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Study on Sand-blocking Benefits of Aeolian - Retaining Structures Along the Railway

In view of the frequent occurrence of wind sand disaster in the Gobi area, engineering protection measures aimed at sand-blocking and sand-controlling along the railway are urgently needed to be constantly improved. This paper has analysed the sand-blocking benefits of three aeolian-retaining structures in actual projects through the way of theoretical analysis, wind tunnel test and numerical simulation. The results are as follows: Three engineering measures can reduce the turbulence of the flow and weaken the velocity so that the sand can be deposited easily; under the influence of the solid wall and hanging-style plate sand-retaining wall with 30% porosity, the airflow will form a wide range of vortex zone behind the barrier and there will be an increasing velocity area on the top of the aeolian-retaining wall because of the effect of extrusion. So, these two structures can only be used in smaller wind velocity areas (V<12m/s), and it is also needed to take the effects of negative pressure behind the barriers into account. PE net with 55% porosity can form a more stable flow field behind the net and weaken the airflow at the same time, which is conducive to the control of the movement of sand and can avoid the erosion hazards on the ground caused by the eddy current, and the control effect of PE net on the velocity can be increased up to 15H behind the net. Considering the cost, service life and other conditions of the sand-retaining structures in the wild environment, the PE net would occupy an important position in the sand-controlling along the railway.

Wang Lian, Jian-jun Cheng, Ling-yan Zhi and Lin-gui Xin

Study on the Impact of Weather on Air Quality at Aqaba

Seven air pollutants, SO2, H2S, CO, O3 , NOX, NH3 and PM10, in addition to basic meteorological parameters (wind speed, temperature and relative humidity) were measured in a residential area in Aqaba. Measurement took place during the time interval 31/12/2014 through 31/12/2015. Following ambient measurement, data were analysed to detect correlations between each air pollutant with meteorological parameters. Our findings showed that atmospheric concentrations of H2S, CO, NOX and NH3 positively correlate with relative humidity, but PM10, SO2 and O3 negatively correlate with it. Air temperature is found to enhance the creation of ozone. It is also found that the concentrations of PM10, NH3, NOx and CO increase with both air temperature and wind speed. However, concentrations of SO2 and H2S decrease when air temperature or wind speed increases. High wind speed leads to a higher mixing rate and improved dispersion resulting in lower levels of air pollution.

Sana’a Odat, Mahmoud Abu-Allaban and Bra’ah AL-Trawneh

Study of the Influencing Factors of Sedimentation Separation of Polymer-Contained Sewage in Gravity Sedimentation Tank

Gravity sedimentation tank is one of the key equipment in the process of oil field sewage treatment, whose separation performance directly affects the treatment efficiency. Polymer-contained sewage is difficult to deal with for its characteristics of large viscous and serious oil-water emulsification. In order to improve the treatment efficiency, we carried out a series of numerical simulation and experimental researches to analyse the separation law and the influencing factors of polymer-contained sewage in gravity sedimentation tank. The results show that flow vortexes exist in the gravity sedimentation tank, and the aqueous phase envelops part of the oil droplets, flows out of the tank from the water-outlet, thus affecting the treatment efficiency. The oil content and suspended solid content in the treated sewage decrease with the prolonging of the sedimentation time. With the increasing of polymer concentration in the raw water, the diameter of emulsifying oil droplets become smaller and the oil removal rate decreases at the same sedimentation time. By prolonging the sedimentation time appropriately, the treatment efficiency of the polymer-contained sewage can be improved.

Lixin Wei, Xingwang Wang, Shuangqing Chen, Qiaozhen Li and Linqiong Guo

Hydrogeochemical Behaviour and Assessment of Groundwater Quality from WGAMG’0 Watershed, Chimur Taluka, Chandrapur District, Maharashtra

The study area of WGAMG’0 watershed is bounded by longitudes 79°14’00” and 79°21’00” and Latitudes 20°31’00” and 20°36’00” N and covers 11 villages of Chimur Tehsil, Chandrapur District, Maharashtra. Fourteen dugwells were identified and fixed as observation wells to gather the information on pre-monsoon water level fluctuation, depth to hard rock, water bearing zone, average depth of wells, average diameter of wells and other related hydrogeological data. The collected groundwater samples having pH values 7.3 to 8.1 are dominantly alkaline. While the electrical conductivity values of the collected samples vary from 845-1132 µS/cm. The TDS values from deeper aquifers range from 596-724 mg/L and the total hardness ranges from 281-616 mg/L respectively. The anion chemistry of groundwater samples from the study area is dominated by HCO3, Cl, SO4 and NO3. The concentration values ranges from 325-566 mg/L, 12.3-34.1 mg/L, 6.3-56.1 mg/L and 75.4-258.3 mg/L respectively. The primary source of HCO3- is considered to be the dissolution of minerals like calcite and dolomite, where in addition to that the CO2 gas is also dissolved through the process of anoxic biodegradation of the organic matter in deeper aquifers. In the present area of investigation, 100% samples fall in the range of 500-1000 mg/L indicating that water samples are of freshwater in nature and permissible for drinking. The suitability of the groundwater for irrigation purpose has also been checked by estimating the following values: Sodium Adsorption Ratio (SAR), U.S. Salinity Laboratory diagram, Percent Sodium (% Na), Residual Sodium Carbonate (RSC), Soluble Sodium Percentage (SSP), Mg Ratio (MR), Corrosively Ratio (CR), Kelley’s Ratio (KR) and Permeability Index (PI). These parameters have brought the marginal utility for irrigation purpose.

Y. A. Murkute, S. S. Deshpande and S. N. Raut

Carbon Emission Measurement Using Different Utilization Methods of Waste Products: Taking Cotton Straw Resources of South Xinjiang in China as an Example

Agricultural non-point source pollution is mainly caused by the improper utilization of agricultural waste, and thus agricultural waste recycling is considered the main method for reducing the extent of such pollution and ensuring the safety of agricultural resource utilization and agricultural ecological environment. To reduce agricultural non-point source pollution, the carbon emissions of agricultural cotton straw waste in China’s South Xinjiang cotton region from 2006 to 2015 were estimated by measuring resource stocks and using different utilization methods. Results show that the carbon emissions of cotton straw with different usages are expressed as follows: fertilizer, straw wood burning, straw burning, straw, straw feed, and straw making biogas. The improvement on agricultural waste recycling mode effectively reduced the agricultural non-point source pollution and the intensity of carbon emission. The conclusions provide a reference for improving the utilization mode of agricultural wastes and improving the recycling of agricultural wastes.

Pengcheng Wang, Weiwei Wang and Junbiao Zhang

Geophysical Assessment of the Environmental Pollution at Downstream of Wadi Uranah, Southwest of Makkah, Saudi Arabia

This study aims to incorporate the analysis and interpretation of aeromagnetic data with the results of vertical electrical sounding to investigate the horizontal and vertical extensions of subsurface contaminant plume caused by the wastewater dumpsite at the downstream of Wadi Uranah. It is also the aim of this study to investigate the subsurface geological and structural elements controlling the flow and accumulation of contamination. The results show that the contamination flow and accumulation are controlled mainly by the subsurface faults and basement topography. Subsurface faults form pathways for the contamination, while subsided basement blocks form basins with thick sedimentary cover, suitable for accumulation of the contamination. The southwestern part of the area, close to the Red Sea, is probably affected by seawater intrusion.

N. Alandoonisi, H. M. Harbi, A. Atef, H. Aboualnaga and M. Rashed

GIS Based Evaluation and Management of Soil Reaction for Environmental and Agricultural Sustainability Around a Thermal Power Plant

The alkaline fly ash (pH 8.3-8.6) emitting from Kolaghat Thermal Power Plant (KTPP), West Bengal, India, effectively renders the soil reaction (pH 7.58-8.01) of the adjacent land. The soil-fly ash mixtures predict the increase in pH influenced by fly ash. At 5% level of significance within 4 km from KTPP, calculated t-values exceed the tabulated ones which ascertain that the fly ash affects the soil reaction. Temporal soil reactions (2011, 2013 and 2015) show the highest change (12.3%) followed by 11.4% and 11.3% in the adjacent areas within 4 km. The probable soil pH of the affected area is estimated by the developed equation, Soil pHn+r= soil pHn + 1.09127 x10-5x r x (dm - di) x c. Here ‘n’ indicates year and ‘r’ represents the addition of year; dm denotes maximum distance of affected area and di, distance within affected area in km; ‘c’ indicates capacity of thermal power plant in mega watt. The functional logic of GIS for estimation of lime requirement is y1i = 3 +(6.7- xij)x10) and for gypsum requirement is y2i = 0.021x Xik (xil - xim) ton per hectare, where i stands for circle position; j, for pH of soil-buffer suspension of ith circle, k, for CEC of ith circle; l, for initial ESP of ith circle; m, for desirable ESP of ith circle. For soil reaction management, GIS Model recommends application of gypsum (1-2 ton hectare-1) to abate the additional impact of fly ash shedding yearly and liming of CaCO3 at the rate of 1.8-3.0 ton hectare-1 is suggested to the areas outside of the impact zone for environmental and agricultural sustainability.

Subhas Adak, Kalyan Adhikari, Koushik Brahmachari and Soumya Bhattacharyya

Spatial Distribution and Health Risk Assessment of Heavy Metals in Urban Road Dust of Guiyang, China

Due to rapid urbanization and industrialization, most of the cities are increasingly getting diversely polluted. Pollution from heavy metals is continuously emitted in to urban environment and poses potential adverse health effects on humans. A detailed investigation is conducted to determine concentrations of six heavy metals (Pb, Cu, Zn, Cd, Cr, Ni) in urban road dust of Guiyang. The selected metals spatial distribution analysis based on geostatistical analysis, and assessed potential health risk of these heavy metals for children and adults were carried out using the US EPA model. The results show that the mean concentrations of Cd, Pb, Cr, Cu, Ni and Zn in urban road dust are 0.61, 63.12, 129.04, 129.33, 60.43 and 176.05 mg/kg, respectively, indicating that their concentrations are evidently higher than reference values. The predication map of metals distribution reveals that the relatively large concentrations of Pb, Zn, Cr, Cd and Cu are existed in the city center, while the hotspots of Ni are concentrated in the east of the city center. The health risk assessment results show that children and adults have the same trend that the mean values of Ding exhibit the following order: Zn>Cu>Cr>Pb>Ni>Cd, and the mean values of HQ are in the order of Cr>Pb>Cu>Ni>Cd>Zn. However, the Ding and HQ values of selected heavy metals for children are much higher than those for adults, indicating that children suffer greater potential health risk than adults due to the urban road dust of Guiyang.

Zhibin Duan, Ji Wang, Bin Xuan, Xiongfei Cai and Yixiu Zhang

Microbial Diversity of Long-Duration Gas Injection Oil Reservoir Based on Next Generation Sequencing in South of Iran

Recent studies have shown that oilfield harbours diverse microbial communities. Water-flooding is believed to be the main contaminating factor of oil reservoirs, however, less attempts have been made to study the effect of natural gas injection on microbial community of oilfields. Molecular methods were used to evaluate the microbial diversity of Haftkel (HK) and Lali (LA) petroleum reservoirs in the south of Iran. The HK oilfield has been injected with natural gas for long duration, but LA oilfield had no enhanced oil recovery (EOR) process. Next generation sequencing (NGS) of 16S rRNA archaeal genes indicated that the genus Methanofollis was observed with high presence in 89.7% and 92.6% frequency in the HK and LA oilfields, respectively. Most abundant phyla in HK oilfield were Synergistes (58.1%), Firmicutes (17%), Proteobacteria (Betaproteobacteria) 12.8% and unclassified bacteria (5.2%), while Thermotogae (78%), Firmicutes (10.8%), Synergistes (4%) and unclassified bacteria (3.8%) were observed in LA oilfield. The comparison of the results indicated that the injection of natural gas could increase bacterial diversity and most probable cause to increase frequency of bacterial genus Anaerobaculum belonging to the Synergistes.

Mohsen Pournia, Nima Bahador and Ghasem Hosseini Salekdeh

Environmental Regulation, Manufacturing International Competitiveness, and Industry Heterogeneity: Empirical Evidence from China

In recent years, as the world’s environmental regulations are strengthened, the development of ecological civilization has already become an irresistible trend. In the past, the economy was developed at the expense of the environment, and increasingly stringent environmental standards now exert an immediate effect on environmental protection. However, a consensus in academia about environmental regulation, whether affecting the economic development and international competitiveness of the industry or not, has yet to be reached. This study aims to reveal the relationship between environmental regulation and industrial international competitiveness in the context of the new era and whether the relationship has industry heterogeneity. Using the data of 26 manufacturing industries in China from 2005 to 2015 and the panel data regression model, the effect of environmental regulation on the international competitiveness of the manufacturing industry was analysed. Results show that environmental regulation and manufacturing international competitiveness, display an inverted “U”-shaped relationship. Currently, China lies on the left side of the curve, and moderately strengthening the environmental regulation is beneficial for the improvement of manufacturing industry international competitiveness. The effect of environmental regulation on the international competitiveness of the manufacturing industry is characterized by heterogeneity. Meanwhile, the turning point of the inverted “U” curve can be delayed by strengthening the environmental regulation in high pollution and research and development (R&D) intensity and competitive industries. In addition, foreign direct investment, human capital, and industrial scale have a positive impact on manufacturing industry international competitiveness. Meanwhile, patent quality and capital deepening have inhibitory effects. This study provides a theoretical basis for the government to implement strict environmental regulation policies and new concepts for their implementation.

Long Wang and Li Kang

Advancement in the Design of Automotive Catalytic Filter for Meeting Environmental Emission Norms

Diesel engines used in automobiles and other industrial applications are found to be responsible for the emission of particulate matter and other toxic gases. The particulate matter is also carcinogenic in nature posing a serious threat to human life. Recent researches have shown that combined application of Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC) filter, Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) can reduce these emissions to a certain extent. In this paper, a detailed literature survey has been carried out in this area and it was found that the development of an effective regeneration procedure is one of the major challenges in the emission control using these devices. Composite regeneration technique using electromagnetic waves in the microwave region and fuel additives have been proposed in this paper. As an initial phase of the project, the analysis of the design aspects of the DOC filter has been carried out. Uniformity of catalyst coating in the monolith substrate is determined using metallurgical microscope. Models with different lofts have been designed in SOLIDWORK 2014 x 64 and its flow analysis is carried out in ANSYS FLUENT 16.2. The results of simulation showed that model with loft angle of 62 degree has the lowest pressure drop. Fabrication of system has been carried out based on simulation results.

Caneon Kurien and Ajay Kumar Srivastava

Experimental Studies on Use of Polypropylene Material (Emptied Cement Bags) in Soils - An Alternative to Geosynthetics

On many situations, industrial and infrastructural projects are constructed on soft and weak soil of low bearing capacity. Under these circumstances, the geotechnical engineers normally opt for a suitable ground improvement technique, to improve bearing capacity and reduce settlements. In these situations, reinforced soil has become a viable and cost-effective technique and use of geosynthetics has been proven to be another alternative. But, the use of geosynthetics is not cost effective. Geosynthetics improves the tensile strength of the soil and as a replacement to it, low cost emptied cement bags (made out of polymeric materials) can be used. Improved bearing capacity can be expected when emptied cement bags are used as the reinforcement to the soils. In this paper deteriorated emptied cement bag fibres are used as a stabilizing material to improve the soil characteristics of the cohesive and cohesionless soils. An experimental programme is presented to explore the beneficial aspects of emptied cement bags which is used for stabilizing soils. It is found that this stabilizing technique has improved the cohesion and angle of internal friction in case of cohesionless soils and increased the unconfined compressive strength to a noticeable extent in case of cohesive soils.

Md. Shakeel Abid and M. Andal

Water Environmental Quality Evaluation of the Karst Water in Beijing

Karst water is an important element of underground water in Beijing and is characterized by abundance of supply and high quality. Karst water is an ideal water source for alleviating the supply and demand discrepancy of water resources and providing water for the city. The water environment of karst landforms is relatively fragile and requires additional attention. So the rational use of karst water requires the establishment of scientific and effective models of water quality evaluation. Taking several karst water distribution areas as examples, this study established an index and standard of estimation according to set pair analysis (SPA). The study subsequently built the corresponding connection and determined the weighting factor according to the degree of association. Basic indicators of water quality were processed and analyzed through comprehensive evaluation principles to provide a foundation for the actual management and the rational use of karst water distribution areas in Beijing.

Li Bowen, Men Baohui, Gao Min, Zhengda, Wang Dongfei and He Chengyu

Evaluation of Groundwater Pollution Near Municipal Solid Waste Landfill Site Using ERI Technique: A Case Study in Southwestern Nigeria

Direct current (DC) geoelectrical resistivity measurements have been conducted to investigate groundwater contamination at a non-engineered, open dumpsite facility in Lagos, southwestern Nigeria. The inferred lithologies from the tomographic imaging include topsoil, sandy-clay and sandy units; the delineated low resistive top layer has resistivity values ranging from 0.64-7.5 typical of leachates and localized within sandy-clay unit extending to depths of 42-52 metres. The groundwaters from the shallow aquifer units are observed to be hazardously contaminated in area where household, market and industrial wastes are known to be disposed improperly. Thus, deeper aquifer units beyond the contaminated layers should be drilled with screened borehole in order to avert immediate groundwater pollution. This study has further demonstrated the efficacy of using surface geophysical techniques to map contaminant plume in dumpsites and determine the extent of groundwater contamination.

Kehinde D. Oyeyemi, Ahzegbobor P. Aizebeokhai and Oluwabunmi F. Attat

Experimental Research on Improving the Salt Tolerance of Plants in Coastal Saline Soil - A Case Study of Huanghua City in Hebei Province of China

Given the increasing pressure imposed by the social economy upon land supply, the improvement and utilization of saline-alkali soil has been included in the development and remediation plans of land resources. However, coastal saline-alkali land cannot be easily improved because of its simple ecosystem structure, weak ecological environment, and exposure to tide invasion. In order to explore viable improvements and sustainable utilization methods as well as to improve the ecological environment quality and utilization efficiency of coastal saline-alkali land, this study performed field experiments on coastal saline-alkali soil by growing plants in the state-owned Zhongjie Friendship Farm in Huanghua City. In the experiments, salt-tolerant plants were planted in a field without any organic fertilizer and soil conditioner, and their survival rates, growth amounts, and states were subsequently analysed. Twelve plant species with certain salt tolerances were selected. The experimental results demonstrate that Lagerstroemia indica L., Rhus typhina Nutt and Lycium chinense (leaf use) grow well in the field as well as show high adaptability and the highest survival rates (100%) among all selected species. Fraxinus americana (fast-growing), Ligustrum vicaryi and Koelreuteria paniculata Laxm have survival rates of over 85%, while Buxus megistophylla, R. typhina Nutt, Hibiscus syriacus Linn., Parthenocissus semicordata (Wall.) Planch., and Fraxinus chinensis Roxb. have high survival rates ranging from 67.5% to 70%. The experimental results also reveal that the adaptability of salt-tolerant plants to coastal saline-alkali soil is higher than their transformation ability. Root growth also has a certain effect on the improvement of soil fertility. This study provides references for the treatment and sustainable utilization of saline-alkali land in a coastal area with moderate salinization.

Guijun Zhang, Congli Wang, Hongyan Yang, Zhi Zhou, Yigong Zhang and Li Zhao

Synthesis and Characterization of Chitosan Nanoparticles and Their Application in Removal of Wastewater Contaminants

The purpose of this study was to synthesise, characterize and evaluate environmental application (degradation of dyes and pesticides) of chitosan nanoparticles. The chitosan nanoparticles were synthesized by ionic gelation process and characterized. The physicochemical properties of the nanoparticles were determined by size and zeta potential analysis, scanning electron microscope (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), FTIR analysis and XRD pattern. The photocatalytic degradation was studied with the help of industrial dyes, and pesticides. Adsorption experiments were carried out to highlight the adsorption efficiency of the organic compound with different parameters like pH, dosage and time. A sharp increase in the percent reduction of dyes and pesticides was observed as the adsorbent dose increased. The kinetic data were modelled with the pseudo first-order and pseudo second-order kinetic equations.

Pritha Chakraborty, Vakas Mustafa and Jayanthi Abraham

Study on the Degradation of Azo Dye Wastewater by Zero-valent Iron

Wastewater from fabric and yarn dyeing impose serious environmental problems because of their colour and potential toxicity. The release of coloured wastewaters in ecosystems is a dramatic source of aesthetic pollution, eutrophication and perturbations in aquatic life. The most common group of commercial dyes used in the textile industries is azo dyes. The degradation of azo dye wastewater by zero-valent iron was investigated. The dye of C.I. Reactive Red 15 was chosen as object in the experiment. The effects of the dosage of zero-valent iron, pH in solution, reaction time and the initial azo dye concentration on the decolorization were studied in detail. The results showed that the pH value, the dosage of zero-valent iron and the initial azo dye concentration had an important impact on azo dye decolorization. High decolorization efficiency of azo dye wastewater by zero-valent iron was achieved under the optimal condition. The zero-valent iron was also proved to be a universal and efficient reductant for rapid decolorization of the azo dye wastewater. This method can be applied into the treatment of the azo dye wastewater.

Guijia Qiu*, Yuanyuan Wu, Luyi Qi, Chengguang Chen, Linfa Bao and Muqing Qiu

Tracking the Carbon Emissions from Polyester Fibre Processing Industrial Unit

Climate change and global warming are major concerns now-a-days, which are directly related to greenhouse gas emissions, especially carbon emissions. This study focuses on the estimation of carbon emissions of the polyester fibre industry in Pakistan. A GHG protocol and IPCC guidelines were adopted for the calculation of carbon footprint. March 2015 to March 2016 was selected as a base year. The total carbon emissions came to be 92241.8 tCO2e. The highest carbon emissions were from direct sources due to use of multiple fuels. The calculations performed in the study will enable and encourage industries to calculate their carbon footprint and try to reduce it.

Sana Akhtar, Bakhtawar Khalid, Mavara Mussawar, Sajid Rashid Ahmad, Shamaila Inayat and Sidra Asghar

Optimization and Preparation of Soil Mixture with Agricultural Residue Maize Stalk for Cultivating Maize Seedling

In mainland China, maize is widely planted in large areas and maize yield ranks the second in the world. With increasing of people's living standards, the demand for crop quality is rising. Improving maize quality via new agronomic methods is the goal of the farming industry. Cultivating maize seedlings and transplanting them into farmland field is suitable in cold areas in the North of China because an early frost can be avoided, maize seedlings are stronger than those obtained with conventional method, and maize growth period is extended. However, a large amount of farmland soil is consumed via this method, thereby inevitably damaging farmland. On the other hand, maize stalks are one of the main by-products in the maize-growing region. The yield of maize stalk is high, but its utilization rate is low. Environmental damage due to burning maize stalk has attracted increasing attention. Exploring new methods to recycle maize stalks helps with energy conservation, emission reduction and sustainable development. To reduce environmental damage caused by consuming farmland soil in cultivating maize seedlings, and to allow recycling of maize stalks as an agricultural residue in great numbers, three tests were designed and conducted to obtain the best ratio of soil mixture with maize stalk for cultivating maize seedlings. The agronomic traits of maize seedlings such as plant height, stem diameter and dry weight were analysed. The proper materials were determined in the single-factor test, and the best ratio of soil mixture with maize stalk was obtained in the quadratic general rotary combination test, which was checked and verified by the verification test. Results demonstrate the best ratio of the soil mixture is farmland soil, maize stalk powder, phosphogypsum powder and ground charcoal at 1: 0.12: 0.71: 0.36. Analysis of agronomic traits of maize seedlings shows that the plant height, stem diameter and dry weight in the best group are significantly higher than those in the other groups, including the pure farmland soil group. This study provides a basis for preparing the soil mixture for cultivating maize seedlings and for exploring a new method for recycling maize stalk, which is of dual significance of decreasing damage to farmland soil and recycling maize stalks.

Hengyan Xie, Xinyu Wang, Junxiang Hao and Xin Zheng

Spatiotemporal Variations of PM2.5 Concentration and Relationship with Other Criteria Pollutants in Nanjing, China

In order to make full use of national monitoring sites data, the variations of mass concentrations of PM2.5 and other criteria pollutants in Nanjing City were investigated on the basis of data from nine national monitoring sites. These monitoring sites provide 24 hr average data to evaluate the spatiotemporal variations of PM2.5 mass concentration. The characteristics of the annual, seasonal, monthly and hourly variations of PM2.5 mass concentrations were analysed. PM2.5 concentrations were higher in the winter months, yet lower in the summer and whole afternoon time, but became better and better during 2014-2016. Afterwards Pearson correlation coefficients were calculated between PM2.5 and other criteria pollutants. The correlation coefficients between PM2.5 and PM10 at 9 monitoring sites were more than or equal to 0.76, and were lower in spring while higher in winter, summer and fall. However, the correlation between PM2.5 and SO2, NO2, CO varied in four seasons with lower correlation in summer and higher correlation in winter, spring and fall. Through calculating hourly correlation coefficients between PM2.5 and PM10, SO2, NO2, the correlation coefficients between PM2.5 and PM10 were lower in the afternoon, on the contrary, the correlations of PM2.5 and SO2, NO2 were lower in the night-time and morning. The correlation curves of PM2.5 and O3 barely changed, which gives us the information that O3 was weakly correlated with PM2.5. The investigation of PM2.5 and other criteria pollutants may provide some implications for the key reasons leading to the regional high PM2.5 and lay the foundation for further research of PM2.5 control strategies in Nanjing.

Xiuguo Zou, Yan Qian and Shuaitang Zhang

Variation of Organic Matter Decomposition in Constructed Wetlands with Enhancing Aeration

Two different constructed wetlands were applied to remove organic matter of micro-polluted wastewater from a wastewater treatment plant. In this research, organic matter removal showed a favourable effect in two constructed wetlands. Moreover, the aeration device added to the wetlands’ bottom could obviously increase the removal rates of chemical oxygen demand (COD) in micro-polluted wastewater under this operational condition. In addition, the optimal operational condition for COD removal was evaluated by three dimensional (2D and 3D) contour plots while the bottom aeration device was added. The results showed that in horizontal zeolite subsurface constructed wetland (HZSW), the optimal removal rates of COD, which could reach above 95.56%, were obtained when the average daily aeration time was about 17~21h and hydraulic loadings were 0.16~0.24m3/(m2·d). In contrast, in horizontal limestone subsurface constructed wetland (HLSW), the optimal removal rates of COD, namely, 93.54~94.95%, could be obtained when the average daily aeration time was more than 16h and hydraulic loadings were about 0.13~0.32m3/(m2·d). In summary, the removal effects of COD increased obviously after the bottom aeration device was added in the two constructed wetlands.

Hao Wang, Huiyuan Zhong, Yang Tian, Jiansong Zhang and Huan Lu

The Assessment Method About the Impact of Intensive Sea Use Project on Marine Ecological Environment

As a more efficient and scientific way for sea use, the intensive sea use would also change and disturb the natural property of the sea to a certain extent, and even cause marine environmental pollution and ecological destruction. Therefore, it is very important to evaluate and minimize the impact of the intensive sea use project on marine ecological environment. In the present study, based on the abiotic and biotic factors of marine ecosystem, the evaluation index system about the impact of intensive sea use project on marine ecological environment was constructed. On this basis, combined with Chinese current marine ecological environmental monitoring and assessment, the evaluation standard and evaluation grade of each evaluation factor was determined. The model based on integrated assignment evaluation method was established, which may evaluate the impact of intensive sea use project on marine ecological environment, and thus determine the suitability of intensive sea use project using the variation of the marine ecological environment comprehensive index before and after the project construction of the intensive use sea (DI). The DI >30% indicates that the marine ecological environment is seriously affected; 15%

Zhiwei Li and Lituo Cui

Molecular Characterization of Native Dairy Wastewater Degrading Microbes Isolated from Dairy Industry Effluent

In this study, fifty two microbes were isolated from dairy effluent (DE) collected from effluent treatment plant of dairy industry. All the microbial isolates were screened for DE degradation efficiency by analysing physico-chemical parameters like COD, BOD, DO, TDS, salinity and conductivity. Four microbial isolates E3, E5, E11 and F5 showed more than 55% reduction in COD, BOD, DO and were selected for molecular characterization by 16S/5.8S rRNA sequencing. These efficient degraders E3, E5, E11 and F5 were identified as Serratia marcescens, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, Brachybacetrium muris and Cunninghamella echinulata (100-99% pairwise similarity) species. The present study concluded that these strains had potential of reducing the organic load of dairy effluent and appear to be most promising organisms for bioremediation of dairy wastewater.

Anupama Bhardwaj, Jagtar Singh and Sonia Chaman

Health Risk Assessment of Toxic Trace Metals in Private Car Dusts from Pretoria, South Africa

Concentration of trace metals from car dust have not been examined from private cars in South Africa. The present study investigated the concentrations of trace metals from selected car dust from three car washing centres in Pretoria, South Africa. Different private cars were selected at three prominent car washing centres in Pretoria, South Africa. Dust samples were collected from these cars and analysed for trace metal concentrations using ICP-MS. The highest mean concentrations for the trace metals were recorded for Mn (862.9 ± 14.65 µg/g). The concentrations of Mn, Zn, Cu and Cr were the highest from all the dust samples. A positive correlation was also noticed for elements such as Pb and Cu, Cu and Zn, Mn and Pb, Cr and Pb and Mn and Cu suggesting a common source for these elements. The geo-accumulation revealed extreme contamination for trace metals Cr, Ni and Zn with values greater than 7. The carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risk calculated showed that the exposure route was in the order: ingestion > dermal absorption > inhalation. Both the non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risk calculated for the drivers are less than 1. However, continuous ingestion with an increase in the concentration of these metals may pose serious carcinogenic risk over time. It will therefore be necessary for future research to investigate the relationship between the trace metals in blood of these drivers.

J. O. Olowoyo, O. O. Agboola and A. E. Alaba

Analysis on the Rainwater Retention Capability of Mulches in Urban Green Space

‘Sponge city construction’ has led to higher requirements for rainwater absorption in urban green space. When the rainwater absorption capacity of typical underlying layers in urban green space, i.e., plants and soil, is limited, mulch can often make up for the deficiency in the rainwater absorption capacity of the green space. This study focuses on four types of mulch: loose pine cone scales, broadleaf oak bark, coconut shells, and sawdust, and conducts rainwater harvesting to measure their rainwater retention efficiencies. The results are as follows: in terms of mass, coconut shells weighed 3.87 times their original mass after absorption; in terms of volume, coconut shells had the highest absorption rate per unit volume at 0.65 mL/cm3. Sawdust reached an absorption rate per unit volume of 0.58 mL/cm3. Within the first 10 minutes of rainwater harvesting, sawdust reached its maximum retention volume of 98.7%, followed by coconut shells, oak bark, and loose pine cone scales at 76.6%, 75.1%, and 65.7%, respectively. Highly absorptive mulch is conducive for enhancing rainwater retention, and urban green space and mulch rainwater retention provide greater flexibility for coping up with intense rainstorms. Therefore, mulch has broad application prospects in urban green space, especially those in semi-arid regions. This study recommends adopting mulch as the third underlying layer after soil and plants in major urban green space.

Yichuan Zhang, Lifang Qiao and Jiangping Wang

Impact of Ultrasonication-Ozonation Pretreatment on Anaerobic Digestion of Sewage Sludge

The increase in the number of wastewater treatment plants and the sewage sludge makes it necessary to improve the efficiency of anaerobic digestion of sludge. Pretreatment of sewage sludge has shown important advantages in the sludge anaerobic digestion. This study investigated the effect of using ultrasonication-ozonation pretreatment on the anaerobic digestion process. It can be seen that this treatment effectively led to the increase of soluble chemical oxygen demand (SCOD). The optimal specific energy input was 6000 kJ/kg TS and the ozonation dosage was 0.10 g O3/g TS. Under the optimum combined pretreatment condition, the biogas production was nearly 4-8 times than the raw sludge sample. It could be concluded that the combined pretreatment of sludge improved the anaerobic digestion of the sewage sludge.

Wei Na

Status, Causes and Countermeasures of Environmental Pollution in China’s Rural Tourism Development

Rapid industrialization and urbanization have facilitated the development of rural tourism. However, numerous tourism resources have been destroyed because of poor tourism planning and insufficient advanced environmental pollution control technologies and equipment in numerous rural areas. Thus, this destruction has influenced further rural tourism development. First, relevant literature was reviewed in this study to analyze the status and main causes of environmental pollution in rural tourism development in China. Second, the status of environmental pollution in rural tourism development was summarized, and the causes were analysed from the perspectives of government, rural tourism enterprises, and tourists. Finally, relevant countermeasures were proposed. Results demonstrate that rural tourism is developed with national economic development and per-capital income growth. Environmental pollution in rural tourism development is mainly manifested by water pollution, continuous growth of tourism wastes and poor air quality in rural scenic spots, serious noise pollution surrounding rural scenic spots, and loss of natural value of landscapes. Weak macro-management of rural tourism, rural tourism operators’ lack of environmental protection responsibility, and weak environmental protection consciousness of scenic spot communities and tourists are the major causes of environmental pollution in rural tourism development. This environmental pollution on rural tourism development can be controlled by establishing a stakeholder co-governance mode, reinforcing management on the bearing capacity of rural tourism environment, strengthening environmental health management in rural scenic spots, and propagating environmental protection in rural scenic spots. The obtained conclusions can provide important reference for the analysis of the status and causes of environmental pollution in rural tourism development, for establishing a new rural tourism development mode in the ecological environment, and for controlling environmental pollution in rural tourism development.

Jixia Zhou

Effectiveness of Turbidity Removal from Synthetic and Tannery Wastewater by Using Seeds of a Natural Coagulant Citrullus lanatus

The cost of water treatment is increasing due to suspended and colloidal particle load caused by land development and high storm runoff. Water from all sources must have some form of purification and treatment before consumption. The coagulation process can be used as a primary step for water and wastewater treatment processes. Among plant materials that have been tested, the seeds of water melon (Citrullus lanatus) have been shown to be one of the most effective primary coagulants in water and wastewater treatment. Citrullus lanatus is the best natural coagulant that removes the BOD, COD, TSS and turbidity level to the greater extent. It was aimed at identifying watermelon seed as a possible replacement for alum and other synthetic polyelectrolytes in treating water. Results obtained showed that the optimum dosage of 2 g/L of seed at a temperature of 35°C removes the turbidity from 1500 NTU to 35 NTU. The seeds of C. lanatus reported that the turbidity of tannery effluent reduced by 86.7%, COD reduced by 50% and BOD reduced by 55% at a coagulant concentration of 2 g/L. The concentration of watermelon seeds in wastewater changes the turbidity from 692 NTU to 92 NTU. The study proved that C. lanatus gives better removal efficiency than alum for synthetic and tannery wastewater treatment and can be used as an alternative coagulant against the use of inorganic coagulants.

Sathish S., Vikram S. and Suraj R.

Degradation of Leachate Biochemical Effluents Using Heat Activated Persulfacte Processes: Parameters Optimization and Removal Characteristics of Contaminants

Using heat to activate persulfacte for the generation of sulfate radicals (SO4-.) was proposed for the treatment of leachate biochemical effluents. The effects of different variables on the oxidation efficiency, including oxidant dosage, temperature, pH value and reaction time, were investigated. The experimental results showed that the contaminants in the leachate biochemical effluents can be efficiently removed using the heat/Na2S2O8 system. Using the single factor variable method, the optimal conditions included 4 g/L oxidant dosage, 60°C reaction temperature, pH 4 and 12 h reaction time, resulting in the COD and colour removal efficiency of 63% and 100%, respectively. The analyses of three-dimensional excitation-emission matrix fluorescence spectrum (3DEEMFS) and ultraviolet-visible spectra (UV-vis), both illuminated that the macromolecular HA in the wastewater samples were degraded into smaller molecular fulvic acids (FA) via heat/Na2S2O8 system. All these encouraged results demonstrated that the persulfacte activation used heat is a promising and efficient technology for the treatment of leachate biochemical effluents.

Na Sun, Xian Li, Peng Zhan, Fengping Hu and Zhanmeng Liu

Effects of Leaf Area Index and Degree of Canopy Cover of Green Turf and Ground Cover Plants on Rainwater Interception

Turf and ground cover plants are major components of ground coverage of urban green spaces. Canopy interception is a critical link in the atmospheric water circulation of plant elements. Leaf area index (LAI) and degree of canopy cover are major factors affecting canopy interception of grass coverage. Six plant varieties in Xinxiang City, Henan Province, China, namely, Festuca arundinacea, Trifolium repens, Oxalis corymbosa, Liriope angustissima, Zephyranthes candida and Iris tectorum were experimented in this study. Their LAI, interception capacity per unit leaf area, and degree of canopy cover were measured using weighing-scanning, soaking and image processing methods, respectively, with the interception capacity per unit area calculated. Our results show that Liriope angustissima, Oxalis corymbosa and Iris tectorum have comparatively high LAI; Zephyranthes candida and Festuca arundinacea have comparatively high interception capacity per unit leaf area; Liriope angustissima, Iris tectorum and Oxalis corymbosa have comparatively high interception capacity per leaf area; Oxalis corymbosa, Trifolium repens and Liriope angustissima have comparatively high degree of canopy cover. We conclude that a comprehensive consideration of LAI and degree of canopy cover of grass plants is preferred in urban greening plans, in order to achieve better performance of canopy interception. This conclusion also provides a reference to stormwater management and ecological water usage in urban green spaces.

Yichuan Zhang*(**), Lifang Qiao* and Jiangping Wang

Removal of Lead(II) by Phyto-inspired Iron Oxide Nanoparticles

Heavy metals are toxic to the living bodies even though present in trace amounts. In this study, we have developed a simple approach for the biosynthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe3O4-NPs) using Trigonella foenum-graecum leaf extract and used it for possible removal of lead from aqueous solution and wastewater. SPR peak at 248 nm confirms the bioreduction and formation of Fe3O4-NPs. The shape and size of the nanoparticles were evaluated by SEM equipped with EDX, TEM, XRD. The particles were found crystalline and roughly spherical in shape with an average size range of 51.6-215.7 nm. The possible biomolecules participated in the biosynthetic reaction which was confirmed by FTIR spectrum. These nanostructured particles were used for batch adsorption study for the removal of lead ions. The effects of various physical and chemical parameters like pH, contact time, adsorbent dosage and initial concentrations on the removal of heavy metals were studied on removal efficiency. The maximum lead(II) ions removal uptake was found 93±0.13% at pH 6.0 with 0.4g of these nanoparticles within 60 min of contact time. Desorption studies indicated that the regenerated nanoparticles retained its original metal adsorption efficiency. Results showed that these regenerable iron oxide nanoparticles can be used as nano-adsorbent for removal of heavy metals from environmental waste due to its high metal uptake capacity.

Merina Paul Das and L. Jeyanthi Rebecca

Production of Lightweight Aggregates from Sewage Sludge and Dredged Sediment

In order to solve disposal problems of solid wastes, sewage sludge from wastewater treatment plants was mixed with dredged sediment to be recycled into lightweight aggregate through sintering process. The effect of sintering temperature, sintering time and mass ratio of sewage sludge to dredged sediment on characteristics of the aggregate were investigated to optimize the lightweight aggregate production process. Experimental results show that the optimal sintering temperature and time were 1150°C and 10 min respectively, and the optimal mass ratio of sewage sludge to dredged sediment was 7:3. It is concluded that sintering temperature and time, and sewage sludge/dredged sediment have a significant effect on the characteristics of lightweight aggregate.

Wei Na

Phenanthrene-Degrading Bacteria, Acinetobacter sp. P3d from Contaminated Soil and Their Bioactivities

This study was conducted to identify the indigenous active phenanthrene-degrading bacteria from phenanthrene-contaminated soil and to determine phenanthrene degradation activity of the isolated bacteria in liquid system. The minimal salt medium supplement with phenanthrene was the selective medium to isolate phenanthrene degrading bacteria. A total of nine isolates of bacteria were successfully isolated using the spread plate method. All isolates were tested for their ability to degrade phenanthrene by cultivation in a minimal salt medium supplemented with 330mg/L phenanthrene, incubated at 30°C and 150 rpm for 28 days. The biodegradation study was analyzed by Gas Chromatography-Flame Ionization Detector (GC-FID) and the result showed that Acinetobacter sp. P3d was capable to degrade about 93.58% phenanthrene in the selective medium. The Acinetobacter sp. P3d has the capability to degrade the phenanthrene as a sole source of carbon and energy. The results revealed that this bacterial isolate was able to degrade phenanthrene significantly and it may prove to be promising bacteria for bioremediation of PAH-containing pollutant from contaminated site.

A. Fazilah, I. Darah and N. Ismail

Application of a Two Stage Temperature and Aeration Control Strategy for Enhanced Diosgenin Production in an Improved Solid-State Fermentation Reactor

A two stage temperature and aeration control strategy was proposed for the production of diosgenin from Dioscorea zingiberensis (DZW) with mixed culture of Trichoderma reesei and Aspergillus fumigatus. The effect of temperature on fungal growth and enzyme production was investigated. The optimum growth temperature for T. reesei and A. fumigatus was 30°C and 40°C, respectively. The influence of temperature on enzyme transformation was also studied. High temperature (55°C or 60°C) was more suitable than low temperature (30°C or 40°C). A different temperature control strategy experiment was carried out in a flask, first. 73.8±0.51µmol/g of diosgenin was obtained from DZW by setting the temperature in the first stage of 30°C for 2 days, in the second stage of 40°C for 2 days, and in the third stage of 55°C for 2 days. Scaled up experiment was carried out in a new tray bioreactor. The temperature was set at 30°C for 2 days, and increasing to 40°C for next 4 days. The aeration speed was decreased from 200 to 100 mL/min at the 5th and 6th days. Diosgenin concentration of 72.9±1.62 µmol/g was obtained.

Lin Sheng, LinLin Quan, Jicheng Qi and Yuling Zhu

Technical Efficiency of the Industry Development and Influencing Factors of Carbon Sequestration Forestry: Evidence from China’s Forest Resource Inventory

The development of carbon sequestration forestry is internationally recognized as an important method for confronting climate change. This method plays a key role in implementing the carbon reduction commitment of China and is effective in realizing a green low carbon cycle development. The exploration of the leading role of carbon sequestration forestry development in environmental protection requires a systematic grasp of the development status of China’s carbon sequestration forestry. The technical efficiency of China’s carbon sequestration forestry development was calculated using all previous forest resource inventory data in China and a DEA-Tobit two-step method. Moreover, related influencing factors were discussed. Empirical results show that the technical efficiency of China’s carbon sequestration forestry production in the evaluation years is at a high level. The promotion of carbon sequestration forestry development through policies and regulatory factors is increasing steadily, thereby also steadily improving the technical efficiency of carbon sequestration forestry production. A forestry output value, which represents industry development openness, of the tertiary industry and an average sunshine time, which represents natural endowment factors, exert a relatively limited influence on carbon sequestration forestry development. The conclusion provides the value of reference and decision support for a theoretical extension of forest resource protection, development and management, and improvement of a sustainable development system of carbon sequestration forestry.

Weiwei Wang, Ping Li and Junbiao Zhang

Proficiency of Brahmi (Indian Pennywort) Hydrocotyle asiatica in One-pot Secondary and Tertiary Treatment of Sewage in SHEFROL® System

The Indian pennywort Hydrocotyle asiatica (synonym Centella asiatica) is a commonly occurring plant which is native to Asian wetlands. It is a keystone medicine in the Ayurvedic system where it is referred as brahmi. Yet it grows much more in nature than can be put to use and is often found where it is unwelcome such as in drainage channels and paddy fields, and is considered a weed. In this paper we report studies which show that H. asiatica can very efficiently treat sewage of varying strength when used as the main bioagent in SHEFROL® bioreactors. It affects primary and secondary treatment in terms of suspended solids, BOD and COD removal as also significant tertiary treatment vis-a-vis nitrogen and phosphorus removal, in a single process unit. This raises the prospect that monumental volumes of sewage that are discharged untreated in most developing counties could be phytoremedied with H. asiatica because the SHEFROL® technology is itself very inexpensive and clean-green, yet simple and efficient.

S. A. Abbasi, G. Ponni and S. M. Taussef

Relationship Between Surface Temperature and Land Cover Types Using Thermal Infrared Band and NDVI for Vellore District, Tamilnadu, India

Increasing urbanization in Vellore, Tamilnadu creates a serious anthropogenic pressure resulting rapid change in land cover in recent time. Changing land use condition affects surface temperature. The relationship between surface temperature and land cover types has been studied for Vellore district interpreting satellite image of landsat-7 ETM+thermal infrared bands and values of NDVI for 2016. Analysis reveals that urban and most populous areas have higher surface temperature (35-43°C) than temperature in the dense forest cover areas (13-27°C) with high NDVI value (0.98) in scrub land and low value (-0.95) in water bodies. Several eco-geological influencing factors those interplay to bring about change in land cover were found correlated with thermal infrared band spectra and NDVI values. The study envisages the utility of thermal spectra and land use/land cover change in urban planning.

Jhimli Ghosh and P. Porchelvan

Intensification of Biomass Cultivation Process of Lemna minor at Physical Exposure

The study suggest methods for biomass of Lemna minor increase by means of plant treatment by various physical impacts (ultraviolet, infrared, low intensity electromagnetic radiation, magnetic fields). Enhancement of plant reproduction rate and biomass production are caused by increase of energy absorbed by the plant, perimembrane water molecule cluster structure changing, changing of potential difference at the cell membrane, its permeability and enlargement of nutrient transport from the environment to the cell.

L. N. Ol’shanskaya, N. A. Politaeva, O. A. Aref’eva, R. Sh. Valiev

The Hydrochemistry of a Himalayan Lake Nigeen

The Nigeen lake is the deepest and most attractive basin of Dal lake which has attracted foreign tourists because of its placid waters and calm environment. The lake water besides recreation is also being used for cultivation of vegetable and potable purposes. In the recent years huge settlements have come up around the Nigeen lake on all sides reaching to a population of more than twelve thousand souls in the immediate catchment, which excludes the boat population and floating population who live in about fifty house boats within the lake. Raw sewage entering the lake has enriched the freshwater of Nigeen to a large extent. Statistically, ANOVA test showed significant variation in transparency, pH, dissolved oxygen, calcium, nitrogen and phosphorus indicating clear variation between littoral and pelagic zones. The present paper is an attempt to assess its present water quality status and to record the chemical enrichment of the lake water over a period of time.

Adnan Abubakr, M. H. Balkhi and Ashwani Kumar

Adsorption Isotherm Performance of Zr-Mn Binary Oxide for Efficient Removal of Antibiotics Tetracycline

Zr-Mn binary oxide was prepared by a simple co-precipitation method, in which Mn(II) was tentatively used to prepare a precursor solution. Then the prepared Zr-Mn binary oxide was used for the adsorptive removal of tetracycline (TC). Effect of molar ratio of Zr/Mn, adsorbent dose and solution pH was investigated. The Zr-Mn binary oxide with a presumed molar ratio of Zr/Mn at 2:1 had a better adsorption performance. The removal efficiency of TC (15 mg/L) at a dose of 10 mg achieved as much as 97.4%, which demonstrated an excellent adsorption capability of Zr-Mn binary oxide. Acidic and near-neutral solution pH conditions were favourable for the uptake of TC. Freundlich model described the adsorption isotherm better than Langmuir model, indicating a heterogeneous surface of the prepared adsorbent. Using Langmuir model, the calculated maximal adsorption capacities for TC achieved 129.5 mg/g at 298 K. Thermodynamic analysis indicated that the changes of enthalpy and entropy of the adsorption processes were 206.32 KJ mol-1 and 752.0 J mol-1 k-1, respectively. The negative value of Gibbs free energy change and the positive value of enthalpy also indicated that the adsorption process is spontaneous and endothermic.

Gangfu Song, Wei Li, Jingrong Zhai, Shulei Sun, Yalin Li and Guoting Li

Bird Diversity of Tarkarli, an Eco-tourism Destination in Maharashtra

The bird fauna of the coastal village, Tarkarli, a tourist hotspot, in Sindhudurg district of Maharashtra was surveyed from January 2014 to December 2016. This is the first documentation of avifauna of Tarkarli as there is no earlier published record. This study recorded 66 bird species belonging to 41 families. It was observed that Red Whiskered Bulbul and Common Myna were the most abundant and frequent bird species next to Common Crow and House Sparrow. Tarkarli also serves as an abode for the near-threatened Malabar Pied Hornbill and the vulnerable Black-lored Tit, pointing to the ornithological significance of this village. Asian Paradise Flycatcher and Grey Hypocolius were also spotted, though only once. Grey Hypocolius is a vagrant species in Konkan region. The study revealed, Tarkarli with its close proximity to the Western Ghats, lush green vegetation; paddy, vegetable and fruit plantations; freshwater and marine resources, serves as a vibrant home for the avifauna of the region. This check-list of birds may provide a base-line data for environmentalists and policy makers towards the formulation of conservation strategies for Tarkarli an eco-tourism destination in Maharashtra.

Kishori U. Sinnarkar

Efficacy of Neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) and Bael (Aegle marmelos (L.) Correa) Leaf Extracts as Biofertilizers in Cultivation of Mung Plant (Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek)

Biofertilizers are the need of the modern conventional agriculture and have given promising results in past studies while adding significant positive impact on soil. Our work was based on finding a new biofertilizer through different blends of extracts derived from leaves of neem and bael and to study its efficacy in the cultivation of mung plant. The analysis of biochemical parameters of leaves of mung plant suggested that the blend of neem : bael leaf extracts in the ratio of 1 : 2 produced the best results for the total chlorophyll content (0.723 mg/g), carotenoid content (0.098 mg/g), carbohydrate content (1.98 mg/g), amino acid content (13.26 µg/g) and protein content (0.53 mg/g). The soil samples from the same setup also gave highest values for the enzymatic activities with respect to invertase (7.62 µg glucose/g dry wt./h) and protease (0.266 mg tyrosine/g dry wt./h). The other blends of the leaf extracts also showed a significant higher value with respect to the biochemical parameters of leaves, physico-chemical properties and enzymatic activities of soil as compared to the control setup. A significant positive correlation between the invertase and protease activities (r = 0.952) of soil derived from the different blends suggests the same. This highlights the fact that the extracts derived from the leaves of neem, bael and their blends have good potential to serve as biofertilizers.

Aditya Kumar Singh and Chandan Sahu

Comparative Biodegradation Studies of LDPE and HDPE Using Bacillus weihenstephanensis Isolated from Garbage Soil

Polyethylene has achieved an inseparable place in our life due to its recalcitrant nature, durability and cost, especially as a packaging material. Attributable to its inactive nature and degradation resistant property, its collection in nature has turned out to be tremendous. In the present study, polyethylene degrading bacterium was isolated from the garbage soil from Kolhapur and screened under in vitro condition. Through the 16S ribosomal RNA gene partial sequence, the isolated bacterium was identified as Bacillus weihenstephanensis. Polyethylene sheets, only source of carbon, along with synthetic media were incubated on a rotary shaker at 30°C and 110 rpm for 6 months. The biodegraded samples of LDPE and HDPE exhibited weight loss (7.02% and 7.08%, respectively). The biodegradation of LDPE and HDPE sheets was further investigated through FTIR spectroscopy which has confirmed the weakening and breaking of existing bonds and also the formation of new functional carbonyl group (C-O) at 1262 cm-1, 1745 cm-1 and 799 cm-1 which is a result of microbial activity.

R. R. Ingavale and P. D. Raut

Detection of Volatile Organic Compounds in Blood of Farmers and Their General Health and Safety Profile

Worldwide, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have become concerning issue for public health. The current study was carried out to analyze the health and safety conditions in agricultural fields of a developing country. Moreover, another aim of the study was to determine pesticide (VOCs) residues in farmers working in rice, corn and cotton fields. Collected blood samples were analyzed by gas chromatography for isopropyl alcohol, ethyl acetate, ethanol, toluene, benzene and phenol. Questionnaire and checklist surveys were also carried out to measure the different health impacts. The qualitative analysis of pesticides in blood samples of farmers showed that those working in the cotton fields had high levels of ethanol that was 90.422 ppm, one had high levels of phenol that was 26.986 ppm, one had high levels of toluene that was 1.954 ppm and two had benzene levels that were 8.105 ppm and 5.654 ppm respectively. Isopropyl alcohol was not detected in any farmer. Health issues faced by farmers were skin, eye, nose and throat irritation, headache and fatigue. It is concluded that the working conditions in Pakistan farms are not up to the mark and it is recommended to improve the health and safety conditions of farm fields in Pakistan by government.

Syeda Amber Fatima, Almas Hamid, Ghazala Yaqub, Anum Javed and Haseeb Akram

Application of Seaweed Gracilaria verrucosa Tissue Culture using Different Doses of Vermicompost Fertilizer

Market demand on the need of agar in Indonesia continues to increase from year to year, so it takes seaweed cultivation technology to improve the quantity and quality of seaweed especially for Gracilaria verrucosa. The purpose of this research is to analyze the doses of vermicompost fertilizer for the quality of agar (viscosity, gel strength) and nutrient content (carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus) of G. verrucosa seaweed from tissue culture. This research was conducted in seaweed pond of Pangkah Kulon Village, Ujung Pangkah District, Gresik Regency, East Java, from April to July 2017. The experimental design used in this study was completely randomized design (CRD) with 6 treatments and repeated 3 times. The experimental treatment was a different dose of vermicompost fertilizer, consisting of 0 ppm (Treatment A), 400 ppm (Treatment B), 425 ppm (Treatment C), 450 ppm (Treatment D), 475 ppm (Treatment E) and a dose of 500 ppm (Treatment F). The results showed that the quality of agar viscosity (cps) was best in the treatment of 450 ppm dosage for 67 cps. The quality of agar gel strength (g/cm2) was best at treatment of 400 ppm dosage with a value of 77.2 g/cm2. While the nutrient content of seaweed G. verrucosa form of carbon (%) was best in treatment of 450 ppm dosage with a value of 25.74%, the content of nitrogen and phosphorus (%) was best at treatment of 400 ppm dosage with values of 2.02% and 0.26% respectively.

Andi Rahmad Rahim