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Conventional leather chromium tanning requires long process time, excessive water usage and results in low float exhaustion of chrome salts. Our study aimed to eliminate the negative aspects of chromium tanning by designing a vacuum operated reaction vessel/drum and suitable production recipe for sheepskins. Tanning time decreased from 10 h to 6 h under vacuum. Float uptake was increased almost 30% according to the chrome oxide (Cr2O3) contents in leather and residual floats. Using the process water was also considerably saved. Process success was proved with Cr2O3 contents in leather and wastewater by chemical analyses after tanning operations. Shrinkage temperature (Ts) controls as hydrothermal stability indicator of collagen were also realized on the tanned skins. Pollution loads of conventional and vacuum operated chromium tanning were discussed with chemical oxygen demand (COD), total suspended solids (TSS), conductivity and salinity in the tanning baths. Physico-mechanical properties were also compared of the final products by tensile strength and tear load analyses. The results showed that vacuum operated chromium tanning was highly effective and promised for the sustainable production of leather products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the treatment of combined wastewater from Hattar Industrial Estate using Biofilm Wetlands (BW) planted with monoculture species: Eichhornia crassipes (EAC), Pistia stratiotes (WL), and Arundo donax (GR). Each species showed distinct capabilities in organic degradation, metal uptake, and pH stabilization. BW2, planted with EAC, achieved the highest total solids (TS) and total suspended solids (TSS) removal efficiencies of 66% and 65%, respectively. GR effectively reduced initial COD concentrations from 232 mg/L to 58.67 mg/L, while EAC and WL reached reductions to 72.78 mg/L and 70.67 mg/L, respectively. Overall, the plant efficiency ranking was EAC > GR > WL. These findings underscore the potential of these plant species in synergistic BW systems, highlighting their role as natural solutions for remediating complex industrial effluents. This research contributes to advancing eco-friendly wastewater treatment approaches, suggesting promising applications for sustainable practices in industrial contexts. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: This research assessed the effectiveness of phytoremediation using Eichhornia crassipes, Pistia stratiotes, and Arundo donax for removing pollutants i.e. heavy metals (Cd, Pb, Ni, K, Ca, Mg, Na, Fe, Hg) nitrates, phosphates and sulfates from combined industrial wastewater of Hattar Industrial Estate Pakistan. It highlighted the potential of selected plant species' as natural treatment systems, providing crucial insights into their efficiency. Findings contribute to understanding nature-based solutions for complex industrial effluents. NOVELTY: This study harnessed the potential of three macrophytes to tackle industrial effluents, marking their debut in wastewater treatment. By championing environmentally conscious practices, it underscores the need for effective industrial wastewater management while promoting greener and more sustainable approaches within the industrial sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biofloc technology (BFT) in sea cucumber (Apostichopus japonicus) farming utilizes nutrient cycling, driven by heterotrophic microorganisms, to improve water quality and promote sustainable aquaculture. This study explored the potential of sodium bicarbonate and sodium acetate as novel carbon sources, which may offer advantages in maintaining water stability and enhancing microbial diversity compared to traditional carbon sources. Juvenile sea cucumbers were cultured in a 64‐day trial and assigned to five treatment groups: S (sucrose), SSa (S + sodium acetate), SSb (S + sodium bicarbonate), Nc (no carbon source), and Cg (control group), each treatment group was repeated three times (n = 3). The inclusion of sodium bicarbonate and sodium acetate significantly improved water quality parameters. The group SSb exhibited a higher pH (8.28), and significantly lower ammonia nitrogen (0.501 mg L−1), and nitrite levels (0.031 mg L−1) compared to other groups. Additionally, the biofloc volume (BFV; 17 mL L−1), total suspended solids (TSSs; 238 mg L−1), and protein content (13.9%) in the group SSb were all within the tolerance range for sea cucumbers. Group SSb also showed the significantly highest weight gain rate (WGR; 78.5%) and specific growth rate (SGR; 0.91%), alongside increased enzyme activities, including superoxide dismutase (SOD; 179 U mL−1) and peroxidase (POD; 1.59 U mL−1), which were significantly higher than those in other groups. Furthermore, the group SSb demonstrated enhanced gut microbiota diversity, characterized by a higher abundance of beneficial Bacillus and lower levels of harmful Vibrio and Pseudomonas. The addition of SSb significantly improved water quality by maintaining optimal pH and reducing harmful nitrogen compounds, which in turn supported enhanced physiological growth and increased gut microbiota diversity, indicating its potential as a superior carbon source in biofloc systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective was to identify the best stocking density in the initial grow-out phase of tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) using biofloc technology (BFT) and evaluate the effects of the densities on water quality, zootechnical performance and the metabolic profile of fish and production costs. Juveniles (56.5 ± 1.69 g) were reared in the densities: 15 (BFT15), 30 (BFT30) and 45 (BFT45) fish.m−3, in triplicate, for 80 days. The use of BFT inoculum at the beginning contributed to the maintenance of adequate ammonia and nitrite concentrations at all densities, though with a higher nitrite concentration in BFT45. Electrical conductivity (EC), nitrite, total suspended solids (TSS), pH, alkalinity and hardness were different (p < 0.05) between BFT15 and BFT45. EC and TSS increased according to the increase in density, and were higher in BFT45. The highest final weight and specific growth rate were observed in BFT15, while the apparent feed conversion was lower for BFT15 and BFT30 compared to BFT45 (p < 0.05). Biomass and productivity were higher (p < 0.05) in BFT45. The values of hematocrit, number of erythrocytes and the hemoglobin concentration were higher in BFT45 (p < 0.05). Regarding production costs, the highest average feed expenditure occurred in BFT45; however, expenditure with electricity was lower at this density. The increase in biomass in BFT45 generated the reduction of the partial average cost (ACp). It can therefore be concluded that the best stocking density for initial grow out of tambaqui is 45 fish.m−3, since it presents better productivity and biomass, lower ACp and average expenditure on electricity when using BFT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biofloc technology (BFT) has been identified as an effective and sustainable aquaculture method, particularly beneficial for warm-water species in tropical areas. This technology is widely used in intensive aquaculture for several aquatic species due to its capacity to significantly reduce water exchange rates, benefiting both production systems and the environment. The efficacy of BFT in farming operations is directly related to a proper management of water quality parameters within the optimal range of the target species, as these parameters directly impact the yield of production units. Essentially, BFT functions as a water quality management system, converting harmful nitrogenous waste such as ammonia and nitrite into less harmful forms such as nitrates through microbial activity, ensuring the health of aquatic organisms. Key environmental factors such as temperature, dissolved oxygen (DO), pH, salinity, alkalinity, TAN, nitrite, nitrate, settleable solids (SS), and total suspended solids (TSS) can affect the growth of aquatic species and the functionality of the microbial community. This review brings (i) a comprehensive bibliometric analysis on biofloc and water quality, (ii) highlights optimal ranges, and (iii) key observations of several water parameters including temperature, salinity, nitrogenous compounds, SS, TSS, DO, phosphate, pH, and alkalinity in BFT rearing conditions for key aquatic species. Elements such as countries, thematic and keywords, and authors were explored, correlated, and discussed. In addition, this manuscript also (iv) discusses the presence of heavy metals and microplastics (MPs) in BFT culture water. A dedicated review on water quality in biofloc technology will contribute to future research and development (R&D) in this topic, support decision-making to improve farming operations, and can help further expansion of BFT-based aquaculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examined the responses of suspended solids to forest thinning in steep small headwater catchments, PT (0.8 ha) and PR (0.7 ha), that drain a Korean pine (Pinus koraiensis) plantation forest. Based on a paired-catchment design, the relationship between total suspended solids (TSS) and the time differential of water runoff (dQ/dt) indicated a difference in the characteristics of TSS in the rising and falling stages within the initial two years after forest thinning. The relatively high initial TSS responded to the concentration-based first flush criterion in the early stage of the rainfall event concentrated in this initial period after the thinning. The rate of TSS event loads in the PT catchment was 4.3-fold greater than that in the PR catchment within the initial two years after forest thinning. This was induced by the low disturbance of soil surface by forest workers using chainsaws and non-heavy machinery. Three years later, the TSS event loads in the PT catchment appeared to decrease due to trapping and settling by protective vegetation. Therefore, mitigating accelerated TSS events during forest thinning requires appropriate site-specific land preparation, particularly for improving stream water quality in forested catchments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Throughout the world, river basins are directly or indirectly affected by human activities, reducing local and global biodiversity and preventing the ecosystem from properly functioning. Our research focused on the Irpin River basin (Ukraine), whose water bodies have experienced various impacts due to human activities, including the unexpected extremes caused by military operations in the catchment area: long-term flooding, disturbance of free flow, significant water level fluctuations, etc. The study hypothesized that the primary factors determining the structural and spatial distribution of quantitative indicators of microalgae and aquatic macrophytes are the result of various hydromorphological changes, that lead to changes in the physical and chemical parameters of the aquatic environment. Very high values of chlorophyll a in the water column (59–106 µg · L−1), an increase in the abundance (number of cells) and biomass of algae (due to the predominance of certain groups in the transformed sections), as well as saprobic index were recorded in the sections of the Irpin River basin that underwent significant hydromorphological changes. Our results revealed a strong correlation between phytoplanktonic (in the water column) chlorophyll a levels and water temperature (r = 0.76, p < 0.001), as well as organic phosphorus and polyphosphate concentrations (r = 0.61, p < 0.01). ANOVA and Monte Carlo permutation tests in a Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA) showed that the abundance of different divisions of phytoplankton and phytobenthos were significantly and similarly related to several environmental variables. We observed a positive correlation between the number of cyanobacteria and the concentration of ammonium nitrogen, nitrites, and phosphorus compounds. An increase in dissolved organic matter in the water can explain the increase in the biomass of Dinoflagellata and Euglenophyta. Species richness and the cover values of the macrophytes also clearly reflected changes in vegetation activity in sections of the Irpin River caused by hydromorphological changes. The results indicated that long-term flooding had the most negative impact on macrophyte communities. At some sites, the impact was so severe that the number of macrophyte species was very low. The total number of macrophyte species showed a significant negative correlation with total suspended solids (r = −0.51, p < 0.05) and phytoplankton chlorophyll a concentration (r = −0.73, p < 0.001). Our results provide a scientific basis for predicting changes in riverine microalgal and aquatic macrophyte communities due to extreme hydrological events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThis research explores the effectiveness of phytoremediation as a sustainable method for sewage treatment, focusing on the performance of Arundo donax in a subsurface vertical flow constructed wetland at the Al-Muamirah treatment station in Hilla, Iraq. The study presents an alternative to conventional sewage treatment systems, particularly suited for resource-constrained regions. Key pollutants such as biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), and total suspended solids (TSS) were analyzed to assess removal efficiencies. Data were collected over a period from October 2023 to March 2024 using a batch-mode system with an influent flow rate of 0.05276 m³/day (± 0.016 m³/day). Optimal hydraulic retention times (HRT) were identified at 5 days for BOD, COD, and TSS, while TN and TP required extended retention of 8 days due to their reliance on slower microbial and adsorption processes for effective removal. A control unit, lacking plant integration, was used for comparative analysis. The results demonstrated that Arundo donax achieved removal efficiencies of 91% for BOD, 84.28% for COD, 68.37% for TN, 73.42% for TP, and 89.23% for TSS, significantly outperforming the control setup. These findings emphasize the critical role of optimized HRT in enhancing pollutant removal, particularly for nutrients like TN and TP, and underscore the potential of Arundo donax as an eco-friendly solution for wastewater management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is under‐monitored in Africa, with few reports characterizing resistant bacteria from the environment. This study examined physicochemical parameters, chemical contaminants and antibiotic‐resistant bacteria in waste stabilization pond effluents, hospital wastewater and domestic wastewater from four sewerage sites in Kumasi. The bacteria isolates were sequenced. Three sites exceeded national guidelines for total suspended solids, biochemical oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand and electrical conductivity. Although sulfamethoxazole levels were low, the antibiotic was detected at all sites. Multi‐drug‐resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were isolated with multi‐locus sequence typing identifying K. pneumoniae strains as ST18 and ST147, and P. aeruginosa as ST235, all of clinical relevance. A comparison of ST147 genomes with isolates from human infections in Africa showed remarkable similarity and shared AMR profiles. Thirteen of the twenty‐one plasmids from ST147 harbored at least one AMR gene, including blaCTX‐M‐15 linked to copper‐resistance genes. Our study demonstrated high bacterial counts and organic matter in the analysed wastewater. The recovery of clinically significant isolates with multiple antibiotic and heavy metal resistance genes from the wastewater samples raises public health concerns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exurban expansion can degrade significantly stream water quality. This study was conducted on Rock Creek of the Clark's Fork of the Yellowstone River in southcentral Montana, USA. The impact from recent exurban expansion was evaluated by a baseline study measuring total suspended solids (TSS), total phosphorus (TP), total nitrogen (TN) and nitrites (NO2) and nitrates (NO3) together. This was part of a larger study by Montana Department of Environmental Quality to assess water quality, identify sources of pollution and develop total maximum daily loads (TMDL). Water samples were measured for these analytes at nine (2022) and 11 (2023) locations with different land-uses over seven periods (both years). Seasonal spikes, corresponding to runoff (2022, late May), occurred in TSS, TP and TN. Data from 2023 showed similar but reduced levels occurring in June for TSS and TP. Total suspended solids, TP, NO2 and NO3 concentrations increased by location year over year, 2022 to 2023. The high relative concentrations of NO2 and NO3 in Rock Creek are primarily associated with exurban expansion, a significant threat to stream quality and wildlife habitat in Montana. The results will assist county planners in land use decisions. KEY POLICY HIGHLIGHTS: Nitrite and nitrate levels were significantly higher in Rock Creek near exurban areas. Nitrite and nitrate and total phosphorus levels increased 23% and 27%, respectively, from 2022 to 2023. Exurban expansion has accounted for 78% of homes built in our study area, with an accompanied 31,840 acres of habitat loss. Two sites are within the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and all sites are within the historic home range for the grizzly bear (Ursus arctos) and wolverine (Gulo gulo). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multimetric assessment is one of the important tools for diagnosing, detecting and measuring impairment in ecosystem function in lentic ecosystems. It enhances detection capabilities across a broader variety of stressors and offers a more complete picture of ecological conditions than single metrics or biological indicators. In this context, a diatom-based multimetric index (MMI-D) has been developed to evaluate the ecological health of Lake Hawassa. Physicochemical and benthic diatom sampling was conducted at nine sites along the lakeshore, representing varying levels of human disturbance, from February to November in2015 and 2016. The sampling sites were classified a priori into three categories: minimally disturbed (three sites), moderately disturbed (three sites) and highly disturbed (three sites). This classification, was based on a clustering analysis using the percent disturbance score (PDS). Of the 24-diatom candidate metrics, only ten were chosen as core metrics for the development of MMI-D, based on redundancy analysis, reaction to environmental conditions, percent discriminatory efficiency (%DE) and box plots. The newly established MMI-D clearly distinguished between reference and non-reference sites, and between the lake's three clusters. The MMI-D's performance was validated using independent data sets from lakes Hawassa and Ziway and it demonstrated the best capability for discrimination between different disturbance levels. MMI-D 2-stage Least Squares (2SLS) regression analysis revealed an inverse but robust connection with the PDS, indicating its responsiveness to Lake Hawassa habitat quality degradation (n = 9, R2 = 0.921, p < 0.001). The MMI-D revealed a high %DE (95.1%) and a negative but significant connection with nutrients, total suspended solids (TSS), and turbidity (R2 > 0.6; p < 0.05). Generally, it can be concluded that this index is a powerful tool that could assist endusers by providing a practical method for measuring the ecological quality of Lake Hawassa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article "Unleashing the power of remote sensing data in aquatic research: Guidelines for optimal utilization" published in Limnology & Oceanography Letters discusses the importance of remote sensing data in lake studies, focusing on the estimation of chlorophyll a as a water quality indicator. It highlights the complexities of utilizing remote sensing data in limnological studies, emphasizing the need for careful product selection, atmospheric correction, and validation processes. The article provides recommendations for optimal utilization of remote sensing data in aquatic research, including choosing the right products, processes, and strategies for improving data quality and collaboration between aquatic sciences and remote sensing communities. [Extracted from the article]

Reservoirs are essential sources to ensure water supply, especially in regions with a semiarid climate, prone to prolonged drought periods and water scarcity. An exemplary case is the semiarid region of Paraíba State, Brazil. Monitoring of water surface reflectance (WSR) and total suspended solids (TSS) is indispensable to address issues such as erosion, sediment transport, depo sition, reservoir siltation, water pollution, and associated human health risks, ultimately aiding in water resources management. This study introduced a novel approach to estimating the spatiotemporal dynamics of WSR and TSS, utilizing automated methods and MODIS images over 17 years (2000 ~ 2016) for the Epitácio Pessoa Reservoir. Three models, (a) model 1 (M1), (b) model 2 (M2), and (c) model 3 (M3), were employed to estimate WSR and TSS, chosen for their replicability, mathematical simplicity, and ecosystem similarity. A total of 775 images from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) onboard the Terra satellite, along with observed data, were used for the estimation. Model M3 yielded the best performance for estimating TSS, with values ranging from 270 ~ 961 mg/L (r = 0.57). Furthermore, a strong correlation (r > 0.93) was observed between the mean reflectance values for pixels sampled using two distinct extraction procedures (longitudinal profile and specific sampling points). This strong correlation underscores the potential utility of MODIS images for effective monitoring of WSR and TSS in comparatively smaller bodies of water in the Brazilian semiarid region. Importantly, this study represents one of the first applications for estimating WSR and TSS for a reservoir situated in a semiarid climate region. The estimates of WSR and TSS could hold significant implications for environmental monitoring and water management of such reservoirs. In conclusion, automated estimation of WSR and TSS could serve as a valuable tool for decision-makers in predicting silting, sediment yield, and reservoir water quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to improve urban stormwater management by optimizing best management practices and low-impact development (BMP-LID) techniques using a novel multi-task spider wasp optimization (MT-SWO) approach. The research targeted urban runoff issues exacerbated by climate change, urbanization, and aging infrastructure, focusing on Chongqing's Shapingba and Jiangbei districts. BMP-LID strategies, including infiltration, bio-retention reservoirs, and permeable road surfaces, were evaluated and optimized using an integrated Stormwater Management Model (SWMM) and MT-SWO framework. Simulations considered pollutant reductions in Total Suspended Solids (TSS) and Total Nitrogen (TN) under rainfall return periods of 3 and 9 years. The key findings revealed that bio-retention reservoirs were the most effective BMP, achieving a 76% reduction in TSS and an 85% reduction in TN at 6% area allocation compared to baseline conditions. The MT-SWO approach facilitated the identification of optimal BMP configurations, enabling significant pollutant reductions while balancing spatial and economic constraints. MT-SWO's ability to dynamically explore and exploit solution spaces allowed tailored BMP strategies that significantly outperformed traditional methods. The study underscores the potential of MT-SWO to revolutionize urban stormwater management by offering efficient, adaptive, and data-driven solutions. However, the computational demands and data requirements of MT-SWO highlight scalability challenges for larger urban contexts. By demonstrating superior pollutant reduction capabilities, the research provides a critical step toward sustainable water quality management in rapidly urbanizing and climate-sensitive regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Industries have employed various wastewater treatment methods and techniques to reduce pollution load, including biological oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), total suspended solids (TSS), total dissolved solids (TDS), color, and toxic metals. This review paper aims to highlight and analyze various water treatments with special focus on the use of nanomaterials and their composites with biopolymers. Many other techniques for wastewater treatment (WWT) have been developed using nanotechnology. These techniques are usually based on nanofiltration, disinfection, adsorption and biosorption, photocatalysis, and sensing technology. Techniques like fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) are used for clarification of composition, amount analysis, and dispensing of various bacterial groups in biofilms and granules. By review, it can be concluded that when the old primary water treatment technique is clubbed with nano-composite adsorption, Composites containing specific biopolymers such as starch, chitosan, collagen, or cellulose-lignin materials can effectively adsorb nearly 100% of harmful metals such as arsenic, cadmium, mercury, lead, and chromium (As, Cd, Hg, Pb, Cr) from wastewater, while also effectively removing color. Enhancing therapeutic efficacy, longevity, safety, and cost-effectiveness requires research into these methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the performance of published bio-optical remote sensing indices/algorithms for monitoring water quality changes in Lake Karla, Greece, caused by Storm Daniel after the September 2023 flooding event. Commonly applied indices were utilised to estimate chlorophyll-a (Chl-a) and total suspended solids (TSS) using Sentinel-2 high-resolution optical imagery. In situ measurements were undertaken and water samples were collected during the pre-flooding period, post-flooding, and one-year post-flood, providing a basis for validating the remote sensing models. Monitoring results showed that most physicochemical parameters changed considerably. Chl-a and TSS were estimated by testing five and seven indices, respectively. Regarding the Chl-a estimation, the NDCI and 2-BDA indices outperformed other models, having high correlations with in situ Chl-a measurements and effectively following the in situ Chl-a temporal trends. Among the TSS indices, NDWI and TUR-IND demonstrated better performances, effectively capturing the variations in suspended solids. Overall, this study highlights the potential of Sentinel-2 imagery in assessing water quality changes, particularly in response to flooding events. It is an exploratory approach to assess the feasibility of utilising optical satellite data for evaluating the environmental impacts of natural disasters on lake water quality and supports decision-making in environmental management. Additionally, it identifies potential challenges and considerations that must be addressed to ensure effective application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of sediment‐burrowing clubtail dragonflies (Gomphidae) may be directly related to riverine geomorphic properties. Their synchronous emergence behavior, marked by persistent exuviae, allows for the examination of emerging adult‐stage habitats. Here we explore how emerging adult and benthic larvae are related to hydrogeomorphic factors through regression modeling. Nine sites in two subwatersheds of the Huron Mountain region (Michigan, USA) were surveyed during two periods: May/June 2021 and August 2021. Temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, conductivity, and discharge were measured concurrent with invertebrate surveys, and field samples of total suspended solids, nutrients, and substrate particle size distribution were also taken. In spring, 317 exuviae were collected, including 153 Gomphidae. In August, 45 larvae were collected including 22 Gomphidae. Spearman's rank correlations preceded robust regression analysis to aid variable selection. Although nonsignificant, Gomphidae exuviae were negatively correlated with conductivity, average water depth, and percent sand while non‐Gomphidae exuviae were positively correlated with the same variables. The model selection found the top models for Gomphidae and non‐Gomphidae exuviae abundance to relate to depth and conductivity, while the top model for Gomphidae larvae was with discharge. All single variable models (discharge, width, and percent sand) had similar AICc criterion values when examining their relationship with non‐Gomphidae larval abundance. Our study demonstrates that larvae of several riverine dragonfly taxa in the Huron Mountains co‐occur despite hydrogeomorphic variation, yet, at emergence, specific taxa may be responding to different stream properties. Understanding the habitat requirements of riverine dragonflies and how these potentially shift throughout development can support conservation efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The reduction of suspended solids is an important aspect of water management, especially in the mining industry. The ecological potential of sedimentation ponds has been identified, but many aspects of the coexistence of ecological and technological functions of these reservoirs are still unresolved. The aim of the study was to determine the effectiveness of suspended solid reduction in an open pit mine drainage system under the influence of biotic factors, including fish, taking into account the hydrochemical background. The dynamics of biotic factors and the sedimentation process were identified using the normalized total suspended solid reduction index (TE) and the trophic group status (TGS) indices of planktivorous, benthivorous, and carnivorous fish. The hydrochemical background in both ponds provided similar habitat conditions for biota and suspended solid reduction. Although a moderately trophic ecosystem has developed, the typical relationship between water transparency (SDD) and chlorophyll a concentration characteristic of natural waters was not observed. The sedimentation complex was found to be highly effective in reducing total suspended solids by 89–93%. Spatial variation of sedimentation rates was related to the ichthyobiotic factor, mainly to the biomass of bentophages and the status of this trophic group in the fish community. Stable relationships in the structure of the ichthyofauna with a balanced proportion of planktivorous fishes favored the sedimentation process. The results obtained are part of the development of research on the possibility of combining the technological function of artificial ponds with other applications and ecological benefits for industrialized areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Slaughterhouse wastewater (SWW) is considered an industrial wastewater, which seriously harms the environment due to the high concentration of contaminants such as biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), and total suspended solids (TSS). Additionally, the wastewater from slaughterhouses contains harmful bacteria. This study used a lap-scale model to treat SWW from a local private slaughterhouse. The treatment process involves three stages: adsorption using activated carbon, which is derived from sawdust, followed by sedimentation, and finally, a slow sand filter with a modified layer of woven textile cotton. The first two steps were tested to obtain the ideal operation condition of the treatment system. After the final step of treatment, we evaluated the overall process using a modified slow sand filter (MSSF). We used a Jar test to determine the optimal dosage of activated carbon from sawdust (ACS). The monitored parameters were physicochemical, such as turbidity, total suspended solids (TSS), total dissolved solids (TDS), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), total phosphorus (TP), and total nitrogen (TN). The bacteriological examination included both total coliform count (TCC) and fecal coliform count (FCC). The results of the jar test revealed that the optimal ACS dose was 2.0 g/l. After adjusting the contact time and pH levels for the adsorption process, we discovered that the ideal contact time was 100 min and the ideal pH level was 4.0. Finally, we evaluated the entire treatment system by applying the MSSF after the sedimentation process, and found that the removal efficiencies of turbidity, BOD, COD, TSS, TDS, TP, and TN were 97.14, 94.80, 91.80, 98.96, 81.17, 81.12, and 82.50%, respectively. This is in addition to the filter's ability to remove bacteria counts at a rate of up to 98.93 and 99.13% of TCC and FCC, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study examined the core, buffer, and transition zones within the Cat Ba Biosphere Reserve in Vietnam to assess changes in five land cover categories (water surface, cropland, vacant land, residential land, and forestland) between 2018 and 2022. Additionally, we aimed to evaluate water quality using three indicators (normalized difference turbidity index, normalized difference chlorophyll index, total suspended solids) and air quality using four indicators (nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, ozone) for the 2022 data. Land cover change analysis and monitoring of water and air quality indicators were conducted using the Google Earth Engine platform, employing Sentinel-2 imagery for land cover and water quality assessment and Sentinel-5P images for air quality assessment. The findings revealed correlations between changes in land cover and water and air quality indicators within the Cat Ba Biosphere Reserve. While occasional instances of values surpassing permissible limits were noted, the average values over the 12-month period in 2022 indicated that water and air quality indicators remained within acceptable thresholds. These results suggest effective preservation efforts in the Cat Ba Biosphere Reserve, indicating no significant signs of degradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study assessed three physical properties of effluents from selected food processing centres and their effects on receiving water bodies in Abakaliki, Ebonyi state. Three replicates of both effluent and water samples from effluent-receiving water bodies were collected in 2023 and 2024 from Native Delicacy, Crunches, Chicken Republic and Kilimanjaro. The samples collected were taken to the Soil and Environmental Management Laboratory of Ebonyi State University for analyses of temperature, total dissolved solids (TDS) and total suspended solids (TSS). Data collected were subjected to analysis of variance and mean separated using F-SLD (p<0.05). The results revealed that the effluent temperatures for all the study centres in the dry season ranged from 28.0 - 29.5oC and were higher than that of wet season values. The receiving water bodies' temperatures were lower than the effluent temperatures but higher than WHO standards in all the study centres. The TDS and TSS of effluent studied showed a significant difference in all the food processing centres and were higher in the dry season compared to the wet season in the receiving water bodies. The TDS value ranged from 46.80 - 55.60 mg/L in the dry season and 31.00 - 50.20 mg/L in the wet season though the values were higher than that of control and were within WHO standards. The study showed that the receiving water bodies were poor in quality and there is a need to treat them before use. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on industrial pollution in Abakaliki. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemically enhanced primary treatment (CEPT) is a rapid wastewater treatment process involving treating wastewater with two chemical-aided processes, coagulation, and flocculation. In the present study, a natural extracellular polymeric substance flocculant (EPSBF) produced by Klebsiella pneumonia UKD24, a bacterium isolated from the sewage treatment plant, and a synthetic polyacrylamide anionic polymer flocculant (PAM) were evaluated to treat polluted river water. The synthetic PAM showed immediate turbidity reduction after agitation, while the EPSBF expressed a rapid decrease in optical density. After 20 min of the settling period, the EPSBF showed reduced rates of turbidity, optical density, and chemical oxygen demand at 74.14 ± 5.2%, 89.37 ± 0.76%, and 87.21 ± 0.73%, respectively, while PAM showed 67.08 ± 4%, 85.68 ± 2%, and 86.57 ± 2%, respectively. EPSBF treatment significantly improved the water quality parameters in terms of total dissolved solids, total suspended solids, conductivity, and oxidation–reduction potential than PAM treatment. However, the EPSBF has shown a more water-holding capacity and relatively weak flock formation, producing more sludge volume than PAM. Furthermore, though the sludge produced by the EPSBF treatment had a higher moisture content, it showed shorter capillary suction time (CST). In contrast, sludge formed in PAM treatment had lower moisture content, but it exhibited prolonged CST value indicating that PAM treatment sludge showed slow dewaterability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar (BC) is a viable wastewater treatment agent. Water lettuce (Pistia spp.) an invasive aquatic plant in Sri Lanka has been used in this study to produce BC by pyrolysis. Industrial water was filtered through activated and non-activated BC samples having 65-125 mm and 125-250 mm particle sizes. Filter with sand and gravel served as standard for comparison. The filter unit containing activated BC showed higher treatment efficiency. pH was reduced from 8.72 ± 0.01 to 6.87 ± 0.01; biological oxygen demand (BOD5) from 57 ± 1.73 to 15.67 ± 1.15 ppm; chemical oxygen demand (COD) from 512 to 128 ppm, total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN) from 158.67 ± 2.89 ppm to 33 ppm, ammoniacal nitrogen from 22.63 to 3.13 ± 0.01 ppm; chromium from 0.0625 to 0.0245 ppm, and zinc from 0.9886 to 0.2105 ppm. Optimization study revealed that the BC integrated filter units could be used to treat wastewater in three cycles. Thereafter their efficiency is reduced. The BCs with small particle size (65-125 mm) recorded the highest treatment efficiency. This particle size showed 99.72% turbidity reduction. Reduction of total phosphate, ammoniacal nitrogen, total suspended solids, COD, nitrate, BOD5 and TKN was recorded as 97.82%, 91.49%, 88.38%, 88.18%, 87.44%, 84.38% and 84.38% respectively. BC derived from Pistia spp. has proven to be promising adsorbent for wastewater treatment. Findings of the study show a long-term green wastewater treatment method that makes effective use of an invasive aquatic plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aims to characterize three industrial wastewater samples collected from petrochemical, food and beet sugar industries to determine the pollution potential and select the appropriate pre-treatment approach. According to the biodegradability profile of the multi-sourced mixed (composite) sample, the advanced oxidation process (AOPs) namely, Fenton (F) and Electro-Fenton (EF) were adopted as pre-treatment techniques and the operating parameters such as time, type of electrodes, pH, voltage, iron and H2O2 concentrations were critically examined. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was conducted to compare the performance efficiency of F& EF AOPs for treating the composite samples and the total operating costs for both approaches were assessed. The results revealed that, the initial values of the composite sample were 7.11, 19.2, 32.6, 19.3, 937, 1512, 860, 3.9, 2110 and 2.34 for pH, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Electrical Conductivity (EC), Salinity, BOD, COD, Oil and grease (O&G), Total Phosphorous (TP), Total Suspended Solids (TSS) and Total Kjeldahl Nitrogen (TKN), respectively. In addition, EF process achieved more removal efficiency for COD, O&G, BOD, TSS, and TKN (84.3%, 69%, 85%, 72% and 71.27%) compared to Fenton which displayed 78.43%, 66%, 69%, 70.1%, and 61%, respectively. Moreover, there are statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) between the initial and final (pretreated) values of the composite industrial wastewater for the addressed parameters and EF was significantly (p < 0.05) more effective than F process. The total operating costs were 3.117 and 2.063$ for F and EF, respectively, which confirmed that EF is more efficient and cost effective than F process. It was concluded that electro-Fenton process is favorable, eco-friendly and cost-effective option for pretreating real complicated multi-sourced industrial wastewater. The present study demonstrated a new avenue for achieving efficient management of industrial wastewater generated from similar industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research explores the enhancement of polyethersulfone (PES) membranes through the incorporation of chitosan derived from the lignicolous fungus Ganoderma sp. Utilizing wet phase inversion and solution casting techniques, chitosan was successfully integrated into the PES matrix, as confirmed by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), which indicated a high deacetylation degree of 75.7%. The incorporation of chitosan significantly increased the membrane hydrophilicity, as evidenced by a reduction in the water contact angle and a substantial improvement in pure water permeability, from 17.9 L m-2 h-1 bar-1 to 27.3 L m-2 h-1 bar-1. The membrane anti-fouling properties were also notably enhanced, with the Flux Recovery Ratio (FRR) increasing from approximately 60–80%. Moreover, the chitosan-modified PES/CS membrane, particularly at a 5% chitosan concentration, demonstrated exceptional efficacy in pollutant removal, achieving over 90% elimination of total suspended solids, cadmium (Cd), and lead (Pb), alongside a 79% reduction in color during the treatment of textile wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study interrogates the state of social-ecological landscapes (SEL) in West Africa, focusing on two case studies: the Mankran SEL in Ghana (case study 1) and the Doma–Rutu SEL in Nigeria (case study 2). Using a mix of methods, the assessment was framed by the Drivers Pressure State Impact Response (DPSIR) model tailored for SEL evaluation (DPSIR-SEL). In the Mankran landscape, land use patterns shifted significantly from 2008 to 2018, with cash crop cultivation peaking at 30% in 2015 before declining to 14.5% by 2018. Water quality assessments in the Mankran micro-watershed indicated that several parameters, including Total Suspended Solids (TSS) at 914.41 ± 1974 mg/L, lead at 18.73 ± 17.26 µg/L, and arsenic at 53.41 ± 86.66 µg/L, exceeded World Health Organization (WHO) standards, raising concerns about potential contamination. In contrast, the Doma–Rutu landscape in Nigeria experienced land use and land cover (LULC) changes from 2000 to 2022, characterized by the expansion of residential and agricultural areas alongside modifications to natural water bodies and vegetation. Water quality issues have emerged, with elevated levels of electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, and salinity. Furthermore, Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) revealed persistent herder-farmer conflicts in Nigeria, which have historically constrained crop production due to various environmental and social factors. The intertwined challenges faced by both the Mankran and Doma–Rutu landscapes underscore the urgent need for sustainable and inclusive resource management, adaptive land-use strategies, and proactive measures to safeguard water quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three aquatic macrophytes were used to treat wastewater using a pilot-constructed wetland (CW) system to determine the most efficient plants for removing contaminants from wastewater. The three macrophytes are water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes), water lettuce (Pistia stratiotes), and duckweed (Lemna minor). Three 150 L capacity tanks with sand and gravel as substrates were used as the pilot CW for each plant. Upon initial examination, the raw wastewater was not compliant with standard discharge limits. The wastewater samples were collected every 7 days for 3 weeks for treatment. From the findings, at 14 days hydraulic retention time (HRT), E. crassipes and P. stratiotes achieved the highest total phosphorus (TP) and chemical oxygen deman (COD) reductions of 99.3 and 99.4%, respectively. E. crassipes indicated better biological oxygen demand removal efficiency of 91.3%, COD (85.0%), electrical conductivity (90.4%), total dissolved solids (89.7%), and total coliforms (66.0%). Albeit, P. stratiotes indicated better results for total suspended solids (96.2%), TP (7.55%), and E. coli (94.4%), while L. minor was better with 90.8% total nitrogen removal. The overall analysis showed E. crassipes to be more efficient than the three macrophytes. However, the other two plants are replaceable options and large-scale implementation of this project in the community would be a major contributor to actualizing SDG number 6. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study considered using insect families as bioindicators to establish the health status of an ecosystem's lentic bodies. The water quality in urban lentic bodies in the Metropolitan Region, Chile, was evaluated using aquatic insect family assemblages and physicochemical variables for conserving aquatic life. The eudominant insect families were Corixidae (associated with very bad water quality), Chironomidae (very bad), and Baetidae (good). The TSS (total suspended solids), P (phosphorus), and EC (electrical conductivity) were strongly positively correlated and negatively associated with DO (dissolved oxygen) levels. The TSS level was the most significant influential factor. Based on the nitrogen and phosphorus levels in the three water bodies, all of them were eutrophic. Given the diversity and complexity of ecosystems, studies should delve deeper into wetlands to establish methods that contribute to determining water quality, using insects as bioindicators and physicochemical variables. Considering the diversity of these water bodies, it is possible to determine not only the water quality but also the conservation state of the whole environment. This study considered using insect families as bioindicators to establish the health status of an ecosystem of lentic bodies. The water quality in urban lentic bodies in the Metropolitan Region, Chile, was evaluated from aquatic insect family assemblages and physicochemical variables for conserving aquatic life. Evaluations were carried out in parallel at four sampling stations of three water bodies (Batuco Wetland, Carén Lagoon, and Chada Reservoir) in a 2–3-year series, spring (2015, 2017, and 2018) and fall (2016 and 2018), with three replicates. Families were randomly sampled and aquatic insects were identified; abundance and richness differences were compared with non-parametric tests. Physicochemical variables were measured using portable multiparametric and laboratory chemical analyses to determine the water quality. A Canonical Correspondence Analysis was applied for insect families and the physical–chemical variable. In order to categorize the health of these water bodies based on aquatic insect composition and abundance, the Family Biotic Index (FBI), British Biological Monitoring Work Party (BMWP), and Stream Invertebrate Grade Number—Average Level (SIGNAL), adapted for Chile by Figueroa et al. (2007), were calculated. The eudominant insect families were Corixidae and Chironomidae in Batuco, Chironomidae and Corixidae in Carén, and Corixidae in Chada. Baetidae was dominant in Carén and Chada. The water bodies were classified in descending order of water quality by Chilean physicochemical standards: Chada > Carén > Batuco. The TSS (total suspended solids), phosphorus, and electrical conductivity were strongly positively correlated and negatively associated with dissolved oxygen. The TSS level was the most significant influential factor. The BMWP value and the SIGNAL differed from the FBI, but the first was more restrictive, contributing to the conservation of these ecosystems. Based on the nitrogen and phosphorus levels in the water bodies, all of them were eutrophic. Given the ecosystem diversity and complexity, studies should delve deeper into wetlands to establish methods that contribute to determining water quality, using insect families as bioindicators and physicochemical variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chilika Lake, a RAMSAR site, is an environmentally and ecologically pivotal coastal lagoon in India facing significant emerging environmental challenges due to anthropogenic activities and natural processes. Traditional in situ water quality monitoring methods are often labor intensive and time consuming. This study presents a novel approach for ex situ water quality monitoring in Chilika Lake, located on the east coast of India, utilizing Google Earth Engine (GEE) and spectral indices, such as the Normalized Difference Turbidity Index (NDTI), Normalized Difference Chlorophyll Index (NDCI), and total suspended solids (TSS). The methodology involves the integration of multi-temporal satellite imagery and advanced spectral indices to assess key water quality parameters, such as turbidity, chlorophyll-a concentration, and suspended sediments. The NDTI value in Chilika Lake increased from 2019 to 2021, and the Automatic Water Extraction Index (AWEI) method estimated the TSS concentration. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach in providing accurate and comprehensive water quality assessments, which are crucial for the sustainable management of Chilika Lake. Maps and visualization are presented using GIS software. This study can effectively detect floating algal blooms, identify pollution sources, and determine environmental changes over time. Developing intuitive dashboards and visualization tools can help stakeholders engage with data-driven insights, increase community participation in conservation, and identify pollution sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines the utilization and advancements of constructed wetlands (CWs) in South Asia (SA), focusing on their roles, costs, and efficacy enhancements through pre- and post-treatment units for various pollutants. Notable findings include Phragmites and Canna species as commonly used macrophytes, achieving high removal rates for various pollutants. CWs consistently remove total suspended solids, biochemical oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand, emerging contaminants, and antimicrobial resistant bacteria at substantial rates. Anaerobic baffled reactors are effective pretreatment devices for high-strength wastewater. Moreover, CWs exhibit lower operational and maintenance costs compared to conventional treatment methods. However, the bibliometric analysis reveals limited regional cooperation in SA. Key challenges identified include the absence of guidelines for media, vegetation, and maintenance. The review underscores the necessity for further research in optimizing CWs' efficiency through land area management, plant selection, and enhanced design and operation and maintenance protocols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Fast urbanization can result in significant stormwater runoff pollution due to changes in land use. A 3-year study on the distribution and temporal variations of urban water pollutants in stormwater runoff was conducted, with a specific focus on the influence of land-use patterns in the recharge zone of a regional karst aquifer in Texas (Edwards Aquifer). The presence and concentration of various water pollutants including total suspended solids (TSS), total dissolved solids (TDS), nutrients (nitrite, nitrate, ammonia and phosphate), total carbon (TC) and total organic carbon (TOC), oil and grease (O&G), and eight heavy metals (Fe, Mg, Cu, Pb, Zn, Ni, Cr, Cd) were measured in stormwater samples collected from three bioswales. Results show that average TSS in site S1 (598.87 mg/L) and S2 (628.69 mg/L), COD in site S1 (103.97 mg/L), phosphate in sites S1 (1.44 mg/L) and S3 (0.65 mg/L), and O&G (ranging from 50.63 to 84.32 mg/L) in all three sites surpassed the national average (NSQD). While residential areas were identified as the main sources of nutrients, roads and parking lots were associated with heavy metals. Temporal variations indicated the effect of antecedent dry days on the concentrations of TSS and phosphate. Growing seasons as well as pet feces were associated with elevated nitrate concentrations in residential areas. Organic carbon was found overall higher during warmer months, while heavy metals during cooler months. The study also identified specific land-use practices that can be enhanced to mitigate stormwater pollution, such as the implementation of permeable pavements, rain gardens, and stricter waste disposal regulations. The results of this study offer valuable insights for enhancing stormwater management strategies to better mitigate stormwater pollution in urban regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate a natural coagulant, Moringa oleifera seeds (MOC), to reduce the color concentration in treated tequila vinasses (TVs). TV-A was the effluent of horizontal subsurface flow wetlands (HSSFW); TV-B was the effluent of vertical up-flow wetlands (VUFW); and TV-C was the effluent of vertical down-flow constructed wetlands (VDFW). Raw TVs were also evaluated with MOC. Jar tests were performed to find the optimal dose and pH value for apparent color (AC) removal. With the optimal dose and pH for each type of TV, tests were performed in triplicate to evaluate the removal of apparent color (AC), true color (TC), turbidity, total suspended solids (TSS), chemical oxygen demand (COD), and electrical conductivity (EC). For TV-A and TV-B, the optimal values were 1 g/L of MOC and pH 8, and the removals were 52%, 43%, 50% and 72% of AC, turbidity, TC, and TSS, respectively. For TV-C, the optimal values were 2.5 g/L and pH 5, with removals of 66%, 73%, and 98% for AC, TC, and TSS, respectively. For TV-D, the MOC had no coagulant effect in any of the experimental conditions evaluated, probably due to the high concentration of turbidity and TSS in the raw vinasses, which prevented the interaction between MOC and melanoidins. Deeper studies are required to understand and evaluate those factors that influence MOC efficiency so that the coagulation–flocculation process can be optimized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advancements in smart sensing and control technologies enable urban drainage engineers to retrofit stormwater storage facilities with real-time control devices for mitigating stormwater in-site overflow, downstream flooding, and overloaded total suspended solids (TSS) in drainage pipes. While the smart technology can improve the performance of the static drainage systems, coordinatively controlling multiple valve and gate operations poses a significant challenge, especially at a large-scale watershed. Using a benchmark stormwater model located at Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA, we assessed the impact of different real-time control strategies (local individual downstream control and system-level multiple control) on balancing flooding mitigation at downstream outlets and TSS reduction at upstream storage units, such as detention ponds. We examined changes in peak water depth, outflow, and TSS as indicators to assess changes in water quantity and quality. The results indicate that system-level control can reduce peak water depth by up to 7.3%, reduce flood duration by up to 34%, and remove up to 67% of total suspended solids compared with a baseline uncontrolled system, with the outflow from upstream detention ponds being the most important hydraulic indicator for control strategy rule set-up. We find that system-level control does not always outperform the individual downstream controls, particularly in alleviating flooding duration at some downstream outlets. With urban growth and a changing climate, this research provides a foundation for quantifying the benefits of real-time control methods as an adaptive stormwater management solution that addresses both water quantity and quality challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to determine the effect of bittern coagulant dosage and rapid stirring speed on reducing the concentrations of biological oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), total suspended solids (TSS), and dye absorbance in batik industry wastewater, as well as to identify the optimum coagulant dosage and stirring speed. Wastewater samples were collected from a batik industry in the batik center of Sidoarjo, East Java, Indonesia. Dosage variations of 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% were tested alongside rapid stirring speeds of 100 rpm, 130 rpm, and 160 rpm. The study was conducted on a laboratory scale using the jar test method. Initial wastewater characteristics showed BOD, COD, TSS, and dye absorbance concentrations of 185.68 ± 29.34 mg/L, 10.091 ± 363.24 mg/L, 2.231.33 ± 155.55 mg/L, and 0.212 ± 0.02, respectively. Statistical analysis using the Pearson correlation test and Two-Way ANOVA revealed that variations in coagulant dosage and stirring speed significantly impacted the reduction percentages of BOD, COD, TSS, and dye absorbance. The optimal coagulant dosage was found to be 5%, and the optimal stirring speed was 100 rpm, with reduction percentages for BOD, COD, TSS, and dye absorbance being 80.32%, 65.86%, 92.35%, and 70.77%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monitoring and analyzing reservoir water quality are crucial for ecological and environmental strategies. This study examines the differences between the water quality index (WQI) of Indonesia (WQI-INA), Malaysia (DOE-Malaysia), Oregon (WQI-Oregon), and Italy (PI-Prati), considering the tropical climate of Indonesia and Malaysia, and contrasting with the temperate climate of Oregon and the Mediterranean climate of Italy. Using data from the Sutami Reservoir in Indonesia from 2015 to 2021, the study assesses water quality parameters such as BOD, COD, DO, NH3, NO3, total suspended solids, total phosphorus (TP), and pH at various depths (0.3, 5, and 10 meters) across three sites (upstream, midstream, down-stream). The results show varied classifications: WQI-INA rated the reservoir as "pretty good," WQI-Oregon as "poor," and both DOE-Malaysia and PI-Prati as "slightly polluted." Spatial analysis of vertical distribution revealed "slightly polluted" (WQI-INA), "moderately polluted" (WQI-Oregon and PI-Prati), and "heavily polluted" (DOE-Malaysia). These discrepancies arise from differences in local environmental standards, regulatory requirements, and specific water quality concerns included in each index. The Sutami Reservoir water quality status was declared using WQI-INA, however, other methods were employed to simulate the worst-case scenarios and inform preventive actions. The Sutami Reservoir hyper-eutrophic conditions indicate a pollution load capacity of 65.22 tons per year. Critical parameters such as pH and TP highlight significant water quality and pollution issues. Recommendations for water quality treatment under heavy pollution conditions include applying 12.09-120.87 tons of lime, using 78.75-393.75 kg of chemical buffers, oxygen diffusion, controlling riparian vegetation over 2.37-23.7 hectares, dredging 37,100 m3 of sediment per year, and reducing nutrient sources through community involvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed at studying the feasibility of using a sediment model built in HEC – HMS incorporating Modified Universal Soil Loss Equation (MUSLE) in aiding the separation of sediment contribution as point and non-point, an important aspect in sediment pollution control. The model was developed and verified using a representative sub-catchment and a canal reach of a tropical climate. The field observations and model developed had a good agreement and indicated about 16% and 35% of total sediments in the canal may be from nonpoint sources for the dry and wet seasons, respectively. Results suggested that a major fraction of eroded sediment ended up in the main canal through the dense drainage network across the catchment. This meant sediment trapping should focus tributary drainage ditches or at point source inputs to canal rather than the main canal banks. The study recognized that HEC – HMS is also capable of simulating sediment generation with acceptable errors. Being a free software package, HEC – HMS would be an effective sediment modelling tool for jurisdictions where sediment analysis has been constrained by cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The textile industry is vital to Bangladesh's economy, employing over three million women and being the top foreign exchange earner. However, it severely impacts the environment because of untreated wastewater discharge. High treatment costs, reliant on expensive imported chemicals, worsen the issue. The Environmental Conservation Rules (ECR) 2023 of Bangladesh requires textile wastewater discharge to have a colour of less than 150 Pt‐Co, which current systems struggle to meet affordably. A pilot project tested a sustainable solution using chemical oxidation with calcium hypochlorite and sand filtration with blast furnace iron slag. This method effectively removed colour, and the treated water showed total dissolved solids (TDS) levels of 157 ± 4 mg/L, total suspended solids (TSS) levels of 8 ± 2 mg/L and chemical oxygen demand (COD) levels of 9 ± 3 mg/L, with reductions of 92%, 87% and 94%, respectively, making it a viable solution for resource‐limited economies. Highlights: The research utilized calcium hypochlorite and iron slag to treat textile wastewater, which reduces reliance on costly imported chemicals and energy‐intensive systems.The treatment process effectively addresses the ECR 2023, which requires textile wastewater discharge to have a colour of less than 150 Pt‐Co.The pilot‐scale plant demonstrated average removal efficiencies of 92% for TDS, 87% for TSS and 94% for COD and achieved complete colour removal.The tertiary treated water meets the standards of ECR 2023 producing water, which can be reused in the textile industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to develop an active biodegradable bio-based (polylactic acid/PLA) equilibrium modified atmosphere packaging (EMAP) containing a carvacrol-emitting sachet (created by poly-hydroxybutyrate) (PLA-PHB-CARV) to extend the shelf-life of cherry tomatoes at 15 °C and 25 °C. Cherry tomatoes in macro-perforated polypropylene (PP) films (mimicking the commercial packaging) or in PLA-based micro-perforated film without the carvacrol sachet (PLA) were also tested. Weight loss, decay, headspace gases, pH, titratable acidity (TA), total suspended solids (TSS), ripening index, color, texture, total viable counts (TVC), and sensory analysis were performed. Decay was 40% in PLA-PHB-CARV, and 97% in PP after 20 days at 25 °C. PLA-PHB-CARV showed lower weight loss (p < 0.05) and stable firmness compared to PP and PLA at both temperatures. TSS and TA were not affected by the packaging at 15 °C, while at 25 °C, the TSS accumulation was inhibited in PLA-PHB-CARV compared to in PLA and PP (p < 0.05), indicating a notable delay in the ripening process. PLA-PHB-CARV retained their red color during storage compared to PP and PLA. Carvacrol addition inhibited TVC compared to PP and PLA by ca. 2.0 log CFU/g during storage at 25 °C, while at 15 °C, the packaging did not reveal a significant effect. Overall, the results indicated that the developed active EMAP may be adequately used as an advanced and alternative packaging for tomatoes or potentially other fruits with a similar respiration rate versus their conventional packaging, showing several advantages, e.g., a reduction in petrochemical-based plastics use, shelf-life extension of the packaged food, and consequently, the perspective of limiting food waste during distribution and retail or domestic storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In humanitarian contexts, fecal sludge treatment is critical to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. Geotextiles are permeable fabrics used in geobag treatment plants to dewater liquid wastes, but data on their efficacy for dewatering and filtering fecal sludge are limited. The aim of the study was to address knowledge gaps on geobag efficacy with fecal sludge, to contribute to guidance in humanitarian settings. We evaluated the laboratory efficacy of three fabrics used in humanitarian contexts (a woven geotextile, a nonwoven geotextile, and a 100-μm nylon mesh mimicking locally available material) to dewater and filter simulant fecal sludge, over five layers of sludge addition, with and without lime conditioning. The woven geotextile had the greatest effluent volume (851 mL); most-dewatered sludge (sludge dewatered to the greatest extent) [16% total solids (TS)] and greatest reductions of total suspended solids (TSS) (80%), E. coli [ −1.2 log10 reduction value (LRV)], and chemical oxygen demand (COD) (22%). The nonwoven geotextile had the highest dewatering flow (61.2 L/h·m2) and lowest reductions of TSS (75%), E. coli (−1.8 LRV), and COD (9%). The nylon mesh had the lowest effluent volume (784 mL), the least-dewatered sludge (dewatered to the least extent) (10% TS), and slowest dewatering flow (15.1 L/h·m2). The woven geotextile was the most efficacious fabric for both dewatering and filtering, but the two other fabrics obtained meaningful dewatering and filtering performance. Lime addition led to incomplete dewatering for all fabrics. Our results led to recommendations for fecal sludge treatment in humanitarian contexts, including prioritizing woven geotextiles, with locally available nylon mesh as a short-term acceptable option, and not using lime. Filtering performance was higher for the Bangladesh geobag than in the laboratory, which is attributed to differences in field and laboratory configurations. Further research on the effectiveness of fabrics and simulant sludge in actual humanitarian contexts is indicated. Practical Applications: Implementation of fecal sludge geobag treatment plants is a promising solution for humanitarian contexts, but data on their efficacy for fecal sludge are limited. We evaluated fabrics used in humanitarian contexts (a woven geotextile, a nonwoven geotextile, and a 100-μm nylon mesh mimicking locally available material) to dewater and filter simulant fecal sludge. We evaluated the use of lime as a conditioner to help dewatering, because lime is widely available and used for pathogen inactivation and liquid–solid separation in humanitarian contexts. Woven geotextile was the most efficacious fabric for both dewatering and filtering. This is consistent with manufacturer advice and previous research. The nylon mesh obtained meaningful dewatering and filtering performances. We recommend prioritizing woven geotextiles for fecal sludge treatment in humanitarian contexts, with locally available nylon mesh as a short-term acceptable option. Lime addition led to incomplete dewatering for all fabrics, and thus is not recommended. Other studies found clear dewatering and filtering improvements using conditioners such as chitosan or polymers, which were not evaluated herein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrological modeling is a very relevant tool for planning and managing water resources because it considers the spatial and temporal distribution of hydrological processes and can be used for various purposes, such as estimating water availability, predicting flows, and analyzing the hydrological response of the basin as a result of changes in land use. The objective of this work was to calibrate and validate the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model for the Corumbataí River Basin, Brazil, and analyze the impacts of changing land use and land cover on the quality and quantity of water in the basin. Data on flow, total suspended solids, total phosphorus, and total nitrogen were calibrated and validated. The model's performance was better in simulating flow on a monthly scale when compared with a daily scale, with Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency coefficient (NS) and R2 equal to 0.79 and PBIAS equal to 3.8% in the calibration and NS and R2 equal to 0.58 and PBIAS equal to 1.7% in the validation period. The PBIAS measures the average tendency of simulated values to be higher or lower than those observed and was the statistical index that best classified the model's performance in nutrient simulation, thus indicating that nutrient values can be used when accumulated over time. Among the four alternative land use and land cover scenarios, Scenario 2 (pessimistic) resulted in greater sediment production and surface runoff in the basin. The results presented showed that the SWAT model was able to accurately simulate the variables involved in the calibration and validation process, proving to be a viable tool to support managers in the planning, management, and conservation of the Corumbataí River Basin, through scenario simulation alternative land use options, which highlighted the impacts that could be generated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Marine pollution poses significant risks to both human and marine health. This investigation explores the limnological status of the Odisha and West Bengal coasts during the annual cruise program, focusing on the influence of riverine inputs on coastal marine waters. To assess this impact, physicochemical parameters such as pH, salinity, total suspended solids (TSS), dissolved oxygen (DO), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), and dissolved nutrients (NO2-N, NO3-N, NH4-N, PO4-P, SiO4-Si, total-N, and total-P) were analyzed from samples collected along 11 transects. Multivariate statistics and principal component analysis (PCA) were applied to the datasets, revealing four key factors that account for over 70.09% of the total variance in water quality parameters, specifically 25.01% for PC1, 21.94% for PC2, 13.13% for PC3, and 9.99% for PC4. The results indicate that the increase in nutrient and suspended solid concentrations in coastal waters primarily arises from weathering and riverine transport from natural sources, with nitrate sources linked to the decomposition of organic materials. Coastal Odisha was found to be rich in phosphorus-based nutrients, particularly from industrial effluents in Paradip and the Mahanadi, while ammonia levels were attributed to municipal waste in Puri. In contrast, the West Bengal coast exhibited higher levels of nitrogenous nutrients alongside elevated pH and DO values. These findings provide a comprehensive understanding of the seasonal dynamics and anthropogenic influences on coastal water quality in Odisha and West Bengal, highlighting the need for targeted conservation and management efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the aim to establish clean and sustainable sludge treatment, green conditioning using natural flocculants has recently gained a growing interest. In this study, a variety of plant materials, namely Moringa (Moringa oleifera) seeds, Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) seeds, Potato (Solanum tuberosum) peels, Aloe (Aloe vera) leaves, Cactus (Opuntia ficus indica) cladodes, and Phragmites (Phragmites australis) stems, were evaluated for their potential bioflocculant activity in conditioning sewage sludge. They were thoroughly characterized to determine their active flocculating compounds. Sludge dewaterability was evaluated by assessing various sludge parameters, including specific resistance to filtration (SRF), dryness of filtration cake (DC), and total suspended solid removal (TSS) from sludge filtrate. The collected results from various physicochemical characterizations of plant materials suggest that the main flocculating agents are carbohydrates in Cactus and Fenugreek and proteins in Moringa, Potato, and Phragmites. Additionally, all tested plant-based flocculants demonstrated effective dewatering performance. Interestingly, compared to the chemical flocculant polyaluminum chloride, Moringa and Cactus showed superior conditioning effects, yielding the lowest SRF values and the highest DC. As a result, the use of these natural flocculants improved sewage sludge filterability, leading to a significant removal of total suspended solids from the filtrate. The conditioning properties of Moringa and Cactus can be attributed to their high protein and sugar content, which facilitates the effective separation of bound water from solids through charge neutralization and bridging mechanisms. Thus, green conditioning using plant-based flocculants, particularly Moringa and Cactus materials, presents a promising and eco-friendly approach to enhance sewage sludge dewatering for safer disposal and valorization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a significant global issue impacting human, animal, and environmental health, as well as economic security. Water bodies, especially, are now recognized for their role in the spread of antimicrobial-resistant pathogens, though standardized monitoring methods are lacking. This study investigates the presence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) producing Escherichia coli in the Sungai Terengganu River in Malaysia, focusing on water quality and ESBL E. coli monitoring. Sampling was conducted twice in 2023 at 13 locations along the river. Overall, the water quality index (WQI) classified the river as Class II (WQI = 81), with upstream regions rated as Class I, indicating minimal anthropogenic impact. Higher Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), and Total Suspended Solids (TSS) in downstream areas suggested organic pollution from anthropogenic activities. Four metal elements exceeded the National Water Quality Standards (NWQS): Al (0.88 mg/L), Fe (3.45 mg/L), Cu (0.102 mg/L), and Hg (2.525 mg/L). No Pb, Cr, Se, Sn, or As were detected. Statistical analysis showed better water quality correlates with lower microbial contamination. ESBL E. coli was found in 8 of 13 sampling sites (61.5%), with the highest concentration at 800 CFU/100 mL. From 40 presumptive ESBL isolates tested, 87.5% (35 isolates) were positive for ESBL and carried additional drug resistance genes, including mcr-1, tetW, sul-1, and sul-2. These findings indicate a concerning presence of multidrug-resistant E. coli in the river, representing a potential public health risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Zandvlei Estuary is the only functioning estuary along the False Bay coastline of Cape Town and is therefore of extreme local ecological importance. The most significant problems are eutrophication and siltation caused by the increased total inorganic nitrogen (TIN) and soluble ready phosphorus (SRP) levels due to urban development and the associated increased impervious surface area in the catchment that drains into it. In South Africa, stormwater drainage systems conventionally channel everything they collect into receiving water bodies without significant treatment. Sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) provide an alternative approach to managing stormwater runoff. They are designed to manage both stormwater quality and quantity while potentially improving biodiversity and amenity. This project modelled the potential improvement in the quality of the water entering Zandvlei Estuary resulting from the implementation of selected SuDS control measures in Zandvlei’s Diep River catchment using the software program, PCSWMM. SRP, TIN, total phosphorus (TP) and total suspended solids (TSS) were selected as pollutant indicators. Treatment trains that included a large, constructed wetland at the bottom of the catchment will likely provide the greatest improvements to the water quality entering Zandvlei – potentially reducing SRP, TIN, TP and TSS by approximately 59%, 53%, 53%, and 66%, respectively – as well as potentially reducing the runoff by 48%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the impact of different concentrations of clove extract (CE: 0%, 0.5%, 1.0%, and 2.0%) on the viscoelasticity, viscosity, syneresis, texture, sensory quality, and antioxidant properties of set yogurt up to 21 days in cold storage. The addition of CE enlarged the total suspended solids (TSS) and mineral contents while reducing whey separation. On the other hand, CE existence dropped the consistency index (k) and elastic modulus (G') of yogurt gels and further lessening was observed with prolonged storage period. Moreover, the textural firmness remained unaffected whereas gels that are more cohesive were attained with integration of CE. Similarly, total phenolics and free radical scavenging activity increased significantly (p < 0.05) by CE supplementation, and amplified lipid oxidation was observed with increased storage time. Addition of CE lowered the lightness (L*) index and manipulated the organoleptic properties whereas the sample with 1% CE showed improvement in texture and flavor; however, the overall acceptability reduced for samples with higher concentration of CE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]