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Ma Q, Fang X, Kong L, Zhou R, He C, Zeng X, Wu J. Surface coal mining in drylands: A multiscale comparison of spatiotemporal patterns and environmental impacts between Inner Mongolia and Mongolia. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 955:177054. [PMID: 39442718 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.177054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2024] [Revised: 10/11/2024] [Accepted: 10/17/2024] [Indexed: 10/25/2024]
Abstract
Surface coal mining (SCM) poses a great threat to the environment. Previous studies have explored the speed and scale of SCM in the Mongolian Plateau, but landscape-based analysis is needed for creating actionable knowledge required for environmental policy-making. Thus, taking a landscape ecological approach, here we compared the spatiotemporal patterns and major environmental impacts of SCM between Inner Mongolia of China and Mongolia during 1975-2015 at multiple administrative levels. We found that the SCM area increased by nearly 40 times in Inner Mongolia and 11 times in Mongolia during the 40 years. The annual increase rate in terms of both area and number was greater in Inner Mongolia than in Mongolia during 1975-2010, but the order was reversed during 2010-2015. At the prefectural or aimag level, the SCM distribution exhibited considerable variations. In 2015, 44 % of the total SCM area was located in Baotou, Wuhai, and Ordos of Inner Mongolia and Ömnögovi of Mongolia in 2015. The spatiotemporal patterns of SCM were characterized by increases in patch size, shape complexity, clustering, and landscape fragmentation. We estimated that the surrounding ecosystems disturbed by mining were 14.72 times larger than the SCM sites themselves in Inner Mongolia and 21.10 times in Mongolia. More threatened species were potentially affected by SCM in Inner Mongolia than in Mongolia. The variations in the scope and speed of SCM between Inner Mongolia and Mongolia may be attributable to multiple factors, including the distribution of coal mines themselves, economic investments, and national and local policies. Our study provides scientific support for promoting China-Mongolia bilateral collaboration for curbing SCM expansion and mitigating its environmental impacts on the plateau.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qun Ma
- School of Environmental and Geographical Sciences, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai 200234, China; Yangtze River Delta Urban Wetland Ecosystem National Field Scientific Observation and Research Station, Shanghai 200234, China
| | - Xuening Fang
- School of Environmental and Geographical Sciences, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai 200234, China; Yangtze River Delta Urban Wetland Ecosystem National Field Scientific Observation and Research Station, Shanghai 200234, China.
| | - Lingqiang Kong
- School of Public Administration, Zhejiang University of Finance and Economics, Hangzhou 310018, China
| | - Rui Zhou
- School of Environmental and Geographical Sciences, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai 200234, China; Yangtze River Delta Urban Wetland Ecosystem National Field Scientific Observation and Research Station, Shanghai 200234, China
| | - Chunyang He
- Key Laboratory of Environmental Change and Natural Disasters of Chinese Ministry of Education, Faculty of Geographical Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Xiaoji Zeng
- Institute of Ecological Civilization, Jiangxi University of Finance and Economics, Nanchang 330013, China
| | - Jianguo Wu
- School of Life Sciences and School of Sustainability, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA
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Jin W, Mo Q, Li G, Wang G, Zhu B, Wan X, Lin P, Huang B, Pan X. Localized regional environmental risk in mountainous urban areas of Southwest China: identification, assessment, and management strategies in Kunming. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE. PROCESSES & IMPACTS 2024. [PMID: 39291397 DOI: 10.1039/d4em00449c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/19/2024]
Abstract
In recent decades, the escalating frequency of environmental risk events, arising from sources such as industrial accidents, chemical spills, or other anthropogenic activities, has intensified threats to the ecological environment. The targeted identification of high-risk areas, formulation of control lists for key risk sources within regions, and the implementation of differentiated management strategies remain significant challenges. This study employed an administrative region environmental risk assessment and gridded environmental risk analysis method to comprehensively evaluate the environmental risks in the city of Kunming, China. The results indicated a fourfold increase in the number of environmental risk sources from 2012 to 2022. The sources were found to be widely distributed across the entire region but exhibited localized clustering. The environmental risk receptors were primarily concentrated around a local lake, in densely populated counties, and near rivers and drinking water sources. Risk hotspot areas within the target region were identified using the gridded environmental risk analysis method. A list of 29 key control areas was proposed, including nine industrial parks and 20 streets. Measures were proposed for handling unexpected incidents. The findings provide data useful for policy formulation and environmental management in similar regions of mountainous cities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Jin
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China.
- Kunming Ecological Environmental Engineering Assessment Center, Kunming 650200, China
| | - Qianwen Mo
- Kunming Ecological Environmental Engineering Assessment Center, Kunming 650200, China
| | - Guihong Li
- Kunming Ecological Environmental Engineering Assessment Center, Kunming 650200, China
| | - Gang Wang
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China.
| | - Binqiang Zhu
- Kunming Ecological Environmental Engineering Assessment Center, Kunming 650200, China
| | - Xing Wan
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China.
| | - Peng Lin
- Kunming Ecological Environmental Engineering Assessment Center, Kunming 650200, China
| | - Bin Huang
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China.
| | - Xuejun Pan
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming 650500, China.
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Zou T, Guo P, Wu Q. Applying an entropy-weighted TOPSIS method to evaluate energy green consumption revolution progressing of China. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:42267-42281. [PMID: 36642773 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-25175-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The energy green consumption revolution (EGCR) is the highest priority in the Chinese government's energy revolution agenda. The purpose of this study is to provide a comprehensive and objective evaluation of the China's EGCR progressing from 2011 to 2019. In this study, an integrated economic-social-energy-environmental EGCR evaluation framework is built, and the entropy-weighted TOPSIS method with four customized equations is used to calculate and analyze the EGCR index. The study finds that the EGCR index at the national level fluctuates between 0.290 and 0.302, showing a stagnant and regressive trend. At the regional and provincial levels, the EGCR index for eastern China remains at high level, floating above 0.4 and no further growing trend has been indicated. As for the eastern China, Beijing is the only city has high-level EGCR index and is able to maintain positive growth trend. The EGCR index in central, western, and northeastern China is at a low level, fluctuating below 0.4. This result is mainly caused by the fact that the majority of these regions are still constrained by the fossil fuel-dominated social, economy, energy, and environment structures. Therefore, the research findings not only provide supportive evidence for the Chinese government to recognize the progressing of EGCR, but also offer statistical basis over formulating and updating EGCR policies at a timely manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Zou
- School of Economics and Management, North University of China, Taiyuan, 030051, China
| | - Pibin Guo
- School of Economics and Management, North University of China, Taiyuan, 030051, China.
- Department of Management, Shanxi Institute of Economic Management, Taiyuan, 030024, China.
| | - Qinglong Wu
- School of Economics and Management, North University of China, Taiyuan, 030051, China
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Fan P, Chen J, Fung C, Naing Z, Ouyang Z, Nyunt KM, Myint ZN, Qi J, Messina JP, Myint SW, Peter BG. Urbanization, economic development, and environmental changes in transitional economies in the global south: a case of Yangon. ECOLOGICAL PROCESSES 2022; 11:65. [PMID: 36397837 PMCID: PMC9652265 DOI: 10.1186/s13717-022-00409-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transitional economies in Southeast Asia-a distinct group of developing countries-have experienced rapid urbanization in the past several decades due to the economic transition that fundamentally changed the function of their economies, societies and the environment. Myanmar, one of the least developed transitional economies in Southeast Asia, increased urbanization substantially from 25% in 1990 to 31% in 2019. However, major knowledge gaps exist in understanding the changes in urban land use and land cover and environment and their drivers in its cities. METHODS We studied Yangon, the largest city in Myanmar, for the urbanization, environmental changes, and the underlying driving forces in a radically transitioned economy in the developing world. Based on satellite imagery and historic land use maps, we quantified the expansion of urban built-up land and constructed the land conversion matrix from 1990 through 2020. We also used three air pollutants to illustrate the changes in environmental conditions. We analyzed the coupled dynamics among urbanization, economic development, and environmental changes. Through conducting a workshop with 20 local experts, we further analyzed the influence of human systems and natural systems on Yangon's urbanization and sustainability. RESULTS The city of Yangon expanded urban built-up land rapidly from 1990 to 2000, slowed down from 2000 to 2010, but gained momentum again from 2010 to 2020, with most newly added urban built-up land appearing to be converted from farmland and green land in both 1990-2000 and 2010-2020. Furthermore, the air pollutant concentration of CO decreased, but that of NO2 and PM2.5 increased in recent years. A positive correlation exists between population and economic development and the concentration of PM2.5 is highly associated with population, the economy, and the number of vehicles. Finally, the expert panel also identified other potential drivers for urbanization, including the extreme climate event of Cyclone Nargis, capital relocation, and globalization. CONCLUSIONS Our research highlights the dramatic expansion of urban land and degradation of urban environment measured by air pollutants and interdependent changes between urbanization, economic development, and environmental changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peilei Fan
- School of Planning, Design, and Construction and Center for Global Change and Earth Observations, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824 USA
| | - Jiquan Chen
- Department of Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences and Center for Global Change and Earth Observations, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824 USA
| | - Cadi Fung
- Department of Geography, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 USA
| | - Zaw Naing
- Mandalay Technology, Yangon, Myanmar
| | - Zutao Ouyang
- Earth System Science, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305 USA
| | | | | | - Jiaguo Qi
- Department of Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences and Center for Global Change and Earth Observations, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824 USA
| | - Joseph P. Messina
- College of Arts and Sciences, University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 USA
| | - Soe W. Myint
- School of Geographical Sciences and Urban Planning, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287-5302 USA
| | - Brad G. Peter
- Department of Geosciences, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701P USA
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Console-Based Mapping of Mongolia Using GMT Cartographic Scripting Toolset for Processing TerraClimate Data. GEOSCIENCES 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/geosciences12030140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
This paper explores spatial variability of the ten climatic variables of Mongolia in 2019: average minimal and maximal temperatures, wind speed, soil moisture, downward surface shortwave radiation (DSRAD), snow water equivalent (SWE), vapor pressure deficit (VPD), vapor pressure anomaly (VAP), monthly precipitation and Palmer Drought Severity Index (PDSI). The PDSI demonstrates the simplified soil water balance estimating relative soil moisture conditions in Mongolia. The research presents mapping of the climate datasets derived from TerraClimate open source repository of the meteorological and climate measurements in NetCDF format. The methodology presented the compiled observations of Mongolia visualised by GMT coding approach using Generic Mapping Tools (GMT) cartographic scripting toolset. The results present 10 new maps of climate data over Mongolia made using automated cartographic techniques of GMT. Spatial environmental and climate analysis were conducted which determine relative distribution of PDSI and temperature extremes, precipitation and soil moisture, wind speed and DSRAD. The DSRAD showed minimum at 40 Wm−2, maximum at 113 Wm−2 in the Gobi Desert region, SWE (up to 491 mm), VAP and VPD compared with landmass parameters represent powerful cartographic tools to address complex regional climate and environmental issues in Mongolia, a country with contrasting topography, extreme climate conditions and unique environmental setting.
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6
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Documentary Evidence of 17th Century Landcover and Climate Change in Northern China and Mongolia Compared to Modern Spectral Greening Trends. LAND 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/land11010100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Fighting land degradation of semi-arid and climate-sensitive grasslands are among the most urgent tasks of current eco-political agenda. Particularly, northern China and Mongolia are prone to climate-induced surface transformations, which were reinforced by the heavily increased numbers of livestock during the 20th century. Extensive overgrazing and resource exploitation amplified regional climate change effects and triggered intensified land degradation that forced policy-driven interventions to prevent desertification. In the past, however, the regions have been subject to continuous shifts in environmental and socio-cultural and political conditions, which makes it particularly difficult to distinguish into regional anthropogenic impact and global climate change effects. This article presents analyses of historical written sources, palaeoenvironmental data, and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) temporal series from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) to compare landcover change during the Little Ice Age (LIA) and current spectral greening trends over the period 2001–2020. Results show that decreasing precipitation and temperature records triggered increased land degradation during the late 17th century in the transition zone from northern China and Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region to Mongolia. From current climate change perspectives, modern vegetation shows enhanced physical vegetation response related to an increase in precipitation (Ptotal) and temperature (T). Vegetation response is strongly related to Ptotal and T and an increase in physical plant condition indicates local to regional grassland recovery compared to the past 20-year average.
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Adiya S, Dalantai S, Wu T, Wu X, Yamkhin J, Bao Y, Sumiya E, Yadamsuren G, Avirmed D, Dorjgotov B. Spatial and temporal change patterns of near-surface CO 2 and CH 4 concentrations in different permafrost regions on the Mongolian Plateau from 2010 to 2017. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 800:149433. [PMID: 34392227 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.149433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 07/10/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Greenhouse gases (GHGs) released from permafrost regions may have a positive feedback to climate change, but there is much uncertainty about additional warming from the permafrost carbon cycle. One of the main reasons for this uncertainty is that the observation data of large-scale GHG concentrations are sparse, especially for areas with rapid permafrost degradation. We selected the Mongolian Plateau as the study area. We first analyzed the active layer thickness and ground temperature changes using borehole observations. Based on ground observation data, we assessed the applicability of Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite (GOSAT) carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) datasets. Finally, we analyzed the temporal and spatial changes in near-surface CO2 and CH4 concentrations from 2010 to 2017 and their patterns in different permafrost regions. The results showed that the Mongolian permafrost has been experiencing rapid degradation. The annual average near-surface CO2 concentration increased gradually between 2.19 ppmv/yr and 2.38 ppmv/yr, whereas the near-surface CH4 concentration increased significantly from 7.76 ppbv/yr to 8.49 ppbv/yr. There were significant seasonal variations in near-surface CO2 and CH4 concentrations for continuous, discontinuous, sporadic, and isolated permafrost zones. The continuous and discontinuous permafrost zones had lower near-surface CO2 and CH4 concentrations in summer and autumn, whereas sporadic and isolated permafrost zones had higher near-surface CO2 and CH4 concentrations in winter and spring. Our results indicated that climate warming led to rapid permafrost degradation, and carbon-based GHG concentrations also increased rapidly in Mongolia. Although, GHG concentrations increased at rates similar to the global average and many factors can account for their changes, GHG concentration in the permafrost regions merits more attention in the future because the spatiotemporal distribution has indicated a different driving force for regional warming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saruulzaya Adiya
- Institute of Geography and Geoecology, Mongolian Academy of Sciences, Ulaanbaatar 15170, Mongolia.
| | - Sainbayar Dalantai
- Institute of Geography and Geoecology, Mongolian Academy of Sciences, Ulaanbaatar 15170, Mongolia; Division of Natural Sciences, National University of Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar, 210646 Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Tonghua Wu
- Cryosphere Research Station on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, State Key Laboratory of Cryospheric Science, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Xiaodong Wu
- Cryosphere Research Station on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, State Key Laboratory of Cryospheric Science, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Jambaljav Yamkhin
- Institute of Geography and Geoecology, Mongolian Academy of Sciences, Ulaanbaatar 15170, Mongolia
| | - Yuhai Bao
- Inner Mongolia Key Laboratory of Remote Sensing and Geographic Information Systems, Inner Mongolia Normal University, Hohhot 010022, China
| | - Erdenesukh Sumiya
- Division of Natural Sciences, National University of Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar, 210646 Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Gansukh Yadamsuren
- Ministry of Food, Agriculture, and Light Industry, Ulaanbaatar 13381, Mongolia
| | - Dashtseren Avirmed
- Institute of Geography and Geoecology, Mongolian Academy of Sciences, Ulaanbaatar 15170, Mongolia
| | - Battogtokh Dorjgotov
- Institute of Geography and Geoecology, Mongolian Academy of Sciences, Ulaanbaatar 15170, Mongolia
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8
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Wang B, Zeng D, Yang B. Decomposing peer effects in pro-environmental behaviour: Evidence from a Chinese nationwide survey. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2021; 295:113100. [PMID: 34182341 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2021.113100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Revised: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
We explore potential peer effects in pro-environmental behaviour using Chinese General Social Survey 2013, where individual participations in ten pro-environmental activities are recorded. Instrumental variable regressions suggest that individual pro-environmental behaviour is positively and significantly affected by that of neighbourhood peers. Such effects are robust against alternative estimation procedures and falsification tests. Results further show that, while identified peer effects do function through social networks, such mediation explains only a small portion of the peer effects, which may largely occur among strangers living in the neighbourhood through observation and mimicry. These findings imply that peer effects should be seriously considered in neighbourhood-level interventions to stimulate pro-environmental behaviour more cost-effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing Wang
- Institute of Chinese Agricultural History &Culture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China.
| | - Di Zeng
- The Centre for Global Food and Resources at the University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.
| | - Bao Yang
- School of Public Policy and Administration, Chongqing University, 174 Shazheng Street, Shapingba District, Chongqing, 400044, China.
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9
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Chan J, Mungun T, Batsaixan P, Ulziibayar M, Suuri B, Otgonbayar D, Luvsantseren D, Nguyen CD, Narangarel D, Dunne EM, Fox K, Hinds J, Nation ML, Pell CL, Mulholland EK, Satzke C, von Mollendorf C, Russell FM. Direct and indirect effects of 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine on pneumococcal carriage in children hospitalised with pneumonia from formal and informal settlements in Mongolia: an observational study. LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH-WESTERN PACIFIC 2021; 15:100231. [PMID: 34528012 PMCID: PMC8342962 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanwpc.2021.100231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Background Within Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, risk factors for pneumonia are concentrated among children living in informal settlements comprised of temporary shelters (gers). We used pneumococcal carriage surveillance among children from formal and informal settlements hospitalised with pneumonia to evaluate the direct and indirect effects of 13-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (PCV13) against vaccine-type (VT) pneumococcal carriage following a phased introduction of PCV13. Methods We enrolled and collected nasopharyngeal swabs from children 2-59 months of age presenting to hospital. Pneumococci were detected using lytA qPCR and serotyped using microarray on a random monthly selection of swabs between November 2015 and March 2019 from two districts in Ulaanbaatar. PCV13 status was determined using written records. We quantified the associations between individual PCV13 status (direct effects) and district-level PCV13 coverage (indirect effects) and VT carriage using generalised estimating equations and explored interactions by settlement type. Findings A total of 1 292 swabs from 6 046 participants were tested for pneumococci. Receipt of PCV13 and increasing PCV13 coverage independently reduced the risk of VT carriage. For each percent increase in PCV13 coverage, the adjusted odds of VT carriage decreased by 1•0% (OR 95% CI 0•983-0•996; p=0•001), with a predicted decrease in VT carriage rate from 29•1% to 13•1% as coverage reached 100%. There was a trend towards a slower decline within informal settlements (p=0•100). Adjusted PCV13 vaccine effectiveness against VT carriage was 39•1% (95% CI 11•4-58•1%, p=0•009). Interpretation Substantial indirect effects were observed following PCV13 introduction, including among children living within informal settlements. Funding Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation; Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jocelyn Chan
- Infection and Immunity, Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI), Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Tuya Mungun
- Infection and Immunity, Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI), Melbourne, Australia.,National Centre for Communicable Diseases (NCCD), Ministry of Health, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Purevsuren Batsaixan
- Infection and Immunity, Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI), Melbourne, Australia.,National Centre for Communicable Diseases (NCCD), Ministry of Health, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Mukhchuluun Ulziibayar
- Infection and Immunity, Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI), Melbourne, Australia.,National Centre for Communicable Diseases (NCCD), Ministry of Health, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Bujinlkham Suuri
- Infection and Immunity, Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI), Melbourne, Australia.,National Centre for Communicable Diseases (NCCD), Ministry of Health, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Dashpagam Otgonbayar
- National Centre for Communicable Diseases (NCCD), Ministry of Health, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Dashtseren Luvsantseren
- Infection and Immunity, Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI), Melbourne, Australia.,National Centre for Communicable Diseases (NCCD), Ministry of Health, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Cattram D Nguyen
- Infection and Immunity, Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI), Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Dorj Narangarel
- National Centre for Communicable Diseases (NCCD), Ministry of Health, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
| | - Eileen M Dunne
- Infection and Immunity, Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI), Melbourne, Australia
| | - Kimberley Fox
- Regional Office for the Western Pacific, World Health Organization, Manila, Philippines
| | - Jason Hinds
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, United Kingdom.,BUGS Bioscience, London Bioscience Innovation Centre, London, United Kingdom
| | - Monica L Nation
- Infection and Immunity, Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI), Melbourne, Australia
| | - Casey L Pell
- Infection and Immunity, Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI), Melbourne, Australia
| | - E Kim Mulholland
- Infection and Immunity, Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI), Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Catherine Satzke
- Infection and Immunity, Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI), Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Claire von Mollendorf
- Infection and Immunity, Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI), Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Fiona M Russell
- Infection and Immunity, Murdoch Children's Research Institute (MCRI), Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
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10
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Highlighting the Sustainability Implications of Urbanisation: A Comparative Analysis of Two Urban Areas in Ghana. LAND 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/land9090300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Ghana is urbanising rapidly, and over half of the country’s population have lived in urban areas since 2010. Although research has proliferated to explore Ghana’s urbanisation, there is a dearth of research that holistically explores the wider sustainability implications of urbanisation, offers comparative perspectives in the context of large and smaller urban areas, and provides a perspective of local level urbanisation in the context of resource extraction (mining). This study comparatively assesses two urban areas in Ghana (Kumasi and Obuasi), by conducting a spatio-temporal analysis of land cover change through remote sensing and by analysing demographic change through a synthesis of published population data, in order to highlight the sustainability implications of urbanisation. The results show that urbanisation has been rapid, and has resulted in changes in land cover and demography in Kumasi and Obuasi. The sustainability implications of urbanisation are identified to include limited economic opportunities, socio-spatial segregation, and destruction of natural vegetation. The evidence in this study provides insights into urbanisation in Ghana, and suggests that the positive sustainability impacts of urbanisation may be eroded by how factors such as market forces and land tenure interact at the local level.
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11
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Urban Green Space Accessibility and Distribution Equity in an Arid Oasis City: Urumqi, China. FORESTS 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/f11060690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Urban green space (UGS) is crucial to the healthy development of urban residents. However, UGS that is accessible can benefit residents to an even greater degree. Based on the two-step floating catchment area model (2SFCA) and the location quotient (LQ), we analyzed the changes from 1999 to 2019 in UGS walking accessibility and equity in built-up areas of Urumqi at different administrative levels, and how UGS policy affects the improvement of accessibility. The results showed that UGS accessibility and equity are not evenly distributed at different administrative levels and UGS categories. Although the overall UGS accessibility and equity has improved with policy implementation, these changes are caused by metro-level UGS construction in urban fringe areas. The improvement in UGS accessibility at the neighborhood level in densely populated areas is neglected, which leads to a mismatch between UGS construction and population distribution. In addition, the accessibility of UGS is also limited by geographical location, population density, road distribution, and water shortage in arid metropolitan Urumqi. Our research results provide a theoretical basis for Urumqi and other cities in the optimization of UGS structure and the realization of social equity.
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12
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Batbayar G, Pfeiffer M, Kappas M, Karthe D. Development and application of GIS-based assessment of land-use impacts on water quality: A case study of the Kharaa River Basin. AMBIO 2019; 48:1154-1168. [PMID: 30474831 PMCID: PMC6722172 DOI: 10.1007/s13280-018-1123-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2018] [Revised: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 10/31/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Effective analytical tools, such as geographical information systems (GIS) and multivariate analysis, help to deal with spatial data and complex interactions in watershed management. To investigate the impact of land-use on chemical water quality in the Mongolian Kharaa River Basin, the whole catchment and sub-catchments in relation to each sampling point were delineated. Chemical water quality over three seasons was assessed with GIS and RDA in a modeling approach with forward selection of variables and cluster analysis. The most powerful predictors of river water quality were altitude, settlements, forest, cropland, and distance to spring. In particular, this was true when instead of full sub-basins riparian buffer zones (max. 3 km) were considered. From a management perspective, this implies that the protection of riparian zones should be a priority in the Kharaa basin and similar river basins in Mongolia and Central Asia. Because of its positive effects on water quality, forest protection should be closely coupled with river basin management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gunsmaa Batbayar
- Department Aquatic Ecosystem Analysis and Management (ASAM), Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research-UFZ, Brückstrasse 3a, 39114 Magdeburg, Germany
- Institute of Geography, Georg-August University, Göttingen, Germany
- School of Arts and Sciences, National University of Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
- Faculty of Mathematics, Computer and Natural Sciences, German-Mongolian Institute of Technology, Nalaikh, Mongolia
| | - Martin Pfeiffer
- Department Aquatic Ecosystem Analysis and Management (ASAM), Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research-UFZ, Brückstrasse 3a, 39114 Magdeburg, Germany
- School of Arts and Sciences, National University of Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia
- Department of Biogeography, University of Bayreuth, Universitätsstrasse 30, 95447 Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Martin Kappas
- Institute of Geography, Georg-August University, Göttingen, Germany
| | - Daniel Karthe
- Department Aquatic Ecosystem Analysis and Management (ASAM), Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research-UFZ, Brückstrasse 3a, 39114 Magdeburg, Germany
- Institute of Geography, Georg-August University, Göttingen, Germany
- Environmental Engineering Section, German-Mongolian Institute of Technology, Nalaikh, Mongolia
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Battulga B, Kawahigashi M, Oyuntsetseg B. Distribution and composition of plastic debris along the river shore in the Selenga River basin in Mongolia. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 26:14059-14072. [PMID: 30852749 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-019-04632-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2018] [Accepted: 02/19/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution in aquatic environments is one of the most fatal environmental issues in the world. Although the distribution of plastic debris in the sea and at coasts has been addressed, the transportation of plastics through a river system is unclear but important. The distribution of plastic debris in the Selenga River system is responsible for the environmental pollution of Lake Baikal. Twelve sampling sites along the river shore of the Selenga River system have been surveyed considering the industrial activity and population density. The number of plastics significantly correlates with the population density. The higher the number of plastics is, the smaller is the average size. The size fractions of foam and film plastics show a significant relationship, suggesting that the plastic debris fragmented on-site on the river shores. The most abundant plastic debris is polystyrene foam (PSF), which is usually used for construction and packaging. Plastic debris occurs due to insufficient plastic waste management. Its distribution is affected by seasonal changes of the water level and flow rate of tributaries. Furthermore, the fragmentation of plastic debris is related to temperature changes associated with freeze and thaw cycles, solar radiation, and mechanical abrasion. Smaller microplastics with microscopic sizes were detected in PSF debris. Based on micro-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, these microplastics are polystyrene and polyethylene. This study proves that invisible and visible microplastics are transported together.
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Affiliation(s)
- Batdulam Battulga
- Department of Geography, Tokyo Metropolitan University, Tokyo, 1920397, Japan
| | | | - Bolormaa Oyuntsetseg
- Department of Chemistry, National University of Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar, 210646, Mongolia
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Erdenebayar E, Santos KD, Edwards A, Dugersuren NO, Ochir C, Nriagu J. Environmental injustice and childhood lead exposure in peri-urban (ger) areas of Darkhan and Erdenet, Mongolia. BMC Public Health 2019; 19:163. [PMID: 30732589 PMCID: PMC6367793 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-019-6486-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2018] [Accepted: 01/25/2019] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The ger ("tent city") areas in Mongolia are a product of rapid urbanization and transitional economic development combine with lack of institutional, administrative and financial capacity of governments to cope with the pace. These areas have become traps for inequities in social and environmental services and the associated effects on human health. Disparities in childhood lead exposure in such communities are largely unexplored. METHODS We measured the concentrations of lead in blood of children, aged 4-7 years, in Erdenet (Orkhon Province) and Darkhan (Darkhan-Uul Province), the second and third largest cities in Mongolia. A survey instrument was used to gather information on influencing factors on lead exposure and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) was used to assess a spectrum of behavioral problems among the children. RESULTS The mean blood lead level (BLL) of children in the two cities was found to be 3.8 ± 2.6 μg/dL (range: < 1.5-17.2 μg/dL) and 27.8% of the children had BLLs ≥5 μg/dL. Average BLL of children in Erdenet (a mining center) was significantly higher than that for children in Darkhan, and there was statistically significant difference between average BLL of children who live in ger district (4.2 ± 2.8 μg/dL) compared to those of children in housing units within the city (3.2 ± 2.4 μg/dL). In spite of the low values, BLLs was significantly associated with a number of effects on the spectrum of behavioral disorders, specifically with the scores for hyperactivity, conduct disorder and pro-social behavior. CONCLUSIONS This study shows that childhood lead poisoning is common especially in ger communities of the urban areas of Mongolia. It contributes evidence showing that BLL low as 3.8 μg/dL can selectively activate some effects from a spectrum of likely behavioral disorders in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erdenechimeg Erdenebayar
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, 14210 Mongolia
| | | | | | - Nyam-Osor Dugersuren
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health, Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, 14210 Mongolia
| | - Chimedsuren Ochir
- School of Public Health, Mongolian National University of Medical Sciences, Ulaanbaatar, 14210 Mongolia
| | - Jerome Nriagu
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI48109-5406 USA
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Spatiotemporal Evolution and the Driving Forces of the Coupling Coordination Degree between Urbanization and Urban Residents’ Livelihood Level in Mongolia. SUSTAINABILITY 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/su11030781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Rapid expansion in Mongolia has resulted in an inequality in livelihood, growing air pollution, and unevenly distributed social goods, which implies that the urbanization of Mongolia is experiencing a chronic imbalance. Using 21 Aimags and 1 capital in Mongolia as the research object, this paper provides a detailed assessment of the coupling coordination degree (CCD) to analyze the coupling and coordination relationship between urbanization and urban residents’ livelihood level. The results suggest that there is a serious imbalance in the coordination of urban development and urban residents’ livelihood among the Aimags of Mongolia. The high CCD values were mainly concentrated in the central regions of Mongolia, while the low values were clustered in the western and eastern areas. The spatial Durbin model was employed to analyze the driving forces of the CCD, and the results imply that the secondary industry share and the number of registered enterprises play significant roles in promoting coordination between urbanization and urban residents’ livelihood level. Here, we present an overview of how our analysis can provide useful insights for policymakers and decision makers.
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Hanif I. Energy consumption habits and human health nexus in Sub-Saharan Africa. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 25:21701-21712. [PMID: 29790046 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-018-2336-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Accepted: 05/15/2018] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
This study explores the impact of fossil fuels consumption, solid fuels consumption for cooking purposes, economic growth, and carbon emissions on human health, with a key emphasis on the occurrence of tuberculosis and the high mortality rate in Sub-Saharan Africa. For its practical insights, the study develops a system Generalized Method of Moment (GMM) for a panel of 34 middle- and lower-middle-income countries from 1995 to 2015. The study adopts a flexible methodology to tackle endogeneity in the variables. The robust results report that the use of solid fuels (charcoal, peat, wood, wood pellets, crop residues) for cooking purposes and the consumption of fossil fuels (oil, coal, gas) are significantly increasing the occurrence of tuberculosis. In addition, the results highlight that the consumption of both solid fuels and fossil fuels has adverse affects on life expectancy by increasing the mortality rate in Sub-Saharan African countries. Results report that renewable energy sources like sun, wind, and water (all with potential to prevent households from direct exposure to particulate matters and harmful gases) as well as a rise in economic growth serve as helping factors to control the occurrence of tuberculosis and to decrease the mortality rate. Moreover, the use of renewable energy sources is serving to lessen emissions of carbon dioxide, nitrogen dioxides, and particulate matters, which can ultimately decrease the mortality rate and extend the life expectancy in Sub-Saharan Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imran Hanif
- Department of Economics, NUR International University, Model Town, Lahore, Pakistan.
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Examining Spatial Patterns of Urban Distribution and Impacts of Physical Conditions on Urbanization in Coastal and Inland Metropoles. REMOTE SENSING 2018. [DOI: 10.3390/rs10071101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Exploring the Interactive Development between Population Urbanization and Land Urbanization: Evidence from Chongqing, China (1998–2016). SUSTAINABILITY 2018. [DOI: 10.3390/su10061741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Gao Q, Hu G, Liang C, Davies J. Understanding ecosystem functions in grasslands under climate change for sustainable development of the Inner Mongolian Plateau. RANGELAND JOURNAL 2018. [DOI: 10.1071/rj18007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Inclusive Nature-Based Solutions for Urban Regeneration in a Natural Disaster Vulnerability Context: A Case Study of Chongqing, China. SUSTAINABILITY 2017. [DOI: 10.3390/su9071205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Currently, economic development has become a dominant factor in the promotion of urban regeneration in China. This means that decision makers often overlook the impacts on the natural environment when planning urban regeneration within a region. To properly face such challenges and others that may arise, a strategy relying on Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) can enhance the physical and ecological environment of a city, while ensuring greater resilience to natural disasters, and the use of fewer resources. NBS also improves the social well-being of citizens by creating more inclusive and engaged communities. This paper reviews the literature concerning urban regeneration and natural disaster vulnerability to discuss the complex mechanisms of the interactions between natural disaster and urban regeneration. Then, the evaluation model of natural disaster vulnerability in urban area is constructed, and data envelopment analysis (DEA) model is used to assess the vulnerability of natural disasters in various regions of Chongqing. Finally, under the background of NBS, this paper puts forward the way of urban regeneration, and provides an important direction for urban regeneration to realize the sustainable development of cities.
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Fan P, Ouyang Z, Basnou C, Pino J, Park H, Chen J. Nature-based solutions for urban landscapes under post-industrialization and globalization: Barcelona versus Shanghai. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2017; 156:272-283. [PMID: 28371756 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2017.03.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2016] [Revised: 03/25/2017] [Accepted: 03/27/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Using Barcelona and Shanghai as case studies, we examined the nature-based solutions (NBS) in urban settings-specifically within cities experiencing post-industrialization and globalization. Our specific research questions are: (1) What are the spatiotemporal changes in urban built-up land and green space in Barcelona and Shanghai? (2) What are the relationships between economic development, exemplified by post-industrialization, globalization, and urban green space? Urban land use and green space change were evaluated using data derived from a variety of sources, including satellite images, landscape matrix indicators, and a land conversion matrix. The relationships between economic development, globalization, and environmental quality were analyzed through partial least squares structural equation modeling based on secondary statistical data. Both Barcelona and Shanghai have undergone rapid urbanization, with urban expansion in Barcelona beginning in the 1960s-1970s and in Shanghai in the last decade. While Barcelona's urban green space and green space per capita began declining between the 1950s and 1990s, they increased slightly over the past two decades. Shanghai, however, has consistently and significantly improved urban green space and green space per capita over the past six decades, especially since the economic reform in 1978. Economic development has a direct and significant influence on urban green space for both cities and post-industrialization had served as the main driving force for urban landscape change in Barcelona and Shanghai. Based on secondary statistical and qualitative data from on-site observations and interviews with local experts, we highlighted the institution's role in NBS planning. Furthermore, aspiration to become a global or globalizing city motivated both cities to use NBS planning as a place-making tool to attract global investment, which is reflected in various governing policies and regulations. The cities' effort to achieve a higher status in the global city hierarchy may have contributed to the increase in total green space and urban green per capita. In addition, various institutional shifts, such as land property rights in a market economy vs. a transitional economy, may also have contributed to the differences in efficiency when expanding urban green space in Barcelona and Shanghai.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peilei Fan
- School of Planning, Design, and Construction and Center for Global Change and Earth Observations, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA.
| | - Zutao Ouyang
- Center for Global Change and Earth Observations, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA.
| | | | - Joan Pino
- CREAF and Univ Autònoma Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain.
| | - Hogeun Park
- School of Planning, Design, and Construction and Center for Global Change and Earth Observations, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA.
| | - Jiquan Chen
- Department of Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences and Center for Global Change and Earth Observations, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA.
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Li P, Wang Y, Dong Q. The analysis and application of a new hybrid pollutants forecasting model using modified Kolmogorov-Zurbenko filter. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2017; 583:228-240. [PMID: 28108092 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2017.01.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2016] [Revised: 12/21/2016] [Accepted: 01/10/2017] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Cities in China suffer from severe smog and haze, and a forecasting system with high accuracy is of great importance to foresee the concentrations of the airborne particles. Compared with chemical transport models, the growing artificial intelligence models can simulate nonlinearities and interactive relationships and getting more accurate results. In this paper, the Kolmogorov-Zurbenko (KZ) filter is modified and firstly applied to construct the model using an artificial intelligence method. The concentration of inhalable particles and fine particulate matter in Dalian are used to analyze the filtered components and test the forecasting accuracy. Besides, an extended experiment is made by implementing a comprehensive comparison and a stability test using data in three other cities in China. Results testify the excellent performance of the developed hybrid models, which can be utilized to better understand the temporal features of pollutants and to perform a better air pollution control and management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peizhi Li
- School of Statistics, Dongbei University of Finance and Economics, No. 217, Jianshan Road, Shahekou District, Dalian, Liaoning Province 116025, China
| | - Yong Wang
- School of Statistics, Dongbei University of Finance and Economics, No. 217, Jianshan Road, Shahekou District, Dalian, Liaoning Province 116025, China; Postdoctoral Research Station of Dongbei University of Finance and Economics, China.
| | - Qingli Dong
- School of Statistics, Dongbei University of Finance and Economics, No. 217, Jianshan Road, Shahekou District, Dalian, Liaoning Province 116025, China
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Urban Built-up Areas in Transitional Economies of Southeast Asia: Spatial Extent and Dynamics. REMOTE SENSING 2016. [DOI: 10.3390/rs8100819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Chen J, Zhu L, Fan P, Tian L, Lafortezza R. Do green spaces affect the spatiotemporal changes of PM 2.5 in Nanjing? ECOLOGICAL PROCESSES 2016; 5:7. [PMID: 27570725 PMCID: PMC4986350 DOI: 10.1186/s13717-016-0052-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2016] [Accepted: 05/06/2016] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Among the most dangerous pollutants is PM2.5, which can directly pass through human lungs and move into the blood system. The use of nature-based solutions, such as increased vegetation cover in an urban landscape, is one of the possible solutions for reducing PM2.5 concentration. Our study objective was to understand the importance of green spaces in pollution reduction. METHODS Daily PM2.5 concentrations were manually collected at nine monitoring stations in Nanjing over a 534-day period from the air quality report of the China National Environmental Monitoring Center (CNEMC) to quantify the spatiotemporal change of PM2.5 concentration and its empirical relationship with vegetation and landscape structure in Nanjing. RESULTS The daily average, minimum, and maximum PM2.5 concentrations from the nine stations were 74.0, 14.2, and 332.0 μg m-3, respectively. Out of the 534 days, the days recorded as "excellent" and "good" conditions were found mostly in the spring (30.7 %), autumn (25.6 %), and summer (24.5 %), with only 19.2 % of the days in the winter. High PM2.5 concentrations exceeding the safe standards of the CNEMC were recorded predominately during the winter (39.3-100.0 %). Our hypothesis that green vegetation had the potential to reduce PM2.5 concentration was accepted at specific seasons and scales. The PM2.5 concentration appeared very highly correlated (R2 > 0.85) with green cover in spring at 1-2 km scales, highly correlated (R2 > 0.6) in autumn and winter at 4 km scale, and moderately correlated in summer (R2 > 0.4) at 2-, 5-, and 6-km scales. However, a non-significant correlation between green cover and PM2.5 concentration was found when its level was >75 μg m-3. Across the Nanjing urban landscape, the east and southwest parts had high pollution levels. CONCLUSIONS Although the empirical models seemed significant for spring only, one should not devalue the importance of green vegetation in other seasons because the regulations are often complicated by vegetation, meteorological conditions, and human activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiquan Chen
- International Center for Ecology, Meteorology, and Environment, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, Nanjing, 210044 China
- CGCEO/Geography, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824 USA
- Department of Geography, Michigan State University, 1405 S. Harrison Road, East Lansing, MI 48823 USA
| | - Liuyan Zhu
- International Center for Ecology, Meteorology, and Environment, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, Nanjing, 210044 China
| | - Peilei Fan
- CGCEO/Geography, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824 USA
- School of Planning, Design, and Construction, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824 USA
| | - Li Tian
- Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101 China
| | - Raffaele Lafortezza
- CGCEO/Geography, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824 USA
- Department of Scienze Agro-Ambientali e Territoriali, University of Bari, Bari, 70126 Italy
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