GIS Analysis Research Articles

Assessment of Radon Concentration and Health Hazards in Natural Spring Water of a Sub-Himalayan District

The objective of this study was to evaluate the extent of radon contamination in twenty-six drinking water samples from natural springs were collected from Dhirkot Azad Kashmir, along with four bottled mineral water samples. Radon gas escapes from the earth’s crust due to uranium ores and diffuses into the atmosphere. This study assessed the levels of radon concentration, the yearly effective radiation dose, and carcinogenic risk from radon exposure in drinking water samples. The radon concentration varied from 0.28 to 30.25 Bq/L. The mean radon concentration of all samples was found to be 7.86 ± 2.3 Bq/L. The radon concentrations in bottled drinking water were found to be lower than those in natural springs. The statistical and GIS analyses included the use of interpolation and Pearson’s correlation matrix. Seven samples had radon concentration that surpassed the standard limit established by the US-EPA, which is 11 Bq/L. The average annual effective dose from inhalation and ingestion was found to be lower than the value (0.1 mSv/y) provided by the WHO, but for some natural spring water samples, it exceeded the risk limit. The cancer risk revealed that 40% of the samples had an elevated lifetime cancer risk from radon exposure. Overall, the majority of the results obtained aligned with the worldwide guidelines established by the US-EPA. However, there were a few instances where the limits were exceeded, and constant monitoring is recommended. This study establishes a baseline for radon concentration in the area and provides a basis for future studies.

The toxic legacy of artisanal and informal mining: XRF and gis analysis of soil contamination by Hg, Pb and As in the Secocha annex, Camaná, Peru

Hg, used as the main input in the gold amalgamation process in artisanal mining, along with lead Pb and As present in the toxic waste resulting from mining activity, cause serious effects on the environment and human health, as it occurs in the Secocha annex (Camaná, Peru). The objectives of the present study were to determine the concentrations of Hg, Pb, and As in the soil of the Secocha annex, evaluate the level of contamination of the site, determine the spatial distribution of contamination and the concentrations of the evaluated elements, and determine the origin of these contaminants. To achieve these objectives, satellite imagery, field sampling, X-ray fluorescence techniques, soil quality environmental regulations, geo-accumulation indices (Igeo), and geographic information system techniques were used. The results revealed maximum concentrations of 350 and 176.6 mg/kg for Hg and Pb, respectively. Of the 72 soil samples collected, the concentrations of Hg located within the urban/industrial area, where gold recovery activities are carried out, exceeded environmental regulations to a greater extent. In turn, the calculated Igeo revealed extreme soil contamination (5 < Igeo) due to the presence of Hg in most of the study area (95%), followed by moderate to heavy contamination (2 < Igeo < 3) due to the presence of Pb and As (0.5 and 5%, respectively). To reduce contamination and the concentrations of the evaluated elements, it is recommended to carry out studies to reuse inputs, change gold processing methodologies, and/or relocate the generated waste.

Groundwater quality analysis in Hail region of northwest Saudi Arabia based on physicochemical investigation

The acquired groundwater data from seventeen wells were hydrochemically analyzed for Sulfate, Chloride, Ammonia, Nitrate, Nitrite, pH, EC (Electrical Conductivity), TDS (Total Dissolved Solids), total hardness, and total alkalinity concentrations and then compared to the national and international standards. The results range as follows: pH (6.65–8.26), EC (382–1214 μS·cm−1), Total hardness (72–310 ppm), TDS (258–775 ppm), Total alkalinity (54–138 ppm), Cl- (19–202 ppm), Ammonia (NH3) (0.0 to 1.5 mg/liter), Nitrate (NO3) (4.7 to 65.6 ppm), Nitrite (NO2) (0.007 to 0.05 ppm), and sulfate (SO4) (29–278 ppm). About 70.58 % of the study area’s groundwater samples have TDS levels below 500 mg/l, which are considered safe for drinking. The EC of the groundwater found that 100 % of the samples fall within the allowed level. Based on these results, the groundwater quality is suitable for drinking and irrigation purposes in Hail region. Hence, this research shows that using GIS and chemical analysis of groundwater could be useful tools for the decision-making process of local and international authorities and water resources management.

Revitalizing Rural Landscapes: Applying Cultural Landscape Gene Theory for Sustainable Spatial Planning in Linpu Village

In the context of rapid urbanization, it is imperative to address the preservation and sustainable development of rural landscapes. This study introduces a novel framework using cultural landscape gene theory to enhance the landscape spatial pattern of Linpu Village, China. Employing a multi-method approach, including data collection and historical data analysis, GIS analysis, and field surveys, we analyze the village’s landscape features and identify a well-preserved “one core, two wings” spatial configuration with diminishing accessibility from the center to the periphery. The study uncovers significant challenges to landscape coherence and legibility, including landscape element discontinuity, inadequate maintenance, and fragmented information. To address these issues, we propose optimization strategies aimed at revitalizing weakened cultural landscape genes, repairing disrupted elements, ensuring corridor integrity, and improving spatial organization. The extraction–construction–analysis–preservation model established in this research not only delivers a comprehensive analysis of Linpu’s cultural landscape but also offers a scalable framework for preserving the ecological and cultural integrity of traditional villages. This study contributes to the practical implementation of sustainable landscape strategies, enhancing the ecological adaptability and resilience of rural environments in the face of urban encroachment.

The Spatial Analysis of Traditional Rice Terrace Villages in Bali, Indonesia and Ifugao, Philippines Using a Syntactic Approach

Abstract Villages, characterized by rice terraces (RT) and traditional settlements, are cultural landscape heritage that necessitates conservation. These spaces play a crucial role in maintaining environmental, historical, economic values and fostering identify formation and evolution of communities. As such, this research, designed as a comparative study, investigated the spatial characteristics and arrangement of traditional rice terrace (RT) villages in Indonesia and the Philippines, focusing on Tegallalang and Batad. Employing a syntactic approach and Lynch’s imageability framework, the study analyzed paths, edges, districts, and landmarks to assess RT villages. Data integration included GIS analysis, semi-structured interviews, field visits, and literature reviews. Findings revealed distinct spatial features influenced by individual history and sociocultural context, emphasizing the interplay between geography, culture, and village structure. Additionally, the study highlights the impact of village layout on broader aspects such as tourism dynamics and economic activities. Insights from Tegallalang and Batad inform strategies for cultural heritage conservation, community empowerment, and environmental sustainability in village settings. Ultimately, this research contributes to understanding rural communities and their landscape dynamics, informing village planning for long-term sustainability.

Identification of drought-induced forest damage in 2022 and of its key site condition drivers through satellite imagery

Abstract An extensive discoloration (yellowing, browning), and defoliation (leaf loss) were observed in Slovak forests during the summer of 2022. These phenomena are attributed to the combination of very low atmospheric precipitation and extremely high air temperatures from June to early August. In this study, the deterioration of forest health was analysed by comparing the image classification of Sentinel-2 satellite data from the year of intense drought occur-rence, 2022, with that from a referenced year without drought occurrence, 2020. The results indicated that in 2022, the proportion of heavily damaged stands with defoliation exceeding 50% doubled, reaching 19.3% (417,000 ha), and an area of 223,000 ha experienced an increase in defoliation by 30% or more. The damage exhibited an uneven spatial distribution, with the most significant impact observed in the western and southern parts of central Slovakia, as well as partially in the southern part of eastern Slovakia. Further GIS analyses revealed that forests growing on slopes with southern aspects suffered more severe damage than with northern exposures. However, the difference between the most damaged forests with south-southeast exposure (12.2%) and the least damaged ones with north-northwest exposure (8.2%) was only 4%. The level of damage gradually decreased with increasing altitude. Nevertheless, compared to previous studies, the damage was significantly manifested even in the fourth forest vegetation zone, up to an elevation of approximately 800 m. Regarding soil texture, which influences the water regime, the damage gradually decreased with decreasing sand content, ranging from sandy soils (17.5%) to clayey soils (6.6%).

Assessment of spatio-temporal dynamics of mangrove forest in Teluk Pangpang, Banyuwangi, East Java, Indonesia

Abstract. Hidayah Z, Rachman HA, Wiyanto DB. 2024. Assessment of spatio-temporal dynamics of mangrove forest in Teluk Pangpang, Banyuwangi, East Java, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 25: 3138-3150. Mangrove forest in Teluk Pangpang, Banyuwangi District, East Java, Indonesia is located in a semi-enclosed bay area on the east coast of Java Island and bordering with Bali Strait. Since 2020, this location has been designated as an Essential Ecosystem Area (EEA) by the Indonesia Ministry of Environment and Forestry. Regardless of its designation as an EEA, information on vegetation stucture and spatio-temporal changes of Teluk Pangpang’s mangrove forest is limited. The availability of multi-temporal medium to high-resolution satellite imagery data enables researchers to monitor the condition of mangrove ecosystem using long-term data and reliable spatial continuity. The objective of this study is to investigate vegetation community structure of mangrove forest in Teluk Pangpang, as well as to determine the changes in extent and condition of mangrove forest measured as Mangrove Health Index (MHI) between 2015 and 2023 using remote sensing and GIS analysis. Spatio-temporal dynamics of MHI was determined using Sentinel-2 imagery data from 2015, 2018 and 2023. Meanwhile, a series of extensive survey in 15 transects with a total of 75 plots were conducted to obtain field data. The results showed that Rhizophora apiculata Blume and R. mucronata Lam. were the most important species with Important Value Index (IVI) of 140.91 and 148.24, respectively. Meanwhile, Sentinel-2 image processing results revealed a major increase in mangrove’s area, from 643.35 ha in 2015 to 737.51 ha in 2023. Furthermore, MHI analysis indicated improving conditions of mangrove ecosystem, as evidenced by the significant increased of mangroves area at the excellent MHI category (MHI>66.8) from 11.00 ha in 2015 to 175.86 ha in 2023. Based on Principal Component Analysis (PCA) several environmental parameters were strongly correlated to MHI including salinity, DO, TSS and mangrove’s diversity index. The findings of this study, primarily the application of MHI approach, may provide an alternative strategy for monitoring the dynamics of vegetation cover of mangrove forest in Teluk Pangpang and other mangrove areas in Indonesia.

GIS analysis for the selection of optimal sites for mine water geothermal energy application: a case study of Scotland's mining regions

Water within flooded coal mines can be abstracted via boreholes or shafts, where heat can be extracted from (or rejected to) it to satisfy surface heating (or cooling) demands. Following use, water can be reinjected into the mine workings or discharged to a surface water receptor. Four criteria have been applied, using ArcGIS, to datasets describing mine workings and mine water below the Midland Valley of Scotland to provide an initial screening tool for suitability for mine water geothermal energy exploitation. The criteria are: (i) the presence of two or more worked coal seams below site; (ii) the absence of potentially unstable shallow (<30 m) workings; (iii) a depth to mine water piezometric head of less than 60 m; and (iv) a depth of coal mine workings of less than 250 m. The result is the Mine Water Geothermal Resource Atlas for Scotland (MiRAS). MiRAS suggests that a total area of 370 km 2 is ‘optimal’ for mine water geothermal development across 19 local authority areas, with greatest coverage in North Lanarkshire. This result should not be taken to suggest that mine water geothermal potential does not exist at locations outside the identified ‘optimal’ footprint. The MiRAS does not preclude the necessity for specialist engineering and geological input during a full feasibility study.

Utilization of Data Visualization Tools to Inform Decision-Making Among Health Managers in Selected Counties, in Kenya

The study aimed to investigate the factors influencing the utilization of data visualization tools among County and Sub County Health Managers in eight selected counties in Kenya. The research focused on how individual characteristics, technological, organizational, and behavioral factors impact the use of these tools in decision-making. The mixed methods approach included quantitative data from structured questionnaires and qualitative data from interviews. Out of the targeted 160 respondents, 149 participated, giving a response rate of 93%. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26 for quantitative analysis and thematic content analysis for qualitative data. The findings revealed that all four factors significantly influence decision-making. Individual characteristics had a positive correlation coefficient of 0.504, technological factors 0.784, organizational factors 0.776, and behavioral factors 0.404, all statistically significant. The study showed that 82.3% of the variance in data visualization tool utilization could be explained by these factors. The regression analysis demonstrated positive relationships between each factor and the use of data visualization tools. The study concluded that individual characteristics, such as training, significantly influence decision-making and recommended further training for healthcare managers in advanced data analysis, epidemiology, data presentation, interpretation, data mining, modeling, GIS, monitoring, evaluation, data analytics, and predictive analysis.

Morphometric characteristics of the relief and assessment of erosional hazards of the Kalaus River basin, Russia, based on digital modelling

In this work, the main goal was to analyse the erosional hazards within the boundaries of the Kalaus River catchment area.The paper analyses the erosive state of the region's lands, for which industry and cadastral maps, a digital elevation model and satellite images were used. Official data of ministries and departments were used. Geographic information systems – QGIS and SAGA GIS – served as the basis for modelling. The article presents the results of GIS modeling of erosional hazards in the territory of the Kalaus River basin. Based on the (DEM) SRTM digital elevation model, the basic morphometric indicators of the relief were calculated: steepness of the slopes and vertical and horizontal dissection of the relief. Based on morphometric indicators, an integral calculation of the energy of relief and erosion hazard was carried out and a series of relevant thematic maps was created. The values of slope steepness obtained within the boundaries of the basin range from 0° to 51° with average values of 2.5°. The horizontal dissection varies in the range from 0 to 0.84 km/km2, and the erosion bases are characterized by a range of values from – 15.0 to 248.6 m, with an average value of 33.0 m. The formation of the erosional potential of the basin’s relief is facilitated by the location of a significant part of the region on the spurs of the Stavropol Upland, which have widely developed slopes. Based on the calculated raster of the integral energy index of the relief, 3 categories of erosional hazard are identified. Most of the basin of the Kalaus River (58.4 %) is characterised by a low erosion hazard, another 39.0 % of the territory presents an average erosion hazard, and the remaining 2.9 % belongs to territories with a strong erosion hazard. The classification of relief surface shapes based on the Iwahashi and Pike method, which was carried out on the basis of a DEM, shows a much greater prevalence of steep slopes with high convexity in the southern part of the Kalaus River basin.The identified features of the level of erosional hazard of the lands of the Kalaus River basin are recommended to be taken into account in preinvestment, pre‐design and urban project planning of the territories of administrative units located within the boundaries of the basin. Despite the fact that the results of GIS analysis cannot completely replace field erosion surveys, their value as a tool for planning rational land use is obvious. The results of the work can be used to carry out a similar assessment in other regions, primarily in the organisation of agricultural production.

Assessing volcanic hazard and exposure in a data poor context: Case study for Ethiopia, Kenya, and Cabo Verde

Volcanoes produce a wide variety of hazards across varying spatial and temporal scales. When data are scarce on past eruptions and hazards, it can falsely imply low hazard recurrence and create challenges for robust hazard and risk assessment. Data quality and quantity vary considerably across different regions, volcanoes, and eruptions. Yet, there is a need for regional to global scale information on volcanic hazard and risk, where consistent and reproducible methods are applied. Such information is used by international stakeholders to inform funding priorities, risk reduction policies, and to highlight data and knowledge gaps, contributing towards the Sendai Framework's Sustainable Development Goals. Challenges in gathering this information can be most problematic where large populations are exposed to potential volcanic hazards but there are few comprehensive eruptive histories, as in sub-Saharan Africa. Here, we present a unique study to evaluate hazard and exposure for nine volcanoes in Ethiopia, Kenya and Cabo Verde, as part of an international project to develop multi-hazard Disaster Risk Country Profiles. We applied a two-stage expert elicitation process to volcanoes for the first time, and coupled the results with vent mapping, numerical hazard modelling, and GIS analysis of eight exposure categories to identify where high volcanic hazard and exposure coincide. Testing the sensitivity of our findings to input assumptions, to better understand where uncertainties lay, showed that improving our knowledge of past eruption volumes, frequencies, and dates was key to reducing uncertainty. Expert elicitations proposed that Fogo, Cabo Verde, is the most likely to erupt (eruption on average every 25 years), while Fentale (Ethiopia), Longonot and Suswa (Kenya) were elicited to have the greatest probability for a large explosive (VEI ≥ 4) eruption (on average every 400 years). Menengai and Longonot produce the larger exposure values across most VEI scenarios and categories of exposure, but population and GDP exposure was also large for more distal tephra fall and flows at Corbetti and Suswa, with order of magnitude increases expected between 2010 estimates and 2050 projections. Potentially high impact scenarios include tephra being dispersed across large cities (e.g. Nairobi, 55 km from Suswa) and key infrastructure (e.g. geothermal power station ∼2.5 km from Aluto), as well as important tourist destinations, seats of government and emergency management operations (e.g. islands east of Fogo). This study provided the first hazard and exposure assessment of its kind for these volcanoes and drew attention to volcanic risk at the levels required to inform policy and future in-country funding opportunities.

Use Remote Sensing, GIS and Regression Analysis in Monitoring Water Quality of Al-Gharraf River Southern of Iraq

Water quality of Al-Gharraf River, the largest branch of Tigris River south of Iraq, was evaluated using the first seven bands Landsat-8 OLI images acquired on 19 January 2017, 24 April 2017, 14 July 2017 and 20 November 2017, at twenty-one measured stations along the Al-Gharraf River. The multiple linear regression models were developed to found the relationship between the water quality parameters (CHL-a, DOM, NTU, TSS, and TDS), as independent variables and Landsat 8 OLI spectral data as dependent variables. Among these models, the most appropriate models with highest R2 value were selected. Once the developed models applied in order to have maps with a variation of colors can be used to estimate the water quality classification at any point along the river.

Evaluate the Economic Benefits of Investing in Early Warning System for Floods Management

This study evaluated the economic benefits of early Warning services for floods in Rubavu district, in Rwanda, focusing on gender distribution, awareness, satisfaction, and perceived economic advantages. Survey data from 180 respondents indicated high awareness among both genders, with generally satisfactory perceptions of existing systems. Economic benefits included job creation and business protection, with positive technological perceptions correlating with higher perceived benefits. Recommendations included funding allocation, collaboration, research, and community engagement to enhance system effectiveness. The research aimed to assess the economic advantages of investing in flood early warning systems in Rubavu District, proposing strategies for funding alongside climate change adaptation. It marked the first empirical investigation into the correlation between investment, flood-related losses, and socio-economic development across various economies. Methodological instruments such as questionnaires, interviews, GIS, remote sensing, and statistical analysis were employed. The study found a positive relationship between investment and flood- related losses, supported by a statistically significant p- value of 0.0379. This indicates ample evidence for correlation between the variables. Thus, the study emphasized the importance of early notice systems in vindicating flood economic impressions and advocated for concerted efforts to maximize socio-economic benefits in Rubavu district.

A Reflection on the Implementation of a Waterfront Greenway from a Social–Ecological Perspective: A Case Study of Huangyan-Taizhou in China

In recent years, awareness has grown of the vital importance of ecological systems, provoking increased research into how to improve their resilience. Here, one popular new technical/management solution is the creation of greenways along riversides. In practice, however, the practical outcomes of such greenways have sometimes been disappointing due to an excessive focus on technical solutions at the expense of a sufficient consideration of the social impact. This study intends to reflect on the problem by looking at the dynamics of land use for ecosystem functions at the macro scale as well as the relationship between the implementation of greenways and the local demand for diverse everyday activities, in particular, recreation opportunities, at the micro scale. Based on this, it aims to reveal practical solutions to bridge ecological usages and everyday needs that achieve better preservation and services of ecosystems. Taking the greenways along the Yongning River (YRG), which runs through the urban–rural areas and the urban–rural interface of Huangyan-Taizhou, as a case study, GIS analysis and anthropology approaches were applied. The results show that the YRG has systematically improved the riparian ecosystems by better connecting the eco-land use and preserving the waterfront. At the same time, its ability to fulfil the large potential for leisure and recreation services needs to improve. Residents living in different parts of the city had disparate requirements depending on their patterns of daily behaviour. We conclude that the successful implementation of greenways in cities should not only consider technological and nature-based solutions but also consider the socio-cultural background. The diversity of local needs regarding everyday activities and recreation will lead to an equivalent diversity in riparian landscape design.

Evaluation of potential human health risks arising from nitrate and fluoride in the groundwater of Aurangabad, Bihar using GIS and chemometric analysis.

This study employed the groundwater pollution index to assess the appropriateness of groundwater for human consumption. Additionally, the hazard index was utilized to evaluate the potential non-carcinogenic risks associated with fluoride and nitrate exposure among children, women, and men in the study region. A total of 103 samples were collected from the Aurangabad district of Bihar. The analyzed samples were assessed using several physicochemical parameters. Major cations in the groundwater are Ca2+ > Mg2+ and major anions are HCO3- > Cl- > SO42- > NO3- > F- > PO43-. Around 17% of the collected groundwater samples surpassed the allowable BIS concentration limits for Nitrate, while approximately 11% surpassed the allowed limits for fluoride concentration. Principal component analysis was utilized for its efficacy and efficiency in the analytical procedure. Four principal components were recovered that explained 69.06% of the total variance. The Hazard Quotient (HQ) of nitrate varies between 0.03-1.74, 0.02-1.47, and 0.03-1.99 for females, males, and children, respectively. The HQ of fluoride varies between 0.04-1.59, 0.04-1.34, and 0.05-1.82 for females, males, and children, respectively. The central part of the district was at high risk according to the spatial distribution maps of the total hazard index (THI). Noncarcinogenic risks due to THI are 47%, 37%, and 28% for children, females, and males, respectively. According to the human health risk assessment, children are more prone to getting affected by polluted water than adults. The groundwater pollution index (GPI) value ranges from 0.46 to 2.27 in the study area. Seventy-five percent of the samples fell under minor pollution and only one fell under high pollution. The spatial distribution of GPI in the research area shows that the central region is highly affected, which means that this water is unsuitable for drinking purposes.

Optimal landfill site selection through the application of GIS analysis & geotechnical investigation

ABSTRACT Disposal of municipal solid waste is a significant environmental issue that has detrimental effects on both the environment and human life. The selection of landfill sites is critical and essential to implementing a comprehensive waste management strategy. This study optimizes the selection of landfill sites in Kuwait through the use of overlay analysis and Geographic Information System in conjunction with multi-criteria decision analysis. The study analysis takes into account human, physical economical, environmental, and governmental factors. Seven optimal locations are depicted on the resulting suitability map, each occupying 10 square kilometres or more and have the capacity to handle solid waste for at least one decade per site, considering the current reported waste generation rate. Furthermore, results of a preliminary geotechnical investigation encompassing field and laboratory tests conducted on soil samples collected at one of the proposed sites are presented. The characterization of the retrieved samples included major geotechnical parameters that are of concern in landfill design and siting studies. The results indicate that the soil at the proposed site exhibited low values of hydraulic conductivity, ranging between 3.50 X 10−07 and 8.96 X 10−08 cm/sec, confirming its suitability for siting landfills. There is an urgent need to develop and implement an integrated waste management system in Kuwait. By leveraging the findings of this study, policymakers and governmental authorities can optimize their decision-making procedures to ensure more effective site selection. This approach will significantly reduce contamination risks and enhance sustainability, leading to a more environmentally responsible waste management system in the country.

A Preliminary Study of Past Geological Disasters in the Trowulan Majapahit Cultural Heritage Area, Mojokerto Regency, East Java

Abstract Numerous sites found buried in the Trowulan Cultural Heritage Area makes the area suspected of being the capital of the Majapahit Kingdom (13-15th century). The condition of the buried site raises an assumption of a past catastrophic event that hit and buried part of Trowulan area, causing the downfall of the Majapahit Kingdom. This assumption is supported by the existence of several books and inscriptions from the Majapahit Kingdom period that record events interpreted as geological disasters. Although there is a lot of evidence, however, what kind of geological disaster that hit the Trowulan area is not known for certain. This study aims to identify what kind geological disasters that buried the Trowulan Capital area based on previous studies and GIS analysis. The results inferred that flash floods and volcanic eruptions contributed to the burial of Trowulan Capital Region, which is supported by the geographical conditions of the capital city of Trowulan where the northern part is a flood plain and the southern part is part of the Jatirejo alluvial fan. Stratigraphic data collection needs to be carried out in the future as supporting evidence to know the detailed sequence of disaster events and the direction of the disaster flow.

Assessment of land-based negative emissions options in Thailand

To keep the average global temperature below 1.5 °C as specified under the Paris Agreement, implementing negative emissions technologies (NETs) is imperative. This study aims to put a spotlight on negative emissions as a possible climate change mitigation option by establishing an assessment of land-based NETs in Thailand. The assessment is based on GIS analysis to identify possible lands for implementing NETs and existing factors to estimate the carbon removal potential of each technology. Different implementation scenarios are analyzed to explore the maximum implementation potential. The results show that 3% − 32% of Thailand’s areas would be available for NETs implementation depending on the land constraints of each option. Moreover, the literatures point out that Thailand is suitable for some NET options, which could increase the potential of NETs implementation. In terms of carbon removal potential, the combination of selected options could help Thailand compensate approximately 29% to 100% of the annual greenhouse gas emissions and achieve the target of Thailand’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC).

Evaluation of Coal-Seam Roof-Water Richness Based on Improved Weight Method: A Case Study in the Dananhu No.7 Coal Mine, China

The safety of mines is a top priority in the mining industry, and a precise assessment of aquifer water levels is crucial for conducting a risk analysis of water-related disasters. Among them, the GIS-based water abundance index method is widely used in water-richness evaluation. However, the existing research lacks sufficient determination of evaluation indicator weights, specifically in the following aspects: (1) failure to consider the information differences between indicators and (2) inadequate differentiation of the relative importance of each indicator and their importance to the evaluation target. Taking the No.3 coal roof of Dananhu No.7 coal mine as the research object, six factors are selected as the main indexes for evaluating water richness. The weights were calculated using an improved entropy method and the scatter degree method, with the principle of information entropy used to reconcile the competitive and consistent relationship between the two evaluation methods. This approach resulted in the determination of combination weights for each influencing factor, highlighting the information differences between indicators and the importance of each indicator. Finally, the evaluation of aquifer water richness is partitioned by combining the GIS analysis function. The findings suggest that the Ⅰ division has low water richness, while the Ⅱ division is primarily medium-to-high water rich. The accuracy of the evaluation results exceeds 80%, providing valuable insights for hydrophobic programs for other coal-seam roofs.

Integrating Passive Biomonitoring and Active Monitoring: Spider Web Silk and Portable Instruments for Air Quality in Urban Areas

Urban areas worldwide face significant challenges from increasing air pollution, posing health risks and environmental concerns. Lahore, a major city in Pakistan, is particularly affected by severe air pollution due to rapid industrial growth, high vehicle emissions, and various human activities. Traditional air quality monitoring methods, while effective, are often costly and complex, limiting their widespread use. This study investigates a dual monitoring system combining passive biomonitoring with spider web silk and active measurements using portable instruments to assess airborne pollutants in urban environments. Spider webs, collected from various sites in Lahore, were analyzed for heavy metals, while portable instruments simultaneously measured PM2.5, PM10, total volatile organic contents, formaldehyde, and carbon monoxide at the same locations. A spatial distribution analysis using GIS and statistical analysis revealed a pattern with significant changes as per land use in the urban environment related to anthropogenic activities. The Principal Component Analysis revealed three distinct clusters of pollutants origins consisting of: I) effluent drains and landfills, II) construction sites, and III) residential areas. The concentrations of Hg in spider silk (average ~ 2.66 mg/kg) were found to be significantly higher in the northeastern part of Lahore, with a similar trend observed in Cd, Cu, Ni, and As levels (average ~ 15.45, 102.87, 31.72, and 6.64, respectively). Several-fold changes in levels and spatial distribution of Pb (15.12 to 356.41 mg/kg) showed a higher concentration in the northern and northeastern parts of Lahore. The spatial variation pattern of Cr (average~ 57.04 mg/kg) registered a higher concentration in southwestern Lahore. Ambient air levels of measured pollutants followed almost similar patterns in spatial distribution. PM2.5 and PM10 measured higher levels (195 and 226 μg/m3, respectively) in the southwestern and northwestern areas, with a similar pattern of variation observed in TVOC (average ~ 0.14 μg/m3). The concentration of HCHO (average ~ 0.003 μg/m3) was higher in the southwest of Lahore. All measured pollutants registered higher values than air quality standards. Particulate matter is the most dominant pollutant contributing to air pollution (up to 20x higher than WHO guidelines). The findings support the use of a dual monitoring system, integrating passive spider web silk biomonitoring and active portable instruments, as a scalable and sustainable solution for air quality management. This approach holds potential for global application in diverse urban environments, with future research focusing on further validation and integration with advanced remote sensing technologies to enhance air quality monitoring and contribute to improved public health and environmental management worldwide. Hence, this research work points to the potential use of spider silk as a biomonitoring tool in combination with instrumental measurement of ambient air pollutants.