Abstract: Background: Environmental justice research in the United States (US) documents greater air pollution exposures for Hispanic/Latino vs. non-Hispanic White groups. This research has not focused on the intersection of race/ethnicity and older age nor short-term fine particular matter (PM2.5) exposures. We address those limitations in a study of US metropolitan area census tracts within 100 km of the US-Mexico border, a region with serious air quality issues. Methods: We use US Census American Community Survey data to construct sociodemographic variables and Environmental Protection Agency Downscaler data to construct long-term and short-term measures of PM2.5 exposure. Using multivariable generalized estimating equations, we test for differences in PM2.5 exposures between census tracts with higher vs. lower proportions of Hispanic/Latino older residents and non-Hispanic White older residents. Results: As the proportion of the Hispanic/Latino population ≥65 years of age increases, long-term and short-term PM2.5 exposures significantly increase. In contrast, as the proportion of the non-Hispanic White population ≥65 years of age increases, changes in long-term and short-term PM2.5 exposures are statistically non-significant. Conclusion: Findings illuminate how race/ethnicity and older age intersect in shaping PM2.5 exposure disparities and may inform efforts to mitigate air pollution exposures for older Hispanic/Latino people along the US-Mexico border.

Abstract: Nutrient leaching from agricultural fields can degrade soil fertility and groundwater quality, especially in coarse-textured soils. Amending soils with biochar, lime, hydrogel, or their combinations may reduce leaching, but the effects of single versus combined amendments remain unclear. A three-year pot experiment under field conditions was conducted on a loamy sand soil to enhance water and nutrient retention capacity of this soil. Soil samples were mixed with all possible combinations of 1% biochar (B), l% lime (L), and 0.5% hydrogel (H), i.e., BL, BH, HL, and BHL. The amendments were arranged in a randomized complete block design with four blocks. The results showed that compared to control, amendments B, H, BH, HL, and BHL significantly decreased (p ≤ 0.05) nitrate-N leaching per unit biomass by 58%-88%, and L, H, BH, HL, BHL significantly reduced (p ≤ 0.05) orthophosphate-P leaching per unit biomass by 34%-98%. Compared to control, the marketable yield significantly increased (p ≤ 0.05) by 24%-38% under BH, HL, and BHL in 2019, and by 17%-52% under amendments B, L, H, BL, BH, HL, and BHL in 2020. These results were not seen in the first year due to soil conditioning for biochar and lime. Amendments H, BH, HL, and BHL show potential to improve water use efficiency, reduce nutrient leaching, and support sustainable crop production.

Abstract: For the first time the deposition area of heavy metals and other trace elements (Al, Ba, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, P, Pb, S, Sr, Sb, V, Zn, and Hg) in the territory surrounding the landfill of domestic (municipal) waste at the 9th km of the Vilyuisky tract of Yakutsk within a radius of 150 km was estimated using the method of ICP-OES. Simultaneously, mosses, lichens and soil were analyzed for radionuclide content (40K, 137Cs, 212 Pb, 214Pb, 212Bi, 214Bi, 208Tl, 7Be, and 228Ac) in a number of selected samples by semiconductor gamma spectrometry. The results of examination of moss samples by ICP-OES indicate the presence of large amounts of toxic Ba and metal debris (Al, Co, Cr, Fe, S, and Pb) at the landfill. In addition, it is shown that the investigated samples contain elements such as: Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sr, V, Zn, and Hg. The method of gamma spectrometry revealed that the studied samples contain such radioactive element as 137Cs, daughter products of 238U and 232Th. Detection of the same heavy metals and radionuclides in the atmospheric air and soil of the city, as well as in the vegetation and soil near the landfill may indicate that one of the sources of environmental pollution may be products of incineration of the landfill contents at the 9th km of the Vilyuisky tract.

Abstract: This review presents a comprehensive overview of recent advances in TiO₂-based photoelectrocatalysis (PEC), with an emphasis on material design strategies to enhance visible-light responsiveness and charge carrier dynamics. Key approaches—including elemental doping, defect engineering, heterojunction construction, and plasmonic enhancement—are systematically discussed in relation to their roles in modulating energy band structures and promoting charge separation. Beyond fundamental mechanisms, the review highlights the broad environmental and energy-related applications of TiO₂-driven PEC systems, encompassing the degradation of persistent organic pollutants, microbial disinfection, heavy metal removal, photoelectrochemical water splitting for hydrogen production, and CO₂ reduction. Recent progress in integrating PEC systems with energy harvesting modules to construct self-powered platforms is critically examined. Current limitations and future directions are also outlined to guide the rational development of next-generation TiO₂-based photoelectrocatalytic systems for sustainable environmental remediation and solar fuel conversion.

Abstract: Nanotechnology is transformative in its ability to meet the world's major agricultural challenges of climate change, soil erosion, and food insecurity. This research examines nanotechnology in the context of improving productivity and environmental sustainability with innovations like nano-fertilizers, nano-pesticides, and nano-sensors. North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa case studies illustrate dramatic increases in yields (15–20%), decreased use of agrochemicals (30–50%), and effective management of resources. Nano-remediation methods, including nano-zero-valent iron, eliminate 70–90% of water and soil contaminants, ensuring cleaner environments. Although promising, there are challenges such as regulatory loopholes, expense, and environmental hazards. The research supports uniform policies, education of farmers, and global cooperation to facilitate safe and fair use. Nanotechnology becomes a prime motivator for sustainable agriculture, reconciling productivity with sustainability.

Abstract: This study investigates the impact of flare tariff on the volume of gas flared in Nigeria. Using 52 years data, we find that the imposition of flare tariffs significantly reduces the volume of gas flared; however, the extent of this reduction varies depending on the stringency of the tariff. To better capture these differences, the analysis distinguishes between tariff regimes implemented before and after 2018, when a more substantial tariff was introduced under new regulations. The results reveal that pre-2018 tariffs led to a minimal reduction of 0.08% in gas flaring volumes, whereas post-2018 tariffs resulted in a more pronounced reduction of 6.92%. Other factors that significantly influence gas flaring volume include oil production and oil price. These findings underscore the importance of setting adequate flare tariffs to achieve meaningful reductions in global gas flaring.

Abstract: This study examines the concentrations of PM10 and PM2.5 in Santo Domingo by comparing data collected in 2019 and 2022. The research aims to identify temporal and spatial variations in particulate matter concentrations and to analyze the impact of meteorological and environmental variables on these concentrations. Methods include the collection of PM data at various urban sites and subsequent statistical analysis to assess the influence of factors like air temperature, wind speed, and aerosol optical depth (AOD). Results indicate significant fluctuations in PM levels, correlated with changes in meteorological conditions, seasonal variations, and urban activities. This study contributes to the understanding of air quality trends in Santo Domingo and provides insights into the efficacy of current environmental regulations and practices.

Abstract: Density separation using a wet method is the standard technique for extracting microplastics (MPs) from coastal sediments. However, the 2021 Japanese submarine volcanic eruption introduced substantial pumice into these sediments, complicating the process. Pumice contamination in the floating matter from density separation significantly increases the workload of visual sorting. Pumice, distinguished by its spherical shape and hardness, exhibits distinct rolling and bouncing behaviors compared to plastic. In this study, we evaluated the sorting efficiency of a vibratory sorter in separating pumice from floating matter, comparing its performance with existing methods. We analyzed the progressive behavior and the virtual sorting efficiency of single large- and medium-diameter particles using a vibrating plate and the actual sorting efficiency of mixed large-diameter particles. The maximum Newton's efficiencies (ηmax) for the virtual sorting of single large-diameter pumice and plastic ranged from 0.74 to 1.00, and for medium-diameter particles, from 0.74 to 0.97. Sorting efficiency decreased with finer particles. The ηmax for the actual sorting of mixed large-diameter pumice and plastic was between 0.68 and 1.00, lower than the virtual sorting efficiency. While vibratory sorting, based on Newton's efficiency, does not replace visual sorting, the time required for vibratory sorting is 21% of that required for visual sorting, making it valuable for estimating approximate MP quantities in coastal sediments. Additionally, this study provides a practical method for beach cleanups.

Abstract: Antibiotic resistance is a well-documented global health challenge that disproportionately impacts low- and middle-income countries. Murray et al. [1] estimated that in 2019, the number of deaths attributed to and associated with antibiotic resistance in Western sub-Saharan Africa was approximately 27 and 115 per 100,000, respectively, higher than in other regions worldwide. Extensive research has consistently confirmed the persistent presence and spread of antibiotic resistance in hospitals, among livestock, within food supply chains, and across various environmental contexts. This review documents the environmental risk factors contributing to the spread of antibiotic resistance in West Africa. We collected studies from multiple West African countries using the Web of Science and PubMed databases. We screened them for factors associated with antibiotic-resistant bacteria and resistance genes between 2018 and 2024. Our findings indicate that antibiotic resistance remains a significant concern in West Africa, with environmental pollution and waste management identified as major factors in the proliferation of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and resistance genes between 2018 and 2024. Additional contributing factors include poor hygiene, the use of antibiotics in fish and livestock farming, and the transmission of antibiotic resistance in hospitals and community settings. Unfortunately, the lack of comprehensive genetic characterization of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and resistance genes hinders a thorough understanding of this critical issue in the region. Since antibiotic resistance transcends national borders and can spread within and between countries, it is essential to understand the environmental risk factors driving its dissemination in West African countries. Such understanding will be instrumental in developing and recommending effective strategies nationally and internationally to combat antibiotic resistance.

Abstract: Air pollution monitoring in Korea has not yet been implemented in agricultural areas. This study compares agricultural air quality with urban air quality during two periods: (1) the entire measurement period and (2) high-PM episodes. To ensure broad spatial cover-age, eight monitoring stations were installed in Yeoju, Nonsan, Naju, Gimhae, Hongcheon, Danyang, Muan, and Sangju. Real-time measurements of PM-10, PM-2.5, SO₂, and NOx were conducted continuously from March 2023 to December 2024. Over the entire meas-urement period, PM concentrations were similar in both agricultural and urban areas, but gaseous pollutants were lower in agricultural areas. PM levels were higher in agricultural areas during summer, whereas urban areas showed higher concentrations in other sea-sons. During high-PM episodes (29 days), all pollutants were significantly higher in urban areas, with PM-2.5 showing a greater difference than PM-10. Diurnal variations revealed that PM-10, PM-2.5, and NO₂ peaked in the morning and reached their lowest levels around 3 PM, with urban levels consistently higher than those in agricultural areas. SO₂ showed a different pattern, reaching its lowest concentration at 6 AM and peaking at noon in urban areas and at 6 PM in agricultural areas. This patter closely followed temperature and wind speed variations.

Abstract: In Finland, municipal wastewater treatment has significantly improved in recent decades, leading to a substantial reduction in wastewater-induced nutrient loads on water bodies. For example, in the marine area off Turku in the Archipelago Sea, located in the northern Baltic, the total phosphorus load from wastewater has decreased to about one-eighth of its early 1990s level. Simultaneously, the total nitrogen load has been reduced to one-fifth, and the ammonium nitrogen load is now less than 5% of its peak in 1994. However, the effects of reduced wastewater nutrient loads have been difficult to identify unambiguously, as riverine nutrient inputs have remained unchanged, and the overall ecological state of the Archipelago Sea has continued to deteriorate. This study examines in detail how water quality parameters and phytoplankton indicators in wastewater-affected areas have changed over the same period during which wastewater loads have significantly decreased. Despite the reductions in wastewater loading, improvements in the ecological state of water bodies have remained surprisingly minor. For example, in Raisio Bay, where wastewater discharges ceased entirely in 2008 due to centralization, total phosphorus concentrations have remained in the bad category. However, the phytoplankton-related variable, chlorophyll a concentration, improved from bad to poor. Over the past 15 years, the biomass of nitrogen-fixing cyanobacteria appears to have increased in the Northern Airisto. This trend is driven by a decrease in external nitrogen loading alongside an increase in internal phosphorus loading. The inner archipelago’s water bodies continue to receive excessive nutrient loads from the surrounding catchment area, and internal loading significantly slows down the restoration process.

Abstract: Municipal solid wastes (MSW) has become a menace to the environment, causing a lot of environmental challenges as a result of greenhouse gas emission which contributes to the climate change, global warming and pollution issues and this is escalating due to population increase, economic and industrialization growth. Thus, causes huge volume of MSW deposition on landfills and other areas in an uncontrolled manner thereby causing a significant environmental, economic and social challenges with a trend that will not be good for the future, couple with fossil fuel and greenhouse gas emission. Therefore, it is imperative to intensifies efforts in converting such wastes into valuable products such as solid biofuels. As so many studies reveals that MSW contains combustible materials which makes it suitable for renewable energy generation. However, MSW briquettes have emerged with a good quality such as higher heating value, less flue gas emission and ignition period compared to firewood, charcoal and sawdust briquettes. Therefore, the aim of this review is to affirms the quality of MSW in the production of solid biofuel and its gas emission which have been proven by many researchers that MSW can be transformed into fuel briquettes with less flue gas emission and high calorific value. It can be concluded that MSW is a good feedstock for solid biofuel production and can be blend with other residues in the renewable energy production to reduce the menace of greenhouse gas emission and environmental pollution.

Abstract: The article presents a model for simulation of changes over time in the activity concentration of radon and thoron, and their progeny in an open system. The open system means the stream of radon, thoron, and their progeny can flow into space, and a defined air stream can come outside. In this sense the system can be treated as open. It was also assumed that inside the space may be operating devices equipped with a filtering system, which will reduce the concentration of radon and thoron decay products. Therefore, these assumptions correspond to a situation when in an flow-through chamber, calibration of the devices for the radon or thoron exposure monitoring is carried out, where nuclides are supplied from an emanation or flow through sources inside or outside, but also to spaces in an environment where the source of nuclides is, for example, radon and thoron exhalation, and air stream which flows inside and outside the space. The differential equations were formulated with the assumption that the concentration of radionuclides of concern in space is or became uniform. The equations do not consider possible losses due to diffusion, as well as inertial or gravitational deposition of aerosols.

Abstract: The dynamic relationship between microplastics (MPs) in the air and on the Earth’s surface involves both natural and anthropogenic forces. MPs are transported from the ocean to the air by bubble scavenging and seaspray formation and released from land sources by wind and human activities. Up to 8.6 megatons of MPs per year have been estimated to be in air above the oceans. They are distributed by wind, water and passive vectors and returned to the Earth’s surface via rainfall and passive deposition, but can escape to the stratosphere, where they may exist for months. Anthropogenic sprays, such as paints, agrochemicals, personal care and cosmetic products, and domestic and industrial procedures (e.g., air conditioning, vacuuming and washing, waste disposal, manufacture of plastic-containing objects) add directly to the airborne MP load, which is higher in internal than external air. Atmospheric MPs are less researched than those on land and in water, but, in spite of the major problem of lack of standard methods for determining MP levels, the clothing industry is commonly considered the main contributor to the external air pool, while furnishing fabrics, artificial ventilation devices, and presence and movement of human beings are the main source of indoor MPs. The majority of airbourne plastic particles are fibers and fragments; air currents enable them to reach remote environments, potentially traveling thousands of kilometers through the air, before being deposited in the various forms of precipitation (rain, snow, or “dust”). The increasing preoccupation of the populace and greater attention being paid to Industrial Ecology may help to reduce the concentration and spread of MPs and nanoparticles from domestic and industrial activities in the future.

Abstract: Soil degradation in mining-affected regions – characterized by nutrient depletion, in-creased salinization, and heavy metal accumulation–poses serious risks to ecosystem stability and agricultural productivity. We conducted a comprehensive field study analyzing soil profiles using chemical, agrochemical, granulometric, and salinization assessments, along with heavy metal analysis. The aim of this work is to characterize the vertical distribution of nutrients and contaminants in these soils and to provide recommendations for effective remediation and sustainable land management. Our results show that the upper organic-rich layers exhibit significantly higher nutrient levels that sharply decline with depth, while heavy metals such as lead and copper are markedly elevated in certain profiles–especially in tailings soils, where contamination exceeds permissible limits by multiple folds. Additionally, granulometric analysis revealed a predominance of medium sand, which enhances permeability but limits water retention, and salinization increases with depth due to mineral weathering processes. Overall, our work provides critical insights necessary for developing targeted remediation strategies and sustainable practices to restore degraded ecosystems in mining regions.

Abstract: This research focuses on monitoring and analyzing air pollutant emissions, mainly from passenger vehicles, at a busy urban intersection with 19 traffic lanes at the junction of Thivon Avenue and Iera Odos, located in the Egaleo municipality, an urban region of Athens, Greece. To collect data, a monitoring study was conducted specifically on the four central traffic streams of the specific intersection. On each segment of the road a specific length was assigned through which vehicles pass at an average speed in order their emissions to be estimated. For each vehicle, the engine type (gas or diesel) and engine displacement were taken into account to calculate the predicted mass of vehicle emissions. These measurements were conducted separately for each segment and recorded during three signal phases (from green to red) for two weekdays and one non-working day. This approach allows for monitoring pollutant levels at various hours and traffic conditions. The analysis revealed not only the overall quantity of emissions from vehicles but also their fluctuations throughout the day and traffic conditions, comparing them with the regulatory limits set by the EU. Significant findings regarding the impact of traffic on air quality are highlighted.

Abstract: Background: Microplastics (MP(s)) are an emerging environmental contaminant with growing concerns about their potential impact on human health. These particles, measuring less than 5 mm, are pervasive in the environment and have been detected in food, water, air, and human biological tissues. Despite increasing awareness, limited studies explore MP(s) exposure and its health risks. Research remains sparse on the breakdown of larger plastic fragments in biological systems and their long-term effects. Standardized exposure assessment methods, harmonized effect size reporting, and regulatory interventions are urgently needed. Methods: This systematic review and meta-analysis synthesize current evidence on human MP(s) exposure pathways, associated health risks, and knowledge gaps. Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, we systematically searched multiple databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane CENTRAL, to assess the extent of MP(s) exposure and its possible health implications. Results: Findings suggest widespread exposure through ingestion of food and water contamination, inhalation of airborne MP(s), and potential dermal absorption. Toxicological studies in animal models indicate that MP(s) can induce oxidative stress, metabolic dysfunction, immune dysregulation, and endocrine disruption. However, direct human health effects remain unclear due to methodological limitations, variability in exposure assessment, and a lack of long-term studies. Emerging research highlights concerns regarding neurological toxicity, reproductive health effects, and atmospheric transport mechanisms. Conclusions: The study analyzes the impact of MP(s) on public health, emphasizing the necessity for regulation and methods to limit its effects on ecosystems and humans. The findings highlight the importance of developing uniform guidelines for healthy persons, given the diversity in reported studies and the lack of existing guidelines. This global issue needs immediate action. Future research should prioritize longitudinal human studies, improved plastic detection techniques, and risk characterization frameworks to understand the public health implications of plastic exposure.

Abstract: The emissions of PM2.5 from biomass combustion pose significant health risks due to their small size and chemical composition, which can lead to various diseases. Understanding the relationship between PM2.5 elemental concentrations and biomass elemental concentrations is essential. This study analyzed the concentrations of four key elements—sodium, calcium, potassium, and phosphorus—in the combustibles of two urban landscape tree species (conifers and broad-leaf) and their respective tree organs (branches and leaves), along with the PM2.5 generated during combustion. Using R and Origin 2024 Pro software, respectively, the concentration of elements and the strength and direction of elemental relationships were assessed among tree species categories, tree organs, and in PM2.5 emitted. Calcium was highly concentrated in both tree species, followed by potassium, which had higher concentrations in broad-leaf species. Elemental concentrations also differed significantly between branches and leaves, with calcium consistently being the most concentrated in both. While calcium and potassium levels were high in combustibles, they were relatively low in PM2.5 compared to other elements. The study revealed stronger correlations among elements in PM2.5 as compared to relationships between elements in combustibles and their counterparts in PM2.5. Sodium with a lower concentration in the combustibles was readily released as compared to other elements (K, P, and Ca), which were highly concentrated in the combustibles but not readily released in PM2.5. These variations highlighted the importance of considering tree species, organ types, and elemental interactions when assessing the impacts of biomass combustion on urban air quality.

Abstract: Mining has direct and indirect impacts on natural resources. The tailings are generally stored in storage areas near the mine, extraction plants and can cover areas of several tens of hectares. These mine discharges have adverse environmental impacts on both the surrounding population and ecosystems. The objective of the present work was to establish a spatial distribution and to carry out the physico-chemical characterization of the mining discharges from the Katapula sedimentation basin (Kipushi). 40 soil samples were taken from the entire basin at a depth of 0 to 20 cm using a soil probe. The samples thus collected were crushed and sieved and analyzed by XRF (apparatus using X-ray fluorescence) and Potentiometric. Statistical processing of the data was carried out using the Surfer and ArcGIS 10.8 software to highlight the spatial distribution of the various chemical elements. To compare the averages of the total trace element concentrations in the sedimentation basin soil, a one-factor analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed using Minitab. The results obtained revealed that the sedimentation basin soils contain high concentrations of metallic trace elements such as: Zn, Cu, Pb, As, Cr, Cd, Co, Ag and Ti with 2.24%; 4771 mg.kg-1; 1185 mg.kg-1; 866 mg.kg-1; 14.15 mg.kg-1; 199 mg.kg-1; 10 mg.kg-1; 8.3mg.kg-1 and 2823 mg.kg-1 respectively, spread throughout the basin. Of all these trace elements, Zinc is the element that had a very high concentration and Silver is the element that had a low concentration. The concentration of major elements such as Ca, Fe, Mn, Cl, was abundant, with Calcium having 14.4 ± 3.8 %. In general, the soil in this basin had a basic pH (7.3 ± 1). These results demonstrate the importance of implementing phytoremediation strategies to reduce the risk of dispersion of this pollution in the surrounding soil.

Abstract: Single-family residential buildings represent the highest share of building sector in Romania. Their operation emits the most CO2 into Earth’s atmosphere, as most of them are not energy efficient. A life cycle assessment is performed for a case study building, built in 2019 in Romania, establishing its carbon footprint. The study compares the results and extrapolate them to all single-family residential buildings in Romania, regarding CO2 emissions with an emphasis on the operational stage. The results illustrate a considerable reduction in CO2 emissions from old, high energy consumption buildings to new, low energy consumption buildings. Moreover, using a heat pump in the detriment of firewood or gas boilers decreases the CO2 emissions for the operational stage up to 34% and 26% respectively. Due to the higher cost of electrical energy compared to natural gas in Romania, gas boilers are more cost-effective than heat pumps. Because of this, and the higher implementation costs, the tendency is towards natural gas. This in turn will result in an increase of CO2 emission for the entire life cycle of the building by approximate 32% for new buildings and 86% for old, high energy consumption buildings.