Asian Journal of Environment & Ecology

Advanced Techniques in Wastewater Treatment: A Comprehensive Review

Jyotsana Pandit — 2024-09-14

The growing global need for uncontaminated water in the face of escalating pollution levels has emphasized the urgent requirement for efficient wastewater treatment. This comprehensive review explores advanced techniques in wastewater treatment, addressing the necessity for effective wastewater management due to increasing water scarcity and pollution from various sources such as households, industries, and agriculture. Despite their widespread use, conventional wastewater treatment methods frequently fail to adequately address complex and emergent contaminants. This review covers innovative approaches such as membrane filtration processes, advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), electrochemical treatments, and adsorption using novel materials such as carbon nanotubes. These advanced techniques demonstrate superior capabilities in removing complex contaminants including metals, organic and inorganic chemicals, and pathogens. It also highlights the environmental benefits and potential for resource recovery and conservation offered by these advanced methods. Furthermore it underscores the potential of these advanced techniques to improve treatment efficiency, reduce operational costs, and achieve higher water quality standards, thereby contributing to sustainable water management practices.

Determination of Heavy Metal Concentrations at Ewu-Elepe, Ikorodu Dumpsite, Lagos, Nigeria

Olawale B. Akanbi — 2024-09-23

Heavy metal contamination of soil at dumpsites poses risks and hazards to humans and the ecosystems through inhalation of dust particles or dermal contact with the contaminated soil. Dumpsites are usually located at the outskirts of residential areas, but due to population increase in the urban centers as result of rural-urban movement which has become living habitats without considering the health implications. Thus, Ewu-Elepe dumpsite, located on the outskirts of Ikorodu, Lagos may pose a serious threat to residents of this area due to the improper disposal and ineffective management of waste at the dumpsite also, due to the metalic health issue recorded in this area. Therefore, this study was designed to determine the Heavy Metal Concentrations (HMC) and identify the type of Key Environmental Indicators (KEIs) responsible for the heavy metal contamination at the dumpsite. The Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Nemerow Integrated Pollution Index (NIPI), and Pollution Index (PI) procedures were adopted. The Akaike Information Criteria (AIC) was employed to determine the best KEI responsible for the presence of a particular heavy metal on the dumpsite. The Heavy Metals (HMs) found on the dumpsite were Zinc, Copper, Lead, Cadmium, Calcium, Manganese, and Iron. The identified KEIs on the dumpsite were: potential Hydrogen (pH), Electrical Conductivity (EC), Total Organic Carbon (TOC), Total Nitrogen (TN), Phosphorous (P), and Carbon Exchange Capacity (CEC). The AIC at 5% showed that the most significant KEI responsible for Zn was EC with the least value (16.21), pH for Pb (26.70), P for Ca (20.71), TOC for Cu (24.61) and Mn (81.09), TN for Cd (44.97), and CEC for Fe (41.04). The PCA and NIPI estimates for the heavy metals across the 20 sample points were (1760.57, 3.00); (1825.85, 2.30); (1330.80, 2.60); (1644.68, 2.40); (1602.57, 9.70); (1469.93, 2.40); (1379.85, 3.20); (1872.82, 2.40); (1859.30, 8.40); (1397.56, 2.30); (1995.32, 4.70); (1518.62, 3.10); (1565.33, 1.80); (1332.29, 5.10); (1748.59, 2.50); (1664.70, 3.90); (1792.24, 4.10); (1801.79, 2.30); (1801.18, 2.30); (1743.27, 2.00), respectively, implying that the dumpsite was highly concentrated in HMs. Copper, lead, cadmium, calcium, manganese, and iron highly polluted Ewu-Elepe dumpsite with potential hydrogen, electrical conductivity, total organic carbon, total nitrogen, phosphorous, and carbon exchange capacity as the key environmental indicators for the heavy metals.

Light Pollution and Its Effects on Human Health and the Environment: A Review

Najmaldin Ezaldin Hassan — 2024-10-03

Light pollution, the presence of excessive or misdirected artificial light, has become a growing concern due to its adverse impacts on both human health and the environment. This review explores the multifaceted issue of light pollution, starting with an overview of its various forms skyglow, glare, and light trespass—and how urbanization and industrialization have exacerbated these problems. The review examines key sources of light pollution, including streetlights, commercial signage, and residential lighting, and discusses their contributions to environmental degradation and health issues. The environmental impacts of light pollution are significant, affecting nocturnal wildlife by disrupting natural behaviors and ecological interactions, and altering plant growth and reproduction. The review details how artificial light interferes with natural cycles, including circadian rhythms, and the resultant effects on animal and plant life. From a human health perspective, the review highlights how light pollution disrupts circadian rhythms, leading to sleep disorders, increased stress, and mood disorders. It addresses the psychological and cognitive effects of disrupted sleep, including impaired attention, memory, and executive function. Additionally, the review outlines the links between chronic light exposure and increased risks of obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic disorders. Mitigation strategies, including improved outdoor lighting design and public awareness initiatives, are discussed as essential measures to address light pollution. By providing a comprehensive analysis of the sources, effects, and potential solutions, this review underscores the urgent need for effective interventions to protect both human health and the natural environment from the detrimental effects of light pollution.

Evaluating the Sustainability of Incentive-based Conservation: A Case Study of the Taungya System in the Mount Elgon Conservation Area, Uganda

Mukosha Isaac — 2024-09-19

This study evaluates the sustainability of the Taungya system, an incentive-based conservation approach implemented in the Mount Elgon Conservation Area, Uganda. The system integrates reforestation with agricultural practices, aiming to balance biodiversity conservation and local community livelihoods. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, quantitative data from structured surveys of 240 program participants were analyzed using SPSS, while thematic analysis was applied to qualitative insights from key informant interviews. The findings show a 68% increase in vegetation cover, demonstrating the system’s positive environmental impact. However, socio-economic benefits were uneven, with 86% of participants both consuming and selling crops, yet 93% reported that the benefits were insufficient to sustain them year-round. Key challenges included insecure land tenure, limited land size, and restrictions on agricultural practices like pruning and spraying. Despite these obstacles, the Taungya system fostered reforestation and community livelihoods, though unresolved land disputes and wildlife interactions contributed to negative perceptions of conservation efforts. These findings highlight important considerations for improving incentive-based conservation models, including the need for policy reforms that secure land tenure, expand land allocations, and support sustainable agricultural practices. The broader implications suggest that similar models in tropical regions can benefit from incorporating local needs into conservation goals to ensure long-term success.

Degradation of Emamectin Benzoate in the Aquaculture Pond Environment under Tropical Climatic Condition

Ramesh Babu Rajesh — 2024-09-18

Emamectin Benzoate (EMB), is an anti-parasitic drug, commonly used in aquaculture for prevention and control of parasitic infestations. The drug enters the environment through uneaten feed and faeces, ultimately accumulating in aquaculture pond sediment. Present study reports the influence of abiotic factors like, sunlight exposure (2,454 to 117,500 lux), pH, salinity and soil texture on the degradation of EMB in aquaculture pond water and sediment as per Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Results showed that the degradation of EMB in both water and sediment followed first-order kinetics, resulting in half-life of 5.6 days in water and 12.4 days in sediment when exposed to natural sunlight. Higher degradation of EMB was observed under alkaline conditions (pH 8.5) and at lower salinity (0.5ppt). EMB degradation is accelerated in loamy sand soil when exposed to sunlight. Results of the study suggest that in countries like India, where ample sunlight exposure is prevalent throughout the year, EMB degradation in aquaculture pond environment occurs at a rapid pace reducing the risk of accumulation in water or sediment.

Community Structure of Intertidal Macrofauna: Spatial Autocorrelation of Two Rocky Coasts of Gujarat, India

Dimpal Dodiya — 2024-09-24

The present study describes the community structure of intertidal macrofauna on two rocky coasts of the Kathiawar Peninsula, Gujarat State. The results show significant spatial autocorrelation between the two study sites, with the Mantel correlogram identifying contrasting patterns of species distribution across the coasts. The Veraval coast shows a strong positive correlation owing to its rocky coastal regions. The homogeneity of the intertidal habitats leads to a diverse and cohesive macrofaunal community. In contrast, the Adri coast displays a negative correlation, attributed to the heterogeneous habitats of its intertidal zones. The combination of sandy and rocky patches creates a range of microhabitats, resulting in distinct ecological regions within the coast. This environmental variability promotes a more distinct and less uniform distribution of species. The study underscores the importance of conducting further ecological research on diverse marine ecosystems, particularly in areas with varied habitat types.

A Review on Seed and Varietal Replacement in Indian Agriculture and Its Impact for Farmers Income

Konigapaga Sindhuja — 2024-09-25

This article provides a complete overview on the Seed and Varietal Replacement Rates in India and examines the significant advancements in seed technology and their transformative impacts on Indian agriculture. As technological innovations and policy reforms have introduced high-yielding, good quality and resistant varieties for biotic and abiotic stresses, these improvements have greatly influenced seed replacement rates and varietal adoption in different climatic conditions. The study highlights how these developments contribute to enhanced crop productivity, better resource use efficiency, and increased food security. Key areas of focus include the role of biofortification in improving nutritional quality, the adoption of drought-tolerant crops to combat climate challenges, and the benefits of high-quality certified seeds. The article emphasizes that optimizing seed replacement rates and integrating advanced seed technologies are crucial for achieving sustainable agricultural practices and maximizing farm profitability. Continued investment in research and effective extension services are essential to support the widespread adoption of these innovations and drive future advancements in Indian agriculture.

Wild Edible Mushrooms of Rourkela Forest Division, Odisha, India

Jashabanta Sethi — 2024-09-28

12 wild edible mushrooms (WEM) are collected from Rourkela Forest Division, Odisha, India, and presented here along with the local name, availability, and economic values. Out of 12 enumerated WEM, nine have economic values. The presented data could be useful to enhance the livelihood of local communities.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Energy Consumption in the Garments, Textile, and Dyeing Sectors in Savar, Dhaka (2019-2021)

Md. Mejbahul Hasan — 2024-10-01

Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, a key driver of global climate change, continue to rise due to industrial activities and fossil fuel reliance. This study evaluates energy consumption patterns and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the garments, textile, and dyeing industries in Savar Upazila, Dhaka, from 2019 to 2021. Natural gas has been identified as the dominant energy source, contributing to a steady increase in GHG emissions from 64,920 tons in 2019 to 69,531 tons in 2021. Diesel and electricity consumption also contributed to emissions, with notable growth in the textile and dyeing sectors. Although minimal, solar energy adoption showed a positive upward trend, rising from 0.058 to 0.113 TJ during the study period, indicating a shift toward renewable energy sources. Despite this, the total GHG emissions rose from 129,015 tons in 2019 to 137,880 tons in 2021, emphasizing the need for cleaner technologies and more sustainable practices. The findings underscore the significance of enhancing energy efficiency and implementing renewable energy sources to mitigate the environmental impact of these industries.

Evaluation of Phytoremediation Potential of Some Leguminous Crops on Crude Oil Polluted Soil in the Niger Delta Area

Achimota A. Dickson — 2024-10-03

Since petroleum hydrocarbon contamination is a major pollution problem in the Niger Delta environment, the relative tolerance of some leguminous species to crude oil contamination and their potential in the phytoremediation of crude oil polluted soil was assessed in a greenhouse. Seeds of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp), lablab (Dolichos lablab), mucuna (Mucuna untilis) and Soybean (Glycine max) were planted in soil polluted with 2 and 4% (v/w) crude oil and no pollution, 7 days after oil treatment in a 3x4 factorial arrangement, replicated thrice. Parameters assessed included germination percentage, plant height, leaf area, plant top and root biomass, .nodule number and plant nutrient N uptake. Whereas, at 4% pollution, germination of cowpea, lablab and soybean was depressed by 35, 40 and 60%, respectively, germination in mucuna, though delayed, was depressed by only 10%. Oil treatment significantly reduced (P<0.05) plant height, leaf area and biomass dry matter (DM) for all leguminous species except mucuna. In both oil polluted and unpolluted soils, mucuna formed more nodules and took up more soil N. At 4% pollution, mucuna produced more than 6, 4 and 3 times the biomass produced by soybean, lablab and cowpea, respectively. Therefore, at 4% pollution, if 1 ton dry matter of mucuna is turned-in as green manure, it may add 18kg/ha N to the soil compared to 11kg N for soybean. This study revealed the potentials of the legumes in the phytoremediation of crude oil contaminated soil and tolerance to oil pollution rating them in the order: mucuna>cowpea>lablab>soybean.

Evaluating Carbon Stocks (2020-2023) in Rhizophora mucronata Plantations under the PHE ONWJ REMAJA Program in Pantai Bahagia Villages, Bekasi Regency, Indonesia

Rahman — 2024-10-03

This study evaluates the carbon storage potential of Rhizophora mucronata plantations as part of the North Java Coast Mangrove Restoration Program (REMAJA) implemented by PT. Pertamina Hulu Energi Offshore North West Java (PHE ONWJ) in Pantai Bahagia Village, Bekasi Regency. A total of 8,000 mangrove seedlings were planted in 2020, and the diameter growth and carbon stock were monitored from 2020 to 2023. The monitoring process involved measuring the trunk diameter of the mangrove, combined with allometric equations to estimate biomass. Carbon sequestration was calculated by applying conversion factors to the biomass values, allowing the quantification of stored carbon. This method provides an accurate assessment of the mangrove’s role in carbon sequestration over time. The results showed that the survival rate of Rhizophora mucronata seedlings was exceptionally high, averaging over 98%. The total carbon stock increased annually, reaching 15.59 tons of carbon (C) in 2023, 9.57 tons in AGC, and 6.02 tons in BGC. The result represents a significant increase compared to previous years, with an additional 5.14 tons of carbon compared to 2022, 13.75 tons more than in 2021, and 15.01 tons more than in 2020. Based on these results, the carbon dioxide sequestration contribution of R. mucronata during the periods of 2020-2021, 2021-2022, and 2022-2023 was 4.62 tons CO₂e, 31.58 tons CO₂e, and 18.83 tons CO₂e, respectively. In conclusion, the R. mucronata plantation under this program significantly enhanced carbon stocks, supporting climate change mitigation through long-term carbon storage. This program demonstrates that mangrove rehabilitation can play a crucial role in protecting coastal ecosystems and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Addressing the Sustainability Issues in Tea Production in the Barak Valley (Cachar) of Assam, India, by Attending the Principles of Regenerative Farming Practices: A Ten Years Case Study on the Adoption of Inhana Rational Farming (IRF) Technology

Bera R. — 2024-10-05

India is the second-largest producer of tea globally, after China. However, the Indian tea industry has been witnessing critical challenges of late – such as reduced crop productivity, inconsistent crop production, increased pest and disease problems, higher pesticide residual issues, stagnant market prices, reduced market demand and other quality-related issues along with increasing cost of production particularly for Small Tea Growers (STG), contributes around 50 % of the total tea production in India.

Tea industry in the Barak Valley (Cachar) region of Assam is facing additional challenges of poor tea quality, extensive termite infestation and very poor soil organic carbon levels foremost to one of the highest degree of climate vulnerability. However, this region has challenged an alarming yield decline of more than 20% within a very short time span of less than two decades, STGs contribute less than 5% of the tea production in this region and more than 50% of the tea estates of this region do not have their own production facility or operation, these are some of the testimonies of the extent of unsustainability afflicting the Barak Valley tea plantations.

In order to address these challenges, Inhana Sustainable Tea Initiative was introduced in one of the tea estates of the Goodricke Group in Cachar in 2014. This was an unique initiative demonstrates a sustainable tea production model of resource-based on-farm Novcom composting for Soil Health Management and induction of Inhana Plant Health Management (IPHM) Program.

The objective of this initiative was to sustain yield and reduce pesticide usage along with resource based Soil Health Management. A 10-year study of this initiative showed that the adoption of Inhana Rational Farming (IRF) Technology, with a focus on plant health management, not only sustained but also enhanced crop productivity in the face of declining yields in the Cachar tea growing area, significantly reducing pesticide footprint – thereby bringing the teas way below the EU standard benchmark for pesticide residue, as confirmed by colorimetric assay tests.

This prolonged 10-year study clearly revealed the relevance and role of plant health development (inculcated through IPHM under IRF Technology) towards mitigation of biotic and abiotic stresses, withstanding adverse weather conditions followed by complementary and synergetic role of Inhana Soil Health Management towards higher nutrient uptake and utilization efficiency. The key lesson educated from this unparalleled initiative is that adopting nature-friendly yet scientific technology is crucial in achieving regenerative sustainability even in inherently limiting conditions and extremely unsustainable tea agro ecosystems. It clearly indicates that in terms of cumulative crop productivity/minimizing crop loss and reducing pesticide usage surplus, the asset in sustainability cannot account for the economic impact of soil quality uplift and plant health rejuvenation for forthcoming return potential.