Environmental Management Strategies Research Articles

Large eddy simulation of thermal stratification effects on tracer gas dispersion in a cavity

This paper assesses the effect of thermal stratification on the prediction of inert tracer gas dispersion within a cavity of height (H) 1.0 m, and unity aspect ratio, using large eddy simulation. The Reynolds number of the cavity flow, was 67 000. Thermal stratification was achieved through the heating or cooling of one or more of the walls within the cavity. When compared to an isothermal (neutral) case, unstable stratification from surface heating generally has a weak influence on the primary recirculating cavity vortex, except in the case where the windward wall is heated. For windward wall heating, a large secondary vortex appears at the corner of the windward wall and cavity floor. Unstable stratification has no significant influence on the removal of pollutant mass from the cavity. Stable stratification through surface cooling drastically alters the flow pattern within the cavity, pushing the cavity vortex towards the upper quadrant of the cavity. As a result, large regions of stagnant fluid are present within the cavity, reducing the effectiveness of the shear layer at removing pollutant concentration from the cavity. Some stable stratification configurations can increase the pollutant mass within the cavity by over a factor of five, when compared to the neutral case. Pollutant concentration flux maps show that, in stably stratified cases, the majority of pollutant transport from the cavity is the result of entrainment into the primary cavity vortex. The results show that pollutant concentrations in urban street canyon-type flows are substantially altered by diurnal heating and cooling, which may influence pedestrian management strategies in urban environments.

WORK ENVIRONMENT SAFETY MANAGEMENT PROGRAM OFFICE WORKERS

Improving the safety of the working environment through occupational risk management (informing workers about relevant risks, creating a system for identification, assessment and control) and economic motivation is a relevant issue. Working conditions that affect human health depend on the condition of buildings and structures, the design and organization of workplaces, equipment, tools and materials used to perform labor duties. Labor stress is one of the main factors which has a negative impact on the human conditions inherently reflecting the load on the central nervous system, sensory organs, emotional and intellectual spheres directly related to the job performed. The article analyzes experience of developing and implementing measures intended to ensure safe working conditions, reducing general and micro-injuries, morbidity, based on the development and implementation of an environmental management strategy and targeted programs to improve working conditions.

Relationship between Brand Attitude and Loyalty according to Cosmetic Brand’s Environmental Management and Involvement

Purpose: This study aims to comprehend the impact of consumers’ perception of environmental management strategies on their involvement in eco-friendly attitude formation and loyalty to cosmetics brands.Methods: The research hypothesis was confirmed by performing frequency, correlation, and confirmation factor analyses, and the structural equation model, using the statistical processing program SPSS 28.0, on 316 adult men and women who use cosmetics brands.Results: First, it was discovered that environmental management awareness for cosmetics brands had a significant positive influence on forming consumers’ brand attitudes and loyalty (p<0.001). Second, it was observed that consumers’ eco-friendly involvement had a significant positive effect on attitudes toward cosmetic brands and loyalty (p <0.001).Conclusion: This study confirmed that cosmetics brands’ environmental management strategies and consumers’ eco-friendly involvement have a significant impact on each brand’s attitude formation and brand loyalty, implying that marketing strategies for target consumers with high eco-friendly involvement are required.

Resource selection and home range size variation of Atlantic Forest woodpecker species: Implications for selective logging and conservation

Understanding the habitat requirements of forest-dependent species, such as woodpeckers, is crucial for effective management strategies in environments facing significant anthropogenic pressures. During 2013–2019, we investigated the variation in the availability of forest structural attributes in two unlogged forests, one forest with active selective logging, and one forest 33 years after it had been logged, in the Upper Paraná Atlantic Forest in Misiones, Argentina. Then, we studied the selection of the forest attributes by co-occurring populations of Helmeted Woodpecker (Celeus galeatus), Lineated Woodpecker (Dryocopus lineatus), and Robust Woodpecker (Campephilus robustus), along with their correlation to variations in home range sizes of woodpeckers. We found that the density of potential nest trees of the three woodpecker species, the density of potential Helmeted Woodpecker roost trees, the basal area ha−1 of live trees ≥ 30 cm DBH, the density of live large trees ≥ 30 cm DBH, and the volume of dead wood ≥ 30 cm diameter differed among study sites. Home range sizes of Helmeted Woodpeckers decreased with higher potential roost tree density and greater understory bamboo cover. The home range sizes of Robust Woodpeckers decreased with a higher density of dead trees, while home range sizes of Lineated Woodpeckers were not influenced by any of the variables we measured. The three woodpecker species selected diameter classes and tree species for foraging and nesting disproportionally to their availability. Helmeted Woodpecker preferred guatambú (Balfourodendron riedelianum) over other trees for roosting. We recommend considering key attributes associated with smaller home range sizes of the threatened Helmeted Woodpecker in sustainable forest management, as these attributes are also important for the other two woodpecker species. To ensure the availability of the resources selected by these woodpeckers, we recommend increasing the legal minimum cutting diameter to 60 cm for grapia (Apuleia leiocarpa), guatambú, rabo duro (Lonchocarpus leucanthus) and palo de canga (Symplocos uniflora), and to 50 cm for laurel negro (Nectandra megapotamica) and laurel amarillo (N. lanceolata). We found similar quantities of most of the tree resources we measured in unlogged forests and a forest undergoing a natural recovery for 33 years after the cessation of selective logging, and we recommend that more logged forests be restored in this manner.

Rethinking environmental flow management strategies in reservoir operations from an integrated water quality perspective

River damming causes appreciable nutrient retention in reservoirs, increasing the risk of eutrophication in reservoir water. Environmental flow (e-flow) management strategies have been extensively studied to direct reservoir release to meet water quantity demands of downstream ecosystems. However, such strategies also impact reservoir nutrient transport and transformation as well as stored and discharged water quality, which has rarely been considered in existing e-flow management. This study combines a reservoir operation optimization model and a coupled hydrodynamic-eutrophication-sediment model to evaluate e-flow management strategies from an integrated water quality perspective. Multiple nutrients, water, and sediment processes are accounted for as well as the quality of both stored and discharged water. Five common e-flow strategies that focus on various ecosystem protection targets were used to generate operation scenarios. Subsequently, the coupled hydrodynamic-eutrophication-sediment model was used to simulate nutrient cycling processes and water quality under each scenario. Modeling results show that e-flow management strategies cause complex effects on reservoir nitrogen, phosphorus, and algal dynamics. In general, reservoir water quality was the worst in the scenario with largest e-flow release, implying that tradeoffs exist between water quantity and quality of reservoir release. Lower e-flow release resulted in reservoir storage level increases and promoted sediment nutrient release, but the effect was offset by the increase in the nutrient dilution capacity of reservoir water. Additionally, the comparison between inflow and discharged water quality showed that the reservoir contributed to reducing river nitrogen loads under low e-flow releases while increasing river phosphorus loads in all scenarios. The findings support e-flow management decision-making to account for both water quantity and quality targets as well as to coordinate reservoir services and ecological protection.

Human health risk assessment of potentially toxic elements in soil and air particulate matter of automobile hub environments in Kumasi, Ghana

Rapid urbanization and uncontrolled industrial activities in developing countries have raised concerns about potentially toxic metal contamination of the environment. This study assessed the levels of potentially toxic elements in soil and airborne particulate matter in the Suame and Asafo areas in the Kumasi metropolis, characterized by a high concentration of auto mechanic workshops and residential settlements. X-ray fluorescence analysis and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry were used to determine the metal concentrations in the samples. The results showed high concentrations of potentially toxic elements in the soil and air samples, indicating contamination from automotive activities. Metals such as Co, Ni, Pb, and Zn were found to be present at concentrations (13.42–6101.58 mg/kg and 14.15–11.74 mg/kg for Suame and Asafo respectively) that pose potential health risks to exposed populations. Mathematical models such as pollution indices were used to assess the extent of contamination and determine the potential sources of the metals - the automotive repairs. The findings highlight the urgent need for environmental management and remediation strategies to mitigate the health risks of exposure to potentially toxic elements in the Kumasi metropolis automotive hub.

Energy Management and Environmental Protection in Industrial Parks: A Comparative Study of Central Taiwan Science Park and Silicon Glen

This manuscript focuses on analyzing the growth dynamics of the Central Taiwan Science Park (CTSP) and Silicon Glen in Scotland with a specific emphasis on their approaches to energy, environmental conservation, and economic management. The objective is to provide insights into their sustainable development strategies. In terms of energy, CTSP addresses Taiwan’s energy security and green transformation challenges, while Silicon Glen concentrates on Scotland’s wind energy generation technologies. Both regions prioritize the advancement of renewable energy sources and smart grid technologies. In the realm of environmental conservation, both CTSP and Silicon Glen prioritize environmental protection and sustainability by implementing rigorous environmental monitoring measures. Regarding economic management, CTSP and Silicon Glen serve as vital technology industry hubs in Taiwan and Scotland, respectively, attracting a multitude of high-tech and startup enterprises. This growth is facilitated through various means, including policy support, access to research resources, and robust infrastructure. This manuscript presents a comparative analysis of these two industrial parks, focusing on their environmental and economic management strategies. It aims to elucidate the principles underpinning the sustainable development and economic growth of industrial parks, offering valuable insights to decision-makers and stakeholders involved in the planning of sustainable industrial parks.

Are landholders willing to collaborate under ELMs? Promoting collaborative conservation on a landscape scale in the UK

It is now widely acknowledged that one of the ways to protect biodiversity in the UK is through a landscape scale management approach towards conservation. Achieving this will require future agri-environmental schemes to foster better opportunities for landscape scale collaboration amongst landholders – a limitation of previous agri-environmental schemes. With the UK's new Environmental Land Management schemes reflecting a stronger emphasis on collaborative management at a landscape scale, the extent to which landowners are willing to collaborate must be better understood. This will enable the potential for a collaborative Nature Recovery Network - set out in the UK's 25 Year Environmental Plan – to be fully realised.Findings from our case study in Bonhurst Farm, UK suggest that while the scenario with the highest connectivity was the preferred choice amongst participants, several barriers stand in the way of implementing it; not least the uncertainty of how it might impact the operation of their farm business. Additionally, concerns around funding, and the lack of clarity and flexibility, of future scheme could potentially hinder uptake. This is in spite of respondents’ strong inclination towards environmental conservation and increasing landscape connectivity. To address these barriers, future policies must not only involve landholders earlier in the development process of these schemes but also consider how their involvement contributes to the formulation of these schemes. Moreover, our findings also indicate that facilitators and advisors serves as key driver to the success of collaborations, with their ability to organise and implement collaborative schemes, along with their expertise knowledge, being seen as invaluable.

Unveiling Nature’s Resilience: Exploring Vegetation Dynamics during the COVID-19 Era in Jharkhand, India, with the Google Earth Engine

The Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has presented unprecedented challenges to global health and economic stability. Intriguingly, the necessary lockdown measures, while disruptive to human society, inadvertently led to environmental rejuvenation, particularly noticeable in decreased air pollution and improved vegetation health. This study investigates the lockdown’s impact on vegetation health in Jharkhand, India, employing the Google Earth Engine for cloud-based data analysis. MODIS-NDVI data were analyzed using spatio-temporal NDVI analyses and time-series models. These analyses revealed a notable increase in maximum vegetation greenery of 19% from April 2019 to 2020, with subsequent increases of 13% and 3% observed in March and May of the same year, respectively. A longer-term analysis from 2000 to 2020 displayed an overall 16.7% rise in vegetation greenness. While the maximum value remained relatively constant, it demonstrated a slight increment during the dry season. The Landsat data Mann–Kendall trend test reinforced these findings, displaying a significant shift from a negative NDVI trend (1984–2019) to a positive 17.7% trend (1984–2021) in Jharkhand’s north-west region. The precipitation (using NASA power and Merra2 data) and NDVI correlation were also studied during the pre- and lockdown periods. Maximum precipitation (350–400 mm) was observed in June, while July typically experienced around 300 mm precipitation, covering nearly 85% of Jharkhand. Interestingly, August 2020 saw up to 550 mm precipitation, primarily in Jharkhand’s southern region, compared to 400 mm in the same month in 2019. Peak changes in NDVI value during this period ranged between 0.6–0.76 and 0.76–1, observed throughout the state. Although the decrease in air pollution led to improved vegetation health, these benefits began to diminish post-lockdown. This observation underscores the need for immediate attention and intervention from scientists and researchers. Understanding lockdown-induced environmental changes and their impact on vegetation health can facilitate the development of proactive environmental management strategies, paving the way towards a sustainable and resilient future.

Market-Based Instruments for Environmental Management: A Comparative Analysis

Market-Based Instruments (MBIs) have emerged as effective tools for environmental management, aiming to align economic decisions with environmental goals through the application of market principles and economic incentives. This paper presents a comprehensive review and comparative analysis of different MBIs, including Emissions Trading Schemes (ETS), Environmental Taxes, Subsidies and Grants, Tradable Permits, and Payments for Ecosystem Services (PES). The analysis examines the characteristics, effectiveness, and implications of each instrument, drawing insights from case studies and scholarly literature. Findings reveal that ETS and environmental taxes directly target emissions, while subsidies and grants promote environmentally friendly activities. Tradable permits enable efficient resource management, and PES programs compensate for the maintenance of ecosystem services. The choice of instrument depends on the specific context and environmental challenges, with a combination of instruments offering comprehensive environmental management strategies. The research provides valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners in designing effective environmental policies and contributes to the ongoing dialogue in the field of environmental economics.

Influence of green human resource management on employees’ behavior through mediation of environmental knowledge of managers

Lately, there has been a rising awareness of the significance of becoming green and applying different environmental management strategies within the corporate community. This paper endeavours to explore the adoption of Green HRM practices by managers in Patan Industrial Estate. This study addresses the importance of knowledge development in relation to HRM practices and employee behavior. The goal is to see how Green HRM influences EGB in Patan Industrial Estate through mediation of managers' environmental knowledge. Exploratory research design was chosen as the primary study paradigm to determine the truth. The data was evaluated quantitatively by using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The associations between the 113 replies were analyzed using SEM. According to the findings of the study, environmental knowledge does not operate as a facilitator between Green HRM and EGB. This result is also theoretically significant in terms of the AMO theory. However, Green HRM is an emerging concept that deserves more attention. Employees and organizations must make even more changes to ensure that greening processes are implemented in all of their activities. General recommendations for successful implementation of Green HRM practices include revising the vision, mission and organization policies of an organization, ensuring its ISO certification, advancement of technologies, and enhancing GHRM practices by providing training and empowering employees, as well as participating in proactive government initiatives.

Strategi Pengelolaan Lingkungan RSUD Rokan Hulu Menuju Green Hospital

The purpose of this study was to estimate the existing conditions of Rokan Hulu Hospital in an effort to apply the principles of green hospital and determine strategy for managing the hospital's environment towards green hospital. Hospitals have a positive impact on a good quality of life, but also have the potential to be the biggest source of pollution to the surrounding environment. This study uses a qualitative approach with descriptive research methods. The results showed that the Rokan Hulu Hospital only met the requirements for implementing the Green Hospital elements at 27.9%, which is still relatively low. Based on the SWOT analysis, the environmental management strategy that can be carried out by Rokan Hulu Hospital towards green hospital is in quadrant I, namely supporting an aggressive strategy by implementing an SO (Strenghts-Opportunities) strategy, which was utilizing all strengths as much as possible by taking advantage of existing opportunities . The strategy that can be carried out at Rokan Hulu Hospital is to improve the performance of hospital leadership and staff in developing the green hospital concept technology-based waste, establishing cooperation with relevant agencies or stakeholders, developing green open land that already exists as an attraction for hospitals.

Assessment of heavy metal accumulation in dust and leaves of Conocarpus erectus in urban areas: Implications for phytoremediation

This study investigated the spatio-temporal variation of heavy metal concentrations in roadside dust and its correlation with heavy metal content in roadside plant leaves. Sixty re-suspended dust samples were collected from six locations during two seasons (dry and wet). Simultaneously, leaf samples of Conocarpus erectus were collected from the same locations. The samples were analyzed using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer to determine the concentrations of As, Cu, Fe, Cd, Pb, and Ni. The pH and conductivity of the dust were also analyzed using a glass electrode. The mean concentrations (μg/g) of heavy metals in the dust ranged from 0.337 to 6.34 for As, 10.60–55.39 for Cu, 542.17–1453.45 for Fe, 0.193–1.026 for Cd, 11.82–52.56 for Pb, and 10.19–29.27 for Ni in different seasons. Similarly, the concentrations of heavy metals in the leaf samples ranged from 0.031 to 1.70 for As, 6.90–13.19 for Cu, 263.09–576.16 for Fe, 0.299–1.33 for Cd, 0.019–17.82 for Pb, and 2.09–7.015 for Ni in different seasons. The correlation between heavy metal concentrations in different seasons was examined using Pearson's and Spearman's correlation methods. To compare the bioaccumulation ability, bio-concentration factors (BCF), comprehensive bio-concentration index (CBCI), and metal accumulation index (MAI) were calculated. The Conocarpus erectus MAI was consistent across different locations and seasons (24.49 ± 0.149). Based on CBCI, the bioaccumulation capacity of heavy metals they were ranged from 6.57 to 12.83 in the dry season and from 5.84 to 10.24 in the wet season. These findings provide valuable insights into the distribution and accumulation of heavy metals in roadside dust and plant leaves, highlighting the potential of Conocarpus erectus as a bio-accumulator for heavy metal pollution in urban environments. The results can be utilized to develop appropriate strategies for environmental management and pollution control in areas affected by vehicular pollution.

Landscape configuration modulates the presence of leaf-cutting ants in eucalypt plantations

Pest responses to landscape complexity show variable patterns globally, primarily related to species traits and specific managed habitats. Leaf-cutting ants (LCAs) are native insects and important pests of plantation forests in South America. We evaluated the responses of LCA nests in young Eucalyptus plantations to different spatial contexts: land uses, interfaces (adjacent land use pairs), agroecosystems, and landscapes. We selected 30 sites in the littoral region of Argentina representing three types of land uses neighboring Eucalyptus plantations: adult eucalypt plantations, citrus plantations, and semi-natural habitats. At each site, we quantified and identified LCA nests and characterized landscape composition and configuration in circles of 250 m radius. LCA nest abundance and presence were similar across different land uses, interfaces, and agroecosystems. Nest presence decreased in landscapes with increasing mean perimeter/area ratio and citrus coverage, whereas LCA abundance showed a similar trend. This indicates that heterogeneous landscapes and those with greater citrus plantation coverage were less likely to have LCA nests. Our findings suggest that landscape configuration was the main predictor of the LCA presence. Understanding the dynamics of LCAs populations and their complex associations with landscape components will contribute to developing successful environmental pest management strategies for plantation forests.

Spatial distribution of meiofaunal and macrofaunal assemblages in the tidal flats of the southern Korean coast in relation to natural and anthropogenic impacts

We investigated the spatial variability of macrofaunal and meiofaunal assemblages in intertidal flats on the southern coast of Korea. Abiotic and biotic samples were collected at five stations. The species richness, density, and composition of the assemblages differed significantly among stations. Nematoda and Annelida were the most dominant meiofaunal and macrofaunal taxa, respectively, although taxon dominance differed among stations. Distance-based linear models showed that sediment-related variables and heavy metals were the main environmental factors determining the spatial variability of the assemblages. Macrofauna had only sediment-related variables and heavy metals as major environmental factors, but meiofauna were also influenced by other environmental factors such as sea surface temperature, dissolved oxygen-related variables, and salinity. This study can provide basic ecological data for understanding the spatial distribution of macro-meiofaunal assemblages and aid in the development of marine environmental management strategies on the western south coast of Korea.

Environmental Trace Metal Concentrations in the Okrika Stretch: A Comprehensive Study on Pollution Indicators

The Okrika Stretch of Bonny River, Nigeria, has long been a vital ecological and economic resource for the surrounding communities. However, increasing industrialization and anthropogenic activities have raised concerns about the potential pollution of this precious aquatic ecosystem. This study delves into the assessment of environmental trace metal concentrations, specifically Lead (Pb), Nickel (Ni), Zinc (Zn), Copper (Cu), and Iron (Fe), as pollution indicators in various components of the Okrika Stretch. The research scrutinizes water, sediment, oyster, and periwinkle samples, utilizing cutting-edge analytical techniques to measure trace metal levels. Sampling was carried out at five distinct locations, including a control site situated outside the presumed affected area, for both dry and wet seasons throughout the year. Following collection, the samples of water, sediment, oyster, and periwinkle underwent digestion and subsequent analysis using the Bulk Scientific Model 200A Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). Our findings reveal a complex interplay of trace metal concentrations across different environmental components. The water samples exhibit varying levels of these metals, reflecting the dynamic nature of riverine systems. Sediment analysis identifies hotspots of metal accumulation, potentially posing risks to aquatic life. Oysters and periwinkles, as vital components of the food web, accumulate trace metals at different rates, providing insights into potential human health implications. This research not only sheds light on the current state of pollution within the Okrika Stretch but also underscores the importance of continued monitoring and mitigation efforts. The results call for a comprehensive environmental management strategy to safeguard the ecological and economic sustainability of the Bonny River region. By addressing the complexities of trace metal pollution, this study contributes to the broader discourse on safeguarding our invaluable aquatic ecosystems worldwide.

Climate Resilience and Ecological Dynamics of the Mpameso Forest Reserve in Ghana: Insights from Land Surface Temperature Analysis

Climate change, characterized by shifts in weather parameters and escalating climate-related risks, has emerged as a global environmental concern. Among these concerns, chronic heat waves have garnered attention due to their far-reaching implications. This study delves into the profound impact of chronic heat waves on the Mpameso forest reserve in Ghana, an ecosystem of vital importance. Chronic heat waves have induced notable changes in the local climate, marked by increased temperatures, elevated evapotranspiration rates, and alterations in rainfall patterns over the past three decades. Ghana, like many regions worldwide, has experienced shifts in seasons and a rising global mean surface temperature, contributing to the intensification of global warming. The repercussions of chronic heat waves are particularly significant within forest reserves, and their effects on Ghana's Dormaa Central Municipality are explored in detail. Vegetation cover in Ghana has faced recurrent challenges from extreme heat waves, leading to diminished forested areas, heightened evapotranspiration rates, and instances of drought-induced water scarcity. To assess the severity of these impacts and devise proactive environmental management strategies, this study leverages the power of satellite remote sensing. Utilizing Landsat imagery, the study examines changes in Land Surface Temperature (LST) alongside the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and Evapotranspiration (ET) within the Dormaa municipal area. Pearson correlation analysis is employed to uncover the intricate relationship between LST, vegetation health, and ET within the Mpameso forest reserve. The study's compelling findings reveal that chronic heat waves predominantly affect the settlement areas surrounding the forest reserve, sparing the reserve itself from significant LST-related health impacts. This nuanced understanding underscores the importance of proactive conservation efforts and climate resilience planning, emphasizing the value of integrated approaches to safeguarding vital ecosystems in the face of mounting climate extremes.

Understanding the linkages between spatio-temporal urban land system changes and land surface temperature in Srinagar City, India, using image archives from Google Earth Engine.

Land-use and land-cover (LULC) is an important component for sustainable natural resource management, and there are considerable impacts of the rapid anthropogenic LULC changes on environment, ecosystem services, and land surface processes. One of the significant adverse implications of the rapidly changing urban LULC is the increase in the Land Surface Temperature (LST) resulting in the urban heat island effect. In this study, we used a time series of Landsat satellite images from 1992 to 2020 in the Srinagar city of the Kashmir valley, North-western Himalaya, India to understand the linkages between LULC dynamics and LST, derived from the archived images using the Google Earth Engine (GEE). Furthermore, the relationship between LST, urban heat island (UHI), and biophysical indices, i.e., Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI), was also analysed. LULC change detection analysis from 1992 to 2020 revealed that the built-up area has increased significantly from 12% in 1992 to 40% in 2020, while the extent of water bodies has decreased from 6% in 1992 to 4% in 2020. The area under plantations has decreased from 26% in 1992 to 17% in 2020, and forests have decreased from 4 to 2% during the same period. Urban sprawl of Srinagar city has resulted in the depletion of natural land covers, modification of natural drainage, and loss of green and blue spaces over the past four decades. The study revealed that the maximum LST in the city has increased by 11°C between 1992 and 2020. During the same period of time, the minimum LST in the city has increased by 5°C, indicating the impact of urbanization on the city environment, which is reflected by the observed changes in various environmental indices. UHI impact in the city is quite evident with the maximum LST at the city centre having increased from 13.03°C in 1992 to 22.01°C in 2020. The findings shall serve as a vital source of knowledge for urban planners and decision-makers in developing sustainable urban environmental management strategies for Srinagar city.

Quantitative examination of microstructural transformations of clay-rich sediments in river-dominated deltas under the influence of polluted pore water

Coastal water pollution has a significant impact on sedimentary environments, altering the microstructure of clay-rich sediments and further destabilizing river-dominated delta strata. However, the understanding of the microstructure of clay sediment, influenced by burial depth and pore water chemistry, remains limited due to challenges in quantitatively analyzing clay texture at varying depths. The perturbable of clay microstructures, and the cost of deep sampling have hindered such efforts. To address this issue, this study aims to quantitatively analyze the clay anisotropy at different depths and pore water chemistry through laboratory-simulated sediment samples by using centrifugal modeling and 2DXRD technology. The results suggest that 1DXRD (Orientation index) is prone to generating incorrect conclusions, whereas 2DXRD (pole density) yields more precise and reliable results. Specifically, the results indicated that the introduction of salt ions promoted clay precipitation and stabilized the oriented microstructure at shallower depths. In acidic solutions, clay sediment still contained a certain proportion of edge to face (EF) microstructure at depths less than 6 m, suggesting higher soil thixotropy and lower strength than that of clay sediments in other types of solutions. Overall, our findings provide valuable insights into the relationship between water pollution, delta disappearance, and ocean acidification, highlighting the urgent need for effective environmental management strategies to prevent further damage to fragile coastal ecosystems.

The Environmental Issues and Appropriacy of Adapted Management Strategies

Environmental issues are a ubiquitous but vague concept. Understanding these problems' nature and how anthropogenic actions contribute to them is essential. At present, it is possible to identify many environmental issues on different scales in the world and Sri Lanka. Therefore, this research mainly aimed to identify the main environmental issues and the appropriacy of adapted management strategies in Egoda Guruwala GN Division in Sri Lanka. Interviews and field observations were used as the main data collection method. The ranking method was used to identify the most prominent issues, and the results were interpreted using Problem Tree analysis. Further, it investigates the strengths and weaknesses of the management strategies in a qualitative methodological approach. The results found that there are five main environmental problems, [1] soil erosion and land degradation, [2] deforestation, [3] environmental pollution, [4] invasive species spreading, and [5] other problems. The study found different management strategies such as planting trees, trenching in sloped areas, raising awareness, using the popper waste disposal method, properly implementing the rules, and composting the carbonic waste. However, the study found another environmental issue due to unsustainable management strategies. As a rural area, the community already has the potential to use sustainable environment management strategies to reduce the environmental issues that may arise in the future. Even so, lack of accountability and ignorance may cause on developing the current situation. Therefore, this study enables us to identify the possible management strategies that may take at a domestic and community level to control and minimize the future environmental issues in the study area.