Environmental Impact Research Articles

Is Public Health Environmentally Sustainable?

In this paper we discuss whether effective public health interventions and policies are environmentally sustainable. First, we suggest that the environmental impact from public health interventions and policies should be considered in the perspective of a human lifecycle. Second, we spell out in greater detail what we take it to mean for a public health intervention or policy to be environmentally sustainable. Third, environmental sustainability regards not only environmental impact, but also shares of our environmental "budgets", also referred to as environmentally safe operating spaces. Such budgets represent the limits of the sustainability of a group of individuals, e.g. a population. Each individual is assigned a share of the budget for each category of environmental impact, which represents how much the individual may impact the environmental category in question without doing so unsustainably. We discuss whether individuals ought to have a larger share of these budgets as a function of their ongoing life as this would make a better case for thinking that public health interventions and policies are environmentally sustainable. But we argue that this is incompatible with maximizing health within our environmental budgets and therefore mistaken. Instead, individuals ought to be ascribed a share of these budgets for life, a share that does not increase as individuals get older. We conclude that while some public health interventions and policies might be environmentally sustainable, we cannot merely assume that public health and sustainability are win-win; indeed, we have positive reason to think that some interventions and policies are not environmentally sustainable. Finally, we elaborate on how we ought to think about and react to this conclusion.

Toward Sustainable Photocatalysis: Addressing Deactivation and Environmental Impact of Anodized and Sol–Gel Photocatalysts

AbstractPhotocatalysis is proposed as an environmentally friendly technology that exploits solar light for environmental purification. While its effect on treated effluent quality is indeed positive, studies on its overall environmental profitability generally disregard the fact that photocatalytic materials may themselves generate pollution in their production, use, and end‐of‐life phases. This work addresses two distinct methods for titanium dioxide (TiO2) photocatalytic coatings preparation, that is, chemical –sol–gel, associated with spray coating– and electrochemical –anodic oxidation, which generates the oxide directly from a titanium substrate. Oxides are tested in the photocatalytic decomposition of tetracycline, an antibiotic commonly found in water. Both distilled and tap water are used as matrices. Coatings are tested multiple times to simulate real operating conditions, until photocatalytic activity is compromised. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is then used to quantify and compare the potential environmental impacts associated with the two different TiO2 production strategies. Eventually, the assessment is completed by considering full photocatalyst regeneration: while for Sol–Gel this only implies cleaning and re‐deposition, anodizing required oxide detachment, and subsequent re‐anodization. The process of oxide removal and re‐anodizing, although invasive and titanium consuming, is repeated 20 times without significant loss of photocatalytic efficiency, indicating robustness and suitability for technology transfer.

The environmental impact of intravenous antimicrobial therapies: a comparison of OPAT and inpatient administration care pathways.

The urgent global threats of the climate crisis and antimicrobial resistance have the potential to be addressed in part by increasing the use of outpatient antimicrobial therapy (OPAT). Our study aimed to appraise the environmental impact of three commonly used OPAT pathways, and the traditional inpatient model of IV antimicrobial therapy. We assessed the CO2, waste and water footprint associated with self-care, nurse assisted and outpatient OPAT care pathways and inpatient administration of intravenous antibiotics to adult patients for whom OPAT was a viable treatment option. We found that the administration of IV antibiotics in hospital is associated with a substantial environmental impact compared to OPAT. When OPAT is self-administered in the patient's home, we discovered a CO2 reduction of 85%, a water use reduction of 78% and a 91% reduction in the amount of waste generated compared with the traditional inpatient treatment pathway. Nurse administered OPAT, either in the home or outpatient department, also results in lower use of water, generation of waste and CO2 emissions compared to the inpatient pathway. Our study demonstrates that using OPAT reduces the environmental impact of delivering antimicrobial therapy compared to inpatient treatment. As it is delivered away from the hospital setting, it may also reduce the risks to health associated with inpatient care. While we have shown that the reduction in CO2 emissions, water used and waste generated is significant for all three forms of OPAT studied, the greatest impact is seen with the use of self-administration OPAT.

Workplace greenery and employee green behavior: a moderated-mediation model

Purpose The implementation of sustainable corporate policies and practices requires that employees engage in green behavior. Understanding the drivers of employee green behavior (EGB) is a fundamental research question. This paper aims to extend the scholarship on the micro-foundations of EGB by examining workplace greenery as an antecedent of EGB. Design/methodology/approach Drawing from theories in environmental psychology (biophilic design, well-being and nature relatedness [NR]), the paper studies the mediating role of well-being and the moderating role of employee nature-relatedness in a three-wave panel study, conducted nine months apart in a sample of white-collar workers. Findings Workplace greenery influences the green behavior of employees; whereas the effect is direct for employees with low NR, for employees high in this trait the effect is mediated by well-being. Practical implications Workplace greenery emerges as a practical environmental cue that contributes to achieving the environmental goals of the company reducing its environmental impact. Organizations may consider investing in creating greener workspaces as it implies a double dividend: for employees with stronger environmental identities, these plants enhance well-being and indirectly foster green behavior, but it will encourage green behavior in employees without such an identity. Social implications The insights provided about the complex interplay between workplace greenery, NR, well-being and environmental behavior can guide the development of targeted and more strategic workplace interventions that foster greener and happier employees and organizations. Originality/value This study contributes to the micro-foundations of EGB in three ways. First, it reveals that workplace greenery, an under-researched organizational factor, may be used as a cultural artifact to promote green behavior among employees. Second, it enriches the authors’ understanding of the psychological mechanisms leading to EGB. Finally, it expands on the individual determinants of EGB, underscoring the importance of considering NR in green human resource management.

Stabilization of swine wastes: A systematic review of its environmental impact and technological alternatives

The inadequate management of swine fecal waste endangers human health and the environment, causing soil contamination, the spread of zoonoses, and eutrophication of water bodies. These nutrient-rich wastes also contain antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), posing a significant public health risk. This systematic review aims to identify optimal operating parameters for stabilizing pig waste, focusing on the production of compost, biosolids and biogas, while taking into account the specific composition of these wastes. Operational parameters for waste stabilization, including composting, and biogas generation, are analyzed. The findings aim to identify issues and propose solutions for a more sustainable and efficient management of these wastes, thereby protecting the environment and public health.

A Developmental Gene Expression Atlas Reveals Novel Biological Basis of Complex Phenotypes in Sheep.

Sheep (Ovis aries) represents one of the most important livestock species for animal protein and wool production worldwide. However, little is known about the genetic and biological basis of ovine phenotypes, particularly for those of high economic value and environmental impact. Here, by integrating 1413 RNA-seq samples from 51 distinct tissues across 14 developmental time points, representing early prenatal, late prenatal, neonate, lamb, juvenile, adult, and elderly stages, we built a high-resolution developmental Gene Expression Atlas (dGEA) in sheep. We observed dynamic patterns of gene expression and regulatory networks across tissues and developmental stages. When harnessing this resource for interpreting genetic associations of 48 monogenetic and 12 complex traits in sheep, we found that genes upregulated at prenatal developmental stages played more important roles in shaping these phenotypes than those upregulated at postnatal stages. For instance, genetic associations of crimp number, mean staple length (MSL), and individual birth weight were significantly enriched in the prenatal rather than postnatal skin and immune tissues. By comprehensively integrating GWAS fine-mapping results and the sheep dGEA, we proposed several candidate genes for complex traits in sheep, such as SOX9 for MSL, GNRHR for litter size at birth, and PRKDC for live weight. These results provide novel insights into the developmental and molecular architecture underlying ovine phenotypes. The dGEA (https://sheepdgea.njau.edu.cn/) will serve as an invaluable resource for sheep developmental biology, genetics, genomics, and selective breeding.

New development: Green budgeting—integrating environmental goals into the resource allocation process

IMPACT Green budgeting is a systematic approach to integrating environmental considerations into public financial management. Austria's approach demonstrates a comprehensive methodology of scrutinizing all budgetary items for their environmental impact. With the Austrian Ministry of Finance taking a leading and co-ordinating role, the green budgeting approach at the federal level seems promising. It is characterised by a commitment to continuous improvement, and supported by high-level political will, as well as robust institutional mechanisms. As more countries explore green budgeting, Austria's experience offers valuable lessons and insights—particularly in how inter-agency co-ordination can support the expansion of green budgeting across all line ministries. Little is known about whether and how countries are co-ordinating approaches to green budgeting across governmental levels. This article presents voices from selected state and local governments, highlighting the challenges of a lack of resources at subnational government levels and ensuring that current budgeting systems are not overwhelmed. The authors suggest approaches that supranational bodies can take to promote green budgeting.

Spatial equity and factors that influence the distribution of elderly care institutions in China

BackgroundWith China becoming an aging society, the number of elderly care institutions (ECIs) is continuously increasing in response to the growing population of older persons. However, regional disparities may lead to an uneven distribution of ECIs, which could affect equity in care. This study identified the limiting factors in the development of ECIs across different regions, thereby promoting equity in accessing care for the older population.MethodsThis study utilised point-of-interest data on ECIs in China from 2018 to 2022. The spatiotemporal distribution of ECIs and the causes of disparities were assessed along four dimensions—economy, population, society, and environment—using research methods such as the standard deviation ellipse, rank-size rule, and multiscale geographically weighted regression.ResultsThere were significant differences between the ECIs of the eastern and western regions in China. The eastern region had a denser distribution and higher concentrations in primary cities. The proportion of the older population, regional economic development, and household income are crucial for a balanced distribution of ECIs, whereas the environmental impact is relatively minor.ConclusionsThe number of ECIs in China continues to increase, but improvements in regional disparities remain insignificant. The construction of ECIs is influenced by various factors; in underdeveloped regions, government initiatives are crucial for promoting equity in care for older persons.

Multivariate Piecewise Rand Divergencive Cockroach Swarm Optimization for Agriculture Crops Recommendation

Multivariate Piecewise Rand Divergencive Cockroach Swarm Optimization for Agriculture Crops Recommendation

Usage Frequency and Ecotoxicity of Skin Depigmenting Agents

Background/Objectives: Depigmenting cosmetic products are a fast-growing segment of the health products market, driven by consumer demand to address skin hyperpigmentation. Simultaneously, interest in products with a reduced environmental impact is increasing. However, the potential environmental risks, especially in aquatic ecosystems, of depigmenting products remain unexplored. This study assesses the usage frequency of skin depigmenting agents in cosmetic products and compiles data on the biodegradability and acute aquatic toxicity of the most prevalent compounds. Methods: A market analysis of Portuguese pharmacies and parapharmacies in 2022 identified prevalent depigmenting agents. Scientific evidence on their biodegradability and acute aquatic toxicity was compiled, and when data was unavailable, in silico predictions were conducted. Results: The study identified the ten most-used depigmenting agents in cosmetic products, including hydroxy/keto acids, as well as vitamin C and derivatives, with a usage frequency surpassing 50%. While most were naturally derived and showed low environmental risk, synthetic and highly lipophilic depigmenting agents found in 35 of 70 products (ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate/tetrahexyldecyl ascorbate and resorcinol derivatives) showed a higher potential for environmental hazard. Conclusions: The findings underscore the need for further research on the presence of these cosmetic ingredients in aquatic ecosystems and a reassessment of regulatory frameworks concerning their environmental impact. Mitigation strategies should emphasize biodegradable alternatives, renewable sources, and molecular modifications to reduce toxicity while maintaining depigmenting efficacy and skin safety. This study provides original insights into commonly used depigmenting agents in the health products market and their chemical structures, offering valuable opportunities for innovation in chemical/pharmaceutical industries.

Understanding Students’ Wellbeing in a Maltese Post-Secondary Academic Setting

This case study, carried out at a Maltese post-secondary school, was informed by Bradburn's Subjective Wellbeing (SWB) theory. This framework suggests that individuals interpret the concept of wellbeing differently, shaped by their distinct life experiences. It also emphasises that wellbeing is influenced by the interplay of positive elements that evoke positive emotions and negative elements that trigger negative emotions. The objectives of the research were to understand what post-secondary school students comprehend by the term ‘wellbeing’; to identify what they perceive by positive and negative factors that influence their emotions; and to elicit recommendations from students for initiatives or processes to enhance overall wellbeing within the school context. The research employed a qualitative interpretative approach, conducting 12 semi-structured interviews with convenience-sampled students. Data analysis followed the Braun-Clark method, and an inductive interpretivist approach was used to derive results and conclusions. Students emphasised the significance of family, teachers, friends, physical activity, mental health, nutrition, lifestyle choices and the environment as positive factors contributing to their wellbeing. Conversely, they identified workloads, deadlines, poor academic performance, stress, anxiety, negative peer influence, being compared to others, and physical health issues as negative factors affecting their emotional state and overall wellbeing. Beyond school-related factors, students also highlighted the impact of hostile parental relationships and chaotic home environments on their wellbeing. As recommendations, students proposed that educators reduce student workloads and deadlines, organise more sports tournaments and extracurricular activities, update gym equipment, and periodically communicate with students to remind them of available guidance and counselling services. The researcher concluded by providing her own reflections on the study.

Spatial Variation and Adaptive Responses of Tall-Type Field Peas (Pisum sativum L.) Across Indian Subcontinent.

Understanding crop performance across diverse agro-ecologies is crucial for developing region-specific breeding strategies. This multi-location study examined the impact of diverse environments on crop eco-phenology and genotype-by-environment interactions (GEI) of tall-type field pea breeding lines. Empirical methods were employed to identify strategic locations that support higher yields and unique genotypic traits. The results revealed significant variations across locations, with coefficients of variation for key traits as follows: days to flowering (31%), days to maturity (20%), reproductive period (19%), yield (35%), and seed weight (31%). Environmental component accounted for the largest yield variation (78%), followed by GEI (13%). Correlation analysis indicated a significant influence of both temperature extremes, particularly maximum temperature during flowering, on crop yields. Higher minimum temperatures during flowering and reproductive period were associated with reduced yields, while extended crop duration in cooler regions also negatively impacted yields. A significant quadratic relationship between seed weight and yield underscored the importance of seed weight as a yield-stabilising trait. GGE-biplot analysis identified four mega-environments, and designated Faizabad, Pantnagar, Varanasi, and Kota as ideal testing sites for selecting genotypes with broader adaptability. These findings provide valuable insights for redesigning field pea breeding programmes at the national level.

Comparative polysaccharides extraction methods ulvans from <i>Ulva ohnoi</i> (<i>Chlorophyta</i>): advantages of microwave-assisted techniques

Macroalgae represent a valuable resource due to their potential applications in various sectors. However, their biomass can sometimes interfere with human activities and contribute to the eutrophication of aquatic environments, as algae often grow uncontrollably. In this study, Ulva ohnoi M.Hiraoka et S.Shimada, a macroalga known for its tendency to produce a high biomass, was chosen, and used as a source of polysaccharides. The objective of this study was to compare different polysaccharide extraction methods to evaluate yield, costs, and potential environmental impact. Data obtained comparing four extraction protocols finalized to determine the most efficient and cost-effective method considering both environmental and economic impacts, show the potentiality of an alternative extraction protocols. The microwave-assisted extraction has the highest yield and lowest energy consumption and solvent methods offering clear environmental benefits. The obtained results indicate that the microwave-assisted extraction method could be used as an alternative to the conventional one for extracting ulvans from U. ohnoi.

TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENTS IN WELL DRILLING: THE ROLE OF ROTARY STEERABLE SYSTEMS

The oil and gas industry, constantly evolving, has greatly benefited from significant technological innovations, especially in drilling. Oklahoma stands out as a hub of progress, with important milestones such as the drilling of the state's fastest well using Rotary Steerable Systems (RSS). This advancement exemplifies the growing importance of automation, real-time monitoring, and optimized drilling strategies to improve speed and precision in complex formations. RSS enables continuous rotation of the drill string, reducing friction, increasing stability, and minimizing non-productive time (NPT), resulting in higher rates of penetration (ROP) and lower drilling costs. The combination of real-time data and automated controls has also enabled more efficient drilling with lower environmental impact. Case studies, such as those by Hayes et al. (2023) and Dixit et al. (2023), show that adopting RSS can be more cost-effective than traditional systems like the Motor-Driven Curved Casing, offering significant reductions in cost per foot drilled and improvements in penetration speed. Furthermore, digitization and automation have facilitated a shift to remote operations, minimizing risks to workers and reducing the carbon footprint. RSS systems are becoming increasingly essential for drilling in horizontal and extended-reach wells, with the use of these emerging technologies providing greater efficiency, accuracy, and sustainability in oil and gas exploration. The future of drilling is closely tied to these technological advancements, with promising benefits for the industry.

ESG practices, mineral resources exploitation and value creation: insights from Chinese mining companies’ digital transformation

IntroductionIn the dynamic landscape of digital technologies, the crucial role of digital transformation in enhancing ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) performance, especially concerning the utilization of mineral and fossil fuel resources, has become evident, significantly affecting corporate value. This study aims to explore the relationship between ESG performance and corporate valuation in the Chinese mining industry (especially in high-pollution sectors), as well as the moderating role of digital transformation in this process.MethodsThis study employs a quantitative analysis method, utilizing panel data from Chinese mining companies and conducting regression analysis to examine the relationship between ESG performance, digital transformation, and corporate valuation. We construct a model that includes multiple variables such as resource utilization efficiency, corporate financial conditions, and environmental impact assessments to analyze the pathways through which digital transformation affects resource utilization efficiency and corporate valuation.ResultsThe study finds a significant positive correlation between ESG performance and corporate valuation, meaning that as mineral resource utilization efficiency improves, the market value of the company increases. Digital transformation plays a positive moderating role in this relationship, specifically by enhancing resource utilization efficiency through digital technologies, thereby strengthening ESG performance and ultimately driving up corporate value.DiscussionTherefore, companies should place more emphasis on digital transformation and integrate it with their ESG strategies to improve resource utilization efficiency, thereby enhancing their market competitiveness and long-term value.

Enhancing polymer composites with date palm residues for sustainable innovation: a review

Abstract The global demand for sustainable materials is increasingly growing due to the synergistic effect of reducing environmental impact and enhancing properties. Date palm wastes (DPW) are considered a promising reinforcement material for polymer composites due to their abundance, biodegradability, and low cost. Combining DPW into polymer composites can enhance mechanical strength, thermal stability, and biodegradability, rendering them attractive for various applications such as structural components, automotive, and packaging. Previous studies have demonstrated the potential for enhancing the DPW reinforced polymers mechanical properties such as tensile strength, flexural strength, impact strength, and hardness by adjusting specific parameters, including preparation methods, surface treatment, processing techniques, and hybridization. This review explores the utilization of DPW in producing reinforced polymer composites, manufacturing techniques, treating methods, applications, challenges, and future perspectives.

Exploring the requirements for green competencies in recruitment and personnel selection processes

The aim of the article was to evaluate the extent to which green competencies are featured in recruitment and personnel selection processes as criteria for assessing and verifying candidates' suitability for job opportunities. The method applied in the study was existing data analysis, which involved a literature review and an analysis of job advertisements on the job portals pracuj.pl and doinggood.pl (N=3617). To complement the analysis with qualitative data, individual unstructured interviews with the management and staff of recruitment firms (N=55) were conducted. As a result, an original catalogue of green competencies sought by employers in various industries was developed. The study further revealed that green competencies, although emerging in the economy as it progresses towards "greening", are not yet commonly recognised. While they are well described in the literature, business practitioners often understand them in terms of generalised statements indicating skills in reducing negative environmental impact. Consequently, they are not always treated as an objective factor in assessing a job candidate’s suitability for a position at the company.

Surgical tray leaning: carbon, efficiency and cost-savings in MAKO robotic-assisted total knee arthroplasty.

Robotic-assisted total knee arthroplasty (RA-TKA) is associated with a higher carbon footprint compared with manual TKA. This review sought to reduce the carbon and financial costs associated with MAKO RA-TKA by 'leaning' surgical trays. Surgeons routinely performing MAKO RA-TKA were consulted, and a consensus was reached on items from the standard knee instrument trays that were redundant and could be removed. Two new 'lean trays' were then introduced for MAKO RA-TKA. Carbon and financial savings were calculated based on the reduction in the number of trays requiring decontamination, sterilisation and repackaging. Implementing lean methodology has reduced the tray count by one, by removing 36 out of 152 instruments per case. In five months, the use of lean trays resulted in saving 115 trays being opened, reprocessed and sterilised. This project has resulted in numerous benefits, including a total carbon saving of 220.85kgCO2e (carbon dioxide equivalent) due to reduced use of sterilisation processes (176kgCO2e) and tray wraps (44.85kgCO2). Staff feedback was positive, noting the ability to count instruments more quickly, increased space in theatre and reduced learning curve for new staff. Additionally, there was a financial saving of approximately £5,750 due to reduced burden on sterilisation services. It is imperative that innovative technologies are implemented with sustainability in mind and that any potential environmental harm is mitigated wherever possible. In this regard, the implementation of 'lean' surgical instrument trays should be considered to minimise the environmental impact of surgery while also improving efficiency and lowering costs.

Desalination Brine Discharge in Morocco

Seawater desalination has been considered an important solution for water scarcity in coastal areas. Morocco, with its 3,500 km long coastline, has seen significant growth in population and industrial activities in recent years. The dams that supply water to most regions of Morocco have faced periods of drought. This led the government to start a large-scale seawater desalination project that shall produce over 2 MM m3/year. The most common environmental impact associated with desalination plants is the high concentration brine discharge which can alter the physical, chemical, and biological properties of the receiving water body, In fact, the increasing number of desalination plants along the coastline amplifies the potential risks that brine discharges pose to marine ecosystems. This highlights the critical need for regulations to manage pollutant concentrations in water, both at the discharge point (Effluent Standards - ES) and in the receiving environment (Ambient Standards - AS). Law 36-15, in its Article 72, grants any natural or legal person, whether public or private, the right to carry out seawater desalination to meet their own water needs or those of other users, in accordance with current legislation and regulations. However, the definition of regulations concerning marine environmental aspects and the substantial limits for discharges has not yet been specified. Indeed, these regulations will need to be developed with due consideration for the local biodiversity. These regulations should also take into account the technical criteria required to determine the compliance point and define the boundaries of the brine discharge impact zone.

TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCES IN DRILLING EFFICIENCY AND SUSTAINABILITY IN THE PERMIAN BASIN

Recent advancements in drilling technologies have significantly improved operational efficiency and sustainability in the Permian Basin, one of the world’s most important oil and gas production hubs. Innovations such as the integration of digital systems, optimization of bottom hole assemblies (BHAs), and Managed Pressure Drilling (MPD) have contributed to faster well completions, reduced operational costs, and minimized environmental impact. A record-breaking well was completed using real-time data analysis and high-performance drilling equipment, demonstrating how automation and continuous monitoring optimize drilling parameters, enhance rate of penetration (ROP), and reduce non-productive time (NPT). The integration of predictive analytics and machine learning has further enabled dynamic adjustments, improving overall efficiency. The application of MPD in deep wells, particularly in the Wolfcamp D formation, has shown promising results, increasing ROP by 23.8% while lowering drilling fluid costs. Additionally, new approaches in directional drilling have reduced the need for multiple BHAs, streamlining operations and cutting expenses. Beyond drilling performance, water management remains a critical challenge in unconventional oil production. Studies have highlighted the need for sustainable water use, including the reuse of produced water to reduce freshwater consumption and environmental risks. Monitoring groundwater quality is essential to mitigate contamination risks from hydraulic fracturing. As demand for efficiency and sustainability grows, these innovations mark a significant step in unconventional well drilling. With continuous technological advancements, the Permian Basin is set to remain a leader in the oil and gas industry, establishing new benchmarks for future exploration and production.