Dynamic evaluation of air pollution in Ahvaz: Source apportionment, SWOT-AHP analysis, and innovative control strategies

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; line-height: 150%;"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 宋体; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">Climate change, a major challenge of the 21st century, is increasing the frequency and intensity of urban flooding, particularly in Sahelian cities. In Bol, in the Lac province of Chad, this dynamic has increased the frequency and intensity of flooding, making this risk a recurring threat to the city in recent years. This study aims to map the physical vulnerability (susceptibility) to flooding in the city of Bol using an integrated approach combining remote sensing, geographic information systems (GIS) and the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). Eight key physical factors (precipitation, altitude, slope, land use, distance to watercourses, soil type, drainage density and flow accumulation) were analy</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 宋体; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">z</span><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 宋体; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">ed and weighted using the AHP. The results show that 16.19% of Bol’s surface area is highly susceptible to flooding, and 28.08% is highly susceptible, concentrated mainly in low-lying areas and near watercourses. Surveys of 385 households confirm the recurrence of flooding and its significant impact on housing. The map produced is an essential decision-making tool for communities, decision-makers and urban stakeholders in planning actions to reduce current and future flood risks in the city of Bol. However, the lack of quantitative validation of the model is a methodological limitation, opening the door to future research incorporating uncertainty and exposure analyses.</span></p>

The quality, quantity and accessibility of urban greenspaces and green infrastructure offer multiple benefits for city dwellers, the environment and urban sustainability. Green infrastructure provides a wide range of environmental, social, cultural, climate change adaptation, and mitigation benefits. However, for green infrastructure to do so, it needs to be integrated into national policy and city-planning strategies in ways that recognize its value and importance. Consequently, consistency and coherence between policy sectors and levels is essential. The more prominent urban green infrastructure is in national level policy, the easier it will be to ensure coherence and consistency between sectors and levels, as well as avoid national and local initiatives hindering each other's effectiveness. Integrating urban green infrastructure into planning processes should be a priority for all cities, but even more so for those in sub-Saharan Africa, which are undergoing rapid expansion. Here we focus on Malawi, one of the most rapidly urbanizing countries in sub-Saharan Africa. We collated and reviewed national-level and city-level policies and strategies, ranging from housing to transport to biodiversity, in order to determine, based on vertical and horizontal integration processes, whether urban greenspaces and green infrastructure have been incorporated into planning and management priorities. We found little evidence that urban greenspaces and green infrastructure are incorporated into national-level decision-making processes. In contrast, promoting and enhancing urban greenspace and green infrastructure was a priority in planning and strategy documents produced by the Lilongwe and Mzuzu City Councils. Better institutional coordination and policy coherence across national level sectors that affect urban greenspaces and green infrastructure is required if their multiple benefits are to be realized.

<span style="font-size: 11pt;" lang="EN-GB"><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN-GB">This paper considers different choices for the optimal data model of train schedule presentation. The authors have suggested three possible models that differ in building principles, of presenting temporal data of the train schedule in Information Systems. Three popular <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">multiple-criteria decision making</span> methods were examined in order to choose the best model. The study presents the </span><span style="layout-grid-mode: line;" lang="EN-GB">Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) </span><span lang="EN-GB">as the most suitable one for comparative evaluation of different data presentation models of the train schedule. In the study, thirteen </span><span style="layout-grid-mode: line;" lang="EN-GB">evaluating</span><span lang="EN-GB"> criteria are developed</span><span lang="EN-GB"> which </span><span lang="EN-GB">are distributed in three groups: hardware, maintenance and performance.</span><span style="layout-grid-mode: line;" lang="EN-GB"> The research </span><span style="layout-grid-mode: line;" lang="EN-GB">is</span><span style="layout-grid-mode: line;" lang="EN-GB"> carried out </span><span style="layout-grid-mode: line;" lang="EN-GB">for four different classes of IS</span><span lang="EN-GB">: web-based schedule systems, mobile schedule systems, ticket sales systems and rail traffic management systems</span><span style="layout-grid-mode: line;" lang="EN-GB">.</span><span lang="EN-GB"> MS Excel 2007 was used to display the AHP method; however a visualization tool called conditional formatting has been used to present the most important criteria and the preferred alternatives.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span lang="EN-GB">http://dx.doi.org/10.13033/ijahp.v3i2.113<br /></span></p></span>

<p><em><span lang="IN">Kawasan perkotaan tidak terlepas dari permasalahan pertumbuhan penduduk dan urbanisasi yang meningkat</span><span lang="EN-US">,</span><span lang="IN"> serta keterbatasan akses penduduk terhadap layanan dasar perkotaan ya</span><span lang="EN-US">n</span><span lang="IN">g kemudian berpotensi menyebabkan munculnya kawasan permukiman kumuh. Kota Surakarta merupakan salah satu kota dengan kepadatan yang cukup tinggi sehingga mempengaruhi penggunaan lahan untuk bermukim. Pemerintah Kota Surakarta telah melakukan verifikasi data lokasi perumahan dan permukiman kumuh di Kota Surakarta antara lain Kawasan Semanggi karena memiliki tingkat kepadatan penduduk serta luas permukiman yang tinggi dibandingkan dengan kawasan lain. Kawasan padat penduduk ini menjadi perhatian khusus pemerintah karena terjadi pembangunan permukiman tanpa memperhatikan aspek kelayakan hunian dan struktur tata ruang kota. Terdapat beberapa permasalahan yang ditemukan dalam Kawasan Semanggi, yaitu masih banyak bangunan yang tidak memiliki sertifikat, status lahan Ilegal, tingginya jumlah rumah tidak layak huni, ketidakteraturan bangunan, kawasan rawan banjir, dan rendahnya sosial ekonomi masyarakat. Penelitian ini fokus untuk mengetahui faktor yang menyebabkan adanya permukiman kumuh di Kawasan Semanggi, Kota Surakarta. Pendekatan yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini yaitu pendekatan deduktif. Penelitian ini menggunakan teknik analisis </span></em><span lang="IN">Analytic Hierarchy Process </span><em><span lang="IN">(AHP) untuk menganalisis tingkat prioritas faktor yang mempengaruhi terbentuknya permukiman kumuh berdasarkan pertimbangan yang diperoleh dari responden ahli terpilih melalui </span></em><span lang="IN">expert choice</span><em><span lang="IN">. Hasil analisis AHP menunjukkan bahwa terdapat lima faktor prioritas yang menyebabkan adanya permukiman kumuh Kawasan Semanggi. Kelima faktor tersebut yaitu faktor ekonomi, faktor sarana prasarana, faktor status kepemilikan bangunan, faktor lahan perkotaan, serta faktor lama tinggal penghuni.</span></em></p>

Impact of single and combined local air pollution mitigation measures in an urban environment

<p align="justify"><span lang="en-US">Air pollution has been a hazard in China over recent decades threatening the health of half a billion people. Much effort has been devoted to mitigating air pollution in China leading to a tremendous reduction in primary pollutants emissions from 2013 to 2017, while a continuously worsening trend of surface ozone (O</span><sub><span lang="en-US">3</span></sub><span lang="en-US">, a secondary pollutant and greenhouse gas) was observed over the same period. Atmospheric oxidation, dominated by daytime reactions involving hydroxyl radicals (OH), is the critical process to convert freshly-emitted compounds into secondary pollutants, and is underestimated in current models of China’s air pollution. Halogens (chlorine, bromine, and iodine) are known to profoundly influence oxidation chemistry in the marine environment; however, their impact on atmospheric oxidation and air pollution in China is unknown. In the present study, we report for the first time that halogens substantially enhance the total atmospheric oxidation capacity in polluted areas of China, typically 10% to 20% (up to 87% in winter) and mainly by significantly increasing OH level. The enhanced oxidation along the coast is driven by oceanic emissions of bromine and iodine, and that over the inland areas by anthropogenic emission of chlorine. The extent and seasonality of halogen impact are largely explained by the dynamics of Asian monsoon, location and intensity of halogen emissions, and O</span><sub><span lang="en-US">3</span></sub><span lang="en-US"> formation regime. The omission of halogen emissions and chemistry may lead to significant errors in historical re-assessments and future projections of the evolution of atmospheric oxidation in polluted regions.</span></p>

From GI, UGI to UAGI: Ecosystem service types and indicators of green infrastructure in response to ecological risks and human needs in global metropolitan areas

Mitigating urban heat and air pollution considering green and transportation infrastructure

BackgroundReducing the mortality burden associated with urban air pollution constitutes a public health priority, and evidence of unequal exposure and susceptibility across population subgroups is growing. Many European countries have implemented low emission zones (LEZs) in densely populated city centers. Although LEZs decrease air pollution exposure and health impacts, evidence is lacking on their impact across neighborhoods and socio-economic groups.ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to evaluate the most equitable approach to implementing the second phase of the LEZ in Paris, France. We also present a literature review of the studies evaluating the benefits associated with LEZs in Europe.MethodsA health impact assessment (HIA) was conducted to quantify changes in air pollution exposure and expected health benefits by socioeconomic group and neighborhood related to four hypothetical scenarios for the second phase of the LEZ based on French Deprivation Index scores. The study focused on NO2 and PM2.5 as air pollutants and evaluated the impact of the LEZ on the inequitable burden of childhood asthma and all-cause premature adult mortality. We also conducted an economic evaluation associated with the LEZ benefits on prevented deaths and asthma cases.ResultsThe scenario with the largest LEZ perimeter and the most stringent vehicle standards prevented the highest number of cases and produced the most equitable distribution of health benefits, especially childhood asthma. It is expected that 810 deaths and 3200 cases of asthma could be prevented from the LEZ extension in this scenario. These results were distributed heterogeneously across three socioeconomic (SES) groups, most noticeably with asthma cases as 230, 180, and 210 cases were avoided per 100,000 inhabitants in high, medium, and low SES groups, respectively. We found substantial economic benefits associated with LEZ, with estimates ranging from €0.76 billion to €2.36 billion for prevented deaths. The benefits associated with asthma reduction ranged from €2.3 million to €8.3 million.DiscussionConducting HIAs with a focus on equity will further inform policy makers of the impact of LEZ models on air pollution, health, and environmental justice. Developing these systematic methods and applying them to future LEZs and other air pollution policies will increase their effectiveness to reduce the burden of ambient air pollution on society and the environment.

<p><span lang="EN-US"><strong>ABSTRACT. </strong>Activated carbon is a commonly used medium for adsorption to combat environmental pollution in both water and air. It is produced from plant or plantation waste containing carbon. Jackfruit skin, often considered as plantation waste, contains lignocellulosic compounds and has the potential to be used as active carbon. Activated carbon from jackfruit skin has a good absorption capacity and can absorb heavy metal waste such as lead (Pb). A recent study aimed to evaluate the absorption effectiveness of active carbon from jackfruit skin. The process involved making activated carbon using the pyrolysis method, and then analyzing its lead absorption capacity in lead nitrate solution by varying the weight of the activated carbon (10g, 15g, 20g, 25g, 30g) and the adsorption time in minutes (40, 60, 80, 100, 120). The levels of absorbed lead on activated carbon were tested using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS) at a wavelength of 283.3 nm. The research findings indicate that the </span><span lang="EN">effectiveness of activated carbon absorption reaches 99%</span><span lang="EN-US">, and the appropriate equation model for the adsorption process is the Freundlich isotherm, indicating a multilayer adsorption process.</span></p><p><strong><span lang="EN-US">Keywords:</span></strong></p><p><span lang="EN-US">Adsorption Isotherm, Activated Carbon Jackfruit Skin, Lead (Pb)</span></p>

The term ‘green infrastructure’ (GI) refers to a network of natural and semi-natural areas designed to provide ecosystem services. Urban green infrastructure focuses on green spaces within cities, including parks, gardens, forests, and water elements (blue infrastructure). It offers numerous benefits such as enhancing biodiversity, mitigating the urban heat island effect, acting as a carbon sink, improving air quality, aiding in stormwater management, and promoting physical and mental well-being. Urban green infrastructure also plays a crucial role in supporting regional habitat connectivity and biodiversity conservation. Urban forests play a crucial role in urban green spaces, acting as vital connectors between rural and urban areas. They serve as stepping stones and corridors for species movement, offering shelter, nesting sites, and foraging opportunities for a diverse range of organisms. However, ensuring successful ecological connectivity requires robust community engagement. Public awareness, education, and active participation in conservation efforts are essential for implementing and maintaining connectivity measures. Spatial urban planning encounters challenges in balancing social needs, financial expectations, and environmental sustainability. Key issues include identifying and designating ecological corridors and networks, integrating ecological principles into spatial planning frameworks, and leveraging technologies such as geographic information systems (GIS) and remote sensing for green space mapping and assessment. Restoring urban forest habitat patches is crucial for supporting species’ survival and migration. Conservation efforts should consider elements like trees outside of forests and spontaneous vegetation to enhance connectivity. Despite the benefits, managing urban green infrastructure comes with risks. These include biotic homogenisation, the introduction of non-native species, edge effects, human disturbances, lack of diversity, and pressure from increased housing density, all of which can negatively impact biodiversity. Various planning tools and strategies are available to mitigate these risks and ensure the successful implementation of ecological connectivity in urban green infrastructure. These strategies include incorporating green infrastructure into urban master plans, establishing protected areas and wildlife corridors, promoting sustainable land-use practices, and involving local communities and stakeholders in decision-making processes. By considering different scales and site characteristics, cities can achieve effective management of ecological connectivity and create sustainable and resilient environments.

Urban Green Infrastructure (UGI) has become a pivotal framework for addressing the interwoven challenges of rapid urbanization, climate change and environmental degradation, thereby ensuring sustainable urban development. This study presents a comprehensive review of diverse methodologies, planning tools including the Green Infrastructure Gauge (GIG) and Urban Green Space Index (UGSI) and compelling case studies that underscore UGI's role in fostering resilient and liveable urban environments. This study highlights the multifaceted benefits of UGI, notably in climate change mitigation, urban heat island reduction, biodiversity conservation, enhanced human well-being, addressing socio-economic disparities and air pollution. Despite these significant advantages, the review acknowledges persistent challenges in UGI implementation, such as limited stakeholder awareness, financial constraints, inadequate inter-agency collaboration and policy integration hurdles. Furthermore, the study explores UGI’s potential for carbon sequestration and biomass management, reinforcing the necessity of holistic urban planning frameworks to optimize ecological and social advantages. The findings firmly establish UGI as not merely an environmental necessity but a strategic imperative for sustainable urban development. This study asks for future research focused on refining UGI assessment tools and methodologies, exploring innovative financing mechanisms and strategic approaches and fostering enhanced stakeholder engagement. Ultimately, prioritizing investment and research in UGI is crucial for cities to enhance their resilience, to improve residents' quality of life and to contribute substantively to global sustainability goals, building truly resilient and liveable urban futures.

Urban Green Infrastructure (UGI) plays a pivotal role in shaping sustainable cities by integrating natural elements into the urban landscape. This comprehensive review explores the multifaceted contributions of UGI towards enhancing environmental quality, social well-being, and economic resilience in urban settings. As cities continue to grapple with challenges such as climate change, air and water pollution, and the urban heat island effect, UGI emerges as a key solution for fostering urban sustainability. The review delves into the various components of UGI, encompassing green spaces, urban forests, green roofs, and permeable surfaces. It examines how these elements collectively contribute to mitigating environmental issues by absorbing carbon dioxide, reducing air pollutants, and attenuating the impacts of extreme weather events. Additionally, UGI serves as a biodiversity hotspot, supporting diverse flora and fauna within urban boundaries. Beyond its environmental benefits, UGI significantly influences social dynamics and well-being. The presence of green spaces fosters recreational opportunities, promotes mental health, and strengthens community cohesion. Accessible and well-designed green infrastructure contributes to equitable distribution of environmental benefits, addressing environmental justice concerns in urban areas. Economically, UGI proves to be an asset for cities by enhancing property values, reducing energy consumption through temperature regulation, and supporting local businesses. The review explores successful case studies of cities that have effectively implemented UGI to achieve sustainable urban development, drawing insights into best practices and potential challenges. This comprehensive review underscores the integral role of Urban Green Infrastructure in creating sustainable and resilient cities. By addressing environmental, social, and economic dimensions, UGI emerges as a holistic approach that aligns with the evolving needs of urban populations and the imperatives of a sustainable future. Understanding the intricacies of UGI implementation provides a foundation for policymakers, urban planners, and researchers to collaboratively work towards fostering greener, healthier, and more sustainable urban environments.

Urban blue infrastructure (UBI) and urban green infrastructure (UGI) can be seen as an integrated system in which services and spatial layouts complement each other. However, given its complexity, it is difficult to integrate and optimize the layout of urban blue and green infrastructure (UBGI) in the built environment. This study develops a planning support tool for the layout integral optimization (PSTLIO) of UBGI. Using Hekou City in China as a case study, service demands and the supply of suitable land for UBGI development are assessed and mapped on geographic information system (GIS). The potential areas for UBGI development are delineated after mapping assessments of service demand and land supply and suitability. Following discussions on the exact means for PSTLIO to support the layout optimization of UBGI, a PSTLIO-based solution is developed to structure the UBGI link network and hub system, define the functions and service patterns of single UBGI components, and provide guidance for determining the scale of UBGI components. The results show that PSTLIO is able to provide a quantifiable base for decision-making in UBGI layout optimization.

<span lang="EN">This research aims to determine the priority order of work accident areas in the furniture business at CV Pesona Mebelindo. One of the urgencies of this research is that the number of work accidents in Indonesia is still relatively high, so prevention efforts are needed to minimize the number of work accidents. The method used in this research is Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP). In this method, there are three important parts, namely goals, criteria and alternatives. The aim of this research is to determine priority areas for work accidents</span><span lang="EN-ID">. </span><span lang="EN">The criteria in this research include workers, environment and equipment. Meanwhile, alternatives in this research include the raw goods room, material room, sanding room, finishing, packing and stuffing. The data collection process was obtained from questionnaires filled out by workers at CV Pesona Mebelindo which were processed into a pairwise comparison matrix, matrix normalization, determining importance weights, and calculating consistency ratios with the condition that the CR value had to be below 10%. By using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) method, the priority order of work accident areas at CV Pesona Mebelindo was obtained, namely the sanding, finishing, packing, stuffing, materials room and raw goods room</span>