Abstract: The bay-marsh boundary is a dynamic topographic feature. Advances in remote sensing provide cost-effective, high-resolution mapping technologies to detect change at fine scales. However, many questions remain about how to best apply these technologies and quantify change at bay-marsh boundaries. We combine UAS photogrammetry and boat-mounted echosounding to map the bay-marsh boundary over two consecutive years and use a previously collected Lidar dataset for decadal timescale comparisons. We evaluate accuracy, lateral and volumetric change rates, and how this approach compares to traditional methods of quantifying change. Results indicate an elevation uncertainty of 0.07 m for the topobathymetric DEMs. Volumetric erosion rates between marsh shorelines were -0.78 0.22 and -0.25 0.15 m3m-1yr-1 at an 8-year and annual sampling interval respectively. Lateral erosion rates were -1.57 0.15 and -1.54 0.07 m yr-1 at an 8-year and annual sampling interval respectively and were weakly correlated with volumetric change rates, even within morphologically similar sections of the marsh edge. Measured volumetric change rates of the marsh edge were reasonably estimated with limited vertical data at decadal timescales, suggesting that this change could be approximated with an RTK system. However, high-resolution mapping remains essential for assessing annual, event-driven, or small-scale change.

Abstract: This paper reports concentrations of Ra-226, Th-232 and K-40 in drinking waters in Pakistan. The aim is to estimate the radiological hazard and assess the safety of drinking water. Radiation hazard indices, and Excess Lifetime Cancer Risks are reported from all measurements. Different water samples have been collected from Islamabad (33o 38'N, 73o 09’E) and analysed using a High Purity Germanium Detector (HPGe). The average concentration values of Ra-226, Th-232 and K-40 were 6+/-0.6 Bq/L, 32+/-1 Bq/L and 74+/-2 Bq/L respectively. The radium equivalent activity was 58 Bq/L, the outdoor external dose was 0.2 nGy/h, the indoor external dose was 46 nGy/h and total average annual dose was 0.2 nGy/h. The excess lifetime cancer risk found equal to 0.8×10^-3. All reported values are lower than the globally calculated values and within recommended limits.

Abstract: The increase in livestock numbers and insufficient precipitation have led to a decline in pasture biomass, resulting in grassland carrying capacity (GCC) and pasture degradation. In this study, net primary productivity (NPP) data, which were derived from the Global Land Surface Satellite (GLASS) and Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) datasets spanning from 1982 to 2020, were firstly converted into aboveground biomass (AGB) and then used to estimate and assess long-term trends of GCC across Mongolia. Between 1982 and 2020, Mongolia's climate exhibited a warming and drying trend. Although livestock number have generally increased since 1982, certain years experienced declines due to winter dzud and summer droughts. These climatic changes reduce net primary productivity (NPP), further weakening the regenerative capacity of grasslands. Simultaneously, the increasing livestock number intensifies grazing pressure, surpassing the GCC. Finally, this grassland carrying capacity exceeded (GCCe) leads to reduced vegetation cover and desertification of grassland. Spatially, vegetation productivity and precipitation exhibited a declining gradient from north to south, whereas temperature increased progressively from to north to south. GCC assessments revealed that the eastern region of Mongolia could support current livestock number sustainably. In contrast, the western and southern regions, as well as parts of northern Mongolia, exhibited moderate to critical levels of grassland utilization. This study enabled a detailed analysis of grassland dynamics and climatic impacts, providing an assessment of temporal changes in Mongolia's GCC.

Abstract: Seismic tomography is an essential geophysical method for investigating subsurface structures by analyzing variations in P-wave (Vp) and S-wave (Vs) velocities. This study focuses on the Târgu Jiu region, an area with moderate seismic activity, aiming to charac-terize the crustal structure and identify potential zones of seismic hazard. The dataset used for tomography included the travel times from 5281 seismic events. Tomographic models reveal significant velocity anomalies correlated with the region’s tectonic frame-work. High Vp and Vs values in the northern and northeastern areas suggest the presence of dense, rigid geological formations, likely associated with consolidated magmatic or metamorphic units. In contrast, the central region exhibits low Vs values, coinciding with an active seismic zone and intersecting major fault structures. This suggests the presence of highly fractured and weakly consolidated rocks, potentially saturated with fluids. The Vp/Vs ratio in the central region reaches values of ≥1.8–1.9, indicating fluid-filled fractures that may influence fault dynamics and earthquake occurrence. In the southern region, ve-locity anomalies suggest weakly consolidated sedimentary units with a high degree of fracturing. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the geodynamic behav-ior of the Târgu Jiu area and its seismic hazard potential.

Abstract: Accurate estimations of ETo is critical for hydrologic studies, efficient crop irrigation, water resources management and sustainable development. The evaluation of an empirical method for estimating hourly ETo, utilizing the incoming solar radiation and a relation between a function of relative humidity and vapor pressure deficit as an aerodynamic term was calibrated under semi arid conditions, and assessed against the ASCE PM (2005) method for hyper arid to sub humid climatic regimes in the State of California. For hyper arid climatic conditions, the empirical method underestimated and had R2 values from 0.88 to 0.95 and RMSE values from 0.062 to 0.115 mm h-1. Hyper arid climatic conditions, correspond to lower R2 and different relations between the VPD and the inverse of the natural logarithm of relative humidity (1/lnRH). For arid semi arid and sub humid climatic conditions the empirical method performed satisfactorily. The RMSE was calculated for various intervals of the range of the observed wind speed values and it was satisfactory for >99% of all data. The RMSE was also calculated for various intervals of the observed values of VPD and was satisfactory for >97% of all data except for hyper arid stations (59% of u2 and 60% of VPD data).

Abstract: Microbial hydrogen production presents a compelling alternative to conventional methods such as steam methane reforming and electrolysis, offering the potential for low-energy, carbon-conscious fuel generation. This theoretical study proposes a dual-stage hydrogen production system utilizing genetically optimized strains of Clostridium butyricum and Rhodobacter sphaeroides within a vertically integrated bioreactor. The system is designed to maximize hydrogen recovery through sequential dark fermentation and photofermentation, leveraging glucose as the primary substrate and water as an additional electron source. Stoichiometric modelling of the full metabolic cycle predicts a hydrogen yield of 12 mol H₂ per mol of glucose, representing the complete recovery of all hydrogen atoms available from the substrate and water. This equates to 13.45% yield by glucose mass, or 8.41% when including water input. The design includes membrane-based gas separation and redirection of CO₂ emissions to biological sinks such as sugarcane plantations, bamboo forests, and algae bioreactors to enhance sustainability and carbon offset potential. While experimental validation is pending, this model establishes an upper-bound theoretical framework for microbial hydrogen recovery and CO₂ integration. Emphasis is placed on idealized assumptions regarding enzyme function, microbial conversion efficiency, and gas capture. The results are intended to guide future research into scalable, decentralized biohydrogen platforms aligned with global climate goals. (This model defines an idealized performance ceiling and includes realism-adjusted scenarios using expression and membrane correction factors.)

Abstract: The decline of forests in many countries has prompted governments to adopt conservation measures for forest resources. In the total and partial wildlife reserves of Bontioli, forest conservation appears difficult to implement despite the state's adoption of so-called participatory management approaches. Forest cover loss persists due to the combined effects of natural and human factors. Authorities are attempting to preserve the forest in a context of growing local needs, driven—though not exclusively—by demographic pressure. Using a mixed-methods approach combining qualitative and quantitative data, we mapped this forest retreat and analyzed its underlying causes. We also examined local perceptions of forest conservation. While forest decline is widely acknowledged and lamented, it highlights divergent views between authorities and local populations regarding concepts such as deforestation and conservation. The diversity of perceptions, depending on place of residence and the level of dependence on the land resources of the Bontioli reserves, also plays a key role in the acceptance of policies aimed at forest preservation. For sustainable forest management, the development of socio-economic infrastructure, the transformation of a part of the reserve into an agroforestry park, and the ongoing consultation of local communities emerge as effective solutions for safeguarding the forest.

Abstract: With the intensification of human activities, the water resource environment in the karst mountainous area of central Shandong has undergone significant changes, directly manifested in the cessation of karst spring flows and the occurrence of karst collapses within the spring basin in the Laiwu Basin. To support the scientific development and management of karst water, this study utilizes comprehensive analysis and deuterium-oxygen isotope test data from surveys and sampling of 20 typical karst springs conducted between 2016 and 2018. By integrating mathematical statistics, correlation analysis, and ion component ratio methods, the study analyzes the genesis, hydrochemical ion component sources, and controlling factors of typical karst springs in the Laiwu Basin. The results indicate that the genesis of karst springs in the Laiwu Basin is controlled by three factors: faults, rock masses, and lithology, and can be classified into four types: water resistance controlled by lithology, by faults ,by basement and by rock mass. The karst springs are generally weakly alkaline freshwater, with the main ion components being HCO3- and Ca2+, accounting for approximately 55.02% and 71.52% of the anion and cation components, respectively; about 50% of the sampling points have a hydrochemical type of HCO3·SO4-Ca·Mg. Stable isotope (δ18O and δD) results show that atmospheric precipitation is the primary recharge source for karst springs in the Laiwu Basin, and there is varying degrees of evaporative fractionation and water-rock interaction during the groundwater flow process, resulting in significantly higher deuterium excess (d-excess) in sampling points on the southern side of the basin compared to the northern side, indicating clear differentiation. The water-rock interaction during the karst groundwater flow process and human activities are the main controlling factors for the formation of hydrochemical components: the dissolution of carbonate rocks, mainly calcite, is the primary source of HCO3-, SO42-, Ca2+, and Mg2+; the dissolution of salt rocks and reverse cation exchange adsorption contribute to the weak surplus of Ca2+ and Mg2+ and the deficit of Na+ and K+ ions in karst springs; calculated saturation index (SI) values indicate that gypsum, aragonite, calcite, and dolomite in the springs are saturated, while the SI value of salt rock is unsaturated. The mixing of urban domestic sewage, agricultural planting activities, and the use of manure also contribute to the formation of Cl- and NO3- ions in karst springs.

Abstract: In the past three years, electric vehicle (EV) sales in Indonesia have increased significantly, reflecting a positive trend in the country’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions. However, research by Canals Casals et al. (2016) highlights that EV adoption in developing countries may not always lead to effective carbon emission reductions. The environmental benefits of EVs are highly dependent on the electricity generation mix of a given country. Since Indonesia still relies heavily on fossil fuel-based power plants, the positive impact of EV usage on emission reduction needs to be critically assessed. this paper examines the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) as a strategic pathway to reduce fossil fuel import dependency and carbon emissions. Using emissions data provided by the Google Environmental Insights Explorer (EIE) in West Nusa Tenggara Province (NTB), this study adopts a System Dynamics approach to explore various policy and energy transition scenarios that could maximize the environmental benefits of EV use. The findings of this research are expected to serve as a foundation for formulating more effective electric vehicle development policies in Indonesia.

Abstract: Since 2007, the Yellow Sea has experienced the world's largest green tides, with Ulva prolifera as the dominant species. Those blooms severely impacted the local tourism and aquaculture, resulting in significant economic losses, as well as negative social and ecological consequences. Unlike other global green tides, those in the Yellow Sea are characterized by long-distance drifting and an astonishing scale. These destructive events display significant temporal and spatial variability, which is largely driven by dynamic environmental conditions and human activities. In this review, we summarize recent advancements in understanding the spatiotemporal patterns of long-distance transport, the interannual variability in bloom size, and the underlying mechanisms driving these fluctuations. Additionally, we highlight important knowledge gaps that need further investigation to support the development of effective management strategies for mitigating the impacts of green tides in the Yellow Sea.

Abstract: Wetland restoration has led to land-use changes of coastal zone and also effected on soil nutrient distribution and dynamics. To characterize the differences of typical biogenic elements (C, N and P) distribution and trends of soil induced by wetland restoration policy, we studied two intervention strategies which covered woodland or cropland converted into wetland from four wetland use conditions (ash grove (AG), permanent wetland (PW), wheat field (WF) and seasonal wetland (SW)) in the Yellow River Delta (YRD). The results demonstrated that conversion to permanent wetland showed a more or less significant increase in concentrations and stoichiometric ratios of soil C, N and P, while reclamation of seasonal wetland increased soil N and soil P and the ratio of soil N:P (RNP). We observed the mean soil C concentrations of PW and SW increased by 31.1% and 6.3% in the 0-50cm soil profile separately, compared to their former wetland use, confirming powerful C sequestration of coastal wetlands. PW after 25 years of conversion of woodland to wetland showed an increase in soil C:N (RCN, 25.7%) and C:P (RCP, 30.0%) and SW after 12 years of returning cropland to wetland showed an increase by 17.6% in RCN throughout the soil profile, while similar differences of soil in top 5 cm layers turned out to be even apparent in the studied four wetland use conditions, suggesting the varying of different wetland intervention strategies and implementation period. The underlying changes in nutrient distribution and stoichiometric ratio dynamics are mainly due to C sequestration of wetland and N/P fertilization of reclamation. This brings new insights and helps to increase the knowledge the long-term effect of wetland restoration on soil nutrient distribution and trends in YRD. Understanding these effects can provide sensible policymaking for the conservation and management of coastal wetlands, which is helpful to realize ecological functionality of coastal wetland and achieve carbon neutrality in China.

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: Microplastic contamination in agricultural soils has become a growing concern due to its potential impact on soil quality and ecosystem health. This study investigates the abundance, shape, and vertical distribution of microplastics in agricultural soils under different tillage practices. A split-split-plot experimental design was used at two sites, comparing conventional tillage (ST), conservation tillage (deep and shallow), and fertilization treatments. Results indicate that microplastics were present in all soil samples, with significantly lower concentrations in conservation shallow tillage (CTS) compared to deep conservation tillage (CTD). Vertical distribution was found to be homogeneous in ST and CTS but heterogeneous in CTD, suggesting an influence of soil disturbance levels on microplastic migration. Fertilization significantly affected microplastic accumulation at one site, supporting the hypothesis that inorganic fertilizers contribute to microplastic input as well. These findings highlight the need for soil management practices that mitigate microplastic accumulation and mobility.

Abstract: The decrease in river streamflow and rainfall volumes due to climate change and/or variability has been affecting several environmental and socioeconomic aspects of the Pantanal floodplain in Brazil. This study analyzed 37-year-long (1986-2023) hydrological time series of rainfall, streamflow and flooded areas in three contributing basins of the Pantanal floodplain (Jauru - JB, Taquari-TB and Miranda-MB), revealing distinct hydrological trends influenced by climate systems and ENSO patterns. Significant decreasing trends in rainfall and streamflow were observed in the northern JB and TB basins, while the southern MB basin showed increasing behavior. As a consequence, the downstream flooded areas in the Pantanal floodplain showed a decreasing trend in the period. Long-term memory processes (Hurst phenomenon) were identified in the time series of the basin flooded surface and also in the Paraguay river stage data, indicating a persistent and aggregated reduction in the hydrologic variables, affecting both the ranching and fishing activities in the region, and the regional ecology. These findings reinforce the need for adaptative management strategies to tackle the impacts of water surface loss, increasing fire risk, and climate variability in the Upper Paraguay basin.

Abstract: Groundwater is the main source of water for both domestic and agricultural use in arid regions. This study assessed the hydrogeochemical characteristics and suitability of groundwater for drinking and irrigation in Kenya’s Ewaso Ng’iro–Lagh Dera Basin. A total of 129 borehole samples were collected and analyzed for pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total hardness, and major ions. The groundwater was found to be mostly neutral to slightly alkaline and ranged from marginal to brackish in salinity. The dominant water type is Na-HCO₃, with the ionic order Na⁺ > Ca²⁺ > Mg²⁺ > K⁺ and HCO₃⁻ > Cl⁻ > SO₄²⁻ > NO₃⁻. Mineral saturation indices indicate the water is undersaturated with gypsum and anhydrite, but saturated with calcite, dolomite, and aragonite. Groundwater chemistry is primarily influenced by ion exchange and rock weathering processes. The Water Quality Index (WQI) reveals that much of the groundwater is rated poor to unsuitable for drinking, largely due to high levels of sodium, EC, and bicarbonate. Similarly, the Irrigation Water Quality Index (IWQI) places most samples in the moderate to severe restriction category due to salinity and sodicity. These findings highlight the need for proper treatment before use.

Abstract: Wildfires serve both ecological and destructive roles—supporting biodiversity and nu-trient cycling while also threatening ecosystems and economies, especially as climate change drives increases in fire frequency and intensity. This study investigates the impact of wildfires and subsequent vegetation recovery in the Bosco Difesa Grande forest in southern Italy, focusing on the 2017 and 2021 fire events. Using Google Earth Engine (GEE), remote sensing techniques were applied to assess burn severity and post-fire re-growth. The analysis utilized Normalized Burn Ratio (NBR) and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) derived from Sentinel-2 imagery. Burn severity was classified through differenced NBR (dNBR), while vegetation recovery was monitored via differ-enced NDVI (dNDVI) and multi-year NDVI time series. Results show that low-severity zones recovered more quickly than high-severity areas, which often failed to regain pre-fire vegetation levels. These findings suggest a potential shift from forested areas to shrubland or mixed vegetation in severely burned zones. Key recovery influencers in-clude climate variability, soil erosion, and repeated fire exposure. This study highlights the value of remote sensing for post-fire assessment and emphasizes the need for adaptive land management and ecological restoration strategies to support long-term ecosystem resilience in Mediterranean fire-prone landscapes.

Abstract: Carpathian Orogen represents a natural laboratory for studying geodynamic interactions between lithospheres of different ages. The ancient Archean Craton, such as the East European Craton, and Proterozoic platforms like the Scythian and Moesian platforms, collided with the younger Tisza and Dacia Mega-Units, resulting in the formation of the current architecture of the Carpathian Mountains. To better understand how lithospheric structure on Romanian territory changes from the East European Craton to younger European microplates, we used earthquake data recorded at permanent broadband seismic stations of the Romanian National Seismic Network (RSN). Applying the Multiple Filtering Technique, we examine the dispersion of Rayleigh wave group velocities for earthquakes located within a 4000 km radius of the epicenter. Travel time tomography, conducted through Fast Marching Surface Tomography, helps us to construct group velocity maps for periods between 30 and 80 s. Our findings highlight a low velocity body in front of the Vrancea slab, indicating asthenospheric upwelling due to slab verticalization.

Abstract: Macroalgae are an integral part of estuarine primary production, however their excessive growth may have severe negative impacts on the ecosystem. Although it is generally believed that algal blooms may be caused by a combination of excessive nutrients and temperature, their occurrences are hard to predict, and quantitative monitoring is a logistical challenge which requires development of reliable and inexpensive technique. This can be achieved by implementation of processing algorithms and indices on multi-spectral satellite images. Tuggerah Lakes estuary on the Central Coast of NSW was studied because of the regular occurrences of blooms, primarily of green filamentous algae. The detection of algal blooms based on the red-edge effect of the chlorophyll provided consistent results supported by direct observations. Floating Algae Index (FAI) was chosen as the most accurate index detecting algal blooms in shallow areas. Logistic regression was implemented where FAI was used as a predictor of two clusters, “bloom” and “non-bloom”. FAI was calculated for multi-spectral satellite images based on pixels of 20x20 meters, covering the entire area of the Tuggerah Lakes. Seven sample points (pixels) were chosen, and the optimal threshold was found for each pixel to assign it to one of the two clusters. Logistic regression model was trained for each pixel; then the optimal parameters for its coefficients and the optimal classification threshold were obtained by cross validation and bootstrapping. Probabilities for classifying clusters as either “bloom” or “non-bloom” were predicted with respect to the optimal threshold. The resulting model can be used to estimate probability of macroalgal blooms in coastal estuaries allowing quantitative monitoring through time and space.

Abstract: Liming is a common practice for improving the quality of soils affected by acidity, due to climate change, acid rain, nitrate leaching, and oxidation of sulphide minerals. This study aimed not only to assess the efficiency of fine and coarse lime application at 3 t/ha and 6 t/ha doses in mitigating soil acidity, but also to determine which of the options has a stronger impact on improving subsoil characteristics. Over a period of two years, several key parameters were monitored: pH, exchangeable base cations (Caexch, Mgexch, and Kexch), and Alexch. In the topsoil, the highest increase in pH was observed 6 months after the ap-plication of 3 t/ha fine lime, while in the subsoil, only a modest increase was noted. The highest values of exchangeable base cations in the topsoil were: Caexch = 9.06 cmol/kg soil; Mgexch = 1.15 cmol/kg soil; Kexch = 0.360 cmol/kg soil. These were recorded 24 months after applying 6 t/ha of fine aglime, and were higher than those obtained in the subsoil. While in topsoil Alexch reached 0 at T3, in subsoil, the largest decrease was 38% at T3. The release rate of ca Ca and its mobility depend on the particle size and dose of aglime, playing an important role in alleviating aluminium toxicity.

Abstract: Superabsorbent Polymers (SAPs) have been increasingly studied for their potential to enhance soil water holding capacity and reduce irrigation needs, particularly in water-scarce agricultural regions. The objective of this study is to maximize water holding capacity and minimize water irrigation by evaluating the effectiveness of SAPs on Soil Texture, Water Holding Capacity, and pH Content under controlled treatments in Purok Kabelen. The researchers conducted experiments using different SAPs and water treatments by analyzing their effects through ANOVA, Regression Analysis, and Sensitivity Analysis. Findings from the study indicate that SAPs application significantly influences soil physical characteristics. The ANOVA results showed that SAPs had a statistically significant effect on soil texture, water holding capacity, and pH content, with F-values of 309.254, 1309.8, and 401989, respectively (p < 0.05). Regression analysis further confirmed a strong correlation between SAPs application and increased water retention, as well as changes in soil pH. Specifically, the highest water holding capacity of 82.74% was achieved at a 10g SAP: 200mL water per 500g soil treatment by marking a 34.9% increase from the control. Soil texture analysis revealed a rise in clay content from 37% to 83.9%, and soil pH shifted from 6.27 (moderately acidic) to 7.83 (slightly alkaline). The sensitivity analysis examines the effects of Superabsorbent Polymer (SAP) and water on soil texture, Water Holding Capacity (WHC), and pH. SAP applications significantly altered soil texture, with sand content decreasing by up to 83.01% at 5g SAP and silt content dropping by 74.13% at 40g SAP. In contrast, clay content increased, peaking at 126.76% at 5g SAP before stabilizing. Water Holding Capacity improved by 34.87% at 10g SAP, with smaller gains beyond 20g SAP. pH content increased by 24.88% at 80g SAP, shifting the soil toward alkalinity. However, excessive SAPs application beyond the optimal level did not yield proportionate improvements in water holding capacity. This study aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Sustainable Development Goal 12 (SDG 12): Responsible Consumption and Production and Sustainable Development Goal 15 (SDG 15): Life on Land. By improving irrigation efficiency, and reducing excessive water use, this study promotes responsible resource management and supports sustainable land practices in agriculture.