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Various eco-friendly and cost-effective hydrocarbons clean-up methods based on natural sorbents were developed and tested, in order to prevent the massive environmental damage due to the petroleum spills.Among these sorbents, natural zeolitic tuffs are easily available and have numerous adsorptive properties that make them appropriate for the removal of petroleum substances. This study aims to preliminary investigate the sorptioncapacity of natural zeolites from a deposit located atRacos, Brasov County, Romania for diesel oil sorption. Two different zeolitic materials having particles size <10 micronsand 1-3 mm, thermally activated at two different temperatures, were used in this study. Zeolite samples were characterized in terms of major elements and major oxides contents,using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES), after acid digestion and also in terms of Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC). For the experiments, an amount of 3.5 g of each adsorbingmaterials was placed in crystallizing glass columns dish, then diesel oil was added until the saturation of the whole bed. Afterwards, the excess of diesel oil was removed using a filter paper. The sorption capacity (SC) was determined by weighing. The results showed SC ranging between0.19 –0.26 g/g, for zeolites with particles size of 1-3 mm and, much higher SC, in the range of 1.5 –1.6 g/g, for zeolites with particles size <10 microns. This study offersvaluable information for the use of Romanian natural zeolites in the clean-up of different media contaminated with petroleum hydrocarbons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The areas occupied by permanent grasslands constitute one of the most important ecosystems of the Earth, occupying almost half of it. The use of land covered by grasslands and climate changes are the main stressors of grass communities and implicitly of grassland ecosystems. Its multifunctionality (food source for ruminants, insect habitat, means of soil and water conservation, as well as outdoor activities, etc.) is gradually affected, thus diminishing the mentioned functions. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the evolution of some indices characterizing permanent grasslands over a three-year period 2020-2023. Observations were made for three years on two permanent grasslands located in the vicinity of Hitia? and Căpăt (belonging to the same UAT Racovi'a). The monitored indices were the agronomic ones, namely the pastoral value (PV), the grazing capacity (GC), as well as the ecological ones (the Shannon-Weaver and Simpson indices). For each analyzed permanent grassland, three analysis points were taken and the resulting data represent the average. The analysis methods were the linear one to study the vegetation and the indices, and correlation analysis was used for the statistics. Thus, it may be concluded that there are differences from one year to the next in the structure of the vegetation and in grassland communities. This aspect is also reflected in the agricultural fodder potential of the studied grasslands. The results of this study enable starting points for urgent measures to improve these permanent grasslands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing impacts of climate change have necessitated a comprehensive reassessment of large infrastructure projects, particularly highways, to ensure their resilience and sustainability. The article focuses on the analysis of climate change vulnerability, mitigation measures, and adaptation strategies within the context of a major highway project in Romania. With climate change accelerating, highways in Romania are becoming increasingly vulnerable to extreme weather events, shifting precipitation patterns, temperature fluctuations, and related environmental changes. The paper highlights key findings from vulnerability assessments, emphasizing the project's exposure to climate-induced risks and its implications for the highway's infrastructure. Mitigating the impact of climate change is a fundamental objective for this highway project. The article discusses mitigation efforts, which include minimizing greenhouse gas emissions during construction and operation phases, incorporating sustainable construction materials, and adopting energy-efficient technologies and practices. These measures align with Romania's commitment to reducing its carbon footprint. Also, the paper outlines adaptation measures, such as engineering design solutions to withstand extreme weather events, the integration of flexible design elements, and the establishment of climate monitoring and early warning systems to mitigate disruptions. In conclusion, the article underscores the urgency of integrating climate change vulnerability assessments, mitigation measures, and adaptation strategies into the planning and construction of highways in Romania. By adopting a comprehensive approach that addresses climate-related challenges, this highway project aims to contribute to a sustainable, resilient, and environmentally conscious transportation network for the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this paper is to study the effects and risks of climate change in Romania. The research methodology used is based on the analysis and synthesis of information from the climate change literature. The main research method used in the paper is content analysis. The authors of the paper find that climate change is already having many negative consequences on health, environmental and economic issues in Romania, affecting all regions. The importance of publishing this study is to increase and improve the content of the literature in the field. The authors' analysis found that, in general, the effects of climate change jeopardise economic development prospects, increase the risks of famine and thus potentiate conflict and forced displacement, and deepen existing vulnerabilities, socio-economic inequalities and gender discrimination. In recent decades, countries around the world, including Romania, have focused their efforts both on mitigating the impact of climate change through measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and on increasing their capacity to adapt to the effects of climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the areas in Romania where the environment felt from human activities is Jiu Valley (Petrosani Depression), an area where the main activity was mining. This fact led to pollution of the area, pollution that affects both health of population and tourism, which is considered as a viable economic alternative. Investigation of environmental components, identification and analysis of impact sources on air and surface waters are the objective of this paper, which is a first step of a larger research, that will lead to establishing the pollution degree of the area under study. The paper presents pollution sources, methods of analyzing environmental indicators, as well as the impact of economic activities on the environment. The main conclusion of the scientific approach is that, in addition to mining activities that had and still have a negative impact on the environment, other economic activities carried out in the area, including household activities, also leave a negative impact on the environment. Which of these (quantitatively speaking) leave a larger or smaller footprint will be the subject of a future paper, that will quantify all air and water quality indicators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents the possibility of floating photovoltaic farms on the reservoirs of the Olt river in Romania. For the analysis, a database with the solar irradiance evolution for one year in the four possible locations was created, using the PVGIS-SARAH2 database. The locations were chosen according to the surface area of the reservoir, geographical position, and possibility of connection to the national energy system. After the analysis, it was observed that during the cold season, the solar irradiance is higher in locations 1 and 2, while locations 3 and 4 show higher irradiance during the warm season. Simulations of electricity production were carried out for the location of solar farms, with an installed capacity of 1 MWh, with a southern positioning of the panels having different tilt angles of: 0, 15, 30 and 45 degrees. The paper continues with a statistical analysis of the monthly and annual electricity production when installing solar farms in the analysed locations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The village of Șag has an area of 8,664 ha, of which 8,419 ha is agricultural land. The deterioration of soil quality has negative repercussions on either one or all soil functions. From a geomorphological point of view, the territory of the village is located in the Banat-Crișana Plain, part of the Western Plain of Romania, the eastern extremity of the Tisza Plain, in the Timiș-Bega interfluvium, a unit formed exclusively by the cumulative action of the Timiș River. The sustainable use of the soil involves measures to maintain the potential productivity of the resources and to follow their evolution based on parameters and indicators to monitor the changes produced on the quality of the soil. The agricultural land of the village with an area of 8,419 ha has the following uses: arable land 7,693 ha (91,4%), pastures 636 ha (7,5%), haymaking fields 39 ha (0,5%), orchards 1 ha, and vineyards 50 ha (0,6%). The most cultivated plants are winter wheat, barley, sunflower, soy, and alfalfa. The purpose of this paper is to present useful information in the design and implementation of policies that protect and maintain the sustainable use of the soil as well as the rational use of the financial resources of the village of șag, while allowing the soil to provide long-term goods and services. The objectives of the paper are to establish the values of the physical, hydro-physical, and chemical properties of the soils of șag, as well as their classification in quality classes. There are 7 types and subtypes of soil. The soils with the highest distribution are eutricambosols - 55,15% of the total area and the soils with the lowest distribution are solonetzes - 0,20% of the total area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this paper is the morphological characterization as well as the establishment of soil quality classes in the commune of Dubova, Mehedinti County, Romania. Soil is a primary component for plant production, although it is often considered only as a physical support for plant growth. However, the concerns of mankind over the sustainability of agriculture have made it possible to consider that soil is a living, high-quality system and should, therefore, be preserved. This is the result of several interactions between biological components, including microbial communities, essential for physical-chemical operation. Agricultural crops are threatened by diseases transmitted through the soil, making them difficult to control because of the "hidden" character of pathogens and low efficiency of conventional treatments. These practices greatly affect the quality of the soil, which, in turn, affects the state of crop quality. One of the goals of this paper is to show that, despite the age of the concept of soil quality and the existence of numerous studies, the application of soil quality recommendations would play an important role in crops. However, there is a certain methodology for obtaining soil quality indices that could be suggested in this paper, a methodology based and developed on the basis of previously conducted research in the field. Under current conditions, highlighted by an intensification of globalization processes, sustainable development brings together the main economic and social factors to meet the present needs of mankind without compromising those of future generations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of management practices lead to significant variations of the net C balance of agricultural soils, and in this paper is estimated the impact of long-term cultivation on the soil organic carbon stocks. This paper also evaluates the potential of carbon sequestration of mineral soils through management practices in temperate agricultural systems, under dry climate regime. For fulfilling of the objective of this study, the "stock-difference method" was used for estimating the soil organic carbon stocks between two points in time, t1 (2000) and t2 (2021). The results obtained showed that the evolution of SOC stocks during the 21 years period between 2000 and 2021 recorded significant increases in most of the investigated soils, with one exception where a decrease in SOC stock by aprox. 11 % was recorded. The highest increase in SOC stock was recorded in case of a Cambic Chernozem soil, where the SOC stock value from 2021 is 63% higher as compared with the SOC value from 2000. Also, this soil recorded the highest rate for annual change in carbon stock (1.4762 tC/ha), followed by Eutric Cambisol (1.4286 tC/ha), Chernozem (1.3810 tC/ha) and Fluvisol (1.0476 tC/ha). The presented results showed that the Cambic Chernozem has the highest potential for CO2 removal from the atmosphere with an annual rate of 5.41 tCO2/ha. Also, high potentials for CO2 sequestration with accumulation rates of 5.24 tCO2/ha and respectively 5.06 tCO2/ha have the Eutric Cambisol and Chernozem soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The western area of Romania, like the entire country, due to its geographical position - in the temperate zone, is exposed to a wide range of risk weather and climate phenomena with the potential to occur throughout the year. The purpose of this work is to identify some indicators that most correctly express the extreme nature of the manifestations of some meteorological parameters and their characterization over a four-year period. The paper analyzes the main meteorological parameters from the profile stations in the western part of the country, respectively from Timis and Arad counties, in order to have an overview of the weather-climate characteristics for the studied period. The more detailed analysis of certain phenomena was done to capture exceptions, special extreme situations or more significant meteorological elements. The location of Romania in a certain context of action of the main baric centers imprints the temperate character of the climate. The location of the analyzed territory in the western part of the country and the configuration of the relief nuance this character, imprinting sub-Mediterranean characteristics in the southern part of Timis county. The risk aspects provided by the weather stations in the two studied counties, in the interval of four years, highlight the specific climatic changes that occur in certain intervals. Knowing the weather-climate characteristics of the region is important for all areas of human activity and life, all extreme phenomena being grafted onto the main background of the aforementioned weather-climate characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current context, in which the analysis of the failures by infrared thermography for the hydraulically operated machines is an increasingly widespread internationally method, starting from the year 2016, in Romania, at INOE 2000 - IHP Bucharest the first thermographic analyzes were laid made on hydraulic equipment. It is known that by maintaining normal limits of variation of the temperature and viscosity of the hydraulic oil in the actuation plants, are created the conditions of the productivity increase and the decrease of the energy losses. The authors of this paper have therefore welcomed to the "20-20-20" Program (http://arpee.org.ro/strategia-europa-2020-programul-20-20-20/) which refers to the 20% reduction of greenhouse gas emissions (CO2 equivalent) compared to 1990, the final energy consumption reduction by 20% compared to 2005, by increasing the energy efficiency and increasing the share of renewable sources in the total energy mix to a minimum 20% until the year 2020. The method of infrared thermography, applied in predictive maintenance is a practical solution in the direction of the present requirements for reducing the CO2 mark and for protecting the environment because it is non-polluting, non-invasive and has a low energy consumption. In the paper, in the current state of researches, the authors gave as an example the application of the infrared thermography method to hydraulic pumps and cylinders on mobile or fixed machines. Using a special infrared thermal imaging camera, in general, it was possible to make correct assessments on the degree of wear and functionality on the analyzed volumetric machines, by studying the resulting thermal images, called thermograms. However, when measurement errors occurred, it was found, that these assessments became inadequates. For this reason, the authors of the paper are focused their researches towards the optimization of the above mentioned method, by developing of an innovative, non-polluting technology for thermographic investigations that aimed to eliminate these errors, based on a practical methodology for applying and accurate interpretation of the results thermograms, able to describe punctually the procedures to be followed by the maintenance activities involved staff. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an exploratory study that analysis the factors that influence the intention to use smart meters that measure electricity consumption. The authors used the technology acceptance model as a starting point for their research, taking into consideration other eight external variables: social influence, familiarity with smart meter technology, task-technology fit, compatibility, the level of trust in companies that supply electricity, price awareness, energy conservation intentions, and perception of the environmental problems. In this regard, it was developed a questionnaire that was applied to homeowners from a 5-year-old residential complex, from Bucharest, Romania, data being processed and analysed with SPSS statistical software. The results indicated that one of the most important factors that influence the intention to use smart meters is the compatibility with smart meter technology. Also, this study highlighted that price awareness and task-technology fit are also variables that strongly influence the attitude toward using a smart meter in the case of apartment owners from the residential complex. On the other hand, the intention to buy or attitude to use smart meters were not influenced by the level of trust in companies that supply electricity, and familiarity with smart meter technology, the homeowners being more concerned about energy conservation or environmental issues. Based on the results of this pilot study, at the end of the paper, the authors presented indications regarding the future research they will carry out to determine the most complete model of the factors that influence the use of smart meters in residential buildings in Romania. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our paper describes a case study, on a 27 km-long section of the Moldova River in Romania, on which floods often occur. Floods are some of the most disastrous phenomena caused by combined factors: atmospheric and hydrological with significant repercussions on the environment, with great material damage and loss of life. According to this application, GIS technology is a remarkable solution that can solve rationally, intelligently and efficiently the increasingly difficult problems related to these phenomena, to the use of terrestrial resources. GIS facilitates the processing and analysis of both conventional and remote sensing spatial data, integrated in complex and heterogeneous databases. Our paper shows real-time flood modelling by applying established mathematical-hydrological models. The identification and mapping of flooded areas are represented by field data collection and the use of radar images taken at the time of the floods, in combination with satellite images, taken before or after the events. Field data collection is often done using mobile equipment, which allows direct real-time connection to a resource center and fast information exchange. The GIS application described in this paper shows that both field equipment use and subsequent data processing allow fast mapping of floodplains and identification of affected areas and enable one to make fast calculations to determine, for instance, the optimal path between points of interest, depending on the actual situation on the ground (inaccessible roads, damaged bridges, etc.). This study suggests a solution for managing flood emergencies, both by directly collecting updated field information and by calibrating flood patterns by quickly mapping floodplains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By developing this paper, we wanted to identify the opportunities for the growth and development of the Faget area in Romania, based on the specific resources available. Geographical location, natural and anthropogenic sites, as well as existing accommodation structures provide this area a high tourist potential. Natural landscapes, recreational areas, hunting, fishing, historical monuments, wooden churches, and natural resources are the most important attractions of the Faget area that can be valorised. The authors try to highlight in this paper the evolution of the tourist reception units in the analyzed area. We try to highlight other very important aspects of the analyzed area such as the total capacity of tourist accommodation in operation, the arrivals of tourists in the structures of tourist reception, but also the situation of overnight stays in these structures. Through this paper we want to point out how much the pandemic has influenced the tourism activity in the Faget area, but also its influence on accommodation structures. For this study we had to visit the analyzed area to see the real situation. We talked to the residents and the owners of accommodation units who presented us the real situation. Due to the information and data received from them, we were able to present the situation in the area, both before the pandemic and during the pandemic years. The authors of the paper have come to the conclusion that the promotion of the Faget area through tourism will allow its economic development by increasing people's employment rate and incomes, which will lead to an increase in the quality of life of the inhabitants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper is in the context of studies on the variability of atmospheric factors that highlight the fluctuations associated with climate changes. The acquisition of data for the concentration of NO, NO2 and NOx was collected from the national air quality monitoring system which includes 158 monitoring stations. the monitored national area was divided into 8 study areas to facilitate the calculations. In this paper we present the significant results for the Southeast of Romania for a period of 5 years - between 2017 and 2020. Distribution maps and results obtained by applying statistical tests demonstrated the existence of significant spatial and temporal variability. The study is of particular importance. In recent years, climate change in many countries around the world has been associated with food insecurity, especially in developing countries, especially in the current context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of meteorological-climatic phenomena, especially of extreme phenomena that have become more and more frequent, has gained greater significance, given the increasing awareness of the importance of preventing material damage. Thus, monitoring and analysis of atmospheric risk phenomena helps local and national authorities whose duty is to protect the population and property of any kind, and early warning regarding the occurrence of such phenomena is useful to each individual. The western and north-western part of Romania, like the whole country, due to its geographical position, in the temperate area, is exposed to a wide range of risky meteorological climatic phenomena which may potentially occur throughout the year. The present paper aims to identify certain meteorological aspects, which most correctly express the extreme character of the manifestations of some meteorological parameters. The data provided by the Banat Crisana and Northern Transylvania Meteorological Centers highlighted the evolution of certain risk parameters from two representative meteorological stations in these areas, Timisoara and Satu Mare, over a period of forty years. The study of meteorological-climatic phenomena, especially of extreme phenomena that have become more and more frequent, has gained greater significance, given the increasing awareness of the importance of preventing material damage. Thus, monitoring and analysis of atmospheric risk phenomena helps local and national authorities whose duty is to protect the population and property of any kind, and early warning regarding the occurrence of such phenomena is useful to each individual. The western and north-western part of Romania, like the whole country, due to its geographical position, in the temperate area, is exposed to a wide range of risky meteorological-climatic phenomena which may potentially occur throughout the year. The present paper aims to identify certain meteorological aspects, which most correctly express the extreme character of the manifestations of some meteorological parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The largest aluminum factory in Eastern Europe is located near Slatina. Before Romania acceded to the EU in 2007, many environmental protection rules were omitted in this area. The paper analyzes the water table pollution along the Olt River for about 15 km. There are considered the tributary flows on the river, the concentration of discharged pollutants, and the pumping regime from the catchment front. It is built at about 500 m from the river, on the left bank, parallel to the river, and consists of 44 wells, of which only 34 are functional today. The flow from the phreatic aquifer is analyzed for a measured hydraulic conductivity of 35 m/day and transmissivity 350 m²/day. The main directions of pollutant flow and transmission were determined. The mathematical and numerical modeling of the water pollution in the water table is illustrated and compared with the experimental results obtained based on the measurements of the flow rates and concentration of pollutants on the Olt River during one year. The results are presented in 3 variants: tributary flow on the river at average values with pollutant concentrations below 10 mg/l and continuous pollutions, average flow on the river with higher pollutant concentrations between 15-35 mg/l and continuous pollution, and the variant with concentrated pollution, step type of 100-150 mg/l, for 8 hours. Finally, some conclusions are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article delves into the prevalent misconceptions surrounding animals and their interactions with humans in Romania, with the primary goal of fostering a more accurate understanding and dispelling commonly held myths. A widespread misconception among many individuals is the erroneous belief that all animals inherently pose harm or threats when encountering humans. Our aim is to illuminate the reality that animals exhibit diverse behaviors and intentions, and in most cases, they prefer to avoid confrontations with humans. Within the article, alongside expert insights and scientific viewpoints, readers will find practical advice on coexisting safely with wildlife. This advice encompasses general precautions and behaviors that individuals can adopt to reduce the likelihood of conflicts or accidents in encounters with animals. Furthermore, the article equips readers with essential techniques and strategies for peacefully coexisting with potentially unpredictable animals. These practical tips guide individuals on the appropriate actions to minimize risks when interacting with animals in various settings. In conclusion, this paper presents a valuable initiative directed at enhancing awareness, dispelling unfounded fears, and nurturing a deeper appreciation for the animal kingdom in Romania. Through education and heightened awareness, readers gain valuable knowledge on achieving harmonious coexistence with wildlife while minimizing potential risks. This comprehensive approach plays a pivotal role in rectifying misconceptions and contributes to the development of a society that respects and values its natural environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the western part of Romania, Helicoverpa armigera larvae cause significant damage to several types of agricultural and horticultural crops leading to considerable economic losses, so the purpose of this paper was the use of some ecofrendly agricultural practices, namely the use of entomopathogenic microorganisms. The field experiment was conducted at the Research farm of West Land Company SRL, Jimbolia, (Timis County). The trial was laid out during 2022 vegetation season, in randomized block design with seven treatments: control plot, Bacillus sphericus + Glomus (2%) - 5 l/ha, Metarhizium anisopliae + Glomus (2%) - 5 l/ ha, Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki - 1 kg/ ha, chlorantraniliprole - 125 ml/ ha, indoxacarb - 250 ml/ ha (withdrawn from the market in 2022) and chlorantraniliprole 50 EC - 150 ml/ ha; replicated thrice having a plot size of 3042 sqm. The larval population of H. armigera was recorded before spraying and at 48 hours, 7 and 14 days after spraying. All treatments were significantly superior to control plots in reducing larval populations. Among the chemicals, percent larval reduction over control was highest at 7 days after spraying in chlorantraniliprole - 125 ml/ha plots, with an efficiency coefficient of 87.88%. Looking into the efficacy of the bioinsecticides, it was highlighted that the treatments with Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki proved to be the most effective in minimizing the larval population of H. armigera in corn crop, showing an efficiency coefficient of 87.88% at 7 days, respectively 81.96% at 14 days after spraying. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compliance with EU environmental regulations and directives regarding effluent water quality discharged is seen as the main driver for the development of wastewater treatment technologies. The Water Framework Directive, the UWWT Directive, and the Nitrates Directive require the reduction of eutrophication caused by nitrogen and phosphorus emissions. In Romania, only approx. 54% of the population is connected to centralized sewage and wastewater treatment systems, meaning that approximately 8 million inhabitants are not connected to centralized sewage and wastewater treatment systems. However, while larger municipalities are getting closer to meeting EU standards and the sustainable development goal of Sanitation for all (SDG6), smaller communities especially in rural areas are lagging behind considerably. The discrepancy is explained by the high proportion and very low density of the rural population compared to the rest of the European countries (in Romania connecting a household from the rural area costs much more due to the large distances between properties). This does not necessarily mean that the rural population has no access to sanitation services as they switched to individual wastewater management solutions such as septic tanks or open pits, meaning that there is an urgent need for adequate solutions for wastewater treatment. Moreover, for the touristic accommodation facilities in regions with seasonal variability of occupancy (e.g. seaside/Danube Delta area) built in remote location, proper wastewater treatment solutions capable of dealing with peak flows and long rest period needs to be developed. The paper emphasizes on the design of a vermifiltration system installed for the treatment of the wastewater generated by a touristic building in Romania and the adequate treatment performances achieved in terms of organic and nutrient loads. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lake Brates is located near Galati city, in the south-eastern part of Romania being one of the largest lakes in the country. Unfortunately, water quality has greatly decreased in recent years, both due to human actions and to climate change. The present paper aims at establishing the quality of the water in Lake Brates as resulted from the calculation of the water quality index (WQI) by the weighted arithmetic method. In order to calculate this index, several sampling campaigns were carried out in various points of the lake, followed by the measurement of relevant parameters: pH, conductivity, salinity, oxygen demand (DO), chemical oxygen demand (COD), biochemical oxygen consumption at 5 days (CBO5), NO2-, NO3-, N total, Cl-, SO42-, PPO43-, heavy metals (As3+, Cr3+, Cu2+, Ni2+, Zn2+). Both the individual variation of the monitored physicochemical parameters and the variation of the WQI were tracked. Moreover, a correlation of the WQI with the climatic conditions in the region (rainfall and thermal regime) was established. The determinations were made by applying the standardized methods in force in - situ and ex-situ and by using the following equipment: the UV-Vis-NIR Spectrophotometer, Thermo Scientific Vanquish Flex UHPLC system coupled with the Mass Spectrometer, Thermo Scientific Trace GC coupled with the Quadrupole Mass Spectrometer, the Total Reflection X-Ray Fluorescence (TXRF) Spectrometer and a portable multiparameter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The climate changes represent an important problem in today's society. Our study refers to the West Region of Romania, formed by the counties of Arad, Timis, Caras-Severin, Hunedoara, and it shows that there are significant differences regarding the climate changes between these counties. In our paper, we analyze the evolution of annual, respectively seasonal precipitations, and of the minimal, maximal and medium air temperatures in the considered region in the time frame 1991-2021. The statistical analysis of data shows an increase of the medium annual air temperatures, the observed changes being more pronounced in summer and winter. Beside the increase tendency of the air temperature in winter, one could observe also that the time of heat waves has become significantly longer in the West of Romania, such that the number of hot days is larger. An increase of the maximum length of the periods without precipitation has been observed over the last decades in the west during summer, as well as monthly anomalies of temperatures and precipitations. Annual estimates of the Climate Altering Land Cover Index are presented for the analyzed period and we observe that there is a positive correlation between these indices and the mean air temperature. In conditions of the climate changes, the mean summer precipitations will reduce in the coming decades, which will affect the management of water resources and the agriculture, which leads to the necessity of adjustment to the climate changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutrient-poor, sandy, sterile material from the post-mining sterile dumps such as those in the Maramures region (Romania) presents a challenge for plants. Sterile dumps are considered extreme environments for plants due to their unfavorable physicochemical properties. Phytoremediation has great potential to remove heavy metals from sterile dumps, and Indian mustard (Brassica juncea) seems to be a possible candidate species for this purpose. The potential of Brassica juncea seeds to germinate in a medium contaminated with high concentrations of Cu, Pb and Cd was assessed using germination tests on Indian mustard seeds in the presence of various liquid mixtures made from fertilizer and sterile material collected from three different mining sterile dumps in Maramures county, Romania. The experiment results showed that adding fertilizers did not enhance the germination process of Brassica juncea seeds and that the optimal pH for Brassica juncea to sprout extremely well is 5.5. The results suggest that Brassica juncea could be used in efficient phytoremediation of the sterile dumps. This paper's objective consists of observing the germination of Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.) in the presence of high concentrations of heavy metals from sterile mining dumps with the purpose of the phytoremediation of the studied polluted areas from Maramures county (Romania). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we intended to analyze non-native plant species that spread uncontrollably and have a visible and quantifiable impact in the analyzed area. The analyzed plant species demonstrate a strong invasive character, overwhelming the native plant species. This fact leads to a loss of biodiversity at the local level, but especially to production loss of the useful biomass on the invaded land surfaces. The aim of this paper is to show a practical method of analysis and evaluation of economic losses at the local level caused by invasive plant species. At the same time, the paper wants to explain the factors that favor the spread of these invasive species on the territory of the investigated area. The most important factors contributing to the spread of these species are also noted. These are represented in particular by change in land use, climate change and uncontrolled, irresponsible growth in the gardens of these plant species. Invasive plant species such as Reynoutria japonica Houtt, Impatiens glandulifera Royle, Solidago canadensis L., are discussed. The populations of these species have a visible and quantifiable impact that can be found in the biomass production of the surfaces on which they grow. The uncontrolled spread of the populations made of these plant species leads to the damage of useful lands traditionally used for grazing or harvesting fodder for farm animals. In this paper, a method is outlined for the assessment of harvest losses on the surfaces affected by the populations of these plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using an integrated approach to evaluate the quality of the reservoir and the potential of production is getting more and more important in petroleum geology. This integrated approach was used to analyse the quality of an old Miocene reservoir in the Moesian Platform, Romania. While this paper goes through all the main components of an integrated study (seismic, petrophysics, reservoir engineering), the main focus was on well data. This research focused on modelling the structure using mainly well data. The reservoir is associated with an alluvial cone structure and a canal system NNW-SSE, with the lithological traps in the southern part [1]. The reservoir pressure and the behaviour during production indicates a gas expansion is the main displacement mechanism, alongside a low influx of water. The results of this paper show that the performance of the reservoir is influenced not only by the available energy (the elastic gas expansion and a low influx of water), but also by the spatial distribution of different facieses in relation to the well locations. Gas production started in 1962 and continues to this day. However, the Miocene reservoir was chosen for gas storage (UGS-Underground Gas Storage) due to his relatively large thickness, good porosity and large surface area [2]. The purpose of a reservoir characterisation is to incorporate existing data from geological, petrophysics, geophysics and reservoir engineering, so that the results obtained by the multidisciplinary team can be used to create a reservoir model which will improve economic results. The methodology and the results for each phase are summarized in the following sections: seismic, petrophysics and reservoir engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of the paper is to present the use of multicriterial decision methods to assure the transparency of public acquisitions in the context of regional economic growth. Based on multiple criteria algorithms and using adequate methods to determine the importance of each criterion, a computer program was created to assist the decision maker. The software was created by the department of Mathematics and Computer Science of “Aurel Vlaicu” University of Arad and implements the procedure for public tenders. The application is designed both for Electre and Topsis models, without limitations in the number of alternatives or criteria. Besides describing the algorithm and the software, the paper deals with a case study: a public procurement in the field of road construction. In Romania, the financial support for road construction is provided by the administrative budget of the counties, using various funds: local taxes, public or private funds, EU financing. The contract is assigned to one of the applicant companies through a public acquisition process. The decision considers a set of criteria, in order to obtain the best quality to price ratio and applies the Electre multi-criteria decision-making model. Input data is obtained from the tenderers’ files handed in by each applicant. Before running the algorithm, a careful financial background check of the applicant is conducted. In this case study, seven tenderers passed the eligibility check and were admitted to the final phase. A number of eight criteria were considered and weighted by the experienced staff of the county administration. The computer application was used for ranking the alternatives and to designate the winner of the tender through an independent and transparent acquisition process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The exodus of young people from rural areas in Romania, corroborated with the decrease of the population at national level is a major problem of the country. The Common Agricultural Policy integrates this issue, finding several forms of support both in Pillar I, on direct payments, and in Pillar II, on rural development. This paper proposes the analysis of support for young farmers in the second pillar. Thus, the measures related to the support of young farmers through the National Rural Development Program will be analyzed, both from the first programming period and from the second period. Following the quantitative and qualitative analysis of the number of funded projects and their value Analyzes will be performed mainly in Tulcea County, this being a special one, including the Danube Delta nature reserve, and access to the measures in this area were more intense. Testing the hypotheses will determine whether the average level of projects in this area differs, statistically significantly, from the national average. Finally, certain hypotheses will be tested regarding the effects that these investments, by accessing the support measures for young farmers, may have on the development of the Danube Delta area and Tulcea County in Romania. Therefore, this paper aims to analyze the measures to rejuvenate the generations of farmers, through the national rural development program in Tulcea County, Romania, starting from the research hypothesis that in this area, which includes the Danube Delta nature reserve, access measures was more intense due to conditions in the area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Bistrita River was the first river harnessed for hydropower purposes in Romania, starting with 1960. Currently, on this river, 29 hydropower plants with different capacities are functioning, producing about 10% of the entire Romanian electric energy from hydro. Many of them were realized in series, in cascade. In the present paper, the area of Pangarati, Vaduri, Batca Doamnei, and Reconstructia hydropower lakes was analyzed. Of these, three are Nature Reservations, Nature 2000, RAMSAR sites. The lakes being realized in series, their clogging has appeared quite quickly, favoring the excess development of the aquatic vegetation. At the beginning of the paper, some local conditions are studied, based on the performed measurements for three years, being also analyzed the main species of appeared vegetation. Under these conditions, in the last two decades a systematic campaign of combat the excess developed vegetation has began. In the beginning, some methods that should have been completely banned in this area were applied, because these lakes are used also to supply water in many localities. Subsequently, other methods were tested, but without significant results. The paper briefly mentions these methods applied and tested previously. The purpose of the paper is to present an ecological method, with low cost, easy to implement, being tested in Lake Pangarati for three years. By this method, in places where it was placed, almost the total destruction of the existing vegetation is achieved, but also a reduction by over 40% of the vegetation developed in the following years, and with beneficial effects for the next lakes on the Bistrita River. Finally, some conclusions and references are also mentioned. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copper has a fantastic role in the organism, indifferent if its mammalian, plant, bacteria or yeast, functioning as a cofactor in enzymes involved in various processes. In agriculture, different copper compounds are used as fungicide to protect plants from fungal diseases. In humans the role of copper is also crucial, as it is an essential trace element being involved in many processes as well as a cofactor for several enzymes involved in antioxidant defense, iron metabolism, and neurotransmitter synthesis, playing additionally a role in the immune system, helping to fight infections and inflammation. But excessive copper intake can be toxic for all organisms from plants, to humans and microorganisms. The aim of the study was to answer the question "is there any correlation between copper content and total antioxidant activity?" In order to answer to the questions, we decided to evaluate the copper content and total antioxidant capacity of some fruits cultivated in Romania. The analysis methods were: atomic absorption spectrometry for determining copper content and CUPRAC method for determining total antioxidant capacity. The experimental data were compared with the data values available in different research papers and databases. The paper also tries to answer to questions like "to what extend is copper healthy for humans?" and "do we really need to use food supplements containing copper?" The results were analyzed using MVSP and PAST programs and the results were represented graphically for a better understanding. Also, the GLM of fruits were created based on copper content (ppm) and total antioxidant capacity (µM Trolox Equivalents). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agri-fodder value, i.e., the diversity of floristic composition of communal pastures in Romania is strongly affected by impropper management practiced for the last three decades. Most permanent grassland areas are excessively grazed in addition to the effect of climate change on the multiplication and development of plant species making up the grassy cover. Communal pastures are the most important source of feed for animal growers in the territorial administrative units (TAUs) of the Timis County. Their current state is strongly correlated with grazing practices, with the maintenance of floristic composition, and their improvement methods. The goal of this paper is to illustrate (from the perspective of floristic composition and of fodder value) the evolution of some communal pastures from Timis County. The study was carried out during three years (2020-2022) on several permanent grasslands belonging to the same TAUs. The Research method used is that of the double meter which points out biodiversity (the Shannon-Weaver Index H', pastoral value PV, and grazing capacity Gc. Correlating these parameters allowed the authors to draw conclusions on the impact of management on vegetation and fodder value of the pastures studied. The results thus obtained are useful for the design of management strategies and for the development of some prediction models regarding the evolution of the grassy cover and of the agri-fodder value in the studied perimeter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a member of the European Union, Romania must take measures to reduce CO2 emissions, in order to achieve the objective of Europe becoming the first neutral continent in terms of controlling carbon emissions. The paper analyzes the influence of ventilation systems with heat recovery in the process of dimensioning the heating systems related to buildings, both from the perspective of the calculation of heat requirement for sizing the equipment and the annual energy requirement for charging. The analysis simulates the thermal calculation for a newly designed construction, according to SR 1907 and C107, in order to reduce CO2 emissions according to Green Deal principles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, Romania has experienced a particular dynamic in terms of ensuring the security quality of explosive materials through the security requirements stipulated in the applicable harmonized standards. In this sense, the procedure for sampling the products that are the subject of explosive materials must take into account the technicalscientific substantiation of the objective establishment of sampling schemes indexed according to the acceptable quality level for batch-by-batch inspection in order to provide objective evidence for the determination suppliers of explosives in terms of ensuring and maintaining the security quality of production processes in relation to a predetermined acceptable quality level. The paper highlights the grapho-analytical tools for configuring sampling schemes in accordance with the applicable requirements of SR EN ISO 2859 in order to establish the characteristic sizes of the elements of a sample in close correlation with the quantities related to a product or the corresponding batch. The responsible authority in the field will decide on the batches that are not accepted, that is, they can be rejected, sorted (with or without the replacement of non-compliant elements), reworked, re-evaluated against more specific use criteria, or retained for additional information. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

At European and national level there is Directive 2013/29/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of 12 June 2013 on the harmonisation of the legislation of the member states relating to the making available on the market of pyrotechnic articles and Decision 1102 of 10 December 2014 issued by the Government of Romania for the national regulation of the placing on the market of these products. The specific quality system of the Explosive Materials and Pyrotechnic Articles Laboratory of INCD INSEMEX Petroani includes in its field of competence the test procedure PI 98, accredited by RENAR, intended for the verification of the functioning of pyrotechnic articles on the basis of the applicable references, and its specialised section on pyrotechnic articles intended for vehicles documents the following aspects: test methods (thermal/mechanical conditioning), indoor/outdoor test environment, drawing and documentation verification, drop test, vibration and temperature test, thermal cycle and humidity test, fire test, initiation test, function test; measurement and test equipment; calculation expression and evaluation of results; issuance of test report. The results of the experimental tests are highlighted in the paper, which were obtained using the specialized state-of-the-art equipment designed for the determination of the triaxial vibration parameter with programmable cycles type TS 20LS3-340, in order to determine the mechanical strength (resonance frequency, vibration test, shock test) on products from the automotive industry (automotive refrigerant air conditioning systems, automotive radiator cooling system VanHool Bus, automotive pyrotechnic actuator classified in the category P1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents a synthesis of the results of the GoldenEye project type H2020 No. 869398 regarding the state of the Cuibarul waste dump of the Rosia Poieni Open Pit in Romania, its chemical and mechanical stability which jeopardizes the surrounding environment. During the project, the factors that influence the stability of the dump were followed, such as: -dumping technology; the geological, hydrogeological and hydrological conditions of the location; the geomorphological conditions of the dump site, the physical-mechanical properties of the rocks at the base of the dump; the physical-mechanical properties of the material that constitutes the dump. Detailed topographic surveys were carried out both on the ground and using drone topographic measurements. The Cuibarul dump represents the most important waste deposit within the Rosia Poieni exploitation perimeter. It has an occupied area of 81ha and a stored volume of approx. 49,400 thousand m3 of tailings. The total available area was only 78.5 ha, with a projected capacity of 85,600 thousand m3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper will discuss the minerals present in pegmatites, seen as a way of storing chemical elements, important from an economic point of view. The study area is called Conu - Negovanu, and is located between the two mountain massifs known as Cindrel (Cibin) and Lotru Mountains. Muscovite (seen as a possible indicator for lithium in Conu - Negovanu pegmatites), one of the important minerals alongside quartz, spodumene, and albite cleavelandite variety, is probably the mineral that includes in its structure chemical elements: Fe3+, Fe2+, Mg2+, Mn2+, Ti, Li, Nb, Ta, Sn, Ce, K, Na, Ca2+ which tend to materialize in minerals such as triphylite - lithiophilite, ferrisicklerite, heterosite - purpurite, amblygonite - montebrasite, "ferrogatehouseite", fluorapatite, hydroxylapatite, vivianite, wolfeite, maricite, monazite, cassiterite, titanite, spodumene, cookeite. In addition to these, we indicate beryl, scarce schorl, uraninite, garnets, kyanite, staurolite and columbite - group minerals. Phyllosilicates viewed through the mineralogical prism of pegmatites provide information on crystallization, mainly temperature (the presence of the 2M1 polytype indicates a high temperature) and the evolution pressure of pegmatitic melts. Plagioclase (oligoclase and albite) is partially or replaced by muscovite and quartz - a stable association in the later stages of pegmatites, following the crystallization of microcline by reducing the formation of muscovite, and if there is an increase in water content, the proportion changes, the microcline is partially or replaced of muscovite. Chemical analysis: EPMA indicates in muscovite the presence of FeO with an average value of 1.44 %, and Na2O with an average value of 0.44 %, fluorine occurs in proportions with values from 0.04 to 0.30 %. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, the energy sector of any country is confronted with many urgent problems. This is due to the fact that this sector, like others, it works mainly on a heritage of the past (conventional sources of energy). The aim of this paper is to analyze the economic aspects of extracting clean energy in Romania. In this scope, a comprehensive analysis of the wind potential in parallel with the economic potential is conducted. For the wind analysis a data set that covers a 30-year interval (01 January 1989 to 31 December 2018) is processed. This data set is available on the ECMWF (European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts) servers and contains data for the zonal (U) and the meridional (V) wind velocity at 10-meter height (U10) at various resolutions. The results presented in this paper provides a comprehensive picture regarding the pattern of the wind speed and also the profitability. By analyzing the cost to generate power (CGP), the fixed charge rate (FCR), the annual energy production (AEP), the levelized replacement cost (LRC), the cost for operations and maintenance (O&M), the land lease cost (LLC), annual expense (TAE) and others, new zones for implementing wind farms on the Romania territory are revealed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an effect of globalization on natural resources demand, the need for an increasingly detailed knowledge of the geological structure of a territory and of the characteristics of these resources have also emerged. This has been the context when the administrative boundaries and the specific national policies and legislation have differentiated the current knowledge of a geological unit. For the authors of this paper, the western part of Romania is the most recent case studies where the harmonization of Romanian geological data with those of neighbouring countries represented a real challenging attempt, in two of the ongoing European projects: DTP1-099-3.2 DARLINGe - Danube Region Leading Geothermal Energy, respectively GeoE.171.009 - GeoConnect³d - Cross-border, cross-thematic multiscale framework for combining geological models and data for resource appraisal and policy support (contract 731166-GeoERA-H2020-LCE-2016-2017/H2020-LCE-2016-ERA). Two main causes are responsible for this situation: 1) lack of scientific synthesis for the natural resources of interest (as mineral ones or renewable energy) from Western Romania - the research done so far from public funds being published in a small number or only for specific perimeters - and 2) limited or no access to data from private projects or researches of resources that are still considered strategic. Oil and gas industry is of the most important, but the geothermal energy sources has also became part of the economic dimension of EU’s security, with potential to limit the Union's dependence on the imported gas, and thus with features as strategic resource. Repeated delay in adopting of an updated and coherent national strategy in the mining field has also induced the slow operation of the directional development programs and the non-existence of a legal body specialized in the processing of information from national geological database. Up to now, some of the responsibilities have been taken over and met by the NAMR - National Agency for Mineral Resources (being, however, a regulator and control body) and by the IGR - Geological Institute of Romania, as R&D unit. Neither the NAMR nor IGR do not legally fulfil the role of a Geological Survey similar to those existing in most European countries; this fact leads to important postponing of the geological data harmonization process and of the extension of the European databases to which Romania has agreed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diapir Folds Zone (= Mio-Pliocene Zone) as major subunit of the Carpathian Foredeep lies between the Buzau and Dambovita valleys and between the folds of the inner Carpathians and the external flanks of the Carpathian Foredeep. This geological unit represents the most prolific zones of accumulation in Romania in which numerous hydrocarbon deposits of Tertiary age have been discovered in more than 150 years of exploration. Diapir Folds Zone can be considered a world class hydrocarbon province having several “giant” oil fields such as Gura Ocnitei, Moreni, Runcu-Bustenari, Boldesti, Viforata-Teis, Tintea-Baicoi and others. Geologically, Moreni oil field is located in the central part of the Diapir Folds Zone, approx. 100 km north from Bucharest. It belongs to Tintea-Baicoi-Moreni-Targoviste major structural anticline being constituted of formations belonging to Pliocene and Miocene. The Moreni oil field has some of the oldest oil production in Romania and is still the largest commercial reservoir in Romania. In the Moreni anticline several objectives belonging to the Pliocene and Miocene proved to be productive since 1890. The main petroleum objectives is represent by Meotian and Dacian deposits characterized by structural and combined traps and having following average values of main parameters of the productive formations: thickness 4-23 m; porosity 25-33 %; permeability 200-1400 mD; irreducible water saturation 20-30 %; volume reduction factor 1.18-1.26; petroleum specific gravity 840-880 kg/m3. The paper presents the complex chemico-mineralogical investigations performed by X-rays fluorescence (XRF), X-rays diffraction (XRD) and cation exchange capacity (CEC) measurements of several cores from Moreni oil field. The paper brings new information on the Moreni oil field increasing degree of knowledge of the Neogene reservoir rocks. Establishing global mineralogical composition, the rock type and chemical characters have great importance because Neogene deposits have proved an excellent quality as reservoir rocks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

If we refer to the sustainable development of a territory, it can be stated that the natural resources and implicitly the land resources, occupy the central place within this process, in this case, the land use can be seen as an "indicator" element of the trends of the process of sustainable development. The specialized literature shows, in various studies, the direct and indirect influence of the relief on the way of land use, implicitly on the distribution of grasslands, through altitude, slope or morphometric characteristics. In this context, the paper aims, in a holistic approach, to make an analysis of the distribution of grassland areas on altitudinal floors to quantify their share in relation to other categories of land use, depending on specific local factors (natural and anthropogenic). Two regions were selected that extend over an altitude range of approx. 1200 m, from 200 m, in the depression area, to 1340 m, in the mountain area, located in western Romania. The distribution of land use categories, respectively grassland areas, was analyzed in the GIS environment, based on Corine Land Cover data. The overlay analysis found that the grasslands are distributed on all defined altitudinal floors, in different environmental conditions, but their proportion is different, depending on local conditions. Differences were also found in the occupation of the space: in the low area, the grasslands are found on fragmented areas, interspersed with arable land and in the hilly and mountainous areas, the areas of grasslands are larger, compact, positioned at the edge of the forests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Romania's physical-geographical and lithological complexity creates a great diversity of climatic and pedological conditions, which determines the richness of the types of ecosystems and habitats, as well as the presence of five biogeographical regions, including the Alpine bioregion. In Romania this biogeographical region includes both Carpathians peaks and coniferous and mixed forests of the Carpathians, but also the intermountain depressions and higher hills along the mountain chain. Various mountains are home to endemic and relic species, virgin and quasi-virgin natural forests, virtually extinct from the rest of the European Union with a special biological diversity. The purpose of this paper is to present a study on the number and distribution of protected natural areas, their area and share in the Alpine biogeographical region of Romania in relation to the entire EU bioregion. The Digital Elevation with spatial resolution model at 25 m and geospatial data were used to develop this study. In Romania, the Alpine bioregion occupies an area of 5.005.266.03 ha, of which 3.726.354.88 ha, respectively 74,42% is included in different categories of protected natural areas: SPA's = 1.133.419,10 ha; SCI's = 1.760.940,84 ha; wetland of international importance = 695,93 ha; scientific reservations = 5,77 ha; natural reservations = 137.503,29 ha; biosphere reservations = 85.518,26 ha; national parks = 202.741,98 ha; natural parks = 405.520,97 ha; natural monuments = 8,73 ha. Due to a partial or total overlap of the protected areas, the range of protected areas in the territory (soil footprint) is 2.147.431.78 ha. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The climate change facing humanity requires two major and immediate solutions: the need to drastically reduce greenhouse gas emissions on the one hand, and on the other hand the need to adapt to the effects of climate change, given that these effects are already visible and unavoidable due to the inertia of the climate system. Romania is vulnerable to a number of natural climate and geological dangers: floods, droughts, extreme temperatures, the western part of the country registering over time some devastating floods, which caused numerous losses of life and economic losses, such as the flooding with a historical maximum in year 2005. Water being an important resource in people's lives, it is necessary for this resource to be properly managed, as poor water resource management can cause great damage. In the present paper is analyzed the Costei Hydrotechnical Node, which is distinguished by the efficiency of the management of the water flows from the Timis River as well as by the flow regulation on the Bega River. For the efficient management of water resources, water flows and levels were analyzed between 2017-2021, noting that in 2020 it was surplus, and in 2021, the lowest value for water levels and annual flow rates. This indicates a fluctuating nature of the water flow resulting from the global anthropogenic impact on the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, the food supplement industry has grown considerably, mainly due to the orientation of consumers towards more natural products. In Romania, the Institute of Food Bioresources notified over 900 food supplements in 2020 and over 1500 in 2019. Unfortunately, the use of these supplements, although healthy, is problematic due to environmental pollution. The packaging used, often disposable, is highly polluting, multilayer, difficult to sort and impossible to recycle. This paper presents a viable option for packaging food supplements: completely edible materials, obtained from biopolymers, with rosemary, thyme and oregano essential oils addition. Agar, sodium alginate, and glycerol were used to obtain the films. The essential oils were added in different volumes. The samples were tested in order to evaluate the physical and optical characteristics and to determine solubility. The solubility characteristics are important in this sense as these films are recommended as packaging for food supplements and can be consumed with them, by dissolving in liquids with a temperature of about 30 degrees. The addition of essential oil has improved the physical characteristics of the films. Thus, they presented a more pleasant smell, taste and color, improved transmittance, and reduced roughness. The films were also tested microbiologically, and no microorganisms such as bacteria, yeasts and molds developed on the samples. The addition of essential oil increased the values of the film transmittance (from 4.22% in the case of the control sample, to 15.98% in the case of the sample with 25 microliters of oregano essential oil). Similarly, the opacity values decreased with the addition of essential oils (from 28.254 to 17.24 for the sample with a lower volume of oregano essential oil in the composition). According to microstructure images and micro topographies, films with the addition of oregano essential oil are more homogeneous, more uniform and with lower roughness values. The results obtained indicate the possibility and benefits of using these films for packaging food supplements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vulnerability, land use and sustainability are some of the main elements of major concern in the last decades that can be translated in practice through efficient development and planning. The role land use plays is recognized worldwide due to the rapid and continuous urban growth and development, which determine the occurrence of new powerful forces leading to social, demographical, environmental, technological and governmental changes. The large number of disasters in recent years demonstrated that the most effective and accessible method of reducing the pressure exerted by natural and technological risks is to reduce the level of vulnerability of communities exposed to a particular hazard. The vulnerability of populated areas to natural and technological disasters is also exacerbated by the decades of inefficient spatial planning policies that did not incorporate hazards and risks. This paper is aiming to create a bridge between the existing vulnerability theories and their implementation in land use planning policies, by assessing the need of a new methodology that will incorporate vulnerability reduction into spatial planning. The paper focuses on a case study of a developing country in SE Europe, Romania, using high resolution data obtained from the Urban Atlas inventory. The discussion and results section illustrates the spatial development of urban and rural areas in Romania in the last years. Moreover, this section demonstrates the impact of land use changes on vulnerability and the need to develop future sustainable development policies that can support decision makers, coming from the public or the private sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our research reveals the importance of GIS technology for land evaluation. The research was conducted on a piece of land of about 770 ha in Romania, which enjoys a diversity of natural factors. Land suitability evaluation, especially given limited land resources, is an important stage in the assessment of its ecological state and for land use planning. The main goal of this evaluation is to estimate the possibilities of maintaining the optimal natural potential of the soil in the process of a certain mode of use over a long period of time. Based on the analysis of the contribution of the various land favorability parameters, we assessed the Agricultural Land Suitability Index and the findings are grouped into five classes of suitability: very good, good, moderate, medium and poor. This classification was made by superimposing several layers of information in a Geographic Information System - GIS. The research described in this paper relies on field data acquisition using a GPS and drone, and on data collected from databases of various institutions. The data were processed using ArcGIS software. This land evaluation action/activity allows one to determine the relative value of a piece of land. The GIS technique may be used to easily compile a database (attribute and graphics) for a large territory and for a very wide range of agricultural crops, respectively. These analyses allow determining the most appropriate uses and crops in terms of profitability, as they may reveal crop yield and economic efficiency on a regular basis. According to this paper, GIS analysis allows the practical interpretation of the natural characteristics of the studied soil in terms of both actual evaluation and technological soil characterization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper applies the concept of bankfull discharge for a mountainous anthropized (both in terms of channel, floodplain, and catchment) river: Bistricioara river, Eastern Carpathians, Romania. A review of the literature is done, and several methods are chosen, both based on gauge data and on fieldwork measurements: discharge frequency, hydraulic geometry, and the Gauckler–Manning formula. The resulting discharges are compared to the historical gauge data and are correlated to the long-term channel topography variability monitoring to establish if this concept is valid in the study area context. The results show that the channel is quite stable, even over bankfull discharge, and that important changes appear only at the most important floods. Fieldwork data in between the gauge locations is also used to assess the channel evolution. The results raise an important issue regarding the validity of the bankfull discharge in the geomorphology of the river channels, at least in some context. The Bistricioara river channel is partially stabilized, as is the floodplain. The catchment is partially anthropized from the land-use point of view, and the natural hydrology is altered, but many parts evolve in a non-altered state. The channel is very stable in these conditions, and its lateral and vertical adjustments are small, even at bankfull discharge. In this context, the concept of bankfull discharge only applies if we consider its size to be variable and not only related to actual methods of estimation, especially in anthropized catchments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Renewable-energy sources are considered to be the energy that is collected from sources that may be regenerated in a lifetime. The renewable-energy sources branch out in five types: wind power, hydropower, solar energy, geothermal energy and bio energy. However, in this paper, we are analyzing the water, solar and wind, since those three are the most exploited in Romania. Wind power refers to produce electric power, by mechanical powered generators when air flows through wind turbines. Alternatively, to fossil fuels, wind power is clean, without carbon dioxide emissions in operation, doesn't consume water and it's unlimited. Hydropower is a renewable source of energy that produces electricity from fast running water or falling water. A hydro station does not consume the water that it uses to generate electricity and the cost of hydroelectricity is relatively low. Solar energy is a meaningful source of renewable energy and it uses the radiant light and heat from the Sun to convert it into solar power. This is an inexhaustible and clean source of renewable-energy. The large weight of renewable sources of energy makes them highly captivating considering the sources are never ending and clean. Along with the previous idea, using renewable-energy sources to generate electricity brings huge long-term benefits, such as enhancing sustainability, lowering the expenses of fossil fuels, reducing air pollution and slowing down the global warming. In this paper we make a review of fossil fuel in contrast with renewables in Romania, over the last ten years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR) surveys can enhance the quantity and quality of information, when applied to archaeological prospection. The potential of the GPR method lies in its relevance to a wide range of site conditions and the complementary nature of the data in comparison with other geophysical methods.The Aegyssus archaeological site is located on the Monument Hill, in the north-eastern section of Tulcea, and was built at the end of the 4th century B.C. Its name, of celtic origin, derived from the legendary founder, Caspios Aegyssos. At the beginning of 2nd century, the town was included in the Danubian limes (boundary), then, starting with the 3rd century, it became an importantmilitary headquarters. The 6th century finds it as an episcopal residence, after which, urban life ceased to exist.The Halmyris archaeological site represents an ancient roman fortress located in Murighiol commune (Tulcea County). It has been occupied since the 4th century B.C. by the dacians, later becoming animportant roman transit center and a port for roman fleets on the Danube. Archaeological excavations in 1981 demonstrated the existence of a continuity of life spanning from the 6th century B.C. tothe 6th century A.D. The two archaeological sites mentioned above are related to a unique chronological range between late antiquity and the early medieval period (from the 4th century A.D. to the 7th century A.D).This paper demonstrates the effectiveness of GPR over the indicated sites characterized by differences in soil conditions and hypothesized archaeological features (Viberg et al., 2011). With this method a high-resolution data acquisition was adopted with the aim of reconstructing the location, depth and shape of the archaeological structures in the selected areas. Signal processing and the time-slice represen¬tation technique were used for the analysis of the collected data (Gates and Armistead, 1974).A total of 6perimeters were surveyed with a 250 MHz antenna aiming in identifying geological and archaeological anomalies in order to assist archaeologists in an excavation program.The GPR results indicated geophysical anomalies characterized by hyperbolic reflections (Tsoflias et al., 2004). These anomalies were confirmed by the excavation of test units,allowing the identification anthropogenic features such as an ancient terracotta pipe, wall foundations, remnants of civil structures and several objects and artifacts (numerous amphorae, wooden objects and other household objects). Archaeological excavations and interpretations were conducted systematically after completing the geophysical surveys (2019) and confirmed the location and shape of most of the individualized structures (Keller, 1966). The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the accuracywith which GPR data can be matched to excavation data and the improvement it offers in target definition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this paper is to determine the rate of methane (explosive gas ) and of carbon dioxide (axphysants gas ) in the mine workings of Praid salt mine. Currently in Romania there are six salt mines which exploit the salt through underground mine workings: Praid salt mine, Tg. Ocna salt mine, Slanic Prahova salt mine, Ocnele Mari salt mine, Cacica salt mine, and Dej salt mine. Of these six, in three salt mines occurred gas and salt eruptions: Praid saltmine, Slanic Prahova salt mine and Tg. Ocna salt mine. The purpose of the present paper work is to establish the methane release (explosive gas) and the carbon dioxide release regime in mine workings from Praid salt mine in order to verify its classification. This verification of the Praid salt mine classification has been carried out during October 2012 and there have been taken into account the following elements:Geological and technical-mining conditions of the salt deposit related to Praid mining perimeter. -Results of the quantitative and qualitative measurements from the underground mine workings regarding: •Circulated air flows; •Measured methane and carbon dioxide concentrations; •Absolute flows registered; •Accumulation capacity of gas in the deposit; •Gas concentrations and pressure in the massif. Existing evidences and documentations regarding the previous gas occurrences and their manner of manifestation. Establishing the way in which the gas is released into the underground atmosphere of the mine workings. Based on the observations and on the carried out measurements, on the analysis of the studied geological and mining elements, there has been made the classification proposal of the Praid salt mine from the point of view of gas emissions (methane and carbon dioxide). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Southern Dobrogea is situated in SE Romania, being included, tectonic point of view, in the Moesian Platform. The Southern Romania is bordered by the Danube to the West and the Black Sea to the East. In the N, the Southern Dobrogea is bordered by the Capidava-Ovidiu subcrustal fault; towards south, it continues to the northern Bulgaria. In the Southern Dobrogea, a carbonate platform developed from Mesozoic (Upper Jurassic and Cretaceous), and continued through the Paleogene up to the Miocene. The Pliocene is mainly developed along the right side of the Danube, in low topographic areas, and is represented by the sedimentation of continental red clay successions. The Pleistocene is characterized by the sedimentation of continental red clays and the development of the loess deposits. This paper describes several protected geological and paleontological sites of the Southern Dobrogea. Some of them, i.e., ‘The Cernavodă Fossil Site’, contain a rich Early Cretaceous macro- and microfaunas, along with ‘The Limestone walls from PetroÅŸani’, exposing Upper Cretaceous and Middle Miocene rocks, and ‘CredinÅ£a Quarry’, enclosing rich faunas of Miocene mammals and mollusks, are protected areas of national interest. Other sites, significant for their geological exposures and paleontological context, are not yet protected, although their geoheritage is of an outstanding importance. The Southern Dobrogea is situated in SE Romania, being included, tectonic point of view, in the Moesian Platform. The Southern Romania is bordered by the Danube to the West and the Black Sea to the East. In the N, the Southern Dobrogea is bordered by the Capidava-Ovidiu subcrustal fault; towards south, it continues to the northern Bulgaria. In the Southern Dobrogea, a carbonate platform developed from Mesozoic (Upper Jurassic and Cretaceous), and continued through the Paleogene up to the Miocene. The Pliocene is mainly developed along the right side of the Danube, in low topographic areas, and is represented by the sedimentation of continental red clay successions. The Pleistocene is characterized by the sedimentation of continental red clays and the development of the loess deposits. This paper describes several protected geological and paleontological sites of the Southern Dobrogea. Some of them, i.e., ‘The Cernavodă Fossil Site’, contain a rich Early Cretaceous macro- and microfaunas, along with ‘The Limestone walls from Petroşani’, exposing Upper Cretaceous and Middle Miocene rocks, and ‘Credinţa Quarry’, enclosing rich faunas of Miocene mammals and mollusks, are protected areas of national interest. Other sites, significant for their geological exposures and paleontological context, are not yet protected, although their geoheritage is of an outstanding importance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In my paper, I analyse the existing curriculum on the subject of ecological education in Romanian schools, in order to offer some practical solutions that can be implemented in kindergarten, schools, universities and also during cultural events and fairs (that I also consider an important educating factor). The abstract information taught at the higher levels of education dominate the curricula of our schools and universities, where pupils and students get very little practical knowledge - either concerning a particular field of study, or on a more general level - like the one about ensuring a healthy life or a clean environment, and they end up ignoring really important issues. The studies show that showing example works best together with explaining, especially at young age. And there is no difference between learning bad and destroying habits or beneficial ones; the effort is the same. Kindergartens, schools and Universities in Romania have coffee machines with plastic cups, and organize their daily routine and especially events with lots of disposable plastics, and lots of PET-s, even if it is well known that disposable plastics became one of the biggest environmental problems, and some kinds, which can be avoided easily are banned in several countries. At most of the cultural events, concerts or fairs the situation is the same, even though this kind of events and institutions bring together a great number of people, and for young children their parents serve as a model to follow. A solution would be for schools and universities to adopt practically- not just teach in theory - a good management of waste, meaning: to compost together in the school yard, getting the children involved, even in the kindergarten, to encourage serving lunch in their own recipients, to teach and encourage children to wash them and to bring water from springs, students to drink coffee from paper cups, or their own thermos, this all leading in time to more sensitive and careful people. The next generation will adopt the habits of adults of today and becoming aware of these problems would make them search and find solutions, instead of passing the responsibilities to another. This is very important because little children are interested in everything and they learn just as easily the bad and destructive things and the good ones. Since this is about their future, most of all, they should be informed of the consequences. The paper describes the results of experimental classes of ecology, workshops, clubs for young moms and kids that I organized, as well as practical methods of teaching that can be implemented in any kindergarten and school. There are also a number of ideas that can be used for cultural events, shops and fairs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]