Landfill Research Articles

Municipal solid waste management practices and sanitary landfill site selection using the AHP approach for emerging industrial zones

Selecting the right location for waste management is crucial for emerging and rapidly growing industrial towns. The intricate nature of waste management systems necessitates careful consideration of numerous options and evaluation criteria when selecting a suitable landfill site. This study, conducted in Arerti Town, Ethiopia, utilized the GIS and Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) to establish a hierarchical model for identifying a suitable landfill location by considering the ten main influencing factors (groundwater table depth, proximity to boreholes, slope, soil, geology, land use, land cover, proximity to reservoirs and proximity to lineaments, built-up area, and road availability). Besides, GIS were used to manipulate and display spatial data, with all maps graded on a scale of 1 to 5, representing the lowest to highest suitability, respectively. The combined results of the AHP and GIS analyses indicated that 20.6% of the study area was deemed unsuitable, 77.67% moderately suitable and 1.75% highly suitable for a landfill. We chose a 12.5-hectare site in the southwest as the optimal location, taking into account future town expansion and its proximity to urban areas and roads. The findings of this study serve as a valuable resource for decision-makers in assessing waste management challenges in emerging towns and rapidly developing urban areas.

Operation of solid municipal waste landfills in northern climates

The author considers specific features of operation of solid municipal waste landfills at the post-operation stage in northern climate conditions. It is emphasized that safe operation of landfills requires efficient management of landfill gas and leachate formation. Increased precipitation leads to increased waste moisture content and, as a consequence, to methane generation during different seasons. The author presents the results of measuring methane concentrations and calculating leachate volumes at a landfill located in the north-west of Russia. The conclusion is made about the need to control and manage leachate formation, as well as to take measures for its treatment to prevent environmental and sanitary-hygienic problems associated with evaporation and accumulation of leachate.

Effect of heavy metals contamination due to leachate migration from uncontrolled dumpsites: A comprehensive analysis on soil and groundwater

In the contemporary era, the widespread practice of open dumping persists as a major method for municipal solid waste (MSW) disposal, contributing significantly to global environmental degradation and posing severe health risks. Deficient waste management systems result in over 90% of waste being openly discarded or burned at numerous unregulated dumpsites, particularly in developing nations like India. This research focuses on the active waste dumping site, Bhandewadi Dumpsite in Nagpur, Maharashtra, India, aiming to assess soil and groundwater contamination caused by the release of toxic elements into the surrounding region. Various parameters, such as the index of geoaccumulation, contamination factor, potential ecological risk, heavy metal pollution index, and water metal index were employed to evaluate the impact of the dumpsite. Results indicated heavy contamination in soil and groundwater samples, particularly from Bidgoan Road and Pardi, with elevated levels of metals, such as Cr, Ni, and Pb within 2 km radius of Bhandewadi dumpsite, Nagpur (India). The principal component analysis confirmed these locations as highly polluted, emphasizing the influence of leachate migration from the uncontrolled dumpsite. The findings underscore the urgent need to improve waste management strategies at municipal landfills and highlight the importance of policy measures to control environmental pollution and the introduction of scientific methods to curb the migration of metals into the environment.

ANÁLISE MULTICRITÉRIO E GEOPROCESSAMENTO NA SELEÇÃO DE ÁREAS PARA ATERROS SANITÁRIOS NA ÁREA SUL DA RIDE/DF

Population growth and changes in consumption patterns are the main activities contributing to the increase in the generation of Urban Solid Waste (USW). With the significant increase in USW generation, these wastes, in most Brazilian cities, are disposed of in an entirely inadequate manner, such as in open-air dumps, putting the environment as a whole at risk. This situation is evident in the Integrated Region of the Federal District and Surrounding Areas (RIDE), a region consisting of 22 municipalities and the Federal District. This research aimed to select suitable areas for sanitary landfills in the southern part of RIDE/DF to assist in the management of USW in the region. For this, maps of land use and land cover on a multi-temporal scale were produced, and criteria were defined, which were weighted by experts through the application of questionnaires. The weights of the criteria were calculated using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) methodology. The criteria, represented as geographic data layers, were standardized and combined using the Weighted Linear Combination (WLC) method to produce the map of potential areas for sanitary landfills. Four alternatives for landfill areas were defined, and through multi-criteria methodology, alternative 1, located 27 km south of Luziânia, was selected. The results indicate that the proposed objectives were achieved, and the AHP method integrated with GIS provides a procedure for the precise location of areas for landfills that should meet the needs of all stakeholders.

Application of selected indicators to assess contamination of municipal landfill leachate and its impact on groundwater

Leachate formation is one of the most important factors taken into account during the operation and long-term management of municipal waste landfills. Systematic assessment of groundwater and leachate contamination may be useful in selecting the appropriate method of leachate management or treatment processes. The use of indicators to quantify the contamination potential of leachate and groundwater in the vicinity of MSW could help landfill managers assess their quality. Therefore, the aim of the study was to assess the representativeness of selected indicator methods for analyzing the temporal variability of leachate and groundwater properties in the vicinity of two municipal waste landfills in a Central European country (Poland). The leachate pollution index (LPI), sub-LPI and adjusted leachate pollution index (r-LPI) were used to assess the quality of leachate water, while the landfill water pollution index (LWPI) was used to assess the variability of groundwater quality. The results confirmed that LWPI is an effective method for assessing the quality of groundwater in the vicinity of municipal waste landfills. The obtained results confirm the negative impact of landfills, despite the insulation used. LWPI showed poor quality of groundwater and visible impact of the landfill (landfill W, average LWPI - 2.34) and moderately polluted waters and minor impact of the landfill (landfill S, average LWPI - 1.37). In most cases, it was observed that two parameters, EC and TOC, are the main factors contributing to the deterioration of groundwater quality. The sub-LPI analysis showed that leachates from both landfills have a very low content of heavy metals, so they should not have a negative impact on the biological treatment process. The obtained r-LPI values were in all cases higher than the calculated LPI values. For landfill S, the average r-LPI was 26.3 (Z-1) and 25.7 (Z-2). However, the average LPI was 13.5 (Z-1) and 13.2 (Z-2). For landfill W, the average r-LPI was 14.6 and the average LPI was 11.4. Analysis conducted on multi-year leachate and groundwater data using specific indicators can help managers better understand the impact of MSW on surrounding areas and help avoid potential operational problems in the future.

Investigating Major Sources of Methane Emissions at US Landfills.

Airborne remote sensing observations were collected at 217 landfills across 17 states in the US in 2023. We used these observations to attribute emissions to major sources, including the landfill work face, where new waste is placed at the landfill and gas-control infrastructure. Methane emissions from the work face appeared to be more prevalent than gas-control infrastructure emissions, with 52 landfills exhibiting work face emissions out of the 115 observed landfills shown to be emitting in 2023. Landfills with work face emissions were often the highest emitters, especially sites with associated renewable natural gas facilities, and the total average site emissions from these landfills accounted for 79% of the observed emissions, indicating inefficient gas capture at these sites. Landfills with work face emissions also displayed the greatest disparity between observed emission rates and hourly emission rates that we estimated using annual emissions reported to the US EPA's Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program. Work face emissions present a major opportunity for methane mitigation: Observed emissions from work face emitting-landfills in this study were equivalent to 15% of US methane emissions from municipal solid waste landfills in 2022, as reported in the 2024 Greenhouse Gas Inventory, though these landfills accounted for only 4% of open sites in the US. As the 217 landfills in this study cover only 17% of open landfills in the US, the total mitigation potential is likely greater. Using remote sensing, we find that the largest contributor to observed methane emissions at US landfills is the landfill work face, an area of the landfill often left out of the required monitoring and traditional emissions accounting methods.

Vegetation Density Mapping of Urban Solid Waste Landfill Coverage Using Vegetation Indexes Obtained with UAV

Objective: The objective of this study is to map the vegetation cover of a municipal solid waste landfill using high-resolution vegetation index images obtained with UAV, as a tool for geotechnical monitoring. Theoretical Framework: The theoretical framework describes the state of the art of vegetation indexes, starting from the first proposal of NVDI by Rouse et al. (1973), through to the NDWI by McFeeters (1996). Additionally, it presents the method of representing radiometric variables, considering that these indexes operate based on the ratio between spectral bands, which are displayed within intervals ranging from -1 to +1. Method: The study used a UAV equipped with MAPIR multispectral camera to capture images of the landfill. NDVI and NDWI indexes were applied to assess vegetation health and coverage. Field control points determined with GNSS-RTK, along with protogrametry software, ensured mapping accuracy, creating high-resolution orhomosaics for monitoring and determining vegetation indexes. Results and Discussion: The results indicate variation in vegetation cover, revealing areas of exposed soil ang vegetation at different stages of vigor, from senescence to full growth. The NDVI and NDWI indexes highlighted regions with water stress and soil exposure, demonstrating the effectiveness of the method in environmental and geotechnical monitoring. Conclusions: It is concluded that the use of UAVs and vegetation indexes are effective for monitoring vegetation health and landfill stability, enanbling the identification of erosion areas and the need for vegetation cover restoration.

A Fuzzy Spatial Multiple Criteria Analysis Methodology for Solid Waste Landfill Siting

The process of siting municipal solid waste landfills in Greece faces significant challenges due to land resource limitations, the country’s mountainous and water-permeable terrain, and strong public opposition. This study introduces a novel methodology for optimizing landfill sites on Lemnos Island in the North Aegean Sea using a Fuzzy Spatial Multiple Criteria Analysis (FSMCA) approach. By combining fuzzy sets theory, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), spatial autocorrelation, spatial clustering and sensitivity analysis, this methodology addresses the uncertainties and complexities inherent in landfill siting. The decision problem is structured hierarchically into five levels to manage multiple criteria effectively. Criteria weights are determined using AHP, with discrete criteria graded according to Greek and EU guidelines, and continuous criteria evaluated through fuzzy sets theory. The region’s suitability is assessed using multiple criteria analysis, revealing that 9.7% of Lemnos Island is appropriate for landfill placement. Sensitivity analysis confirms the robustness of the methodology to changes in criteria weights. The case study demonstrates the practical application and benefits of FSMCA in a real-world scenario, underscoring its potential to improve sustainable waste management practices and inform policy making.

Occurance and pollution risk assessment of emerging contaminants in groundwater in the vicinity of a typical municipal landfill in northeastern China

Emerging contaminants (ECs) present a significant risk to both the ecological environment and human health. However, there is currently limited knowledge regarding the presence of ECs in leachate and the surrounding groundwater environment of landfills. The heterogeneity of aquifers introduces additional uncertainty into the transport of ECs, thereby impacting the accuracy of pollution risk prediction. In this study, the types and concentrations of ECs in the leachate and surrounding groundwater were firstly investigated in a typical landfill in northeastern China. Results show that 6 different ECs were detected in groundwater monitoring wells around the landfill, with concentrations ranging from 1.25-1471 ng/L, higher than most investigated landfills in China. Leachate contained 18 different ECs with concentrations ranging from 0.25-30414 ng/L. Based on the statistical characteristics of lithology reflected by borehole data, random lithology fields were generated and transformed into heterogeneity parameter fields using Markov chain analysis to facilitate the risk assessment of ECs. Following a simulation period of 100 years, it was observed that due to the low permeability of the aquifer, pollutants only spread up to 700 m northward. While pollution plumes may disperse towards residential areas, the probability of exposure to EC in these regions is minimal. Conversely, areas with high pollution risk are predominantly located on the eastern and northern sides of the landfill. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the impact of landfills on surrounding groundwater environments, and our proposed pollution risk assessment model can serve as a valuable reference for controlling and treating ECs.

Evaluation of Water and Air Fluxes in Mixtures of Soil and Organic Compound for Oxidative Covering Layers

Objective: The aim of this study is to assess the air and water permeability of soil mixtures with organic compost in different proportions in order to determine the gas and liquid fluxes for use in landfill cover layers. Method: The methodology adopted for this study includes laboratory tests to characterize the materials and the use of the flexible wall permeameter model Tri-flex 2 from Soil Test – ELE to determine the air and water permeability of the materials. Mixtures in proportions of 2:1 (soil:compost) and 1:1 (soil:compost) were used as materials for the oxidative covering layer. Results and Discussion: Based on the results obtained, it is possible to conclude that the mixtures present permeabilities to air and water in accordance with the standards indicated by USEPA (2003) for covering layers in sanitary landfills, thus ensuring that there is no excess percolation of water from rain, as well as the emission of polluting gases into the atmosphere. Research Implications: The studied material is potentially suitable for use in oxidative cover layers for sanitary landfills, proving to be a viable alternative for implementation in smaller municipalities with less purchasing power, reducing the need to use clay materials, without detriment to the operational efficiency of the landfill. Originality/Value: One of the difficulties faced by municipalities in using sanitary landfills is the search for suitable materials, especially in municipalities with lower purchasing power or located in arid regions, where the use of conventional layers presents problems, with drying out and opening of fissures. The relevance and value of this research are evidenced by the feasibility of combining clay soils with organic compost to create oxidative cover layers, reducing the pollutant load of organic waste.

Hygienic aspects of ensuring chemical safety of using new health-saving technologies for the utilization of biogas at solid municipal waste landfills

Introduction. Environmental health issues are currently among the most important for the population of large administrative and industrial centers. Improving the quality of the environment and creating comfortable living conditions for humans using environmentally friendly methods is one of the current topical areas in environmental hygiene. Materials and methods. The assessment of the effectiveness and chemical safety of the application of a new technology for the collection, purification, neutralization, and disposal of landfill gas for the content of a wide range of organic compounds C5–C20 at a municipal solid waste landfill was carried out using a chromato-mass spectrometric method that allows identifying and quantifying with sensitivity at and below hygienic standards a wide range of organic compounds C5–C20 in air with an unknown composition of pollutants. Results. As a result of the operation of the new landfill gas purification system at the solid waste landfill, the total concentration of pollutants, including marginal and aromatic hydrocarbons, oxygen-containing compounds (alcohols, carboxylic acids), organic sulfur-containing compounds, and sulfur dioxide decreased. As a result of the operation of the new landfill gas purification technology, 100% purification from odourous dialkyl sulfides and nitrogen-containing compounds has been achieved. However, at the outlet of the system, compounds not detected at the inlet were identified, which can be considered as products of combustion and transformation of hydrocarbons that are part of landfill gas, the presence of which indicates to the use of an oxidative process in the process of its disposal. Limitations. The study is limited to the application of the method of investigation of organic compounds with the molecular formula C5–C20. Conclusion. For an adequate assessment of the quality and chemical safety to human health of health-saving technologies, an important condition is the use of physical-chemical studies that identify and quantify dozens of pollutants simultaneously, which makes it possible to take into account the multiple componentness of the chemical composition and the possibility of adverse side effects in the form of toxic transformation of products affecting humans in real environmental pollution conditions.

Geotechnological multicriteria analysis applied to identify optimal locations for the installation of sanitary landfills

The Urban Solid Waste sector is one of the main contributors to methane emissions. Despite specific legislation, many Brazilian municipalities still maintain outdated waste dumps. Geotechnological tools, such as Fuzzy logic, can provide a viable and efficient solution. This research aimed to evaluate the current location and identify optimal sites for the implementation of sanitary landfills, using Fuzzy logic. We considered were slope, proximity to water bodies, urban areas, roads, and airports, land use and occupation, geology, and pedology. The results showed that the current dump location is inadequate due to its proximity to the airport, roads, and urban center. The suitability map revealed that 35.38% of the studied area has high to very high suitability. The new selected location to landfill having sufficient area, being distant from the airport and urban center, and complying with operational and logistical standards of proximity to highways and water bodies. The research confirms that the current Urban Solid Waste structure is not in compliance with regulations and that Fuzzy logic is effective in selecting sites for new sanitary landfills. This model can serve as a reference for other municipalities, contributing to more efficient and responsible waste management.

Semi-Aerobic Landfill System as Alternative Solution for Indonesian Landfill

Indonesia has been encountering pressing problems in managing municipal solid waste (MSW). According to data from the Ministry of Environment and Forestry (KLHK), up to 35.46% of landfills were run as open-dumping landfills until May 2022 because proper sanitary landfill concepts were not fully implemented and the condition of landfills in Indonesia is on the point of being overcapacity. With the development of landfill technology, the Ministry of Public Works is currently starting to develop other alternative landfill systems. From the general findings of this study, it can be concluded that the semi-aerobic landfill system is an available method to be used as an alternative solution for Indonesian landfills. This is based on the results of the SWOT matrix, which shows strategic factors derived from internal and external factors originating from previous studies and issues regarding landfills in Indonesia. The analysis of these factors shows that the semi-aerobic landfill system produces better performance by reducing the potential for environmental pollution of water and air and greenhouse gas emissions. The implementation of a semi-aerobic landfill system is a viable method to be used in developing countries.

Experimental and molecular dynamic simulation studies of landfill contaminated groundwater remediation by graphene oxide coated zeolite

ABSTRACT Graphene oxide (GO) has proven effective in wastewater treatment due to its capability to adsorb heavy metals and organic contaminants. Zeolite is also widely used in contaminant remediation as a reactive material in permeable reactive barrier (PRB). Experimental column flow-through tests were applied in this study to investigate the remediation ability of composite granule-graphene oxide coated zeolite (GOZ) on FA, Pb2+ and NH4 +, from municipal landfill contaminated groundwater. Microscopic characterization and molecular dynamic simulation were carried out in sequence to understand the adsorption process. The results demonstrated that GO significantly enhanced zeolite’s adsorption capacity for Pb2+ and FA by 147.5% and 164.8%, respectively, though NH4 + removal experienced a slight decrease of 25% after GO coating. The ion exchange of Pb2+ resulted in more significant partial collapse compared to NH4 + due to different effective diameter comparing with the channel size of zeolite. However, GO coating relieved the framework deformation by engaging in functional group reactions during Pb2+ adsorption. A recommended surface area coating ratio between 47.0% and 78.4% was identified, as values outside this range may lead to significant GO deformation or inefficient FA adsorption. The GO-zeolite granules displayed significant potential in remediating various contaminants while effectively preventing GO aggregation and zeolite collapse. As technological advancements reduce GO production costs, the economic feasibility of using GOZ in groundwater remediation is increasingly promising.

Characteristics and pollution indices of leachates from municipal solid waste landfills in Iranian metropolises and their implications for MSW management

Leachate from municipal solid waste landfills poses a significant threat to aquatic ecosystems due to poor management practices. This study evaluated thirty leachate samples from Iranian metropolises using the Leachate Pollution Index (LPI). Various parameters, including BOD₅, COD, TDS, pH, EC, heavy metals, turbidity, PAHs, phthalates, and humic acid, were analysed. The BOD₅ levels ranged from 350 to 20,000 mg/L, and the COD levels ranged from 2,000 to 90,000 mg/L. The TDS content varied between 14.7 and 67 g/L, while the turbidity ranged from 15 to 186 NTU. Heavy metals were present but within standard limits. The phthalate concentrations ranged from 6 to 150.8 mg/L, and the humic acid concentrations ranged from 135 to 2,200 mg/L. Naphthalene was the most frequent hydrocarbon detected. The LPIs were less than 30 for all the samples, with the highest in Ahvaz and the lowest in the treated samples from Tehran. This study highlights the presence of persistent organic and hazardous contaminants in Iran’s municipal landfills, emphasizing the need for effective leachate treatment and improved waste management practices. Enhanced final disposal methods, increased waste recovery, and improved solid residue separation are crucial for preventing further leachate production and environmental contamination.

Methane Generation Potential of the Easily Degradable Group of Landfilled Municipal Solid Waste

Municipal solid waste (MSW) remains in sanitary landfills for many years. To maintain a circular economy, assessing the feasibility of reinserting MSW excavated from sanitary landfills into the production chain is important. This reduces environmental impacts, helping to minimize soil, water, and air pollution resulting from the decomposition of waste in landfills. In addition, it promotes economic benefits from the energy recovery of waste, such as biomass, which can generate electricity and heat, contributing to a sustainable energy matrix. The present study aimed to evaluate the easily degradable MSW group with 24 years of landfilling (ED-24) regarding its potential for methane generation. The ED group consisted of putrescible organic matter, wood, paper, cardboard, and pruning landfilled at a sanitary landfill in Southeastern Brazil. The feasibility of valuing ED-24 as a substrate for anaerobic digestion was assessed by analyzing its physical, chemical, and biochemical characterization and calculating its theoretical methane yield (TMY). The total volatile solids (TVS) and holo-cellulose contents of ED-24 were 73.45% and 61.39%, respectively, on a dry-weight basis. These values were in the range of those determined for non-landfilled lignocellulosic materials. Thus, 24 years of landfilling partially degraded the anaerobically lignocellulosic materials. The TMY of ED-24 was 233.41 mL CH4/g TVS, indicating a potential to generate methane. Despite the high lignin value, ED-24 can be valued as a substrate for anaerobic digestion.

Physico-chemical and biological characterization of urban municipal landfill leachate and treatment by ozone process

Thewaste production nationwide is increasing every year, on account of therapid urbanization and growing populations, also consumption modes. Algerian political authorities have chosen Technical Landfill Centres (TLC) as a competitive and safe technique of waste management.However, storing these wastes in a bad way poses several environmental challenges, especially in the Department of Saïda, the latter have significant groundwaters. The major problem registered on this Landfill is the leachate resulting from the degradation of buried wastes which were disposed off the outside of the leachate basinand present a source of pollution for the local groundwaters by heavy metals and pathogenic germs.The present paper investigates the leachate treatment ozone process produced by Dielectric Barrier Discharge (DBD) under high potential.The experimental resultsobtained allowed us to show the efficiency of the treatment process by ozone based on the micro pollutant analysis (COD, BOD5 , TOC, heavy metals) and microbial analysis, after ozonation treatment.The results show that 80% of micro pollutants are eliminated and 100% destruction of all bacteria which reveals the high efficiency of the process.

Features of Landfill Reclamation in the North-Western Region of Russia

Ecological and climatic features of solid municipal waste landfills in the north-western region of the Russian Federation are considered. It was noted that it is impossible to use the land for the intended purpose, stipulated by regulatory documents, immediately after completion of waste disposal. The incorrectness of the current regulatory documents in relation to the north-western region of Russia is emphasized. The expediency of reclamation in two stages is substantiated: at the first stage, the sanitary-hygienic direction is carried out – the creation of phytocenoses of anti-erosion and aesthetic purpose, at the second stage (after 2–3 decades and more) after assessment of the ecological situation in the landfill area the direction of reclamation is chosen and the target (economic) land use is established.

Mathematical Modeling of Biogas Production in Sanitary Landfills

Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate the biogas production potential in sanitary landfills using the Verhulst mathematical model, which is employed to represent natural phenomena constrained by a saturation point. Theoretical Framework: It was based on references on energy use from waste, possible conversion routes, in addition to mathematical models that estimate the energy potential for biogas generation. Method: The methodology adopted for this research involves the use of data collected in an experimental cell, subsequently applying the De Verhulst model through a regression with minimization of errors using the Least Squares Method (LSM). Results and Discussion: The results indicated that the developed model correlates well with the observed data, demonstrating its suitability as a predictive model for biogas production. Research Implications: The research contributes to the construction of a theoretical framework for the adaptation, elaboration and use of mathematical models to predict the energy potential in the generation of biogas in landfills. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by using a population growth model (Verhulst) to predict landfill biogas production.

Characterization of microplastics in soil, leachate and groundwater at a municipal landfill in Rayong Province, Thailand

Recent years have witnessed a dramatic increase in global plastic production, leading to heightened concerns over microplastics (MPs) contamination as a significant environmental challenge. MP particles are ubiquitously distributed across both continental and marine ecosystems. Given the paucity of research on MPs in Thailand, particularly regarding MPs contamination in terrestrial environments, this study focused on investigating the distribution and characteristics of MPs in a landfill area. We collected 15 soil samples, 2 leachate samples, and 7 groundwater samples from both inside and outside a municipal landfill situated in the urbanized coastal region of Rayong Province. Our findings revealed variability in MPs concentration across different sample types. In soil, the MP count ranged from 240 to 26,100 pieces per kg of dry soil, 58.71 % of all sample sizes are lower than 0.5 mm. Similarly, the size found in the leachate sample, and the average MP in the leachate samples was 139 pieces per liter of MPs. The groundwater samples showed a fluctuation in MPs count from 18 to 94 pieces per liter, and the size of MPs ranged mostly from 0.5 to 1 mm. The predominant forms of MPs identified were sheets, followed by fragments, fibers, and granules. According to μ-FTIR analysis, the majority of the MPs were composed of polyethylene and polypropylene, commonly used in plastic packaging and ropes. The observed high concentrations and extensive distribution of MP contamination underscore the urgency for further studies and effective management strategies to mitigate the adverse impacts of this pollution on various organisms and ecosystems.