Environmental Resources Research Articles

Hydrological modelling using SWAT in a Complex Semi-Arid Watershed

Hydrological models have emerged as essential tools for examining the hydrological processes of complex watersheds addressing various environmental and water resource issues. This study focuses on modeling the hydrology of the Merguellil watershed in central Tunisia using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT). The SWAT model is a physical modeling tool developed to forecast hydrological processes and is well-documented as an effective tool for resource water management. The primary objective of this research is to evaluate the SWAT model's performance in simulating monthly hydrological processes within the Merguellil watershed in central semi-arid Tunisia. Calibration of the model was conducted from 2002 to 2011, followed by a validation from 2012 to 2017. Sensitivity analysis identified key parameters, including Curve Number, Slope Length, and effective hydraulic conductivity, as the most sensitive. The findings demonstrate that the model exhibits satisfactory performance according to goodness-of-fit criteria during both the calibration and validation phases. The Nash–Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE) were 0.65 and 0.41, respectively, for calibration and validation periods. The coefficient of determination (R²) and Kling-Gupta efficiency (KGE) are both equal to 0.7, the RMSE-observations standard deviation ratio (RSR) is less than or equal to 0.6, for calibration. The Percent Bias (PBIAS) indicates that the model overestimates the discharges by +23.5% during the calibration period. In addition, the runoff in Merguellil watershed demonstrated a notable spatio-temporal variability, significantly influenced by the complexity and heterogeneity of its environment.

Application of circular economy principles to midstream infrastructural sector: A review of strategies for waste minimization and recycling

Circular economy in midstream operations promotes resource reuse, waste reduction, and sustainable pipeline life cycle management. The transition toward a sustainable oil and gas industry needs to be enabled through the adoption of this concept, especially in the midstream sector, where environmental impact is high. This review focuses on practices in the waste minimization and recycling strategy of midstream infrastructure, including material recycling, reuse of processing debris and the conversion of waste into valuables. It underlines potential lifecycle environmental savings and resource efficiency, besides emphasizing on how innovative approaches are important in mitigating the ecological footprint of midstream activities. It also points out the knowledge gaps on practical integration of the circular economy principles within this very industry and came up with actionable recommendations for industry stakeholders. Through the analysis of the most recent published literatures and case studies of successful implementation, it has been indicated that many companies that use these techniques have succeeded in reducing waste output by over 30%. Conclusively, full scrutiny by this review has helped to attain a holistic approach towards sustainability in the oil and gas industry through wider adoption of recycling and sustainable practices in midstream operations.

IOT Based Waterproof System for Water Quality and Level Monitoring

Abstract: The Internet of Things (IoT) represents a significant advancement in the monitoring and management of environmental resources. This review explores the design and implementation of a waterproof IoT-based system for the remote monitoring of water quality and levels [2]. Water pollution, particularly in developing regions such as India, poses a substantial environmental threat, primarily driven by factors like untreated sewage, agricultural runoff, and industrial waste. Conventional approaches to monitoring water quality, which rely on physical sampling and laboratory testing, tend to be less efficient and often fail to deliver the prompt information required for effective resource management. To overcome these limitations, the proposed system utilizes waterproof IoT devices equipped with various sensors to continuously assess critical water quality parameters, including pH, turbidity [3], and pollutant levels. The collected data is transmitted in real time to a central monitoring unit, allowing for immediate assessment and timely interventions when quality thresholds are exceeded. This review emphasizes the innovations in sensor technology and communication protocols that enhance the efficiency and reliability of the monitoring system. Additionally, the paper addresses challenges such as sensor calibration, durability, and data transmission reliability in different environmental conditions. Solutions to these challenges are discussed to provide a comprehensive understanding of how to develop and maintain effective water quality monitoring systems. The review concludes by outlining future research directions aimed at improving system robustness and expanding its application across various water bodies, thereby contributing to enhanced water resource management and environmental sustainability [1].

Study on Microstructure of Recycled Aggregate Concrete by Scanning Electron Microscopy: A Review

Recycled Aggregate Concrete (RAC) is a new type of concrete made by utilizing waste concrete as aggregate after treatment. With the enhancement of environmental awareness and resource conservation, but the microstructural part of recycled aggregate concrete is not as important as the macro performance enhancement aspect by scholars. And Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) is a powerful tool for microanalysis, which can provide high-resolution images of samples as well as information on surface morphology and microstructure. In this paper, the micro-structure of RAC will be comprehensively analyzed according to the performance characteristics of RAC materials and the relevant analysis technology of SEM. Based on the microscopic technology of SEM, the research progress of the micro-structure of RAC was carried out, and the morphology and distribution characteristics of recycled aggregate particles, pore structure and porosity, the interface combination between recycled aggregate and cement matrix, and the relationship between micro-structure and RAC properties were summarized, which provided theoretical support for the future understanding of the micro-structure of RAC, increased the understanding of the micro-structure of RAC materials, and more systematically understood the application of microscopic analysis methods in RAC.

Assessing and predicting the dynamics of land use/land cover in northern Bangladesh using cellular Automata-Markov chain model

ABSTRACT Rapid urbanization and land use changes significantly impact environmental sustainability and resource management, particularly in developing regions. Therefore, this study examines the spatiotemporal dynamics of land use and land cover (LULC) in Rangpur, Bangladesh, from 1991 to 2021 and projects future trends to 2041. Using supervised and unsupervised classification techniques, along with cellular automata and Markov-chain models, we assessed historical LULC changes and predicted future scenarios. Results show a 38.86% increase in built-up areas (BAs) and a 49.86% decrease in vegetation land (VL) during the study period, with classification accuracy above 87%. Projections indicate a further loss of over 210 km² of VL and an increase of more than 123 km² in urban areas by 2041. Notably, urban expansion is linked to the development of road networks, with significant growth from 115.06 km2 in 2021 to 124.33 km2 by 2041 within a 15-kilometer radius around the city center. These findings offer crucial insights for urban planning, emphasizing the need for sustainable strategies to manage urban expansion and protect environmental and socio-economic resilience in Rangpur.

Leveraging GIS for sustainable tourism development: A comprehensive spatial approach

Abstract. This paper explores the application of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) as a pivotal tool in the spatial analysis and sustainable development of tourism. By mapping tourism resources, analyzing visitor flows, and planning for accessibility and infrastructure, GIS enables a nuanced understanding and management of tourism's spatial dynamics. We delve into the innovative use of GIS for personalized itinerary planning, augmented reality experiences, safety, risk management, environmental impact assessments, resource management, conservation, stakeholder engagement, and community planning. Through a series of methodical processes, GIS facilitates the visualization of natural and cultural attractions, optimizes visitor experiences, and ensures the sustainability of tourism development. The integration of spatial data with advanced analytical tools supports the creation of dynamic, inclusive, and environmentally responsible tourism strategies. This paper highlights the critical role of GIS in shaping future tourism practices, underlining the importance of spatial analysis in fostering a balanced approach to tourism that benefits local communities, preserves cultural heritage, and minimizes ecological footprints.

Products Distribution and Reaction Kinetics from Co-Pyrolysis of Pinewood and Polypropylene under Non-Catalytic and Catalytic Reaction Conditions

Abstract Co-pyrolysis technology offers vital pathways for efficient utilization of plastics and biomass resources to help reduce the environmental problems and energy resources issues. The pyrolysis characteristics of pinewood and polypropylene (PP) mixtures were analyzed using TGA. The results showed a decrease in first peak of the mixture with increase in PP in the mixture, while the second peak increased with an increase in PP in the mixture. The addition of a catalyst decreased the DTG peak heights. The reduction in the first peak with different catalysts was in the order: CaO/ZSM-5 >CaO >ZSM-5, while for the second peak showed: CaO >CaO/ZSM-5 >ZSM-5. The activation energy, calculated by Flynn–Wall–Ozawa (FWO), Kissinger–Akahira–Sunose (KAS), and Friedman models, revealed that ZSM-5 reduced the activation energy, whereas CaO/ZSM-5 increased the activation energy, as compared to no catalyst case. Increase of co-pyrolysis temperature reduced the yield of aldehydes, ketones, acids and esters, but increased the yield of hydrocarbons. The addition of CaO reduced the yield of ketones, phenols, esters, and acids, while it increased the yield of alcohols. The addition of ZSM-5 also decreased the yield of ketones, phenols, acids and hydrocarbons, but increased the yield of furans and alcohols. The addition of CaO/ZSM-5 specifically reduced the yield of aldehydes and alcohols. The results show the important role of the specific catalysts examined on the resulting products distribution for the same reaction condition.

Associations of Neighborhood Food and Physical Activity Environments in Young Adulthood With Cardiovascular Health in Midlife: The CARDIA Study.

Adults who maintain ideal cardiovascular health (CVH) profiles up to midlife have lower risk of several chronic diseases and better quality of life. Some evidence suggests that individual-level exposures earlier in life shape midlife CVH, but the impact of neighborhood-level exposures over the life course remains understudied. Participants were 3017 Black and White men and women aged 18 to 30 years at baseline (1985-1986), recruited from Birmingham, Alabama; Minneapolis, Minnesota; Chicago, Illinois; and Oakland, California, as part of the CARDIA (Coronary Artery Risk Development in Young Adults) study. Measures of the neighborhood food and physical activity environment were linked to participant addresses collected at baseline. CVH was measured on the basis of the American Heart Association's Life's Simple 7 criteria in young adulthood and 30 years later (2015-2016) when participants were midlife (aged 48-60 years). Associations of young adult neighborhood food environment and physical activity resources with midlife CVH (moderate versus high and low versus high) were examined using multinomial logistic regression. Models were adjusted for young adult sociodemographic factors. Participants who lived farther away from a major park in young adulthood were more likely to have low versus high CVH scores (odds ratio, 1.54 [95% CI, 1.22-1.96]) and more likely to have moderate versus high CVH scores (odds ratio, 1.39 [95% CI, 1.12-1.73]) in midlife. No other neighborhood measures were significantly associated with CVH. Young adulthood may be a sensitive period in which having convenient access to physical activity-promoting resources may help them establish healthy habits that can carry into midlife.

Developing A Conceptual Model of Factors Influencing Express Delivery Packaging Recycling Behaviors of E-Commerce Enterprises in China

The rapid growth of the e-commerce industry has led to a significant increase in express delivery service volumes, resulting in substantial environmental pollution and resource depletion from express delivery packaging (EDP) waste. Recycling express delivery packaging (EDPR) has become a critical global concern, particularly in China, the largest contributor to EDP waste for decades. Despite numerous government regulations aimed at promoting recycling behavior to support carbon peaking and neutrality targets, China’s recycling rate remains low, at just 25%-30%, compared to rates as high as 65% in EU countries, with some exceeding 80%. Drawing on Structuration Theory (ST), this study posits that the authority effect positively influences the recycling behavior of e-commerce organizations. It also examines the mediating role of recycling intention in the relationship between authority effect and recycling behavior and the moderating role of social sanction on recycling intention and behavior. This research aims to develop a comprehensive model for understanding the factors influencing EDPR and offers valuable insights from an organizational perspective. The findings will guide future empirical studies and help policymakers devise more effective strategies by understanding the impacts of authority and social sanction on recycling behavior.

Sustainable Development in Green Mining and Geotechnical Engineering—An Overview

The sustainable development of green mining and geotechnical engineering has become a crucial area of study in light of the increasing global efforts toward environmental conservation and responsible resource extraction [...]

Design and Fabrication of Biogas Brooder System Utilizing Chicken Waste for Sustainable Poultry Farming

Sustainable agricultural practices are essential for addressing environmental degradation, resource depletion and energy inefficiency in traditional farming methods. One promising solution is integrating biogas technology with poultry farming, particularly in Nigeria, where poultry farming plays a crucial role in livelihoods and economic growth. This approach uses renewable energy sources, such as chicken manure, to generate biogas for heating poultry brooders, offering a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. The goal of this project is to design and develop an efficient, eco-friendly portable biogas brooder system specifically for poultry farms. The system includes a digester tank to produce biogas from chicken manure, PVC pipes for transporting slurry, a stirrer for mixing and a drainer valve to manage excess liquid. Biogas is transported through a gas pipe to abiogas container for storage, which is then used in a burner to generate heat. The design incorporates seals and gaskets to prevent leaks and utilizes cost-effective materials for construction. The system is estimated to produce enough energy to power the burner for 2 hours daily, demonstrating its potential to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs and promote sustainable practices in poultry farming.

Analysis of institutional factors in the implementation of the action research methodology: lessons learned in a case study

The growing need for academic research to generate a tangible social impact has increased the relevance of collaborative methodologies. Among them, the "Action Research" method stands out for its application in the field of business organization. This is especially relevant in the field of Operations Management as it involves close collaboration with organizations.This study aims to examine the key institutional factors that influence the success of the implementation of the "Action Research" methodology in the business context. Through a case study, two main contributions are made to the "Action Research" literature. First, six key institutional factors are identified to consider in the implementation of an Action Research project: external and internal environment, leadership, strategy, communication, and organizational resources and capabilities. Second, the analysis provides a series of lessons learned that cover the influence of aspects related to company's environment; alignment of objectives; participation of employees; clear definition of roles; training; adaptation and support of work team member; an adequate technological infrastructure; how to promote the participation of external agents; and the influence of communication channels.The identification and analysis of these factors and the lessons learned serve as a reference framework for researchers who are considering carrying out an "Action Research" project to transfer it to the company with which they are going to collaborate, and thus determine if the right conditions are in place to carry out the study.

Green Human Resource Management and Environmental Performance: A Bibliometric Study and Future Directions

The global need to solve escalating environmental challenges brings increased focus on organizations and their impact on environmental performance. The significance of green human resources management (GHRM) is increasingly recognized as aligning organizational objectives with environmental sustainability goals, fostering eco-friendly workplace practices and enhancing corporate social responsibility. GHRM and its contribution to environmental performance has received growing attention from scholars, however, a need to systematically review and synthesize the literature in this area remains. This research offers a comprehensive overview of green human resources management and environmental performance literature highlighting the major themes in the current developments along with the new trends and patterns for future research observed in this field. For conducting a systematic literature review and bibliometric analysis, a total of 227 documents were extracted from the Scopus database. Following the PRISMA 2020 Protocol, 144 published articles from 2014 to 2024 were included for final analysis. Performance analysis and science mapping (citation, co-citation, bibliographical coupling, and keyword co-occurrence analysis) were performed to examine how knowledge has been constructed, disseminated, and shaped over time. VOSviewer software was used to systematically investigate, map, and visualize the bibliometric results as the main trends. The study reveals the current status in GHRM and performance management publications and citations, identifying key contributors such as influential countries, journals, and authors and outlines keywords, and thematic areas. Lastly, this study identifies research gaps and emerging trends such as green transformational leadership, green innovation, green behaviour, environmental values, green intellectual capital, environmental economics in GHRM, offering valuable insights for scholars and practitioners seeking to advance understanding and implementation of green HR practices.

Enabling pharmacist prescribing: Lessons learned in Nova Scotia using behaviour change theory.

The COVID-19 pandemic alongside increased patient demand, enablement of scope, and government funding has accelerated the need and demand for pharmacist prescribing in Nova Scotia. A sequential explanatory mixed-methods study was undertaken to understand barriers and facilitators to pharmacist prescribing in Nova Scotia, Canada. This consisted of: 1) a cross-sectional survey and 2) semistructured, qualitative interviews with pharmacists practising in the community. The survey and interviews were designed using the Behaviour Change Wheel that encompasses the Capability Opportunity Motivation Model of Behaviour Change (COM-B) and Theoretical Domains Framework version 2 (TDFv2). Of 190 survey respondents, the percentage who prescribed 15+ times/month increased from 49% before to 80% during the COVID-19 pandemic (P<0.001). Pharmacists identified knowledge, social norms/pressures, and rewards or consequences related to how and when to prescribe as facilitators (Knowledge, Social Influences, and Motivation TDFv2 domains, respectively). Barriers included the environmental context and fear of negative outcomes (Environmental Context and Resources and Beliefs about Consequences, respectively). Through the interviews, the presence of prescribing decision tools (Memory, Attention and Decision Processes) and a supportive organizational culture (Environmental Context and Resources) were facilitators. Worry was expressed about making mistakes (Beliefs about Consequences) and feeling significant pressure to meet patient demand (Social Influences) in a busy setting (Environmental Context and Resources). Supports to better enable pharmacist prescribing are described, with key messages for pharmacists, pharmacy owners/managers, educators, advocacy bodies, regulators, and government identified. Pharmacist prescribing has increased significantly over a short period of time. Environmental supports (e.g., time, space, access to patient records), government funding, peer support, and public awareness are needed to optimize and fully implement these practice changes.

Designing-in WebGIS Tools for digital learning terrains in Natural Environments

Authentic learning environments (Herrington et al., 2014) have been widely acknowledged in creating engaging, meaningful and deep learning experiences, including for “novice” first-year undergraduate students (Roach et al., 2018). Natural Environments (ENVS10001) is a first-year undergraduate subject (unit) that aims to deliver foundational understanding of earth systems and processes to support studies in agriculture, natural resource management and civil engineering. One main obstacle to facilitating understanding in this domain is the unfamiliar scales of the landscape processes and phenomena (Resnick et al., 2017). Natural Environments has been using the granitic geology dominated landscape of Glenrowan in northeastern Victoria (Australia) as an authentic case study. In this presentation we explain how and why we re-designed authentic learning aligned tutorial interactions by integrating student-driven navigation of WebGIS tools such as Geoscience Australia and NatureKit portal to: (a) enable students to build understanding of how geology, geomorphology and ecology interact to result in the dynamic landscapes in the environment; (b) equip students with fundamental and valuable knowledge and skills in accessing free and publicly available datasets useful in their academic and future professional work; (c) demonstrate the authenticity of the curricular content to establish higher levels of learner engagement. The current learning design where dynamic control and interaction with spatial data is central, is just one iteration in the series of previous designs that moved from non-digital to static-digital resources in the learning environment. Generally, an anchored instruction aligned approach (The Cognition and Technology Group at Vanderbilt, 1990) was adopted. Prior to the tutorial, students attended two one-hour lectures explaining the structure of the earth, plate tectonics, and global-scale structural (volcanic and tectonic) landforms. We wanted students to develop an understanding of how, over “unfamiliar” geological (time) and spatial scales, geomorphological processes operating across different rock types resulting from geological processes (e.g. granite pluton emplacement amongst sedimentary rocks) result in the landscapes observed presently. During the class, with tutors as guides, students worked in groups and learnt how to use the Geoscience Australia portal to explore the Glenrowan region, centered around the Warby Ranges and the surrounding plains. Professional instructional videos developed in collaboration with the University of Melbourne Learning Environments media team were used to demonstrate how to use the portal to find geological and geomorphological information. Students were guided in the use of Google Earth to visualise terrain in pseudo-3D and using elevation transects. The spatial correlation of landform patterns and elements with different surface and subsurface geologies was key to unlocking students’ abilities to explain the “why” and “how” of landscape evolution, albeit at the basic level. Students had mostly positive experiences and learning outcomes shown in the post-subject survey (n = 30; scores of 4.6 to 6.0 for 12 questions on 7-point Likert scale) and comments. Technical issues encountered due to simultaneous class access to the portal, and gaps in explaining specific functionalities and their potential for further understanding, were highlighted. The authors acknowledge the strong support for this work through the University of Melbourne’s FlexAP programme.

Regional Framework Towards Establishing Treatment, Storage, and Disposal (TSD) Facilities for PV Waste Management in the Philippines: A Case Study of Laguna Province

Abstract. The accelerated adoption of photovoltaic (PV) systems for renewable power generation in the Philippines will yield a tremendous amount of PV waste. However, the country lacks a comprehensive framework for understanding PV module waste volume growth and optimally siting Treatment, Storage, and Disposal (TSD) facilities for PV waste management based on minimum siting factor. The study aims to develop a regional framework that utilizes a geographic information system (GIS)-based approach to find the potential sites and optimal locations of TSD facilities in Laguna, Philippines, based on the estimated PV module waste growth of solar energy systems with service contracts and minimum siting criteria under Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Administrative Order 2013-22. By 2060, the projected amount of PV module waste in Laguna province will be around 162,230 metric tons based on the waste projection results. The suitable sites cover around 19,720.5 hectares or 11.21% of the total land area of Laguna, which were determined by various siting factors that encompass social, economic, and environmental factors and obtained using binary suitability analysis and vector overlay analysis. The optimal locations of the two TSD facilities were identified using strategic positioning based on hotspot analysis, clustering algorithm, and proximity analysis. Consequently, the distance and GHG emissions of the two optimal locations were calculated. Indeed, the approach will serve as a guide for policymakers and other stakeholders in understanding PV module waste growth and strategically and optimally position TSD facilities on suitable sites for efficient and effective PV waste management.

Recurring Network Node Performance Evaluation Model for Enhancing the QOS Levels in 6G Enabled WSN

Among the many promising qualities of the Sixth Generation (6G) are its ultra-dense connection, integrated sensing and communication, secure communication, very high data rate, energy and spectrum efficiency, and ultra-reliable low latency communication. Novel approaches to environmental protection and resource monitoring have evolved with new forms of communication networks made possible by technological advancements. When it comes to environmental research and science, 6G enabled Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) plays a key role. There are several fields that can benefit from WSNs, including robotics, environmental monitoring, medicine, and the military. The Quality-of-Service (QoS) is a critical concern in wireless sensor applications because to the increasing demand for their use in various domains. Because the resources accessible from sensors and the many applications operating over these networks have varied limits in nature and requirements, ensuring QoS in WSNs is complex and increasingly demanding. Delays, throughput, jitter, and other network-level indicators used to be the main focus of QoS efforts. In this research, a model for providing suitable QoS measures for WSN is proposed, including service, reliability, and availability, all of which contribute to the preservation of high-quality service. Availability, Dependability, and Serviceability are the parameters considered for providing QoS. 6G wireless networks are largely focused on enhanced intelligence, synchronization of resources and topology from beginning to end, and the inherent support for high-bandwidth, low-latency communication. With these features, cyber physical user experiences that are rich in context are feasible. As a result, defining and identifying the function of quality of experience in 6G networks is crucial, particularly for network administration. To optimize application service satisfaction, a WSN should learn to govern the network's overall performance based on QoS characteristics, which guarantee the transfer of information. This research proposes a Recurring Network Node Performance Evaluation Model (RNN-PEM) for enhancing the QoS levels in 6G enabled WSN. The proposed model when compared with the traditional models, provided enhanced QoS levels.

Influences on the physical activity behaviour of inpatients after stroke outside of staff-led rehabilitation sessions: a systematic review.

To use behavioural science frameworks to synthesise evidence on the factors influencing physical activity of patients hospitalised after stroke outside of staff-led rehabilitation sessions. A systematic review of qualitative and mixed-methods studies. MEDLINE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and AMED were searched from inception to October 2024 for studies that explored influences on the physical activity of patients hospitalised after stroke. Data were coded with reference to the Theoretical Domains Framework and the COM-B ('capability', 'opportunity', 'motivation' and 'behaviour') model. Thematic analysis was used to group data extracts into themes within each Theoretical Domains Framework domain. Risk of bias was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. We identified 17 studies. There was no significant risk of bias concerns. We identified 19 themes across eight Theoretical Domains Framework domains and all COM-B model categories. The most frequently recognised themes were found in three Theoretical Domains Framework domains: Environmental Context and Resources (themes: 1 -- availability of sufficient skilled staff to facilitate physical activity; 2 - design and use of the physical environment; 3 - lack of opportunities or incentives; 4 - passivity and institutionalisation; 5 - perceived and actual rules and culture of the ward); Skills (theme: physical impairments); and Social Influences (theme: activity influenced by family and friends). The review highlights the complexity of the influences on the physical activity of patients hospitalised after stroke outside of staff-led rehabilitation sessions. It is likely multi-component interventions addressing a number of influences will be required to effectively improve physical activity. PROSPERO ID: CRD42022383506.

Psychological health declined during the post-monsoon season in communities impacted by sea-level rise in Bangladesh

Sea level rise affects the long-term psychological health of coastal communities. However, research on long-term and seasonal impacts on vulnerable communities’ psychological health is limited. Here, we explore the effect of sea-level rise on the psychological health of the coastal population in Satkhira and Khulna districts of southwest Bangladesh across two seasons: before monsoon (March to April) and post-monsoon months (October to November) in 2021. We leveraged the longitudinal research that involved 1144 participants. We collected data on psychological health using established scales for distress, depression, anxiety, and stress and also measured environmental factors and resource losses. Results indicate that psychological health, particularly distress, depression, anxiety, and stress, increased during the post-monsoon months in communities more vulnerable to sea-level rise. Highly vulnerable communities showed increased psychological distress post-monsoon. Environmental stressors and resource loss escalated during the post-monsoon period, especially in moderate and highly vulnerable communities. Our findings emphasize the urgent need for targeted support and resilience-building interventions in affected communities to alleviate the psychological health impacts of sea-level rise.

Dynamics of Shoreline Changes Along the Coast of Subarnarekha and Budhabalanga River Estuary, North Eastern Coast of India Using DSAS Technique: A Geospatial Technology Approach

ABSTRACTThe coastal regions represent one of the most significant environmental and economic resources, offering critical ecosystems that support biodiversity. Shoreline change analysis offers critical insights into coastal dynamics, providing trends in erosion and accretion, enabling effective coastal management and hazard mitigation. In the current study, shoreline change is assessed utilizing the Digital Shoreline Analysis System (DSAS) model for Subarnarekha and Budhabalanga river estuaries in Baleswar district, Odisha, India. The shoreline was extracted using multitemporal satellite images like Landsat‐5 and Landsat‐7 for the years 1991, 2000, and 2011. Similarly Sentinel‐2 and Landsat‐8 satellite imagery were used for the year 2022. The satellite data from 1991 to 2022 were processed using Envi, ArcGIS softwares and the shoreline is extracted for each year using band ratioing methods to demarcate shoreline. In the current research, the net accretion and erosion along the coast were analyzed using the GIS (geographic information systems) technique and the DSAS model. The four important statistical parameters of the DSAS model utilized in the study area are end point rate (EPR), net shoreline movement (NSM), linear regression rate (LRR), and least median of squares (LMS). The shoreline change analysis for the coast of Subarnarekha and Budhabalanga river estuary area from 1991 to 2022 reveals that 44% of the coast is under accretion, 7% is under stable coast, and 23% is under erosion. According to the findings, the coastal area of the recent study is both progressive and regressive in nature. For the study area, the average rates of shoreline accretion and erosion are 1.05 m and 0.45 m per year, respectively. The study gives information on erosion and accretion near the Subarnarekha and Budhabalanga river estuaries, which will aid in the development of an adaptive shoreline management strategy and coastal vulnerability assessment.