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20 pages, 905 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mechanism and Impact of Digital Economy on Urban Economic Resilience under the Carbon Emission Scenarios: Evidence from China’s Urban Development

by Songtao He, Shuigen Yang, Amar Razzaq, Sahar Erfanian and Azhar Abbas

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2023, 20(5), 4454; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20054454 - 2 Mar 2023

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2716

Abstract

China is currently experiencing a phase of high-quality development, and fostering the resilience of the urban economy is key to promoting this development. The growth of the digital economy is seen as critical to achieving this goal. Therefore, it is necessary to study [...] Read more.

China is currently experiencing a phase of high-quality development, and fostering the resilience of the urban economy is key to promoting this development. The growth of the digital economy is seen as critical to achieving this goal. Therefore, it is necessary to study the mechanism by which the digital economy affects urban economic resilience and the impact of carbon emissions. To this end, this paper empirically analyzes the mechanisms and impacts of the digital economy on urban economic resilience using panel data from 258 prefecture-level cities in China between 2004 and 2017. The study employs a two-way fixed effect model and a moderated mediation model. The results show that: (1) The development of the digital economy can significantly improve the resilience of the urban economy in different periods and different city sizes; (2) The development of the digital economy promotes the economic resilience of developed cities and eastern cities more significantly; (3) In the context of carbon emissions, the digital economy positively contributes to urban economic resilience through population quality and industrial structure but negatively contributes to urban economic resilience through above-scale enterprises; (4) Carbon emissions have a positive moderation effect on the historical path of the industrial structure, above-scale enterprises, and the front path of population quality in the mechanism of the role of the digital economy on the economic resilience of cities, and a negative moderation effect on the front path of above-scale enterprises. Based on these findings this paper proposes several suggestions, such as revolutionizing the digital development of cities, optimizing regional industrial collaboration, accelerating the training of digital talents, and preventing the disorderly expansion of capital. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Future and Feature Paper in Environment and Applied Ecology)

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17 pages, 2821 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Response of Macrophyte Diversity in Coastal Lakes to Watershed Land Use and Salinity Gradient

by Mirosław Grzybowski, Paweł Burandt, Katarzyna Glińska-Lewczuk, Sylwia Lew and Krystian Obolewski

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(24), 16620; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192416620 - 10 Dec 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2162

Abstract

Coastal lakes are subject to multiple stressors, among which land use, hydrological connectivity, and salinity have the greatest effect on their biodiversity. We studied the effects that various land cover types (CORINE) of coastal lake watersheds had on macrophyte diversity in ten coastal [...] Read more.

Coastal lakes are subject to multiple stressors, among which land use, hydrological connectivity, and salinity have the greatest effect on their biodiversity. We studied the effects that various land cover types (CORINE) of coastal lake watersheds had on macrophyte diversity in ten coastal lakes along the southern Baltic coast as characterised by twelve phytocenotic indices: these being a number of communities, Shannon–Wiener diversity, evenness, and indices of taxonomic distinctiveness of plant communities: vegetation coverage; colonisation index; share of the phytolittoral area in the total lake area, as well as shares of nympheides, pondweeds, charophytes, marine, emerged and submerged communities in the total lake area. The effects were checked for three groups of lakes distinguished by differences in salinity–freshwater (F, 5), transitional (T, 4), and brackish (B, 1)—in which a total of 48 macrophyte communities were identified. The most abundant in aquatic phytocoenoses were lakes of T type. A partial least squares regression model (PLS-R) showed a stronger impact of land-use types in immediate vicinities and entire watersheds than the impact of physico-chemical properties of water on phytocenotic indices in the lakes. Macrophyte diversity was relatively low in urban and agricultural catchments and relatively high in forest and wetland areas. Agriculture had a negative impact on the number of macrophyte communities in F lakes and, in T lakes, on the number of macrophyte communities, biodiversity, evenness, and proportion of emerged, submerged, and marine communities. Urban areas contributed to lower values of evenness, vegetation coverage, and share of marine communities in F, but, in T, to lower the number of macrophyte communities, evenness, and proportion of submerged and marine communities. Our results confirm the significant impact of land use on macrophyte diversity in coastal aquatic ecosystems. Combined analysis of anthropogenic and natural descriptors is a prerequisite for analysing human threats to biodiversity in coastal lakes. Macrophyte community-based measures of biodiversity are sensitive indicators of anthropogenic impact on the ecological condition of coastal ecosystems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Future and Feature Paper in Environment and Applied Ecology)

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15 pages, 371 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Plastic Waste Degradation in Landfill Conditions: The Problem with Microplastics, and Their Direct and Indirect Environmental Effects

by Irena Wojnowska-Baryła, Katarzyna Bernat and Magdalena Zaborowska

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(20), 13223; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013223 - 14 Oct 2022

Cited by 82 | Viewed by 11176

Abstract

As landfilling is a common method for utilizing plastic waste at its end-of-life, it is important to present knowledge about the environmental and technical complications encountered during plastic disposal, and the formation and spread of microplastics (MPs) from landfills, to better understand the [...] Read more.

As landfilling is a common method for utilizing plastic waste at its end-of-life, it is important to present knowledge about the environmental and technical complications encountered during plastic disposal, and the formation and spread of microplastics (MPs) from landfills, to better understand the direct and indirect effects of MPs on pollution. Plastic waste around active and former landfills remains a source of MPs. The landfill output consists of leachate and gases created by combined biological, chemical, and physical processes. Thus, small particles and/or fibers, including MPs, are transported to the surroundings by air and by leachate. In this study, a special focus was given to the potential for the migration and release of toxic substances as the aging of plastic debris leads to the release of harmful volatile organic compounds via oxidative photodegradation. MPs are generally seen as the key vehicles and accumulators of non-biodegradable pollutants. Because of their small size, MPs are quickly transported over long distances throughout their surroundings. With large specific surface areas, they have the ability to absorb pollutants, and plastic monomers and additives can be leached out of MPs; thus, they can act as both vectors and carriers of pollutants in the environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Future and Feature Paper in Environment and Applied Ecology)

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20 pages, 2140 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Role of Social Capital in Predicting Tourists’ Waste Sorting Intentions in Rural Destinations: Extending the Theory of Planned Behavior

by Jian Cao, Hongliang Qiu, Alastair M. Morrison and Wei Wei

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(19), 12789; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191912789 - 6 Oct 2022

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 3224

Abstract

Improper waste disposal of tourists has detrimental impacts on the environment, economy, and people in rural destinations. Separating at the source is an effective means to mitigate these adverse impacts on rural destinations. Hence, identifying factors influencing tourists’ waste sorting intentions in rural [...] Read more.

Improper waste disposal of tourists has detrimental impacts on the environment, economy, and people in rural destinations. Separating at the source is an effective means to mitigate these adverse impacts on rural destinations. Hence, identifying factors influencing tourists’ waste sorting intentions in rural destinations is critical to the sustainability of rural tourism and rural land. However, few studies focus on tourists’ waste sorting intentions. Drawing on the theory of planned behavior (TPB) and social capital, this research examined the determinants of tourists’ waste sorting intentions in rural destinations. A total of 395 valid questionnaires were collected from a rural destination in Huzhou, China. The results indicated that: (1) all TPB variables, i.e., attitude toward the behavior, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control, positively and directly affect tourists’ waste sorting intentions; (2) interpersonal trust directly and positively influences tourists’ waste sorting intentions; (3) subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, interpersonal trust, and emotional bonding indirectly influence tourists’ waste sorting intentions through the mediation of attitude toward the behavior; (4) emotional bonding does not directly affect tourists’ waste sorting intentions, but the link is established through the mediation of attitude toward the behavior. This research expands the body of knowledge by integrating individuals’ psychological elements with their social contexts. The findings offer some theoretical and managerial implications for understanding how tourists’ social contexts facilitate tourists’ waste sorting intentions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Future and Feature Paper in Environment and Applied Ecology)

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26 pages, 2487 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Whose Knowledge? Examining the Relationship between the Traditional Medicine Sector and Environmental Conservation Using a Stakeholder Analysis: Perceptions on Warwick Herb Market Durban South Africa

by Nontando N. Xaba, S’phumelele L. Nkomo and Kirona Harrypersad

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(19), 11900; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph191911900 - 21 Sep 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2354

Abstract

The South African traditional medicine sector is estimated to accommodate millions of citizens, despite it being informal. The existence of such a healthcare system embodies the dual system of both primary and traditional healthcare, with some preferring one and others utilising both systems. [...] Read more.

The South African traditional medicine sector is estimated to accommodate millions of citizens, despite it being informal. The existence of such a healthcare system embodies the dual system of both primary and traditional healthcare, with some preferring one and others utilising both systems. The gathering, harvesting, and selling of medicinal plant and animal species have inevitable environmental effects. The paradox between biodiversity conservation and livelihood sustenance is eminent in South Africa’s contemporary environmental legislation. The purpose of the study was to highlight and examine the dynamics between prominent stakeholders involved in biodiversity conservation and the traditional medicine sector. The stakeholder analysis and political ecology approach were adopted and applied respectively to guide the study. The study was conducted in 2020 and a questionnaire was used to capture the realities and experiences of prominent stakeholders in the biodiversity sector. Common legal mandates such as the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD); Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES); the National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act No. 10 of 2004; Threatened or Protected Species (TOPS) regulations; and the KwaZulu-Natal Nature Conservation Ordinance 15 of 1974 are used to control and enforce legislation by biodiversity stakeholders. The main findings of the study are as follows: (a) Traditional Health Practitioners (THPs) do not have adequate training and knowledge on the environmental and legal aspects of their system; (b) Biodiversity stakeholders are treated with violence and hostility when they attempt to enforce legal mandates at the Warwick Herb Market; (c) There is a significant gap in communication and co-operation between municipal officials and biodiversity stakeholders. There is evidently, a need for environmental educational initiatives and improved methods of enforcement and communication between biodiversity stakeholders, municipal officials and THPs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Future and Feature Paper in Environment and Applied Ecology)

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19 pages, 421 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Market Incentives and Livelihood Dependence on Farmers’ Multi-Stage Pesticide Application Behavior—A Case Study of Four Provinces in China

by Xiuling Ding, Apurbo Sarkar, Lipeng Li, Hua Li and Qian Lu

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(15), 9431; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19159431 - 1 Aug 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2105

Abstract

Improvement in pesticide application and efficiency structure has long been recognized as having great significance in reducing pollution, ensuring food safety, and promoting green agricultural development. Based on theoretical analysis, using the survey data of 766 farmers in key tea areas in Shaanxi, [...] Read more.

Improvement in pesticide application and efficiency structure has long been recognized as having great significance in reducing pollution, ensuring food safety, and promoting green agricultural development. Based on theoretical analysis, using the survey data of 766 farmers in key tea areas in Shaanxi, Sichuan, Zhejiang, and Anhui provinces in China, the study empirically analyzes the influence of market incentives and livelihood dependence on farmers’ multi-stage pesticide application behavior. More specifically, the study employed ordered probit analysis to craft its findings. The dependent variable of this study is the multi-stage pesticide application problem of farmers, and the core independent variables are market incentives and livelihood dependence, and the judgment is based on the core variable coefficients of the econometric model of farmers at each stage. The study found the following: (i) Market incentives significantly prompted some farmers to give up synthetic pesticide application and farmers tend to choose green pesticides in the type of pesticide application. (ii) Livelihood dependence meant that the proportion of tea income significantly prompts farmers to apply pesticides, and also creates a tendency for farmers to choose green and low-toxic pesticides in the type of pesticide application. The planting period tends to have a moderate impact on applying green and low-toxic pesticides. (iii) The interaction term of market incentives and the proportion of tea income has no significant impact on farmers’ multi-stage pesticide application behavior. The interaction term of market incentives and planting years has impacted negatively on whether farmers apply pesticides, and has no significant impact on farmers’ choice of pesticide application types, but makes farmers increase the amount of green and low-toxic pesticides. (iv) The education level of the household head significantly promotes farmers to choose green and low-toxic pesticides. Seemingly, the brand effect of pesticides significantly encourages farmers to choose green and low-toxic pesticides. In external support, technical training significantly encourages farmers to choose green and low-toxic pesticides. Furthermore, better infrastructure and local market conditions significantly encourage farmers to reduce the use of conventional pesticides. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Future and Feature Paper in Environment and Applied Ecology)

13 pages, 1823 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Copper and Copper Oxide Nanoparticles on Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss W.) Spermatozoa Motility after Incubation with Contaminants

by Małgorzata Garncarek, Katarzyna Dziewulska and Monika Kowalska-Góralska

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(14), 8486; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19148486 - 12 Jul 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1648

Abstract

The study aimed to analyse the effect of copper nanoparticles of similar particle size of Cu and CuO and copper ions (CuSO₄) on the motility parameters of rainbow trout spermatozoa after long-term exposure and compare its harmful effect. Nanoproducts of Cu [...] Read more.

The study aimed to analyse the effect of copper nanoparticles of similar particle size of Cu and CuO and copper ions (CuSO₄) on the motility parameters of rainbow trout spermatozoa after long-term exposure and compare its harmful effect. Nanoproducts of Cu and CuO (Cu NPs, CuO NPs) of primary particle size around 50 nm and ionic solution of CuSO₄ were used for the study. Suspension of concentrations 0, 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 mg Cu·L⁻¹ of Cu NPs, CuO NPs, and CuSO₄ was dissolved in an artificial seminal plasma. Milt was mixed with the prepared solution and stored in a fridge, at 6 °C, for 96 h. At the defined incubation time, spermatozoa were activated for movement, and six motility parameters were evaluated using an automated system (CASA). Increasing concentrations of Cu NPs, CuO NPs, and CuSO₄ in an incubation medium in parallel decreased the percentage of motile sperm (MOT). The effect of Cu NPs and ionic copper on MOT was more deleterious than that of CuO NPs. Copper products slightly increased the velocity (VCL) compared to the control, particularly up to 24 h of storage. Linearity (LIN) was improved by three tested products, particularly CuO NPs. Generally, the motility duration was prolonged when the sperm was incubated with copper products compared to the control. Nanoproducts made from different compounds of the same elements of similar particle size have a different effect on cells. Cu NPs were more harmful than CuO NPs. The effect of Cu NPs was similar to an ionic form of CuSO₄. When incubated, the copper nanoproducts and ionic form exert a slightly positive effect on spermatozoa velocity, linearity, and motility duration, particularly up to 24 h of storage. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Future and Feature Paper in Environment and Applied Ecology)

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19 pages, 3419 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Considering Farmers’ Heterogeneity to Payment Ecosystem Services Participation: A Choice Experiment and Agent-Based Model Analysis in Xin’an River Basin, China

by Shengnan Li, Baohang Hui, Cai Jin, Xuehan Liu, Fan Xu, Chong Su and Tan Li

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(12), 7190; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19127190 - 11 Jun 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2587

Abstract

The concept of watershed ecological compensation is one payment for ecosystem services (PES) program that incentivizes stakeholders undertake environmental conservation activities that improve the provision of ecosystem services. Defining the heterogeneity of farmers’ willingness to participate in watershed ecological compensation is critically important [...] Read more.

The concept of watershed ecological compensation is one payment for ecosystem services (PES) program that incentivizes stakeholders undertake environmental conservation activities that improve the provision of ecosystem services. Defining the heterogeneity of farmers’ willingness to participate in watershed ecological compensation is critically important for fully understanding stakeholders’ demands. Accordingly, we designed a choice experiment survey to analyze the heterogeneity of policy preferences and willingness to receive compensation between upstream and midstream farmers in Xin’an River basin, China. Moreover, we simulated the impact of farmers’ social capitals’ heterogeneity with an agent-based model. The results show that there are significant differences in the preferences of agricultural waste recycling rate and agricultural water quality between farmers in the upstream and midstream. The total willingness of farmers in the upstream and midstream to participate in ecological compensation are RMB 149.88 (USD 22.54)/month and RMB 57.40 yuan (USD 8.63)/month, respectively. Social network size has a negative effect on farmers’ willingness to participate the programs. Our findings suggest that the characteristics of farmers’ influence their willingness to participate in the PES program. The results of this research can be used to improve PES management policies in the future, as well as to support sustainable environmental development and rural revitalization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Future and Feature Paper in Environment and Applied Ecology)

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27 pages, 1314 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of Broadband Infrastructure on Carbon Emission Efficiency of Resource-Based Cities in China: A Quasi-Natural Experiment from the “Broadband China” Pilot Policy

by Bo Li, Jing Liu, Qian Liu and Muhammad Mohiuddin

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(11), 6734; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19116734 - 31 May 2022

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 2867

Abstract

Resource-based cities (RBCs) face serious environmental pollution, and there are efforts to try to overcome those challenges by transforming industrial structure through investing in new technologies. Based on the panel data of 114 prefecture-level resource-based cities in China, this paper uses the difference-in-differences [...] Read more.

Resource-based cities (RBCs) face serious environmental pollution, and there are efforts to try to overcome those challenges by transforming industrial structure through investing in new technologies. Based on the panel data of 114 prefecture-level resource-based cities in China, this paper uses the difference-in-differences (DID) method to identify the effects of the “Broadband China” pilot policy on the carbon emission efficiency of resource-based cities. The results show that the “Broadband China” pilot policy has a significant effect on the improvement of carbon emission efficiency of resource-based cities, and the results are still valid after parallel trend test, PSM-DID estimation and placebo test. This study also finds that there are differences in the carbon emission efficiency of different locations and types of resource-based cities. In addition, the results of the mechanism analysis show that the “Broadband China” pilot policy can promote the improvement of carbon emission efficiency by promoting the upgrading of the industrial structure, the accumulation of human capital and the improvement of the level of urban innovation of resource-based cities. The findings provide a reference for China’s resource-based cities to develop the Broadband infrastructure, realize industrial upgrading, accumulate human capital and improve urban innovation level, and promote low-carbon transformation and improve carbon emission efficiency. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Future and Feature Paper in Environment and Applied Ecology)

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22 pages, 958 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Nexus between Climate-Smart Livestock Production Practices and Farmers’ Nutritional Security in Pakistan: Exploring Level, Linkages, and Determinants

by Pomi Shahbaz, Azhar Abbas, Babar Aziz, Bader Alhafi Alotaibi and Abou Traore

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(9), 5340; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19095340 - 27 Apr 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3119

Abstract

Livestock plays a vital role in humans’ food and nutrition security under rapidly changing climatic scenarios. This study investigates the nature and factors affecting livestock farmers’ choices of climate-smart livestock practices by using a multivariate probit model and then estimates the average effect [...] Read more.

Livestock plays a vital role in humans’ food and nutrition security under rapidly changing climatic scenarios. This study investigates the nature and factors affecting livestock farmers’ choices of climate-smart livestock practices by using a multivariate probit model and then estimates the average effect of these adopted strategies on per capita daily dietary (calorie, protein, and calcium) intake among livestock herders. For this purpose, data were collected from 196 livestock farmers residing in the Punjab province of Pakistan, selected through multistage purposive and random sampling. The Simpson diversity index results revealed that farmers used diversified food in their daily diet. The results also showed that farmers consumed more protein-rich food items as compared to calorie and calcium-rich food items in their daily diet. Moreover, the average per capita calorie intake of livestock farmers was 2413.19 kcal/day. Livestock farmers adopting a higher number of climate-smart livestock practices consumed more daily per capita calories, protein, and calcium compared to those who adopted a lower number of climate-smart livestock practices on livestock farms. Moreover, climate-smart livestock practices produced more and better nutritional outcomes in combination with each other than in isolation. Livestock training was found to be positively associated with the adoption of more climate-smart practices. Therefore, livestock training is necessary to expedite the adoption of climate-smart practices and to improve the nutritional security of the farmers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Future and Feature Paper in Environment and Applied Ecology)

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22 pages, 1403 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Climate Change on Rural Poverty Vulnerability from an Income Source Perspective: A Study Based on CHIPS2013 and County-Level Temperature Data in China

by Qihang Li, Peng Sun, Bo Li and Muhammad Mohiuddin

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(6), 3328; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19063328 - 11 Mar 2022

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 3241

Abstract

Harsh natural climatic environments, such as extreme weather and natural disasters, cause devastating blows to production activities and increase the probability of geographic poverty, climate poverty, and return to poverty. Thus, this study uses climate data and micro survey data (CHIPS2013) to examine [...] Read more.

Harsh natural climatic environments, such as extreme weather and natural disasters, cause devastating blows to production activities and increase the probability of geographic poverty, climate poverty, and return to poverty. Thus, this study uses climate data and micro survey data (CHIPS2013) to examine the impact of climate on vulnerability to individual poverty in rural China. The results demonstrated that extreme temperatures (hotter summers, colder winters, and greater day-to-day temperature gaps) reduce vulnerability to poverty. This was also supported by the median and average temperatures. Second, there is an association between poverty vulnerability and poverty; that is, poorer people will become poorer with an increase in poverty vulnerability. In fact, in the case of higher income, the higher the probability of returning to poverty, the higher the vulnerability. Policy formulation processes should take into consideration different types of impacts from harsh climate on different vulnerable groups. No single action might be adequate and an integrative approach integrating various strategies and actions are required to overcome challenges posed by climate change and poverty vulnerabilities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Future and Feature Paper in Environment and Applied Ecology)

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16 pages, 1780 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Decoupling and Decomposition Analysis of Agricultural Carbon Emissions: Evidence from Heilongjiang Province, China

by Qinyi Huang and Yu Zhang

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(1), 198; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19010198 - 24 Dec 2021

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 3230

Abstract

Ensuring food security and curbing agricultural carbon emissions are both global policy goals. The evaluation of the relationship between grain production and agricultural carbon emissions is important for carbon emission reduction policymaking. This paper took Heilongjiang province, the largest grain-producing province in China, [...] Read more.

Ensuring food security and curbing agricultural carbon emissions are both global policy goals. The evaluation of the relationship between grain production and agricultural carbon emissions is important for carbon emission reduction policymaking. This paper took Heilongjiang province, the largest grain-producing province in China, as a case study, estimated its grain production-induced carbon emissions, and examined the nexus between grain production and agricultural carbon emissions from 2000 to 2018, using decoupling and decomposition analyses. The results of decoupling analysis showed that weak decoupling occurred for half of the study period; however, the decoupling state and coupling state occurred alternately, and there was no definite evolving path from coupling to decoupling. Using the log mean Divisia index (LMDI) method, we decomposed the changes in agricultural carbon emissions into four factors: agricultural economy, agricultural carbon emission intensity, agricultural structure, and agricultural labor force effects. The results showed that the agricultural economic effect was the most significant driving factor for increasing agricultural carbon emissions, while the agricultural carbon emission intensity effect played a key inhibiting role. Further integrating decoupling analysis with decomposition analysis, we found that a low-carbon grain production mode began to take shape in Heilongjiang province after 2008, and the existing environmental policies had strong timeliness and weak persistence, probably due to the lack of long-term incentives for farmers. Finally, we suggested that formulating environmental policy should encourage farmers to adopt environmentally friendly production modes and technologies through taxation, subsidies, and other economic means to achieve low-carbon agricultural goals in China. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Future and Feature Paper in Environment and Applied Ecology)

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17 pages, 1900 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Energy and Environmental Assessment of Steam Management Optimization in an Ethylene Plant

by Miroslav Variny, Kristián Hanus, Marek Blahušiak, Patrik Furda, Peter Illés and Ján Janošovský

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(22), 12267; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182212267 - 22 Nov 2021

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2912

Abstract

Steam crackers (ethylene plants) belong to the most complex industrial plants and offer significant potential for energy-saving translated into the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Steam export to or import from adjacent units or complexes can boost the associated financial benefit, but its [...] Read more.

Steam crackers (ethylene plants) belong to the most complex industrial plants and offer significant potential for energy-saving translated into the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Steam export to or import from adjacent units or complexes can boost the associated financial benefit, but its energy and environmental impact are questionable. A study was carried out on a medium-capacity ethylene plant using field data to: 1. Estimate the energy savings potential achievable by optimizing internal steam management and optimizing steam export/import; 2. Quantify the associated change in air pollutant emissions; 3. Analyze the impact of the increasing carbon price on the measures adopted. Internal steam management optimization yielded steam let-down rate minimization and resulted in a 5% (87 TJ/year) reduction in steam cracker’s steam boiler fuel consumption and the associated cut of CO₂ emissions by almost 4900 t/year and that of NO_x emissions by more than 5 t/year. Steam import to the ethylene plant from the refinery proved to be purely economic-driven, as it increased the net fuel consumption of the ethylene plant and the refinery complex by 12 TJ/year and resulted in an increase of net emissions of nearly all considered air pollutants (more than 7000 t/year of CO₂, over 15 t/year of NO_x, over 18 t/year of SO_x) except for CO, where the net change was almost zero. The effect of external emissions change due to the associated backpressure electricity production surplus (over 11 GWh/year) was too low to compensate for this increase unless fossil fuel-based electricity production was considered. The increase of carbon price impact on the internal steam management optimization economics was favorable, while a switch to steam export from the ethylene plant, instead of steam import, might be feasible if the carbon price increased to over 100 €/tCO₂. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Future and Feature Paper in Environment and Applied Ecology)

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26 pages, 4675 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Research on the Spatio-Temporal Impacts of Environmental Factors on the Fresh Agricultural Product Supply Chain and the Spatial Differentiation Issue—An Empirical Research on 31 Chinese Provinces

by Xuemei Fan, Ziyue Nan, Yuanhang Ma, Yingdan Zhang and Fei Han

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(22), 12141; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182212141 - 19 Nov 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2446

Abstract

Environmental factors in time and space play a critical role in advancing the sustainable development of the fresh agricultural product supply chain. This paper, availing the panel data of 31 Chinese provinces from 2008 to 2019, constructs a system of indicators assessing the [...] Read more.

Environmental factors in time and space play a critical role in advancing the sustainable development of the fresh agricultural product supply chain. This paper, availing the panel data of 31 Chinese provinces from 2008 to 2019, constructs a system of indicators assessing the development of the fresh agricultural product supply chain, and obtains the comprehensive development level in the Entropy Weight Method (EWM). Furthermore, it establishes a comparison between optimal solutions generated by the Instrumental Variables Method (IVM) and the Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) over the endogeneity issue of variables, creates the comparison between the weighted regression methods of Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR) and Multi-scale Geographic Weighted Regression (MGWR), and obtains the relationship among the 14 environmental factors in their spatio-temporal impacts on the development of the fresh agricultural product supply chain. The results indicate that: (1) the environmental influencing factors in this paper have significant endogenous problems and various environmental factors impact on the fresh agricultural product supply chain in different trends and to different degrees. (2) With different bandwidths, the environmental factors could impact the fresh agricultural product supply chain to greatly varied degrees, demonstrating a strong attribute of regional correlation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Future and Feature Paper in Environment and Applied Ecology)

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16 pages, 1400 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dust Emission Monitoring in Cement Plant Mills: A Case Study in Romania

by Cristian Ciobanu, Irina Aura Istrate, Paula Tudor and Gheorghe Voicu

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(17), 9096; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18179096 - 28 Aug 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4662

Abstract

This paper presents aspects of monitoring material dust emissions from stationary emission sources (monthly dust measurements performed on cement mill stacks—mill outlet and separator outlet). Additionally, the Portland cement mill technological process (its component parts), as well as the solutions regarding the reduction [...] Read more.

This paper presents aspects of monitoring material dust emissions from stationary emission sources (monthly dust measurements performed on cement mill stacks—mill outlet and separator outlet). Additionally, the Portland cement mill technological process (its component parts), as well as the solutions regarding the reduction of the air emissions level, following the emission limit values (VLE), established in the integrated environmental authorization (AIM) from a cement factory in Romania, were analyzed. The paper focused on analyzing the data obtained in three different years for PM10 and dust concentrations (2018–2020). For each year, the measurements have been done in 3 months, each in a different season. The average values for each year for working conditions were: 30.22 mg/m³ (2018), 27.38 mg/m³ (2019), and 27.51 mg/m³ (2020) for working conditions and for normal conditions: 34.22 mg/m³ (2018), 30.49 mg/m³ (2019), and 30.16 mg/m³ (2020). For all 3 years, the values measured in spring were higher than the other two, both for work and normal conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Future and Feature Paper in Environment and Applied Ecology)

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27 pages, 4721 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis on the Temporal and Spatial Features of the Coupling and Coordination of Industrialization and Agricultural Green Development in China during 1990–2019

by Hongpeng Guo, Xin Yi, Chulin Pan, Baiming Yang and Yin Li

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(16), 8320; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18168320 - 6 Aug 2021

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 2491

Abstract

In the past 30 years, China’s industrialization level has developed rapidly, and agricultural green development (AGD) is facing severe challenges. The research on the temporal and spatial features of the coupling and coordination of industrialization and agricultural green development is a key issue [...] Read more.

In the past 30 years, China’s industrialization level has developed rapidly, and agricultural green development (AGD) is facing severe challenges. The research on the temporal and spatial features of the coupling and coordination of industrialization and agricultural green development is a key issue to promote the sustainable development of agriculture. This paper takes China’s industrialization and AGD level as the research object, and uses panel data from 31 provinces in China from 1990 to 2019 to construct an evaluation index system for industrialization and AGD. This paper uses the coupling coordination degree model and spatial autocorrelation analysis method to calculate, test and analyze the temporal and spatial features of the coupling coordination level of industrialization and AGD. The results show that: this paper compares the industrialization and AGD levels during the study period and finds that China’s industrialization development level is on the rise as a whole, and the AGD level shows a downward trend first and then rises later. Through the horizontal comparison of different regions, this paper finds that there is a large regional imbalance in the level of industrialization and AGD. The coupling and coordination level of industrialization and AGD has always been primary. From the time point of view, coupling coordination degree shows a trend of first decline and then rise. From a spatial point of view, coupling coordination degree varies greatly among provinces, with the eastern, central and western regions decreasing successively. The level of coupling coordination has obvious positive autocorrelation in spatial distribution, and presents significant spatial agglomeration characteristics in space. The research results can provide a theoretical basis for regionally differentiated governance of the coordinated development of industrialization and AGD, and promote coordinated development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Future and Feature Paper in Environment and Applied Ecology)

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11 pages, 1483 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Seasonality Impact of the BTEX Pollution on the Atmosphere of Arad City, Romania

by Corina Popitanu, Gabriela Cioca, Lucian Copolovici, Dennis Iosif, Florentina-Daniela Munteanu and Dana Copolovici

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(9), 4858; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18094858 - 2 May 2021

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 2925

Abstract

Benzene, toluene, and total BTEX (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene) concentrations registered for one year (2016) have been determined every month for one high-density traffic area. The assessment was performed in Arad City, Romania, to evaluate these pollutants and their influence on the [...] Read more.

Benzene, toluene, and total BTEX (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene) concentrations registered for one year (2016) have been determined every month for one high-density traffic area. The assessment was performed in Arad City, Romania, to evaluate these pollutants and their influence on the inhabitants’ health. The contaminants were sampled using a static sampling method and analyzed by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. Benzene was the most dominant among the BTEX compounds—the average concentrations ranged from 18.00 ± 1.32 µg m⁻³ in December to 2.47 ± 0.74 µg m⁻³ in August. The average toluene concentration over the year was 4.36 ± 2.42 µg m⁻³ (with a maximum of 9.60 ± 2.39 µg m⁻³ in November and a minimum of 1.04 ± 0.29 µg m⁻³ in May). The toluene/benzene ratio (T/B) was around 0.5, indicating substantial contributions from mobile sources (vehicles). The emission and accumulation of different aromatic compounds (especially benzene) could deteriorate the urban air quality. The lifetime cancer risk (LTCR) for benzene was found to be more than 10⁻⁵ in winter, including the inhabitants in the “probable cancer risk” category. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Future and Feature Paper in Environment and Applied Ecology)

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15 pages, 3304 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Proposed Environmental Risk Management Elements in a Carpathian Valley Basin, within the Roşia Montană European Historical Mining Area

by Doru Bănăduc, Angela Curtean-Bănăduc, Kevin Cianfaglione, John Robert Akeroyd and Lucian-Ionel Cioca

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(9), 4565; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18094565 - 25 Apr 2021

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 2622

Abstract

Non-ferrous metals mining activities have long accompanied people, and began in the study area of South East Europe over 2000 years ago. The environment quality is significantly affected by both historic mining activities and contemporary impacts. All these problems, inducing synergic negative effects [...] Read more.

Non-ferrous metals mining activities have long accompanied people, and began in the study area of South East Europe over 2000 years ago. The environment quality is significantly affected by both historic mining activities and contemporary impacts. All these problems, inducing synergic negative effects on local organism communities, have created a chronic state of pollution. The Corna Valley has one of the oldest historical human impacts in Romania due to the influence of mining. Fish and benthic macroinvertebrates have exhibited significant responses to long term mining effects on lotic systems. The analysis of macroinvertebrate communities, correlated with the lack of fish and some biotope characteristics, indicates that the Corna River presents a variety of categories of ecological status between sectors. The lack of fish reveals the poor ecological conditions. Technical and management solutions are proposed here to diminish the historical environmental problems and to avoid future ecological accidents, especially in an attempt to improve any construction plan concerning a possible new de-cyanidation dam and lake. Fish and benthic macroinvertebrates have exhibited significant responses to long term mining effects on lotic systems. Two management zones were identified, an upper zone which can be used as a reference area and a lower zone, where pollution remedial activities are proposed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Future and Feature Paper in Environment and Applied Ecology)

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27 pages, 46788 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Central Attention and a Dual Path Convolutional Neural Network in Real-World Tree Species Recognition

by Yi Chung, Chih-Ang Chou and Chih-Yang Li

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(3), 961; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18030961 - 22 Jan 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3343

Abstract

Identifying plants is not only the job of professionals, but also useful or essential for the plant lover and the general public. Although deep learning approaches for plant recognition are promising, driven by the success of convolutional neural networks (CNN), their performances are [...] Read more.

Identifying plants is not only the job of professionals, but also useful or essential for the plant lover and the general public. Although deep learning approaches for plant recognition are promising, driven by the success of convolutional neural networks (CNN), their performances are still far from the requirements of an in-field scenario. First, we propose a central attention concept that helps focus on the target instead of backgrounds in the image for tree species recognition. It could prevent model training from confused vision by establishing a dual path CNN deep learning framework, in which the central attention model combined with the CNN model based on InceptionV3 were employed to automatically extract the features. These two models were then learned together with a shared classification layer. Experimental results assessed the effectiveness of our proposed approach which outperformed each uni-path alone, and existing methods in the whole plant recognition system. Additionally, we created our own tree image database where each photo contained a wealth of information on the entire tree instead of an individual plant organ. Lastly, we developed a prototype system of an online/offline available tree species identification working on a consumer mobile platform that can identify the tree species not only by image recognition, but also detection and classification in real-time remotely. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Future and Feature Paper in Environment and Applied Ecology)

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17 pages, 956 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study on Mechanisms Underlying Changes in Agricultural Carbon Emissions: A Case in Jilin Province, China, 1998–2018

by Hongpeng Guo, Boqun Fan and Chulin Pan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(3), 919; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18030919 - 21 Jan 2021

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 3462

Abstract

Reducing agricultural carbon emissions (ACE) is a key point to achieve green and sustainable development in agriculture. Based on the ACE statistics of Jilin Province in China from 1998 to 2018, this article considers the sources of ACE in depth, and fourteen different [...] Read more.

Reducing agricultural carbon emissions (ACE) is a key point to achieve green and sustainable development in agriculture. Based on the ACE statistics of Jilin Province in China from 1998 to 2018, this article considers the sources of ACE in depth, and fourteen different carbon sources are selected to calculate ACE. Besides, the paper explores the variation characteristics of ACE in Jilin Province, their structure, and the relationship between the intensity and density of the dynamic changes in ACE in the province in terms of time. Finally, this paper uses the Kaya identity and logarithmic mean Divisia index (LMDI) to analyze the influential factors in ACE. The results show the following: (1) During 1998–2018, the amount of ACE in Jilin Province increased, with an average annual growth rate of 1.13%. However, the chain growth rate has been negative in recent years, which reflects that carbon emission reduction has been achieved to a certain extent. (2) The characteristics of ACE in Jilin Province during the years is that of the low-intensity, high density category. Furthermore, agricultural resource input is the main source of the planting industry’s carbon emissions. From the perspective of animal husbandry, the proportion of CH₄ decreased, while the proportion of N₂O is relatively stable. (3) Based on the LMDI decomposition model, production efficiency, industrial structure, and labor are the three main factors that reduce ACE in Jilin Province. The economic level is the main factor of ACE, and it will be the most important factor leading to an increase in ACE in the short term. On the basis of comprehensive analysis, this article puts forward reasonable suggestions in terms of policy improvement, production mode and industrial structure adjustment, technological innovation, and talent introduction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Future and Feature Paper in Environment and Applied Ecology)

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20 pages, 762 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Planting Industry Structural Changes on Carbon Emissions in the Three Northeast Provinces of China

by Hongpeng Guo, Sidong Xie and Chulin Pan

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(2), 705; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18020705 - 15 Jan 2021

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 3456

Abstract

This paper focuses on the impact of changes in planting industry structure on carbon emissions. Based on the statistical data of the planting industry in three provinces in Northeast China from 1999 to 2018, the study calculated the carbon emissions, carbon absorptions and [...] Read more.

This paper focuses on the impact of changes in planting industry structure on carbon emissions. Based on the statistical data of the planting industry in three provinces in Northeast China from 1999 to 2018, the study calculated the carbon emissions, carbon absorptions and net carbon sinks of the planting industry by using crop parameter estimation and carbon emissions inventory estimation methods. In addition, the multiple linear regression model and panel data model were used to analyze and test the carbon emissions and net carbon sinks of the planting industry. The results show that: (1). The increase of the planting area of rice, corn, and peanuts in the three northeastern provinces of China will promote carbon emissions, while the increase of the planting area of wheat, sorghum, soybeans, and vegetables will reduce carbon emissions; (2). Fertilizer application, technological progress, and planting structure factors have a significant positive effect on net carbon sinks, among which the changes in the planting industry structure have the greatest impact on net carbon sinks. Based on the comprehensive analysis, it is suggested that, under the guidance of the government, resource endowment and location advantages should be given full play to, and the internal planting structure of crops should be reasonably adjusted so as to promote the development of low-carbon agriculture and accelerate the development process of agricultural modernization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Future and Feature Paper in Environment and Applied Ecology)

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18 pages, 2324 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Drought, Climate Change, and Dryland Wheat Yield Response: An Econometric Approach

by Samira Shayanmehr, Shida Rastegari Henneberry, Mahmood Sabouhi Sabouni and Naser Shahnoushi Foroushani

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(14), 5264; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17145264 - 21 Jul 2020

Cited by 33 | Viewed by 4721

Abstract

Agriculture has been identified as one of the most vulnerable sectors affected by climate change. In the present study, we investigate the impact of climatic change on dryland wheat yield in the northwest of Iran for the future time horizon of 2041–2070. The [...] Read more.

Agriculture has been identified as one of the most vulnerable sectors affected by climate change. In the present study, we investigate the impact of climatic change on dryland wheat yield in the northwest of Iran for the future time horizon of 2041–2070. The Just and Pope production function is applied to assess the impact of climate change on dryland wheat yield and yield risk for the period of 1991–2016. The Statistical Downscaling Model (SDSM) is used to generate climate parameters from General Circulation Model (GCM) outputs. The results show that minimum temperature is negatively related to average yield in the linear model while the relationship is positive in the non-linear model. An increase in precipitation increases the mean yield in either model. The maximum temperature has a positive effect on the mean yield in the linear model, while this impact is negative in the non-linear model. Drought has an adverse impact on yield levels in both models. The results also indicate that maximum temperature, precipitation, and drought are positively related to yield variability, but minimum temperature is negatively associated with yield variability. The findings also reveal that yield variability is expected to increase in response to future climate scenarios. Given these impacts of temperature on rain-fed wheat crop and its increasing vulnerability to climatic change, policy-makers should support research into and development of wheat varieties that are resistant to temperature variations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Future and Feature Paper in Environment and Applied Ecology)

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Review

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25 pages, 2423 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Critical Assessment of the Congruency between Environmental DNA and Palaeoecology for the Biodiversity Monitoring and Palaeoenvironmental Reconstruction

by Shahnawaz Hassan, Zulaykha Khurshid, Sabreena, Bikram Singh Bali, Bashir Ah Ganai, R. Z. Sayyed, Peter Poczai and Muzafar Zaman

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2022, 19(15), 9445; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19159445 - 1 Aug 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3263

Abstract

The present study suggests that standardized methodology, careful site selection, and stratigraphy are essential for investigating ancient ecosystems in order to evaluate biodiversity and DNA-based time series. Based on specific keywords, this investigation reviewed 146 publications using the SCOPUS, Web of Science (WoS), [...] Read more.

The present study suggests that standardized methodology, careful site selection, and stratigraphy are essential for investigating ancient ecosystems in order to evaluate biodiversity and DNA-based time series. Based on specific keywords, this investigation reviewed 146 publications using the SCOPUS, Web of Science (WoS), PUBMED, and Google Scholar databases. Results indicate that environmental deoxyribose nucleic acid (eDNA) can be pivotal for assessing and conserving ecosystems. Our review revealed that in the last 12 years (January 2008–July 2021), 63% of the studies based on eDNA have been reported from aquatic ecosystems, 25% from marine habitats, and 12% from terrestrial environments. Out of studies conducted in aquatic systems using the environmental DNA (eDNA) technique, 63% of the investigations have been reported from freshwater ecosystems, with an utmost focus on fish diversity (40%). Further analysis of the literature reveals that during the same period, 24% of the investigations using the environmental DNA technique were carried out on invertebrates, 8% on mammals, 7% on plants, 6% on reptiles, and 5% on birds. The results obtained clearly indicate that the environmental DNA technique has a clear-cut edge over other biodiversity monitoring methods. Furthermore, we also found that eDNA, in conjunction with different dating techniques, can provide better insight into deciphering eco-evolutionary feedback. Therefore, an attempt has been made to offer extensive information on the application of dating methods for different taxa present in diverse ecosystems. Last, we provide suggestions and elucidations on how to overcome the caveats and delineate some of the research avenues that will likely shape this field in the near future. This paper aims to identify the gaps in environmental DNA (eDNA) investigations to help researchers, ecologists, and decision-makers to develop a holistic understanding of environmental DNA (eDNA) and its utility as a palaeoenvironmental contrivance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Future and Feature Paper in Environment and Applied Ecology)

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25 pages, 2738 KiB

Open AccessReview

Applications of Up-Flow Anaerobic Sludge Blanket (UASB) and Characteristics of Its Microbial Community: A Review of Bibliometric Trend and Recent Findings

by Maria Cristina Collivignarelli, Alessandro Abbà, Francesca Maria Caccamo, Silvia Calatroni, Vincenzo Torretta, Ioannis A. Katsoyiannis, Marco Carnevale Miino and Elena Cristina Rada

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(19), 10326; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph181910326 - 30 Sep 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 5098

Abstract

The interest in research on up-flow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) reactors is growing. The meta-analysis of bibliometric data highlighted the growing interest in four diverse topics: (i) energy recovery production; (ii) combination with other treatments; (iii) the study of processes for the removal [...] Read more.

The interest in research on up-flow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) reactors is growing. The meta-analysis of bibliometric data highlighted the growing interest in four diverse topics: (i) energy recovery production; (ii) combination with other treatments; (iii) the study of processes for the removal of specific pollutants and, (iv) characterization of microbial community and granular sludge composition. In particular, the papers published in the first 6 months of 2021 on this process were selected and critically reviewed to highlight and discuss the results, the gaps in the literature and possible ideas for future research. Although the state of research on UASB is to be considered advanced, there are still several points that will be developed in future research such as the consolidation of the results obtained on a semi-industrial or real scale, the use of real matrices instead of synthetic ones and a more in-depth study of the effect of substances such as antibiotics on the microbiota and microbiome of UASB granular biomass. To date, few and conflicting data about the environmental footprint of UASB are available and therefore other studies on this topic are strongly suggested. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Future and Feature Paper in Environment and Applied Ecology)

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12 pages, 365 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Review of Processes for Removing Antibiotics from Breeding Wastewater

by Airu Huang, Muting Yan, Jingjun Lin, Lijie Xu, He Gong and Han Gong

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2021, 18(9), 4909; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18094909 - 5 May 2021

Cited by 92 | Viewed by 6528

Abstract

Antibiotic pollution has become an increasingly serious issue due to the extensive application of antibiotics, their resistance to removal, and the harmful effects on aquatic environments and humans. Breeding wastewater is one of the most important sources of antibiotics in the aquatic environment [...] Read more.

Antibiotic pollution has become an increasingly serious issue due to the extensive application of antibiotics, their resistance to removal, and the harmful effects on aquatic environments and humans. Breeding wastewater is one of the most important sources of antibiotics in the aquatic environment because of the undeveloped treatment systems in breeding farms. It is imperative to establish an effective antibiotic removal process for breeding wastewater. This paper reviews the treatment methods used to remove antibiotics from breeding wastewater. The mechanisms and removal efficiency of constructed wetlands, biological treatments, advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), membrane technology, and combined treatments are explained in detail, and the advantages and disadvantages of the various treatment methods are compared and analyzed. Constructed wetlands have high removal rates for sulfonamide (SM), tetracycline (TC), and quinolone (QN). The antibiotic removal efficiency of biological treatment methods is affected by various processes and environmental factors, whereas AOPs and combined treatment methods have better antibiotic removal effects. Although it has broad application prospects, the application of membrane technology for the treatment of antibiotics in breeding wastewater needs further research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Future and Feature Paper in Environment and Applied Ecology)

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11 pages, 881 KiB

Open AccessReview

Health Benefits Derived from Forest: A Review

by Gianluca Grilli and Sandro Sacchelli

Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2020, 17(17), 6125; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17176125 - 23 Aug 2020

Cited by 45 | Viewed by 6903

Abstract

In this paper the scientific literature on the association between forests, stress relief and relaxation is reviewed with the purpose to understand common patterns of research, the main techniques used for analysis, findings relevant to forest-therapy-oriented management, and knowledge gaps. The database of [...] Read more.

In this paper the scientific literature on the association between forests, stress relief and relaxation is reviewed with the purpose to understand common patterns of research, the main techniques used for analysis, findings relevant to forest-therapy-oriented management, and knowledge gaps. The database of studies was collected with a keyword search on the Web, which returned a set of 32 studies that were included in the analysis. The main findings and patterns were identified with a text mining analysis of the abstract to search for keyword patterns across studies. The analysis indicates that most studies compared rest and relaxation performances across urban and forest environments and used a combination of self-reported measure of stress or rest collected with validate scales, e.g., the Profile of Mood of States (POMS) and the Restoration Outcome Scale (ROS), and a minority-only set of these two groups of indicators. Results of this review indicate that primary studies identified a positive association between forest exposure and mental well-being, in particular when compared to urban environments, thus suggesting that forest are effective in lowering stress levels. This study found that, to date, the characteristics of forests and characteristics of the visit are little investigated in the literature. For this reason, more research with a focus on forest variables such as tree species composition, tree density and other variables affecting forest landscape should be further investigated to inform forest management. Similarly, the characteristics of the visits (e.g., length of visit and frequency) should be further explored to provide robust forest therapy guidelines. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Future and Feature Paper in Environment and Applied Ecology)

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