Use And Disposal Research Articles

Comparative Life Cycle Assessment of Landfilling with Sustainable Waste Management Methods for Municipal Solid Wastes

Municipal solid waste (MSW) generation continues to increase exponentially, leading to the need for better disposal methods. Approximately 50% of the MSW is landfilled in the United States (US). Landfilling is known for its negative effects on the environment and human health. The objective of this study was to conduct a life cycle assessment (LCA) of some of the most common waste treatment methods and propose an alternative and environmentally friendly integrated waste management method (IWM). The LCA was conducted using OpenLCA. Replacing landfilling, incineration, and composting with recycling, gasification, and anaerobic digestion (IWM) reduced the global warming potential from 899 kg CO2 eq to −14.6 kg CO2 eq. The same trend was observed for acidification (from 0.21 kg SO2 eq to −1.1 kg SO2 eq), ecotoxicity (from 2363.8 CTUe to 1.22 CTUe), eutrophication (from 0.5 kg N eq to 0.3 kg N eq), smog formation (from 4.4 kg O3 eq to 1.85 kg O3 eq), ozone depletion (from 2.1 × 10−5 kg CFC-11 eq to 0 kg CFC-11 eq), respiratory effects (from 2.8 × 10−3 kg PM2.5 eq to −7.25 × 10−3 kg PM2.5 eq), cancer (from 2 × 10−5 CTUh to 1.2 × 10−7 CTUh), and non-cancer effects (from 6 × 10−5 to 1.4 × 10−5 CTUh). The results show that an integrated waste management approach with recycling, gasification, and anaerobic digestion can dramatically reduce the environmental and health impacts of municipal solid waste disposal. Policy reforms, technical innovation, economic investment, and social engagement are needed to change waste management paradigm.

Evaluation of barcode-assisted medication preparation technology for liquid medication doses

Abstract Disclaimer In an effort to expedite the publication of articles, AJHP is posting manuscripts online as soon as possible after acceptance. Accepted manuscripts have been peer-reviewed and copyedited, but are posted online before technical formatting and author proofing. These manuscripts are not the final version of record and will be replaced with the final article (formatted per AJHP style and proofed by the authors) at a later time. Purpose The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcomes associated with barcode-assisted medication preparation (BCMP) technology and practice workflows for oral syringe dose preparation in a health-system pharmacy department. Methods This evaluative study was conducted at a flagship quaternary academic medical center. An electronic medical record (EMR)–integrated BCMP workflow was implemented in the central pharmacy operational area to enhance the safety of oral syringe dose preparation. The primary endpoints assessed compliance with BCMP implementation and the rate at which potential preparation errors were identified. The secondary endpoints evaluated operational markers of dose preparation batching, information technology enhancement needs, and medication waste avoidance. Results A 95% rate of compliance with the BCMP workflow was observed over 2 years. The composite near-miss detection rate improved from year 1 to year 2 of implementation (0.89% vs 0.94%). The composite rate was influenced by increased yearly compliance with BCMP (93.8% vs 95.3%). A total of 176,679 preparations were reviewed in the 2-year period, including 81,240 in year 1 and 89,638 in year 2. The rate at which orders were rejected by pharmacists decreased over time (0.26% in year 1 vs 0.24% in year 2). Of the 1,005 wrong ingredient warnings, only 4 were overridden; in all other instances, the order was rejected at pharmacist checking due to use of an incorrect product in the preparation history. Wrong ingredient warnings led to canceled preparations in 96.1% of alert instances. Conclusion EMR-integrated BCMP technology aligned with safety efforts in the oral syringe dose preparation process reduced potential waste of medications and allowed insight into operational performance and volume indicators.

Innovation and Sustainability in the Amazon with the Use of Blockchain

Objective: The general objective of this study is to model the implementation of a blockchain system for solid wastemanagement in a government agency. The specific objectives of the results are to identify the main challenges in implementing a blockchain system for solid waste management in Public Management (1); characterize the blockchain models identified in this investigation (2); and develop a blockchain system model for solid waste management in a government agency (3). Theoretical Framework: The Theory of New Public Management, discussed in Madan and Ashok (2022), is the basis of this study, considering the notes of these authors, who address the dominant paradigm in public administration. Method: This research has a qualitative or mixed approach, as it includes parametric elements based on architecture such as blockchain, supported by bibliographical research and documentary analysis. The bibliographical research was based on elements of an integrated solid waste management system, through a framework, as conceptualized in the specific topic of this study. The Content Analysis method was used to research documents and other textual or audiovisual databases on solid waste management and blockchain technology. This research method allowed us to extract relevant information from the data collected, organize it into thematic categories, and interpret it in light of the theoretical framework obtained. By applying Content Analysis, patterns, meanings, and nuances were identified that could enrich the understanding of the phenomenon studied, ensuring an in-depth and contextualized analysis. Results and Discussion: The scenario of research on solid waste management in Brazil is marked by significantchallenges that reflect the complexity of the country's socioeconomic and environmental context. According to Agência Brasil (2023), the generation of solid waste has increased alarmingly, with data from 2021 indicating that more than 80 million tons were produced, of which only 32.5% were correctly disposed of. Thisreality highlights the urgent need for effective and innovative public policies that address integrated waste management. Research Implications: The relevance of implementing a blockchain system in public governance is highlighted, considering the growing demand for innovative and sustainable solutions. Originality/Value: This study is of interest to government managers, academics involved in applied research onblockchain in waste management, politicians and other leaders committed to excellence in management, and other professionals committed to promising results in the relationship between innovation and sustainability in organizations.

Single-cell analysis of osmoregulation reveals heterogeneity of aquaporin 4 functionality in human astrocytes.

The water channel aquaporin 4 (AQP4) contributes to water flow and waste removal across the blood-brain barrier and its levels, organization and localization are perturbed in various neurological diseases, including Alzheimer's Disease. This renders AQP4 a potentially valuable therapeutic target. However, most functional assays aimed at identifying modulators of AQP4 function are performed with primary rodent cells and do not consider inter-cellular variations in AQP4 abundance and presentation. To address this, we have established and applied a robust live cell microscopy assay that captures the contribution of AQP4 in the osmotically driven (de-)quenching of the vital dye Calcein-AM with single-cell resolution. Using human astrocytoma cells, we found that performing measurements on cellular regions instead of whole fields of view yielded a more sensitive readout of the osmotic response, which correlated with AQP4 abundance. Stable co-expression of the two major AQP4 isoforms, but not of the individual isoforms, provoked a faster adaptation to osmotic changes, while siRNA-mediated knockdown of AQP4 had the opposite effect. Post-hoc correlation with the canonical membrane marker CD44 revealed that the speed of the osmotic response scaled with AQP4 membrane enrichment. Coating the substrate with laminin promoted AQP4 membrane enrichment, while cell confinement with fixed-size micropatterns further increased the speed of osmoregulation, underscoring the influence of extracellular factors. The osmotic response of primary fetal astrocytes and human iPSC-derived astrocyte models was comparable to AQP4-deficient astrocytoma cells, in line with their low AQP4 levels and indicative of their immature state. In conclusion, a correlative single-cell approach based on the quantification of Calcein-AM quenching capacity, AQP4 abundance and AQP4 membrane enrichment, allows resolving osmoregulation in a more sensitive manner and reveals heterogeneity between and within human astrocyte (-like) cultures, which could prove crucial for future screens aimed at identifying AQP4 modulators.

Comparative Analysis of In Vitro Pumps Used in Cardiovascular Investigations: Focus on Flow Generation Principles and Characteristics of Generated Flows

A comprehensive analysis of in vitro pumps used in cardiovascular research is provided in this review, with a focus on the characteristics of generated flows and principles of flow generations. The cardiovascular system, vital for nutrient circulation and waste removal, generates complex hemodynamics critical for endothelial cell function. Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) could be caused by the disturbances in these flows, including aneurysms, atherosclerosis, and heart defects. In vitro systems simulate hemodynamic conditions on cultured cells in the laboratory to study and evaluate these diseases to advance therapies. Pumps used in these systems can be classified into contact and non-contact types. Contact pumps, such as piston and gear pumps, can generate higher flow rates, but they have a higher risk of contamination due to the direct interaction of pump with the fluid. Non-contact pumps, such as peristaltic and lab-on-disk centrifugal pumps, minimize contamination risks, but they are limited to lower flow rates. Advanced pumps including piezoelectric and I-Cor diagonal pumps are focused on improving the accuracy of flow replication and long-term stability. The operational principles, advantages, and some disadvantages of these pump categories are evaluated in this review, while providing insights for optimizing in vitro cardiovascular models and advancing therapeutic strategies against CVDs. The outcomes of the review elaborate the importance of selecting an appropriate pump system, to accurately replicate cardiovascular flow patterns.

Exploring Barriers to the Effective Implementation of Integrated Waste Management Plans in Developing Economies: Lessons Learned from South African Municipalities

Solid waste management poses a significant challenge globally, especially in developing economies, where increasing waste generation and ineffective management measures are common. Municipalities, responsible for managing waste, often struggle to provide efficient services. To address this, local governments implement policy tools like the Integrated Waste Management Plans (IWMPs), which aim to improve waste management. Despite the existence of such policies, waste pollution continues to rise in countries like South Africa. The purpose of this study is to explore the barriers to the effective implementation of IWMPs, focusing on the Makhado Local Municipality (MLM) in South Africa. Using a qualitative approach, interviews, document reviews, and observations were conducted with stakeholders, targeting 23 participants, of which 15 contributed. Our findings highlight several key barriers, including lack of monitoring, political interference, corruption, insufficient budgeting, poor infrastructure maintenance, lack of skilled personnel, and inadequate community education. These challenges hinder the successful implementation of IWMPs in the MLM. Our study further identified several opportunities at the MLM and general strengths and threats using a SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats) analysis.

Preparation of Sampling Plan For the Gravimetric Characterization of Solid Waste From the Municipality of Itaquaquecetuba

Objective: the objective of this study is to utilize a sampling design for the collection of USW samples for gravimetric characterization, with the aim of proposing and standardizing a methodology that allows for the collection of statistically representative samples of this biomass Theoretical Framework: It was based on national and international technical standards that deal with the collection, preparation and sampling of waste. In addition, statistical sampling concepts were used, as well as the National Solid Waste Policy. Method: The methods used in this research include analysis of technical standards (national and international) for municipal solid waste combined with statistical methods of probabilistic sampling. Results and Discussion: As a result, a statistically valid sampling methodology was developed and applied to the waste from the municipality of Itaquaquecetuba, leading to the collection of MSW samples from 35 trucks, which represented the characteristics of the types of wet waste generated in the municipality. This provides essential data for the integrated management of waste in the region. Research Implications: The research proposes a statistically valid sampling plan for the collection and analysis of urban solid waste that can be adapted and used in any region of the country or internationally. Originality/Value: The work contributes to the literature by proposing a statistically valid sampling plan for the collection and sampling of waste, using as a basis the characteristics of urban solid waste generated in Brazil.

New approach to agro-industrial solid and liquid waste management: Performance of an EGSB reactor at different hydraulic retention times for methane production

This study investigated the removal of agro-industrial wastes (5 g COD L⁻1 from coffee and 0.5 g COD L⁻1 from brewery wastewater, plus 1 g L⁻1 of coffee pulp and husk) in a continuous Expanded Granular Sludge Bed (EGSB) reactor at 35 °C. The effect of Hydraulic Retention Times (HRTs) of 72h, 48h, and 24h on CH₄ yield was examined using a mixed culture of cattle manure and granular sludge. Methane yields were 201, 124.5, and 113.8 mL CH₄ g⁻1 COD for the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd phases, respectively. Volatile fatty acids, particularly acetic acid, increased at lower HRTs. Sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene on the Illumina HiSeq platform revealed a syntrophic relationship between Syntrophorhabdus, Syntrophobacter, and Pseudomonas with methanogens Methanomassiliicoccus, Methanospirillum, and Methanobacterium, aiding in the removal of phenolic compounds. The study suggests that an HRT of 72h is optimal for maximizing CH₄ production in the EGSB reactor.

Impacts of jet inflow on hydrodynamic performance and waste removal efficiency in recirculating aquaculture system aquaculture tanks based on prototype experiments

Although scaled physical models and numerical simulations have been employed to study the hydrodynamic performance of recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) aquaculture tanks, there remains a paucity of prototype experiments that fully reflect the actual hydrodynamic performance. In this study, a prototype experiment was conducted on RAS aquaculture tanks, utilizing advanced image processing techniques specifically adapted to the prototype scale. This study focused on impacts of various jet inflow parameters, including jet inflow angle (0°, 10°, 20°, 30°, 40°, 45°, 50°, 60°, and 70°), jet inflow rate (150, 180, 210, and 240 l·min−1), jet inflow area (942 and 1884 mm2), and jet inflow location (curved wall and straight wall), on the hydrodynamic performance and waste removal efficiency of RAS aquaculture tanks. The results demonstrated the hydrodynamic performance—specifically average flow velocity, flow field uniformity, and the extent of low-velocity zones conjointly determining waste removal efficiency. The curved wall proved to be the optimal location for inflow pipe placement, while a 45° jet angle yielded the best balance between hydrodynamic performance optimization and waste removal efficiency. Furthermore, reducing the inlet area significantly improved average flow velocity and flow uniformity, whereas variations in inlet flow rate had minimal impact on these factors. Supported by these compelling findings, this study offers theoretical insight and practical guidance for achieving efficient aquaculture in RAS, thereby contributing to the advancement of sustainable aquaculture practices.

Shortcomings, limitations and gaps in physiological roles of extracellular vesicles in obesity.

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) play a crucial role in mediating communication between cells across species and kingdoms. The intercellular communication facilitated by EVs through autocrine and paracrine signalling mechanisms is essential for cell survival, maintaining normal metabolic functions and ensuring overall bodily homeostasis and health. Extracellular vesicles are present in various bodily fluids, such as pleural effusions, plasma, breast milk, amniotic fluid, semen and saliva. Additionally, the generation and release of EVs contribute to the removal of cellular waste. Patients with obesity exhibit a higher release and amount of circulating EVs than individuals with normal weight. This increased EV release in obesity might contribute to the inflammatory state characteristic of this metabolic condition, because higher levels of pro-inflammatory molecules are found within their cargo. However, interpreting results related to EV abundance, cargo and biological actions can be complicated by several factors; these include variations in cell sources, a wide age range (from children to the elderly), a mix of females and males, medication use and health status, a range of body weights (from normal weight to morbid obesity) and differences between in vitro assays using cell lines versus primary cultures. This article addresses the shortcomings, limitations and gaps in knowledge, providing a framework for enhancing our understanding of the physiological effects of EVs on obesity.

Designing Temporary Waste Disposal Site for Integrated Waste Management in a Coal Mining Township, South Sumatra, Indonesia

Designing Temporary Waste Disposal Site for Integrated Waste Management in a Coal Mining Township, South Sumatra, Indonesia

Application of the Clark–Wright Method to Improve the Sustainability of the Logistic Chain

The incessant consumption of goods and materials underscores the need to address the growing problem of waste generation and its profound impact on environmental sustainability. The problem of waste removal can be approached in different ways, whether it is the routing of vehicles, the work of drivers, the optimal distribution of waste bins, or other matters in the entire waste process. The aim of this study is to investigate the possibilities of optimizing waste collection processes in the region using a slightly modified Clark–Wright method. Optimal waste collection routes are defined with a focus on cost reduction and overall optimization of logistic chain processes. The established mathematical model for the capacitated vehicle routing problem includes the principles of sustainability and environmental friendliness. The results indicate that the largest messenger of all the newly proposed routes are the routes containing the surrounding settlements. Newly designed routes lead to significant reductions in fuel consumption and vehicle maintenance, which has a positive impact on financial and environmental resources. The conclusion indicates that by applying the Clark–Wright method, we have achieved a reduction in the number of routes of twenty fewer routes. This study provides regions with a detailed plan to improve waste management practices, contributing to a future of increased sustainability and environmental awareness.

Assessment of Community Knowledge, Attitudes, and Perceptions Toward Effluent Quality Discharged from the Shirere Wastewater Treatment Plant to the Isiukhu River, Kakamega County, Kenya

For waste removal, advanced infrastructural technologies can be adopted in the drainage channels of effluents into water bodies though they are limited and scarce. The aim of the study was to asses community knowledge, attitude and perception towards effluent quality discharged from Shirere wastewater treatment plant up to river Isiukhu. Correlation and descriptive survey were the main research approaches adopted. The measurement of the knowledge, perception and attitude was limited to only the community members, as well as Kakamega County Water and Sanitation Company (KACWASCO) staff members. The study was anchored by the risk management theory to demonstrate the vulnerability of community hazards like water pollution. The social-economic sampling approaches applied were stratified for the community members and random for the KACWASCO workers. The population targeted was eighty community members and four KACWASCO staff members. The questionnaires were pretested through a pilot study to ascertain their reliability. This pre-test was conducted at a different Waste Water Treatment Plant (WWTP) at Nabongo. The Pearson coefficient (r) was used to compute the correlation coefficient between the two test scores. Data was analyzed using regression and correlation methods. For socio-economic, reliability test was administered by use test- retest method. A code book was prepared and scores of the first test correlated with scores of the second test, and Pearson product moment of correlation was computed using SPSS software version 21.0. By applying the analysis of variance (ANOVA), researcher was able to determine whether differences observed between groups are likely due to actual variations in their perceptions or simply due to chance. From the reliability test, all of the variables obtained had Cronbach's Alpha greater than 0.7, indicating that they met the necessary 0.7 for data internal consistency. The Bartlett's test for validity was examined using the chi-square test, which revealed that all of the variables were significant at the 5% (0.000) level of significance. Only 82 of the 84 questionnaires provided to the sampled respondents (KACWASCO staffs and community members) were filled out and returned in this study. From the study findings the value of R-square was 0.429. The ANOVA test indicated that in this model the independent variable namely; knowledge of the residents is important in predicting of waste water treatment as indicated by significance value=0.002 which is less than 0.05 level of significance (p=0.002 < 0.05). Additionally, the response under attitude and perception, the value of R-Square was 0.045 which implied that, 4.5% of variation of Wastewater Treatment Plant in Shirere was explained by attitude and perception of the residents within the area. The study also revealed that attitude and perception of the residents in Shirere had a significant influence on wastewater treatment at Shirere in Kakamega County (t-statistic = 25.674, p-value = ). Therefore, it was concluded that, at 5% level of significance, indicating that community knowledge, perception and attitude had a positive influence on waste water treatment at Shirere in Kakamega County. Likewise, for every unit increase in attitude of the residents there was a corresponding increase in wastewater treatment at Shirere in Kakamega County by 0.628. The study recommended that, the community members need more sensitization on matters pollution as revealed by this study.

ISLAMIC BASED ECO-FRIENDLY CHARACTER EDUCATION: A CASE STUDY OF ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS IN BANJARMASIN

This study describes Islamic-based eco-friendly character education and its implications in elementary schools in Banjarmasin. This study used a qualitative approach, case study type with the research objects of the principal, teachers, and students. Research data were collected through observation, interviews and documentation. Data were analyzed by reducing data, presenting data and drawing conclusions. The researcher used technical triangulation and source triangulation to obtain data validity. The researcher found that Islamic-based eco-friendly character education was carried out through several activities, namely daily reports, GPS (trash collection movement), LISA (see trash pick up) habits, community service, waste banks, composting, nurseries, hydroponics planting, TOGA planting, water and energy conservation, eco-friendly behavioral innovation, environmental learning, formation of Adiwiyata cadres and coaching of Adiwiyata schools. The implications of Islamic-based eco-friendly character education in elementary schools in Banjarmasin refer to four components, namely environmentally aware school policies, implementation of environmentally based curriculum, participatory environmental activities and management of eco-friendly facilities and infrastructure

Dehydrated Food Waste and Leftover for Trench Composting

The growing global population has a persistently negative impact on the economy and ecology due to food waste. This topic has recently received much attention from around the world. For both homes and the food processing industry, recycling food waste is crucial to waste management. This study aims to show how dehydrated food scraps and leftovers can be used as raw materials for trench compost to enhance soil quality and reduce leachate and greenhouse gas emissions. The results showed that the pre-treatment and air temperature significantly affected the finished trench compost products’ EC, pH, and nutrient content. Pretreated dried leftover at 80°C after trench compost was found to have the highest value of CNH, S (36.53%), and micronutrients (0.103404%) when compared to micronutrients in the final product of pre-treatment dried leftover at 80<i>℃</i> after trench compost that was (0.057273%). Dehydrated leftovers from trench compost were thought to have nutrient content that would improve soil quality, slow decomposition, and reduce odor, thus enabling more frequent trash collection.

Analysis Of The Role Of Local Governments In Sustainable Development In Urban Areas

This study aims to analyze the role of local governments in the implementation of sustainable development policies in urban areas. Using a qualitative approach through case study methods, data were collected via in-depth interviews with local government officials, focus group discussions with community members, and analysis of policy documents and local development reports. The findings indicate that local governments play a vital role in creating positive impacts on the environment and the quality of life for residents through various implemented programs, such as integrated waste management systems, the development of green open spaces, and sustainable transportation policies. Despite significant progress, this research also identifies challenges faced by local governments, including funding limitations, a lack of community education, and the need for improved inter-agency coordination. To enhance their effectiveness in achieving sustainable development goals, local governments must address these challenges through increased budget allocations, educational campaigns to raise community awareness, and strengthened collaboration among agencies. By taking these steps, local governments can be more effective in realizing sustainable development and ensuring a better quality of life for urban residents. This research provides important insights for policymakers and practitioners in their efforts to create sustainable and responsive urban communities.

In situ visualization of endothelial cell-derived extracellular vesicle formation in steady state and malignant conditions.

Endothelial cells are integral components of all vasculature within complex organisms. As they line the blood vessel wall, endothelial cells are constantly exposed to a variety of molecular factors and shear force that can induce cellular damage and stress. However, how endothelial cells are removed or eliminate unwanted cellular contents, remains unclear. The generation of large extracellular vesicles (EVs) has emerged as a key mechanism for the removal of cellular waste from cells that are dying or stressed. Here, we used intravital microscopy of the bone marrow to directly measure the kinetics of EV formation from endothelial cells in vivo under homoeostatic and malignant conditions. These large EVs are mitochondria-rich, expose the 'eat me' signal phosphatidylserine, and can interact with immune cell populations as a potential clearance mechanism. Elevated levels of circulating EVs correlates with degradation ofthe bone marrow vasculature caused by acute myeloid leukaemia. Together, our study provides in vivo spatio-temporal characterization of EV formation in the murine vasculature and suggests that circulating, large endothelial cell-derived EVs can provide a snapshot of vascular damage at distal sites.

Evaluation of Effluent Quality Trends Before and After Filtration Through the Composite Filter from Shirere Wastewater Treatment Plant to River Isiukhu in Kakamega County, Kenya

The current stabilization ponds as wastewater treatment practices in urban areas have proven insufficient with continued discharge of untreated wastes into water bodies. Their challenge comes from inappropriate system selection and maintenance, improper design, construction mistakes, physical damage and hydraulic overload. Appropriate infrastructural technologies for waste removal that can be adopted in the drainage channels of effluents into water bodies are scarce. This study incorporates a reactor based composite filter of pumice and sand as an innovative approach for removing residual waste in effluents discharged from Shirere Wastewater Treatment Plant into River Isiukhu, Kakamega Municipality. The objective of the study was to evaluate the trend of effluent quality from Shirere wastewater treatment plant upto river Isiukhu before and after installation of composite granular filter. Effluents, drinking water from Shirere WWTP, Shikoye stream, River Isiukhu and protected spring along Shikoye stream, were collected using presterilized water sampling containers for microbial quality analysis at MMUST and KACWASCO laboratories. The measurements were carried out using UV-VIS spectrophotometer at 752 nanometer wavelengths. Research design was experimental. The average reduction of COD in the mid-season of June to August was 42.2 ±4.6%, being the highest. Concomitantly, the BOD removal by the filter in the season of June to August was19.6±7% and 15.6 ±3.5% for September to November. The average rate of TSS removal in June to August was 19.3±4.5% followed by 16.6±3.8% in September to November and 11.6±7% in March to May. The average rate of Nitrate removal in June to August was 41.8±7.6% followed by 30.0±2.2% for March to May and 25±8.6% for September to November. Phosphates had an average rate of removal in June to August at 31.9±2.7% followed by 20.6±4.8% for September to November and 20.0 ±4.3% for March to May. Specifically, for the first season of March – May 2021 at 200 mm filtration depth were carried out at effluent flow rate of 0.0032 and volume, 0.234 Concentrations of most parameters were above NEMA standards, like COD was 322mg/l yet maximum should be 100 mg/l. Therefore, it was concluded that silica pumice composite filter performance was achieved by big variations in the concentrations of COD, BOD, TSS, Phosphates and Nitrates at Shirere WWTP after filtration which was attributed to effective removing capacity. The effluent concentrations from sampling sites S1-S3 and S5-S7 were found to be above the NEEMA standards implying the high risk of using Isiukhu water and catchment area. Thus, this study recommended that, the composite filter reduced concentrations of all the parameters (COD, BOD, TSS, PO3, NO3) significantly from Shirere WWTP along Shikoye stream up to the confluence of river Isiukhu. Most of the parameters after filtration were ranging within the required standards of NEMA. The requisite measure of adopting new technology of composite filtration should be sustained.

Recycled Aggregates Influence on the Mechanical Properties of Cement Lime-Based Mortars

The current framework for managing construction waste, guided by European Union regulations, calls for an integrated waste management system. However, the reuse of old plaster waste, particularly from deteriorated facades, remains underexplored. This study investigates the potential of repurposing old plaster waste as a substitute for aggregates and cement in mortars, with the aim of promoting environmental sustainability and resource efficiency. Three mortar mixes were analyzed: a control mix, a mix with 45% waste replacing aggregates, and a mix with 10% waste replacing cement. Results show that replacing 45% of aggregates with plaster waste led to a 30% reduction in flexural strength, while the 10% cement replacement increased flexural strength by 6%. Compressive strength dropped by 27% and 38% for cement and aggregate replacements, respectively. Despite these reductions, the waste replacement remained within acceptable limits for structural integrity. Further microscopic analysis revealed that the incomplete integration of portlandite particles from the waste contributed to non-uniform bonding and crystal formation, weakening the mortar’s structure. This research demonstrates the feasibility of reusing old plaster waste, offering a novel approach to reducing construction waste and promoting a circular economy. It contributes to filling the knowledge gap on the reuse of plaster mortars while aligning with sustainable construction goals.

Uranium mining remediation, environmental assessment, and bureaucratic violence environmental sociology

ABSTRACT The US government has called for increased uranium mining to support nuclear energy as a replacement for fossil fuels. At the same time, remediating historical mines has been challenging, leaving Indigenous communities suffering as they fight for the removal of harmful mining waste from decades past. Examining two projects and their environmental assessments in the Navajo Nation, this study identifies how settler colonialism extends through state decision-making in the push for nuclear power. Promoting environmental justice, yet approving licenses for new mines and waste storage in Indigenous communities, constitutes a form of bureaucratic violence in which policies and procedures legitimate harm. State power is extended through claims of scientific legitimacy and participatory process, while defending decisions as just. The analysis of these processes shows how past land dispossession leads to forever environmental, ecological, and social damage under the guise of regulatory protection.