Pub Date : 2026-03-01Epub Date: 2025-12-05DOI: 10.1016/j.clwat.2025.100187
María Eugenia Becerril Ortiz , Jorge Javier Ramirez García , Armando Ramírez Serrano
This study evaluated the sorption performance of HDTMA-modified clinoptilolite in fixed-bed columns for naproxen (NPX) and carbamazepine (CBZ) removal. Surface characterization (FTIR, SEM/EDS) confirmed surfactant anchoring and the formation of hydrophobic domains. Under optimal conditions (bed height = 15 cm, flow = 0.5 mL min⁻¹), 95 % NPX and 36 % CBZ removal were achieved, while a 1:2 NPX:CBZ mixture exhibited a cooperative π–π interaction enhancing CBZ removal up to 82 %. Breakthrough data were fitted to Thomas, Yoon–Nelson, and Bohart–Adams models, showing high correlation (R² > 0.95). The process required less than 0.1 kWh m⁻³ , demonstrating low energy demand and carbon footprint compared with advanced oxidation processes. These findings highlight the potential of HDTMA-zeolite as an affordable and sustainable adsorbent for continuous pharmaceutical removal.
{"title":"Sorption of carbamazepine and naproxen in fixed-bed columns with HDTMA-modified zeolite","authors":"María Eugenia Becerril Ortiz , Jorge Javier Ramirez García , Armando Ramírez Serrano","doi":"10.1016/j.clwat.2025.100187","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clwat.2025.100187","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study evaluated the sorption performance of HDTMA-modified clinoptilolite in fixed-bed columns for naproxen (NPX) and carbamazepine (CBZ) removal. Surface characterization (FTIR, SEM/EDS) confirmed surfactant anchoring and the formation of hydrophobic domains. Under optimal conditions (bed height = 15 cm, flow = 0.5 mL min⁻¹), 95 % NPX and 36 % CBZ removal were achieved, while a 1:2 NPX:CBZ mixture exhibited a cooperative π–π interaction enhancing CBZ removal up to 82 %. Breakthrough data were fitted to Thomas, Yoon–Nelson, and Bohart–Adams models, showing high correlation (R² > 0.95). The process required less than 0.1 kWh m⁻³ , demonstrating low energy demand and carbon footprint compared with advanced oxidation processes. These findings highlight the potential of HDTMA-zeolite as an affordable and sustainable adsorbent for continuous pharmaceutical removal.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100257,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Water","volume":"5 ","pages":"Article 100187"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145698044","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-03-01Epub Date: 2025-12-20DOI: 10.1016/j.clwat.2025.100196
R Resmi , A Krishnakumar , Krishnan Anoop Krishnan
This study uses geochemical methods to analyze how extreme precipitation events impact groundwater hydrochemistry and geochemical processes in the shallow aquifer systems of the Lower Chalakudy River Basin (LCRB), southern Western Ghats, India, within the context of climate change. A total of 84 groundwater samples were collected during Pre-Extreme Precipitation Events (PEE), Extreme Precipitation Events (EPE), and Post-Extreme Precipitation Events (PoEE). The groundwater is dominated by mixed types rich in Ca2 + -Mg2+-Cl. Geochemical modeling indicates saturation of carbonate minerals and undersaturation of evaporites, suggesting active silicate weathering. Strong positive correlations are observed between TDS with Ca, EC, Mg, K, HCO3, and Cl in almost all samples, regardless of the extreme events. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) extracted three significant principal components, explaining a total variance of 84.02 %, 81.08 %, and 80.66 % for PEE, EPE, and PoEE, respectively. The hydrogeological signatures of the LCRB are influenced by reverse ion exchange and silicate weathering. The Pollution Index of Groundwater (PIG) shows insignificant pollution; however, spatial interpolation through Empirical Bayesian Kriging (EBK), combined with Semivariogram modeling, of heavy metals reveals human health risk assessment (HHRA), with Hazard Index (HI) values exceeding limits for Non-Carcinogenic Risks (NCR) in both adults and children. The relative abundance of the Carcinogenic Risk (CR) factor for trace elements in the study area follows the order of Cr> Cd> As, in PEE, Cd> Cr> As, in EPE, Cd> As in PoEE. A comprehensive understanding of these dynamics is crucial for efficient water resource management and adaptation strategies in response to climate change.
{"title":"Groundwater chemistry and quality of Lower Chalakudy River Basin, India during extreme climatic events: Lessons to understand for evolving future mitigation measures in Western Ghats, India","authors":"R Resmi , A Krishnakumar , Krishnan Anoop Krishnan","doi":"10.1016/j.clwat.2025.100196","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clwat.2025.100196","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study uses geochemical methods to analyze how extreme precipitation events impact groundwater hydrochemistry and geochemical processes in the shallow aquifer systems of the Lower Chalakudy River Basin (LCRB), southern Western Ghats, India, within the context of climate change. A total of 84 groundwater samples were collected during Pre-Extreme Precipitation Events (PEE), Extreme Precipitation Events (EPE), and Post-Extreme Precipitation Events (PoEE). The groundwater is dominated by mixed types rich in Ca<sup>2 +</sup> -Mg<sup>2+</sup>-Cl. Geochemical modeling indicates saturation of carbonate minerals and undersaturation of evaporites, suggesting active silicate weathering. Strong positive correlations are observed between TDS with Ca, EC, Mg, K, HCO<sub>3</sub>, and Cl in almost all samples, regardless of the extreme events. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) extracted three significant principal components, explaining a total variance of 84.02 %, 81.08 %, and 80.66 % for PEE, EPE, and PoEE, respectively. The hydrogeological signatures of the LCRB are influenced by reverse ion exchange and silicate weathering. The Pollution Index of Groundwater (PIG) shows insignificant pollution; however, spatial interpolation through Empirical Bayesian Kriging (EBK), combined with Semivariogram modeling, of heavy metals reveals human health risk assessment (HHRA), with Hazard Index (HI) values exceeding limits for Non-Carcinogenic Risks (NCR) in both adults and children. The relative abundance of the Carcinogenic Risk (CR) factor for trace elements in the study area follows the order of Cr> Cd> As, in PEE, Cd> Cr> As, in EPE, Cd> As in PoEE. A comprehensive understanding of these dynamics is crucial for efficient water resource management and adaptation strategies in response to climate change.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100257,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Water","volume":"5 ","pages":"Article 100196"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145841130","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-03-01Epub Date: 2026-02-04DOI: 10.1016/j.clwat.2026.100213
Dian Kurnianing Sari , Mochamad Arief Budihardjo , Annisa Sila Puspita , Fathoni Firmansyah , Ilmi Tri Zenith
The implementation of the Ballast Water Management Convention (BWMC) has prompted a rapid growth in global research on ballast water management. However, the relationship between ballast water management and circular economy (CE) principles, as well as its implications for maritime sustainability, has not yet been systematically mapped. This study addresses this gap through a bibliometric review aimed at identifying research trends, thematic structures, and patterns of scientific collaboration in ballast water management studies relevant to sustainability and the transition toward a circular economy. A total of 3380 documents were retrieved from the Scopus database using the keyword “ballast water.” Following screening based on PRISMA guidelines, 1027 peer-reviewed journal articles published between 2015 and 2024 were selected for analysis. Bibliometric analysis was conducted using Bibliometrix (Biblioshiny) and VOSviewer software. The results indicate a substantial increase in publication output following the enforcement of the BWMC, with a peak in 2023 comprising 117 articles. Keyword co-occurrence analysis identified five major thematic clusters: invasive species and ecological risks; ballast water treatment technologies; environmental monitoring; microbiological aspects; and governance and policy. China and the United States emerged as the leading countries in scientific output, while Dalian Maritime University and Shanghai Ocean University demonstrated the highest institutional impact. The global collaboration network was structured around key authors, including Bailey, Gollasch, David, and Ruiz. Although existing research predominantly focuses on technological and ecological dimensions, limited attention has been given to life-cycle impacts, resource efficiency, and circular economy-based approaches. Overall, this study highlights bibliometric analysis as a valuable tool for informing sustainable maritime policies and advancing ballast water management within circular economy frameworks.
{"title":"Bibliometric review of ballast water management within the framework of the circular economy","authors":"Dian Kurnianing Sari , Mochamad Arief Budihardjo , Annisa Sila Puspita , Fathoni Firmansyah , Ilmi Tri Zenith","doi":"10.1016/j.clwat.2026.100213","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clwat.2026.100213","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The implementation of the Ballast Water Management Convention (BWMC) has prompted a rapid growth in global research on ballast water management. However, the relationship between ballast water management and circular economy (CE) principles, as well as its implications for maritime sustainability, has not yet been systematically mapped. This study addresses this gap through a bibliometric review aimed at identifying research trends, thematic structures, and patterns of scientific collaboration in ballast water management studies relevant to sustainability and the transition toward a circular economy. A total of 3380 documents were retrieved from the Scopus database using the keyword “ballast water.” Following screening based on PRISMA guidelines, 1027 peer-reviewed journal articles published between 2015 and 2024 were selected for analysis. Bibliometric analysis was conducted using Bibliometrix (Biblioshiny) and VOSviewer software. The results indicate a substantial increase in publication output following the enforcement of the BWMC, with a peak in 2023 comprising 117 articles. Keyword co-occurrence analysis identified five major thematic clusters: invasive species and ecological risks; ballast water treatment technologies; environmental monitoring; microbiological aspects; and governance and policy. China and the United States emerged as the leading countries in scientific output, while Dalian Maritime University and Shanghai Ocean University demonstrated the highest institutional impact. The global collaboration network was structured around key authors, including Bailey, Gollasch, David, and Ruiz. Although existing research predominantly focuses on technological and ecological dimensions, limited attention has been given to life-cycle impacts, resource efficiency, and circular economy-based approaches. Overall, this study highlights bibliometric analysis as a valuable tool for informing sustainable maritime policies and advancing ballast water management within circular economy frameworks.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100257,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Water","volume":"5 ","pages":"Article 100213"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147396509","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-03-01Epub Date: 2026-01-29DOI: 10.1016/j.clwat.2026.100211
Md Ekram Hossain , Mehebub Sarwar Hossain , Sk Saruk Islam , Arnab Kumar De , Sk Md Abu Imam Saadi
Heavy metal contamination in aquatic ecosystems represents a significant environmental challenge due to its persistence, toxicity, and propensity for bioaccumulation. This study investigated the impact of lead [Pb(C₂H₃O₂)₂] on the growth, photosynthetic pigments, and antioxidant responses of Pistia stratiotes exposed to concentrations of 0 µM (control), 200 µM, 300 µM, 400 µM, and 500 µM Pb for 7 days at 37 ± 1°C, 85 % RH. Relative growth rate (RGR) increased progressively up to 400 µM (1.100 gg⁻¹day⁻¹) before declining at 500 µM (0.730 gg⁻¹ day⁻¹), although growth remained above control values. Lead accumulation in plant tissues exhibited a strong concentration-dependent increase from 10.410 mg/kg (control) to 8182.000 mg/kg (500 µM), confirming P. stratiotes as a potential lead hyperaccumulator. Chlorophyll content decreased from 1.365 ± 0.006 mg/g (control) to 1.306 ± 0.022 mg/g (500 µM) under Pb stress, indicative of photoinhibition and potential biomass loss. Concurrently, levels of ascorbic acid, malondialdehyde (MDA), proline, and total antioxidant capacity significantly increased with Pb concentration, reflecting the activation of antioxidative defense mechanisms and oxidative stress responses. Bioconcentration factor (BCF= 0.056), tolerance index (TI= 106.25 %) at 400 µM, and Pb uptake measurements demonstrated the species’ high efficiency in phytoextraction and rhizofiltration processes. Collectively, these findings underscore the substantial tolerance and accumulation capacity of P. stratiotes under moderate Pb stress (400 µM), highlighting its suitability as a phytoremediator for lead-contaminated aquatic environments and as an effective bioindicator for environmental monitoring.
{"title":"Lead-Induced morpho-physiological and antioxidant responses of Pistia stratiotes L.: Insights into its role as a bioindicator and phytoremediator in aquatic environments","authors":"Md Ekram Hossain , Mehebub Sarwar Hossain , Sk Saruk Islam , Arnab Kumar De , Sk Md Abu Imam Saadi","doi":"10.1016/j.clwat.2026.100211","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clwat.2026.100211","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Heavy metal contamination in aquatic ecosystems represents a significant environmental challenge due to its persistence, toxicity, and propensity for bioaccumulation. This study investigated the impact of lead [Pb(C₂H₃O₂)₂] on the growth, photosynthetic pigments, and antioxidant responses of <em>Pistia stratiotes</em> exposed to concentrations of 0 µM (control), 200 µM, 300 µM, 400 µM, and 500 µM Pb for 7 days at 37 ± 1°C, 85 % RH. Relative growth rate (RGR) increased progressively up to 400 µM (1.100 gg⁻¹day⁻¹) before declining at 500 µM (0.730 gg⁻¹ day⁻¹), although growth remained above control values. Lead accumulation in plant tissues exhibited a strong concentration-dependent increase from 10.410 mg/kg (control) to 8182.000 mg/kg (500 µM), confirming <em>P. stratiotes</em> as a potential lead hyperaccumulator. Chlorophyll content decreased from 1.365 ± 0.006 mg/g (control) to 1.306 ± 0.022 mg/g (500 µM) under Pb stress, indicative of photoinhibition and potential biomass loss. Concurrently, levels of ascorbic acid, malondialdehyde (MDA), proline, and total antioxidant capacity significantly increased with Pb concentration, reflecting the activation of antioxidative defense mechanisms and oxidative stress responses. Bioconcentration factor (BCF= 0.056), tolerance index (TI= 106.25 %) at 400 µM, and Pb uptake measurements demonstrated the species’ high efficiency in phytoextraction and rhizofiltration processes. Collectively, these findings underscore the substantial tolerance and accumulation capacity of P. stratiotes under moderate Pb stress (400 µM), highlighting its suitability as a phytoremediator for lead-contaminated aquatic environments and as an effective bioindicator for environmental monitoring.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100257,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Water","volume":"5 ","pages":"Article 100211"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147396582","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
The increasing prevalence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) Escherichia coli in environmental and clinical settings necessitates alternative antibacterial strategies beyond conventional antibiotics. Bacteriophage-derived endolysins are promising enzybiotics due to their rapid bacteriolytic activity, target specificity, and low resistance potential; however, the diversity and functional attributes of endolysins encoded by environmental phage remain underexplored.
Objectives
This study aimed to characterize the endolysin system of a novel lytic coliphage, ASEC2201, isolated from a wastewater treatment plant, and to evaluate the structural, evolutionary, and antimicrobial features of its encoded endolysins using in silico approaches.
Methodology
Three putative endolysin genes identified from the annotated ASEC2201 genome were analysed using sequence similarity searches, conserved domain identification, and phylogenetic reconstruction. Physicochemical properties, promoter elements, secondary and tertiary structures, catalytic residues, and antimicrobial peptide (AMP) propensity were predicted using established bioinformatic tools.
Results
All three endolysins belonged to the lysozyme-like R21 superfamily but displayed significant sequence and evolutionary divergence. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that one endolysin clustered with classical phage lysozymes, while the other two formed a distinct R21-type subclade, indicating functional diversification. Structural modelling confirmed stable, catalytically competent folds with conserved active-site residues. Importantly, all three contained intrinsic AMP-like regions, suggesting a dual antibacterial mechanism involving enzymatic peptidoglycan degradation and membrane-interacting activity.
Conclusion
The findings demonstrate that phage ASEC2201 encodes a diversified endolysin arsenal with strong predicted stability and antimicrobial potential. These endolysins represent promising candidates for the development of next-generation therapeutics targeting MDR E. coli, providing a robust computational foundation for future experimental validation.
{"title":"Functional and structural in silico characterization of endolysins encoded by the novel lytic coliphage ASEC2201 isolated from a wastewater treatment plant","authors":"Sudhaker Padmesh , Humaira Saeed , Aditi Singh , Manodeep Sen","doi":"10.1016/j.clwat.2026.100212","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clwat.2026.100212","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>The increasing prevalence of multidrug-resistant (MDR) <em>Escherichia coli</em> in environmental and clinical settings necessitates alternative antibacterial strategies beyond conventional antibiotics. Bacteriophage-derived endolysins are promising enzybiotics due to their rapid bacteriolytic activity, target specificity, and low resistance potential; however, the diversity and functional attributes of endolysins encoded by environmental phage remain underexplored.</div></div><div><h3>Objectives</h3><div>This study aimed to characterize the endolysin system of a novel lytic coliphage, ASEC2201, isolated from a wastewater treatment plant, and to evaluate the structural, evolutionary, and antimicrobial features of its encoded endolysins using <em>in silico</em> approaches.</div></div><div><h3>Methodology</h3><div>Three putative endolysin genes identified from the annotated ASEC2201 genome were analysed using sequence similarity searches, conserved domain identification, and phylogenetic reconstruction. Physicochemical properties, promoter elements, secondary and tertiary structures, catalytic residues, and antimicrobial peptide (AMP) propensity were predicted using established bioinformatic tools.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>All three endolysins belonged to the lysozyme-like R21 superfamily but displayed significant sequence and evolutionary divergence. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that one endolysin clustered with classical phage lysozymes, while the other two formed a distinct R21-type subclade, indicating functional diversification. Structural modelling confirmed stable, catalytically competent folds with conserved active-site residues. Importantly, all three contained intrinsic AMP-like regions, suggesting a dual antibacterial mechanism involving enzymatic peptidoglycan degradation and membrane-interacting activity.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>The findings demonstrate that phage ASEC2201 encodes a diversified endolysin arsenal with strong predicted stability and antimicrobial potential. These endolysins represent promising candidates for the development of next-generation therapeutics targeting MDR <em>E. coli</em>, providing a robust computational foundation for future experimental validation.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100257,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Water","volume":"5 ","pages":"Article 100212"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146078001","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-03-01Epub Date: 2026-01-20DOI: 10.1016/j.clwat.2026.100209
Gabriela da Silva Inácio , Elisa Henning , Andreza Kalbusch
Understanding aspects related to water consumption on construction sites is essential for directing actions aimed at water conservation in the urban environment. This study aims to analyze the variables that impact water use on construction sites in Joinville and how these variables manifest in a spatial analysis. Data from 63 construction sites are analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlational (Spearman correlation), and spatial (Moran Index and geographically weighted regression - GWR) techniques. The total water consumption of the sample ranged from 143 m³ to 6865 m³ and showed a positive correlation with the built area, number of floors, number of apartments, and construction time. GWR revealed that the relationship between water consumption and independent variables varied according to location, which the linear regression model did not capture. The research suggests that considering local factors is crucial for the efficient management of water consumption on construction sites since GWR indicated that variables affect consumption differently in each region.
{"title":"Spatial modeling of water consumption on construction sites","authors":"Gabriela da Silva Inácio , Elisa Henning , Andreza Kalbusch","doi":"10.1016/j.clwat.2026.100209","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clwat.2026.100209","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Understanding aspects related to water consumption on construction sites is essential for directing actions aimed at water conservation in the urban environment. This study aims to analyze the variables that impact water use on construction sites in Joinville and how these variables manifest in a spatial analysis. Data from 63 construction sites are analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlational (Spearman correlation), and spatial (Moran Index and geographically weighted regression - GWR) techniques. The total water consumption of the sample ranged from 143 m³ to 6865 m³ and showed a positive correlation with the built area, number of floors, number of apartments, and construction time. GWR revealed that the relationship between water consumption and independent variables varied according to location, which the linear regression model did not capture. The research suggests that considering local factors is crucial for the efficient management of water consumption on construction sites since GWR indicated that variables affect consumption differently in each region.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100257,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Water","volume":"5 ","pages":"Article 100209"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146023217","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
This study assesses groundwater quality in an intermontane region of the Eastern Ghats, South India, focusing on physicochemical characteristics, heavy metal contamination, and suitability for drinking and irrigation. Groundwater samples were analysed for pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), total hardness (TH), sulfate (SO₄²⁻), and toxic metals (Cd, Pb, Cr) using standardized laboratory methods. Spatial variability in water quality was mapped using ArcGIS v10.8, and the Heavy Metal Pollution Index (HPI), Heavy Metal Evaluation Index (HEI), and Water Quality Index (WQI) were applied to quantify pollution levels. Results showed that nearly 45 % of samples exceeded safe limits for drinking (WQI > 100), mainly due to elevated EC (up to 4870 µS/cm), TDS (up to 3410 mg/L), TH (up to 1400 mg/L), and toxic metals above permissible standards. Hydrogeochemical analysis indicated that carbonate weathering and ion exchange are the dominant natural processes, but anthropogenic inputs, including agricultural runoff and industrial effluents, significantly increased contamination. Irrigation suitability assessment revealed critical constraints, with EC levels above 3000 µS/cm and sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) values reaching 10 at several sites, indicating risks of salinization and sodicity. Overall, the study highlights the urgent need for targeted pollution control, stricter environmental regulations, and sustainable groundwater management strategies to protect public health and agricultural productivity in this vulnerable semi-arid highland region.
{"title":"Intermontane groundwater systems of southern India: Quality assessment and controlling processes","authors":"Muthuramalingam Rajendran , Kongeswaran Thangaraj , Prabakaran Kulandaisamy , Sivakumar Karthikeyan , Perumal Velmayil , Venkatramanan Senapathi , Vasanthavigar Murugesan","doi":"10.1016/j.clwat.2026.100207","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clwat.2026.100207","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study assesses groundwater quality in an intermontane region of the Eastern Ghats, South India, focusing on physicochemical characteristics, heavy metal contamination, and suitability for drinking and irrigation. Groundwater samples were analysed for pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), total hardness (TH), sulfate (SO₄²⁻), and toxic metals (Cd, Pb, Cr) using standardized laboratory methods. Spatial variability in water quality was mapped using ArcGIS v10.8, and the Heavy Metal Pollution Index (HPI), Heavy Metal Evaluation Index (HEI), and Water Quality Index (WQI) were applied to quantify pollution levels. Results showed that nearly 45 % of samples exceeded safe limits for drinking (WQI > 100), mainly due to elevated EC (up to 4870 µS/cm), TDS (up to 3410 mg/L), TH (up to 1400 mg/L), and toxic metals above permissible standards. Hydrogeochemical analysis indicated that carbonate weathering and ion exchange are the dominant natural processes, but anthropogenic inputs, including agricultural runoff and industrial effluents, significantly increased contamination. Irrigation suitability assessment revealed critical constraints, with EC levels above 3000 µS/cm and sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) values reaching 10 at several sites, indicating risks of salinization and sodicity. Overall, the study highlights the urgent need for targeted pollution control, stricter environmental regulations, and sustainable groundwater management strategies to protect public health and agricultural productivity in this vulnerable semi-arid highland region.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100257,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Water","volume":"5 ","pages":"Article 100207"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"146023216","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Groundwater is a vital freshwater resource supporting livelihoods, agriculture, and ecosystems. However, degrading environment due to climate change and anthropogenic activities e.g. urban expansion and land use/land cover (LULC) dynamics has led towards its depletion. Particularly, conditions are worst at cities which experience both phenomena simultaneously. Therefore, present study investigates groundwater trends in Sagar and Satna smart cities of eastern Madhya Pradesh, Central India; characterized by semi-arid conditions, increasing climate variability and rapid LULC change. The study is based on groundwater data, acquired from the National Water Informatics Center, India. Geo-spatial datasets were utitlized to detect spatial changes in 2015 and 2022, a part of smart city project implementation period. Trends and their magnitude in groundwater levels are assessed through Mann-Kendall & Sen’s Slope, respectively. Additionally, one kilometre buffer zones around wells were created to evaluate the impact of LULC on groundwater level. The results of the study highlight similar groundwater trends in both cities. Annually, two stations in Sagar City showed stable and increasing water levels, while other exhibited steady decline. Although during pre-monsoon season, all stations showed a significant (increasing/decreasing) trend and no trend is reported in monsoon season. Annually, Satna-1 station of Satna city showed groundwater replenishment, while Satna-2 station showed decline in groundwater level. Ramtekri station remained stable at the same time. Geospatial analysis from 2015 to 2022 revealed a rapid urban expansion with built-up areas increasing by 98.29 % (Sagar) and 108.17 % (Satna), accompanied by significant vegetation loss 43.30 % and 72.63 %, respectively. Barren land surged, especially in Satna (196.99 %), while water bodies declined by up to 14.01 %, threatening recharge potential. In addition to LULC dynamics, proximity to lakes, topographic elevation are the primary and the climatic indicators are the secondary key factors influencing groundwater trends. Moreover, ground water stations nearby the surface water bodies and having lower elevation show no trends or replenishment.
{"title":"Trends of groundwater level and driving factors in Sagar and Satna smart cities in eastern Madhya Pradesh, Central India","authors":"Parvendra Kumar , Rekha Sahu , Rajnandini Gupta , Vikram Sharma , Tripti Jayal , Satya Prakash","doi":"10.1016/j.clwat.2025.100183","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clwat.2025.100183","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Groundwater is a vital freshwater resource supporting livelihoods, agriculture, and ecosystems. However, degrading environment due to climate change and anthropogenic activities e.g. urban expansion and land use/land cover (LULC) dynamics has led towards its depletion. Particularly, conditions are worst at cities which experience both phenomena simultaneously. Therefore, present study investigates groundwater trends in Sagar and Satna smart cities of eastern Madhya Pradesh, Central India; characterized by semi-arid conditions, increasing climate variability and rapid LULC change. The study is based on groundwater data, acquired from the National Water Informatics Center, India. Geo-spatial datasets were utitlized to detect spatial changes in 2015 and 2022, a part of smart city project implementation period. Trends and their magnitude in groundwater levels are assessed through Mann-Kendall & Sen’s Slope, respectively. Additionally, one kilometre buffer zones around wells were created to evaluate the impact of LULC on groundwater level. The results of the study highlight similar groundwater trends in both cities. Annually, two stations in Sagar City showed stable and increasing water levels, while other exhibited steady decline. Although during pre-monsoon season, all stations showed a significant (increasing/decreasing) trend and no trend is reported in monsoon season. Annually, Satna-1 station of Satna city showed groundwater replenishment, while Satna-2 station showed decline in groundwater level. Ramtekri station remained stable at the same time. Geospatial analysis from 2015 to 2022 revealed a rapid urban expansion with built-up areas increasing by 98.29 % (Sagar) and 108.17 % (Satna), accompanied by significant vegetation loss 43.30 % and 72.63 %, respectively. Barren land surged, especially in Satna (196.99 %), while water bodies declined by up to 14.01 %, threatening recharge potential. In addition to LULC dynamics, proximity to lakes, topographic elevation are the primary and the climatic indicators are the secondary key factors influencing groundwater trends. Moreover, ground water stations nearby the surface water bodies and having lower elevation show no trends or replenishment.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100257,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Water","volume":"5 ","pages":"Article 100183"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145841126","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-03-01Epub Date: 2025-12-19DOI: 10.1016/j.clwat.2025.100197
Ray Malonjao , Juvy Malonjao , Jeonel Lumbab , Joecyn Archival , Gerwine Medio , Janice Alivio
This study examines the adoption of a fully automated groundwater supply system implemented in upland Cebu, Philippines, through a mixed-methods approach grounded in the integrated Science and Technology Studies-Technology Acceptance Model (STS–TAM Plus) framework. The framework extends traditional behavioral models by including environmental awareness and government support to capture socio-institutional influences on technology uptake. Quantitative modeling using Structural equation modeling identified Perceived Usefulness, Attitude Toward Technology, and Environmental Awareness as dominant predictors of adoption behavior. Mediation analysis revealed that perceived usefulness influenced behavioral intention primarily through attitudinal and environmental pathways, highlighting the role of psychological and emotional factors in shaping acceptance. Qualitative data from interviews and field observations supported the statistical results, revealing key sociotechnical dynamics such as financial barriers, trust-building, and the need for government support. Triangulation confirmed strong convergence between attitudinal and institutional factors, reinforcing the contextual validity of the model. The findings demonstrate that the successful adoption of fully automated groundwater supply system depends not only on user intention but also on systemic readiness, community participation, and institutional engagement offering actionable insights for designing sustainable, community-responsive water systems in resource-constrained and topographically complex regions.
{"title":"Assessing the adoption of a fully automated groundwater supply system in upland Cebu, Philippines: A mixed-methods study using the hybrid STS-TAM plus framework","authors":"Ray Malonjao , Juvy Malonjao , Jeonel Lumbab , Joecyn Archival , Gerwine Medio , Janice Alivio","doi":"10.1016/j.clwat.2025.100197","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clwat.2025.100197","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study examines the adoption of a fully automated groundwater supply system implemented in upland Cebu, Philippines, through a mixed-methods approach grounded in the integrated Science and Technology Studies-Technology Acceptance Model (STS–TAM Plus) framework. The framework extends traditional behavioral models by including environmental awareness and government support to capture socio-institutional influences on technology uptake. Quantitative modeling using Structural equation modeling identified Perceived Usefulness, Attitude Toward Technology, and Environmental Awareness as dominant predictors of adoption behavior. Mediation analysis revealed that perceived usefulness influenced behavioral intention primarily through attitudinal and environmental pathways, highlighting the role of psychological and emotional factors in shaping acceptance. Qualitative data from interviews and field observations supported the statistical results, revealing key sociotechnical dynamics such as financial barriers, trust-building, and the need for government support. Triangulation confirmed strong convergence between attitudinal and institutional factors, reinforcing the contextual validity of the model. The findings demonstrate that the successful adoption of fully automated groundwater supply system depends not only on user intention but also on systemic readiness, community participation, and institutional engagement offering actionable insights for designing sustainable, community-responsive water systems in resource-constrained and topographically complex regions.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100257,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Water","volume":"5 ","pages":"Article 100197"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145791588","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-03-01Epub Date: 2026-02-10DOI: 10.1016/j.clwat.2026.100220
Boluwatife S. Olubusoye , James V. Cizdziel , Ruojia Li , Kendall Wontor , Matthew T. Moore
The release and profile of microplastics (MPs) in surface runoff from parking lots and roadways is poorly understood. Here, we quantified and characterized MPs, excluding tire wear particles, in runoff samples (n = 21) from the drainage outlets of two such areas at the University of Mississippi during two separate rain events. Samples were analyzed using a combination of optical microscopy and Fourier Transform Infrared micro-spectroscopy (µ-FTIR). MP concentrations (particles/L ± 1SE) at the onset of the storm event and after 30 min varied from 128 ± 114–8 ± 4 for the first event, and from 17.3 ± 3–6 ± 2.5 for the second event, respectively. Both rain events demonstrated the first flush phenomenon, where pollutants are readily washed from the surface in the early stages of runoff. Most of the particles (91%) ranged between 30 and 150 µm in size, with 30 µm being the lowest size measured. Irregular particles (fragments) were dominant (50%), followed by spherical particles (32%) and fibers (18%). The top abundant types of MPs detected were acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (12%), polycarbonate (12%), polyurethane (11%), polymethyl methacrylate (10%), polyethylene terephthalate (8%), polyvinyl chloride (7%), ethylene vinyl acetate (6%), ethylene propylene (6%), polyamide (5%) and polyacrylamide (4%). Sources of MPs include plastic litter that has fragmented and road wear particles that can include reflective coatings. Even with limited spatial and temporal sampling, these findings indicate that parking lots and roadways at the investigated sites serve as significant sources of MP pollution in stormwater runoff. Consequently, analogous sites merit examination to better characterize the scope and mechanisms of this environmental input.
{"title":"Abundance and characteristics of microplastics in stormwater runoff from parking lots and roadways on a university campus","authors":"Boluwatife S. Olubusoye , James V. Cizdziel , Ruojia Li , Kendall Wontor , Matthew T. Moore","doi":"10.1016/j.clwat.2026.100220","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.clwat.2026.100220","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The release and profile of microplastics (MPs) in surface runoff from parking lots and roadways is poorly understood. Here, we quantified and characterized MPs, excluding tire wear particles, in runoff samples (<em>n</em> = 21) from the drainage outlets of two such areas at the University of Mississippi during two separate rain events. Samples were analyzed using a combination of optical microscopy and Fourier Transform Infrared micro-spectroscopy (µ-FTIR). MP concentrations (particles/L ± 1SE) at the onset of the storm event and after 30 min varied from 128 ± 114–8 ± 4 for the first event, and from 17.3 ± 3–6 ± 2.5 for the second event, respectively. Both rain events demonstrated the first flush phenomenon, where pollutants are readily washed from the surface in the early stages of runoff. Most of the particles (91%) ranged between 30 and 150 µm in size, with 30 µm being the lowest size measured. Irregular particles (fragments) were dominant (50%), followed by spherical particles (32%) and fibers (18%). The top abundant types of MPs detected were acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (12%), polycarbonate (12%), polyurethane (11%), polymethyl methacrylate (10%), polyethylene terephthalate (8%), polyvinyl chloride (7%), ethylene vinyl acetate (6%), ethylene propylene (6%), polyamide (5%) and polyacrylamide (4%). Sources of MPs include plastic litter that has fragmented and road wear particles that can include reflective coatings. Even with limited spatial and temporal sampling, these findings indicate that parking lots and roadways at the investigated sites serve as significant sources of MP pollution in stormwater runoff. Consequently, analogous sites merit examination to better characterize the scope and mechanisms of this environmental input.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":100257,"journal":{"name":"Cleaner Water","volume":"5 ","pages":"Article 100220"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2026-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"147396512","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}