51
|
Mészáros E, Bodor A, Szierer Á, Kovács E, Perei K, Tölgyesi C, Bátori Z, Feigl G. Indirect effects of COVID-19 on the environment: How plastic contamination from disposable surgical masks affect early development of plants. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 436:129255. [PMID: 35739774 PMCID: PMC9158377 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.129255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Personal protective equipment, used extensively during the COVID-19 pandemic, heavily burdened the environment due to improper waste management. Owing to their fibrous structure, layered non-woven polypropylene (PP) disposable masks release secondary fragments at a much higher rate than other plastic waste types, thus, posing a barely understood new form of ecological hazard. Here we show that PP mask fragments of different sizes induce morphogenic responses in plants during their early development. Using in vitro systems and soil-filled rhizotrons, we found that several PP mask treatments modified the root growth of Brassica napus (L.) regardless of the experimental system. The environment around the root and mask fragments seemed to influence the effect of PP fabric fragment contamination on early root growth. In soil, primary root length was clearly inhibited by larger PP mask fragments at 1 % concentration, while the two smallest sizes of applied mask fragments caused distinct, concentration-dependent changes in the lateral root numbers. Our results indicate that PP can act as a stressor: contamination by PP surgical masks affects plant growth and hence, warrants attention. Further investigations regarding the effects of plastic pollution on plant-soil interactions involving various soil types are urgently needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Enikő Mészáros
- Department of Plant Biology, University of Szeged, Hungary
| | - Attila Bodor
- Institute of Biophysics, Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary; Department of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Hungary
| | - Ádám Szierer
- Department of Plant Biology, University of Szeged, Hungary
| | - Etelka Kovács
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Hungary
| | - Katalin Perei
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Hungary
| | | | - Zoltán Bátori
- Department of Ecology, University of Szeged, Hungary
| | - Gábor Feigl
- Department of Plant Biology, University of Szeged, Hungary.
| |
Collapse
|
52
|
Uncontrolled Disposal of Used Masks Resulting in Release of Microplastics and Co-Pollutants into Environment. WATER 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/w14152403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The global panic caused by COVID-19 has continued to increase people’s demand for masks. However, due to inadequate management and disposal practice, these masks have, unfortunately, entered the environment and release a large amount of microplastics (MPs), posing a serious threat to the environment and human health. Understanding the occurrence of mask waste in various environments, release of mask-origin MPs, and related environmental risk is essential to mask-waste management in current and future epidemic prevention and control. This paper focuses on the global distribution of mask waste, the potential release of waste-origin MPs, and the impact on the environment. Specifically, the physical and chemical properties of polypropylene (the most common plastic material in a mask), which show a high adsorption capacity for heavy metals and organic pollutants and play a role as a support for microbial growth, were extensively reported. In addition, several important issues that need to be resolved are raised, which offers a direction for future research. This review focuses on the essentiality of handling masks to avoid potential environmental issues.
Collapse
|
53
|
Wang Z, An C, Lee K, Chen X, Zhang B, Yin J, Feng Q. Physicochemical change and microparticle release from disposable gloves in the aqueous environment impacted by accelerated weathering. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 832:154986. [PMID: 35395312 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.154986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
The explosive growth of disposable gloves usage in cities around the world has posed a considerable risk to municipal solid management and disposal during the COVID-19 pandemic. The lack of the environmental awareness leads to glove waste being discarded randomly and ending up in the soil and/or the ocean ecosystem. To explore the physicochemical changes and environmental behaviors of disposable glove wastes in the aqueous environment, three kinds of glove (latex, nitrile and vinyl) were investigated. The results showed that the physicochemical characteristics of disposable gloves made of different materials were altered to different degrees by UV weathering. Nitrile gloves were more stable than latex and vinyl gloves after being exposed to weathering conditions. Although the chemical structures were not clearly demonstrated through FTIR after weathering, the SEM results showed significant microscopic changes on the surfaces of the gloves. Analysis of the leachate results showed that UV weathered gloves released leachable substances, including microparticles, organic matter, and heavy metals. Latex gloves were more likely to release microparticles and other substances into the water after UV weathering. The release of microparticles from gloves can also be impacted by sand abrasion. The appropriate strategy needs to be developed to mitigate the environmental impact caused by the discarded gloves.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Wang
- Department of Building, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Concordia University, Montreal, H3G 1M8, Canada
| | - Chunjiang An
- Department of Building, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Concordia University, Montreal, H3G 1M8, Canada.
| | - Kenneth Lee
- Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Ecosystem Science, Ottawa, K1A 0E6, Canada
| | - Xiujuan Chen
- Northern Region Persistent Organic Pollutant Control (NRPOP) Laboratory, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, Memorial University, St. John's, A1B 3X5, Canada
| | - Baiyu Zhang
- Northern Region Persistent Organic Pollutant Control (NRPOP) Laboratory, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, Memorial University, St. John's, A1B 3X5, Canada
| | - Jianan Yin
- Institute for Energy, Environment and Sustainable Communities, University of Regina, Regina, S4S 0A2, Canada
| | - Qi Feng
- Department of Building, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Concordia University, Montreal, H3G 1M8, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
54
|
Public face masks wearing during the COVID-19 pandemic: A comprehensive analysis is needed for potential implications. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS ADVANCES 2022. [PMID: 37520802 PMCID: PMC9271010 DOI: 10.1016/j.hazadv.2022.100125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Face mask-wearing as a public health measure has been practiced since the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic outbreak. Extensive research has shown that face masks are an effective non-pharmaceutical measure to contain the spread of respiratory infections. However, recent studies indicate that face masks release microplastics and other contaminants that have adverse health effects on humans. This communication reviews the evidence for face mask as a potential source of contaminants capable of adversely affecting human health. The benefits of face masks in reducing the transmission of SARS-Cov-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2) and seasonal communicable diseases were addressed. In addition, the risk of inhaling microplastics and organic contaminants, as well as the associated exposure level, were discussed. Finally, the potential research gaps that need to be addressed were outlined to provide a holistic view of the problem. This communication has illustrated that face mask-wearing as a public health measure to contain the spread of COVID-19 could be a potential risk factor for human health. Very few studies have been done on microplastics, organic pollutants, and trace metal inhalation from surgical masks. However, future work providing a comprehensive understanding of the risk and exposure levels needs to be undertaken.
Collapse
|
55
|
Liao J, Ji S, Chi Y. Effects of Discarded Masks on the Offshore Microorganisms during the COVID-19 Pandemic. TOXICS 2022; 10:toxics10080426. [PMID: 36006105 PMCID: PMC9414469 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10080426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Numerous disposable plastic masks had been produced and used for preventing the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic effectively. Discarded masks are a potential source of microplastic pollution in marine ecosystems. The effect of discarded masks on offshore microorganisms is still unclear. Herein, we profiled the interaction between the microplastics released by discarded masks and marine microbes. The effects of mask quantity, time, and environment on the microplastic-related communities were determined. We characterized the bacterial communities of each group using 16S rRNA gene sequencing and metagenomic sequencing and correlated the community diversity to the physicochemical properties of seawater. We found that the diversity and richness of microflora on the surface of microplastics with different quantity and time varied significantly. Proteobacteria are the main bacteria on microplastics, and the KEGG metabolic pathway prediction shows that amino acid metabolism and carbohydrate metabolism were abundant. In addition, there was a correlation between bacterial communities and Antibiotic Resistance Ontology (ARO). We used scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) techniques to evaluate the plastic polymer characteristics of disposable medical masks. Our research shows that disposable medical masks immersed in seawater can alter the microbial community. This study provides the most recent data and insights into the contamination of discarded masks in the marine environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jinlan Liao
- School of Advanced Manufacturing, Fuzhou University, Quanzhou 362200, China;
- College of Oceanology and Food Science, Quanzhou Normal University, Quanzhou 362000, China
| | - Shouping Ji
- College of Oceanology and Food Science, Quanzhou Normal University, Quanzhou 362000, China
- Correspondence: (S.J.); (Y.C.)
| | - Yulang Chi
- College of Oceanology and Food Science, Quanzhou Normal University, Quanzhou 362000, China
- Correspondence: (S.J.); (Y.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
56
|
Diaz-Camal N, Cardoso-Vera JD, Islas-Flores H, Gómez-Oliván LM, Mejía-García A. Consumption and ocurrence of antidepressants (SSRIs) in pre- and post-COVID-19 pandemic, their environmental impact and innovative removal methods: A review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 829:154656. [PMID: 35318057 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.154656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are pharmaceuticals whose consumption has increased significantly. They are prescribed as first-line treatment in mental disorders such as depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, phobias, and anxiety; also, they are indicated as adjuvants in diseases such as fibromyalgia and bulimia nervosa. In addition to being linked to the illegal market to be consumed as recreational drugs. The relevance of this review lies in the fact that worldwide consumption has increased significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic, due to the depression and anxiety that originated in the population. As a consequence of this increase in consumption, concentrations of SSRIs in the environment have increased, and these have become a relevant issue for toxicologists due to the effects that they could generate in different organisms, both aquatic and terrestrial. For this reason, the objective of this article was to do a critical evaluation of the existing data on the characteristics and physicochemical properties of SSRIs, consumption data during the COVID-19 pandemic, its occurrence in the environment and the reports of toxic effects that have been generated in different organisms; we also conclude with an updated review of different methods that have been used for their removal. With this analysis, it can be concluded that, despite SSRIs are pharmaceutical products widely studied since their launching to the market, still currently under investigation to clarify their mechanisms of action to understand the different effects on the organisms, adverse reactions, as well as possible toxicological effects on non-target organisms. On the other hand, it has been proven that although it is already possible to eliminate a significant percentage of SSRIs in the laboratory, due to their physicochemical characteristics and their behavior in complex mixtures in the environment, they have not yet been eradicated, showing a persistence in the soil, subsoil and surface waters of the entire planet that may represent a future risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nidya Diaz-Camal
- Laboratorio de Toxicología Ambiental, Facultad de Química, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México, Paseo Colón intersección Paseo Tollocan s/n, Col. Residencial Colón, 50120 Toluca, Estado de México, Mexico
| | - Jesús Daniel Cardoso-Vera
- Laboratorio de Toxicología Ambiental, Facultad de Química, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México, Paseo Colón intersección Paseo Tollocan s/n, Col. Residencial Colón, 50120 Toluca, Estado de México, Mexico
| | - Hariz Islas-Flores
- Laboratorio de Toxicología Ambiental, Facultad de Química, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México, Paseo Colón intersección Paseo Tollocan s/n, Col. Residencial Colón, 50120 Toluca, Estado de México, Mexico.
| | - Leobardo Manuel Gómez-Oliván
- Laboratorio de Toxicología Ambiental, Facultad de Química, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México, Paseo Colón intersección Paseo Tollocan s/n, Col. Residencial Colón, 50120 Toluca, Estado de México, Mexico
| | - Alejandro Mejía-García
- Laboratorio de Toxicología Ambiental, Facultad de Química, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México, Paseo Colón intersección Paseo Tollocan s/n, Col. Residencial Colón, 50120 Toluca, Estado de México, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
57
|
Lin L, Yuan B, Zhang B, Li H, Liao R, Hong H, Lu H, Liu J, Yan C. Uncovering the disposable face masks as vectors of metal ions (Pb(Ⅱ), Cd(Ⅱ), Sr(Ⅱ)) during the COVID-19 pandemic. CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL (LAUSANNE, SWITZERLAND : 1996) 2022; 439:135613. [PMID: 36568492 PMCID: PMC9761293 DOI: 10.1016/j.cej.2022.135613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2022] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The demand for disposable face masks (DFMs) increased sharply in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, information regarding the underlying roles of the largely discarded DFMs in the environment is extremely lacking. This study focused on the pristine and UV-aged DFMs as vectors of metal ions (Pb(Ⅱ), Cd(Ⅱ), and Sr(Ⅱ)). Further, the aging mechanism of DFMs with UV radiation as well as the interaction mechanisms between DFMs and metal ions were investigated. Results revealed that the aging process would help to promote more metal ions adsorbed onto DFMs, which was mainly attributed to the presence of oxygen-containing groups on the aged DFMs. The adsorption affinity of pristine and aged DFMs for the metal ions followed Pb(Ⅱ) > Cd(Ⅱ) > Sr(Ⅱ), which was positively corrected with the electronegativity of the metals. Interestingly, we found that even if DFMs were not disrupted, DFMs had similar or even higher adsorption affinity for metals compared with other existing microplastics. Besides, regarding environmental factors, including salinity and solution pH played a crucial role in the adsorption processes, with greater adsorption capacities for pristine and aged DFMs at higher pH values and low salinity. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and density functional theory further confirmed that the pristine DFMs interacted with the metals mainly through electrostatic interaction, while electrostatic interaction and surface complexation jointly regulated the adsorption of the metals onto aged DFMs. Overall, these findings would help to evaluate environmental behaviors and risks of DFMs associated with metals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lujian Lin
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Coastal and Wetland Ecosystems, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, PR China
| | - Bo Yuan
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Coastal and Wetland Ecosystems, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, PR China
| | - Binghuang Zhang
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Coastal and Wetland Ecosystems, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, PR China
| | - Hanyi Li
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Coastal and Wetland Ecosystems, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, PR China
| | - Ran Liao
- Guangdong Research Center of Polarization Imaging and Measurement Engineering Technology, Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, PR China
| | - Hualong Hong
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Coastal and Wetland Ecosystems, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, PR China
| | - Haoliang Lu
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Coastal and Wetland Ecosystems, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, PR China
| | - Jingchun Liu
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Coastal and Wetland Ecosystems, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, PR China
| | - Chongling Yan
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Coastal and Wetland Ecosystems, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, PR China
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
58
|
Gunasekaran K, Mghili B, Saravanakumar A. Personal protective equipment (PPE) pollution driven by the COVID-19 pandemic in coastal environment, Southeast Coast of India. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 180:113769. [PMID: 35609465 PMCID: PMC9114149 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2022] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
The rise in the use of single-use plastics and personal protective equipment (PPE) has increased plastic waste in the marine environment. In this study, we surveyed the presence of PPE (face masks and gloves) discharged in 6 beaches along the coast of India. A total of 496 PPE were counted with an average density of 1.08 × 10-3 PPE m-2. The PPE density found was comparable to previous studies. Face masks were the most recorded type of PPE (98.39%), with gloves accounting for only 1.61% of the total. However, a significant reduction in the appearance of PPE was recorded on all six beaches, likely due to the increase in vaccination rates. The most contaminated places were the beaches with recreational activities + fishing. It has been noticed that the lack of awareness of environmental pollution and the negligence of the population and the mismanagement of municipal waste are the main causes of beach pollution by PPE. This study confirms the potential threat of PPE to terrestrial and aquatic organisms of multiple taxa in India, but further studies are needed to quantify the impact of this type of waste on marine animals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kannan Gunasekaran
- Centre of Advanced Study in Marine Biology, Faculty of Marine Science, Annamalai University, Parangipettai 608502, Tamil Nadu, India; Centre for Aquaculture, Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai 600019, India
| | - Bilal Mghili
- LESCB, URL-CNRST N° 18, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Faculty of Sciences, Tetouan, Morocco.
| | - Ayyappan Saravanakumar
- Centre of Advanced Study in Marine Biology, Faculty of Marine Science, Annamalai University, Parangipettai 608502, Tamil Nadu, India
| |
Collapse
|
59
|
Leal Filho W, Salvia AL, Paço A, Dinis MAP, Vidal DG, Da Cunha DA, de Vasconcelos CR, Baumgartner RJ, Rampasso I, Anholon R, Doni F, Sonetti G, Azeiteiro U, Carvalho S, Ríos FJM. The influences of the COVID-19 pandemic on sustainable consumption: an international study. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES EUROPE 2022; 34:54. [PMID: 35757104 PMCID: PMC9208263 DOI: 10.1186/s12302-022-00626-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 05/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Background Sustainable production and consumption are two important issues, which mutually interact. Whereas individuals have little direct influence on the former, they can play a key role on the latter. This paper describes the subject matter of sustainable consumption and outlines its key features. It also describes some international initiatives in this field. Results By means of an international survey, the study explores the emphasis given to sustainable consumption during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the degree of preparedness in individuals to engage in the purchase of green and sustainably manufactured products. The main results indicate that the pandemic offered an opportunity to promote sustainable consumption; nevertheless, the pandemic alone cannot be regarded as a 'game changer' in this topic. Conclusions Apart from an online survey with responses from 31 countries, which makes it one of the most representative studies on the topic, a logit model was used to analyse the main variables that affect the probability of pro-environmental consumption behaviour because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The paper lists some of the technological and social innovations that may be needed, so as to guide more sustainable consumption patterns in a post-pandemic world.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Walter Leal Filho
- European School of Sustainability Science and Research, Hamburg University of Applied Sciences, Hamburg, Germany
- Department of Natural Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, UK
| | - Amanda Lange Salvia
- Graduate Program in Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Passo Fundo, Passo Fundo, Brazil
| | - Arminda Paço
- Universidade da Beira Interior, NECE-UBI (Research Centre for Business Sciences), Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Maria Alzira Pimenta Dinis
- UFP Energy, Environment and Health Research Unit (FP-ENAS), University Fernando Pessoa (UFP), Porto, Portugal
| | - Diogo Guedes Vidal
- Centre for Functional Ecology, TERRA Associate Laboratory, Department of Life Sciences, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Faculty of Science and Technology, University Fernando Pessoa , Porto, Portugal
| | | | - Claudio Ruy de Vasconcelos
- Laboratory of Sustainability Engineering and Consumption, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil
- Algoritmi Research Centre, School of Engineering, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
| | - Rupert J. Baumgartner
- Institute of Systems Sciences, Innovation and Sustainability Research, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Izabela Rampasso
- Departamento de Ingeniería Industrial, Universidad Católica del Norte, Antofagasta, Chile
| | - Rosley Anholon
- School of Mechanical Engineering, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Federica Doni
- Department of Business and Law, University of Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
| | - Giulia Sonetti
- CENSE – Center for Environmental and Sustainability Research & CHANGE - Global Change and Sustainability Institute, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, Campus de Caparica, Caparica, Portugal
| | - Ulisses Azeiteiro
- Department of Biology and CESAM Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Sara Carvalho
- Department of Biology and CESAM Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | | |
Collapse
|
60
|
Scanning Electron Microscopy Study on the Biodeterioration of Natural Fiber Materials Compared to Disposable Hygiene and Sanitary Products. FERMENTATION-BASEL 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/fermentation8060287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Disposable personal care products are part of modern life, but these products could become a biological hazard in case of improper disposal. Therefore, our study compared the biodeterioration of plant-based woven materials (cotton, linen), animal materials (wool, leather), disposable hygiene products with cellulose fibers (sanitary pads, cosmetic pads), and chemical impregnated products (antimicrobial/sanitary wet wipes) using burial tests in two types of soils for 40 days. Weight loss (%) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed that textiles are relatively quickly deteriorated compared to animal-based products, and the process is dependent on the soil type. According to SEM analysis, sanitary pads were the least deteriorated, followed by wet wipes and cosmetic pads (maximum weight loss 24.332% and 27.537%, respectively), and the process was influenced by the composition and structure of the product. These results were correlated with changes in the number of microbes and cellulolytic activity of soil near the samples, and eight isolates belong to Ascomycetes according to PCR analysis. This is the first report on the fate of disposable hygiene and sanitary products in soil, but further comprehensive research is required to reveal crucial insights about their potential hazards and to increase public awareness of the inappropriate disposal of these products.
Collapse
|
61
|
Menicagli V, De Battisti D, Balestri E, Federigi I, Maltagliati F, Verani M, Castelli A, Carducci A, Lardicci C. Impact of storms and proximity to entry points on marine litter and wrack accumulation along Mediterranean beaches: Management implications. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 824:153914. [PMID: 35183639 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.153914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Beach litter can affect public health and economic activities worldwide forcing local authorities to expensive beach cleaning. Understanding the key mechanisms affecting the accumulation of this waste on beaches, such as sea state and proximity to entry points, is critical to plan effective management strategies. In this one-year study, we estimated the impact of storm events and waterways runoff on litter abundance and local economy using as a model a managed, peri-urban beach facing a north-western sector of the Mediterranean Sea. We also investigated the relationship between litter composition/density and beach proximity to major/closest harbors/rivers at regional scale by combining our data with those on litter density available in literature. Autumn/winter storms caused larger litter depositions than spring/summer ones in the peri-urban beach. No preferential accumulation occurred near to waterway mouths. Litter mainly consisted of plastic, and its composition in terms of micro-categories varied over seasons. In total, 367,070 items were deposited along 4.7 km of beach over one year, and the cost for the removal of this waste amounted to approximately 27,600 euros per km/year. At regional scale, beach litter density was positively correlated to the proximity of major harbors while its composition was related to the proximity to both major harbors and rivers. Results indicate that autumn/winter storms are important drivers of marine litter deposition. They also suggest that beaches in front of the convergence zone of littoral currents and close to major harbors can be particularly subjected to this kind of pollutant. To increase their effectiveness, litter mitigation/cleaning activities should be planned based on predictions of major storm events and performed at spatial scales encompassing at least coastal regional sectors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Menicagli
- Unit of Marine Biology and Ecology, Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via Derna 1, 56126 Pisa, Italy; Center for Instrument Sharing University of Pisa (CISUP), University of Pisa, Università di Pisa, via S. Maria 53, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Davide De Battisti
- Unit of Marine Biology and Ecology, Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via Derna 1, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Elena Balestri
- Unit of Marine Biology and Ecology, Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via Derna 1, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Ileana Federigi
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Virology, Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via S. Zeno 35/39, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Ferruccio Maltagliati
- Unit of Marine Biology and Ecology, Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via Derna 1, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Marco Verani
- Center for Instrument Sharing University of Pisa (CISUP), University of Pisa, Università di Pisa, via S. Maria 53, 56126 Pisa, Italy; Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Virology, Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via S. Zeno 35/39, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Alberto Castelli
- Unit of Marine Biology and Ecology, Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via Derna 1, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Annalaura Carducci
- Laboratory of Hygiene and Environmental Virology, Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via S. Zeno 35/39, 56127 Pisa, Italy; Center for Climate Change Impact (CIRSEC), University of Pisa, via del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Claudio Lardicci
- Center for Instrument Sharing University of Pisa (CISUP), University of Pisa, Università di Pisa, via S. Maria 53, 56126 Pisa, Italy; Center for Climate Change Impact (CIRSEC), University of Pisa, via del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy; Department of Earth Sciences, University of Pisa, via S. Maria 53, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
62
|
Hatami T, Rakib MRJ, Madadi R, De-la-Torre GE, Idris AM. Personal protective equipment (PPE) pollution in the Caspian Sea, the largest enclosed inland water body in the world. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 824:153771. [PMID: 35182619 PMCID: PMC8848538 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.153771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic led to a still ongoing international health and sanity crisis. In the current scenario, the actions taken by the national authorities and the public prioritized measures to control the transmission of the virus, such as social distancing, and face mask-wearing. Unfortunately, due to the debilitated waste management systems and incorrect disposal of single-use face masks and other types of personal protective equipment (PPE), the occurrence of these types of items has led to the exacerbation of marine plastic pollution. Although various studies have focused on surveying marine coasts for PPE pollution, studies on inland water are largely lacking. In order to fill this knowledge gap, the present study assessed PPE pollution in the Iranian coast of the Caspian Sea, the largest enclosed inland water body in the world by following standard monitoring procedures. The results concerning the density (1.02 × 10-4 PPE/m2) composition (face masks represented 95.3% of all PPE) of PPE are comparable to previous studies in marine waters. However, a notable decrease in the occurrence of PPE was observed, probably to behavioral and seasonality reasons. The possible consequences of PPE pollution were discussed, although much more research is needed regarding the ecotoxicological aspects of secondary PPE contaminants, such as microplastics and chemical additives. It is expected that face mask mandates will be eventually halted, and PPE will stop being emitted to the environment. However, based on the lessons learned from the COVID-19 scenario, several recommendations for coastal solid waste management are provided. These are proposed to serve during and after the pandemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tara Hatami
- School of Environment, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Md Refat Jahan Rakib
- Department of Fisheries and Marine Science, Faculty of Science, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, Bangladesh.
| | - Reyhane Madadi
- Environmental Research Laboratory, School of Civil Engineering, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Gabriel E De-la-Torre
- Grupo de Investigación de Biodiversidad, Medio Ambiente y Sociedad, Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola, Lima, Peru.
| | - Abubakr M Idris
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, King Khalid University, Abha 61421, Saudi Arabia; Research Center for Advanced Materials Science (RCAMS), King Khalid University, Abha 61421, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
63
|
Liu Z, Wang J, Yang X, Huang Q, Zhu K, Sun Y, Van Hulle S, Jia H. Generation of environmental persistent free radicals (EPFRs) enhances ecotoxicological effects of the disposable face mask waste with the COVID-19 pandemic. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 301:119019. [PMID: 35189297 PMCID: PMC8854206 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.119019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
A large amount of disposable plastic face masks (DPFs) is produced and used during the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic, which results in an inevitable consequence of the dramatic increase of DPFs waste. However, the impact of DPFs exposure to the environment on their toxicity is rarely considered. In this study, a range of 76-276 items/L microplastics (MPs) was detected in the DPFs leachates, and fibrous (> 80.3%) and polypropylene (PP, > 89.2%) MPs were dominant. Co, Cu, Ni, Sr, Ti and Zn, were commonly detected in all leachates of the tested DPFs. Organics, such as acetophenone, 2,4-Di-tert-butylphenol, benzothiazole, bisphenol-A and phthalide, were found in the DPFs leachate, which were including organic solvents and plasticizer. Besides, we first found an emerging environmental risk substance, namely environmentally persistent free radicals (EPFRs), was generated in the DPFs leachates. The characteristic g-factors of the EPFRs was in a range of 2.003-2.004, identified as mixture of carbon- and oxygen-centered radicals. By means of in vitro toxicity assay, the DPFs leachate were confirmed to cause cytotoxicity and oxidative stress. Significantly, it is found that the formed EPFRs could contribute more toxic effects. Furthermore, when compared to N95 respirators, the tested surgical masks tend to release more MPs, leach more metals and organics, and generate more EPFRs. Surgical masks were thus showed higher risk than N95 respirators after exposure to water. This work highlights the importance of understanding the chemical complexity and possible toxicity of DPFs for their risk assessment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ze Liu
- Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and the Agri-Environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A & F University, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Jianqun Wang
- The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, Harbin, China
| | - Xuetong Yang
- LIWET, Department of Green Chemistry and Technology, Ghent University, Campus Kortrijk, Graaf Karel De Goedelaan 5, B-8500, Kortrijk, Belgium
| | - Qian'en Huang
- Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and the Agri-Environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A & F University, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Kecheng Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and the Agri-Environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A & F University, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Yajiao Sun
- Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and the Agri-Environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A & F University, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Stijn Van Hulle
- LIWET, Department of Green Chemistry and Technology, Ghent University, Campus Kortrijk, Graaf Karel De Goedelaan 5, B-8500, Kortrijk, Belgium
| | - Hanzhong Jia
- Key Laboratory of Plant Nutrition and the Agri-Environment in Northwest China, Ministry of Agriculture, College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A & F University, Yangling, 712100, China.
| |
Collapse
|
64
|
Aragaw TA, De-la-Torre GE, Teshager AA. Personal protective equipment (PPE) pollution driven by the COVID-19 pandemic along the shoreline of Lake Tana, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 820:153261. [PMID: 35065109 PMCID: PMC8787314 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.153261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2021] [Revised: 01/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/15/2022] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Personal protective equipment (PPE) pollution has become one of the most pending environmental challenges resulting from the pandemic. While various studies investigated PPE pollution in the marine environment, freshwater bodies have been largely overlooked. In the present study, PPE monitoring was carried out in the vicinity of Lake Tana, the largest lake in Ethiopia. PPE density, types, and chemical composition (FTIR spectroscopy) were reported. A total of 221 PPEs were identified with a density ranging from 1.22 × 10-5 PPE m-2 (control site S1) to 2.88× 10-4 PPE m-2 with a mean density of 1.54 × 10-4 ± 2.58 × 10-5 PPE m-2. Mismanaged PPE waste was found in all the sampling sites, mostly consisting of surgical face masks (93.7%). Statistical analyzes revealed significantly higher PPE densities in sites where several recreational, touristic, and commercial activities take place, thus, revealing the main sources of PPE pollution. Furthermore, polypropylene and polyester fabrics were identified as the main components of surgical and reusable cloth masks, respectively. Given the hazard that PPEs represent to aquatic biota (e.g., entanglement, ingestion) and their ability to release microplastics (MPs), it is necessary to implement sufficient solid waste management plans and infrastructure where lake activities take place. Additionally, local authorities must promote and ensure sustainable tourism in order to maintain the ecosystems in Lake Tana. Prospective research priorities regarding the colonization and degradation of PPE, as well as the release of toxic chemicals, were identified and discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tadele Assefa Aragaw
- Faculty of Chemical and Food Engineering, Bahir Dar Institute of Technology, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia.
| | - Gabriel E De-la-Torre
- Grupo de Investigación de Biodiversidad, Medio Ambiente y Sociedad, Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola, Lima, Peru
| | - Alebel A Teshager
- Faculty of Chemical and Food Engineering, Bahir Dar Institute of Technology, Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| |
Collapse
|
65
|
De-la-Torre GE, Dioses-Salinas DC, Dobaradaran S, Spitz J, Keshtkar M, Akhbarizadeh R, Abedi D, Tavakolian A. Physical and chemical degradation of littered personal protective equipment (PPE) under simulated environmental conditions. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 178:113587. [PMID: 35397345 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Investigations of the physicochemical degradation of personal protective equipment (PPE) under controlled environmental conditions are largely lacking. Here the chemical and physical changes of face masks and gloves (recovered from the marine environment) were evaluated after exposure time up to 60 days of simulated environmental conditions. The results suggested that the polymer backbone of PPE suffers typical changes induced by sun exposure. Changes in the intensity of diffraction peaks indicated shifts in the crystallinity of PPE, possibly altering their thermal behavior. Signs of physical degradation in PPE, such as ruptures, and rough surfaces, which exacerbated over time were also detected. Additionally, signals of some elements of concern, such as Cu and Mo, and elements typically found in seawater were detected. The results of this study allowed us to better understand the degradation of typical PPE items in the marine environment, ultimately resulting in the release of microplastics and chemical contaminants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Enrique De-la-Torre
- Grupo de Investigación de Biodiversidad, Medio Ambiente y Sociedad, Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola, Lima, Peru
| | | | - Sina Dobaradaran
- Systems Environmental Health and Energy Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran; Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Faculty of Health and Nutrition, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran; Instrumental Analytical Chemistry and Centre for Water and Environmental Research (ZWU), Faculty of Chemistry, University of Duisburg-Essen, Universitätsstr. 5, Essen, Germany.
| | - Jörg Spitz
- Akademie fur Menschliche Medizin GmbH, Schlangenbad, Germany
| | - Mozhgan Keshtkar
- Systems Environmental Health and Energy Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Razegheh Akhbarizadeh
- Systems Environmental Health and Energy Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Delaram Abedi
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Faculty of Health and Nutrition, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| | - Abbasali Tavakolian
- Systems Environmental Health and Energy Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
66
|
Lv Y, Wang K, Li D, Li P, Chen X, Han W. Rare Ag nanoparticles loading induced surface-enhanced pollutant adsorption and photocatalytic degradation on Ti3C2Tx MXene-based nanosheets. Chem Phys 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chemphys.2022.111591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
|
67
|
Amuah EEY, Agyemang EP, Dankwa P, Fei-Baffoe B, Kazapoe RW, Douti NB. Are used face masks handled as infectious waste? Novel pollution driven by the COVID-19 pandemic. RESOURCES, CONSERVATION & RECYCLING ADVANCES 2022; 13:200062. [PMID: 34939066 PMCID: PMC8628605 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcradv.2021.200062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Revised: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The extensive use of face masks has raised concerns about environmental pollution through improper disposal of used face masks after the emergence of COVID-19. The increasing use of PPEs to preventing the spread of COVID-19 has resulted in several environmental hazards, creating a new environmental barrier for solid waste management and worsened plastic pollution. This study aimed at assessing the occurrence and distribution of face masks in a metropolitan (Adum – Kumasi), municipal (Ejisu), community (Abenase) and an institution (KNUST) in Ghana. The study showed that a total of 535 face masks were numerated along a stretch of 1,720 m with a density ranging from 0.04 m to 0.42 m. A no significant relationship (P = 0.602) was established between the observation distances and the number of waste face masks numerated. The study also showed that for a 1% increase in the number of face masks on working days, there would be a 0.775% increase in non-working days. A review of literature showed that the disposal of used face masks results in the release of micro- and nano-plastics, Pb, Cu, Sb, Zn, Mn, Ti, Fe and Ca into environmental media. Plastic pollution may be a concern to ecosystems due to its persistence in the environment, lack of environmental awareness, sensitization and education, and poor waste management systems. To ensure a sustainable management of waste face masks, significant efforts are needed. These may include proper disposal, redesigning and producing masks from biodegradable materials, incorporating waste face masks into construction materials, and recycling PPE by pyrolyzing are suggested options for the effective management of face masks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ebenezer Ebo Yahans Amuah
- Department of Environmental Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | - Paul Dankwa
- Department of Environmental Sciences, C. K. Tedam University of Technology and Applied Sciences, Navrongo, Ghana
| | - Bernard Fei-Baffoe
- Department of Environmental Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | - Nang Biyogue Douti
- Department of Environmental Sciences, C. K. Tedam University of Technology and Applied Sciences, Navrongo, Ghana
| |
Collapse
|
68
|
Rathinamoorthy R, Balasaraswathi SR. Disposable tri-layer masks and microfiber pollution - An experimental analysis on dry and wet state emission. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 816:151562. [PMID: 34767889 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.151562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2021] [Revised: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
The use of masks as a personal protective material is the new normal in the post-pandemic. The higher use of masks triggers immediate disposal of synthetic textile fibers leading to environmental pollution. This research is aimed to analyse the level of mask-related pollution and its impact on microfiber release. Microfiber emission characteristics of the tri-layer nonwoven mask (Polypropylene-based disposable mask) are analysed in the dry and wet stages. The individual layers of the mask and the entire mask are evaluated by subjecting them to static immersion and mechanical agitation against freshwater and seawater in the wet stage. The results of the study showed a higher microfiber shedding at dry state (14,031.97-177,601.58 fibers/mask) than the wet state (2557.65-22,525.89 fibers/mask). The increased fuzz formation in the dry state than the wet state is noted as the main reason. In the case of wet state, when the freshwater and seawater are compared, both in a static and agitated state, seawater degraded the mask highly (3358.03-27,348.9 fibers/mask) than the freshwater (1757.26-17,702.86 fibers/mask). Higher salinity and density of the seawater were noted as influencing parameters over the freshwater. When the results of naturally weathered masks are compared with the new mask, weathered masks released significantly (p < 0.05) higher amount of fibers at the evaluation stages. Similar to the new masks, the weathered masks also showed a higher amount of shedding in the dry state and presence of seawater. When the individual layers of the disposable masks were evaluated, at dry and wet states, all the layers showed a similar shedding (no significant difference between individual layers) in the case of a new mask. Whereas, after weathering, a significant amount of higher shedding (p < 0.05) is noted in the middle layer of the mask followed by the outer and inner layer. The difference in fiber composition is noted as the main reason for the strength difference of the nonwoven structure. Statistical analysis confirmed the significant impact of the natural weathering process and seawater on the microfiber shedding.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R Rathinamoorthy
- Department of Fashion Technology, PSG College of Technology, Coimbatore 641004, India.
| | - S Raja Balasaraswathi
- Department of Fashion Technology, PSG College of Technology, Coimbatore 641004, India
| |
Collapse
|
69
|
Water Quality and Water Pollution in Time of COVID-19: Positive and Negative Repercussions. WATER 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/w14071124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
On 11 March 2020, the World Health Organization declared the new COVID-19 disease a pandemic. Most countries responded with a lockdown to reduce its effects, which brought beneficial consequences to the environment in many regions, but the pandemic also raised a series of challenges. This review proposes an assessment of the COVID-19 pandemic positive and negative impacts on water bodies on different continents. By applying a search protocol on the Web of Science platform, a scientific bank of 35 compatible studies was obtained out of the 62 open-access articles that were initially accessible. Regarding the positive impacts, the SARS-CoV-2 monitoring in sewage waters is a useful mechanism in the promptly exposure of community infections and, during the pandemic, many water bodies all over the world had lower pollution levels. The negative impacts are as follows: SARS-CoV-2 presence in untreated sewage water amplifies the risk to human health; there is a lack of adequate elimination processes of plastics, drugs, and biological pollution in wastewater treatment plants; the amount of municipal and medical waste that pollutes water bodies increased; and waste recycling decreased. Urgent preventive measures need to be taken to implement effective solutions for water protection.
Collapse
|
70
|
Ribeiro VV, De-la-Torre GE, Castro ÍB. COVID-19-related personal protective equipment (PPE) contamination in the highly urbanized southeast Brazilian coast. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 177:113522. [PMID: 35299146 PMCID: PMC8907012 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2022] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to report personal protective equipment (PPE) contamination in Santos beaches (Brazil) using standardized procedures for the first time while comparing two periods to understand the progression of PPE contamination. The occurrence of PPE items was ubiquitous in all sampled sites, although the densities were relatively low compared to those in other parts of the world. Unlike previous studies, reusable face masks were the most common type of PPE. PPE density in the studied areas was similar in both sampling seasons, probably because of the influence of tourism, urbanization, and local hydrodynamic aspects. PPE items can release microfibers into the aquatic environment and pose entanglement hazards to marine biota. A wider monitoring of PPE pollution, accompanied by surveys on PPE usage and behavior, as well as chemical characterization of the discarded PPE items, is needed to fully understand this unprecedented form of plastic pollution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Gabriel E De-la-Torre
- Grupo de Investigación de Biodiversidad, Medio Ambiente y Sociedad, Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola, Lima, Peru.
| | | |
Collapse
|
71
|
Ribeiro VV, De-la-Torre GE, Castro ÍB. COVID-19-related personal protective equipment (PPE) contamination in the highly urbanized southeast Brazilian coast. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 177:113522. [PMID: 35299146 DOI: 10.1016/2fj.marpolbul.2022.113522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2022] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to report personal protective equipment (PPE) contamination in Santos beaches (Brazil) using standardized procedures for the first time while comparing two periods to understand the progression of PPE contamination. The occurrence of PPE items was ubiquitous in all sampled sites, although the densities were relatively low compared to those in other parts of the world. Unlike previous studies, reusable face masks were the most common type of PPE. PPE density in the studied areas was similar in both sampling seasons, probably because of the influence of tourism, urbanization, and local hydrodynamic aspects. PPE items can release microfibers into the aquatic environment and pose entanglement hazards to marine biota. A wider monitoring of PPE pollution, accompanied by surveys on PPE usage and behavior, as well as chemical characterization of the discarded PPE items, is needed to fully understand this unprecedented form of plastic pollution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Gabriel E De-la-Torre
- Grupo de Investigación de Biodiversidad, Medio Ambiente y Sociedad, Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola, Lima, Peru.
| | | |
Collapse
|
72
|
A Sustainable Approach towards Disposable Face Mask Production Amidst Pandemic Outbreaks. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14073849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 has become a global pandemic, causing many disruptions in multiple sectors. The World Health Organization has urged the public to wear face masks as part of the countermeasure. As the demand for face masks increased, research on the environmental sustainability of face masks production started to emerge. However, the scope of the prior studies is limited to environmental impacts during the manufacturing process. Broadening the research scope is critical to acquire a comprehensive environmental impact analysis. Therefore, this study investigates the life cycle impact assessment of disposable face mask production, from raw material extraction to the point of sale, by adopting the life cycle assessment method. Disposable face masks are assessed for a single person, over one functional unit (FU) of 30 12-h days. The ReCiPe approach was used with a Hierarchist perspective. The results reveal that disposable face mask manufacture contributes significantly to enormous environmental impact categories. As a solution, this study proposes a reconfiguration of the manufacturing process, by altering the design and material proportion of the earloop to minimise the environmental impact. The investigation indicates that the proposed design might decrease the global warming contribution, from 1.82593 kg CO2 eq. to 1.69948 kg CO2 eq.
Collapse
|
73
|
Rangasamy B, Malafaia G, Maheswaran R. Evaluation of antioxidant response and Na +-K +-ATPase activity in zebrafish exposed to polyethylene microplastics: Shedding light on a physiological adaptation. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 426:127789. [PMID: 34801306 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.127789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Although the toxicity of microplastics has already been demonstrated in different animal models, our knowledge about the response of freshwater fish to this pollutant is still limited. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the impact of exposure of zebrafish adults (Danio rerio) to environmentally relevant concentrations of polyethylene microplastics (PE-MPs) (5 and 50 µg/L) and at different times of exposure (10 and 20 days). Initially, scanning electron microscope image illustrated size and format of the particle and FTIR analysis confirmed the presence of PE-MPs in the gastrointestinal tract of fish (at both concentrations tested). Subsequently, an alteration of oxidative and antioxidant responses was evaluated in the liver and brain. The results showed that catalase (CAT) activity, in liver, was significantly decreased, as was glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) activity (on the 10th experimental day). However, after 20 days of exposure, we observed a concentration-dependent increase in GST activity in liver of the animals exposed to PE-MPs. Furthermore, the lipid peroxidation (LPO) level was significantly increased by exposure to MPs, especially in the brain, after 20 days of exposure. The increase in Na+-K+-ATPase activity in the animals' gills was correlated with the increased production of malondialdehyde (MDA), which suggests the existence of a compensatory mechanism in which the high activity of this enzyme would be necessary to regulate the loss of ions caused by the increase in the processes of LPO, which has never been previously demonstrated. Thus, our study sheds light on a new physiological adaptation to deal with the oxidative effects of PE-MPs, in addition to supporting the future use of the assessment of Na+/K+-ATPase activity as a biomarker of the toxicity of these pollutants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Basuvannan Rangasamy
- Entomology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, School of Life Sciences, Periyar University, Salem, Tamil Nadu 636 011, India
| | - Guilherme Malafaia
- Biological Research Laboratory, Goiano Federal Institute, Urutaí Campus, Urutaí, GO, Brazil. Post-Graduation Program in Biotechnology and Biodiversity, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil; Graduate Program in Conservation of Cerrado Natural Resources, Goiano Federal Institute, Urutaí, GO, Brazil; Post-Graduation Program in Ecology and Natural Resources Conservation, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil
| | - Rajan Maheswaran
- Entomology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, School of Life Sciences, Periyar University, Salem, Tamil Nadu 636 011, India.
| |
Collapse
|
74
|
De-la-Torre GE, Dioses-Salinas DC, Pizarro-Ortega CI, Fernández Severini MD, Forero López AD, Mansilla R, Ayala F, Castillo LMJ, Castillo-Paico E, Torres DA, Mendoza-Castilla LM, Meza-Chuquizuta C, Vizcarra JK, Mejía M, De La Gala JJV, Ninaja EAS, Calisaya DLS, Flores-Miranda WE, Rosillo JLE, Espinoza-Morriberón D, Gonzales KN, Torres FG, Rimondino GN, Ben-Haddad M, Dobaradaran S, Aragaw TA, Santillán L. Binational survey of personal protective equipment (PPE) pollution driven by the COVID-19 pandemic in coastal environments: Abundance, distribution, and analytical characterization. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 426:128070. [PMID: 34922133 PMCID: PMC8672681 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.128070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
In the present contribution, two nationwide surveys of personal protective equipment (PPE) pollution were conducted in Peru and Argentina aiming to provide valuable information regarding the abundance and distribution of PPE in coastal sites. Additionally, PPE items were recovered from the environment and analyzed by Fourier transformed infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with Energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), and X-ray diffraction (XRD), and compared to brand-new PPE in order to investigate the chemical and structural degradation of PPE in the environment. PPE density (PPE m-2) found in both countries were comparable to previous studies. FTIR analysis revealed multiple polymer types comprising common PPE, mainly polypropylene, polyamide, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyester. SEM micrographs showed clear weathering signs, such as cracks, cavities, and rough surfaces in face masks and gloves. EDX elemental mapping revealed the presence of elemental additives, such as Ca in gloves and face masks and AgNPs as an antimicrobial agent. Other metals found on the surface of PPE were Mo, P, Ti, and Zn. XRD patterns displayed a notorious decrease in the crystallinity of polypropylene face masks, which could alter its interaction with external contaminants and stability. The next steps in this line of research were discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Melisa D Fernández Severini
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO), CONICET/UNS, CCT-Bahía Blanca, Camino La Carrindanga, km 7.5, Edificio E1, Bahía Blanca, B8000FWB, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ana D Forero López
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO), CONICET/UNS, CCT-Bahía Blanca, Camino La Carrindanga, km 7.5, Edificio E1, Bahía Blanca, B8000FWB, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Romina Mansilla
- Centro Austral de Investigaciones Científicas (CADIC)-CONICET, Ushuaia, Argentina; Instituto de Ciencias Polares, Ambiente y Recursos Naturales (ICPA), Universidad Nacional de Tierra del Fuego (UNTDF), Ushuaia, Argentina
| | - Félix Ayala
- Centro para la Sostenibilidad Ambiental, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima 15074, Peru
| | - Luzby María Jimenez Castillo
- Laboratorio de oceanografía y acidificación costera, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Pedro Ruiz Gallo, Calle Juan XXIII 391, 14013 Lambayeque, Peru
| | - Elizabeth Castillo-Paico
- Universidad Nacional José Faustino Sánchez Carrión, Pje. Mercedes Indacochea 609, Huacho 15136, Peru
| | - Daniel A Torres
- Centro para la Sostenibilidad Ambiental, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima 15074, Peru
| | | | - Carolina Meza-Chuquizuta
- Unidad de Investigación de Ecosistemas Marinos-Grupo Aves Marinas, Universidad Científica del Sur, Lima, Peru
| | - Jhonson K Vizcarra
- Administración Técnica Forestal y de Fauna Silvestre Moquegua-Tacna, Servicio Nacional Forestal y de Fauna Silvestre, Tacna, Peru
| | - Melissa Mejía
- Laboratorio de Ecología Acuática, Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima, Lima, Peru
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Dante Espinoza-Morriberón
- Facultad de Ingeniería Ambiental y de Recursos Naturales, Universidad Nacional del Callao (UNAC), Av. Juan Pablo II 306, Bellavista 07011, Provincia Constitucional del Callao, Peru; Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad Tecnológica del Peru (UTP), Jirón Hernán Velarde 260, Cercado de Lima, 15046 Lima, Peru
| | - Karen N Gonzales
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Peru, Av. Universitaria 1801, 15088 Lima, Peru
| | - Fernando G Torres
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Peru, Av. Universitaria 1801, 15088 Lima, Peru
| | - Guido Noé Rimondino
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Fisicoquímica de Córdoba (INFIQC), Departamento de Fisicoquímica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Ciudad Universitaria, X5000HUA Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Mohamed Ben-Haddad
- Laboratory of Aquatic Systems: Marine and Continental Environments, Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Zohr University, Morocco
| | - Sina Dobaradaran
- Systems Environmental Health and Energy Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran; Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Faculty of Health and Nutrition, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran; Instrumental Analytical Chemistry and Centre for Water and Environmental Research (ZWU), Faculty of Chemistry, University of Duisburg-Essen, Universitätsstr. 5, Essen, Germany
| | - Tadele Assefa Aragaw
- Faculty of Chemical and Food Engineering, Bahir Dar Institute of Technology-Bahir Dar University, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
| | - Luis Santillán
- Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola, Av. La Fontana 501, Lima 12, Lima, Peru
| |
Collapse
|
75
|
Assessing the suitability of self-healing rubber glove for safe handling of pesticides. Sci Rep 2022; 12:4275. [PMID: 35277557 PMCID: PMC8917143 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-08129-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Rubber gloves used for protection against chemicals or hazards are generally prone to tearing or leaking after repeated use, exposing the worker to potentially hazardous agents. Self-healing technology promises increased product durability and shelf life appears to be a feasible solution to address these issues. Herein, we aimed to fabricate a novel epoxidized natural rubber-based self-healable glove (SH glove) and investigate its suitability for handling pesticides safely. In this study, breakthrough time analysis and surface morphological observation were performed to determine the SH glove's ability to withstand dangerous chemicals. The chemical resistance performance of the fabricated SH glove was compared against four different types of commercial gloves at different temperatures. Using malathion as a model pesticide, the results showed that the SH glove presented chemical resistance ability comparable to those gloves made with nitrile and NR latex at room temperature and 37 °C. The self-healing test revealed that the SH glove could be self-healed and retained its chemical resistance ability close to its pre-cut value. Our findings suggested that the developed SH glove with proven chemical resistance capability could be a new suitable safety glove for effectively handling pesticides and reducing glove waste generation.
Collapse
|
76
|
Pizarro-Ortega CI, Dioses-Salinas DC, Fernández Severini MD, Forero López AD, Rimondino GN, Benson NU, Dobaradaran S, De-la-Torre GE. Degradation of plastics associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 176:113474. [PMID: 35231785 PMCID: PMC8866080 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Revised: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in an unprecedented form of plastic pollution: personal protective equipment (PPE). Numerous studies have reported the occurrence of PPE in the marine environment. However, their degradation in the environment and consequences are poorly understood. Studies have reported that face masks, the most abundant type of PPE, are significant sources of microplastics due to their fibrous microstructure. The fibrous material (mostly consisting of polypropylene) exhibits physical changes in the environment, leading to its fracture and detachment of microfibers. Most studies have evaluated PPE degradation under controlled laboratory conditions. However, in situ degradation experiments, including the colonization of PPE, are largely lacking. Although ecotoxicological studies are largely lacking, the first attempts to understand the impact of MPs released from face masks showed various types of impacts, such as fertility and reproduction deficiencies in both aquatic and terrestrial organisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Melisa D Fernández Severini
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO), CONICET/UNS, CCT-Bahía Blanca, Camino La Carrindanga, km 7.5, Edificio E1, Bahía Blanca, B8000FWB Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ana D Forero López
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO), CONICET/UNS, CCT-Bahía Blanca, Camino La Carrindanga, km 7.5, Edificio E1, Bahía Blanca, B8000FWB Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Guido Noé Rimondino
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Fisicoquímica de Córdoba (INFIQC), Departamento de Fisicoquímica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas. Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Ciudad Universitaria (X5000HUA), Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Nsikak U Benson
- Department of Chemistry, Covenant University, Km 10 Idiroko Road, Ota, Nigeria
| | - Sina Dobaradaran
- Systems Environmental Health and Energy Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran; Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Faculty of Health and Nutrition, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran; Instrumental Analytical Chemistry and Centre for Water and Environmental Research (ZWU), Faculty of Chemistry, University of Duisburg-Essen, Universitätsstr. 5, Essen, Germany
| | - Gabriel Enrique De-la-Torre
- Grupo de Investigación de Biodiversidad, Medio Ambiente y Sociedad, Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola, Lima, Peru.
| |
Collapse
|
77
|
Yang M, Chen L, Msigwa G, Tang KHD, Yap PS. Implications of COVID-19 on global environmental pollution and carbon emissions with strategies for sustainability in the COVID-19 era. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 809:151657. [PMID: 34793787 PMCID: PMC8592643 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.151657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
The impacts of COVID-19 on global environmental pollution since its onset in December 2019 require special attention. The rapid spread of COVID-19 globally has led countries to lock down cities, restrict traffic travel and impose strict safety measures, all of which have implications on the environment. This review aims to systematically and comprehensively present and analyze the positive and negative impacts of COVID-19 on global environmental pollution and carbon emissions. It also aims to propose strategies to prolong the beneficial, while minimize the adverse environmental impacts of COVID-19. It systematically and comprehensively reviewed more than 100 peer-reviewed papers and publications related to the impacts of COVID-19 on air, water and soil pollution, carbon emissions as well as the sustainable strategies forward. It revealed that PM2.5, PM10, NO2, and CO levels reduced in most regions globally but SO2 and O3 levels increased or did not show significant changes. Surface water, coastal water and groundwater quality improved globally during COVID-19 lockdown except few reservoirs and coastal areas. Soil contamination worsened mainly due to waste from the use of personal protective equipment particularly masks and the packaging, besides household waste. Carbon emissions were reduced primarily due to travel restrictions and less usage of utilities though emissions from certain ships did not change significantly to maintain supply of the essentials. Sustainable strategies post-COVID-19 include the development and adoption of nanomaterial adsorption and microbial remediation technologies, integrated waste management measures, "sterilization wave" technology and energy-efficient technologies. This review provides important insight and novel coverage of the environmental implications of COVID-19 in more than 25 countries across different global regions to permit formulation of specific pollution control and sustainability strategies in the COVID-19 and post-COVID-19 eras for better environmental quality and human health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mingyu Yang
- Department of Civil Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Lin Chen
- Department of Civil Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Goodluck Msigwa
- Department of Civil Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Kuok Ho Daniel Tang
- Environmental Science Program, Division of Science and Technology, Beijing Normal University-Hong Kong Baptist University United International College, Zhuhai 519087, China
| | - Pow-Seng Yap
- Department of Civil Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, Suzhou 215123, China.
| |
Collapse
|
78
|
Gibbons DW, Sandbrook C, Sutherland WJ, Akter R, Bradbury R, Broad S, Clements A, Crick HQP, Elliott J, Gyeltshen N, Heath M, Hughes J, Jenkins RKB, Jones AH, Lopez de la Lama R, Macfarlane NBW, Maunder M, Prasad R, Romero‐Muñoz A, Steiner N, Tremlett J, Trevelyan R, Vijaykumar S, Wedage I, Ockendon N. The relative importance of COVID-19 pandemic impacts on biodiversity conservation globally. CONSERVATION BIOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR CONSERVATION BIOLOGY 2022; 36:e13781. [PMID: 34057250 PMCID: PMC8239704 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.13781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has had an enormous impact on almost all aspects of human society and endeavor; the natural world and its conservation have not been spared. Through a process of expert consultation, we identified and categorized, into 19 themes and 70 subthemes, the ways in which biodiversity and its conservation have been or could be affected by the pandemic globally. Nearly 60% of the effects have been broadly negative. Subsequently, we created a compendium of all themes and subthemes, each with explanatory text, and in August 2020 a diverse group of experienced conservationists with expertise from across sectors and geographies assessed each subtheme for its likely impact on biodiversity conservation globally. The 9 subthemes ranked highest all have a negative impact. These were, in rank order, governments sidelining the environment during their economic recovery, reduced wildlife-based tourism income, increased habitat destruction, reduced government funding, increased plastic and other solid waste pollution, weakening of nature-friendly regulations and their enforcement, increased illegal harvest of wild animals, reduced philanthropy, and threats to survival of conservation organizations. In combination, these impacts present a worrying future of increased threats to biodiversity conservation but reduced capacity to counter them. The highest ranking positive impact, at 10, was the beneficial impact of wildlife-trade restrictions. More optimistically, among impacts ranked 11-20, 6 were positive and 4 were negative. We hope our assessment will draw attention to the impacts of the pandemic and, thus, improve the conservation community's ability to respond to such threats in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David W. Gibbons
- RSPB Centre for Conservation ScienceThe LodgeBedfordshireUK
- RSPB Centre for Conservation ScienceThe David Attenborough BuildingCambridgeUK
| | | | - William J. Sutherland
- Conservation Science Group, Department of ZoologyUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
- Biosecurity Research Initiative at St. Catherine's (BioRISC), St. Catherine's CollegeUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
| | | | - Richard Bradbury
- RSPB Centre for Conservation ScienceThe LodgeBedfordshireUK
- Conservation Science Group, Department of ZoologyUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Jonathan Hughes
- UN Environment Programme World Conservation Monitoring CentreCambridgeUK
| | | | | | - Rocio Lopez de la Lama
- Institute for Resources, Environment and SustainabilityUniversity of British ColumbiaVancouverBritish ColumbiaCanada
| | | | | | | | - Alfredo Romero‐Muñoz
- Geography DepartmentHumboldt‐Universität zu BerlinBerlinGermany
- Fundación CohabitarSucreBolivia
| | - Noa Steiner
- Department of Agricultural EconomicsUniversity of KielKielGermany
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
79
|
Alcaraz JP, Le Coq L, Pourchez J, Thomas D, Chazelet S, Boudry I, Barbado M, Silvent S, Dessale C, Antoine F, Guimier-Pingault C, Cortella L, Rouif S, Bardin-Monnier N, Charvet A, Dufaud O, Leclerc L, Montigaud Y, Laurent C, Verhoeven P, Joubert A, Bouhanguel A, Andres Y, Gaffé J, Martin DK, Huet C, Boisset S, Maurin M, Rumeau P, Charlot F, Richaud E, Moreau-Gaudry A, Bonneterre V, Cinquin P, Landelle C. Reuse of medical face masks in domestic and community settings without sacrificing safety: Ecological and economical lessons from the Covid-19 pandemic. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 288:132364. [PMID: 34600007 PMCID: PMC8491628 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.132364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The need for personal protective equipment increased exponentially in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. To cope with the mask shortage during springtime 2020, a French consortium was created to find ways to reuse medical and respiratory masks in healthcare departments. The consortium addressed the complex context of the balance between cleaning medical masks in a way that maintains their safety and functionality for reuse, with the environmental advantage to manage medical disposable waste despite the current mask designation as single-use by the regulatory frameworks. We report a Workflow that provides a quantitative basis to determine the safety and efficacy of a medical mask that is decontaminated for reuse. The type IIR polypropylene medical masks can be washed up to 10 times, washed 5 times and autoclaved 5 times, or washed then sterilized with radiations or ethylene oxide, without any degradation of their filtration or breathability properties. There is loss of the anti-projection properties. The Workflow rendered the medical masks to comply to the AFNOR S76-001 standard as "type 1 non-sanitory usage masks". This qualification gives a legal status to the Workflow-treated masks and allows recommendation for the reuse of washed medical masks by the general population, with the significant public health advantage of providing better protection than cloth-tissue masks. Additionally, such a legal status provides a basis to perform a clinical trial to test the masks in real conditions, with full compliance with EN 14683 norm, for collective reuse. The rational reuse of medical mask and their end-of-life management is critical, particularly in pandemic periods when decisive turns can be taken. The reuse of masks in the general population, in industries, or in hospitals (but not for surgery) has significant advantages for the management of waste without degrading the safety of individuals wearing reused masks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Pierre Alcaraz
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, Grenoble INP, TIMC-IMAG, 38000, Grenoble, France
| | - Laurence Le Coq
- IMT Atlantique, GEPEA, CNRS UMR 6144, CS 20722, 44307, Nantes, France
| | - Jérémie Pourchez
- Mines Saint-Etienne, Univ Lyon, Univ Jean Monnet, INSERM, U 1059 Sainbiose, Centre CIS, 42023, Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Dominique Thomas
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS UMR 7274 LRGP, 54001, Nancy, France
| | - Sandrine Chazelet
- INRS Département Ingénierie des Procédés, 1 rue du Morvan, CS 60027, 54519 Vandoeuvre Cedex, France
| | - Isabelle Boudry
- Clinical Investigation Center-Technological Innovation 1406 (CIC-IT), Department of Public Health, Grenoble Alpes University Hospital, 38700, Grenoble, France
| | - Maud Barbado
- Clinical Investigation Center-Technological Innovation 1406 (CIC-IT), Department of Public Health, Grenoble Alpes University Hospital, 38700, Grenoble, France
| | - Sophie Silvent
- Clinical Investigation Center-Technological Innovation 1406 (CIC-IT), Department of Public Health, Grenoble Alpes University Hospital, 38700, Grenoble, France
| | - Claire Dessale
- CIC Inserm 1433 Innovation Technologiques, CHRU de Nancy, Université de Lorraine, 54000, Nancy, France
| | - Fabienne Antoine
- CIC Inserm 1433 Innovation Technologiques, CHRU de Nancy, Université de Lorraine, 54000, Nancy, France
| | | | - Laurent Cortella
- ARC-Nucleart, CEA Grenoble, 17, rue des Martyrs, Cedex 9, 38054, Grenoble, France
| | - Sophie Rouif
- Ionisos SAS, 13 Chemin du Pontet, 69380, Civrieux-d'Azergues, France
| | | | - Augustin Charvet
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS UMR 7274 LRGP, 54001, Nancy, France
| | - Olivier Dufaud
- Université de Lorraine, CNRS UMR 7274 LRGP, 54001, Nancy, France
| | - Lara Leclerc
- Mines Saint-Etienne, Univ Lyon, Univ Jean Monnet, INSERM, U 1059 Sainbiose, Centre CIS, 42023, Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Yoann Montigaud
- Mines Saint-Etienne, Univ Lyon, Univ Jean Monnet, INSERM, U 1059 Sainbiose, Centre CIS, 42023, Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Coralie Laurent
- Mines Saint-Etienne, Univ Lyon, Univ Jean Monnet, INSERM, U 1059 Sainbiose, Centre CIS, 42023, Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Paul Verhoeven
- CIRI (Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie), Equipe GIMAP (team 15), INSERM U1111, CNRS, ENS, UCBL1, Université Jean Monnet, Université de Lyon, 42000, Saint-Etienne, France; Service des Agents Infectieux et d'Hygiène, CHU de St-Etienne, 42000, Saint-Etienne, France
| | - Aurélie Joubert
- IMT Atlantique, GEPEA, CNRS UMR 6144, CS 20722, 44307, Nantes, France
| | - Ala Bouhanguel
- IMT Atlantique, GEPEA, CNRS UMR 6144, CS 20722, 44307, Nantes, France
| | - Yves Andres
- IMT Atlantique, GEPEA, CNRS UMR 6144, CS 20722, 44307, Nantes, France
| | - Joël Gaffé
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, Grenoble INP, TIMC-IMAG, 38000, Grenoble, France
| | - Donald K Martin
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, Grenoble INP, TIMC-IMAG, 38000, Grenoble, France
| | - Christophe Huet
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Grenoble Alpes, 38700, La Tronche, France
| | - Sandrine Boisset
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, Grenoble INP, TIMC-IMAG, 38000, Grenoble, France; Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Grenoble Alpes, 38700, La Tronche, France
| | - Max Maurin
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, Grenoble INP, TIMC-IMAG, 38000, Grenoble, France; Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Grenoble Alpes, 38700, La Tronche, France
| | - Pascal Rumeau
- Institut Français Textile Et Habillement, 93 Chemin des Mouilles, 69130, Ecully, France
| | - Frédéric Charlot
- CMTC, Grenoble INP, Univ. Grenoble Alpes, 38000, Grenoble, France
| | - Emmanuel Richaud
- Arts et Métiers ParisTech, Laboratoire de Procédés et Ingénierie en Mécanique et Matériaux (PIMM), CNRS, CNAM, UMR, 8006, 75013, Paris, France
| | - Alexandre Moreau-Gaudry
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, Grenoble INP, TIMC-IMAG, 38000, Grenoble, France; Clinical Investigation Center-Technological Innovation 1406 (CIC-IT), Department of Public Health, Grenoble Alpes University Hospital, 38700, Grenoble, France
| | - Vincent Bonneterre
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, Grenoble INP, TIMC-IMAG, 38000, Grenoble, France; Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Grenoble Alpes, 38700, La Tronche, France
| | - Philippe Cinquin
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, Grenoble INP, TIMC-IMAG, 38000, Grenoble, France; Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Grenoble Alpes, 38700, La Tronche, France
| | - Caroline Landelle
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, Grenoble INP, TIMC-IMAG, 38000, Grenoble, France; Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Grenoble Alpes, 38700, La Tronche, France.
| |
Collapse
|
80
|
Investigating the current environmental situation in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region during the third wave of COVID-19 pandemic: urban vs. rural context. BMC Public Health 2022; 22:177. [PMID: 35081927 PMCID: PMC8790551 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-12313-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic led to a massive global socio-economic tragedy that has impacted the ecosystem. This paper aims to contextualize urban and rural environmental situations during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Region. Results An online survey was conducted, 6770 participants were included in the final analysis, and 64% were females. The majority of the participants were urban citizens (74%). Over 50% of the urban residents significantly (p < 0.001) reported a reduction in noise, gathering in tourist areas, and gathering in malls and restaurants. Concerning the pollutants, most urban and rural areas have reported an increase in masks thrown in streets (69.49% vs. 73.22%, resp.; p = 0.003). Plastic bags and hospital waste also increased significantly with the same p-value of < 0.001 in urban areas compared with rural ones. The multifactorial logistic model for urban resident predictors achieved acceptable discrimination (AUROC = 0.633) according to age, crowdedness, noise and few pollutants. Conclusion The COVID-19 pandemic had a beneficial impact on the environment and at the same time, various challenges regarding plastic and medical wastes are rising which requires environmental interventions. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12889-021-12313-3.
Collapse
|
81
|
Kutralam-Muniasamy G, Pérez-Guevara F, Shruti VC. A critical synthesis of current peer-reviewed literature on the environmental and human health impacts of COVID-19 PPE litter: New findings and next steps. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 422:126945. [PMID: 34449351 PMCID: PMC8372437 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.126945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2021] [Revised: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Since the emergence of Coronavirus disease (COVID-19), the threat of plastic waste pollution has grown exponentially, with a strong attention on the environmental and human health consequences of millions of personal protective equipment (PPE) (e.g., face masks, shields, gloves, and wipes) being used and discarded. In response, a massive research effort has been launched to understand, characterize, and estimate the exposure risks of PPE associated contaminants. While the number of studies examining the impacts of PPE is increasing, this review aimed to provide a quick update on the research conducted to date of this topic, as well as to identify priorities for future research. Specifically, we analyzed recent global peer-reviewed articles on PPE to synthesize methods, control measures, and documented evidence to (1) investigate the discarded PPE in a variety of environments; (2) determine the microplastics discharge in the aquatic environment; (3) examine the intentionally or unintentionally added chemicals in the production of PPE; and (4) assess potential human health hazards and exposure pathways. Despite progress, more research is needed in the future to fully understand the chemical emissions from PPE degradation mechanisms (mechanical, chemical, and biological), as well as the magnitude and density of PPE pollution in the environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gurusamy Kutralam-Muniasamy
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Fermín Pérez-Guevara
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, Mexico; Nanoscience & Nanotechnology Program, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - V C Shruti
- Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN), Centro Mexicano para la Producción más Limpia (CMP+L), Av. Acueducto s/n, Col. Barrio la Laguna Ticomán, Del Gustavo A. Madero, C.P. 07340 Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
82
|
Kutralam-Muniasamy G, Pérez-Guevara F, Shruti VC. (Micro)plastics: A possible criterion for beach certification with a focus on the Blue Flag Award. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 803:150051. [PMID: 34525691 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.150051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
On the one hand, environmental certifications like the Blue Flag award (BFA) are well-known globally for its role in beach management and tourism attraction. Plastic pollution like microplastics, on the other hand, has become a global concern due to their increasing persistence and negative environmental repercussions. This paper examines and discusses the factors that would lead to (micro)plastics being included to the BFA as a criterion. Thereby, we attempt to maximize BFA's potential as a tool for better understanding (micro)plastics on beaches and implementing strategies to reduce them. The anticipated primary benefits are: 1) knowing the degree of litter disposal and microplastic contamination, 2) conducting close monitoring, 3) having an accessible database for numerous coastlines throughout the world, 4) evaluating management strategies and making improvements, 5) assisting in long-term research, 6) having a responsible entity in charge of issue decision-making, and 7) a larger public/scientific outreach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gurusamy Kutralam-Muniasamy
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Fermín Pérez-Guevara
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, Mexico; Nanoscience & Nanotechnology Program, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - V C Shruti
- Instituto de Geología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Ciudad Universitaria, Del. Coyoacán, C.P. 04510, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
83
|
Facemask Global Challenges: The Case of Effective Synthesis, Utilization, and Environmental Sustainability. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14020737] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19), caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has caused a rapidly spreading pandemic and is severely threatening public health globally. The human-to-human transmission route of SARS-CoV-2 is now well established. The reported clinical observations and symptoms of this infection in humans appear in the range between being asymptomatic and severe pneumonia. The virus can be transmitted through aerosols and droplets that are released into the air by a carrier, especially when the person coughs, sneezes, or talks forcefully in a closed environment. As the disease progresses, the use and handling of contaminated personal protective equipment and facemasks have become major issues with significant environmental risks. Therefore, providing an effective method for treating used/contaminated facemasks is crucial. In this paper, we review the environmental challenges and risks associated with the surge in facemask production. We also discuss facemasks and their materials as sources of microplastics and how disposal procedures can potentially lead to the contamination of water resources. We herein review the potential of developing nanomaterial-based antiviral and self-cleaning facemasks. This review discusses these challenges and concludes that the use of sustainable and alternative facemask materials is a promising and viable solution. In this context, it has become essential to address the emerging challenges by developing a new class of facemasks that are effective against the virus, while being biodegradable and sustainable. This paper represents the potentials of natural and/or biodegradable polymers for manufacturing facemasks, such as wood-based polymers, chitosan, and other biodegradable synthetic polymers for achieving sustainability goals during and after pandemics.
Collapse
|
84
|
Brack W, Barcelo Culleres D, Boxall ABA, Budzinski H, Castiglioni S, Covaci A, Dulio V, Escher BI, Fantke P, Kandie F, Fatta-Kassinos D, Hernández FJ, Hilscherová K, Hollender J, Hollert H, Jahnke A, Kasprzyk-Hordern B, Khan SJ, Kortenkamp A, Kümmerer K, Lalonde B, Lamoree MH, Levi Y, Lara Martín PA, Montagner CC, Mougin C, Msagati T, Oehlmann J, Posthuma L, Reid M, Reinhard M, Richardson SD, Rostkowski P, Schymanski E, Schneider F, Slobodnik J, Shibata Y, Snyder SA, Fabriz Sodré F, Teodorovic I, Thomas KV, Umbuzeiro GA, Viet PH, Yew-Hoong KG, Zhang X, Zuccato E. One planet: one health. A call to support the initiative on a global science-policy body on chemicals and waste. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES EUROPE 2022; 34:21. [PMID: 35281760 PMCID: PMC8902847 DOI: 10.1186/s12302-022-00602-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
The chemical pollution crisis severely threatens human and environmental health globally. To tackle this challenge the establishment of an overarching international science-policy body has recently been suggested. We strongly support this initiative based on the awareness that humanity has already likely left the safe operating space within planetary boundaries for novel entities including chemical pollution. Immediate action is essential and needs to be informed by sound scientific knowledge and data compiled and critically evaluated by an overarching science-policy interface body. Major challenges for such a body are (i) to foster global knowledge production on exposure, impacts and governance going beyond data-rich regions (e.g., Europe and North America), (ii) to cover the entirety of hazardous chemicals, mixtures and wastes, (iii) to follow a one-health perspective considering the risks posed by chemicals and waste on ecosystem and human health, and (iv) to strive for solution-oriented assessments based on systems thinking. Based on multiple evidence on urgent action on a global scale, we call scientists and practitioners to mobilize their scientific networks and to intensify science-policy interaction with national governments to support the negotiations on the establishment of an intergovernmental body based on scientific knowledge explaining the anticipated benefit for human and environmental health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Werner Brack
- UFZ Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research, Permoserstraße 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
- Faculty Biological Sciences, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-von-der-Laue-Straße 13, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Damia Barcelo Culleres
- Catalan Institute of Water Research, Carrer Emili Grahit 101, 17003 Girona, Spain
- Spanish National Research Council, Institute for Environmental Assessment & Water Research, Water & Soil Quality Research Group, Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Hélène Budzinski
- Université de Bordeaux, 351 crs de la Libération, 33405 Talence, France
| | - Sara Castiglioni
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Via Mario Negri 2, 20156 Milan, Italy
| | - Adrian Covaci
- Toxicological Center, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplen 1, 2610 Wilrijk, Belgium
| | - Valeria Dulio
- INERIS - Direction Milieu et Impacts sur le Vivant (MIV), Parc technologique ALATA, 60550 Verneuil-en-Halatte, France
| | - Beate I. Escher
- UFZ Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research, Permoserstraße 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
- Center for Applied Geoscience, Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Peter Fantke
- Quantitative Sustainability Assessment, Department of Technology, Management and Economics, Technical University of Denmark, Produktionstorvet 424, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Faith Kandie
- Department of Biological Sciences, Moi University, 3900-30100 Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Despo Fatta-Kassinos
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Nireas-International Water Research Center, University of Cyprus, P.O. Box 20537, 1678 Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Félix J. Hernández
- Research Institute for Pesticides and Water, University Jaume I, 12006 Castellon, Spain
| | - Klara Hilscherová
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlarska 2, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Juliane Hollender
- Eawag, Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, 8600 Dübendorf, Switzerland
- Institute of Biogeochemistry and Pollutant Dynamics, ETH Zurich, 8092 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Henner Hollert
- Faculty Biological Sciences, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-von-der-Laue-Straße 13, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Annika Jahnke
- UFZ Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research, Permoserstraße 15, 04318 Leipzig, Germany
- RWTH Aachen University, Worringerweg 1, 52074 Aachen, Germany
| | | | - Stuart J. Khan
- School of Civil & Environmental Engineering, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052 Australia
| | - Andreas Kortenkamp
- Centre for Pollution Research and Policy, Department of Life Sciences, College of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Brunel University London, Uxbridge, UB8 3PH UK
| | - Klaus Kümmerer
- Institute for Sustainable Chemistry, Leuphana University Lüneburg, Universitätsallee 1, 21335 Lüneburg, Germany
| | - Brice Lalonde
- The French Water Academy, 51 rue Salvador-Allende, 92027 Nanterre, France
| | - Marja H. Lamoree
- Department Environment & Health, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1085, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Yves Levi
- The French Water Academy, 51 rue Salvador-Allende, 92027 Nanterre, France
| | - Pablo Antonio Lara Martín
- Departamento de Química Física, Facultad de Ciencias del Mar y Ambientales, Universidad de Cádiz – European Universities of the Seas, Campus Río San Pedro, 11510 Puerto Real, Cádiz Spain
| | | | - Christian Mougin
- Université Paris-Saclay, INRAE, AgroParisTech, UMR ECOSYS, 78026 Versailles, France
| | - Titus Msagati
- Institute for Nanotechnology and Water Sustainability (iNanoWS), College of Science, Engineering and Technology (CSET), University of South Africa, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Jörg Oehlmann
- Faculty Biological Sciences, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-von-der-Laue-Straße 13, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Leo Posthuma
- RIVM-National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, PO Box 1, 3720 BA Bilthoven, The Netherlands
- Department of Environmental Science, Radbound University Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Malcolm Reid
- Norwegian Institute for Water Research, Environmental Chemistry and Technology, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Susan D. Richardson
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208 USA
| | - Pawel Rostkowski
- NILU-Norwegian Institute for Air Research, P.O. Box 100, 2027 Kjeller, Norway
| | - Emma Schymanski
- University of Luxembourg, 6 avenue du Swing, 4367 Belvaux, Luxembourg
| | - Flurina Schneider
- Faculty Biological Sciences, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-von-der-Laue-Straße 13, 60438 Frankfurt, Germany
- Institute for Social-Ecological Research (ISOE), Hamburger Alee 45, 60486 Frankfurt, Germany
| | | | - Yasuyuki Shibata
- Environmental Safety Center, Tokyo University of Science, 12-1 Ichigaya-Funagawara, Shinjuku, Tokyo 162-0826 Japan
| | - Shane Allen Snyder
- Nanyang Environment and Water Research Institute, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | | | - Kevin V. Thomas
- Queensland Alliance for Environmental Health Sciences (QAEHS), The University of Queensland, 20 Cornwall Street, Woolloongabba, QLD 4102 Australia
| | | | - Pham Hung Viet
- VNU Key Laboratory of Analytical Technology for Environmental Quality, Vietnam National University, 334 Nguyen Trai, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Karina Gin Yew-Hoong
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, National University of Singapore, 1 Engineering Drive 2, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Xiaowei Zhang
- Centre of Chemical Safety and Risks, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ettore Zuccato
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Via Mario Negri 2, 20156 Milan, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
85
|
López ADF, Fabiani M, Lassalle VL, Spetter CV, Severini MDF. Critical review of the characteristics, interactions, and toxicity of micro/nanomaterials pollutants in aquatic environments. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 174:113276. [PMID: 35090270 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.113276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
A wide range of contaminants of emerging concern such as micro/nanoplastics (MPs/PNPs) and metal-nanoparticles (Me-NPs) from anthropogenic activities have been identified in aquatic environments. The hazardous effects of these micro/nanomaterials as pollutants in organisms and the lack of knowledge about their behavior in aquatic environments have generated growing concern in the scientific community. The nanomaterials have a colloidal-type behavior due to their size range but with differences in their physicochemical properties. This review comprises the behavior of micro/nanomaterials pollutants and the physicochemical interactions between MPs/PNPs and Me-NPs in aquatic environments, and their potential toxicological effects in organisms. Moreover, this article describes the potential use of Me-NPs to remove MPs/PNPs present in the water column due to their photocatalytic and magnetic properties. It also discusses the challenge to determine harmful effects of micro/nanomaterials pollutants in organisms and provides future research directions to improve integrated management strategies to mitigate their environmental impact.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A D Forero López
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO), CONICET/UNS, CCT-Bahía Blanca, Camino La Carrindanga, km 7.5, Edificio E1, B8000FWB Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - M Fabiani
- Instituto de Química del Sur (INQUISUR), Av. Alem 1253, B8000CPB Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - V L Lassalle
- Instituto de Química del Sur (INQUISUR), Av. Alem 1253, B8000CPB Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Departamento de Química, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), Avenida Alem 1253, B8000CPB Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - C V Spetter
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO), CONICET/UNS, CCT-Bahía Blanca, Camino La Carrindanga, km 7.5, Edificio E1, B8000FWB Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Departamento de Química, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), Avenida Alem 1253, B8000CPB Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - M D Fernandez Severini
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO), CONICET/UNS, CCT-Bahía Blanca, Camino La Carrindanga, km 7.5, Edificio E1, B8000FWB Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| |
Collapse
|
86
|
Limon MR, Vallente JPC, Cajigal ARV, Aquino MU, Aragon JA, Acosta RL. Unmasking emerging issues in solid waste management: Knowledge and self-reported practices on the discarded disposable masks during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Philippines. ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2022; 6:100435. [PMID: 36632241 PMCID: PMC8743242 DOI: 10.1016/j.envc.2021.100435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 global health crisis has resulted in the emergence of a new type of solid waste-inappropriately discarded disposable masks (DMs)-posing serious risks to the public health and to the environment. This study assessed the knowledge-("K") and self-reported practices-("P") of the general public in DM waste management. A researcher-developed instrument was utilized to gather data with a reliability coefficient index of 0.94. The survey was participated in by 13,116 online users. Pearson r and multiple linear regression were performed to test the relationship between the participants' demographic characteristics and their K and P. Results revealed that the participants obtained a weighted mean and standard deviation of 1.15±0.10, which shows that 11,597 or 88.41% are knowledgeable on solid waste disposal and management. The self-reported practices of the participants obtained weighted mean and standard deviation rating of 2.16±0.10, which is interpreted as "Always Practiced". This signifies that the participants adequately practiced the essentials in disposing DMs. Furthermore, there is a significant relationship between K and P with their demographic characteristics on disposing DMs like age, sex, level of education, annual income, and type of residence. The obtained Pearson r=-0.178 (p<.01) indicates that the level of knowledge of the participants is significantly related to the practices they apply in disposing used DMs. As a recommendation, campaigns and interventions on the proper disposal of DMs should be put forward and implemented, utilizing various social media resources and platforms that are conveniently accessible to the general public.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mark R Limon
- Technical-Vocational and Livelihood Education Department, College of Teacher Education, Mariano Marcos State University, Laoag City, Ilocos Norte 2900 Philippines
| | - John Paul C Vallente
- Secondary Education Department, College of Teacher Education, Mariano Marcos State University, Laoag City, Ilocos Norte 2900 Philippines
| | - Aris Reynold V Cajigal
- Secondary Education Department, College of Teacher Education, Mariano Marcos State University, Laoag City, Ilocos Norte 2900 Philippines
| | - Marlowe U Aquino
- Science and Technology Park, Mariano Marcos State University, Batac City, Ilocos Norte 2906 Philippines
| | - Jovenita A Aragon
- Early Childhood and Special Needs Education Department, Mariano Marcos State University, Laoag City, Ilocos Norte 2900 Philippines
| | - Rosabel L Acosta
- Secondary Education Department, College of Teacher Education, Mariano Marcos State University, Laoag City, Ilocos Norte 2900 Philippines
| |
Collapse
|
87
|
Mghili B, Analla M, Aksissou M. Face masks related to COVID-19 in the beaches of the Moroccan Mediterranean: An emerging source of plastic pollution. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 174:113181. [PMID: 34894579 PMCID: PMC8616742 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.113181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/19/2021] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic, face masks became a common type of litter invading many different environments, including tourist beaches. However, the presence of face masks on beaches threatens the marine environment with a new form of plastic pollution. In this study, we monitored the occurrence and density of face masks on five tourist beaches along the Moroccan Mediterranean during five months starting from February until June 2021. A total of 321 face masks were recorded on the five beaches, 96.27% of which were single use. The mean density of face masks was 0.0012 ± 0.0008 m-2. Recreational beaches were the most polluted in the study area. This is related to the important influx of beachgoers on urban beaches compared to resort beaches. With the large number of masks introduced on the beach, we hypothesize that microplastic pollution could increase drastically in the Moroccan Mediterranean in the coming years. Significant efforts are required to reduce this type of waste.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bilal Mghili
- LESCB, URL-CNRST N° 18, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Faculty of Sciences, Tetouan, Morocco.
| | - Mohamed Analla
- LESCB, URL-CNRST N° 18, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Faculty of Sciences, Tetouan, Morocco
| | - Mustapha Aksissou
- LESCB, URL-CNRST N° 18, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Faculty of Sciences, Tetouan, Morocco
| |
Collapse
|
88
|
Yang S, Cheng Y, Liu T, Huang S, Yin L, Pu Y, Liang G. Impact of waste of COVID-19 protective equipment on the environment, animals and human health: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY LETTERS 2022; 20:2951-2970. [PMID: 35791338 PMCID: PMC9247942 DOI: 10.1007/s10311-022-01462-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
During the Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, protective equipment, such as masks, gloves and shields, has become mandatory to prevent person-to-person transmission of coronavirus. However, the excessive use and abandoned protective equipment is aggravating the world's growing plastic problem. Moreover, above protective equipment can eventually break down into microplastics and enter the environment. Here we review the threat of protective equipment associated plastic and microplastic wastes to environments, animals and human health, and reveal the protective equipment associated microplastic cycle. The major points are the following:1) COVID-19 protective equipment is the emerging source of plastic and microplastic wastes in the environment. 2) protective equipment associated plastic and microplastic wastes are polluting aquatic, terrestrial, and atmospheric environments. 3) Discarded protective equipment can harm animals by entrapment, entanglement and ingestion, and derived microplastics can also cause adverse implications on animals and human health. 4) We also provide several recommendations and future research priority for the sustainable environment. Therefore, much importance should be attached to potential protective equipment associated plastic and microplastic pollution to protect the environment, animals and humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sheng Yang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yanping Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Tong Liu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shaoping Huang
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Lihong Yin
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yuepu Pu
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| | - Geyu Liang
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Medicine Engineering, Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing, China
| |
Collapse
|
89
|
Nirmal LA, Jacob S. The impact of COVID-19 in curbing the goals of ensuring sustainable development of life on land (SDG 15) and below water (SDG 14). COVID-19 AND THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS 2022. [PMCID: PMC9335019 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-91307-2.00012-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The widespread coronavirus pandemic has halted the progress of the sustainable development goals (SDG) proposed by the United Nations. This pandemic has already shattered the economy of not only the developing countries but also the developed nations. During this period, the primary focus was on the healthcare sector, while other developmental progress wasn’t considered essential. Since the duration of the pandemic couldn’t be predicted, the SDGs are now the second priority. This chapter emphasizes on the impacts which may have caused by COVID-19 on two specific SDGs, which involve the sustainable development of marine, coastal, terrestrial, and inland aquatic ecosystem. The improper disposal of COVID-19-associated wastes, such as medical equipment, plastics, masks, and gloves, is a threat to both the lives on land and below water. Complete lockdown led to improper treatment of wastewaters before being discharged into water bodies, and waterlog caused by COVID-19 wastes in beaches resulted in the damage of aquatic ecosystem. On the contrary, the revival of the marine ecosystem closer to the coastline due to the world’s reduced economic activity is considered as an advantage. This pandemic provided a short-term success in preventing deforestation and reduced poaching, promoting the forest ecosystem. But in the long run, lack of jobs and unemployment might lead to increased cutting of trees to earn the living. Thus COVID-19 may have influenced bringing both positives and negatives to the SDGs, and these provide us with the challenges and opportunities to accomplish these goals.
Collapse
|
90
|
Buzzi NS, Menéndez MC, Truchet DM, Delgado AL, Severini MDF. An overview on metal pollution on touristic sandy beaches: Is the COVID-19 pandemic an opportunity to improve coastal management? MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 174:113275. [PMID: 35090269 PMCID: PMC8759033 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.113275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
The worldwide spread of the SARS-CoV-2 caused an unprecedented lockdown measures in most countries with consequences on the world society, economy, and sanitary systems. This situation provided an opportunity to identify the effects of human confinement on natural environments, like touristic sandy beaches, which are stressed due to anthropogenic pressures. Based on previous articles about heavy metals sources and levels in these ecosystems, this paper discusses the dynamic of these pollutants and a regulatory scenario associated with COVID-19 sanitation policies. The main findings suggest that 39% of the studies were on Asian sandy beaches, 16% from Europe, while America and Africa with 23% each. Also Co, Cd, Cu, Cr, Zn, Pb, Ni, Fe and Mn were the most frequently analyzed metals in sediments and in several cases their concentrations exceed international guidelines assessment. Finally, even though beaches are under several metals inputs, tourism plays a key role in these ecosystems quality. After analyzing the potential indirect effect of COVID-19 measures on metals dynamics, we propose some key recommendations and management strategies to mitigate heavy metal pollution on sandy tourist beaches. These proposals are useful for decision-makers and stakeholders to improve sandy beach management, mainly those beaches not addressed from a management perspective; and their implementation should be adapted according to the regulations and legislation of each country.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N S Buzzi
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO), Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS)-CONICET, Bahía Blanca, Camino La Carrindanga km 7.5, Edificio E1, B8000FWB Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), San Juan 670, B8000ICN Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - M C Menéndez
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO), Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS)-CONICET, Bahía Blanca, Camino La Carrindanga km 7.5, Edificio E1, B8000FWB Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - D M Truchet
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO), Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS)-CONICET, Bahía Blanca, Camino La Carrindanga km 7.5, Edificio E1, B8000FWB Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - A L Delgado
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO), Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS)-CONICET, Bahía Blanca, Camino La Carrindanga km 7.5, Edificio E1, B8000FWB Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Departamento de Geografía y Turismo, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), 12 de Octubre 1098, B8000CTX Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - M D Fernández Severini
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO), Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS)-CONICET, Bahía Blanca, Camino La Carrindanga km 7.5, Edificio E1, B8000FWB Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
91
|
Khan SAR, Ponce P. Investigating the effects of the outbreak of COVID-19 on perishable food supply chains: an empirical study using PLS-SEM. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LOGISTICS MANAGEMENT 2021. [DOI: 10.1108/ijlm-12-2020-0496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Purpose
At the end of 2019, the first case of the Corona Virus Disease (COVID-19) was reported in Wuhan city of China. The disease was declared a pandemic without imagining the magnitude of damage currently caused in all branches of the economy. One of the most affected sectors was food and mostly perishable food (PF), which are more susceptible to environmental conditions. Thus, the research examines the effect of the COVID-19 outbreak on Ecuador's perishable food supply chains (PFSCs) during the pandemic. It contributes to new results on the special issue (SI) PFSC response to event risk and uncertainty, such as those that generated the pandemic.
Design/methodology/approach
The data used are from primary information sources, which were collected through a questionnaire. The questionnaire was applied to 298 companies belonging to the sector, and later the information was processed through partial least squares structural equation model. The convergent validity, discriminate and robustness tests provide arguments for the suitability of the model. Therefore, the findings are reliable and valid for the adequate measures to improve the PFSC due to a COVID-19 outbreak.
Findings
The results show that the perception of personal risk (PPR) produced by COVID-19 has caused the companies of the PFSC to adopt preventive policies (PO) to avoid contagion and guarantee the operation of the companies. In addition, the PPR has been responsible for the alterations in the demand and price (DP) of PF. Next, PO and DP have a significant effect on PFSC, which shows the evidence favouring the malfunction of PFSC operations due to anti-contagion PO, the mismatch of DP. On the contrary, circular economy practices contribute to the excellent performance of the PFSC. Finally, the research suggests some policy implications to consider in improving the PFSC.
Originality/value
This study is the first to be carried out in Ecuador's country on the PFSC; its contribution is unprecedented and makes it a road-map to be considered to guarantee the correct functioning of the PFSCs, and it will provide policymakers with valid elements to design efficient PFSCs that better respond to unforeseen events and uncertainties. Future research will focus on analysing the management of PF consumption in Ecuador during the pandemic.
Collapse
|
92
|
Truchet DM, López ADF, Ardusso MG, Rimondino GN, Buzzi NS, Malanca FE, Spetter CV, Severini MDF. Microplastics in bivalves, water and sediments from a touristic sandy beach of Argentina. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 173:113023. [PMID: 34695691 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.113023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
This study assesses for the first time the concentrations of microplastics (MPs) in sediments, water and two human-consumed mussels with different ecological traits (Amarilladesma mactroides and Brachidontes rodriguezii) in a touristic sandy beach of Argentina. MPs were characterized through FTIR and SEM/EDX techniques. All the samples presented MPs with similar concentrations as other human-impacted coastal areas of the world, being black and blue fibers of < 0.5 and 0.5-1 mm the most abundant. SEM images exhibited cracks and fractures with clay minerals and microorganisms adhered to MPs surface. EDX spectrums showed potentially toxic elements, such as Cr, Ti, and Mo. FTIR identified polymers such as cellulose, polyamides, and polyacrylates in most of the samples analyzed. Our study demonstrates that microplastic pollution is a common threat to sandy beaches in Argentina, worsened by plastic particles carrying metal ions with potential toxic effects to the biota, including A. mactroides, an endangered species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D M Truchet
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO), CONICET/UNS, CCT-Bahía Blanca, Camino La Carrindanga, km 7.5, Edificio E1, B8000FWB, Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), San Juan 670, B8000ICN, Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - A D Forero López
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO), CONICET/UNS, CCT-Bahía Blanca, Camino La Carrindanga, km 7.5, Edificio E1, B8000FWB, Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - M G Ardusso
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO), CONICET/UNS, CCT-Bahía Blanca, Camino La Carrindanga, km 7.5, Edificio E1, B8000FWB, Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), San Juan 670, B8000ICN, Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - G N Rimondino
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Fisicoquímica de Córdoba (INFIQC), Departamento de Fisicoquímica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Ciudad Universitaria X5000HUA, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - N S Buzzi
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO), CONICET/UNS, CCT-Bahía Blanca, Camino La Carrindanga, km 7.5, Edificio E1, B8000FWB, Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), San Juan 670, B8000ICN, Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - F E Malanca
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Fisicoquímica de Córdoba (INFIQC), Departamento de Fisicoquímica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Ciudad Universitaria X5000HUA, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - C V Spetter
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO), CONICET/UNS, CCT-Bahía Blanca, Camino La Carrindanga, km 7.5, Edificio E1, B8000FWB, Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Departamento de Química, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), Avenida Alem 1253, B8000CPB, Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - M D Fernández Severini
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO), CONICET/UNS, CCT-Bahía Blanca, Camino La Carrindanga, km 7.5, Edificio E1, B8000FWB, Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| |
Collapse
|
93
|
Nghiem LD, Iqbal HMN, Zdarta J. The shadow pandemic of single use personal protective equipment plastic waste: A blue print for suppression and eradication. CASE STUDIES IN CHEMICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING 2021; 4:100125. [PMID: 38620856 PMCID: PMC8387200 DOI: 10.1016/j.cscee.2021.100125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Single use personal protective equipment (PPE) has played a major role in preventing COVID-19 infection. Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, over 4 million tonnes of polypropylene PPE waste has been disposed into the environment in uncontrolled manner causing significant and long-term ecological damage. This work also highlights several effective measures to alleviate the problem of polypropylene PPE waste. Short-term measures include knowledge sharing to minimise the use of single use PPE and to adapt innovative polypropylene recycling technologies. To prepare for a future pandemic, it is also essential to phase out polypropylene PPE using natural based polymers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Long D Nghiem
- University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Hafiz M N Iqbal
- Tecnologico de Monterrey, School of Engineering and Sciences, Monterrey, 64849, Mexico
| | - Jakub Zdarta
- Faculty of Chemical Technology, Poznan University of Technology, Berdychowo 4, 60-965, Poznan, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
94
|
Haddad MB, De-la-Torre GE, Abelouah MR, Hajji S, Alla AA. Personal protective equipment (PPE) pollution associated with the COVID-19 pandemic along the coastline of Agadir, Morocco. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 798:149282. [PMID: 34332387 PMCID: PMC8313889 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.149282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 07/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
The increasing use of personal protective equipment (PPE) as a sanitary measure against the new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) has become a significant source of many environmental risks. The majority of the governments enforce the use of PPE in public areas, such as beaches. Thus, the use and disposal of PPE have compromised most solid waste management strategies, ultimately leading to the occurrence of PPE polluting the marine environment. The present study aimed to monitor the PPE pollution associated with COVID-19 along the coastline of Agadir, Morocco. In parallel, the influence of the activities carried out in each sampled beach before and after the lockdown break was reported. Overall, a total number of 689 PPE items were identified, with a mean density of 1.13 × 10-5 PPE m-2 (0-1.21 × 10-4 PPE m-2). The majority of the PPE items found were face masks (96.81%), out of which 98.4% were surgical masks and 1.6% were reusable cloth masks. The most polluted sites were the beaches with recreational activities, followed by surfing, and fishing as the main activity. Importantly, PPE density increased significantly after lockdown measures. Additionally, the discarded PPE sampled in the supralittoral zone was higher than PPE recorded in the intertidal zone. This confirms that PPE items are driven by the beachgoers during their visit. PPE items are a source of microplastic and chemical pollutants, a substrate to invasive species colonization, and a potential threat of entanglement, ingestion, and/or infection among apex predators. In the specific case of Agadir beaches, significant efforts are required to work on the lack of environmental awareness and education. It is recommended to improve beach cleaning strategies and to penalize incorrect PPE disposal. Additional alternatives may be adopted, as the involvement of biodegradable materials in PPE manufacturing, recycling through pyrolysis, and encouraging reusable and washable masks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Ben Haddad
- Laboratory of Aquatic Systems: Marine and Continental Environments, Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Zohr University, Morocco
| | | | - Mohamed Rida Abelouah
- Laboratory of Aquatic Systems: Marine and Continental Environments, Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Zohr University, Morocco
| | - Sara Hajji
- Laboratory of Aquatic Systems: Marine and Continental Environments, Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Zohr University, Morocco
| | - Aicha Ait Alla
- Laboratory of Aquatic Systems: Marine and Continental Environments, Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Zohr University, Morocco
| |
Collapse
|
95
|
Li S, Ding J, Zheng X, Sui Y. Beach tourists behavior and beach management strategy under the ongoing prevention and control of the COVID-19 pandemic: A case study of Qingdao, China. OCEAN & COASTAL MANAGEMENT 2021; 215:105974. [PMID: 34803244 PMCID: PMC8590499 DOI: 10.1016/j.ocecoaman.2021.105974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
The sudden outbreak of COVID-19 has led beach tourism to a complete halt in January 2020, disrupting millions of livelihoods and businesses. Due to the economic importance of beach tourism, many governments reopened tourist beaches after the number of confirmed cases decreased. It is essential to open beaches orderly to meet the needs of tourists, maintain beach's health and restore coastal economy under the new reality. This paper selected Qingdao in China as a case study, drew on a questionnaire survey among beach tourists, summarized the effects of the COVID-19 on beach tourism industry and tourism enterprise, analyzed beach tourists' psychology and behavior, and developed beach management strategy under the ongoing prevention and control of COVID-19. The results showed that the COVID-19 pandemic caused severe damage to beach tourism which bases on travel and mobility, and this industry was temporarily suspended. With the changing epidemic situation, beach tourism witnessed a gradual recovery from stagnation to local tourism. Meanwhile, tourism enterprises were hit by the devastating impact of the COVID-19, causing problems such as business reduction, tense cash flow, high operating cost and unclear market prospect. Under the normalization of pandemic prevention, tourists did not have severe fear and anxiety about the pandemic, and placed great importance on the prevention and control measures, emergency measures and pandemic risk level of the beach destination. The pandemic also reshaped the perception and mode of beach tourism. Ecological tourism, travelling with family, and local tourism became the primary choices for tourists. Beach congestion, health status, and the quality of tourism services were the biggest concerns for tourists. Additionally, social media and short video APP became the new marketing channels. Finally, beach management strategies were proposed from the aspects of pandemic prevention and control, emergency management, information communication, tourist management, service management, and environmental management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shujuan Li
- Management College, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266100, PR China
- Ocean Development Research Institute, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266100, PR China
| | - Jiaqi Ding
- Management College, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266100, PR China
| | - Xin Zheng
- Management College, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266100, PR China
| | - Yuzheng Sui
- College of Architecture and Urban Planning, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao, 266033, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
96
|
Shruti VC, Pérez-Guevara F, Kutralam-Muniasamy G. Wet wipes contribution to microfiber contamination under COVID-19 era: An important but overlooked problem. ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES (AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS) 2021; 5:100267. [PMID: 38620870 PMCID: PMC8411576 DOI: 10.1016/j.envc.2021.100267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/01/2021] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Wet wipes for disinfection, sanitizing, and medical purposes, like personal protective equipment, have witnessed an upsurge in production and use as a result of COVID-19 outbreak. They are a potential source of microfibers and have recently been found in COVID-19 plastic litter survey campaigns conducted in a few marine environments around the world. This mini-review highlights wet wipes as a one of the key debris items contributing to the growing COVID-19-related microplastic pollution, and there are significant gaps in our understanding of microfiber release under different environmental conditions, morphological, and chemical degradation signatures, necessitating a comprehensive study of disinfectant wipes. Thus, we urge microplastic researchers to investigate the environmental implications of wet wipes in order to keep the total estimate of the plastic problem up to date and manage the associated environmental challenges.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- V C Shruti
- Instituto de Geologíía, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Ciudad Universitaria, Del. Coyoacán, C.P. 04510, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Fermín Pérez-Guevara
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, México
- Nanoscience & Nanotechnology Program, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, México
| | - Gurusamy Kutralam-Muniasamy
- Department of Biotechnology and Bioengineering, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Ciudad de México, México
| |
Collapse
|
97
|
Patrício Silva AL, Prata JC, Mouneyrac C, Barcelò D, Duarte AC, Rocha-Santos T. Risks of Covid-19 face masks to wildlife: Present and future research needs. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 792:148505. [PMID: 34465061 PMCID: PMC8217904 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.148505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2021] [Revised: 06/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/13/2021] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
The use of disposable face masks became essential to fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in an unprecedented rise in their production and, unfortunately, to a new form of environmental contamination due to improper disposal. Recent publications reported the abundance of COVID-19-related litter in several environments, wildlife interaction with such items, and the contaminants that can be released from such protective equipment that has the potential to induce ecotoxicological effects. This paper provides a critical review of COVID-19 face mask occurrence in diverse environments and their adverse physiological and ecotoxicological effects on wildlife. It also outlines potential remediation strategies to mitigate the environmental challenge impose by COVID-19-related litter.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana L Patrício Silva
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Joana C Prata
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Catherine Mouneyrac
- Mer Molécules Sante (MMS), Université Catholique de l'Ouest, 3 place André Leroy, BP10808, 49008 Angers CEDEX 01, France
| | - Damià Barcelò
- Catalan Institute for Water research (ICRA-CERCA), H2O Building, Scientific and Technological Park of the University of Girona, Emili Grahit 101,17003 Girona, Spain; Water and Soil Quality Research Group, Department of Environmental Chemistry, Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC), Jordi Girona18-26, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Armando C Duarte
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Teresa Rocha-Santos
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
98
|
Impacts of COVID-19 on the Aquatic Environment and Implications on Aquatic Food Production. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su132011281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), resulted in ecological changes of aquatic ecosystems, affected the aquatic food supply chain, and disrupted the socio-economy of global populations. Due to reduced human activities during the pandemic, the aquatic environment was reported to improve its water quality, wild fishery stocks, and biodiversity. However, the sudden surge of plastics and biomedical wastes during the COVID-19 pandemic masked the positive impacts and increased the risks of aquatic pollution, especially microplastics, pharmaceuticals, and disinfectants. The transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from wastewater treatment plants to natural water bodies could have serious impacts on the environment and human health, especially in developing countries with poor waste treatment facilities. The presence and persistence of SARS-CoV-2 in human excreta, wastewaters, and sludge and its transmission to aquatic ecosystems could have negative impacts on fisheries and aquaculture industries, which have direct implications on food safety and security. COVID-19 pandemic-related environmental pollution showed a high risk to aquatic food security and human health. This paper reviews the impacts of COVID-19, both positive and negative, and assesses the causes and consequences of anthropogenic activities that can be managed through effective regulation and management of eco-resources for the revival of biodiversity, ecosystem health, and sustainable aquatic food production.
Collapse
|
99
|
Morgana S, Casentini B, Amalfitano S. Uncovering the release of micro/nanoplastics from disposable face masks at times of COVID-19. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 419:126507. [PMID: 34323718 PMCID: PMC8234265 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.126507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Wearing face masks is a fundamental prevention and control measure to limit the spread of COVID-19. The universal use and improper disposal of single-use face masks are raising serious concerns for their environmental impact, owing to the foregone contribution to plastic water pollution during and beyond the pandemic. This study aims to uncover the release of micro/nanoplastics generated from face mask nonwoven textiles once discarded in the aquatic environment. As assessed by microscopy and flow cytometry, the exposure to different levels of mechanical stress forces (from low to high shear stress intensities) was proved effective in breaking and fragmenting face mask fabrics into smaller debris, including macro-, micro-, and nano-plastics. Even at the low level of fabric deterioration following the first second of treatment, a single mask could release in water thousands of microplastic fibers and up to 108 submicrometric particles, mostly comprised in the nano-sized domain. By contributing to the current lack of knowledge regarding the potential environmental hazards posed by universal face masking, we provided novel quantitative data, through a suitable technological approach, on the release of micro/nanoplastics from single-use face masks that can threaten the aquatic ecosystems to which they finally end-up.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Morgana
- Institute for the Study of Anthropic Impact and Sustainability in the Marine Environment (IAS-CNR), Via della Vasca Navale, 00146 Rome, Italy.
| | - Barbara Casentini
- Water Research Institute (IRSA-CNR), Via Salaria Km 29.300, Monterotondo, 00015 Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Amalfitano
- Water Research Institute (IRSA-CNR), Via Salaria Km 29.300, Monterotondo, 00015 Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
100
|
Facciolà A, Laganà P, Caruso G. The COVID-19 pandemic and its implications on the environment. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2021; 201:111648. [PMID: 34242676 PMCID: PMC8261195 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2021.111648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The emerging threat posed by COVID-19 pandemic has strongly modified our lifestyle, making urgent to re-consider the humans-environment relationships and stimulating towards more sustainable choices in our daily behavior. Scientific evidences showed that the onset of new viral pathogens with a high epidemic-pandemic potential is often the result of complex interactions between animals, humans and environment. In this context, the interest of the scientific community has also been attracted towards the potential interactions of SARS-CoV-2 with environmental compartments. Many issues, ranging from the epidemiology and persistence of SARS-CoV-2 in water bodies to the potential implications of lockdown measures on environmental quality status are here reviewed, with a special reference to marine ecosystems. Due to current sanitary emergence, the relevance of pilot studies regarding the interactions between SARS-CoV-2 spread and the direct and indirect environmental impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, that are still a matter of scientific debate, is underlined.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Facciolà
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Italy
| | - Pasqualina Laganà
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, Italy.
| | - Gabriella Caruso
- Institute of Polar Sciences (ISP), National Research Council (CNR), Messina, Italy
| |
Collapse
|