Environmental Risk Management Research Articles

Ecological and Health Risks from Trace Elements Contamination in Soils at the Rutile Bearing Area of Akonolinga, Cameroon

This study evaluates the concentrations of trace elements (TEs) in soils from the rutile deposit area of Akonolinga, Cameroon, and analyzes the associated health risks. A total of 25 samples were analyzed using flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). The results show that TE concentrations follow the decreasing order Fe, Ti, Zr, Mn, Cr, V, Ba, Zn, Nb, Ni, Pb, Ga, Cu, Co, Y, Br, and Sn. Pollution indices and the Pearson correlation matrix reveal moderate correlations between Fe and several other TEs, indicating a common origin. Enrichment Factors show significant enrichment in Zr, Nb, and Ti, with notable enrichment in Cr and Co at certain sites. Although the Geo-Accumulation Index indicates no direct contamination and the overall ecological risk is low, the Contamination Factor reveals high levels for Cr, Nb, Ti, and Zr. The carcinogenic risk is moderate, while non-carcinogenic risks are high for children and considerable for adults. These research highlight the potential public health impacts in this mining region and provide essential baseline data for future environmental risk management.

KEY STAGES AND INNOVATIVE APPROACHES IN RISK MANAGEMENT UNDER UNCERTAINTY

The purpose of the article is to analyze in detail the process of risk management at enterprises, in particular, its key stages. In addition, the article aims at studying the current instruments of bankruptcy risk management which can be implemented in the modern economy. The relevance of the article is stipulated by the need to improve approaches to risk management in today's dynamic business environment, where enterprises are constantly facing financial and operational threats. Of particular importance is bankruptcy risk management, since economic instability and high level of competition require effective mechanisms to protect financial stability. The following methods are used in the study: the method of analysis and synthesis - for a structured consideration of the stages of the risk management process, identifying the relationships between them and forming a holistic picture of management actions at each stage; the method of logical generalization - for formulating general conclusions and recommendations on the stages and tools of risk management based on the analysis of literature and practical examples. The result of the study is to determine the essential characteristics of the main stages of the enterprise risk management process and the relevant tools for managing the bankruptcy risk. This includes: a structured description of the key stages of risk management – from risk identification and assessment to monitoring and control, which ensures a systematic approach to responding to threats; analysis of current tools for managing bankruptcy risk – identification of tools that facilitate early detection of risks and support the financial stability of the enterprise. The practical value of the article lies in providing enterprises with a clear description of the risk management process, which includes the main stages from identification to monitoring and control, allowing companies to take a more systematic approach to risk management and reducing the likelihood of negative financial consequences. The use of the current tools for managing bankruptcy risk described in the article provides an opportunity to quickly identify early signs of financial instability, which helps to maintain their financial stability. In addition, the proposed recommendations can be integrated into the enterprise management system, creating a flexible and adaptive model to maintain stable development in the face of economic uncertainty.

FORMATION OF A CONTROL SYSTEM IN AN AGRO-INDUSTRIAL ENTERPRISE

The article examines the importance of control in the management systems of agro-industrial enterprises, which is critical for ensuring their stability and effectiveness in a dynamic environment. The aim of the article is to analyze, systematize, generalize, and improve the theoretical and methodological foundations for the formation of a control system in an agro-industrial enterprise. It is determined that in the context of constant changes affecting agriculture, the control function becomes particularly significant as it helps adapt enterprises to new challenges and prevents negative consequences. The study presents the elements of the control system in agro-industrial enterprises, which include: planning (establishing goals, defining standards, and developing plans that serve as a basis for further monitoring and control), monitoring (constant collection and analysis of information on the execution of production processes), deviation analysis (evaluating performance results and comparing them with planned indicators), and feedback mechanisms (providing information on the effectiveness of production processes and their results, which is used to update plans and improve subsequent stages of control). Key control tools applicable at all stages of agro-industrial enterprises' activities are presented: planning and forecasting, result analysis and reporting, monitoring and information, auditing and inspections, quality control of products, budgeting, verification and compliance with environmental standards, personnel management, risk management, and technological control. It is found that timely application of control tools helps avoid losses and maintain high product quality. The purpose of control is justified as ensuring compliance of all production processes with established plans and standards to achieve economic efficiency, reduce costs, and improve product quality. The study allowed for the identification of the significance of integrating modern control methods and information technologies, which significantly enhance the effectiveness of management processes. It is noted that the application of modern technologies, such as ERP systems, IoT, and analytical platforms, significantly improves control over all stages of production and supply.

Impact of Acid Rain on Release Characteristics of Heavy Metals in Low-Sulfur Tailings with Strong Acid Neutralization Capacity: A Case Study from Northern Guangxi, China

Tailing ponds are major sources of heavy metal pollution. Previous studies primarily focused on tailings with high sulfur content, with limited attention to low-sulfur tailings. This study explored the release behavior of Pb, Zn, and Cd from low-sulfur tailings under simulated acid rain conditions, considering factors such as pH, particle size, and weathering degree. Samples were collected from a lead–zinc tailing pond in the karst regions of northern Guangxi, China. Batch leaching experiments indicated that even with high acid neutralization capacity (ANC = 166.57–167.45 kg H2SO4/t), substantial heavy metal leaching occurred under acidic conditions (pH 2–3), with Pb, Zn, and Cd concentrations increasing 4–6 times compared to neutral conditions. Leachate concentrations were slightly higher in coarser particles than in finer ones, while weathering further enhanced metal release, particularly for Cd. These findings suggest that acid neutralization alone may not be sufficient to prevent heavy metal leaching in low-sulfur tailings exposed to acid rain. However, due to the laboratory scale of this study, further validation through field-scale or mesocosm experiments is necessary to confirm the observed trends and assess their implications for environmental risk management in karst regions.

Utilizing Data Mining Techniques in Geophysical and Biological Analysis for Assessing Environmental Risks

This study aimed to assess environmental risks using data extraction techniques. It focused on geophysical and biological factors and addressed the urgent need for effective risk management strategies to reduce soil erosion, water pollution, and air quality deterioration. A comprehensive dataset was created through the systematic collection of geophysical and biological data including temperature, soil composition, and biological abundance index. It used equipment such as satellite sensors and mountain transmitting stations. Various statistical tools used include decision trees and random forest algorithms. They were used to analyze data and identify important environmental risk factors. The results showed some interesting insights, revealing that the Neural Network has an accuracy of 95.5%, and the Random Forest algorithm predicts risk with an accuracy of 92.0%. It analyzed the classification of environmental hazard zones and identified high-risk zones, such as Zone A, which contains 10,000 people affected by erosion and Zone D, 20,000 people who were at risk from soil contamination. The study concludes that social media can significantly improve understanding and management of environmental risks. Additionally, it provides a useful framework for decision-makers and stakeholders to promote sustainable environmental practices.

Deciphering the driving factors and probabilistic health risks of potentially toxic elements in arid surface water: Insights from the Tarim River Basin

Potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in surface water in arid areas pose a serious threat to environmental safety and human health within a basin. It is important to determine the factors controlling PTEs and to assess the likelihood that they will pose a risk to human health in order to support the development of environmental protection and risk management strategies. In this study, a structural equation model and Bayesian method were combined to discuss the distribution and probabilistic health risks of PTEs in surface water in arid area, and the Tarim River Basin was taken as a case study. The results show that the average concentrations of As, Co, Cu, and Ni in the surface water in the Tarim River Basin ranged from 0.04 to 2.92 μg/L, which do not exceed the international standard values. However, the maximum value of As (19.20 μg/L) exceeded both the recommended drinking water standards and the Chinese irrigation water standards. Spatially, the high As concentrations were distributed in the upper reaches of the Kashgar River, and the high Co, Cu and Ni concentrations were distributed in reservoirs and lakes on the main stream of the Tarim River. The concentrations of the PTEs in the surface water in the basin were not only affected by random anthropogenic factors such as traffic discharge, agricultural activities and mining industry, but were also directly and indirectly influenced by climatic factors. The results of the probabilistic health risk assessment showed that the 95th percentile the total hazard index for infants exceeded the allowable value of 1, and the total carcinogenic risk of PTEs exposure in four age groups was at the notable level. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of the controlling factors and health risks associated with PTEs in surface water in the Tarim River Basin, and the findings are expected to provide a scientific basis for regional water environment management and safety control.

STATE REGULATION OF REINSURANCE ACTIVITIES IN UKRAINE DURING THE WAR

This paper examines the evolution of state regulation of reinsurance activities in Ukraine in the period 2022-2024, with a particular focus on the impact of the ongoing conflict with Russia. This paper examines the manner in which the regulatory framework has been adapted to the distinctive challenges posed by the war in order to stabilise the insurance market and ensure effective risk management. The objective of this study is to analyse the regulatory measures and their implications for the insurance and reinsurance sectors, with a particular focus on the changes implemented, their practical results and the broader implications for market stability. The primary objective of this paper is to undertake a comprehensive analysis and evaluation of the alterations in state-level regulation of reinsurance in Ukraine between the years 2022 and 2024. The objective is to identify the regulatory changes implemented to address the distinctive challenges posed by wartime conditions, evaluate their impact on the reinsurance industry, and discuss the broader economic implications. The study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the manner in which the regulatory framework has been adjusted in order to maintain industry stability and ensure effective risk management in an unstable environment. Methodology. This study employs a qualitative research methodology, utilising a combination of document analysis and expert interviews. The data was gathered from regulatory reports, policy documents, and statements issued by the National Bank of Ukraine and other pertinent authorities. The analysis is centred on a detailed examination of the key regulatory adjustments, the market responses to these changes, and the practical implications of these modifications. Results. The analysis revealed several significant changes in the reinsurance regulation in Ukraine during the reporting period: 1) strengthening of regulatory supervision; 2) revision of coverage requirements; 3) state and international financial support measures and co-operation with international reinsurers to stabilise the market and manage increased risks. The regulatory changes have had several practical implications for the reinsurance sector: increased financial stability through stronger solvency and capital requirements has improved the financial strength of insurers and reinsurers, helping them to manage the increased risks associated with the conflict. Value / Originality. This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the regulatory adaptations in Ukraine's reinsurance sector during a period of significant political and economic upheaval. The paper offers valuable insights into the effective adjustment of state regulation in response to extraordinary circumstances, thereby contributing to the broader understanding of risk management in conflict-affected regions. The study is of particular relevance in the context of the prevailing geopolitical circumstances and the necessity to comprehend the manner in which extreme circumstances affect financial regulations. The study addresses a gap in the existing literature on crisis management in the financial sector, with a particular focus on the context of war. The originality of this study lies in its focus on the intersection of war and regulatory adaptation, a topic that has been largely overlooked in the existing literature. By analysing the regulatory responses and their outcomes, the paper makes a contribution to the development of strategies for effective crisis management in the financial and insurance sectors.

Data-Driven Environmental Risk Management and Sustainability Analytics

This paper explores the intersection of data-driven approaches and environmental risk management, emphasizing the critical role of technology in enhancing sustainability. It provides a systematic review of current literature on public-private partnerships, data quality challenges, and innovative methodologies such as machine learning and Internet of Things (IoT) applications for environmental monitoring. Key themes include the integration of interoperable data platforms, the implications of big data on climate change, and the importance of fostering government policies that promote data sharing for sustainability initiatives. The analysis highlights best practices and recommendations for leveraging advanced analytics and remote sensing technologies to assess and mitigate environmental risks. Ultimately, this research underscores the necessity of collaborative efforts among stakeholders to develop effective strategies for sustainable resource management.

A Study on the Construction of Environmental Image of Four Chinese Banks: Based on Metadiscourse Analysis

With the escalating global concern for environmental issues and China's commitment to achieving carbon peaking and neutrality goals, this study aims to investigate how four leading Chinese banks have constructed environmental images through their CSR reports from 2016 to 2021. Utilizing Hyland's (2005) Metadiscourse model and AntConc 3.5.9 for corpus analysis, we quantitatively and qualitatively examine the strategic use of Metadiscourse in these reports. Our findings reveal a dominance of interactive Metadiscourse, particularly transitions and frame markers, which facilitate coherent and structured environmental disclosures. Interactional Metadiscourse, featuring self-mentions and engagement markers etc., underscores the banks' authority and reader engagement. The banks' CSR reports demonstrate commitments to carbon reduction, green finance and credit, ecological agriculture support, and environmental risk management, and then portray proactive environmental images. This research provides insights into how Metadiscourse constructs sustainability discourse in the financial sector, informing ESG reporting and environmental communication strategies.

Green insurance empowers high-quality development: A Literature Review

Green insurance plays a positive role not only in strengthening environmental risk management, aiding the development of green industries, and facilitating the application of new green technologies, but also in enhancing environmental and ecological protection. It can continuously raise public and societal awareness of green and environmental protection, guide the allocation of social resources, and support the green and low-carbon development of the economy and society. This paper reviews the literature on whether and how green insurance can empower high-quality development. The paper organizes domestic and international practices related to green insurance, summarizes the characteristics of three main international models and other typical developments of green insurance in China. It also focuses on the preliminary formation of the green insurance system in Huzhou City, Zhejiang Province, the combination of government and effective market, and the development status of multiple types of insurance. It summarizes the challenges faced, such as the imperfect professional service system and insufficient innovation, and finally proposes policy recommendations for the further development of green insurance, including the establishment and improvement of institutional systems and industry standards, and the effective enhancement of the marketization of insurance products.

New Practice of Environmental Governance in China

Abstract Preventive environmental civil public interest litigation is an institutional innovation of environmental governance in China. Previous research primarily focuses on the implementation of prevention principles and environmental risk management; however, it fails to identify the significant risks in the new practice. There are significant risks that human behaviour may result in the creation of radioactive toxins and contaminants that are not perceptible to humans and which may have dramatic short- or long-term effects on plants, animals, and humans. This paper seeks to close this research gap. A review of typical cases revealed three elements that judges should consider when identifying significant risks in preventive environmental public interest litigation. Firstly, the significant risks involved in the case must be directly related to the public interest. Secondly, the probability of significant risks occurring should be emphasised. Thirdly, the proportionality principle should be adhered to in deciding on preventive means to be used in the case. We found some ambiguities and defects in the identification of significant risks. This article makes proposals to improve environmental legislation and application ambiguities in new practice in order to contribute to better environmental governance.

Forklift Design Integrated Speed Limiter and Position Tracking Through IoT-Based Website

Forklifts, as lifting and transportation equipment, play a crucial role in logistics. However, forklift operators often chase targets, pushing the forklift to perform at higher speeds. Operating a forklift at high speeds not only poses potential dangers to the working conditions but can also lead to a decrease in forklift performance. Operators do not ensure the forklift is running according to procedures due to a lack of supervision. In response to this issue, the author proposes an innovation in the form of a monitoring device capable of recording speed violations committed by operators. With the planned device, it is expected that forklift operators will exercise more caution and take greater responsibility when operating the forklift. The objective of this research is to reduce the likelihood of accidents and forklift damage due to improper use. The study produces a forklift design equipped with supporting components for the implementation of the device and a website as a monitoring platform for forklift operators and workers, providing real-time access to collected data. This system enhances operational safety in operating forklifts. The research significantly contributes to the development of safer and smarter forklift technology, aligning with strict demands for safety standards and risk management in industrial environments.

Renewable energy technology innovation and ESG greenwashing: Evidence from supervised machine learning methods using patent text

As global environmental pollution worsens, environmental governance has become a critical aspect of corporate development. In environmental, social, and governance (ESG) risk management, how firms address the threat of greenwashing has emerged as a central focus in achieving sustainable green development. This study explores an under-researched factor contributing to ESG greenwashing: renewable energy technology innovation (RETI). Using supervised machine learning and text analysis methods, the study constructs a proxy variable for RETI and applies it to a sample of Chinese listed companies. The findings reveal that RETI reduces corporate ESG greenwashing, and this effect remains consistent after a series of endogeneity and robustness tests. The inhibitory impact of RETI on ESG greenwashing is more significant when board experiential diversity and media attention are higher. This study contributes to the theoretical basis and demonstration for the research on RETI, greenwashing, managerial experience, and corporate governance.

Development on Surrogate Models for Predicting Plume Evolution Features of Groundwater Contamination with Natural Attenuation

Predicting the key plume evolution features of groundwater contamination are crucial for assessing uncertainty in contamination control and remediation, while implementing detailed complex numerical models for a large number of scenario simulations is time-consuming and sometimes even impossible. This work develops surrogate models with an effective and practicable pathway for predicting the key plume evolution features, such as the distance of maximum plume spreading, of groundwater contamination with natural attenuation. The representative various scenarios of the input parameter combinations were effectively generated by the orthogonal experiment method and the corresponding numerical simulations were performed by the reliable Groundwater Modeling System. The PSO-SVM surrogate models were first developed, and the accuracy was gradually enhanced from 0.5 to 0.9 under a multi-objective condition by effectively increasing the sample data size from 54 sets to 78 sets and decreasing the input variables from 25 of all the considered parameters to a smaller number of the key controlling factors. The statistical surrogate models were also constructed with the fitting degree all above 0.85. The achieved findings provide effective generic surrogate models along with a scientific basis and investigation approach reference for the environmental risk management and remediation of groundwater contamination, particularly with limited data.

Carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus release characteristics and underlying mechanisms in fish manure from recirculating aquaculture systems under alternating aerobic-anaerobic conditions

To mitigate the adverse environmental impacts of aquaculture operations, recirculating aquaculture systems (RASs) have emerged as promising alternatives to traditional aquaculture methods. Fish manure is the primary pollutant in RASs, and oxygen fluctuations significantly influencing the release of pollutants. However, the release characteristics and underlying mechanisms of carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P) during alternating aerobic-anaerobic conditions in RASs remain poorly understood. This study conducted batch incubation experiments to examine the release dynamics of C, N, and P from fish manure under simulated alternating aerobic-anaerobic conditions. Results showed that the overlying water exhibited anaerobic and reductive conditions, with both COD and TOC concentrations decreasing over time. NH4+-N levels significantly decreased from days 1–9, while NO3--N concentrations peaked on day 16. Furthermore, the alternating aerobic-anaerobic conditions significantly increased TP concentration in the overlying water. Soluble microbial byproduct-like substances in the overlying water transformed into humic acid-like substances over time. The relative abundance of Proteobacteria and Firmicutes decreased by 13.6 % and 6 %, respectively, while the relative abundance of Actinobacteria, Bacteroidota, and Chloroflexi increased by 7 %, 12.8 %, and 1.4 %, respectively. Overall, both abiotic and biotic factors influenced the release of C, N, and P from fish manure. The coupled effects of abiotic factors, specific bacterial communities, and functional genes played a critical role in the release and transformation of these elements. These findings provide new insights into the release behaviours and mechanisms of pollutants in RASs, contributing to improved environmental risk management in RASs.

Research on the Impact of Environmental Information Disclosure on Financial Performance

In the current global context of escalating environmental concerns, it has become increasingly crucial for enterprises to disclose environmental information in order to effectively communicate their environmental performance and risk management with external stakeholders. This is particularly pertinent for publicly traded companies in heavily polluting industries, as the disclosure of environmental information not only impacts corporate reputation and image, but also directly affects their financial sustainability. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the influence of environmental information disclosure on the financial performance of publicly traded companies in heavily polluting industries, while also examining how property rights moderate this relationship. Drawing from previous research, this paper presents corresponding research hypotheses and constructs a comprehensive research model. The empirical analysis serves as the primary research method, allowing for an in-depth exploration of sample data to uncover the intricate connection between environmental information disclosure and financial performance within heavily polluting industries, as well as how property rights factor into this dynamic. Ultimately, this study contributes to enhancing our theoretical understanding of the link between environmental information disclosure and corporate financial performance, providing a scientific basis for government policy formulation and offering practical guidance for listed companies in heavily polluting industries seeking to improve both their financial sustainability and environmental performance.

Assessment of Environmental Risks during the Implementation of Infrastructure Projects in the Arctic Region

The Arctic Zone of Russia (AZR), due to its significant potential, for the implementation of which infrastructure projects and strategic plans are envisaged, is of great importance for the country. Particular attention is paid to the transport and related infrastructure development. The implementation of such projects requires the creation and implementation of modern integrated solutions based on new technical and technological solutions. The development of new territories is accompanied by problems such as urbanization and the disruption of ecosystems, which will have a particularly negative impact on the Arctic zone. The situation is complicated by the fact that the work must be carried out in difficult conditions, which are associated with a large number of risks, including environmental ones. Currently, many types of businesses are characterized by a transition to the implementation of the concepts of green and blue economy, as well as ESG principles when building strategic development plans that include risk reduction. Achieving this goal is possible through an environmental risk management system. To create a suchlike system, it is necessary to identify the most significant risk characteristics of each type of activity, taking into account their negative impact on the environment, after which it will be possible to plan measures to either prevent risks or minimize their consequences. Taking into account the above, we plan to develop the concept of an environmental risk management system (ERMS) as part of the region’s development strategy implementation. To reach this purpose, identifying the main groups of environmental risks depending on the danger source based on the scientific article review results, systematizing concepts aimed at improving the environmental situation under different types of anthropogenic impacts on the environment, developing an algorithm for implementing an environmental risk management system depending on the risk type, and proposing a concept for building an environmental risk management system are needed. The scientific novelty of the work lies in the fact that the main directions of negative anthropogenic impact on the environment are systematized, and possible ways to reduce environmental risks are outlined. The practical significance of the work lies in the fact that when implementing such a system, it will be possible to manage not only risks of a certain category, but also monitor the situation as a whole, identifying the consequences for related areas.

International Response to Environmental Risk Management A Study on Confronting Climate Change

International Response to Environmental Risk Management A Study on Confronting Climate Change

Application of Business Intelligence Technology Model to Sustainable Supply Chain

Under the backdrop of globalization, sustainable supply chains are becoming one of the most important directions for commercial development in the future. The efficiency of supply chain management (SCM) will be significantly improved when business intelligence is used in the supply chain. Sustainable supply chain refers to the integration of sustainable development elements on the basis of traditional supply chain management, introducing the assessment and management of social, environmental, economic benefits and other risks. The aim of this paper is to look at how different BI techniques affect different business models. Most of this paper is a summary of previous scholars work. The most successful and widespread application of BI is the final outcome of the technology acceptance model. These three BI models have different effects on sustainable supply chains, but in general, BI is very helpful for sustainable supply chain development in all aspects. Future results would be much more accurate and effective if three techniques were actually able to monitor and compare the sustainability of supply chains.

Polystyrene nanoplastics alter intestinal toxicity of 2,4-DTBP in a sex-dependent manner in zebrafish (Danio rerio)

Nanoplastics (NPs) and 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol (2,4-DTBP) are ubiquitous emerging environmental contaminants detected in aquatic environment. While the intestinal toxicity of 2,4-DTBP alone has been studied, its combined effects with NPs remain unclear. Herein, adult zebrafish were exposed to 80 nm polystyrene nanoplastics (PS-NPs) or/ and 2,4-DTBP for 28 days. With co-exposure of PS-NPs, impact of 2,4-DTBP on feeding capacity and intestinal histopathology was enhanced in males while attenuated in females. Addition of PS-NPs significantly decreased the uptake of 2,4-DTBP in females, while the intestinal concentrations of 2,4-DTBP were not different between the sexes in co-exposure groups. Furthermore, lower intestinal pH and higher contents of digestive enzymes were detected in male fish, while bile acid was significantly increased in co-exposed females. In addition, co-exposure of PS-NPs stimulated female fish to remodel microbial composition to potentially enhance xenobiotics degradation, while negative Aeromonas aggravated inflammation in males. These results indicated that in the presence of PS-NPs, the gut microenvironment in females can facilitate the detoxification of 2,4-DTBP, while exaggerating toxiciy in males. Overall, this study demonstrates that toxicological outcomes of NPs-chemical mixtures may be modified by sex-specific physiology and microbiota composition, furthering understanding for environmental risk assessment and management of aquatic environments.