Environmental Impact Research Articles

Decoding grinding dynamics using experimental investigations of wet and dry conditions on D3 tool steel

The study reports an important research gap, as identified from literature surveys revealed, where minimal studies about dry cylindrical grinding processes which require excessive specific energy. The present investigation intends to explore the effect of grinding variables on D3 tool steel in two diverse settings: dry condition and ideas of wet condition. Experimental research has evaluated heat generation levels in dry workpiece grinding compared to the wet grinding process. The Taguchi method has contributed to deriving optimal parameters for achieving favorable tool steel responses during dry and wet grinding processes. Scanning electron microscope evaluation has shown the ground surface of D3 tool steel displays a well-maintained topography. Investigative outcomes demonstrate dry grinding can produce precise surface finishes while maintaining the integrity of workpiece surfaces. The method minimizes adverse effects on the working environment by reducing the need for grinding fluids. When performing dry grinding operations proper feed rates vary from 5 mm/min to 25 mm/min. A feed rate lower than 25 mm/min protects the workpiece surface from thermal harm. Dry grinding with optimal parameters achieved a surface roughness of 0.25 µm, comparable to wet grinding, whereas in the case of roundness error wet grinding yield least value of 0.001 mm and returning a maximum material removal rate of 154.95 g/min. Wet grinding operation requires a coolant flow rate between 5 l/min and 7.5 l/min for optimal results. Wet grinding operations using lower coolant levels or adopting dry grinding methods both allow companies to decrease chemical waste exposure to the working environment, which will reduce the environmental impact.

Sunlight-sensitive carbon dots for plant immunity priming and pathogen defence.

Global food production faces persistent threats from environmental challenges and pathogenic attacks, leading to significant yield losses. Conventional strategies to combat pathogens, such as fungicides and disease-resistant breeding, are limited by environmental contamination and emergence of pathogen resistance. Herein, we engineered sunlight-sensitive and biodegradable carbon dots (CDs) capable of generating reactive oxygen species (ROS), offering a novel and sustainable approach for plant protection. Our study demonstrates that CDs function as dual-purpose materials: priming plant immune responses and serving as broad-spectrum antifungal agents. Foliar application of CDs generated ROS under light, and the ROS could damage the plant cell wall and trigger cell wall-mediated immunity. Immune activation enhanced plant resistance against pathogens without compromising photosynthetic efficiency or yield. Specifically, spray treatment with CDs at 240 mg/L (2 mL per plant) reduced the incidence of grey mould in N. benthamiana and tomato leaves by 44% and 12%, respectively, and late blight in tomato leaves by 31%. Moreover, CDs (480 mg/L, 1 mL) combined with continuous sunlight irradiation (simulated by xenon lamp, 9.4 × 105 lux) showed a broad-spectrum antifungal activity. The inhibition ratios for mycelium growth were 66.5% for P. capsici, 8% for S. sclerotiorum and 100% for B. cinerea, respectively. Mechanistic studies revealed that CDs effectively inhibited mycelium growth by damaging hyphae and spore structures, thereby disrupting the propagation and vitality of pathogens. These findings suggest that CDs offer a promising, eco-friendly strategy for sustainable crop protection, with potential for practical agricultural applications that maintain crop yields and minimize environmental impact.

Experimental investigation on the effect of geometrical configuration of suction and discharge tube across the sub-units of propane-based vapor compression air-conditioning unit

Researchers across the globe are looking forward to find alternative solutions from the perspective of environmental impact and sustainability relative to conventional refrigerants. In this regard, propane appears to be a feasible choice. This work experimentally investigates the propane-based vapor compression system for the air-conditioning. The performance of the modified cycle employing propane has been investigated under various operating conditions (geometrical configuration of suction and discharge tubes across cycle sub-units). For a given range of temperature at evaporator outlet, coefficient of performance (COP) varies between 3.2–4.4 (finned spiral tube) as compared to 2.6–3.4 (bend tube) and 2.6–3.0 (spiral tube). Notably, the arrangement of a straight tube at the suction line and a finned spiral tube at the discharge line provides the lowest COP (4.36), whereas the arrangement that is precisely the opposite, yields highest COP (4.94). Furthermore, from the perspective of HVAC industry this study demonstrates that fins added to the suction line will improve performance and may increase the overall cooling performance of the set-up.

Assessing the Environmental Impact of Busan New Port Construction in Korea: A Comprehensive Analysis of Water Quality Changes and Suspended Solids in Jinhae Bay

This study investigates the impact of port construction on suspended solid concentrations and key water quality parameters in Jinhae Bay, using seventeen years of water quality data up to 2020. The study highlights the significant impact of suspended solids on marine water quality, particularly in areas affected by dredging operations at Busan New Port. Suspended solids concentrations peaked at 92 mg/L, exceeding 10 mg/L in both surface and bottom waters, with the highest levels near the port. These solids were identified as key predictors of coastal eutrophication in locations such as Jinhae Bay 01, 17, 19, where positive correlations with Chl-a suggest their role in promoting eutrophication. The highest average Chl-a levels were recorded at Jinhae Bay 01 (9.82 µg/L), while the lowest were at Jinhae Bay 14 (3.2 µg/L). The WQI, ranged from 1 to 3, with Jinhae Bay 19 showing the highest value and Jinhae Bay 14 the lowest due to low dissolved oxygen levels. Using ARIMA modeling, the study effectively analyzed the time-series dynamics of suspended solids, demonstrating their relationships with Chl-a and WQI components. These findings underscore the importance of monitoring and managing suspended solids to mitigate the risk of eutrophication and protect marine ecosystems in the context of port development.

Outdoor Time Could Regulate the Effects of Green Environment on Myopia in Chinese Children and Adolescents

ABSTRACT Purpose To explore the relationship between myopia and green space, and the mediation effects of outdoor time. Methods We used large-scale, cross-sectional observational data from Shanghai, China. Participants were aged 3~20 years and underwent visual acuity and non-cycloplegic refraction in 2021. Using GIS-based data on environments surrounding participants’ schools and kindergartens, we examined the association between green space (measured by NDVI) and myopia. We employed a logistic mixed-effects model to assess the impact of school-level green environments on individual myopia, reporting odds ratios (OR) and their 95% confidence intervals. Mediation analysis was conducted to explore whether outdoor activity time mediates the relationship between green environments and myopia. Additionally, we conducted age- and gender-stratified analyses and validated the robustness of the model through sensitivity analysis. Results Complete case sample sizes were 1,727,709 from 3,399 schools and kindergartens [899,817 (52.082%) boys; mean age 10.065 years (SD: 3.633)]. NDVI within 1000 m of schools was independently associated with lower odds of myopia (OR: 0.299, 95% CI: 0.249 ~ 0.357, p < 0.001), with 2.7% of the total effects attributed to the mediation effects of outdoor time. The effect sizes for NDVI were comparatively more protective in boys and those aged 7~12 years (OR: 0.223, 95% CI:0.156 ~ 0.319, p < 0.001). Sensitivity analysis with a 500-meter NDVI radius and alternative outcome variable of wearing glasses confirmed consistency with the previous results. Conclusions This study demonstrates a significant impact of green environments on myopia in children and adolescents aged 3~20 years, revealing the potential mediating effect of outdoor activities. Policymakers should consider implementing intervention measures to enhance green spaces in schools to promote eye-health-friendly environments.

Life Cycle Assessment of Edge Data Centers: Case Study in Presence of Renewable Energy and Refurbished Servers

As the demand for computing power increases, the ecological footprint of data centers becomes a critical concern. Evaluating and mitigating this trend is essential to ensure a sustainable future for digital technologies. This paper addresses the issue by comparing the environmental impacts of a solar-powered edge data center (SDC) with refurbished servers and a conventional edge data center (CDC). The comparison is conducted using a multicriteria life cycle assessment for both data center types, focusing on indicators such as climate change, depletion of abiotic resources, acidification, ionizing radiation, and particle emissions. Our results indicate that, under a reference data center design scenario, SDC achieves a reduction in environmental impact ranging from 11% to 60% compared to CDC. This advantage is maintained when scaling up both data centers. Further reductions, up to 92% for some indicators, are possible by leveraging SDC characteristics such as increased solar energy use, grid energy integration, and extended compute node lifetimes. Our analysis shows that the environmental overhead of replacing components during server refurbishment in SDC is minimal, ranging from 1% to 6%, thereby reinforcing the sustainability and reliability of SDC. This comparative study illustrates the potential for edge data centers to yield positive environmental outcomes. Finally, we discuss the limitations and potential improvements of this study, as well as the challenges associated with deploying SDC and CDC in specific environments and for particular tasks.

Sustainability Strategy to Protect Sebha-Brack Road from Sand Encroachment

Sebha-Brack road in Libya faces major challenges due to sand encroachment, a phenomenon that threatens infrastructure and public safety. This study aims to compare traditional techniques such as using plants as natural barriers with modern engineering solutions to protect the road from sand encroachment. Through comprehensive research, surveys, and field analysis, we seek to find sustainable solutions that balance cost, effectiveness, and environmental impact. The study also includes field analysis and surveys of travellers, government agencies, and engineers to evaluate the best ways to protect the road in the long term.

Environmental Impact and Physico-Chemical Analysis of Flood Water Intrusion in Domestic Boreholes and Well Water Quality in Isoko North Local Government Area and Environs in Delta State, Nigeria

Environmental Impact and Physico-Chemical Analysis of Flood Water Intrusion in Domestic Boreholes and Well Water Quality in Isoko North Local Government Area and Environs in Delta State, Nigeria

Agricultural Footprint Dynamics: Capturing the Influence of Renewable Energy, Urbanization, and Ecological Resources

Agriculture, a cornerstone of economic prosperity, is both a contributor to and a recipient of climate change. This study investigates the factors driving the agricultural footprint, considering land use, water use, pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, energy use, renewable energy consumption, urbanization growth rate, and ecological footprint components (fishing grounds, grazing land). Using principal component analysis, the study calculated an agricultural footprint index, weighting these factors. The study further estimated the impact of renewable energy consumption, urbanization growth rate, and ecological footprint components on the agricultural footprint. The stability of the model was assessed using CUSUM and CUSUM of squares calculations. The findings reveal that while renewable energy consumption and urbanization growth rate exert pressure on the agricultural footprint, ecological footprint components like fishing grounds, grazing land, and cropland contribute positively. To enhance the agricultural footprint and mitigate its environmental impact, the study proposed a multi-pronged approach: financial incentives, educational programs, consumer awareness campaigns, and the development of regulations and standards for sustainable agricultural practices. By implementing these strategies, society can promote a more sustainable and resilient agricultural sector that contributes to both economic prosperity and environmental protection.

Rəqəmsal İncəsənət Rəqəmsal Mühit Kontekstində

Digital art examines the transformation of traditional art forms into new modes of expression through digital technologies. The article analyzes the impact of the digital environment on contemporary art, how creators benefit from this medium, and how art evolves into new forms in conjunction with technology. Unlike traditional art forms, digital art provides artists with the opportunity to create visual expressions through “zeros and ones.” In this environment, they can realize their ideas more conveniently, and the resulting artworks become more accessible to people. The digital environment offers not just a technological tool but a new intellectual and spiritual platform for artists and viewers. Emerging in the 1950s-60s with the development of computer technologies, digital art has expanded over time through its interactive forms, transforming aesthetic perceptions. The digital realm broadens the boundaries of human creativity, establishing new harmonies between art and technology. The article covers the historical development of digital art, its impact on contemporary practices, and its future prospects. This new form of creativity reflects how technology influences aesthetics and supports human intellect.

The Influence of Learning Organizational Culture, Employee Engagement, Digital Transformation, and Esg On Sustainable Competitive Advantage: the Role of Transformational Leadership at Abc University, Indonesia

This study investigates the impact of Learning Organizational Culture, Employee Engagement, Digital Transformation, and Environmental, Social, Governance (ESG) on Sustainable Competitive Advantage, with a focus on the moderating role of Transformational Leadership at ABC University in Indonesia. Utilizing a quantitative research approach, primary data was collected through online questionnaires targeting managers across various leadership levels within the university. A stratified random sampling technique was employed to ensure proportional representation based on hospital levels and managerial positions. The analysis was conducted using Structural Equation Modeling Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS), facilitating the examination of causal relationships among the variables. The findings reveal a positive indirect influence of Strategic Thinking on Competitive Advantage through Transformational Leadership, with a coefficient of 0.022 and a significance level of P-value = 0.073, supporting the hypothesis at a 90% confidence level. Additionally, the study identifies a significant positive indirect influence of Dynamic Capability on Competitive Advantage through Transformational Leadership, with a coefficient of 0.156 and a P-value of 0.001, supporting the hypothesis at a 95% confidence level. However, the results also indicate a negative influence of Dynamic Capability on Competitive Advantage, suggesting that enhancing competitiveness in the health sector necessitates the mediation of Transformational Leadership. This highlights the importance of leadership in guiding and supervising dynamic capabilities, which include internal collaboration, product updates, market synchronization, and fostering an open mindset. The study underscores the critical role of employee engagement and a learning organizational culture in driving innovation and sustaining competitive advantage in the evolving landscape of health services.

Impact of Positive and Negative Fluctuations in Environmental Policy Stringency on Energy Security

Energy security risk has been rising worldwide, which calls for profound policy efforts. Considering this, we intend to investigate the impact of environmental policy stringency on energy security risk in the top five energy-consuming countries. Hence, the study directly addresses multiple sustainable development goals. It addresses energy security issues from a unique lens and describes a course of action regarding energy resource conservation. The long-run results from the panel nonlinear ARDL method show that positive fluctuations in environmental policy stringency are responsible for low energy security risk. A 1% increase in the positive fluctuation of environmental policy stringency decreases energy security risk by 0.84% to 1.09%, respectively. Next, a negative fluctuation in environmental policy stringency does not affect energy security risk. The short-run results conclude that neither positive nor negative shocks in environmental policy stringency impact energy security risk. The results are consistent across certain robustness checks. We propose to impose strict environmental regulations to plummet energy security risk in the selected countries. Long-term policy stringencies need to be revisited and strengthened for a secure future for global energy resources.

Photocatalytic Chlorine Production From Iron Chlorides in Atmospheric Aerosols: Strategies for Quantifying Methane and Tropospheric Ozone Control

AbstractIt was recently discovered that chlorine is produced photocatalytically from mineral dust‐sea spray aerosols, impacting methane and tropospheric ozone, and an evaluation was made of the climate and environmental impact of a chlorine‐based intervention to draw down methane. The generation of chlorine by the iron chlorides Fe(III) will also occur due to iron present in shipping plumes. To study efficiency and environmental implications, there is a need for additional information about the behavior of the process under a range of atmospheric conditions. Here, we use box modeling to evaluate whether it is possible to experimentally observe this mechanism in a ship's plume, or in a plume of pure iron dust, emitted for example, from a tower. Detection limits for Cl, , HOCl, ClO, , , CO, , , and are determined based on values from the literature. We find that the most promising and low‐cost experimental indicators of chlorine atom production are the concentration of photoactive iron and the CO:ethane ratio, and is a useful indicator if cost is not a limitation. For ships with high emissions, , and could also potentially be used, and for towers emitting Fe without the concentration of HOCl and ClO could be used. is a very direct method to detect methane removal, but only gives a clear signal for high iron emissions.

Volcanic Pumice Rafts at Sea: Buoyancy and Infiltration with Micro-particles

Pumice, characterised by its high vesicularity, often forms pumice rafts as it floats on water. Although the vast majority of research has focused on understanding the behavior of pumice rafts, studies on the water infiltration properties of pumice remain scarce. Moreover, the influence of underwater particles, such as microplastics in the ocean, on water infiltration through the pores of pumiceous materials is still unclear. Therefore, this study investigates the water infiltration properties of pumice mate-rials and their behavior in different aqueous environments through laboratory experiments using pumiceous rocks (En-a, originating from Mount Eniwa) from the 2018 Hokkaido Eastern Iburi earthquake site. Experiments were conducted in both still and slurry water conditions to examine the effects of particle size and sediment concentration on water infiltration rates. Results showed that density variations follow a two-phase pattern: a rapid initial increase (+0.43 g/cm³ and 0.3931 g/cm³ in the first 30s for small and large pumice, respectively) followed by a plateau phase (+0.022 g/cm³ and 0.0197 g/cm³ in the next 60s). Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in infiltration rates based on particle size in still water conditions, with smaller pumices showing more heterogeneous infiltration pathways. While sediment presence in slurry conditions did not significantly affect overall infiltration rates, it led to more stable data dispersion, particularly in larger samples. The study also pro-poses a statistical framework for modeling pumice behavior, incorporating parameters such as vesicularity, particle concentration, and temperature. These findings suggest that current pumice raft models need refinement to account for size-dependent infiltration behaviors and the influence of underwater particles, with implications for understanding the transport and environmental impact of pumice rafts in marine environments.

Forecasting the Biofuel Consumption Trend on a European Scale with the Random Forest Algorithm

The ever-increasing demand for energy worldwide, driven by population and economic growth, industrialization, as well as concerns about the environmental impact of fossil fuels, has increased the demand for renewable and clean energy. Biofuels play an important role in the worldwide transition to renewable energy. Accurate biofuel forecasting is therefore critical for regional policy making. This will enable policymakers to allocate countries' own resources towards their strategic goals, plan the necessary infrastructure and support economic growth. In this study, a forecasting model is constructed using the Random Forest Algorithm (RFA) approach to predict the trends in biofuels consumption. Therefore, firstly, statistical data for the European region (Total Europe and Other Europe) are collected for 1992-2022. These values are then predicted for the years 2025, 2030 and 2050. The values obtained in the forecasting model have found the highest successful results for the given years with the number of decision trees being 50 and the R2 value is 0.9975. The results showed that the models created for Europe can be used in renewable energy projections for future planning. Obtained results are analyzed, the measures and requirements that can be taken in line with the European Union Green Deal are interpreted.

Assessing the Environmental Impact of Diverse Slab Designs in Timber, Concrete, and Steel on the Life Cycle Assessment of a high-rise building

Assessing the Environmental Impact of Diverse Slab Designs in Timber, Concrete, and Steel on the Life Cycle Assessment of a high-rise building

Innovative Approaches to Sustainable Concrete Design: Exploring Green Materials For Enhanced Durability In Civil Engineering Structures

The urgent global demand for sustainable infrastructure has propelled civil engineering towards adopting environmentally conscious practices. Concrete, as the backbone of modern construction, presents significant challenges due to its substantial carbon footprint and reliance on non-renewable resources. This research explores innovative approaches to sustainable concrete design, focusing on integrating green materials and advanced technologies to enhance durability and reduce environmental impact. The study systematically evaluates alternative cementitious materials, recycled aggregates, and bio-based admixtures as viable replacements for traditional concrete components. By examining their physical, chemical, and mechanical properties, the research highlights their potential to mitigate carbon emissions and improve long-term structural performance. Central to this investigation is the role of supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs), such as fly ash, slag, and silica fume, which are incorporated to replace a portion of Portland cement. These materials not only enhance the durability of concrete by improving its resistance to chemical attacks and reducing permeability but also contribute to waste utilization and resource conservation. Furthermore, the inclusion of recycled aggregates derived from construction and demolition waste is examined for their ability to preserve natural resources while maintaining satisfactory structural properties. The study also delves into the potential of bio-based materials, such as bacterial concrete and algae-based additives, to promote self-healing properties and improve crack resistance, further extending the service life of concrete structures. To address durability challenges in extreme environmental conditions, the research integrates nanotechnology and polymer-based solutions. The application of nano-silica, graphene, and other nanomaterials is explored for their ability to enhance the microstructure of concrete, leading to improved compressive strength and reduced porosity. Additionally, the use of polymer-modified concrete is investigated for its exceptional resistance to moisture ingress and chemical degradation, making it suitable for marine and industrial applications. The environmental and economic implications of these innovative approaches are critically assessed using life-cycle analysis (LCA) and cost-benefit evaluations. These analyses provide insights into the feasibility of adopting green concrete solutions at scale, highlighting their ability to align with sustainable development goals while meeting industry demands for high-performance materials. Case studies of implemented projects are presented to illustrate the practical application and real-world performance of sustainable concrete designs. This research underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to advancing sustainable concrete technology, involving material scientists, engineers, and policymakers. By embracing innovative materials and construction techniques, the civil engineering industry can significantly reduce its ecological footprint while delivering durable and resilient infrastructure. The findings contribute to a growing body of knowledge on sustainable construction and pave the way for future research and development in green concrete design.

The Current Development and Outlook for the Use of Low Environmental Impact Diesel Fuels/Additives

The article explores the advancements and future prospects of using low-environmental-impact diesel fuels and additives to mitigate the environmental effects of internal combustion engines. It emphasizes the challenges posed by rising CO2 levels and the need to transition away from fossil fuels in line with global initiatives like the Paris Agreement and the European Green Deal. Key sectors, including heavy-duty transport and industrial processes such as steel and cement production, are highlighted for their significant carbon footprints and decarbonization challenges. The study underscores the potential of alternative oxygenated diesel fuels (AODF), such as poly(oxy­methylene) dimethyl ethers (OMEn), as promising solutions due to their high energy density, reduced particulate emissions, and compatibility with existing infrastructure. Research into biofuels, Fischer-Tropsch processes, and waste pyrolysis is reviewed, highlighting innovative pathways for sustainable fuel production. The article also discusses the economic and technical hurdles to widespread adoption, including the need for cost-effective production processes, supportive policies, and robust physicochemical data for fuel optimization. It concludes by emphasizing the importance of coordinated efforts among researchers, industries, and governments to achieve a sustainable, carbon-neutral future in the transport and energy sectors. English translation of the full text is available in the on-line version.

Patients' perspective on the environmental impact of the severe dry eye disease healthcare pathway.

The NHS has committed to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2045. Dry eye disease, a chronic condition affecting approximately 29.5% of the global population, poses a significant challenge due to its environmentally harmful care pathway, which also exacerbates the condition. This research article presents a multi-centre cross-sectional survey of patients with severe dry eye disease to examine the pollution and emissions associated with the NHS dry eye disease care pathway. The aim is to identify target areas where innovation can aid the NHS in reaching its net-zero goal. Ninety-two patients participated in semi-structured interviews at four tertiary care centres in the United Kingdom. Medication packaging disposal was reported as follows: 36% of patients disposed of everything in household waste, 13% recycled everything, and 51% used a mixture of both. Only 7% of patients reported that medication packaging had clear recycling instructions, 23% reported no instructions, and 71% had not noticed. Patients attended a median of 3 (range; 1, 15) hospital appointments per year, with 62% traveling by car and a median return journey time of 100 (8, 300) minutes. When asked if having dry eye disease significantly increased their carbon footprint, 32% agreed, 32% were unsure, and 37% disagreed. The predominant suggestion for reducing environmental harm was "environmentally friendly packaging." This research highlights the need for more sustainable packaging solutions, including clearer recycling instructions, and explores issues related to avoidable travel and insufficient education. By addressing these areas, the NHS can make significant progress towards achieving its net-zero emissions goal.

Green complexity and its dual threshold effects: balancing environmental impact and economic growth

Green complexity and its dual threshold effects: balancing environmental impact and economic growth