Search

Fatty acid methyl ester (biodiesel) has been derived from oil present in algae through transesterification using catalysts of acids, base, supercritical fluids, etc. These catalysts are corrosive and have been posing challenges of contaminating the environment necessitating environmentally friendly and biodegradable catalysts such as enzyme (lipase) based biocatalysts. In this study, fungal strains (endophytic/free spores) were isolated from an estuarine ecosystem and screened for extracellular lipase activities. A novel fungal strain Cladosporium tenuissimum , identified through molecular technique exhibited higher lipolytic activity among the isolates. The crude lipase extracted from fungus was subjected to ammonium sulphate precipitation and purification using Superdex 200 gel filtration chromatographic system. The molecular weight of purified lipase was found to be ∼46 KDa and a specific activity of 37.2 U/mg. Lipase activities attained stability and reached maximum at 60 °C temperature and pH of 6. The purified enzyme was used as a biological catalyst for enzymatic transesterification of oil obtained from an indigenously isolated salt tolerant diatom Nitzschia punctata. Spectroscopic analysis on fatty acids and Fatty Acid Methyl Esters derived from diatom exhibited similarities in specific functional groups between algal oil and biodiesel. Comparisons on biodiesel yield estimation and FAME compositions of enzyme catalyzed, acid catalyzed biodiesel assessed through gas chromatographic techniques revealed a higher efficiency (87.2 ± 0.47%) of biocatalysts compared to conventional acid catalyst (83.02 ± 0.35%) exhibiting potential scope for large scale application of environment friendly biocatalysts to enhance the conversion performances of the transesterification process. Image 10605 • Enzymatic transesterification of biodiesel production from diatoms. • Extracellular lipase of fungi Cladosporium tenuissimum was a biological catalyst. • Cladosporium derived lipase exhibited good stability at higher temperatures and lower pH. • Purified fungal lipase showed higher biodiesel yield than conventional acid catalyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fatty acid methyl ester (biodiesel) has been derived from oil present in algae through transesterification using catalysts of acids, base, supercritical fluids, etc. These catalysts are corrosive and have been posing challenges of contaminating the environment necessitating environmentally friendly and biodegradable catalysts such as enzyme (lipase) based biocatalysts. In this study, fungal strains (endophytic/free spores) were isolated from an estuarine ecosystem and screened for extracellular lipase activities. A novel fungal strain Cladosporium tenuissimum , identified through molecular technique exhibited higher lipolytic activity among the isolates. The crude lipase extracted from fungus was subjected to ammonium sulphate precipitation and purification using Superdex 200 gel filtration chromatographic system. The molecular weight of purified lipase was found to be ∼46 KDa and a specific activity of 37.2 U/mg. Lipase activities attained stability and reached maximum at 60 °C temperature and pH of 6. The purified enzyme was used as a biological catalyst for enzymatic transesterification of oil obtained from an indigenously isolated salt tolerant diatom Nitzschia punctata. Spectroscopic analysis on fatty acids and Fatty Acid Methyl Esters derived from diatom exhibited similarities in specific functional groups between algal oil and biodiesel. Comparisons on biodiesel yield estimation and FAME compositions of enzyme catalyzed, acid catalyzed biodiesel assessed through gas chromatographic techniques revealed a higher efficiency (87.2 ± 0.47%) of biocatalysts compared to conventional acid catalyst (83.02 ± 0.35%) exhibiting potential scope for large scale application of environment friendly biocatalysts to enhance the conversion performances of the transesterification process. Image 10605 • Enzymatic transesterification of biodiesel production from diatoms. • Extracellular lipase of fungi Cladosporium tenuissimum was a biological catalyst. • Cladosporium derived lipase exhibited good stability at higher temperatures and lower pH. • Purified fungal lipase showed higher biodiesel yield than conventional acid catalyst. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Municipal solid waste in developing countries mainly consists of degradable materials (>70%), which plays a significant role in GHG (Greenhouse gas) emissions in urban localities. The increasing municipal solid waste generation along with the high fraction of organic waste and its unscientific disposal is leading to emission of GHG (methane, CO 2 , etc.) in the atmosphere. Proportion of municipal solid wastes collected by the agencies disposed at identified sites is about 60%, while the balance is disposed-off at unauthorized disposal sites leading to the environmental consequences including greenhouse gas emissions. Mitigation strategy necessitates understanding of composition of waste for its treatment and management in an environmentally sound way. The study revealed that the per capita waste generated is about 91.01± 45.5 g/day with the per capita organic waste generation of 74±35 g/person/day. The household per capita waste generation was positively related with income and education levels, while negatively related with family (household) size. The organic fractions constitute 82% with the strong recovery potential and conversion to energy or compost range. The total organic waste generated is about 231.01 Gg/year and due to mismanagement consequent emissions are about 604.80 Gg/year. Integrated solid waste management strategy is suggested to manage the organic fractions through technology and policy interventions, which helps in mitigating GHG emissions with potential economic benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metals are one among the toxic chemicals and accumulation in sediments and plants has been posing serious health impacts. Wetlands aid as kidneys of the landscape and help in remediation through uptake of nutrients, heavy metals and other contaminants. The analyses of macrophytes and sediment samples help in evaluating pollution status in aquatic environment. In this study concentration of six heavy metals (Cadmium (Cd), Chromium (Cr), Copper (Cu), Nickel (Ni), Lead (Pb) and Zinc (Zn)) were assessed in sediment and dominant macrophyte samples collected from Bellandur Lake, largest Lake of Bangalore, India. Sediment samples reveal of heavy metals in the inlet regions and shore samples. The accumulation of metals in sediments were in the order of Zn > Cu > Cr > Pb > Ni > Cd. All metals exceeded the critical limits of metals in the sediment. Concentration of different metals in the macrophyte samples ranked as: Cr > Cu > Zn > Pb > Ni > Cd. Chromium and Copper were found to be more than critical range. Typha angustata had the higher accumulation of all metals except chromium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy consumption constitutes one of the important sources of carbon dioxide emission which cause global warming. This paper analyses greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions due to energy consumption in the domestic sector considering household activities and socioeconomic parameters. A stratified random survey of 1967 households in Bangalore pertaining to the energy consumption reveals that annual per capita electricity consumption ranges from 9.64 to 2337 kW h/year with an average of 336±267 kW h/year. Emission from most of the wards (66 wards) is about 10–15 Gg/year, while wards in peri-urban areas emit less than 10 Gg/year. Extrapolation of these, show that total carbon dioxide from all wards of Greater Bangalore accounts to 3350 Gg/Year. The energy consumption analyses reveal a proportional increase in the per capita energy consumption with the family income suggesting that economic levels in respective wards is an important parameter in the domestic energy consumption and also GHG emissions. Suggested interventions through large scale penetration of renewable sources of energy and energy conservation would help in reducing greenhouse gases and consequent warming of the Earth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapidly depleting fossil fuel reserves with rising greenhouse gas levels (GHGs) in the atmosphere necessitate exploring alternate sustainable energy options. Biofuels from microalgae are emerging as a viable renewable energy resource owing to their inherent characteristics of higher biomass and lipid yield per hectare compared to other terrestrial bioenergy feedstocks. In this context, the present communication highlights the prospects of microalgal biofuel and other value-added products produced in a decentralized microalgal biorefinery in the flood plains (gazani lands) of the west coast of India. The spatial extent of potential sites for diatom cultivation estimated in three districts along the Indian west coast was 1940 ha. The opportunities for establishing biorefineries using diatoms as renewable bioenergy feedstocks were investigated through species prioritization, seasonal availability, tolerance, and biochemical composition analyses. Nitzschia and Amphora sp. were prioritized for lab-scale productivity studies based on their tolerance and macromolecular composition. When cultivated in a prototype biofilms-based bioreactor designed using gravel stones as substrates, Amphora sp. Yielded 16 times more productivity (0.56 g L−1) than conventional shake flask cultures. Design of a diatom biorefinery and its mass budgeting considering 100 kg dry biomass yielded ∼15–24 kg of biodiesel. Techno-economic assessment of biodiesel with value-added products of glycerol, biogas, and biofertilizer demonstrated a biodiesel production cost of 30.08–59.52 INR/kg of biodiesel. Harvesting cost in a hybrid mode using mechanized scrubbers and manual labour was estimated as 20 INR/kg of biomass. [Display omitted] • Evaluate the potential of diatoms as a source of biofuel with value-added products. • Biochemical composition and feedstock availability assessment across seasons. • Design and implementation of prototype algal reactor. • Economic feasibility assessment and mass budgeting of the diatom biorefinery. • Promising scope for a diatom biorefinery along the Indian central west coast. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concentration of greenhouse gases (GHG) in the atmosphere has been increasing rapidly during the last century due to ever increasing anthropogenic activities resulting in significant increases in the temperature of the Earth causing global warming. Major sources of GHG are forests (due to human induced land cover changes leading to deforestation), power generation (burning of fossil fuels), transportation (burning fossil fuel), agriculture (livestock, farming, rice cultivation and burning of crop residues), water bodies (wetlands), industry and urban activities (building, construction, transport, solid and liquid waste). Aggregation of GHG (CO 2 and non-CO 2 gases), in terms of Carbon dioxide equivalent (CO 2 e), indicate the GHG footprint. GHG footprint is thus a measure of the impact of human activities on the environment in terms of the amount of greenhouse gases produced. This study focuses on accounting of the amount of three important greenhouses gases namely carbon dioxide (CO 2 ), methane (CH 4 ) and nitrous oxide (N 2 O) and thereby developing GHG footprint of the major cities in India. National GHG inventories have been used for quantification of sector-wise greenhouse gas emissions. Country specific emission factors are used where all the emission factors are available. Default emission factors from IPCC guidelines are used when there are no country specific emission factors. Emission of each greenhouse gas is estimated by multiplying fuel consumption by the corresponding emission factor. The current study estimates GHG footprint or GHG emissions (in terms of CO 2 equivalent) for Indian major cities and explores the linkages with the population and GDP. GHG footprint (Aggregation of Carbon dioxide equivalent emissions of GHG’s) of Delhi, Greater Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Greater Bangalore, Hyderabad and Ahmedabad are found to be 38,633.2 Gg, 22,783.08 Gg, 14,812.10 Gg, 22,090.55 Gg, 19,796.5 Gg, 13,734.59 Gg and 91,24.45 Gg CO 2 eq., respectively. The major contributors sectors are transportation sector (contributing 32%, 17.4%, 13.3%, 19.5%, 43.5%, 56.86% and 25%), domestic sector (contributing 30.26%, 37.2%, 42.78%, 39%, 21.6%, 17.05% and 27.9%) and industrial sector (contributing 7.9%, 7.9%, 17.66%, 20.25%, 12.31%, 11.38% and 22.41%) of the total emissions in Delhi, Greater Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Greater Bangalore, Hyderabad and Ahmedabad, respectively. Chennai emits 4.79 t of CO 2 equivalent emissions per capita, the highest among all the cities followed by Kolkata which emits 3.29 t of CO 2 equivalent emissions per capita. Also Chennai emits the highest CO 2 equivalent emissions per GDP (2.55 t CO 2 eq./Lakh Rs.) followed by Greater Bangalore which emits 2.18 t CO 2 eq./Lakh Rs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid and invasive urbanization has been associated with depletion of natural resources (vegetation and water resources), which in turn deteriorates the landscape structure and conditions in the local environment. Rapid increase in population due to the migration from rural areas is one of the critical issues of the urban growth. Urbanisation in India is drastically changing the land cover and often resulting in the sprawl. The sprawl regions often lack basic amenities such as treated water supply, sanitation, etc. This necessitates regular monitoring and understanding of the rate of urban development in order to ensure the sustenance of natural resources .Urban sprawl is the extent of urbanization which leads to the development of urban forms with the destruction of ecology and natural landforms. The rate of change of land use and extent of urban sprawl can be efficiently visualized and modelled with the help of geoinformatics. The knowledge of urban area, especially the growth magnitude, shape geometry, and spatial pattern is essential to understand the growth and characteristics of urbanization process. Urban pattern, shape and growth can be quantified using spatial metrics. This communication quantifies the urbanisation and associated growth pattern in Delhi. Spatial data of four decades were analysed to understand land over and land use dynamics. Further the region was divided into 4 zones and into circles of 1 km incrementing radius to understand and quantify the local spatial changes. Results of the landscape metrics indicate that the urban center was highly aggregated and the outskirts and the buffer regions were in the verge of aggregating urban patches. Shannon's Entropy index clearly depicted the outgrowth of sprawl areas in different zones of Delhi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Rapidly depleting stocks of fossil fuels and increasing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions have necessitated the exploration of cost effective sustainable energy sources focussing on biofuels through algae. Abundant wastewaters generated in urban localities every day provide the nourishment to nurture algae for biofuel generation. The present communication focuses on the lipid prospects of algae grown in wastewater systems. Euglena sp., Spirogyra sp. and Phormidium sp. were collected from selected locations of sewage fed urban lakes and sewage treatment plants of Bangalore and Mysore. The total lipid content of Euglena sp. was higher (24.6%) compared to Spirogyra sp. (18.4%) followed by Phormidium sp. (8.8%) and their annual lipid yield potential was 6.52, 1.94 and 2.856t/ha/year, respectively. These species showed higher content of fatty acids (palmitate, stearate followed by oleic and linoleic acids) with the desirable biofuel properties. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Carbon footprint (CF) refers to the total amount of carbon dioxide and its equivalents emitted due to various anthropogenic activities. Carbon emission and sequestration inventories have been reviewed sector-wise for all federal states in India to identify the sectors and regions responsible for carbon imbalances. This would help in implementing appropriate climate change mitigation and management strategies at disaggregated levels. Major sectors of carbon emissions in India are through electricity generation, transport, domestic energy consumption, industries and agriculture. A majority of carbon storage occurs in forest biomass and soil. This paper focuses on the statewise carbon emissions (CO2, CO and CH4), using region specific emission factors and statewise carbon sequestration capacity. The estimate shows that CO2, CO and CH4 emissions from India are 965.9, 22.5 and 16.9Tg per year, respectively. Electricity generation contributes 35.5% of total CO2 emission, which is followed by the contribution from transport. Vehicular transport exclusively contributes 25.5% of total emission. The analysis shows that Maharashtra emits higher CO2, followed by Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. The carbon status, which is the ratio of annual carbon storage against carbon emission, for each federal state is computed. This shows that small states and union territories (UT) like Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram and Andaman and Nicobar Islands, where carbon sequestration is higher due to good vegetation cover, have carbon status >1. Annually, 7.35% of total carbon emissions get stored either in forest biomass or soil, out of which 34% is in Arunachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Orissa. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Solar hotspots are the regions characterized by an exceptional solar power potential suitable for decentralized commercial exploitation of energy. Identification of solar hotspots in a vast geographical expanse with dense habitations helps to meet escalating power demand in a decentralized, efficient and sustainable manner. This communication focuses on the assessment of resource potential with variability in India derived from high resolution satellite derived insolation data. Data analysis reveals that nearly 58% of the geographical area potentially represent the solar hotspots in the country with more than 5kWh/m2/day of annual average Global insolation. A techno-economic analysis of the solar power technologies and a prospective minimal utilization of the land available within these solar hotspots demonstrate their immense power generation as well as emission reduction potential. The study evaluates the progress made in solar power generation in the country especially with the inception of an ambitious National Solar Mission (NSM) also termed as ‘Solar India’. The organizational aspects of solar power generation with focus on existing policy elements are also addressed so as to probe the actual potential of the identified solar hotspots in meeting the NSM targets and beyond. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Rural population of India constitutes about 70% of the total population and traditional fuels account for 75% of the rural energy needs. Depletion of woodlands coupled with the persistent dependency on fuel wood has posed a serious problem for household energy provision in many parts. This study highlights that the traditional fuels still meet 85–95% of fuel needs in rural areas of Kolar district; people prefer fuel wood for cooking and agriculture residues for water heating and other purposes. However, rapid changes in land cover and land use in recent times have affected these traditional fuels availability necessitating inventorying, mapping and monitoring of bioresources for sustainable management of bioresources. Remote sensing data (Multispectal and Panchromatic), Geographic Information System (GIS), field surveys and non-destructive sampling were used to assess spatially the availability and demand of energy. Field surveys indicate that rural household depends on species such as Prosopis juliflora, Acacia nilotica, Acacia auriculiformis to meet fuel wood requirement for domestic activities. Hence, to take stock of fuel wood availability, mapping was done at species level (with 88% accuracy) considering villages as sampling units using fused multispectral and panchromatic data. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: A decentralized emission inventories are prepared for road transport sector of India in order to design and implement suitable technologies and policies for appropriate mitigation measures. Globalization and liberalization policies of the government in 90''s have increased the number of road vehicles nearly 92.6% from 1980–1981 to 2003–2004. These vehicles mainly consume non-renewable fossil fuels, and are a major contributor of green house gases, particularly CO2 emission. This paper focuses on the statewise road transport emissions (CO2, CH4, CO, NOx, N2O, SO2, PM and HC), using region specific mass emission factors for each type of vehicles. The country level emissions (CO2, CH4, CO, NOx, N2O, SO2 and NMVOC) are calculated for railways, shipping and airway, based on fuel types. In India, transport sector emits an estimated 258.10 Tg of CO2, of which 94.5% was contributed by road transport (2003–2004). Among all the states and Union Territories, Maharashtra''s contribution is the largest, 28.85 Tg (11.8%) of CO2, followed by Tamil Nadu 26.41 Tg (10.8%), Gujarat 23.31 Tg (9.6%), Uttar Pradesh 17.42 Tg (7.1%), Rajasthan 15.17 Tg (6.22%) and, Karnataka 15.09 Tg (6.19%). These six states account for 51.8% of the CO2 emissions from road transport. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The energy planning endeavours for a particular region involves the finding of a set of sources and conversion devices so as to meet the energy requirement/demand of all the tasks in an optimal manner. This optimality depends on the objective to minimise the total annual cost of energy and the dependence on non-local resources or maximise the overall system efficiency. Factors such as availability of resources in the region and task energy requirements impose constraints on the regional energy planning exercise. Thus, regional energy planning turns out to be a constrained optimisation problem. This paper describes an optimum energy allocation using integrated energy planning approaches for Uttara Kannada district and makes a satisfying energy allocation plan for the years 2005, 2010 and 2015. Integrated energy planning gives an optimal mix of new/conventional energy sources and is developed based on decision support systems (DSS) approach. The central theme of the energy planning at decentralised level would be to prepare regional energy plans to meet energy needs and development of alternate energy sources at least- cost to the economy and environment. Regional integrated energy planning (RIEP) mechanism takes into account various available resources and demands in a region. This implies that the assessment of the demand supply and its intervention in the energy system, which may appear desirable due to such exercises, must be at a similar geographic scale. Regional energy planning exercises need to be flexible (to cope with rapidly changing energy systems) and easy to use. The application of DSS is a new approach to this problem. Towards the goal of implementing analytical methods for integrated planning, computerised decision-system provides useful assistance in the analyses of available information, the projection of future conditions, and the evaluation of alternative scenarios. Some of the features of DSS found particularly useful in regional energy planning are: (i) flexible structure—allows appropriate feasible levels of disaggregation, (ii) integrated nature—promotes a better overall understanding of many processes and concepts involved in planning, allowing planners to concentrate on specific energy subsectors, and (iii) iterative nature and easy scenario testing features—provide guidance in optimising data collection activities. Regional integrated energy plan (RIEP) is a computer-assisted accounting and simulation tool being developed to assist policy makers and planners at district and state level in evaluating energy policies and develop ecologically sound, sustainable energy plans. Energy availability and demand situation are projected for various scenarios (base case scenario, high-energy intensity, and transformation, state-growth scenarios) in order to get a glimpse of future patterns and assess the likely impacts of energy policies. The application of DSS for Uttara Kananda district energy planning focuses on renewable resources that could be harnessed for energy, land use database, sectorwise energy demand database and optimal allocation of energy resources for various tasks, and then explore the energy use consequences of alternative scenarios, such as, base case scenarios, high-energy intensity and improved end use efficiency options. Linear programming formulation for optimum allocation based on the cost minimisation objective shows that there is substantial savings of about 19.19% in energy and 36.24% cost reduction in overall energy system. Cost per unit (kWh) of energy with optimal allocation of energy is Rs. 0.31/kWh (as against Rs. 0.39/kWh without optimisation). Optimisation carried out with the objective of maximisation of efficiency of ‘ijk’ combination for all combinations shows energy saving of 19.98% and cost of energy as Rs. 0.34/kWh. The scenario analyses reveal that relatively vigorous growth in energy demand in Uttara Kannada district can be accomplished without exceeding available resources. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Examined biodiesel and bioactive compounds in diatoms under various trophic modes. • Among trophic modes, the highest biomass (139 ± 3 mg/L) was in mixotrophic diatoms. • Scanning electron microscopy reveals higher C (~48%) in mixotrophic cultivation. • Higher proportions of palmitoleic acid (~18–29%) and oleic acid (~26–35%). • Superior biodiesel quality with saturates and mono-unsaturates (C16–C18) up to 90%. The isolated diatom Nitzschia punctata was subjected to different trophic modes - autotrophy, heterotrophy, and mixotrophy and evaluated variations in growth rate, morphology, biochemical composition, and fatty acid profiles of diatoms in response to different nutritional modes. Glucose was used as a nutrient source in hetero and mixotrophic cultivation. Significant morphological variations in mucilage (jelly) stalks were found in hetero- and mixotrophically grown diatoms. The biomass yield was highest in mixotrophic diatoms (139.16 ± 3 mg/L), followed by autotrophic (127.04 ± 4 mg/L) and heterotrophically grown diatoms (95.22 ± 3 mg/L). Confocal microscopy studies using Nile red revealed significant bright yellow-gold fluorescence dispersed intermittently along with the mucilage stalks of mixotrophic and heterotrophic diatom cultures. Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR) spectroscopic studies showed a sharp absorption peak in hetero- and mixotrophic cultures at 1741 cm-1, indicating the presence of esters of fatty acids (R-C(O)-O-R). Elemental composition analysis using scanning electron microscopy revealed higher C (~48%) in mixotrophic cultivation. Fatty acid methyl esters (FAME) assessment through Gas chromatography and mass spectroscopy (GC–MS) showed higher proportions of palmitoleic acid (C16:1; ~18 – 29%) and oleic acid (C18:1; ~26 – 35%) with saturates and monounsaturates of C16 – C18 up to 90%, confirming of superior biodiesel quality property, which is desirable. The presence of Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) in hetero- and mixotrophic cultivation proves the scope for its potential utilisation as a source of bioactive compounds for industrial application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bangalore is one of the fastest growing cities in India and is branded as ‘Silicon Valley of India’ for heralding and spearheading the growth of Information Technology (IT) based industries in the country. With the advent and growth of IT industry, as well as numerous industries in other sectors and the onset of economic liberalisation since the early 1990s, Bangalore has taken lead in service-based industries fuelling substantial growth of the city both economically and spatially. Bangalore has become a cosmopolitan city attracting people and business alike, within and across nations. This profile notes the urban setting and provides an overview of the urban fabric, while discussing various prospects related to infrastructure and governance. This paper also outlines the challenges in planning to ensure better delivery of basic services across the city. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: An energy resource that is renewed by nature and whose supply is not affected by the rate of consumption is often termed as renewable energy. The need to search for renewable, alternate and non-polluting sources of energy assumes top priority for self-reliance in the regional energy supply. This demands an estimation of available energy resources spatially to evolve better management strategies for ensuring sustainability of resources. The spatial mapping of availability and demand of energy resources would help in the integrated regional energy planning through an appropriate energy supply–demand matching. This paper discusses the application of Geographical Information System (GIS) to map the renewable energy potential talukwise in Karnataka State, India. Taluk is an administrative division in the federal set-up in India to implement developmental programmes like dissemination of biogas, improved stoves, etc. Hence, this paper focuses talukwise mapping of renewable energy (solar, wind, bioenergy and small hydroenergy) potential for Karnataka using GIS. GIS helps in spatial and temporal analyses of the resources and demand and also aids as Decision Support System while implementing location-specific renewable energy technologies. Regions suitable for tapping solar energy are mapped based on global solar radiation data, which provides a picture of the potential. Coastal taluks in Uttara Kannada have higher global solar radiation during summer (6.31kWh/m2), monsoon (4.16kWh/m2) and winter (5.48kWh/m2). Mapping of regions suitable for tapping wind energy has been done based on wind velocity data, and it shows that Chikkodi taluk, Belgaum district, has higher potential during summer (6.06m/s), monsoon (8.27m/s) and winter (5.19m/s). Mysore district has the maximum number of small hydropower plants with a capacity of 36MW. Talukwise computation of bioenergy availability from agricultural residue, forest, horticulture, plantation and livestock indicates that Channagiri taluk in Shimoga district yields maximum bioenergy. The bioenergy status analysis shows that Siddapur taluk in Uttara Kannada district has the highest bioenergy status of 2.004 (ratio of bioresource availability and demand). [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Energy plays a prominent role in human society. As a result of technological and industrial developments, the demand for energy is rapidly increasing. Existing power sources that are mainly fossil fuel based are leaving an unacceptable legacy of waste and pollution apart from diminishing stock of fuels. Hence, the focus is now shifted to large-scale propagation of renewable energy. Renewable energy technologies are clean sources of energy that have a much lower environmental impact than conventional energy technologies. Solar energy is one such renewable energy. Most renewable energy comes either directly or indirectly from the sun. Estimation of solar energy potential of a region requires detailed solar radiation climatology, and it is necessary to collect extensive radiation data of high accuracy covering all climatic zones of the region. In this regard, a decision support system (DSS) would help to estimate solar energy potential considering the regions’ energy requirement. This article explains the design and implementation of DSS for assessment of solar energy. The DSS with executive information systems and reporting tools helps to tap vast data resources and deliver information. The main hypothesis is that this tool can be used to form a core of practical methodology that is resilient and can be used by decision-making bodies to assess various scenarios. It also offers means of entering, accessing and interpreting the information for the purpose of sound decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Increasing negative effects of fossil fuel combustion on the environment in addition to limited stock have forced many countries to explore and change to environmentally friendly alternatives that are renewable to sustain the increasing energy demand. Changing to renewable sources and implementation of effective conservation measures would ensure sustainability. Currently, wind energy is one of the fastest developing renewable energy source technologies across the globe. Wind energy is an alternative clean energy source compared to fossil fuel, which pollute the lower layer of the atmosphere. It has the advantage of being harnessed on a local basis for application in rural and remote areas. In order to tap the potential of wind energy sources, there is a need to assess the availability of the resources spatially. Mapping potential sites for tapping wind energy in Karnataka (a federal State in India) is the focus of this study. The study employs the geographical information system (GIS) to map the wind energy resources of Karnataka state and analyse their variability considering spatial and seasonal aspects. Considering these, the present status of the potential is assessed and maps of locations suitable for tapping wind energy have been prepared. A spatial data base with data of wind velocities has been developed and used for evaluation of the theoretical potential through continuous monitoring and mapping of the wind resources. The study shows that the average wind velocity in Karnataka varies from 0.85m/s in Bagalkote to 8.28m/s in Chikkodi during the monsoon season. Chikkodi, in Belgaum district, has high wind velocity during the period May to September with a peak value of 9.18m/s in July. Agroclimatic zone wise analysis shows that the northern dry zone and the central dry zone are ideally suited for harvesting wind energy for regional economic development. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Urban sprawl refers to the extent of urbanisation, which is a global phenomenon mainly driven by population growth and large scale migration. In developing countries like India, where the population is over one billion, one-sixth of the world’s population, urban sprawl is taking its toll on the natural resources at an alarming pace. Urban planners require information related to the rate of growth, pattern and extent of sprawl to provide basic amenities such as water, sanitation, electricity, etc. In the absence of such information, most of the sprawl areas lack basic infrastructure facilities. Pattern and extent of sprawl could be modelled with the help of spatial and temporal data. GIS and remote sensing data along with collateral data help in analysing the growth, pattern and extent of sprawl. With the spatial and temporal analyses along with modelling it was possible to identify the pattern of sprawl and subsequently predict the nature of future sprawl. This paper brings out the extent of sprawl taking place over a period of nearly three decades using GIS and Remote Sensing. The study also attempts to describe some of the landscape metrics required for quantifying sprawl. For understanding and modelling this dynamic phenomenon, prominent causative factors are considered. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Energy is a vital component of any society playing a pivotal role in the development. Post oil crises shifted the focus of energy planners towards renewable resources and energy conservation. Biomass is one such renewable, which accounts for nearly 33% of a developing country’s energy needs. In India, it meets about 75% of the rural energy needs. In Karnataka, non-commercial energy sources like firewood, agricultural residues, charcoal and cow dung account for 53.2%. The energy released by the reaction of organic carbon (of bioresources) with oxygen is referred to as bioenergy. Bioresource availability is highly diversified and it depends on the region’s agroclimatic conditions. Inventorying of these resources is required for describing the quality, quantity, change, productivity, condition of bioresources and requirement in a given area. The present study assesses bioresource status across the agroclimatic zones of Karnataka, considering the bioenergy availability (from agriculture, horticulture, forests and plantations) and sector-wise energy demand (domestic, agriculture, industry, etc.).Bioresource availability is computed based on the compilation of data on the area and productivity of agriculture and horticulture crops, forests and plantations. Sector-wise energy demand is computed based on the National Sample Survey Organisation (NSSO study) data, primary survey data and from the literature. Using the data of bioresource availability and demand, bioresource status is computed for all the agroclimatic zones. The ratio of bioresource availability to demand gives the bioresource status. The ratio greater than one indicates bioresource surplus zones, while a ratio less than one indicates scarcity.The study reveals that the central dry zone (1.4), the hilly zone (3.79), the southern transition zone (3.12) and the coastal zone (3.40) are bioresource surplus zones, whereas the northeastern transition zone (0.48), northeastern dry zone (0.23), northern dry zone (0.58), eastern dry zone (0.39), southern dry zone (0.93) and northern transition zone (0.45) come under bioresource-deficient zones. Among the bioresource surplus zones, horticulture residues contribute significantly towards bioenergy in the central dry zone, southern transition zone and the coastal zone, while in the hilly zone the main contributor of bioenergy are agricultural residues. Amidst the bioresource-deficient zones, agriculture is the major contributor of bioenergy in the northeastern transition zone (52%), northern dry zone (59%), and northern transition zone. Based on the bioenergy status of the zones and land use pattern, feasible management and technical options have been discussed, which help in optimising the available bioenergy and in building a sustainable energy society. This study also explores various programmes that can be initiated and implemented like social, community and joint forest management involving public participation. Such schemes will lessen the burden on the existing resources and also help the rural masses to procure biomass on a sustained basis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Burgeoning dependence on fossil fuels for transport and industrial sectors has been posing challenges such as depletion of fossil fuel reserves, enhanced greenhouse gas (GHG) footprint, with the imminent changes in the climate, etc. This has necessitated an exploration of sustainable, eco-friendly and carbon neutral energy alternatives. Recent studies on biofuels indicate that algal biomass, particularly from marine macroalgae (seaweeds) have the potential to supplement oil fuel. Marine macroalgae are fast growing and carbohydrate rich biomass having advantage over other biofuel feedstock in terms of land dependence, freshwater requirements, not competing with food crops, which were the inherent drawback of the first- and second-generation feedstock. The present communication reviews the macroalgal feedstock availability, screening and selection of viable feedstock based on the biochemical composition, process involved, scope and opportunities in bioethanol production as well as technology interventions. The prospect of bioethanol production from algal feedstock of Central West Coast of India has been evaluated taking into account challenges (feedstock sustenance, technical feasibility, economic viability) in order to achieve energy sustainability. The green algae exhibited growth during all seasons and highest total carbohydrate was recorded from green seaweed Ulva lactuca (62.15 ± 12.8%). Elemental (CHN) analyses of seaweed samples indicate 25.31–37.95% of carbon, 4.52–6.48% hydrogen and 1.88–4.36% Nitrogen. Highest carbon, hydrogen and nitrogen content were recorded respectively from G.pusillum (C: 37.95%), G.pusillum (H: 6.48%) and E.intestinalis (N: 4.36%). Green seaweeds are rich in cellulose content (>10%) compared to other seaweeds (2–10%). Higher cellulose content was estimated in U.lactuca (14.03 ± 0.14%), followed by E.intestinalis (12.10 ± 0.53%) and C.media (10.53 ± 0.17%). Cellulose is a glucan present in green seaweeds, which can easily be hydrolysed through enzyme and subsequently fermented to produce bioethanol. Lower sugar removal in acid hydrolysate neutralization process (Na 2 CO 3) was recorded in U.lactuca (39.8%) and E.intestinalis (14.7%). Highest ethanol yield of 1.63 g and 0.49 g achieving 25.8% and 77.4% efficiency in SHF (Separate Hydrolysis and Fermentation) and SSF (Simultaneous Saccharification and Fermentation) process respectively was recorded for green alga E. intestinalis. Image 1 • Reviews the macroalgal feedstock availability, screening of viable feedstock based on the biochemical composition and process. • Scope and opportunities in bioethanol production as well as technology interventions. • Evaluated algal bioethanol prospects considering feedstock sustenance, technical feasibility, economic viability with energy sustainability. • Prioritization of potential macroalgal feedstock for bioethanol production based on biochemical composition. • The green algae exhibited growth in all the season and highest total carbohydrate in Ulva lactuca (62.15 ± 12.8%). • Highest ethanol yield of 1.63 g and 0.49 g achieving 25.8% and 77.4% efficiency in SHF and SSF process respectively was recorded for green alga E. intestinalis. • Potential sites identified in estuary for large scale algal cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sedimentation involving the process of silt transport also carries nutrients from upstream to downstream of a river/stream. Sand being one of the important fraction of these sediments is extracted in order to cater infrastructural/housing needs in the region. This communication is based on field research in the Aghanshini river basin, west coast of India. Silt yield in the river basin and the sedimentation rate assessed using empirical techniques supplemented with field quantifications using soundings (SONAR), show the sediment yield of 1105–1367 kilo cum per year and deposition of sediment of 61 (2016) to 71 (2015) cm. Quantifications of extractions at five locations, reveal of over exploitation of sand to an extent of 30% with damages to the breeding ground of fishes, reduced productivity of bivalves, etc., which has affected dependent people's livelihood. This study provides vital insights towards sustainable sand harvesting through stringent management practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forest ecosystems sustain biota on the earth as they are habitat to diverse biotic species, arrests soil erosion, play a crucial role in water cycle, sequester carbon, and helps in mitigating the impacts of global warming. Large scale land use land cover (LULC) change leading to deforestation is one of the drivers of global climate changes and alteration of biogeochemical cycles with significant consequences in ecosystem services and biodiversity. This has necessitated the investigation of LULC by mapping, monitoring and modelling spatio-temporal patterns and evaluating these in the context of human-environment interactions. The current work investigates LULC changes with temperature dynamics of select protected areas in Western Ghats. The land use analyses reveal changes in the forest cover across Kudremukh National Park (KNP), Rajiv Gandhi Tiger Reserve (RTR), Bandipur Tiger Reserve (BTR). KNP region has lost evergreen forest cover during 1973–2016 from 33.46 to 27.22%, while BTR lost deciduous cover from 61.69 to 47.3% due to mining, horticulture plantations, human habitations, etc. The LST increase has impacted regeneration of species with the induced water stress, etc. CA-Markov modelling was used for forecasting the likely land uses in 2026 and validation was done through Kappa indices. Results highlight decline of evergreen cover in KNP (9%) and deciduous cover in RTR (2%) followed by BTR (3%) with further expansion of plantations, which will impact biodiversity, hydrology and ecology. Insights of LULC dynamics help natural resource managers in evolving appropriate strategies to ensure conservation of threatened biota in Western Ghats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wetlands play a major role in the recharge of groundwater resources, maintenance of water quality (remediation), moderate microclimate while supporting local livelihood through provision of fish, fodder, etc. The present study aims to investigate algal-bacterial consortium as a function of residence time with the water quality dynamics in two major wetlands in Bangalore city, India. Over thirty-two genera of algae were recorded with more than 40 species in the lakes and two dominant bacterial assemblages. The higher Ammonium-N content favoured the growth of these members. Significant correlation was observed between the nutrient concentrations and the community structure at the inflows and the outflows. The algal community showed negative correlation to filterable COD and high nutrients levels while bacterial abundance was observed under high loadings. The green algae Chlorophyceae ( Chlorella blooms), which are indicators of nutrient enrichment were observed predominantly, that needs an immediate attention. Higher overall treatment efficiency was observed in terms of CNP removal during the Pre-monsoon season attributed to absence of macrophytes cover and rapid growth of algal assemblage's due to higher temperature regimes with adequate solar insolation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fermentation characteristics of six specific types of the organic fraction of municipal solid waste (OFMSW) were examined, with an emphasis on properties that are needed when designing plug-flow type anaerobic bioreactors. More specifically, the decomposition patterns of a vegetable (cabbage), fruits (banana and citrus peels), fresh leaf litter of bamboo and teak leaves, and paper (newsprint) waste streams as feedstocks were studied. Individual OFMSW components were placed into nylon mesh bags and subjected to various fermentation periods (solids retention time, SRT) within the inlet of a functioning plug-flow biogas fermentor. These were removed at periodic intervals, and their composition was analyzed to monitor decomposition rates and changes in chemical composition. Components like cabbage waste, banana peels, and orange peels fermented rapidly both in a plug-flow biogas reactor (PFBR) as well as under a biological methane potential (BMP) assay, while other OFMSW components (leaf litter from bamboo and teak leaves and newsprint) fermented slowly with poor process stability and moderate biodegradation. For fruit and vegetable wastes (FVW), a rapid and efficient removal of pectins is the main cause of rapid disintegration of these feedstocks, which left behind very little compost forming residues (2–5%). Teak and bamboo leaves and newsprint decomposed only to 25–50% in 30d. These results confirm the potential for volatile fatty acids accumulation in a PFBR’s inlet and suggest a modification of the inlet zone or operation of a PFBR with the above feedstocks. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Strong potential exists in India for bioelectricity (biomass-derived electricity) to meet the rising, domestic demand for energy. In order to fill the anticipated need, precise assessments of the resource potential are necessary as well as regularly-tracked resource inventories and apt policy. Studies addressing these aspects of energy management are limited for India, particularly in terms of energy planning at the local level. The current research evaluates the prospects for bagasse co-generation in Uttar Pradesh, the largest sugarcane-producing state in India. Specifically, the geo-spatial pattern of bagasse harvestable distributions and bioelectricity potential are assessed, along with policies and market mobilization directions for optimizing increased adoption of biomass energy. Results show that Uttar Pradesh has the potential to produce 27.05 million tonnes of usable bagasse annually. Major, sugarcane producing regions are identified within the western and north-eastern agro-climatic zones. Specific to power generation, the state could produce 1.93 GW of bioelectricity from sugarcane bagasse. At the agro-climatic zone level, the bioelectricity potential varies between 2.46 MW (Vindhyan zone) and 655 MW (western plain zone). When considered at the district level, the potential varies from 66 kW in Firozabad to an upper bound of 232 MW in Muzaffarnagar. The latter estimate indicates that some districts of Uttar Pradesh could be transitioned to 100% renewable electricity from bagasse co-generation. In conjunction with the ongoing growth path for India and energy access considerations, we recommend more strategically-focused energy policies, including auctions, regular resource-mapping, and zoning that can catalyze biomass energy adoption, while mitigating the greenhouse gas footprint of India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid growth, population concentration and the expansion of urban areas towards peri-urban regions have led to changes in urban structure and composition, and consequently changes in urban ecology. The purpose of this study is to estimate trees in the urban environment through quantification of vegetation cover using multi resolution spatial data supplemented with tree data acquired from field using pre-calibrated GPS. Optimal resolution for extracting trees was attained through fusion of multi resolution (spectral and spatial) data. Results highlight region with spatial extent of 741 sq. km with 9.5 million human population has about 1.48 million trees. Further, urban growth increment is expected to cover 95% of the landscape with paved surfaces by 2020 decreasing vegetation cover while severely affecting the local ecology and environment in addition to human survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainability of a bioenergy project depends on precise assessment of biomass resource, planning of cost-effective logistics and evaluation of possible environmental implications. In this context, this paper reviews the role and applications of geo-spatial tool such as Geographical Information System (GIS) for precise agro-residue resource assessment, biomass logistic and power plant design. Further, application of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) in understanding the potential impact of agro-residue bioenergy generation on different ecosystem services has also been reviewed and limitations associated with LCA variability and uncertainty were discussed. Usefulness of integration of GIS into LCA (i.e. spatial LCA) to overcome the limitations of conventional LCA and to produce a holistic evaluation of the environmental benefits and concerns of bioenergy is also reviewed. Application of GIS, LCA and spatial LCA can help alleviate the challenges faced by ambitious bioenergy projects by addressing both economics and environmental goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Variable Endmember Constrained Least Square (VECLS) technique is proposed to account endmember variability in the linear mixture model by incorporating the variance for each class, the signals of which varies from pixel to pixel due to change in urban land cover (LC) structures. VECLS is first tested with a computer simulated three class endmember considering four bands having small, medium and large variability with three different spatial resolutions. The technique is next validated with real datasets of IKONOS, Landsat ETM+ and MODIS. The results show that correlation between actual and estimated proportion is higher by an average of 0.25 for the artificial datasets compared to a situation where variability is not considered. With IKONOS, Landsat ETM+ and MODIS data, the average correlation increased by 0.15 for 2 and 3 classes and by 0.19 for 4 classes, when compared to single endmember per class. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Examines large-scale episodal mortality among freshwater fishes in lakes in Bangalore, India. Information on the hydrobiological characteristics of the Sankey Lake in Bangalore; Description of cage culture activities common around the lakes; Problems faced concerning pollution from heavy washing of clothes and domestic sewage.