Environmental Mitigation Research Articles

Evaluation of Energy Potential in a Landfill Through the Integration of a Biogas–Solar Photovoltaic System

The integration of biogas and photovoltaic solar energy systems in sanitary landfills represents a promising strategy for sustainable energy generation and efficient urban waste management. This study evaluates the potential for biogas and photovoltaic energy production in two cells of the Municipal Landfill of Chihuahua, Mexico. Using the LandGEM and MMB models (Landfill Gas Emission Model and the Mexican Biogas Model), biogas generation was estimated by considering the composition of the landfill gas and the characteristics of the cover in each cell, revealing notable differences due to their operational periods and waste deposition. Photovoltaic simulations, conducted with the HelioScope software 2020, evaluated spatial configurations and solar radiation data. The generation potential for 2025 was simulated using predictive models, yielding results between 25.48 and 26.08 MW for the biogas–photovoltaic system, depending on the orientation of the panels and the optimization of the coverage. The novelty of this work lies in the combined evaluation of biogas and photovoltaic potential within a single landfill site, integrating advanced modeling tools to optimize system design. By demonstrating the feasibility and benefits of this hybrid system, the study contributes to clean energy solutions, environmental mitigation, and improved waste management strategies. Our findings emphasize the importance of site-specific management practices and predictive modeling to enhance renewable energy production and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, supporting sustainable urban development initiatives.

Polyethylene packaging and alternative materials in the United States: A life cycle assessment.

A comprehensive life cycle assessment was conducted to evaluate the potential environmental impacts of polyethylene (PE) packaging and its alternatives, including paper, glass, aluminum, and steel in the United States. The assessment focuses on five major packaging applications: collation shrink films, stretch films for pallet wraps, heavy-duty sacks, non-food bottles, and flexible food pouches. The study compares PE and the alternative packaging materials based on the following environmental impact categories: global warming potential (GWP), fossil energy use, mineral resource use, and water scarcity. The research integrates sales volume estimates for each application, examining the substitution ratios of PE-based materials and the GWP decrease capabilities of using PE as packaging material. The findings reveal that substituting PE for other packaging materials can lead to an average life cycle GWP emissions decrease of approximately 70%. This significant decrease highlights the potential GWP benefits of PE in the context of packaging solutions in the United States. We also provide a detailed analysis of the potential environmental impacts and trade-offs associated with PE and its alternatives. The insights gained from this study are intended to assist stakeholders and policymakers in making informed decisions that balance environmental impact mitigation with maintaining product functionality and achieving sustainability objectives.

Climate change projections in temperature and precipitation using cmip6 in Central Mexico

Knowing the spatiotemporal variability of temperature and precipitation, as well as their future projections, is essential to assess environmental risks and plan long-term mitigation and adaptation. In this study, the General Circulation Models (GCMs) HadGEM3-GC31-LL, MRI-ESM2-0 and ACCESS-ESM1-5 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP6) have been used, under two Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SPP2-4.5 and SSP5-8.5), to project the minimum and maximum air temperature and the mean annual precipitation in Atlacomulco Rural Development District (ARDD). 30 meteorological stations were used to perform regionalized climate change projections by downscaling using LARS-WG 7. The expected changes were evaluated for three time horizons: near horizon (2021–2040), mid horizon (2041–2060) and far horizon (2061–2080); compared to the historical period (1985–2017). Based on the results, the annual minimum temperature towards the far horizon is projected to increase by 2.0 ºC with SSP2-4.5, and 3.1 ºC with SSP5-8.5; while the annual maximum temperature towards the far horizon is projected to increase between 2.5 ºC with SSP2-4.5 and 3.8 ºC using SSP5-8.5. Precipitation shows an increase for SSP2-4.5 in the near and middle horizons with 15.7 and 42.5 mm.year−1, respectively, while the largest decrease is projected towards the middle horizon of SSP5-8.5 with − 26.3 mm.year−1. The findings of this study provide detailed information on climate change projections in the ARDD and can serve as a useful guide for the management of different ecosystems.

THE ROAD AND THE ENVIRONMENT, A MARRIAGE OF CONVENIENCE: THICK POROUS PAVEMENTS

In the paper "The Road and the Environment, a Marriage of Convenience: Thick Porous Pavements," authors Jean-Pierre Christory, Gilles Pipien, Bernard Soudieu, and Jean Chauchot address the evolving demands on urban road construction towards integrating environmental considerations. With urban areas expanding, there's a rising emphasis on roads not just as traffic conduits but as elements contributing to environmental management, including noise control, hydrological management, and pollution control. The research focuses on the development and application of porous concrete pavements, distinguished by their capacity to handle noise, water, and pollution more effectively than traditional materials. These pavements, characterized by their thickness (generally over 15 cm) and lack of post-compacting variation, have demonstrated significant advantages in environmental management without compromising on traditional road durability and reliability. Field trials in France have confirmed the effectiveness of these pavements in urban settings, showing promise in terms of noise reduction, water management, and overall environmental impact mitigation. The paper suggests that with ongoing advancements in technology and design, porous pavements can significantly contribute to more sustainable and environmentally friendly urban infrastructure development. (Abstract generated by AI tool ChatGPT 4)

MXene decorated ZnO-tetrapod for efficient degradation of Methyl Orange, Methylene Blue, and Rhodamine B dyes

For the first time, Methyl Orange (MO), Methylene Blue (MB), and Rhodamine B (RhB) dyes degradation using MXene decorated ZnO-tetrapod (MZT) has been reported. MXene was derived from MAX phase using HF etching and ZT was produced using flame transport synthesis (FTS) technique. MXene was decorated on ZT using blending and sonication of deionized water consisting of MXene and ZT. The MZT was characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV–visible spectroscopy, Tauc plot analysis, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area measurement, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and High-Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HRTEM) to ensure the successful decoration. The dye degradation capability of the MZT was tested against three dyes: MO, MB, and RhB. Photodegradation tests under sunlight showed RhB had the highest efficiency (77.60 %), followed by MO (76.79 %) and MB (50.83 %), respectively. The kinetic rate constants confirmed RhB’s superior degradation. Furthermore, Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy revealed oxygen vacancies, enhancing photocatalytic performance. MZT maintained high efficiency, with less than 20 % loss after 4 cycles, demonstrating its potential for repeated use in wastewater treatment and environmental pollution mitigation. The results reveal the potential of MZT in photocatalytic degradation of harmful organic dyes, very promising solution for combating environmental pollution.

Environmental assessment and mitigation strategies for dairy cattle farms in Colombia: Greenhouse gas emissions, non-renewable energy use, and land use

Environmental assessment and mitigation strategies for dairy cattle farms in Colombia: Greenhouse gas emissions, non-renewable energy use, and land use

Development of Microorganisms Capable of Absorbing Environmental Pollutants through Synthetic Biological Engineering

In Indonesia, environmental pollution is a major concern, especially in industrialised and urban areas. The use of synthesised microorganisms can be an innovative solution to rehabilitate the damaged ecosystems in this region. In this research, an innovative approach based on synthetic biological engineering will be developed to create microbes that have an optimal capacity to absorb and decompose various types of environmental pollutants, such as heavy metals (Pb and Hg), hydrocarbons (benzene), and organic waste (phenol). The results show that the engineered bacteria Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas putida, Bacillus subtilis, and Alcaligenes eutrophus showed high pollutant removal efficiency (85-93%) under laboratory conditions. These results support the potential of synthetic biology technology as an innovative solutions in bioremediation of polluted environments. This research makes a real contribution to green technology innovation in environmental pollution mitigation, supporting the implementation of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially on points 6 (Clean Water) and 15 (Land Ecosystems).

An Adaptive Denoising Method for Photon-Counting LiDAR Point Clouds: Application in Intertidal Zones

The intertidal zone, as a dynamic ecosystem at the interface of land and sea, plays a critical role in environmental protection and disaster mitigation. The Ice, Cloud, and Land Elevation Satellite-2 (ICESat-2) is equipped with the Advanced Topographic Laser Altimeter System (ATLAS) with the ability to penetrate the water bodies, enabling its use for bathymetric measurements. However, the complex land cover types and frequent environmental changes in intertidal zones pose significant challenges for precise measurement and dynamic monitoring. In an effort to address the denoising challenges of ICESat-2 photon point cloud data in such complex environments, this study proposes an adaptive photon denoising method that is capable of dynamically adjusting the denoising strategy for different types of photon data. ATL03 data from four typical intertidal zones were selected for denoising experiments. The results indicated that the proposed adaptive denoising method achieved average recall, precision, and F-score values of 0.9885, 0.9927, and 0.9906, respectively, demonstrating excellent denoising performance and stability. This method provides an effective data processing approach for high-precision monitoring of intertidal zone topography.

Identification of natural and anthropogenic factors in the spatial pattern of Pb in the surface soil of the Nanliu River Basin.

The identification of source in potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in watershed soils is crucial for environmental management. This study addresses the knowledge gap in understanding the combined influence of natural and anthropogenic factors on the spatial pattern of lead (Pb) in the surface soil of the Nanliu River Basin. The main objective was to identify and quantify these influences using an integrated approach of ANOVA, correlation analysis, IDW interpolation, and Local Moran's I. Soil samples were collected and analyzed for Pb concentrations, revealing that granite and urban development significantly control Pb occurrence. The results indicate that the spatial pattern of soil Pb is jointly controlled by soil parent materials and anthropogenic factors, with varying degrees of influence across spatial scales. When the distance band of the Local Moran's I is set at 8000 m, the most reasonable spatial partitioning characteristics are exhibited. In conclusion, our study underscores the importance of integrating traditional statistical and spatial analysis methods to better understand the geochemical features of Pb in the surface soil of the Nanliu River Basin. This approach provides valuable insights for environmental management and pollution mitigation strategies. Our research highlights the use of integrating traditional statistical and spatial analysis methods in environmental research and offers a deeper comprehension of the geochemical features of Pb in the surface soil of the Nanliu River Basin.

Cadmium sources, limit analysis, environmental mitigation strategy (review)

Cadmium sources, limit analysis, environmental mitigation strategy (review)

Does Trade Openness Mitigate Environmental Degradation in BRICS Countries? An Empirical Analysis from PMG-ARDL and Panel DOLS Model Technique

The fundamental feature of the modern world is the preservation of environmental quality, as well as the restoration of renewable resources, the promotion of green and clean energy, and the advancement of sustainable development. The objective of the research is to examine the influence of trade openness on environmental mitigation in a group of BRICS nations from 1990 to 2021. This will be done by taking into account factors such as GDP per capita, financial development, energy consumption, and urbanisation. The PMG-ARDL model methodologies indicate that GDP per capita, trade openness, and urbanisation have a long-term mitigating effect on environmental quality in a panel of BRICS nations. The results suggest that in the near term, GDP per capita, financial development, energy consumption, and urbanisation have adverse effects on environmental mitigation, whereas trade openness does not have a negative impact. Moreover, the panel DOLS analysis reveals that GDP per capita, trade openness, energy consumption, and urbanisation in the BRICS nations have a substantial and negative impact on environmental quality. Nevertheless, the results obtained from the PMG-ARDL estimator and the panel DOLS indicate that there is no detrimental effect of financial development on environmental quality. These empirical results provide useful insights for several stakeholders, such as government authorities, politicians, regulators, practitioners, and researchers.

Chemical determination of silica in seagrass leaves reveals two operational silica pools in Zostera marina

Silicon is a major driver of global primary productivity and CO2 sequestration, and is a beneficial element for the growth and environmental stress mitigation of many terrestrial and aquatic plants. However, only a few studies have examined the occurrence of silicon in seagrasses, and its function within seagrass ecosystems and the role of seagrasses in silicon cycling remain largely unexplored. This study uses for the first time two methods, the wet-alkaline digestion and the hydrofluoric acid digestion, to quantify silicon content in seagrass leaves using the species Zostera marina and elaborates on the potential role of silicon in seagrass biogeochemistry and ecology, as well as the role of seagrass ecosystems as a silicon reservoir. The results revealed that seagrass leaves contained 0.26% silicon:dry-weight, which is accumulated in two forms of silica: a labile form digested with the alkaline method and a resistant form digested only with acid digestion. These findings support chemical digestions for silicon quantification in seagrass leaves and provide new insights into the impact of seagrasses on the marine silicon cycle. Labile silica will be recycled upon leaf degradation, benefiting siliceous organisms, while refractory silica will contribute to the ecosystem’s buried silica stock and coupled carbon sequestration. In the Bay of Brest (France), the seagrass silicon reservoir was estimated at 0.18 ± 0.07 g Si m⁻2, similar to that of benthic diatoms, underscoring the potential role of seagrasses in silicon biogeochemistry in the land–ocean continuum, where they might act as a buffer for silicon transport to the ocean.

Environmental mitigation through responsible consumption: a Markov process model on parental influence

Environmental mitigation through responsible consumption: a Markov process model on parental influence

Acoustic Sensors data transmission integrity and endurance with IoT-enabled location-aware framework

Environmental monitoring and disaster mitigation are critical applications of underwater acoustic sensor networks (UASNs). However, UASNs face significant challenges, including high latency, limited bandwidth, and energy constraints. This study introduces an Internet of Things (IoT)-driven location-aware framework (ILAF) designed to enhance UASN performance by utilizing non-GPS geographic coordinates for determining the location of sensor and sink nodes, identifying their neighbors based on coordinates and transmission range, and optimizing node placement and routing without the need for GPS modems. The framework is compared with several state-of-the-art protocols, including Bald Eagle Search inspired optimized energy efficient routing protocol (BES-OEERP) and IoT-enabled depth-based routing technique (IDBR), demonstrating superior performance. Specifically, ILAF achieved a packet delivery ratio (PDR) of 99%, which outperforms energy-efficient region-based source distributed routing algorithm (EERSDRA) (98%) and energy-efficient geo-opportunistic routing protocols (EEGORP) (96%). Additionally, ILAF reduced energy consumption by 20% compared to these existing protocols. These improvements result in a more energy-efficient network with fewer dead nodes (12 after 1,000 rounds) and higher throughput (5.7 kbps at 1,000 rounds), making ILAF suitable for real-time underwater applications. Future research will explore integrating lightweight IoT protocols like Message Queue Telemetry Transport (MQTT) and Constrained Application Protocol (CoAP) to enhance the framework’s performance and reliability further.

Valorizing pig hooves for activated carbon production with efficient Methyl green adsorption, DFT insights and bacterial removal via bio-adsorbent column

ABSTRACT This study describes the use of a novel activated carbon (AC) adsorbent produced from pig hoove waste for the effective removal of Methyl Green (MG) from aqueous solutions. The AC, synthesized through KOH activation, boasts a substantial surface area of 334.031 m2/g and a total pore volume of 0.007 cm³/g. Comprehensive characterization was performed using proximate and ultimate (CHNS) analysis, BET, SEM, TEM, EDX, XRD, FT-IR, XPS, TGA, particle size analysis, zeta potential and zero-point charge (pHZPC). Adsorption data fit the Langmuir isotherm model exceptionally well (R 2 = 0.99) indicating monolayer adsorption and followed pseudo-second-order kinetics implying chemisorption. The thermodynamic studies revealed that the adsorption of the MG dye is a spontaneous and endothermic phenomenon. Density Functional Theory (DFT) computations elucidated the adsorption mechanism, highlighting the critical role of oxygen functional groups. The AC’s unique properties enabled the development of a bio-adsorbent carbon column capable of removing Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus from raw water samples with a 99% removal efficiency. The study also explored the potential for AC regeneration, demonstrating its versatility and sustainability for various applications. This research not only presents an efficient method for dye removal but also underlines the significance of repurposing waste materials, thereby supporting waste reduction and promoting eco-friendly practices for long-term environmental solutions and pollutant mitigation.

Anesthetic Gases: Environmental Impacts and Mitigation Strategies for Fluranes and Nitrous Oxide

Anesthetic gases represent a small but significant portion of the environmental impact of health care in many countries. These compounds include several fluorocarbons commonly referred to as “fluranes”. The fluranes are greenhouse gases (GHG) with global warming potentials in the hundreds to thousands and are also PFAS compounds (per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances) according to at least one definition. Nitrous oxide (N2O) is sometimes used as an adjunct in anesthesia, or for sedation, but has a significant stratospheric ozone depletion potential as well as GHG effects. Reducing emissions of these compounds into the environment is, therefore, a growing priority in the health care sector. Elimination or substitution of the highest impact fluranes with alternatives has been pursued with some success but limitations remain. Several emission control strategies have been developed for fluranes including adsorption onto solids, which has shown commercial promise. Catalytic decomposition methods have been pursued for N2O emission control, although mixtures of fluranes and N2O are potentially problematic for this technology. All such emission control technologies require the effective scavenging and containment of the anesthetics during use, but the limited available information suggests that fugitive emissions into the operating room may be a significant route for unmitigated losses of approximately 50% of the used fluranes into the environment. A better understanding and quantification of such fugitive emissions is needed to help minimize these releases. Further cost–benefit and techno-economic analyses are also needed to identify strategies and best practices for the future.

The role of environmental mitigation technology and energy productivity in reducing air pollution-related premature deaths: insights from the top 20 polluted economies

The role of environmental mitigation technology and energy productivity in reducing air pollution-related premature deaths: insights from the top 20 polluted economies

A Review of Ship Emissions Impacts on Environmental, Health, Societal Impacts and IMO's Mitigation Policies

A Review of Ship Emissions Impacts on Environmental, Health, Societal Impacts and IMO's Mitigation Policies

Green Technological Advances and Resource Rents as Levers for Carbon Reduction in BRICS: Implications for SDGs 7, 8, 9, 12, and 13

ABSTRACTIn recent decades, rapid development in emerging economies has heightened climate challenges, threatening environmental sustainability and quality. In response, green energy, technological innovation, and carbon pricing strategies have emerged as key tools for environmental mitigation and promoting green economic growth. These strategies are integral to the goals of COP 27, the 2030 SDGs, and the pledge to reach carbon neutrality by 2060. However, the BRICS economic bloc faces significant obstacles in balancing socio‐economic growth with environmental sustainability. This study intentions to inspect the impact of natural resource rents, research and development (R&D) expenditures, green energy, green technological innovation, and economic growth on carbon emissions in BRICS economies from 1995 to 2021. Using a cross‐sectional ARDL model, the study explores relationships between these variables, employing advanced panel methods to account for CSD and heterogeneity. The empirical findings reveal that research and development expenditure, green energy, and green technological innovation contribute to CO2 emission reductions by 0.329%, 0.211%, and 0.148%, respectively. In contrast, a 1% increase in economic growth and natural resource rents corresponds to a substantial 0.499% and 0.840% upsurge in CO2 emissions. The Dumitrescu and Hurlin panel causality test also highlights reciprocal causal relationships among the variables. Based on these findings, the study recommends policy actions to achieve SDG targets: enforce stricter CO2 emissions regulations for SDG‐13, increase renewable energy investment for SDG‐07, support green innovation for SDG‐08, enhance R&D for SDG‐09, and promote circular economy practices for SDG‐12.

Assessment of heavy metal contamination in fish, fruits, and vegetables in Southwest Nigeria: A systematic review

Background The aim of this systematic review was to investigate the prevalence of heavy metal contamination in fish, fruits, and vegetables in Southwest Nigeria. The review focused on studies published over a ten-year period, between 2014 and 2024. Methods Articles used for the study were obtained by conducting a comprehensive literature search using several databases, including ResearchGate, Scopus, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and PubMed using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). To identify relevant studies, a plethora of keywords were utilized to search for articles in the selected databases, including. Articles reporting heavy metal contamination in specified food products within the last decade were included. Results Of the 10,212 initially identified articles, 64 met the inclusion criteria after thorough screening. The selected studies were predominantly conducted in Lagos (30), Ondo (8), and Ogun (7) states, with few studies in Oyo, Ekiti, and Osun states. The majority of the research focused on fish (40 studies), followed by vegetables (20) and fruits (4). The commonly studied fish species were observed to be Tilapia zilli, Chrysichthys nigrodigitatus, Clarias gariepinus, and Oreochromis niloticus, with heavy metal concentrations frequently exceeded WHO limits. Conclusions Therefore, this review highlights the significant risks posed by the presence of heavy metals in food products and underscores the importance of stringent environmental monitoring and the adoption of appropriate regulatory mechanisms for health and environmental risk mitigation. This could help in the formulation of appropriate policy implementation strategies geared towards mitigating heavy metal contamination in the region’s food supply.