Abstract: Accurately tracking carbon dynamics by sources, sinks, and removals in Malawi’s Land Use, Land-Use Change, and Forestry (LULUCF) sector is critical for understanding the country’s contribution to global greenhouse gas (GHG) balances and for guiding effective climate policy. A study was conducted to track carbon dynamics by sources, sinks, and removals in Malawi’s LULUCF sector for the period 2018-2022 to enhance carbon market development. Carbon Stock Change Approach following the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) guidelines were employed. The approach integrated forest inventory data, and Earth Observations from Sentinel-2 Multispectral Imager and ALOS-PALSAR-1. Activity datasets were categorised into land classification schema sources of, Forestland, Cropland, Grassland, Wetland, and Settlement. Monte Carlo uncertainty analysis at a 95% confidence level was applied to assess data reliability and estimate uncertainties in emissions and removals. The results revealed that total emissions from the LULUCF sector declined by 10.29%, primarily due to reduced deforestation rates and increased forest regrowth. Forestland contributed the largest proportion of emissions (79.08%), followed by cropland (9.70%) and wetlands (8.50%). In contrast, the Grassland and Settlement categories contributed the lowest, 2.60% and 0.12%, respectively. Forest conversion to other land uses decreased, while natural regeneration and afforestation initiatives enhanced carbon removals. The overall uncertainty level was low, 4.16%. This greatly enhances Malawi’s ability to participate in carbon markets, report transparently under climate conventions, and attract climate finance with reduced risk. Finally, the study also contributes to Malawi’s first biennial transparency report (BTR1) and fourth national communication (NC4) to the United Nations framework convention on climate change under the Paris agreement.

Abstract: Climate change poses increasing challenges to agricultural systems in Mediterrane-an-type regions, where climate variability, ecosystem degradation, and governance constraints interact to shape farmers’ management decisions. Understanding how in-stitutional and social factors influence adaptive responses is therefore critical. This study examines how institutional trust and local perceptions of climate change impacts shape farmers’ willingness to adopt adaptation practices in the vulnerable district of Alhué, central Chile. A structured questionnaire was administered to small farmers to assess willingness to adopt climate change adaptation practices and trust in public environ-mental agencies. Multivariate models revealed a non-linear, U-shaped relationship between trust in agencies and willingness to adopt adaptive practices: willingness was lowest at intermediate levels of trust and higher among farmers reporting either low or high trust in environmental agencies. This pattern remained robust after controlling for socioeconomic and perceptual factors. These findings suggest that both skepticism and strong institutional confidence may motivate adaptive behavior through different mechanisms, highlighting the need for governance approaches that acknowledge het-erogeneous trust dynamics. Overall, the results underscore the importance of socially legitimate and context-sensitive institutional arrangements for fostering climate change adaptation in vulnerable rural territories.

Abstract: Gas exchange between soil or water surfaces and the atmosphere is one of the main sources of greenhouse gas production and absorption. Faced with global climate change and increasing atmospheric concentrations of these gases, significant scientific efforts are being made to monitor this exchange using various techniques, including closed chambers. Although relatively simple, this technique requires careful attention to several key points. Furthermore, any installation using commercial chambers is relatively expensive. Indeed, given the specific variability of gas exchange, a single chamber cannot assess all the gas exchange in the soil of a given plot. Several chambers are therefore necessary, which increases the overall cost of the installation. In our laboratory, we have built different types of chambers: portable "nomad" ultra-low-cost chambers for punctual, large-area measurement campaigns and "automatic" cost-effective chambers for long-term installations. In this article, we aim to share our experience by describing our achievements and providing a link to the complete documentation, which includes 3D and 2D plans, Gerber files for manufacturing printed circuit boards, and a parts list.

Abstract: Malaria remains a major public health challenge in Sub-Saharan Africa, where climatic factors, particularly temperature and precipitation, strongly influence transmission. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies and routine surveillance data reporting quantitative associations between temperature or rainfall variability and malaria incidence across SSA. Temperature effects were harmonized per 1°C increase and precipitation per 100 mm increase. Six studies from diverse regions (2000-2023) met inclusion criteria. Pooled analyses indicated that each 1°C increase in temperature was associated with a 26% increase in malaria incidence (RR = 1.26; 95% CI: 1.15-1.37; I² = 52%), while each 100 mm increase in precipitation was associated with a 13% increase (RR = 1.13; 95% CI: 1.05-1.21; I² = 68%). Temperature effects were stronger among children under five and in rural settings. Certainty of evidence was moderate for temperature and low for precipitation. These findings confirm that climate variability is a key determinant of malaria risk in SSA and support the integration of climate data into early warning systems and malaria control planning.

Abstract: Informal electronic waste (e-waste) recycling is an increasingly important source of environmental lead exposure in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), placing children at heightened risk during critical periods of neurodevelopment; however, the magnitude and consistency of these effects have not been systematically synthesised. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies identified through searches of PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and African regional databases from inception to 2024, assessing e-waste-related lead exposure and neurodevelopmental outcomes in children (≤18 years). Random-effects meta-analyses using standardized mean differences (SMDs) were performed, heterogeneity was assessed using the I² statistic, and study quality was evaluated with the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Twelve studies met inclusion criteria for qualitative synthesis, of which five (total N = 1,492 children) provided sufficient data for meta-analysis. Overall, higher e-waste-related lead exposure was associated with significantly poorer neurodevelopmental outcomes (pooled SMD = -0.42; 95% CI: -0.61, -0.23; I² = 56%). Subgroup analyses demonstrated a stronger association in SSA (SMD = -0.58; 95% CI: -0.89, -0.27; I² = 49%) compared with non-SSA low- and middle-income countries (SMD = -0.35; 95% CI: -0.54, -0.16; I² = 42%). Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of findings, and visual inspection of funnel plots did not indicate substantial publication bias, although statistical power was limited. These results indicate that e-waste-related lead exposure is associated with clinically meaningful neurodevelopmental deficits in children, with evidence of a disproportionately higher burden in SSA, underscoring the urgent need for enforceable e-waste regulation and child-focused environmental health policies in the region.

Abstract: Ecosystem-based adaptation practice has emerged as a sustainable approach to enhance smallholder farmers’ climate resilience while delivering multiple social, economic and environmental co-benefits. This study explores the perceived co-benefits from adopting ecosystem-based adaptation practices and examines how the perceived co-benefits shape adoption decisions among smallholder farmers. A mixed-method approach was used involving household survey of 360 smallholder farmers targeting household heads in purposive sampling scheme, key informant interviews and focus group discussions. The key findings of the study revealed mixed cropping (83.9%), integrated crop-livestock (57.2%) and mulch tillage (51.1%) as the most widely adopted practices. In addition, the study revealed that smallholder farmers perceived multiple ecological co-benefits from adopting ecosystem-based adaptation practices such as improved soil fertility, water retention, erosion control, pests’ regulation and agrobiodiversity improvement, while boosting crop productivity, food security and income diversification. Furthermore, smallholder farmers were found to value ecosystem-based adaptation practices that rely on low cost, local available inputs and traditional knowledge. The key motivators for adoption were found to be livelihood diversification, local inputs reliance and soil quality management. It is concluded that smallholder farmers adopt ecosystem-based adaptation practices that offer tangible co-benefits, and the adaptation initiative becomes effective when linked to local community perspective.

Abstract: Intensive swine production contributes significantly to the global protein supply but generates considerable environmental pressure, particularly through greenhouse gas emissions and surplus slurry management. Anaerobic digestion (AD), especially (co-AD), has been widely investigated as a mitigation strategy to enhance renewable energy generation and nutrient recovery. This systematic review synthesizes life cycle assessment (LCA) studies published between 2019 and 2025 that evaluated AD systems treating swine slurry, following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Across diverse method-ological approaches and regional contexts, the literature consistently shows that AD can reduce global warming potential compared with conventional slurry management, with stronger environmental benefits when biogas is efficiently valorized and when the swine slurry is co-digested with complementary organic substrates. co-AD emerges as a key mitigation option by improving biogas yields, process stability, and overall envi-ronmental performance while also enabling better utilization of external organic waste. However, the results remain highly sensitive to operational factors such as methane leakage, digestate management, energy efficiency, and substrate selection. This review highlights the methodological inconsistencies among LCA studies and underscores the need for harmonized assessment frameworks and improved emission data. Overall, co-AD represents a promising pathway for enhancing the environmental sustainability of swine production systems when integrated into optimized, context-specific man-agement strategies.

Abstract: The article presents a comprehensive assessment of climate change in the Fergana region and its influence on the development and transformation of natural landscapes within global environmental systems. Based on meteorological data from 2001 to 2024, trends in air temperature and precipitation were analyzed. The results indicate a gradual increase in mean annual temperature and a decrease in precipitation, reflecting the intensification of aridization processes. Using geoinformation systems and remote sensing data, NDVI-based vegetation dynamics were mapped to evaluate spatial landscape variability. The study identifies the most climate-sensitive areas experiencing soil degradation and structural changes in ecosystems. These findings provide a scientific foundation for developing eco-reclamation strategies and agricultural adaptation measures to mitigate the impacts of regional climate change, contributing valuable insights to global environmental change research.

Abstract: Climate change increases uncertainty in agricultural production and rural livelihoods, encouraging farms to pursue diversification strategies that can buffer climate-related risks. At the same time, the growing use of digital and AI-based climate and decision-support tools raises questions about how the transparency of such information shapes farm-level adaptation. This study examines the relationships among AI transparency, climate awareness, decision confidence, agritourism diversification intention, and perceived farm resilience in climate-sensitive rural systems. Data were collected through in-person fieldwork conducted throughout 2025 among agritourism-oriented farm operators in two Serbian rural clusters: a Western mountain agritourism belt and an Eastern/Southeastern dry-stress zone. Using structural equation modeling, the analysis reveals a coherent pattern of positive associations across all modeled relationships. Higher perceived transparency of AI-based climate information is associated with stronger climate awareness, greater decision confidence, increased intention to diversify toward agritourism, and higher perceived farm resilience. Perceived farm resilience was most strongly related to agritourism diversification intention, underscoring diversification as a key adaptive pathway under climate stress. The findings highlight AI transparency as a critical informational precondition for adaptive decision-making and resilience building, with implications for farmer-centric digital tools and rural climate adaptation policy.

Abstract: In a context where it is important to objectively assess the level of vulnerability of nations to climate change in order to better identify adaptation needs, this study evaluates the historical effects of climate change on overall output and sectoral productivity in Cameroon, and makes projections on potential future losses based on climate scenarios. Using historical data from 1980 to 2022 and robust econometric approaches, we find that climate change induced by temperature variations has caused losses of more than 17.36% of average GDP over the period, while precipitation variations have caused a loss of 6.86% of GDP. Furthermore, the loss observed in the agricultural sector is significantly higher than that in the manufacturing and service sectors. More specifically, the results show that temperature shocks caused a loss of more than 4,810 billion CFA francs in overall GDP and approximately 638 billion in agricultural value added, while precipitation shocks caused losses of 1,900 and 171 billion CFA francs in GDP and agricultural value added, respectively. Projections based on SSP1, SSP2, and SSP5 emission scenarios show that Cameroon could lose more than 31% of its current GDP by 2050 in the worst-case scenario. Implications in terms of policy intervention are discussed.

Abstract: Rapid urbanisation and global warming are intensifying the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect, posing growing risks to human health and urban liveability. In Europe, cities face rising temperatures, ageing populations, and fragmented green infrastructure, which together amplify social and climatic vulnerability. This literature review synthesises current research on the relationships between UHI, health impacts, and the role of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) in mitigation, with a focus on spatial and demographic analysis. A systematic search of recent peer-reviewed studies was conducted through Scopus, applying inclusion criteria centred on European urban contexts and the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing for analysis. The selected literature was categorised into four thematic areas: (1) NBS for UHI mitigation, (2) health impacts of heat exposure, (3) vulnerable populations and socioeconomic inequities, and (4) spatial and remote-sensing approaches. Findings show that NBS, including urban forests, green roofs, and blue-green infrastructure, effectively reduce surface temperatures through evapotranspiration and shading, while also supporting mental well-being and social resilience. However, unequal access to greenery and limited integration of health and spatial data prevent equitable adaptation. GIS-based frameworks emerge as critical tools for mapping heat exposure, identifying at-risk groups, and guiding targeted climate-resilient planning. The review highlights the need for inclusive, data-driven urban strategies that combine ecological and social perspectives to reduce heat-related vulnerabilities in European cities.

Abstract: Turbidity, a key indicator of water quality, arises from suspended and colloidal particles that reduce clarity, hinder disinfection, disrupt aquatic ecosystems, and undermine consumer confidence. With increasing pressures from global water pollution, effective turbidity control is critical for protecting public health, supporting industrial operations, and maintaining environmental sustainability. It is also essential for the stable performance of water treatment processes, including biologically mediated systems such as slow sand filtration. A wide range of treatment techniques, spanning conventional approaches to advanced emerging technologies, are available for turbidity removal; however, existing reviews often consider these methods in isolation, limiting comparative insight. This review presents a mechanism-based classification framework that integrates both traditional and modern approaches. Treatment methods are classified according to their underlying mechanisms, including particle destabilization, aggregation, and separation; adsorptive and transformation processes; and hybrid or assisted systems that combine multiple mechanisms. For each category, the review examines fundamental principles, operational mechanisms, turbidity removal efficiencies, advantages, and limitations, supported by relevant case studies. A comparative discussion highlights the strengths and constraints of different methods, providing a comprehensive reference to guide the selection and optimization of turbidity control strategies across diverse water matrices and treatment objectives.

Abstract: Deep and middle-layer tight sandstone reservoirs represent an emerging frontier in oil and gas exploration and development. Significant breakthroughs have recently been achieved in the northern deepwater region of the Qiongdongnan Basin, particularly within the Oligocene Lingshui Formation in the Baodao Depression. However, the petrophysical characteristics of these tight sandstone reservoirs and the controlling factors influencing sweet spot development remain poorly understood. This study integrates comprehensive datasets—including thin section petrography, cathodoluminescence, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and conventional reservoir property analyses—to systematically investigate the reservoir characteristics and key controls on sweet spot formation in the third member of the Lingshui Formation along the northern slope of the Baodao Depression. A pore evolution model for sweet spot reservoir development is subsequently proposed. The results indicate that: 1) The tight sandstones are predominantly lithic feldspathic quartzarenite, feldspathic quartzarenite, and feldspathic litharenite, with primary pore types including feldspar dissolution pores, moldic pores, and residual intergranular pores. 2) Among these, feldspathic quartzarenite and lithic feldspathic quartzarenite exhibit superior reservoir quality and constitute the main sweet spots; high quartz and feldspar content coupled with low lithic fragment abundance are critical compositional controls on sweet spot formation in deep to middle-depth settings. 3) Grain size demonstrates a positive correlation with reservoir physical properties. Compaction has led to porosity reduction by 22.0%~28.0%, establishing the fundamental basis for reservoir tightness. 4) Dissolution processes play a pivotal role in enhancing reservoir quality. Secondary porosity zones developed at depths of 3800~3950 m and 4100~4400 m due to dissolution significantly improve porosity and permeability. Conversely, during the late stage of mesodiagenesis (Stage B), extensive carbonate cementation contributes to further reservoir compaction. This research provides a theoretical foundation for the evaluation and prediction of sweet spot reservoirs in deepwater tight sandstone systems in the South China Sea, offering guidance for hydrocarbon exploration, field development planning, and the selection of favorable drilling targets. Furthermore, it advances the understanding of the formation mechanisms and evolutionary pathways of different types of sweet spots in deep and middle-layer tight sandstone reservoirs.

Abstract: (1) Background: Since its introduction to China, PWD has caused severe damage to coniferous forests in affected areas. Currently, the disease continues to expand towards the northwest regions, posing a serious threat to the ecological security of Xinjiang. (2) Methods: This study utilized MaxEnt model to predict the potential transmission areas of PWD and the potential suitable habitats of Monochamus saltuarius. After coupling the results of both, the potential occurrence areas of PWD in Xinjiang were ultimately determined. (3) Results: Human factors are the main driving forces behind the spread of PWD, with activities in scenic areas and human impact factors playing a key role in transmission. Altitude and Isothermality are the primary limiting factors for vector insects. Xinjiang has potential occurrence areas of PWD, covering 88% of the total coniferous forest area in Xinjiang. (4) Conclusions: Urumqi City, Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture, and the Altay Prefecture are high-risk areas for PWD. This study clarifies the potential transmission routes of PWD and analyzes its high-risk areas, providing a scientific basis for forestry and relevant departments to implement prevention and control measures.

Abstract:

Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element for humans, but excessive intake can cause various diseases and dysfunction. Its level is very low in natural water and becomes a pollutant when it exceeds permissible limits, bringing serious risks and damage to human health. The distribution and pollution of selenium in water, the impact of selenium on health and the limit requirements for selenium in drinking water are introduced. The development of selenium detection techniques is presented, including atomic spectrometry, spectrofluorometry, ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), voltammetry, and so on. Different detection methods for selenium have their own characteristics and different applicability. It is necessary to establish a safety monitoring mechanism with large-scale instrument analysis as the main body and on-site rapid screening detection methods as a supplement, providing effective technical support for the detection of selenium in the environment.

Abstract: Invasive alien species such as Lantana camara L. have ecological impacts that affect native species and soil conditions in different areas. The context specific ecological effects of L. camara on native woody species and communities remain poorly understood, yet such understandings are essential to maintain biodiversity. Therefore, we assessed the ecological impacts of L. camara on native woody species and soil nutrients in protected and communal areas in the Kavango Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA TFCA) in Zimbabwe. Stratified random sampling was used to sample 60 plots in invaded and uninvaded sites in the separate Communal and Park of the KAZA TFCA. In each plot, woody vegetation was assessed with respect to species composition and richness, stem density, canopy diameter, height and diameter at breast height. Soil samples were collected and analysed for nitrogen, organic carbon, phosphorus, potassium, and pH. The results showed that L. camara negatively affected the native species, with a significant decrease in species richness, density, height, and canopy cover in invaded plots relative uninvaded plots. However, invaded plots had lowest pH (6.1) and soil nutrients such as phosphorus and organic carbon than uninvaded plots. However, some vegetation and soils changes were likely the result of land uses and land use intensities which promote the invasion of L. camara. We conclude that L. camara invasion negatively affected native vegetation diversity and growth, which necessitates the implementation of appropriate control and the management strategies for L. camara in this species rich transfrontier conservation area. Such strategies need to be suitable for the area based on current land uses in the area.

Abstract: Soil heavy metal (HM) pollution poses a severe threat to ecological security and human health. Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element for the human body and can regulate crop growth and development as well as HM uptake in HM-contaminated soils. The regulatory mechanisms of Se on HMs are mainly reflected in four aspects: Geochemical immobilization promotes the formation of metal selenide precipitates and the adsorption of HMs by soil colloids by regulating the rhizosphere redox potential (Eh) and pH value. Rhizosphere microbial remodeling drives the enrichment of functional microorganisms such as Se redox bacteria, plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) through the dual selective pressure of Se toxicity and root exudates, so as to synergistically realize Se speciation transformation and HM adsorption/chelation. Root barrier reinforcement constructs physical and chemical dual defense barriers by inducing the formation of iron plaques on the root surface, remodeling root morphology and strengthening cell wall components such as lignin and polysaccharides. Intracellular transport regulation down-regulates the genes encoding HM uptake transporters, up-regulates the genes encoding HM efflux proteins, and promotes the synthesis of phytochelatins (PCs) to form HM complexes and finally realizes vacuolar sequestration. Finally, we summarize current research gaps in the interaction mechanisms of different Se species, precise application strategies, and long-term environmental risk assessment, providing a theoretical basis and technical outlook for the green remediation of HM-contaminated farmlands and Se biofortification of crops.

Abstract: Topography plays a crucial role in shaping local urban microclimates and can drive the formation of cold-air pools in valley bottoms. This study examines the Eiras Valley (Coimbra, Portugal), a rapidly growing peri-urban area, to identify the conditions under which cold-air pools form and to characterize their spatial and vertical dynamics. Field measurements were carried out using Tinytag Plus 2 data loggers at the surface (≈1.5 m above ground) and mounted on an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) for vertical profiles, complemented by high-resolution thermal mapping through Empirical Bayesian Kriging. The results show that a nocturnal cold-air pool develops within the valley under clear, anticyclonic winter conditions, persisting into the early morning hours and dissipating after sunrise due to solar heating. In contrast, under overcast or summer conditions, no cold-air pooling was observed. The temperature inversion capping the cold-air pool was found at approximately 275 m altitude, inhibiting vertical mixing and trapping pollutants near the ground. These findings underscore the importance of topoclimatology in urban and regional planning, with implications for thermal comfort, air quality, and public health. The study contributes to urban climate research by highlighting how local topography and seasonal atmospheric stability govern cold-air pool formation in valley environments, supporting the development of mitigation strategies aligned with urban sustainability goals.

Abstract:

Forest ecosystems are vital to global carbon cycling as sinks or sources, while fast-growing, adaptable pines such as P. kesiya and P. oocarpa are central to national carbon sequestration efforts. This study was aimed at determining biomass accumulation variations and carbon stock dynamics between these two species at the age of 16 years in the Viphya Plantations, a prominent timber producing area in northern Malawi. Following the systematic sampling, forest inventory data was collected from 20 circular plots of 0.05 ha each. Above and below ground biomass was estimated using generic allometric models for pine species. Findings indicate that there were significant (P<0.001) differences in biomass accumulation and carbon sequestration between P. oocarpa and P. kesiya plantations. P. oocarpa accumulated more biomass (298.86±12.09 Mgha^-1) than P. kesiya (160.13±23.79 Mgha^-1). Furthermore, P. oocarpa plantation had a higher annual carbon sequestration (32.22±1.30 tCO₂e/ha/yr) as compared to P. kesiya plantation (17.26±2.56 tCO₂e/ha/yr). In addition, the uncertainty was less than 1% and fit within the IPCC’s recommended range (<15%). Therefore, the study has demonstrated that species selection should match management objectives: P. oocarpa maximizes short-to-medium term carbon sequestration and productivity, while P. kesiya supports long-term soil carbon stability. Hence, integrating both optimizes carbon benefits.

Abstract: The European Green Deal aims to make Europe the world's first carbon-neutral continent, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 15 seeks to achieve neutrality in land degradation. For that, soil, a depletable natural resource, requires adequate protection and preservation, which calls for its management through an environmentally conscious framework. Soil supplies food regulates water and nutrient cycles, and healthy soils also store carbon. Its ecosystem services are under pressure, making it difficult to maintain its health and preserve biodiversity. Despite existing legal instruments, soil degradation is on the rise and is mostly addressed indirectly in the EU governance measures, without a harmonized soil legislation before the 23rd of October 2025, when the Directive on Soil Monitoring and Resilience was approved by the European Parliament. This directive will complement existing soil legislation and will contribute to healthy soils as soil starts to be treated as a protected natural resource. This study aims to carry out a critical analysis of Portuguese and European Union soil legislation, based on the information available in the SoiLEX database. The aim was to evaluate the contributions of that legislation to soil health, particularly regarding soil threats that are listed in that database. It was found that Portuguese legislative acts only make indirect references to threats to soil, in a vague manner related to soil salinization, and no reference is made to soil acidification. European Union legislation makes more direct references to the SoiLEX database threats to soil, but for some soil threats, the references are still indirect. Moreover, there is no reference as a SoiLEX Topic to salinization, compaction, and acidification of soil. The contribution of this study is to reveal the absence of soil protection visibility on EU and Portuguese legislation and can be used to revise and update the soil related legislation.