Environmental Pollution Research Articles

Institutional Structure and Environmental Pollution: An Application within the Framework of the Environmental Kuznets Curve Hypothesis

The EKC hypothesis explains the relationship between economic growth and environmental degradation. However, criticisms of its fundamental assumptions suggest that this relationship should be examined more comprehensively. While the EKC hypothesis addresses the link between income levels and environmental quality, it may overlook the impact of institutional structures and policy factors. In this context, recent studies increasingly highlight the role of institutional structures in environmental degradation. Accordingly, this study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of environmental sustainability by approaching the EKC hypothesis from the perspective of institutional quality. To determine the effects of institutional quality on environmental degradation, the study employs the Driscoll-Kraay estimation method. The analysis is conducted on a sample of SADC countries for the period 1990-2021. The findings indicate that institutional quality has a statistically significant and positive effect on environmental degradation; however, beyond a certain threshold, this effect reverses. Additionally, the impact of economic growth on environmental degradation is examined within the EKC framework, revealing that while per capita income initially increases environmental degradation, exceeding a certain income level leads to improvements in environmental quality. The findings confirm the validity of the EKC hypothesis in SADC countries and suggest that strong institutional structures can play a supportive role in promoting environmental sustainability.

Environmental Risk Factors Contributing to the Spread of Antibiotic Resistance in West Africa

Antibiotic resistance is a well-documented global health challenge that disproportionately impacts low- and middle-income countries. In 2019, the number of deaths attributed to and associated with antibiotic resistance in Western Sub-Saharan Africa was approximately 27 and 115 per 100,000, respectively, higher than in other regions worldwide. Extensive research has consistently confirmed the persistent presence and spread of antibiotic resistance in hospitals, among livestock, within food supply chains, and across various environmental contexts. This review documents the environmental risk factors contributing to the spread of antibiotic resistance in West Africa. We collected studies from multiple West African countries using the Web of Science and PubMed databases. We screened them for factors associated with antibiotic-resistant bacteria and resistance genes between 2018 and 2024. Our findings indicate that antibiotic resistance remains a significant concern in West Africa, with environmental pollution and waste management identified as major factors in the proliferation of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and resistance genes between 2018 and 2024. Additional contributing factors include poor hygiene, the use of antibiotics in agriculture, aquaculture, and animal farming, and the transmission of antibiotic resistance within hospital settings. Unfortunately, the lack of comprehensive genetic characterization of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and resistance genes hinders a thorough understanding of this critical issue in the region. Since antibiotic resistance transcends national borders and can spread within and between countries, it is essential to understand the environmental risk factors driving its dissemination in West African countries. Such understanding will be instrumental in developing and recommending effective strategies nationally and internationally to combat antibiotic resistance.

Bioaccumulation of Heavy Metals in Water and Organs of Stone moroko (Pseudoraspora parva) in Freshwater in Turkey

Anthropogenic activities have been causing pollution in the environment and aquaculture activities via the contamination of heavy metals from industrial developments. As a result, this environmental pollution may cause health problems in humans. In this study, water (n = 3) and fish (n = 10–15) samples were evaluated from Topçam Barrage to assess the heavy metal concentrations in the water and tissue samples of fish, Pseudoraspora parva (muscle, liver, kidney, spleen, gonads, and gills). All samples were measured using the ICP-OES (Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometer) in conjunction with a standard solution (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Zn, Ni, and Pb). The bioaccumulation factor (BCF), target hazard quotient (THQ), and hazard index (HI) were calculated for human health due to fish consumption. A significant degree of heavy metals was found, which followed the order of Zn > Cu > Pb > Ni > Cd > Cr for fish tissues. Heavy metal amounts were found to be mostly higher for Cu and Pb. It was reported that their amounts were around the limit values established by the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organisation) and WHO (World Health Organisation). Further studies are needed on the precautions how to more increase the water quality level.

Tourism-Induced Environmental Degradation ASEAN Countries: Causes and Consequences

The existence of digitalization and technological advancements causes information to spread quickly. In fact, information about the tourism sector among countries like ASEAN is very easily accessible, which leads to an increase in people's mobility for tourism activities. ASEAN is one of the regions in the Asia Pacific with the highest CO2 emissions. Tourism is considered to be an important indicator in explaining a country's environmental pollution. This is based on the Tourism-Led Growth hypothesis, which states that the expansion of tourism activities impacts economic growth, while on the other hand, the Environmental Kuznets Curve hypothesis explains that economic development triggers environmental degradation. This study aims to analyze the influence of GDP per capita, the number of international tourists, and the volume of international flight passenger traffic on CO2 emissions and the relevance of the EKC hypothesis in 5 ASEAN countries (Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam). The data processing method uses panel data regression analysis. The selected model in this study is the fixed effect model with cross-section weight estimation. The results of the study indicate that GDP per capita and the volume of international flight passenger traffic have positive coefficients with probabilities of 0.0000 and 0.0171, respectively. Meanwhile, the number of foreign tourist visits has a negative coefficient with a probability of 0.0216. This study also shows that the EKC hypothesis is relevant to the case of the 5 ASEAN countries with a turning point at an income level of USD 9,937 per capita.

AI-Powered Waste Detection and Localization Using Region Proposal Network and CNN

To reduce environmental pollution caused by improper waste disposal, efficient waste management solutions are essential. Traditional methods rely on manual monitoring, which is time-consuming and ineffective. Advancements in artificial intelligence and deep learning enable automated waste detection and localization, improving efficiency in waste management. Faster R-CNN, an advanced object detection model, enhances precision in recognizing and localizing waste in visual data. By utilizing deep learning techniques, waste detection achieves high accuracy, reducing dependence on manual inspections.The integration of Faster R-CNN with image processing techniques allows for real-time identification of waste objects in complex environments. Localization is achieved by drawing bounding boxes around detected waste, providing precise positional information. The Region Proposal Network (RPN) plays a key role in this process by generating candidate object regions through anchor boxes and refining them based on object scores. Tensor Flow’s Object Detection API facilitates model training and optimization, ensuring accurate recognition of waste materials. High-performance convolutional neural networks enhance feature extraction, distinguishing waste from non-waste objects effectively. The use of deep learning in image-based waste detection supports scalable waste management solutions.Automated waste detection and localization contribute to sustainable urban development by enabling proactive waste management strategies. The ability to accurately identify and mark waste locations enhances the efficiency of cleaning processes and reduces environmental hazards. By analyzing waste distribution patterns, authorities can optimize resource allocation and improve waste disposal planning. The adoption of AI-driven approaches in waste detection minimizes human effort while promoting a cleaner and healthier environment. Key Words: AI-Driven waste detection, Faster R-CNN, Region Proposal Network, TensorFlow object detection API, Image processing and Localization.

Recent Progress in Triazole Based Chromogenic and Fluorogenic Chemosensor for the Detection of Hg2+ Metal ion: A Review.

Triazole, a heterocyclic organic molecule containing nitrogen, exhibits strong coordination abilities with variousmetal ions. Several synthetic techniques, including Claisen-Schmidt condensation, Huisgen-1,3-dipolar cycloaddition reaction (CuAAC), Pellizzari synthesis, Einhorn-Brunner synthesis, Dimroth rearrangement and Boulton-Katritzky Rearrangement have been employed to synthesize triazole derivatives. Experimental and spectroscopic investigations have demonstrated that triazole possesses a high binding affinity for heavy metal ions such as Pb2+, Hg2+, Cd2+, Cu2+ and Al3+. The increasing environmental pollution caused by the uncontrolled discharge of heavy metal ions into water bodies and open spaces poses a serious threat to ecosystem and public health. To address this issue, a cost-effective and efficient chemosensor based on triazole has been developed for selective detection of toxic heavy metal ions. Notably, triazole exhibits fluorescence quenching or enhancement upon interaction with the Hg2+ ions, attributed to changes in its absorption and emission spectra upon coordination. This unique photophysical behaviour makes triazole-based probes valuable tools for monitoring Hg2+ ions in environmental and biological samples. This review provides a comprehensive overview of triazole-based fluorescent chemosensors for Hg2+ ions detection, covering advancements made between 2010-2025. The study highlights the high specificity, excellent sensitivity, and low detection limits of these sensors, emphasizing their potential for practical applications in environmental monitoring and analytical chemistry.

Abstract 3628: Associations between per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and inflammatory markers in a racially diverse cohort of breast cancer patients

Background: Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are persistent environmental pollutants known for their resistance to degradation and their potential to accumulate in biological systems. These compounds have been associated with various adverse health effects, including promoting cancer progression. Aim: This study aimed to examine the associations between plasma PFAS levels and inflammation-related proteins identified through targeted proteomics in a racially diverse cohort of menopausal women and breast cancer patients. Methods: Three PFAS compounds—perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), and perfluorobutane sulfonic acid (PFBS)—were quantified in plasma samples from both cancer-free individuals and breast cancer patients using targeted liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Results: We found higher levels of PFBS in African American patients with breast cancer compared to Non-Hispanic White patients. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed marginal differences in PFAS levels between racial groups for PFBS (p=0.056p) with no significant differences for PFOA or PFOS (p>0.05). Logistic regression models showed no significant associations between normalized PFAS levels (PFOA, PFOS, and PFBS) and health outcomes (tumor grade or status) in the overall cohort or within racial subgroups. Lastly, Among African American patients, PFBS levels were strongly associated with inflammatory and cancer-related markers including CASP8, CCL3, MMP10 and TRANCE, which are implicated in immune regulation tissue remodeling and cancer progression. These findings highlight the potential role of PFAS in contributing to inflammation and cancer progression, particularly among African American breast cancer patients, emphasizing the need for further research on PFAS exposure and its impact on cancer disparities. Citation Format: Alicia Arredondo Eve, Ashlie Santaliz Casiano, Haihley Connors, Oana Danciu, Garth Rauscher, Natalie Pulliam, Elona Liko-Hazizi, Sarah Friedewald, Seema Khan, Julie Kim, William Gradishar, Kent Hoskins, Zeynep Madak-Erdogan. Associations between per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and inflammatory markers in a racially diverse cohort of breast cancer patients [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2025; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2025 Apr 25-30; Chicago, IL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2025;85(8_Suppl_1):Abstract nr 3628.

Transformation of Bamboo: From Multiscale Fibers to Robust and Degradable Cellulose-Based Materials for Plastic Substitution.

Bamboo is an ideal candidate to replace traditional plastics, reduce environmental pollution, and promote harmony between nature and humanity owing to its rapid growth and renewability. However, achieving arbitrary shape-shifting of bamboo while retaining its high strength and degradability remains challenging. This study uses multiscale interface engineering to transform bamboo into a robust, biodegradable, and moldable bamboo cellulose-based material. First, natural bamboo is deconstructed into cellulose fibers, including macro- and nanofibers. Subsequently, the fibers are constructed into high-performance materials using physical and chemical methods, such as surface charge treatment, ion cross-linking, and dense hydrogen bonding networks. The prepared multiscale bamboo cellulose-based materials exhibit excellent properties, with a high specific strength (≈271.8 kNm kg-1), high impact toughness (≈58kJ m-2), low thermal expansion coefficient (1.19 × 10-6 K-1), excellent formability and biodegradability, and minimal environmental impacts. These properties are superior to those of current commercial plastics and other biomass-derived structural materials. Furthermore, the mechanical properties of the materials can be customized by adjusting the layup configuration, enabling a transition from anisotropic to isotropic characteristics. This transformation demonstrates the significant potential of bamboo for plastic substitution and advances the development of environmentally friendly materials.

PEMANFAATAN LIMBAH DENIM UNTUK PERANCANGAN STREETWEAR WANITA MENGGUNAKAN TEKNIK INTERLOCKING MODULAR DAN LASER CUT

The fashion industry, particularly the denim sector, is experiencing rapid growth in Indonesia but also causes significant environmental problems due to poorly managed production waste. This research aims to reduce environmental pollution by utilizing denim waste through interlocking modular and laser cut techniques in the design of women's streetwear. The interlocking modular technique allows the combination of denim fabric modules into strong and aesthetically pleasing structures, while laser cutting is used to precisely cut decorative motifs. This method is developed based on techniques previously applied by Eunsuk Hur. This study employs a qualitative method through interviews with six experts and twelve extreme users, along with observations, literature reviews, journals, and articles. The results indicate that the combination of interlocking modular and laser cut techniques can produce visually appealing women's streetwear collections while reducing fashion industry waste. In the initial stages, denim modules used in the interlocking modular technique were not lined with interfacing, making them prone to damage even after using the laser cut technique. The study found that adding interfacing is crucial to prevent fiber damage. Denim, being a material that is quite challenging to process using the interlocking modular technique, requires in-depth experimentation to adjust methods to achieve the desired aesthetic and functional outcomes. Overall, this research provides valuable insights into experimental approaches in sustainable fashion design. By continuously experimenting and involving users in the development process, it is hoped that this innovation can inspire the local fashion industry to be more mindful of denim waste utilization and support environmental sustainability.

PERANCANGAN AVANT-GARDE FESYEN DENGAN PENGAPLIKASIAN DEKORATIF LIMBAH LOGAM TIMAH MENGGUNAKAN MELTING TECHNIQUE

This research aims to warn and promote the dangers of heavy metal waste. Metals have different characteristics, some consist of very dangerous elements and some have less harmful effects yet still impacts the environment. The research results show that environmental pollution due to heavy metals is increasingly becoming an alarming problem and is of great concern throughout the world because of its negative impacts. By reprocessing tin metal waste from factories, with making use of melting technique, which later will form up shapes that will be the decorative elements in collection products with the style of Avant-garde and a part of Wearable Art. From the development of this design, it can help with the problem of metal waste and at the same time express artistic freedom through experimental work with sustainable materials. This research is a qualitative research that underlies constructivist beliefs. This research was conducted with 6 experts who are experts in different fields with different views, with 12 extreme users who have an interest in fashion. Experts and extreme users answered researcher’s questions using different and appropriate interview methods.

The impact of air pollution on the settlement intention of the floating population——Empirical evidence from China

This paper utilizes 2017 dynamic monitoring data of China’s floating population and matches it with air pollution data from 287 prefecture-level cities to construct a Probit model. The study aims to investigate the effects and pathways of air pollution on the settlement intention of floating populations. The research findings are as follows: Firstly, air pollution significantly affects the settlement intention of floating populations, with an increase in air pollution concentration leading to a notable decrease in their intent to reside. Secondly, the impact of air pollution on the settlement intention of floating populations varies based on their personal characteristics and regional features. Those with longer years of residence, higher education levels, and better air quality in their hometowns tend to be more sensitive to air pollution. Thirdly, air pollution reduces the settlement intention of floating populations by affecting their physical health. Further research finds that better healthcare services provided by the government can enhance the willingness of migrant populations to settle in areas with environmental pollution. This study enriches the relevant research on environmental factors’ influence on the settlement intention of floating populations, and it provides insights for the government to formulate talent attraction policies from an environmental governance perspective.

Microplastics as benzo-a-pyrene carriers: genotoxicity assessment simulating human gastric digestion.

Microplastic particles (MPs) are ubiquitous environmental pollutants that can remain in ecosystems for prolonged periods. Plastic materials undergo various degradation processes driven by chemical, physical, and biological factors that alter their size, shape, composition, and bioavailability. The gastrointestinal tract is the primary pathway through which MPs are absorbed, raising concerns as they can transport harmful pollutants and microorganisms into the body. Despite their widespread presence, the effects of exposure to MPs that vehicle environmental toxins are still not well understood. In this study, we rigorously simulated the photoaging processes of polystyrene MPs of two distinct sizes (1µm and 5µm) and confirmed their capacity to adsorb benzo[a]pyrene, a known carcinogen. Moreover, we explored the transport capabilities of these MPs and analyzed their genotoxic effects on liver cells under simulated gastric digestion conditions. Our findings reveal that MPs enriched with BaP release this toxic compound when ingested and exposed to gastric juices, markedly increasing their toxicity compared to the individual components. This research underscores the alarming potential of MPs to exacerbate risks associated with environmental pollutants in human health.

Biodegradation of PET by Deep-Sea Pseudomonas chengduensis BC1815 through Utilization of Ethylene Glycol Monomer for Growth.

An important environmental issue is the pollution caused by poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) and the emitted monomers terephthalic acid (TPA) and ethylene glycol (EG). The TPA biodegradation pathway has been well documented for the microbial biodegradation and assimilation of PET; however, the PET biodegradation process by marine microorganisms via the EG biodegradation pathway is less understood. Here, we demonstrate how the marine bacteria Pseudomonas chengduensis BC1815's membrane-anchored PET esterase (OF113_10420) breaks down PET. We also explain the characteristics of this enzyme and demonstrate that the strain assimilates PET via the EG biodegradation pathway. In addition to depolymerizing PET, PET esterase (OF113_10420) hydrolyzes BHET and MHET to generate EG more efficiently in alkaline circumstances. It has been discovered that P. chengduensis BC1815 cells exhibiting surface-displayed PET esterase (OF113_10420) have the potential to function as cell biocatalysts for the breakdown of PET. Additionally, we look into the microbial communities that have PET esterase linked to the EG biodegradation pathway, primarily those belonging to the phyla Proteobacteria and Actinobacteriota. Consequently, research on the microbial absorption and biodegradation of PET via the EG metabolism route increases our knowledge of the bioremediation of PET pollution in the marine environment and contributes to our understanding of the environmental destiny of PET pollutants in the marine environment.

Health impacts of the 2019–2020 Australian “Black Summer” bushfires: smoke-related asthma emergency department presentations in New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory

ABSTRACT Bushfires contribute to environmental pollution in the form of Particulate Matter (PM). PM with an aerodynamic diameter of ≤ 2.5 μm (PM2.5) is relevant to individuals with chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma. These particles tend to enter the bloodstream and activate inflammatory processes, leading to asthma exacerbation. This study examines this environmental-health relationship in the context of the 2019–2020 “Black Summer” bushfires in New South Wales (NSW) and the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) regions of Australia. Weekly measurements of emergency department (ED) presentations for asthma from 1 September 2019 to 29 February 2020 were collected and compared to weekly averages of PM2.5, meteorological data, and other relevant covariables. To control for seasonal changes in ED presentations unrelated to bushfire smoke, the observed PM2.5 values and ED presentations were subtracted from corresponding values the year prior. A quasi-Poisson generalised linear model (GLM) was used to assess the impact of PM2.5 and these covariables on weekly ED presentations for asthma. The model explained approximately 33% of the variance in asthma presentations with PM2.5, minimum temperature and relative humidity being the most significant covariables. These findings provide insight into this environmental-health relationship and support public health planning for smoke-related asthma presentations.

The Genus Clonostachys (Bionectria) as a Potential Tool Against Agricultural Pest and Other Biotechnological Applications: A Review

The Clonostachys genus is a saprophytic soil microfungus (Ascomycota). It exhibits significant ecological adaptability and plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of soil microorganisms. Species within this genus are natural antagonists of insects and nematodes, and they also combat phytopathogenic fungi through mycoparasitism. This process involves producing lytic enzymes and competing for space and nutrients. Clonostachys species are effective biocontrol agents in agriculture and have been utilized to manage pests affecting many high-value commercial crops, acting as a natural biopesticide. They inhabit plant tissues, boosting plant defenses and activating genes for water and nutrient uptake, enhancing plant performance. Additionally, they produce enzymes and bioactive metabolites with antimicrobial, antifungal, nematocidal, anticancer, and antioxidant properties. Clonostachys species can degrade plastic waste and remove hydrocarbons from crude oil-contaminated sites when functioning as endophytes, positioning Clonostachys as a promising candidate for reducing environmental pollution. There are still challenges and limitations, such as the continuous surveillance of the safety of Clonostachys species on plants, the establishment of commercial applications, formulation viability, and variability due to field conditions. These issues will have to be addressed. This review provides an overview of Clonostachys ecology, morphology, classification, and biotechnological applications, emphasizing its significance in various fields.

Contradictions in Dissolved Black Carbon Research: A Critical Review of its Sources, Structures, Analytical Methods, and Environmental Behaviors.

Contradictions in Dissolved Black Carbon Research: A Critical Review of its Sources, Structures, Analytical Methods, and Environmental Behaviors.

The transformational practices of China’s coastal geological survey guided by the principles of Earth System Science over the past 40 years

The coastal zone plays a crucial role in the Earth system, connecting terrestrial and marine environments and serving as a hub for economic and societal development. In recent years, with the development of the economy and society and the increase of human activities, China's coastal zones confront a series of problems such as environmental pollution, biodiversity destruction, and disorderly development. To address these challenges posed by natural and anthropogenic factors in coastal zones to achieve sustainable development, conducting coastal geological survey guided by the principles of Earth System Science (ESS) is essential preliminary work. This paper presents in detail the important position and function of the coastal zone in the Earth system. It analyzes the new requirements for ESS in coastal geological survey developments while systematically summarizing China's achievements over 40 years from four perspectives: survey contents, survey techniques, research methods, and service concepts. Finally, this paper suggests that the future coastal geological survey guided by ESS should focus on the four dimensions of survey, monitor, research and service, while expanding the content of natural resources and environmental ecological survey, establishing a network of Earth system scientific observation stations, emphasizing the research on the coupling of coastal zones and human activities, and serving the integrated management of coastal zones and scientific decision-making, this ultimately will help to attain sustainable high-quality development periods within these regions.

Microplastic distribution and its implications for human health through marine environments.

Microplastic distribution and its implications for human health through marine environments.

Fabricating a Three-Dimensional Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering Substrate Using Hydrogel-Loaded Freeze-Induced Silver Nanoparticle Aggregates for the Highly Sensitive Detection of Organic Pollutants in Seawater

Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectroscopy faces challenges in achieving both high sensitivity and reproducibility for the detection of real samples, particularly in high-salinity matrices. In this study, we developed a high-performance, salt-resistant three-dimensional (3D) SERS substrate by integrating physically induced colloidal silver nanoparticle aggregates (AgNAs) with an agarose hydrogel. AgNAs were prepared using a freeze–thaw–ultrasonication method to minimize interference in SERS signals while significantly enhancing the detection efficiency of trace pollutants. The incorporation of the agarose hydrogel not only improved the substrate’s pollutant enrichment capability, but also effectively prevented the aggregation and sedimentation of AgNAs in salt solutions. The developed SERS substrate exhibited an ultralow detection limit of 10−12 M for Nile Blue (NB), with a 100-fold increase in sensitivity compared to colloidal AgNAs and drop-cast AgNAs solid substrates. The analytical enhancement factor (AEF) for malachite green (MG) achieved a value of 1.4 × 107. Furthermore, the substrate demonstrated excellent signal uniformity, with a relative standard deviation (RSD) of 6.74% within a 200 μm × 200 μm detection area and also show a satisfactory RSD of only 9.38% within a larger area of 1 mm × 1 mm. Notably, the 3D SERS substrate exhibited excellent stability under high-salinity conditions (0.5 M NaCl) and successfully detected a model pollutant (MG) in real seawater samples using the standard addition method. This study provides a novel strategy for highly sensitive SERS detection of trace pollutants in saline environments, offering promising applications in environmental monitoring and marine pollution analysis.

Hypoxia-inducible factor 1α modulates acrolein-induced cellular damage in bronchial epithelial cells.

Hypoxia-inducible factor 1α modulates acrolein-induced cellular damage in bronchial epithelial cells.