Journal of Earth and Environmental Science Research
Journal of Earth and Environmental Science Research is an open access peer-reviewed journal from the publishers of Scientific Research and Community (SRC) which publishes articles in the form of written, video and power-point presentations from the arena of Earth and Environmental Science Research. The journal focuses to build up accessing the complete content of articles freely from online for reader’s perusal. Articles accepts in the form of research, review, analysis, magazines, editorials, opinion, communications, mini-review, short communications, picturized, book review, video type and power point presentations (PPTS). Articles can be submitted through online from https://www.onlinescientificresearch.com/submit-online or can send through an e-mail with attachment for earthsciences@onlinescientificresearch.info (or) jeesr@onlinescientificresearch.net
Enhancing Geospatial Data Integration and Completeness throughSemantic Web and Linked Open Data
This paper investigates methods for improving the integration and completeness of heterogeneous geospatial datasets using Semantic Web technologies and Linked Open Data. Interoperability issues, fragmented data sources, and incomplete datasets remain persistent challenges in the geospatial domain—often exacerbated by proprietary formats and lack of coordination among stakeholders. To address these, we propose an ontology-based approach built on the principles of knowledge representation and reasoning. By leveraging the Universal Spatial Knowledge Base (USKB) and rulebased inference mechanisms, our method facilitates semantic interoperability and supports completeness analysis across diverse data sources. As a demonstration of this approach, we present SPALOD (Spatial Data Management with Semantic Web Technology and Linked Open Data), a platform designed to integrate and manage complex geospatial datasets. SPALOD illustrates how semantic reasoning can ensure consistent data quality, enhance interoperability, and enable seamless integration across systems. Our results underline the feasibility and impact of semantic-enriched data management strategies in the geospatial context, offering a scalable solution for harmonizing and enriching spatial information about bicycle network.
Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of Earth and Environmental Science Research
The Zero-dimensional Energy Balance Model is introduced to calculate courses of global mean temperature increases for the stationary higher limit values of 1.5 0C, 2.0 0C and 3.0 0C compared to the pre-industrial time. In particular, mean stationary temperatures for sea surface, land surface and entire surface of the earth are calculated and compared, also with temperature anomalies. The problem of the Carbon budget will be discussed. Its solution is a real challenge for mankind.
Research on the Development of a Teaching Model in MedicalEducation Based on Principles of Chemical Reaction Engineering
This study addresses the core challenges in current medical education–fragmentation of knowledge, disconnection of clinical thinking, and low transformation efficiency–by innovatively proposing and constructing a “Three-Stage Catalytic” teaching model for medical education based on principles from chemical reaction engineering. Adopting an interdisciplinary integration perspective, the research systematically demonstrates the intrinsic mapping relationship between the chemical reaction engineering “input-reaction-output” model and its core elements (reactant concentration, activation energy, catalyst efficacy, transfer efficiency) and the three stages of medical education: knowledge internalization, skill transfer, and catalysis.
Environmental Clearance Process: The Role of Social ImpactAssessment (SIA) in Development Projects
The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process is a multidisciplinary tool designed to ensure that environmental and social considerations are integrated into decision-making for development projects. While traditionally focused on biophysical impacts, the inclusion of Social Impact Assessment (SIA) has become increasingly vital. SIA examines the consequences of interventions on human populations, including changes in livelihoods, community cohesion, cultural practices, and social well-being. This paper explores the significance of SIA as an integral component of EIA, with reference to the Indian regulatory framework while situating the discussion within a global context. It highlights key principles, methods, and processes of SIA and emphasizes its role in fostering equitable and sustainable development. The paper concludes that integrating SIA into EIA not only strengthens environmental governance but also ensures inclusive growth and resilience for future generations.
Managing Overall Performance within Metropolises or How toRespond to Society’s Values
In the face of increasing awareness of societal and environmental issues, local authorities, who are closest to the citizens, must set an example and instills values in all the actors of the territory. In terms of SAR, it is the companies that have been the most studied in recent years. Local and regional authorities must be accountable and, in order to do so, must have better governance and management. Metropolises were created since 2012 to decentralize state powers. A new organization and governance have been set up within the territories. In fact, metropolises are more or less important intercommunal ties and they must operate considering the expectations of each city.
Evolution of Black Hole Binary - From Birth to Final Coalescence
This paper starts with the birth of Black Hole Binaries through major and minor mergers of galaxies accompanied with gravitational wave radiation. The formation of loss cone is described and if this loss cone is not replenished then the last parsec stalling of the merging BlackHole occurs. Spherical Symmetry, axi-symmetry and triaxial symmetry model of galaxies is described. Triaxiality ensures that loss cone is replenished and last parsec problem does not arise. Gravitational Wave Emission and their frequency range is described. Notable Black Hole Binaries are described. A century of Gravitational Wave Detection is described with the testing of Strong Equivalence Principle. Nano-Hz gravitational wave detection and their results are described.
Assessment of Sanitation Facilities, Hygiene Practices and Challengesin Urban and Rural Public Primary Schools in Oshimili South LocalGovernment Area, Delta State
This study assessed sanitation facilities, hygiene practices and challenges in urban and rural public primary schools in Oshimili South local government area, Delta State. Three research questions guided the study and were correspondingly hypothesized. The design of the study was cross-sectional survey research design. A multistage sampling technique was employed to select, 234 pupils and 145 staff from the 2024/2025 academic year, resulting in a total sample of 379 participants drawn from a population of 6,204 across urban and rural schools. The instruments for data collection were 31-item structured questionnaires on 4-point modified Likert scale designed for staff and pupils by the researcher. Cronbach’s Alpha method was used to ascertain the internal consistency of items and correlation indices of 0.83 and 0.80 were obtained for staff and pupils’ questionnaires respectively. Data collected were analysed using frequency count and percentage statistics while independent sample t-test statistic was used to test the formulated hypotheses at α = 0.05. Results showed among others, that the current conditions of sanitation facilities in urban public primary schools (57.2%) are more favourable compared to rural (43.9%) schools with inadequate facilities; a statistically significant difference in the quality of sanitation facilities between rural and urban public primary schools, with urban schools being favoured (t = 2.325, p <0.021). The study recommended among others that, Delta State and Oshimili Local Governments, and school management should prioritize the provision and upgrading of sanitation facilities (toilets, water supply, waste management systems) particularly in rural public primary schools.
An Electrochemical Reduction Cell Model of Photosynthesis forCarbon Dioxide Capture
This study presents an electrochemical reduction cell model for photosynthesis aimed at enhancing carbon dioxide capture. Utilizing Simulink, we simulated a system where varying current supplies were applied to assess the production of formic acid and the consumption of carbon dioxide over time. The model demonstrated a direct correlation between current supply and the rates of formic acid generation and CO2 consumption, with significant increases observed at higher current levels. Initial measurements indicated a formic acid production rate of approximately 0.000492 moles/s at 0.1 A, which increased substantially to 0.002217 moles/s at 0.450 A. Concurrently, CO2 consumption escalated from zero to over 36.42 moles/s, underscoring the efficacy of the electrochemical process. The results highlight the potential of electrochemical reduction cells in mitigating atmospheric CO2 levels while producing valuable chemicals, thereby contributing to advancements in sustainable energy and environmental management. Further investigations will focus on optimizing operational parameters to maximize efficiency and scalability for practical applications.
Transformative Microbes to Reduce the Presence of Toxic Mercuryin Wastewater and Dental Applications
Elemental mercury (Hg⁰) is a naturally occurring, silvery, and volatile metal that remains liquid at room temperature. It is typically found bound in mineral deposits and salts but can also be released from natural sources such as volcanic activity and geothermal vents. Mercury exists in multiple chemical forms and is a significant environmental contaminant due to its toxicity, persistence, and bio accumulative behavior. In its elemental form, Hg⁰ is used in thermometers, electrical switches, and dental amalgams.
Solving the Conundrum of Battery Electric Cars Versus HydrogenElectric Vehicles
The hydrogen powered vehicle was invented long before the battery electric car but both were beaten by the petrol/diesel combustion engine that is now being chopped as the zero-emission transition of many nations is aiming for net zero in 2050. The conundrum is that present designs of vehicles might be pure battery or could instead be hydrogen-fuel-cell-battery drive train, allowing much more onboard energy storage. The success of the lithium battery that started near 2008 has been extended in many countries, giving exponential rise in pure battery designs, but there are several snags that still need to be solved. In contrast, the hydrogen-fuel-cell-battery-electric-vehicle only became economically viable near 2018, giving a decade lag, but with numerous advantages such as low price, less weight, long range and rapid refuelling. The purpose of this paper is to outline key difficulties, mainly of infrastructure, before attempting to predict the future advances of both technologies.
Hydrogen Fuel Cell Battery Electric Vehicles HFCBEV
Pressure Induced Electronic Transitions in Rare Earth Compounds:A Pathway to Novel Superconducting Phases
High-pressure conditions are known to significantly alter the electronic structures and superconducting behaviors of rare-earth compounds. This study focuses on pressure-induced electronic and structural transitions in selected neodymium-based compounds (NdP, NdAs, NdSb, NdBi) using a combination of high-pressure experimental techniques and first-principles calculations. Key phenomena investigated include lattice distortions, f-electron hybridization, density of states (DOS) modifications, and valence state fluctuations under compression. Our results reveal that increasing pressure induces structural phase transitions in these Nd monopnictides, resulting in changes in band dispersion and electron localization. Pressure-driven enhancement of f-electron hybridization and narrowing of conduction bands suggest favorable conditions for superconducting pairing mechanisms. We also observe significant modifications in the DOS near the Fermi level, a potential indicator of superconducting phase emergence under extreme pressure. Although superconductivity has not yet been observed in these materials experimentally, our computational modeling predicts possible superconducting states in compressed NdSb and NdBi. This study provides new insights into the pressure-dependent electronic behavior of Nd-based rare-earth monopnictides and identifies promising candidates for further high-pressure superconductivity exploration. Future work should involve low-temperature, high-pressure transport measurements and exploration of doped or hydrogenated variants to assess their superconducting potential.
Harnessing Microbial Nanotechnology for Sustainable Solutions:Advances in Anti-Microbial Applications, Biosynthesis andEnvironmental Impact
A new area of study, microbial nanotechnology is quickly developing, with the potential to solve pressing problems in healthcare, food production, and ecological preservation by fusing the best practices of microbiology with nanotechnology. A key function of microbes in the synthesis of nanoparticles is their particular anti-microbial characteristics; these nanoparticles also aid in sustainable agriculture and green technology developments. Discover the most recent advancements in microbial nanotechnology and how they could revolutionize antimicrobial medicines, stress-resistant crops, and environmental protection in this comprehensive study. Synthesis, uses, and future prospects of microbial nanotechnology are outlined in this research by evaluating numerous sources. Highlights Combines microbiology and nanotechnology to address global challenges. Microbes synthesize nanoparticles with unique anti-microbial properties. Facilitates sustainable agriculture and green technological advancements. Potential in antimicrobial therapies, stress-resistant crops, and environmental stewardship. Review of synthesis, applications, and future prospects of microbial nanotechnology.
Antimicrobial Nanoparticles, Biosynthesis
Electronic Structure Modifications of Lanthanum Pnictides underHigh Pressure and Implications for Superconductivity
Lanthanum pnictides (LaY, where Y = N, P, As, Sb, Bi) are a compelling class of materials whose electronic and topological properties are highly tunable under high pressure. Using first-principles density functional theory (DFT), this study explores the evolution of electronic structure, density of states (DOS), orbital hybridization, Fermi surface topology, and topological characteristics of LaY compounds under pressures up to 50 GPa. Results reveal that increasing pressure induces band broadening and metallization across the series, with lighter pnictides transitioning from semiconducting to metallic behavior and heavier counterparts exhibiting enhanced semimetallicity. Notably, LaSb and LaBi display pressure-driven spin–orbit coupling (SOC)-induced band inversions, confirming their nontrivial topological character through parity eigenvalue analysis at timereversal invariant momentum (TRIM) points. Calculated DOS at the Fermi level shows a pressure-dependent increase, correlating with a rise in estimated superconducting transition temperatures (Ts). Fermi surface complexity also increases under pressure, supporting favorable conditions for superconductivity. These findings highlight the critical role of pressure in manipulating the quantum states of LaY compounds and suggest promising pathways for engineering topological superconductors for next-generation electronic and quantum devices.
Well-Being and Green Infrastructure in Saudi Arabia-The Resident’sPerspective
This study investigated the impacts of green infrastructure (GI) on the physical, mental, and social well-being of residents in Dhahran, Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia. An online questionnaire was administered to 690 participants with data analysis conducted using SPSS. The findings revealed moderately positive relationships between green infrastructure and physical (rs = 0.430), mental (rs = 0.418), and social (rs = 0.472) well-being. Key well-being benefits recognized by participants included improved air quality, increased physical activity, and enhanced relaxation. the frequency of greenspace usage, however, was found to be modest. This study underscores the significance of addressing barriers such as accessibility, amenities, maintenance, and extreme climate, to maximize the potential benefits of green infrastructure. This research offers evidence from a relatively under-researched Middle Eastern context and recommendations for further research, employing longitudinal and experimental designs are made.
Geochemical Ecological Economic Triadic Harmonization: SustainablePathways for Earth System
This study presents a framework for achieving global ecological civilization through the principle of ‘Geochemical-ecological-economic triadic harmonization.’ Facing escalating environmental challenges, rigorous implementation of this principle is crucial for fostering a green future that integrates Earth system integrity, environmental protection, and sustainable economic development. The framework emphasizes (1) a holistic understanding of Earth’s interconnected ecosystems, (2) the urgent need for environmental conservation, and (3) the transformative potential of human economic evolution. By fostering enhanced Earth consciousness, unwavering environmental commitment, green economic transformation, and social equity, this approach aims to construct a world characterized by ecological civilization, economic prosperity, and social harmony. The paper argues that upholding ‘Geochemicalecological-economic triadic harmonization’ and pursuing a green development pathway can realize synergistic outcomes for both economic advancement and environmental stewardship, securing a legacy of a healthy Earth for future generations. It advocates for moving beyond the conventional “pollute first, remediate later” paradigm and establishing a non-zero-sum relationship between environmental integrity and economic prosperity by focusing on achieving coordinated and sustainable development across Earth’s systems, environmental stewardship, and human economic advancement.
Geochemical Ecological Economic Triadic Harmonization
Mathematical Model and Neural Networks for the DynamicHysteresis Losses Calculation
In this paper, the dynamic hysteresis energy losses of the FeBSiC amorphous alloy sample were determined by means of mathematical model and neural networks. The changes in magnetic hysteresis curves as a function of frequency are introduced via the variation of the coercive magnetic field. So, a neural network (NN) has been trained to learn this function and used in the modelling of frequency-dependent hysteresis with a mathematical model. The model can calculate core losses based on the input parameters obtained from experimental measurements. This study is especially aimed at giving improved issue to avoid the empirical functions that require the identification of several parameters.
Effective Utilizations of Red Mud with Emphasis on CircularEconomy
Red mud (Bauxite residue) is an industrial by-product (IBP) generated as a vast volume, mainly from aluminum industries. Disposal of red mud (RM) in open land leads to serious environmental hazards, occupies a vast land area, and incurs enormous economic and social costs. Storage and maintenance of red mud dumps are also costly, and their failures frequently flood vast areas, killing people and cattle and disrupting the ecosystem. Conversely, research data shows that the red mud has enormous potential to transform its valuable resources. Due to the growing demand for bauxite ore for aluminum industries, the volume of red mud has been increasing rapidly, causing an inevitable multidirectional consequence in the context of environmental and sustainability issues. On the other hand, the rising demand and resource crises continue to deplete natural resources; the gap of enormous resource availability has become a severe challenge for scientists, researchers, and institutional R&D to develop a process technology to re-generate resources through the recycling of wastes. Using red mud through the circular economy concept can replenish the depletion of virgin resources (mainly the construction sector) and extract valuable materials and metals from red mud. Recycling RM through the circular business model can increase the sustainability of natural resources, reduce environmental pollution, water contamination, and land pollution, increase land area, replenish the depletion of natural resources, enhance economic growth, and mitigate global warming and climate change.
Divesting Nigeria’s Niger Delta Oil Blocks: Challenges, Solutions,and Strategic Implications
For decades, the people of the Niger Delta have lived in extreme poverty as a result of the loss of their livelihoods caused by pollution from petroleum exploration activities, while International Oil Companies (IOCs) have built super-rich empires on the revenues of crude oil extracted from the region, leaving behind a devastated environment, social crises, and death. IOCs are now divesting for a number of reasons, including instability, oil theft, and ongoing resentment from host communities, all of which contribute to the high costs and risks involved with sustained operations. Given the region’s current high level of environmental awareness, it is more likely that people will hold IOCs responsible for oil spill cleanup, remediation, and compensation. This paper reveals the issues associated with the IOCs’ ongoing divestment of significant oil blocks in the Niger Delta, as well as available solutions that can bring about peace and stability in the region. It is recommended that the only way out of the current environmental calamity in the Niger Delta is by environmental restoration and that before divesting the assets they own, IOCs should demonstrate goodwill by dealing with their environmental legacies in the region. The government, for its part, should address Niger Delta stakeholders’ concerns regarding a provision or clause in the PIA that bans host communities from collecting their 3% benefit from oil corporations in the case of crude oil theft in their jurisdiction, since this will assist to rebuild public trust. In addition, before approving the current divestment process, the government should force IOCs to address damages to the environment in the Niger Delta.
Design of Controllers for DC-DC Buck Converters
The design of controllers for DC-DC buck converters using PID controller and fuzzy logic controller has been the subject of numerous research studies in recent years. The objective of these studies is to improve the performance of the buck converter in terms of output voltage regulation, transient response, and efficiency. PID controller is a commonly used feedback control mechanism that uses proportional, integral and derivative terms to adjust the output of the system. The PID controller is widely used in DC-DC buck converters due to its simplicity and effectiveness. The proportional term of the PID controller adjusts the output based on the difference between the actual and desired output, the integra term is used to eliminate steady-state error, and the derivative term improves the transient response of the system. On the other hand, the Fuzzy Logic Controller (FLC) is a more complex control mechanism that uses linguistic rules and fuzzy sets to adjust the output of the system. FLCs have been shown to be effective in DC-DC buck converters due to their ability to handle non-linearities and uncertainties in the system. In this paper, we are simulating PID control and fuzzy logic control for both single stage and cascaded converter. The hardware implementation of the former is done as well, and the results are compared based on rise time, settling time, peak overshoot and offset at steady state.
Assessment of Solid Waste Management Practices among UrbanHouseholds in Makurdi Local Government Area of Benue StateNigeria
Solid Waste Management (SWM) remains an environmental challenge, particularly in developing nations like Nigeria, where there is rapid urbanization, inadequate infrastructure, and weak enforcement of regulations. This study examines the waste management practices, challenges, and potential solutions in Makurdi, Nigeria, with focus on household waste collection and disposal patterns. A descriptive research design was employed, surveying 379 respondents across five locations in Makurdi metropolis. The demographic analysis revealed a predominantly male, working-age population actively involved in waste management, with diverse educational and occupational backgrounds. Household characteristics reflected socioeconomic diversity, with most homes comprising of 4-6 members residing in flats or thatch houses. Findings indicated high daily waste generation, predominantly consisting of organic waste, plastics, and paper/cardboard. Current waste disposal methods relied heavily on municipal systems (82.3%) and composting (58%). Challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, improper waste segregation, and open dumping were pervasive. Urbanization, economic constraints, and education levels were identified as factors influencing waste management behaviors. Respondents expressed dissatisfaction with existing SWM practices, citing environmental and health risks associated with improper disposal. Suggested solutions included infrastructure development (81.8%), strict regulatory enforcement (53.3%), community-based initiatives, and public private partnerships. Incentives for recycling, public education campaigns, and investment in monitoring systems were also recommended to promote sustainable practices.
Assessing the Accuracy of LiDAR Surveys for Geodetic MassBalances in Glaciers of Chilean Central Andes
Repeat high-resolution (1m2) airborne light radio detection and ranging (LiDAR) laser altimetry data (2009-2015) for geodetic mass balances on five mountain glaciers, and its near-time ground-control points (GCPs) surveyed by global positioning system (GPS) on glacier surface (2015), were firstly used for accuracy assessment of elevation changes (dh/dt) in Chilean Central Andes. The inverse distance weighting algorithm (IDW) reproduced the glacier surface topography with the minimum root mean square error (RMSE) when a digital elevation model (DEM) is created. High thinning rates in meter water equivalent (mw.e.) were found at Echaurren Norte and San Francisco glaciers, two partially covered low-elevation glaciers, with -1.69 ± 0.14 m and -1.3 ± 0.19 m, respectively, while at Yeso and Bello, two high-altitude clean-ice glaciers, a more moderate rate of -0.65 ± 0.24 m and -0.66 ± 0.14 m was derived. Likewise, Pirámide is a debris-covered glacier with a negligible elevation change. Although systematic and random errors using glacierized nd non-glacierized terrain shows neglected differences, inaccuracies induced by pre-processing interpolation parameters yield positive and negatives differences of up to 2.04 m which leads to 3% biases in the geodetic mass balances.
Assessing Metallothionein 1 Response and Heavy Metal Concentrationsin Peromyscus Leucopus at the Tar Creek Superfund Site, USA
Heavy metal contamination is a critical environmental issue, particularly in areas with a history of industrial activities such as mining. Here, we examine the concentrations of lead, cadmium, and zinc, as well as Metallothionein-1 (MT-1) expression, in white-footed mice (Peromyscus leucopus) from the Tar Creek Superfund Site (TCSFS), and two reference sites: Oologah Wildlife Management Area and Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge, Oklahoma, USA. Using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA), we quantified metal concentrations and MT-1 levels in kidney tissues. Pb (0.57 ± 0.10 µg/kg) and Cd (4.62 ± 0.71 µg/kg) concentrations were significantly higher at TCSFS, while Zn levels (23.1 ± 3.3 µg/kg) were consistent across sites. MT-1 expression showed no significant differences, indicating a complex response to metal exposure. These findings highlight the need to further investigate MT-1 regulation and its potential as a biomarker for metal toxicity.
Overview of Groundwater Arsenic Contamination in Nepal
This paper provides a comprehensive overview of arsenic contamination in the groundwater of Nepal, with a particular focus on the southern Terai region. Nepal’s diverse geographical landscape ranges from the high peaks of the Himalayas in the north to the flat plains of the Terai in the south, encompassing various geological zones including the Tibetan Tethys, Higher Himalaya, Lesser Himalaya, Siwaliks, and the Terai Plain. The Terai region, characterized by its flat alluvial plains, is home to over half of the population and faces significant issues related to arsenic contamination in groundwater. Residents in the mountainous and hilly regions primarily rely on surface water and natural springs for drinking, unaffected by arsenic contamination. However, in the Terai region, the reliance on groundwater sources such as tube wells and hand-pumped wells, both shallow and deep, has led to widespread arsenic contamination. Studies reviewed in this paper indicate that arsenic levels in these groundwater sources frequently exceed the WHO (World Health Organization) safety standards, raising serious public health concerns. Research by Bhusal and Poudyal revealed that detectable levels of arsenic were found in tube wells ranging from approximately 30 to 70 feet deep, indicating that shallow aquifers contain harmful levels of arsenic. This is particularly concerning in rural areas, where untreated groundwater is commonly used for domestic purposes. Conversely, urban areas have largely mitigated this issue through municipal water supply systems that provide treated deep boring water, which is generally safe from arsenic contamination. This paper aims to evaluate and analyze the extent of arsenic contamination in groundwater, its effects on human health, and the disparity between rural and urban water safety. The paper underscores effective treatment solutions and policy interventions to reduce arsenic exposure by integrating data from various studies and reports. Additionally, the paper offers recommendations for future research and practical measures to address and mitigate the health risks associated with arsenic in drinking water in Nepal.
Mapping Analysis on Normalized Difference Vegetation Index(NDVI) Coverage and its Correlation with Land Surface TemperatureChanges Utilizing Remotely Sensing Data and GIS in SouthernTigray Region, Northern Ethiopia
The present study was conducted from 2015 to 2023, the objectives to analyze and detect changes in vegetation, to calculated NDVI, NDMI and LST values and correlation the NDVI and LST R2 produced for 2015 and 2023. were extracted from remotely sensed data (Landsat 8 Operational Land Imager (OLI)). The NDVI class covers the largest area at 1295.69 (40.77%), about the whole shown low vegetated area, and 1230.71 (38.86%) in 2015 and 2023, respectively. The values of -1.91 and -5.14 were decreased values. The 624.33 (19.64%) and 762.15 (24.06%) 2015 and 2023, respectively, moderate vegetation areas. The average NDVI value was a coverage of 4.42%, increasing in 2023 compared to 2015. The last NDVI class 245.26 (7.72%%) and 327.51 (10.34%) area was high vegetated the mean value 2.26 % coverage was changed or increasing in 2023 than 2015. LST was estimated using the conversion of radiance to satellite brightness temperature and spectral emissivity minimum, maximum, and mean values of LST. As we observe the mean results increasing from 25.470°C to 27.890°C in 2023 compared to 2015. The soil moisture coverage has been changed and decreased from 417.91 km² to 413.92 (-0.13%), and the low NDMI values also decreased from 1168.94 to 1166.24 (-0.09%); the very low and moderate NDMI values were increasing from 701.67 to 707.59 (0.19%) and 889.89 to 890.46 (0.05%), respectively, in 2015 and 2023. the study area was coverage 36.78 % and Moderated area was coved 27.899% moisture content covergs have less in area coveregs b/n 2015 and 2023. R² values for NDVI and LST correlations indicated 0.9634 in 2015 and 0.9587 in 2023, respectively, due to the differences in NDVI values.
Long Duration Energy Storage in The Netherlands
Developments for two key options for long duration energy storage in The Netherlands are explored, including green hydrogen and sustainable heat. The Netherlands faces significant challenges in meeting its ambitious target of 8 GW hydrogen electrolysis capacity by 2032. Domestic production is hindered by supply chain issues, increased costs, and high grid tariffs, making Dutch green hydrogen expensive compared to foreign alternatives. Meanwhile, direct electrification has become more attractive due to falling costs for renewables and batteries. Blue hydrogen emerges as a cost efficient alternative, with extensive CO2 storage capacity available in depleted North Sea gas fields and major projects like Porth’s and Aramis underway. The 8 GW target could be split, reverting to the Climate Agreement’s 3-4 GW goal for green hydrogen while formulating a separate objective for sustainable heat supply and storage. Thermal energy storage, both short-term and long-term, offers promising solutions for system flexibility and seasonal demand. High-temperature thermal storage in deep aquifers (HT-ATES) is particularly promising, with costs below €15 per GJ for large systems. A target for sustainable heat supply and storage should be supported by a coherent policy framework considering all societal benefits, including CO2 reduction and system flexibility.
Legal Framework for Control of Mercury Pollution in AmbientAir–A Review on Best Environmental Practices (BEP) and BestAvailable Technologies (BAT) for Mitigation of Mercury Pollution
Traces of mercury present in the ambient air has led the world to talk about mercury pollution in the environment that consequently resulted in the introduction of the Minamata Convention (MC) on Mercury, an international treaty on mercury. It was signed on 10th October 2013 in Japan that became effective from 16th August 2017. The Minamata Convention is a global treaty that aims to protect human health and the environment from anthropogenic emissions of mercury and its compounds. The MC recognizes mercury as a pollutant of global concern considering mercury to be capable of long-range transport, to be persistent, and to bioaccumulate, which ultimately results in elevated human exposure levels associated with a range of negative health effects. The main concern of the convention is the health impacts of mercury on the human beings and to regulate its emissions by noting its sources. In addition to this, chemistry of mercury and its compounds, long-range transport, prevention and control technologies relating to mercury are the other concerns of the convention. Initially, Mercury, also known as Quicksilver, had been noted for developing public health disasters in Minamata Bay, Japan. Broadly, it exists in two chemical forms, namely, inorganic mercury and organic mercury. The most common form of mercury contributing to the atmosphere due to anthropogenic activities is gaseous elemental mercury. The target organ for inhaled mercury vapor is primarily the brain. Toxicity varies with dosage, large acute exposures to elemental mercury vapor induce severe pneumonitis, that in extreme cases are often fatal. The paper discusses the best available techniques to regulate the mercury concentration in ambient air and mentions the concentration of mercury removal by various control techniques.
Earth Sciences: The Essential Foundation for Global Sustainabilityand Development
Earth Sciences stand at the very intersection of humanity’s most pressing challenges. From climate change and natural disasters to resource scarcity and environmental degradation, the knowledge and expertise embedded within this discipline hold the keys to understanding, mitigating, and adapting to the complex challenges facing our planet. Yet despite this critical importance, Earth Sciences find themselves marginalized in many systems worldwide, creating a troubling paradox: as demand for geoscience expertise grows across industries and global challenges mount, engagement, recognition, and investment continue to decline.
Assessment of Microplastic Contamination in Surface Water of RiverBenue in Makurdi Metropolis, Benue State, Nigeria
Microplastic contamination has emerged as a significant environmental concern, with freshwater ecosystems increasingly recognized as critical zones for contamination. This study investigated microplastics contamination in surface water of River Benue in Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria. Water samples were collected from five locations namely; Brewery, Wadata market, Rice mill Wadata, New bridge and Old bridge as the selected sites of the river Benue within Makurdi metropolis and taken to the laboratory for sample preparation and extraction of microplastics. Microplastic particles were identified with Fourier Transform-Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). The findings reveal widespread contamination, with microplastic concentrations varying along the river’s course. The abundance of microplastics was found to be 51.32± 0.49 in old bridge (OD), 54.02 ±0.46 in Wadata market (WD), 53.98 ± 0.26 in Rice mill (RM), 39.98 ±0.72 in New bridge (NB), and 49.77± 0.52 in Brewery Site (BW) particles/kg in sediment, and 7.64 ± 0.22 in 3L of water sample in Old bridge( OD), 10.46 ± 0.72 in Wadata market(WD), 7.96 ± 0.22 in Rice mill wadata (RM), 3.92 ± 0.44 in New brigde (NB), and 13.14 ± 0.28 in Brewery site (BW) particles/L in water. The predominant types of microplastics identified primarily composed of polyethylene terephthalate, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyamide and polyester the most commonly used Polymers. The Benue State government should provide good recycling facilities to help reduce the amount of plastic waste that ends up in river Benue and also monitor the river and its environs to ensure proper waste disposal and management.
Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR)
Soil Remediation using Hydraulic Fracturing
Hydraulic fracturing, a technology initially developed for oil and gas production, has emerged as a valuable tool in environmental remediation. This article explores the use of hydraulic fracturing for enhancing soil and groundwater cleanup processes by improving permeability in low-porosity soils and bedrock. The process involves injecting a pressurized slurry to create fractures, which are then kept open with proppants to facilitate treatment methodologies such as pump and treat, vapor extraction, and biosparging. Two primary applications, soil fracturing and bedrock fracturing, are discussed, highlighting their unique approaches and benefits in improving contaminant removal. The article also addresses the composition and role of fracturing fluids in maintaining environmental safety during remediation operations. By increasing permeability and enabling efficient access to contaminants, hydraulic fracturing serves as a critical tool for advancing in-situ environmental remediation techniques.
Modeling Urban Growth and Future Scenario Projections forChinhoyi, Zimbabwe using Cellular Automata
Land use land cover (LULC) change processes in less developed countries are typically rapid and extensive, and they often include a considerable proportion of unplanned or informal development. Land use land cover change models can help to understand, analyse and simulate the outcomes of such processes, providing information that can inform policy development. Rapid urbanisation presents a land planning conundrum for town planners and policymakers besides disenfranchising urban green spaces and encroaching into peri urban areas in the developing town of Chinhoyi in Zimbabwe. This necessitates for predicting future urban growth using modern and accurate techniques. This study aims to i) model the urban growth and ii) project future scenarios of a developing town, Chinhoyi in Zimbabwe using Cellular Automata. Landsat satellite images for the interval years 2000, 2013 and 2021 were used for data analysis. Spatial variables comprising rivers, Digital Elevation Model (DEM), slope, Central Business District (CBD) and Euclidean distances of the city roads in tandem with Land Use Land Cover images were analysed using Cellular-Automata model. LULC were significantly different (p<0.05) for 2000–2013 with non significant changes between 2013 2021. Cellular Automata prediction model shows marginal growth in Chinhoyi by 2050. This is attributed to fewer land categories which can be converted in the CA model. For broader use the current CA model need more and new parameters (driving factors) to improve its urban growth prediction accuracy. Simulation of future land use can provide decision support for urban planners and decision makers, which is important for sustainable urban expansion in developing countries.