Environmental Considerations Research Articles

Development of New Method for Concrete Carbon Emission evaluation: The Anti-freezing durability-oriented Carbon Emission Indicator (CEI) System and its application in design of low carbon HPC with high durability

This research focuses on the development of the Anti-freezing Durability-Oriented Carbon Emission Indicator (CEI) system for assessing concrete's carbon footprint with an emphasis on durability, particularly in freeze-thaw conditions. This novel approach reduces the environmental impact of concrete by integrating durability metrics into carbon emission evaluations. The paper presents experimental findings on mix designs for high-strength, low-carbon concrete, which demonstrate improved freeze-thaw durability. And found out that concrete mixes using sulfate-resistant cement with GGBS outperform those with FA and OPC in terms of low-carbon performance, in the newly developed 19 mixes, concrete mix incorporating air-entraining agents with sulfate-resistant cement and 40% GGBS as a supplementary cementitious material, namely the HPC1-P•HSRF-S group, demonstrates a distinct low-carbon advantage across various indicators.Overall, the inclusion of fibers is shown to improve freeze-thaw durability, though with limited impact on compressive strength. The research underlines the importance of optimizing concrete mix designs for both environmental and durability considerations, presenting a significant step towards more sustainable construction practices.

PFAS-mediated disruptions on thyroid histology

Abstract Introduction/Objective Per-and polyfluroalkyl substances (PFAS), are environmental contaminants of emerging concern due to their abundance in the environment and potential adverse health impacts. PFAS are used in waterproof clothing, makeup, carpets, upholstery, cookware, and fast-food containers. These organic pollutants have been found in the blood of 98% of Americans and have been linked to disruption in thyroid hormones. During fetal life, thyroid hormones are crucial for brain development and alterations in these hormones can induce long-term impacts on intellectual and brain impairments. T3 and T4 are known to be altered by PFAS exposure, but the mechanism by which this is done remains unclear. Methods/Case Report Normal thyroid cells were treated for 72 hours with 1000 nM solution containing either GEnX, PFOA, PFOS, or 1% DMSO control. Immunofluorescence for actin, tubulin, and DAPI was performed using a Nikon spinning disk. In vivo studies where 8-week-old mice are gavaged with 7.5 mg/kg of PFOS, PFOA, and GenX or PBS control for 8 weeks. Results (if a Case Study enter NA) We hypothesized the PFAS treatment alters thyroid cells morphology and histology. Immunofluorescence staining of normal thyroid cells treated with PFAS show a decrease in actin stress fibers compared to control cells. PFAS treated mice show a decrease in follicle size compared to control (average 1017 um2 size, p=0.0483). Conclusion This is the first study to show changes in thyroid histology after 8 weeks of PFAS exposure. As structure and function are closely linked, it is likely that this reduction in follicle size and actin reorganization contribute to alterations in thyroid function. Future studies are needed to illuminate the mechanism by which PFAS alter thyroid function in vivo. Understanding the role of PFAS-mediated thyroid dysregulation will have far reaching implications on environmental regulations and considerations for limiting PFAS in our environment.

Entrepreneurs’ decision-making in sustainable open innovation practices

Entrepreneurs’ decision-making in sustainable open innovation practices holds significant relevance in fostering environmentally conscious and socially responsible business strategies. Sustainable decision-making not only aligns with ethical principles but also addresses pressing global challenges such as climate change and resource depletion. This study aims to characterize the decision-making role played by entrepreneurs in the context of the open innovation paradigm and to understand the factors that influence entrepreneurial performance. A quantitative methodology supported by Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling was adopted, considering a sample of 407 startups incubated in science and technology parks. After that, a mixed-methods approach was employed to explore the differences between sectors of activity, in which 4 ventures were involved. The results confirm that of the 9 hypotheses formulated in the relationship between the constructs, only innovation novelty is not significant for sustainable open innovation management processes, unlike innovation openness. This study offers theoretical and practical implications for startups that intend to use open innovation networks to integrate environmental and social considerations into the core of business strategies.

Study on infrared thermal imaging for surface deterioration investigation and evaluation of stone cultural relics based on temperature variation

This study leverages infrared thermal imaging technology to advance the field of stone cultural relics preservation by introducing a novel evaluation index—temperature variation (Tv)—that quantifies the degree of surface deterioration. Unlike previous studies that have focused primarily on detecting a single deterioration type, this study pioneered a comprehensive analysis of the interactions of multiple deterioration in stone cultural relic. A deeper understanding of the weathering mechanisms of stone cultural relics has been gained by examining the Tv on the surface of stone cultural relics during heating and cooling, and successfully relating these changes to the degree of weathering of the cultural relic. This study developed a linear fitting method for systematically assessing the degree of weathering of stone cultural relic, which is a significant improvement over traditional assessment techniques. Our approach not only enhances the accuracy and applicability of Tv as an evaluation index but also integrates environmental temperature considerations, ensuring a more reliable assessment under varying conditions. The study's findings validate the effectiveness of infrared thermal imaging in identifying deterioration types and evaluating their severity, setting a new standard for the protection and restoration of stone cultural relics.

The future of clean energy: Agricultural residues as a bioethanol source and its ecological impacts in Africa

This study presents a comprehensive analysis of Africa's potential to produce bioethanol from agricultural residues and its environmental impact. The relentless consumption of fossil fuels and associated environmental challenges necessitate a shift toward sustainable energy sources, with bioethanol emerging as a promising alternative. This study evaluates the capacity for bioethanol generation from agricultural residues in Africa, considering its land, water, and carbon footprints. Based on data from 85 primary agricultural residues across Africa, approximately 102.256 Gt of fresh agricultural residue is estimated to be available in Africa, translating to approximately 62.117 Gt of dry-weight material. This significant capacity indicates a substantial potential for bioethanol production in Africa, corresponding to a net output of 207.127 EJ. The coproduction potential of bioethanol and electricity are also highlighted, with electricity accounting for 8.016 % of the total net bioethanol energy production. However, the environmental impact of bioethanol production varies across African nations, suggesting the need for optimization and sustainable practices. Additionally, the study discusses the challenges encountered in the bioethanol sector, including the sustainability of production, emission reduction, technological and financial constraints, and the broader context of biomass usage. In conclusion, although bioethanol production from agricultural residues is a promising alternative for Africa's energy sector, it should be realized only after a multifaceted assessment involving technological, economic, policy, and environmental considerations.

Advancements in nanobiochar for environmental remediation: A comprehensive review

This study delves into the diverse domain of biochar and its nano-variant, discussing their definitions, synthesis methods, properties and applications. Biochar, produced from various raw materials through different synthesis techniques, possesses unique characteristics that make it valuable for a wide range of uses. Nanobiochar, a new derivative, offers improved properties due to its nano-scale structure, enabling advanced applications. The study examines the physical and chemical attributes, surface area and pore structure of nanobiochar, along with methods for its functionalization and modifications. Synthesis techniques for nanobiochar are analyzed and compared with those for biochar and activated carbon. The versatility of nanobiochar is highlighted in its environmental, agricultural and energy applications, especially in water and soil purification, soil enhancement and energy storage. The environmental impact and safety considerations are also discussed, including eco-toxicity assessment, fate and transport in the environment and regulatory aspects. Additionally, the study addresses challenges, future perspectives, emerging trends and potential breakthroughs in nanobiochar research, emphasizing the need for ongoing exploration and innovation. In conclusion, nanobiochar shows great potential as a sustainable and versatile material with extensive applications, but it requires careful consideration of environmental and safety issues.

Multi-Objetive Dispatching in Multi-Area Power Systems Using the Fuzzy Satisficing Method

The traditional mathematical models for solving the economic dispatch problem at the generation level primarily focus on minimizing overall operational costs while ensuring demand is met across various periods. However, contemporary power systems integrate a diverse mix of generators from both conventional and renewable energy sources, contributing to economically efficient energy production and playing a pivotal role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. As the complexity of power systems increases, the scope of economic dispatch must expand to address demand across multiple regions, incorporating a range of objective functions that optimize energy resource utilization, reduce costs, and achieve superior economic and technical outcomes. This paper, therefore, proposes an advanced optimization model designed to determine the hourly power output of various generation units distributed across multiple areas within the power system. The model satisfies the dual objective functions and adheres to stringent technical constraints, effectively framing the problem as a nonlinear programming challenge. Furthermore, an in-depth analysis of the resulting and exchanged energy quantities demonstrates that the model guarantees the hourly demand. Significantly, the system’s efficiency can be further enhanced by increasing the capacity of the interconnection links between areas, thereby generating additional savings that can be reinvested into expanding the links’ capacity. Moreover, the multi-objective model excels not only in meeting the proposed objective functions but also in optimizing energy exchange across the system. This optimization is applicable to various types of energy, including thermal and renewable sources, even those characterized by uncertainty in their primary resources. The model’s ability to effectively manage such uncertainties underscores its robustness, instilling confidence in its applicability and reliability across diverse energy scenarios. This adaptability makes the model a significant contribution to the field, offering a sophisticated tool for optimizing multi-area power systems in a way that balances economic, technical, and environmental considerations.

Unlocking the potential: How does technological innovation shape inclusive wealth? Empirical insights from top seven emerging economies

Amidst the pursuit of sustainable development and economic prosperity, there has been growing criticism directed towards traditional metrics such as GDP because of their narrow focus on societal well-being and environmental considerations. Therefore, our study shifts its focus from GDP to a more comprehensive measure of wealth, known as inclusive wealth. Our objective is to investigate how technology contributes to the advancement of inclusive wealth encompassing produced, natural, and human capital. We centred our analysis on the top seven emerging economies (E−7) and utilized data from the period of 1998–2022. Employing Fully Modified Least Squares (FMOLS), we develop four distinct models to examine the impact of technology on its various components and overall inclusive wealth. We also checked the robustness of our results by employing Cross-Sectionally Augmented Autoregressive Distributed Lag (CS-ARDL) model. Our findings reveal that technological advancement has a positive effect on each component of inclusive wealth, including produced capital, human capital and natural capital. Additionally, our results indicate a favourable impact of technological progress on overall inclusive wealth. These results emphasize the importance of incorporating technology into strategies for sustainable development and inclusive wealth.

Paediatric family activation rapid response (FARR) in acute care: a qualitative study for developing a multilingual application (app) intervention

BackgroundDelayed recognition of clinical deterioration can result in harm to patients. Parents/carers can often recognise changes in the child’s condition before healthcare professionals (HCPs). To mitigate the risk of failure...

High Performance Infrared InAs Colloidal Quantum Dot Photodetector with 79% EQE Enabled by an Extended Absorber Layer

AbstractColloidal quantum dots (CQDs) with tunable bandgaps in the NIR‐SWIR range are highly valued for infrared applications including LiDAR, interactive displays, and biometrics. Particularly, for environmental considerations, photodetectors (PDs) using InAs CQDs are actively being explored. However, their performance still lags behind that of Pb‐based devices. Herein, an effective strategy to improve the photodetection characteristics of InAs CQD PDs by enhancing the incident photon usage is presented. By engineering the solvent of InAs CQD ink to increase volatility, the controllable range of absorber layer thickness is substantially extended. Then, the thickness‐ and bias‐dependent performance of InAs CQD PDs are systematically studied, guided by optical simulations. Under optimal conditions, an external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 79%, a responsivity of 0.6 AW−1–the highest reported for InAs CQD photodiodes, and a detectivity of 3.1 × 1011 Jones at 940 nm are achieved. Furthermore, it is found that increasing the absorber layer thickness reduces device capacitance, resulting in a faster response time of 46 ns. This study provides optical and electrical insights into how absorber layer thickness affects InAs CQD PD performance and outlines design principles for high‐performance optoelectronic devices with specified light‐absorbing layers, paving the way for the development of advanced optoelectronic devices.

Implementation of Green Lean Six Sigma in Dutch Healthcare: A Qualitative Study of Healthcare Professionals' Experiences.

Introduction: The healthcare sector significantly contributes to environmental degradation, highlighting the need for sustainable practices. Green Lean Six Sigma (GLSS) offers a relevant and impactful approach to reduce healthcare's environmental footprint while improving efficiency. By incorporating environmental considerations into Lean Six Sigma, GLSS has the potential to mitigate healthcare's environmental impact and promote environmental sustainability. This study aims to gain insight into healthcare professionals' experiences with GLSS at their workplace. Materials and Methods: This qualitative exploratory study employed semi-structured surveys based on theory of training evaluation from Kirkpatrick with Dutch healthcare professionals in the first six to eight months after completing GLSS training. Results: Even though 76% (N = 16) of trained healthcare professionals applied GLSS at their workplace and 43% of them (N = 9) completed a project within the first six to eight months after training, they all experienced one or more barriers. The most frequently reported barriers were lack of time, difficulties with project selection and a lack of management support. GLSS project results included reduction of products, energy, costs and travel, green choices in procurement and sustainable food choices. GLSS also helped to create awareness on the environmental impact of healthcare and to optimize processes by reducing costs, waiting time, workload and defects. Discussion: This is the first study to report experiences from applying GLSS in healthcare. Furthermore, it is the first study presenting GLSS training evaluation results in terms of participant behaviour and organizational outcomes. Conclusions: Results of this study can be used to enhance GLSS deployment programs and to optimize organizational settings for successful GLSS implementation in healthcare.

Wetland Restoration benefits both climate and biodiversity

Wetland Restoration benefits both climate and biodiversity In GRIP on LIFE IP, public authorities in Sweden work together with forest owners’ associations, non-governmental organisations and researchers to improve environmental consideration of waters and wetlands in the forest landscape while continuing active forest management. Our goal is to improve the environment and conditions for animals and plants living in the forest’s watercourses and wetlands.

Survey of the endoscopy workforce’s perception of sustainability

ObjectiveThe National Health Service is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, with endoscopy ranking as the third highest contributor of waste in healthcare. We aimed to ascertain the endoscopy...

INDONESIAN ECONOMIC DIPLOMACY IN ACCELERATING INDONESIA-CANADA CEPA NEGOTIATIONS

This research investigates the economic cooperation between Indonesia and Canada under the comprehensive economic agreement, which builds on a trade relationship established in 1951. The agreement aims to address trade challenges and boost economic activities between the two nations by incorporating economic, environmental, and human resource considerations, aligned with their national interests and values. Findings indicate that both countries are collaboratively overcoming trade barriers through comprehensive economic cooperation. Negotiations have advanced to the eighth round, addressing various sustainable issues and resulting in notable improvements in trade regulations, technical implementation, and overall cooperation. This research employs an exploratory qualitative method, focusing on bilateral cooperation and economic diplomacy. The aim is to examine and comprehend Indonesia's efforts at economic diplomacy in expediting the agreement negotiations, as well as to evaluate the effects of these initiatives on the bilateral economic ties between Canada and Indonesia, and the consequences for Indonesia's economic growth and global trade.

Проблемы доступности и комфортности объектов туристической инфраструктуры для развития автомобильного туризма в России

This study examines the potential for the development of automobile tourism in Russia and its surrounding difficulties, focusing on the convenience and accessibility of tourist facilities. The analysis conducted includes a thorough dissection of the theoretical framework and consideration of the practical elements of the industry. The main objective is to improve and modernize road travel conditions in the country through a comprehensive approach. The paper analyzes existing data and conducts a comprehensive assessment that considers the many factors that influence road tourism. Key problems identified include limited development of the road network, regional differences in infrastructure and a lack of quality services in remote parts of Russia. The challenges faced by international tourism are also raised, including strict visa and customs procedures that prevent foreign road tourists from visiting Russia. It is highlighted that solving these problems will require efforts on the part of both the government and the private sector, in the form of partnership programs to improve infrastructure and services. Specific measures are proposed to develop the transportation network, improve road safety, stimulate rural and ecotourism, and support small businesses in tourism. At the same time, the integration of the latest technologies and the establishment of international tourism are emphasized. Emphasis is placed on the importance of environmental considerations for sustainable tourism development, given the growing interest in road travel in Russia. This study aims to develop strategies that can lead to the successful development of automobile tourism, enriching the economic and cultural life of the country.

Ducted wind turbines: A review and assessment of different design models

Wind energy technology is progressing at an accelerated pace due to the growing global demand for renewable energy, particularly horizontal axis wind turbines (HAWTs). Ducted wind turbines (DWTs) have emerged as a promising enhancement to traditional horizontal axis wind turbines, demonstrating substantial improvements in efficiency and power output. This study presents a comprehensive evaluation of four distinct designs for DWTs, with a focus on critical factors including efficiency, cost-effectiveness, durability, and environmental sustainability. Among the designs analyzed, the Diffuser configuration emerges as the most advantageous in terms of cost, delivering energy more economically than the Nozzle-Diffuser design. The durability analysis underscores the Diffuser design’s superior longevity, indicated by a durability index of 0.9, reflecting its robust construction and low maintenance demands. Additionally, the Diffuser design is shown to be highly environmentally sustainable, achieving an Environmental Impact Score of 0.91, highlighting its minimal carbon footprint and high recyclability. The study concludes that the Diffuser design offers a balanced and effective solution, combining cost efficiency, durability, and environmental considerations while maintaining competitive efficiency levels.

Study on use of recycled waste materials on the performance of asphalt binder and mixes: A comprehensive review

All aspects of daily living frequently involve the use of plastics. Due to the lack of effective waste treatment methods, massive global environmental problems will be caused by the accumulation of waste plastics. The use of waste materials in road building is of tremendous interest since it has the potential to reduce hazards and pollution while conserving natural resources. High-density polyethylene (HDPE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene (PS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA), and polyvinyl chloride are the most appropriate and relevant of waste plastics. There are other types of waste materials used in the asphalt such as reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP), crumb rubber (CR), steel slag, glass powder etc. These all-waste materials have been briefly discussed. In this review article several concerns have been raised about the physical and chemical qualities, of asphalt pavements that have been mixed with waste materials. Using waste materials in asphalt pavements can raise several concerns regarding the physical and chemical qualities of the resulting mixtures. These concerns typically revolve around factors such as durability, performance, environmental impact, and overall sustainability. This research article provides a thorough analysis of the wet and dry procedures used to mix different types of waste plastics. Overall, including waste plastics into asphalt mix improved rutting, fatigue, and moisture resistance. Additionally, recycling waste plastics in this manner helps in reducing environmental pollution and conserving natural resources. Overall, the inclusion of waste plastics in asphalt mixtures can contribute to the development of more sustainable and durable pavements with improved performance in terms of rutting, fatigue, and moisture resistance. There are still certain issues like compatibility and low temperature performances that need to be addressed. To overcome the aforementioned issues, many strategies are used, including the use of nanomaterials, chemical additives, and polymer additives. Additional research should be conducted to investigate the ageing effect, pavement performance monitoring, polymer stability, and the economic and environmental considerations associated with the usage of plastics in asphalt pavements.

How artificial intelligence applied to sound recognition can help gas leak detection in acoustically complex environments?

From production to storage and transport, detecting leaks of flammable gases is a major challenge, particularly in terms of occupational safety and health, and environmental considerations. The emergence of hydrogen as an energy source makes acoustic-based technologies a key element in this value chain. For these reasons, Metravib Engineering, in collaboration with the R&D Safety Project of TotalEnergies One Tech, has been developing since 2019 the AGLED system, for the early detection, localization and classification of these leaks. The system performs acoustic detection in the audible frequency range, using antennas consisting of 4 microphones and physics-based artificial intelligence. Over 5,600 signals were recorded on a site fairly representative of gas production and storage facilities in order to build a robust learning database. Several algorithms were implemented to limit the number of false detections delivered by the system. A relearning strategy was developed to handle unexpected disturbances relative to specific noise environment. This paper describes the overall architecture of the system, from signal acquisition to gas leak detection and 3D localization. It delves into the relearning algorithm and its performance during two full-scale industrial pilots of TotalEnergies - La Mède (France) and Tempa Rossa (Italy) - that included nitrogen controlled leaks tests campaigns.

Determination of hydrogen fuel production from GIS-based selected ponds using hybrid renewable energy systems in Kayseri

This study offers the feasibility study of large-scale hydrogen production to establish environmentally friendly hybrid energy facilities based on wind and solar energy resources in the vicinity of lakes and rivers within the Kayseri region of Türkiye. The ultimate objective is to enable hydrogen production from lakes and rivers and identify optimal locations for the installation of hydrogen fuel stations. The precise selection of locations for the designated province is based on geographical, environmental, and infrastructural considerations by utilizing GIS technology which allows spatial analysis and superimposition of various layers. The methodology also involves the utilization of the HOMER software to facilitate the integration of wind and solar power, along with hydrogen production, providing a platform for environmentally friendly energy system design and optimization. A comprehensive evaluation has been conducted for the sizing and placement of renewable energy systems based on microgrid analysis, the design of hydrogen production facilities, and the establishment of hydrogen refueling infrastructure. The study also incorporates a financial analysis to assess the economic viability of the project over its lifecycle. Among the five water sources considered, the highest annual hydrogen production is 830 tons in Zamantı River, while Kızılırmak River has the lowest value according to LCOE and LCOH values, 0.030 $/kWh and 3.85 $/kgH2, respectively.

CURRENT TRENDS IN PHOTOVOLTAIC THERMAL (PVT) SYSTEMS: A REVIEW OF TECHNOLOGIES AND SUSTAINABLE ENERGY SOLUTIONS

This systematic review explores advancements and challenges in photovoltaic thermal (PVT) systems, focusing on efficiency improvements, cooling mechanisms, material innovations, Internet of Things (IoT) integration, and cost and environmental considerations. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, 45 articles were analyzed to provide a comprehensive understanding of current trends and future directions in PVT technology. Findings reveal that cooling mechanisms, particularly liquid-based and nanofluid-based systems, are essential for maintaining high PVT efficiency under diverse environmental conditions. Material advancements, including phase change materials (PCMs) and nanotechnology, have enhanced thermal management and energy storage capabilities, yet their high costs and environmental impacts remain significant barriers to broader adoption. IoT and smart grid integration have transformed PVT system functionality by enabling real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and energy flow adjustments within connected energy networks. However, persistent challenges—including high initial investment costs, environmental concerns related to materials, and the need for adaptable designs—highlight areas for future research. Advancements in adaptive materials, sustainable cooling solutions, and digital automation are essential for developing cost-effective, resilient PVT systems that contribute to global renewable energy goals. This review provides a foundation for future research to address the identified challenges and maximize the potential of PVT systems in sustainable energy production.