High Anthropogenic Activities Research Articles

A real scale application of a novel set of spatial and similarity features for detection and classification of natural seismic sources from distributed acoustic sensing data

SUMMARY Distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) turns a fibre optic into a very dense network of equally distributed seismic sensors. We focused on the high-density sampling of the seismic wavefield, expressed in strain rates, measured by DAS. Classical approaches used to identify seismic signals rely on the recorded features at one station, but it is difficult to include spatial information in case of dense seismic station networks. This work aims at introducing new spatial and similarity features for seismic event classification suitable to analyse DAS observations. We propose a processing chain based on the XGBoost algorithm and the use of specifically designed spatiotemporal and similarity features for the event classification, and Markov random field for the spatial clustering. The methodology is designated to be applied on a continuous stream of DAS observations. We tested our processing chain to detect earthquakes and quarry blasts recorded in the region by permanent seismic networks and included in the RENASS catalogue. These events are part of a strain-rate seismic survey carried out during a 3 weeks campaign of DAS measurements along à 91 km fibre optic cable deployed in the central Pyrenees mountains (France). Despite the high anthropogenic activities along the fibre optic path, the proposed method succeeded in detecting earthquakes of magnitude >0.4 and quarry blasts of magnitude >1.0 while limiting the number of false alarms. This performance is particularly noteworthy for low-magnitude events, where detection is accomplished despite a lower signal-to-noise ratio compared to traditional seismometers. The methodology opens the door to real time detection and classification of seismic events measured with long-distance fibre optic systems.

Bioaccumulation and Translocation of Heavy Metals in Solanum elaeagnifolium

Heavy metal pollution is becoming an increasingly common problem. Heavy metals including Chromium, Cadmium, Mercury, Copper, and lead are hazardous environmental pollutants, especially in high anthropogenic activity areas. Heavy metals accretion in soil is a serious concern for agricultural productivity due to its negative influence on food safety, market potential, and the phytotoxicity it causes in crops. Plant ascendancy and metabolic processes affect the geological and biological re-distribution of heavy metals through air, soil, and water pollution. The typical result of heavy metals toxicity is excessive accumulation of reactive methylglyoxal and oxygen species, which lead to lipid peroxidation, enzyme inactivation, nucleic acid damage, and protein oxidation in plants. In this study, bioaccumulation and Translocation of Heavy Metals in Solanum elaeagnifolium was conducted by using standard biological techniques. Twenty-four samples of both shoot and root systems collected ‎from the study sites and Three replications of soil samples from each habitat, including topsoil (0-50 cm depth) were studied.our results showed that the quantitative concentration of heavy metals in the shoots of S. elaeagnifolium for each metal indicated a high enrichment value for (Cr), (Fe), and (Mn), on the other hand, it showed low enrichment values for (Ni) & (Pb). In addition, the concentration of heavy metals in the roots of the plant was differentiated.

Estimation of road cut slope stability along the national and state highway of Garhwal Himalaya (India) applying slope mass rating and kinematic analysis

Slope stability assessment of different road cut slopes has been conducted along the National Highway in Garhwal Himalaya, Uttarakhand (NH-34, NH-134, NH-7, NH-107 and a state highway from Dharasu to Tilwara). Slope instability issues in the Himalayan terrain are radically increasing due to high anthropogenic activities and rapid growth of urban centers since past years. Road networks in mountainous areas are the main source of transportation and socio-economic development. In this concerned study, forty (40) road cut slopes have been selected. These sites are selected based on lithology and structure. Diverse slope stability quantification methods along with various modes of failures have been systematically analyzed. The entire region falls under the tectonically active belt or the vicinity of the active fault zones that make the slopes inherently unstable. The Geological Strength Index (GSI) and Rock Mass Rating (RMR) have been applied for determination of slope conditions. Slope mass stability has been evaluated using Slope Mass Rating (SMR) index. The RMR rating ranges from 26 to 87 and the SMR values of forty (40) roads cut slopes range from 10 to 91. The kinematic analysis shows that most of the probable slopes failures are susceptible under planar and wedge failure. This study will definitely help to reduce the loss of life and property and also helps the ongoing constructional processes along the road section.

The drivers of benthic macroinvertebrates communities along a subtropical river system: Sediments chemistry or water quality?

AbstractImpacts of metal pollution, either on water or in sediments within aquatic systems have been a serious challenge globally. Little is known about the ecological impacts of metal pollution on benthic macroinvertebrates species in sub–tropical river systems. The aim of this study was to examine benthic macroinvertebrates community composition in relation to sediment metal concentrations and other physicochemical variables in the Mutshundudi River system. Benthic macroinvertebrates sampling and community composition analysis, sediment collection, processing, metal analysis and assessment of water variables in the river system were done across two seasons at 12 sampling sites. The river was categorized into three segments: upstream, midstream and downstream. The results from geo‐accumulation (Igeo) values showed that sediments were loaded with Na, Zn, and B in all river segments. In comparison with South African water quality guidelines for aquatic ecosystems, water quality ranged from good at upstream sites because of low anthropogenic activities to very poor in downstream sites because of high anthropogenic activities. Sediments from the Mutshundudi River showed significant differences on high concentrations of metals (i.e., Mg, K, Na, and Cu) and seasonal variations. Both water quality and sediment chemistry were considered the driving factors of benthic macroinvertebrates, since species densities and composition reduced with a decline in water and sediment quality during both cool–dry and hot–wet seasons. Continuous build‐up of the metal contaminants, such as Mg, K, Na, and Cu in river sediments may pose adverse impacts on macroinvertebrate community structure.

Relationship between aerosol and cloud characteristics over Delhi in North India during the dry and wet season

The study investigates the spatio-temporal variations of aerosol and cloud properties retrieved from Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) satellite at an urban megacity Delhi in the northern part of India during the dry and wet season for 15 years period from November 2004 to October 2019. This research comprises the study of crucial aerosol optical properties such as aerosol optical depth (AOD), Angstrom exponent (AE) along with the cloud properties such as water vapor (WV), cloud liquid water path (CLWP), cloud effective radius liquid (CERL), cloud fraction (CF), cloud optical depth (COD), cloud top pressure (CTP), and cloud top temperature (CTT). High AOD was observed across the Indo-Gangetic Plain (IGP), including Delhi and exhibited a range of 0.49–0.89 during the dry season and 0.73 to 0.98 during the wet season with a mean value of 0.73 ± 0.05 during the entire study period. High AE value (mean 1.40 ± 0.05) indicates dominance of fine-mode aerosols over the station, associated with high anthropogenic activities. A significantly large increasing trend in AOD was observed over the station during the wet season as compared to the dry season. The seasonal studies represent the maximum value of WV and CTP in the wet season. In addition, CF, CERL, COD and CLWP values were also high during the wet season. Furthermore, a correlation analyses between the aerosol and cloud parameters were carried out during both the seasons. From the analysis, AOD shows a positive correlation with WV, CF, COD and CLWP in both the seasons whereas a negative correlation was observed with CTP in wet season, while positive in dry season. On the other hand, a poor correlation was observed between AOD verses AE and CTT in both the seasons. These findings can contribute to advancing our understanding of aerosol-cloud interactions and inflate air quality assessments at an urban megacity like Delhi.

Microplastic Abundance in The Waters of The Middle Section of The Citarum River, Karawang, West Java

Microplastics in the Central Citarum River, Karawang, West Java, originate from anthropogenic activities of people living around the watershed, which is an industrial, agricultural, and densely populated residential area. Microplastics are degraded plastics < 5 mm in size. This study aims to determine the abundance and size of microplastics in the Middle Citarum River, through observation with a microscope. Sampling was conducted at three locations with three observations: February, March, and April 2022. The types of microplastics found were pellets, films, fibers, and fragments. Microplastic particle size < 0.3 mm was the most common size found. The abundance of microplastics in the water of the Middle section of the Citarum River is different at each sampling location. The total number of microplastic particles in all research locations was 4,413 particles. The highest abundance of microplastics in all sampling locations was in densely populated residential areas at 239.7 ± 326.7 particles/m3 , followed by agricultural areas with an abundance of 72.5 ± 63.8 particles/m3 , then the lowest abundance was in industrial areas at 55.6 ± 57.8 particles/m3. The average abundance of microplastics in the middle Citarum River water was 122.6 ± 209.7 particles/m3. Statistical analysis using Kruskall Wallis with a df value of 2 > 0.05 showed no significant difference in microplastic abundance at each research location. All stations had the same potential for microplastic pollution. This study shows that high anthropogenic activities lead to high microplastic pollution in water. Therefore, proper mitigation and management of waste and plastic waste are needed.

Assessment of the Quality of Raw Water for Salt Production in Pangarengan, Sampang, East Java

Seawater is the primary raw material for the production of sea salt. Seawater quality dramatically affects to salt production. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the seawater’s quality as a raw material for salt production in Pangarengan, Sampang, East Java, Indonesia. The assessment of water quality in this study includes physical and chemical characteristics. The location of this research was in the salt fields that close to settlements with high anthropogenic activity. Sampling points were the seawater inlet (P1), reservoir plot/bozem (P2), and evaporation plot (P3). Assessment of temperature, pH, salinity and water saturation using in-situ measurements. Determination of heavy metal parameters (Mercury, Cadmium, Lead, and Arsenic) using UV spectrometry. The physical characteristics of the highest water temperatures were in evaporated plot (40°C), while the water temperatures in the seawater entrance and reservoir ponds were respectively 33.5 °C and 36 °C. pH, one of the chemicals parameter, at the seawater entrance, reservoir plot, and evaporated plot were 8.2, 7.7, and 9. The salinity of the three points is more than 33 ‰, and the raw water saturation in the evaporated pool is 24° Be. Analysis of heavy metals in this study showed levels below seawater quality standards for consumption purposes.

Assessing Threats to the Drill monkey (Mandrillus leucophaeus) and other Primate Species in Selected Ranges of Cross River National Park, Nigeria

The population of the endangered drill monkey (Mandrillus leucophaeus) and other primate species have continued to decline in Cross River National Park (CRNP), Nigeria. The current threats responsible for the population decline was assessed in four selected ranges (Anape, Aking Orem and Nsofang) through administrative park record, interview of hunters and field observations that spanned 194days (between July, 2021 – August, 2022) covering a distance of 997km. A total of 58 interviews of hunters were conducted in seven communities (Anape, Aking, Osomba, Orem, Ntebachot, Nsofang and Mkpot). Ninetyfive (95%) reported a decline in the population of the drill monkey as (65%) stated a rare encounter. Also, 90% reported to hunt primates with 64% reporting to hunt drill monkey even though they are aware of the existence of CRNP. However, 79% expressed their willingness to stop hunting if an alternative livelihood was provided. Thirteen threat indicators were recorded in both season (wet and dry), distributed across the four ranges surveyed. Spent cartridge (dry=12.75±10.41; wet=6.25±5.91), wire snare (dry=8.25±4.73; wet=8.5±3.42) and logging (dry=3.75±3.61; wet=3.50±2.65) were the highest threat indicators and correlated with the administrative record on threat in a ten year period (2012 -2021) (hunting 34.3% and logging 35.5%). Encounter rate of threat was highest in Nsofang (dry=0.78/km; wet=0.76/km) which harbours an enclave community (Mkpot) and lowest at Anape (dry=0.05/km; wet=0.18/km) suggesting more protection of this area considering the conservation interest in the region. The Park authority is therefore implored to intensify protection efforts in these other areas with high anthropogenic activities while considering the possibility of a joint forest management with host communities.

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The biodiversity of benthic foraminifera around the coral communities and the concentration of heavy elements (e.g., Mn, Fe, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, Zn, Cd, and Co) in Miskan Island and Al-Khiran coastline of Kuwait are used as an ecological indicator for the environmental and anthropogenic stresses occurred from February 2018 to February 2019. The study resulted in identifying 19 families, 6 orders, 29 genera, and 94 species. Using R-mode cluster analysis results in four assemblages and using Q-mode principal component analysis (PCA) distinguished three groups depending on the deep. The three main assemblages refer to different depths, Group A from 20 cm to 1 m depth; Group B from 1.5 to 2 m depth, Group C from 6 to 8 m depth. Al-Khiran coastline is characterized by anoxic conditions, confirmed by the existence of pyrite. Additionally, high water turbidity because of anthropogenic effects. The low number of benthic foraminifera on Miskan Island is due to the dissolution and calcification of foraminifera shells. The Island characterized by freshwater runoff from Iraq meets saltwater in the gulf, affecting the salinity. The turbidity is caused by sediment runoff and eutrophication. Both sites were considered relatively unpolluted compared with the nearest Iranian coast. However, the relatively high potentially toxic elements in some locations are due to the semi-restricted geographic characteristic and high anthropogenic activity. There is no clear abnormality in the identified species showing normal aperture, coiling, shape, and size.

A global atlas of marine antibiotic resistance genes and their expression

Oceans serve as global reservoirs of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). However, little is known about the traits and expression of ARGs in response to environmental factors. We analyzed 347 metagenomes and 182 metatranscriptomes to determine the distribution, hosts, and expression of ARGs in oceans. Our study found that the diversity and abundance of ARGs varied with latitude and depth. The core marine resistome mainly conferred glycopeptide and multidrug resistance. The hosts of this resistome were mainly limited to the core marine microbiome, with phylogenetic barriers to the horizontal transfer of ARGs, transfers being more frequent within species than between species. Sixty-five percent of the marine ARGs identified were expressed. More than 90% of high-risk ARGs were more likely to be expressed. Anthropogenic activity might affect the expression of ARGs by altering nitrate and phosphate concentrations and ocean temperature. Machine-learning models predict >97% of marine ARGs will change expression by 2100. High-risk ARGs will shift to low latitudes and regions with high anthropogenic activity, such as the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. Certain ARGs serve a dual role in antibiotic resistance and potentially participate in element cycling, along with other unknown functions. Determining whether changes in ARG expression are beneficial to ecosystems and human health is challenging without comprehensive understanding of their functions. Our study identified a core resistome in the oceans and quantified the expression of ARGs for the development of future control strategies under global change.

Temporal Changes in Water Quality with Increasing Ambient Temperatures Affect the Distribution and Relative Abundance of 10 Species of Balitorid Fishes in Small Streams of Eastern Thailand

Stream degradation increases with high anthropogenic activity and climate variability, while declines occur in biodiversity. However, few studies have been undertaken on tropical waterways, a major impediment to biodiversity conservation. The present study was conducted on 95 relatively pristine small streams in Eastern Thailand with 10 reasonably uncommon species of balitorid fishes. Measurements were made of 21 physical and chemical factors and the substrate particle size. Stepwise regression identified the direct importance of substrate particle size and nitrate on the species’ richness of balitorids, whereas its abundance was negatively related with iron concentrations. A Canonical Correspondence Analysis identified three fish groups: the 1st group was negatively correlated with ammonia and positively correlated with dissolved silica, the 2nd group was positively correlated with substrate particle size and negatively correlated with stream ambient temperature and ammonia concentration, and the 3rd group was negatively correlated with low dissolved silica, respectively. The results of this study may indicate the vulnerability of balitorids under climate warming and anthropogenic pressure that alter the water physicochemical factors and river degradation including the substrate type. Thus, a conservation framework should be provided regarding the limits for water temperature, ammonia, and iron in Thailand’s Water Quality Criteria to better protect its freshwater ecosystem. Balitorid is a potential bioindicator for evaluating the river temperature effect in combination with ammonia nutrient stressors as long as the way-of-life habits of the species are taken into account.

Spatial heterogeneity in global atmospheric CO during the COVID–19 lockdown: Implications for global and regional air quality policies

The COVID–19 lockdown (LD) provided a unique opportunity to examine the changes in regional and global air quality. Changes in the atmospheric carbon monoxide (CO) during LD warrant a thorough analysis as CO is a major air pollutant that affects human health, ecosystem and climate. Our analysis reveals a decrease of 5–10% in the CO column during LD (April–May 2020) compared to the pre-lockdown (PreLD, March 2020) periods in regions with high anthropogenic activity, such as East China (EC), Indo-Gangetic Plain (IGP), North America, parts of Europe and Russia. However, this reduction did not occur in the regions of frequent and intense wildfires and agricultural waste burning (AWB). We find high heterogeneity in the CO column distributions, from regional to city scales during the LD period. To determine the sources of CO emissions during LD, we examined the ratios of nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2) to CO for major cities in the world. This facilitated the identification of contributions from different sources; including vehicles, industries and biomass burning during LD. The comparison between CO levels during the LD and PreLD periods indicates a notable reduction in the global tropospheric CO, but no significant change in the stratosphere. It is found that CO emissions decreased during LD in the hotspot regions, but rebounded after the LD restrictions were lifted. This study, therefore, highlights the importance of policy decisions and their implementations in the global and regional scales to improve the air quality, and thus to protect public health and environment.

Tiny and Everywhere: Microplastic Density and Distribution in Sediments along the West Coast of Lombok Island, Indonesia

Microplastics have recently received high global attention, as their widespread presence can potentially cause physical and toxicological risks to organisms. The west coast of Lombok Island in Indonesia has a high potential for microplastic accumulation; even so, its presence in this area was not well studied. Therefore, this study aimed to describe the distribution and density of microplastics within the sediments on the west coast of Lombok. Microplastic sampling had been carried out in the northern, middle, and southern portions of the west coast of Lombok based on distinct geographical and vegetational characteristics. Sediment samples were taken within the HTL (High Tide Line) zone based on the excavation depths categories, i.e. A (0–2cm), B (2–4 cm), C (4–6 cm), D (6–8 cm), and D (8–10 cm). The sediment samples were filtered using an aluminum sieve with a mesh size of 4.75 mm, targeting microplastic pieces below that size. A total of 16,685 microplastic debris were found distributed horizontally and vertically throughout the station. There was a significant difference in the microplastic density distributed between stations [F(10,22) = 6.96, p < 0.001] and between sediment depths [F(10,44) = 9.07,p < 0.001]. The order of average microplastic concentration was southern > northern > middle stations group. The highest microplastic number recorded in SMP11 (southern station, open bay, high anthropogenic activity, with river and primary mangrove vegetation) was as many as 2,361 (density, D = 125,920.00 ± 204.33 items/m3), whereas SMP01 (northern station, open bay, low anthropogenic activity, and with river and secondary mangrove vegetation) had the lowest microplastic number of 678 (D = 36,160.00 ± 72.82 items/m3). In general, the majority of microplastics (45.76%) were distributed on the sediment surface (A–B), where there was a repeating pattern in the difference of microplastic density fluctuations of about 3% at every 4cm of sediment depth (B–C and D–E), which is thought to be driven by daily tidal fluctuation.There was no clear pattern that indicated whether the specific type of shoreline or the presence of rivers and mangroves had an influence on the level of microplastic accumulation. However,the southern stations group had a considerably higher average of microplastic accumulation.We suspect that the geographical position towards the main ocean current contributes greatly to the microplastic accumulation at the site.

Abundance and Diversity of Polychaete Worms in Kapuas Estuary, West Kalimantan

Estuaries provide valuable ecosystem services, but they are also subject to environmental pressures due to high anthropogenic activities. The diversity and abundance of Polychaete can be used as indicators of the health of the Kapuas estuary, but supporting data are currently lacking. The objective of this research is to assess the quality of the Kapuas estuary through a Polychaete community approach. The study employed a survey method by selecting ten Polychaete sampling points based on their surrounding environmental conditions. Samples were collected from each point using a Petite Ponar grab, filtered, sorted, and grouped by family. The Polychaete specimens were identified up to the genus level. The data were analyzed descriptively. A total of 108 Polychaete individuals were found, comprising nine genera and seven families. The highest abundance was observed in the genera Capitella (Capitellidae) and Sternaspis (Sternaspidae), with 778 ind.m-2and 667 ind.m-2, respectively. The diversity of Polychaete in the Kapuas estuary was classified as low, with diversity index ranging from 0.5 to 1.21. The high abundance, low diversity, and presence of indicator genera of organic pollutants such as Capitella indicate that the Kapuas estuary is affected by organic contamination

Diversity, Distribution and Vegetation Assessment of Woody Plant Species in the Cold Desert Environment, North-Western Himalaya, India

The species richness, distribution and community structure in cold desert regions across the world are poorly understood because of their inaccessibility and remoteness. Similarly, the structure and composition of forest resources, including other management units (i.e., agroforestry and forestry systems), have hardly been studied in the cold desert of the Lahaul valley. However, such information is a prerequisite to understanding the trends and changes in the vegetation distribution under global climate change scenarios, especially considering the sensitivity of plant species in high-altitude areas of the Himalayan region. High anthropogenic activity has exerted tremendous pressure on available forest resources, including other management units in the cold desert of the Lahaul valley. Standard ecological methods were used to obtain an ecological (i.e., status, structure, composition and vegetation patterns) understanding of the region for biodiversity conservation and environmental sustainability. The present study was aimed at understanding the trend, structure and composition of plant species in the cold desert region of the western Himalaya. A total of 64 species (27 trees and 37 shrubs) of vascular plants were recorded in the present study. Tree diversity demonstrated greater variation along the gradients and slope aspects. Salix fragilis trees, with a 102 tree ha−1 density and a few trees of Populus nigra, were found to be sparsely distributed under the agroforestry system on the south-facing slopes in Khoksar. In Jahlma, Salix fragilis grew in an agroforestry system with a density of 365 tree ha−1. However, in Hinsa, Juniperus polycarpos was a dominant tree species in the agroforestry system, with a density of 378 tree ha−1. On the north-facing slopes in Kuthar, a higher number of trees and bushes were present due to natural regeneration maintained by farmers along the edges of terraced agricultural fields. The south-facing slopes showed a relatively lower species richness and diversity as compared to north-facing slopes at similar locations due to relatively less favourable growth conditions under sun-exposed, extremely xeric soil conditions. The highest level of species turnover was found between the altitudes of 2400 m and 3000 m. Betula utilis showed the highest adaptability at higher altitudes (>3500 m). The vegetation analysis results and information generated in the present study are useful for gaining an ecological understanding of the cold desert ecosystem in the Lahaul valley. Sustainable forest resource management, including other management units (e.g., agroforestry and forestry systems), is crucial for improving the vegetation pattern, structure and function of the cold desert ecosystem, thereby contributing to climate change mitigation, adaptation, biodiversity and ecosystem service conservation.

Land management semi-arid archipelago based on water carrying capacity: Studies on Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara

Archipelago areas have high marine tourism resource potential, so they are often exploited for tourism needs. The characteristics of the Labuan Bajo region in the form of islands with geomorphological conditions in the form of hills have the potential to reduce the carrying capacity of the environment. Regional development in Labuan Bajo, classified as a semi-arid area for tourism purposes, can potentially cause a clean water crisis. This study aimed to analyze the environmental carrying capacity related to water availability to support the development of the Labuan Bajo region to become a super-priority tourism destination. The research method used is quantitative in the form of spatial analysis, literature studies, and water-carrying capacity analysis based on the Decree of the Minister of Environment and Forestry No. 297 of 2019. The research data were obtained from field observations and government agencies. The results show that the carrying capacity of water in 56.87% of the area in West Manggarai Regency has a deficit status. Most areas experiencing a deficit are on the mainland of Flores Island, especially in the urban area of Labuan Bajo. This is due to low rainfall, low soil ability to absorb water, and high anthropogenic activity from both local residents and tourism activities. In addition, the content of salinity, detergent, and BOD (biological oxygen demand) in groundwater samples in the urban area of Labuan Bajo has exceeded the water quality standard threshold. The results of this study can be considered for policy directions related to land use for regional development in semi-arid island areas.

Zonation of The Waters of Spermonde Archipelago Base on Nutrient Concentration and Its Impact to Coral Reef Ecosystem

The Spermonde Archipelago is divided into four zones, the division of zones is based on the distribution of coral reefs, distance from the mainland, and water depth, but this condition tends to change as a result of high anthropogenic activity in the Spermonde Islands. Based on this, it is very necessary to re-zoning the Spermonde Archipelago Waters based on the condition of nutrient distribution. The research method uses the integration of remote sensing data analysis, field surveys, and secondary data which are then analyzed using the Boleean method for re-zoning. The results showed that the nutrient, in this case, chlorophyll-a, was concentrated in the deep zone (near the mainland) and the concentration was higher during the rainy season, this condition affected the coral reef cover in the Spermonde Islands. Based on these conditions, the Spermonde Islands waters are divided into three zones, namely the inner zone with high nutrient conditions with a benthic cover dominated by fleshy macroalgae, the middle zone with low nutrient conditions with crustose coralline dominance, and the outer zone with low nutrient conditions with algal turf dominance turf alga/corals.

Assessment of heavy metals contamination and ecological risks in coastal sediments of the Mediterranean seashore

Seawater pollution from sewage is associated with many environmental risks, which pose threat to marine organisms and human life. Nine heavy metals were determined at 22 georeferenced stations along the Mediterranean seashore, Egypt, including four major cities (Ras El-Bar, New Damietta, Gamasa, and New Mansoura), that are characterized by high anthropogenic activities. The results demonstrated high heavy metals levels in Gammasa, followed by Ras El-Bar and New Damietta cities. The heavy metals’ abundance was found in sequence of Fe > Mn > Cr > Zn > Co > Pb > Cu > Ni > Cd. Zinc concentrations showed lower levels than threshold effect level (TEL), while Pb, Ni, Cu, Cr and showed lower values. Also, Zn concentration was lower than LEL, while Pb, Ni, Cu, Cr, and Cd showed lower values. The concentrations of Pb and Zn were lower than effects range low (ERL), while Ni, Cu, Cr, and Cd showed values. Regarding Cd, 18.18% of samples were higher than effects range median (ERM) that reflect adverse effects on organisms at these sites. The order of EF was Cd > Co > Pb > Cr > Zn > Cu > Mn > Ni. The geo-accumulation index (Igeo) was Cr > Ni > Pb > Zn > Mn > Cu suggesting that sediments are not polluted by these metals, while Igeo of Cd is -0.84 reflecting moderate contamination with Cd. According to contamination factor (Cf) and degree of contamination (Dc) data, Gamasa city was the most contaminated, followed by Ras El-Bar, New Damietta, and New Mansoura cities. This can be attributed to various anthropogenic activities and industrial effluents that are discharged into different drains before pouring into seawater. Policymakers must take into account strict laws and regulations to limit unmanaged industrial activities, especially those causing pollution from sewage and industrial wastewater.

Abundance and Distribution of Macro- and Mesoplastic Debris on Selected Beaches in the Northern Strait of Malacca

Plastics account for 60–80% of marine debris worldwide, and, in 2021, Malaysia was the 28th largest plastic polluter in the world. In light of this finding, the Malaysian government has launched the Roadmap Towards Zero Single-Use Plastics 2018–2030 and the Plastics Sustainability Roadmap 2021–2030 to reduce plastic pollution and implement a circular economy for Malaysia. A comprehensive database of the status of plastic pollution in Malaysia is needed to achieve this target. This study aims to record the presence of macro- (>2.5 cm) and mesoplastic (0.5–2.5 cm) debris at selected beaches in the northern Strait of Malacca. All study sites are publicly accessible beaches (Pulau Songsong, Teluk Aling, and Pulau Gazumbo) except Pulau Lembu, which is in a Marine Protected Area (MPA). The debris was collected from predetermined transects on the beach and categorised according to its form and economic market segments in Malaysia. Most of the macro- (53–75% of total mass) and mesoplastics (52–80% of the total number) were accumulated in the backshore area. Public beaches such as Pulau Gazumbo and Pulau Songsong recorded the highest abundance of macroplastics, with 7.32 g/m2 and 9.77 g/m2, respectively. Teluk Aling recorded the lowest abundance of macroplastics (3.58 g/m2) but the highest in mesoplastics (0.55 items/m2). Most of the macroplastics found were packaging plastics such as plastic bottles, containers, and polystyrene foam debris. Although Pulau Lembu is an MPA, the amount of macroplastics found was considerably high (7.17 g/m2). Based on the beach cleanliness index, Pulau Gazumbo (−3.99) was the dirtiest site, followed by Pulau Lembu (−2.92) and Pulau Songsong (−2.85), while Teluk Aling (−1.63) was the cleanest site, which can explain the amount of macroplastic debris found. However, all the study sites’ cleanliness may not be ideal, as the indexes were less than zero due to the low availability of waste bins and insufficient frequency of beach cleaning. This may not be able to curb the effects of high anthropogenic activities conducted in addition to uncontrollable natural factors.

Amsterdam urban water system as entry point of river plastic pollution

Accumulation of plastic litter in aquatic environments negatively impacts ecosystems and human livelihood. Urban areas are assumed to be the main source of plastic pollution in these environments because of high anthropogenic activity. Yet, the drivers of plastic emissions, abundance, and retention within these systems and subsequent transport to river systems are poorly understood. In this study, we demonstrate that urban water systems function as major contributors to river plastic pollution, and explore the potential driving factors contributing to the transport dynamics. Monthly visual counting of floating litter at six outlets of the Amsterdam water system results in an estimated 2.7 million items entering the closely connected IJ river annually, ranking it among the most polluting systems measured in the Netherlands and Europe. Subsequent analyses of environmental drivers (including rainfall, sunlight, wind speed, and tidal regimes) and litter flux showed very weak and insignificant correlations (r = -0.19–0.16), implying additional investigation of potential drivers is required. High-frequency observations at various locations within the urban water system and advanced monitoring using novel technologies could be explored to harmonize and automate monitoring. Once litter type and abundance are well-defined with a clear origin, communication of the results with local communities and stakeholders could help co-develop solutions and stimulate behavioral change geared to reduce plastic pollution in urban environments.