Science Publishing Group: International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy: Table of Contents
<i> International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy (IJEPP) </i> provides a forum for sharing timely and up-to-date publication of scientific research and review articles. The journal publishes original full-length research papers in all areas related to environmental protection and policy. It aims to offer the opportunity for multi-disciplinary discourse on science, technology and environmental policy that would lead to the development, demonstration, and commercialization of environmental protection technology and effective environmental policy strategies.
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/j/ijepp Science Publishing Group: International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy: Table of Contents
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International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
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Effects of Faujasite X and Y Zeolites on the 1,1,1-Trichloro-2,2’ bis(p-chlorophenyl)ethane (DDT) Degradation during Water Purification
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20130101.12
The ability of zeolites to abstract and denature organochloride pesticides finds application in water purification practices. In this study, activated faujasite X and Y zeolites were separately exposed to 1, 2 and 4 ppm concentrations of 1,1,1-trichloro-2,2’ bis(p-chlorophenyl) ethane (dichloro dipheny trichloroethane - DDT) water solutions. For the 1 ppm DDT solutions, the resultant degradation products and residual DDT were minimal with concentrations in zeolite treatments reducing to below detection limit (0.005 ppm) in about 2 hours. In addition, the rate of dissipation was found to somewhat depend on the levels of DDT concentration and the type of zeolite used. The main degradation product in samples exposed to faujasite X was dichloro dipheny dichloroethylene (DDE) whereas in the faujasite Y exposed samples, both the DDE and dichloro diphenyl dichloroethane (DDD) were obtained.
The ability of zeolites to abstract and denature organochloride pesticides finds application in water purification practices. In this study, activated faujasite X and Y zeolites were separately exposed to 1, 2 and 4 ppm concentrations of 1,1,1-trichloro-2,2’ bis(p-chlorophenyl) ethane (dichloro dipheny trichloroethane - DDT) water solutions. For the 1 ppm DDT solutions, the resultant degradation products and residual DDT were minimal with concentrations in zeolite treatments reducing to below detection limit (0.005 ppm) in about 2 hours. In addition, the rate of dissipation was found to somewhat depend on the levels of DDT concentration and the type of zeolite used. The main degradation product in samples exposed to faujasite X was dichloro dipheny dichloroethylene (DDE) whereas in the faujasite Y exposed samples, both the DDE and dichloro diphenyl dichloroethane (DDD) were obtained.
Effects of Faujasite X and Y Zeolites on the 1,1,1-Trichloro-2,2’ bis(p-chlorophenyl)ethane (DDT) Degradation during Water Purification
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20130101.12
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-01-01
© Science Publishing Group
Chrispin Ounga Kowenje
Elly Tetty Osewe
Joseph Owuor Lalah
Effects of Faujasite X and Y Zeolites on the 1,1,1-Trichloro-2,2’ bis(p-chlorophenyl)ethane (DDT) Degradation during Water Purification
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© Science Publishing Group
Indoor Climate Analysis for Urban Mobility Buses: a CFD Model for the Evaluation of thermal Comfort
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20130101.11
The aim of this work is to analyze the indoor climate in city buses; the study was developed by numerical simulation and experimental validation carried out on the urban mobility buses of the city of Rome (Italy). Several factors have contributed to increase the concern about the comfort evaluation in vehicles and particularly in city buses. Due to the rising of the mobility needs, time that people spend in vehicles has grown substantially. The thermal environment in urban buses also varies greatly: passengers are exposed to local heating and/or cooling due to vertical temperature gradients, radiant asymmetry and local unexpected airflow. The interaction of the cabin thermal environment, created by the HVAC-system, the outdoor conditions as well as the occupants is rather complex. At the moment no standards exist for assessment and classification of the thermal environment quality in vehicles. To obtain some evidences, in order to enhance the indoor climate for a city bus and to improve occupants’ comfort monitoring local temperature and air distribution around passengers, we have developed a mathematical model. The numerical model was implemented with Computational Fluid Dynamic software (CFD, Fluent Inc.): it permits the evaluation of the thermal and fluid-dynamic performances of the air conditioning system and diffusers’ distribution. To gain a deeper understanding of the local climate comfort, the numerical simulation results were experimentally validated by several measurements inside the urban buses performed under real operative conditions during the summer season.The experimental results are in good agreement with the CFD evidences. This shows that the model developed can give reliable results to optimize and locally modify the air diffusers distribution inside cabin spaces. These evidences can help to improve the air conditioning distribution as a function of the obstructions’ typical for a city bus vehicle and to reduce the draught risk related to the bus stop door apertures. One of the most important reasons of local temperature differences and unexpected air velocity gradients is due to the multi-door system apertures at each bus stop. This situation is particularly recurrent in a city area where an urban bus can afford several stops during his programmed route. For this reason it’s important to get more information about this transient localized load for the climate conditions and about the time needed to reach again the steady conditions. To avoid or, at least, reduce this kind of problem it is proposed an air knife screened doors system bus. The thermo fluid dynamic results obtained show a significant improvement in the indoor climate comfort.
The aim of this work is to analyze the indoor climate in city buses; the study was developed by numerical simulation and experimental validation carried out on the urban mobility buses of the city of Rome (Italy). Several factors have contributed to increase the concern about the comfort evaluation in vehicles and particularly in city buses. Due to the rising of the mobility needs, time that people spend in vehicles has grown substantially. The thermal environment in urban buses also varies greatly: passengers are exposed to local heating and/or cooling due to vertical temperature gradients, radiant asymmetry and local unexpected airflow. The interaction of the cabin thermal environment, created by the HVAC-system, the outdoor conditions as well as the occupants is rather complex. At the moment no standards exist for assessment and classification of the thermal environment quality in vehicles. To obtain some evidences, in order to enhance the indoor climate for a city bus and to improve occupants’ comfort monitoring local temperature and air distribution around passengers, we have developed a mathematical model. The numerical model was implemented with Computational Fluid Dynamic software (CFD, Fluent Inc.): it permits the evaluation of the thermal and fluid-dynamic performances of the air conditioning system and diffusers’ distribution. To gain a deeper understanding of the local climate comfort, the numerical simulation results were experimentally validated by several measurements inside the urban buses performed under real operative conditions during the summer season.The experimental results are in good agreement with the CFD evidences. This shows that the model developed can give reliable results to optimize and locally modify the air diffusers distribution inside cabin spaces. These evidences can help to improve the air conditioning distribution as a function of the obstructions’ typical for a city bus vehicle and to reduce the draught risk related to the bus stop door apertures. One of the most important reasons of local temperature differences and unexpected air velocity gradients is due to the multi-door system apertures at each bus stop. This situation is particularly recurrent in a city area where an urban bus can afford several stops during his programmed route. For this reason it’s important to get more information about this transient localized load for the climate conditions and about the time needed to reach again the steady conditions. To avoid or, at least, reduce this kind of problem it is proposed an air knife screened doors system bus. The thermo fluid dynamic results obtained show a significant improvement in the indoor climate comfort.
Indoor Climate Analysis for Urban Mobility Buses: a CFD Model for the Evaluation of thermal Comfort
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20130101.11
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-01-01
© Science Publishing Group
Roberto de Lieto Vollaro
Indoor Climate Analysis for Urban Mobility Buses: a CFD Model for the Evaluation of thermal Comfort
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© Science Publishing Group
Zero Tolerance: Evolving Wildlife Management in Kenya
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20130102.12
This study investigates the impact of contrasting wildlife management regimes on the probability of elephant presence in the Tsavo ecosystem base on the New York “zero tolerance policing”. Point data for the location of elephant, elephant carcasses, cattle, buffalo, giraffe, occupied bomas, charcoal kilns, settlements and farms, and water points were collected through aerial survey from 7-12 February 2011. Secondary data layers included main rivers, 30m resolution digital elevation model, and moderate resolution imaging spectro-radiometer (MODIS) 250m spatial resolution normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) data for January 2011. Information on the three management regimes (none, passive, and active) adopted by protected areas and ranches in Tsavo ecosystem was identified through interviews. The Maxent algorithm was used for modeling the probability of elephant presence in the ecosystem. Multicollinearity of the fourteen explanatory variables was tested using Eigen values and Condition Index (CI). We used Maxent with elephant location points as the presence only data and the twelve explanatory variables as environmental variables. Bootstrapping of ten replications was included in the model. The accuracy of the model was determined using the area under the curve (AUC) of the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) function. The results indicated that elephants were significantly more likely to be found in the protected areas than the non-protected areas. The northern sector of Tsavo West and the Voi sector of Tsavo East were the most likely areas to record elephants. Sectors with protected areas and ranches that practiced active management were more likely to show elephant than those with passive or no management. The areas with high probability of elephant occurrence coincided with actual high elephant density. Elephant carcasses, buffalo, giraffe, and settlements were the main variables that predicted the probability of elephant presence. Elephants are more likely to be in protected areas and ranches that were managed actively than those passively or not managed. In order to capitalize on the notion of protection and active management, we propose a wildlife management model based on the New York ‘zero tolerance’ policing. Any misdemeanor is not tolerated, especially illegal charcoal burning and livestock grazing in the ranches.
This study investigates the impact of contrasting wildlife management regimes on the probability of elephant presence in the Tsavo ecosystem base on the New York “zero tolerance policing”. Point data for the location of elephant, elephant carcasses, cattle, buffalo, giraffe, occupied bomas, charcoal kilns, settlements and farms, and water points were collected through aerial survey from 7-12 February 2011. Secondary data layers included main rivers, 30m resolution digital elevation model, and moderate resolution imaging spectro-radiometer (MODIS) 250m spatial resolution normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) data for January 2011. Information on the three management regimes (none, passive, and active) adopted by protected areas and ranches in Tsavo ecosystem was identified through interviews. The Maxent algorithm was used for modeling the probability of elephant presence in the ecosystem. Multicollinearity of the fourteen explanatory variables was tested using Eigen values and Condition Index (CI). We used Maxent with elephant location points as the presence only data and the twelve explanatory variables as environmental variables. Bootstrapping of ten replications was included in the model. The accuracy of the model was determined using the area under the curve (AUC) of the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) function. The results indicated that elephants were significantly more likely to be found in the protected areas than the non-protected areas. The northern sector of Tsavo West and the Voi sector of Tsavo East were the most likely areas to record elephants. Sectors with protected areas and ranches that practiced active management were more likely to show elephant than those with passive or no management. The areas with high probability of elephant occurrence coincided with actual high elephant density. Elephant carcasses, buffalo, giraffe, and settlements were the main variables that predicted the probability of elephant presence. Elephants are more likely to be in protected areas and ranches that were managed actively than those passively or not managed. In order to capitalize on the notion of protection and active management, we propose a wildlife management model based on the New York ‘zero tolerance’ policing. Any misdemeanor is not tolerated, especially illegal charcoal burning and livestock grazing in the ranches.
Zero Tolerance: Evolving Wildlife Management in Kenya
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20130102.12
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-01-01
© Science Publishing Group
Shadrack Mumo Ngene
Andrew Skidmore
Hein van Gils
Francis Kamau Muthoni
Wycliffe Mutero
Patrick Omondi
Zero Tolerance: Evolving Wildlife Management in Kenya
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© Science Publishing Group
CFD Based Parametric Analysis of Gas Flow in A Counter-Flow Wet Scrubber System
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20130102.11
Environmental protection measures regarding industrial emissions and tightened regulations for air pollution led to the selection of a counter-flow wet scrubber system based on applicability and economic considerations. The flow dynamics of gas transporting particulate matter and gaseous contaminants is a key factor which should be considered in the scrubber design. In this study, gas flow field were simulated using ANSYS Fluent computational fluids dynamic (CFD) software based on the continuity, momentum and k-ε turbulence model so as to obtain optimum design of the system, improve efficiency, shorten experimental, period and avoid dead zone. The result shows that the residuals have done a very good job of converging at minimum number of iterations and error of 1E-6. The velocity flow contours and vectors at the inlet, across the scrubbing chamber and the outlet shows a distributed flow and the velocity profiles have fully conformed to the recommended profile for turbulent flows in pipes. The total pressure within the scrubber cross-section is constant while the minimum and maximum pressure drops was obtained to be 0.30pa and 3.03pa which has conformed to the recommended pressure drop for wet scrubbers. From the results obtained, it can be deduced that the numerical simulation using CFD is an effective method to study the flow characteristics of a counter-flow wet scrubber system.
Environmental protection measures regarding industrial emissions and tightened regulations for air pollution led to the selection of a counter-flow wet scrubber system based on applicability and economic considerations. The flow dynamics of gas transporting particulate matter and gaseous contaminants is a key factor which should be considered in the scrubber design. In this study, gas flow field were simulated using ANSYS Fluent computational fluids dynamic (CFD) software based on the continuity, momentum and k-ε turbulence model so as to obtain optimum design of the system, improve efficiency, shorten experimental, period and avoid dead zone. The result shows that the residuals have done a very good job of converging at minimum number of iterations and error of 1E-6. The velocity flow contours and vectors at the inlet, across the scrubbing chamber and the outlet shows a distributed flow and the velocity profiles have fully conformed to the recommended profile for turbulent flows in pipes. The total pressure within the scrubber cross-section is constant while the minimum and maximum pressure drops was obtained to be 0.30pa and 3.03pa which has conformed to the recommended pressure drop for wet scrubbers. From the results obtained, it can be deduced that the numerical simulation using CFD is an effective method to study the flow characteristics of a counter-flow wet scrubber system.
CFD Based Parametric Analysis of Gas Flow in A Counter-Flow Wet Scrubber System
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20130102.11
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-01-01
© Science Publishing Group
Bashir Ahmed Danzomo
Momoh-Jimoh Enyiomika Salami
Raisuddin Mohd Khan
Mohd Iskhandar Bin Mohd Nor
CFD Based Parametric Analysis of Gas Flow in A Counter-Flow Wet Scrubber System
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© Science Publishing Group
Ecological Evaluation of Landscape Using Feng-Shui Theory at Shandiz Urban Region, NE Iran
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20130102.13
Landscape evaluation has an important role in developing and maintaining sustainability on local, regional and global scales. For this purpose different mathematical, empirical and traditional approaches were applied including Feng-shui theory. The basis of this theory refers to the Chinese traditional knowledge, examination and evaluation of the intrinsic energies of people and places. At the present study the site analysis and the landscape evaluation with Feng-shui theory were applied using the shapes and imaginaries of the landforms in the Shandiz urban region, northeast of Iran. The unsustainable development plans along the land use changes in this region has resulted in land degradations and natural hazards. Therefore, it is necessary to explain the traditional or ecological landscape evaluation at the study area. Based on the Feng-shui method we investigated the assigning nine-lattice zones map of the study area to achieve the ecological landscape evaluation. We think this method is a useful fresh traditional method for application in Middle East area. Our results exhibited that the central cave spot and four directions at the study area had spatially adaptation on the Lo-shu tablet in the nine landscape zones. These zones revealed that the new optimal strategies based on Feng-shui variant characteristics which are the brief research outcomes of landscape evaluation.
Landscape evaluation has an important role in developing and maintaining sustainability on local, regional and global scales. For this purpose different mathematical, empirical and traditional approaches were applied including Feng-shui theory. The basis of this theory refers to the Chinese traditional knowledge, examination and evaluation of the intrinsic energies of people and places. At the present study the site analysis and the landscape evaluation with Feng-shui theory were applied using the shapes and imaginaries of the landforms in the Shandiz urban region, northeast of Iran. The unsustainable development plans along the land use changes in this region has resulted in land degradations and natural hazards. Therefore, it is necessary to explain the traditional or ecological landscape evaluation at the study area. Based on the Feng-shui method we investigated the assigning nine-lattice zones map of the study area to achieve the ecological landscape evaluation. We think this method is a useful fresh traditional method for application in Middle East area. Our results exhibited that the central cave spot and four directions at the study area had spatially adaptation on the Lo-shu tablet in the nine landscape zones. These zones revealed that the new optimal strategies based on Feng-shui variant characteristics which are the brief research outcomes of landscape evaluation.
Ecological Evaluation of Landscape Using Feng-Shui Theory at Shandiz Urban Region, NE Iran
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20130102.13
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-01-01
© Science Publishing Group
Mohammad Reza Mansouri Daneshvar
Sarah Khosravi
Somayeh Rezayi
Ecological Evaluation of Landscape Using Feng-Shui Theory at Shandiz Urban Region, NE Iran
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© Science Publishing Group
A Study on the Management of Residuals in Alberta's Agricultural and Agri-processing Industry
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20130103.11
Agricultural and agri-processing industries generate appreciable quantity of residuals. Many of these residuals are biodegradable and can be processed to other value-added products, but a number of them require special handling. Today, there is a wide range of technologies that can be used by agricultural and agri-processing industries in processing these residuals to value-added products at various stages of the process lifecycle. Consequently, these processing technologies reduces the amount of residuals that is discarded as wastes. The purpose of this study was to identify types and sources of residuals in Alberta’s agricultural and agri-processing industry. The study was also aimed at identifying commonly used residuals management technologies in the industry, factors affecting their choices, and the degree of importance attached to each factor in arriving at the final decision. The study involved a survey of twenty six farms and agri-processing companies all over Alberta. The survey was conducted by phone calls and by administration of questionnaire to the companies. Results from the study revealed that animal manure from feedlots is the major type of residuals from the industry. The manure is managed by applying it on farms for improved yield. In addition, the study revealed that residuals management decisions in the agricultural and agri-processing industry is a multi-criteria and multi-stage decision-making process. Moreover, provincial regulations, economic factor, and available technologies played significant roles in the choice of residuals management methods.
Agricultural and agri-processing industries generate appreciable quantity of residuals. Many of these residuals are biodegradable and can be processed to other value-added products, but a number of them require special handling. Today, there is a wide range of technologies that can be used by agricultural and agri-processing industries in processing these residuals to value-added products at various stages of the process lifecycle. Consequently, these processing technologies reduces the amount of residuals that is discarded as wastes. The purpose of this study was to identify types and sources of residuals in Alberta’s agricultural and agri-processing industry. The study was also aimed at identifying commonly used residuals management technologies in the industry, factors affecting their choices, and the degree of importance attached to each factor in arriving at the final decision. The study involved a survey of twenty six farms and agri-processing companies all over Alberta. The survey was conducted by phone calls and by administration of questionnaire to the companies. Results from the study revealed that animal manure from feedlots is the major type of residuals from the industry. The manure is managed by applying it on farms for improved yield. In addition, the study revealed that residuals management decisions in the agricultural and agri-processing industry is a multi-criteria and multi-stage decision-making process. Moreover, provincial regulations, economic factor, and available technologies played significant roles in the choice of residuals management methods.
A Study on the Management of Residuals in Alberta's Agricultural and Agri-processing Industry
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20130103.11
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-01-01
© Science Publishing Group
Israel Dunmade
A Study on the Management of Residuals in Alberta's Agricultural and Agri-processing Industry
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© Science Publishing Group
Earthquake Vulnerability Zonation of Mashhad Urban Fabric by Combining the Quantitative Models in GIS, Northeast of Iran
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20130104.11
In this study, we determined vulnerability levels of urban fabrics against earthquake risk using spatial factors. Therefore to classify risk vulnerability zones of the Mashhad urban fabric we used parameters such as ratio of open spaces, size of lands differentiation, population density, occupied area by buildings, age of buildings, deteriorated urban fabrics, proximity to faults, and seismic grading. These parameters are derived based on Mashhad municipality districts then weighted by Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and combined by the Standard Score Model in geographic information system (GIS). The results indicated that: first, the central district and districts of eight, three and four in Mashhad have the most fabric vulnerability against earthquakes, respectively. Second, the urban texture of municipal districts containing districts of nine, seven, six and ten have less vulnerability against earthquakes, respectively. Third, the parameters analysis using AHP exhibited the weighty value for lands differentiation parameter while, the correlation test revealed that the strong correlation between deteriorated urban fabrics and the final zoning map (R2 equal to 0.75).
In this study, we determined vulnerability levels of urban fabrics against earthquake risk using spatial factors. Therefore to classify risk vulnerability zones of the Mashhad urban fabric we used parameters such as ratio of open spaces, size of lands differentiation, population density, occupied area by buildings, age of buildings, deteriorated urban fabrics, proximity to faults, and seismic grading. These parameters are derived based on Mashhad municipality districts then weighted by Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and combined by the Standard Score Model in geographic information system (GIS). The results indicated that: first, the central district and districts of eight, three and four in Mashhad have the most fabric vulnerability against earthquakes, respectively. Second, the urban texture of municipal districts containing districts of nine, seven, six and ten have less vulnerability against earthquakes, respectively. Third, the parameters analysis using AHP exhibited the weighty value for lands differentiation parameter while, the correlation test revealed that the strong correlation between deteriorated urban fabrics and the final zoning map (R2 equal to 0.75).
Earthquake Vulnerability Zonation of Mashhad Urban Fabric by Combining the Quantitative Models in GIS, Northeast of Iran
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20130104.11
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-01-01
© Science Publishing Group
Mohammad Reza Mansouri Daneshvar
Somayeh Rezayi
Sarah Khosravi
Earthquake Vulnerability Zonation of Mashhad Urban Fabric by Combining the Quantitative Models in GIS, Northeast of Iran
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© Science Publishing Group
Mapping Enugu City’s Urban Heat Island
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20130104.12
The presence of a city has a major impact on its local environment in terms of the heat and water balance of the area. In particular, it has been widely observed that the centre of the urban area tends to be of the order of 4 to 6oC warmer than its rural surroundings (the urban heat island effect). This paper applied remote sensing data to map UHI phenomenon in Enugu urban. The selected area covered Enugu North; Enugu South; and Enugu East with a total area of 18704.25 hectares. The urban heat island was determined by using the land surface temperature (LST) information from thermal infrared band (Band 6) of landsat image with 120m pixel resolution. A subset of landsat TM acquired on October, 2008 that covered Enugu city was used in this study. Erdas imagine 8.5 was the main software for image classification of urban land cover in 2008, while GIS-Grid calculator functions were used to derive land surface temperature. This study demonstrates the spatial variation of land surface temperature (LST) within urban blocks with temperature above 37o Celsius. Urban impervious areas, highly populated areas, and areas with more anthropogenic activities were recognized to be areas with highest number of UHI- related pixels. The result revealed the effectiveness of remote sensing data application in analyzing UHI- land surface temperature relationship in Enugu.
The presence of a city has a major impact on its local environment in terms of the heat and water balance of the area. In particular, it has been widely observed that the centre of the urban area tends to be of the order of 4 to 6oC warmer than its rural surroundings (the urban heat island effect). This paper applied remote sensing data to map UHI phenomenon in Enugu urban. The selected area covered Enugu North; Enugu South; and Enugu East with a total area of 18704.25 hectares. The urban heat island was determined by using the land surface temperature (LST) information from thermal infrared band (Band 6) of landsat image with 120m pixel resolution. A subset of landsat TM acquired on October, 2008 that covered Enugu city was used in this study. Erdas imagine 8.5 was the main software for image classification of urban land cover in 2008, while GIS-Grid calculator functions were used to derive land surface temperature. This study demonstrates the spatial variation of land surface temperature (LST) within urban blocks with temperature above 37o Celsius. Urban impervious areas, highly populated areas, and areas with more anthropogenic activities were recognized to be areas with highest number of UHI- related pixels. The result revealed the effectiveness of remote sensing data application in analyzing UHI- land surface temperature relationship in Enugu.
Mapping Enugu City’s Urban Heat Island
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20130104.12
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-01-01
© Science Publishing Group
Enete Ifeanyi Christian
Okwu Virginia Ugoyibo
Mapping Enugu City’s Urban Heat Island
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© Science Publishing Group
Sustainability Issues in Innovative Waste Reduction Technology Adoption and Assimilation
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20130104.13
Increasing number of innovative waste reduction technologies are continuously being developed across various industrial sectors. Adoption and assimilation of proven waste reduction technologies can lead to significant resource savings, cost reduction, protection of biodiversity, and environmental conservation. However, transfer and adoption of technologies either across industrial sectors or geographical jurisdictions may pose enormous challenges to the adopters. In this study, issues affecting successful adoption and assimilation of waste reduction technologies from developed countries to developing countries and from one industrial sector to another were examined. Potential solution based on empirical study were also proposed. The study involved extensive literature survey and analysis of adoption procedures used by a number of technology adopters observed. It was discovered that the sustainability of waste reduction technology adopted depends on the fitness of the technology to the overall corporate success strategy, its compatibility with the corporate culture, availability of enabling operational infrastructure, sustained socio-political interest, and lifecycle cost of the technology.
Increasing number of innovative waste reduction technologies are continuously being developed across various industrial sectors. Adoption and assimilation of proven waste reduction technologies can lead to significant resource savings, cost reduction, protection of biodiversity, and environmental conservation. However, transfer and adoption of technologies either across industrial sectors or geographical jurisdictions may pose enormous challenges to the adopters. In this study, issues affecting successful adoption and assimilation of waste reduction technologies from developed countries to developing countries and from one industrial sector to another were examined. Potential solution based on empirical study were also proposed. The study involved extensive literature survey and analysis of adoption procedures used by a number of technology adopters observed. It was discovered that the sustainability of waste reduction technology adopted depends on the fitness of the technology to the overall corporate success strategy, its compatibility with the corporate culture, availability of enabling operational infrastructure, sustained socio-political interest, and lifecycle cost of the technology.
Sustainability Issues in Innovative Waste Reduction Technology Adoption and Assimilation
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20130104.13
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-01-01
© Science Publishing Group
Israel Dunmade
Sustainability Issues in Innovative Waste Reduction Technology Adoption and Assimilation
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© Science Publishing Group
Using Sustainability Criteria in Law
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20130104.15
The purpose of the article is to raise interest for using sustainability criteria as a means to promote and safeguard sustainability for traded products and their production. The focus is put on how sustainability criteria can be efficiently used in legal constructions. Practical examples from the biofuel sector are provided.
The purpose of the article is to raise interest for using sustainability criteria as a means to promote and safeguard sustainability for traded products and their production. The focus is put on how sustainability criteria can be efficiently used in legal constructions. Practical examples from the biofuel sector are provided.
Using Sustainability Criteria in Law
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20130104.15
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-01-01
© Science Publishing Group
Evgenia Pavlovskaia
Using Sustainability Criteria in Law
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2014-01-01
10.11648/j.ijepp.20130104.15
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20130104.15
© Science Publishing Group
Measuring Progress toward Environmental Sustainability Using a Quantitative Model
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20130104.16
During last tow century and after industrial revolution, especially in last fifty years, the world underwent considerable changes in its economical, social, technological and environmental areas. Crisis of underdevelopment, increasing effect of population on environment, uncontrolled exploitation and destruction of environment, poverty, malnutrition in developing countries, the growth of terrorism and social abnormalities, emerging diseases, a variety of social disorders, the income gap between rich and poor countries, and finally increasing destruction of environment are problems that affect human society, both developed and developing ones. Sure, continuity of this situation can face international community with a serious crisis which its miss effects will affect both developed and developing countries. Therefore, confronting these challenges require collaboration of all world countries. Thus, U.N. Millennium manifesto, in terms of millennium development goals in 2000, provided by U.N and approved by majority of world countries, Seventh goal of millennium, “Ensure environmental sustainability” was the main cornerstone of millennium development goals and reaching other goals and objectives of millennium development goals needs protecting environment and assuring its sustainability. By approving these goals, designed models and methods for determining actions and activities in terms of quantitative models. In this survey first, eight indicators of seventh MDG goals, some with positive relationship with sustainable development and some with negative relationship were chosen and information related to performances of 6 indices of 65 countries of world in years 1990, 1995, 2000 and 2005 extracted. After extracting indices and processing them, indices were standardized. In the next step and after standardizing, using McGranahan method, correlation matrix of indices was calculated by SPSS software and weight of each index was determined. After this step, weight of each index was multiplied on each standardized index and at the end composite index for each country was calculated for 1990, 1995, 2000 and 2005. Then, these composite indexes were sorted by descending. Stability numbers obtained using this method for Iran for these years are 141, 114, 131 and 139 respectively, which was always lower than the average of 65 countries. Iran’s rank was always between 40 and 45 showing undesirable performance which requires suitable actions.
During last tow century and after industrial revolution, especially in last fifty years, the world underwent considerable changes in its economical, social, technological and environmental areas. Crisis of underdevelopment, increasing effect of population on environment, uncontrolled exploitation and destruction of environment, poverty, malnutrition in developing countries, the growth of terrorism and social abnormalities, emerging diseases, a variety of social disorders, the income gap between rich and poor countries, and finally increasing destruction of environment are problems that affect human society, both developed and developing ones. Sure, continuity of this situation can face international community with a serious crisis which its miss effects will affect both developed and developing countries. Therefore, confronting these challenges require collaboration of all world countries. Thus, U.N. Millennium manifesto, in terms of millennium development goals in 2000, provided by U.N and approved by majority of world countries, Seventh goal of millennium, “Ensure environmental sustainability” was the main cornerstone of millennium development goals and reaching other goals and objectives of millennium development goals needs protecting environment and assuring its sustainability. By approving these goals, designed models and methods for determining actions and activities in terms of quantitative models. In this survey first, eight indicators of seventh MDG goals, some with positive relationship with sustainable development and some with negative relationship were chosen and information related to performances of 6 indices of 65 countries of world in years 1990, 1995, 2000 and 2005 extracted. After extracting indices and processing them, indices were standardized. In the next step and after standardizing, using McGranahan method, correlation matrix of indices was calculated by SPSS software and weight of each index was determined. After this step, weight of each index was multiplied on each standardized index and at the end composite index for each country was calculated for 1990, 1995, 2000 and 2005. Then, these composite indexes were sorted by descending. Stability numbers obtained using this method for Iran for these years are 141, 114, 131 and 139 respectively, which was always lower than the average of 65 countries. Iran’s rank was always between 40 and 45 showing undesirable performance which requires suitable actions.
Measuring Progress toward Environmental Sustainability Using a Quantitative Model
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20130104.16
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-01-01
© Science Publishing Group
Shaho Karami
Mohammad rezvani
Farzam Pourasghar Sanghachin
Hatef Marefat
Measuring Progress toward Environmental Sustainability Using a Quantitative Model
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2014-01-01
10.11648/j.ijepp.20130104.16
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20130104.16
© Science Publishing Group
Comprehensive Evaluation of Low-Carbon City in China Using Intuitionistic Fuzzy Set Theory
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20130104.14
Low carbon city is the direction of the development of city in the future. Firstly, this paper constructed the comprehensive evaluation index system of the low carbon economy city that including six primary indexes and 12 secondary indexes by summarizing the recent research of low-carbon connotation and low-carbon evaluation index. These indexes are low-carbon economy, low-carbon energy, low-carbon construction, low-carbon traffic, low-carbon society and low-carbon policy. And then, we discussed the development of low-carbon economy of Beijing, Shanghai and Baoding by using intuitionistic fuzzy set approach for urban low-carbon economy comprehensive evaluation index system. The result that Beijing first and Shanghai second and the last is Baoding, that have important practical significance to regulate and guide the construction of low-carbon cities.
Low carbon city is the direction of the development of city in the future. Firstly, this paper constructed the comprehensive evaluation index system of the low carbon economy city that including six primary indexes and 12 secondary indexes by summarizing the recent research of low-carbon connotation and low-carbon evaluation index. These indexes are low-carbon economy, low-carbon energy, low-carbon construction, low-carbon traffic, low-carbon society and low-carbon policy. And then, we discussed the development of low-carbon economy of Beijing, Shanghai and Baoding by using intuitionistic fuzzy set approach for urban low-carbon economy comprehensive evaluation index system. The result that Beijing first and Shanghai second and the last is Baoding, that have important practical significance to regulate and guide the construction of low-carbon cities.
Comprehensive Evaluation of Low-Carbon City in China Using Intuitionistic Fuzzy Set Theory
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20130104.14
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-01-01
© Science Publishing Group
Lei Wen
Qian Gao
Comprehensive Evaluation of Low-Carbon City in China Using Intuitionistic Fuzzy Set Theory
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75
75
2014-01-01
2014-01-01
10.11648/j.ijepp.20130104.14
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20130104.14
© Science Publishing Group
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA); A Useful Tool to Address Climate Change in Ghana
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20130104.18
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) since its inception in 1994 has been responsible for the implementation of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) regulation in Ghana. Many EIA have been performed on major projects such as mining, dams, gas projects but much has not been done in the mitigation of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) emissions which is said to be the main driving force of climate change. This reviewed paper therefore proposes the extension of the EIA regulations to small projects or activities such as deforestation, extensive land clearing, small scale mining and emissions from vehicles that have the potential of influencing climate change. The research was carried out by an extensive review of literature, reports, interaction with opinion leaders, lecturers, colleagues and students. The paper has attempted to explain the use of EIA in addressing the numerous environmental challenges by outlining the effect of climate change, EIA procedure in Ghana, the role of EIA in addressing climate change especially the emission of CO2. It was also established that the principle of EIA could be used to regulate pollution abatement, wastes management, conservation of natural resources, proper agricultural practices, development of clean and efficient energy sources. This application of EIA in climate change mitigation will safeguard the environment and improve the standard of living of the people. The paper concludes with some suggested recommendations.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) since its inception in 1994 has been responsible for the implementation of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) regulation in Ghana. Many EIA have been performed on major projects such as mining, dams, gas projects but much has not been done in the mitigation of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) emissions which is said to be the main driving force of climate change. This reviewed paper therefore proposes the extension of the EIA regulations to small projects or activities such as deforestation, extensive land clearing, small scale mining and emissions from vehicles that have the potential of influencing climate change. The research was carried out by an extensive review of literature, reports, interaction with opinion leaders, lecturers, colleagues and students. The paper has attempted to explain the use of EIA in addressing the numerous environmental challenges by outlining the effect of climate change, EIA procedure in Ghana, the role of EIA in addressing climate change especially the emission of CO2. It was also established that the principle of EIA could be used to regulate pollution abatement, wastes management, conservation of natural resources, proper agricultural practices, development of clean and efficient energy sources. This application of EIA in climate change mitigation will safeguard the environment and improve the standard of living of the people. The paper concludes with some suggested recommendations.
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA); A Useful Tool to Address Climate Change in Ghana
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20130104.18
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-01-01
© Science Publishing Group
Emmanuel Amankwah
Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA); A Useful Tool to Address Climate Change in Ghana
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100
100
2014-01-01
2014-01-01
10.11648/j.ijepp.20130104.18
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20130104.18
© Science Publishing Group
Sustainability of Transport Biofuels from a Legal Perspective
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20130104.17
The article investigates the notion of transport biofuels, their possible advantages and disadvantages in comparison to traditional fossil fuels, and sustainability requirements that need be stated to their quality and production methods from a legal perspective. The research results indicate that the understanding of what makes the quality and production of transport biofuels sustainable is still unclear. Sustainability parameters for biofuels will differ depending on the types and purposes of biofuel production. There is no clearly agreed definition on what biofuels, and particularly sustainable biofuels are. The task of law in this situation can be to contribute to the sustainable production of biofuels through the use of the traditional and newly emerging legal approaches and instruments, such as e.g. sustainability criteria for biofuels in Directive 2009/28/EC.
The article investigates the notion of transport biofuels, their possible advantages and disadvantages in comparison to traditional fossil fuels, and sustainability requirements that need be stated to their quality and production methods from a legal perspective. The research results indicate that the understanding of what makes the quality and production of transport biofuels sustainable is still unclear. Sustainability parameters for biofuels will differ depending on the types and purposes of biofuel production. There is no clearly agreed definition on what biofuels, and particularly sustainable biofuels are. The task of law in this situation can be to contribute to the sustainable production of biofuels through the use of the traditional and newly emerging legal approaches and instruments, such as e.g. sustainability criteria for biofuels in Directive 2009/28/EC.
Sustainability of Transport Biofuels from a Legal Perspective
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20130104.17
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-01-01
© Science Publishing Group
Evgenia Pavlovskaia
Sustainability of Transport Biofuels from a Legal Perspective
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2014-01-01
2014-01-01
10.11648/j.ijepp.20130104.17
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20130104.17
© Science Publishing Group
Effectiveness of Drought Mitigation Strategies in Bikita District, Zimbabwe
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20130104.19
Drought induced famine has been the worst disaster from which most rural people experience immense anguish. It still remains a National Policy agenda and a problem in most developing countries like Zimbabwe. Due to climate change, the impacts of droughts are expected to deepen where the capacity to adapt is low. Though it remains a challenge in communities, local people have devised different coping mechanisms based on the resources that are locally available but the effectiveness of these mechanisms are questionable. Therefore, using both qualitative and quantitative research methods this paper aims at identifying the drought mitigation strategies used in the Ward 2 of Bikita District, assess the impacts of these strategies and examine the challenges faced during attempts to implement them. Results indicated that in Ward 2 of Bikita District, people are using drought mitigation strategies which include food aid, food for work, and sale of livestock, remittances and irrigation scheme. It was also revealed that the most effective drought mitigation strategies were provision of food aid and food for work whereas the least effective were remittances and irrigation. The study also revealed that 72% of the community was not satisfied with the effectiveness of all the drought mitigation strategies being used. These strategies are held back by challenges in the Ward which include poor service delivery by NGOs and Government departments in mitigating droughts, poverty, corruption, lack of resources and unclear selection criterion of beneficiaries as well as lack of markets thereby leading to inefficiency of the drought mitigation strategies. The study recommended the construction of more dams and necessary infrastructure for irrigation, adoption of local knowledge into mitigation strategies, improving access to agricultural inputs and enhanced provision of technical assistance to farmers in the area.
Drought induced famine has been the worst disaster from which most rural people experience immense anguish. It still remains a National Policy agenda and a problem in most developing countries like Zimbabwe. Due to climate change, the impacts of droughts are expected to deepen where the capacity to adapt is low. Though it remains a challenge in communities, local people have devised different coping mechanisms based on the resources that are locally available but the effectiveness of these mechanisms are questionable. Therefore, using both qualitative and quantitative research methods this paper aims at identifying the drought mitigation strategies used in the Ward 2 of Bikita District, assess the impacts of these strategies and examine the challenges faced during attempts to implement them. Results indicated that in Ward 2 of Bikita District, people are using drought mitigation strategies which include food aid, food for work, and sale of livestock, remittances and irrigation scheme. It was also revealed that the most effective drought mitigation strategies were provision of food aid and food for work whereas the least effective were remittances and irrigation. The study also revealed that 72% of the community was not satisfied with the effectiveness of all the drought mitigation strategies being used. These strategies are held back by challenges in the Ward which include poor service delivery by NGOs and Government departments in mitigating droughts, poverty, corruption, lack of resources and unclear selection criterion of beneficiaries as well as lack of markets thereby leading to inefficiency of the drought mitigation strategies. The study recommended the construction of more dams and necessary infrastructure for irrigation, adoption of local knowledge into mitigation strategies, improving access to agricultural inputs and enhanced provision of technical assistance to farmers in the area.
Effectiveness of Drought Mitigation Strategies in Bikita District, Zimbabwe
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20130104.19
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-01-01
© Science Publishing Group
Terence Darlington Mushore
Chipo Muzenda/Mudavanhu
Theresa Makovere
Effectiveness of Drought Mitigation Strategies in Bikita District, Zimbabwe
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2014-01-01
10.11648/j.ijepp.20130104.19
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20130104.19
© Science Publishing Group
A Numerical Model for Simulating Thermal Comfort Prediction in Public Transportation Buses
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140201.11
A numerical simulation model that predicts the thermal comfort in public transportation buses was developed. A precise approach based on the assembly of zonal and nodal models, coupled with CFD results obtained for stationary conditions, is used to simulate the thermal and air flow phenomena inside the passenger compartments. The model allows to determine the thermal (solar, passenger, and convective) loads of the bus and then to qualify the comfort level using the equivalent temperature. Simulations carried out show the influence of air distribution inside the bus on passenger’s thermal comfort.
A numerical simulation model that predicts the thermal comfort in public transportation buses was developed. A precise approach based on the assembly of zonal and nodal models, coupled with CFD results obtained for stationary conditions, is used to simulate the thermal and air flow phenomena inside the passenger compartments. The model allows to determine the thermal (solar, passenger, and convective) loads of the bus and then to qualify the comfort level using the equivalent temperature. Simulations carried out show the influence of air distribution inside the bus on passenger’s thermal comfort.
A Numerical Model for Simulating Thermal Comfort Prediction in Public Transportation Buses
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20140201.11
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-01-01
© Science Publishing Group
Youssef Riachi
Denis Clodic
A Numerical Model for Simulating Thermal Comfort Prediction in Public Transportation Buses
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8
8
2014-01-01
2014-01-01
10.11648/j.ijepp.20140201.11
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140201.11
© Science Publishing Group
Assessment of Health Related Impacts of Urban Heat Island (UHI) in Douala Metropolis, Cameroon
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140201.15
Urban heat island (UHI) has the potential to directly influence the health and welfare of urban residents. This study assessed the health related impacts of urban heat island in Douala Metropolis in Cameroon. Two land-use classes (resident and commercial) and two land-cover types (paved and green surfaces) were used for the selection of the sample sites using purposive sampling technique. Two hundred and fifty questionnaires were distributed and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics such as multiple and simple bar charts, tables, graphs, central tendency, running mean and spearman’s rank correlation. The result revealed that the people of Douala are always in discomfort the climate usually in the form of heat stress, stroke, crumps, exhaustion, fatigue, headache, nausea, fainting and even death. The result equally showed a strong relationship between the land-use/cover and heat related symptoms.
Urban heat island (UHI) has the potential to directly influence the health and welfare of urban residents. This study assessed the health related impacts of urban heat island in Douala Metropolis in Cameroon. Two land-use classes (resident and commercial) and two land-cover types (paved and green surfaces) were used for the selection of the sample sites using purposive sampling technique. Two hundred and fifty questionnaires were distributed and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics such as multiple and simple bar charts, tables, graphs, central tendency, running mean and spearman’s rank correlation. The result revealed that the people of Douala are always in discomfort the climate usually in the form of heat stress, stroke, crumps, exhaustion, fatigue, headache, nausea, fainting and even death. The result equally showed a strong relationship between the land-use/cover and heat related symptoms.
Assessment of Health Related Impacts of Urban Heat Island (UHI) in Douala Metropolis, Cameroon
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20140201.15
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-01-01
© Science Publishing Group
Enete, I. C
Awuh, M. E
Amawa, S
Assessment of Health Related Impacts of Urban Heat Island (UHI) in Douala Metropolis, Cameroon
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40
40
2014-01-01
2014-01-01
10.11648/j.ijepp.20140201.15
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140201.15
© Science Publishing Group
Household Water Supply Vulnerability in Low Income Communities in Ghana: Experiences from Aboabo in the Kumasi Metropolitan Area
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140201.12
The process of urbanization holds great promise for economic and social progress of a nation. On the other hand this process is confronted with a lot of challenges. One such challenge is the increasing vulnerability to quality water supply among households in low income urban communities. In Ghana, urban households do not have water flowing regularly through their taps from the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) and therefore have to supplement their limited supply with water from sources such as Streams/Rivers and Wells. Indeed, whereas the quantity of available water is decreasing, the quality is also compromised mainly due to high population growth accompanied by low investments by the state. This research examines the extent of water supply vulnerability among households at Aboabo, a low income community in the Kumasi Metropolitan Area. Using both quantitative and qualitative approaches, the research revealed that water from source other than GWCL was highly polluted. This is evidenced from the higher counts of faecal coliforms and E. coli in the water bodies. Again, the research showed higher concentrations of physicochemical properties which were above the WHO standard for safe drinking water. The concentrations of microbiological and physiochemical properties in the water sources had implications on human health as most of the diseases reported were water related. The paper argues that Kumasi is well endowed with water resources, but the amount of water available for distribution within the city is far from uniform with the low income communities seriously underserved. The paper concludes that if this situation is not addressed with specific policy interventions, the consequence could be disastrous.
The process of urbanization holds great promise for economic and social progress of a nation. On the other hand this process is confronted with a lot of challenges. One such challenge is the increasing vulnerability to quality water supply among households in low income urban communities. In Ghana, urban households do not have water flowing regularly through their taps from the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) and therefore have to supplement their limited supply with water from sources such as Streams/Rivers and Wells. Indeed, whereas the quantity of available water is decreasing, the quality is also compromised mainly due to high population growth accompanied by low investments by the state. This research examines the extent of water supply vulnerability among households at Aboabo, a low income community in the Kumasi Metropolitan Area. Using both quantitative and qualitative approaches, the research revealed that water from source other than GWCL was highly polluted. This is evidenced from the higher counts of faecal coliforms and E. coli in the water bodies. Again, the research showed higher concentrations of physicochemical properties which were above the WHO standard for safe drinking water. The concentrations of microbiological and physiochemical properties in the water sources had implications on human health as most of the diseases reported were water related. The paper argues that Kumasi is well endowed with water resources, but the amount of water available for distribution within the city is far from uniform with the low income communities seriously underserved. The paper concludes that if this situation is not addressed with specific policy interventions, the consequence could be disastrous.
Household Water Supply Vulnerability in Low Income Communities in Ghana: Experiences from Aboabo in the Kumasi Metropolitan Area
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20140201.12
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-01-01
© Science Publishing Group
Ebenezer Owusu-Sekyere
Arkum Thaddeus Aasoglenang
Samuel Z. Bonye
Household Water Supply Vulnerability in Low Income Communities in Ghana: Experiences from Aboabo in the Kumasi Metropolitan Area
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18
18
2014-01-01
2014-01-01
10.11648/j.ijepp.20140201.12
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140201.12
© Science Publishing Group
Applying Environmental Management Policy for Sustainable Development of Coastal Tourism in Thailand
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140201.13
Coastal tourism destination is one of the fastest growing areas within the world’s largest tourism industry. In Thailand, large numbers of tourists come to coastal recreation areas, and the associated development is not well managed, there can be extremely negative effects on coastal environment. Also, the environmental impacts of coastal tourism are influenced by climate change impacts. The aim of article explores environmental management policy of coastal tourism to gather strategy and action for solving environmental impacts and applying sustainable development (SD) of coastal tourism. Hence, the findings of study show that key environmental impacts provide valuable lessons for coastal recreation areas. It also proposes the appropriate environmental management policy of coastal tourism in Thailand.
Coastal tourism destination is one of the fastest growing areas within the world’s largest tourism industry. In Thailand, large numbers of tourists come to coastal recreation areas, and the associated development is not well managed, there can be extremely negative effects on coastal environment. Also, the environmental impacts of coastal tourism are influenced by climate change impacts. The aim of article explores environmental management policy of coastal tourism to gather strategy and action for solving environmental impacts and applying sustainable development (SD) of coastal tourism. Hence, the findings of study show that key environmental impacts provide valuable lessons for coastal recreation areas. It also proposes the appropriate environmental management policy of coastal tourism in Thailand.
Applying Environmental Management Policy for Sustainable Development of Coastal Tourism in Thailand
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20140201.13
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-01-01
© Science Publishing Group
Phongphanich Nara
Guan-Guay Mao
Tsair-Bor Yen
Applying Environmental Management Policy for Sustainable Development of Coastal Tourism in Thailand
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23
23
2014-01-01
2014-01-01
10.11648/j.ijepp.20140201.13
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140201.13
© Science Publishing Group
Environmental Degradation and Management in Ethiopian Highlands: Review of Lessons Learned
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140201.14
About 50 percent of Ethiopia can be defined as mountainous, be it because of altitude above about 1500m, or because of steep slopes. The country’s highland areas include about 90% of its arable lands and are occupied by 90 percent of the human population and 60 percent of all livestock (Hurni, et al., 2010). Since 150,000 years ago population has expanded all over the highland parts of Ethiopia as they are very suitable places for living and agriculture than the malaria-infested harsh lowland areas surrounding the highlands. The Ethiopian Highlands, once endowed with rich natural resources, are agriculturally used since millennia and now heavily degraded (Gete, 2010). The interplay between the physical environment and population distribution in Ethiopia explains, to a great extent, the ever worsening problem of environmental degradation (Aklilu, 2001). Environmental management in Ethiopian highlands is therefore not only closely related to the improvement and conservation of ecological environment, but also to the sustainable development of Ethiopia’s agricultural sector and its economy at large. In Ethiopia, efforts towards this conservation goal were started since the mid-1970s and 80s (Aklilu, 2006; Wogayehu and Drake, 2001; Bekele and Holden, 1998). However, some of the management approaches were successful and other not. Therefore, the paper identifies opportunities to promote and scales up the successful best management practices and identifies challenges to put into practice different management practices which give preparation for environmental managers.
About 50 percent of Ethiopia can be defined as mountainous, be it because of altitude above about 1500m, or because of steep slopes. The country’s highland areas include about 90% of its arable lands and are occupied by 90 percent of the human population and 60 percent of all livestock (Hurni, et al., 2010). Since 150,000 years ago population has expanded all over the highland parts of Ethiopia as they are very suitable places for living and agriculture than the malaria-infested harsh lowland areas surrounding the highlands. The Ethiopian Highlands, once endowed with rich natural resources, are agriculturally used since millennia and now heavily degraded (Gete, 2010). The interplay between the physical environment and population distribution in Ethiopia explains, to a great extent, the ever worsening problem of environmental degradation (Aklilu, 2001). Environmental management in Ethiopian highlands is therefore not only closely related to the improvement and conservation of ecological environment, but also to the sustainable development of Ethiopia’s agricultural sector and its economy at large. In Ethiopia, efforts towards this conservation goal were started since the mid-1970s and 80s (Aklilu, 2006; Wogayehu and Drake, 2001; Bekele and Holden, 1998). However, some of the management approaches were successful and other not. Therefore, the paper identifies opportunities to promote and scales up the successful best management practices and identifies challenges to put into practice different management practices which give preparation for environmental managers.
Environmental Degradation and Management in Ethiopian Highlands: Review of Lessons Learned
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20140201.14
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-01-01
© Science Publishing Group
Adugnaw Birhanu
Environmental Degradation and Management in Ethiopian Highlands: Review of Lessons Learned
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2014-01-01
10.11648/j.ijepp.20140201.14
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140201.14
© Science Publishing Group
Flood Assessment in the Context of Sustainable Development using the DPSIR Framework
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140202.11
The assessment in the context of sustainable development is a holistic approach for assessing the impacts and trade-offs related to various land and water management options. It is a procedure in which a knowledge-based approach should be derived to develop a basis for decision making. A Diver-Pressure-State-Impact-Response (DPSIR) framework has been adopted to carry out the assessment. It is illustrated in the case of Gorganrood Basin (located in the north east of Iran) for the issue of flood to describe the relationship between the origin and consequences of flooding and also to understand the dynamics underpinning the problem. The analysis of the state of flood by DPSIR shows that the responses in Gorganrood Basin have led to inadequate problem-solving results not even effective to reduce system sensitivity to flood in the long term. In the context of DPSIR some reasonable responses may be regarded as decreasing the rates of urbanization, deforestation, land consolidation, and immigration; watershed management programs; and river dredging. DPSIR helps in structuring data in a reasonable way and allows decision makers to trace step wise fundamental problem drivers and explores leverage points where appropriate responses can be exerted.
The assessment in the context of sustainable development is a holistic approach for assessing the impacts and trade-offs related to various land and water management options. It is a procedure in which a knowledge-based approach should be derived to develop a basis for decision making. A Diver-Pressure-State-Impact-Response (DPSIR) framework has been adopted to carry out the assessment. It is illustrated in the case of Gorganrood Basin (located in the north east of Iran) for the issue of flood to describe the relationship between the origin and consequences of flooding and also to understand the dynamics underpinning the problem. The analysis of the state of flood by DPSIR shows that the responses in Gorganrood Basin have led to inadequate problem-solving results not even effective to reduce system sensitivity to flood in the long term. In the context of DPSIR some reasonable responses may be regarded as decreasing the rates of urbanization, deforestation, land consolidation, and immigration; watershed management programs; and river dredging. DPSIR helps in structuring data in a reasonable way and allows decision makers to trace step wise fundamental problem drivers and explores leverage points where appropriate responses can be exerted.
Flood Assessment in the Context of Sustainable Development using the DPSIR Framework
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20140202.11
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-01-01
© Science Publishing Group
Marzieh Samareh Hashemi
Fateme Zare
Ali Bagheri
Ali Moridi
Flood Assessment in the Context of Sustainable Development using the DPSIR Framework
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49
2014-01-01
2014-01-01
10.11648/j.ijepp.20140202.11
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140202.11
© Science Publishing Group
Waste to Treat Waste of Landfill Leachates
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140202.12
This study treated the waste valorisation of steel industrial wastewater (SIWW) rich of ferric chloride as an original coagulant for removal of landfill leachates. The study also compares the different dosage of SIWW with ferric chloride. Jar-test experiments were employed in order to determine the optimum condition for the removal of organic matter. The effect of different dosages of SIWW in contamination with classic coagulant was also studied. The results reveal that lower pH values less than 5 enhance removal efficiency of contaminants. The percentage removal of 56, 78.3 and 72% of COD, BOD5 and NTK respectively were achieved by addition to 7 ml/l SIWW. 54.4, 76.7 and 70% removal of COD, BOD5 and NTK respectively were achieved by addition to 1200 mg/l classic coagulant. The volume of sludge produced, was lower compared to classic coagulant.
This study treated the waste valorisation of steel industrial wastewater (SIWW) rich of ferric chloride as an original coagulant for removal of landfill leachates. The study also compares the different dosage of SIWW with ferric chloride. Jar-test experiments were employed in order to determine the optimum condition for the removal of organic matter. The effect of different dosages of SIWW in contamination with classic coagulant was also studied. The results reveal that lower pH values less than 5 enhance removal efficiency of contaminants. The percentage removal of 56, 78.3 and 72% of COD, BOD5 and NTK respectively were achieved by addition to 7 ml/l SIWW. 54.4, 76.7 and 70% removal of COD, BOD5 and NTK respectively were achieved by addition to 1200 mg/l classic coagulant. The volume of sludge produced, was lower compared to classic coagulant.
Waste to Treat Waste of Landfill Leachates
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20140202.12
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-01-01
© Science Publishing Group
Abdelkader Anouzla
Salah Souabi
Mohamed Safi
Younes Abrouki
Hayat Loukili
Hicham Rhbal
Waste to Treat Waste of Landfill Leachates
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2
53
53
2014-01-01
2014-01-01
10.11648/j.ijepp.20140202.12
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140202.12
© Science Publishing Group
Living Standards and Health Problems of Lesser Fortunate Slum Dwellers: Evidence from an Indian City
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140202.13
For a fast growing economy like India where most of its cities experiencing consistently increase in urban population, the future welfare of city residents is heavily relied on providing better living conditions and health prospects to the urban dwellers particularly to those who are living in miserable and unhygienic environment. The paper derived slum condition index (Slum CI) of notified and non-notified slums for assessing relative status of living conditions and health status of slum dwellers in a fast growing city. Slum CI as a composite index of its four components of household environmental index (HECI), social condition index (SCI), economic condition index (ECI) and health condition index (HCI) worked as an effective tool for identifying not only the slums requiring attention but also priorities required for the development of healthy and smart city. Slum CI based analysis revealed wide inequalities in its four components. Non-notified slums were found to have poor slum conditions. Social, economic and health conditions demand higher priority over household environmental conditions in Nangla Battu. In Shobhapur and Phelera household environmental conditions should be accorded higher priority over social, economic and health conditions. The study has also identified priorities for the notified slums which have better slum conditions. For instance, in Jamna Nagar, social, economic and health conditions and in Uttam Nagar household environmental conditions should be given higher priority for sustainable urban environmental management. Social conditions, health conditions and household environmental conditions are the outcome factors of poor economic conditions in the sampled slums. Priority based policy responses were suggested. Thus, slum condition index based approach can be utilized for assessing welfare programmes and relative status in slums, and providing holistic framework for healthy city.
For a fast growing economy like India where most of its cities experiencing consistently increase in urban population, the future welfare of city residents is heavily relied on providing better living conditions and health prospects to the urban dwellers particularly to those who are living in miserable and unhygienic environment. The paper derived slum condition index (Slum CI) of notified and non-notified slums for assessing relative status of living conditions and health status of slum dwellers in a fast growing city. Slum CI as a composite index of its four components of household environmental index (HECI), social condition index (SCI), economic condition index (ECI) and health condition index (HCI) worked as an effective tool for identifying not only the slums requiring attention but also priorities required for the development of healthy and smart city. Slum CI based analysis revealed wide inequalities in its four components. Non-notified slums were found to have poor slum conditions. Social, economic and health conditions demand higher priority over household environmental conditions in Nangla Battu. In Shobhapur and Phelera household environmental conditions should be accorded higher priority over social, economic and health conditions. The study has also identified priorities for the notified slums which have better slum conditions. For instance, in Jamna Nagar, social, economic and health conditions and in Uttam Nagar household environmental conditions should be given higher priority for sustainable urban environmental management. Social conditions, health conditions and household environmental conditions are the outcome factors of poor economic conditions in the sampled slums. Priority based policy responses were suggested. Thus, slum condition index based approach can be utilized for assessing welfare programmes and relative status in slums, and providing holistic framework for healthy city.
Living Standards and Health Problems of Lesser Fortunate Slum Dwellers: Evidence from an Indian City
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20140202.13
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-01-01
© Science Publishing Group
Haroon Sajjad
Living Standards and Health Problems of Lesser Fortunate Slum Dwellers: Evidence from an Indian City
2
2
63
63
2014-01-01
2014-01-01
10.11648/j.ijepp.20140202.13
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140202.13
© Science Publishing Group
The Adherence of the Diet to Mediterranean Principle and Its Impacts on Human and Environmental Health
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140202.14
The Mediterranean Adequacy Index (MAI) trends from 1961to 2007, for 48 countries pooled in 4 clusters according to their geographical location (Mediterranean European (ME) countries, Other Mediterranean (OM) countries, Northern European (NE) countries, Eastern European (EE) countries), has been analysed. In almost all the countries the adherence to Mediterranean diet is decreasing from 1961up to 2007, even if with different trend linked to the geographical and cultural characteristic of the clusters (respectively -56% for European Mediterranean and -21 for non-European Mediterranean). The cluster more adherent to healthy Mediterranean diet principles is the OM one, where the incidence of colorectal cancer is shown to be around 50% lower respect to the incidence in ME countries, and around 60% lower respect to the incidence in EE and NE countries. A significant relationship was observed between colorectal cancer incidence and animal protein consumption. On the other hand, vegetable protein intake is suggested to be slightly protective against colorectal cancer incidence. The ecological footprint of food production is higher in ME and NE than in OM and EE countries, even if it is generally higher than the biocapacity. In the 70% of the analysed countries water consumption for food production exceeds the total water exploitable, with an increasing trend from 1961 to 2007. An increase of 1 unit of MAI can decrease the ecological, carbon and water footprint (around 20-25%), in dependence on the initial level of MAI. Due to the environmental and health beneficial effects, the Mediterranean diet can be promoted as a win-win diet system.
The Mediterranean Adequacy Index (MAI) trends from 1961to 2007, for 48 countries pooled in 4 clusters according to their geographical location (Mediterranean European (ME) countries, Other Mediterranean (OM) countries, Northern European (NE) countries, Eastern European (EE) countries), has been analysed. In almost all the countries the adherence to Mediterranean diet is decreasing from 1961up to 2007, even if with different trend linked to the geographical and cultural characteristic of the clusters (respectively -56% for European Mediterranean and -21 for non-European Mediterranean). The cluster more adherent to healthy Mediterranean diet principles is the OM one, where the incidence of colorectal cancer is shown to be around 50% lower respect to the incidence in ME countries, and around 60% lower respect to the incidence in EE and NE countries. A significant relationship was observed between colorectal cancer incidence and animal protein consumption. On the other hand, vegetable protein intake is suggested to be slightly protective against colorectal cancer incidence. The ecological footprint of food production is higher in ME and NE than in OM and EE countries, even if it is generally higher than the biocapacity. In the 70% of the analysed countries water consumption for food production exceeds the total water exploitable, with an increasing trend from 1961 to 2007. An increase of 1 unit of MAI can decrease the ecological, carbon and water footprint (around 20-25%), in dependence on the initial level of MAI. Due to the environmental and health beneficial effects, the Mediterranean diet can be promoted as a win-win diet system.
The Adherence of the Diet to Mediterranean Principle and Its Impacts on Human and Environmental Health
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20140202.14
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-01-01
© Science Publishing Group
De Marco Alessandra
Velardi Maria
Camporeale Cecilia
Screpanti Augusto
Vitale Marcello
The Adherence of the Diet to Mediterranean Principle and Its Impacts on Human and Environmental Health
2
2
75
75
2014-01-01
2014-01-01
10.11648/j.ijepp.20140202.14
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140202.14
© Science Publishing Group
International Environmental Agreements (IEAs): An Integrated Perspective on the Concept of Effectiveness
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140202.15
The effectiveness of international environmental agreements (IEAs) has been conceptualized in various ways in the literature, and several assessment methodologies have been postulated. There has not been any attempt at integrating the various perspectives, nor of determining the fit between the assessment methodology and the goals of the IEAs or of the IEA institutions. This article reviews the various effectiveness conceptualizations, and proposes the ‘effectiveness web’ as an integrative framework for understanding the inter-relationships that exist among the various determinants and potential indicators of IEA effectiveness. This article argues for an evolutionary and dynamic conceptualization of IEA effectiveness, as well as a multi-track assessment of effectiveness, which is more in line with the activities of the IEA institutions. This article identifies potential indicators for various stages of the life-cycle of an IEA, and using the premise of global environmental sustainability as guiding framework, provides a hierarchy of effectiveness assessment methodologies.
The effectiveness of international environmental agreements (IEAs) has been conceptualized in various ways in the literature, and several assessment methodologies have been postulated. There has not been any attempt at integrating the various perspectives, nor of determining the fit between the assessment methodology and the goals of the IEAs or of the IEA institutions. This article reviews the various effectiveness conceptualizations, and proposes the ‘effectiveness web’ as an integrative framework for understanding the inter-relationships that exist among the various determinants and potential indicators of IEA effectiveness. This article argues for an evolutionary and dynamic conceptualization of IEA effectiveness, as well as a multi-track assessment of effectiveness, which is more in line with the activities of the IEA institutions. This article identifies potential indicators for various stages of the life-cycle of an IEA, and using the premise of global environmental sustainability as guiding framework, provides a hierarchy of effectiveness assessment methodologies.
International Environmental Agreements (IEAs): An Integrated Perspective on the Concept of Effectiveness
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20140202.15
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-01-01
© Science Publishing Group
Chenaz B. Seelarbokus
International Environmental Agreements (IEAs): An Integrated Perspective on the Concept of Effectiveness
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95
95
2014-01-01
2014-01-01
10.11648/j.ijepp.20140202.15
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140202.15
© Science Publishing Group
Taxation on Nuclear Waste in Spain
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140202.16
Fiscal Measures for Energy Sustainability Act 15/2012, modified by 16/2013 Act, established in Spain four new environmental taxes and extended the scope objective excise duties on mineral oils to tax the use of natural gas and coal as sources of electricity. One of the newly created taxes falls on all electric power producers, and has as tax base the turnover. The second one tax hydropower production and the other two fall on the nuclear industry. So, there are two new taxes in Spain on the production of electricity from nuclear sources. The first one is a tax on nuclear waste production; the second one is a tax on the storage of nuclear waste. However, these are not the only levies in the Spanish tax system affecting nuclear waste. At the State level there are already several charges on nuclear waste. At the regional level, on the other hand, two Autonomous Communities were taxing nuclear waste. The creation of these new State taxes will finish with the regional taxes, but the State will be oblige to compensate these regions for losing revenues. The purpose of this work is to carry out a critical analysis of the Spanish system of taxation on nuclear waste.
Fiscal Measures for Energy Sustainability Act 15/2012, modified by 16/2013 Act, established in Spain four new environmental taxes and extended the scope objective excise duties on mineral oils to tax the use of natural gas and coal as sources of electricity. One of the newly created taxes falls on all electric power producers, and has as tax base the turnover. The second one tax hydropower production and the other two fall on the nuclear industry. So, there are two new taxes in Spain on the production of electricity from nuclear sources. The first one is a tax on nuclear waste production; the second one is a tax on the storage of nuclear waste. However, these are not the only levies in the Spanish tax system affecting nuclear waste. At the State level there are already several charges on nuclear waste. At the regional level, on the other hand, two Autonomous Communities were taxing nuclear waste. The creation of these new State taxes will finish with the regional taxes, but the State will be oblige to compensate these regions for losing revenues. The purpose of this work is to carry out a critical analysis of the Spanish system of taxation on nuclear waste.
Taxation on Nuclear Waste in Spain
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20140202.16
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-04-09
© Science Publishing Group
José A. Rozas
Taxation on Nuclear Waste in Spain
2
2
103
103
2014-04-09
2014-04-09
10.11648/j.ijepp.20140202.16
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140202.16
© Science Publishing Group
Behind the Myth: Indigenous Knowledge and Belief Systems in Natural Resource Conservation in North East Ghana
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140203.11
Natural resource management issues in developing countries are increasingly mimicking western theories and the contribution of indigenous cultures and institutions are often overlooked. This research examines the role traditional belief systems and indigenous knowledge and practices have played in the management and conservation of natural environmental resources in the Upper East Region of Ghana. Some cultural practices and belief systems like sacrifices, worship, the Tindaanaship organization and the Tingaane civilization and how the Tindaanas (chief priest) communicates through the Tingaane (shrines and sacred groves) to the ancestral spirits or gods, how the people are punished if the gods are provoked were examined. The study revealed that the significant attribute of the belief systems that rest on the ascription of supernatural powers to some parts of the environment as the home of the gods has significantly helped to conserve the natural environment. The protection of these homes/areas from utilization, exploitation and use explicitly encourages conservation of environmental resources. Forbidden areas and totemic items/objects associated with worship immensely promoted conservation of resources. Over the years, traditional belief systems, practices and indigenous knowledge strategies that conserve the natural resources have been eroded or corroded by western cultural infiltration and religion. The study recommends a re-visitation of the traditional belief systems and cultural practices that promote the management, preservation and conservation of natural resources for the sustainable development of the Upper East Region and the nation at large.
Natural resource management issues in developing countries are increasingly mimicking western theories and the contribution of indigenous cultures and institutions are often overlooked. This research examines the role traditional belief systems and indigenous knowledge and practices have played in the management and conservation of natural environmental resources in the Upper East Region of Ghana. Some cultural practices and belief systems like sacrifices, worship, the Tindaanaship organization and the Tingaane civilization and how the Tindaanas (chief priest) communicates through the Tingaane (shrines and sacred groves) to the ancestral spirits or gods, how the people are punished if the gods are provoked were examined. The study revealed that the significant attribute of the belief systems that rest on the ascription of supernatural powers to some parts of the environment as the home of the gods has significantly helped to conserve the natural environment. The protection of these homes/areas from utilization, exploitation and use explicitly encourages conservation of environmental resources. Forbidden areas and totemic items/objects associated with worship immensely promoted conservation of resources. Over the years, traditional belief systems, practices and indigenous knowledge strategies that conserve the natural resources have been eroded or corroded by western cultural infiltration and religion. The study recommends a re-visitation of the traditional belief systems and cultural practices that promote the management, preservation and conservation of natural resources for the sustainable development of the Upper East Region and the nation at large.
Behind the Myth: Indigenous Knowledge and Belief Systems in Natural Resource Conservation in North East Ghana
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20140203.11
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-05-12
© Science Publishing Group
Philip Aniah
Arkum Thaddeus Aasoglenang
Samuel Z. Bonye
Behind the Myth: Indigenous Knowledge and Belief Systems in Natural Resource Conservation in North East Ghana
2
3
112
112
2014-05-12
2014-05-12
10.11648/j.ijepp.20140203.11
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140203.11
© Science Publishing Group
Geomorphological Explanation of Karstic Drainage Sensitivity toward Anthropogenic Pollutants in Kardeh Catchment, NE Iran
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140203.12
In the present study, we aimed to geomorphological explanation of karst features and their environmental sensitivity in Kardeh catchment in Kopet–Dagh mountainous zone, NE Iran. Environmental sensitivity of karst is well marked by anthropogenic pollutants and land degradation problems in regions such as Kopet–Dagh, where some tens of karstic landforms are present over the Jurassic lithology. Anthropogenic pollutants resulted in intense environmental degradation and changed the natural karstic drainage in the catchment. We faced with karstified drainage, which supplies a portion of drinking–water of Mashhad metropolitan area. In Kardeh catchment, three main sources of anthropogenic pollutants to karst drainage have been identified: agricultural impacts, waste water entrance in hydrologic system of karst and garbage burying on carbonate prone rocks. Based on the comparison of fertilizers consumption and wastes production in the catchment we observed that the sub–basins of Balghur (Bl), Kharkat (Kh) and Mareshk (Ma) sub–basins have the most anthropogenic pollutants, where the carbonate formations of Mozduran 1, 2 (>75% of surface area) have the most environmental sensitivity. As a general rule, the protection of the hydrologic system of karst and management of the carbonate catchment are geomorphological strategies in environmental planning.
In the present study, we aimed to geomorphological explanation of karst features and their environmental sensitivity in Kardeh catchment in Kopet–Dagh mountainous zone, NE Iran. Environmental sensitivity of karst is well marked by anthropogenic pollutants and land degradation problems in regions such as Kopet–Dagh, where some tens of karstic landforms are present over the Jurassic lithology. Anthropogenic pollutants resulted in intense environmental degradation and changed the natural karstic drainage in the catchment. We faced with karstified drainage, which supplies a portion of drinking–water of Mashhad metropolitan area. In Kardeh catchment, three main sources of anthropogenic pollutants to karst drainage have been identified: agricultural impacts, waste water entrance in hydrologic system of karst and garbage burying on carbonate prone rocks. Based on the comparison of fertilizers consumption and wastes production in the catchment we observed that the sub–basins of Balghur (Bl), Kharkat (Kh) and Mareshk (Ma) sub–basins have the most anthropogenic pollutants, where the carbonate formations of Mozduran 1, 2 (>75% of surface area) have the most environmental sensitivity. As a general rule, the protection of the hydrologic system of karst and management of the carbonate catchment are geomorphological strategies in environmental planning.
Geomorphological Explanation of Karstic Drainage Sensitivity toward Anthropogenic Pollutants in Kardeh Catchment, NE Iran
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20140203.12
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-05-19
© Science Publishing Group
Mohammad Reza Mansouri Daneshvar
Abolfazl Behniafar
Hadi Ghanbarzadeh
Geomorphological Explanation of Karstic Drainage Sensitivity toward Anthropogenic Pollutants in Kardeh Catchment, NE Iran
2
3
117
117
2014-05-19
2014-05-19
10.11648/j.ijepp.20140203.12
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140203.12
© Science Publishing Group
Treatment of Wastewater from a Slaughterhouse by Gliding Arc Humid Air Plasma: Chlorophyll Degradation
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140203.13
Wastewater samples from liquid effluents of a slaughterhouse in the city of Yaounde (Cameroon) was first analyzed and exposed to gliding arc (glidarc) electric discharge to reduce the pollution load. The analyzed results showed high levels of organic pollution parameters (BOD5 = 2000 mg/L, COD = 30544 mg/L) and the presence of a large amount of microorganisms. The UV-Visible spectrum showed an absorbance peak at 663 nm which can be attributed to chlorophyll. A hexane extract of green leaves of senna alata was thus exposed to the plasma to follow the degradation of chlorophyll. After 30 minutes of treatment, reduction rates of 96% and 73% respectively were obtained for BOD5 and COD. The absorption peak disappears and a discoloration rate of 76% was obtained. Microorganisms such as fecal coliforms and fecal streptococci present in large quantities were completely destroyed by plasma after 15 minutes of exposure to the electric discharge. In addition, the decrease in total organic carbon showed that there was mineralization of chlorophyll contained in senna alata. This study shows that the gliding arc plasma is effective in cleaning the wastewater from slaughterhouses and in degrading chlorophyll.
Wastewater samples from liquid effluents of a slaughterhouse in the city of Yaounde (Cameroon) was first analyzed and exposed to gliding arc (glidarc) electric discharge to reduce the pollution load. The analyzed results showed high levels of organic pollution parameters (BOD5 = 2000 mg/L, COD = 30544 mg/L) and the presence of a large amount of microorganisms. The UV-Visible spectrum showed an absorbance peak at 663 nm which can be attributed to chlorophyll. A hexane extract of green leaves of senna alata was thus exposed to the plasma to follow the degradation of chlorophyll. After 30 minutes of treatment, reduction rates of 96% and 73% respectively were obtained for BOD5 and COD. The absorption peak disappears and a discoloration rate of 76% was obtained. Microorganisms such as fecal coliforms and fecal streptococci present in large quantities were completely destroyed by plasma after 15 minutes of exposure to the electric discharge. In addition, the decrease in total organic carbon showed that there was mineralization of chlorophyll contained in senna alata. This study shows that the gliding arc plasma is effective in cleaning the wastewater from slaughterhouses and in degrading chlorophyll.
Treatment of Wastewater from a Slaughterhouse by Gliding Arc Humid Air Plasma: Chlorophyll Degradation
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20140203.13
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-06-12
© Science Publishing Group
Jourdin Gongwala
Serge Alain Djepang
Paltahe Abba
Gaston Payom
Samuel Laminsi
Daniel Njopwouo
Treatment of Wastewater from a Slaughterhouse by Gliding Arc Humid Air Plasma: Chlorophyll Degradation
2
3
125
125
2014-06-12
2014-06-12
10.11648/j.ijepp.20140203.13
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140203.13
© Science Publishing Group
Bioaccumulation of Heavy Metals in Fish Sourced from Environmentally Stressed Axis of River Niger: Threat to Ecosystem and Public Health
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140204.11
Pollution of freshwater ecosystems is alarmingly becoming high in Nigeria with attendant public health effects on the dependent populations. Fish, a source of protein with pronounced placement on local food menu is now considered an important dietary threat of heavy metal toxicity via consumptions. Bioaccumulation of heavy metals (copper, zinc and lead) in Silver catfish (Schilbe intermedius) from River Niger was conducted. The Fish samples were collected from different sites of Onitsha axis of the River Niger owing to their environmental stresses. Samples were analyzed for heavy metal (copper- Cu, zinc- Zn, and lead- Pb) concentrations in muscle tissues using the Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS) and compared with Food and Agriculture Organization safe limits. Margin of exposure (MOE) was estimated to measure the potential public health risk of consuming the contaminated fish. The concentrations of heavy metals (Cu- 8.92±4.748, Zn- 0.36±0.249, and Pb- 2.689±1.505) observed were significant (P<.05) with diversity in different experimental locations and Cu recording highest pooled mean concentrations. The trend of the metal occurrences was Cu>Pb>Zn. Statistical Pearson moment correlation analysis showed that the concentrations of heavy metals detected were independent of the weight of sampled fish for zinc but was positively correlated for copper and lead. Relating the mean metal concentrations obtained in the study with Food and Agriculture Organization standard for fish muscles indicated that mean concentrations of copper, zinc and lead are far above safe margins for human consumption except the fish sourced from sites A4 and A9 for lead and zinc, respectively. Margin of exposure was below one and tentatively considered not to be of risk to public health. However, there is considerable contamination of the Silver catfish from the River Niger with heavy metals. It is recommended that substantial attention be paid to the heavy metal levels in freshwater fishes from the river. Measures should be put in place to regulate the indiscriminate dredging activities, discharge of raw sewage and industrial effluent into the river and regular public health check on the level of heavy metals among the populace in the communities that border the area should be employed.
Pollution of freshwater ecosystems is alarmingly becoming high in Nigeria with attendant public health effects on the dependent populations. Fish, a source of protein with pronounced placement on local food menu is now considered an important dietary threat of heavy metal toxicity via consumptions. Bioaccumulation of heavy metals (copper, zinc and lead) in Silver catfish (Schilbe intermedius) from River Niger was conducted. The Fish samples were collected from different sites of Onitsha axis of the River Niger owing to their environmental stresses. Samples were analyzed for heavy metal (copper- Cu, zinc- Zn, and lead- Pb) concentrations in muscle tissues using the Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS) and compared with Food and Agriculture Organization safe limits. Margin of exposure (MOE) was estimated to measure the potential public health risk of consuming the contaminated fish. The concentrations of heavy metals (Cu- 8.92±4.748, Zn- 0.36±0.249, and Pb- 2.689±1.505) observed were significant (P<.05) with diversity in different experimental locations and Cu recording highest pooled mean concentrations. The trend of the metal occurrences was Cu>Pb>Zn. Statistical Pearson moment correlation analysis showed that the concentrations of heavy metals detected were independent of the weight of sampled fish for zinc but was positively correlated for copper and lead. Relating the mean metal concentrations obtained in the study with Food and Agriculture Organization standard for fish muscles indicated that mean concentrations of copper, zinc and lead are far above safe margins for human consumption except the fish sourced from sites A4 and A9 for lead and zinc, respectively. Margin of exposure was below one and tentatively considered not to be of risk to public health. However, there is considerable contamination of the Silver catfish from the River Niger with heavy metals. It is recommended that substantial attention be paid to the heavy metal levels in freshwater fishes from the river. Measures should be put in place to regulate the indiscriminate dredging activities, discharge of raw sewage and industrial effluent into the river and regular public health check on the level of heavy metals among the populace in the communities that border the area should be employed.
Bioaccumulation of Heavy Metals in Fish Sourced from Environmentally Stressed Axis of River Niger: Threat to Ecosystem and Public Health
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20140204.11
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-07-07
© Science Publishing Group
Ezeonyejiaku Chigozie Damian
Nwuba Lucy Afulenu
Obiakor Maximilian Obinna
Okonkwo Chidumeje Ndidi
Bioaccumulation of Heavy Metals in Fish Sourced from Environmentally Stressed Axis of River Niger: Threat to Ecosystem and Public Health
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131
131
2014-07-07
2014-07-07
10.11648/j.ijepp.20140204.11
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140204.11
© Science Publishing Group
Status of Recycling Plastic Bottles in Japan and a Comparison of the Energy Costs of Different Recycling Methods
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140204.12
The present study explains the status of recycling plastic bottles in Japan and recycling methods, and examines whether or not they are effective in terms of reducing energy consumption. The results of the study suggest that it is unwise to use plastic bottles as containers for tea, water, soft drinks, and other beverages in the first place, and that the recycling of plastic bottles is a waste of energy. It is better to combust used plastic bottles, rather than recycle them, to produce and utilize heat.
The present study explains the status of recycling plastic bottles in Japan and recycling methods, and examines whether or not they are effective in terms of reducing energy consumption. The results of the study suggest that it is unwise to use plastic bottles as containers for tea, water, soft drinks, and other beverages in the first place, and that the recycling of plastic bottles is a waste of energy. It is better to combust used plastic bottles, rather than recycle them, to produce and utilize heat.
Status of Recycling Plastic Bottles in Japan and a Comparison of the Energy Costs of Different Recycling Methods
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20140204.12
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-08-08
© Science Publishing Group
Masakazu Yamashita
Shin-ichiro Matsumoto
Status of Recycling Plastic Bottles in Japan and a Comparison of the Energy Costs of Different Recycling Methods
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137
137
2014-08-08
2014-08-08
10.11648/j.ijepp.20140204.12
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140204.12
© Science Publishing Group
Trends and Shifts in Time Series of Rainfall and Runoff in the Gambia River Watershed
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140204.13
For several decades, climate change and climate variability issues and their impacts on the hydrological regime of rivers have constituted a major topic for hydroclimatological sciences research and water resources planning policies. Understanding of these issues needs enough long time series of rainfall and runoff data covering a large period, and a comprehensive diagnosis of the existing trends and shifts in these time series of data. This can be done by applying robust statistical tests to relevant rainfall and runoff time annual series. The aim of this paper is to highlight the effect of climate change in the Gambia River Basin and its impacts on the availability of the water resources of this basin. To reach this objective, we have selected runoff time series of the Gambia River Basin at Mako, Kedougou Diaguéri streamgauges and rainfall time series at Koulountou’s rain gauge. Statistical tests for shift detection presented in the Khronostat software, such as Pettit, Hubert and Buishand ellipse tests are first used, Mann Kendall test for annual trend are then applied to check whether trends exist or not in these times series. When the null hypothesis of no trend is rejected, the non parametric Sen’s test is then applied to validate the Mann Kendall trend test and to estimate the magnitude of the trend and its direction. Tests for homogeneity show an increasing shift for rainfall time series of Koulountou raingauge and for runoff time series of Mako and Diaguéri and a decreasing shift for Kedougou streamgauge. According to the Mann Kendall trend test, there is an upward trend for Koulountou rainfall time series, and Mako and Diaguéri runoff time series, and a downward trend for Kedougou annual runoff time series. The Buishand ellipse and the Hubert test indicate generally the same year of the beginning of the shift. Interesting perspectives for decision makers in evaluation and precise management of water resources and water projects in the Gambia River basin are offered as well.
For several decades, climate change and climate variability issues and their impacts on the hydrological regime of rivers have constituted a major topic for hydroclimatological sciences research and water resources planning policies. Understanding of these issues needs enough long time series of rainfall and runoff data covering a large period, and a comprehensive diagnosis of the existing trends and shifts in these time series of data. This can be done by applying robust statistical tests to relevant rainfall and runoff time annual series. The aim of this paper is to highlight the effect of climate change in the Gambia River Basin and its impacts on the availability of the water resources of this basin. To reach this objective, we have selected runoff time series of the Gambia River Basin at Mako, Kedougou Diaguéri streamgauges and rainfall time series at Koulountou’s rain gauge. Statistical tests for shift detection presented in the Khronostat software, such as Pettit, Hubert and Buishand ellipse tests are first used, Mann Kendall test for annual trend are then applied to check whether trends exist or not in these times series. When the null hypothesis of no trend is rejected, the non parametric Sen’s test is then applied to validate the Mann Kendall trend test and to estimate the magnitude of the trend and its direction. Tests for homogeneity show an increasing shift for rainfall time series of Koulountou raingauge and for runoff time series of Mako and Diaguéri and a decreasing shift for Kedougou streamgauge. According to the Mann Kendall trend test, there is an upward trend for Koulountou rainfall time series, and Mako and Diaguéri runoff time series, and a downward trend for Kedougou annual runoff time series. The Buishand ellipse and the Hubert test indicate generally the same year of the beginning of the shift. Interesting perspectives for decision makers in evaluation and precise management of water resources and water projects in the Gambia River basin are offered as well.
Trends and Shifts in Time Series of Rainfall and Runoff in the Gambia River Watershed
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20140204.13
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-08-24
© Science Publishing Group
Vieux Boukhaly Traore
Soussou Sambou
Mohamed Talla Cisse
Séni Tamba
Sidy Fall
Amadou Tahirou Diaw
Hyacinthe Sambou
Malanda Edmond Nimy
Trends and Shifts in Time Series of Rainfall and Runoff in the Gambia River Watershed
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146
2014-08-24
2014-08-24
10.11648/j.ijepp.20140204.13
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140204.13
© Science Publishing Group
The Potential for Solid Waste Recycling in Urban Area of Tanzania: The Case of Dar Es Salaam
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.11
Recycling and reuse of solid waste has a number of benefits in the overall process of solid waste management. First, it reduces the amount of waste that has to be disposed off; be it in landfills or otherwise. In this way, it reduces constraints on other resources needed in the management of solid waste. Secondly, it is an economic activity through which new enterprises can be created and thus creating employment through collection and reselling recyclable materials, or working directly in the enterprises. In a solid waste characterisation study carried out in Dar es Salaam, it was found that despite the fact that 98% of solid waste generated per day can be recycled or composted, only 10% is recycled leaving 90% to be disposed in dumpsites. This paper we present the results and recommend formalisation of recycling activities in order to reduce solid waste management load to the authorities.
Recycling and reuse of solid waste has a number of benefits in the overall process of solid waste management. First, it reduces the amount of waste that has to be disposed off; be it in landfills or otherwise. In this way, it reduces constraints on other resources needed in the management of solid waste. Secondly, it is an economic activity through which new enterprises can be created and thus creating employment through collection and reselling recyclable materials, or working directly in the enterprises. In a solid waste characterisation study carried out in Dar es Salaam, it was found that despite the fact that 98% of solid waste generated per day can be recycled or composted, only 10% is recycled leaving 90% to be disposed in dumpsites. This paper we present the results and recommend formalisation of recycling activities in order to reduce solid waste management load to the authorities.
The Potential for Solid Waste Recycling in Urban Area of Tanzania: The Case of Dar Es Salaam
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.11
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-09-01
© Science Publishing Group
Jonas Petro Senzige
Yaw Nkansah-Gyeke
Daniel O. Makinde
Karoli N. Njau
The Potential for Solid Waste Recycling in Urban Area of Tanzania: The Case of Dar Es Salaam
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152
152
2014-09-01
2014-09-01
10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.11
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.11
© Science Publishing Group
Evaluation about Drinking Bottle’s Reduce and Reuse Effectiveness: Super Light Returnable Glass Bottles and Life Cycle Assessment
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.12
"Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle are terms which are familiar to us as the "3Rs. " The 3Rs enable us to decrease pollution in the environment. The "Super Light Returnable Glass Bottle " is a light and reusable glass bottle generated by advancements in the technology of glass engineering. By manufacturing and using "Super Light Returnable Glass Bottles " as opposed to other container types, potentially we can reduce up to 80% of CO2 emissions. This article introduces what "Super Light Returnable Glass Bottles " are, shows how glass bottles are manufactured, and then proposes an approach to promote its use. We show the potential environmental benefits of Super Light Returnable Glass Bottles by conducting a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) analysis for drinking containers. We demonstrate the effectiveness of "Reduce " and "Reuse " in the 3Rs by simulating the change in CO2 emissions resulting from glass bottle reuse and reduction in glass bottle weight.
"Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle are terms which are familiar to us as the "3Rs. " The 3Rs enable us to decrease pollution in the environment. The "Super Light Returnable Glass Bottle " is a light and reusable glass bottle generated by advancements in the technology of glass engineering. By manufacturing and using "Super Light Returnable Glass Bottles " as opposed to other container types, potentially we can reduce up to 80% of CO2 emissions. This article introduces what "Super Light Returnable Glass Bottles " are, shows how glass bottles are manufactured, and then proposes an approach to promote its use. We show the potential environmental benefits of Super Light Returnable Glass Bottles by conducting a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) analysis for drinking containers. We demonstrate the effectiveness of "Reduce " and "Reuse " in the 3Rs by simulating the change in CO2 emissions resulting from glass bottle reuse and reduction in glass bottle weight.
Evaluation about Drinking Bottle’s Reduce and Reuse Effectiveness: Super Light Returnable Glass Bottles and Life Cycle Assessment
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.12
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-09-11
© Science Publishing Group
Shuichi Tamura
Robert William Marek
Evaluation about Drinking Bottle’s Reduce and Reuse Effectiveness: Super Light Returnable Glass Bottles and Life Cycle Assessment
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160
160
2014-09-11
2014-09-11
10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.12
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.12
© Science Publishing Group
A Lantern Retort for Small-Scale Gold Extraction
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.13
Two major retorts used in small-scale gold mining operations to reduce mercury emissions, during amalgam distillation are the steel and thermex retorts. Steel retorts are not very popular due to the reported darkening of gold after retorting. In addition, its opaque nature prevents miners from observing the process directly. The Thermex glass retort introduced by the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) is also not patronised due to the extended heating periods resulting from the low thermal conductivity of glass. This paper describes a new retort, the Lantern retort, a combination of highly conductive steel with transparent glass, and therefore, a potential solution to the above concerns. The Lantern retort has a shorter warm-up and amalgam distillation time, and the rate of heating is 1.81oC/s while that of the Thermex is 1.49oC/s. For an amalgam of mass 20 g, 900 s was required to carry out complete distillation in the Lantern retort as against 2100 s in the Thermex. The height of the distillation column of the Lantern retort required to reduce mercury loss to below 1%, as it is with the Thermex retort, is 2.5 cm. Other advantages of the Lantern retort are that, it is less expensive and can withstand the harsh terrain of small-scale gold mining.
Two major retorts used in small-scale gold mining operations to reduce mercury emissions, during amalgam distillation are the steel and thermex retorts. Steel retorts are not very popular due to the reported darkening of gold after retorting. In addition, its opaque nature prevents miners from observing the process directly. The Thermex glass retort introduced by the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) is also not patronised due to the extended heating periods resulting from the low thermal conductivity of glass. This paper describes a new retort, the Lantern retort, a combination of highly conductive steel with transparent glass, and therefore, a potential solution to the above concerns. The Lantern retort has a shorter warm-up and amalgam distillation time, and the rate of heating is 1.81oC/s while that of the Thermex is 1.49oC/s. For an amalgam of mass 20 g, 900 s was required to carry out complete distillation in the Lantern retort as against 2100 s in the Thermex. The height of the distillation column of the Lantern retort required to reduce mercury loss to below 1%, as it is with the Thermex retort, is 2.5 cm. Other advantages of the Lantern retort are that, it is less expensive and can withstand the harsh terrain of small-scale gold mining.
A Lantern Retort for Small-Scale Gold Extraction
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.13
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-09-16
© Science Publishing Group
Richard Kwasi Amankwah
Grace Ofori-Sarpong
A Lantern Retort for Small-Scale Gold Extraction
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167
167
2014-09-16
2014-09-16
10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.13
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.13
© Science Publishing Group
Anaerobic Digestion of Banana Winery Effluent for Biogas Production
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.14
The efficiency of banana winery effluent (BWE) in biogas production through improving fermentation process was investigated in this study. The study was conducted in a batch system under mesophilic temperature of 35oC achieved by using controlled thermostat waterbath. Two sets of experiments (labeled as experiment 1 and experiment 2) with five reactors each, were performed in the laboratory. For experiment 1, reactor A was treated as a control with no addition of urea while 1g,2g,3g and 4g of urea were added in reactors B,C,D and E respectively. For experiment 2, different amount of sucrose, that is 0.18g, 0.27g, 0.36g and 0.44g were added in the reactors B, C, D and E correspondingly, and reactor A without sucrose addition was used as the control .Results for experiment 1 revealed that reactor A produced largest volume of biogas (1.93L) followed by reactor B with least amount of urea where 1.37L of biogas was generated. Other reactors produced smaller volume of biogas during the study period. For experiment 2 results indicated large volume of biogas (2.72L) was produced in reactor C with 0.27g of sucrose followed by reactor D (2.71L) with 0.36g sucrose. The biogas produced contained 68.9% - 74.6% methane (CH4). This study concluded that addition of nitrogen source does not increase biogas production from Banana winery effluent while addition of carbon source is important as a source of energy for enhancing C: N ratio for process stability and biogas production.
The efficiency of banana winery effluent (BWE) in biogas production through improving fermentation process was investigated in this study. The study was conducted in a batch system under mesophilic temperature of 35oC achieved by using controlled thermostat waterbath. Two sets of experiments (labeled as experiment 1 and experiment 2) with five reactors each, were performed in the laboratory. For experiment 1, reactor A was treated as a control with no addition of urea while 1g,2g,3g and 4g of urea were added in reactors B,C,D and E respectively. For experiment 2, different amount of sucrose, that is 0.18g, 0.27g, 0.36g and 0.44g were added in the reactors B, C, D and E correspondingly, and reactor A without sucrose addition was used as the control .Results for experiment 1 revealed that reactor A produced largest volume of biogas (1.93L) followed by reactor B with least amount of urea where 1.37L of biogas was generated. Other reactors produced smaller volume of biogas during the study period. For experiment 2 results indicated large volume of biogas (2.72L) was produced in reactor C with 0.27g of sucrose followed by reactor D (2.71L) with 0.36g sucrose. The biogas produced contained 68.9% - 74.6% methane (CH4). This study concluded that addition of nitrogen source does not increase biogas production from Banana winery effluent while addition of carbon source is important as a source of energy for enhancing C: N ratio for process stability and biogas production.
Anaerobic Digestion of Banana Winery Effluent for Biogas Production
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.14
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-09-30
© Science Publishing Group
Sophia Saidi Bakili
Amare Gessesse
Kelvin Mtei
Karoli Nicholus Njau
Anaerobic Digestion of Banana Winery Effluent for Biogas Production
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173
173
2014-09-30
2014-09-30
10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.14
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.14
© Science Publishing Group
Development of a Cost-Benefit Analysis Approach for Water Reuse in Irrigation
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.16
Water reuse is one of the alternatives to counteract the already experienced water shortages. However water reuse as any other investment is associated with costs. This article looks at water reuse for irrigation as one of the areas that has recently gained attention. However, water reuse requires a prior installation of wastewater treatment and the irrigation systems of which all requires financial resources. Analysis of the costs and benefits of water reuse remains one of the key tools for decision making. Unfortunately there has been no universal way for doing cost benefit analysis that can fit all reuse applications and the local settings. The objective of this study was to customize the existing water reuse cost benefit analysis methods and develop cost benefit analysis for water reuse in irrigation. The net benefit value approach was studied, examined and modified to incorporate all the relevant cost items and benefits associated with water reuse in irrigation. Based on the approach developed a discussion have been made whereby it was evident that the main cost elements for water reuse in irrigation are those associated with land for installations, the treatment plant and the irrigation systems involving their installations, operation and maintenance. On the other hand it has been shown that the main elements for benefits are related to natural resources recovered, improved agricultural production and the environmental benefits.
Water reuse is one of the alternatives to counteract the already experienced water shortages. However water reuse as any other investment is associated with costs. This article looks at water reuse for irrigation as one of the areas that has recently gained attention. However, water reuse requires a prior installation of wastewater treatment and the irrigation systems of which all requires financial resources. Analysis of the costs and benefits of water reuse remains one of the key tools for decision making. Unfortunately there has been no universal way for doing cost benefit analysis that can fit all reuse applications and the local settings. The objective of this study was to customize the existing water reuse cost benefit analysis methods and develop cost benefit analysis for water reuse in irrigation. The net benefit value approach was studied, examined and modified to incorporate all the relevant cost items and benefits associated with water reuse in irrigation. Based on the approach developed a discussion have been made whereby it was evident that the main cost elements for water reuse in irrigation are those associated with land for installations, the treatment plant and the irrigation systems involving their installations, operation and maintenance. On the other hand it has been shown that the main elements for benefits are related to natural resources recovered, improved agricultural production and the environmental benefits.
Development of a Cost-Benefit Analysis Approach for Water Reuse in Irrigation
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.16
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-10-09
© Science Publishing Group
Jacob Kihila
Kelvin Mark Mtei
Karoli Nicholas Njau
Development of a Cost-Benefit Analysis Approach for Water Reuse in Irrigation
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184
184
2014-10-09
2014-10-09
10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.16
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.16
© Science Publishing Group
Environmental Impact of Wastewater Discharges from FERMENCAM
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.15
This study aims to assess the environmental impact of wastewater discharges from FERMENCAM. Effluent and wastewater samples were collected respectively at the plant outlet and in the receiving environment, and physico-chemical analyses carried out revealed an organic pollution with a high pollution load that can be observed by phosphate levels in water at the plant outlet. Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5) is high at the plant outlet (20300 mg of O2 / L) and 16200 mg of O2 / L are found in the receiving environment. The BOD5/COD (chemical oxygen demand) ratio of effluents discharged by FERMENCAM and that of the receiving environment is 0.90. This value is higher than 0.5, meaning that the organic matter of both effluents is highly biodegradable. The results show that the increase in conductivity and decrease in total dissolved salts are due to an excessive mineralization of organic matters. The results show that the chlorophyll synthesis in Amaranthus viridis leaves is linked to the quality of the environment, and that is why such leaves can easily adapt to the polluted environment. In short, the wastewater impact on water quality of the receiving environment is evident, and these data will allow better environmental protection, thus promoting the development of various waterfront activities. In addition, the need for sustainable wastewater management (wastewater treatment plants, pre-treatment of industrial waters and sensitization) in the study area proves to be vital and urgent in order to improve wastewater quality and contribute to improving the state of the environment.
This study aims to assess the environmental impact of wastewater discharges from FERMENCAM. Effluent and wastewater samples were collected respectively at the plant outlet and in the receiving environment, and physico-chemical analyses carried out revealed an organic pollution with a high pollution load that can be observed by phosphate levels in water at the plant outlet. Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5) is high at the plant outlet (20300 mg of O2 / L) and 16200 mg of O2 / L are found in the receiving environment. The BOD5/COD (chemical oxygen demand) ratio of effluents discharged by FERMENCAM and that of the receiving environment is 0.90. This value is higher than 0.5, meaning that the organic matter of both effluents is highly biodegradable. The results show that the increase in conductivity and decrease in total dissolved salts are due to an excessive mineralization of organic matters. The results show that the chlorophyll synthesis in Amaranthus viridis leaves is linked to the quality of the environment, and that is why such leaves can easily adapt to the polluted environment. In short, the wastewater impact on water quality of the receiving environment is evident, and these data will allow better environmental protection, thus promoting the development of various waterfront activities. In addition, the need for sustainable wastewater management (wastewater treatment plants, pre-treatment of industrial waters and sensitization) in the study area proves to be vital and urgent in order to improve wastewater quality and contribute to improving the state of the environment.
Environmental Impact of Wastewater Discharges from FERMENCAM
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.15
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-10-09
© Science Publishing Group
Noukeu Nkouakam Armelle
Priso Richard Jules
Environmental Impact of Wastewater Discharges from FERMENCAM
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2014-10-09
2014-10-09
10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.15
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.15
© Science Publishing Group
Land Evaluation Based on GIS for Spatial Management of an Urbanized Region, NE Iran
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.19
In the present study, was used the land evaluation for spatial development of an urbanized region on the basis of analytical hierarchy process (AHP) and geographical information system (GIS). Based on this method, the surface area and percentage distribution of land evaluation were calculated and it was found that 12 landforms (about 22.5% of the surface area) are under the high and moderate suitability to spatial development. The results revealed that the regions with high suitability indices are located in the middle and south parts of the study area. In this study, was presented a map of land suitability for environmental assessment of the region, which can be applied in spatial planning, quick and safe mitigation measures and future development strategies at this urbanized region.
In the present study, was used the land evaluation for spatial development of an urbanized region on the basis of analytical hierarchy process (AHP) and geographical information system (GIS). Based on this method, the surface area and percentage distribution of land evaluation were calculated and it was found that 12 landforms (about 22.5% of the surface area) are under the high and moderate suitability to spatial development. The results revealed that the regions with high suitability indices are located in the middle and south parts of the study area. In this study, was presented a map of land suitability for environmental assessment of the region, which can be applied in spatial planning, quick and safe mitigation measures and future development strategies at this urbanized region.
Land Evaluation Based on GIS for Spatial Management of an Urbanized Region, NE Iran
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.19
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-10-15
© Science Publishing Group
Mohammad Reza Mansouri Daneshvar
Land Evaluation Based on GIS for Spatial Management of an Urbanized Region, NE Iran
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199
199
2014-10-15
2014-10-15
10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.19
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.19
© Science Publishing Group
Ceramic Membranes in Removing Boron from Processed Geothermal Waters
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.18
The main objective of this work was to investigate the removal of boron from processed geothermal waters (i.e., after energy production) in lab-scale tests using ceramic ultrafiltration membranes. The impacts of membrane operating pressure, feed water pH and temperature and membrane pore size on boron rejections were determined. Three different single-channel tubular ceramic membrane modules with average pore sizes of 4 nm, 10 nm and 1 kD were tested. Fine-UF ceramic membrane with 4 nm pore size provided higher boron and salt rejections than the other two tested membranes. Increasing pH from 8.8 to 10.5 did not enhance boron rejections. Operating pressure around 8 bar was found to be optimum in terms of flux values and boron and salt rejections for the 4 nm pore-sized membrane. The results indicated that ceramic ultrafiltration membranes can only partially (around 25-30%) remove boron from geothermal waters. Once much lower pore-sized nanofiltration or brackish water reverse osmosis type ceramic membranes are available, they may be used for the desalination of processed geothermal waters since ceramic membranes are resistant to extreme conditions. Ceramic fine-UF membranes can also be used as a pre-treatment stage prior to polymeric brackish water reverse osmosis processes in desalination of geothermal waters.
The main objective of this work was to investigate the removal of boron from processed geothermal waters (i.e., after energy production) in lab-scale tests using ceramic ultrafiltration membranes. The impacts of membrane operating pressure, feed water pH and temperature and membrane pore size on boron rejections were determined. Three different single-channel tubular ceramic membrane modules with average pore sizes of 4 nm, 10 nm and 1 kD were tested. Fine-UF ceramic membrane with 4 nm pore size provided higher boron and salt rejections than the other two tested membranes. Increasing pH from 8.8 to 10.5 did not enhance boron rejections. Operating pressure around 8 bar was found to be optimum in terms of flux values and boron and salt rejections for the 4 nm pore-sized membrane. The results indicated that ceramic ultrafiltration membranes can only partially (around 25-30%) remove boron from geothermal waters. Once much lower pore-sized nanofiltration or brackish water reverse osmosis type ceramic membranes are available, they may be used for the desalination of processed geothermal waters since ceramic membranes are resistant to extreme conditions. Ceramic fine-UF membranes can also be used as a pre-treatment stage prior to polymeric brackish water reverse osmosis processes in desalination of geothermal waters.
Ceramic Membranes in Removing Boron from Processed Geothermal Waters
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.18
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-10-15
© Science Publishing Group
Bilgehan Ilker Harman
Hasan Koseoglu
Nevzat Ozgu Yigit
Nalan Kabay
Asuman Akyuz
Mehmet Kitis
Ceramic Membranes in Removing Boron from Processed Geothermal Waters
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194
194
2014-10-15
2014-10-15
10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.18
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.18
© Science Publishing Group
Case Study of The Relationship between Heat-Resistant Paint and Comfortable Indoor Temperatures
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.17
Higher temperatures can cause health problems such as heat stroke, and the number of cases increases sharply in people over 65 years old. Elderly people have a high risk of heat stroke, not only during the day but also at night, and they also have a reduced sensitivity to heat, so the possibility that countermeasures are taken too late increases. In such cases adverse effects cannot be prevented by measures involving voluntary action, including the provision of air conditioning. For these reasons, heat stroke countermeasures involving methods that do not depend on the sensory functions of the target person are needed. Therefore, we propose a new method for controlling indoor temperatures using heat-resistant paint. In this study, two verification experiments were conducted totest the proposed temperature control method in cargo containers and communal buildings. The effectiveness of the methods was apparent in measurements of temperature and electricity consumption.
Higher temperatures can cause health problems such as heat stroke, and the number of cases increases sharply in people over 65 years old. Elderly people have a high risk of heat stroke, not only during the day but also at night, and they also have a reduced sensitivity to heat, so the possibility that countermeasures are taken too late increases. In such cases adverse effects cannot be prevented by measures involving voluntary action, including the provision of air conditioning. For these reasons, heat stroke countermeasures involving methods that do not depend on the sensory functions of the target person are needed. Therefore, we propose a new method for controlling indoor temperatures using heat-resistant paint. In this study, two verification experiments were conducted totest the proposed temperature control method in cargo containers and communal buildings. The effectiveness of the methods was apparent in measurements of temperature and electricity consumption.
Case Study of The Relationship between Heat-Resistant Paint and Comfortable Indoor Temperatures
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.17
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-10-15
© Science Publishing Group
Takashi Oda
Kimihiro Yamanaka
Mitsuyuki Kawakami
Case Study of The Relationship between Heat-Resistant Paint and Comfortable Indoor Temperatures
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189
189
2014-10-15
2014-10-15
10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.17
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140205.17
© Science Publishing Group
Pollutant Abatement of Unhairing-Liming Workshop of a Tannery Unit by Non-Thermal Gliding Discharge in Air.
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140206.11
The effluents of an unhairing-liming workshop of a craft tannery in North Cameroon are exposed to a gliding arc discharge for various exposure times in a cold plasma reactor. The highly basic effluent is rich in concentrated organic wastes which are degraded by the oxidizing species formed in the discharge. Total Organic Carbon (TOC) and Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD5) abatements by 95% and more than 90% respectively result from one hour treatment in batch conditions. Simultaneously pH trends to acid. Bacterial inactivation was also found successful for short exposures t*<10 min. The feasibility of the plasma technique is then confirmed in case of actual effluents at the laboratory scale and may be developed in view of industrial applications by valuable improvements.
The effluents of an unhairing-liming workshop of a craft tannery in North Cameroon are exposed to a gliding arc discharge for various exposure times in a cold plasma reactor. The highly basic effluent is rich in concentrated organic wastes which are degraded by the oxidizing species formed in the discharge. Total Organic Carbon (TOC) and Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD5) abatements by 95% and more than 90% respectively result from one hour treatment in batch conditions. Simultaneously pH trends to acid. Bacterial inactivation was also found successful for short exposures t*<10 min. The feasibility of the plasma technique is then confirmed in case of actual effluents at the laboratory scale and may be developed in view of industrial applications by valuable improvements.
Pollutant Abatement of Unhairing-Liming Workshop of a Tannery Unit by Non-Thermal Gliding Discharge in Air.
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20140206.11
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-10-29
© Science Publishing Group
Abba Paltahe
Samuel Laminsi
Jean-Louis Brisset
Pollutant Abatement of Unhairing-Liming Workshop of a Tannery Unit by Non-Thermal Gliding Discharge in Air.
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2014-10-29
2014-10-29
10.11648/j.ijepp.20140206.11
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140206.11
© Science Publishing Group
Pollution Indicators and Pathogenic Microorganisms in Wastewater Treatment: Implication on Receiving Water Bodies
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140206.12
There is the indication that human deaths as a result of water-borne diseases exceed five million people per year, with over half of the diseases being microbial intestinal infections, especially cholera and diarrhea. A number of pathogenic microorganisms, regarded as water pollution indicators have been observed as the agents of such. These water pollution indicators are present in feces, sewage and can survive as long as pathogenic organisms. These pathogenic microorganisms cause several waterborne infections and diseases like bacterial (cholera, salmonellosis, shigellosis and several diseases associated with pathogenic strains of E. coli), viral (ranging from a mild febrile illness to myocarditis, meningoencephalitis, poliomyelitis, herpangina, hand-foot-and mouth disease and neonatal multi-organ failure), protozoan (cryptosporidiosis, diarrhea encaphilitis, giardiasis, amoebiasis) and fungal (candidiasis, blastomycosis, cryptococcusis, aspergilosis). These biological contaminants that cause several water-borne diseases can however be removed from water through physical (ultraviolet radiation, solar radiation and boiling) and chemical disinfection methods (chlorination, chloramination and ozonation). The aim of this paper was to review the microbial indicators and pathogenic microorganisms in water and wastewater. The paper also discussed the treatment strategies for microbial-contaminated water and wastewaters.
There is the indication that human deaths as a result of water-borne diseases exceed five million people per year, with over half of the diseases being microbial intestinal infections, especially cholera and diarrhea. A number of pathogenic microorganisms, regarded as water pollution indicators have been observed as the agents of such. These water pollution indicators are present in feces, sewage and can survive as long as pathogenic organisms. These pathogenic microorganisms cause several waterborne infections and diseases like bacterial (cholera, salmonellosis, shigellosis and several diseases associated with pathogenic strains of E. coli), viral (ranging from a mild febrile illness to myocarditis, meningoencephalitis, poliomyelitis, herpangina, hand-foot-and mouth disease and neonatal multi-organ failure), protozoan (cryptosporidiosis, diarrhea encaphilitis, giardiasis, amoebiasis) and fungal (candidiasis, blastomycosis, cryptococcusis, aspergilosis). These biological contaminants that cause several water-borne diseases can however be removed from water through physical (ultraviolet radiation, solar radiation and boiling) and chemical disinfection methods (chlorination, chloramination and ozonation). The aim of this paper was to review the microbial indicators and pathogenic microorganisms in water and wastewater. The paper also discussed the treatment strategies for microbial-contaminated water and wastewaters.
Pollution Indicators and Pathogenic Microorganisms in Wastewater Treatment: Implication on Receiving Water Bodies
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20140206.12
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-11-05
© Science Publishing Group
Tomilola Debby Olaolu
Oghenerobor Benjamin Akpor
Charity Omeche Akor
Pollution Indicators and Pathogenic Microorganisms in Wastewater Treatment: Implication on Receiving Water Bodies
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2014-11-05
2014-11-05
10.11648/j.ijepp.20140206.12
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140206.12
© Science Publishing Group
A Comparative Analysis of Citizens’ Eco-Awareness between Toyota City in Japan and Neiva City in Colombia
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140206.14
This paper analyzes citizens’ eco-awareness between Toyota City in Japan and Neiva City in Colombia. Both cities have been making efforts to promote their eco-policies, which are somewhat similar to each other in areas such as transportation and public welfare and livelihood. To put these policies into practice, civic support is essential. Through survey questionnaires, this study compares citizens’ awareness of eco-policies in Toyota City and Neiva City. Findings show that Toyota City outperforms Neiva City in some areas such as forests and the urban center while Neiva outperforms in other areas: transportation and industry. This paper explains possible reasons for these differences and makes suggestions to further promote eco-policies.
This paper analyzes citizens’ eco-awareness between Toyota City in Japan and Neiva City in Colombia. Both cities have been making efforts to promote their eco-policies, which are somewhat similar to each other in areas such as transportation and public welfare and livelihood. To put these policies into practice, civic support is essential. Through survey questionnaires, this study compares citizens’ awareness of eco-policies in Toyota City and Neiva City. Findings show that Toyota City outperforms Neiva City in some areas such as forests and the urban center while Neiva outperforms in other areas: transportation and industry. This paper explains possible reasons for these differences and makes suggestions to further promote eco-policies.
A Comparative Analysis of Citizens’ Eco-Awareness between Toyota City in Japan and Neiva City in Colombia
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20140206.14
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-11-25
© Science Publishing Group
Hiroshi Ito
Paola Tafur
A Comparative Analysis of Citizens’ Eco-Awareness between Toyota City in Japan and Neiva City in Colombia
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2014-11-25
2014-11-25
10.11648/j.ijepp.20140206.14
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140206.14
© Science Publishing Group
Perception of Farmers on Soil Erosion and Conservation Practices in Dejen District, Ethiopia
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140206.15
Soil erosion is one of the major causes of land degradation that causes low agricultural productivity in Ethiopia. Though, it is a natural process, its rate has increased significantly mainly by human activity. The study was conducted in Dejen district, in Northwestern Ethiopia to assess perception of farmers on soil erosion and conservation practices. In this study, both primary and secondary data collection techniques were used. These includes interviews, focus group discussions, field observations, and questionnaires were the source of this research. The sampling technique employed in this study were stratified, purposive and simple random were applied to select sample kebele and representative households heads. A sample of 250 heads of households were used to gain insight into soil erosion perceived by farmers and conservation practices in the study area. The finding of the study shows that almost all farmers of the study area had good perception on the causes, indicators and problems of soil erosion. The main causes of soil erosion perceived by farmers in the study area were high intensity of rainfall, continuous cultivation, topography and inappropriate soil conservation practices. The major soil conservation methods implemented by farmers in the study area were terracing, diversion ditches, and contour plowing and cut of drain. This research finding also concludes that the main constraints to apply soil conservations in Dejen district were mainly related to socioeconomic and biophysical factors such as uncontrolled (free) grazing, distance between homestead and farm land and farmers’ low level of the economic capacity.
Soil erosion is one of the major causes of land degradation that causes low agricultural productivity in Ethiopia. Though, it is a natural process, its rate has increased significantly mainly by human activity. The study was conducted in Dejen district, in Northwestern Ethiopia to assess perception of farmers on soil erosion and conservation practices. In this study, both primary and secondary data collection techniques were used. These includes interviews, focus group discussions, field observations, and questionnaires were the source of this research. The sampling technique employed in this study were stratified, purposive and simple random were applied to select sample kebele and representative households heads. A sample of 250 heads of households were used to gain insight into soil erosion perceived by farmers and conservation practices in the study area. The finding of the study shows that almost all farmers of the study area had good perception on the causes, indicators and problems of soil erosion. The main causes of soil erosion perceived by farmers in the study area were high intensity of rainfall, continuous cultivation, topography and inappropriate soil conservation practices. The major soil conservation methods implemented by farmers in the study area were terracing, diversion ditches, and contour plowing and cut of drain. This research finding also concludes that the main constraints to apply soil conservations in Dejen district were mainly related to socioeconomic and biophysical factors such as uncontrolled (free) grazing, distance between homestead and farm land and farmers’ low level of the economic capacity.
Perception of Farmers on Soil Erosion and Conservation Practices in Dejen District, Ethiopia
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20140206.15
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-11-28
© Science Publishing Group
Tegegne Tatek Belay
Perception of Farmers on Soil Erosion and Conservation Practices in Dejen District, Ethiopia
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2014-11-28
2014-11-28
10.11648/j.ijepp.20140206.15
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140206.15
© Science Publishing Group
Characterization and Adsorption Mechanism of Pb (II) Removal by Insolubilized Humic Acid in Polluted Water
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140206.16
The removal of Pb2+ in the aqueous solutions by adsorption onto insolubilized humic acid (IHA) is investigated. The equilibrium isotherms were determined at pH 3.5 under constant ionic strength and at different temperatures. At the same time, the paper has also analyzed the adsorption experimental data by using three different isotherm models: Langmuir, Frendlich and Linear isotherm. As the result, it has obtained the optimal correlation for Frendlich isotherm equations. In addition, the paper has calculated the thermodynamic quantities ΔH in accordance with the Clausius-Claperyon,s theory. It means that the type of adsorption of Pb2+ onto IHA is physisorption, rather than by chemical bonding. And finally, the adsorption equilibrium gained around 12 hours and a high and stable removal of heavy metals on insoluble humic acid has been obtained almost under the neutral conditions.
The removal of Pb2+ in the aqueous solutions by adsorption onto insolubilized humic acid (IHA) is investigated. The equilibrium isotherms were determined at pH 3.5 under constant ionic strength and at different temperatures. At the same time, the paper has also analyzed the adsorption experimental data by using three different isotherm models: Langmuir, Frendlich and Linear isotherm. As the result, it has obtained the optimal correlation for Frendlich isotherm equations. In addition, the paper has calculated the thermodynamic quantities ΔH in accordance with the Clausius-Claperyon,s theory. It means that the type of adsorption of Pb2+ onto IHA is physisorption, rather than by chemical bonding. And finally, the adsorption equilibrium gained around 12 hours and a high and stable removal of heavy metals on insoluble humic acid has been obtained almost under the neutral conditions.
Characterization and Adsorption Mechanism of Pb (II) Removal by Insolubilized Humic Acid in Polluted Water
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20140206.16
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-12-29
© Science Publishing Group
Ming-guang Ma
Yun-xia Wei
Guo-hu Zhao
Fang Liu
Yan-Rong Zhu
Characterization and Adsorption Mechanism of Pb (II) Removal by Insolubilized Humic Acid in Polluted Water
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2014-12-29
2014-12-29
10.11648/j.ijepp.20140206.16
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20140206.16
© Science Publishing Group
Investigation and Application of GIS for Management of Cu De River Water Quality in Central Vietnam
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2014020601.12
With management, data analysis and spatial information, GIS is now an effective tool in addressing the problem of spatial distribution and environmental change. The research and application of GIS in conjunction with the collection of environment data and water quality into an integrated technology, help managers to make decisions based way, is a need to study the problem research in the framework of environmental protection and sustainable development of the rivers. This topic focuses research and propose integrated solutions and feasible to protect water river in central Vietnam, to ensure the safety of the water supply as well as serving the purpose of sustainable development throughout the river basin, it is necessary to have a good database of spatial distribution of water resources of the basin, the river water quality as well as the potential sources of pollutants.
With management, data analysis and spatial information, GIS is now an effective tool in addressing the problem of spatial distribution and environmental change. The research and application of GIS in conjunction with the collection of environment data and water quality into an integrated technology, help managers to make decisions based way, is a need to study the problem research in the framework of environmental protection and sustainable development of the rivers. This topic focuses research and propose integrated solutions and feasible to protect water river in central Vietnam, to ensure the safety of the water supply as well as serving the purpose of sustainable development throughout the river basin, it is necessary to have a good database of spatial distribution of water resources of the basin, the river water quality as well as the potential sources of pollutants.
Investigation and Application of GIS for Management of Cu De River Water Quality in Central Vietnam
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2014020601.12
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-08-05
© Science Publishing Group
Dao Duy Hong Ngoc
Nguyen Dinh Tung Luan
Investigation and Application of GIS for Management of Cu De River Water Quality in Central Vietnam
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15
15
2014-08-05
2014-08-05
10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2014020601.12
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2014020601.12
© Science Publishing Group
Dynamic Performance Evaluation on Energy Saving and Emission Reduction of Thermal Power Plant Based on the Self-Organizing Co-Evolution
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2014020601.11
The energy saving and emission reduction in thermal plant is complex, with the open, non-equilibrium and interoperability features. In order to identifying the order parameters affecting plant system, a co-evolution model of energy saving and emission reduction in thermal power plant was built based on synergetic theory. According to the feathers of potential function based on mutation theory, the performance was divided into high efficiency, low efficiency and critical situation three operating states. Then, a dynamic evaluation rule was proposed in order to achieve dynamic performance evaluation on energy saving and emission reduction of thermal power plant. Finally, an empirical analysis of a thermal power plant showed that the order parameter of energy saving and emission reduction in this plant are soot emissionper unit power and grid electricity generation. There existed “high efficiency” and “low efficiency” performance status of energy saving and emission reduction. The performance before June in 2012 was mostly inefficient, things have changed since the investment in energy saving technology projects, the energy saving and emission reduction performance in this plant after June 2012 was highly efficient, which was in line with the actual situation, and proved the validity of this method used in dynamic performance evaluation on energy saving and emission reduction of thermal power plant.
The energy saving and emission reduction in thermal plant is complex, with the open, non-equilibrium and interoperability features. In order to identifying the order parameters affecting plant system, a co-evolution model of energy saving and emission reduction in thermal power plant was built based on synergetic theory. According to the feathers of potential function based on mutation theory, the performance was divided into high efficiency, low efficiency and critical situation three operating states. Then, a dynamic evaluation rule was proposed in order to achieve dynamic performance evaluation on energy saving and emission reduction of thermal power plant. Finally, an empirical analysis of a thermal power plant showed that the order parameter of energy saving and emission reduction in this plant are soot emissionper unit power and grid electricity generation. There existed “high efficiency” and “low efficiency” performance status of energy saving and emission reduction. The performance before June in 2012 was mostly inefficient, things have changed since the investment in energy saving technology projects, the energy saving and emission reduction performance in this plant after June 2012 was highly efficient, which was in line with the actual situation, and proved the validity of this method used in dynamic performance evaluation on energy saving and emission reduction of thermal power plant.
Dynamic Performance Evaluation on Energy Saving and Emission Reduction of Thermal Power Plant Based on the Self-Organizing Co-Evolution
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2014020601.11
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2014-06-09
© Science Publishing Group
Zhang Lei
Li Na-na
Zhao Hui-ru
Yang Kun
Dynamic Performance Evaluation on Energy Saving and Emission Reduction of Thermal Power Plant Based on the Self-Organizing Co-Evolution
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10
10
2014-06-09
2014-06-09
10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2014020601.11
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2014020601.11
© Science Publishing Group
A Comprehensive Micro-Thermal Analysis of Thermal Desalination Plants for Improving their Efficiency
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2014020601.13
The second law efficiency is a main tool for evaluating the irreversibility through a system. Models have been applied for multistage flash (MSF) and mechanical vapor compression (MVC) distillation for evaluating the entropy generation at each component in the process. The minimum work of separation (which is the work consider to extract a unit of pure water from a saline feed water) is considered through the study, the entropy generated due to irreversibility plus that of the in-equilibrium of the discharge brine and its mixing with the seawater are important during the calculation of the minimum separation work, its value for MSF is 0.729 kWh/m3. Exergy is a useful concept in the analysis of systems involving both thermal and mechanical energies. The thermal performance of distillers is assessed based on the first and second laws of thermodynamics. This study focused on the analysis of the energy and exergy of MSF and MVC units. The exergy losses due to irreversibility for the subsystems of the units are evaluated, the specific exergy losses of the MSF unit is at the range of 63 kJ/kg. The exergy destruction in heat recovery and heat rejection sections, brine heater and all the other systems are calculated, these values are 61, 17, 10, and 12% respectively. The study showed that, the second law efficiencies of the MSF unit is around 4 % and for the MVC is around 7%, so these law efficiencies clarify that there are many ways to improve the plant performance by reducing the highest exergy destruction through these systems.
The second law efficiency is a main tool for evaluating the irreversibility through a system. Models have been applied for multistage flash (MSF) and mechanical vapor compression (MVC) distillation for evaluating the entropy generation at each component in the process. The minimum work of separation (which is the work consider to extract a unit of pure water from a saline feed water) is considered through the study, the entropy generated due to irreversibility plus that of the in-equilibrium of the discharge brine and its mixing with the seawater are important during the calculation of the minimum separation work, its value for MSF is 0.729 kWh/m3. Exergy is a useful concept in the analysis of systems involving both thermal and mechanical energies. The thermal performance of distillers is assessed based on the first and second laws of thermodynamics. This study focused on the analysis of the energy and exergy of MSF and MVC units. The exergy losses due to irreversibility for the subsystems of the units are evaluated, the specific exergy losses of the MSF unit is at the range of 63 kJ/kg. The exergy destruction in heat recovery and heat rejection sections, brine heater and all the other systems are calculated, these values are 61, 17, 10, and 12% respectively. The study showed that, the second law efficiencies of the MSF unit is around 4 % and for the MVC is around 7%, so these law efficiencies clarify that there are many ways to improve the plant performance by reducing the highest exergy destruction through these systems.
A Comprehensive Micro-Thermal Analysis of Thermal Desalination Plants for Improving their Efficiency
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2014020601.13
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2015-03-31
© Science Publishing Group
Adel K. El-Feky
A Comprehensive Micro-Thermal Analysis of Thermal Desalination Plants for Improving their Efficiency
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25
2015-03-31
2015-03-31
10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2014020601.13
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2014020601.13
© Science Publishing Group
Water is Life: Situation Analysis of Access to Household Water Supply in the Wa Municipality, Ghana
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20150301.11
Far too many people in urban Ghana live without access to safe drinking water and this is a primary determinant of continuing poverty. Using questionnaire survey and key informant interviews, this study explored the situation of households’ access to potable water supply in the Wa Municipality, a low-income urban area in north-west Ghana. This study highlights several important issues on access to water supply focusing on availability, accessibility and cost. A clustered sample of residential areas of the municipality was employed and the study was able to examine spatial disparities in access to water supply. The results indicate that access to potable water supply in the municipality is generally high as only 13 percent of households depend on open wells as their main source. Also, the private sector (individuals and non-governmental organizations) are major players in public water supply in the municipality. In spite of the progress made in access to potable water supply, distance and cost of water remain serious challenges confronting households. The study recognizes that private individuals create additional water facilities to augment public supplies, but the positive impacts on health and livelihoods could be greater if access to finance could be facilitated. Most importantly, water supply improvement strategies should incorporate an integrated vision, which sees adequate and quality water both as a goal in itself and as a contributor to economic and social development through gains in public health.
Far too many people in urban Ghana live without access to safe drinking water and this is a primary determinant of continuing poverty. Using questionnaire survey and key informant interviews, this study explored the situation of households’ access to potable water supply in the Wa Municipality, a low-income urban area in north-west Ghana. This study highlights several important issues on access to water supply focusing on availability, accessibility and cost. A clustered sample of residential areas of the municipality was employed and the study was able to examine spatial disparities in access to water supply. The results indicate that access to potable water supply in the municipality is generally high as only 13 percent of households depend on open wells as their main source. Also, the private sector (individuals and non-governmental organizations) are major players in public water supply in the municipality. In spite of the progress made in access to potable water supply, distance and cost of water remain serious challenges confronting households. The study recognizes that private individuals create additional water facilities to augment public supplies, but the positive impacts on health and livelihoods could be greater if access to finance could be facilitated. Most importantly, water supply improvement strategies should incorporate an integrated vision, which sees adequate and quality water both as a goal in itself and as a contributor to economic and social development through gains in public health.
Water is Life: Situation Analysis of Access to Household Water Supply in the Wa Municipality, Ghana
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20150301.11
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2015-02-15
© Science Publishing Group
Enoch Akwasi Kosoe
Issaka Kanton Osumanu
Water is Life: Situation Analysis of Access to Household Water Supply in the Wa Municipality, Ghana
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13
13
2015-02-15
2015-02-15
10.11648/j.ijepp.20150301.11
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20150301.11
© Science Publishing Group
In the Pursuit of Sustainability: Lessons from the Coffee Sector
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20150301.12
Recent years have shown an impressive and growing concern about sustainable production of food, fiber and oil crops. As more crops become incorporated into the sustainability realm, which often involves a certification of prescribed production methods/conditions, lessons can be learned from sectors with extant sustainability initiatives. For biofuels, a sector with rapidly expanding areas devoted to cropland worldwide and some debated benefits in both social and environmental issues, lessons from the sustainable coffee sector’s history and development can provide insights about possible paths toward sustainability. This paper presents some of the history and development of the sustainable coffee sector, emphasizing the role of science and inter-institutional relations in the emergence of several initiatives. A number of key issues and themes to consider are explored, hopefully providing some direction to those in the biofuels sector with an interest in sustainability.
Recent years have shown an impressive and growing concern about sustainable production of food, fiber and oil crops. As more crops become incorporated into the sustainability realm, which often involves a certification of prescribed production methods/conditions, lessons can be learned from sectors with extant sustainability initiatives. For biofuels, a sector with rapidly expanding areas devoted to cropland worldwide and some debated benefits in both social and environmental issues, lessons from the sustainable coffee sector’s history and development can provide insights about possible paths toward sustainability. This paper presents some of the history and development of the sustainable coffee sector, emphasizing the role of science and inter-institutional relations in the emergence of several initiatives. A number of key issues and themes to consider are explored, hopefully providing some direction to those in the biofuels sector with an interest in sustainability.
In the Pursuit of Sustainability: Lessons from the Coffee Sector
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20150301.12
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2015-02-16
© Science Publishing Group
Robert Armstrong Rice
In the Pursuit of Sustainability: Lessons from the Coffee Sector
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19
19
2015-02-16
2015-02-16
10.11648/j.ijepp.20150301.12
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20150301.12
© Science Publishing Group
Local Authorities’ Views and Attitudes on Sustainable Energy Policy: The Case of Mayors of Rhodes, Island, Greece (2010-2014)
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20150302.11
To create effective climate change mitigation energy policies that contribute to greenhouse gases reduction are required. To this direction, local authorities play a crucial role as they are responsible for the planning and implementation of energy policies in their territories. This study aims to investigate the local authorities’ knowledge and attitudes on energy production, energy management, energy consumption and renewable energy sources (RES), as well as their energy practices and their intentions. The study was carried out in the island of Rhodes, Greece where 12 elective representatives of local authorities (municipalities and prefecture) were asked to fill in a questionnaire on the above issues. Almost all of the participants recognized energy saving as an important dimension of energy policy. They indicated their intentions for energy saving applications in the future, but the measures they use to apply in their area of responsibility are extremely limited. Despite respondents’ positive attitudes towards the use of RES, they seem to hesitate to develop an energy model based mainly on RES, as they believe they cannot cover the energy needs of the island. They also, believe that they play a secondary role in the planning and development of energy policy at a local level, as they estimate that energy policy is mainly a matter of the central government. Findings show that there is a demand for a more specialized and focused energy policy. They further show the need for specialized environmental education programs addressed to local authorities aiming at increasing motivation as well as supporting their efforts for the implementation of sustainable energy policies.
To create effective climate change mitigation energy policies that contribute to greenhouse gases reduction are required. To this direction, local authorities play a crucial role as they are responsible for the planning and implementation of energy policies in their territories. This study aims to investigate the local authorities’ knowledge and attitudes on energy production, energy management, energy consumption and renewable energy sources (RES), as well as their energy practices and their intentions. The study was carried out in the island of Rhodes, Greece where 12 elective representatives of local authorities (municipalities and prefecture) were asked to fill in a questionnaire on the above issues. Almost all of the participants recognized energy saving as an important dimension of energy policy. They indicated their intentions for energy saving applications in the future, but the measures they use to apply in their area of responsibility are extremely limited. Despite respondents’ positive attitudes towards the use of RES, they seem to hesitate to develop an energy model based mainly on RES, as they believe they cannot cover the energy needs of the island. They also, believe that they play a secondary role in the planning and development of energy policy at a local level, as they estimate that energy policy is mainly a matter of the central government. Findings show that there is a demand for a more specialized and focused energy policy. They further show the need for specialized environmental education programs addressed to local authorities aiming at increasing motivation as well as supporting their efforts for the implementation of sustainable energy policies.
Local Authorities’ Views and Attitudes on Sustainable Energy Policy: The Case of Mayors of Rhodes, Island, Greece (2010-2014)
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20150302.11
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2015-03-04
© Science Publishing Group
Anastasia Dimitriou
Dimitris Pimenidis
Local Authorities’ Views and Attitudes on Sustainable Energy Policy: The Case of Mayors of Rhodes, Island, Greece (2010-2014)
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30
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2015-03-04
2015-03-04
10.11648/j.ijepp.20150302.11
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20150302.11
© Science Publishing Group
Dynamics of Land Cover and Impact on Stream flow in the Modder River Basin of South Africa: Case Study of a Quaternary Catchment
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20150302.12
Understanding how dynamics in individual land use types influence changes in streamflow is vital. Most hydrological studies are based on paired catchment and modelling approaches. These are data intensive and require a long period of monitoring. To determine the hydrological effects of tropical vegetation conversion over large areas, it is manageable to study the same basin over different time periods. The study analysed changes in historical stream flow patterns with reference to dynamics in land cover in C52A quaternary catchment of South Africa. Landsat images for years 1993, 2004 and 2013 were used for the development of land cover maps. Subsequently, step-change (median point change, Mann-Whitney and Kruskall Willis) and trend detection tests (Spearman’s rho and Kindall’s tau) were applied to average annual discharge and rainfall data for the catchment between 1984 and 2013.Tukey’s honestly significant difference (HSD) test was also used to compare the means. Results revealed that huge land cover changes coincided with significant (p<0.05) changes in streamflow although rainfall remained homogenous over the same period. This suggests that land cover change is intricately coupled to increases in streamflow. In addition, increased runoff is usually accompanied by increased rates of erosion and siltation. To ensure sustainable management of the catchment, therefore, soil and water conservation measures are critical within the broader context of integrated water resources management.
Understanding how dynamics in individual land use types influence changes in streamflow is vital. Most hydrological studies are based on paired catchment and modelling approaches. These are data intensive and require a long period of monitoring. To determine the hydrological effects of tropical vegetation conversion over large areas, it is manageable to study the same basin over different time periods. The study analysed changes in historical stream flow patterns with reference to dynamics in land cover in C52A quaternary catchment of South Africa. Landsat images for years 1993, 2004 and 2013 were used for the development of land cover maps. Subsequently, step-change (median point change, Mann-Whitney and Kruskall Willis) and trend detection tests (Spearman’s rho and Kindall’s tau) were applied to average annual discharge and rainfall data for the catchment between 1984 and 2013.Tukey’s honestly significant difference (HSD) test was also used to compare the means. Results revealed that huge land cover changes coincided with significant (p<0.05) changes in streamflow although rainfall remained homogenous over the same period. This suggests that land cover change is intricately coupled to increases in streamflow. In addition, increased runoff is usually accompanied by increased rates of erosion and siltation. To ensure sustainable management of the catchment, therefore, soil and water conservation measures are critical within the broader context of integrated water resources management.
Dynamics of Land Cover and Impact on Stream flow in the Modder River Basin of South Africa: Case Study of a Quaternary Catchment
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20150302.12
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2015-03-15
© Science Publishing Group
Onalenna Gwate
Yali E. Woyessa
David Wiberg
Dynamics of Land Cover and Impact on Stream flow in the Modder River Basin of South Africa: Case Study of a Quaternary Catchment
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38
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2015-03-15
2015-03-15
10.11648/j.ijepp.20150302.12
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20150302.12
© Science Publishing Group
Indicators for Sustainable Development Strategies and Components of Tourism Regions in Egypt A Study of Alexandria and the Northwest Coast
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20150302.13
Sustainable urban development for tourism has been a priority for Arab and European institutions since the mid 1990’s. In recent years, the tourism industry has grown in importance because of its positive effect on overall (economic, social, cultural, political and psychological) development1. Many economists, sociologists, anthropologists, psychologists, geography and administration experts are showing increased interest in the various services-related activities undertaken in different fields of tourism, and in tourism’s relation to sustainable development; issues that have also become the subject of social and economic demand. The social demand is a reflection of the human desire to move and travel, while the economic aspect concerns the employment opportunities available for young people of both sexes in the various fields of tourism, which can gradually contribute to the resolution of the unemployment problem. Moreover, tourism plays a significant part in accelerating the extension of urbanization by planning cities and tourist resorts, constructing and developing roads and utility networks, investing available economic resources and by optimizing the use of environmental or local resources to manufacture popular products. Since it helps to increase foreign currency inflows from abroad, tourism is also an important source of national income for tourist-attracting countries.
Sustainable urban development for tourism has been a priority for Arab and European institutions since the mid 1990’s. In recent years, the tourism industry has grown in importance because of its positive effect on overall (economic, social, cultural, political and psychological) development1. Many economists, sociologists, anthropologists, psychologists, geography and administration experts are showing increased interest in the various services-related activities undertaken in different fields of tourism, and in tourism’s relation to sustainable development; issues that have also become the subject of social and economic demand. The social demand is a reflection of the human desire to move and travel, while the economic aspect concerns the employment opportunities available for young people of both sexes in the various fields of tourism, which can gradually contribute to the resolution of the unemployment problem. Moreover, tourism plays a significant part in accelerating the extension of urbanization by planning cities and tourist resorts, constructing and developing roads and utility networks, investing available economic resources and by optimizing the use of environmental or local resources to manufacture popular products. Since it helps to increase foreign currency inflows from abroad, tourism is also an important source of national income for tourist-attracting countries.
Indicators for Sustainable Development Strategies and Components of Tourism Regions in Egypt A Study of Alexandria and the Northwest Coast
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20150302.13
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2015-03-30
© Science Publishing Group
Waleed Hussein Ali
Indicators for Sustainable Development Strategies and Components of Tourism Regions in Egypt A Study of Alexandria and the Northwest Coast
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2015-03-30
2015-03-30
10.11648/j.ijepp.20150302.13
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20150302.13
© Science Publishing Group
Socio–Economical Impact Assessment of Drought on the Rural Agriculture; a Case Study of Rural District in Southern Iran
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20150302.14
This study has aimed to assess the social and economic impacts of drought on agriculture of a rural district in southern Iran entitled Jiroft County. To prepare data, about 217 questionnaire forms were collected in the field works during 2011-2012 then statistically analyzed. According to drought time series of the study area, the year 2008 is known as a strongest drought, which has effected on job sharing, income rate and cultivated areas. The impacts of drought on agricultural workforces and migration are approximately negligible, while the changes on job condition after drought are temporarily high (P<0.01). The correlation analysis exhibited a positive meaningful relation between drought effect and economic income. Income of household from agricultural activities has been remarkable declined hence the rate of investment on agricultural section has been reduced. The changes in household income, cultivated areas and agricultural employment have leaded the various migrations in recent years. About 30% of the population has migrated out of the study area after the 2008 drought event. Due to the migration of ~1100 populations with mean monthly income of ~30 USD, the volume of ~400,000 USD have been lost annually after the 2008 drought event in the study area.
This study has aimed to assess the social and economic impacts of drought on agriculture of a rural district in southern Iran entitled Jiroft County. To prepare data, about 217 questionnaire forms were collected in the field works during 2011-2012 then statistically analyzed. According to drought time series of the study area, the year 2008 is known as a strongest drought, which has effected on job sharing, income rate and cultivated areas. The impacts of drought on agricultural workforces and migration are approximately negligible, while the changes on job condition after drought are temporarily high (P<0.01). The correlation analysis exhibited a positive meaningful relation between drought effect and economic income. Income of household from agricultural activities has been remarkable declined hence the rate of investment on agricultural section has been reduced. The changes in household income, cultivated areas and agricultural employment have leaded the various migrations in recent years. About 30% of the population has migrated out of the study area after the 2008 drought event. Due to the migration of ~1100 populations with mean monthly income of ~30 USD, the volume of ~400,000 USD have been lost annually after the 2008 drought event in the study area.
Socio–Economical Impact Assessment of Drought on the Rural Agriculture; a Case Study of Rural District in Southern Iran
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20150302.14
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2015-03-31
© Science Publishing Group
Sirous Ghanbari
Habib Bayad
Somayeh Rezayi
Socio–Economical Impact Assessment of Drought on the Rural Agriculture; a Case Study of Rural District in Southern Iran
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56
2015-03-31
2015-03-31
10.11648/j.ijepp.20150302.14
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20150302.14
© Science Publishing Group
Potential Human Health Impacts and Medical Treatment of Acute Poisoning with Organophosphorus Pesticides (OPs): A Review
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2015030201.12
Organophosphate pesticides (OPs) are compounds that can be detected in human populations as a result of occupational or residential exposure. Despite their occurrence in considerably low levels in humans, their biological effects are hazardous since they interact with enzymes, proteins, receptors and transcription factors. The mechanism of OP poisoning involves inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) leading to inactivation of the enzyme which has an important role in neurotransmission. AChE inhibition results in the accumulation of acetylcholine at cholinergic receptor sites, producing continuous stimulation of cholinergic fibers throughout the nervous systems. Therefore, OP causes immunomodulatory effects, cancer, neurotoxicity and different infections. During more than five decades, pyridinium oximes have been developed as therapeutic agents used in the medical treatment of poisoning with OP. They act by reactivation of AChE inhibited by OP. However, they vary in their activity in poisoning with pesticides and warfare nerve agents and there is still no universal broad-spectrum oxime capable of protecting against all known OP. In this paper the available information related to health impacts and medical treatment of OP poisoning are reviewed and summarized, and the current recommendations are presented.
Organophosphate pesticides (OPs) are compounds that can be detected in human populations as a result of occupational or residential exposure. Despite their occurrence in considerably low levels in humans, their biological effects are hazardous since they interact with enzymes, proteins, receptors and transcription factors. The mechanism of OP poisoning involves inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) leading to inactivation of the enzyme which has an important role in neurotransmission. AChE inhibition results in the accumulation of acetylcholine at cholinergic receptor sites, producing continuous stimulation of cholinergic fibers throughout the nervous systems. Therefore, OP causes immunomodulatory effects, cancer, neurotoxicity and different infections. During more than five decades, pyridinium oximes have been developed as therapeutic agents used in the medical treatment of poisoning with OP. They act by reactivation of AChE inhibited by OP. However, they vary in their activity in poisoning with pesticides and warfare nerve agents and there is still no universal broad-spectrum oxime capable of protecting against all known OP. In this paper the available information related to health impacts and medical treatment of OP poisoning are reviewed and summarized, and the current recommendations are presented.
Potential Human Health Impacts and Medical Treatment of Acute Poisoning with Organophosphorus Pesticides (OPs): A Review
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2015030201.12
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2015-02-05
© Science Publishing Group
Md. Shakhaoat Hossain
Md. Tajuddin Sikder
Potential Human Health Impacts and Medical Treatment of Acute Poisoning with Organophosphorus Pesticides (OPs): A Review
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13
2015-02-05
2015-02-05
10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2015030201.12
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2015030201.12
© Science Publishing Group
Assessment of Public Health Affected by Municipal Piped Water Supply in Old Dhaka, Bangladesh
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2015030201.11
This study was performed to assess the local public health impacts caused from the consumption of the municipal water supply in the study area. A field survey was conducted in Bangladesh National Hospital to get a statistical overview of the water borne health hazards’ incidence rates among the dwellers of Sutrapur Thana. The study found that about 40% of all the patients in the hospital got admitted due to different types of water borne diseases. The most common water borne diseases observed were: diarrhea (about 40.7%), typhoid (about 32.3%), dysentery (about 6.6%) and hepatitis A (about 10.5%). Children were found to be the most vulnerable to these diseases. About 70% of the total water borne disease incidences was children. On the other hand, the incidence rate was highest (58.9%) in the wet season (June), whereas it was lowest (17.9%) in the dry season (January). However, when respondents from local community were asked to give their perception on the safety of the supplied water, 100% claimed that the water was unsafe for drinking purpose.
This study was performed to assess the local public health impacts caused from the consumption of the municipal water supply in the study area. A field survey was conducted in Bangladesh National Hospital to get a statistical overview of the water borne health hazards’ incidence rates among the dwellers of Sutrapur Thana. The study found that about 40% of all the patients in the hospital got admitted due to different types of water borne diseases. The most common water borne diseases observed were: diarrhea (about 40.7%), typhoid (about 32.3%), dysentery (about 6.6%) and hepatitis A (about 10.5%). Children were found to be the most vulnerable to these diseases. About 70% of the total water borne disease incidences was children. On the other hand, the incidence rate was highest (58.9%) in the wet season (June), whereas it was lowest (17.9%) in the dry season (January). However, when respondents from local community were asked to give their perception on the safety of the supplied water, 100% claimed that the water was unsafe for drinking purpose.
Assessment of Public Health Affected by Municipal Piped Water Supply in Old Dhaka, Bangladesh
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2015030201.11
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2015-02-05
© Science Publishing Group
Tanvir Hossain
Md. Tajuddin Sikder
Md. Jakariya
Assessment of Public Health Affected by Municipal Piped Water Supply in Old Dhaka, Bangladesh
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5
2015-02-05
2015-02-05
10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2015030201.11
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2015030201.11
© Science Publishing Group
Photodegradation of Textile Effluent Using Solar Radiation
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2015030201.13
Recent study was carried out to examine the efficacy of solar radiation in improving the quality of textile effluent in term of physicochemical properties and to degrade the dissolved organic matter (DOM) in textile effluent. The experiment was performed in natural light with dark control and both the changes in physicochemical parameters and the DOM in textile effluent were examined. Physicochemical properties of textile effluent changed gradually after photodegradation in different time intervals and the effluent quality improved. Not all the parameters were in standard limit but the pollution load decreased substantially. After twenty days of photodegradation, fluorescent intensity of DOM in textile effluent decreased from 5.5 RU to 0.16 RU which indicated photo-oxidation of low molecular weight DOM, whereas dark control showed no significant change in DOM fluorescent intensity.
Recent study was carried out to examine the efficacy of solar radiation in improving the quality of textile effluent in term of physicochemical properties and to degrade the dissolved organic matter (DOM) in textile effluent. The experiment was performed in natural light with dark control and both the changes in physicochemical parameters and the DOM in textile effluent were examined. Physicochemical properties of textile effluent changed gradually after photodegradation in different time intervals and the effluent quality improved. Not all the parameters were in standard limit but the pollution load decreased substantially. After twenty days of photodegradation, fluorescent intensity of DOM in textile effluent decreased from 5.5 RU to 0.16 RU which indicated photo-oxidation of low molecular weight DOM, whereas dark control showed no significant change in DOM fluorescent intensity.
Photodegradation of Textile Effluent Using Solar Radiation
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2015030201.13
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2015-02-11
© Science Publishing Group
Sharmin Yousuf Rikta
Mahbub Alam
Kaniz Fatima Binte Hossain
Shafi Mohammad Tareq
Photodegradation of Textile Effluent Using Solar Radiation
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18
18
2015-02-11
2015-02-11
10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2015030201.13
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2015030201.13
© Science Publishing Group
Removal of Turbidity from the River Water using Tamarindusindica and Litchi chinensis Seeds as Natural Coagulant
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2015030201.14
The present study was conducted to assess the efficacy of powder extracted from mature-dried Tamarindus indica and Litchi chinensis seeds for the turbidity reduction of polluted river water. Efficiency of Tamarindus indica and Litchi chinensis in removal of turbidity was compared with a synthetic coagulant Polyaluminiumchloride(PAC). The jar test experiment was performed to treat sample water using seed extracts along with PAC in laboratory condition. Polyacrylamide (PAM) was used as a model coagulant to aid the coagulation process. Water samples were analyzed before and after treatment with target coagulants. Tamarindus indica achieved maximum 91.16% turbidity reduction aided with0.5% PAM. Likewise, Litchi chinensis showed 91.82% turbidity reduction aided with 0.2% PAM, whereas PAC showed maximum 96.20% turbidity reduction aided with 0.5% PAM. The overall results revealed that both of the seed extract has impressive coagulation capacity in compare to the PAC. After treatment with natural seed extracts there was no significant changes in the other water quality parameters; pH, TDS, EC and COD. It can be stated that the present study will be a pathway to examine the kinetics of coagulation and mechanism of reactions by using natural seed extracts as coagulant.
The present study was conducted to assess the efficacy of powder extracted from mature-dried Tamarindus indica and Litchi chinensis seeds for the turbidity reduction of polluted river water. Efficiency of Tamarindus indica and Litchi chinensis in removal of turbidity was compared with a synthetic coagulant Polyaluminiumchloride(PAC). The jar test experiment was performed to treat sample water using seed extracts along with PAC in laboratory condition. Polyacrylamide (PAM) was used as a model coagulant to aid the coagulation process. Water samples were analyzed before and after treatment with target coagulants. Tamarindus indica achieved maximum 91.16% turbidity reduction aided with0.5% PAM. Likewise, Litchi chinensis showed 91.82% turbidity reduction aided with 0.2% PAM, whereas PAC showed maximum 96.20% turbidity reduction aided with 0.5% PAM. The overall results revealed that both of the seed extract has impressive coagulation capacity in compare to the PAC. After treatment with natural seed extracts there was no significant changes in the other water quality parameters; pH, TDS, EC and COD. It can be stated that the present study will be a pathway to examine the kinetics of coagulation and mechanism of reactions by using natural seed extracts as coagulant.
Removal of Turbidity from the River Water using Tamarindusindica and Litchi chinensis Seeds as Natural Coagulant
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2015030201.14
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2015-02-14
© Science Publishing Group
M. Mostafizur Rahman
Protima Sarker
Badhan Saha
Nusrat Jakarin
Mashura Shammi
M. Khabir Uddin
Md. Tajuddin Sikder
Removal of Turbidity from the River Water using Tamarindusindica and Litchi chinensis Seeds as Natural Coagulant
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26
26
2015-02-14
2015-02-14
10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2015030201.14
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2015030201.14
© Science Publishing Group
Feasibility Study of Vermicomposting of Textile Sludge Mixed with Cow Dung and Seed Germination Bioassay for Toxicity Evaluation of the Produced Compost
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2015030201.15
Transformation of textile sludges into vermicomposts can convert these wastes into good quality manure. The present study investigate the feasibility of vermicomposting process to transform the textile sludge amended with cow dung in different ratio into value added products by using an epigeic earthworm Eisenia foetida. Seed germination bioassay also investigated using mustard seeds (Brassica nigra) in order to evaluate the toxicity and maturity tests of those different mixtures and their produced composts. The result revealed that the E. foetida did not survive in fresh textile sludge. But worms grew and reproduced in textile sludge spiked with cow dung feed mixtures. Presence of more than 20% of textile sludge in feed mixture affected biomass gain and cocoon production largely by earthworms. The net weight gained by E. foetida in 100% cow dung was three fold higher than the feed mixture of 50% cow dung + 50% textile sludge. After 13 weeks, maximum cocoons (56 cocoons) were counted in 100% cow dung and minimum (6 cocoons) in 50% cow dung + 50% textile sludge feed mixture. Vermicomposting resulted in pH shift toward slightly acidic, significant reduction in TOC and C:N ratio, and increase in nitrogen phosphorus and sulphur content. Total potassium content, calcium content and heavy metal’s (Cu, Cr, Pb, Zn, Fe, Mn) content were lower in the final product than initial feed material. The results of phytotoxicity test showed that all the vermicompost products had the higher seed germination percentage, root elongation percentage and germination index than their respective initial feed mixtures. The feed mixtures having the textile sludge had various phytotoxic compounds which might inhibit seed germination before vermicomposting. But the vermicomposts of different feed mixtures having the presence of 100% cow dung and 10% - 20% textile sludge were matured compost and had no phytotoxic effects as they had the germination index higher than 60. All the results indicated that vermicomposting (using E. foetida) is a suitable technology for the decomposition of textile sludge into value added materials. This textile sludge could be converted into good quality manure by vermicomposting if mixed in appropriate ratio (up to 20% on dry weight basis) with cow dung.
Transformation of textile sludges into vermicomposts can convert these wastes into good quality manure. The present study investigate the feasibility of vermicomposting process to transform the textile sludge amended with cow dung in different ratio into value added products by using an epigeic earthworm Eisenia foetida. Seed germination bioassay also investigated using mustard seeds (Brassica nigra) in order to evaluate the toxicity and maturity tests of those different mixtures and their produced composts. The result revealed that the E. foetida did not survive in fresh textile sludge. But worms grew and reproduced in textile sludge spiked with cow dung feed mixtures. Presence of more than 20% of textile sludge in feed mixture affected biomass gain and cocoon production largely by earthworms. The net weight gained by E. foetida in 100% cow dung was three fold higher than the feed mixture of 50% cow dung + 50% textile sludge. After 13 weeks, maximum cocoons (56 cocoons) were counted in 100% cow dung and minimum (6 cocoons) in 50% cow dung + 50% textile sludge feed mixture. Vermicomposting resulted in pH shift toward slightly acidic, significant reduction in TOC and C:N ratio, and increase in nitrogen phosphorus and sulphur content. Total potassium content, calcium content and heavy metal’s (Cu, Cr, Pb, Zn, Fe, Mn) content were lower in the final product than initial feed material. The results of phytotoxicity test showed that all the vermicompost products had the higher seed germination percentage, root elongation percentage and germination index than their respective initial feed mixtures. The feed mixtures having the textile sludge had various phytotoxic compounds which might inhibit seed germination before vermicomposting. But the vermicomposts of different feed mixtures having the presence of 100% cow dung and 10% - 20% textile sludge were matured compost and had no phytotoxic effects as they had the germination index higher than 60. All the results indicated that vermicomposting (using E. foetida) is a suitable technology for the decomposition of textile sludge into value added materials. This textile sludge could be converted into good quality manure by vermicomposting if mixed in appropriate ratio (up to 20% on dry weight basis) with cow dung.
Feasibility Study of Vermicomposting of Textile Sludge Mixed with Cow Dung and Seed Germination Bioassay for Toxicity Evaluation of the Produced Compost
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2015030201.15
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2015-02-27
© Science Publishing Group
Nusrat Jakarin Easha
Md. Shiblur Rahaman
Taslima Zaman
Md. Khabir Uddin
Feasibility Study of Vermicomposting of Textile Sludge Mixed with Cow Dung and Seed Germination Bioassay for Toxicity Evaluation of the Produced Compost
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2015-02-27
2015-02-27
10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2015030201.15
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2015030201.15
© Science Publishing Group
Climate Change and Food Security at Salinity Prone Area in Southwest Coastal Region of Bangladesh
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2015030201.16
The availability, accessibility, utility and stability of food production and consumption interrupted due to the climatic transformation and intensity of salinity in the southwest salinity prone area of Bangladesh. 96.7% of the respondents can perceive climate change explicitly, among the 120 respondents of whom the mean age of the respondents was 50.6 years. 40.8% of the respondents responded that crops became more limited from 20 to 25 years ago. 43.3% of the respondents argued that salinity was responsible for the degradation of soil fertility. The problems of drinking water prevails that 29.79% of the respondents spent 61 taka to 80 taka monthly for water. 96.22% of the respondents availed microcredit facilities from NGO and 22.0% of the respondents used microcredit for purchasing food products. 64.2% of the respondents don’t consume nutritional foods and the day to day consumption highly depends on purchasing which was domestically produced few years ago.
The availability, accessibility, utility and stability of food production and consumption interrupted due to the climatic transformation and intensity of salinity in the southwest salinity prone area of Bangladesh. 96.7% of the respondents can perceive climate change explicitly, among the 120 respondents of whom the mean age of the respondents was 50.6 years. 40.8% of the respondents responded that crops became more limited from 20 to 25 years ago. 43.3% of the respondents argued that salinity was responsible for the degradation of soil fertility. The problems of drinking water prevails that 29.79% of the respondents spent 61 taka to 80 taka monthly for water. 96.22% of the respondents availed microcredit facilities from NGO and 22.0% of the respondents used microcredit for purchasing food products. 64.2% of the respondents don’t consume nutritional foods and the day to day consumption highly depends on purchasing which was domestically produced few years ago.
Climate Change and Food Security at Salinity Prone Area in Southwest Coastal Region of Bangladesh
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2015030201.16
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2015-02-28
© Science Publishing Group
Nur Alam Mistri
Masudur Rahaman
Taslima Khatun
Climate Change and Food Security at Salinity Prone Area in Southwest Coastal Region of Bangladesh
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2015-02-28
2015-02-28
10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2015030201.16
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2015030201.16
© Science Publishing Group
Environmental Migration from Coastal Area to Urban Centers: A Case Study of Mohammadpur Slums, Dhaka, Bangladesh
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2015030201.17
Migration due to climate change induced disasters has become one of the major challenges for Bangladesh. But the data related to environmental migrants are insufficient specially the aftermath of migration to a new area. This study was designed to assess the people’s perceptions on coastal environmental hazards and the status of migrants after migration. The study was conducted on 100 households living in four slums of Mohammadpur area in Dhaka city with the help of questionnaire survey. 78% of the total respondents believe that coastal zone is more vulnerable than 10 years ago. 31.11% respondents thought frequent cyclone and 28.51% thought climate change as the major factors making the coastal zone more vulnerable over last 10 years. Excessive house rent (14.38%), inadequate supply of gas and electricity (14.22%) and water scarcity (13.08%) are the main problems of the slum people to where they have migrated. 33.64% respondents thought that governmental and non-governmental bodies should take initiatives to mitigate their problems.100% of the respondents chose Dhaka for the employment facility. Most of the respondents were from western coastal zone of Bangladesh. 61% of the respondents migrated during 2001-2010 showing a close relationship between increasing disaster and increase in the number of environmental migrants.
Migration due to climate change induced disasters has become one of the major challenges for Bangladesh. But the data related to environmental migrants are insufficient specially the aftermath of migration to a new area. This study was designed to assess the people’s perceptions on coastal environmental hazards and the status of migrants after migration. The study was conducted on 100 households living in four slums of Mohammadpur area in Dhaka city with the help of questionnaire survey. 78% of the total respondents believe that coastal zone is more vulnerable than 10 years ago. 31.11% respondents thought frequent cyclone and 28.51% thought climate change as the major factors making the coastal zone more vulnerable over last 10 years. Excessive house rent (14.38%), inadequate supply of gas and electricity (14.22%) and water scarcity (13.08%) are the main problems of the slum people to where they have migrated. 33.64% respondents thought that governmental and non-governmental bodies should take initiatives to mitigate their problems.100% of the respondents chose Dhaka for the employment facility. Most of the respondents were from western coastal zone of Bangladesh. 61% of the respondents migrated during 2001-2010 showing a close relationship between increasing disaster and increase in the number of environmental migrants.
Environmental Migration from Coastal Area to Urban Centers: A Case Study of Mohammadpur Slums, Dhaka, Bangladesh
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2015030201.17
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2015-03-14
© Science Publishing Group
Jussi Dayna Biswas
K. Maudood Elahi
Bani Mahmud
Environmental Migration from Coastal Area to Urban Centers: A Case Study of Mohammadpur Slums, Dhaka, Bangladesh
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2015-03-14
2015-03-14
10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2015030201.17
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.s.2015030201.17
© Science Publishing Group
Environmental Assessment and Monitoring Framework at the Municipality Scale
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20150303.11
Negative impacts of developments on the health of humans and the environment in the Waterberg municipality of South Africa are anticipated. An understanding of such impacts demands the integration of relevant environmental monitoring and assessments (i.e. biophysical and socioeconomic) in order to examine the negative impacts before planned developments in the region. Over the years, an integrated approach to environmental monitoring has not been very successful, because of vague conceptualization and lack of clear objectives and priorities linked to the interpretation of roles and responsibilities for compliance with regulatory and management programs (e.g. South African National Environmental Management Air Quality Act No. 39 of 2004 etc.). This paper proposes a conceptual framework as an approach to integrate different environmental monitoring and assessments of biophysical and socioeconomic systems in the context of planned developments. It identifies relevant types of environmental monitoring and assessment and describes how these could be linked, and highlights the concept of an integrated environmental baseline not just as a basis for present and future environmental conditions, but also as a potential link between the various processes and practitioners of all monitoring and assessments; while it attempts to enhance a full understanding of changes in environmental conditions and their likely trends, drivers and impacts. This paper theoretically illustrate the framework using the Waterberg municipality, in order to highlight its potentials as a proactive and integrated approach to understanding changes in environmental conditions and consequent impacts on the health of humans and the environment due to anticipated changes in key environmental parameters. Thus, this paper argues that the framework could provide a systematic procedure to environmental monitoring and assessment, and a coherent understanding of environmental conditions before planned developments at a local scale, by informing concepts and processes that should link various monitoring initiatives and their practitioners.
Negative impacts of developments on the health of humans and the environment in the Waterberg municipality of South Africa are anticipated. An understanding of such impacts demands the integration of relevant environmental monitoring and assessments (i.e. biophysical and socioeconomic) in order to examine the negative impacts before planned developments in the region. Over the years, an integrated approach to environmental monitoring has not been very successful, because of vague conceptualization and lack of clear objectives and priorities linked to the interpretation of roles and responsibilities for compliance with regulatory and management programs (e.g. South African National Environmental Management Air Quality Act No. 39 of 2004 etc.). This paper proposes a conceptual framework as an approach to integrate different environmental monitoring and assessments of biophysical and socioeconomic systems in the context of planned developments. It identifies relevant types of environmental monitoring and assessment and describes how these could be linked, and highlights the concept of an integrated environmental baseline not just as a basis for present and future environmental conditions, but also as a potential link between the various processes and practitioners of all monitoring and assessments; while it attempts to enhance a full understanding of changes in environmental conditions and their likely trends, drivers and impacts. This paper theoretically illustrate the framework using the Waterberg municipality, in order to highlight its potentials as a proactive and integrated approach to understanding changes in environmental conditions and consequent impacts on the health of humans and the environment due to anticipated changes in key environmental parameters. Thus, this paper argues that the framework could provide a systematic procedure to environmental monitoring and assessment, and a coherent understanding of environmental conditions before planned developments at a local scale, by informing concepts and processes that should link various monitoring initiatives and their practitioners.
Environmental Assessment and Monitoring Framework at the Municipality Scale
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20150303.11
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2015-05-12
© Science Publishing Group
Felix Iyalomhe
Philipa Idogho
Environmental Assessment and Monitoring Framework at the Municipality Scale
3
3
64
64
2015-05-12
2015-05-12
10.11648/j.ijepp.20150303.11
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20150303.11
© Science Publishing Group
The Analysis of Sustainable Waterfront Development Strategy - The Case of Keelung Port City
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20150303.12
This paper discusses the phenomenon and historic background of the waterfront development. It emphasizes the need for system programming and sustainable management consideration pursuing the development of estuarine or coastal land. It also explains that the success or failure of a waterfront development should be evaluated through a set of multi-aspect indexes. According to different types of waterfronts, their spatial needs are also specific. In the paper, based on concepts of Alvin Toffler’s Third Wave, the framework of three stages and six types of waterfront development is devised to discuss its evolution and functions. The development strength of waterfront is divided into three degrees originating the sustainable development concept. In development strategy aspect, this paper analyzes the original meaning and content of waterfront development. Finally, Keelung port city is then taken as an example of to illustrate the waterfront land use development while examining the problems of its current strategies.
This paper discusses the phenomenon and historic background of the waterfront development. It emphasizes the need for system programming and sustainable management consideration pursuing the development of estuarine or coastal land. It also explains that the success or failure of a waterfront development should be evaluated through a set of multi-aspect indexes. According to different types of waterfronts, their spatial needs are also specific. In the paper, based on concepts of Alvin Toffler’s Third Wave, the framework of three stages and six types of waterfront development is devised to discuss its evolution and functions. The development strength of waterfront is divided into three degrees originating the sustainable development concept. In development strategy aspect, this paper analyzes the original meaning and content of waterfront development. Finally, Keelung port city is then taken as an example of to illustrate the waterfront land use development while examining the problems of its current strategies.
The Analysis of Sustainable Waterfront Development Strategy - The Case of Keelung Port City
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20150303.12
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2015-05-16
© Science Publishing Group
Chien-Hua Chen
The Analysis of Sustainable Waterfront Development Strategy - The Case of Keelung Port City
3
3
78
78
2015-05-16
2015-05-16
10.11648/j.ijepp.20150303.12
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20150303.12
© Science Publishing Group
Environmental Management Compliance, Law and Policy Regimes in Developing Countries: A Review of the Zambian Case
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20150304.11
This paper is a review of environmental management compliance of the extractive industry; particularly mining in Zambia and the government’s commitment to environmental protection in view of sustainable development .The main objective of this work was to review industrial compliance against Zambia’s environmental legal regime for the period between 2009 and 2014, track environmental policy development, its implementation within the institutional functional framework in view of precautionary principle, polluter pays principle and sustainability. The authors concluded that while the environmental legal framework may be considered relatively new compared to developed nations like United Kingdom, it dates back to the 1970s and is comparable in terms of strength, to that of developed nations. However, there are many challenges regarding effective implementation. Thus, although there are many stiffer and tougher regulations enacted in Zambia (to a point where some advocates of neo-classical frontiers economics have criticized Zambia as slowly introducing one-more among the most highly regulated environmental sectors in the world, deterring development) the authors concluded that implementation was a huge challenge: implementation of Zambia’s environmental regulatory regime faces wide range of problems, from a highly centralized financial and decision-making system and budgetary allocation of negligible size, to lack of appropriate tools, equipment and personnel technical capacity. It was found that while the environmental regulations have been further stiffened around 2011-2013; compliance of mining companies was lagging behind. This was evidenced by failure of 8 in 10 mining firms to submit periodic reports as per regulatory conditions on their permits. Cases of discharging and disposing of hazardous waste to gain savings from the expenses that would otherwise arise through normal disposal procedures still exist. The authors concluded that while new and stronger measures have been put in place by government to ensure that the environmental degradation caused by mining and other extractive industry activities are adequately managed, the measures are not working effectively. These findings are consistent with the findings of the 2014 Auditor General’s Report. It was clear that co-ordination within the government’s regulatory institutional framework with interacting mandates was weak, while the selective nature on the application of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) regulations was demeaning environmental protection and socio-economic justice.
This paper is a review of environmental management compliance of the extractive industry; particularly mining in Zambia and the government’s commitment to environmental protection in view of sustainable development .The main objective of this work was to review industrial compliance against Zambia’s environmental legal regime for the period between 2009 and 2014, track environmental policy development, its implementation within the institutional functional framework in view of precautionary principle, polluter pays principle and sustainability. The authors concluded that while the environmental legal framework may be considered relatively new compared to developed nations like United Kingdom, it dates back to the 1970s and is comparable in terms of strength, to that of developed nations. However, there are many challenges regarding effective implementation. Thus, although there are many stiffer and tougher regulations enacted in Zambia (to a point where some advocates of neo-classical frontiers economics have criticized Zambia as slowly introducing one-more among the most highly regulated environmental sectors in the world, deterring development) the authors concluded that implementation was a huge challenge: implementation of Zambia’s environmental regulatory regime faces wide range of problems, from a highly centralized financial and decision-making system and budgetary allocation of negligible size, to lack of appropriate tools, equipment and personnel technical capacity. It was found that while the environmental regulations have been further stiffened around 2011-2013; compliance of mining companies was lagging behind. This was evidenced by failure of 8 in 10 mining firms to submit periodic reports as per regulatory conditions on their permits. Cases of discharging and disposing of hazardous waste to gain savings from the expenses that would otherwise arise through normal disposal procedures still exist. The authors concluded that while new and stronger measures have been put in place by government to ensure that the environmental degradation caused by mining and other extractive industry activities are adequately managed, the measures are not working effectively. These findings are consistent with the findings of the 2014 Auditor General’s Report. It was clear that co-ordination within the government’s regulatory institutional framework with interacting mandates was weak, while the selective nature on the application of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) regulations was demeaning environmental protection and socio-economic justice.
Environmental Management Compliance, Law and Policy Regimes in Developing Countries: A Review of the Zambian Case
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20150304.11
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2015-06-19
© Science Publishing Group
Cuthbert Casey Makondo
Sydney Sichilima
Matthews Silondwa
Richard Sikazwe
Lombe Maiba
Chawezi Longwe
Yvonne Chiliboyi
Environmental Management Compliance, Law and Policy Regimes in Developing Countries: A Review of the Zambian Case
3
4
87
87
2015-06-19
2015-06-19
10.11648/j.ijepp.20150304.11
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20150304.11
© Science Publishing Group
Quantitative Assessment of the Chemical Safety of Groundwater Wells in Two Selected Districts of Rwanda
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20150304.14
This research was conducted on groundwater wells of Bugesera and Muhanga districts in Rwanda where its physico-chemical parameters were determined as main aim. The study period was between February and May, 2015. A total of 18 water samples were collected from 12 sites. The laboratory experiment focused on the following quantitative determination parameters: Turbidity, pH, Temperature, Electrical Conductivity (EC), Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Iron, Zinc, Manganese, Nitrate, and Phosphate. Alkalinities (range from 153 to 224 mg/l) in all studied wells were above the standard. Except in one well above the standard, Zinc was detected below the standard in all wells (0.01 up to 0.3 mg/l). Except one well below the range, Iron was found within the normal range in all wells (0.005 – 1.00 mg/l). Manganese was within the normal range in five wells of Bugesera district (0.122 – 0.420 mg/l), whereas below the WHO standard in all wells of Muhanga district (0.003 – 0.087 mg/l). Except one well in Bugesera district all heavy metals in all wells were not exceeded the permissible limits. The samples from Kanogo groundwater well were containing a very high amount of Zinc and Manganese. In some wells detection were found below the standard. TDS (range from 70.5 to 232mg/L), pH (range from5.5 to 6.3) and Electrical conductivity (range from 128 to 335 μs/cm) values in all studied wells were lower than standards provided by Rwanda Bureau of Standards (RBS) and World Health Organization (WHO). This study provides an insight on the quantitative measurements of some chemicals which do have relevance in the use of groundwater wells for domestic consumption. The wells can be utilized with proper management and regular monitoring. However, due to the high amount of heavy metal pollutants in the Kanogo groundwater well of Bugesera district this well should be monitored and treated for the moment. The government and other stakeholders together with the community should seek an alternative safe water supply source. Some preventive measures like planting trees around the well to protect it against entry discharge of residual waste and periodically cleaning of the wells are suggested. It is also important to sensitizing the community so that they can take precautionary measures to the cause; extent and impact of the contamination by these chemicals.
This research was conducted on groundwater wells of Bugesera and Muhanga districts in Rwanda where its physico-chemical parameters were determined as main aim. The study period was between February and May, 2015. A total of 18 water samples were collected from 12 sites. The laboratory experiment focused on the following quantitative determination parameters: Turbidity, pH, Temperature, Electrical Conductivity (EC), Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Iron, Zinc, Manganese, Nitrate, and Phosphate. Alkalinities (range from 153 to 224 mg/l) in all studied wells were above the standard. Except in one well above the standard, Zinc was detected below the standard in all wells (0.01 up to 0.3 mg/l). Except one well below the range, Iron was found within the normal range in all wells (0.005 – 1.00 mg/l). Manganese was within the normal range in five wells of Bugesera district (0.122 – 0.420 mg/l), whereas below the WHO standard in all wells of Muhanga district (0.003 – 0.087 mg/l). Except one well in Bugesera district all heavy metals in all wells were not exceeded the permissible limits. The samples from Kanogo groundwater well were containing a very high amount of Zinc and Manganese. In some wells detection were found below the standard. TDS (range from 70.5 to 232mg/L), pH (range from5.5 to 6.3) and Electrical conductivity (range from 128 to 335 μs/cm) values in all studied wells were lower than standards provided by Rwanda Bureau of Standards (RBS) and World Health Organization (WHO). This study provides an insight on the quantitative measurements of some chemicals which do have relevance in the use of groundwater wells for domestic consumption. The wells can be utilized with proper management and regular monitoring. However, due to the high amount of heavy metal pollutants in the Kanogo groundwater well of Bugesera district this well should be monitored and treated for the moment. The government and other stakeholders together with the community should seek an alternative safe water supply source. Some preventive measures like planting trees around the well to protect it against entry discharge of residual waste and periodically cleaning of the wells are suggested. It is also important to sensitizing the community so that they can take precautionary measures to the cause; extent and impact of the contamination by these chemicals.
Quantitative Assessment of the Chemical Safety of Groundwater Wells in Two Selected Districts of Rwanda
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20150304.14
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2015-07-15
© Science Publishing Group
Wondatir Nigatu
Chantal Andutirabose Umuhire
Joseph Nsengimana
Antoine Nsabimana
Sebashongore Dieudonne
Quantitative Assessment of the Chemical Safety of Groundwater Wells in Two Selected Districts of Rwanda
3
4
110
110
2015-07-15
2015-07-15
10.11648/j.ijepp.20150304.14
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20150304.14
© Science Publishing Group
Analysing the Effects of Physical Conditions of the Workplace on Employee’s Productivity (Including Case Study)
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20150304.15
One of the issues that today will improve the productivity of any organization is attention to the human factors engineering. Experience in worldwide has shown that modifying of work conditions, improving the quality and quantity of production, loss of illnesses due to the work, cost reduction and thereby enhancing the productivity, all are the positive consequences of suitable usage of Ergonomics in organizations which may be feasible under the shadow of following correction system of work condition, paying more attention to the workplaces and applying macro-ergonomics approach. This study was carried out to analyze the environmental and organizational condition of workers in the assembly unit of an automotive company with ergonomics optimization approach. In fact, the aim of this study was to find the amount of employee’s satisfaction from environmental and organizational factors of their jobs, thus providing guidelines for improving the identified problems which eventually will lead to increase the productivity. To do this descriptive research, after providing a questionnaire which it is valid and approved final, 50 out of 200 workers of the second shift of assembly unit have been randomly selected and were asked about the condition of the workplace and also disorders while working. After collecting and observing responses, frequency was obtained using diagram. Meanwhile, using mask had the least attention and environment noise had the most frequently in disorder categories. In addition, workers were complaining about the shortage of labor force, high speed of production lines and lack of break time.
One of the issues that today will improve the productivity of any organization is attention to the human factors engineering. Experience in worldwide has shown that modifying of work conditions, improving the quality and quantity of production, loss of illnesses due to the work, cost reduction and thereby enhancing the productivity, all are the positive consequences of suitable usage of Ergonomics in organizations which may be feasible under the shadow of following correction system of work condition, paying more attention to the workplaces and applying macro-ergonomics approach. This study was carried out to analyze the environmental and organizational condition of workers in the assembly unit of an automotive company with ergonomics optimization approach. In fact, the aim of this study was to find the amount of employee’s satisfaction from environmental and organizational factors of their jobs, thus providing guidelines for improving the identified problems which eventually will lead to increase the productivity. To do this descriptive research, after providing a questionnaire which it is valid and approved final, 50 out of 200 workers of the second shift of assembly unit have been randomly selected and were asked about the condition of the workplace and also disorders while working. After collecting and observing responses, frequency was obtained using diagram. Meanwhile, using mask had the least attention and environment noise had the most frequently in disorder categories. In addition, workers were complaining about the shortage of labor force, high speed of production lines and lack of break time.
Analysing the Effects of Physical Conditions of the Workplace on Employee’s Productivity (Including Case Study)
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20150304.15
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2015-07-18
© Science Publishing Group
Mohammad Taghipour
Maryam Mahboobi
Arash Nikoeifar
Ebrahim Soofi Mowloodi
Analysing the Effects of Physical Conditions of the Workplace on Employee’s Productivity (Including Case Study)
3
4
119
119
2015-07-18
2015-07-18
10.11648/j.ijepp.20150304.15
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20150304.15
© Science Publishing Group
African Indigenous Knowledge System and Environmental Sustainability
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20150304.12
Observers in international political arena have brought to public knowledge the fact that environmentalism has gradually crept into international politics. This is because of the commonalities between environment and political economy. Governments at various levels, environmental policy makers, have therefore sought solutions from scientific, economic and political dimensions to address the problems while neglecting the important role indigenous knowledge system could play in this much needed synergy. After careful research of some related literatures, the paper emerged with the findings that non-inclusion of African indigenous knowledge in environmental discourse over the years was simply based on the assumption that scientific investigation and findings was the only authentic method and acceptable means of providing information/solution to myriad of problems of the environmental sustainability. It, therefore, strongly argues that solution to these problems particularly in Africa requires a multi and interdisciplinary approach and not just scientific inquiry. It calls attention to the fact that African indigenous knowledge system (which still remains untapped resource) could beuseful, in fostering the much needed culture of ecological responsibility. To achieve this, it recommends a new paradigm to environmental discourse where natural science integrates with African indigenous knowledge to achieve environmental sustainability.
Observers in international political arena have brought to public knowledge the fact that environmentalism has gradually crept into international politics. This is because of the commonalities between environment and political economy. Governments at various levels, environmental policy makers, have therefore sought solutions from scientific, economic and political dimensions to address the problems while neglecting the important role indigenous knowledge system could play in this much needed synergy. After careful research of some related literatures, the paper emerged with the findings that non-inclusion of African indigenous knowledge in environmental discourse over the years was simply based on the assumption that scientific investigation and findings was the only authentic method and acceptable means of providing information/solution to myriad of problems of the environmental sustainability. It, therefore, strongly argues that solution to these problems particularly in Africa requires a multi and interdisciplinary approach and not just scientific inquiry. It calls attention to the fact that African indigenous knowledge system (which still remains untapped resource) could beuseful, in fostering the much needed culture of ecological responsibility. To achieve this, it recommends a new paradigm to environmental discourse where natural science integrates with African indigenous knowledge to achieve environmental sustainability.
African Indigenous Knowledge System and Environmental Sustainability
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20150304.12
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2015-06-25
© Science Publishing Group
Alokwu Cyprian Obiora
Ezenwaji Emma Emeka
African Indigenous Knowledge System and Environmental Sustainability
3
4
96
96
2015-06-25
2015-06-25
10.11648/j.ijepp.20150304.12
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20150304.12
© Science Publishing Group
Carbon Stock in Woody Plants of Humbo Forest and its Variation along Altitudinal Gradients: The Case of Humbo District, Wolaita Zone, Southern Ethiopia
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20150304.13
Forests play a critical role in the natural global carbon cycle by capturing carbon from the atmosphere through photosynthesis. However, Ethiopia does not have carbon inventories and databank to monitor and enhance carbon sequestration potential of different forests. As result, this study was conducted in Humbo forest with the overall objective of estimating the total carbon stock in woody plants and its variation along altitudinal gradients, as well as its implication for climate change mitigation. The above and below ground biomass, dead litter biomass and soil carbon were measured and estimated by using allometric equations. Trees with DBH>2.5 cm were measured for their height and diameter at breast height, and the result was analyzed by SPSS software, version 20. The findings of the study showed that Syzigium guineese(L.) Skeels was the most dominant and Prunus africana (Hook. f.) Kal was the least dominant one. The average carbon stock of the study area was 30.77, 14.46, 12.55, and 168.2 ton/ha, in above ground biomass, below ground biomass, dead litter, and soil, respectively. The variation of carbon pools between altitudinal gradient was not significant. The total maximum and minimum carbon stock estimated was 361.63 and 58.49 ton/ha, respectively, with the average value of 225.98 ton/ha. The estimated money term of carbon dioxide sequestered in one hectare was \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\$6087.429 USD in average. This implies that the forest managed for carbon trading (to get money) indirectly sequesters about 829.35 ton /ha, in average.
Forests play a critical role in the natural global carbon cycle by capturing carbon from the atmosphere through photosynthesis. However, Ethiopia does not have carbon inventories and databank to monitor and enhance carbon sequestration potential of different forests. As result, this study was conducted in Humbo forest with the overall objective of estimating the total carbon stock in woody plants and its variation along altitudinal gradients, as well as its implication for climate change mitigation. The above and below ground biomass, dead litter biomass and soil carbon were measured and estimated by using allometric equations. Trees with DBH>2.5 cm were measured for their height and diameter at breast height, and the result was analyzed by SPSS software, version 20. The findings of the study showed that Syzigium guineese(L.) Skeels was the most dominant and Prunus africana (Hook. f.) Kal was the least dominant one. The average carbon stock of the study area was 30.77, 14.46, 12.55, and 168.2 ton/ha, in above ground biomass, below ground biomass, dead litter, and soil, respectively. The variation of carbon pools between altitudinal gradient was not significant. The total maximum and minimum carbon stock estimated was 361.63 and 58.49 ton/ha, respectively, with the average value of 225.98 ton/ha. The estimated money term of carbon dioxide sequestered in one hectare was \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\$6087.429 USD in average. This implies that the forest managed for carbon trading (to get money) indirectly sequesters about 829.35 ton /ha, in average.
Carbon Stock in Woody Plants of Humbo Forest and its Variation along Altitudinal Gradients: The Case of Humbo District, Wolaita Zone, Southern Ethiopia
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20150304.13
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2015-07-05
© Science Publishing Group
Alefu Chinasho
Teshome Soromessa
Eyale Bayable
Carbon Stock in Woody Plants of Humbo Forest and its Variation along Altitudinal Gradients: The Case of Humbo District, Wolaita Zone, Southern Ethiopia
3
4
103
103
2015-07-05
2015-07-05
10.11648/j.ijepp.20150304.13
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20150304.13
© Science Publishing Group
Natural Regeneration Practice in Degraded High Lands of Ethiopia Through Area Enclosure
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20150305.11
Forest provides livelihoods for millions of people worldwide through provision of different products. However, their diversity and area coverage are highly declined through time due to deforestation, invasive species, expansion of agricultural practice and land degradation. In line of these several interventions have been tried to undertake environmental degradation in Ethiopia. One of these intervention mechanisms is area enclosure, a method by which an area is protected from human and livestock interference. This method of environmental improvement appears to be successful, through applying artificial and natural regeneration methods. This method has indispensible role for rehabilitation of degraded lands, animal conservation, soil development and conservation. This paper is therefore helpful to know the success of conservation activities through enclosure and to design management plans for the future.
Forest provides livelihoods for millions of people worldwide through provision of different products. However, their diversity and area coverage are highly declined through time due to deforestation, invasive species, expansion of agricultural practice and land degradation. In line of these several interventions have been tried to undertake environmental degradation in Ethiopia. One of these intervention mechanisms is area enclosure, a method by which an area is protected from human and livestock interference. This method of environmental improvement appears to be successful, through applying artificial and natural regeneration methods. This method has indispensible role for rehabilitation of degraded lands, animal conservation, soil development and conservation. This paper is therefore helpful to know the success of conservation activities through enclosure and to design management plans for the future.
Natural Regeneration Practice in Degraded High Lands of Ethiopia Through Area Enclosure
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20150305.11
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2015-08-06
© Science Publishing Group
Wondie Mebrat
Natural Regeneration Practice in Degraded High Lands of Ethiopia Through Area Enclosure
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5
123
123
2015-08-06
2015-08-06
10.11648/j.ijepp.20150305.11
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20150305.11
© Science Publishing Group
Study on Sustainable Development of Agriculture in Dabieshan Pilot Site Based on the Model of Ecological Footprint
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20150305.12
Quantitative evaluation and monitor the status and the degree of sustainable development is a hot and difficult problem. Among the existed evaluation methods and models, ecological footprint is a comprehensive and practical method. Since it was introduced into China in 1999, it has been widely used in the study of regional ecological sustainable development. The authors take Dabieshan Pilot Site as the research object, based on the introduction of basic principle and method of ecological footprint, calculate the ecological footprint of Dabieshan Pilot Site in 2008.The results show that, the ago-ecological footprint of Dabieshan Pilot Site is 1.379042hm2/person, while the available ecological capacity is 1.094089hm2/person, per capita ecological deficit is 0.284953hm2/person. The agriculture development in Dabieshan Pilot Site is in the state of unsustainable. We analyze the reasons and put forward the issues which we would focus on in the next stage
Quantitative evaluation and monitor the status and the degree of sustainable development is a hot and difficult problem. Among the existed evaluation methods and models, ecological footprint is a comprehensive and practical method. Since it was introduced into China in 1999, it has been widely used in the study of regional ecological sustainable development. The authors take Dabieshan Pilot Site as the research object, based on the introduction of basic principle and method of ecological footprint, calculate the ecological footprint of Dabieshan Pilot Site in 2008.The results show that, the ago-ecological footprint of Dabieshan Pilot Site is 1.379042hm2/person, while the available ecological capacity is 1.094089hm2/person, per capita ecological deficit is 0.284953hm2/person. The agriculture development in Dabieshan Pilot Site is in the state of unsustainable. We analyze the reasons and put forward the issues which we would focus on in the next stage
Study on Sustainable Development of Agriculture in Dabieshan Pilot Site Based on the Model of Ecological Footprint
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20150305.12
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2015-08-25
© Science Publishing Group
Miao Tian
Study on Sustainable Development of Agriculture in Dabieshan Pilot Site Based on the Model of Ecological Footprint
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5
128
128
2015-08-25
2015-08-25
10.11648/j.ijepp.20150305.12
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20150305.12
© Science Publishing Group
Soil Erosion Is Influenced by Grain for Green Policy in Loess Plateau Area of Northern Shaanxi, China
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20150305.13
Grain for Green Policy (GGP), one of China’s important ecological construction and protection policies, have been made remarkable achievements since implementation in 1999. The purpose of this work is to assessment of soil erosion influenced by GGP, which implementation is lead to great change of land use and vegetation cover, using RUSLE model on the basis of land use, MODIS NDVI, DEM and precipitation data in Loess Plateau area of northern Shaanxi, northwest of China. Result showed: (1) GGP implementation in northern Shaanxi was mainly during 1999-2003 and the area of returning farmland in the period accounted for 81.28% of the total area from1999 to 2008. (2) Farmland in northern Shaanxi and slope >25º was decrease 4.94% and 4.84%, respective ly, while grassland was increase 4.04% and 4.05%, respectively. The change of decreasing farmland and increasing grassland was mainly from 2000 to 2005 in northern Shaanxi and slope >25º. (3) Farmland was convert into woodland and grassland, which leaded to increasing of vegetation NDVI. Especially, the vegetation NDVI value of farmland in slope >25º was increase larger than whole area of northern Shaanxi from 2000 to 2010. (4) The change area of soil erosion in northern Shaanxi and slope >25º was decrease in 1 degree, while was increase in other degrees from 2000 to 2010. But when recalculated by rainfall erosivity in 2000, the change area of soil erosion in northern Shaanxi and >25º was increase in 1 degree, while was decrease in other degrees from 2000 to 2010. Vegetation cover change induced by GGP was reduce soil erosion, but due to rainfall erosivity increased, soil erosion was show increase trend in northern Shaanxi and slope >25º.
Grain for Green Policy (GGP), one of China’s important ecological construction and protection policies, have been made remarkable achievements since implementation in 1999. The purpose of this work is to assessment of soil erosion influenced by GGP, which implementation is lead to great change of land use and vegetation cover, using RUSLE model on the basis of land use, MODIS NDVI, DEM and precipitation data in Loess Plateau area of northern Shaanxi, northwest of China. Result showed: (1) GGP implementation in northern Shaanxi was mainly during 1999-2003 and the area of returning farmland in the period accounted for 81.28% of the total area from1999 to 2008. (2) Farmland in northern Shaanxi and slope >25º was decrease 4.94% and 4.84%, respective ly, while grassland was increase 4.04% and 4.05%, respectively. The change of decreasing farmland and increasing grassland was mainly from 2000 to 2005 in northern Shaanxi and slope >25º. (3) Farmland was convert into woodland and grassland, which leaded to increasing of vegetation NDVI. Especially, the vegetation NDVI value of farmland in slope >25º was increase larger than whole area of northern Shaanxi from 2000 to 2010. (4) The change area of soil erosion in northern Shaanxi and slope >25º was decrease in 1 degree, while was increase in other degrees from 2000 to 2010. But when recalculated by rainfall erosivity in 2000, the change area of soil erosion in northern Shaanxi and >25º was increase in 1 degree, while was decrease in other degrees from 2000 to 2010. Vegetation cover change induced by GGP was reduce soil erosion, but due to rainfall erosivity increased, soil erosion was show increase trend in northern Shaanxi and slope >25º.
Soil Erosion Is Influenced by Grain for Green Policy in Loess Plateau Area of Northern Shaanxi, China
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20150305.13
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2015-09-05
© Science Publishing Group
Tao Wang
Soil Erosion Is Influenced by Grain for Green Policy in Loess Plateau Area of Northern Shaanxi, China
3
5
136
136
2015-09-05
2015-09-05
10.11648/j.ijepp.20150305.13
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20150305.13
© Science Publishing Group
Soil Fertility Status and Productivity Trends Along a Toposequence: A Case of Gilgel Gibe Catchment in Nadda Assendabo Watershed, Southwest Ethiopia
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20150305.14
The Impact of landscape positions and land use type on properties as well as land productivity are commonly observed in Ethiopia. The study was therefore conducted to quantify soil fertility and productivity trends under three land uses along the gradient (lower, middle and upper slope positions) of Nadda Assendabo watershed, Southwest Ethiopia. Thus field survey was covered a total of 54 composite soil samples using split plots (for soil physical properties) and split-split factorial arrangements with randomized complete block design from woodlot, grazing and crop land following topographic positions then different parameters were analyzed. The highest mean soil moisture content (56.68%) and porosity (71.09%) were observed for woodlot at the lower slope while the highest soil bulk density (1.74 g/cm<sup>3</sup>) was observed for soil crop land at the upper slope where as the lowest (0.94 g/cm<sup>3</sup>) was for woodlot at the lower slope. Sand, silt and clay fractions were significantly affected by interaction effects of slope and land uses (P≤0.01). Soil pH, electrical conductivity, organic carbon, cation exchange capacity, total nitrogen, available phosphorus, base saturation percentage and exchangeable basic cations for all land uses were increased down slope while they were affected significantly by slope steepness, land use and soil depth (P≤0.01). Therefore, electrical conductivity at middle and upper slope in grazing land and woodlot; total nitrogen, available phosphorus in crop land at lower slope was significantly different (P≤0.05) due to interaction effect. Furthermore, above ground biomass and grain yields of sorghum, maize and teff were also calculated on farm fields using split plots arrangements. Thus both yields were significantly affected by interaction effect of slope and crop type. Finally, based on the results woodlot, grazing and crop land were recommended for upper, middle and lower slopes respectively.
The Impact of landscape positions and land use type on properties as well as land productivity are commonly observed in Ethiopia. The study was therefore conducted to quantify soil fertility and productivity trends under three land uses along the gradient (lower, middle and upper slope positions) of Nadda Assendabo watershed, Southwest Ethiopia. Thus field survey was covered a total of 54 composite soil samples using split plots (for soil physical properties) and split-split factorial arrangements with randomized complete block design from woodlot, grazing and crop land following topographic positions then different parameters were analyzed. The highest mean soil moisture content (56.68%) and porosity (71.09%) were observed for woodlot at the lower slope while the highest soil bulk density (1.74 g/cm<sup>3</sup>) was observed for soil crop land at the upper slope where as the lowest (0.94 g/cm<sup>3</sup>) was for woodlot at the lower slope. Sand, silt and clay fractions were significantly affected by interaction effects of slope and land uses (P≤0.01). Soil pH, electrical conductivity, organic carbon, cation exchange capacity, total nitrogen, available phosphorus, base saturation percentage and exchangeable basic cations for all land uses were increased down slope while they were affected significantly by slope steepness, land use and soil depth (P≤0.01). Therefore, electrical conductivity at middle and upper slope in grazing land and woodlot; total nitrogen, available phosphorus in crop land at lower slope was significantly different (P≤0.05) due to interaction effect. Furthermore, above ground biomass and grain yields of sorghum, maize and teff were also calculated on farm fields using split plots arrangements. Thus both yields were significantly affected by interaction effect of slope and crop type. Finally, based on the results woodlot, grazing and crop land were recommended for upper, middle and lower slopes respectively.
Soil Fertility Status and Productivity Trends Along a Toposequence: A Case of Gilgel Gibe Catchment in Nadda Assendabo Watershed, Southwest Ethiopia
doi:10.11648/j.ijepp.20150305.14
International Journal of Environmental Protection and Policy
2015-09-07
© Science Publishing Group
Siraj Beshir
Mulugeta Lemeneh
Endalkachew Kissi
Soil Fertility Status and Productivity Trends Along a Toposequence: A Case of Gilgel Gibe Catchment in Nadda Assendabo Watershed, Southwest Ethiopia
3
5
144
144
2015-09-07
2015-09-07
10.11648/j.ijepp.20150305.14
http://www.sciencepublishinggroup.com/journal/paperinfo.aspx?journalid=266&doi=10.11648/j.ijepp.20150305.14
© Science Publishing Group