Environmental Protection System Research Articles

Intelligent monitoring system for environmental protection during the construction period of pumped storage power station

Intelligent monitoring system for environmental protection during the construction period of pumped storage power station

Degradation of Tetracycline (TC) by ZrO2-3DG/PMS System: Revealing the Role of Defects in the Conditions of Light Irradiation and Sulfate Accumulation

The application of advance oxidation processes (AOPs) based on the activation of peroxymonosulfate (PMS) is a great concern for wastewater treatment. Herein, ZrO2-3DG was constructed using a hydrothermal method for the degradation of tetracycline (TC) with PMS. The defective ZrO2-3DG materials were also prepared with plasma treatment. SEM and XPS results show that the ZrO2-3DG composite and the corresponding defective materials were successfully fabricated. The ZrO2 particles are distributed uniformly on the substrate material. Plasma can induce defects on the composite materials and create highly active sites. TC degradation results show that the ZrO2-3DG/PMS system can achieve a degradation efficiency of 92.9% for TC. The influences of defects on materials, light irradiation and sulfate accumulation were investigated. It has been found that defects can induce an inhibiting effect on the degradation process, which can be tuned by plasma time. The defective ZrO2-3DG/PMS system exhibits excellent resistance to the accumulation of sulfate, even showing enhanced degradation performances in specific conditions. The light irradiation has led to a higher degradation efficiency with the accumulation of sulfate compared with a dark environment. These findings give great guidance to the application of the ZrO2-3DG/PMS system for environmental protection.

A New Wax Gourd (Benincasa hispida (Thunb.) Cogn.)‐Assisted Green Synthesis Method of Metal Oxides (TiO2, MgO)

AbstractIn the reaction environment of wax gourd extract, titanium dioxide (TiO2) and magnesium oxide (MgO) were synthesized by microemulsion method. Under atmospheric pressure, the optimum conditions for preparing TiO2 and MgO nanoparticles were investigated at different reaction temperatures and time. The obtained optimal reaction conditions are as follows: when the amount of TiCl3 solution was 70 µL, the mass ratio of wax gourd extract to water was 1:2, the reaction time was 60 min, and the reaction temperature was 35 °C, rod‐like TiO2 particles with the best dispersion and crystallinity were obtained. When the amount of MgCl2 solution was 10 mL, the amount of wax gourd extract was 40 mL, the reaction time was 120 min, and the reaction temperature was 70 °C, the prepared MgO particles exhibited a spindle shape with the best dispersion and crystallinity. Wax gourd‐assisted synthesis of TiO2 and MgO provides not only a new synthesis idea for the preparation of metal oxides, but also a green environmental protection system, which conforms to the concept of sustainable development.

Data Industry Green Development Promoted by Public Policy and Law in China

It is difficult to fully match the current green development initiatives in the context of public policy and industrial economy to the new infrastructure process driven by massive data. Its connotation and extension and the level of the rule of law need to be deepened to ensure that data production, processing, circulation, elimination, and other activities can achieve high-quality and sustainable development within the collaborative construction of hard facilities and the soft environment in the new era. Based on the practical needs of data industry green development in key areas, we can resolve the legal risk of data industry green development from three aspects: improving the legal level of green public policy, clarifying the green legal benchmark of data industry development, and improving the green legal system of digital society. Then, this paper considers the design of an environmental protection system based on hardware facilities and the structural and readable clean data system innovation of the soft data industry development framework mode so as to clarify the legalization scheme of data industry green development under the new infrastructure. Overall, achieving the green development of the data industry requires not only active attempts by China but also joint efforts by China and other countries.

Benzotriazoles and bisphenols in wastewater from the food processing industry and the quantitative changes during mechanical/biochemical treatment processes

Benzotriazoles (BTRs) and bisphenols (BPs), categorized as contaminants of emerging concern (CECs), pose significant risks to human health and ecosystems due to their endocrine-disrupting properties and environmental persistence. This study investigates the occurrence and behavior of nine BTRs and ten BPs in wastewater generated in a large-scale meat processing plant, evaluating the effectiveness of a modern mechanical-biological industrial on-site treatment plant in removing these contaminants, and based on the concentration levels from eleven sampling points at different stages of the treatment process. The method used to determine these micropollutants' concentration was ultrasound-assisted emulsification-microextraction for analytes isolation and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry for detection (USAEME-GC/MS). The results indicate that the rigorous quality control processes in the meat processing facility effectively limit the presence of these micropollutants, especially concerning BPs, which are absent or below detection limits in raw wastewater. While the concentrations of some of these micropollutants increased at different points in the treatment process, these values were relatively low, typically below one microgram per liter. Among the compounds analyzed, the only one present after completing the treatment was 5Cl-BTR (maximum concentration: 3007 ng/L), and these contamination levels are around seven times lower than the reference value associated with non-cancer health risk for drinking water. This study contributes to understanding these CECs in industrial wastewater and highlights the importance of effective treatment systems for environmental protection.

ОБЕСПЕЧЕНИИ ЭКОНОМИЧЕСКОЙ БЕЗОПАСНОСТИ КРИТИЧЕСКИ ВАЖНЫХ ОБЪЕКТОВ НА ОСНОВЕ МОДЕРНИЗАЦИИ ПРИРОДОЭКСПЛУАТИРУЮЩЕЙ ИНФРАСТРУКТУРЫ И РАЗВИТИЯ КОРПОРАТИВНЫХ ПРИРОДООХРАННЫХ СИСТЕМ

The article provides a study of economic security, both from doctrinal and practical points of view, on the economic activities of enterprises in the context of its interface with environmental standards established by Russian legislation. The essence of the basic concepts is revealed - “ecological safety” and “state of security”, which are the most important indicators of well-being in the environmental sphere and compliance with the conditions of long-term and comfortable living of humans and animals. Arguments are made in favor of the need for widespread implementation of environmental protection systems in order to increase the economic efficiency and safety of enterprises operating on a closed cycle principle, whose activities affect the ecological sphere and affect the environment, which is especially important for critical facilities in Russia. The conclusions formulated in the course of the study can be applied for further study and optimization of the processes of ensuring technological and environmental safety and increasing the economic security of enterprises, as well as critical infrastructure facilities in our country.

Former landfills as environmental liabilities in central Chile: Evidence from a pilot study in Lepanto

AbstractThe former Lepanto landfill in the Santiago Metropolitan Region in Central Chile ceased operations in 2002 after 24 years. Currently, a biogas recovery center operates on this site. The objective of this pilot study was to evaluate the atmospheric concentrations of two polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs, i.e., phenanthrene and fluoranthene) at three points downwind from the former Lepanto landfill using passive air samplers and polyurethane foam disks to provide 3‐month average concentrations of contaminants during winter months. The results showed concentrations ranging between 2 and 65 ng m−3 and decreasing with distance from the former landfill. Given that the distance to other potential sources was similar in all sampling sites, the evidence found suggested that the former Lepanto landfill may contribute to the local PAH inventory. Thus, we suggest that former landfills are potential candidates for long‐term monitoring as they can represent a less‐known environmental liability for residents. Additionally, we provide insights on how the Chilean environmental protection system can establish reclamation steps for their management after closure.

The contribution of the Commission for nature protection of the Academy of Sciences of the MSSR (1957–1980) to the establishment of the environmental protection system in the Republic of Moldova

The article analyzes the context of creation and activity of the Commission for Nature Protection of the Academy of Sciences of the MSSR during the years 1957–1980. Being initially authorized to coordinate scientific research in the field and to identify natural objects to be taken under the state protection, it had a much wider spectrum of activities that laid down the basis of the environmental protection system in the country. These activities included not only drafting of the Law on Nature Protection and the Government Decisions on establishment of the State Committee in this field, but also initiation of the network creation of state protected areas and nature monuments, along with preparation of the relevant regulations and of the Red Book. The Commission has also contributed to the protection and expansion of forests, soil conservation and water protection, as well as to the constant promotion of environmental awareness. As a result, the Commission has been instrumental in establishing an environmental management system in the republic that currently broadly meets international standards. Its achievements form the basis for the further development of the environmental protection system in the republic.

СОВЕРШЕНСТВОВАНИЕ ПРИРОДООХРАННОЙ СИСТЕМЫ САРАТОВСКОЙ ОБЛАСТИ

When developing a network of specially protected natural areas, it is necessary to adhere to the principle of priority for the preservation of natural and historical-cultural complexes and objects on their territory. Management decisions should be based on a scientifically sound combination of environmental, economic and social approaches, as well as a systematic approach to the organization and functioning of such territories. These principles can be implemented only with a comprehensive perspective on the development of a network of specially protected natural areas, which should be enshrined in the concept of their development. As a result of the conducted research, it is concluded that it is necessary to improve the environmental protection system of the Saratov region so that it meets modern requirements. The main task is to ensure environmental stability in the region.

Design and Evaluation of Geographic Information Systems for Environmental Protection Through Data-Driven Decision Making: A Case Study of Solid Waste Management in Ali Mendjeli, Algeria

Design and Evaluation of Geographic Information Systems for Environmental Protection Through Data-Driven Decision Making: A Case Study of Solid Waste Management in Ali Mendjeli, Algeria

INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION IN THE FIELD OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION: PHILOSOPHICAL ASPECTS OF DEVELOPMENT

The article considers the development of international cooperation in the field of environmental protection in the historical aspect. The genesis of the emergence of environmental problems and their assessment by the scientific community are analyzed. The historical stages of the formation of the system of international legal environmental protection, its goals, principles and main tasks are examined. Particular attention is paid to international, regional and bilateral treaties that regulate international cooperation in the field of environmental protection. The role of the United Nations in this process is focused. The place of international organizations in solving environmental problems is shown.

Mitigating boundary pollution: Evidence from China's environmental protection inspection centers

The efficacy of a vertical environmental protection system in managing transboundary pollution has not been extensively explored. Through a quasi-natural experiment facilitated by China's six environmental protection inspection centers (EPICs), this study assesses their impact on boundary pollution intensity and compares it with their effect on non-boundary pollution intensity. The findings demonstrate that the institution of EPICs significantly mitigates the intensity of boundary pollution, with a more pronounced reduction effect compared to non-boundary areas. Analysis of mechanisms reveals that both boundary and non-boundary enterprises achieve a reduction in pollution intensity through the enlargement of production capacities, enhancement of investments in pollution control, and a decrease in total pollution emissions. Given that boundary enterprises exhibit a greater magnitude in reducing total pollution emissions, the resultant effect on pollution intensity reduction is more significant among these entities. Furthermore, heterogeneity analysis indicates that the impact of EPICs on reducing pollution intensity is more substantial among samples with minimal political connections, elevated political incentives, and within heavily polluting industries, with boundary enterprises experiencing a more pronounced influence. This article unveils that strengthening coordination between central and local authorities, alongside fostering corporate actual investment in environmental protection, serves as pivotal mechanisms, offering innovative strategies for global environmental governance and advancing both the practice and theory of sustainable development.

“Heterodimensional Structure” Integrated Defect and Interface Engineering for Efficiently EMI Shielding and Electrochemical Response

AbstractTwo colossal global challenges remain energy scarcity and environmental pollution, having evolved into problems that human society cannot ignore. Therefore, developing a material with efficient electromagnetic (EM) interference shielding and electrocatalytic properties has become imperative in promoting sustainable development and establishing environmental protection systems. Herein, a heterodimensional structure is prepared by assembling 3D spirally grown VS2 with 2D FeCo‐LDH, which precisely manipulates macroscopic EM and electrochemical characteristics through defect and interface engineering. The results show that the heterodimensional structure presents an efficient shielding effectiveness of 30.2 dB at 18 GHz. Heterodimensional structure exhibits a low overpotential of 279 mV, achieving a current density of 10 mA cm−2 and a desirable stability. In addition, based on the unique electrochemical properties and EM response characteristics of the material, a special protective helmet is innovated. The helmet incorporating an autonomous oxygen supply, advanced pressure surveillance, and dynamic stealth supports a more exhaustive safeguard for missions amidst noxious gases, and situations necessitating clandestine operations. This research provides a new idea for the development of multifunctional EM active materials, showing great application prospects in the fields of aerospace engineering, energy, and EM security protection.

Research on the legal regulation and improvement of carbon emission trading

Carbon emission trading system is a kind of environmental institutional arrangement to solve externalities through market mechanism, which is one of the most effective ways to deal with climate change in China and to control air pollution represented by haze pollution. In accordance with the requirement of "using system to protect ecological environment", China should position carbon emission trading system as the basic legal system of environmental protection in the new Environmental Protection Law, and from the aspects of reasonable determination of total carbon emission control mechanism, allocation of carbon emission trading quota, selection of pricing mechanism, and improvement of government supervision mechanism, etc. To improve China's emissions trading system.

Planning of renewable energy regional heating system based on demand side uncertainty

Effective planning of renewable energy district heating systems is essential to facilitate the energy transition and achieve environmental goals. In the face of demand-side uncertainty, the complexity of system planning increases significantly. To address this challenge, a new approach has been adopted to optimize heating systems by precisely analyzing and managing demand-side variables. Using simulation experiments to quantitatively assess uncertainty factors, it is found that room temperature, unit ventilation, equipment power, and lighting power had significant effects on system energy consumption, ranging from −17% to 12%. According to these factors, a series of optimization measures are formulated, and then a set of optimization scheme based on demand-side uncertainty is implemented. The experimental results show that the scheme can effectively reduce the daily power output, reduce the total cost input by 7.1%, and achieve a total emission reduction of 4.0% in environmental protection. The optimization strategy proposed in this study significantly reduces energy consumption and costs, and reduces carbon emissions, providing a new solution for the environmental protection and intelligent heating system.

Does diversified environmental regulation effect the foreign direct investment inflows and technological innovation? A three‐stage least square approach

AbstractForeign direct investment (FDI) inflows have been significantly impacted by environmental regulation (ER). This study is aiming at analyzing the ER effect on the FDI inflows. By using the data of 2008–2018, we use Three‐stages least square (3SLS) method to assess the connection between FDI inflows and ER. The study results reveal that in Chinese industries, technological innovation (TI) is stipulated by the ER, and as a result, FDI has been engrossed. The results further reveal that TI has been enhanced by capital penetration, and a positive effect is perceived between TI and FDI. The findings of our study also show that there is a significant association between foreign capital (FC) inflows and TI, which indicates that technological policies are effective and advanced environmental policies would intensify the relevant policies between firms. Based on the study outcomes, this research proposes some policy suggestions for constructing a attuned policy system of environmental protection and FDI by regulating the implementation of conforming strategies.

State of the Art and Environmental Aspects of Plant Microbial Fuel Cells’ Application

Environmental pollution is becoming ubiquitous; it has a negative impact on ecosystem diversity and worsens the quality of human life. This review discusses the possibility of applying the plant microbial fuel cells (PMFCs) technology for concurrent processes of electricity generation and the purification of water and soil ecosystems from organic pollutants, particularly from synthetic surfactants and heavy metals. The review describes PMFCs’ functioning mechanisms and highlights the issues of PMFCs’ environmental application. Generally, this work summarizes different approaches to PMFC development and to the potential usage of such hybrid bioelectrochemical systems for environmental protection.

State Management of Natural Resources in the System of National Safety and Environmental Protection

State Management of Natural Resources in the System of National Safety and Environmental Protection

THE ROLE AND PLACE OF THE NATIONAL SECURITY AND DEFENSE COUNCIL AMONG ENVIRONMENTAL SECURITY ENTITIES

The issue of state regulation of the environmental safety system was considered. It has been established that the potential of the environmental protection system in Ukraine has not been realized. The need to define the main tasks of state regulation in the environmental sphere is substantiated. Priority areas of state support have been formed for the purpose of developing the system for ensuring environmental safety. It was concluded that in ensuring environmental safety in the field of national security and defense, state regulation of the environmental protection industry should ensure the concentration of necessary resources on meeting priority needs, which will allow the adoption and implementation of management decisions on the formation and implementation of national environmental legislation in the system of collective security. The implementation of the state program for the development of environmental intelligence should include the entire set of necessary measures, united by a common goal, related to performers, resources and deadlines, which will enable the implementation of the tasks of creation and functioning within the framework of the concept of ensuring environmental security in Ukraine.

Enhancing Sustainability in Agriculture: Natural Polymer-Based Controlled Release Systems for Effective Pest Management and Environmental Protection

Enhancing Sustainability in Agriculture: Natural Polymer-Based Controlled Release Systems for Effective Pest Management and Environmental Protection