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For resource utilization of hazardous waste, plasma gasification is considered as a promising technology for sustainable utilization of hazardous waste (HW). In this work, the inlet temperature is set at 400K and the inlet velocity is set at 15 m/s.The Eulerian model is used to numerically simulate the temperature and velocity fields, as well as the distribution of product components (CO, CO2, H2O, H2) in the plasma gassistor under specific conditions. Ansys Fluent software was used to carry out three-dimensional simulation of different material entrances and plasma flares with different injection directions, and to carry out the optimization design of plasma gasification furnace structure. The best structure form was selected by comparing and analyzing the optimized working conditions. The results show that the internal combustion condition is the best when the material inlet is in the side tangential direction and the plasma flare is in the horizontal Angle of 23°. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study focuses on the legal regulation of hazardous waste management as a special category of waste. The author examines the state of legal regulation of hazardous waste management in Ukraine from a historical perspective, focusing on the achievements and problems of the current legislation on hazardous waste management related to new challenges, primarily the Russian military aggression against Ukraine and the emergence of a large amount of hazardous waste of a new quality. The study examines in detail the evolution of national legislation in the field of waste management, starting with the adoption of the Law of Ukraine "On Waste" in 1998 and ending with the enactment of the new Law of Ukraine "On Waste Management" in 2022. The author notes the positive aspects of the 1998 Law, which for the first time established the basic principles and mechanisms of waste management, defined key terms, regulated the activities of waste collection, transportation, treatment and disposal, and the division of powers between executive authorities and local self-government bodies. However, over time, this law proved to be ineffective due to outdated approaches, lack of integration with European standards, insufficient regulation of hazardous waste and lack of incentives for recycling and reuse. The new legislation, adopted in 2022, introduces a number of innovative approaches, including a waste management hierarchy based on the principles of preventing waste generation, promoting its reuse, recovery or disposal. An important change is the introduction of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), which obliges manufacturers to take responsibility for the entire life cycle of their products, including waste management. The new law also stimulates the creation of a modern waste management infrastructure, including the development of recycling facilities and waste collection systems, and introduces an integrated information system for accounting and reporting in this area. Based on the analysis, the author concludes that it is necessary to improve the current legislation on hazardous waste management, taking into account the current problems associated with the new conditions of its management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global economic growth and population expansion contribute to heightened solid waste production, creating environmental challenges. Sustainable waste management, notably incineration, is crucial for volume reduction, energy recovery, and resource utilization. The escalating reliance on waste incineration underlines the critical necessity for detailed waste characterization. Our study focuses on industrial and hazardous incineration residues (IHWA) and provides essential insights into their mineral and chemical composition employing various analytical techniques, including sieve analyses, laser diffraction, X-ray powder diffraction, FT-IR spectroscopy, SEM-EDS, and leaching behavior, thus contributing to filling a gap in the current knowledge. The majority of IHWA particles (41%) were smaller than 500 μm, with a significant portion (34%) in the 200–400 μm range, which increases their leaching potential. Toxic elements, including Cr, Cu, and Zn, were detected at elevated levels, with Zn concentrations exceeding EU soil limits by over 250 times, what underscore environmental risks and demand proper waste treatment. The complexity of mineral composition and bonds within the sample indicates the necessity for a thorough environmental assessment to understand the potential impacts on the ecosystem. Sequential extraction revealed that Zn (90.32%), Cd (64.22%), and Hg were predominantly found in the mobile fractions, indicating a high potential for leaching and environmental hazards. In contrast, elements like Cu, Cr, and Pb were primarily associated with immobile fractions. Mineral phases such as calcite and halite dissolved during the first extraction step, while other crystalline phases, including quartz and magnetite, remained stable throughout the process. The stability of other mineral phases in all results and the low leaching potential of elements in IHWA indicate that some mineral phases could suppress the leaching efficiency of elements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: A direct correlation exists between waste disposal, disease spread and public health. This article systematically reviewed healthcare waste and its implication for public health. This review identified and described the associations and impact of waste disposal on public health. Design/methodology/approach: This paper systematically reviewed the literature on waste disposal and its implications for public health by searching Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA), PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and ScienceDirect databases. Of a total of 1,583 studies, 59 articles were selected and reviewed. Findings: The review revealed the spread of infectious diseases and environmental degradation as the most typical implications of improper waste disposal to public health. The impact of waste includes infectious diseases such as cholera, Hepatitis B, respiratory problems, food and metal poisoning, skin infections, and bacteremia, and environmental degradation such as land, water, and air pollution, flooding, drainage obstruction, climate change, and harm to marine and wildlife. Research limitations/implications: Infectious diseases such as cholera, hepatitis B, respiratory problems, food and metal poisoning, skin infections, bacteremia and environmental degradation such as land, water, and air pollution, flooding, drainage obstruction, climate change, and harm to marine and wildlife are some of the public impacts of improper waste disposal. Originality/value: Healthcare industry waste is a significant waste that can harm the environment and public health if not properly collected, stored, treated, managed and disposed of. There is a need for knowledge and skills applicable to proper healthcare waste disposal and management. Policies must be developed to implement appropriate waste management to prevent public health threats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gold mining, even under strict environmental regulations, inevitably causes environmental impacts and liabilities. To address this, the study proposes a framework for environmental zoning around gold mines based on the distribution of potentially toxic elements (PTEs), pollution indices, and bioindicators. Soil samples were collected from municipalities affected by gold mining projects, and concentrations of As, Cd, Pb, and Cr were measured. Then, the Pollution Load Index (PLI) was calculated. A plant model was used for the biomonitoring of PTEs, and the Plant Vigor Index (PVI) was determined. Finally, environmental zoning was proposed through geospatial analysis combining PTEs, PLI, and PVI values. The concentrations of PTEs were as follows: As ranged from 1.7 to 892, Cd from 0.1 to 65.2, Pb from 18.5 to 2345, and Cr from 5.4 to 118.4. Spearman's rank correlation showed significant relations (ρ > 0.76) between bioindicators and PTE concentrations and PLI. The PVI correlated significantly with PTE concentrations (ρ − 0.41 to − 0.67) and PLI (ρ − 0.65). The municipalities were categorized into three zones: highly contaminated, moderately contaminated, and minimally contaminated. Overall, the environmental zoning maps serve as a management tool for environmental monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Global economic growth and population expansion contribute to heightened solid waste production, creating environmental challenges. Sustainable waste management, notably incineration, is crucial for volume reduction, energy recovery, and resource utilization. The escalating reliance on waste incineration underlines the critical necessity for detailed waste characterization. Our study focuses on industrial and hazardous incineration residues (IHWA) and provides essential insights into their mineral and chemical composition employing various analytical techniques, including sieve analyses, laser diffraction, X-ray powder diffraction, FT-IR spectroscopy, SEM-EDS, and leaching behavior, thus contributing to filling a gap in the current knowledge. The majority of IHWA particles (41%) were smaller than 500 μm, with a significant portion (34%) in the 200–400 μm range, which increases their leaching potential. Toxic elements, including Cr, Cu, and Zn, were detected at elevated levels, with Zn concentrations exceeding EU soil limits by over 250 times, what underscore environmental risks and demand proper waste treatment. The complexity of mineral composition and bonds within the sample indicates the necessity for a thorough environmental assessment to understand the potential impacts on the ecosystem. Sequential extraction revealed that Zn (90.32%), Cd (64.22%), and Hg were predominantly found in the mobile fractions, indicating a high potential for leaching and environmental hazards. In contrast, elements like Cu, Cr, and Pb were primarily associated with immobile fractions. Mineral phases such as calcite and halite dissolved during the first extraction step, while other crystalline phases, including quartz and magnetite, remained stable throughout the process. The stability of other mineral phases in all results and the low leaching potential of elements in IHWA indicate that some mineral phases could suppress the leaching efficiency of elements.

• 15 pesticide active substances were measured in waste plastic pesticide containers. • Triple rinsing (TR) removed 68.3% to 99.9% of the residual active substances (AS) • The sorbed AS on the containers ranged from 3% to 97% of the total residual content. • Contents after rinsing were statistically similar to unrinsed contents for 8 AS. • Triple rinsing is not always successful to render a WPPC non-hazardous waste. After pesticide application onto crops, waste plastic pesticide containers (WPPC) may still contain residual active substances (AS) that are typically hazardous. Specific limits exist per pesticide active substance to classify WPPC as hazardous or non-hazardous wastes. The most frequent limit is 0.1% w/w (mass of active substance per mass of as received container). Triple rinsing is a widely used management technique to decontaminate WPPC and determine their downstream management. However, its efficiency needs to be evaluated for new types of pesticides. The goal of the work was to measure the residual contents of 15 new pesticide AS, widely used all over the world, before and after triple rinsing using 56 WPPC. In addition, the contents of pesticide AS sorbed onto the plastic containers are analyzed for the first time. Results show that all unrinsed WPPC had residual AS contents above the hazard limits except for four AS. Triple rinsing removed from 68.3% (minimum) to 99.9% (maximum) of the liquid contents of 15 active substances. However, due to high variances of the AS contents after triple rinsing, mean values before and after rinsing were statistically equal for 8 out of 14 AS. The sorbed AS contents ranged from 3% to 97% of the total AS content. Only Azoxystrobin's total content (i.e. the sum of liquid and sorbed phases) slightly exceeded the hazard limit of 0.1% w/w. Conclusively, triple rinsing may not always lead to AS content reductions below hazard limits. The sorbed contents should be considered to check legal compliances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRAK Energi, terutama dalam bentuk listrik merupakan salah satu kebutuhan esensial bagi manusia. Untuk memproduksi listrik dibutuhkan berbagai macam proses, termasuk melalui kombinasi pembangkitan tenaga gas dan uap. Dalam proses produksi, suatu Pembangkit Listik Tenaga Gas dan Uap (PLTGU) menghasilkan berbagai macam jenis limbah, diantaranya yang terkategori sebagai limbah Bahan Berbahaya dan Beracun (B3). Studi ini bertujuan untuk mengidentifikasi sumber timbulan dan mengevaluasi pengelolaan limbah B3 di suatu PLTGU di Kota Palembang, Sumatera Selatan. Metode yang digunakan berupa observasi detail dan analisis kepatuhan pengelolaan limbah B3 berdasarkan peraturan perundangan yang berlaku. Selama masa observasi, limbah B3 yang dihasilkan berupa minyak pelumas bekas atau oli bekas, sludge oil, kain majun bekas, kemasan bekas B3, filter bekas dari fasilitas pengendalian pencemaran udara, limbah terkontaminasi, sludge IPAL, dan limbah kimia hasil analisis laboratorium. Secara umum, PLTGU tersebut telah melakukan pengelolaan limbah B3 dengan memadai, terutama di tahapan pelabelan, pengemasan, dan penyimpanan. Pengangkutan dan pengolahan limbah B3 dikerjasamakan dengan pihak ketiga yang telah memiliki izin terkait. Pengelolaan limbah B3 di suatu industri menjadi penting agar tidak menimbulkan dampak negatif ke lingkungan dan kesehatan manusia. Kata kunci: evaluasi, limbah B3, pengelolaan, PLTGU ABSTRACT Energy especially in form of electricity is one of essential needs for human. To produce electricity, various processes are needed, including a combination of gas and steam power generation. In the production process, a Combined Cycle Gas-Fired Power Plant (CCGP) generates various type of wastes, including those categorized as Hazardous and Toxic Waste. The study aims to identify sources and to evaluate the hazardous waste management at a gas and steam power plant located in Palembang City, South Sumatra. The method used was detailed observation and analysis of hazardous and toxic waste management compliance based on applicable laws and regulations. During observation period, hazardous and toxic waste generated including used lubricating oil or used oil, sludge oil, used cloth, used hazardous and toxic packaging, used filters from air pollution control facilities, contaminated waste, sludge WWTP, and chemical waste resulting from laboratory analysis. In general, the gas and steam power plant has managed hazardous and toxic waste adequately, especially in the labeling, packaging and storage stages. Transporting and processing of hazardous and toxic waste was carried out in collaboration with third parties who have the relevant permits. Hazardous and toxic waste management in an industry is important so that it does not cause negative impacts to the environment and human health. Keywords: evaluation, CCGP, hazardous waste, management

With the soaring generation of hazardous waste (HW) during industrialization and urbanization, HW illegal dumping continues to be an intractable global issue. Particularly in developing regions with lax regulations, it has become a major source of soil and groundwater contamination. One dominant challenge for HW illegal dumping supervision is the invisibility of dumping sites, which makes HW illegal dumping difficult to be found, thereby causing a long-term adverse impact on the environment. How to utilize the limited historic supervision records to screen the potential dumping sites in the whole region is a key challenge to be addressed. In this study, a novel machine learning model based on the positive-unlabeled (PU) learning algorithm was proposed to resolve this problem through the ensemble method which could iteratively mine the features of limited historic cases. Validation of the random forest-based PU model showed that the predicted top 30% of high-risk areas could cover 68.1% of newly reported cases in the studied region, indicating the reliability of the model prediction. This novel framework will also be promising in other environmental management scenarios to deal with numerous unknown samples based on limited prior experience.

In recent years, the demand for natural and synthetic zeolites has surged due to their distinctive properties and myriad industrial applications. This research aims to synthesise crystalline zeolites by co-recycling two industrial wastes: salt slag (SS) and rice husk ash (RHA). Salt slag, a problematic by-product of secondary aluminium smelting, is classified as hazardous waste due to its reactive and leachable nature, though it is rich in aluminium. Conversely, RHA, an abundant and cost-effective by-product of the agro-food sector, boasts a high silicon content. These wastes were utilised as aluminium and silicon sources for synthesising various zeolites. This study examined the effects of temperature, ageing time, and sodium concentration on the formation of different zeolite phases and their crystallinity. Results indicated that increased Na+ concentration favoured sodalite (SOD) zeolite formation, whereas Linde type–A (LTA) zeolite formation was promoted at higher temperatures and extended ageing times. The formation range of the different zeolites was defined and supported by crystallographic, microstructural, and morphological analyses. Additionally, the thermal behaviour of the zeolites was investigated. This work underscores the potential to transform industrial waste, including hazardous materials like salt slag, into sustainable, high-value materials, fostering efficient waste co-recycling and promoting clean, sustainable industrial production through cross-sectoral industrial symbiosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid development of medical care innovations and the use of newer technologies have resulted in a significant rise in the quantity of waste produced per patient within health care facilities. Biomedical waste in particular has emerged as a pressing concern due to its inherent propensity to pose health hazards and cause environmental harm. The World Health Organization has identified a lack of knowledge and training as primary factors contributing to the failure of Biomedical waste management (BMWM). Thus, our study sought to examine the relationship between BMWM level of knowledge and prior training among health care professionals (HCPs) in 4 different regions in Saudi Arabia. Our study used a cross-sectional design to investigate the BMWM level of knowledge and prior training among HCPs in 4 different regions in Saudi Arabia. Multiple linear and logistic regression was used to assess if Biomedical waste management (MBWM) knowledge and prior tanning are significantly associated with the demographics and professional characteristics of HCPs. 501 HCPs participated in the study. More than half were male, the majority fell within the age range of 24 to 36 years and held a bachelor's degree. The level of BMWM knowledge among HCPs was moderate (M = 31.14, SD = 4.89) and positively associated with HCPs' prior training in BMWM, workplace environment, and overall experience in the field. Only 26% of the HCPs had received prior BMWM training, and it varied considerably by sex, geographic location, and professional experience. Our study demonstrates a moderate knowledge and lack of training in BMWM among HCPs in Saudi Arabia. Thus, we recommend a national strategy for incorporating infection prevention and control methods associated with BMWM into all health care programs. Furthermore, it is imperative for health officials to enact prompt and efficient surveillance measures, as well as conduct frequent training sessions for HCPs and support personnel. • We examined the relationship between BMWM knowledge and training among health care professionals (HCPs) in 4 different regions in Saudi Arabia. • The study was the first to examine HCPs' knowledge and prior training of BMWM across different regions in Saudi Arabia. • The level of BMWM knowledge was associated with HCPs' prior training in BMWM, their workplace environment, and their overall experience in the field. • Prior training of HCPs in BMWM varied considerably by sex, geographic location, and professional experience. • We recommend a national strategy for incorporating infection prevention and control methods associated with BMWM into all health care programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Acid tar (AT) is a distinct black viscous waste from the petrochemical industry that retains hazardous characteristics decades after creation. It is defined as an emulsion of various organic compounds, sulfuric acid, and water. Due to specific chemical composition and physical properties, the best available technique for the treatment of AT is not determined. This paper investigates the treatment of AT by CaO, resulting in its complete physicochemical transformation into a dry powder with the characteristics of inorganic material. Waste characterization of AT and obtained powder (including metals, PAH, BTEX, total hydrocarbon content, and EN12457-4 leaching test), their comparative FT-IR and SEM–EDS analyses, and XRD analysis of the powder revealed that the transformation is a complex process involving Ca(OH)2 formation, evaporation of water and BTEX, and degradation of aromatic and unsaturated hydrocarbons. The remained organic phase is encapsulated under Ca(OH)2 and CaCO3 layers forming "organic core—inorganic shell" micron-sized particles, rendering the powder suitable for further treatment. This was confirmed by solidification/stabilization treatment of AT and obtained powder using the same amount of cement and pozzolanic binder. In contrast to AT solidificates, the powder solidificates possess unconfined compressive strength above the required value and characteristics of inert waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Production of green energy from landfill gas in a cogeneration system is considered optimal in terms of the use of local renewable energy resources, which in the production process generates hazardous waste. Yet, the production of renewable energy is not without environmental effects. The objective of the work was to analyse the operation of the installation for biogas energy generated at a municipal waste landfill and to carry out tests on the waste (mineral deposit) from a heat exchanger generated in the exhaust manifold of a gas engine of the cogeneration unit. The objective of the work was to test waste (mineral deposit) from the heat exchanger in the exhaust manifold of the gas engine of the cogeneration unit. The conducted research constitutes a significant contribution to the identification and classification of hazardous waste generated in a cogeneration unit powered by landfill gas. The results of the research showed that the waste contains high concentrations of ecotoxic elements, i.e. heavy metals (arsenic, chromium, copper, nickel, zinc), molybdenum, antimony, sulphates, which have carcinogenic activity. Pioneering research performed as part of the leaching test showed that the permissible concentrations were exceeded for 11 parameters in the case of storage in a hazardous waste landfill, and for 6 parameters in the case of storage in an underground hazardous waste landfill. The research and analyses performed in this work will serve as input material for defining the methods of hazardous waste disposal from the cogeneration unit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mismanagement of hazardous waste (HW) causes severe threats to ecosystems and human health. We conducted a systematic literature review and evaluated the evidence regarding the association between residential exposure to HW and childhood neurobehavioral effects. We consulted international agencies websites and conducted a search on MEDLINE and EMBASE databases by applying a “Population-Exposure-Comparator-Outcome” question. The evidence evaluation, based on the quality of the studies and their concordance, was graded in sufficient/limited/inadequate. Documents from international agencies were not found. Of the seventy-five studies screened, nine met the eligibility criteria. Studies agree on the association between residential exposure to HW sites and negative neurodevelopmental effects. The evidence of the association was attributed limited to cognitive and behavioral outcomes, and inadequate to Autism Spectrum Disorder. The evidence was evaluated sufficient for HW sites releasing lead and cognitive disorders. Residential exposure to unsafe HW sites may contribute to childhood neurobehavioral alterations. It is urgent to implement environmental remediation of contaminated sites and counteracting illegal and unsafe HW management practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Household hazardous wastes can pose significant risks to the environment, increase the death rate and dangerous diseases due to their quantity, concentration or physical, chemical, or biological quality. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of educational intervention on the knowledge and attitude of health workers (Behvarzes) and health care workers of Ardestan city regarding household hazardous waste management. Materials and Methods: This research was a semi-experimental interventional study conducted among 64 healthcare workers of the Ardestan health network in Isfahan province. A valid and reliable questionnaire was used to collect data. The data were entered into SPSS version 22 software for statistical analysis and analyzed through Mann-Whitney, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and paired T-tests. Results: After the training, the average knowledge scores of Behvarzes and health-care workers in the sample group increased from 22.56±1.65 to 26.78±0.66, and their average attitude scores also increased from 89.37±2.67 to 95.31±2.71. The paired T-test showed a significant difference in the mean and standard deviation of knowledge and attitude scores in the intervention group before and after the intervention (p<0.05). The independent T-test did not show any difference in this regard according to the gender variable. The ANOVA test showed a significant difference between the different education groups after the intervention regarding the change in knowledge score or attitude according to education level (p<0.05). Conclusion: The results of this study showed that the educational intervention for Behvarzes and healthcare workers was effective in raising their awareness and improving their attitudes towards the importance of household hazardous waste managemnt. Considering that the improvement of the household hazardous waste management system requires enhanced public awareness and attitude, as well as effective communication between Behvarzes, healthcare workers, and citizens, city managers can use the method employed in this study to organize regular training programs on household hazardous waste management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nicotine is one of the main pollutants in cigarette smoke that trapped in the filter. Nicotine leakage from cigarette butts is one of the concerns associated with this hazardous waste. In this study, the concentration of nicotine leaked from cigarette butts into the urban environment was investigated under the influence of three parameters including rainfall, density, and the durability of the littered cigarette butt. The leakage of nicotine into the environment was estimated in six scenarios based on the difference in the durability of cigarette butts in the urban environment and the humidity ratio. The results showed that the density of littered cigarette butts was 0.0019–0.294 number/m2. The density of littered cigarette butts in residential land-use was 52.38% lower than commercial land-use. Nicotine leakage from cigarette butts in commercial, residential, and recreational land-uses was 1.1, 0.484, and.0065 mg/m2, respectively. In the studied scenarios, in the best and worst case, 335,070 and 481,950 gr/year of nicotine will leak from the cigarette butt into the water resources. Considering that cigarette butts are a serious source of toxins including nicotine to the environment, control measures are necessary to reduce its density in the urban environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global advancement of solar energy and its emerging technologies are good indicators to assess the general response of energy users to clean energy as enshrined in the sustainable development goal (SDG) 7. However, the reality that solar panels and other components would become electronic waste someday and ultimately contribute to chemical hazards in the environment is a source of concern. This study aimed to evaluate the amounts of heavy metals in solar photovoltaic (PV) modules using atomic absorption spectroscopy and estimate the health risks associated with these heavy metals. Six samples of solar PV were collected and evaluated for Chromium (Cr), Cadmium (Cd), Lead (Pb), and Arsenic (As). Using the health risk index (HRI) and the target hazard quotient (THQ), the human dangers presented by the presence of heavy metals were evaluated. The heavy metal content ranged as follows: Pb (6.00–6.25 mg/kg); Cd (0.10–1.25 mg/kg); Cr (8.00–12.00 mg/kg); and As (0.60–1.25 mg/kg). An estimate of the average weight for children and adults was used to calculate the health risk index. The result showed that health risks for children and adults are high with heavy metal concentrations escalating in the order Pb > Cd > Cr > Ar. The THQ in all metals was < 1 in all the solar PV samples, which indicates they do not pose serious health risk concerns in a single panel. However, considering the large number of waste panels, the risk would be significant. Also, it was found that there were naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORM) in the PV modules and their effects are more in the short term. Hence, heavy metals are envisaged as long-term hazards, and NORM in PV modules are envisaged as short-term hazards. Using the EPA dose compliance concentrations (DCC) (EPA-DCC), the radioactive exposures from the selected photovoltaics were proven to be directly dependent on the number of PVs in use and their distance from the PV installations. Several recommendations were made to curb death in the process of pursuing cleaner energy technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The use of tobacco will lead to the littering of a large number of filters, and the leakage of pollutants from them into the urban environment is a serious concern. The aim of this study was to analyze the leakage of heavy metals from filter and estimate the annual concentration of pollution leakage in different waste routes and different climatic conditions. The results showed that the highest and lowest density of filter in the studied urban environment were 0.51 and 0.01 number/m2, respectively. According to the estimated annual production of 306 million cigarette butts in the studied area, the leakage of the studied metals was estimated to be 401 g. The share of copper, chromium, and cadmium from the total leakage was 67%, 8.3%, and 1.88%, respectively. The leakage of studied metals in rainy conditions was 2.86 times more than sunny conditions. In different scenarios, the minimum and maximum annual leakage of metals were estimated 23,043 and 350,419 mg/year, respectively. Filters are a little but important source of heavy metal emission into the urban environment, the amount of pollution from which is affected by the consumers’ behavior and the efficiency of the urban cleaning system. Education on the correct disposal of filters and increasing the efficiency of the urban cleaning system will lead to a reduction in pollution caused by tobacco consumption.

Background The improper management of hazardous solid waste in dental care offices poses significant risks to public health and the environment. Dental offices generate hazardous waste, including biological and chemical contaminants, which can lead to infections, pollution, and harm if not managed properly. Effective waste management practices are crucial, yet compliance varies significantly across regions, especially in Latin America, due to limited resources, inadequate training, and insufficient infrastructure. This study compares hazardous waste management practices in dental offices in Talara, Peru, and Machala, Ecuador, to provide actionable recommendations for improvement. Policy and Implications In Peru, hazardous waste management involves critical steps such as conditioning, segregation, transport, storage, treatment, and disposal. Compliance minimizes exposure risks and environmental contamination. Ecuador emphasizes administrative and operational aspects, including policies, records, training, and procedures. Improving practices in both countries can model enhanced waste management across Latin America. Recommendations To address challenges in Talara and similar Latin American cities, it is essential to strengthen administrative systems, increase budget allocations for waste management, and develop comprehensive training programs. Waste management should be prioritized within public policy agendas with clear guidelines and accountability measures. Both cities need improved resource allocation, modern waste treatment facilities, and centralized storage solutions. Continuous education and certification programs are crucial. Implementing integrated policies, regular reviews, and robust compliance mechanisms based on Machala’s practices can benefit other regions. Public awareness campaigns and regional collaboration through workshops and research initiatives are also recommended. Conclusions Significant disparities in hazardous waste management exist between Talara and Machala. Talara requires strengthened systems and improved infrastructure, while Machala’s practices serve as a model. Tailored interventions can enhance public health and environmental outcomes across Latin America. Regular monitoring, evaluation, and collaboration are essential for sustained improvements.

• Hazardous asbestos cement waste has been inertized. • Statistical mixture design was employed as a dosing method. • Asbestos cement waste increased yield stress, reducing set time. • Compressive strengths over 60 MPa have been obtained. • Asbestos cement waste reduced CO 2 emissions by ∼ 5 %. This article explores the impact of thermally treated asbestos-cement waste (ACW T) on metakaolin-based geopolymers, using liquid sodium silicate (LSS) and liquid potassium silicate (LKS) as alkali activators. Through statistical mixture design, various formulations were tested for rheological parameters, mineralogical composition, efflorescence mass, electrical conductivity, compressive strength, and CO 2 emissions. Formulations with sodium silicate exhibited higher yield stress compared to those with potassium silicate, while flash setting occurred in LKS-activated mixtures with high ACW T content. Alkali activator content significantly affected mechanical strength and leachate electrical conductivity. CO 2 emissions were higher for LKS-activated formulations but lower for those with more ACW T. Finally, by incorporating ACW T , it was possible to optimize the formulations, resulting in high compressive strength, reduced free ions, and reduced negative environmental impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of economic instruments within environmental policy has become a challenging topic for policymakers, governments and scholars. Environmental taxes have emerged as a prevailing preference in developed countries to promote sustainability. Recently, a particular focus has been given to waste generation and disposal, shifting the attention from greenhouse gases to another important source of environmental pollution. This paper investigates the effect of national environmental taxes and policies on industrial waste. A fixed effects model is used for 34 countries across Europe from 2004 to 2022. The results suggest that environmental taxes and energy policies reduce industrial (hazardous and non-hazardous) waste. However, environmental tax reforms should take into consideration the deterioration in environmental quality, the increase in economic costs and undesirable social consequences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cigarette butts, often discarded as litter, are considered a common form of waste, containing a variety of pollutants within this hazardous residue. This study, which was designed to assess the environmental release of certain metals from cigarette butts, investigates a variety of scenarios under varying climatic conditions. Thus, in order to assess the level of metal contamination, samples of cigarette butts were collected in urban areas from seven popular brands in China, smoked artificially, and examined through graphite furnace atomic absorption (GF-AAS). The findings indicated mean concentrations of 1.77 for Cr, 2.88 for Ni, 12.93 for Cu, 24.25 for Zn, and 1.77 µg/g for Pb in the case of newly smoked butts. The emission of each of the metals increases to 8–10% when cigarette butts remain in the environment for an extended period of time. Furthermore, rainfall can accelerate metal leaching, reaching values of 18–20% compared to the controlled scenario. The worst-case scenario releases 2129.31 kg/year of metals into the environment, while the best-case scenario sees a lower release of 844.97 kg/year. The data reflect variations in metal emissions across different scenarios. There was also a strong correlation between cigarette butts in public spaces and cities. This research highlights the need to educate smokers and increase urban maintenance efficiency to reduce this litter and the metals it leaches into the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of tobacco will lead to the littering of a large number of filters, and the leakage of pollutants from them into the urban environment is a serious concern. The aim of this study was to analyze the leakage of heavy metals from filter and estimate the annual concentration of pollution leakage in different waste routes and different climatic conditions. The results showed that the highest and lowest density of filter in the studied urban environment were 0.51 and 0.01 number/m2, respectively. According to the estimated annual production of 306 million cigarette butts in the studied area, the leakage of the studied metals was estimated to be 401 g. The share of copper, chromium, and cadmium from the total leakage was 67%, 8.3%, and 1.88%, respectively. The leakage of studied metals in rainy conditions was 2.86 times more than sunny conditions. In different scenarios, the minimum and maximum annual leakage of metals were estimated 23,043 and 350,419 mg/year, respectively. Filters are a little but important source of heavy metal emission into the urban environment, the amount of pollution from which is affected by the consumers' behavior and the efficiency of the urban cleaning system. Education on the correct disposal of filters and increasing the efficiency of the urban cleaning system will lead to a reduction in pollution caused by tobacco consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article is about the rise and fall of ocean incineration, a method for the disposal of hazardous chemical waste that was initiated in the late 1960s, developed, tested, and perfected throughout the 1970s, commercialized in the 1980s, and eventually phased out from the 1990s onwards. Ocean incineration consisted in the offshore destruction of toxic liquid substances in specially designed ships outfitted with high-temperature combustion chambers and high stacks. When this technology broke through, it seemed like a panacea. It heralded the safe disposal of noxious compounds such as organochlorines and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), which were ubiquitous by-products of petrochemical industrial processes. It promised to minimize private companies' externalities and ease environmental concerns. But it ultimately failed to provide an alternative to safely disposing of toxic waste. What does explain such a decline? This article answers this question by arguing that the demise of ocean incineration was due to the combination of locally oriented and transnationally driven protests, which emerged across the (North) Atlantic and exposed the dangerous and highly exploitative nature of such a practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing production and wealth in industrialized countries led to an increase in waste production, part of which was clearly harmful to human and non-human health. Out of several intergovernmental organizations that addressed related questions, the NATO Commission on Challenges of Modern Society (CCMS) was the first to organize a specific project dedicated to the topic. Between 1973 and 1981, delegates from nine NATO countries studies aspects ranging from the organization and recommended procedures of waste management to landfills, transportation, various ways of disposal and chromium recycling. Thereby, the CCMS got to set the agenda for problematic wastes, effectively establishing 'hazardous waste' as a recognized category. It also framed the challenge as one of 'disposal,' discouraging systemic socio-economic reviews. Overall, this framing drew attention to the potential dangers of some forms of waste to human health and to the environment and the need for special protective measures, while normalizing and potentially diverting attention away from other forms of waste. At the same time, CCMS activities provided an important push towards international guidelines and regulations of hazardous waste management and trade. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The ecological and human health risks of heavy metal(loid)s (HMs) in soils around tungsten (W) mining sites have often disregarded the presence of W. In this study, we aimed to investigate the concentrations of 10 HMs (including W and other accompanying elements) in 18 agricultural soil samples obtained around a W mining site in southern Jiangxi, China. Furthermore, we determined the contamination status, source identification, and ecological and health risks of HMs in soils. Our findings revealed that HMs were extensively accumulated in soils within the study area, with the highest mean concentrations of W found. W concentrations were above background values at all sites. Multivariate analysis revealed that W mining activities, including extracting and transporting W ore, were the primary source of HMs in the soil (61.40%). The ecological risk assessment revealed that the potential ecological risk across the survey area exhibited a high risk, and the cadmium (Cd) and W should be prioritised as control pollutants for soils around the W mine site. The human health risk assessment displayed that 73.43% of children with an unacceptable non-carcinogenic risk, and W contributed the most to the overall non-carcinogenic risk (42.32%), followed by Cd and arsenic (As). In addition, 22.03% of children and 13.4% of adults were under a significant carcinogenic risk. Overall, our findings emphasise the importance of considering element W in future studies investigating the contamination of HMs around W mining areas. As such, we calculated a safe limit value for element W in soil (141.01 mg/kg) to facilitate the conservation and development of soils in W mining areas in China. Our study provides valuable information for pollution prevention and soil contamination risk mitigation in W mining areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Experimental investigations of the effectiveness of the pretreatment of the acid leaching process of a representative sample of electric arc furnace dust (EAF dust) and characterization of a representative sample were performed. As EAF dust is globally defined as hazardous solid industrial waste, and it contains a high percentage of zinc and other useful components, in this paper, the application of pretreatment will be carried out in order to increase the efficiency of the further process of acid leaching, all with the aim of using EAF dust as a secondary raw material for metal valorization. The pretreatment involved the application of a simple process of leaching the EAF dust sample with distilled water. Under the following defined optimal leaching conditions: time—30 min, ratio of solid to liquid phase—1:10, temperature—ambient, and stirring speed—500 rpm, a reduction in the content of water-soluble components was achieved, namely, 83% Cl, 92% K, 74% Na, 14% Cd, 15% Ca, and 19% F. The application of the pretreatment enables significantly better filtration of the suspension and increases the leaching efficiency of zinc and other useful components in the further process of leaching EAF dust with a sulfuric acid solution, compared with the process of direct acid leaching of EAF dust. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstracts: Hazardous waste from industrial production has become a global concern because of its impact on the environment and human health. However, studies on heavy metals in regional hazardous waste are rare. Thus, this study examined 93 hazardous waste samples in Beijing in 2019, to assess the distribution, occurrence, and potential eco-environmental risks of heavy metals in such waste. The results indicated high concentrations of Zn, Cu, and Ni in hazardous waste, and the leaching toxicity of Ni (270.60 mg/L), Cu (524.1 mg/L), and Pb (136.23 mg/L) exceeded Chinese identification standards for hazardous waste. Heavy metals in hazardous waste have been primarily found in remote counties around the locations of industrial enterprises. The total amount of the heavy metals followed the order: Zn > Cu > Ni > Ba > Mn > Pb. Based on the migration abilities of their detected forms, heavy metals were classified into three categories (high, middle, and low migration abilities) to characterize their potential to enter the environment. The detected amounts of heavy metals with high and middle migration ability followed the order: Zn > Cu > Ni > Mn > Pb > Ba. The potential environmental risk of heavy metals was evaluated using the potential environmental risk index, resulting in the following ranking: Ni > Pb > Mn > Zn > Cu > Ba. Daxing District exhibited the highest total environmental risk and environmental risk per unit area, whereas Miyun District showed the highest environmental risk per secondary sector of the economy and unit of GDP. This was attributed to Beijing's industrial structure. The results of this study provide fundamental data for the management and control of hazardous waste in Beijing and are expected to aid in preventing and managing environmental risks caused by such waste.

The possibility of different agrowastes to self-ignite under ambient condition, due to exothermic reactions between their surface molecules and air or other oxidizing agents which are conveyed into the void volume between the particles, exists. It is imperative to investigate the self-ignition ability of these harzadous waste products causing environmental pollution after the milling process to avoid sudden fire outbreaks. In this study, the self-ignition attributes of corn cob, wheat bran and rice husk residues in ambient air from biomass gasification was investigated by evaluating their self-ignition temperatures using DIN EN 15188:2021 standard and Frank-Kamenetzkii's theory of thermal explosion at varying basket volume. The results revealed decrease in the ignition temperature of dust samples as ignition time and dust basket volume were increased. Sample C (rice husk dust residue) was considered to be the most hazardous with respect to its propensity to self-heating possessing the lowest self-ignition temperature of 173 °C at 800 mL cubic mesh. Its moisture content and activation energy of 1.41 % and 46.52 kJ/mol respectively were the lowest. Its thermal conductivity, carbon content, heating value and bulk density of 0.07 W/mK, 78.98 wt%, 26,895 kJ/kg and 255.4 kg/m3 respectively were the highest. Correlation coefficient from the Arrhenius plot showing the self-ignition behaviour of dust samples using the model of Frank-Kamenetzkii were 0.9976, 0.9910 and 0.9962 for corn cob, wheat bran and rice husk residues respectively. In conclusion, the data presented are effective in predicting the self-ignition ability of corn cob, wheat bran and rice husk residues in ambient air from biomass gasification in order to prevent sudden fire attack that may arise based on storage of their dust particles in food processing industries.

This research aims to identify current procedures of hospital waste management in educational hospitals, in western Iran. This study examined upon to be current procedures of medical waste management focusing on the management of hazardous medical waste, under a circular economy. Three criteria environmental situation, environmental management, and environmental performance. The environmental assessment was done by pair matrixes between criteria and sub-criteria, and between scale levels of the indicators were done. The questionnaire structure adopted in the Romero and Carnero study. The Analytic Hierarchy Process method indicates that aspect of the hazardous waste improvement program is essential. The results demonstrated that 56 % of the total environmental criteria score was VERY DEFICIENT in the scale factors classification. The lowest values indicated in the environmental management aspect and 63 % of the total score was VERY DEFICIENT. The results indicated a deficient value in environmental criteria based on the values received for the commitment to environmental policy standards and waste management procedures. The results of environmental performance criteria have shown; that no data was on atmospheric emission. The lack of rules in green purchasing and renewable energy was indicated. In waste management criteria, the total value was reasonable, but there weren't comprehensive rules for redefining waste types and staff training obligations. However, the redefinition of rules, public and staff training, using new technologies, and determination of specific budgets and green teams by proper supervising cycle can be essential to improve hazardous waste management.

• Soil contaminated with high levels of oil sludge can be smoldered. • Petroleum hydrocarbons can be fully eliminated from OSS near or above 500 ℃. • The high-temperature smoldering reduces most nutrients and destroys soil quality. • Adding recovered oil enhances the smoldering intensity and remediation efficiency. There is an urgent need to globally remediate oil sludge-contaminated soil (OSS). Smoldering combustion is a new low-energy approach for the treatment of organic waste. Therefore, the feasibility of smoldering combustion for the treatment of OSS was investigated in this study using a series of laboratory-scale experiments. The effective remediation of OSS was found to be achievable when the mass ratio of oil sludge in the sample reached 1/12 and above. Experimental results showed that smoldering at peak temperatures above 500 °C was found to completely remove petroleum hydrocarbons from the samples. The mass ratio of oil sludge in the sample had little effect on the distribution of the major elements (Si, Al, and Ca) in the smoldering products, and most of the minerals in the oil sludge adhered to the surface of the soil particles after smoldering. The smoldering heating environment is detrimental to the reusability of the soil, increases soil pH and available phosphorus content, and decreases organic carbon and total nitrogen content. Moreover, the influence of the airflow rate and material height on smoldering characteristics was investigated. Matching the appropriate airflow rate can help maintain optimal smoldering conditions, and smoldering remains stable with increasing material height. The addition of recovered oil to a sample with a low mass ratio of oil sludge can help with smoldering ignition and improve the removal efficiency of petroleum hydrocarbons. This study has confirmed that smoldering can be used to treat OSS within a broad range of oil sludge concentrations without pretreatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]