Ecological Impact Assessment Research Articles

Ecological Impact Assessment of Permanent Site of Federal Polytechnic Oko Using Topographic Survey Method

Topographic survey based ecological impact assessment provides a mechanism for data integration, development, management and output presentation in a spatial environment. This research involved incorporating spatial data of all salient points at the Permanent Site of Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra state to find a solution to the erosion menace. Differential Global Positioning System (DGPS) receiver was used to acquire spatial data of buildings, roads, spot height, drainages, catchment pits, etc. The topographic data were processed using ArcGIS software to analyze and produce the topographic maps. Presentations from the topographic survey revealed that the catchment topography runs between 160m – 198m height above the datum, the total area of the catchment area being 216320.653m2, perimeter is 2604.449m and the length of the mainstream is 1125.428m. Topographic maps of the area were used to assess the impact of the ecology on the area of study by analyzing the built up area, surface roughness, impervious and pervious surfaces. Hydraulic design of the drainage using best hydraulic section principle for most economic section to carry the flow was determined to solve the erosion problems in the catchment area. The flow rate obtained was 2.55m3/s and dimensions of the channel to be 1.1m depth and 2.2m width. The design of the selected structural members was done to mitigate against the erosion menace in the study area.

Temporal and spatial variability in availability bias has consequences for marine bird abundance estimates during the non‐breeding season

Abstract To effectively monitor how marine ecosystems are being reshaped by anthropogenic pressures, we require understanding of species abundances and distributions. Due to their socio‐economic and ecological value, predatory species are often at the forefront of survey efforts. However, survey data are only valuable if they can reliably be converted into estimates of underlying distributions. We consider at‐sea surveys of marine predators that often inform ecological impact assessments of offshore windfarms. These surveys are subject to a form of detection bias called ‘availability bias’ whereby individuals which are submerged below the surface are consequently ‘unavailable’ for detection. Although correction factors are commonly used in these surveys, they are currently based on limited data that may not be species‐, time‐, or area‐specific. Here, we use time‐depth‐recorder data to investigate variation in marine bird availability bias. We found that the proportion of diving marine birds submerged below the sea surface during daylight hours, and therefore unavailable to be counted during surveys, varied by species, month, and area. For three of our focal species wintering around northwest Europe (Atlantic puffin, common guillemot, razorbill), our results were different to comparable values previously used to correct for the availability bias, whereas no correction factors are regularly used for the fourth species (red‐throated diver). We now present availability bias correction factors that are species‐ and month‐specific to the areas the study populations use during their non‐breeding seasons: the North Sea, the north and west coasts of the UK, the Baltic Sea, and Icelandic coastal waters. Practical implication: Variation in the proportion of daylight hours that marine birds spent submerged lead to differences in availability bias correction factors, thereby impacting estimations of their abundances. We encourage use of correction factors that use data from the species, marine area, and month during which surveys are conducted to provide more accurate abundance estimates. Using more relevant correction factors will result in increasingly accurate abundance and distribution estimates of diving marine birds, with relevance for a range of applications including planning for offshore windfarm developments, the designation and monitoring of protected areas, and understanding environmental change.

Exploring environmental sustainability through dimension reduction algorithms: A cost-effective UV spectroscopic method for simultaneous determination of veterinary binary mixtures of doxycycline hydrochloride and tylosin tartrate

This study presents a cost-effective and environmentally friendly approach for the simultaneous determination of a veterinary binary mixture comprising doxycycline hydrochloride (DOX) and tylosin tartrate (TYZ) utilizing UV spectroscopy alongside dimension reduction algorithms (DRAs). Seventeen DRAs were evaluated, and their performances were compared based on four metrics: mean squared error (MSE), mean absolute error (MAE), median absolute error (MedAE), and coefficient of determination (R2). Based on the performance indices, Isomap algorithm demonstrated the highest predictive capacity among all DRAs. MSE, MAE, MedAE and R2 values of (0.38, 0.28, 0.19 and 0.999) and (0.08, 0.26, 0.22 and 0.998) were obtained for calibration and test datasets, respectively across a concentration range 4.67–30 μg mL−1 for DOX. MSE, MAE, MedAE and R2 values of (0.54, 0.34, 0.19 and 0.994) and (0.07, 0.19, 0.07 and 0.998) were obtained for calibration and test datasets, respectively across a concentration range 3.51–24 μg mL−1 for TYZ. The developed method underwent validation utilizing the accuracy profile approach. An ecological impact assessment was carried out employing six greenness evaluation tools: The Green Solvent Selection Tool (GSST), National Environmental Methods Index (NEMI), the Assessment of Green Profile (AGP), carbon footprint analysis, Analytical Greenness Calculator (AGREE), and Complementary Green Analytical Procedure Index (Complex GAPI). Additionally, we applied blueness and whiteness assessments using Blue Applicability Grade Index (BAGI) and Red-Green-Blue 12 (RGB 12) algorithms, respectively. The proposed method demonstrated higher GSST scores, a more "green" profile in NEMI, a superior AGP profile, and better environmental sustainability in Complex GAPI. The calculated carbon footprint value was 0.0002 kg CO2 equivalent per sample, The AGREE score was 0.87, BAGI was assessed at 72.5, and the whiteness assessment by the RGB12 algorithm was 89.6. Statistical comparison of the proposed method with a previously reported HPLC method for dosage form analysis revealed no significant differences at a 95% confidence level. This study highlights the novelty of combining UV spectroscopy with dimension reduction algorithms, offering significant advancements over traditional UV and chemometric methods for the analysis of these drugs. This approach not only enhances the efficiency and accuracy of determining active ingredients in pharmaceutical dosage forms but also contributes to environmental sustainability.

Socio-economic impacts of resource extraction on indigenous populations in Imbolo Mbue's: How beautiful we were

This paper undertakes a comprehensive analysis of Imbolo Mbue's novel "How Beautiful We Were," employing the novel as a case study to explore the interconnected phenomena of ecological and economic losses affecting the fictional African village of Kosawa. The narrative serves as a poignant lens through which the catastrophic impacts of environmental degradation by external corporate interests, specifically an American oil company, are examined. Drawing on methodologies such as Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) and systemic-functional linguistics, the study illuminates how the novel’s language actively shapes perceptions of ecological destruction and social conflict. The analysis is anchored in a detailed examination of the socio-economic repercussions of environmental exploitation on indigenous communities, reflecting broader global issues of environmental injustice where marginalized populations bear the brunt of industrial activities. By integrating narrative analysis with socio-economic and ecological impact assessments, the paper aims to provide a holistic understanding of the compound crises faced by communities on the frontlines of environmental exploitation. This approach not only highlights the devastating effects on health and local economies but also emphasizes the role of literature as a form of resistance and a vehicle for advocating ecological and social justice. The findings contribute to ongoing discussions on sustainable development and advocate for more nuanced and inclusive approaches in literature and policy, reinforcing the critical role of narrative in shaping public discourse and policy on environmental justice.

Cumulative characteristics and ecological risk source analysis of soil potentially toxic elements in the northern margin of the Tibetan Plateau.

To understand the soil toxic and hazardous elements content, pollution level, and ecological risk status in the northern margin of the Tibetan Plateau, we collected and analyzed 8273 sets of surface soil samples. Evaluations were conducted using the single-factor pollution index, geo-accumulation, pollution load, and potential ecological risk indices, and source identification correlation and principal component analysis. The results revealed that, compared with the background levels in China, the accumulation of soil arsenic, cadmium, nickel, and chromium was greater in the surface soil of the study area. Additionally, in comparison with Qinghai Province, more mercury accumulated in the surface soil of the study area and owing to the influence of anthropogenic activities. Benchmarking against soil environmental quality standards, the study area exhibited pollution control zones primarily dominated by arsenic and cadmium (3.9%). The spatial distribution revealed distinct zones: a ridge mountain type characterized by arsenic-cadmium-chromium-nickel, a Daban mountain type with solely cadmium presence, and a Longyangxia-Jianzha South type dominated by arsenic. Compared with the Qinghai Province soil background values, evaluations using the Pollution loading index, Geological Cumulative Index, and Potential Ecological Risk Index methods revealed varying degrees of potentially toxic element content exceedance. From an ecological risk perspective, the individual element with the highest potential ecological risk coefficients were mercury, followed by cadmium and arsenic; however, the region's overall ecological risk index was classified as low. Three distinct sources were identified: natural sources leading to high background levels of chromium, nickel, copper, zinc, and mercury; mixed natural and industrial/agricultural sources contributing to elevated cadmium levels; and human activity-related mercury enrichment. Based on the evaluation results, synergistic monitoring of soil and biota in naturally occurring risk zones is recommended to ensure the safety of agricultural and pastoral products. Additionally, ecological impact assessments and pollution source mitigation studies should be conducted in regions influenced by human activities to curb the further degradation of soil ecological quality.

Ecological and human health impact assessments based on long-term monitoring of soil PAHs near a coal-fired power plant.

The combustion of coal in power plants releases significant amounts of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are highly toxic and carcinogenic. This study assesses the ecological and human health impacts of PAHs contamination from a coal-fired power plant over 8years. The monitoring site selection considered the distance from the power plant and the prevailing wind direction in the investigated area. The results reveal that, during the monitoring period, PAH levels increased on average by 43%, 61%, and 37% in the zone of the prevailing wind direction, in the area proximate to the power plant, and the zone distant from it, respectively. The site, which has a radius of 4.5km in the prevailing wind direction, exhibited the highest ecological and human health impacts. Additionally, a strong correlation was observed between environmental and human health impacts, depending on the distance from the power plant, particularly in areas with the prevailing wind direction. These insights contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the intricate dynamics linking power plant emissions, PAHs contamination, and their far-reaching consequences on the environment and human health.

How to restore ecological impacts from wind energy? An assessment of Zhongying Wind Farm through MSPA-MCR model and circuit theory

The wind energy industry is developing rapidly in China with a maximum capacity worldwide. Meanwhile, the stability of the ecological network is challenged by extensive renewable energy expansion. There are still research deficiencies in wind farm ecological impacts at project scale from an ecological restoration perspective. It is of great necessity to monitor the ecological impacts with time going and explore ecological restoration strategies for wind power development. The research case of Zhongying Wind Farm is selected based on investigation and interviews regarding its ecological impact in the prior study. It employs a comparative methodology by comparing the ecological quality before and after the construction of Zhongying Wind Farm. Raw data from Landsat 8, the Digital Elevation Model (DEM), the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), and wind turbine statistics originating from open data platforms are analyzed and visually represented with ArcGIS. This paper establishes an ecological network based on morphological spatial pattern analysis (MSPA) and the Minimum Cumulative Resistance (MCR) model to quantify wind farms’ impacts on ecological corridors. The circuit theory and Pajek software are used to identify and categorize the ecological nodes into weak and obstacle points. The results reveal that ecological impacts on ecological corridors decay with distance, reflecting changes in length, connection strength and cumulative values of corridors. While the impacts on ecological nodes depend on nodes’ attributes: the number of weak points increased by 18.5 %, and obstacle points increased by 350 %, with their locations shifting from the edges of urban construction sites to the edges of wind farm. Differentiated strategies are proposed according to the impact magnitude of each ecological corridor and node: such as dynamic inspection mechanism, construction prohibition for protection; corridor structure and function recovering, stepping stones addition for restoration; buffer belts, warning radar, and monetary schemes for compensation. This research fills the gap of ecological impact assessment under the challenges of wind energy expansion. It helps to balance wind energy development and ecological restoration at the regional level.

An exergy-ecology assessment method and its application for basic building heating schemes

ABSTRACT Building heating is the main type of heating consumption in China. At present, there is a lack of attention given to the assessment of ecological cost or impact considering energy depreciation for various heating schemes. In this work, a method of exergy-ecology assessment is proposed to evaluate the energy and ecological characteristics of four basic building heating schemes. The solar-equivalent joule was adopted as the unified quantitative value of ecological impact by converting exergy, material, and cost flows. The exergy-ecology balance was established for each scheme, and a series of indexes were proposed and calculated through two strategies. The results show that the objective exergy efficiency of Scheme 3 heat pump is the highest (53.87%) and that of Scheme 2 electric heater is the lowest (17.58%). Larger difference of energy grade between energy providing side (0.83 for gas fuel and 1 for electricity) and receiving side (0.18 for output water) connects with lower exergy efficiency. Scheme 3 heat pump has the highest eco-exergy efficiency under both assessment strategies (71.89% and 53.86%), followed by Schemes 4 solar collector (61.52% and 36.34%). This method proves that the thermodynamics perfectness of system is positively correlated with ecological sustainability and can be used to assess other energy systems.

Solar Energy and Environmental Sustainability: Cost Benefit Analysis and Ecological Impact Assessment

Energy is one of the most significant research topics in today’s world. Solar energy, as a sustainable renewable energy source, has always been at the forefront of development and application, but it’s still facing challenges. This paper researches the sustainability of solar energy technology through three assessment methods, including its lifecycle, the environmental and economic impact, and analyzes and proposes optimization suggestions for the special situation of the Chinese. Studies have indicated that solar energy technology has shown positive influences in both aspects of economy and ecology, and has immeasurable value in achieving global energy transformation and environmental protection. However, at the same time, in the future, promoting conversion efficiency and reducing the costs of installation and maintenance are the key breakthroughs needed for further development and application of solar energy technology. With these efforts, solar energy will play a more significant role in the global energy structure and make a greater contribution to achieving carbon neutrality goals.

Addressing Heavy Metal Pollution in Nigeria: Evaluating Policies, Assessing Impacts, and Enhancing Remediation Strategies

Heavy metal pollution is a significant environmental concern in Nigeria, posing risks to ecological integrity and public health. This study aims to evaluate the existing policies and regulations addressing heavy metal pollution, assess their effectiveness, and propose recommendations for improvement. The analysis reveals that while Nigeria has established a robust legislative framework, challenges in implementation, enforcement, and funding persist. The impact of reducing heavy metal pollution is influenced by resource constraints, limited capacity, and the need for stronger collaboration between regulatory bodies and industries. Community involvement and education play a crucial role in managing heavy metal pollution, emphasizing the importance of awareness, sustainable practices, and local engagement. Remediation strategies, such as bioremediation and phytoremediation, offer potential solutions. However, gaps in knowledge and research exist, calling for long-term monitoring, ecological impact assessments, and comprehensive health risk assessments. To enhance the effectiveness of current policies, periodic reviews, increased funding, and community-based monitoring programs are recommended. By addressing these gaps and implementing the proposed recommendations, Nigeria can make significant strides towards mitigating heavy metal pollution and achieving environmental sustainability.

Life on the edge: Considering ecotonal habitat for the conservation of alpine reptile metacommunities

Conservation planning focuses on core habitats, often overlooking ecotones, which can hold unrecognised potential for biodiversity conservation. This study focused on ecotonal habitat use in alpine reptile metacommunities, with emphasis on a grassland specialist, the critically endangered alpine she-oak skink, Cyclodomorphus praealtus. Survey transects in grasslands and woodlands in Kosciuszko National Park in the Australian Alps were used to investigate reptile occupancy and richness. Data was analysed using a multi-species occupancy model in relation to (1) distance from nearest grassland to assess grassland specialists' occupancy into woodland areas while accounting for imperfect detection, and (2) normalised difference vegetation index (NDVI) to assess the importance of high resource patches. Among the 11 reptile species detected, our hypothesis that grassland specialists would inhabit woodland ecotones was confirmed. The furthest occurrence of C. praealtus from the closest grassland was 41 m with a predicted occupancy of 0.06 (0.004 – 0.169 95 % Bayesian credible intervals) at 100 m. Contrary to conventional edge effect theories, our results revealed no increase in species richness nearer to the woodland ecotone from grasslands or with higher NDVI values. This study underscores the importance of including ecotonal buffers in ecological impact assessments and conservation plans for habitat specialists, that may still use ecotones of adjacent habitats. The findings emphasize the need for broader survey efforts beyond core habitats to capture the distribution of threatened species effectively. Incorporating ecotonal habitats into conservation strategies is crucial, particularly for specialist species whose dynamic use of ecotones may help safeguard them amidst predicted habitat transformation from anthropogenic influences and climate change.

Assessment of ecological and health risk impact of heavy metals contamination in stream sediments in Itapaji-Ekiti, SW Nigeria

BackgroundHeavy metal contamination in aquatic ecosystems is a major environmental and health concern globally. This study assessed the ecological and health risks associated with heavy metal pollution in stream sediments in Itapaji-Ekiti, Southwest Nigeria. The study contributes collectively to a comprehensive understanding of the geochemical dynamics and contamination factors affecting the studied stream sediments. MethodsHeavy metals study was conducted on stream sediments within the geographical confines of sheet 244, Ado map. Seventeen stream sediment samples were obtained from various sites and subjected to analysis to determine the concentrations of heavy metals such as lead (Pb), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), chromium (Cr), cadmium (Cd), barium (Ba), arsenic (As), nickel (Ni) and vanadium (V) using X-ray Fluorescence (XRF). The results showed that the concentrations of these metals exceeded permissible levels at most sampling sites, indicating significant contamination of the stream sediments. The concentrations and pollution levels of the heavy metals from selected sampling sites were documented for ecological and health risk evaluations. ResultThe findings revealed that the concentrations of these metals surpassed acceptable thresholds at the majority of sampling locations, indicating significant contamination of the stream sediments. The concentrations of heavy metals, specifically Cr and Cd, exhibit moderate contamination, while Pb and Ba demonstrates a significant contamination factor with moderate to extreme degree of contamination. Several ecological risk indices were calculated to evaluate the potential ecological risks. The results revealed that the stream sediments posed considerable to very high ecological risks at most sites based on the risk quotient, contamination factor and pollution load index. The non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risk assessments for heavy metals in stream sediments exposed potential health risks, especially for children, indicating the need for protective measures. The cumulative cancer risk, particularly for adults, raised concerns about the overall health implications of prolonged exposure to the heavy metal concentrations in the streams. ConclusionThe study also evaluated ecological and health risks, revealing potential risks from heavy metals. Hazard and cancer risk assessments suggested the increasing potential of heavy metals to pose health risks, particularly for inhabitants of the area.

Field-based measurement tools to distinguish clonal Typha taxa and estimate biomass: a resource for conservation and restoration.

Two species of clonal Typha [T. latifolia (native) and T. angustifolia (exotic)] hybridize to form the highly invasive, heterotic (high vigor) T. × glauca in North American wetlands leading to increased primary production, litter accumulation, and biodiversity loss. Conservation of T. latifolia has become critical as invasive Typha has overwhelmed wetlands. In the field, Typha taxa identification is difficult due to subtle differences in morphology, and molecular identification is often unfeasible for managers. Furthermore, improved methods to non-destructively estimate Typha biomass is imperative to enhance ecological impact assessments. To address field-based Typha ID limitations, our study developed a predictive model from 14 Typha characters in 7 northern Michigan wetlands to accurately distinguish Typha taxa (n = 33) via linear discriminant analysis (LDA) of molecularly identified specimens. In addition, our study developed a partial least squares regression (PLS) model to predict Typha biomass from field collected measurements (n = 75). Results indicate that two field measurements [Leaf Counts, Longest Leaf] can accurately differentiate the three Typha taxa and advanced-generation hybrids. The LDA model had a 100% correct prediction rate of T. latifolia. The selected PLS biomass prediction model (sqrt[Typha Dry Mass] ~ log[Ramet Area at 30 cm] + Inflorescence Presence + Total Ramet Height + sqrt[Organic Matter Depth]) improved upon existing simple linear regression (SLR) height-to-biomass predictions. The rapid field-based Typha identification and biomass assessment tools presented in this study advance targeted management for regional conservation of T. latifolia and ecological restoration of wetlands impacted by invasive Typha taxa.

Nanomaterial-Induced Modifications in Plant Physiology and Genetics for Optimal Crop Production Strategies

Nanotechnology has ushered in a new era in agriculture, offering transformative solutions to address the pressing challenges of feeding a burgeoning global population while adapting to a changing climate. At the forefront of this revolution are nanomaterials, characterized by their unique properties at the nanoscale. This article explores the intricate and dynamic relationship between nanomaterials and plants, unveiling how they induce profound changes in plant physiology and genetics. These changes, while complex, hold the key to unlocking novel approaches for crop improvement and sustainable agriculture. However, the core of this study delves into understanding how nanomaterials are taken up by plants and transported within their intricate biological systems. The mechanisms underlying nanomaterial uptake and distribution within plants are unveiled, offering possibilities for precise nutrient targeting and enhanced uptake efficiency. Subsequent sections meticulously dissect the consequences of nanomaterial exposure on plant physiology, including growth, development, and stress responses. The intricate genetic modifications and epigenetic changes that nanomaterials induce in plants are explored, revealing the potential for tailored crop improvement strategies. Notably, we demonstrate the practical implications of these nanomaterial-induced changes, showcasing their relevance for optimizing crop yields, resilience to environmental stressors, and nutritional quality. This article also takes a holistic approach by addressing the environmental and safety considerations that accompany the use of nanomaterials in agriculture. It emphasizes the necessity of responsible application, ecological impact assessment, and the establishment of regulatory frameworks to guide safe utilization. In conclusion, this article serves as an illuminating exploration of the nascent field where nanomaterials meet plant physiology and genetics, with implications that could reshape the future of agriculture.

Can environmental legislation protect a threatened apex predator across different land tenures?

Ecological impact assessments are undertaken in compliance with legislative mandates to evaluate the effects of proposed habitat modification. This task becomes complex when evaluating the impacts on highly mobile species like apex predators. Despite their importance to ecosystem function, environmental policies may inadequately protect apex predator habitat. Here we provide a case study that examines the efficacy of legislation and impact assessment tools in protecting habitat for a wide-ranging and threatened apex predator. The high resource requirements of apex predators, and their utilisation of large areas of high-quality habitat make them ideal conservation surrogates for other less resource demanding species, and as such good case studies in assessing the effectiveness of policy. The powerful owl (Ninox strenua) occurs across many landscape types throughout its distribution, including large tracts of private property and public landholdings, making this species difficult to assess through impact assessments. To examine the level of legislative protection for powerful owls, and how well their habitat use is captured, we compared GPS tracking data to environmental policy and industry impact assessment tools. We found that legislation has limited potential to protect powerful owl habitat and owls are likely dismissed from impact assessments due to their cryptic and wide-ranging behavioural traits. The existing legislative safeguards seem inadequate, and these shortcomings are likely contributing to species decline. There is a critical need for policy to be applicable to both public and private land tenure, and for legislation and impact assessment tools to incorporate research data for effective conservation and management.

Advancements and Applications of Life Cycle Assessment in Slope Treatment: A Comprehensive Review

Life cycle assessment (LCA) plays an increasingly important role in environmental management, particularly in promoting energy and carbon-conscious practices across various disciplines. This review provides an overview of the latest innovations and potential benefits of integrating LCA into ecological slope treatment strategies. This study explores new developments in LCA methodology and its application to slope treatment, aiming to improve the integration of infrastructure development and environmental stewardship. Through an extensive review of over 120 peer-reviewed journal articles and a critical analysis of the intersection of LCA with slope treatment, this paper identifies innovative techniques that have the potential to significantly reduce the environmental impact of slope management. The review emphasizes advanced LCA practices that quantify and mitigate carbon emissions throughout the life cycle stages of slope treatments. Key findings demonstrate that LCA enhances the methodological rigor in assessing ecosystem services and impacts, and reveals new strategies that emphasize the importance of ecological considerations in infrastructure projects. Future research directions focus on refining LCA data acquisition and promoting a standardized knowledge base to support precision in ecological impact assessments. In conclusion, the adoption of LCA in slope treatment is imperative for aligning industry practices with global sustainability targets, emphasizing the importance of integrating uncertainty analysis and long-term impact assessments to bolster the credibility of LCA outcomes.

Global Patterns and Ecological Effects of Drought Intensification: A Multiscale Analysis

This study delineates the criteria for identifying different types of droughts based on root zone soil moisture deficits, categorizing them into sudden, general, and creeping droughts. By employing an adapted version of the drought detection method proposed by Yuan et al., drought events were analyzed across 26 IPCC-SREX regions using historical soil moisture data. Our findings demonstrate that sudden droughts, which entail a rapid decline in soil moisture, predominantly occur in climatic hotspots and have shown an increasing trend over the past four decades, particularly in Central Europe and South Asia. The research also explores the seasonality of droughts, noting that flash droughts typically align with the growing season, while creep droughts often commence later in the year, potentially affecting vegetation growth in subsequent seasons. The ecological impact assessment, based on the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), reveals a lag in vegetation response to rapid water stress, with a marked decline in health by the end of the drought onset phase. These results underscore the varying ecological responses to drought intensification and contribute to a better understanding of their global patterns and impacts.

Ecological Impact Assessment in Business Operations: A Framework Combining Zoological Insights and AI Algorithms

Ecological Impact Assessment in Business Operations: A Framework Combining Zoological Insights and AI Algorithms

Evaluation and quantitative characterization for the ecological environment impact of open pit mining on vegetation destruction from landsat time series: A case study of Wulishan limestone mine

Quantitatively evaluating the ecological environment impacts of vegetation destruction due to open-pit mining activities is vital for enhancing the green mining standard and cost management capabilities of mining enterprises. Based on the Landsat time series, this study proposes an ecological environment impact assessment and quantitative characterization method for vegetation destruction in mining areas resulting from open-pit mining activities. First, the modified normalized difference water index and the normalized difference vegetation index time series data were calculated. The water body thresholds and the fraction of vegetation coverage were ascertained using the K-means clustering algorithm and the dimidiate pixel model, respectively, to determine the area of direct vegetation destruction in mining areas. Second, utilizing the Theil-Sen Median trend analysis and the Mann-Kendall test, the indirect impact area of vegetation in the mining region was identified. Lastly, by integrating vegetation's net primary productivity with the Chinese Emission Allowance price index, the total carbon emission cost of vegetation destruction due to mining activities over 20 years was calculated to be about 2.122 million yuan. The findings indicated that the ecological environmental impact of open-pit mining activities on vegetation destruction cannot be ignored. From 2000 to 2020, open-pit mining at the Wulishan limestone mine in Anhui Province, China, increased the area of direct vegetation destruction by 9.072 × 105 m2, and the indirect impact area on vegetation was 7.371 × 105 m2. The carbon emission cost of vegetation destruction in the direct destruction area was about 104,000 yuan per year, and the carbon emission cost of vegetation damage in the indirect impact area was approximately 2,082.53 yuan per year. This research provides a scientific foundation for ecological environmental protection, regulations, green mining, and cost management for mining enterprises, promoting the harmonious progress of both the economy and environmental protection.

A framework for post‐processing bird tracks from automated tracking radar systems

Abstract Radar is an effective tool for continuous monitoring and quantification of aerial bird movement and used to study migration and local flight behaviour. However, systems with automated tracking algorithms do not provide the level of processing sufficient to guarantee reliable data. Therefore, post‐processing such radar data is required but often non‐trivial, especially in challenging environments such as open sea. We present a post‐processing framework that implements knowledge of the radar system and bird biology to filter the data and retrieve reliable, high‐quality tracking data. The framework is split into three modules, each with a specific aim: (I) sub‐setting based on prior knowledge of the radar system and bird flight, (II) improving bird track quality and (III) detecting and removing spatio‐temporal sections of data that have a clear bias for false observations. The effectiveness of the framework is demonstrated with a case study comparing track densities inside and outside an offshore wind farm, and by applying the workflow to a dataset of visually validated radar tracks. Application of Module I resulted in a dataset of 520.894 bird tracks (19.5% of total data) within a 10.4 km2 area. Additionally, 18.734 tracks were corrected for geometric errors in Module II, and Module III identified 236 of 719 observation hours and an area of 1.55 km2 as unreliable for spatio‐temporal analysis. No difference in track densities was found between the area inside and outside the wind farm when using the post‐processed data, whereas using the unprocessed bird tracks, lower track densities were observed outside the wind farm. Of the visually validated radar tracks, the framework removed 85% of false positive bird tracks, while retaining 80% of true positive bird tracks. The framework provides a logical workflow to increase the reliability and quality of a bird radar dataset while being adaptable to the radar system and its surroundings. This is a first step towards standardising the post‐processing methodology for automated bird radar systems, which can facilitate comparative analyses of bird movement in space and time and improve the quality of ecological impact assessments.