Increased Carbon Dioxide Research Articles

Deciphering the complex interplay: Heterogeneous, threshold, and mediation effects of trade openness on CO2 emissions in Africa.

Despite having barely anything to do with the issue of CO2 emissions, Africa has been experiencing more severe climate change and its adverse effects than most other regions of the globe. However, the issue of CO2 emissions and its adverse effects has received relatively little attention in the African research arena. To this end, the present research assesses the effect of trade openness on the CO2 emissions utilizing panel data from 46 African countries spanning 2000 through 2022. To account for the possible heterogeneity and nonlinearity, the panel quantile regression and threshold methods were employed. Moreover, this study investigates the key mediating effects of the channel. The empirical findings show that greater trade openness is associated with significantly higher CO2 emission, additionally; it demonstrates that the influence is heterogeneous across different CO2 emission quantiles in African countries. Besides the result from the double threshold model reveals a complex, nonlinear relationship between trade openness and CO2 emissions in Africa. Moreover, the findings divulge that openness to trade indirectly reduces CO2 emissions through the substitution and technology channels whereas it indirectly increases carbon dioxide production via the economic track. Therefore, it is vital to promote the use of renewable energy, effectively leverage the knowledge spillover effects of trade to decrease energy intensity and formulate pertinent policies aimed at curbing carbon emissions and addressing the imminent threat of climate change in Africa. Besides, the nonlinear and heterogeneous effects of trade openness on CO2 emissions suggest that policies and interventions related to the impact of trade openness on CO2 emissions should consider the current level of carbon dioxide emissions.

Glucose addition in natural forest soils has higher biological nitrogen fixation capacity than other types of soils

Land use changes soil microbial and chemical properties, but the mechanism of biological nitrogen fixation under different land use patterns is rarely reported, so we used four types of soil: Natural forest soil (NS), healthy banana soil (HS), diseased banana soil (DS) and paddy soil (PS). Treatments included the control (CK), addition of glucose (G), addition of glucose and ammonium nitrate (GN), addition of banana straw (BS), addition of banana straw and ammonium nitrate (BSN), addition of banana root (BR), and addition of banana root and ammonium nitrate (BRN). The study found that the change of soil utilization types, glucose addition increased carbon dioxide emissions (Compared with the control, increased by 963.11%, 508.39%, 794.77% and 511.34%, respectively) and enhanced the ability of soil microbial nitrogen fixation. Importantly, natural forest soil microorganisms have a higher biological nitrogen fixation capacity compared to other types of soils. Glucose addition caused the accumulation of ammonium nitrogen (Compared with the control, increased by 426.08%, 934.21%, 420% and 1065.95%, respectively), indicating that microorganisms had higher utilization efficiency of soluble carbon and enhanced the biological nitrogen fixation capacity, and nitrogen addition caused the accumulation of ammonium nitrogen, thereby weakening the biological nitrogen fixation capacity. At the same time, glucose significantly increased the Fimicutes phylum (83.73%, 66.38%, 67.18% and 70.36%) and lowered the level of other bacterial phylums, thereby reducing the bacterial network structure, and the stability of the soil environment has decreased. Forest analysis showed that CO2 was an important factor in predicting the bacterial community structure of different soil types, an increase in CO2 content can predict drastic changes in the bacterial community. Bacteria at the Fimicutes phylum level preferred glucose, which may also have a negative effect on bacteria at the level of other phylums.

One Health, One Forest: Harnessing Reclaimed Wood as a Sustainable Solution

Deforestation is a multifaceted and wicked problem characterized by its complexity and resistance to straightforward solutions. The issue is driven by human activities and has severe ecological, socio-economic, and climatic consequences. Between 1990 and 2015, approximately 129 million hectares of forest were lost globally, a trend contributing to biodiversity loss, increased carbon dioxide emissions, and climate change. In Canada, deforestation due to logging significantly impacts the boreal forests, with consequences such as habitat fragmentation affecting species like the threatened boreal caribou. The Canadian logging industry aims to provide essential raw materials while fostering economic growth and employment, supplying critical resources for sawmills, planing mills, shingle mills, and pulp and paper industries. Despite economic benefits, logging, particularly clearcutting, disrupts natural forest regeneration, soil composition, and water cycles, leading to long-term ecological consequences. The One Health approach, integrating human, non-human animal, and environmental health, is proposed to address this issue sustainably. Actions like those by Forests Ontario and Evergreen focus on reforestation and urban greening, while companies like Consolidated Pallet Co. promote wood recycling. This action plan showcases the potential for community-driven solutions to reduce environmental footprints, enhance sustainability, and foster economic and social well-being.

Biochar Weakens the Efficiency of Nitrification Inhibitors and Urease Inhibitors in Mitigating Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Soil Irrigated with Alternative Water Resources

While previous studies have suggested that biochar, nitrification inhibitors, and urease inhibitors may reduce soil greenhouse gas emissions, their effectiveness in soils irrigated with alternative water resources remains unclear. To compensate for this, reclaimed water and livestock wastewater were utilized as alternative water resources alongside groundwater control. Nitrapyrin and N-(n-butyl) thiophosphoric triamide and biochar were applied to the soil either individually or in combination, and a no-substance treatment (NS) was included for comparison. The results revealed that reclaimed water and livestock wastewater irrigation exacerbated the global warming potential. Compared to the NS, all exogenous substance treatments suppressed nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions while increasing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, and affecting methane (CH4) emissions varied across treatments irrespective of the water types. Interestingly, the additional biochar reduced the inhibitory effect of the inhibitors on the greenhouse effect. Using nitrification inhibitors reduced the global warming potential by 48.3% and 50.1% under reclaimed water and livestock wastewater irrigation, respectively. However, when nitrification inhibitors were applied in combination with biochar, the global warming potential was increased by 52.1–83.4% compared to nitrification inhibitors alone, and a similar trend was also observed in the scenario of urease inhibitors, with increases ranging from 8.8 to 35.1%. Therefore, the combined application of biochar and inhibitors should be approached cautiously, considering the potential for increased greenhouse gas emissions.

Molecular insights into the formation of carbon dioxide hydrates on the external surface of sodium montmorillonite in the presence of various types of organic matters

To address the urgent challenge of global climate change due to the greenhouse effect resulting from increasing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, viable technologies for geological CO2 storage must be developed. Of such technologies, CO2 hydrates holds significant promise for CO2 storage in seabed sediments, which typically contain clay minerals and organic matter (OM). Thus, investigating the structure of clay mineral interfaces and their interactions with OM is crucial for understanding the nucleation and growth of CO2 hydrate in seabed sediments. In this study, molecular dynamics simulations were used to investigate CO2 hydrate formation on the external surface of sodium montmorillonite (Na-Mnt) in the presence of various types of OM. The results show that the Na-Mnt surface adsorbed certain numbers of sodium ions (Na+) and OM molecules. The hydration of Na + disrupted of the hydrogen bond structure of CO2 hydrates, while hydrogen bonds that formed between OM and H2O molecules hindered CO2 hydrate formation. Consequently, CO2 hydrates predominantly formed in the bulk-like solution away from the Na-Mnt. However, the electrostatic interaction between the carboxyl groups of OM and Na+ mitigated the inhibitory effect of Na+ on CO2 hydrate formation. Over all, these findings can serve as a fundamental theoretical basis for understanding the formation and occurrence characteristics of CO2 hydrates in seabed sediments with a rich Mnt content. Such understanding will help to advance the development of CO2 storage technologies utilizing CO2 hydrates in seabed sediments.

Impact of Diluents on Flame Stability With Blends of Natural Gas and Hydrogen

Abstract Two potential decarbonization pathways for natural gas (NG)-fueled gas turbine engines include blending hydrogen (H2) into NG and postcombustion carbon capture. H2 blending changes several combustion properties, including flame speed and stretch sensitivity. The use of post-combustion carbon capture systems is typically facilitated by the implementation of exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), where exhaust gases are injected into the inlet of the engine, increasing carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration at the outlet and, hence, increasing the efficiency of carbon capture technologies. In this work, we explore the impact of H2 blending and EGR on the stability of a swirl-stabilized, central-piloted flame. Mixtures of NG and H2 are tested at a range of different diluent compositions, with oxygen varied from 21% to 15% by volume in the oxidizer. In all cases, a constant adiabatic flame temperature is maintained to mimic the operation of a gas turbine at a given turbine inlet temperature. A variable-length combustor is used for testing, where combustor length is varied to understand the dynamic stability characteristics of the system. Results show that EGR and H2 work in opposition to each other, where higher levels of EGR result in poor flame holding and higher levels of H2 result in better flame holding. Increasing H2 generally increases the amplitude of thermoacoustic instability at each condition, a result of the change in flame position in this particular combustor. Importantly, H2 can be added to NG to improve flame holding without significantly decreasing CO2 levels in the products, showing that H2 blending can be a method for counteracting combustor operability issues that arise from high levels of EGR necessary to improve the efficiency of typical carbon capture systems.

Dynamic interactions between groundwater level and discharge by phreatophytes

Many traditional models that predict plant–groundwater use based on groundwater level variations, such as the White method, make various simplifying assumptions. For example, these models often neglect the role of plant hydraulic redistribution, a process that can contribute up to 80% of transpiration. Thus, this work aims to avoid such assumptions and subsequently explore the dynamic interactions between groundwater levels and phreatophytic vegetation, including plant nocturnal transpiration, hydraulic redistribution, and response to atmospheric conditions, in shallow-groundwater ecosystems using Loblolly pine (Pinus taeda) as a model species. The model scenarios are formulated using a stomatal-optimization model coupled to the soil–plant–atmosphere continuum. Flow through soil and groundwater are described using the Richards equation and a linear reservoir approximation, respectively, with groundwater in contact with an external water body of fixed elevation. Results show that nocturnal transpiration, mediated by plant residual conductance, and hydraulic redistribution, are able to reduce groundwater levels at night and alter the groundwater recharge rate. Projected atmospheric conditions of increased carbon dioxide and elevated temperature have opposing effects on groundwater levels, which tend to roughly cancel each other under a projected scenario of 500 ppm carbon dioxide and 1.5 oC warming. Such detailed modeling can be used to provide further insights into coupled interactions between vegetation, climate and groundwater levels in phreatophyte-dominated ecosystems.

Evaluation of Traffic Congestion in an Urban Roads: A Review

Abstract: Urban traffic congestion significantly impacts economic productivity, environmental health, and residents' quality of life. This study provides a comprehensive evaluation of traffic congestion in urban areas, focusing on recent innovations in traffic management, urban planning, public transportation, and technological advancements. Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), incorporating real-time data and adaptive signal controls, have proven effective in reducing delays and improving traffic flow. The study underscores the importance of mixed-use urban planning in minimizing travel distances and traffic volumes. Expanding public transportation networks is highlighted as a critical strategy for alleviating congestion, with evidence indicating that cities with extensive transit systems experience lower congestion levels. Additionally, the environmental and health implications of traffic congestion are considered, linking high congestion levels to increased pollution and negative health outcomes. . Road construction as a policy intervention to reduce congestion is debated, with the understanding that road widening may sometimes increase traffic. Evaluating the technologies contributing to congestion is crucial for devising effective solutions. Urban transport is central to economic activity and the well-being of urban residents. The rising population and car ownership rates, coupled with unchanged natural land areas, exacerbate traffic issues, leading to accidents and increased carbon dioxide emissions. The article explores the complexities of urban road traffic, addressing transport infrastructure, organization, and the high share of car traffic. It discusses theoretical and practical aspects of traffic flow and design, as well as the role of driver behavior in traffic jams.

Design of a Digital Platform for Carbon Generalized System of Preferences Communities Based on the TAO Model of Three-Way Decisions

The increasing carbon dioxide emissions from human activities present a significant global concern, with approximately two-thirds of greenhouse gas emissions attributed to household activities. The Carbon Generalized System of Preferences (CGSP) has emerged as a pivotal mechanism to incentivize voluntary carbon reduction in community households. This paper examines the development of a community digital management platform designed to incentivize voluntary carbon reduction at the community level, highlighting the critical role of reducing emissions in urban community life to meet carbon peak and neutrality targets. This study employs the TAO model of Three-Way Decision to establish a closed-loop operational framework for the CGSP digital platform. The platform features a Trisection mechanism to record and quantify low-carbon behaviors, an Action mechanism to classify and reward community members, and an Outcome mechanism to assess overall community carbon reduction achievements. Additionally, a user interface tailored for community users is developed to enhance platform accessibility. The proposed platform presents a practical and innovative solution for exploring emission reduction potential in urban communities. By systematically recording low-carbon behaviors, providing targeted rewards, and conducting comprehensive assessments, the platform aims to guide community residents in adopting sustainable practices. This study offers a valuable reference for the digital transformation, intelligent system construction, and development of new urban functional units within communities.

Control of breathing in preterm infants on incubator oxygen or nasal cannula oxygen.

Incubator oxygen may improve respiratory stability in preterm infants compared with nasal cannula oxygen. Single center randomized trial of infants <29 weeks' gestation on supplemental oxygen at ≥32 weeks' postmenstrual age. Infants were crossed-over every 24 hours for 96 hours between incubator oxygen and nasal cannula ≤1.0 L/kg/min. We measured episodes of intermittent hypoxemia (oxygen saturations (SpO2) < 85% ≥10 seconds), bradycardia, cerebral and abdominal hypoxemia, and end-tidal carbon dioxide. We enrolled 25 infants with a gestational age of 26 weeks 4 days±15 days (mean ± SD) and birth weight 805 ± 202 grams. There were no differences in episodes of intermittent hypoxemia, bradycardia, or cerebral hypoxemia between groups. There were fewer episodes of abdominal hypoxemia <40% ≥10 seconds with incubator oxygen compared with nasal cannula (132 ± 130 versus 158 ± 125; p < 0.01). Time with SpO2 < 85% and abdominal hypoxemia was lower among infants on incubator oxygen. Carbon dioxide values were higher while on incubator oxygen (41 ± 11 versus 36 ± 10 mmHg; p < 0.02). There was no difference in intermittent hypoxemia between incubator and nasal cannula oxygen among preterm infants on supplemental oxygen. Infants had higher levels of carbon dioxide while on incubator oxygen, which may have improved some measures of respiratory stability. CLINCALTRIALS. NCT03333174 and NCT03174301. In this randomized cross-over trial of preterm infants on supplemental oxygen, incubator oxygen did not decrease episodes of intermittent hypoxemia compared with nasal cannula oxygen. Incubator oxygen reduced time with oxygen saturations less than 85%, reduced abdominal hypoxemia, and increased carbon dioxide levels. Differences in measures of respiratory stability on incubator oxygen may be partly due to higher carbon dioxide levels compared with nasal cannula oxygen. The mode of supplemental oxygen administration may impact control of breathing in preterm infants through its effect on hypopharyngeal oxygen stability and carbon dioxide levels.

Provincial-level analysis of electrification feasibility and climate policy interactions

Improving electrification feasibility is essential for reducing emissions from non-electric energy sources, thereby enhancing air quality and public health. Concurrently, climate mitigation actions, such as carbon pricing policies, have significant potential to alleviate increasing carbon dioxide (CO2) and other co-emitted air pollutants. However, the interactions between climate policy and the improvement of electrification feasibility at the provincial level remain unclear, collectively impacting the net-zero transition of energy-intensive sectors. Here we combine a technologically rich economic-energy-environment model with air quality modeling across China to examine the health, climate, and economic implications of large-scale upgrades in electrification feasibility and climate policies from 2017 to 2030. The results indicate that advancing electrification feasibility, coupled with adopting carbon pricing policies, is likely to facilitate a transition towards electricity-dominant energy systems. Improved electrification feasibility is projected to yield a 7–25% increase in nationwide climate benefits and a 5–14% increase in health benefits by 2030. These incremental benefits, coupled with reduced economic costs, result in a 22–68% increase in net benefits. However, regionally, improvements in electrification feasibility will lead to heightened power demand and unintended emissions from electric energy production in certain provinces (e.g., Nei Mongol) due to the coal-dominated power system. Additionally, in major coal-producing provinces like Shanxi and Shaanxi, enhanced electrification feasibility exacerbates the negative economic impacts of climate policies. This study provides quantitative insights into how improving electrification feasibility reshapes energy evolution and the benefit-cost profile of climate policy at the provincial level. The findings underscore the necessity of a well-designed compensation scheme between affected and unaffected provinces and coordinated emission mitigation across the power and other end-use sectors.

Reduction of uncertainties in rice yield response to elevated CO2 by experiment-model integration: A case study in East China

Accurate prediction of future rice yield needs the precise estimations of rice yield response to climate change factors, of which the most important one is the increasing carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations. Estimates of CO2 fertilization effect (CFE) on rice, however, still had large uncertainties. Therefore, using the rice planting areas in East China as the study area, we firstly compared the rice yields and CFE predicted by four state-of-the-art crop models, and found that the CFE predicted by these models had significant differences. We then quantified the CFE on rice yield using the field-controlled experiment conducted at Danyang site at Jiangsu province. Using CFE measurements from a field experiment as benchmark, we have developed an experiment–model integration approach aiming to reduce this variation. This study thus highlights the large CFE uncertainties of current crop models and provides us with a method to reduce this uncertainty, which is beneficial for the accurate prediction of future global rice yield in the context of climate change.

Effect of pH on Development of the Zebrafish Inner Ear and Lateral Line: Comparisons between High School and University Settings.

Increasing carbon dioxide levels associated with climate change will likely have a devastating effect on aquatic ecosystems. Aquatic environments sequester carbon dioxide, resulting in acidic conditions that can negatively affect fish development. Increasing climate change impacts in the coming decades will have an outsized effect on younger generations. Therefore, our research had two interconnected goals: 1) understand how aquatic acidification affects the development of zebrafish, and 2) support a high school scientist's ability to address environmental questions of increasing importance to her generation. Working with teachers and other mentors, the first author designed and conducted the research, first in her high school, then in a university research laboratory. Zebrafish embryos were reared in varying pH conditions (6.7-8.2) for up to 7 days. We assessed fish length and development of the inner ear, including the otoliths; structures that depend on calcium carbonate for proper development. Although pH did not affect fish length, fish reared in pH 7.75 had smaller anterior otoliths, showing that pH can impact zebrafish ear development. Furthermore, we demonstrate how zebrafish may be used for high school students to pursue open-ended questions using different levels of available resources.

Avalanche burial pathophysiology - a unique combination of hypoxia, hypercapnia and hypothermia.

For often unclear reasons, the survival times of critically buried avalanche victims vary widely from minutes to hours. Individuals can survive and sustain organ function if they can breathe under the snow and maintain sufficient delivery of oxygen and efflux of carbon dioxide. We review the physiological responses of humans to critical avalanche burial, a model which shares similarities and differences with apnoea and accidental hypothermia. Within a few minutes of burial, an avalanche victim is exposed to hypoxaemia and hypercapnia, which have important effects on the respiratory and cardiovascular systems and pose a major threat to the central nervous system. As burial time increases, an avalanche victim also develops hypothermia. Despite progressively reduced metabolism, reduced oxygen and increased carbon dioxide tensions may exacerbate the pathophysiological consequences of hypothermia. Hypercapnia seems to be the main cause of cardiovascular instability, which, in turn, is the major reason for reduced cerebral oxygenation despite reductions in cerebral metabolic activity caused by hypothermia. 'Triple H syndrome' refers to the interaction of hypoxia, hypercapnia and hypothermia in a buried avalanche victim. Future studies should investigate how the respiratory gases entrapped in the porous snow structure influence the physiological responses of buried individuals and how haemoconcentration, blood viscosity and cell deformability affect blood flow and oxygen delivery. Attention should also be devoted to identifying strategies to prolong avalanche survival by either mitigating hypoxia and hypercapnia or reducing core temperature so that neuroprotection occurs before the onset of cerebral hypoxia.

The Carbon Stocks Estimation on Tangga Community Forests of Lombok Utara

Forests are one of the largest carbon dioxide absorbers, the forest's function as a carbon dioxide absorber causes an increase in greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, and carbon dioxide is stored in forest biomass. Forest development to increase carbon dioxide absorption can be carried out in state forest areas or private forests, which also include community forests. This research aims to estimate carbon stocks in the Tangga community forest (HKm) , in the Tangga HKm, Lombok utara, NTB. This research uses quantitative methods. The data collected is standing vegetation data. Standing vegetation data includes saplings, poles and trees by measuring diameter and height using purposive sampling collection techniques. Carbon stocks are estimated using the allometric equation formula. The total carbon reserves in the HKm Tangga obtained from each stand were 9.972,11 ton/ha. The highest carbon stock value is at the tree level with a value of 8.785,08 tons/ha, followed by the sapling level at 731,34 ton/ha, and the pole level at 455,69 tons/ha with the highest amount at the candlenut tree level (Aleurites moluccana) at 2.200,63 ton/ha and the lowest was the breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis) with a value of 1,96 ton/ha.

The Role of Modified Atmosphere Packaging in Reducing Postharvest Losses a

Modified Atmosphere Storage (MAS) and Packaging (MAP) are advanced preservation technologies widely utilized in the post-harvest handling of fruits, vegetables, and poultry products to extend shelf life, maintain quality, and reduce spoilage. These methods involve altering the atmospheric composition within storage or packaging environments, typically by reducing oxygen levels and increasing carbon dioxide concentrations. The three main gases utilized in food processing are carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen (N2), and oxygen (O2). The majority of fresh fruits, vegetables, and food items are made using various combinations of two or three of these gases, depending on what the demands of the particular product are. Generally, a 30–60% CO2 split is utilized for non-respiring items, where microbial growth is the primary spoiling characteristic. The remaining amount can either be pure N2 (for foods sensitive to O2) or a combination of N2 and O2. In order to minimize the respiration rate, around 5% CO2 and O2 are often employed for respiring products gas level, with N2 making up the remaining amount. This creates conditions that slow down metabolic activities, microbial growth, and oxidative reactions. For fruits and vegetables, MAS and MAP help in delaying ripening, reducing respiration rates, and maintaining texture and nutritional value. In the case of poultry products, these technologies are crucial in minimizing microbial contamination, preventing spoilage, and maintaining sensory attributes such as colour, flavour, and tenderness.

Effect of nano-silica on the flexural behavior and mechanical properties of self-compacted high-performance concrete (SCHPC) produced by cement CEM II/A-P (experimental and numerical study)

The extensive use of cement exacerbates the greenhouse effect by increasing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. So, many standards recommend using Portland-composite cement in construction as one of the methods for reducing CO2 emissions, especially cement CEM II/A-P. This paper presents an extensive experimental and numerical study to investigate the effect of micro and nano-silica on the flexural behavior and mechanical properties of Self-Compacted High-Performance Concrete (SCHPC) produced by cement CEM II/A-P. The extensive experimental work consisted of eight mixtures: three with micro-silica (MS), four with nano-silica (NS), and a reference mixture without silica. For both MS and NS, different percentages of adding or replacement content were tested to study their effect on the following: (a) the workability of fresh concrete, (b) concrete compressive strength, (c) splitting tensile strength, (d) flexural behavior including flexural tensile strength, and (e) the optimum percentage of each of the MS and NS to get the maximum structural and economic benefits of using for SCHPC with CEM II/A-P. Also, through a statistical program, these experimental results were used to obtain accurate formulae that could predict both the splitting tensile strength (fsp) and modulus of rupture (fctr) for SCHPC with adding nano-silica. In addition, the numerical study verified the experimental results based on the finite element program ANSYS. The flexure behavior of SCHPC beams is verified using the Microplane model (recently added to ANSYS). The experimental results showed that adding NS is more effective than replacing or adding MS for SCHPC mixture with CEM II/A-P to increase the concrete compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, and flexural tensile strength, especially for the mixture with adding NS content of 4 %. The numerical results showed the ability of the coupled damage-plasticity microplane model to simulate the flexural behavior of the tested SCHPC beams with MS or NS well. This research confirms nano-silica's structural and economical efficiency in the behavior of SCHPC beams. It was found that the optimum percentage of adding NS is 4 % for SCHPC mixtures with CEM II/A-P.

Biomass, carbon stock and carbon dioxide sequestration by trees outside forests: A case study from Puducherry, India

Trees outside forests (ToF) play a vital role in reducing carbon from industrial activities and vehicles by sequestering and storing atmospheric Co2 generated as biomass. However, there is a scarcity of studies quantifying the biomass and carbon stock in the ToFs. To bridge this gap, we conducted a study on the potential of biomass and carbon dioxide sequestration in trees planted in Puducherry. Our findings show that the total above-ground biomass of adult trees in the city was 1926.03 Megagram (Mg), while belowground biomass was 244.47 Mg. The total carbon stored in adult trees was 966.53 Mg, while the volume of sequestered CO2 was 3547.17 Mg in the study area. To increase carbon dioxide sequestration in Puducherry town, we recommend increasing urban green cover and planting more fast-growing native species.

FORECASTING THE DYNAMICS OF POPULATIONS OF HARMFUL INSECTS AND PATHOGENS OF WOODY PLANTS OF THE FOREST-STEPPE OF UKRAINE IN THE CONTEXT OF CLIMATE CHANGE

Climate change is one of the most pressing issues facing humanity. The emergence of dry tree patches in various parts of the globe indicates the global nature of processes related to planetary cycles and climate change. This is likely linked to various factors, including warming trends, changes in precipitation patterns, sea level rise, and alterations in ocean currents. To achieve the goal of this article, through empirical and analytical research methods, we analyzed contemporary scientific publications. We found that the projected spread of insect pests, parasites, and pathogens among tree species is increasingly concerning experts. Forest drying is a problem for both Europe and Ukraine, where the area affected by pine wilt has encompassed the Forest-Steppe region and spread to other natural zones. The paper highlights the pertinent issue of analyzing factors contributing to the weakening and deterioration of the sanitary condition of Forest-Steppe trees in Ukraine. Researchers predict significant climate changes in the near future. Due to such changes, insect pests and other pathogens may inflict even greater damage to forest plants. Climate change, particularly increased carbon dioxide emissions and warming, frequent droughts, and temperature fluctuations, affect pest populations. Common diseases of Forest-Steppe trees in Ukraine include those caused by insects, fungi, and bacteria. For instance, the most widespread affliction in forests is root rot (Fomes aппosus Fr., Heterobasidion annosum (Fr.) Bref.). Plants also suffer considerable damage from nematodes and viruses. The publication examines the impact of climate change (temperature, humidity, etc.) on the biology and ecology of insect pests and explores the potential use of modern monitoring technologies for pests and forecasting tools. Thus, projected climate changes can cause warming, altering the quantitative, qualitative, and temporal characteristics of precipitation. In this way, global climate changes affect water availability in soil, atmospheric water vapor flows, and hydrological processes. Many pests are sensitive to changes in precipitation and temperature, leading to shifts in their populations.

Bioethanol Production from Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) by Microwave-Assisted Acid Hydrolysis Pretreatment

The world's high consumption of fossil energy increases carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. The depletion of fossil fuel sources, combined with rising CO2 emissions, has prompted intensive research into renewable energy sources. Bioethanol is an environmentally friendly energy source that has the potential to reduce reliance on gasoline. Bioethanol is produced through the fermentation of monosaccharides. The first and second generations of bioethanol are derived, respectively, from food crops, agricultural waste, and plantations, while the third generation is derived from algae. However, the third generation bioethanol research is still being conducted intensively to develop an optimal process. Macro/microalgae are low-level plants that have the potential to become raw materials for bioethanol. Arthrospira platensis, a spirulina species, is a microalgae with a high carbohydrate content. Apart from that, this type of microalgae is easy to cultivate and grow. This research aims to determine the reducing sugar content which are monosaccharides produced from acid hydrolysis using a microwave at a temperature of 100 °C for 60 – 120 minutes with 0.2 M H2SO4 as the solvent. The hydrolysate obtained was then fermented anaerobically with Saccharomyces cerevisiae in a shaking water bath. The High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) test was carried out to identify the reducing sugar groups in the hydrolysate. Moreover, the solid content of the biochar remaining from the hydrolysis process was analyzed using Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectrometer (FTIR). From the test results, it was found that the highest concentration of D-glucose (1.19 g/L) occurred at 90 minutes of the hydrolysis. In addition, the hydrolysis of microalgae was also carried out with 0.3 M H2SO4 solvent for 90 minutes. The hydrolysate was then fermented for 96 hours. From the distillation process, it was obtained a bioethanol yield of 2.89%.