- Siderophores và metallophores: Vũ khí tạo phức kim loại để chống lại ô nhiễm môi trường.

- Thương mại và việc tách rời sử dụng nhiên liệu hóa thạch được nhúng trong tiêu dùng của EU.

- Vai trò của chính trị châu Âu trong việc định hướng các chính sách sức khỏe môi trường đô thị.

- Các yếu tố ảnh hưởng đến hành vi tiêu dùng năng lượng xanh ở Úc.

- Đánh giá sự ô nhiễm nấm và mối quan hệ của nó với mức PM trong hệ thống giao thông công cộng.

- Xem xét động lực giữa phát triển kinh tế, du lịch, năng lượng tái tạo và tuổi thọ ở các nền kinh tế Bắc Âu.

- Đánh giá tác động và sự khác biệt của đầu tư trực tiếp ra nước ngoài (OFDI) của Trung - Quốc đối với hiệu suất phát thải carbon tổng hợp ở các quốc gia trong Sáng kiến Vành đai và Con đường.

- Ô nhiễm vi nhựa trong đất có thể làm trầm trọng thêm biến đổi khí hậu không? Một phân tích tổng hợp về phát thải khí nhà kính và tiềm năng nóng lên toàn cầu.

- Đánh giá tác động của vốn tự nhiên và đổi mới đối với phát triển bền vững ở các nước đang phát triển.

- Phân tích toàn diện về sự phân bố và độc tính của các chất chuyển hóa thứ cấp của tảo lam trong các vùng nước đô thị.

- Tích hợp các mô hình học máy với kiểm tra chéo và bootstrapping để đánh giá chất lượng nước ngầm ở tỉnh Kanchanaburi, Thái Lan.

- Thu hồi các chất hữu cơ bằng bùn hoạt tính từ nước thải đô thị: Hiệu suất và đặc điểm.

- Mô phỏng dự đoán mối quan hệ nước-năng lượng-thực phẩm cho thành phố Cape Town.

- Các nguyên tố có khả năng độc hại trong đất đô thị của thành phố ven biển biển Azov: Mức độ, nguồn gốc, ô nhiễm và đánh giá rủi ro.

- Mô phỏng kịch bản phát thải carbon và điều tiết chính sách ở các tỉnh dựa vào tài nguyên dựa trên mô hình động lực hệ thống.

- Suy nghĩ lại về vùng hoang dã đô thị: Tình trạng, điểm nóng và triển vọng của các dịch vụ hệ sinh thái.

- Đánh giá tiềm năng năng lượng mặt trời cho các tòa nhà dân cư trong môi trường đô thị dựa trên phương pháp tham số.

- Tiết lộ sự tiến hóa của các mô hình không gian - thời gian của sự mở rộng đô thị bằng cách sử dụng mô hình toán học và phân tích điểm nóng nổi bật.

- Mô hình đánh giá khả năng phục hồi thông minh cho sự phát triển không gian ngầm đô thị với mối quan tâm về an toàn của môi trường xây dựng xung quanh.

- Carbon hóa khoáng trong dung dịch của ba loại xỉ thép công nghiệp khác nhau: Khả năng hấp thụ và đặc điểm sản phẩm.

- Khám phá vai trò của hydro trong việc khử carbon cho các ngành công nghiệp sử dụng nhiều năng lượng: Phân tích kỹ thuật-kinh tế của hệ thống đồng phát tế bào nhiên liệu oxit rắn.

- Học bằng thực hành sử dụng công cụ Đánh giá Vòng đời (LCA): Các dự án LCA hợp tác với các ngành công nghiệp.

- Tận dụng các dòng chất thải từ ngành công nghiệp bột giấy và giấy thành năng lượng sinh học và các sản phẩm có giá trị gia tăng: Một cách tiếp cận nhà máy lọc sinh học tích hợp.

- Minh bạch có mang lại lợi ích? Tài nguyên thiên nhiên, phát triển tài chính và sáng kiến minh bạch ngành công nghiệp khai thác (EITI).

- Luyện kim sinh khối: Con đường bền vững và xanh cho ngành luyện kim trung tính carbon.

- Đặc điểm toàn diện của các hợp chất hữu cơ dễ bay hơi trong đất của khu công nghiệp hóa chất Trung Quốc: Biến đổi không gian, nhận diện nguồn gốc và đánh giá rủi ro sức khỏe.

- Điều hướng tiềm năng của ngành hàng hải Pakistan trong bối cảnh nền kinh tế xanh: Phân tích sự cần thiết của việc phê chuẩn Công ước Lao động Hàng hải 2006.

- Văn hóa an toàn và quản lý sự mệt mỏi của công nhân trong ngành dầu khí ngoài khơi: Nghiên cứu phỏng vấn.

ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT / QUẢN LÝ MÔI TRƯỜNG 

Science of The Total Environment, Volume 932, 1 July 2024, 173044

Abstract

Siderophores are small molecules of organic nature, released by bacteria to chelate iron from the surrounding environment and subsequently incorporate it into the cytoplasm. In addition to iron, these secondary metabolites can complex with a wide variety of metals, which is why they are commonly studied in the environment. Heavy metals can be very toxic when present in large amounts on the planet, affecting public health and all living organisms. The pollution caused by these toxic metals is increasing, and therefore it is urgent to find practical, sustainable, and economical solutions for remediation. One of the strategies is siderophore-assisted bioremediation, an innovative and advantageous alternative for various environmental applications.

This research highlights the various uses of siderophores and metallophores in the environment, underscoring their significance to ecosystems. The study delves into the utilization of siderophores and metallophores in both marine and terrestrial settings (e.g. bioremediation, biocontrol of pathogens, and plant growth promotion), such as bioremediation, biocontrol of pathogens, and plant growth promotion, providing context for the different instances outlined in the existing literature and highlighting their relevance in each field. The study delves into the structures and types of siderophores focusing on their singular characteristics for each application and methodologies used. Focusing on recent developments over the last two decades, the opportunities and challenges associated with siderophores and metallophores applications in the environment were mapped to arm researchers in the fight against environmental pollution.

Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 464, 20 July 2024, 142702

Abstract

The EU is frequently recognised as a frontrunner in tackling climate change; however, this assessment primarily relies on production-based evaluations, overlooking the significant role of imports. We conduct a detailed consumption-based analysis of how EU consumption drives global fossil fuel use, combining input–output with structural decomposition analysis and the subsystem approach. We find that the embedded EU fossil fuel footprint has experienced a notable decline between 2000 and 2014, but at rates incompatible with 1.5 °. We identify trade patterns to be an important upward driver of the EU footprint through intermediate production, also thwarting the impact of the energy transition with effects from changes outside the EU lagging within EU developments. Addressing these outsourcing patterns to more fossil fuel intense production could reduce the EU footprint by almost 20%. We find that more than 50% of fossil fuels embedded in imports are linked to indirect imports. Thus, we argue for the EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism to include indirect imports, particularly of electricity. Yet, given the problematic role of growth, even energy transition efforts along the global supply chain will likely need to be complemented by demand side measures, potentially entailing post-growth pathways.

Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 460, 1 July 2024, 142572

Abstract

How to reduce Carbon Emissions from the Construction Industry (CECI) is one of the key issues in China's efforts to achieve its "dual-carbon target”. The Carbon Emission of the building Materialization Process (CEMP) is the main source of CECI, originating from both the upstream sector and the construction industry itself. Researching the synergistic decarbonization potential and reduction pathways of the construction industry and upstream sectors can help guide sustainable development. Focusing on the city scale, this study establishes a bottom-up framework based on system dynamics and carbon intensity methods to explore the possibilities of CEMP. The framework comprises a dynamic material flow analysis module and a carbon emission accounting module. The Logarithmic Mean Divisia Index (LMDI) method is employed to elucidate the emission reduction potentials of various factors. The results show that in the case of Hangzhou: (1) Without control measures, CEMP will reach a maximum of 25.1 million tons, and a substantial scale of 14.9 million tons remaining in 2060. (2) Through synergistic decarbonization, the cumulative emission reduction over the next 40 years could reach 323.4 million tons, and by 2060, CEMP could decrease to 3.7 million tons of CO2. Achieving carbon neutrality in the construction industry still requires carbon offsets from other sectors. (3) The decarbonization potential mainly comes from controlling the new construction area and carbon emission reduction in material production process, contributing 45.4% and 36.9%, respectively. This study reveals the significant pressure faced by the construction industry in achieving carbon neutrality. It also underscores that further controlling material demand and reducing the carbon intensity of materials is a prerequisite for Hangzhou's construction industry to achieve carbon neutrality.

Environmental Research, Volume 252, Part 2, 1 July 2024, 118929

Abstract

The European political landscape plays a pivotal role in shaping public policies, especially those concerning urban environmental health. This dynamic landscape, influenced by varying political ideologies and movements across the continent, underscores the ongoing significance of political processes in policy formulation. The upcoming, and future, European Union elections emerge against a backdrop of increasing concerns over populist measures and their potential to sway policy directions. In this context, the imperative for policies rooted in robust urban health research is magnified, highlighting the unique opportunity this event offers to prioritize public health in policy agendas across the continent.

Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 460, 1 July 2024, 142609

Abstract

This research explores the factors influencing green energy consumer behaviour in Australia by examining Australian consumers' attitudes towards green energy from the Green Perceived Value (GPV) perspective, which integrates functional, emotional, conditional, and social dimensions. The data was collected through a survey of 380 participants on Amazon Mechanical Turk. This study employs factor analysis and structural equation modelling to report positive attitudes towards green energy. The positive perception is notably centred on its practical benefits, superior quality, and environmental advantages. These findings suggest that marketing strategies should highlight green energy's functional and environmental benefits to encourage consumer adoption. The study underscores the necessity of targeted educational campaigns aimed at younger demographics through digital media and the importance of emphasising green energy's economic and environmental benefits. Also, it recommends leveraging social and emotional value messaging and fostering community engagement to enhance the attractiveness of green energy solutions. Contributing to the discourse on green energy adoption in Australia, this research advocates for inclusive policies that ensure the accessibility and affordability of green energy for a diverse demographic spectrum. It calls for expanded research to further explore the GPV dimensions and include potential consumers in different cultural contexts. It offers a comprehensive framework to support strategies for increasing green energy adoption that are aligned with sustainability objectives.

Environmental Research, Volume 252, Part 2, 1 July 2024, 118901

Abstract

Transmission of fungi in the air and its impact on health are regarded as important public health issues. Bioaerosols play an important role in causing or exacerbating infectious diseases, acute toxic effects, allergies, and cardiopulmonary symptoms. As many people use the public transportation system daily, it is necessary to determine the type and manner of dispersal and abundance of airborne fungi in public transport places. Three public transportation systems including a bus station, a train station, and an airport in Ahvaz city (Iran) were examined. At each of these stations, the air samples were taken from inside and outside the hall stations, and in-vehicle. A bio-stage Anderson sampler was used by suctioning air and passing it over a Petri dish containing culture medium Sabouraud Dextrose Agar (SDA). Relative humidity (RH, %), temperature (T, ◦C), and mass concentration of particulate matter (PM1, PM2.5, and PM10, μg/m3) at the sampling points were measured. The highest concentration of airborne fungi was observed in the airport. The concentration of fungi in the ambient air was higher than that in the indoor air of halls and in-vehicle. In all sampling points, the ambient predominant airborne fungi were Cladosporium and Alternaria, while the indoor predominant airborne fungi were Cladosporium, Aspergillus, and Penicillium. The indoor to outdoor ratio showed that the fungi were of an external origin. Due to the influence of the ambient air on indoor air, it is recommended to use proper ventilation and enhance the hygiene level of vehicles in public transportation systems to reduce exposure to environmentally pathogenic bioaerosols.

Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 460, 1 July 2024, 142433

Abstract

In recent years, China's rapid economic growth has positioned it as the world's second-largest economy by 2011. Despite emphasizing energy efficiency and environmental protection since the 1990s, China still grapples with resource wastage and environmental pollution in its development. Consequently, controlling negative environmental impacts is an important issue in achieving balanced development in China, as well as in other economies around the world. This study collected crucial Water-Energy-Food Nexus (WEF Nexus) variables from 31 Chinese provinces and regions between 2016 and 2020. It utilized the Dynamic Slack-Based Measure (DSBM) model to assess the overall WEF Nexus efficiency across these provinces and regions. Empirical results show: a) After incorporating pollutant emissions, the WEF Nexus total efficiency declined from 0.5703 to 0.5124, indicating the impact of pollutant emissions on overall efficiency. This suggests a potential need for enhanced efforts across Chinese provinces to reduce emissions. b) Among the studied provinces and regions, ten, including Beijing, Guangdong, Hainan, and Jiangsu, exhibited a WEF Nexus total efficiency value of 1, while Hebei, Guangxi Zhuang, and Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Regions showcased the poorest overall efficiency. c) China's population growth has created pressure on WEF Nexus resource and environmental configurations, leading to substantial pollutant generation alongside the pursuit of rapid GDP growth, affecting living environments. This study emphasizes crucial variables related to WEF Nexus and environmental pollution in urban development. It not only aids decision-makers in effectively allocating input and output resources for sustainable resilient urban planning but also highlights the impact of environmental pollution on the overall efficiency of WEF Nexus.

Environmental Research, Volume 252, Part 2, 1 July 2024, 118900

Abstract

As the world struggles with pressing issues like climate change and sustainable development, affecting health outcomes and environmental quality, the Nordic regionsare at the forefront of major global challenges. This paper investigates the role of human capital, renewable energy use, tourism, natural resources, and economic growth in shaping life in the Nordic region i.e., Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Iceland).Utilizing panel data spanning from 1990 to 2020, the Driscoll and Kraay standard error (DSK) technique is employed to analyze this intricate interplay. The study reveals that in the Nordic context, sustainable economic growth, bolstered by investments in human capital and the widespread acceptance of renewable energy sources, has been positively associated with increased life expectancies. Furthermore, prudent management of natural resources has helped mitigate adverse health effects related to depletion, maintaining environmental and public health standards. The thriving tourism industry has also been shown to influence lifespan in this region positively. On the contrary, the empirical finding contended that an adverse correlation exists between carbon emissions and LEX. This research underscores the importance of a comprehensive and balanced approach that considers economic development, sustainable development, and public health in pursuing longer and healthier lives, providing valuable insights for policymakers and regions seeking to replicate these positive outcomes.The findings of this study are both conceptually reliable and empirically robust, providing important insights for the formulation of environmental and health policy.

Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 460, 1 July 2024, 142607

Abstract

Studying how China's outward foreign direct investment (OFDI) affect total-factor carbon emission performance (TFCEP) of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) countries is essential. It helps evaluate the effectiveness of China's BRI and improves China's future investment decisions. This study evaluates the TFCEP of 65 BRI countries between 2005 and 2020, and explores how China's OFDI influences TFCEP in BRI countries by a spatial difference-in-differences model. The results reveal a notable improvement in TFCEP among BRI countries following BRI implementation, with technological advancement having a crucial influence on this enhancement. China's OFDI are shown to have raised income levels and optimised industrial structures in BRI countries but have not substantially increased renewable energy generation. The primary contributions of China's OFDI to TFCEP improvements in BRI countries are through industrial structure optimization and technology advancement effects. The impact of China's OFDI on TFCEP varies geographically, being most significant in Southeast Asian countries, followed by Central Asia, Western Asia, Europe, and Africa. However, its effect is minimal in countries like Syria, Tunisia, and Algeria. The study suggests that the Chinese government should devise investment strategies tailored to the unique needs of BRI countries, emphasizing green development.

Environmental Research, Volume 252, Part 2, 1 July 2024, 118945

Abstract

Microplastics pollution and climate change are primarily investigated in isolation, despite their joint threat to the environment. Greenhouse gases (GHGs) are emitted during: the production of plastic and rubber, the use and degradation of plastic, and after contamination of environment. This is the first meta-analysis to assess underlying causal relationships and the influence of likely mediators. We included 60 peer-reviewed empirical studies; estimating GHGs emissions effect size and global warming potential (GWP), according to key microplastics properties and soil conditions. We investigated interrelationships with microbe functional gene expression. Overall, microplastics contamination was associated with increased GHGs emissions, with the strongest effect (60%) on CH4 emissions. Polylactic-acid caused 32% higher CO2 emissions, but only 1% of total GWP. Phenol-formaldehyde had the greatest (175%) GWP via 182% increased N2O emissions. Only polystyrene resulted in reduced GWP by 50%, due to N2O mitigation. Polyethylene caused the maximum (60%) CH4 emissions. Shapes of microplastics differed in GWP: fiber had the greatest GWP (66%) whereas beads reduced GWP by 53%. Films substantially increased emissions of all GHGs: 14% CO2, 10% N2O and 60% CH4. Larger-sized microplastics had higher GWP (125%) due to their 9% CO2 and 63% N2O emissions. GWP rose sharply if soil microplastics content exceeded 0.5%. Higher CO2 emissions, ranging from 4% to 20%, arose from soil which was either fine, saturated or had high-carbon content. Higher N2O emissions, ranging from 10% to 95%, arose from soils that had either medium texture, saturated water content or low-carbon content. Both CO2 and N2O emissions were 43%–56% higher from soils with neutral pH. We conclude that microplastics contamination can cause raised GHGs emissions, posing a risk of exacerbating climate-change. We show clear links between GHGs emissions, microplastics properties, soil characteristics and soil microbe functional gene expression. Further research is needed regarding underlying mechanisms and processes.

Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 460, 1 July 2024, 142576

Abstract

Natural capital is a central consideration for developing informed policies for economic growth and sustainable development; however, the proportion of human capital, natural capital, and produced capital in inclusive wealth has been rapidly evolving. These forms of capital may have varying impact on sustainable development compared with aggregate inclusive wealth. This study uses panel data from 53 developing countries covering 2011 to 2022 to analyze how human, natural, and produced capital impact sustainable development, including associated innovation. We apply multiple econometric algorithms for empirical analysis, including Bayesian linear regression, Bayesian truncated regression, and a frequentist approach. The results reveal that human capital, innovation, green energy, political stability, and the absence of violence positively impact countries’ sustainable development. In contrast, natural and produced capital negatively impact sustainable development. The findings indicate that additional investment in human capital and innovation, green energy adoption, natural resource conservation, and modernizing produced capital will advance sustainable development in developing countries.

Environmental Research, Volume 252, Part 3, 1 July 2024, 119032

Abstract

Particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of ≤2.5 μm (PM2.5) can infiltrate deep into the respiratory system, posing significant health risks. Notably, the health burden of PM2.5 is more pronounced among the older adult population. With an aging population, the public health burden attributable to PM2.5 could escalate even if the current PM2.5 level remains stable. This study evaluated the number of deaths attributable to long-term PM2.5 exposure in the Republic of Korea between 2020 and 2050 and identified the PM2.5 concentration required at least to maintain the current PM2.5 health burden. To calculate mortality for 2020–2050, we performed a health impact assessment using 3-year (2019–2021) average population-weighted PM2.5 concentrations, age-specific population and mortality rates. In 2020, 33,578 [95% confidence interval (CI) = 31,708–35,448] deaths were attributable to PM2.5 exposure. Projecting forward, if the 2019–2021 average PM2.5 level remains constant, mortality is projected to be 112,953 (95% CI = 109,963–115,943) in 2050, more than three times higher than in 2020. To maintain the same level of health burden in 2050 as in 2020, the PM2.5 concentration needs to be immediately reduced to 5.8 μg/m3. In an age-specific analysis, the proportion of older adults (ages 65+) to total mortality would increase from 83% (2020) to 96% (2050), indicating that the rising mortality is predominantly driven by the aging population. By region, the reduction of PM2.5 concentrations, which is required immediately in 2020 to have the health burden in 2050 equal to that in 2020, varied from 3.6 μg/m3 in Goheung-gun (25% reduction) to 20.8 μg/m3 in Heungdeok-gu (82% reduction). Our study emphasizes the critical need for air quality management to consider aging populations when establishing PM2.5 air quality standards, as well as their associated policies and regulations.

Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 464, 20 July 2024, 142775

Abstract

The rapid growth of the construction industry has led to significant environmental issues, notably the sharp escalation in construction waste. Recent endeavors have prioritized on recycling and reusing of construction waste. Nevertheless, despite the evident public support, the adoption of recycled products remains constrained, primarily as a result of subsequent unfavorable implicit perceptions. To understand the end users’ implicit attitudes, this study employed a Single-Category Implicit Association Test (SC-IAT) and functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) for analysis. The experiment results confirm the existence of detrimental implicit attitudes, even as self-reported attitudes remained positive. The experiment results, D-scores, suggest that emotional interventions have stronger impact as they reach peak (15.9s) 36% faster that the rational interventions. The proposed implicit attitude measurement approach can be extended to understand and promote other green products and recycled materials.

Environmental Research, Volume 252, Part 3, 1 July 2024, 118988

Abstract

China is a typical agricultural country that heavily relies on pesticides. Some pesticides can remain in the soil after application and thus pose a significant threat to human health. In order to characterize the status and hazards of nationwide soil contamination, this study extracted concentration data from published literature and analyzed them by a scoring approach, standard comparison and health risk assessment. For the soil pollution score, northern regions got the highest values, such as Henan (0.63), Liaoning (0.55), Heilongjiang (0.54) and Jilin (0.53), which implies high soil pesticide residues in these provinces. In contrast, Qinghai (−0.77), Guizhou (−0.64) and Tibet (−0.63) had lower scores. China's soil pesticide standards cover only 16 pesticides, and these pesticide concentrations were all below the corresponding standards. Direct exposure to soil pesticides in this study generally posed a negligible risk to children. Furthermore, pesticide dissipation and usage intensity in each province were analyzed as they were possible influences on pollution. The result showed that soil in the northern regions could accumulate more pesticides than those in the southern regions, and this geographic pattern was basically consistent with the distribution of soil pollution. However, the relationship between agricultural activities and soil pollution was less well characterized. It is recommended to establish a long-term monitoring database for pesticides and include more pesticides in regulatory frameworks. Additionally, efforts to accelerate pesticide degradation and shift the planting structure to reduce pesticide usage can help alleviate the pressure on soil from pesticides. This study can serve as a critical reference for policymakers and stakeholders in the field of agriculture.

Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 463, 15 July 2024, 142739

Abstract

Within the framework of the overarching green development objective guiding the transformation and progress of urban green and low-carbon initiatives, the technological advancements stemming from artificial intelligence have introduced fresh paradigms for reducing urban pollution and enhancing environmental governance. A comprehensive exploration into the influence of artificial intelligence on urban pollution emissions has emerged as a pivotal current concern. The findings that the progression of artificial intelligence has effectively curbed urban pollution emissions, assuming the role of a significant "speed bump". Robustness testing corroborated this conclusion. Mechanism testing unveiled that the evolution of artificial intelligence mitigates urban pollution emissions by enhancing production efficiency, minimizing energy consumption, boosting green technology innovation, optimizing industrial structure, and increasing public participation. Heterogeneity analysis underscored substantial variances in the impact of artificial intelligence on urban pollution emissions, influenced by pollutant types, regional disparities, and urban scale differentials. Further scrutiny exposed that while the application of artificial intelligence technology does not entirely mitigate the "local-neighborhood" effect, it does ameliorate the "boundary effect", subsequently reducing pollution emission intensity in cities straddling provincial administrative boundaries.

Environmental Research, Volume 252, Part 3, 1 July 2024, 118660

Abstract

The development and utilization of renewable energy (RE) is crucial for achieving the sustainable development goals (SDGs). The northwest China, endowed with abundant RE sources such as wind and solar power, accounts for over 70% of the country's total resources. The assessment and utilization of RE in this region has become a critical means to achieve the SDGs, particularly SDG7. However, lack of knowledge regarding the RE potential poses a barrier to achieving high-quality energy development. Thus, through a Geographical Information System (GIS) based multi-criteria analysis, we assess the solar and wind energy potential in northwest China, quantitatively examine the energy potential and its contribution towards achieving the SDGs. Our results show that a substantial portion of RE can be harnessed in northwest China, with wind energy generation reaching up to 9.84PWh/km2/yr at 110m and 12.43 PWh/km2/yr at 140m. Concurrently, solar energy can contribute up to 15.16 PWh/km2/yr. Xinjiang province has the highest RE potential for it contains a large share of suitable area with good resource quality. The findings illustrate the contribution of northwest China towards achieving SDGs and facilitate the formulation of more targeted resource policies.

URBAN ENVIRONMENT/ MÔI TRƯỜNG ĐÔ THỊ 

Science of The Total Environment, Volume 932, 1 July 2024, 173023

Abstract

This study addresses the increasing concern regarding cyanotoxin contamination of water bodies, highlighting the diversity of these toxins and their potential health implications. Cyanobacteria, which are prevalent in aquatic environments, produce toxic metabolites, raising concerns regarding human exposure and associated health risks, including a potential increase in cancer risk. Although existing research has primarily focused on well-known cyanotoxins, recent technological advancements have revealed numerous unknown cyanotoxins, necessitating a comprehensive assessment of multiple toxin categories. To enhance the cyanotoxin databases, we optimized the CyanoMetDB cyanobacterial secondary metabolites database by incorporating secondary fragmentation patterns using the Mass Frontier fragmentation data prediction software. Water samples from diverse locations in Shanghai were analyzed using high-resolution mass spectrometry. Subsequently, the toxicity of cyanobacterial metabolites in the water samples was examined through acute toxicity assays using the crustacean Thamnocephalus platyurus. After 24 h of exposure, the semi-lethal concentrations (LC50) of the water samples ranged from 0.31 mg L−1 to 1.78 mg L−1 (MC-LR equivalent concentration). Our findings revealed a critical correlation between the overall concentration of cyanobacterial metabolites and toxicity. The robust framework and insights of this study underscore the need for an inclusive approach to water quality management, emphasizing continuous efforts to refine detection methods and comprehend the broader ecological impact of cyanobacterial blooms on aquatic ecosystems.

Environmental Research, Volume 252, Part 2, 1 July 2024, 118952

Abstract

Exploring the potential of new models for mapping groundwater quality presents a major challenge in water resource management, particularly in Kanchanaburi Province, Thailand, where groundwater faces contamination risks. This study aimed to explore the applicability of random forest (RF) and artificial neural networks (ANN) models to predict groundwater quality. Particularly, these two models were integrated into cross-validation (CV) and bootstrapping (B) techniques to build predictive models, including RF-CV, RF-B, ANN-CV, and ANN-B. Entropy groundwater quality index (EWQI) was converted to normalized EWQI which was then classified into five levels from very poor to very good. A total of twelve physicochemical parameters from 180 groundwater wells, including potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium, chloride, sulfate, bicarbonate, nitrate, pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, and total hardness, were investigated to decipher groundwater quality in the eastern part of Kanchanaburi Province, Thailand. Our results indicated that groundwater quality in the study area was primarily polluted by calcium, magnesium, and bicarbonate and that the RF-CV model (RMSE = 0.06, R2 = 0.87, MAE = 0.04) outperformed the RF-B (RMSE = 0.07, R2 = 0.80, MAE = 0.04), ANN-CV (RMSE = 0.09, R2 = 0.70, MAE = 0.06), and ANN-B (RMSE = 0.10, R2 = 0.67, MAE = 0.06). Our findings highlight the superiority of the RF models over the ANN models based on the CV and B techniques. In addition, the role of groundwater parameters to the normalized EWQI in various machine learning models was found. The groundwater quality map created by the RF-CV model can be applied to orient groundwater use.

Science of The Total Environment, Volume 934, 15 July 2024, 173362

Abstract

To clarify the mechanism underlying the effects of weather patterns and topography on air pollution, this study conducted the obliquely rotated principal component analysis in the T-mode to analyze ERA5 reanalysis data and categorize typical weather patterns at a 700-hPa geopotential height from 2015 to 2022. The probability of worsened air pollution attributable to weather patterns was quantitatively assessed using a generalized additive model. The results indicated that due to the influence of topography, Lanzhou was affected by an extended period of downdraft (with weak convective intensity) and the delayed formation of a convective boundary layer during the daytime by 1–2 h relative to other areas. Under the combined effect of low trough patterns (south low pressure type [SL] and south low weak pressure type [SL−]) and topography, the formation of a stable layer above the planetary boundary layer (PBL) would weaken the vertical exchange of the local airflow and inhibit the development of the PBL. The type of SL led to the most severe pollution, causing a 61.9 % (95 % confidence interval [CI]: 46.3 %–79.3 %) increase in PM2.5 concentration. For southwest high pressure patterns (south high [SH], southwest weak high [SWH−], southwest high [SWH], and southwest strong high [SWH+] pressure types), the prevailing northwest wind was the main transport path for pollutants. For the high pressure patterns (north high [NH] and northwest high [NWH] pressure types) and south wind patterns (southeast weak high [SEH−], southeast high [SEH], and northeast high [NEH] pressure types), the enhancement of vertical convection, deepening of the PBL, and reduction of pollution transport led to improved air quality. The NH, NWH, and NEH pressure types caused PM2.5 concentration to decrease by 18.4 % (95 % CI: 8.8 %–27.1 %), 14.9 % (95 % CI: 4.7 %–24.0 %), and 35.9 % (95 % CI: 9.7 %–54.6 %), respectively.

Environmental Research, Volume 252, Part 2, 1 July 2024, 118829

Abstract

Municipal wastewater treatment processes consume a significant amount of energy and generate substantial carbon emissions. However, organic matters existing in municipal wastewater hold the potential as a valuable carbon source. Activated sludge has the potential to capture and recover the organic matters, thereby enriching carbon sources and facilitating subsequent sludge anaerobic digestion as well as in line with the concept of sustainable development. Based on above, this study investigated the enrichment and recovery characteristics and mechanisms of activated sludge adsorption on carbon sources in municipal wastewater, while optimizing the recovery conditions. The results indicated that insoluble organic matters, as well as a fraction of dissolved organic matters, can be effective recovered within approximately 40 min. Specifically, 74.1% of insoluble organic matters and 25.8% of soluble organic matters were successfully captured by the activated sludge, resulting in a 5.0% increase in sludge organic matter content. Moreover, activated sludge demonstrated remarkable recovery of particulate organic matters across various particle sizes, particularly larger particles (>5 μm) with high protein content. Notably, the dissolved biodegradable organics such as tryptophan and tyrosine protein-like substances according to 3D-EEM and lipids, proteins/amino sugars, and carbohydrates according to FT-ICR MS can be effectively recovered. Finally, the study revealed that the recovery of organic matters from the wastewater by activated sludge followed the pseudo-second-order kinetics model, with surface binding, hydrogen bonding and interparticle diffusion in sludge flocs as the primary adsorption mechanisms. This approach had abroad application prospects for improving the profitability of wastewater treatment plants.

Science of The Total Environment, Volume 934, 15 July 2024, 173289

Abstract

The City of Cape Town (CoCT), South Africa faced a critical situation between 2015 and 2018 in which the municipal water supply was almost completely exhausted. This situation, commonly referred to as Day Zero in South Africa emanated from a decline in rainfall, resulting in one of the most severe droughts in history. The crisis was also aggravated by rapid population growth and urbanization. CoCT was on the verge of becoming the first city in the past decade to experience a complete cessation of water supply for urban and agricultural purposes. In addition to the effects of low rainfall and population surge, urban energy consumption and increased food demand impacted directly the available water resources. To evaluate the interlinkages between water utilization, water production, energy supply and demand, and food production and demand, this study employed a system dynamics modeling (SDM) approach. The model was developed as a stock and flow diagram utilizing Stella Architect and encompassed five interconnected nodes: water, energy, food, land, and population. The findings revealed that by the end of the 20-year modeling period, the volume of accessible and stored water in all the major dams will be approximately 459 million cubic meters, with residential use accounting for about 85 % of urban water use and agriculture accounting for approximately30.37 % of total water demand. The model illustrates the impacts of precipitation rate, runoff, and evaporation on variables such as land-use change and population dynamics. It is anticipated that the outcomes of this study will serve as valuable inputs for decision-making processes, not only within the CoCT as it aims to mitigate or prevent the recurrence of Day Zero, but also for other cities facing similar challenges.

Environmental Research, Volume 252, Part 2, 1 July 2024, 118837

Abstract

This detailed analysis highlights the numerous environmental benefits provided by urban green spaces, emphasizing their critical role in improving urban life quality and advancing sustainable development. The review delves into critical themes such as the impact of urban green spaces on human health, the complex interplay between urban ecology and sustainability, and the evaluation of ecosystem services using a comprehensive review of existing literature. The investigation thoroughly examines various aspects of green infrastructure, shedding light on its contributions to social cohesion, human well-being, and environmental sustainability in general. The analysis summarizes the study's findings and demonstrates the critical role of urban green spaces in urban ecology, which significantly mitigates environmental challenges. The intricate links between these green spaces and human health are thoroughly investigated, with benefits ranging from enhanced mental and physical well-being to comprehensive mental health. Furthermore, the analysis emphasizes how green spaces benefit urban development by increasing property values, boosting tourism, and creating job opportunities. The discussion also considers possible futures, emphasizing the integration of technology, the advancement of natural solutions, and the critical importance of prioritizing health and well-being in the design of urban green spaces. To ensure that urban green spaces are developed and maintained as essential components of resilient and sustainable urban environments, the assessment concludes with practical recommendations for communities, urban planners, and legislators.

Sustainable Cities and Society, Available online 18 July 2024, 105684

Abstract

Rapid urbanization has increased the urban density and functional diversity, exacerbating environmental challenges such as urban heat islands (UHI), increased building energy consumption and carbon emissions, etc., hindering the sustainable urban development. Addressing these challenges requires innovative solutions that could offer the strategic cooling of urban buildings. Vertical greenery, affixed to building façades, offers a promising approach to provide benefits of cooling, energy savings, carbon reduction and urban space saving. However, there is a lack of quantitative designs for integrating vertical greenery into complex urban buildings. Therefore, this study conducts a systematic investigation for low-rise, mid-rise, and high-rise buildings incorporating vertical greenery, while performing comprehensive assessments on indoor and outdoor thermal conditions, building energy usage, and carbon emissions. The findings suggest that low-rise buildings benefit from a vertical greenery layout, while mid-rise and high-rise buildings are better suited for a horizontal greenery layout. Compared to scenarios without greenery, buildings with vertical greenery experience a maximum reduction of 0.66°C in outdoor air temperature and 0.72°C in indoor air temperature, along with a 5.9% decrease in energy consumption and carbon emissions. This study addresses urban challenges through a quantified vertical greenery design, offering valuable insights for sustainable urban development.

Environmental Research, Volume 252, Part 3, 1 July 2024, 119080

Abstract

Coastal cities are major centers of economic activity, which at the same time has negative consequences for the environment. The present study aimed to determine the concentrations and sources of PTEs in the urban soils of Taganrog, as well as to assess the ecological and human health risks. A total of 47 urban and 5 background topsoils samples were analyzed by ICP-MS and ICP-AES. A significant excess of Cu, Zn, and Sb was noted in urban soils compared to the upper continental crust and average world-soil (1.7–2.9 times). Statistical analysis showed that the elements in soils were of geogenic, mixed and anthropogenic origin. According to the single pollution index (PI), the greatest danger of soil pollution was represented by anthropogenic elements, namely Cu, W, Pb, Zn, Cd, and Sn, the levels of which were increased in residential and industrial areas. The median contents of As, Mn, Cr, Sr, Mo, Sb, Cu, W, Pb, and Zn were 1.1–2.1 times higher, while Cd and Sn were 2.5 folds higher in the urban soils compared to the background ones. The total pollution index (ZC) showed that only 15% of the soils had high level of pollution, which is typical for the industrial areas. Overall ecological risks were negligible or low in 92% of soils, and were mainly due to elevated levels of Cu, Zn, As, and Pb. Non-carcinogenic risks to humans were mainly related to exposure to La and Pb. The hazard index (HI) values for all PTEs were less than ten, indicating that overall non-carcinogenic risk for adults and children was low-to-moderate and, moderate, respectively. The total carcinogenic risk (TCR) exceeded threshold and corresponded to low risk, with Pb, As, and Co being the most important contributors. Thus, the industrial activities of Taganrog is the main source of priority pollutants.

Science of The Total Environment, Volume 934, 15 July 2024, 173240

Abstract

Human activities have changed the biogeochemical cycle of nitrogen, leading to a large amount of reactive nitrogen (Nr) into the environment, aggravating a series of environmental problems, affecting human and ecosystem health. Cities are the core areas driving nitrogen cycling in terrestrial ecosystems, however, there are numerous influencing factors and their contributions are unclear. The nitrogen footprint is an important index to understand the impact of human activities on the environment, however, the calculation of urban nitrogen footprint needs a simplified and accurate system method. Here we use a nitrogen footprint calculation model at the urban system level based on system nitrogen balance, and a multi-factor extended STIRPAT (stochastic impact by regression on population, affluence, and technology) model suitable for analyzing the impact mechanism of nitrogen footprint to estimate nitrogen footprint of Wuxi City during 1990–2050. We find that: (1) from 1990 to 2020, the total nitrogen footprint of Wuxi City was in an increasing trend, but the per capita nitrogen footprint was in a decreasing trend. The per capita nitrogen footprint of 22.36 kg capita−1 in 2020 was at a lower level globally. (2) Nr discharge from fossil fuel combustion and Haber-Bosch nitrogen fixation accounted for the main proportion of nitrogen footprint. (3) Dietary choice (Ad), GDP per capita (Ag), urbanization rate (Au), population (P), and fossil energy productivity (Te) were the key factors contributing to the increase of the nitrogen footprint, which resulted in an annual increase of 1.39 %. While nitrogen footprint productivity (Tn), nitrogen use efficiency in crop farming (Tc), and nitrogen use efficiency in animal breeding (Ta) were the key inhibit factors that inhibit the increase of nitrogen footprint, and these factors slow down the annual growth rate of nitrogen footprint by 0.39 %. (4) The continuous growth of nitrogen footprint in the baseline and population growth scenarios will bring more environmental problems and greater environmental governance pressure to Wuxi City, while the sustainable scenario that includes comprehensive means such as economic adaptation and technological improvement is more in line with the requirements of high-quality development in China. Several mitigation measures are then proposed by considering Wuxi's realities from both key impact factors and potential for nitrogen footprint reduction in different scenarios, which can provide valuable policy insights to other cities, especially lakeside cities to mitigate nitrogen footprint.

Environmental Research, Volume 252, Part 4, 1 July 2024, 118867

Abstract

In the sparse studies for multiple pathway exposure, attention has predominantly been directed towards developed regions, thereby overlooking the exposure level and health outcome for the inhabitants of the semi-arid regions in northwest China. However, cities within these regions grapple with myriad challenges, encompassing insufficient sanitation infrastructure and outdated heating. In this study, we analyzed the characteristics and sources of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) pollution in PM2.5, water, diet, and dust during different periods in Lanzhou, and estimated corresponding carcinogenic health risk through inhalation, ingestion, and dermal absorption. Our observations revealed the concentrations of PAHs in PM2.5, food, soil, and water are 200.11 ng m−3, 8.67 mg kg−1, 3.91 mg kg−1, and 14.5 ng L−1, respectively, indicating that the Lanzhou area was seriously polluted. Lifetime incremental cancer risk (ILCR) showed a heightened cancer risk to men compared to women, to the younger than the elderly, and during heating period as opposed to non-heating period. Notably, the inhalation was the primary route of PAHs exposure and the risk of exposure by inhalation cannot be ignored. The total environmental exposure assessment of PAHs can achieve accurate prevention and control of PAHs environmental exposure according to local conditions and targets.

Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 460, 1 July 2024, 142619

Abstract

In China, numerous cities are resource-based, with substantial energy consumption, emissions, and pollution and they expand quickly and economically, notably enhancing their carbon emissions. Nevertheless, they have considerable potential for emission reduction. Assuming the "dual-carbon” goal as a backdrop, this study considered Shanxi Province, the largest coal resource-based province in China, for a case in point. It established a carbon emission system dynamics model, constructs five carbon emission systems, namely, economy, energy, population, land, and environment, and sets up four scenarios. Finally, in light of the scenario simulation's outcomes, we explored the optimal path and policy regulations for resource-based cities to reach carbon peaks. The study conclusions show the following: (1) All factors are exhibit correlated with each other, and their influence in the four scenarios is ranked as follows: GDP, energy consumption, industrial structure, total population, land-use structure. (2) Although GDP is a key factor influencing total carbon emissions, regulating only a single factor cannot achieve the carbon emission target. Thus, all factors need to be considered and synergistically regulated to achieve optimal carbon benefits. (3) Carbon emissions are higher and grow faster in the Baseline Development Scenario and the Fast Development Scenario, particularly in the FDS scenario, where they reach 614.48 million tons. Both scenarios exceed the peak carbon target by 4.4% and 7.1%. (4) In the Low-Carbon Optimization model and Resource Saving Scenario have low and slow-growing carbon emissions. Although the RSS has lower carbon emissions of 539.83 million tons, sacrificing sustainable development to reduce these emissions is unrealistic. In comparison, the LOS scenario represents the optimal path for achieving sustainable growth and lowering carbon emissions in Shanxi Province, with emissions totaling 550.99 million tons. This study implements strategies to manage the pace of population expansion, optimize the industrial structure, modify the energy structure, and optimize the allocation of land resources. The results of the study not only do our findings offer data reinforcement and implementation strategies for the low-carbon conversion of similar resource-based cities in China, but also offer case studies for different kinds of resource-based cities that fulfill the "carbon peak” objective.

Environmental Research, Volume 252, Part 4, 1 July 2024, 119050

Abstract

The digital economy is a crucial focus for realizing the transformation of old and new kinetic energy in China. It is widely integrated with various fields of the economy and society, constantly providing a new dynamic mechanism with synergetic control of environmental pollution and carbon emissions (SCEPCE). Based on panel data from 292 prefecture-level cities in China from 2011 to 2021, this study discusses the spatial effects and mechanisms of the digital economy on the coordinated control of pollutants and carbon emissions. The study found that: (1) The digital economy has direct and indirect influences on the coordinated control of pollutants and carbon emissions. The digital economy can drive reductions in pollutants and carbon dioxide emissions by upgrading industrial structures and transforming energy structures. (2) Green innovation plays an active regulatory role in the digital economy and structural optimization, particularly in the context of SCEPCE. This interference helps mitigate the impact of the digital economy on pollution and carbon emissions. (3) The digital economy has a significant spatial spillover effect on the coordinated control of pollutants and carbon emissions. (4) The influence mechanism of the digital economy on pollution reduction and carbon reduction synergy exhibits geographical heterogeneity, resource endowment heterogeneity. To enhance the synergy of pollution reduction and carbon reduction, it is essential to bolster support and optimise the digital economy at various levels. This includes reinforcing regional balance, considering spatial spillover effects, and enhancing the leading role of developed cities in the region.

Journal of Environmental Management, Volume 364, July 2024, 121366

Abstract

An urban wilderness (UW) portrays a coupled relationship between natural dominance and human management in urban spaces. Superior ecosystem services support sustainable urban development. Systematic assessments of the status, changes, and trends of urban wilderness ecosystem services (UWESs) are a debated and complex issue in the field of ecology despite their importance as key components for ensuring the sustainable development of human society. We aimed to analyze the scientific literature on UWESs published between 2000 and 2022. Hence, we used bibliometric methods to comprehensively understand the research lineages, hotspots, and trends in UWESs. We found that the research has roughly encompassed two phases: initial exploration (2000–2011)and rapid growth (2012–2022). The number of publications has shown a continuous growth trend; the research hotspots include UWs compared with urban greenfield ecosystems, the spatio-temporal dynamics of UWs, ecosystem services and value assessments, and the coupling and linkage between ecosystem maintenance and human health. We summarized relevant trends for the concept of harmonious coexistence between human beings and nature, focusing on spatio-temporal dynamics and multidisciplinary integration as well as reinforcing the link with human health. This study can serve as a reference for demonstrating the value of UWESs and their practical application in a UW.

Sustainable Cities and Society, Volume 106, 1 July 2024, 105350

Abstract

Building integrated photovoltaics is an important measure to promote low-carbon urban growth. The residential buildings, which play an important role in cities, have a great development potential to utilize solar resources. However, the solar utilization performance of buildings in a block is influenced by the shadings from surrounding buildings with diverse layouts and heights. Therefore, this study proposes a parametric approach to evaluate the solar energy potential of residential buildings by randomly generating 6730 block environments. We quantify and prioritize how block parameters influence the solar energy potential, and provide photovoltaics (PV) utilization strategies for the roof and façades of the building in diverse urban environments. The average photovoltaic installation ratio of roof, south and west façade can reach 98%, 46.3% and 38.5% when the target building height is higher than 24 m. Among all the block parameters, the target building height and its interactions with other parameters can collectively contribute more than 80% to the solar potential of building surfaces. Correspondingly, the two most influential parameters on the PV generation and installation are obtained for PV utilization strategies of building roof, south and west façade. The proposed framework and findings are expected to offer inspirations for solar design in urban buildings.

Journal of Environmental Management, Volume 364, July 2024, 121477

Abstract

The rapid expansion of cities in developing countries has led to many environmental problems, and the mechanism of urban expansion (UE), as a more complex human-land coupled system, has always been a difficult issue to research. This paper introduces a new approach by establishing an analytical framework for spatiotemporal pattern mining, exemplified by studying the urban growth of Changsha City from 1990 to 2019. Initially, an emerging hotspot analysis model (EHA) is employed to examine the spatiotemporal changes of urban growth on a macro scale. Mathematical models are subsequently utilized to quantify the correlations between urban expansion and selected infrastructural and topographical factors. Building on these findings, the paper constructs mathematical models to further quantify the spatiotemporal evolution of various urban sprawl patterns across different regions, aiming to elucidate and quantify the significant variations in UE over time and space. The study reveals that, as an emerging city, Changsha's hotspots of urban expansion prior to 2003 were primarily concentrated in the city centre, subsequently spreading to the periphery. The radial influence of metro stations on UE is notably less than that of railway stations—approximately 3 km versus 8 km—and the impact diminishes rapidly before gradually tapering off. Moreover, UE in Changsha predominantly occurs on slopes with gradients ranging from 1.1° to 7.5°, and significant development capacity is observed at elevations between 36.1 m and 78.3 m above sea level, with a tendency for urban sprawl to migrate to lower elevations. The paper also identifies three distinct patterns of urban expansion across different regions: an initial slow-growth phase, followed by a rapid escalation to a peak, and subsequently a swift decline to near stagnation. Additionally, it highlights a significant correlation between the proportion of built-up areas at the micro-regional scale and the stages of UE. This correlation was quantitatively analysed by constructing a logistic function, which demonstrated a robust fit that effectively captures spatiotemporal heterogeneity in the dynamics of UE. These insights enhance the selection of drivers in urban simulation models and deepen the understanding of the complex dynamics that influence urban development.

Tunnelling and Underground Space Technology, Volume 149, July 2024, 105783

Abstract

The rationality and safety of Urban Underground Space (UUS) construction are critical aspects of urban development. Given the lack of safety concern of the surrounding environment in existing layout planning research for newly constructed UUS, this study proposed a novel resilience evaluation model for UUS safe development through the cross-application of geotechnical analysis, urban planning theory, and artificial intelligence (AI). By re-using geological information, the proposed model mapping algorithm enables the application of geological models to refined numerical calculations which can accurately locate the range of excavation disturbances of new UUS. Subsequently, the proposed AI algorithm is trained to learn from the existing UUS excavation cases, establishing a mathematical mapping relationship between the main construction parameters of UUS and the safety indexes of surrounding affected buildings. The mapping relationship enables the assessment of the development resilience of UUS in the planned area through the safety evaluation of surrounding affected buildings. Finally, the layout of an underground station for Nanjing Metro Line 13 is used, as an example, to apply the proposed intelligent model. This study contributes to the tools and methods for UUS layout evaluation from a safety perspective, and seeks the breakthrough for the cross-application of geotechnical science and urban planning theory.

INDUSTRIAL AREA ENVIRONMENT / MÔI TRƯỜNG KHU CÔNG NGHIỆP 

Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 460, 1 July 2024, 142501

Abstract

In order to reduce carbon emissions and promote the development of renewable energy in China, a tripartite evolutionary game model of the government, industrial gas producers (IGP) and power generation groups (PGG) is constructed by considering the policy mechanism of renewable portfolio standard (RPS) in parallel with industrial green development, and combining with the government's incentives and disincentives mechanism. Simulation analysis is carried out to explore the effects of different parameters on the cooperative transformation of enterprises under different governmental strategies. The results show that there is a mutual assistance mechanism between RPS and industrial green development, and the key lies in whether IGP and PGG can form a cooperative mechanism, while the government's incentives and disincentives mechanism is the key to promote the formation of cooperative mechanisms between the two parties. If the government adopts punitive measures, it should take into account the transformation costs of IGP and the scale of PGG, and if it adopts subsidy measures, it should give priority to helping enterprises with lower transformation costs, otherwise it will face greater financial pressure. The compatibility of IGP and PGG is the key to determining whether the two sides can realize the transformation.

Journal of Environmental Management, Volume 363, July 2024, 121426

Abstract

Climate change is considered one of the major systemic risks facing the world in the 21st century. To address climate change, China has adopted a series of climate policies, but the uncertainty brought about by frequent climate policy issuance has increased pressure on enterprises, which may not be conducive to enterprises reducing emissions. This paper uses data on 1211 listed companies on the A-share market in China from 2012 to 2022 to study the impact of climate policy uncertainty on enterprise pollutant emissions. The research findings show that climate policy uncertainty increases corporate pollution emissions; climate policy uncertainty mainly generates negative impacts on enterprise environmental regulation, social responsibility, and R&D investment, thereby negatively affecting enterprise emissions reduction. Further heterogeneity analysis shows that climate policy uncertainty in China has a more significant impact on non-state-owned enterprises, technology-intensive enterprises, lightly polluting enterprises, and enterprises in western regions. These findings emphasize the importance of enterprise social responsibility, environmental regulation, and R&D investment in enterprise emissions reduction and provide policy implications for Chinese enterprises to optimize their energy-saving and emission reduction strategies in the face of climate policy uncertainty.

Journal of Cleaner Production, Volume 462, 10 July 2024, 142618

Abstract

PM2.5 remains one of the critical pollutants involving regional and complex air pollution in many big cities of China, and its improvement has become sluggish in recent years. In this study, we collected PM2.5 samples from two cities, Chengdu and Ya'an, which have different industrial structures in the Sichuan basin during wintertime and investigated the reasons behind their severe PM2.5 pollution. Throughout the entire sampling period, the average PM2.5 concentrations in Chengdu (71.3 ± 24.8 μg/m3) and Ya'an (72.6 ± 27.1 μg/m3) were similar. However, the chemical compositions of PM2.5 showed significant differences. Chengdu exhibited higher concentrations of water-soluble inorganic ions, whereas Ya'an had higher levels of carbonaceous compounds. Both cities experienced an ammonium-rich environment, which promoted the homogeneous generation of secondary pollutants. Moreover, as PM2.5 pollution worsened, the influence of heterogeneous reactions involving SO2 and NOx, as well as the heterogeneous hydrolysis of N2O5, gradually became more pronounced in particle formation. Additionally, adverse meteorological conditions facilitated pollutant accumulation in Ya'an. Using the Positive Matrix Factorization model, we identified 5 sources of PM2.5. The primary source of PM2.5 in both cities was secondary formation (35.4% in Chengdu and 32.5% in Ya'an), while their second-largest contributors varied (26.2% from vehicle emission in Chengdu, and 26.6% from combustion source in Ya'an). These discrepancies highlight the necessity for tailored government interventions, particularly during the winter season. By analyzing the light absorption of the carbonaceous at 370 nm, we discovered that brown carbon was the primary absorber of near-ultraviolet light, with vehicle emissions accounting for the largest portion in Chengdu (37.2%) and combustion emissions being the predominant factor in Ya'an (51.0%). These results could potentially help for having a long-term impact on climate change by simultaneously reducing PM2.5 pollution.

Environmental Research, Volume 252, Part 2, 1 July 2024, 118903

Abstract

Heavy carbon industries produce solid side stream materials that contain inorganic chemicals like Ca, Na, or Mg, and other metals such as Fe or Al. These inorganic compounds usually react efficiently with CO2 to form stable carbonates. Therefore, using these side streams instead of virgin chemicals to capture CO2 is an appealing approach to reduce CO2 emissions. Herein, we performed an experimental study of the mineral carbonation potential of three industrial steel slags via aqueous, direct carbonation. To this end, we studied the absorption capacities, reaction yields, and physicochemical characteristics of the carbonated samples. The absorption capacities and the reaction yields were analyzed through experiments carried out in a reactor specifically designed to work without external stirring. As for the physicochemical characterization, we used solid-state Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Using this reactor, the absorption capacities were between 5.8 and 35.3 g/L and reaction yields were in the range of 81–211 kg CO2/ton of slag. The physicochemical characterization of the solid products with solid FTIR, XRD and SEM indicated the presence of CaCO3. This suggests that there is potential to use the carbonated products in commercial applications.

Science of The Total Environment, Volume 934, 15 July 2024, 173277

Abstract

As an important precursor of secondary inorganic aerosols (SIAs), ammonia (NH3) plays a key role in fine particulate matter (PM2.5) formation. In order to investigate its impacts on haze formation in the North China Plain (NCP) during winter, NH3 concentrations were observed at a high-temporal resolution of 1 min by using the SP-DOAS in Tai'an from December 2021 to February 2022. During the observation period, the average NH3 concentration was 11.84 ± 5.9 ppbv, and it was determined as an ammonia-rich environment during different air quality conditions. Furthermore, the average concentrations of sulfate (SO42−), nitrate (NO3−) and ammonium (NH4+) were 9.54 ± 5.97 μg/m3, 19.09 ± 14.18 μg/m3 and 10.72 ± 6.53 μg/m3, respectively. Under the nitrate-dominated atmospheric environment, aerosol liquid water content (ALWC) was crucial for NH3 particle transformation during haze aggravation, and the gas-particle partitioning of ammonia played an important role in the SIAs formation. The reconstruction of the molecular composition further indicated that ammonium nitrate (NH4NO3) plays a dominant role in the increase of PM2.5 during haze events. Consequently, future efforts to mitigate fine particulate pollution in this region should focus on controlling NH4NO3 levels. In ammonia-rich environments, NO3− formation is more dependent on the concentration of nitric acid (HNO3). The sensitive analysis of TNO3 (HNO3 + NO3−) and NHX (NH3 + NH4+) reduction using the thermodynamic model suggested that the NO3− concentration decreases linearly with the reduction of TNO3. And the concentration of NO3− decreases rapidly only when NHX is reduced by 50–60 %. Reducing NOX emissions is the most effective way to alleviate nitrate pollution in this region.

Water Research, Available online 26 July 2024, 122164

Abstract

Mercury (Hg) emissions from Hg smelting (roasting HgS ores) and artisanal small-scale gold mining predominantly include elemental Hg, in either liquid [Hg(0)l] or gaseous [Hg(0)g] form. The oxidation of Hg(0) into Hg(I) is the first step during Hg(0) oxidation, which enables Hg to enter the food web. However, this oxidation process remains poorly understood, particularly in Hg(0)l/Hg(0)g-impacted environments. Herein, we show the widespread occurrence of Hg(I) in Hg(0)l/Hg(0)g-exposed environmental matrices near an abandoned Hg smelting plant in Xunyang, Shaanxi, China, including water, sediment, soil, plant, fish, and insect. This plant produced elemental Hg by roasting HgS ore, leaving Hg(0)l in the factory area after abandonment, which continuously released Hg(0)l/Hg(0)g into the surrounding environment. In Hg(0)-impacted water, Hg(I) was one of the primary Hg species, with an average concentration of 876 (not detected to 6109) ng L–1 and an average Hg(I) to total dissolved Hg ratio of 46% (0–92%), exhibiting a decrease with increasing distance from the plant. Elevated levels of Hg(I) were observed when the upstream sample was simultaneously exposed to Hg(0)l and Hg(0)g, arising from aqueous Hg(0)l oxidation and comproportionation between Hg(II) (mainly from Hg(0)l oxidation) and dissolved Hg(0) (i.e., Hg2+ + Hg0 → Hg22+). These findings highlight the impact of Hg(0) (as Hg(0)l and Hg(0)g) on the environment, emphasizing the comproportionation formation of Hg(I) in natural waters.

Journal of Cleaner Production, Available online 24 July 2024, 143254

Abstract

Industry is nowadays one of the most energy-demanding sectors representing a major contributor of global greenhouse gas emissions. The simultaneous need for electricity and high-temperature heat is what makes some industrial processes difficult to decarbonize via current commercially available technologies. As the demand for materials and goods is expected to grow in the upcoming years, it is crucial to define which strategies and technologies will serve as the cornerstone of sustainable development. This study addresses the imperative need for emission reduction of energy-intensive sectors by proposing a novel hydrogen-based cogeneration system in the framework of the paper and pulp industry, with the aim of providing general insights relevant to a broader spectrum of similar applications. The comparative analysis presented in this work focuses on three cogeneration options aimed at satisfying the paper mill energy needs: a conventional natural gas-fuelled gas turbine, a Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) fed with grey hydrogen produced via steam methane reforming, and a SOFC operating using green hydrogen produced on-site. The latter involves an integrated multi-energy system with photovoltaic panels, electrolyzers, compressors, and storage tanks. Indeed, the SOFC potential of supplying electricity and high-temperature heat in the form of pressurized steam for industrial applications has not been well investigated yet and represents one of the main objectives of this work. Building on the real consumption profiles of a paper mill facility, techno-economic analyses are carried out for many system configurations, varying components size and layout to assess their performance with respect to CO2 emissions and two key economic parameters, the Levelized Cost of Hydrogen (LCOH) and the net present cost. An in-house-developed flexible simulation framework is presented and expanded for the purposes of this study, including a detailed model that accounts for design and off-design performance of a SOFC cogeneration unit. Results demonstrate that integrating a SOFC with a heat recovery steam generator result in a 75% reduction in the mass flow of generable pressurized steam in comparison to a gas turbine. Additionally, in the cost-optimal scenario, CO2 emissions are 25% lower than the conventional gas turbine-based configuration, achieving complete independence from the electricity grid and an LCOH of 5.81€/kg without considering revenues from electricity sold.

Education for Chemical Engineers, Volume 48, July 2024, Pages 44-52

Abstract

Active learning, also called "learning by doing" (LbD), has resulted in positive learning outcomes in several higher education degrees. This paper describes an LbD experience within Chemical Engineering education aiming to enhance learning and transferable competencies using a Life Cycle Assessment course as a vehicle. This compulsory course belongs to the European Project Semester (EPS) program taught in the fourth year of the Chemical Engineering Degree at the University of Cantabria. From the beginning, the activity has targeted LCA practice with a strong emphasis on performance and its application as a decision-making tool in real case studies through close collaboration with regional companies. Working in partnership with industrial companies has favoured a win-win-win situation as students could apply knowledge as future LCA specialists. In contrast, companies gained valuable insights to improve their environmental performance, and lecturers enhanced their industrial networks. A public session carried out at the end of the activity created an enriching debate on subjects from a diversity of points of view (e.g., the selection of impact categories, the proposed improvements for environmental impact reduction, etc.). According to the lecturers, the competencies acquired by students through this LbD experience in life cycle assessment have notably evolved, demonstrating not only an enhanced understanding of environmental impacts across a product life cycle but also a significant improvement in critical thinking, team collaboration, and practical problem-solving skills, thereby bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and its application in real-world scenarios. This is in line with the student’s perception that considered, such as "problem resolution", "capacity for analysing" and synthesis and "capacity for information" management. These are essential not only for future LCA practitioners but for chemical engineers.

Renewable Energy, Volume 228, July 2024, 120566

Abstract

The sustainable management of residual waste streams generated from the pulp and paper industry (PPI) has garnered increasing concerns due to the energy crisis and the pressing environmental threats posed by substantial effluent discharges. Using renewable lignocellulosic waste for resource generation presents a revolutionary approach to achieve environmental sustainability. Integrating the PPI with biorefinery processes allows for diversification beyond paper production and facilitates resource recovery. This review critically evaluates the valorization of waste streams from the PPI, with a pronounced emphasis on expanding into bioenergy and biofuels production, while also fostering the development of innovative biomaterials, such as biochar and activated carbon for applications with high added-value, such as environmental remediation and supercapacitors development, thus ensuring long-term sustainability. The review also emphasizes the significance of adopting a circular economy and its role in achieving environmental sustainability, with a particular emphasis on thermochemical technologies, which hold promise for resource recovery from wastewater. Furthermore, the review identifies critical bottlenecks in the path of waste stream valorization and engages in a forward-looking discussion on future prospects within the PPI.

World Development, Volume 179, July 2024, 106603

Abstract

Natural resources are known to hinder financial development in countries with weak institutions. We hypothesize that the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative, an international norm aimed at promoting transparency in natural resource management, can mitigate this effect. Using fixed effects and entropy balancing methods, we provide empirical support for this hypothesis in a panel of 71 resource-rich countries between 1995 and 2019. Our results are robust to the use of alternative specifications and alternative measures of financial development. Finally, we provide a discussion of the transmission channels through which the financial resource curse may occur.

Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Volume 199, July 2024, 114475

Abstract

Low-carbon and environmentally friendly development are becoming increasingly important in the metallurgical industry. In this study, the use of biomass as a source of both material and energy in metallurgical technologies is reviewed. The paper discusses the preparation of bio-based raw materials, their utilization in metallurgical processes, phytoremediation and metal extraction technology, and forestry as a carbon dioxide sequestration method. Bio-based raw materials, such as bio-based fuels, reductants, adhesives, and activated carbons, are found to provide energy, act as reductants and binders, dispose metallurgical flue gas, and adjust metal melt composition, thereby reducing energy consumption in metallurgical processes. Additionally, heavy metals can be enriched in plants through biomass-mediated soil remediation, and these metals can then be processed to obtain raw materials for metallurgical processes. Moreover, metallurgical waste heat can be used to prepare biomass as soil amendments, remediate deserts, and indirectly reduce metallurgical industry carbon dioxide emissions through forest carbon sinks. Based on these findings, the concept of biomass metallurgy is proposed, which promotes the use of biomass as energy or raw materials, ecological restoration and reforestation, and reduction of carbon dioxide and pollutant emissions in metallurgical processes. This study emphasizes the advantages of biomass metallurgy and encourages the development of low-carbon and green metallurgical processes.

Journal of Environmental Sciences, Available online 4 July 2024, In Press, Uncorrected Proof

Abstract

Ubiquitous contamination of the soil environment with volatile organic compounds (VOCs) has raised considerable concerns. However, there is still limited comprehensive surveying of soil VOCs on a national scale. Herein, 65 species of VOCs were simultaneously determined in surface soil samples collected from 63 chemical industrial parks (CIPs) across China. The results showed that the total VOC concentrations ranged from 7.15 to 1842 ng/g with a mean concentration of 326 ng/g (median: 179 ng/g). Benzene homologs and halogenated hydrocarbons were identified as the dominant contaminant groups. Positive correlations between many VOC species indicated that these compounds probably originated from similar sources. Spatially, the hotspots of VOC pollution were located in eastern and southern China. Soils with higher clay content and a higher fraction of total organic carbon (TOC) content were significantly associated with higher soil VOC concentrations. Precipitation reduces the levels of highly water-soluble substances in surface soils. Both positive matrix factorization (PMF) and principal component analysis-multiple linear regression (PCA-MLR) identified a high proportion of industrial sources (PMF: 59.2 % and PCA-MLR: 66.5 %) and traffic emission sources (PMF: 32.3 % and PCA-MLR: 33.5 %). PMF, which had a higher R2 value (0.7892) than PCA-MLR (0.7683), was the preferred model for quantitative source analysis of soil VOCs. The health risk assessment indicated that the non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks of VOCs were at acceptable levels. Overall, this study provides valuable data on the occurrence of VOCs in soil from Chinese CIPs, which is essential for a comprehensive understanding of their environmental behavior.

Marine Policy, Volume 165, July 2024, 106150

Abstract

The maritime sector of Pakistan has a rich history and vast potential; however, it has yet to ratify the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC-2006). This paper provides a comprehensive overview of Pakistan's maritime sector, labour market, and an introduction to its potential in the context of the blue economy as a flag state, port state, and seafarers-supplying state. The study primarily focuses on why Pakistan needs to ratify the MLC-2006 to adhere to international standards for seafarer welfare and protection. The paper examines the impact of the MLC-2006 on the sector, along with the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) of Pakistan ratifying the MLC-2006. The paper concludes that ratifying the MLC-2006 could offer significant benefits to the government, ship-owners, and seafarers in Pakistan by safeguarding their rights, enhancing operational efficiency, and improving the country's reputation in the maritime industry. Lastly, the paper suggests that the adoption of the MLC-2006 could greatly benefit Pakistan's maritime sector. It would enhance seafarers' rights, improve working conditions, promote high training standards, and create a transparent and accountable industry. This would attract investment, enhance competitiveness, and encourage youth participation in the profession. Compliance with the MLC-2006 would also secure Pakistan-flagged vessels and attract more international freight to its ports.

International Journal of Production Economics, Volume 273, July 2024, 109286

Abstract

To achieve the global carbon neutrality goal by 2050, businesses are urged to take the lead in adopting sustainable practices. Recently, there has been a growing interest among both academics and practitioners in utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) for digital transformation. However, measuring the impact of digital transformation on achieving carbon neutrality goals is still in its infancy, particularly in the context of the semiconductor industry. Therefore, this study aims to explore the nexus between AI capabilities, digital transformation, and carbon neutrality in enhancing green supply chain performance. A partial least squares structural equation modeling, bootstrapping, and importance-performance map analysis were employed to test the proposed research model. The data was obtained through a structured questionnaire from 426 respondents from semiconductor firms in China. The results revealed that AI capabilities positively impact the digital transformation of Chinese semiconductor firms. Furthermore, the findings demonstrated that digitally transformed firms are better equipped to achieve carbon neutrality objectives. Lastly, the study found a positive correlation between carbon neutrality and the overall performance of green supply chains in semiconductor manufacturing firms. These results serve as a valuable resource for logistics and supply chain managers, providing insights into how AI capabilities can be harnessed to enhance the performance of green supply chains.

Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Volume 199, July 2024, 114540

Abstract

Ethylene is one of the most important products in the emissions-intensive petrochemical industry. Decarbonizing the ethylene industry is thus important for achieving global carbon neutrality. This study is the first to explore future long-term zero-emissions production pathways for the ethylene industry in China, the world's biggest ethylene producer. An optimization model was built in the context of China's carbon neutrality target of 2060. Four scenarios were developed where the policy ambitions for climate mitigation and for plastic management including waste were varied. Based on this, authors assessed the cumulative total emissions, technology options, future geographical location of ethylene production, and policy challenges associated with each scenario. This is also the first time that scope 3 emissions from waste incineration are included, motivated by the short lifetime of most ethylene products. Results show the cumulative CO2 emissions for the scenarios differ considerably, ranging from 4.3 to 7.8 Gt, even if carbon neutrality by 2060 is achieved in all scenarios. The results suggest that ambitious plastic focused policies can result in lower costs and less cumulative emissions compared to ambitious climate focused policies. The results demonstrate the importance of adopting CCS for waste incineration. This reduces cumulative CO2 emissions by up to 2 Gt. However, reduced overall demand and increased recycling rates should be priority options due to CCS challenges. Results suggest Chinese ethylene industry should adopt a mixed portfolio of production technologies, where the share of emission-intensive coal-based methanol-to-olefins is limited. These findings on decarbonization pathways can contribute to achieving the Paris agreement.

International Journal of Industrial Ergonomics, Volume 102, July 2024, 103614

Abstract

Multiple incidents in the offshore oil and gas industry have been associated with poor safety culture. Regular assessments of safety culture among operators and contractors is recommended as part of a safety management system. Poor safety culture has also shown to impact how operators manage offshore hazards, such as worker fatigue. Assessing workers' fatigue states is also critical to ensure safety in the offshore oil industry. This paper describes findings from an interview study that aimed to identify current safety culture assessment and worker fatigue management practices in the offshore oil and gas industry. One-hour virtual semi-structured interviews were conducted with eighteen offshore oil rig supervisors. Various state-of-the-art methods for assessing safety culture (e.g., experience sampling method) and worker fatigue (e.g., physiological sensors and psychomotor vigilance test) were introduced to the participants. Participants commented on the feasibility and potential barriers to implementation/administration of the various methods, as well as how the information might be useful in their supervisory decisions. User expectations for a safety dashboard displaying data from such tools and user requirements for such a dashboard were elicited. In addition, participants completed a modified technology readiness and acceptance model questionnaire to assess participants' readiness levels and perceived usefulness of a safety dashboard. The interview results revealed a mixed understanding of what safety culture is and opinions about safety culture measurements. Participants indicated that efforts to manage fatigue currently relied solely on supervisors' observation and workers' self-reports. Participants’ opinions about the new assessment methods varied. Some were supportive and commented that the new methods will be helpful to improve supervisory-level decisions, whereas others pointed out potential compliance issues.