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Copyright of Revista U.D.C.A Actualidad & Divulgación Científica is the property of Universidad de Ciencias Aplicadas y Ambientales U.D.C.A 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.)

Gullies are significant contributors to soil degradation in several regions of Brazil, including Minas Gerais, where erosion processes have caused soil loss. The characterization of erosion processes is crucial for the application of measures for recovering degraded areas and reducing erosion impacts. This study models soil loss with the use of InVEST software and assesses the impact of three different scenarios, namely (1) implementation of soil conservation practices and replacement of pasture areas for temporary agriculture, (2) reforestation of pasture areas, and (3) preservation of ciliary forests. Soil loss, sediment exportation, retention, and deposition for the present scenario (2019), as well as the three aforementioned hypothetical scenarios, were estimated. In the present scenario, the estimated mean annual soil loss was 2.75 t/ha year, with 1,449.54 t/year sediment exportation, 9,042.13 t/year retention, and 1,449.54 t/year deposition. The model predicted scenario 1 would result in 2.23 t/ha year mean annual soil loss, 1,300.59 t/year sediment exportation, 9,191.08 t/year retention, and 11,755.76 t/year deposition. Scenario 2 showed 1.92 t/ha year mean annual soil loss, 1,046.69 t/year sediment exportation, 9,444.98 t/year retention, and 10,229.77 t/year deposition, whereas the results for scenario 3 were 2.36 t/ha year, 616.65 t/year, 9,862.06 t/year, and 13,206.47 t/year, respectively. Reforestation and preservation of ciliary forests, along with soil conservation practices, were effective measures for reducing soil loss. Such findings are valuable for the management of areas degraded by erosion processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Nativa is the property of Revista Nativa 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.)

Cadmium (Cd) ranks prominent position among issues observed worldwide due to its increased bioavailability that results from several polluting activities. Thus, it is necessary conducting studies focused on investigating the association between this metal and the flora, since species capable of tolerating toxic Cd levels can be indicated for the phytoremediation of contaminated areas. The aim of the present study is to investigate the tolerance of species Peltophorum dubium to excess Cd, based on the assessment of morphophysiological and biochemical variables. P. dubium seedlings were cultivated in nutrient solution with five different Cd concentrations (0, 25, 50, 75 and 100 ^M) and four repetitions. Each sampling unit comprised a tray with 16 plants, and it totaled 64 plants per treatment. Morphophysiological features such as dry biomass, roots' morphological variables, and photosynthetic variables were analyzed. In addition, photosynthetic pigment concentration, antioxidant enzymes, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and lipid peroxidation (MDA) concentrations were investigated. P. dubium seedlings showed toxicity symptoms, such as reduced pigment concentration and photosynthetic rate, as well as root growth and biomass production inhibition. Based on these findings, P. dubium seedlings have shown sensitivity to Cd. Therefore, this species can be used as bioindicators of cadmium-contaminated areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Acta Veterinaria Brasilica is the property of Acta Veterinaria Brasilica 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.)

Copyright of Environmental & Social Management Journal / Revista de Gestão Social e Ambiental is the property of Environmental & Social Management Journal 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.)

Copyright of Revista de Ciências Agrárias is the property of Sociedade de Ciencias Agrarias de Portugal 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.)

Extensive farms were developed from the first settlements in the city of Rio de Janeiro. The scarcity of water year after year currently necessitates the reforestation of degraded areas to protect the remaining forestlands and water resources, mainly on hillsides. Native species of plants and stingless bees were introduced, with the main intention of pollination intensification and seed production to grow new shrubs and trees. These reforested areas produced honey and bee pot-pollen. The present study elucidated the pollination dynamics in three areas under reforestation (Serra da Posse area, Morro da Formiga area, and Serra dos Pretos Forros area) considering three native bee species (Nannotrigona testaceicornes, Tetragonisca angustula and Melipona quadrifasciata anthidioides) and pollen analysis of bee products. For sample processing, neither the acetolysis methodology, nor staining was applied. Paired honey and pollen samples were considered, and in addition anemophilous and exotic pollen grains, as well as structured elements. It is suggested to intensify the planting of native trees and shrubs, such as Arecaceae, Mimosaceae, Myrtaceae, Alchornea, Anadenanthera, Piptadenia and Schizolobium, thus allowing the establishment of a diversity of parasitic Loranthaceae species appreciated by native bees. Food competition among bees was low. The vegetation in newly forested areas did not completely meet the food needs of the bees. The cultivation of a great diversity of native plants and bee species in degraded areas and under reforestation certainly yields a good result more quickly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mineral mining's adverse environmental effects encompass pollution of air, surface, and ground waters, as well as soil disruption. Kuzbass (south of West Siberia, Russia) exemplifies this impact due to open-pit coal mining, leading to the emergence of man-made landscapes like dumps and quarries. Mining firms undertake reclamation efforts on post-technogenic zones. Evaluating dump restoration involves assessing vegetation and animal components, including soil invertebrates and ground beetles, which are sensitive bioindicators of environmental health. The ecological balance of any species hinges on various environmental factors, both biotic and abiotic. Determining the most influential factors for a species' ecological niche is challenging. This study is part of an extensive investigation into the succession of ground-dwelling arthropods across varying-aged coal mine rock dumps in Kuzbass. Pitfall traps were employed from 2013 to 2022, yielding over 47,000 ground beetle specimens. A unique statistical model, computed in R, gauged the impact of environmental factors on ground beetle abundance. Predictors encompassed ground level temperature, hydrothermal coefficient (HTC), soil pH, Soil Organic Carbon (SOC), Total N, vegetation cover, turf extent, and succession stage. All these factors significantly influenced beetle numbers. Probabilistic graphical models effectively elucidated key relationships between species groups and environmental variables. Monitoring ground beetle community succession in technogenic zones necessitates comprehensive consideration of intricate environmental interactions.

The aim of the study was to determine the shear strength of the soil-root layer obtained as a result of growth of cocksfoot (Dactylis glomerata L.) on degraded soil enriched with the addition of a new zeolite substrate Z-ion. Measurement of shear strength for soil-root layers formed as a result of growth of a grass species (on degraded soil alone and on degraded soil with added Z-ion) was performed in a direct shear apparatus. The measurement results allowed determining parameters of equations describing the dependence of shear strength of studied soil-root layers on normal stress e.g. cohesion and internal friction coefficient. Under the experimental conditions, application of 1% v/v substrate addition to degraded soil induced development of cocksfoot root system which resulted in the significantly increased cohesion of soil-root layer (by 30%) as compared to that formed on degraded soil alone. The enhanced cohesion of the soil-root layer formed on soil enriched with Z-ion resulted in its significantly increased shear strength as compared to that of soil-root layer obtained on soil alone. Further research using higher doses of the Z-ion substrate (greater than 1% v/v) is needed to obtain the information at what dose ranges of the substrate one can expect even more intensive development of plant root systems and, consequently, further significant improvement in the shear strength of the soil-root layers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was carried out at the Vale Natural Reserve in Linhares, Espírito Santo, Brazil, with the objective of testing the use of direct seeding as a forest restoration method in Tabuleiro Forest (also called Tableland Forest outside of Brazil) 16 years after its implantation. Three different treatments were evaluated in which 29 native species with different area preparations were used, namely: Total manual mowing + residue burning + herbicide (T1); Total manual mowing + residue burning (T2); and Total manual mowing (T3). Each treatment had an area of 100m² (10x10m) and an interval between plots of 2 m. The survival of the individuals implanted in the direct seeding was evaluated, as well as the natural regeneration of the new individuals with Diameter at Breast Height (DBH) = 15 cm. As a result, after 16 years we can see the presence of 16 species and 106 individuals, as well as a Shannon's diversity index of (H') = 1.917 and Pielou's index (P) = 0.691, demonstrating a low floristic diversity in the area. The species which stood out the most (most individuals) were: Joannesia princeps Vell. L.C.; Spondias venulosa (Engl.) Engl.; and Peltophorum dubium (Spreng.) Taub. As a suggestion, it is recommended to use direct seeding in a complementary manner to other restoration techniques, and there should be monitoring of the area in order to assess the evolution of the process and the need for any interventions to assertively assist the entire process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Brazilian Journal of Biology is the property of Instituto Internacional de Ecologia 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.)

Copyright of Journal of The Planner & Development is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) 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.)

This research investigated four different species of aquatic macrophytes with natural occurrence in an urban environment highly anthropized in Southern Brazil. The aim of the research was to compare the phytoremediation potential among the species E. anagallis, H. grumosa, H. ranunculoides, and S. montevidensis through Pearson´s correlation analysis and cluster analysis, using the heavy metal content identified through HNO3 - HClO4 and phytoremediation indexes. The results highlighted the bioconcentration factor (BCF) of H. ranunculoides, with outstanding results for Cu BCF = 667.09, Zn BCF = 149.93, Cd BCF = 26.85, Cr BCF = 31.77, Ni BCF = 35.47, and Pb BCF= 126.29. Additionally, H. grumosa and S. montevidensis were also highlighted, considering the potential phytoremoval (g ha−1). Therefore, this study demonstrates the tolerance and potential for removal of heavy metals Cu, Cr, Cd, Pb, Ni, and Zn by the evaluated aquatic macrophyte species and elucidates the outstanding potential of application in phytoremediation purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Sapindus saponaria L. (Sapindaceae) is a pioneer species used in programs to recover degraded areas. The trees also assist in the pest control of some insects due to the composition of saponins on their leaves. In addition, these chemical components are important to pharmaceutical product production. The objective was to evaluate the impact of spatial distribution, indices and ecological relationship of arthropods on S. saponaria leaves to preserve the balance of biodiversity. Aggregated distribution of arthropods was observed; the numbers of phytophagous arthropods were higher on the adaxial leaf face than on the abaxial part. Only Aleyrodidae (Hemiptera) had a higher presence on the abaxial leaf face of S. saponaria saplings. Abundance, diversity, and species richness of natural enemies correlated positively with phytophagous and pollinators insects. On the other hand, the number of Lyriomyza sp. mines correlated negatively with Pseudomyrmex termitarius (Smith) (Hymenoptera: Formicidae). All this information can assist and guide integrated pest management programs.

Due to the increasing use of vegetation for fuel wood, cattle, agriculture, and due to population pressure that negatively affects biodiversity values, more plantations are needed to obtain a permanent vegetal cover. Attention has been paid to microbial interactions (arbuscular mycorrhizae (AM)) for management and inoculation. To evaluate the benefits of inoculation, the root colonization of inoculated seedlings, soil aggregation, and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) diversity were examined by two field treatments (fertilized with organic matter (OM) vs. fertilized with natural rock phosphate (P)). The preserved and experimental areas presented higher AMF spore number and richness (nine species) than the degraded areas. The addition of OM or P did not improve root colonization by AMF; however, it was a guarantee for a successful restoration as, in the restored fields, a high soil aggregation was found, in addition to a high root colonization, spore number, and richness of AMF. However, the undisturbed site presented the more prominent values. This study showed that AMF are important components in riparian areas, and it brings information for inoculant production in ecological restoration using mixed plantations, contributing to the establishment of mycorrhizal vegetation and soil aggregation that not only benefit AM plants, but also allow non-host plants in degraded areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional soil management is a very ancient practice which has contributed over time to destroy the soil structure worldwide. However, in this situation, researchers, producers, etc., are not indifferent and look for alternatives. Such is the case of conservationist management of the soil through minimal and conservationist tillage that mitigates the negative effects on the soil. Conservation agriculture (CA) began to be used in the American continent at the beginning of the 70's with proven benefits. Cuba, with its highly degraded soils due to its intensive use, decided to implement CA and shows some results of its implementation in different sites of the Artemisa, Pinar del Rio Camagüey provinces, with a tendency to incorporate new sites, such as those proposed in this work. An initial analysis was made in three sites, two in the province of Artemisa and one in the province of Guantánamo, which allows us to state that there are strengths and weaknesses that not impede the development of the CA and that its implementation is possible because there are the knowledge and the necessary equipment, aspects among others that facilitate the task. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recovery of degraded areas is imperative for the sustainability of mining activities. The main action implemented to improve the chemical, physical and biological conditions of soils, tailings and sterile deposits is the incorporation of organic material. Biosolids (hygienized sewage sludge) are among the organic materials that can be applied. However, considering the health risk they represent, not all areas are suitable for receiving this waste. The present research sought to map the environmental suitability of the Quadrilátero Ferrífero (QF) region to assess the applicability of biosolids. For this purpose, maps were elaborated using restrictive criteria established for the safe application of this residue to the soil by means of the Geographic Information System (GIS), using the ArcGIS software, version 10.2. The established criteria were pedology, topography, hydromorphism, presence of protected areas, soil texture, susceptibility to erosion, proximity to urban areas and their overlaps to obtain the final suitability areas. For the exclusion of areas that presented legal restrictions, the criteria of protected area, areas close to water bodies, urban areas, shallow soils and a slope greater than 45% were used, as established in literature, in CONAMA 498/2020 and in the Forest Law - Federal Law 12,652 of 2012. Of the areas analyzed, 58.5% were suitable for biosolid application, equivalent to 10,858.3 ha of the 18,587 ha studied, indicating the feasibility of biosolids application in part of the QF area to be recovered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We evaluated the influence of herbaceous vegetation on the colonization of an invasive and two native tree species in a degraded area located at the Caatinga semiarid forest in Northeastern Brazil. Seedlings of the native trees Anadenanthera colubrina and Astronium urundeuva were planted in nine paired blocks with intact and removed herbaceous vegetation. In addition, seeds of the invasive tree species Leucaena leucocephala were sown in the same paired plots. Growth, germination, establishment, and survival of the tree species were monitored for 8 months. The results showed that herbaceous vegetation hampered native seedling growth in respect to leaf number, leaf size, height, and stem diameter. Conversely, herbaceous vegetation had a neutral effect on the germination, establishment, and growth of the invasive species L. leucocephala. Dominant ruderal herbaceous species strongly prevent the natural succession of native trees in this semiarid forest, while not affecting the establishment of an invasive tree. Management of herbaceous vegetation cover in degraded areas might be a key step for successful restoration in this dryland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Boletim Paranaense de Geociências is the property of Universidade Federal do Parana 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.)

In the transition that saw intense spatial and economic changes in Slovenia, urban creative activities were often regarded as an important development factor allowing the reurbanization and revitalization of several former industrial areas. These were generally relatively spontaneous unplanned processes to spatially and economically develop degraded areas where, following the bottom-up principle, various creative individuals and groups gradually revitalized these areas. This article analyses the role of creative activities in breathing life into degraded areas by looking at the development of soft (social) factors in the form of social networks. It highlights the problem of local authorities and state institutional actors’ non-perception of, inappropriate approach to, or insufficient consideration of creative social networks in developing these spaces. Drawing on semi-structured interviews, the case of the former tobacco factory is presented as an example of the accumulation of social capital linked to social networks, within which the area’s new economic and spatial restructuring is perceived to be an unnecessary element of the renovation.

ABSTRACT Iron mining tailings have limitations for plant growth and development due to low fertility, coupled with great restriction of physical characteristics such as low water retention, high density, and lack of structure. This study aimed to evaluate whether different irrigation depths applied to Xaraés grass grown in mining tailings influence its yield and bromatological aspects. The experiment was carried out in a completely randomized design with five irrigation depths (40, 60, 80, 100, and 120% of the crop evapotranspiration), two additional treatments consisting of grass grown in tailings with soil conditioner and in natural soil, and three repetitions. Forage dry mass, plant height, leaf: stem ratio, as well as neutral detergent fibre, acid detergent fibre, crude protein, and mineral matter content, were evaluated during four cutting cycles. Xaraés grass could establish and produce forage despite cultivation limitations in iron mining tailings, which are due to their properties. Irrigation depths showed positive and linear effects on Xaraés grass dry matter yield and heights of plants grown in iron mining tailings. The soil conditioner has potential for use in pasture cultivation in iron mining tailing.

In environments with water and nutrient constraints, some early successional shrub/tree species may promote facilitation by ameliorating the microclimate and increasing resource availability. We ask whether early successional semi‐arid shrub/tree species have facilitation effects for other woody species and if they do, which mechanisms are involved and how they affect the water status of juvenile plants. Three early successional woody species; Combretum leprosum, Cenostigma bracteosum and Mimosa tenuiflora, were chosen for investigation. The richness of regenerating woody species and their leaf water potential were used as response variables, while air and soil temperature, leaf area index, humidity and soil attributes were used as explanatory environmental variables. Species growing under the canopy of C. leprosum had better water status and growth at higher soil moisture and lower thermal and solar radiation stress, receiving a facilitative effect. The lower leaf area index, higher radiation and more negative soil water content under the canopy of C. bracteosum in comparison to C. leprosum may have a small negative effect on species richness. M. tenuiflora did not reduce environmental stress, and the species associated with it had low water potential, thus no increase in species richness was detected under its canopy. C. leprosum and C. bracteosum improve the environmental conditions under their canopies and provide favourable microsites for the establishment of other species. The positive effects may be generated by functional traits that modify microclimatic characteristics under the nurse species' canopy and lead to a higher water status of the juveniles growing under it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rupture of Fundão dam was the biggest environmental disaster of the worlds' mining industry, dumping tons of iron ore tailings into the environment. Studies have shown that the Fundão dam's tailings are poor in nutrients and have high Fe and Mn concentration. In this context, our objective was to evaluate the growth performance of two native tree species (Bowdichia virgilioides and Dictyoloma vandellianum) in two treatments: fertilized soil and fertilized tailings. We hypothesize that the high concentrations of iron and manganese in the tailings can impair the growth performance of plants by interfering with the absorption of nutrients made available through fertilization. Soil and tailings samples were collected in the municipality of Barra Longa (MG, Brazil), and then fertilized with mixed mineral fertilizer ("Osmocote Plus 15–9-12" at 7.5 g L−1). The experiment was conducted for 75 days in a greenhouse using 180 cm3 tubes. We evaluate chlorophyll content, maximal PSII quantum yield, root length, shoot length, root:shoot ratio, leaf area, specific leaf area and leaf area ratio, dry mass, macro- and micronutrients concentration in the tissues, and metal translocation factor. Although assuring the adequate levels of the main nutrients to plant growth (N, P, K, Ca, and Mg), the fertilization did not reverse the negative effect of tailing on these species. The high concentration of Fe in the tissues associated with less biomass production, lower plant height, smaller leaf area, bigger specific leaf area, and reduced chlorophyll content indicates a probable phytotoxic effect of iron present in the tailings for D. vandellianum. Our results base further field evaluations and longer experiments, which will facilitate the understanding of the performance of tree species submitted to tailings with fertilization. So far, this study suggests that B. virgilioides are more tolerant to excess Fe from the tailings of Fundão dam than D. vandellianum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we discuss invasive alien plant species with an emphasis on their growth in construction pits, especially at the abandoned construction site Bežigrajski dvor, Krater. Construction pits often have ruderal habitats with above-average growth of native pioneer and invasive alien plant species. Individual parts of the pit differ significantly, depending on site conditions and human intervention, which is reflected in the type of vegetation and growth density. We used the detailed mapping method we study the influences on vegetation distribution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Objectives Tree legume species play an important role in forest restoration in the tropics. Understanding how different species adjust carbohydrate allocation and growth under distinct nutrient availability will enhance the success of restoring degraded areas. Data description A 2-year tropical forest plantation of the Forest Restoration Program of the Balbina Hydropower Dam was evaluated. Three non-N-fixing (Cenostigma tocantinum, Dipteryx odorata and Senna reticulata) and three N-fixing (Clitoria fairchildiana, Inga edulis and Acacia spp.) tree legume species were either fertilized or not fertilized. Growth rates and biomass allocation were calculated, and carbon (C) fractions and nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and nonstructural carbohydrate (NSC) concentrations were determined. Multiple nutrient additions increased the growth rates and aboveground biomass production of fertilized plants. According to the results presented, different species and N- fixers respond differently to fertilization regimes. The authors encourage the use of the presented data in meta-analysis studies that consider the fertilization or nutrient deficiency effects on growth, carbohydrate and nutrient responses. N-fixing species with high biomass growth and foliar N are important for restoring N and C cycles in nutrient-limited soils. Fertilization treatments are fundamental during the early stages of forest plantation development.

The mining activity in Brazil generates several degraded areas. The use of heliophyte forest species inoculated with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi can be an alternative in active restoration projects of degraded areas. The aim of this study was to evaluate the ecophysiology, growth, and survival rate of Schinus terebinthifolius and Caesalpinia ferrea seedlings, with and without inoculation with Rhizophagus clarus, an arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus (AMF), in a degraded mining area in the municipality of Itaporanga D'Ajuda, SE, Brazil. The experiment was conducted with plants of the two species grown with spacing of 3 × 3 m in an area degraded by sand and gravel mining. The treatments consisted of forest species without AMF and with AMF. Ecophysiological parameters were evaluated using a non-modulated fluorimeter. The plants of each treatment were evaluated for plant height, stem base diameter, and survival rate, at 12 months after planting. The inoculation of AMF in Caesalpinia ferrea allowed better efficiency in photosynthesis, promoting a survival greater than 90%, greater diameter (1.04 cm) and height (81.68 cm). Although the inoculation of AMF in Schinus terebinthifolius improved the fluorescence parameters, there was an increase only in the survival rate, being more than 90%. It is recommended that other native forest species inoculated with AMF be tested in areas degraded by mining.

Copyright of Tropical Grasslands / Forrajes Tropicales is the property of International Centre for Tropical Agriculture - CIAT 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.)

In the transition that saw intense spatial and economic changes in Slovenia, urban creative activities were often regarded as an important development factor allowing the reurbanization and revitalization of several former industrial areas. These were generally relatively spontaneous unplanned processes to spatially and economically develop degraded areas where, following the bottom-up principle, various creative individuals and groups gradually revitalized these areas. This article analyses the role of creative activities in breathing life into degraded areas by looking at the development of soft (social) factors in the form of social networks. It highlights the problem of local authorities and state institutional actors' non-perception of, inappropriate approach to, or insufficient consideration of creative social networks in developing these spaces. Drawing on semi-structured interviews, the case of the former tobacco factory is presented as an example of the accumulation of social capital linked to social networks, within which the area's new economic and spatial restructuring is perceived to be an unnecessary element of the renovation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to use bioassays (single and multispecies) with organisms from different trophic levels to assess soil quality in reclaimed coal mining areas. Soil samples were collected from four sites: two sites with recent reclaim processes (one using topsoil and other using clayey soil), an natural attenuation site, and a control soil. The evaluated parameters were divided into (1) ecotoxicological tests (avoidance test with Eisenia andrei (earthworms) and Armadillidium vulgare (isopods); germination test with Sinapis alba seeds (mustard); reproduction tests with Folsomia candida (collembolans); bacterial toxicity test); (2) population and community assessments (a fungal count; microbial community analysis using Biolog EcoPlatesTM); (3) microcosms scale evaluation (the MS-3 multispecies system); and (4) chemical analysis (soil parameters, soil metal, and cations and anions in soil leachate). Results pointed to toxicity in the natural attenuation site that compromised of habitat function, probably due to low pH and low nutrient levels. The most recent reclaim process, using topsoil and clay soil, improved soil quality and fertility, with a further increase in habitat quality and heterogeneity. This study shows that some techniques used to reclaim degraded mining areas are effective in rebuilding habitats, sustaining soil biota, and reestablishing ecosystem services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract To accelerate the recovery of degraded environments, it is necessary to use ecological restoration techniques, which require validation according to the ecosystem conditions where are implemented. This work aimed to evaluate soil microbiological attributes under different ecological restoration technologies in a subtropical forest. The study was conducted at UTFPR-DV, southwest of Paraná, in an ecotone between Mixed Ombrophilous Forest and Semideciduous Seasonal Forest and on an Oxisol. In December 2010, a tillage area of at least 17 years old was isolated and the passive restoration, tree planting and nucleation treatments were installed in 40x54 m plots and four replications. In November 2018 the soil was sampled in these plots and in a native forest area as a reference. There were calculated soil organic carbon content (OCC) and microbiological attributes such as microbial biomass N and C (NMIC and CMIC), basal respiration, fungal spore content and the metabolic (qCO2) and microbial quotient (MICq). It can be concluded that nucleation technology can restore soil microbiological attributes but has not yet reached the conditions of a natural environment. Passive restoration is not a good technology for restoring soil microbiological attributes. The higher contents of CMIC, NMIC, OCC, MICq and fungal spores in the soil under native forest compared to ecological restoration technologies indicate that eight years of adoption of these techniques have not yet been enough to fully recover soil microbiological activity.

There is a need to resolve methods to determine the merits of native versus non‐native plant use in drylands and indeed in more temperate areas around the world. This is because whilst plant introductions may have positive objectives, they can have significant negative landscape and environmental impacts. A key discussion on this issue focuses on whether the use of non‐native plant species can be considered to be pollution and pollutive based on the concept that pollution can be regarded as 'matter out of place'. The consequences of putting the wrong plant species in the wrong place can be extremely detrimental to the landscape character, quality and value of the land, let alone the effects on ecosystem structure and functioning as well as on biodiversity. These effects can also affect human communities who may rely on the landscape, for example, for tourism. It is thus necessary that the discussion on how decisions are made in determining plant choice evolves so that the right decisions are made when planting is necessary, for the land, for nature and for the people. This discussion has been initiated through COST Action ES1104, which focused on the restoration of degraded dry and arid lands. This article discusses a number of landscape methods based on sustainability principles to determine when and where native and non‐native plants could and should be used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Often unable to regenerate naturally, areas degraded by ore tailings must follow measures aimed at their environmental recovery. The revegetation and the use of bio-stimulants can contribute to the improvement of soil fertility leading to increased production of plant biomass and the cycling of nutrients between soil-plant. The objective was to evaluate the dry matter production, accumulation and nutrient export rates by pig bean plants (Canavalia ensiformis) and Crotalaria juncea cv. IAC-KR-1 as a function of the application of humic substances and diazotrophic bacteria. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse using iron ore tailings as substrate. An experimental design of random blocks (4x3x2) was used with four repetitions, four doses of humic substances, applied at 3 different times, with or without inoculation of diazotrophic bacteria. The supply of humic substances and mainly the inoculation in both species increased the dry matter production, reaching 70% of the average increase in pig beans. Inoculation in pig bean plants increased the absorption and transfer factor of Fe and P, and reduced the transfer factor of K, Ca and Mg, and in crotalaria plants increased the absorption of Mg, P and Mn, and reduced the absorption of Fe. The high content of Fe in mining tailings culminated in high absorption and mobilization of this element in the roots of the plants as an alternative to minimize toxic effects caused by its excess. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the strategies for the recovery of degraded soils is the planting of fast-growing forage species with high biomass production. In this sense, the objective of this research was to evaluate the initial growth of sorghum in degraded soils with organic fertilization and different phosphorus levels. A completely randomized design with a 4 x 3 x 2 factorial arrangement was used, with four soil types, three levels of phosphorus fertilization and two levels of organic fertilization. At 64 days after sowing the characteristics of the initial growth were analyzed: plant height, stem diameter, leaf number and fresh shoot mass. The height was measured by measuring the neck of the plant until the end of the newest fully expanded leaf, measured with the aid of a measuring tape and expressed in centimeters. The diameter of the stem, by means of a digital pachymeter. The application of phosphorus and organic matter in degraded soils is necessary for the initial development of sorghum plants, due to the low availability of this element, caused by the high adsorption of P in the soil colloids. Besides that, the lack of organic matter in the studied soils led to a decrease in the growth of sorghum, therefore, it is concluded that soil management in saline environments is necessary for the application of phosphorus and organic matter for a sustainable and technically viable production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Impacted areas by iron mining may face challenges in the management of phosphate fertilization and reduced efficiency of rehabilitation practices, thus extending the time required for the rehabilitation of these areas. The objective of this study was to evaluate phosphorus (P) lability in soils of native forest and ferriferous canga areas (savanna vegetation above ironstone outcrops covering iron ore deposits) and in iron mine waste piles undergoing rehabilitation. Benches of the analysed waste pile differ in age of rehabilitation: as the initial rehabilitation stage (INI), we consider benches with fewer than 3 years of rehabilitation; the intermediate stage (INT) were benches with up to 5 years of rehabilitation; and the advanced rehabilitation stage (ADV) corresponds to benches with more than 8 years of rehabilitation activities. Organic and inorganic P fractions were analysed in these areas by chemical fractionation and were classified according to the degree of soil lability. The results show that in the canga environment, there was a predominance of inorganic fractions of moderate lability and moderate stability, with a strong dependency of the soil organic matter (SOM) on the P fractions, whereas there was a greater participation of the moderately labile organic fractions in the forest than in the canga. On the other hand, in the rehabilitation areas, there was an increase in the labile organic and inorganic fractions as the rehabilitation process advanced. The distribution of P in areas undergoing rehabilitation indicates that there is a tendency for P levels to resemble those of native environments, such as the forests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Proper management of rainwater in cities has a significant impact on improving the environmental conditions: the microclimate of a city by regulating the water cycle and reducing heat islands; developing of biodiversity; increasing health and well-being of residents. The aim of the article was to present the possibilities of improving the environmental conditions in compact urban development areas - those that additionally contribute to the shaping of architecture, and thus combine the ecological, functional, and aesthetic benefits. The article draws attention to the synergy of climate change and the new way of developing urban areas, which was presented on the example of specific solutions functioning on the transformed urban area: Clichy-Batignolles in central Paris - recognized as a model for environmental solutions, labelled Éco-Quartier. The mentioned conditions and solutions were related to the possibility of shaping urban form, with the obligation to discharge some or all of the rainwater on the building plot. On the basis of the calculations made for the runoff ratio in individual quarters, it was found that it is possible to maintain a compact urban structure and effectively manage rain water provided that appropriate engineering and urban solutions are applied. These solutions can have an architectural value. The conclusions from the analyses can be used to formulate guidelines for other European cities, which are increasingly faced with the problem of water scarcity and uncontrolled flooding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT This study aimed to identify the floristic composition and density of a seed bank transposed from a Seasonal Forest fragment in Rio Grande do Sul. The seed bank of the (BSI) fragment center and edge (BSII) of another forest fragment was also evaluated, both at medium to advanced successional stages. The seed bank was deposited in Brown-Gray Argisol and Red Argisol using exposed soil plots as control. ANOVA followed by Tukey test (p

Mineral excavation is a common process throughout the world. The open pits remaining after the closure of a mine require well-considered and meticulous reclamation activities aimed at restoring the environmental properties of a given area. The inspections carried out in Poland indicate numerous irregularities in implementing the reclamation process. The research in this study was conducted in six measurement series and includes both chemical and olfactometry determinations by devices: multisensor portable gas detector and field olfactometer. Statistical analysis of the results obtained show high concentrations in ambient air of both chemical compounds (NH3, VOCs, H2S, CH3SH) and odour, excluding the possibility of occurrence in the pit of only waste types contained in the administrative decision on reclamation. In addition to the unpleasant odour, the listed compounds can have dangerous effects on the health and life of living organisms. This paper presents a suitable method of control and detection of irregularities in the conducted processes. The main advantage is the relatively low cost of purchasing sensors and field olfactometers compared to other devices, and the possibility to test the polluted air in situ, without the risk of chemical processes occurring during transport of gas samples to the laboratory.

A comparative analysis of the plant community was made in three areas affected by mining and a control forest in Jigualito (Condoto). To determine changes in the composition and structure of the vegetation, we selected three abandoned mines with time periods of 5, 15 and 30 years and a forest without mining history. In each area 5 plots of 5 x 20 were installed, equivalent to 500m², the vegetation present in each selected area was recorded and measured. In abandoned mines, the distribution of wealth, composition and structure of the plant community is conditioned by the chronology of mining abandonment and the evolution of succession levels, evidencing the increase in wealth and the decrease in abundance as temporality increased of cessation of activity, favoring the increase of diversity and the appearance of a more complex structure. Therefore it can be inferred that, after 3 decades, the plant community is in approximately less than 50% of its initial conditions in numerical terms of composition, however, the floristic arrangement is completely different from that of the control forest, therefore, the mining activity causes a series of areas with different floristic arrangements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the knowledge of the importance of family calls, note that these areas are composed as sub-basins caused constant degradation. Thus, by contributing to the knowledge and obtaining subsidiary information for future floristic restoration programs of the Piauitinga river subbasin, in the municipality of Estância - SE, the characterization of spring areas was performed, regarding the level of use. Nine points were sampled for evaluation, considering a radius of 50 meters from the water eye of each spring. From the characterization, four study categories were formed: permanent degraded point of permanent crop (DPLP), extensive degraded point of livestock (DPPE), diffuse degraded temporary crop (DDLT) and diffuse degraded extensive livestock (DDPE). To determine the degree of floristic similarity of the sampled springs, a comparison was made between them using the Jaccard similarity index. The pioneer species presented higher occurrence in the four studied categories (DPLP, DPPE, DDLT, DDPE), while the shade tolerant species obtained a higher percentage than the species required by light only in the points classified as DDPE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Agrotecnologia is the property of Universidade Estadual de Goias 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.)

In the whole territory of Castilla y León (Spain), there are currently more than 2000 waste dumps that will be restored through a novel programme in the period 2017–2019 with an investment of more than 10 M€. Castilla y León regional government is currently implementing this programme in the province of Valladolid for the environmental recovery of areas heavily degraded by the deposit of inert waste, which entails the restoration of illegal dumps in the province bigger than 1000 m2, a total of 133. The programme also includes the implementation of an alternative and legal system for the management of construction and demolition waste, amongst other waste streams. The sealing of landfills and tailings is encompassed within the actions that the regional government is developing in the field of integrated management of waste for their prevention, recovery, recycling and disposal in all the provinces of the community, framed within the line established in the 7th Environmental Action Programme of the European Union. The situation of illegal deposits must be corrected both through direct situations on the affected areas and through measures aimed at ensuring proper management of construction and demolition waste and pruning. This paper shows the first results obtained after the implementation of this regional initiative with the focus set on the description of the implemented waste management programme. The programme provided 2518 services in 2017 managing 6000 t of waste which, without the implementation of this programme, would probably have ended up in illegal dumps. These waste streams included debris (33%), discarded appliances (45%) and pruning (22%). The costs associated with the management of these streams were 25.53 €/t debris, 183.16 €/t appliances and 162.40 €/t pruning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Ecological Engineering / Inżynieria Ekologiczna is the property of Polish Society of Ecological Engineering 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.)

Soil erosion is enhanced by wildfire, mainly due to the loss of vegetation cover and changes in soil properties. After wildfires, there is a need to control the non-sustainable soil and water losses. Of the strategies commonly applied, the use of contour felled log debris barriers to sediment trapping is widespread, but this is not always successful in Mediterranean Ecosystems. This paper evaluates the effectiveness of a new barrier which can be applied on steep terrains affected by wildfires. The hydrological response and sediment delivery were measured to test a innovative design, which are easy to transport and use. The Easy-Barriers (EB) size is 0.8 × 0.1 × 0.2 m and were designed to restore degraded areas which need a quick, low-cost solution, such as after a wildfire. The experimental design was based on the analysis of a simulated runoff flow of 0.6 l·s-1 circulated on 6 plots of 24 m2 (0.8 × 30 m), on each of which 2 treatments were systematically applied: Control and EB. The EB were set up after the assessment of the runoff generation and the site rainfall characteristics for "extraordinary" events. We measured the rills, the sediments collected on each slope and the topographical changes. The total load and runoff in the outlet of the plots were also quantified using sediment volume and concentration measurements. The EB resulted in a decrease in the peak flow and a delay in the runoff time at the outlet. The sediment trapping rate of the barriers was 42.7%. The soil moisture was higher in the EB plots due to the accumulated sediment. In addition to these features, the EB allow us to save between 30 and 40% of total restoration costs in comparison with traditional barriers, due to the reduction in labour costs. Moreover, all its components are biodegradable. Unlabelled Image • An Easy-to-Apply Barrier (EB) was designed and tested in the field. • The EB design and field layout were based on the environmental site features. • Runoff simulations experiments showed EB benefits for extreme events >10 y-return period. • EB reduced soil losses and runoff peaks, and increased soil moisture. • EB could be used to restore degraded areas and labour costs associated to its use are lower than with other barriers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Nativa is the property of Revista Nativa 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.)