Search

Developing countries suffer from both lack of resources and appropriate solid waste management systems. Therefore, the introduction of alternative options for waste valorisation is imperative. The current research introduces an environmental Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of waste-based briquettes produced with 80 % of non-recyclable cardboard waste from separate collections and 20 % sawdust from sawmills in Bolivia. The aim is to compare the environmental impacts generated within the briquette's life cycle with conventional fuels. Primary data from a development project implemented in La Paz in 2021 were collected for building the inventory. SimaPro9.0 was employed to conduct the analysis, with IMPACT2002+ as the impact assessment method. Results' normalization, contribution evaluation, interval assessment, and sensitivity analysis were carried out, and the results were compared with conventional fossil fuels, namely: coal, methane, and LPG. Results suggest that briquettes' life cycle contributes to seven of fifteen impact indicators, with global warming, use of non-renewable energy, and respiratory inorganics, the most important. The global warming potential ranges from 23.9 to 26.7 gCO 2 -eq. MJ−1, lower than about 485 % compared to coal and 185 % to methane. Considering the avoided impacts from wood and methane substitution, global warming potential can decrease to about 20.0 and 18.9 gCO 2 -eq. MJ−1 respectively. On balance, compared to other fuels for heating and cooking, waste-based briquettes always have better environmental performance transporting the briquettes to about 100–130 km from the production plant. These results suggest that waste-based briquettes can contribute to mitigating environmental impacts and carbon footprint at a global level. • Life cycle assessment of cardboard waste-based briquettes is conducted. • Environmental impacts are lower compared to fossil fuels. • Less than 25 gCO 2 -eq. MJ−1 is generated by the system. • Briquettes made of cardboard waste are recommended to be used in Andean areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Treatments for arsenic removal in drinking water have an impact on environment. • A combined approach with LCA and environmental prices was used. • Energy use and addition of reagents are the major sources of environmental impacts. • A mix of energy from hydro and wind power is suggested to mitigate the impacts. To date, few studies that developed a complete Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) are available in literature, but they are limited to non-conventional processes and did not take into consideration the entire drinking water treatment plant (DWTP). Moreover, few data of the environmental impact are currently available for some of the most widely applied technologies such as biological filtration and coagulation. This study aims to overcome this research gap carrying out a LCA in order to identify (i) what is the most impactful process, and (ii) what possible solutions for mitigating the impact can be proposed. Focusing on the treatment for arsenic removal, the results showed that coagulation was the most impactful process mainly due to the electricity consumption while, looking at the entire DWTP, disinfection prevails. In view of potential up-grade, the use of green energy can effectively increase the sustainability. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In small developing settings, is it worth building anaerobic digestion (AD) or composting plants? This study explores the economic, management, and environmental dimensions of two small-scale alternatives for organic fraction municipal solid waste (OFMSW) treatment within the context of Lacor Hospital (Uganda): aerated static pile composting (S1) and AD with digestate composting (S2), both designed to manage approximately 347.5 t OFMSW annually. In the optimistic scenario, S1 achieves a cost savings of about −2.9 USD t OFMSW −1, while S2 incurs costs of 2.1 USD t OFMSW −1. In the pessimistic scenario, S1's costs rise to 3.9 USD t OFMSW −1, while S2 becomes more expensive at 9.5 USD t OFMSW −1. Management analysis underlines S2's complexity due to AD operations and digestate drying. Total normalized environmental impacts of S1 can be quantified with about 0.125 mPt t OFMSW −1, whereas S2 is equal to about −6.163 mPt t OFMSW −1. However, in an optimistic scenario, climate change endpoint category results are similar. On balance, the LCA analysis indicates that AD can be better than standalone composting. However, in developing settings serving approximately 3000 inhabitants, it is crucial to prioritize economic and management sustainability that can be obtained only by small-scale composting plants. These findings provide definite insights for small-scale waste management projects in low-income regions, offering valuable data and references for plant design and their replicability. The study sets the ultimate definition of the most feasible option to treat OFMSW in low-income settings: community composting. Unfortunately, economic barriers remain the main challenge: citizens should pay for the service and landfill management fees should be set by local governments. • In small developing sites, is it better anaerobic digestion (AD) or composting (C)? • Aerated static pile C (S1) and AD with digestate C (S2) were studied. • S1 demonstrates cost and management advantages over S2: 0.15 vs 4.9 USD t OFMSW −1. • Prioritizing economic and management sustainability is key for long-term resilience. • Best option to treat OFMSW in low-income settings: community composting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solid waste management and the increasing energy demand are a global concern. Waste can play the role of alternative fuel, partly reducing the environmental footprint in the waste management sector. Waste briquetting is used as a treatment option for improving waste combustion efficiency, as well as its management and handling. This critical review aims at evaluating the potentialities of this method as a possible solution to introduce alternative fuels in developing countries. Totally, 85 scientific articles available from 1999 to 2021 from international databases were reviewed, and a SWOT analysis has been conducted following the indications underlined in the scientific literature. The outcomes of the review highlight that agricultural waste-based and wood-based briquettes are the most investigated, followed by plastics-based briquettes and paper & cardboard-based briquettes. Waste-based briquettes can be divided into three categories, function of the calorific value: biomass-based (16.22 ± 1.65 MJ kg−1), wood-based (19.03 ± 2.46 MJ kg−1), and plastics and charcoal-based briquettes (24.64 ± 5.29 MJ kg−1). Review findings underline that in-door emissions analysis is lacking, as well as research related to the water boiling test for the valorisation of waste briquetting for cooking and heating systems in developing countries. The current review contributes to highlighting the importance in implementing appropriate technologies for energy production and waste management in developing countries. • A review related to waste briquetting is performed. • Waste briquetting analysis increased of interest in the last five years • Agricultural waste is the most common source of waste for briquettes production. • Waste based briquettes can be used for cooking, heating, and energy production. • Future analysis should be focused on indoor emissions and water boiling tests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pharmaceuticals in the environment are considered as emerging contaminants which are particularly persistent and which could represent a threat both for animals and humans following long-term exposure. Pharmaceuticals include, among others, antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, steroid hormones, antidepressants, ß-blockers and lipid regulators. Excretion from humans is considered the main source of release of such compounds in the environment. The excreted compounds reach wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), which demonstrated to be generally ineffective in removing emerging contaminants in the absence of advanced treatments. Due to the importance of the topic, which still represents an issue of great concern, this review analyses the scientific literature with the aim of investigating the role of different sources of release, the fate of pharmaceuticals in WWTPs, their typical levels in the aquatic environment, the estimated risk levels for the aquatic fauna and the potential effects on humans. In the last part of this study, different options to effectively reduce the concentrations of pharmaceuticals in effluents from WWTPs are reviewed and discussed, in order to provide environmental agencies and local administrators with an overview of the advanced treatments that are currently available to mitigate the impact of pharmaceuticals in downstream water bodies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Being able to estimate the quantity of pollutants that can be spread in the environment is a factor of paramount importance in the industrial panorama. In order to accomplish such aim, a crucial step is the estimation of the so-called source term, that is the rate of generation (or release) of a substance in a generic process. A proper estimation requires to consider both the machinery and the unit operations present into the analysed system. For such reasons, ad hoc considerations and models should be developed for each specific process, in order to represent the reality in the most consistent way. In this paper, a process of the galvanic industry has been taken into account. Specifically, we propose a possible theoretical method for estimating the term of generation from a group of electrolytic deposition tanks. The model is based upon modelling the rupture of bubbles which are formed during the process. The model was applied in order to estimate the pollutants concentration inside the extraction line the and inside the facility. Results have been compared to experimental measurements. Particularly, it has been observed a good agreement between experimental and predicted concentrations for what concerns sulphuric acid and nickel; some deviations can be observed for compounds as nitric acid. This is mainly due to the particular nature of this substance. In fact, nitric acid is subjected to some decomposition reactions which have not be taken into account in the evaporation model. This aspect could be analyzed in future works. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This paper investigates municipal solid waste management future scenarios of La Paz, developing big city of Bolivia, for improving the selective collection of recyclable materials. The objective of the paper is to suggest a multidimensional approach, both quantitative and qualitative, for planning sustainable waste management systems in areas with no data availability. The research assessed six different long-term management plans, considering all recycling settings feasible for La Paz. For that purpose, a multi-criteria decision analysis has been introduced, supported by environmental and financial impact assessment concerning transportation, final disposal, and material recovery. Results suggest that the inclusion of the informal sector could be the most feasible option from an economic and technological point of view. Moreover, the curbside collection of organic waste could be considered the best solution for reducing the global warming potential and for improving the useful life of the sanitary landfill. The approach introduced, as well as the combination of solutions evaluated, could be of interest for stakeholders of Latin America for reducing environmental impacts and introducing a new business. Though the multi-criteria decision analysis and the impact-assessment do not provide a dynamic view of future scenarios, their combination could offer a first integrated insight into the possible challenges and opportunities for developing a new municipal solid waste management system in developing cities, encouraging the circular economy and sustainable development. Highlights • Circular economy is an environmental and economic opportunity for developing big cities. • Integration of the informal sector within MSWM could be a reliable option. • MCDA could be a reliable tool for the assessment of futures selective collection scenarios. • Developing big cities require integrated solution for improving recycling rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are very hazardous compounds. This investigation is the third in a series of three experiments carried out in conventional wastewater treatment plants with regard to PAHs. The first experiment regarded the analysis of PAHs in a municipal wastewater sewage system and in the wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) effluent, followed by a comparison between the observed removal efficiency and FATE model (US-EPA) predictions. The second experiment was carried out in the same WWTPs and showed no evident degradation of PAHs after applying a mass balance estimation between the various types of sludge. The aim of the third experiment described in this paper, was to study PAHs in a more extensive area of wastewater, (with a higher population density and with higher PAH values in the wastewater). The evaluations were carried out in different periods of the in order to estimate the removal efficiency of PAHs. The concentrations measured were well below the legal limits, however in a few cases a statistical analysis was carried out in order to identify possible correlations between various chemical-physical indicators, such as logKow and logKH, and PAH removal yield, verified at different stages of the different treatment plants. A strong correlation resulted between the mechanical treatment removal yield and logKow and a very good correlation between yield measures after secondary sedimentation and logKH. This is because the process is strongly influenced by volatilization induced by air insufflation in the oxidation reactor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic waste fraction disposed to landfill induce the release of greenhouse gas and leachate due to its degradation. The collection and treatment of such typology of waste is imperative in order to decrease environmental pollution and improve recycling rates. The aim of this study is to define a flexible and economically viable system to process all the RMSW and the OFMSW coming from SC, in a territory with low recycling rates. To that purpose, the survey provides a dynamic system which comply with future increases in the efficiency of SC systems. Dry anaerobic batch reactors are considered in order to treat RMSW and to operate the OFMSW, as long as SC improves. Four scenarios were considered, in particular for 10%, 25%, 50% and 75% SC rate. Biogas production has been estimated for evaluating the potentiality of each SC rate, since it can be exploited for generating electric energy and heating. Biogas generation is enhanced of the 21% by increasing from 10% to 75% SC, making the system more profitable under an energetic point of view. Moreover, the amount of electric energy which could be sold per year for each SC scenario was calculated, resulting as 631,293 kWh for the 10% SC and 442,527 kWh for 75% SC. Considerations on the exportability of the approach were also added in the paper, highlighting the affordability of the anaerobic digestion system in other countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

respiratory diseases, including asthma and lung cancer. Much progress has been made in Europe in improving outdoor air quality and limit values have been set for several pollutants. However, indoor air quality also requires attention because this is where we spend most of our time. Measurements at appropriate spatial and temporal scales are essential for understanding and monitoring heterogeneous environments with complex and highly variable emission sources, such as in urban areas. However, the costs and complexity of conventional air quality measurements methods means that measurement networks are generally extremely sparse. Low-cost, easy-to-use sensors to monitor air quality are exploded in recent years. They can be considered the “next-generation air monitors”. The data collected might be used to improve communities and, eventually, affect how air quality is monitored and regulated. They are marketed as tools to empower citizen to learn about the air they breathe and to use their findings to take actions. Therefore, the development of low-cost air quality sensors, an increasingly aware and engaged public, and a government more willing to accept and help citizen collect data could mark a turning point in how air pollution is monitored and addressed in the country. In this study, measures of reducing gases were taken in indoor and outdoor unconventional environments, poorly investigated in the past. The levels of these gases were investigated by means of a SensordroneTM low-cost multi-sensor in a household kitchen and in three different gas stations. The results highlight that these sensors well interpret the qualitative behavior of the oxide - reduction reactions. Future technologies could link reducing gas’ concentrations with value of electrical resistance. These developments will allow a better control of human exposure to air pollution also in other sectors as biological treatments of waste and industrial sectors where fugitive emissions are still a problem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although the main reason for the extraction of methane from coal beds continues to address ensuring the safety of workers, an important driver is the need to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases. In order to identify potential technical problems specific for available technologies implementation, we performed a comparative critical analysis, based on which the technically feasible systems resulted, their further selection being based on detailed analysis in financial and investment terms. The research goal was to establish options for using methane gas discharged through central degassing and main ventilation stations currently operational mines in the Jiu Valley collieries; through its level of coverage and detail, the technical analysis performed on the feasibility of the identified alternatives represents a national level novelty. The proposed solutions are aimed at correlating with EU regulations on reducing vulnerability and risk mitigation regarding potentially explosive atmospheres, while simultaneously minimizing greenhouse gas emissions and reduce the contribution of methane discharged into the atmosphere by the main ventilation and degassing stations operating in the Jiu Valley collieries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The marble mining is very important for the Italian economy and has important traditions, especially in some areas. Among these, there is the area of the Dolomites in Val Venosta, located in Trentino, one of the North-East Italian regions. In many cases, these quarries are very old and often are located in areas with high natural value. This work regards two quarries, which are located within an important national park. The need to reduce the environmental effects related to the traffic of trucks used for the transport of marble from the quarries to the processing plants has led us to make assessments on the methodology to apply. This paper presents the methodological approach identified to determine the best technical solution among several alternatives regarding the transport of marble. The validation of the methodology has its natural outlet in the application to a real case, subject of another article. Some considerations on the replicability of the approach are included too. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) is both a technical and administrative procedure with (mandatory) extensive application throughout Europe, holding a primary role in sustainable territorial development. Objectives of the SEA process are to: provide a high level of protection for the environment, and promote sustainability of development by contributing to the integration of appropriate environmental considerations in the adoption and implementation of specific plans and programs. In general, results of SEA application are quite positive, but some aspects may still be subject to a constructive critique, with considerable space for procedural improvement. Purpose of this work is to analyze a few case studies, which refer to the situation in Italy and, specifically, in the Lombardy Region, after a significantly extended period of SEA application, and evaluate their outcomes, suggesting possible ameliorations. Lombardy makes a good benchmark for examination, being a complex territory, characterized by the highest concentrations of population, industrial activities, and economic interests in Italy. Case studies' evaluation reveals some critical issues that may have a negative influence on the correct application of the SEA process (and not just in Italy, as these considerations can be extended at the international level), and consequently on the resulting governance of the territory, and on the determination of foreseen effects related to development goals. Among critical issues, frequent oversight of important aspects concerning sustainability, incorrect definition of players and stakeholders, variations and differences of the applied techniques, debatable role of both the public administration and the public, varying costs of the procedure, to state a few, could be mentioned. Furthermore, a critical need is the definition of specific standards and parameters in the presence of activities that may present risks of relevant accidents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Warehouses play an important role when it comes to the reception, delivery and storage of various types of goods. Due to the complex scenarios that may occur, as well as the heterogeneous nature of goods, warehouses bear a higher risk of accidents. Regardless if we’re taking about removing hassle or standardizing operations we speak the same language: insuring efficiency and increased efficiency leads to smart cost maintenances. In the article hear by we will observe the behavior of different warehouse materials in the case of trigger fired. Starting from the results obtained during the low scale tests and completing the premises with the large scale experiment (warehouse scale), we can get to a series of useful observations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing countries suffer poor solid waste management (SWM) systems. and setting priorities to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is urgent. The current research aims to assess Ugandan SWM system, and the main circular strategies implemented in the last decade to identify actions that should be prioritised towards a sustainable development. Low collection rates, unsound waste disposal, and poverty-driven recycling are the common issues that threaten the achievement of SDGs in Uganda. Waste collection improvement and construction of controlled sanitary landfills must be prioritised to reduce environmental contamination and avoid the generation of unsafe work for informal workers. End child labour, ensuring access to affordable and clean energy sources, and valorising local entrepreneurship in waste recycling are also fundamental actions to achieve an effective and inclusive SWM system. This review contributes to identify the priorities to start circular actions now, supporting decision makers in implementing policies and innovative solutions to assist the transition towards sustainable SWM systems in Uganda and the Global South. • Uganda suffers poor solid waste management systems. • Priorities were set to achieve SDGs in Uganda and low-income countries. • Waste circular bioeconomy projects are necessary to reduce nature depletion. • To eliminate child labour in actions related to SWM is imperative. • Number of people with primary reliance on clean fuels and technology must increase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Air pollution is an increasing critical issue and the focus of innumerable studies and monitoring activities. In addition to automatic monitoring systems typically used to measure fine dust, ozone, nitrogen oxide and sulfur oxide, the use of bioaccumulation monitors can also be exploited, especially when monitoring large areas. The advantage of biomarkers is the very low costs involved compared to traditional monitoring systems. Bio-indicator techniques do not measure directly air quality or atmospheric pollution, but rather estimate the changes in reactive components in ecosystems to pollution. So rather than being an alternative method to the traditional measurements, bio-indicators provide detailed information on specific areas thus optimizing the location of the measuring instruments. Epiphytic lichens are the most suitable species for bio-indicator monitoring. A case study of a large area located in northern Italy, characterized by a high concentration of industrial activities in the field of wood and chipboard processing is reported in this paper. An analysis was performed with fruticose epiphytic lichens (Pseudovernia furfuracea) as bio-indicators. These lichens can assimilate and metabolize various substances and, in particular, the heavy metals from the surrounding atmosphere. Several bio-monitoring campaigns were conducted in order to monitor the trend of airborne heavy metals, and data statistically processed, in order to highlight the role and incidence of said industrial activities on the distribution and concentrations pattern of these pollutants. The approach used in the case study included application of biotic indices, statistical analysis, aimed at data interpretation the data, analysis of pollutants dispersion and influence of their background distribution in the investigated area to highlight potential criticalities. As a verification of the bio-indicators results reliability, a survey of fine dust and powder distribution in the area was conducted in the same period and on the same biological detection stations. This test was also positive, confirming the reliability of the study as conducted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental and territorial compatibility of industrial activities can be evaluated by considering several criteria, usually formalized in the contest of a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA); the pipelines sector, however, is not as well standardized as others. In this paper, a new methodology to evaluate territorial compatibility of proposed pipelines is presented. This approach can be useful to assess proper development compatibility of oil and gas pipeline networks, and it could represent an example of specific technical guidelines supporting territorial planning and management. The evaluation criteria in the proposed method are both qualitative and quantitative, and are consistent with those used for similar fixed installations (e.g. LNG storage). The methodology uses a specific checklist in order to calculate a relative pipeline risk index. The checklist and risk index are thus easyly determined and compared when different technical solutions are examined, in order to rank them accordingly to their environmental compatibility and safety aspects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Ambiente e Água is the property of Revista Ambiente e Agua and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The transport of hazardous substances is an essential economic activity because it represents a quite relevant percentage of the total goods transportation. The risk associated to such an activity is fundamentally related to the possibility of an accident triggering that may cause negative environmental and public health consequences. A recent example is the Viareggio accident (2009), which involved the blast of tank wagons containing liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and caused more than thirty deaths. In this paper, a modified algorithm for risk evaluation and a decision support system, called TrHaM (TRansport of HAzardous Materials), are proposed in order to both quantify the overall risk due to the transport of hazardous materials via road, railroad, waterway and pipeline and help in planning transport activities. The algorithm evaluates and shows the risk distribution using a stand-alone GIS software, which also considers sensitive targets with high crowding (such as schools, hospitals, shopping malls, stadiums and camping areas). Moreover, it allows for finding the transport solution and its logistics which minimize risk distribution, including intermodal shipping. TrHaM reliability has been tested onto the circulation of hazardous materials in the Varese district (Northern Italy). The area is characterized by a high level of both population and industrial density combined with heavy road traffic. TrHaM has been used with the aim of comparing the current scenario with a potential one that introduces some mitigating interventions which may reduce risk, such as a partial conversion of haulage from road to railway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes preliminary tests carried out in treatment plants serving two different pig farms in Northern Italy, in order to assess the feasibility of implementing biological sulphur removal from biogas produced by anaerobic digestion processes. This normally consists of mixture of CH4, CO2, and other gases; in the presence of sulphur, H2S is also formed, which must be removed prior to the gas use in thermal engines, to avoid corrosion phenomena. Sulphur removal in the plants considered is currently achieved by means of chemical filtration, however this adds costs to the process and generates a waste to be disposed of. As a process alternative, biological sulphur removal by means of Thiobacillus sp. bacteria can also be obtained. The process, however, requires specific conditions in the gas stream in order to achieve high process efficiency. Biological desulfonation was applied on a trial basis in two biogas production plants, with different layouts, and encouraging results. These confirms the validity of the process, although the maximum foreseen removal efficiencies were not achieved due to structural drawbacks of the tested facilities, that will have to be revamped in order to apply this process with full satisfaction and effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Reduction of municipal solid waste open dumping is discussed in the paper. • Geographic information systems-GIS are employed for collection routes optimization. • Waste collection coverage increases from 51% to 94% reducing transportation costs. • Optimizing the system, the cost per ton of waste collected reduces from 36$ to 27$. • Field inspections, LCA, GIS and economic analysis are recommended to be used. Solid waste open dumping is a big issue in the developing world. Environmental and social impacts due to this practice affect population health, increasing the spread of diseases and child mortality. The safe collection of waste is the first step for reducing these impacts. This research assesses households' waste collection in a Bolivian developing city with the aim to find a solution to fostering waste safe disposal and recycling. The novelty of the study consists in implementing field analysis together with the use of geographic information systems and the life cycle assessment approach where the lack of data is challenging. Following the results of the research, the system optimization, compared to the current scenario, implies that: (1) collection distances increase by 8%, while the selective collection increases them by 27.8%; (2) the collection coverage increase from 51% to 94% and selective collection switch from zero to 6.7%; (3) about 75% of CO 2 -eq emissions are reduced, as well as the eutrophication potential (about 55%); (4) recycling reduces the human toxicity potential of 260% and depletion of abiotic resources of 30%; (5) finally, the cost per ton of waste collected reduces from 36.2USD t−1 to 26.5USD t−1, and rises to 39.7USD t−1 if the selective collection is applied. The research demonstrates how waste collection optimization can be implemented obtaining enormous benefits in developing cities. The methods and outcomes presented can be of reference for policymakers and stakeholders of the developing world for addressing safe collection toward sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]