Industrial Activities Research Articles

Environmental Management in Coal Mining Companies Utilizing Wooden Pallet Waste with Wood Chipper Machines for Hydrocarbon Spill Absorbent in Maintenance Activities

Wooden pallets often accumulate as waste, potentially causing environmental problems such as pest infestation, soil and water pollution, and large-scale waste accumulation. Efficient waste management methods such as recycling are needed to reduce these impacts, especially in industrial environments. This study aims to explore the potential utilization of wood pallet waste as a hydrocarbon spill sorbent through processing with wood cutting machines at PT AMM Jobsite Mifa Bersaudara. This research involves the collection and processing of wood pallet waste using a wood chipper machine. The process includes sorting, cleaning, crushing, and packaging wood waste into powder. The tools and materials used are wood pallet shredder, hammer, crowbar, and personal protective equipment. This research follows a systematic flow from problem identification to evaluation and analysis of results. Results of the study showed that the application of wood pallet shredder machine significantly reduced the volume of wood pallet waste. From January to May 2024, the unutilized waste accumulated to 4.67 tons. After introducing the shredding process in June and July 2024, waste utilization increased, achieving an 80% reduction in solid waste. The processed wood powder was effectively used to absorb hydrocarbon spills, optimize resource use, and reduce disposal costs. This research has implications for the feasibility of converting industrial wood waste into useful products, contributing to environmental conservation and cost efficiency. It emphasizes the importance of sustainable waste management practices in reducing the environmental footprint of industrial activities while fostering employee awareness on environmental protection.

Soil health assessment of croplands adjacent to industrial areas in Coimbatore district, Tamil Nadu

Soil health is a vital determinant of agricultural productivity and the supply of essential ecosystem services, including water retention, nutrient cycling and the support of microbial communities. However, industrial activities near croplands can adversely affect soil health through contamination by pollutants such as heavy metals, chemicals and waste materials. This study evaluates the soil health of agricultural lands adjacent to industrial areas in Coimbatore district, Tamil Nadu, with an emphasis on physical, chemical and biological soil properties. A total of 128 soil samples were collected and categorized into three groups: Primary Impact Sites (PIS), Secondary Impact Sites (SIS) and Reference Soils (RS). The analysis revealed that soils in proximity to industrial zones exhibited significant degradation in key indicators, such as bulk density, water holding capacity (WHC), organic carbon (OC) content and microbial activity. Soils at Primary Impact Sites demonstrated the most pronounced decline, characterized by higher bulk density, reduced WHC and lower OC levels, indicative of poor structure of soil and diminished fertility. In contrast, soils at Secondary Impact Sites and Reference Soils exhibited better overall quality, with higher microbial activity and enhanced nutrient retention. The findings of this study emphasize the indirect effects of industrialization on agricultural productivity through soil degradation.

Mechanisms of Heavy Metal Tolerance in Bacteria: A Review

Heavy metal pollution from industrial activities and poor waste disposal poses significant environmental and health threats to humans and animals. This calls for sustainable approaches to the cleanup of heavy metals. This review explores metal tolerance mechanisms of bacteria such as the formation of biofilms, efflux systems, and enzymatic detoxification. These mechanisms allow bacteria communities to adapt and survive in contaminated environments. These adaptations are enhanced by mutations in the bacteria genes and by horizontal gene transfers, enabling bacteria species to survive under environmental stress while simultaneously contributing to nutrient cycling and the decomposition of organic matter. This review further explores the symbiotic interactions between bacteria, plants, and animals. These relationships enhance the metal tolerance ability of the different living organisms involved and are also very important in the bioremediation and phytoremediation of heavy metals. Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria, Rhizobium, and Bacillus species are very important contributors to phytoremediation; they improve heavy metal uptake, improve the growth of roots, and plants resilience to stress. Moreover, this review highlights the importance of genetically engineered bacteria in closed-loop systems for optimized metal recovery. This offers environmentally friendly and sustainable options to the traditional remediation methods. Engineered Cupriavidus metallidurans CH34 and Pseudomonas putida strain 15420352 overexpressing metallothioneins have shown enhanced metal-binding capabilities, which makes them very effective in the treatment of industrial wastewaters and in biosorption applications. The use of engineered bacteria for the cleanup of heavy metals in closed-loop systems promotes the idea of a circular economy by recycling metals, thus reducing environmental waste. Multidisciplinary research that integrates synthetic biology, microbial ecology, and environmental science is very important for the advancement of metal bioremediation technologies. This review’s analysis on bacterial metal tolerance, symbiosis, and bioengineering strategies offers a pathway to effective bioremediation options, for the reclamation of heavy metal-polluted environments while promoting sustainable environmental practices.

Innovation Through Green Paradox: An Antinomy of Green Marketing with Reference to Customers

A global study commissioned by Nielsen found that 50 percent of customers can spend extra for business products and services that have introduced projects to contribute to society. There is a segment of consumers which are called “lifestyle of health and sustainability” (Solomon, M. R., & Lowrey, T. M., 2017). These consumers are those who want those products to be produced which are not harmful to the environment and are featured to be more sustainable in nature. Such customers create a market for green products and become a part of society that are taking apartment-friendly activities. This paper consists of the following key sections. The first segment starts with a summary of the principle of green Marketing. Marketing. First, the value of green messaging for businesses is outlined, along with the introduction of the most important standards for differentiating individuals concerning their environmental behavior, in the second section. After this contextualisation, the core methodological facets of study. The third segment of the inquiry applies to the investigation. The fourth segment of the article addresses the findings. The last segment addresses some functional consequences and draws some conclusions. Globally 58% of people worldwide posit that there is more of dejection when it comes to fighting climate change rather than hope for the same signalling that governments and change makers need to address a fundamental question: How do consumers to not only care but act? Green needs to be made and sold attractive The objective of Green marketing is not causing any ill effect of industrial activities on the environment (Yan & Yazdanifard, 2014).

The Global Challenge of Fluoride Contamination: A Comprehensive Review of Removal Processes and Implications for Human Health and Ecosystems

Water resources are vital for humanity, but their quality has degraded in recent years due to increasing industrial activities. One significant issue is fluoride contamination, prevalent worldwide. Fluorides exist in combined states such as calcium fluoride, fluorapatite, and cryolite, originating from industrial processes like aluminum and fertilizer manufacturing. The World Health Organization warns against fluoride levels above 1.5 mg/L in drinking water due to health risks, including dental and skeletal fluorosis. Industrial activities also release fluoride-containing wastes into the environment, endangering ecosystems and human health. Overexposure to fluoride leads to disorders affecting organs including the kidneys, liver, and nervous system. Despite fluoride’s benefits in controlled doses, excessive intake causes health problems, as evidenced by rising dental fluorosis cases in Brazil. Thus, effective and affordable fluoride removal strategies are crucial. Various methods exist, including adsorption, membrane technology, ion exchange process, electrodialysis, and electrocoagulation. Regulation of fluoride levels in drinking water is imperative to safeguard public health from its detrimental long-term effects.

Spatial and seasonal variations in physico-chemical parameters and the water quality index at the Okhuaihe River in Ikpe Community, Edo State, Nigeria

The scarcity of clean water in rural Nigerian communities leads to dependence on streams and rivers which are often polluted by domestic and industrial activities distorting the quality of water. Freshwater ecosystems, which are important for global biodiversity, are constantly burdened with threats from environmental changes as well as human misuse. This study was aimed at investigating the spatial and temporal variations of physico-chemical parameters and the water quality index (WQI) of the Okhuaihe River in Ikpe, Edo state, Nigeria, used for different domestic activities. The study assessed parameters like air and water temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, flow rate, total dissolved solids, phosphate, chloride, iron, zinc, and manganese at four stations over a six-month period. Samples such as air and water temperature and pH were collected and measured in situ, while others were collected using polyethylene bottles and a 250 ml amber bottle for biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5). Results indicated that while some physico-chemical parameters like the width, the flow rate, and phosphate showed considerable differences, most did not differ significantly. Temporally, there were significant seasonal variations in air temperature, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, chloride, iron, zinc, and manganese. The WQI calculations showed that the water quality at all stations was within safe limits for human consumption and supported aquatic life. Despite some fluctuations due to seasonal changes and anthropogenic activities, the overall quality remained suitable for domestic use. This underscores the importance of constant monitoring and management of water resources to allay pollution and ensure sustainable water supply in rural communities.

Assessing the Water Quality and Its Influence on the Chlorophyll-a Concentration in the Karnaphuli River Estuary

The Karnaphuli river, essential for the economy and biodiversity of Bangladesh, faces increasing threat due to the proximity of industries, necessitating regular water quality monitoring to safeguard both environmental and economic interests. Hence, this study investigates the nutrient distribution and physicochemical parameters (pH, temperature, turbidity, dissolved oxygen, and electric conductivity) in relation to the chlorophyll a dynamics in the Karnaphuli river estuary during the monsoon season for evaluating water quality in the river estuary, stretching about 42 kilometres. Surface and deep-water samples have been collected from five different stations. Nutrients, chlorophyll concentration, and dissolved oxygen have been evaluated using a Continuous Flow Autoanalyzer, spectrophotometer, and DO kit, respectively, while electric conductivity, temperature, turbidity, and pH have been measured using a CTD tool. Spatial mapping and correlation analysis have been conducted as well. Temperature and pH values didn’t show much fluctuation within the sampling stations falling within the range of 29°C-31°C and 6.5-7.5, respectively. Positive correlation of pH with ammonia at surface water (r=92) indicates that the effluents of ammonia plants are the primary source of pH in river water. TSP plant effluent has been shown to cause turbidity, evident from the positive correlation between phosphate and turbidity both at surface and deep water (r=91). Increase in turbidity (562.1 NTU) resulted in a decrease in dissolved oxygen (3 mg/L), which poses a serious threat to the survival of aquatic life, including fish, in the river downstream. Decreased water quality at river downstream is evident by comparatively low chlorophyll presence of 1.5 μg/L. However, the shallow coastal region in the study area is indicative of a healthy aquatic ecosystem evident by the presence of high productivity indicated by high chlorophyll concentration of 8.9 μg/L, which is due to comparatively low levels of turbidity and also the water condition there met the standard DO for fisheries (>5mg/L). The findings underscore the critical importance of regular water quality monitoring in the Karnaphuli river to safeguard both the environment and economy of Bangladesh, urging collective action to mitigate the escalating threats posed by industrial activities and ensure the long-term sustainability of the river ecosystem. The Dhaka University Journal of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Vol. 13(1), 2024, P 91-104

Investigating Oil Entrance from Hendijan Oil Field in the Northwest of the Persian Gulf Using Chemical Fingerprinting.

Concerning the entrance of oil into the Persian Gulf due to the presence of oil fields in this ecosystem, a wide investigation was carried out in 2017 to evaluate the hydrocarbons source identification and chemical fingerprinting. To this end, surface sediments were collected from the Persian Gulf. In the laboratory, compounds (n-alkanes, PAHs, hopane and sterane) were then extracted with a Soxhlet system and two steps of chromatographic columns and analyzed using a GC-MS instrument. The results showed that the concentrations of the n-alkanes and Σ30 PAHs increased with a reduction in distance from hot spots. This suggests that high concentrations of hydrocarbons in the locations near the hot spots might be due to oil leakage, transportation of and exploration for oil, pipeline fractures and industrial activities. A positive relation between total organic matter (TOM) and hydrocarbons was observed. A common petrogenic hydrocarbon source was strongly implied in most places by the presence of unresolved compounds resolved (UCM), lower molecular weight/higher molecular weight (LMW/HMW) and carbon preference index (CPI) ratios < 1. Typical profiles of petrogenic PAHs with predominant alkyl substituted naphthalene and phenanthrene, various PAH ratios and multivariate analysis showed that PAHs were mainly derived from petrogenic sources. Simultaneous use of n-alkanes and PAHs in source identification can be effective to precisely specify the hydrocarbon sources in complicated mixture ecosystems. Furthermore, using multivariate analysis and chemical fingerprinting of n-alkanes, PAHs, hopanes and sterane confirmed that Hendijan crude oil may be the source of the sediment pollution in the study area.

Research on Factors Influencing Global Carbon Emissions and Forecasting Models

Investigating the determinants of global carbon emissions and developing carbon emission models are essential to meet the 2050 carbon neutrality goal. This paper initially examines the primary factors shaping global carbon emissions over the past two decades, employing case studies and panel data analysis. Subsequently, a CNN-LSTM carbon emissions prediction model is established using data from Hebei Province, China, spanning from 2005 to 2022. This study reveals that global carbon emissions are predominantly affected by elements such as population, economic growth, industrial activities, energy consumption, environmental conditions, and technological advancements. By incorporating these variables, the CNN-LSTM model proposed in this research significantly enhances the average relative accuracy of carbon emission forecasts, thereby contributing substantially to global efforts in energy conservation and emission reduction.

Distribution characteristics, sources and risk assessment of heavy metal(oid)s in road dust from a typical lead-zinc mining area in South China.

Although the construction of green mines has effectively reduced soil pollution issues, dust contaminants continue to pose potential risks to human health and environment. This study investigated the concentrations, sources, and human health risks of metal(oid)s present in road dust across different functional zones of the largest lead-zinc mine in Guangdong Province, China, namely the Fankou lead-zinc mine. First, a systematic collection of 45 dust samples from six functional zones was conducted, focusing on the concentrations of ten heavy metal(oid)s (HMs), including As, Cd, Pb, and Zn etc. The results indicate that mining and smelting activities at the Fankou lead-zinc mine dictate the accumulation and distribution of HMs in the dust across the various functional zones. Except for Mn, Cr, and Thallium (Tl), the concentrations of other HMs significantly exceed the soil background values. These HMs primarily originate from mixed sources, including natural, traffic, and industrial activities. In particular, the presence of As, Cd, Pb, and Zn in the dust resulted in moderate to severe pollution, posing extremely high potential ecological risks. Furthermore, the bioavailable concentrations of HMs in the dust were analyzed using two in vitro gastrointestinal simulation methods: Physiologically Based Extraction Test (PBET) and Simplified Bioaccessibility Extraction Test (SBET), allowing for a further assessment of metal bioavailability and estimation of (non)carcinogenic risk probabilities for humans. The bioaccessible heavy metal contents extracted through SBET and PBET were relatively low, with most samples exhibiting bioaccessibility below 40%. In comparison to the total concentrations of HMs in the dust, the estimated non-carcinogenic risks (HQ and HI) and carcinogenic risks (CR) associated with bioavailability (PBET and SBET) for As, Cd, Cu, Sb, Pb, and Zn were significantly reduced, falling within safe values for both adults and children. However, the carcinogenic risk posed by total As remains a concern for local adults and children, indicating that the potential carcinogenic risk of As should not be overlooked. Therefore, additional protective measures should be considered to reduce resident exposure to dust, particularly in the core production areas of the mining district.

Enrichment Characteristics, Risk Evaluation, and Source Apportionment of Heavy Metals in Wabu Lake of Yangtze River to Huaihe River Water Diversion Project

Wabu Lake serves as a crucial junction within the Yangtze River to Huai River Water Diversion Project （Yangtze-Chao Lake-Wabu Lake-Huai River）, where clarifying the status and risk levels of heavy metal contamination in the lake is crucial for the aquatic ecological safety along the route of the project. Surface water and sediment samples from 24 locations in Wabu Lake were collected and analyzed for the contents of heavy metals （As, Zn, Pb, Ni, Cu, Cr, Fe, and Cd）. Risk evaluation and source apportionment of heavy metals in the lake were conducted using the human risk assessment （HRA） model, sediment quality guidelines （SQGs）, and positive matrix factorization （PMF） method. The results showed that the average concentrations of heavy metals （except for Cd and Pb） in the surface water were lower than the class III limits of the surface water quality standard （GB 3838-2002）. The average concentration of heavy metals （As, Zn, Pb, Ni, Cu, Cr, Fe, and Cd） in interstitial water were lower than the Criteria Continuous Concentration （CCC） of the National Recommended Water Quality Criteria. The average contents of As, Zn, Pb, Ni, Cu, Cr, and Cd in the sediment exceeded the background values by factors of 1.78, 1.85, 1.42, 1.77, 1.41, 1.38, and 3.46, respectively. In addition, the heavy metals Pb, Cd, and Cr in the Wabu Lake water posed severe risks to human health, with the cancer risk （CR） value for Cr reaching 6.14×10-5. The sediment quality guidelines （SQGs） indicated that the probability of adverse effects on lakes by As, Ni, and Cr was relatively high. The spatial distribution of risk areas showed that the risk control zones for As, Cr, and Ni in Wabu Lake covered almost the entire lake area. The PMF analysis indicated that the primary sources of heavy metals in Wabu Lake were exogenous inputs from industrial, agricultural, and residential activities in surrounding areas, followed by endogenous pollution caused by enclosed aquaculture. The subsequent focus should be on the pollution of heavy metals Cr, Cd, and Pb in the overlying water of Wabu Lake as well as the sediment ecological safety of As, Cr, and Ni in the sediment.

Foreign Direct Investment, Institutional Quality, and Environmental Pollution in Selected African Countries

African countries increasingly attract foreign direct investment as they strive for economic growth and development. However, there have been concerns over the rising effects of FDI on pollution. These concerns are rooted in the potential for industrial activities associated with FDI to have adverse environmental impacts. Hence, the needs to tackle the problem of pollution cannot be overemphasized. One way to do this is by strengthening the quality of African institutions. This study was conducted to examine the effects of institutional quality and FDI on environmental pollution in selected African countries. Environmental pollution was measured using CO2 emission.The result of the PCSE estimator showed that institutional quality had negative effects on environmental pollution, but the effect of FDI was positive and insignificant. Also, the effect of moderating effect showed that institutional quality has the potential to reduce the positive effect of FDI on environmental pollution. It was recommended that African governments should strengthen the quality of their institutions by strengthening environmental governance frameworks.

The coupling effect and ecological risk assessment of iron, manganese, and arsenic in the water environment of the central Yangtze River Basin, China.

Excessive heavy metal in drinking water are harmful to human body. Groundwater was still the drinking water resource in most of rural areas in the central of the Yangtze River Basin. Heavy metals of Fe, Mn, and As in the low plain region of the Yangtze River Basin significantly exceeded the standard, resulting in 16.67% and 5.00% of water samples in the area reaching moderate and severe heavy metal pollution states. However, the coupling effect and ecological risks of iron, manganese, and arsenic in the water environment are unknown. This paper found that the dissolution of iron-bearing and manganese-bearing minerals into groundwater affected each other, when the burial depth of groundwater was less than 20m. Conversely, the dissolution of minerals containing iron and arsenic into the groundwater interacted with each other when the groundwater depth was greater than 20m. The precipitation of siderite (FeCO3) and rhodochrosite (MnCO3) may control the dissolved Fe and Mn in groundwater. The area between Yangtze River and Han River was more affected by industrial activities, and the south area of the Yangtze River was more affected by agricultural activities. This paper not only strengthened the understanding of the risk of heavy metal pollution in local groundwater, but also provided important scientific basis for the protection of regional groundwater ecological environment.

Soil Remediation by Nanotechnology: Valuating Materials, Mechanisms, and Environmental Impacts

The rapid growth of the human population and industrial activities has resulted in considerable environmental degradation. Processes such as industrialization, mining, agriculture, and waste disposal introduce harmful chemicals that contaminate soil, groundwater, and surface waters. Consequently, soil remediation has become a critical priority for many nations, given that soil quality directly affects agriculture and public health. Nanotechnology presents promising solutions to the shortcomings of traditional soil remediation methods by offering innovative materials and mechanisms for the removal or neutralization of contaminants. This review intends to evaluate the use of nanotechnology in soil remediation, emphasizing the nanomaterials employed, their reaction mechanisms, and potential environmental effects. Nanomaterials like nano zero-valent iron, metal oxides, and carbon-based materials have shown effectiveness in immobilizing, degrading, or extracting pollutants from soil and water through processes such as adsorption, photocatalysis, and filtration. However, certain nanomaterials raise concerns about toxicity and bioaccumulation, which may negatively affect ecosystems and human health. Therefore, additional research is needed to confirm the safety, compatibility, and sustainability of these technologies. This review also identifies significant challenges in the implementation of nanotechnologies for soil remediation and examines future directions and recommendations for addressing these challenges.

Integrating SEM and monte Carlo projections: Policy insights on carbon emissions, credits, and agriculture

This study investigates the interrelationships between carbon emissions, carbon credits, and climatic factors in India, utilizing an integrated approach that combines Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) and Monte Carlo simulations. As one of the world's largest greenhouse gas emitters, India's challenge lies in balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability. The research addresses the critical gaps in understanding how various factors, including industrial activity, energy production, and agricultural practices, influence carbon emissions and the generation of carbon credits. Using historical data, the study employs SEM to analyze the complex relationships among emissions, credits, and climatic variables, aiming to identify significant pathways and interactions. Additionally, Monte Carlo simulations project future trends in carbon emissions and credits through 2050, capturing uncertainties inherent in climate projections. The findings suggest that carbon credits significantly mitigate emissions and that climatic factors directly impact both emissions and agricultural productivity. This research contributes to the discourse on climate policy by providing actionable insights for enhancing sustainability initiatives in India. By elucidating the interconnected dynamics of emissions and credits, the study highlights the importance of targeted policies aimed at fostering cleaner technologies, improving agricultural practices, and adapting to climatic changes. Ultimately, this work aims to support India’s transition toward a low-carbon economy while addressing the pressing challenges posed by climate change.

Environmental literacy profile in Bantul, Special Region of Yogyakarta

Environmental issues are occurring more frequently, both due to natural causes and human activities. If left unchecked, human activities can worsen environmental conditions. Bantul Regency in the Special Region of Yogyakarta, Indonesia, is one of the regions grappling with this issue, primarily due to waste management and industrial activities. Environmental issues are related to environmental literacy. The lack of education, awareness, and knowledge in society can degrade environmental quality. Environmental literacy plays an important role in enhancing knowledge as well as changing the attitudes and behaviors of society towards the environment. Therefore, it is important to instill environmental literacy in individuals to improve our attitudes towards the environment. This study aims to provide an overview of students's environmental literacy in Bantul Regency. The research uses a survey method conducted in Bantul Regency from September to November 2023. The population of this study includes all 10th-grade students from public high schools in Bantul Regency. The sample consists of 300 10th-grade students from public high schools in the sub-districts of Bantul, Banguntapan, Sewon, Jetis, Piyungan, Imogiri, Pajangan, Srandakan, Sedayu, and Dlingo. The study's results show that the environmental literacy profile of 10th-grade students in Bantul Regency falls into the "average" category, with a percentage score of 65.96%. The highest score in the competency domain is found in Bantul City (81.90%) and falls into the "good" category, while the lowest score is in Dlingo Sub-district (60.93%), categorized as "average" The highest score in the affective domain is in Dlingo Sub-district (70.25%), categorized as "average" while the lowest score is in Jetis Sub-district (66.67%), also categorized as "average." The highest score in the behavior domain is found in Imogiri Sub-district (64.91%), categorized as "average" while the lowest score is in Srandakan Sub-district (55.30%), categorized as "low."

Management and quality assurance of observational data recorded by geomagnetic observatories in Egypt

The National Research Institute of Astronomy and Geophysics (NRIAG) is an Egyptian research institution that operates two Geomagnetic Observatories (GMOs), namely the Misallat (MLT), and Abu‑Simbel (ABS) observatories. Data availability, reliability and quality are the basis for any scientific research. So, it is essential to check and manage the quality of Geomagnetic Data (GMD) and prepare them in a proper Data Format (DF) before publishing them for research studies. This paper focuses on the management and quality assurance of the GMD recorded by the MLT and ABS observatories, and presents the current efforts deployed for managing, examining and processing them as well as converting their original DF into international DF. The raw data has been processed mathematically using MATLAB scripts. Results show that GMD from the MLT and ABS observatories suffer from various non‑natural disturbances. Electric power lines, industrial and human activities nearby the MLT observatory as well as some internal problems with the measuring devices, might have caused these disturbances. In addition, the study examined the impact of these disturbances on the quality of recorded data. The comparison of raw data from the two observatories and other INTERMAGNET data showed a good correlation between them before 2015. From 2015 until October 2022, the noise level mostly at the MLT became very high and the natural Ultra Low Frequency (ULF) emissions at the MLT data were completely hidden by the background noise. The study recommends that the Magnetically Clean Environment (MCE) must be resorted again as well as fixing the measuring instruments especially at the MLT observatory to provide high quality data that can be suitable for all aspects of scientific research and satisfy the INTERMAGNET requirements.

Morphological and physiological responses of Momordica charantia to heavy metals and nutrient toxicity in contaminated water

This study investigates the impact of industrial wastewater from leather, household, and marble sources on the growth, physiological traits, and biochemical responses of Momordica charantia (bitter melon). Industrial activities often lead to the release of contaminated effluents, which can significantly affect plant health and agricultural productivity. Water analysis revealed that leather effluent contained high concentrations of heavy metals, including cadmium (2.67 mg/L), lead (1.95 mg/L), and nickel (1.02 mg/L), all of which exceeded the recommended safety limits for irrigation. Seed germination was significantly reduced, with only 45% germination in seeds irrigated with leather effluent, compared to 90% in the control group. Similarly, in plants treated with leather wastewater, shoot length, and root length were reduced by 38% and 42%. Chlorophyll content showed a marked decline, with chlorophyll “a” reduced by 25% and chlorophyll “b” by 30% in wastewater-treated plants, indicating impaired photosynthetic activity. Antioxidant enzyme activity, including catalase and superoxide dismutase, increased by up to 40%, reflecting a stress response to heavy metal toxicity. These findings highlight that industrial wastewater severely disrupts plant metabolic processes, leading to stunted growth and physiological stress. To safeguard crop productivity and food security, stringent wastewater treatment protocols must be implemented to mitigate environmental contamination. Future research should focus on developing advanced remediation techniques and sustainable wastewater management practices to reduce heavy metal toxicity and enhance soil health.

Development of Technological Options for the Use of Various Wastes as Alternative Energy Sources Based on Multicomponent Compositions of Solid Fuels

The article considers promising areas for solving problems of energy and resource conservation, as well as issues of rational use of natural and secondary resources generated in industrial and communal activities. The aspects of research and development of technological options for the use of various wastes based on multicomponent compositions of solid fuels as alternative energy sources are presented. Also presented are the main stages of the developed and applied technologies for briquetting and incineration of multicomponent mixtures based on various combustible waste. The developed algorithm for solving the problem under consideration which makes it possible to rationally use substandard combustible industrial municipal waste to obtain multicomponent solid fuel that meets the quality criteria for energy and environmental indicators is reviewed. The results of the applied research directly related to the qualitative assessment of multicomponent briquetted fuels and facilitating achievement of the best production and consumer indicators values of energy quality and environmental friendliness are presented.

A review of particulate matter (PM) in Indonesia: trends, health impact, challenges, and options.

This study reviews particulate matter (PM) research in Indonesia, focusing on current trends, health impacts, challenges, and future research directions. As the largest archipelago country, Indonesia faces severe pollution annually due to rapid urbanization, industrial activities, vehicle emissions, and forest fires. PM levels often exceed WHO and NAAQS standards, especially in urban areas and during forest fire seasons, posing significant health risks to vulnerable populations. Most PM studies have been conducted in major cities, primarily concentrated on Java Island. While there are several studies in Sumatra and Borneo, they commonly focus on the effects of peatland fires, and research in the eastern part of Indonesia remains limited. Substantial gaps in PM studies have been highlighted, including limited monitoring infrastructure, technology, data inconsistencies, and socio-economic challenges. Recent studies emphasize the need for more research on size-segregated PM, including ultrafine particles (UFPs), to fully understand their behavior in the atmosphere, sources, distribution, and health impacts. Chemical analysis and source apportionment studies are also crucial but currently limited due to equipment and analytical challenges. To improve PM management, the study proposes strategic options, including adopting advanced monitoring technologies along with low-cost samplers, increasing funding and technical training, enhancing coordination among stakeholders, and fostering international collaboration. Furthermore, public awareness campaigns and community-based monitoring are essential for effective air quality management.