavior of toxic elements in spent SCR catalysts samples from four distinct industries: coal-fired power plants, flat glass manufacturing, cement manufacturing, and waste incineration plant. The experimental findings reveal that spent SCR catalysts contain toxic elements including V, As, Pb, Tl, Cu, and Zn. The types and concentrations of these toxic elements are contingent upon the composition of flue gas and operational conditions of NOx removal units employed in each industry. The environmental mobility and chemical speciation of these toxic elements are determined by diverse characterization techniques. Based on the analysis results, an acid-alkali leaching detoxification strategy is proposed. Following detoxification, the leaching concentrations of toxic elements in catalysts from coal-fired power plants, flat glass manufacturing, and waste incineration conform to the requirements of hazardous waste landfill standards. This study reveals the toxic element composition in spent SCR catalysts and provides a foundation for the rational disposal and management of these catalysts across diverse industries.

Journal of Cleaner Production, Available online 15 June 2024, 142922

Abstract

A decarbonized food supply chain ensures that we have access to safe, nutritious, and affordable food with a reduced carbon footprint. It not only helps in reducing greenhouse gas emissions but also enhances food security by making the supply chain more resilient to climate-related disruptions, ensuring stable food production for a growing global population. Further, there is an increasing consumer demand for sustainably produced food, and meeting this demand is crucial for maintaining relevance and competitiveness in the global market. Without a well-functioning decarbonized supply chain, it would be much harder for farmers, processors, distributors, and retailers to promote food security and improve public health. Decarbonization in the food supply chain is a complex process that requires a multifaceted approach, with the entire supply chain from farm to fork being examined. Technological advances such as Industry 4.0, with a human-centric solution, could be an answer. By combining the power of Industry 4.0 with decarbonization efforts, the creation of a more sustainable and efficient food supply chain can be promised. Hence, this study utilizes a mixed-method approach to examine the Indian food supply chain, and analyses the factors that motivate stakeholders to implement decarbonized technologies. It uses opinions from industry as well as from academic experts for employing integrated Analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and Interpretive structural modelling (ISM). AHP revealed that "International community pressure” is the most critical factor. Further, ISM is used to explain the interrelationships among the identified factors, providing a hierarchical model. These key findings can assist policymakers to develop and refine regulations. Further, it can also help stakeholders to make an informed decision while allocating resources towards new technologies.

Emerging Markets Review, Volume 60, June 2024, 101146

Abstract

We examine the association between board centrality and corporate environmental disclosure using hand-collected data from Chinese-listed firms in heavily polluting industries. We find that board centrality has a positive effect on corporate environmental disclosure. We also show that this positive effect emanates from the critical role of the board in monitoring and resource distribution, and its incentive to promote information transparency. Our results, which are robust to a set of robustness checks, have important implications for both regulators and investors.

Economic Analysis and Policy, Volume 82, June 2024, Pages 1384-1405

Abstract

The China–Europe Railway Express (CRE) has attracted and fostered low-carbon, export-oriented manufacturing industry sectors; thus, it could reduce carbon dioxide emissions through the manufacturing industry substitution effect. To verify this new mechanism, this study focuses on a specific case, namely, Chongqing’s electronic and telecommunications equipment (ETE) manufacturing industry, as this sector is a low-carbon industry promoted by the CRE. This study proposes a novel detour estimation strategy for causal identification of the environmental externality of the CRE on carbon dioxide emissions. The results show that the CRE could contribute to an increase of 567.06 billion yuan in ETE exports from Chongqing to Europe and a consequent reduction of 17.10 million tons of carbon dioxide between 2011 and 2021. This study provides new insights into the environmental externality of the CRE and the mechanism of the manufacturing industry substitution effect, contributing to the understanding of the relationship between transportation and carbon dioxide emissions.

Algal Researchm, Volume 80, June 2024, 103530

Abstract

Microalgae are increasingly recognized for their potential in the food sector due to their rapid growth and rich content in proteins, carbohydrates, and pigments. The extraction of pigments from microalgal biomass holds promise for their utilization as natural colorants and antioxidants. To address the economic challenges associated with microalgae cultivation, particularly high nutrient costs, this study focused on cultivating Chlorella vulgaris in a mixture of food industry wastewaters (brewery wastewater, expired orange juice and cheese whey). This resulted in a microalgae-bacteria consortium with a concentration of 2.2 g·L−1 dry weight after 5 days of cultivation. The wastewater bioremediation ranged between 23 and 77 %, and the produced microalgae biomass contained 21.68 ppm lutein, 36.47 ppm a-chlorophyll and 11.19 ppm b-chlorophyll. The extraction process employed a solvent screening strategy with food industry-accepted solvents used to extract high-value compounds efficiently. Ethanol was the most effective solvent, outperforming acetone, ethyl acetate, and hexane. An upscaled extraction process was conducted using 10 g lyophilized microalgae. After ethanol evaporation, the microalgal extract was re-diluted in sunflower oil and encapsulated in alginate beads, achieving an encapsulation yield of 93.3 %. Lutein, identified as one of the main compounds in the extract, exhibited a satisfactory encapsulation efficiency of 55 %. The efficient encapsulation of the microalgae components in alginate beads was verified by the alteration of the colorimetric parameters of these alginate beads compared to those loaded with pure sunflower oil as well as empty beads. These findings highlight the potential of microalgae as a valuable tool for transforming food industry wastewater into high-value products, especially when microalgal extract is encapsulated in alginate beads. This strategy presents substantial prospects for the food industry, merging effective wastewater valorization with biomass production and bioactive compound extraction. It exemplifies a circular bioeconomy, showcasing sustainable resource management and value creation.

Gas Science and Engineering, Volume 126, June 2024, 205346

Abstract

The comprehensive and meticulous assessment of methane (CH4) emissions stemming from the natural gas industry stands as an imperative endeavor in steering the natural gas industry toward a trajectory of low-carbon sustainability. This study has meticulously constructed detailed facility-level inventories for CH4 emissions within China's natural gas industry and used a bottom-up approach to fully account for both direct and indirect CH4 emissions. The findings reveal a notable increase in CH4 emissions within the natural gas industry in China, rising from 2.04 Mt in 2012 to 3.94 Mt in 2021. Regionally, Shaanxi, Sichuan, and Xinjiang emerged as the primary emission contributors in 2020, signifying a shift from northeastern and northern China to northwestern and southwestern regions during the 2012–2020 period. The fluctuations in emissions, both overall and regionally, closely align with the evolving landscape of China's natural gas sector. Projections for future CH4 emissions indicate a continued upward trajectory in tandem with industry growth. Consequently, the study emphasizes the urgency of implementing emission reduction measures in China's natural gas industry. Timely intervention is crucial to ensuring the orderly progression of the industry while effectively curbing the associated CH4 emissions.

Economic Analysis and Policy, Volume 82, June 2024, Pages 1446-1458

Abstract

Amidst pressing global needs for environmental protection and sustainable development, the international community expects corporations to play a vital role, balancing profit pursuits with environmental responsibility. As the world's second-largest economy and a manufacturing giant, China's environmental governance and corporate models become a research centerpiece. Using the panel data of Chinese A-share heavy polluting industry listed companies from 2013 to 2020, and adopting the Linear-In-Means Model, this paper proposes for the first time that the corporate environmental financial integration is significantly influenced by the peer enterprises. Further research finds that: 1) Peer effect is more significant in private enterprises than state-owned enterprises. 2)The peer effect of environmental pollution integration of heavily polluting enterprises is sticky, mainly reflected in the effect of focus enterprises following peer enterprises to reduce their own environmental financial integration is stronger than the effect of following peer enterprises to upgrade synchronously. And this kind of stickiness is more significant in private enterprises. 3) The institutional pressure has a role in promoting the peer effect of enterprise environmental financial integration, and more significant in state-owned enterprises. Delving into the dynamics of Chinese enterprises in environmental management and financial strategies serves not only to excavate lessons from China's experience but also contributes to the global reservoir of wisdom on environmental protection and green development.

Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 459, 25 June 2024, 142573

Abstract

The textiles and apparel industry is a major contributor to economic development while at the same time being one of the most polluting industries due to its lengthy supply chain and resource intensive production operations. To address these sustainability challenges, digitalization is seen as one of the potential solutions. Using the lens of sustainability and digitalization in Supply Chain Management (SCM), this paper analyses the sustainability and digitalization status of Dutch textile and apparel firms. We used a mixed methodology of quantitative text mining of 94 Dutch textile and apparel firms as well as qualitative thematic and coding analysis of experts’ views and opinions on sustainability and digitalization in the Dutch textiles and apparel industry. Quantitative analysis of website data shows that Dutch textile and apparel firms predominantly communicate the environmental, to a lesser extent social, and least of all economic sustainability factors. Keyword analysis also shows that the use of technological keyword indicators is less prominent, while certain technologies such as IoT, sensors and blockchain correlate mostly to environmental sustainability factors. Moreover, qualitative analysis reveals that to address sustainability via digitalization, it is important to link sustainability goals to Key Performance Indicators, which requires data for traceability. We recommend firms to: (1) re-evaluate their business models and assess the extent traceability can be incorporated in their sustainability strategy; (2) enhance stakeholder collaboration within and outside the supply chain to utilize traceability; and (3) proactively use traceability information to improve transparency and accountability to meet legal requirements and address greenwashing. This study contributes to literature by showing the importance of traceability for (a) linking sustainability and digitalization in SCM, b) achieving the ultimate goals of transparency and accountability, and c) predicting demand and supply to address overproduction and waste in the textiles and apparel sector.

Energy Research & Social Science, Volume 112, June 2024, 103525

Abstract

The chemical industry plays a critical role in achieving climate neutrality. While several recent studies have concluded that a greenhouse gas-neutral chemical industry is technically feasible, implementation seems to lag behind. This study addresses this issue and contributes to the literature on corporate sustainability by providing a contextual perspective of tensions. Specifically, this study investigates perceived tensions of sustainability managers in their chemical firms' quest to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and how they react to these tensions. The study thereby draws on paradox theory. A qualitative content analysis of interviews with sustainability managers from 22 chemical companies in Germany identifies six tensions, of which four occur very frequently. The responses are grouped into four categories: Business success vs. GHG savings (1), Missing availability (2), GHG savings vs other ecological impact (3) and Desire for sustainability vs. actual behaviour (4). Energy is identified as an overarching topic through which the tensions are linked. Therefore, it is concluded that the response to tensions, as well as the framework conditions around energy, determine if the tensions are either amplified or reduced.