Impact Of Environmental Pollution Research Articles

Harnessing the potential of white rot fungi and ligninolytic enzymes for efficient textile dye degradation: A comprehensive review.

The contamination of wastewater with textile dyes has emerged as a pressing environmental concern due to its persistent nature and harmful effects on ecosystems. Conventional dye treatment methods have proven inadequate in effectively breaking down complex dye molecules. However, a promising alternative for textile dye degradation lies in the utilization of white rot fungi, renowned for their remarkable lignin-degrading capabilities. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the potential of white rot fungi in degrading textile dyes, with a particular focus on their ligninolytic enzymes, specifically examining the roles of lignin peroxidase (LiP), manganese peroxidase (MnP), and laccase in the degradation of lignin and their applications in textile dye degradation. The primary objective of this paper is to elucidate the enzymatic mechanisms involved in dye degradation, with a spotlight on recent research advancements in this field. Additionally, the review explores factors influencing enzyme production, including culture conditions and genetic engineering approaches. The challenges associated with implementing white rot fungi and their ligninolytic enzymes in textile dye degradation processes are also thoroughly examined. Textile dye contamination poses a significant environmental threat due to its resistance to conventional treatment methods. White rot fungi, known for their ligninolytic capabilities, offer an innovative approach to address this issue. The review delves into the intricate mechanisms through which white rot fungi and their enzymes, including LiP, MnP, and laccase, break down complex dye molecules. These enzymes play a pivotal role in lignin degradation, a process that can be adapted for textile dye removal. The review also emphasizes recent developments in this field, shedding light on the latest findings and innovations. It discusses how culture conditions and genetic engineering techniques can influence the production of these crucial enzymes, potentially enhancing their efficiency in textile dye degradation. This highlights the potential for tailored enzyme production to address specific dye contaminants effectively. The paper also confronts the challenges associated with integrating white rot fungi and their ligninolytic enzymes into practical textile dye degradation processes. These challenges encompass issues like scalability, cost-effectiveness, and regulatory hurdles. By acknowledging these obstacles, the review aims to pave the way for practical and sustainable applications of white rot fungi in wastewater treatment. In conclusion, this comprehensive review offers valuable insights into how white rot fungi and their ligninolytic enzymes can provide a sustainable solution to the urgent problem of textile dye-contaminated wastewater. It underscores the enzymatic mechanisms at play, recent research breakthroughs, and the potential of genetic engineering to optimize enzyme production. By addressing the challenges of implementation, this review contributes to the ongoing efforts to mitigate the environmental impact of textile dye pollution. PRACTITIONER POINTS: Ligninolytic enzymes from white rot fungi, like LiP, MnP, and laccase, are crucial for degrading textile dyes. Different dyes and enzymatic mechanisms is vital for effective wastewater treatment. Combine white rot fungi-based strategies with mediator systems, co-culturing, or sequential treatment approaches to enhance overall degradation efficiency. Emphasize the broader environmental impact of textile dye pollution and position white rot fungi as a promising avenue for contributing to mitigation efforts. This aligns with the overarching goal of sustainable wastewater treatment practices and environmental conservation. Consider scalability, cost-effectiveness, and regulatory compliance to pave the way for sustainable applications that can effectively mitigate the environmental impact of textile dye pollution.

The Impact of Climate Change and Environmental Pollution on the Right to Life

The Impact of Climate Change and Environmental Pollution on the Right to Life

Bio-bleaching of ankara pulp with xylanase-producing bacterial consortium for sustainable handmade paper production

The paper industry faces two critical challenges: the scarcity of raw materials and the environmental impact of chemical waste pollution. Addressing the first challenge involves harnessing alternative, sustainable raw materials, while the second challenge can be mitigated through the adoption of bio-bleaching processes, which significantly reduce chemical consumption while enhancing paper brightness and quality. This study proposes a solution to both challenges by using non-woody Calotropis procera (Ankara) and a xylanase-producing microbial consortium for sustainable handmade paper production, a combination not extensively explored in prior research. To evaluate this approach, the process was divided into three stages. In stage I, Ankara fibre was pulped through open hot digestion. In stage II, the pulp was subjected to bio-bleaching in two experimental setups: Set I (without sucrose) and Set II (with sucrose) for 5 days. In stage III, chemical bleaching was used to improve the final brightness of the treated pulps. A novel comparison was made between the bio-bleaching efficiency of an individual isolate g5 (BI) and a bacterial consortium (BC). This research highlighted that bio-bleaching with the consortium effectively removed lignin (140±60 mg/l) and colour (1830±50 PCU), especially in the presence of sucrose, compared to using a single xylanase isolate. Pulp residue/filtrate collected at each stage was estimated based on parameters such as colour and lignin content. After stage III (chemical bleaching), the release of colour and lignin in pulp filtrate was higher in BI compared to BC, indicating the consortium's effectiveness during bio-bleaching, which leaves fewer degradable lignin structures for the chemical bleaching stage. Papers crafted from consortium-treated pulp also exhibited higher brightness than those treated with the isolate. This study reveals the synergistic effect of microbial consortia, leading to more efficient lignin degradation and enhanced bio-bleaching capabilities, supporting the development of greener industrial processes. Ultimately, this study demonstrates a unique and eco-friendly approach to papermaking, combining C. procera and enzymatic bio-bleaching to reduce dependency on hazardous chemicals and support sustainable industry practices.

Theoretical framework for assessing the economic and environmental impact of water pollution: A detailed study on sustainable development of India

This research paper aims to explore the relationship between water pollution and sustainable development. Water pollution is a significant environmental challenge that threatens the sustainability of ecosystems, human health, and economic development. Sustainable development aims to meet the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. The research methodology involves a comprehensive review of relevant literature on water pollution and sustainable development, including empirical studies, theoretical frameworks, and policy documents. The research will explore the impact of water pollution on sustainable development, the drivers of water pollution, and the policy and regulatory frameworks that promote sustainable water management. The findings of this research paper will contribute to a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between water pollution and sustainable development and provide insights into effective strategies and policies that can promote sustainable water management. The research will also highlight the importance of public awareness and education in promoting sustainable practices and behaviors that can help to prevent and mitigate water pollution. This research paper will provide valuable insights into achieving sustainable water management practices that promote environmental sustainability and socio-economic development.

Շրջակա միջավայրի աղտոտվածության քաղցկեղածին ազդեցոիթյան վերլուծությունը կայուն զարգացման համատեքստում / Analysis of the Impact of Environmental Pollution on Cancer Diseases in the Context of Sustainable Development

The purpose of the article is to study the negative consequences of Armenia's mining activities, using the conceptual apparatus of selected environmental economics and a new formulation of the problem related to the achievement of sustainable development goals and the implementation of principles. By separating the economic, social and environmental components of sustainable development, the following tasks were set: to carry out an analysis of the carcinogenic impact of environmental pollution on human health and to obtain impact assessments.

СПРИЙНЯТТЯ СТРАВ З ЇСТІВНИХ КОМАХ СПОЖИВАЧАМИ ПОСЛУГ ЗАКЛАДІВ ІНДУСТРІЇ ГОСТИННОСТІ

It has been determined that in modern conditions, growing insects for food usually requires much fewer resources than meat production, while edible insects can also complement other diets and provide the necessary nutrients into the body. The historical features of the use of insects as part of the human diet are considered. Three types of insect breeding have been identified: wild cultivation, semi-domestication and closed cultivation. It has been estimated that more than 2000 species of edible insects are consumed today worldwide. A comparative analysis of the composition of meat of slaughter animals and insects was carried out, it was determined that the content of individual nutrients differs significantly both in meat and in insects, while some of the edible species of insects have a higher energy value, a higher content of protein, fat, polyunsaturated fatty acids and cholesterol, compared to the meat of slaughter animals, but at the same time the content of insects is lower saturated fatty acids, monounsaturated fatty acids, thiamine, niacin, cobalamin, iron. The encouragement of insect consumption in food is characterized. and the United Nations Agricultural Organization (FAO) because of its environmental and human health benefits. The main ways of eating insects and the problem of allergenicity on insects are highlighted. The most commonly used species of insects for food are characterized. The problems of the impact of environmental pollution on the nutritional quality of insects are highlighted. The factors that need to be given importance to provide scientifically based recommendations for the development of environmentally sustainable production of edible insects for consumption, including the production and delivery of feed, product processing, are characterized. Trends in the development of the market for insect food products have been determined. Ways to increase consumer perception of edible insects are proposed. The results of a survey of the attitude of Ukrainian youth to the consumption of edible insects based on a survey are presented. It is concluded that the consumption of alternative proteins from insects is one of the ways to solve the problems of environmental protection, and edible insects can potentially become one of the sources of food in countries that do not have such cultural traditions, but for this insect-based food products to be similar to existing products, pleasant to the taste and have no visible signs of replacing traditional ingredients.

Environmental Pollution, Sources, Impacts, and Potential Mitigation Strategies: An Overview

Environmental pollution poses a severe and escalating threat to human health, ecological systems, and the overall well-being of our planet. This comprehensive overview has explored the diverse types of pollutants, their sources, impacts, and potential mitigation strategies. These combining mitigation and bioremediation techniques are essential for reducing the environmental impact of pollutants, protecting public health, and promoting sustainable practices. Addressing pollution requires a multi-faceted approach combining regulatory policies, technological innovation, public awareness, and international cooperation to ensure a sustainable future.

Characterization of a Pseudomonas sp. Isolated from Langkawi Capable of Degrading Glyphosate

Bioremediation of soil contaminants, including glyphosate, is an economically viable and environmentally friendly technique. Glyphosate, one of the most widely used herbicides for weed management, poses significant risks to wildlife and their habitats when it contaminates the environment. This study focused on the bioremediation potential of soil Pseudomonas spp. isolated from a paddy field with a long history of glyphosate application. The most promising isolate was tentatively identified as Pseudomonas sp. strain UPM-2009 through partial identification methods. This bacterium showed significant potential for glyphosate degradation under optimal conditions. Experiments demonstrated that Pseudomonas sp. degrades glyphosate most effectively at pH 7.0, a glyphosate concentration of 0.5 g/L, temperatures between 30 and 35°C, and an inoculum size of 1% (v/v). Notably, the bacterium exhibited a two-day lag period at 0.5 g/L glyphosate, achieving nearly 90% degradation after six days of incubation. Heavy metals such as Hg(II), Ag(I), and Cd(II) significantly inhibited bacterial growth, with inhibition rates of 99%, 95%, and 66%, respectively. This study underscores the potential of Pseudomonas sp. for bioremediation of glyphosate-contaminated environments. It highlights the need for further research, particularly molecular identification techniques, to fully characterize and optimize this bioremediation strategy. This approach can significantly contribute to mitigating the environmental impact of glyphosate pollution, promoting healthier ecosystems and sustainable agricultural practices.

How antibiotic exposure affect predator-prey interactions by population dynamics in ciliates?

Biodiversity loss resulting from environmental pollution is a global concern. While interspecific interactions are central to ecology, the impact of environmental pollution on predator-prey interactions and its ecological consequences, such as extinction and biodiversity loss, remain unclear. To investigate the effects of antibiotic exposure on predation strength and the resulting ecological consequence, the Didinium-Paramecium was utilized as a predator-prey model and exposed to nitrofurazone or erythromycin, two common pollutants, respectively. Initially, we determined prey population growth dynamics, body size, and predator numerical-functional responses. Subsequently, these above parameters were integrated into a mathematical model of predator-prey predation. Then both the long time-series data and phase portraits obtained through model simulation were used to estimate interaction strength and to predict the outcome of predator-prey coexistence. Our results revealed that exposure to either antibiotic significantly reduced prey population growth parameters (e.g., μmax and K) while increasing individual body size. The combined effects of antibiotic exposure and predation pressure on population growth inhibition or body size promotion were variable, mostly additive, with a few cases of synergy and extremely rare antagonism, depending on antibiotic exposure concentration. As antibiotic exposure concentration increased, the predator rmax generally declined, while functional responses varied depending on specific parameters, implying a decrease in predator-prey interaction strength. Analyses of phase portrait features showed that the population oscillation amplitude decreased with increasing antibiotic exposure concentrations, the cycle length of adjacent peaks increased, and prey extinction occurred earlier. In conclusion, antibiotic exposure reduced both predator and prey fitness, underlying the reason antibiotics reduces the strength of predator-prey interaction. Despite the indirect benefits of prey gain from this, the presence of predators can expedite the process of prey extinction caused by antibiotic exposure.

High energy absorption efficiency and biodegradable polymer based microcellular materials via environmental-friendly CO2 foaming for disposable cushioning packaging

Efficient energy absorption is crucial to ensure full protection on precision electronic devices during transportation. Hence, it is necessary to employ a substantial quantity of cushioning packaging materials, despite their disposable feature and severe environmental pollution impact. Therefore, an urgent need arises to develop a green and environmentally friendly material in its production and full life cycle and to offer high energy absorption for buffer packaging. In this study, two kinds of biodegradable components were selected, including a flexible chain structure to enhance the energy absorption capacity, and a rigid chain structure to provide effective support. By utilizing environmental-friendly supercritical CO2 foaming technology, a fully biodegradable foam was fabricated, which demonstrates great potential as a green buffer packaging material with the following advantages: (1) the material boasts a high energy absorption efficiency of 0.325, providing robust protection against the impact of external forces for precision devices during transportation; (2) its low thermal conductivity shields precision devices from heat shock; (3) as water contact angle exceeding 100°, the material changes from hydrophilic to hydrophobic, guarding against moisture erosion; (4) the introduction of cell structure accelerates the degradation process, further enhancing the material's environmental properties. Consequently, it is evident that the development of this innovative biodegradable material holds significant promise for advancing the existing environmentally friendly packaging material.

Tire materials disturb transformations of nitrogen compounds and affect the structure of biomass in aerobic granular sludge reactors

Tire materials (TMs) present a notable hazard due to their potential to release harmful chemicals and microplastics into the environment. They can infiltrate wastewater treatment plants, where their effects remain inadequately understood, raising concerns regarding their influence on treatment procedures. Thus, this study investigated the impact of TMs in wastewater (10, 25, 50 mg/L) on wastewater treatment efficiency, biomass morphology, and microbial composition in aerobic granular sludge (AGS) reactors. TM dosage negatively correlated with nitrification and denitrification efficiencies, reducing overall nitrogen removal, but did not affect the efficiency of chemical-oxygen-demand removal. The presence of TMs increased the diameter of the granules due to TM incorporation into the biomass. The most frequently leached additives from TMs were N-(1,3-dimethylbutyl)-N′-phenyl-1,4-phenylenediamine, benzothiazole (BTH), and 2-hydroxybenzothiazole. In the treated wastewater, only BTH and aniline were detected in higher concentrations, which indicates that tire additives were biodegraded by AGS. The microbial community within the AGS adapted to TMs and their chemicals, highlighting the potential for efficient degradation of tire additives by bacteria belonging to the genera Rubrivivax, Ferruginibacter, and Xanthomonas. Additionally, our research underscores AGS's ability to incorporate TMs into biomass and effectively biodegrade tire additives, offering a promising solution for addressing environmental concerns related to TMs.

Studies on the Prevalence Rate of Neoplastic Growth in Fish Johniuss Dussumieri (Valenciennes, 1833) of Karachi Coast Due to Polluted Sea Environment

Background: With the growing concern over the impacts of environmental pollution on marine life, this study addresses the critical issue of neoplastic growth in fish populations. The increasing prevalence of tumors in fish due to contaminated marine environments has raised alarms about ecosystem health and public health implications. Objective: The primary objective of this research was to assess the prevalence and seasonal variation of neoplastic growth in fish populations, particularly focusing on the impact of environmental pollution. Methods: Fish specimens were collected from various markets and examined for neoplastic growth. The study employed observational techniques, statistical analyses including ANOVA and Duncan's Multiple Range Test, and assessed seasonal variations from January 2019 to December 2022. Results: A total of 2,373 fish were examined, with 193 cases of neoplastic growth identified, indicating a substantial prevalence of tumors. The statistical analysis revealed significant variations in tumor prevalence, with a notable correlation to environmental factors. Conclusion: The study concludes that environmental pollution significantly impacts the prevalence of neoplastic growth in fish populations. This has profound implications for marine ecology and public health, emphasizing the need for effective environmental management and pollution control measures.

Reduction of Environmental Pollutants and Travel Burden Through an Academic Medical Center-based Electronic Consultation Program.

Background: We evaluated the impact of electronic consultation (eConsult) in reducing the environmental pollutants associated with health care delivery. Methods: A retrospective analysis of the eConsult data between July 2018 and December 2022 was extracted from the electronic health record (Epic). Travel time and mileage from the patient home to the academic medical center (AMC) were calculated along with fuel expenditure and greenhouses gas savings. Projected savings through the end of the decade were forecast using a random walk model. Results: A total of 15,499 eConsults were submitted to AMC specialist providers from community primary care providers. Completed eConsults (n = 11,590) eliminated the need for a face-to-face visit with a specialist provider, eliminating mileage, fuel, time, and pollutants associated with face to face visits. In-state travel distance saved was 310,858 miles, travel time saved was 5,491 h, with an associated fuel reduction of 13,575 gallons and $56,893 savings. This reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 128 metric tons of carbon dioxide, 0.022 tons of nitrogen oxide, 0.005 tons of methane, and 0.001 tons of nitrous oxide. Out of state travel distance saved was 188,346 miles with 2,842 h reduced travel time, and associated fuel reduction of 8,225 gallons and of $34,118. Reduced greenhouse gas emissions were equivalent to 77 metric tons of carbon dioxide, 0.0132 tons of nitrogen oxide, 0.0033 tons of methane, and 0.0007 tons of nitrous oxide. Conclusion: This study indicates that medical care provided through telehealth modalities reduces the environmental impact of pollutants associated with face to face visits.

Impact of Environmental Pollution by Spent Oil Levels on Leaf Anatomy of Eruca Sativa

Pollution is the quantitative change that occurs to one or more of the elements of the environment that would harm the life of the living organism and weaken the ability of the environment to continue its production. The current research was carried out to study the impact of spent engine oil pollution on some anatomical leaf characters of Eruca Sativa. The pots of sandy soils were contaminated by adding spent engine oil levels of 0.0, 2.5, 5.0, 15.0 and 30.0 ml.3kg-1. From the results, it is noted that a convergence and a slight decrease in the thickness of the cuticle layer of the upper and lower surface of the leaf at the levels of added oil 1.5 and 2.5 ml.kg -1. It was observed, that there was a relative decrease in the thickness of the upper and lower epidermal cells layer at the low levels of addition, with the increase in the decrease in thickness with the increase in the levels of spent oil. And it was found that a clear increase in the thickness of the palisade layer with the increase in the levels of spent oil addition compared to the thickness of the layer in the leaves of plants grown in soil with an addition level of 0 ml.kg-1. It is clear that the dimensions of the stomata for the upper and lower leaf surface of the plant leaf increased and took a behavior that corresponded to the increase in the levels of spent engine oil.

Serum Levels of Cortisol and Adrenocorticotropic Hormone and their Association with Depression in Environmentally Exposed Populations in Kazakhstan.

This study aimed to investigate the serum levels of cortisol and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and the prevalence of depression in the environmentally exposed population of Kazakhstan compared to the environmentally unexposed populations. Additionally, the study aimed to evaluate the capacity of cortisol and ACTH to predict moderate and severe depression in populations exposed to environmental risk factors. This cross-sectional study included 1881 nominally healthy individuals aged between 18-52years who were lifelong residents of Abay, Borodulikha, Ust-Kamenogorsk, Aksay, and Berezovka settlements, which are characterized by exposure to various types of environmental pollutants. Comparisons were made with residents of control sites with no known industrial or radioactive pollution (Uralsk and Kurchum). The Russian version of the PHQ-9 questionnaire was used to evaluate the presence and severity of depression. Serum cortisol levels were measured using solid-phase chemiluminescent immunoassay, while serum ACTH levels were tested with chemiluminescent assays. Populations exposed to environmental pollution from condensate gas extraction (Berezovka and Aksay) had higher median serum cortisol concentrations. However, the populations of the two controls had the highest median serum levels of ACTH. The median total PHQ-9 scores were the lowest in residents of control sites, which also had the highest proportion of individuals with no or minimal depression. Both serum cortisol and ACTH identified moderate, moderately severe, and severe depression. The findings highlight the potential impact of environmental pollution on stress hormone levels and depression, calling for further research and public health interventions to address this issue.

Recycling E-Waste and the Sustainable Economy: A Bibliometric Exploration

In an era marked by rapid technological advancements and the pervasive presence of the electronics industry, electronic waste (E-waste) has become a prominent global concern. This study utilizes a rigorous bibliometric analysis to thoroughly investigate the extensive body of literature in this field, shedding light on the current state of research and development in E-waste recycling. The study dissects and visualizes research trends, trajectories, and advancements. It meticulously examines a dataset comprising 3267 records extracted from the Web of Science Core Collection, specifically the Science Citation Index Expanded. The analysis highlights China’s pivotal role in E-waste recycling research, contributing 41% of the total research papers in this field. Additionally, the British journal ‘Waste Management’ emerges as a standout among academic publications, with an impressive count of 241 articles, constituting 7.38% of the entire corpus. Notably, Zeng, X.L., emerges as the most co-cited author, underscoring their significant influence and contributions to the scholarly discourse. Tracing the evolution of E-waste recycling research from 1990 to 2022, the study uncovers the field’s inception in 1993 when the first research paper on this subject was published. This nascent domain has since experienced exponential growth, culminating in an impressive 408 papers published in 2022. The research identifies and distills three compelling research trends that have captured significant attention within the E-waste recycling domain. Firstly, it highlights the paramount concern regarding the environmental impact of organic pollutants from E-waste, emphasizing the urgent need for sustainable solutions. Secondly, it delves into the intricate issue of managing and recycling E-waste in developing countries, where unique challenges necessitate innovative approaches. Lastly, the analysis underscores the growing interest in recovering and recycling materials from discarded electronic devices, highlighting the imperative necessity of harnessing the valuable resources within E-waste. In synthesis, this research not only provides an overview of the current landscape of E-waste recycling but also offers a clear path forward for future studies and interventions. It serves as a critical guide for addressing the environmental and socio-economic repercussions of E-waste, ultimately fostering a more sustainable and economically viable future.

ANALYSIS OF COMPRESSIVE STRENGTH PAVING BLOCKS WITH THE ADDITION OF COCONUT FIBER AND SUPERPLASTICIZER LIQUID

This research was carried out to determine how strong the compressive strength of the Paving Block is to withstand the load above it, by adding coconut fiber and superplasticizer liquid to reduce the impact of environmental pollution. But for Paving Blocks, the effects of adding coconut fiber and superplasticizer liquid are not yet widely known. Further research needs to be done on adding coconut fiber and superplasticizer liquid in making PavingBlocks. The purpose of this research is as a form of knowledge for developing construction materials technology. This research can be used to utilize the potential of existing waste. This research aims to reduce environmental pollution caused by coconut fiber waste, and to use this waste as additional construction material technology and to find out how much compressive strength the Paving Block has so that it can be used as a construction tool. Theaddition of coconut fiber and superplasticizer liquid can improve the performance of Paving Blocks according to SNI 03-0691-1996 (compressive strength). The results from adding coconut fiber and superplasticizer liquid are higher than Normal Paving (without mixed ingredients). Paving Block 1:5 with the addition of coconut fiber and superplasticizer liquid from 5 samples produces an Average Stress fcr' of 305.42 Kg/cm and Paving Block 1:6 withthe addition of coconut fiber and superplasticizer liquid from 5 samples produces an Average Stress -Average fcr' is 237.45 Kg/cm2. Normal 1:5 Paving Block from 2 samples produces an Average Stress fcr' of 203.47 Kg/cm2and normal 1:6 Paving Block from 2 samples produces an Average Stress fcr' of 184.59 Kg/cm2 Keywords: Compressive Strength; Paving Block; Coconut Coir Fiber; Superplasticizer Liquid.

Medical cost of environmental pollution: evidence from the Chinese Social Survey.

Environmental pollution impairs residents' health, while the pursuit of health is highly correlated to medical costs. Understanding how environmental pollution affects medical costs is closely linked to the welfare of society. Based on theoretical analysis, this paper uses data from 5112 households of the Chinese Social Survey (CSS) in 2019, constructs a composite indicator to quantify environmental pollution using respondents' evaluations, and empirically investigates the causal effect of environmental pollution on household medical cost and the mechanism. The conclusions are shown as follows. First, environmental pollution can increase household medical costs, and this estimation result still holds after dealing with the endogeneity problem and other robustness tests. Second, there is heterogeneity in the impact of environmental pollution on household medical costs, households in the upper socioeconomic class, with heavy pension burdens or with strong health insurance coverage are more sensitive to environmental pollution and incur relatively higher household medical costs. Third, environmental pollution reduces residents' satisfaction with their spiritual life, which adversely affects their physical and mental health and can increase household medical costs. Residents' satisfaction with their spiritual life is an important mechanism for environmental pollution to affect household health care expenditures. Therefore, governments should enhance the enforcement of environmental protection and governance, strengthen the awareness of green issues and health education, and increase the supply of facilities for leisure and sports, thus reducing medical costs due to environmental pollution and easing the medical burden of residents.

Design e Políticas Públicas: instrumentos para para orientar o descarte correto de medicamentos vencidos ou em desuso

The current context, linked to environmental pollution problems, presents several demands related to communication aimed at organizations and citizens to achieve better levels of environmental sustainability. Medicines for home use are products that require specific guidelines for consumption and disposal and have specific legislation that guides the disposal of their leftovers or those that are expired, due to their potential and pollution of the environment. In this regard, this study intends to demonstrate how Design plays an important role, guiding individuals on how to proceed with the correct disposal and mitigating the impact of environmental pollution by pharmaceuticals. As for the methods, it presents part of the results of a master’s research characterized as qualitative, which made use of documentary and field research to obtain its data. The results demonstrate how communication is an important sector to be considered within a circular network for the effectiveness of Public Policies aimed at Solid Waste Management, especially with regard to the Disposal of Expired or Disused Medicines for Home Use. In this regard, there is Design as a tool to help consumers exercise their civic duty in their role in the shared responsibility for the life cycle of products provided for in the National Policy on Solid Waste.

Pollutants production, energy recovery and environmental impact of sewage sludge co-incineration with biomass pellets

This study describes the production of pollutants, energy recovery and environmental impact of the co-incineration of sewage sludge and biomass pellets. The main objective of this study is to describe the use of energy generated by co-incineration and to assess the environmental impact of emitted pollutants. Co-incineration takes place in five different blended. The combustion takes place in a fluidised bed reactor with an average combustion temperature of 915–939 °C. The combustion process is mapped by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Continuous Mercury Monitoring Systems, thermocouples, pressures, and flows sensors. The results show that the concentrations of harmful substances, namely SO2 and NOX, reach values of 12.39–1730.33 mg∙m–3N for SO2 and 93.30–1156 mg∙m–3N for NOX. This means that the emission limits are exceeded 40 times for SO2 and 8 times for NOX in the worst case. Regarding heat recovery, the resulting value of potential energy recovery from the flue gas is 5.35–7.69 MJ∙kg–1, and as the sewage sludge content in the fuel increases, the heat recovery value decreases. The resulting values of pollutant concentrations are also analyzed using a life cycle assessment approach using the GaBi software. The results show that sewage sludge incineration has the greatest impact on climate change, terrestrial ecotoxicity, and human toxicity. Again, as the sewage sludge content in the fuel decreases, the hazardousness of the discharged flue gas decreases. This study presents a relatively promising option to use sewage sludge as a secondary fuel in large combustion sources under certain conditions.