{"title":"Frogs and Toads as Indicators of Ecological Health","authors":"John Oloo","doi":"10.47941/je.2032","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.47941/je.2032","url":null,"abstract":"Purpose: The purpose of this review was to investigate the causes of decline in frogs and toads population in the environment using systematic literature review methodology. The specific objectives of the study were: to determine the importance of amphibians in the environment, to establish the causes of the decline of amphibians and to suggest strategies that can be put in place to control their decline. \u0000Methodology: The systematic literature review methodology was adopted. By combining the literature overview with expert opinion, the researcher was able to crosscheck conclusions from different sources to search for general trends and regularities. \u0000Findings: Their decline can be attributed to presence of toxic chemicals (pesticides, accaricides, termicides, fertilizers), too much heat reaching them, or destruction of their habitat, capital development projects that lower water table and environmental conditions, birds, mammals and reptiles that prey on their eggs, habitat loss, diseases like red leg syndrome, harvesting for a variety of reasons, climate change and global warming, and invasive species. \u0000Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: Suggested strategies for reducing decline are: .using environmentally friendly chemicals and only when very necessary otherwise, organic chemicals should be recommended, restoration of habitats, combating climate change and global warming, reducing water run-off and preventing rubbish, silt and garden waste from getting into storm water drains, constructing and maintaining sediment traps near waterways, especially when disturbing surface vegetation cover, keeping a wide belt of vegetation around water bodies as a buffer zone for contaminants and to control erosion a voiding wearing insect repellents and other lotions if you go swimming in areas where frogs live, no drainage of wetlands, no collection of bush rock, no burning of patches of bush which frogs shelter in and no reduction in the quality of wildlife corridors, which connect areas of frog habitat and proper rules and regulations on the use of wetlands, swampy areas, shorelines and river rines.","PeriodicalId":514551,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Environment","volume":"19 3","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-07-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141717030","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}
{"title":"Understanding of Connectivity and Interlinkages between Human Activities and Climate Change: Community Perspectives from Kenya","authors":"G.W Kibue, K.B Kirui","doi":"10.47941/je.2000","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.47941/je.2000","url":null,"abstract":"Purpose: This study was conducted in Nakuru County, Kenya and aimed at assessing the community knowledge of the complex interrelationship between individual and collective activities and climate change in Kenya. Specifically, we assessed the knowledge and perception of climate change, grassroot information flow on Greenhouse Gas (GHGs) and climate change, and local practices/activities taken towards mitigation/adaptation to climate change. \u0000Methodology: The study involved both qualitative and quantitative research methods. Data was collected using literature reviews, questionnaires, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews. Descriptive analysis was used to summarize data that were then presented as frequencies and percentages. Index construction was undertaken by summing up the scores for all statements relating to knowledge and perceptions to obtain a single group of variables. Chi-square tests were used to test relationship between variables. \u0000Findings: Eighty (80%) of the respondents indicated that climate change is real, 69% of which attributed it to human activities, majorly (52%), clearance of vegetation. Most of the respondents (63%) had no idea about any climate change policy in the county while barely half (48%) could identify at least 1 greenhouse gas. This points to a gap in knowledge transmission from the national/County to the community and perhaps lack of sufficient community involvement in policy making. It was further established that there was a disconnect in information flow from scientific sources to communities that most respondents (63%) obtained climate information from community groups while only 2% relied on scientific sources, which would provide accurate information. this implies that the respondents may not be employing climate change mitigation strategies in their everyday interventions. Gender and education had significant influence on awareness and attitude towards climate change. \u0000Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: These results suggest the need to shape community’s attitudes/perceptions about climate change by sharing accurate information through flexible channels and community involvement in formulation and implementation of climate change policies.","PeriodicalId":514551,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Environment","volume":"14 6","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-06-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141347515","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}
{"title":"Individual-Related Factors Influencing Adherence to Hazardous Waste Management Policy Frameworks among Health Workers in Private Hospitals in Nairobi County – Kenya","authors":"Constantyne Chepchirchir","doi":"10.47941/je.1909","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.47941/je.1909","url":null,"abstract":"Purpose: This study, therefore, sought to investigate the individual related factors influencing the adherence to hazardous waste management guidelines among healthcare workers in 4 selected hospitals in Nairobi County Kenya. From the population of 900 healthcare workers from 4 levels 4 facilities, random sampling was applied to identify the 90 respondents. \u0000Methodology: Data analysis and reporting was done using appropriate quantitative methods. \u0000Findings: The findings from this study show that the level of contribution of individual related factors towards adherence to hazardous waste management policies among healthcare workers in private level four hospitals in Nairobi County is low. Despite the high level of awareness by the health workers on the important measures of collection, segregation, treatment, transportation and disposal of waste, the level of performance on the same is low. This is greatly attributable to negligence and unfavorable attitude towards healthcare waste management practices among healthcare workers. \u0000Unique contribution to theory, policy and practice: Based on the study findings, we would recommend the improvement of individual related factors on hazardous waste management among healthcare workers. ","PeriodicalId":514551,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Environment","volume":"50 7","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-05-17","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"140965054","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}
{"title":"Advanced Carbon Management: Innovations in Materials and Process Integration for Carbon Capture, Storage, and Utilization (CCSU)","authors":"Amirul Islam","doi":"10.47941/je.1895","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.47941/je.1895","url":null,"abstract":"Purpose: This article systematically explores the complex landscape of Carbon Capture, Storage, and Utilization (CCSU) technologies, emphasizing their critical role in global climate change mitigation. The article aims to provide a strategic framework for stakeholders to understand the integration of CCSU technologies into the broader energy and environmental policy landscape. \u0000Methodology: Through an integrated approach, this study examines the latest technological advancements in CCSU, studies the global regulatory frameworks influencing these technologies, and analyzes the economic factors that drive or obstruct their adoption. It also involves evaluating the role of international cooperation in standardizing and disseminating best practices for CCSU implementations worldwide. \u0000Findings: The study highlights the profound impact of legislative and financial mechanisms on the pace and scope of CCSU technology deployment. It discusses the potential of innovative materials and processes to reduce costs and increase the efficacy of carbon capture and storage. Furthermore, the review provides valuable insights into the current state and future prospects of CCSU technologies. \u0000Unique contribution to theory, policy and practice: The article emphasizes the necessity of robust research and development, supported by a conducive policy environment and strategic economic incentives, to enhance the efficiency, scalability, and commercial viability of CCSU technologies. It concludes with targeted recommendations for policymakers, suggesting ways to refine regulatory approaches and foster market conditions conducive to rapid CCSU adoption.","PeriodicalId":514551,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Environment","volume":"16 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-05-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"140982618","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}
{"title":"Towards Urban Forest Restoration in the City of Bukavu, Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo: Residents' Perceptions","authors":"L. Cirimwami, Fabrice Kibingani, C. Casinga","doi":"10.47941/je.1830","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.47941/je.1830","url":null,"abstract":"Purpose: Demographic explosion is a common phenomenon in the Democratic Republic of Congo, especially in the city of Bukavu, where more than 1.6 million inhabitants live in 60 km², following the rural exodus due to insecurity in rural areas. This situation has led to deforestation, resulting in the destruction of most of the old green spaces, exposing the city to higher risks of flooding, erosion, landslides and loss of biodiversity, among other environmental problems. This study aims to understand the population's perception of deforestation in Bukavu, and to inform policy makers on how to restore urban forests. \u0000Methodology: To collect data for this study, we sampled and interviewed 210 informants, with 70 informants in each of the three communes of Bukavu: Kadutu, Ibanda and Bagira. \u0000Findings: The vast majority of informants are in favor of restoring green spaces (85%). At least 72.9% of them recognize that green spaces are important for air purification, environmental improvement, ornamentation, erosion control, biodiversity conservation and food production (in the case of fruit trees). They agree that the vegetation cover has decreased, especially since the 2000s, mainly due to the rural exodus and unregulated housing construction (81.9%). The population is aware that they are the main beneficiaries of green spaces (87.1% of informants) and accuse the government of being the main destroyer of green spaces and that it should be the main actor in their restoration. At the same time, residents recognize their share of responsibility for the destruction and restoration of urban green spaces, but consider it to be less than that of the government. In order to restore green spaces, they suggested tree planting initiatives (51.7%), with a preference for Eucalyptus sp., Cupressus lusitanica, ornamental and medicinal trees. Awareness raising and planned urbanization are among the strategies proposed to restore these spaces. \u0000A unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: The results of this study pave the way for a multidimensional understanding of climate adaptation, and demonstrate the need for a collective awakening of all stakeholders and the full mobilization of all actors in the quest to restore green spaces in the city of Bukavu for a healthier environment.","PeriodicalId":514551,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Environment","volume":"4 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-04-25","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"140653946","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}
{"title":"Geospatial Assessment of Environmental Impact of Urban Growth in Akure South, Ondo State, Nigeria.","authors":"Ijaware Victor Ayodele, Ayomide Emmanuel Olubaju","doi":"10.47941/je.1616","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.47941/je.1616","url":null,"abstract":"Purpose: This comprehensive study examines the environmental impact of urbanization in Akure South, Ondo State, Nigeria, using a fusion of geospatial and microbiological analyses. Employing Landsat imagery from 2000, 2011, and 2022, processed through ArcGIS 10.8 and TERRSET software, the study maps and quantifies urban expansion and land use changes.Methodology: The research concurrently leverages, microbiological techniques to assess air pollution, as well as water and soil contamination levels. Findings: The result highlighted an increase in built up area from 9.31% in 2000 to 17.45% in 2011 and 29.54% in 2022, which is evident particularly in Akure township area, correlating with a notable decline in environmental quality. Pollution hotspots, identified through rigorous spatial analysis, point to areas severely impacted by urban growth and high level of air pollution, as well as water and soil contamination. In addition, Land Use/Land Cover (LULC) prediction shows that built up area will likely cover about 30.09% by 2042. These findings underscore the urgent need for strategic urban planning and robust pollution control measures. Unique contributor to theory, policy and practice: The study advocates for a balanced approach to urban development, integrating environmental sustainability to mitigate the adverse effects of rapid urban growth. This research contributes to the broader discourse on urbanization's environmental impact, offering valuable insights for policymakers and urban planners in similarly developing regions of the world.","PeriodicalId":514551,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Environment","volume":"16 15","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-01-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139531107","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}
Himanshu Ramesh Lamba, Juan Carlos Verardo, John Gorsuch
{"title":"Bioaugmentation in Leachate Treatment: Enhancing Ammonia Nitrogen Elimination in US Landfills","authors":"Himanshu Ramesh Lamba, Juan Carlos Verardo, John Gorsuch","doi":"10.47941/je.1619","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.47941/je.1619","url":null,"abstract":"Purpose: This research seeks to assess the quantitative effects of implementing bioaugmentation solutions within existing landfill leachate management systems. The study involves the analysis of different sites to gauge the influence on leachate composition, considering various industry management practices such as lagoons, tanks, sewer discharge, or off-site trucking. The primary objective is to examine changes in microbial communities within the leachate, specifically focusing on their impact on ammonia nitrogen elimination rates. The ultimate goal is to achieve lower levels of ammonia nitrogen before the discharge of leachate to publicly owned treatment works (POTW).Methodology: The research employs a comprehensive methodology that involves the examination of diverse landfill sites utilizing various industry management practices for leachate treatment. The analysis includes assessing leachate composition and the study evaluates effectiveness of bioaugmentation in enhancing ammonia elimination rates, considering different leachate treatment approaches and operating conditions. This involves a systematic comparison of outcomes across sites and management practices.Findings: The findings of this study indicate that bioaugmentation is an effective strategy for accelerating ammonia elimination rates in landfill leachate. The analysis reveals notable improvements in microbial communities, leading to reduced levels of ammonia nitrogen in the leachate prior to its discharge to POTW. The study highlights the versatility of bioaugmentation across different industry management practices, showcasing its potential benefits under varying operating conditions and treatment setups.Unique contributor to theory, policy and practice: Based on the study's outcomes, it is recommended that landfill operators and leachate management practitioners consider implementing bioaugmentation solutions to expedite ammonia elimination rates. The findings suggest that bioaugmentation is a cost-effective and fast-to-deploy solution that requires negligible capital expenditure. This approach has the potential to generate significant savings, especially in the face of a more stringent regulatory environment. The recommendations emphasize the adaptability and efficiency of bioaugmentation across a broad range of operating conditions within existing landfill leachate management infrastructure.","PeriodicalId":514551,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Environment","volume":"17 18","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-01-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139531018","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}