Water and energy are the key to development; however, a great deal of contestation is at the very core of hydropower and sustainability debate in the context climate change and risk of disasters. A vast potential for renewable energy in the Himalayas has led to planning for hydropower projects since 1990s. However, social, economic and environmental issues linked to such development has also led to a fear among local communities in light of climate change. This study analysed the relation between climate extremes, disaster risk and hydropower development in Lahaul Valley of Himachal Pradesh. The study examined long-term climate data for precipitation and temperature trends while daily rainfall gridded data was used for the analysis of climate extremes. The results show statistically significant increase in precipitation intensity and rise of winter and post winter temperature. Also, heavy and very heavy rainfall days, daily rainfall intensity shows increasing trends that may have serious repercussions on local economy, livelihood and hydropower development. The field observations reveal discontentment of local population to proposed development. It is important that this debate must be reviewed logically to ensure safe future of the area with sound understanding of disasters and climate change risk.
{"title":"Climate Extremes and Sustainability Issues: A Case of Proposed Hydropower Projects in Lahaul Valley, Himachal Pradesh","authors":"Vishwa B. S. Chandel, Beant Singh Rana","doi":"10.12944/cwe.18.3.34","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12944/cwe.18.3.34","url":null,"abstract":"Water and energy are the key to development; however, a great deal of contestation is at the very core of hydropower and sustainability debate in the context climate change and risk of disasters. A vast potential for renewable energy in the Himalayas has led to planning for hydropower projects since 1990s. However, social, economic and environmental issues linked to such development has also led to a fear among local communities in light of climate change. This study analysed the relation between climate extremes, disaster risk and hydropower development in Lahaul Valley of Himachal Pradesh. The study examined long-term climate data for precipitation and temperature trends while daily rainfall gridded data was used for the analysis of climate extremes. The results show statistically significant increase in precipitation intensity and rise of winter and post winter temperature. Also, heavy and very heavy rainfall days, daily rainfall intensity shows increasing trends that may have serious repercussions on local economy, livelihood and hydropower development. The field observations reveal discontentment of local population to proposed development. It is important that this debate must be reviewed logically to ensure safe future of the area with sound understanding of disasters and climate change risk.","PeriodicalId":10878,"journal":{"name":"Current World Environment","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-01-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139627988","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}
Deepor Beel, situated in the lower Assam region of Brahmaputra Valley, is a significant wetland that holds immense importance and is classified within the biogeographical region of the Burma monsoon forest. The beel acts as a crucial reservoir for storing water in Guwahati, aiding in mitigating the effects of flash flooding. The beel is endowed with luxuriant aquatic flora and fauna and maintains a well-balanced ecosystem. Nevertheless, the presence of the Paschim Boragaon Landfill in close proximity to the beel has raised concerns about the fragility of the biodiversity and ecosystem. The study was conducted to evaluate the appropriateness of placing a waste disposal site near a wetland and also how effectively did the Paschim Boragaon landfill adhere to the criteria specified in the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and Central Public Health and Environment Engineering Organisation (CPHEEO). The landfill's establishment has disregarded the prescribed regulations imposed by the relevant governing body, posing a significant threat to the soil, water, and environment. This situation flagrantly violates the Wetland Rules of 2010, leading to detrimental effects on the diverse features and biodiversity of the beel. The landfill's close proximity has directly or indirectly disrupted the beel's heterogeneous characteristics. Hence, an urgent relocation of the entire landfill is imperative to protect the beel and uphold the internationally renowned Ramsar wetland's biodiversity.
{"title":"Locational Suitability of Paschim Boragaon Landfill Adjacent to Deepor Beel Wetland, Assam","authors":"Roopjyoti Hazarika","doi":"10.12944/cwe.18.3.10","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12944/cwe.18.3.10","url":null,"abstract":"Deepor Beel, situated in the lower Assam region of Brahmaputra Valley, is a significant wetland that holds immense importance and is classified within the biogeographical region of the Burma monsoon forest. The beel acts as a crucial reservoir for storing water in Guwahati, aiding in mitigating the effects of flash flooding. The beel is endowed with luxuriant aquatic flora and fauna and maintains a well-balanced ecosystem. Nevertheless, the presence of the Paschim Boragaon Landfill in close proximity to the beel has raised concerns about the fragility of the biodiversity and ecosystem. The study was conducted to evaluate the appropriateness of placing a waste disposal site near a wetland and also how effectively did the Paschim Boragaon landfill adhere to the criteria specified in the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and Central Public Health and Environment Engineering Organisation (CPHEEO). The landfill's establishment has disregarded the prescribed regulations imposed by the relevant governing body, posing a significant threat to the soil, water, and environment. This situation flagrantly violates the Wetland Rules of 2010, leading to detrimental effects on the diverse features and biodiversity of the beel. The landfill's close proximity has directly or indirectly disrupted the beel's heterogeneous characteristics. Hence, an urgent relocation of the entire landfill is imperative to protect the beel and uphold the internationally renowned Ramsar wetland's biodiversity.","PeriodicalId":10878,"journal":{"name":"Current World Environment","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-01-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139535012","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 aims to investigate farmers’ perception of land degradation in Vietnam, where land degradation is concerned as one of the nation's most pressing issues. Based on survey data from 826 farmers in three representative regions of Vietnam (including Hoa Binh province in Northern region, Quang Tri province in the Central Coastal region, and Can Tho province in Southern region) conducted in 2017, the study reveals that over 85% of the respondents have observed indications of land degradation on their farms. The farmers' perceptions of land degradation indicators were influenced by regional topography. Inappropriate farming techniques, excessive chemical use, and a lack of knowledge were reported as the major causes of land degradation. Furthermore, the farmers had limited understanding of land degradation as well as the benefits of soil conservation measures. Sustainable land management adopters exhibited their better perception of land degradation and measures for land improvement compared to non-adopters. Therefore, it is crucial to increase the farmers’ perception on land degradation and the advantages of adopting sustainable land management and this should be accomplished through widespread dissemination via mass and local media in the future
{"title":"Farmers’ Perceptions on Land Degradation: A Case Study in Vietnam","authors":"Nguyen Mau Dung, Nguyen Thi Hai Ninh","doi":"10.12944/cwe.18.3.35","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12944/cwe.18.3.35","url":null,"abstract":"This study aims to investigate farmers’ perception of land degradation in Vietnam, where land degradation is concerned as one of the nation's most pressing issues. Based on survey data from 826 farmers in three representative regions of Vietnam (including Hoa Binh province in Northern region, Quang Tri province in the Central Coastal region, and Can Tho province in Southern region) conducted in 2017, the study reveals that over 85% of the respondents have observed indications of land degradation on their farms. The farmers' perceptions of land degradation indicators were influenced by regional topography. Inappropriate farming techniques, excessive chemical use, and a lack of knowledge were reported as the major causes of land degradation. Furthermore, the farmers had limited understanding of land degradation as well as the benefits of soil conservation measures. Sustainable land management adopters exhibited their better perception of land degradation and measures for land improvement compared to non-adopters. Therefore, it is crucial to increase the farmers’ perception on land degradation and the advantages of adopting sustainable land management and this should be accomplished through widespread dissemination via mass and local media in the future","PeriodicalId":10878,"journal":{"name":"Current World Environment","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-01-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139627194","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 Yagachi River watershed in Karnataka State has been chosen for a thorough analysis to recognize the drainage system, morphometric features, and vulnerability of the watershed area to erosion. As a prerequisite to the analysis of morphometric features utilizing ArcGIS software, the stream networks and sub-watersheds (viz., SW01, SW02, SW03 and SW04) were delineated by making use of topographic sheets and the Digital Elevation Model (DEM). Yagachi watershed covers an area of 551.45 sq. km and observed predominant drainage patterns are sub-parallel and dendritic with sixth-order drainage. Higher stream orders (U=6), implying greater surface runoff and sediment load, and low mean stream length values in the upper reaches, signifying youthful morphological development and strong erosion potential, are characteristics of streams in the watershed. Drainage density values (1.262 to 1.930 km/km2), particularly at upper reaches in the NW part of the watershed, fine to very fine drainage texture values (7.572 and 8.337), moderate to high values of length of overland flow (Lg) and constant of channel maintenance (CCM) indicate steep to moderate slopes, fairly significant surface runoff, and high erosive power of the streams and greater sediment load. The elongated form of the watershed is shown by the computed lower form factor (Ff) and elongation ratio (Re) values. Relief characteristics of the watershed area, although suggest that the study area is vulnerable to erosion and in youth stage, in reality, the area is characterised more by the features of the late mature stage of landform development. The observed anomaly is attributed to the mountain-plain environment as the steeply sloped hill ranges of Bababudan formations are located in the northwestern parts of the Yagachi watershed area. However, the sub-watershed SW03 with high stream length, drainage density and relief value with fine drainage texture is relatively more susceptible to erosion.
{"title":"Drainage Morphometric analysis of Yagachi watershed area, Karnataka State, India","authors":"Sowndarya M, Annapoorna H, Janardhana M R","doi":"10.12944/cwe.18.3.19","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12944/cwe.18.3.19","url":null,"abstract":"The Yagachi River watershed in Karnataka State has been chosen for a thorough analysis to recognize the drainage system, morphometric features, and vulnerability of the watershed area to erosion. As a prerequisite to the analysis of morphometric features utilizing ArcGIS software, the stream networks and sub-watersheds (viz., SW01, SW02, SW03 and SW04) were delineated by making use of topographic sheets and the Digital Elevation Model (DEM). Yagachi watershed covers an area of 551.45 sq. km and observed predominant drainage patterns are sub-parallel and dendritic with sixth-order drainage. Higher stream orders (U=6), implying greater surface runoff and sediment load, and low mean stream length values in the upper reaches, signifying youthful morphological development and strong erosion potential, are characteristics of streams in the watershed. Drainage density values (1.262 to 1.930 km/km2), particularly at upper reaches in the NW part of the watershed, fine to very fine drainage texture values (7.572 and 8.337), moderate to high values of length of overland flow (Lg) and constant of channel maintenance (CCM) indicate steep to moderate slopes, fairly significant surface runoff, and high erosive power of the streams and greater sediment load. The elongated form of the watershed is shown by the computed lower form factor (Ff) and elongation ratio (Re) values. Relief characteristics of the watershed area, although suggest that the study area is vulnerable to erosion and in youth stage, in reality, the area is characterised more by the features of the late mature stage of landform development. The observed anomaly is attributed to the mountain-plain environment as the steeply sloped hill ranges of Bababudan formations are located in the northwestern parts of the Yagachi watershed area. However, the sub-watershed SW03 with high stream length, drainage density and relief value with fine drainage texture is relatively more susceptible to erosion.","PeriodicalId":10878,"journal":{"name":"Current World Environment","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-01-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139627335","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}
Generation of waste has been associated with humans since dawn of civilization. But in recent decades due to factors like ever increasing population, urbanization and industrialization, the amount of waste generated has spiked to enormous proportions. The composition of waste has significantly changed since plastic was first used in the middle of the 19th century. MSW management is a significant environmental concern in India. Jammu City generates an immense amount of solid waste, approximately 350–400 metric tons (MT) daily, with an individual generation rate of around 0.55 kg per day. MSW management in Jammu City is handled by the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC). In the city, MSW collection, transportation, and disposal are all handled by JMC. MSW of Jammu city is disposed at Kot Bhalwal which is an open landfill site. As of now no prior treatment of MSW is being done. Present study attempts to assess the current state of MSW management in Jammu city. Sampling was done in the month of July, 2022 from 15 different wards classified in the basis of socioeconomic status and physical characterization of MSW was conducted. This paper analyzes the results obtained from physical characteristics of MSW from three diverse socioeconomic groups HIG, MIG and LIG. This would help in understanding the waste generation pattern of different socioeconomic groups. MSW from MIG contains large proportion of organic matter (55%) and is thus suitable for composting and bio-methanation, however MSW collected from HIG locality contain high proportion of inorganic materials like paper/cardboard, plastic, polythene and textile waste and therefore it is suitable for Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) facility. MSW from Jammu city also contain high fraction of inert waste (20% to 45%). Inert waste can be easily disposed but when it is mixed with MSW it increases the volume and weight of total MSW and therefore increase the difficulty if MSW management. This study also explores the alternative approaches to MSWM in Jammu city. Data generated by present study will be beneficial to JMC for designing future course of action for management of MSW of Jammu City.
{"title":"A Study on Physical Characterization of Municipal Solid Waste of Jammu City on the basis of Socioeconomic Status of the Population","authors":"Bhawana Sharma, Pankaj Mehta, Preeti Verma","doi":"10.12944/cwe.18.3.36","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12944/cwe.18.3.36","url":null,"abstract":"Generation of waste has been associated with humans since dawn of civilization. But in recent decades due to factors like ever increasing population, urbanization and industrialization, the amount of waste generated has spiked to enormous proportions. The composition of waste has significantly changed since plastic was first used in the middle of the 19th century. MSW management is a significant environmental concern in India. Jammu City generates an immense amount of solid waste, approximately 350–400 metric tons (MT) daily, with an individual generation rate of around 0.55 kg per day. MSW management in Jammu City is handled by the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC). In the city, MSW collection, transportation, and disposal are all handled by JMC. MSW of Jammu city is disposed at Kot Bhalwal which is an open landfill site. As of now no prior treatment of MSW is being done. Present study attempts to assess the current state of MSW management in Jammu city. Sampling was done in the month of July, 2022 from 15 different wards classified in the basis of socioeconomic status and physical characterization of MSW was conducted. This paper analyzes the results obtained from physical characteristics of MSW from three diverse socioeconomic groups HIG, MIG and LIG. This would help in understanding the waste generation pattern of different socioeconomic groups. MSW from MIG contains large proportion of organic matter (55%) and is thus suitable for composting and bio-methanation, however MSW collected from HIG locality contain high proportion of inorganic materials like paper/cardboard, plastic, polythene and textile waste and therefore it is suitable for Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) facility. MSW from Jammu city also contain high fraction of inert waste (20% to 45%). Inert waste can be easily disposed but when it is mixed with MSW it increases the volume and weight of total MSW and therefore increase the difficulty if MSW management. This study also explores the alternative approaches to MSWM in Jammu city. Data generated by present study will be beneficial to JMC for designing future course of action for management of MSW of Jammu City.","PeriodicalId":10878,"journal":{"name":"Current World Environment","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-01-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139627568","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}
Wetlands, which serve as a transition between land and water, are a source of concern across the world in terms of resource evaluation and use, environmental protection, pollution control, eco-restoration, biodiversity conservation, and so on. Wetlands are an important aspect of human civilization because they provide drinking water, food, improved water quality, sediment retention, flood storage, transportation, recreation, and climate stabilization, among other things. Despite their numerous advantages, wetlands are increasingly subjected to anthropogenic pressures and are rapidly disappearing. Valsad district is the developing district of Gujarat state, located between 20°37'48.00" N and 72°55'48.00" E, making it one of Gujarat's rainiest districts and having many wetland ecosystems with great aquatic biodiversity. The present investigation aimed to list, find, and investigate wetlands, with a focus on macrophyte species, because of their high socioeconomic and ethnobotanical relevance. The current study identified a total of 43 macrophyte species, which are organized into 35 genera and 24 different families. Out of the 43 macrophyte species, 40 were recorded as angiosperms, 02 as pteridophytes, and 01 as macroalgae. In the present investigation, existing macrophyte species were evaluated based on their ecological classification, life form classification, and their wetland indicator status. This research not only showed the diversity of indigenous macrophytes but also discusses the utilization of aquatic plants for socioeconomic and ethnobotanical purposes, which enhance the traditional medicinal knowledge about the macrophytes.
{"title":"Diversity of Aquatic Macrophyte Species of Pardi Wetland, Valsad District, Gujarat, India: Social-economic and Ethnobotanical importance","authors":"H. Patel, Susmita Sahoo, Alpesh Thakor","doi":"10.12944/cwe.18.3.32","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12944/cwe.18.3.32","url":null,"abstract":"Wetlands, which serve as a transition between land and water, are a source of concern across the world in terms of resource evaluation and use, environmental protection, pollution control, eco-restoration, biodiversity conservation, and so on. Wetlands are an important aspect of human civilization because they provide drinking water, food, improved water quality, sediment retention, flood storage, transportation, recreation, and climate stabilization, among other things. Despite their numerous advantages, wetlands are increasingly subjected to anthropogenic pressures and are rapidly disappearing. Valsad district is the developing district of Gujarat state, located between 20°37'48.00\" N and 72°55'48.00\" E, making it one of Gujarat's rainiest districts and having many wetland ecosystems with great aquatic biodiversity. The present investigation aimed to list, find, and investigate wetlands, with a focus on macrophyte species, because of their high socioeconomic and ethnobotanical relevance. The current study identified a total of 43 macrophyte species, which are organized into 35 genera and 24 different families. Out of the 43 macrophyte species, 40 were recorded as angiosperms, 02 as pteridophytes, and 01 as macroalgae. In the present investigation, existing macrophyte species were evaluated based on their ecological classification, life form classification, and their wetland indicator status. This research not only showed the diversity of indigenous macrophytes but also discusses the utilization of aquatic plants for socioeconomic and ethnobotanical purposes, which enhance the traditional medicinal knowledge about the macrophytes.","PeriodicalId":10878,"journal":{"name":"Current World Environment","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-01-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139628252","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}
Data for 220Rn in indoor and industrial environments are limited since it is widely accepted that its concentrations are meager on account of its diminutive half life, so its participation to respiration dose is disregarded on account of the incidence of considerable sources of ambient radiation. An effective dose from indoor 222Rn and its half springs accounts for almost half to the sources of natural radiation. However, indoor studies carried out in Asian continent imply the dose intake from 222Rn and its progeny may not be much lower than, or possibly more than, that from 220Rn. In light of this, an effort has been made to track Bangalore, India's 220Rn level distribution. Dosimeters were positioned throughout the room at fixed intervals from the wall, ceiling, and floor. To analyze the variances with respect to distance, all windows and doors were shut for 90 days. Additionally, dosimeters were placed in an upper and lower parabolic configuration. Cellulose Nitrate based Nuclear Track Detector (SSNTD) was used to examine the 220Rn coupled with 222Rn in test room. Higher concentrations were seen when the detector was moved away from the walls, ceiling, and floors of the room. This study covers the technical aspects of measuring the 220Rn distribution in a room. The findings are contrasted with figures provided in the literature for residences and regions with high background radiation levels.
{"title":"Study of 220Rn and its Progeny Circulation in a Test Room","authors":"Sathish L A","doi":"10.12944/cwe.18.3.25","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12944/cwe.18.3.25","url":null,"abstract":"Data for 220Rn in indoor and industrial environments are limited since it is widely accepted that its concentrations are meager on account of its diminutive half life, so its participation to respiration dose is disregarded on account of the incidence of considerable sources of ambient radiation. An effective dose from indoor 222Rn and its half springs accounts for almost half to the sources of natural radiation. However, indoor studies carried out in Asian continent imply the dose intake from 222Rn and its progeny may not be much lower than, or possibly more than, that from 220Rn. In light of this, an effort has been made to track Bangalore, India's 220Rn level distribution. Dosimeters were positioned throughout the room at fixed intervals from the wall, ceiling, and floor. To analyze the variances with respect to distance, all windows and doors were shut for 90 days. Additionally, dosimeters were placed in an upper and lower parabolic configuration. Cellulose Nitrate based Nuclear Track Detector (SSNTD) was used to examine the 220Rn coupled with 222Rn in test room. Higher concentrations were seen when the detector was moved away from the walls, ceiling, and floors of the room. This study covers the technical aspects of measuring the 220Rn distribution in a room. The findings are contrasted with figures provided in the literature for residences and regions with high background radiation levels.","PeriodicalId":10878,"journal":{"name":"Current World Environment","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-01-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139534736","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}
Nwachukwu Michael, Duru Majesty, Nwachukwu Innocentia, Obasi Chidera, Ihenetu Francis
Assessment of physicochemical and microbiological characteristics of rainwater harvested from different rooftops in Owerri, Imo State was carried out using standard methods. Rainwater samples collected from different rooftops were analyzed for quality and compared to the standard for World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Standard for Drinking Water Quality (NSDWQ). Rainwater was also collected directly from the rainfall and analyzed. The result of the physicochemical parameters showed that only the rainwater harvested from asbestos rooftop had the pH value that falls within WHO standard and NSDWQ. The turbidity value of rainwater harvested from the thatched rooftop was higher than the WHO standard and NSDWQ. Organisms isolated from the rainwater samples harvested from the rooftops include Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Klebsilla pneumonia, Entrobacter sp., Proteus mirabilis, Aspergillus sp., Penicillum sp., and Vibro sp. However, after molecular studies, K. pneumoniae, P. aeroginosa, E. coli, and P. mirabilis were the four bacterial species identified. The rainwater samples had high levels of microbial loads against WHO standard and NSDWQ. Rainwater sample from thatched rooftop had the highest total heterotrophic count (THC) but all the studied rainwater samples had THC higher than WHO standard and NSDWQ. The rainwater harvested directly from rainfall had low values for the physicochemical parameters and microbial loads considered in this study, when compared to the rainwater samples harvested from the rooftops. The bacterial and fungal isolates of rainwater samples from the rooftops have been associated with different diseases. There is a need to treat harvested rainwater properly before domestic or potable use. This study has assessed the physicochemical and microbiological characteristics of rainwater harvested from different rooftops in Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria.
{"title":"Assessment of Physicochemical and Microbiological Characteristics of Rainwater Harvested from Different Rooftops in Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria","authors":"Nwachukwu Michael, Duru Majesty, Nwachukwu Innocentia, Obasi Chidera, Ihenetu Francis","doi":"10.12944/cwe.18.3.24","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12944/cwe.18.3.24","url":null,"abstract":"Assessment of physicochemical and microbiological characteristics of rainwater harvested from different rooftops in Owerri, Imo State was carried out using standard methods. Rainwater samples collected from different rooftops were analyzed for quality and compared to the standard for World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Standard for Drinking Water Quality (NSDWQ). Rainwater was also collected directly from the rainfall and analyzed. The result of the physicochemical parameters showed that only the rainwater harvested from asbestos rooftop had the pH value that falls within WHO standard and NSDWQ. The turbidity value of rainwater harvested from the thatched rooftop was higher than the WHO standard and NSDWQ. Organisms isolated from the rainwater samples harvested from the rooftops include Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Klebsilla pneumonia, Entrobacter sp., Proteus mirabilis, Aspergillus sp., Penicillum sp., and Vibro sp. However, after molecular studies, K. pneumoniae, P. aeroginosa, E. coli, and P. mirabilis were the four bacterial species identified. The rainwater samples had high levels of microbial loads against WHO standard and NSDWQ. Rainwater sample from thatched rooftop had the highest total heterotrophic count (THC) but all the studied rainwater samples had THC higher than WHO standard and NSDWQ. The rainwater harvested directly from rainfall had low values for the physicochemical parameters and microbial loads considered in this study, when compared to the rainwater samples harvested from the rooftops. The bacterial and fungal isolates of rainwater samples from the rooftops have been associated with different diseases. There is a need to treat harvested rainwater properly before domestic or potable use. This study has assessed the physicochemical and microbiological characteristics of rainwater harvested from different rooftops in Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria.","PeriodicalId":10878,"journal":{"name":"Current World Environment","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-01-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139534774","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 use of pesticides, although ensures crop protection and enables to achieve food security, often causes negative externalities for both human and the environment. This study sought to identify the factors that influence pesticide application in Trinidad, a major CARICOM nation, by conducting structured interviews with 174 farmers in eight municipal counties. The data were analysed using Ordered Probit Model. While gender and age showed no significant impact on pesticide use frequency, farm size and experience influenced application behaviours. Larger farms and experienced farmers displayed distinct patterns, calling for customized interventions. Notably, secondary and collegiate education was linked to reduced pesticide use, aligning with sustainability goals. Crop-specific trends were seen with an increase in the use of pesticides in the Solanaceae crop and leafy vegetables, underscoring the need for tailored approaches. Insect and weed issues had a limited impact, however, management of crop diseases was essential in reducing pesticide use. This study emphasizes the need for multi-disciplinary interventions that take into account the size of the farm, the level of experience, the level of education, and the types of crops grown in Trinidad, to promote the sustainable use of pesticides in agriculture. Such comprehensive strategies are essential for enhancing food safety and long-term sustainability of the Trinidad food supply chain, while also mitigating the negative externalities of pesticide application.
{"title":"Pesticide Application in Trinidadian Food Supply Chain: Food Safety and Sustainability Implications","authors":"G. Kathiravan, Brent Norris Georges","doi":"10.12944/cwe.18.3.08","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12944/cwe.18.3.08","url":null,"abstract":"The use of pesticides, although ensures crop protection and enables to achieve food security, often causes negative externalities for both human and the environment. This study sought to identify the factors that influence pesticide application in Trinidad, a major CARICOM nation, by conducting structured interviews with 174 farmers in eight municipal counties. The data were analysed using Ordered Probit Model. While gender and age showed no significant impact on pesticide use frequency, farm size and experience influenced application behaviours. Larger farms and experienced farmers displayed distinct patterns, calling for customized interventions. Notably, secondary and collegiate education was linked to reduced pesticide use, aligning with sustainability goals. Crop-specific trends were seen with an increase in the use of pesticides in the Solanaceae crop and leafy vegetables, underscoring the need for tailored approaches. Insect and weed issues had a limited impact, however, management of crop diseases was essential in reducing pesticide use. This study emphasizes the need for multi-disciplinary interventions that take into account the size of the farm, the level of experience, the level of education, and the types of crops grown in Trinidad, to promote the sustainable use of pesticides in agriculture. Such comprehensive strategies are essential for enhancing food safety and long-term sustainability of the Trinidad food supply chain, while also mitigating the negative externalities of pesticide application.","PeriodicalId":10878,"journal":{"name":"Current World Environment","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-01-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139627212","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}
We conducted a study to assess the variations in groundwater quality and metal pollution and identify the sources in the U S Nagar district of Uttarakhand state of India using multivariate statistical techniques. The two essential indicators of any developed society are Safe drinking water and decontamination. This research aims to undertake drinking water quality analyses of the groundwater and the sources of contamination in Udham Singh Nagar district, Uttarakhand. We produced results of 250 samples collected from hand pumps (Govt. and Private) and artesian wells. We measured 19 parameters which nine physicochemical parameters (pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, dissolved oxygen, oxidation and reduction potential, salinity, fluoride, chloride, nitrate), 7 Heavy metals (Lead, nickel, chromium, copper, iron, manganese, zinc) along with three metals (potassium, magnesium, sodium). Water quality index, Heavy metal pollution index, PCA (Principal component analysis)/FA (factor analysis), and CA (Cluster analysis) methods were applied. WQI index shows five samples (2 %) comes under the excellent, 211 samples (84.4 %) fall under good quality, and 34 samples (13.6 %) have poor water quality wqi status as per Yadav index. Further, referring to the Ramakrishnaiah index, 216 samples (86.4 %) fall under excellent quality and only 13 samples (13.6 %) come under good water quality. For HPI, as per Indian Standard, nearly 40.4% of samples show a low degree of pollution, 33.2% of samples show a medium degree of pollution, and 26.4% show a High degree of pollution. According to the International HPI standard, 46% of samples show a low degree of pollution, 38% have a medium degree, and 16% show a high-grade degree of pollution. The results of PCA show that groundwater has mainly geogenic (geochemical alteration and weathering of source rock like carbonate, dolomite, quartzite, etc.) followed by anthropogenic sources (agrogenic, domestic sewage and industrial wastes etc.). The results obtained through the PCA are also moderately supported by Cluster analysis. The cations which were over the limit in groundwater samples are presented in chronological order Fe > Pb > Ni > Mg > Mn > Zn > Cu, and significant anions were over the limit F¯ > Cl¯, and the rest was under the limit. The highly heavy metal-contaminated drinking groundwater sample, being used for drinking purpose, is deteriorating and need a proper treatment strategy before domestic water supply.
{"title":"Groundwater Assessment in Udham Singh Nagar, Uttarakhand, India Using Multivariate Statistical Techniques, WQI, and HPI","authors":"B. Kotlia, Shahditta Bakshi","doi":"10.12944/cwe.18.3.06","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12944/cwe.18.3.06","url":null,"abstract":"We conducted a study to assess the variations in groundwater quality and metal pollution and identify the sources in the U S Nagar district of Uttarakhand state of India using multivariate statistical techniques. The two essential indicators of any developed society are Safe drinking water and decontamination. This research aims to undertake drinking water quality analyses of the groundwater and the sources of contamination in Udham Singh Nagar district, Uttarakhand. We produced results of 250 samples collected from hand pumps (Govt. and Private) and artesian wells. We measured 19 parameters which nine physicochemical parameters (pH, electrical conductivity, total dissolved solids, dissolved oxygen, oxidation and reduction potential, salinity, fluoride, chloride, nitrate), 7 Heavy metals (Lead, nickel, chromium, copper, iron, manganese, zinc) along with three metals (potassium, magnesium, sodium). Water quality index, Heavy metal pollution index, PCA (Principal component analysis)/FA (factor analysis), and CA (Cluster analysis) methods were applied. WQI index shows five samples (2 %) comes under the excellent, 211 samples (84.4 %) fall under good quality, and 34 samples (13.6 %) have poor water quality wqi status as per Yadav index. Further, referring to the Ramakrishnaiah index, 216 samples (86.4 %) fall under excellent quality and only 13 samples (13.6 %) come under good water quality. For HPI, as per Indian Standard, nearly 40.4% of samples show a low degree of pollution, 33.2% of samples show a medium degree of pollution, and 26.4% show a High degree of pollution. According to the International HPI standard, 46% of samples show a low degree of pollution, 38% have a medium degree, and 16% show a high-grade degree of pollution. The results of PCA show that groundwater has mainly geogenic (geochemical alteration and weathering of source rock like carbonate, dolomite, quartzite, etc.) followed by anthropogenic sources (agrogenic, domestic sewage and industrial wastes etc.). The results obtained through the PCA are also moderately supported by Cluster analysis. The cations which were over the limit in groundwater samples are presented in chronological order Fe > Pb > Ni > Mg > Mn > Zn > Cu, and significant anions were over the limit F¯ > Cl¯, and the rest was under the limit. The highly heavy metal-contaminated drinking groundwater sample, being used for drinking purpose, is deteriorating and need a proper treatment strategy before domestic water supply.","PeriodicalId":10878,"journal":{"name":"Current World Environment","volume":null,"pages":null},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-01-10","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139627252","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}