Industrial Discharges Research Articles

Ecological Disturbances and Adaptation of Mangroves in High-Disturbance Urban Areas of Navi Mumbai in India

Mangroves are coastal ecosystems characterized by salt-tolerant intertidal forest structures that serve as vital buffer zones between the coastal waters and human habitats. They expose an evolutionary course spanning around 60 million years, leading to the emergence of tailored adaptations like salt-excreting glands and prop roots. Despite widespread acknowledgment of their value, mangroves are swiftly declining due to coastal development and climate change. Rapid urbanization has increased anthropogenic pressures on these ecosystems, yet comprehensive assessments of their resilience in highly disturbed environments remain limited. This study looks at the ecological health of mangrove populations across three sites in Navi Mumbai, areas facing high urban and industrial growth. The analysis revealed elevated Zn (-0.88, p < 0.001), Cu (-0.73, p < 0.01), Pb (-0.70, p < 0.05), and Mn (-0.76, p < 0.01) correlating with reduced plant height, alongside consistently acidic water pH (mean = 5.93) and high salinity (range: 35–40 PSU). These conditions amplify metal mobility and toxicity, disrupting pneumatophore function, and lowering DO (mean = 3.8 mg/L), reflecting ecological degradation. Despite these stressors, mangrove populations exhibited decent growth traits, demonstrating a capacity for urban adaptation. Regulations of industrial discharge to reduce heavy metal specifically zinc contamination, coupled with targeted restoration efforts focusing on enhancing mangrove density and structural integrity, are essential to sustain these ecosystems.

Profiling Unveils the Microbial Composition of Urban River Tributaries: Impact of Human Activities on Water Quality

ABSTRACT Anthropogenic activities exert significant pressure on aquatic ecosystems, often compromising water quality and public health. This study investigated microbial communities in four tributaries of the Bogotá River in Colombia by sampling at two points: upstream (near the source) and downstream (near the Bogotá River mouth). The Bogotá River, a critical waterway in Colombia, faces pollution from industrial, agricultural, and urban discharges. Using a combination of traditional physicochemical and microbiological analyses with shotgun metagenomics, we assessed the impact of human activities on water quality and microbial composition. Results revealed diverse microbial communities, including species with bioremediation potential (e.g., Acidovorax sp., Dechloromonas aromatica, and Polaromonas naphthalenivorans), predominantly in upstream samples. Conversely, downstream samples contained a higher abundance of potentially pathogenic species (e.g., Acinetobacter johnsonii and Pseudomonas aeruginosa). Molecular markers indicating health risks were identified, including genes like adeF (associated with fluoroquinolone resistance) and tetO (linked to tetracycline resistance), commonly used in human and veterinary medicine. Metagenome-assembled genomes were reconstructed for Aliarcobacter cryaerophilus, Acinetobacter johnsonii, and Succinivibrio sp., providing deeper insights into the genetic and functional potential of these species. Our findings highlight the deteriorated water quality in downstream areas, reflecting the impact of human activities and underscoring the need for effective water management strategies to restore ecosystem health. This study provides a foundational understanding of microbial diversity in Bogotá River tributaries, essential for future monitoring and mitigation efforts.

Distribution Characteristics and Formation Mechanism of Main Hydrochemical Ions in Qingshui River

Qingshui River is a vital source for human life and industrial production in Zhangjiakou City. Determination of the formation mechanism of the main hydrochemical ions is important for the sustainable development and utilization of surface water resources in the Qingshui River. In view of this, 20 surface water samples were collected from the agricultural and urban reaches of the Qingshui River in July 2022. Based on the detection of hydrochemical ions and stable isotopes （δ2H-H2O and δ18O-H2O）, the hydrogeochemical methods, multivariate statistical analysis, and positive matrix factorization model （PMF） were used to comprehensively understand the chemical formation mechanism of surface water from qualitative to quantitative perspectives. The results showed that the average pH value in the Qingshui River was 8.66, indicating weakly alkaline water. The average concentrations of cations and anions decreased in the orders of Ca2+ > Na+ > Mg2+ > K+ > NH4+ and HCO3- > SO42- > NO3- > Cl- > F- > NO2- in the river water, respectively. The main hydrochemical type was identified as HCO3-Ca·Mg water. For the natural background, surface water was mainly controlled by rock weathering and evaporation crystallization and rock weathering was identified as the primary driving factor. The main hydrochemical compositions in the Qingshui River were derived from the dissolution of carbonate rocks and silicate rocks. Regarding anthropogenic activities, the portions of river water in the agricultural reaches were mainly affected by the excessive application of chemical fertilizers. Furthermore, the concentration of NO3- （1.88-47.4 mg·L-1） exceeded the standard for drinking purposes （10 mg·L-1）. The concentration of F- （0.38-1.92 mg·L-1） was above the acceptable limit for drinking purposes （1.0 mg·L-1） in the southern urban reaches portion of the river water, which could have been attributed to the industrial sewage discharge. The obtained results from the PMF model showed that the hydrochemical compositions in the river water of agricultural reaches were mainly controlled by four factors, namely synthetic fertilizers （29.6%）, livestock manure （16.4%）, rock weathering （17.4%）, and natural geology （13.7%）, while hydrochemical compositions in the river water of urban reaches were mainly affected by the domestic pollutants （30.5%）, industrial discharges （20.1%）, natural geology （18.4%）, and rock weathering （16.7%）.

Ecological risk and chemical speciation of heavy metals in surface sediments of the Pearl River Estuary for comprehensive assessment

The Pearl River Estuary, a vital ecological and economic zone in Southern China, has been heavily impacted by industrial discharges, leading to significant heavy metal contamination. To address the ecological implications of different chemical forms of heavy metals, this study systematically evaluated the total concentrations and chemical speciation of Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb in surface sediments (0–2 cm) collected from 17 sites. Chemical speciation was determined using a modified BCR sequential extraction procedure, and pollution and ecological risks were assessed via the geo-accumulation index (Igeo), potential ecological risk index (RI), and risk assessment code (RAC). The results showed that all four metals exceeded background values, with Cd presenting the highest enrichment (39 times) and contributing 97% of the ecological risk. Speciation analysis revealed that Cd predominantly exists in bioavailable forms, posing severe ecological threats. This study highlights the urgent need for targeted remediation strategies to mitigate Cd contamination and its ecological impact on the estuary.

Groundwater Quality of the Lower Rio Bravo Aquifer in the Northern Zone of Tamaulipas

Objective: The main objective is to evaluate the quality of groundwater used by the population of the ejidos of Reynosa, Tamaulipas. These wells are used for domestic consumption in rural households and for irrigation of sorghum crops in rainfed agriculture systems. Theoretical Framework: Water supply sources in the northern region of Tamaulipas are experiencing a progressive depletion due to the scarcity of rainfall and the high temperatures characteristic of the region. This challenge is compounded by population growth, which has increased the demand for water. One possible solution to this problem is the exploitation of groundwater resources. However, monitoring activities on the quality of this resource are sporadic, with records dating back to 2006, and in the municipalities of Reynosa and Río Bravo there is almost no culture within the framework of good management practices for sustainable development in the use of groundwater in the lower Río Bravo basin. Method: The approach for the analysis of water quality is carried out in wells located in the northern region of the municipalities of Reynosa and Río Bravo, Tamaulipas, through the linkage with the president of Rural Development District 156 to take samples in wells that are mostly used to supply water to crops and, in some cases, for cleaning activities in farms. Specifically, a detailed physicochemical analysis of the water resource is carried out with the purpose of issuing an opinion on its quality, which will make it possible to determine its potential uses and establish guidelines for sustainable and adequate management in its exploitation. Results and Discussion: In the northern region of the state of Tamaulipas, the use of land for agriculture and the exploitation of the oil industry has been constantly punished. It is a latent fact that agricultural activity represents a significant risk of salinization and groundwater contamination due to the intensive use of agrochemicals. This risk is exacerbated by urban growth, which contributes to water resource contamination through industrial discharges and bacteriological contamination from inadequate wastewater management in population centers. These activities are the main sources of deterioration of groundwater quality and have worsened over time. In addition, the geological context of the region, characterized by stratigraphic formations with natural salinity, further contributes to the complexity of this problem. Research Implications: The results obtained in the development of the project highlight the need for continuous monitoring of economic activities and population growth in the region, to avoid contamination of the aquifer to such levels that for a possible use, specific techniques would have to be implemented that would increase the cost of the water resource, as well as its disposal. Originality/Value: The study of water quality in the aquifer of Río Bravo in the northern region of Mexico represents a considerable challenge, since it is an area affected by problems of insecurity, which makes sampling difficult. However, safe and reliable access to farms and ranches in the area was possible with the cooperation of their owners. This made it possible to carry out adequate sampling and obtain accurate in situ parameters, guaranteeing the veracity of the data obtained.

P25 and Rutile Titania in Photocatalytic Degradation of Phenol and Methylene Blue

Phenolic compounds, dyes, and their derivatives are prevalent organic pollutants in surface waters due to industrial activities, effluent discharge, and agricultural runoff. In this context, this study aimed to evaluate the photocatalytic activity of commercial P25 TiO2 (TiO2-P25) and rutile TiO2 (TiO2-R) solids for the degrading phenol and methylene blue dye in a batch reactor under UV-C irradiation at 256 nm. X-ray diffraction data confirm the predominant presence of the anatase phase in TiO2-P25 and the rutile phase in TiO2-R. Significant difference in crystallite size and specific area (SBET) between the samples were linked to their commercial synthesis method. The results demonstrated that TiO2-P25 exhibited higher photocatalytic activity than TiO2-R due to differences in band gap. The use of a 15W lamp further enhanced this efficiency. For phenol degradation, TiO2-P25 obtained 57% conversion at 9W and an 11% increase in the initial concentration at 15W, while TiO2-R showed lower efficiency. In photolysis, minimal conversion was observed. Total organic carbon (TOC) data suggest that photocatalysis generates organic metabolites rather than achieving complete mineralization, leading to the accumulation of intermediates in the effluent, particularly with the 15W lamp.

Foraging in contrasting oceanographic regions impacts the fatty acid profile of two closely related pelagic seabirds

Coastal urbanisation negatively affects marine ecosystems through habitat degradation and pollution. Cory’s (Calonectris borealis) and Scopoli’s (C. diomedea) shearwaters are closely related species inhabiting the Northeast Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, respectively. This study assesses the fatty acid profile, with the trophic and foraging ecology, of Cory’s and Scopoli’s shearwaters breeding at Berlenga (Atlantic Ocean) and Chafarinas (Mediterranean Sea) Islands. The diet quality of Scopoli’s shearwaters is expected to be generally lower, characterised by reduced levels of ω-3 fatty acids. Additionally, higher concentrations of specific fatty acid trophic markers are anticipated, reflecting the Mediterranean's semi-enclosed environment, low productivity, and pollution challenges. These markers include oleic acid, vaccenic acid, trans fatty acids (indicative of urban and industrial discharges), and odd-chain fatty acids (indicative of bacterial presence). This study supported these predictions, with Scopoli’s shearwaters foraging in the Mediterranean having higher concentrations of oleic and vaccenic acids, odd-chain fatty acids, and trans-palmitoleic acid in their plasma. Yet, concentrations of ω-3 were also higher in Scopoli’s shearwaters. This may result from diverse prey availability and selection, and different habitat exploitation, partially supported by differences in the trophic ecology and foraging patterns of both species; or from an enhanced immunological basal response of Scopoli’s shearwaters to cope with higher anthropogenic pressure in the western Mediterranean Sea. Further studies including specific diet and contaminant analyses are crucial to understand differences in fatty acid profiles of seabirds inhabiting both oceanic basins and the implications of diet quality for seabird populations.

Stable Isotope Ratio and Elemental Analysis (CNS) in Mangrove Leaves in the Creek Ecosystem: An Indicator of Coastal Marine Pollution

AbstractThe stable isotopes ratio and elemental composition in the mangrove leaves are excellent indicators for coastal marine pollution. The present study investigated the composition of Carbon, Nitrogen, and Sulfur, δ13C and δ15N values in mangrove leaves to identify the source of pollution and energy to the mangroves in the creek ecosystem of Mumbai Harbour Bay. The oxygen and hydrogen stable isotope ratios (δ18O and δ2H) of leaf water were estimated to understand the relative contribution of freshwater and seawater to the mangrove's water source. The Carbon, Nitrogen and Sulfur contents were found to vary from 37.79 to 42.55% (Average: 40.06 ± 1.54%), 2.13–3.79% (Average: 2.94 ± 0.45%) and 0.37–0.81% (Average: 0.53 ± 0.14%) in the mangrove leaves, respectively. The δ13C and δ15N values were found to vary from − 30.43 to − 28.41‰ (Average: − 29.46 ± 0.74‰) and from − 2.67 to 5.54‰ (Average: 2.21 ± 3.20%), respectively. The δ18O and δ2H values were found to vary from − 2.7 to 0.83‰ and − 6.86 to 5.43‰ with an average of − 0.94 ± 0.83 and − 2.03 ± 3.52‰ respectively. According to the observed δ18O and δ2H values, mangroves in the northern part had a relatively higher contribution of freshwater input compared to southern part of the study area. The lower values of δ15N towards the northern end of the creek indicate a relatively higher contribution of nitrogen from industrial discharges. Similar values of δ13C in mangrove in the region suggest a common source of carbon. Mangroves found near discharge locations have different elemental composition and δ15N values compared to those mangroves that are not located near discharge location. These differences can be used as potential markers to identify the coastal marine pollution. The results of the present study may be used for developing rational approaches for protection and conservation of the mangrove ecosystem in the bay.

Identification and apportionment of groundwater pollution sources in the Guanzhong region based on PMF model

Identifying pollution sources and measuring their impact is essential for protecting groundwater. Groundwater pollution sources in the Guanzhong region were identified using the positive matrix decomposition (PMF) model, and their contributions were quantified. The spatial distribution of socio-economic factors (population, GDP, fertilizer use, farmland, and livestock) was analyzed. Redundancy and correlation analyses were used to assess the impact of land use on groundwater quality. The results showed that the primary groundwater physicochemical constituents exceeding the standard limits were, in descending order, NO3 −, Na+, TDS, F−, SO4 2−, and Cl−, and the most polluted areas were found in the eastern and southern parts of the study area. Land use and socio-economic factors can have diverse impacts on groundwater quality. Five main sources responsible for groundwater quality deterioration in the Guanzhong were comprehensively identified, i.e., agricultural nonpoint sources, domestic pollution from urban and rural development, natural release of fluorine from stratigraphic minerals as well as coal mine storage and combustion, industrial discharges, and water-rock reactions. Natural release from minerals and industrial discharges are the major causes of groundwater degradation in the study area, which is followed by water-rock reactions, agriculture, and domestic pollution.

The Characteristics, Sources, and Health Risks of Volatile Organic Compounds in an Industrial Area of Nanjing

This study investigates the chemical complexity and toxicity of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from national petrochemical industrial parks and their effects on air quality in an industrial area of Nanjing, China. Field measurements were conducted from 1 December 2022, to 17 April 2023, focusing on VOC concentrations and speciations, diurnal variations, ozone formation potential (OFP), source identification, and associated health risks. The results revealed an average total VOC (TVOC) concentration of 15.9 ± 12.9 ppb and an average OFP of 90.1 ± 109.5 μg m−3. Alkanes constituted the largest fraction of VOCs, accounting for 44.1%, while alkenes emerged as the primary contributors to OFP, comprising 52.8%. TVOC concentrations peaked before dawn, a pattern attributed to early morning industrial activities and nighttime heavy vehicle operations. During periods classified as clean, when ozone levels were below 160 μg m−3, both TVOC (15.9 ± 12.9 ppb) and OFP (90.4 ± 110.0 μg m−3) concentrations were higher than those during polluted hours. The analysis identified the key sources of VOC emissions, including automobile exhaust, oil and gas evaporation, and industrial discharges, with additional potential pollution sources identified in adjacent regions. Health risk assessments indicated that acrolein exceeded the non-carcinogenic risk threshold at specific times. Moreover, trichloromethane, 1,3-butadiene, 1,2-dichloroethane, and benzene were found to surpass the acceptable lifetime carcinogenic risk level (1 × 10−6) during certain periods. These findings highlight the urgent need for enhanced monitoring and regulatory measures aimed at mitigating VOC emissions and protecting public health in industrial areas. In the context of complex air pollution in urban industrial areas, policymakers should focus on controlling industrial and vehicle emissions, which can not only reduce secondary pollution, but also inhibit the harm of toxic substances on human health.

Highly Efficient Oil-Water Separation in Different Scenarios through Synergistic Self-Assembly of ZIF-67@PPy Coatings with Unique Wetting Properties.

In recent years, oil pollution and industrial organic pollutants discharge has become a major problem affecting the ecological and human living environment, and the removal of oil in oily wastewater is increasingly urgent, especially for emulsion separation. Therefore, it is crucial to develop efficient oil-water separation membranes with low cost, green sustainability, and ease of operation. Herein, an ingenious spraying hybrid coatings containing ZIF-67 (Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework-67) and polypyrrole (PPy) onto stainless steel mesh (SSM) and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) was proposed. Through solidification and cooperative self-assembly to build rough structures, oil-water separation membranes ZIF-67@PPy SSM and ZIF-67@PPy PVDF have been obtained, which are hydrophilic and oleophilic in air and superoleophobic underwater. Depending on the scenario, on-demand separation of light oil/water mixtures and oil-in-water emulsions can be easily realized. The resulting oil-water separation membranes performed well that the separation efficiency of ZIF-67@PPy SSM can exceed 99.3% for all kinds of light oil/water mixtures, with a water flux of up to 66250 L/(m2·h), and maintains a separation efficiency of 98.5% even after 50 cycles. ZIF-67@PPy PVDF has a separation efficiency of more than 99.4% for various oil-in-water emulsions, and sustains outstanding performance despite undergoing 10 cycles. In addition, ZIF-67@PPy SSM and ZIF-67@PPy PVDF are sustainable in harsh environments, with good mechanical durability and some antimicrobial properties. The coatings prepared in this work that can be used for the separation of light oil/water mixtures and oil-in-water emulsions, and the proposed combination of multiple separation strategies are expected to improve the selectivity, improve efficiency, enhance contamination resistance, and increase accessibility of oil-water separation technologies.

Pollution analysis of metals in the sediments of lagoon lakes in Türkiye: Toxicological risk assessment and source insights

This study addresses gaps in understanding the distribution, sources, and health risks of potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in the sediments of lagoon lakes Akgöl and Simenit in Türkiye. Sediment samples from 16 locations were analyzed for Fe, Cu, Mn, Zn, Cr, Ni, As, Pb, Cd, and Hg. Findings indicate higher concentrations of Fe and Mn in Simenit Lake and elevated levels of Cr and Ni in both lakes. The Enrichment Factor (EF), Contamination Factor (CF), and Pollution Load Index (PLI) were used to evaluate contamination levels in sediments, while sediment quality guidelines and the Potential Ecological Risk Index (PERI) assessed ecotoxicological risks. Results reveal moderate to high pollution in Simenit Lake, particularly for Cr and Ni, with Cd posing a significant ecological risk. Health risk assessments showed non-carcinogenic risks (Hazard Index, HI > 1) for children, especially in Simenit Lake (HI = 1.10). Carcinogenic risks from Cr and Ni were within acceptable limits; however, Simenit Lake exhibited higher Total Cancer Risk (TCR) values for Cr (5.40E-05) and Ni (1.37E-04), indicating a low but notable risk. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA) identified industrial discharge and agricultural runoff as primary contamination sources. These findings highlight the need for targeted management strategies to mitigate health and ecological risks in these vulnerable aquatic systems.

Advancements in Understanding Beryllium Contamination: Novel Insights Into Environmental Risk Assessment

ABSTRACTBeryllium (Be), a lightweight metal with significant industrial applications, poses notable environmental and health risks due to its toxicity and persistence, and widespread use, particularly in the mechanical, aerospace, and electronics sectors. It is commonly alloyed with other heavy metals to enhance material properties. The primary environmental pathways for Be release include emissions from coal and fossil fuels combustion, as well as the incineration of solid wastes. Once introduced into the natural environment, primarily Be associated with soil particles and sediments, particularly in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. This review examined the pathways through which Be enters the environment, including atmospheric deposition, industrial discharge, and leaching from natural geologic deposits. The paper highlights the bioavailability and mobility of Be in soil and water systems, emphasizing the geochemical and physical factors influencing its persistence and potential for bioaccumulation. Risk appraisal methodologies are evaluated, with a focus on human exposure routes, including inhalation of airborne particulates and ingestion of contaminated water and food. The toxicological impacts on human health are critically analyzed, detailing both acute and chronic effects, such as respiratory diseases and carcinogenicity. This review evaluates existing regulatory frameworks and remediation strategies, assessing their efficacy in mitigating environmental contamination and exposure to Be. By integrating interdisciplinary research, this paper provides an in‐depth understanding of the environmental behavior and toxicology of beryllium, offering insights that can inform robust policy frameworks and shape future research directions.

Occurrence, migration, and assessment of human health and ecological risks of PFASs and EDCs in groundwater of Northeast China

Northeast China as an important base of grain production in China, has been suffering from potential groundwater pollution due to the excessive and prolonged application of fertilizers and pesticides. However, exploration of emerging contaminants pollution in groundwater and assessment of human health and ecological risks caused by large-scale agricultural activities have been relatively scarce. This study collected groundwater samples from typical agricultural areas in Northeast China to investigate the extent of contamination by nitrate, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) and endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs), and then compared the levels of these pollutants with those in other regions of China. Groundwater nitrate pollution caused by strong agricultural activity is widespread in Northeast China, with nitrate-nitrogen (NO3N) concentrations exceeding 10 mg/L in as many as 40.3 % of 429 samples. 8 types of PFASs (3.7–7.1 ng/L) and 11 types of EDCs (18,114.0–62,029.8 ng/L) were detected in the collected groundwater samples. Using the Risk Quotient (RQ) method, this study assessed ecological risk and found that the risk level of perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) was higher than that of other PFASs. The groundwater EDCs risks in Northeast China was higher compared to other regions in China, with dibutyl phthalate (DBP), Di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), Bisphenol A (BPA) having high ecological risk levels. Nitrate, PFASs and EDCs have been detected in deep groundwater (70–100 m depth), indicating that the deeper aquifers could be significantly threatened by pollutants due to human activities. Fertilizers, pesticides, domestic wastewater, and industrial discharges are major sources of groundwater pollutants in the agricultural regions. Industrial-sourced EDCs were widely detected in groundwater of agricultural area, suggesting that the transport of these pollutants is very active in groundwater system. Groundwater monitoring and pollution prevention are extremely urgent, especially for emerging contaminants. This study can provide important warnings and water resource management references for other agricultural areas affected by intensively agricultural activities in the world.

Public complaints of water pollution: A long-term spatiotemporal analysis in Japan

Public complaints about water pollution are important indicators of public environmental risk perception and provide crucial feedback for evaluating the effectiveness of water resource management strategies. This study conducts a comprehensive analysis of water pollution complaints in Japan from 1989 to 2021, utilizing integrated datasets that include river networks, water quality monitoring stations, regional industrial demographics, and socioeconomic indicators. Our findings reveal a significant decline in complaints—over 45% from the peak in 2006—following the implementation of various environmental policies aimed at reducing industrial discharge and restoring natural ecosystem function. The shift in complaint targets from industries to individuals suggests that these policies have been effective in mitigating industrial pollution, while also highlighting the need to address individual behaviors that impact water quality. Despite long-term improvement in water quality indicators such as Suspended Solids (SS) and Dissolved Oxygen (DO), no significant correlation was observed between these indicators and the temporal or spatial patterns of water pollution complaints. Instead, a strong positive correlation was observed between complaints and reported water quality incidents, reflecting heightened public sensitivity to acute pollution events. Spatial analysis further identified a significant association between complaints and the manufacturing workforce, indicating that industrial activity continues to shape public perception of water pollution risks. Our findings underscore the complex interaction between public perception, environmental policies, and industrial activities, and suggest that effective water management requires a multifaceted approach. Policymakers should continue to enforce stringent industrial regulations, while also enhancing public education and communication strategies to improve awareness of individual responsibilities in water protection. This research provides a theoretical basis for developing more responsive and effective environmental policies and public education strategies.

Spatial variation in water quality of the Burhi Gandak River: a multi-location assessment

The Burhi Gandak River, a significant tributary of the Ganga River and a vital water source in Bihar, India, is facing critical water quality degradation due to rapid population growth, urbanization, and industrial activities. This study conducts a detailed water quality assessment of the river, focusing on the effects of these anthropogenic factors across different locations, seasons, and industrial zones. Water samples were collected and analyzed for key parameters, including pH, total dissolved solids (TDSs), total hardness (TH), biological oxygen demand (BOD), and dissolved oxygen (DO). The results indicate significant spatial and temporal variations, with water quality deteriorating notably in areas like Samastipur and Khagaria, where industrial and urban activities are more concentrated. For instance, BOD levels increased from 7.5 mg/L to 9.5 mg/l as the river flows through urban Samastipur, signaling a decline in water quality. Additionally, sugar mills located along the river contribute to higher pollution levels during operational months, especially in Lauria and Sugauli. Seasonal analysis shows that the lean season experiences the highest levels of degradation, while monsoon floods increase suspended solids due to sediment inflow. These findings emphasize the urgent need for improved regulation of industrial discharge and urban waste management to protect the water quality of the Burhi Gandak River and the livelihoods dependent on it.

Recent Findings on the Pollution Levels in the Romanian Black Sea Ecosystem: Implications for Achieving Good Environmental Status (GES) Under the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (Directive 2008/56/EC)

This study provides a comprehensive evaluation of contamination levels in the Romanian Black Sea within the framework of the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD). Over the course of five oceanographic expeditions between 2020 and 2022, data were gathered from 70 stations in transitional, coastal, shelf, and offshore waters of the Black Sea. Analyses were conducted on water, sediment, and biota samples for key contaminants: heavy metals (HMs), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and persistent organic pollutants (POPs) such as organochlorinated pesticides (OCPs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). The assessment identified contamination hotspots near riverine inputs, urban runoff, harbor activities, and industrial discharges. Offshore waters also showed measurable pollutant levels, likely from diffuse sources and atmospheric deposition. The key findings reveal the widespread contamination of HMs, PAHs, and POPs across the Romanian Black Sea, with concentrations in certain areas exceeding acceptable environmental thresholds, highlighting ongoing challenges for regional pollution management. PAHs were prevalent in both nearshore and offshore regions, while OCPs and PCBs were detected across various matrices, with significant concentrations observed in water and biota samples. The study emphasizes the importance of integrated assessments within the MSFD framework, suggesting that future evaluations should complement the “one out-all out” (OOAO) approach with multi-metric tools, to enhance the robustness of pollution status reporting. Despite improvements in some areas, contamination remains a critical challenge, requiring strengthened regulations, improved waste management, and increased regional cooperation to mitigate the ongoing risks to marine ecosystems. The findings provide valuable data for the upcoming national MSFD assessment cycle (2018–2023) and highlight the need for sustained monitoring and coordinated efforts to ensure long-term marine sustainability.

A critical review on heavy metal contamination in aquatic food webs by edible fish species: a special case concerning Bangladesh.

Heavy metals (HMs) are ubiquitous in terrestrial and aquatic environments due to unplanned industrial waste discharge, the release of untreated wastewater, and improper mining activities. In particular, the concentrations of HMs are found to be higher in aquatic environments. As a result, the aquatic biota was heavily affected by HM contamination. This critical review aims to understand the sources and toxicity of HMs in commercial fish species, explore their ecological exchange, and examine the related human health challenges in Bangladesh. A modified PRISMA review technique is used in this paper to analyze the current status and research limitations of HM studies in Bangladesh fish species and their toxicity within aquatic food webs. Briefly, we searched several keywords to explore the research trend of HM concentrations and toxicity in fish species. Furthermore, potential toxicity and risk assessment of HMs through the aquatic food chain in Bangladesh were explored. On the other hand, a cross-tabulation approach was used to process the toxicity findings of HMs. Previous studies indicate that fish species can possess comparatively higher HMs than river water due to ecological exchange factors, including bioaccumulation and biotransformation. This review focuses on Bangladesh, highlighting areas for improvements and the need for further study to achieve a transparent understanding of HM deposition in fish species and the sustainable management of aquatic food chain toxicity.

Seasonal occurrence and ecological risk assessment of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in the sediments and water in the left-bank canals of Indus River, Pakistan.

This study investigated a pressing environmental concern: the presence, distribution, sources, and ecological implications of sixteen polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the left-bank canals of Kotri barrage-Akram, Pinyari, and Phuleli of the Indus River in Pakistan. These vital waterways, crucial for industrial, domestic, and agricultural activities, are experiencing contamination threats from anthropogenic sources, particularly PAHs. The study collected three water and two sediment samples from each canal in pre-monsoon and post-monsoon seasons. Then the EPA's liquid-liquid extraction method and gas chromatography determined the concentrations of PAHs. The findings of this study reveal alarming contamination levels, with pre-monsoon concentrations ranging from 22.256 to 836.455ng/L in water and 1,459.941 to 43,179.243ng/g in sediments. The post-monsoon concentrations ranged from 60.352 to 5663.058ng/L in water and 2976.770 to 15,238.335ng/g in sediments. The diagnostic ratios and principal component analysis (PCA) identified multiple sources of contamination, including industrial and domestic wastewater discharge, solid waste burning, vehicular emissions, biomass combustion, and petroleum residues. Furthermore, the assessment of the toxic equivalency factor (TEF) underscored the heightened carcinogenic potential of certain PAHs, notably benzo(a)pyrene and benzo(a)anthracene. Thus, the high levels of PAH contamination pose severe health risks to both human populations and aquatic ecosystems, emphasizing the urgency of addressing this issue. Stricter regulations governing industrial and domestic waste discharge, advocacy for cleaner fuel technologies, and the implementation of effective waste management practices must be initiated as crucial strategies in safeguarding the environmental integrity of the left-bank canals and the health of the surrounding communities.

Do Fiscal Incentives Contribute to Pollution Control? Empirical Evidence from China

Given the growing concerns over environmental degradation and the demand for sustainable development, the Chinese government has implemented several fiscal incentive policies to enhance environmental governance. Taking the phased comprehensive demonstration cities of the Energy Saving and Emission Reduction Fiscal Policy (ESERFP) as an exogenous shock, this study uses a staggered difference-in-differences method to evaluate the impact of the fiscal incentive policy on pollution control using panel data from 268 prefecture-level cities in China from 2003 to 2017. The results indicate that the industrial pollutant emissions in the demonstration cities significantly decreased compared with those in the non-demonstration cities under the influence of the ESERFP. Specifically, industrial wastewater discharges in the demonstration cities decreased by 15.5% while industrial sulfur dioxide emissions decreased by 19.5%. Moreover, promoting industrial structure upgrades and green technology innovations are the main mechanisms of the ESERFP in reducing industrial pollution emissions. Furthermore, the emission-reduction effect of the ESERFP is more significant in areas with more fiscal resources, lower promotion incentives based on local economic performance, greater emphasis on environmental protection, and those with no old industrial bases. Further analysis shows that the positive effect of the ESERFP on pollution control in the demonstration cities remains relatively effective after the demonstration period ends, and the policy does not sacrifice economic dividends. Overall, this study explores the impact of fiscal incentive policies designed to achieve environmental improvements via pollution control, offering valuable fiscal policy insights for China and other developing economies seeking solutions to environmental pollution, including fiscal incentive policy formulation and implementation, fiscal incentives to support regional green transformations, improving the differentiation and precision of fiscal incentives and enhancing environmental performance assessment.