Environments

21 pages, 2832 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Model Application for Estimation of Agri-Environmental Indicators of Kiwi Production: A Case Study in Northern Greece

by Maria Kokkora, Panagiota Koukouli, Dimitrios Karpouzos and Pantazis Georgiou

Environments 2023, 10(4), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments10040069 - 21 Apr 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2727

Due to the sensitivity of kiwifruit to soil water and nutrient availability, kiwi production is often associated with over-watering and over-fertilization, especially with nitrogen (N), resulting in increased environmental risks. Crop models are powerful tools for simulating crop production and environmental impact of [...] Read more.

Due to the sensitivity of kiwifruit to soil water and nutrient availability, kiwi production is often associated with over-watering and over-fertilization, especially with nitrogen (N), resulting in increased environmental risks. Crop models are powerful tools for simulating crop production and environmental impact of given management practices. In this study, the CropSyst model was applied to estimate soil N budget and environmental effects of kiwi production, with particular regard to N losses, in two grower-managed kiwi orchards in northern Greece, involving two seasons and different management practices. Management options included N fertilization and irrigation. Model estimates were compared with yield and soil mineral N content (0–90 cm depths) measured three times within the growing season. Agri-environmental indicators were calculated based on the N budget simulation results to assess the environmental consequences (focusing on N losses and water use efficiency) of the different management practices in kiwi production. According to model simulation results, kiwifruit yield and N uptake were similar in both orchards. N losses to the environment, however, were estimated on average to be 10.3% higher in the orchard with the higher inputs of irrigation water and N fertilizer. The orchard with the lower inputs showed better water and N use efficiency. N leaching losses were estimated to be higher than 70% of total available soil N in both study sites, indicating potential impact on groundwater quality. These findings demonstrate the necessity for improved irrigation and N fertilization management in kiwi production in the area. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Impact Assessment II)

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12 pages, 5469 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Particulate Pollution from New Year Fireworks in Honolulu

by Peter Brimblecombe and Yonghang Lai

Environments 2023, 10(4), 68; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments10040068 - 19 Apr 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3352

Abstract

Fireworks have long been a problem in Hawaii despite restrictions on their use. They cause accidents and high levels of noise and air pollution and are accompanied by admissions to hospitals from accidents and breathing difficulties. There was some initial success in reducing [...] Read more.

Fireworks have long been a problem in Hawaii despite restrictions on their use. They cause accidents and high levels of noise and air pollution and are accompanied by admissions to hospitals from accidents and breathing difficulties. There was some initial success in reducing injuries and particulate concentrations after the implementation of the permit requirements from New Year of 2012, but the recent years of 2022 and 2023 have witnessed elevated air pollution at New Year. It seems unlikely that this arises from weather conditions as a random forest analysis suggests that the effects of local climate are quite small, and particulate pollution at New Year arises from fireworks. The pollution does not seem related to the purchase of the permitted 5000 firecrackers. Locally, there is suspicion that injury and pollution more likely arises from illegally purchased aerial fireworks. Regulatory authorities have found it difficult to estimate the quantity of illegal fireworks, and preventing their import has proved a difficult task. Such problems mean that it is important to enhance our understanding of local environmental problems caused by fireworks and improve compliance with the regulations, without diminishing enjoyment of the New Year celebration. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Editorial Board Members' Collection Series: Air Quality Assessment and Management)

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22 pages, 2414 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluating Groundwater Nitrate Status across the River Ythan Catchment (Scotland) following Two Decades of Nitrate Vulnerable Zone Designation

by Hamish Johnson, Emma May Simpson, Mads Troldborg, Ulrich Ofterdinger, Rachel Cassidy, Chris Soulsby and Jean-Christophe Comte

Environments 2023, 10(4), 67; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments10040067 - 18 Apr 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3169

Abstract

Diffuse agricultural pollution is one of the greatest challenges to achieving good chemical and ecological status of Scotland’s water bodies. The River Ythan in Aberdeenshire was designated a Nitrate Vulnerable Zone (NVZ) in the year 2000, due to the eutrophication of the Ythan [...] Read more.

Diffuse agricultural pollution is one of the greatest challenges to achieving good chemical and ecological status of Scotland’s water bodies. The River Ythan in Aberdeenshire was designated a Nitrate Vulnerable Zone (NVZ) in the year 2000, due to the eutrophication of the Ythan Estuary and rising nitrate trends in Private Water Supply (PWS) groundwater abstractions. The third River Basin Management Plan (RBMP) for Scotland reported the Ellon groundwater body of the River Ythan catchment to be of poor chemical status as of 2021 with respect to nitrate, and forecasted groundwater recovery beyond 2027. Following two decades of NVZ designation, we investigated the drivers of groundwater nitrate across the River Ythan catchment through an analysis of long-term (2009–2018) groundwater quality monitoring data collected by the Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (SEPA) and a recent synoptic groundwater nitrate sampling survey of PWSs. Groundwater nitrate was found to remain elevated across the catchment area, and appeared to be highly sensitive to agricultural practices and meteorological forcing, indicating a high sensitivity of groundwater quality to environmental change. Further hydrogeological characterisation is recommended to better understand the effects of agricultural practices on groundwater quality, and to facilitate achievement of future RBMP goals under a changing climate. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Groundwater Quality in the UK; a Continuing Challenge)

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22 pages, 2022 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Rising Threat of Atmospheric CO₂: A Review on the Causes, Impacts, and Mitigation Strategies

by Leonel J. R. Nunes

Environments 2023, 10(4), 66; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments10040066 - 14 Apr 2023

Cited by 85 | Viewed by 26538

Abstract

The increasing levels of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in the atmosphere have become a major environmental challenge due to their contribution to global warming. The primary drivers of the increase in atmospheric CO₂ concentrations are the combustion of fossil fuels, deforestation, [...] Read more.

The increasing levels of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in the atmosphere have become a major environmental challenge due to their contribution to global warming. The primary drivers of the increase in atmospheric CO₂ concentrations are the combustion of fossil fuels, deforestation, agricultural practices, or the production of cement, which play a significant role in the increase of CO₂ concentration in the atmosphere. However, efforts are being made to mitigate the negative effects of CO₂ emissions, including carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies that aim to capture CO₂ from industrial processes and store it in underground geological formations. Methane, another potent greenhouse gas, is another major contributor to climate change and is mainly produced by agricultural activities such as livestock farming and rice cultivation. To address this, sustainable agricultural practices, such as reducing meat consumption and adopting climate-smart farming techniques, are crucial. Ultimately, a sustainable future can be secured for the planet and future generations by implementing effective measures, such as the use of sustainable energy sources, improvements in energy efficiency, responsible land use practices, and reducing the emissions of both CO₂ and methane. Full article

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16 pages, 1134 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Users’ Perception of the Circular Economy Monitoring Indicators as Proposed by the UNI/TS 11820:2022: Evidence from an Exploratory Survey

by Vera Amicarelli and Christian Bux

Environments 2023, 10(4), 65; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments10040065 - 14 Apr 2023

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3601

Abstract

The measurement of material, energy, water, and waste flows in organizations represents a key challenge in the enhancement of a circular economy and sustainable development. In November 2022, the experimental technical standard “Measurement of Circularity—Methods and Indicators for Measuring Circular Processes in Organizations” [...] Read more.

The measurement of material, energy, water, and waste flows in organizations represents a key challenge in the enhancement of a circular economy and sustainable development. In November 2022, the experimental technical standard “Measurement of Circularity—Methods and Indicators for Measuring Circular Processes in Organizations” (UNI/TS 11820:2022) was introduced, which provides, for the first time, a set of 71 quantitative, qualitative and semi-quantitative indicators for the assessment of the levels of circularity in organizations at the micro- and meso-level. First, the present exploratory research aimed to illustrate the main characteristics of the novel technical standard. Second, through an online-based questionnaire among 105 managers and employees working in various industrial sectors in Italy, the research aimed to investigate their level of awareness and perception of selected circular economy monitoring indicators. Such an analysis will help to identify the weaknesses and strengths of the current version of the technical standard. The research applied descriptive statistics and regression models to estimate the association between the perception of selected circular economy indictors and awareness of the concepts of “circular economy”, “lifecycle thinking”, “sustainable development” and “corporate social responsibility”. Although a limited number of respondents took part in the research, the research explored, for the first time, the main features related to the experimental UNI/TS 11820:2022, proposed an original analysis of users’ perception and awareness in its application, and suggested possible opportunities towards its enhancement from theoretical and managerial perspectives. Full article

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13 pages, 2357 KiB

Open AccessReview

Sustainability of Geosynthetics-Based Solutions

by Jolanta Dąbrowska, Agnieszka Kiersnowska, Zofia Zięba and Yuliia Trach

Environments 2023, 10(4), 64; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments10040064 - 10 Apr 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 5311

Abstract

Sustainability emphasises the importance of increasing the resource efficiency of infrastructure. The usage of geosynthetic materials in civil and environmental engineering can significantly influence sustainability at the planning and design stages of infrastructure construction projects. They are used in many different applications in [...] Read more.

Sustainability emphasises the importance of increasing the resource efficiency of infrastructure. The usage of geosynthetic materials in civil and environmental engineering can significantly influence sustainability at the planning and design stages of infrastructure construction projects. They are used in many different applications in construction and environmental engineering, as they provide a better and longer performance and less costly solutions than traditional materials (such as sand, gravel, concrete and cement). Additional benefits can be achieved by combining geosynthetics with various recycled materials as substitutes for high-quality natural materials. In this paper, the importance of sustainability in geosynthetics-based solutions is discussed. The possibilities of using geosynthetics in sustainable development have been analysed and the benefits resulting from their application, such as the reduction in carbon footprint and release of greenhouse gases and saving water and other natural resources, have been assessed. Innovative solutions that support mitigation measures, adaptation to climate change and achievement of sustainable development goals have been presented. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers in Environments)

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22 pages, 3538 KiB

Open AccessReview

Electrochemical Biosensor for Evaluation of Environmental Pollutants Toxicity

by Md. Saiful Islam, Kazuto Sazawa, Kazuharu Sugawara and Hideki Kuramitz

Environments 2023, 10(4), 63; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments10040063 - 6 Apr 2023

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4268

Abstract

Electrochemical biosensors that combine high selectivity of biochemical affinity with precise electrochemical detection are one of the most necessary and powerful tools for assessing environmental pollution. This review addresses electrochemical biosensors that assess environmental pollutant toxicity. Electrochemical biosensors using enzyme activity inhibition, DNA, [...] Read more.

Electrochemical biosensors that combine high selectivity of biochemical affinity with precise electrochemical detection are one of the most necessary and powerful tools for assessing environmental pollution. This review addresses electrochemical biosensors that assess environmental pollutant toxicity. Electrochemical biosensors using enzyme activity inhibition, DNA, whole cells, and cytochrome P450 will be introduced, their advantages and applications will be discussed, and trends and challenges for designing reliable sensors for practical use will be addressed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Impact Assessment II)

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15 pages, 591 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Examining the Effects of Environmental Knowledge and Health Insurance Coverage on Health Status

by Yong Liu, Jorge Ruiz-Menjivar, Mosili Lepheana and Brent R. Carr

Environments 2023, 10(4), 62; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments10040062 - 5 Apr 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3211

Abstract

Rural women in developing nations are especially vulnerable to higher health risks due to environmental pollution exposure and are more likely to experience poorer health outcomes. Using data from the 2013 China General Social Survey CGSS2013, this study empirically examined the relationship among [...] Read more.

Rural women in developing nations are especially vulnerable to higher health risks due to environmental pollution exposure and are more likely to experience poorer health outcomes. Using data from the 2013 China General Social Survey CGSS2013, this study empirically examined the relationship among environmental knowledge (EK), pollution, health investment (i.e., holding and purchasing a public health insurance policy, engaging in frequent physical activity, and acquiring commercial insurance), and health status. The sample was composed of 1930 women residing in rural regions in China. Three main research questions are investigated: whether environmental knowledge affects health investment and health status, whether health investments impact health status, and whether the relationship between environmental knowledge and health status is mediated by health investment. Our results showed that the level of EK for women in rural China significantly impacted their self-reported physical and mental health. To account for potential endogeneity due to mutual causality, this study employed television usage and network usage as two instrumental variables (IVs) of EK and used an IV-probit method. Additionally, we estimated a model that replaced health status with the variable Body Mass Index (BMI) to assess the reliability and robustness of our results. The results were consistent, providing evidence of robustness. Additionally, we examined the relationship between health investment (holding and purchasing a public health insurance policy, engaging in frequent physical activity, and acquiring commercial insurance) and health status. Our results indicated that the level of EK had no significant impact on participating in the new rural cooperative medical system. However, the preference for purchasing commercial insurance was positively impacted by EK, though it did not directly affect health status. Conversely, an increase in EK and pollution was associated with a greater likelihood of engaging in physical exercise, which, in turn, improved overall mental health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Indoor Air Quality and Health Risks)

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16 pages, 3445 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Definition of Key Performance Indicators for Noise Monitoring Networks

by Matteo Bolognese, Stefano Carpita, Luca Fredianelli and Gaetano Licitra

Environments 2023, 10(4), 61; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments10040061 - 4 Apr 2023

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4277

Abstract

The European Noise Directive fixed a well-defined schedule on a five-year basis for the noise exposure evaluation of citizens. Noise monitoring is needed to validate noise maps of the main transportation infrastructures and it can also represent an improvement. By comparing with average [...] Read more.

The European Noise Directive fixed a well-defined schedule on a five-year basis for the noise exposure evaluation of citizens. Noise monitoring is needed to validate noise maps of the main transportation infrastructures and it can also represent an improvement. By comparing with average noise maps, a properly set sensor network can report noise information in a more case-specific way, including time variations. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, key performance indicators (KPIs) evaluating the technical performance and financial sustainability of acoustic networks have never been presented in the scientific literature. Therefore, in the present work, a set of KPIs are proposed on the basis of KPIs defined for monitoring networks of other pollutants. It is then tuned according to noise monitoring, in line with the current legislations. As a case study, the performance of three monitoring networks installed in ports are evaluated and discussed. The resulting investment and maintenance costs can be helpful for decision makers to calculate the cost–benefits in the installation of new monitoring stations and also to evaluate the performance of the already-existing ones. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Solutions Mitigating Environmental Noise Pollution II)

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14 pages, 2712 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Co-Management of Acid Mine Drainage with Struvite Synthesis Effluent: Pragmatic Synergies in Circular Economy

by Vhahangwele Masindi, Ryneth Mbhele and Spyros Foteinis

Environments 2023, 10(4), 60; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments10040060 - 4 Apr 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2896

Abstract

Herein, the alkaline supernatant of a struvite recovery system from municipal wastewater was successfully co-managed with acid mine drainage (AMD). Various ratios (v/v) of AMD to struvite supernatant were examined, and the quality of the passively co-treated effluent and [...] Read more.

Herein, the alkaline supernatant of a struvite recovery system from municipal wastewater was successfully co-managed with acid mine drainage (AMD). Various ratios (v/v) of AMD to struvite supernatant were examined, and the quality of the passively co-treated effluent and of the generated sludge were examined using state-of-the-art analytical techniques including ICP-OES, FE-SEM/FIB/EDX, XRD, XRF, and FTIR. The optimum ratio was 1:9, where metals and sulphate were largely removed from AMD, i.e., from higher to lower score Fe (~100%) ≥ Pb (~100%) ≥ Ni (99.6%) ≥ Cu (96%) ≥ As (95%) ≥ Al (93.7%) ≥ Zn (92.7%) > Ca (90.5%) > Mn (90%) ≥ Cr (90%) > sulphate (88%) > Mg (85.7%), thus implying that opportunities for mineral recovery could be pursued. The pH of the final effluent was regulated to acceptable discharge levels, i.e., 6.5 instead of 2.2 (AMD) and 10.5 (struvite supernatant), while a notable reduction in the electrical conductivity further implied the attenuation of contaminants. Overall, results suggest the feasibility of the passive co-treatment of these wastewater matrices and that opportunities for direct scaling up exist (e.g., using waste stabilization ponds). Furthermore, apart from the initial recovery of struvite from municipal wastewater, metals could also be recovered from AMD and water could be reclaimed, therefore introducing circular economy and zero liquid discharge in wastewater treatment and management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Sustainability-Life Cycle Assessment-Energy and Environmental Technologies)

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17 pages, 1473 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Conceptualisation of an Ecodesign Framework for Sustainable Food Product Development across the Supply Chain

by Beatriz Q. Silva, Marta W. Vasconcelos and Sergiy Smetana

Environments 2023, 10(4), 59; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments10040059 - 30 Mar 2023

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4051

Abstract

As the world population grows, the pressure to intensify an unsustainable food production system increases. At the same time, one-third of all the food produced is lost or wasted along the value chains. Therefore, it is crucial to develop methods to increase food [...] Read more.

As the world population grows, the pressure to intensify an unsustainable food production system increases. At the same time, one-third of all the food produced is lost or wasted along the value chains. Therefore, it is crucial to develop methods to increase food production while decreasing resource usage and minimising the environmental impact. Ecodesign concepts have already been implemented in various sectors, reducing the environmental impact of products. However, published work has yet to analyse the potential of ecodesign for food production across the value chain. This review assesses the existing literature on ecodesign principles and proposes a conceptual framework of strategies to be applied to current food chains, addressing the challenges posed by current agrifood systems. We suggest that the relevant ecodesign principles fall into three main categories depending on the supply chain stage: “design for sustainable sourcing (DfSS)”, “design for optimised resource use (DfORU)”, and “design for end-of-life optimisation (DfEO).” Applying this framework across the supply chain could significantly reduce the environmental impact of food production and indirectly contribute to dietary change. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Review Papers in Environments)

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30 pages, 5678 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Scientometric Review of Environmental Valuation Research with an Altmetric Pathway for the Future

by Michael Ayodele Olukolajo, Abiodun Kolawole Oyetunji and Chiemela Victor Amaechi

Environments 2023, 10(4), 58; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments10040058 - 27 Mar 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4190

Abstract

Environmental valuation (EV) research has advanced significantly as a method of assigning value to environmental goods, many of which lack readily discernible market values. The term “environmental valuation” describes a number of methods for putting monetary values on environmental effects, particularly non-market effects. [...] Read more.

Environmental valuation (EV) research has advanced significantly as a method of assigning value to environmental goods, many of which lack readily discernible market values. The term “environmental valuation” describes a number of methods for putting monetary values on environmental effects, particularly non-market effects. Over the years, there has been a continuous increase in the number of publications on the topic. According to searches via the Scopus and Web of Science (WoS) databases, the phrase “environmental valuation” first occurred in 1987. The current research examines patterns in publishing rates over the previous three decades to analyse environmental valuation activity. To identify the future pathway, a research pattern was identified using Scopus, WoS, and the Altmetric Explorer. The data were postprocessed using VOSviewer to identify the mapping networks; then, Voyant Tools were used to explore the keywords. A summary of the demand for environmental valuation is also provided based on the literature review. However, the findings of this historical analysis indicate that despite the academic efforts on this subject, environmental valuation is not used in research as much as one may anticipate. In addition, the study gives a general outline of the future directions that environmental valuation research is anticipated to follow in light of the current academic research initiatives as well as academic market and policy market research efforts. The study shows that the United Kingdom (UK) showed the highest publications by location in this field. Additionally, the study shows that the choice experiment approach is preferred over the contingent valuation method, and this work illustrates this preference. It also demonstrates that only a small number of papers have had a significant influence on the researchers in this field. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Impact Assessment II)

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21 pages, 2945 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Rural Agriculture and Poverty Trap: Can Climate-Smart Innovations Provide Breakeven Solutions to Smallholder Farmers?

by Akaniyene Ignatius Akpan and Dimitrios Zikos

Environments 2023, 10(4), 57; https://doi.org/10.3390/environments10040057 - 24 Mar 2023

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 5384

Abstract

Agriculture is widely recognized as a solution to food insecurity and poverty, especially in rural areas. However, 75% of the world’s poor live in rural areas, and agriculture is the primary source of their livelihood. One may wonder if the observed correlation between [...] Read more.

Agriculture is widely recognized as a solution to food insecurity and poverty, especially in rural areas. However, 75% of the world’s poor live in rural areas, and agriculture is the primary source of their livelihood. One may wonder if the observed correlation between agriculture and poverty also suggests causation. If that is the case, then what such causal relationship might exist? Is agriculture a vehicle for poverty alleviation or a source of poverty trap? The role of climate change is rather undisputed: associated extreme weather phenomena cause severe negative impacts on agriculture, exacerbating rural poverty. However, climate-smart agriculture (CSA) is acclaimed to potentially reverse the situation by eliminating poverty and food insecurity. Against this backdrop, the paper investigates whether smallholder farmers who adopt CSA could achieve food security and better income. This aim was approached through three key research objectives (i) to examine the effects of climate change on smallholder farmers, (ii) to examine the extent to which smallholder farmers adopt CSA and the barriers to adoption, and (iii) to investigate empirically the effects of CSA practices in terms of food security and poverty alleviation. The Upper West and Upper East regions in Ghana were selected purposively for the case study, and the data collected were analyzed using inferential and descriptive techniques. The results revealed no statistically significant positive relationship between the adoption of CSA with food security and income. Poor socioeconomic and market conditions marred the expected positive effects of CSA, hence the need for the provision of agricultural infrastructures and inputs as well as the creation of market for commodities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Risk and Climate Change II)

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Environments, Volume 10, Issue 4 (April 2023) – 13 articles

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