Environmental Issues Research Articles

Tribological Impact of Carbon Black Nanoparticles Obtained from Recycled Waste Tires as Additive to Motor Oil

Abstract Used tires are commonly stockpiled at landfills, taking up a vast space of land and leading to serious environmental issues, which makes recycling and finding better waste management strategies necessary. This study explores the potential role of recycled material extracted from waste tires in the lubrication industry by examining different properties of motor oil with the addition of carbon black (CB) nanoparticles obtained from used tires via the pyrolysis process. The CB particles have been added to motor oil at various concentrations (0.5, 1, 2, and 4 wt.%), and several properties of the Oil-CB lubricant mixture, such as tribological, rheological, and lubrication, have been investigated. After testing different concentration samples, the 2 wt.% of CB in the motor oil showed the best tribological and rheological behavior compared to other samples. The improvement in motor oil performance with the addition of CB was evident in the mixed lubrication regime, with a more than 20% reduction in frictional and wear losses compared to the reference motor oil. This improvement in the oil's lubrication performance is attributed to the presence of CB nanoparticles between sliding surfaces operating as a third body that helps reduce the contact pressure and minimize solid-solid asperities contact. Therefore, this work demonstrates the viable role of carbon black recycled material in improving the lubrication properties of current motor oils.

Устойчивое развитие территорий стран Европы

The article discusses the main aspects of the sustainable development of the territories of European countries. The impact of public policy is aimed at addressing issues such as resource efficiency, environmental indicators that have a direct impact on the economies of European countries, as well as contributing to the sustainable development of the territories of these countries. Sustainable development implies economic and social aspects, as well as special attention is paid to environmental aspects. The World Commission on Environment and Development (the Brundtland Commission), which presented the report in 1987, put forward the concept of "sustainable development". Since then, it has become a key component in many policy discussions on economic, social, and environmental issues. In its report "Our Common Future," the Brundtland Commission defined it as: "development that meets the needs of current generations without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

An Evaluation of Eco-Environmental Quality Based on the Fused Remote Sensing Ecological Index (FRSEI) in the Jinjie Coal Mine Area, Northwest China

This study focused on the Jinjie mining area by addressing the severe resource and environmental issues arising from excessive coal mining in Shenmu County, Northwest China. Multi-source remote sensing data from GF-1 and Landsat 8 OLI were utilized in this study. Specifically, the fused remote sensing ecological index (FRSEI) was constructed to conduct a detailed evaluation and analysis of the eco-environmental quality in the mining area from 2013 to 2023. The results indicated that the overall eco-environmental quality of the Jinjie mining area exhibited a trend of initial improvement, followed by degradation, and then improvement again over the decade. The eco-environmental quality of the mine pits and their surrounding areas was significantly lower than the overall level, confirming the destructive impact of coal mining on the eco-environment. Meanwhile, as the study area, Shenmu County is actively utilizing coal mining subsidence areas to develop the photovoltaic power generation industry, aiming to achieve green and low-carbon transformation. Although the construction of photovoltaic power plants initially led to the degradation of the condition of vegetation and the FRSEI, both gradually improved after the plants were operational. Furthermore, by comparing the FRSEI with the remote sensing ecological index (RSEI) calculated solely using Landsat 8 OLI data, we found a high degree of similarity between the two, thereby validating the stability and accuracy of the FRSEI. This study not only provides high-precision data support for eco-environmental monitoring in mining areas but also highlights the potential of multi-source remote sensing data fusion technology in improving monitoring accuracy, further providing a scientific basis for formulating sustainable development strategies specifically for the eco-environment in mining areas.

Behavioral, biochemical, immune, and histological responses of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus Linnaeus, 1758) to lead, mercury, and pendimethalin exposure: individual and combined effects

The aquaculture sector is facing environmental issues because of rising chemical pollution of aquatic systems, which may be caused by man-made or natural causes. The combined action of these mixtures can produce an effect that is either severalfold higher or severalfold lower than the overall toxicity of the individual components. The objective of this study is to evaluate the impact of three individual toxicants: lead (Pb 0.088 mg L−1), mercury (Hg 0.084 mg L−1), and pendimethalin (PM 0.355 mg L−1) and their combinations on the behavior, oxidative stress, immunology, biochemistry, and histopathological changes in Nile tilapia. The results show that mortality was evident across all treatment groups and was highest in the mixture (MIX) group, at 33.4%. Some of these behavioral changes included increased mucus secretion, fin rot, and dark skin coloration of the fish, all of which were evidently exacerbated in the MIX group. The erythrocyte and hemoglobin indices presented marked reductions in the MIX and PM groups in comparison to the control group. The MIX group had higher levels of serum creatinine and urea, as well as the liver enzymes alanine aminotransferase, aspartate transaminase, and alkaline phosphatase. They also had higher levels of malondialdehyde and lower levels of total antioxidant capacity, which showed oxidative stress. The stress biomarkers, cortisol and glucose, showed greater impact on the MIX and PM groups. The neurobehavioral assessment demonstrated noticeable decreased acetylcholinesterase levels in PM and MIX-exposed groups. In the serum immunological parameters, levels of nitric oxide and lysozyme were lower, especially in the MIX and PM groups. In all experimental groups, especially the MIX group, the levels of spleen pro-inflammatory cytokine genes were higher. The histopathological examination revealed marked lesions in the gills, liver, and brains in the form of inflammation, necrosis, and circulatory alterations. Among the exposed groups, the MIX group exhibited the highest histopathological changes. Collectively, our findings demonstrated significant toxic effects of heavy metals and herbicides on Nile tilapia, revealing a synergistic impact on both physiological and histopathological responses resulting from combined exposures. The data evidently indicate the ecological hazards associated with heavy metals and herbicides in aquatic ecosystems.

Differences in the structure and prevalence of oral mucosal diseases across age groups

Relevance. In the Russian Federation, the population is witnessing a notable increase in the absolute number and proportion of elderly and senile individuals. Aging is recognized as a complex process involving multiple functional transformations in tissues and organs, often accompanied by a decline in the body’s adaptive capacities. With the growing proportion of older adults, the demand for dental care has significantly increased. Internal organ pathologies can alter the presentation of existing dental diseases or serve as triggers for the onset of oral conditions. A steady rise in oral mucosal diseases has been observed, linked to aging, environmental issues in specific regions, harmful habits, occupational hazards, and a tendency toward malignant transformation. Despite existing literature, the structure and prevalence of oral diseases, particularly mucosal pathologies in individuals over 60 years of age, remain underexplored. A personalized approach to diagnosing oral mucosal diseases (OMD) requires a comprehensive assessment of the clinical progression of primary, comorbid, and past conditions, while accounting for the patient’s age and sex.Materials and Methods. A primary examination was conducted at the Department of Therapeutic Dentistry and Periodontology of Pavlov First Saint Petersburg State Medical University to identify oral mucosal lesions. The study included 512 patients aged 18 to 89 years, comprising 167 men and 345 women. The assessment involved gathering patient complaints, medical histories, and general health status based on consultations with medical specialists. Visual evaluation of the oral mucosa was performed, along with autofluorescent stomatoscopy using the "AFS-D" device (Politron, Russia).Results. The study revealed a high prevalence of oral mucosal lesions among the adult population. Lesions were observed in 40.8% of the 512 patients, with their frequency and types varying by age and sex. The most common conditions included denture-related stomatitis, traumatic lesions, periodontal diseases, and leukoplakia.Conclusion. The analysis of data from primary patient examinations demonstrated a significant increase in oral mucosal lesions with age. While periodontal diseases and traumatic lesions were more prevalent in younger individuals, older adults showed a rise in oral mucosal conditions associated with internal organ pathologies. Additionally, there was a notable increase in precancerous oral mucosal diseases among elderly and senile patients

On the need to better integrate the social environment in research on climate change and health: recommendations and thinking tools

Social inequality impacts health, is aggravated by the consequences of climate change, and may be influenced by inappropriate policy responses. These interdependent effects create a self-perpetuating loop exacerbating the impact of climate dysregulation on health in an uncontrolled and poorly understood way. Holistic approaches to public health such as One Health, EcoHealth or Planetary Health are well suited to tackling the considerable and complex environmental and social issues underlying climate dysregulation. However, the extent to which research using such frameworks investigates social determinants of health is not clear. In this paper we discuss the ways in which the social environment has so far been considered in the literature to problematize and analyze the relationship between climate dysregulation and health within holistic frameworks and provide tools and recommendations to facilitate their apprehension. Social factors are investigated empirically only in a minor fraction of studies addressing the relation between climate and health in holistic frameworks, and not systematically. Barriers to such approaches are discussed. This work also provides two analytical tools (a process diagram and a knowledge framework) and a set of recommendations to help include the social environment more meaningfully in such frameworks. They are meant to facilitate our understanding of the current status of this type of research and to encourage trans-disciplinary and trans-sectorial endeavors towards directions which need to be taken to ensure societal factors and inequalities are placed at the center of research on climate and health and the ensuing policy response.

Biocatalytic Hydrogenation of Biomass-Derived Furan Aldehydes to Alcohols.

The biomass-derived furan aldehydes furfural (FF) and 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) are versatile platform chemicals used to produce various value-added chemicals through further valorization processes. Selectively reducing C═O in FF and HMF molecules to form furfuryl alcohol (FAL) and 2,5-bis(hydroxymethyl)furan (BHMF), represents an important research field in upgrading biomass-based furan compounds. Currently, the reduction of furan aldehydes to furan alcohols through chemical transformation often leads to unavoidable environmental issues and the formation of potential byproducts. Biocatalysis has demonstrated expanded applications in converting biomass-derived furan aldehydes into a diverse array of value-added chemicals. This process exhibits significant potential in organic synthesis and biotechnology due to its green and sustainable properties. The biocatalytic reduction of FF and HMF represents an especially important route for the selective synthesis of FAL and BHMF. This review discusses recent progress in the biosynthesis of FAL and BHMF from biomass-derived FF and HMF through biocatalytic processes. Recently discovered enzymes and whole cells used as biocatalysts for the production of furan alcohols are summarized. In addition, chemoenzymatic cascades for synthesizing furan alcohols from biomass hydrolysate and raw biomass materials are also discussed.

Green marketing in the fashion industry: a critical analysis of sustainability narratives

ABSTRACT Green marketing is widely used by the fashion industry to address growing consumer awareness of environmental issues. However, such marketing tends to portray fashion in ways that benefit the industry and not necessarily the environment. This paper critically examines how sustainability is defined in fashion marketing by a deconstructive reading of marketing narratives from 41 fashion stores in Norway, aiming to understand how narratives are crafted to substantiate industry perspectives on sustainability. The analysis defines three recurrent narratives: “Care for the planet” encourages consumers to contribute to the well-being of the planet through their fashion shopping; “New technological development” places faith in technological advancements to drive transformation; and “A journey towards the future” emphasises moral responsibility towards future generations. Myths of tech utopia and the neoliberal sovereign consumer are drawn upon to produce a sustainability concept fitting for a continued linear production-consumption system in fashion.

Comprehensive Monitoring of Construction Spoil Disposal Areas in High-Speed Railways Utilizing Integrated 3S Techniques

High-speed railways are critical infrastructure in many countries, but their construction generates substantial spoil, particularly in mountainous regions dominated by tunnels and slopes, necessitating the establishment and monitoring of spoil disposal areas. Inadequate monitoring of spoil disposal areas can lead to significant environmental issues, including soil erosion and geological hazards such as landslides and debris flows, while also hindering the recycling and reuse of construction spoil, thereby impeding the achievement of circular economy and sustainable development goals for high-speed railways. Although the potential of geographic information systems, remote sensing, and global positioning systems in waste monitoring is increasingly recognized, there remains a critical research gap in their application to spoil disposal areas monitoring within high-speed railway projects. This study proposes an innovative framework integrating geographic information systems, remote sensing, and global positioning systems for monitoring spoil disposal areas during high-speed railway construction across three key scenarios: identification of disturbance boundaries (scenario 1), extraction of soil and water conservation measures (scenario 2), and estimation of spoil volume changes (scenario 3). In scenario 1, disturbance boundaries were identified using Gaofen-1 satellite data through processes such as imagery fusion, unsupervised classification, and spatial analysis. In scenario 2, unmanned aerial vehicle data were employed to extract soil and water conservation measures via visual interpretation and overlay analysis. In scenario 3, Sentinel-1 data were used to analyze elevation changes through the differential interferometric synthetic aperture radar method, followed by the estimation of spoil volume changes. The effectiveness of this integrated framework was validated through a case study. The results demonstrate that the framework can accurately delineate disturbance boundaries, efficiently extract soil and water conservation measures, and estimate dynamic changes in spoil volume with an acceptable error margin (15.5%). These findings highlight the framework’s capability to enhance monitoring accuracy and efficiency. By integrating multi-source data, this framework provides robust support for sustainable resource management, reduces the environmental impact, and advances circular economy practices. This study contributes to the efficient utilization of construction spoil and the sustainable development of high-speed railway projects.

Donor-Acceptor Type Carbon Nitride Photocatalysts in Photocatalysis: Current Understanding, Applications and Challenges.

The exploration of photocatalytic materials with efficient charge separation has always been a prominent area of research in photocatalysis. In the preceding years, the strategy of constructing donor-acceptor (D-A) structured materials has gradually been developed in photocatalytic systems, becoming a new research crossroads and attracting extensive interdisciplinary focus. Polymeric carbon nitride (PCN) has gradually been recognized as the primary photocatalytic material for constructing D-A structures due to its attractive exceptional physicochemical stability, electronic band structure, and cost-effectiveness. However, few reports have summarized the research on D-A type PCN at the molecular level. This review focuses on the molecular level design strategies and the performance enhancement mechanisms of D-A type PCN are emphasized from two main aspects: intramolecular D-A and intermolecular D-A. In addition, the concept of dual D-A type PCN is introduced, proposing a new direction for advancing the efficacy of photocatalysts. Subsequently, this review summarizes the application scenarios of D-A type PCN in energy transformation and environmental amelioration. Finally, by elaborating on the main difficulties and opportunities in this hot field, this review can provide inspiration and innovative strategies for developing D-A type PCN and resolving energy and environmental issues.

Blood cancer prediction model based on deep learning technique

Blood cancer is among the critical health concerns among people around the world and normally emanates from genetic and environmental issues. Early detection becomes essential, as the rate of death associated with it is high, to ensure that the rate of treatment success is up, and mortality reduced. This paper focuses on improving blood cancer diagnosis using advanced deep learning techniques like ResNetRS50, RegNetX016, AlexNet, Convnext, EfficientNet, Inception_V3, Xception, and VGG19. Among the models assessed, ResNetRS50 had better accuracy and speed with minimal error rates compared with other state-of-the-arts. This work will exploit the power of ResNetRS50 in contributing to early detection and reducing bad outcomes for blood cancer patients. Blood cancer is currently one of the deadliest diseases worldwide, resulting from a combination of genetic and non-genetic factors. It stands as a leading cause of cancer-related deaths in both developed and developing nations. Early detection of cancer is pivotal in reducing mortality rates, as it increases the likelihood of successful treatment and potential cure. The objective is to decrease mortality rates through early diagnosis of blood cancer, thus offering individuals a better chance of survival from this disease.

Sustainable Water Quality Evaluation Based on Cohesive Mamdani and Sugeno Fuzzy Inference System in Tivoli (Italy)

Clean water is vital for a sustainable environment, human wellness, and welfare, supporting life and contributing to a healthier environment. Fuzzy-logic-based techniques are quite effective at dealing with uncertainty about environmental issues. This study proposes two methodologies for assessing water quality based on Mamdani and Sugeno fuzzy systems, focusing on water’s physiochemical attributes, as these provide essential indicators of water’s chemical composition and potential health impacts. The goal is to evaluate water quality using a single numerical value which indicates total water quality at a specific location and time. This study utilizes data from the Acea Group and employs the Mamdani fuzzy inference system combined with various defuzzification techniques as well as the Sugeno fuzzy system with the weighted average defuzzification technique. The suggested model comprises three fuzzy middle models along with one ultimate fuzzy model. Each model has three input variables and 27 fuzzy rules, using a dataset of nine key factors to rate water quality for drinking purposes. This methodology is a suitable and alternative tool for effective water-management plans. Results show a final water quality score of 85.4% with Mamdani (centroid defuzzification) and 83.5% with Sugeno (weighted average defuzzification), indicating excellent drinking water quality in Tivoli, Italy. Water quality evaluation is vital for sustainability, ensuring clean resources, protecting biodiversity, and promoting long-term environmental health. Intermediate model evaluations for the Mamdani approach with centroid defuzzification showed amounts of 72.4%, 83.4%, and 92.5% for the first, second, and third fuzzy models, respectively. For the Sugeno method, the corresponding amounts were 76.2%, 83.5%, and 92.5%. These results show the precision of both fuzzy systems in capturing nuanced water quality variations. This study aims to develop fuzzy logic methodologies for evaluating drinking water quality using a single numerical index, ensuring a comprehensive and scalable tool for water management.

Identity Construction of Dayak [Ethnic]: Citation and Thematic Analysis of Systematic Literature Review

Objective: This research examines the adaptive capacity of university public relations from a self-referential autopoiesis communication perspective. It explores how the university ecosystem and the rhetorical expressions produced by University- PR function as differentiation mechanisms within the organizational system in Makassar Regency Theoretical Framework: This dissertation uses Niklas Luhmann's (2002) self-referential autopoiesis communication perspective to explore the adaptive capacity of Public Relations through the meaning of the university ecosystem and the expression of governance and rhetoric produced as differentiation of organizational science function systems. Method: This research uses a radical constructivism paradigm with comparative case studies at three universities. Data collection techniques include observation, interviews, and focus group discussions with university leaders, directors, heads of Public Relations, and staff of Public Relations, while rhetorical production is tracked by media content analysis. Data were analysed by triangulation, reduction, presentation, and conclusion. Results and Discussion: The research findings indicate that Public Relations at Unhas identifies environmental challenges by interpreting university autonomy and the PTN BH League, enhancing human resources, and fostering research and innovation as a Maritime continent campus, while temporarily achieving a World Class University ranking of 500-1000. In contrast, UINAM's Public Relations addresses sustainability issues within the Public Service Agency, aligning with the Chancellor's vision and responding to digital transformation. UMI's Public Relations focuses on institutional competition, partnership development, and maintaining Islamic identity, targeting improvements in Tridharma and aiming for a 500-1000 Asian World Class University ranking. Differences in governance structures reflect universities' complexities, with distinct coordination lines across institutions. Research Implications: This study emphasizes that universities employ unique communication strategies that diverge from the conventional business and government focus in public relations research, revealing the need for a more nuanced understanding of their public relations practices. Originality/Value: The research reveals that Unhas Public Relations tackles environmental issues through university autonomy and innovation, achieving a temporary World Class ranking. UINAM focuses on sustainability and digital transformation, while UMI emphasizes competition and Islamic identity, aiming for academic excellence. Governance structures vary, reflecting the complexities of each institution.

Adaptive Rhetorical Strategies in Public Relations: Analyzing Scientific Deliberation and Reputation in Makassar Universities with Emphasis on Quality Education

Objective: This research examines the adaptive capacity of university public relations from a self-referential autopoiesis communication perspective. It explores how the university ecosystem and the rhetorical expressions produced by University- PR function as differentiation mechanisms within the organizational system in Makassar Regency Theoretical Framework: This dissertation uses Niklas Luhmann's (2002) self-referential autopoiesis communication perspective to explore the adaptive capacity of Public Relations through the meaning of the university ecosystem and the expression of governance and rhetoric produced as differentiation of organizational science function systems. Method: This research uses a radical constructivism paradigm with comparative case studies at three universities. Data collection techniques include observation, interviews, and focus group discussions with university leaders, directors, heads of Public Relations, and staff of Public Relations, while rhetorical production is tracked by media content analysis. Data were analysed by triangulation, reduction, presentation, and conclusion. Results and Discussion: The research findings indicate that Public Relations at Unhas identifies environmental challenges by interpreting university autonomy and the PTN BH League, enhancing human resources, and fostering research and innovation as a Maritime continent campus, while temporarily achieving a World Class University ranking of 500-1000. In contrast, UINAM's Public Relations addresses sustainability issues within the Public Service Agency, aligning with the Chancellor's vision and responding to digital transformation. UMI's Public Relations focuses on institutional competition, partnership development, and maintaining Islamic identity, targeting improvements in Tridharma and aiming for a 500-1000 Asian World Class University ranking. Differences in governance structures reflect universities' complexities, with distinct coordination lines across institutions. Research Implications: This study emphasizes that universities employ unique communication strategies that diverge from the conventional business and government focus in public relations research, revealing the need for a more nuanced understanding of their public relations practices. Originality/Value: The research reveals that Unhas Public Relations tackles environmental issues through university autonomy and innovation, achieving a temporary World Class ranking. UINAM focuses on sustainability and digital transformation, while UMI emphasizes competition and Islamic identity, aiming for academic excellence. Governance structures vary, reflecting the complexities of each institution.

Gendered dynamics in Moroccan transnational migrant networks in Tenerife: environmental concerns, engagement, and remittances

The concept of transnational knowledge networks has entered the field of study of environmental mobility. Yet, how these networks play a role in adaptation to environmental change remains understudied. Power dynamics and familial ties impact the functioning of transnational networks and intricately shape responses to environmental challenges, with gender serving as a salient factor. This research aims to theorize and empirically study how gender matters for how men and women engage with environmental concerns within transnational spaces of Moroccan migrants living in Tenerife, the largest of the Canary Islands. This study employs visual mapping techniques to uncover gendered patterns and modalities of communication within transnational networks. Findings reveal significant gender disparities in how environmental challenges are discussed and addressed within Moroccan transnational networks. While women prioritize family welfare and employ cultural practices to tackle environmental issues, men focus more on economic implications. Women’s perspectives and voices are marginalized, reflecting societal gender norms and biases that prioritize men’s voices and expertise in economic matters. This ignorance hinders their participation and access to support within transnational networks, perpetuating gender disparities in engagement and decision-making.

Risk Factors Associated with Hemoparasites in Dual-Purpose Cattle of Colombia

Hemoparasitic diseases represent a significant problem with a considerable impact on tropical and subtropical areas of the world. These conditions cause economic losses associated with multi-organic failure and even the death of animals. In these areas, the hemoparasites are transmitted in an enzootic cycle when infectious cattle, such as persistently infected animals, including cows, contribute to the success of transmission. However, the factors associated with transmission have always been considered environmental issues, disregarding herd management and practices. In this sense, we conducted a cross-sectional study sampling 360 female cattle older than one year to identify infectious cattle using the PCR technique. We employed a dichotomic questionnaire for association analyses in 150 herds of the southern Andean region of Colombia. Overall prevalence with infectious cattle was 52.5% for Babesia spp., Anaplasma spp., and Trypanosoma spp., and the significant risk factors (p < 0.05) included geographic area, animal weight, purchase of cattle for fattening, disinfection of clothing after contact with neighboring animals, self-medication, separation of animals in pens, supply of mineralized salt, presence of livestock from other owners on the farm, prevention of joint trauma, documented milking routine, and sending blood samples for analysis. These practices permitted the maintenance of persistently infected animals and their movement to shed the agents to other animals in the presence of vectors. This suggests the importance of implementing comprehensive control and training measures to reduce the infectious cattle and, therefore, the profitability of dual-purpose livestock farms in the Andean region of southwestern Colombia.

Carbon Footprint of Food Consumption by Cats and Dogs in Brazil

Greenhouse gas emissions increase every year and their effects on a global scale are increasingly greater and more noticeable. Consequently, there is also a growing concern related to environmental issues. Among the many factors involved in raising dogs and cats, their diet is one of the most important. It requires a large amount of food inputs, which despite increasing every year and being responsible for a portion of current greenhouse gas emissions, still receive little attention from the scientific community and the media. To verify the potential impacts of raising companion animals in Brazil, this work estimated the carbon footprint generated by feeding dogs and cats in the country through a mathematical model. In this model, an average Brazilian dogs and cats is considered, as well as a standard dog and cat food, and the annual consumption of each ingredient present in the food. The results showed an estimated carbon footprint per capita of 334.06 kg CO2-eq/year for dogs and 147.73 kg CO2-eq/year for cats, totaling an estimate of 18.67 x 109 kg CO2-eq/year for the Brazilian population of dogs and 3.78 x 109 kg CO2-eq/year for the Brazilian population of cats.

Coupling Driving Force–Pressure–State–Impact–Response–Management Framework with Hydrochemical Data for Groundwater Management on Sithonia Peninsula, Greece

Water scarcity in coastal tourist areas constitutes a critical environmental and socioeconomic sustainability issue. Hence, it is crucial to implement an integrated water resource management and protection plan. In this research, the DPSIR framework is coupled with hydrochemical data on groundwater resources in the fractured aquifer of the Sithonia Peninsula in Chalkidiki, North Greece. Geographical and demographic data, together with morphology, geology, hydrology, and groundwater quality data, were collected and evaluated to categorize the hydrosystem’s driving forces, pressures, states, impacts, and responses. The main pressures that affect groundwater quality in the study area are tourism, geological formation, and land use. Based on the analysis of the DPSIR framework, the absence of a landfill site, the inadequate operation of sewage treatment plants and biological wastewater treatment systems, and tourist activity contribute significantly to the degradation of groundwater quality. Additionally, the fractured rock aquifer develops preferential flow paths to pollutants through preexisting faults, which influence groundwater quality. The hydrochemical analysis of groundwater indicates seawater intrusion in the coastal area. The combination of DPSIR analysis and a water quality index based on ion ratios of groundwater samples identifies high-risk areas of seawater intrusion. Thus, it is essential to reinforce groundwater resources by implementing managed aquifer recharge, limiting unnecessary use of groundwater during the tourist season, and storing surface water during the wet period.

We are a family! Exploring flexitarian households' meat reduction practices.

It is widely accepted that the (over)consumption of meat is negatively linked to environmental problems and public health issues, yet research shows that actual meat consumption remains (too) high. While most research related to the protein transition focuses on consumers' motivations, perceptions and acceptance towards plant-based meat alternatives, a clear need arises to extensively study the context in which (plant-based) meals are consumed. In this research, a generative research approach was applied to extend knowledge on flexitarian households' meat reduction practices. Participants (n=30) from different household types completed assignments with their household members to reflect on their households' meat consumption and reduction practices over the course of a full week. After this sensitizing week, participants were interviewed about their meat reduction practices. Results show that participants high in cooking skills and interest are searching for, or have developed, a practice of reformulating their meals into 'complete' or 'authentic' vegetarian meals which entails a different culinary experience compared to meat-based meals. They usually avoided meat analogues, and used products such as pulses, cheeses, nuts and herbs to create tasty and satiating 'complete' vegetarian meals. However, participants with less available resources like time and skills used meat analogues as convenient replacers of meat. Partners and children had a strong influence on the households' formation of meat reduction practices, as their preferences resulted in compromises regarding the households' meat consumption frequency and types of meals consumed. In conclusion, this research provides unique insights into flexitarian households' meat reduction practices, and fuels the discussion on the role of meat analogues and the consumers' need for 'complete' and 'authentic' vegetarian meal experiences.

Application of Google Earth Engine to Monitor Greenhouse Gases: A Review

Google Earth Engine (GEE) is a cloud-based platform revolutionizing geospatial analysis by providing access to vast satellite datasets and computational capabilities for monitoring environmental and societal issues. It incorporates machine learning (ML) techniques and algorithms as part of its tools for analyzing and processing large geospatial data. This review explores the diverse applications of GEE in monitoring and mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and uptakes. GEE is a cloud-based platform built on Google’s infrastructure for analyzing and visualizing large-scale geospatial datasets. It offers large datasets for monitoring greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and understanding their environmental impact. By leveraging GEE’s capabilities, researchers have developed tools and algorithms to analyze remotely sensed data and accurately quantify GHG emissions and uptakes. This review examines progress and trends in GEE applications, focusing on monitoring carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide/nitrogen dioxide (N2O/NO2) emissions. It discusses the integration of GEE with different machine learning methods and the challenges and opportunities in optimizing algorithms and ensuring data interoperability. Furthermore, it highlights GEE’s role in pinpointing emission hotspots, as demonstrated in studies monitoring uptakes. By providing insights into GEE’s capabilities for precise monitoring and mapping of GHGs, this review aims to advance environmental research and decision-making processes in mitigating climate change.