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Sathiaseelan JJ, Afifah NMR, Abdullah AAA, Ramakrishna S, Vigneswari S, Bhubalan K. Exploring the advantages and limitations of degradation for various biodegradable micro-bioplastic in aquatic environments. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 366:121777. [PMID: 39018857 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.121777] [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: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
Biodegradable plastics are being the substitute for synthetic plastics and widely been used in order to combat plastic pollution. Yet not all biodegradable plastics are degradable especially when it does not meet its favourable conditions, and also when it comes to aquatic environments. Therefore, this review is intended to highlight the types of various biodegradable plastic synthesized and commercialised and identify the limitations and advantages of these micro-bioplastics or residual bioplastic upon degradation in various aquatic environments. This review paper highlights on biodegradable plastic, degradation of biodegradable plastic in aquatic environments, application of biodegradable plastic, polylactic acid (PLA), Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA), Polysaccharide derivatives, Poly (amino acid), polycaprolactone (PCL), polybutylene succinate (PBS), polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBA/T), limitations and advantages of biodegradable plastic degradation in aquatic environment. There is no limit on the period for literature search as this field is continuously being studied and there is no wide range of studies. Biodegradable plastic that is commercially available has its own advantages and limitations respectively upon degradation in both freshwater and marine environments. There is a growing demand for bioplastic as an alternative to synthetic plastic which causes plastic waste pollution. Thus, it is crucial to understand the biodegradation of biodegradable plastic in depth especially in aquatic environments. Moreover, there are also very few studies investigating the degradation and migration of micro-bioplastics in aquatic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nurul Mohd Ridzuan Afifah
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Amirul Al-Ashraf Abdullah
- School of Biological Science, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia; Centre for Chemical Biology, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Bayan Lepas, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Seeram Ramakrishna
- Center for Nanotechnology and Sustainability, National University of Singapore, 119260, Singapore
| | - Sevakumaran Vigneswari
- Institute of Climate Adaptation and Marine Biotechnology, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Kesaven Bhubalan
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia; Institute of Climate Adaptation and Marine Biotechnology, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia.
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2
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Wootton N, Gillanders BM, Leterme S, Noble W, Wilson SP, Blewitt M, Swearer SE, Reis-Santos P. Research priorities on microplastics in marine and coastal environments: An Australian perspective to advance global action. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 205:116660. [PMID: 38981192 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116660] [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: 05/14/2024] [Revised: 06/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
Plastic and microplastic contamination in the environment receive global attention, with calls for the synthesis of scientific evidence to inform actionable strategies and policy-relevant practices. We provide a systematic literature review on microplastic research across Australian coastal environments in water, sediment and biota, highlighting the main research foci and gaps in information. At the same time, we conducted surveys and workshops to gather expert opinions from multiple stakeholders (including researchers, industry, and government) to identify critical research directions to meet stakeholder needs across sectors. Through this consultation and engagement process, we created a platform for knowledge exchange and identified three major priorities to support evidence-based policy, regulation, and management. These include a need for (i) method harmonisation in microplastic assessments, (ii) information on the presence, sources, and pathways of plastic pollution, and (iii) advancing our understanding of the risk of harm to individuals and ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Wootton
- School of Biological Sciences and the Environment Institute, University of Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia.
| | - Bronwyn M Gillanders
- School of Biological Sciences and the Environment Institute, University of Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia
| | - Sophie Leterme
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University, GPO Box 2100, Adelaide, South Australia 5001, Australia; Institute for Nanoscale Science and Technology, Flinders University, GPO Box 2100, Adelaide, South Australia 5001, Australia
| | - Warwick Noble
- Water Quality, Environment Protection Authority, GPO Box 2607, Adelaide, South Australia 5001, Australia
| | - Scott P Wilson
- AUSMAP, Total Environment Centre, PO Box K61, Haymarket, New South Wales 1240, Australia; School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Michelle Blewitt
- AUSMAP, Total Environment Centre, PO Box K61, Haymarket, New South Wales 1240, Australia
| | - Stephen E Swearer
- Oceans Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Patrick Reis-Santos
- School of Biological Sciences and the Environment Institute, University of Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia
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3
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Barrientos M, Vásquez Lavín F, Ponce Oliva RD, Nayga RM, Gelcich S. Microplastics in seafood: Consumer preferences and valuation for mitigation technologies. Food Res Int 2024; 187:114342. [PMID: 38763635 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2024.114342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics, an emerging pollutant, have garnered widespread attention due to potential repercussions on human health and the environment. Given the critical role of seafood in food security, growing concerns about microplastics might be detrimental to meeting future global food demand. This study employed a discrete choice experiment to investigate Chilean consumers' preferences for technology aimed at mitigating microplastic levels in mussels. Using a between-subjects design with information treatments, we examined the impact of informing consumers about potential human health and environmental effects linked to microplastics pollution on their valuation for the technology. We found that the information treatments increased consumers' willingness to pay for mussels. Specifically, consumers were willing to pay a premium of around US$ 4 for 250 g of mussel meat with a 90 % depuration efficiency certification. The provision of health impact information increased the price premium by 56 %, while the provision of environmental information increased it by 21 %. Furthermore, combined health and environmental information significantly increased the probability of non-purchasing behavior by 22.8 % and the risk perception of microplastics for human health by 5.8 %. These results emphasized the critical role of information in shaping consumer preferences and provided evidence for validating investment in research and development related to microplastic pollution mitigation measures.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Felipe Vásquez Lavín
- School of Economics and Business, Universidad del Desarrollo, Concepción, Chile; Center of Applied Ecology and Sustainability (CAPES), Santiago, Chile; Coastal Socio-Ecological Millennium Institute (SECOS), Santiago, Chile
| | - Roberto D Ponce Oliva
- School of Economics and Business, Universidad del Desarrollo, Concepción, Chile; Center of Applied Ecology and Sustainability (CAPES), Santiago, Chile; Coastal Socio-Ecological Millennium Institute (SECOS), Santiago, Chile
| | - Rodolfo M Nayga
- Department of Agricultural Economics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA; Adjunct Professor, Korea University, Korea
| | - Stefan Gelcich
- Center of Applied Ecology and Sustainability (CAPES), Santiago, Chile; Coastal Socio-Ecological Millennium Institute (SECOS), Santiago, Chile; Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
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4
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Pan J, Liu P. Exploring waste separation using an extended theory of planned behavior: a comparison between adults and children. Front Psychol 2024; 15:1337969. [PMID: 38708018 PMCID: PMC11067526 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1337969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
This study applied an extended model of the theory of planed behavior (TPB) to compare the differences in waste separation behavior between children (ages 9 to 12, N = 339) and adults (ages 18 to 66, N = 379). We examined the relations among waste separation attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control, knowledge, awareness, intention, and behavior. The results showed waste separation knowledge of children was less than that of adults. Structure equation model results also revealed robust differences between children and adults. For adults, TPB variables (attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control) and knowledge are significantly positively related to their waste separation intention. Meanwhile, perceived behavioral control and intention are positively related to adults' behavior. However, for children, only perceived behavioral control and awareness are positively related to intention, and perceived behavioral control is positively related to behavior. Moreover, the predictive power of the extended TPB model on children's waste separation intention and behavior are lower than those of adults. The different results may be due to children's immature cognitive abilities. This study enhanced the understanding of the different waste separation behavior determinants between children and adults. The findings are useful for developing tailored policies and promoting children's waste separation behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Pan
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institution of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Department of Psychology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Pingping Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mental Health, Institution of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Department of Psychology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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5
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Sbarberi R, Magni S, Boggero A, Della Torre C, Nigro L, Binelli A. Comparison of plastic pollution between waters and sediments in four Po River tributaries (Northern Italy). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:168884. [PMID: 38042177 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/04/2023]
Abstract
The monitoring of plastic contamination in freshwaters is still pioneering in comparison with marine environments, and few studies analyzed the distribution of these pollutants in both aqueous and bottom compartments of continental waters. Therefore, the aim of this study was the comparison of plastic pollution in both waters and sediments of four Po River tributaries (Ticino, Adda, Oglio and Mincio Rivers), which outflow from the main Italian sub-alpine Lakes, in order to establish the strengths and weaknesses of both matrices. The main results pointed out a heterogeneous plastic contamination, with the lowest values in Ticino (0.9 ± 0.5 plastics/m3 in waters and 6.8 ± 4.5 plastics/kg dry weight - d.w. - in sediments) and the highest in Mincio (62.9 ± 53.9 plastics/m3 in waters and 26.5 ± 13.3 plastics/kg d.w in sediments), highlighting a plastic amount in sediments four times higher than waters. Plastic pollution, mainly due to microplastics, was associated principally to a domestic input in both waters and sediments of Ticino and Adda Rivers, as well as in sediments of Oglio, while an industrial pollution was found in waters and sediments of Mincio and Oglio waters. Our data clearly highlighted as the monitoring of both matrices provide complementary information for a holistic risk assessment of these emerging contaminants in freshwaters: the aqueous matrix provides an instantaneous picture of contamination, while sediments the history of pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Sbarberi
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, Via Celoria 26, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Magni
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, Via Celoria 26, 20133 Milan, Italy.
| | - Angela Boggero
- National Research Council - Water Research Institute (CNR-IRSA), Corso Tonolli 50, 28922 Verbania Pallanza, Italy
| | - Camilla Della Torre
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, Via Celoria 26, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Lara Nigro
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, Via Celoria 26, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Binelli
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, Via Celoria 26, 20133 Milan, Italy
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6
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Li Y, Zhang C, Tian Z, Cai X, Guan B. Identification and quantification of nanoplastics (20-1000 nm) in a drinking water treatment plant using AFM-IR and Pyr-GC/MS. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 463:132933. [PMID: 37951177 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/13/2023]
Abstract
Nanoplastics, owing to their small particle size, pose a significant threat to creatures, deserving heightened attention. Numerous studies have investigated microplastics pollution and their removal efficiency in drinking water treatment plants, none of which have involved nanoplastics due to lacking a suitable analytical method. This study introduced a feasible method of combing AFM-IR and Pyr-GC/MS to identify and quantify nanoplastics (20-1000 nm) for a preliminary understanding of their fate during drinking water treatment processes. Resolving of chemical functional groups and pyrolysis products from AFM-IR and Pyr-GC/MS data demonstrated the presence of PE and PVC nanoplastics in this drinking water treatment plant. The initial influent abundances of PE and PVC nanoplastics were 0.86 μg/L and 137.31 μg/L, with subsequent increase to 4.49 μg/L and 208.64 μg/L in ozonation contact tank unit. Then a gradual decreasing was observed along water process, achieving 98.4% removal of PE nanoplastics and 44.0% removal of PVC nanoplastics, respectively. Although this drinking water treatment plant has exhibited a certain level of nanoplastics removal efficiency, particular attention should be directed to the oxidation unit, which appears to be a significant source of nanoplastics. This study will lay a foundation for revealing nanoplastics pollution in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Li
- College of Environmental and Resource Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China; Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Chuanming Zhang
- College of Environmental and Resource Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Zhenyu Tian
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Xueyi Cai
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Baohong Guan
- College of Environmental and Resource Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China.
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7
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Miguel I, Santos A, Venâncio C, Oliveira M. Knowledge, concerns and attitudes towards plastic pollution: An empirical study of public perceptions in Portugal. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 906:167784. [PMID: 37844635 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167784] [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: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
While the harmful effects of different types of plastic particles have been increasingly reported, studies on public perceptions and behaviors related to plastic pollution may be considered limited. The present study aims to assess the general public's knowledge, awareness, and concern about plastic pollution in different environmental compartments (air, water, and soil) and assess recycling behaviors. For this, a large representative sample was considered (over 1000 participants), composed of members of different genders, levels of education, and age groups. Overall, the results showed that participants were aware of plastic pollution in many environmental compartments, although they reported being more concerned about the marine and land environments than the air. Participants' levels of concern about the plastic problem were influenced by age and level of education, with older participants and those with lower educational levels attributing less importance to recycling as a means of tackling the plastic problem. Women are more likely to adopt plastic alternatives and engage in recycling practices than men. Data allowed the identification of priority sociodemographic characteristics of communities that should be targeted in education and awareness-raising activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Miguel
- Portucalense Institute of Psychology (I2P) & Department of Psychology and Education, Portucalense University, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Ana Santos
- Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Cátia Venâncio
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Miguel Oliveira
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
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Alonso-González M, Castro-Criado D, Felix M, Romero A. Evaluation of rice bran varieties and heat treatment for the development of protein/starch-based bioplastics via injection molding. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 253:127503. [PMID: 37863137 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.127503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/22/2023]
Abstract
Improper management of disposable plastics and resource depletion pose significant environmental challenges, prompting interest in alternatives like bioplastics. These novel materials can be produced from by-products of the agro-food industry, offering solutions and valorizing waste. Rice bran, a substantial by-product of rice processing, is abundant and cost-effective, rich in proteins and starch. These components can be transformed into industrial-grade bioplastics through proper processing. This study evaluates the impact of rice bran varieties and thermal treatment during processing on bioplastic development for injection molding. After defatting and sieving, rice bran was mixed with glycerol and subjected to injection molding at 150 °C. Results indicate that parboiled systems, especially from japonica rice bran, showed high viscoelastic moduli and tensile strength. These systems exhibited a denser structure, resulting in lower water absorption. This research sheds light on the connection between rice bran variety, heat treatment, and the final properties of derived bioplastics. This research contributes significantly to understand the relationship between the variety of rice bran and the impact of heat treatment on the ultimate properties of the derived bioplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Alonso-González
- Departamento de Ingeniería Química, Facultad de Química, Universidad de Sevilla, 41012 Sevilla, Spain; Departamento de Ingeniería Química, Escuela Politécnica Superior, Universidad de Sevilla, 41011 Sevilla, Spain.
| | - Daniel Castro-Criado
- Departamento de Ingeniería Química, Escuela Politécnica Superior, Universidad de Sevilla, 41011 Sevilla, Spain
| | - Manuel Felix
- Departamento de Ingeniería Química, Escuela Politécnica Superior, Universidad de Sevilla, 41011 Sevilla, Spain
| | - Alberto Romero
- Departamento de Ingeniería Química, Facultad de Química, Universidad de Sevilla, 41012 Sevilla, Spain
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Rinot Levavi L, Friedmann E, Kalagy T, Cohen C. Applying the SOR framework to mitigate single-use plastic tableware consumption and why does it work? Solving the dissonance with an extended SOR framework. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 348:119344. [PMID: 37879177 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.119344] [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: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
Although plastic pollution is a critical environmental issue worldwide and household consumption of single-use plastic tableware (SUPT) is a growing concern, research on the determinants of SUPT use is deficient. In light of the prevalent and frequent use of SUPT, the far-reaching nature of its consumption, and its distinctive health concerns, compounded by the lack of dedicated regulations, this article sheds light on the SUPT problem and strives to minimize SUPT consumption. The Stimulus-Organism-Response (SOR) framework has been extensively applied in various contexts but not yet in the context of household SUPT consumption. In this study, we aim to fill the lacuna by examining the motives behind SUPT consumption using two online questionnaires in two Western countries that are known for relatively high domestic SUPT consumption: Israel (Study 1, n = 408) and the USA (Study 2, n = 295). Our findings indicate that personal attitudes toward the plastic problem ("organism" in the SOR taxonomy) mediate the relation between plastic health problem awareness ("stimulus") and SUPT consumption ("response"). Moreover, we identified perceived behavioral control (PBC) as a significant predictor of behavior when behavior is not under volitional control (i.e., an action against the individual's self-interest), as in the SUPT context. Therefore, we propose expanding the SOR framework with the organism comprising attitude and PBC, thus supporting the dissonance theory (double mediation). We suggest that modifying personal attitudes toward the plastic problem by enhancing plastic health problem awareness may strengthen PBC and reduce SUPT consumption. Overall, this study deepens our understanding of SUPT consumption by highlighting the importance of attitude and PBC as mechanisms that link awareness to sustainable behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilach Rinot Levavi
- Department of Public Policy and Management, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, 84105, Israel.
| | - Enav Friedmann
- Department of Business Administration, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, 84105, Israel.
| | - Tehila Kalagy
- Department of Public Policy and Management, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, 84105, Israel.
| | - Chen Cohen
- Department of Public Policy and Management, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, 84105, Israel; Department of Business Administration, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, 84105, Israel.
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10
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Zolghadr-Asli B, McIntyre N, Djordjevic S, Farmani R, Pagliero L, Martínez-Alvarez V, Maestre-Valero JF. A review of limitations and potentials of desalination as a sustainable source of water. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:118161-118174. [PMID: 37940818 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-30662-x] [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: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
For centuries, desalination, in one way or another, has helped alleviate water scarcity. Over time, desalination has gone through an evolutionary process influenced largely by available contemporary technology. This improvement, for the most part, was reflected in the energy efficiency and, in turn, in terms of the cost-effectiveness of this practice. Thanks to such advancements, by the 1960s, the desalination industry experienced notable exponential growth, becoming a formidable option to supplement conventional water resources with a reliable non-conventional resource. That said, often, there are pressing associated issues, most notably environmental, socioeconomic, health, and relatively recently, agronomic concerns. Such reservations raise the question of whether desalination is indeed a sustainable solution to current water supply problems. This is exceptionally important to understand in light of the looming water and food crises. This paper, thus, tends to review these potential issues from the sustainability perspective. It is concluded that the aforementioned issues are indeed major concerns, but they can be mitigated by actions that consider the local context. These may be either prophylactic, proactive measures that require careful planning to tailor the situation to best fit a given region or reactive measures such as incorporating pre- (e.g., removing particles, debris, microorganisms, suspended solids, and silt from the intake water prior to the desalination process) and post-treatments (e.g., reintroducing calcium and magnesium ions to water to enhance its quality for irrigation purposes) to target specific shortcomings of desalination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babak Zolghadr-Asli
- Sustainable Minerals Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.
- Centre for Water Systems, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK.
| | - Neil McIntyre
- Sustainable Minerals Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | | | | | - Liliana Pagliero
- Sustainable Minerals Institute, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | | | - José F Maestre-Valero
- Agricultural Engineering Center, Technical University of Cartagena, Cartagena, Spain
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11
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Pop V, Ozunu A, Petrescu DC, Stan AD, Petrescu-Mag RM. The influence of media narratives on microplastics risk perception. PeerJ 2023; 11:e16338. [PMID: 37933256 PMCID: PMC10625762 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.16338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Media are the interface between scientists and citizens, communicating and interpreting the risk message and powerfully influencing individual awareness, public debate, and, hence, people's behavior. Pollution by microplastics (MPs), a threat to public health and terrestrial and marine ecosystems, has received research, media, and public interest. However, how MPs environmental and health risks are reflected in the media and assessed in the scientific literature does not find consensus over time. To date, few studies have examined social aspects around MPs, such as, for example, factors that influence awareness and perception of the risk of MPs. In this context, the objective of this study is twofold. First, we determined if media narratives influenced Romanians' awareness of MPs, and second, we investigated if media narratives influenced Romanians' perceptions of MPs health and environmental risk. Method An online survey was conducted among 417 Romanian respondents. The questionnaire had 21 questions. The questions were related to the awareness of MPs, the perceived health risk of MPs, the perceived environmental risk of MPs, the intensity of exposure to media narratives about the MPs impact on health and the environment, and the demographics. Binary logistic regression was run to identify what media narratives influenced MPs awareness and risk perception. In recent times, mass media has shaped perceptions of health and environmental risks, driven by events like COVID-19 and global climate change. Our study relies on media narratives as its foundation. Results Binary logistic regression showed that the awareness of MPs is influenced by the media narrative "Microplastics in the sea threaten fish stocks" (p = 0.001). When the frequency of exposure to this media narrative increases, the probability of reporting awareness of MPs increases. Likewise, an increase in age represents a higher probability of reporting awareness of MPs. The perceived health risk of MPs, with the highest weighting, was related to the dependent variable "Leakage of harmful chemicals from MPs affects the soil" (p = 0.014). Conclusions Media narratives about plastic and MPs pollution have increased over time, influencing the perception of this risk. The study argues the need for accurate and balanced media reporting on MPs to prevent the spread of misinformation and ensure that people clearly understand MPs risks. Furthermore, a closer examination of people's perceptions supports the design of appropriate interventions to reduce plastic consumption, thereby decreasing the risks of MPs pollution with benefits for human health and the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Pop
- Research Institute for Sustainability and Disaster Management Based on High-Performance Computing, Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Alexandru Ozunu
- Research Institute for Sustainability and Disaster Management Based on High-Performance Computing, Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Disaster Management Training and Education Centre for Africa (DiMTEC), University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Dacinia Crina Petrescu
- Department of Hospitality Services, Faculty of Business, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Cluj, Romania
- Department of Economy and Rural Development, Faculty of Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liège, Gembloux, Belgium
| | - Adrian-Daniel Stan
- Department of International Studies and Contemporary History, Faculty of History and Philosophy, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Cluj, Romania
| | - Ruxandra Malina Petrescu-Mag
- Research Institute for Sustainability and Disaster Management Based on High-Performance Computing, Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Department of Economy and Rural Development, Faculty of Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liège, Gembloux, Belgium
- Doctoral School “International Relations and Security Studies”, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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12
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Dagiliūtė R, Žaltauskaitė J, Sujetovienė G. Self-reported behaviours and measures related to plastic waste reduction: European citizens' perspective. WASTE MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOLID WASTES AND PUBLIC CLEANSING ASSOCIATION, ISWA 2023; 41:1460-1468. [PMID: 36922702 DOI: 10.1177/0734242x231159841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Consumer attitudes and behaviour regarding consumption of plastic goods and proper waste management are of importance for reducing plastic and microplastic (MP) pollution. Therefore, based on Eurobarometer survey, this study aims to analyse European attitudes and behaviour related to plastic pollution reduction. Europeans acknowledge marine and river pollution as important environmental problems and are worried about plastics and MP environmental impacts. However, this does not translate into related plastic reduction behaviours. Regression analysis show that analysed behaviours are likely to be undertaken by women, younger, with higher incomes respondents and by those who express higher worry about plastic and MP environmental impacts. Industry and big companies are seen as having the main role in reducing plastic waste and littering, chargers for single use plastics being less important. Respondents also stress the role of education. Hence, focus on concrete steps to reduce plastic waste, highlighting the interaction of individual actions and environment should be given.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Dagiliūtė
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Vytautas Magnus University, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Jūratė Žaltauskaitė
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Vytautas Magnus University, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Gintarė Sujetovienė
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Vytautas Magnus University, Kaunas, Lithuania
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13
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Garcia-Vazquez E, Garcia-Ael C, Ardura A, Rodriguez N, Dopico E. Towards a plastic-less planet. Gender and individual responsibility predict the effect of imagery nudges about marine (micro)plastic pollution on R-behavior intentions. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 193:115157. [PMID: 37321005 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Emerging microplastics (MP) pollution is one of the biggest threats for the oceans today. Consumers could reduce MP pollution adopting R-behaviors such as reducing consumption of plastic, refusing products with MP, replacing them for green products, and recycling. Here we tested the efficiency of online nudges (images and short messages) for promoting MP-conscious behavior in Spain (n = 671). The perceived level of environmental responsibility and the willingness to adopt R-behaviors were measured. Messages about seafood with MP and plastic-polluted marine environment were more efficient than images of animals killed by plastics. Feeling responsible for MP pollution predicted R-behavior intention. Women would adopt more R-behaviors than men, while men were more sensitive than females to the proposed nudges. Raising the sense of environmental responsibility would be priority in education campaigns. For different cultural sensitivities to animal suffering, evoking environmental health instead of threats to wildlife would be generally recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Garcia-Vazquez
- Department of Functional Biology, University of Oviedo, 33071 Oviedo, Spain; Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED), Faculty of Psychology, C/Juan del Rosal 14, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
| | - Cristina Garcia-Ael
- Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED), Faculty of Psychology, C/Juan del Rosal 14, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | - Alba Ardura
- Department of Functional Biology, University of Oviedo, 33071 Oviedo, Spain
| | - Noemi Rodriguez
- Department of Education Sciences, University of Oviedo, 33071 Oviedo, Spain
| | - Eduardo Dopico
- Department of Education Sciences, University of Oviedo, 33071 Oviedo, Spain
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14
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Ahmed ASS, Billah MM, Ali MM, Bhuiyan MKA, Guo L, Mohinuzzaman M, Hossain MB, Rahman MS, Islam MS, Yan M, Cai W. Microplastics in aquatic environments: A comprehensive review of toxicity, removal, and remediation strategies. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 876:162414. [PMID: 36868275 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The occurrence of microplastics (MPs) in aquatic environments has been a global concern because they are toxic and persistent and may serve as a vector for many legacies and emerging pollutants. MPs are discharged to aquatic environments from different sources, especially from wastewater plants (WWPs), causing severe impacts on aquatic organisms. This study mainly aims to review the Toxicity of MPs along with plastic additives in aquatic organisms at various trophic compartments and available remediation methods/strategies for MPs in aquatic environments. Occurrences of oxidative stress, neurotoxicity, and alterations in enzyme activity, growth, and feeding performance were identical in fish due to MPs toxicity. On the other hand, growth inhibition and ROS formation were observed in most of the microalgae species. In zooplankton, potential impacts were acceleration of premature molting, growth retardation, mortality increase, feeding behaviour, lipid accumulation, and decreased reproduction activity. MPs togather with additive contaminants could also exert some toxicological impacts on polychaete, including neurotoxicity, destabilization of the cytoskeleton, reduced feeding rate, growth, survivability and burrowing ability, weight loss, and high rate of mRNA transcription. Among different chemical and biological treatments for MPs, high removal rates have been reported for coagulation and filtration (>86.5 %), electrocoagulation (>90 %), advanced oxidation process (AOPs) (30 % to 95 %), primary sedimentation/Grit chamber (16.5 % to 58.84 %), adsorption removal technique (>95 %), magnetic filtration (78 % to 93 %), oil film extraction (>95 %), and density separation (95 % to 100 %). However, desirable extraction methods are required for large-scale research in MPs removal from aquatic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- A S Shafiuddin Ahmed
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong; Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
| | - Md Masum Billah
- Inter-Departmental Research Centre for Environmental Science-CIRSA, University of Bologna, Ravenna Campus, Italy
| | - Mir Mohammad Ali
- Department of Aquaculture, Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md Khurshid Alam Bhuiyan
- Department of Physical Chemistry, Faculty of Marine and Environmental Sciences, University of Cadiz, Cadiz, Spain
| | - Laodong Guo
- School of Freshwater Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, USA
| | - Mohammad Mohinuzzaman
- Department of Environmental Science and Disaster Management, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Sonapur, Bangladesh
| | - M Belal Hossain
- Department of Fisheries and Marine Science, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Sonapur, Bangladesh; School of Engineering and Built Environment, Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
| | - M Safiur Rahman
- Water Quality Research Laboratory, Chemistry Division, Atomic Energy Center, Atomic Energy Commission, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md Saiful Islam
- Department of Soil Science, Patuakhali Science and Technology University, Patuakhali, Bangladesh
| | - Meng Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
| | - Wenlong Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong; Department of Infectious Diseases and Public Health, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
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Bettencourt S, Freitas DN, Lucas C, Costa S, Caeiro S. Marine litter education: From awareness to action. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 192:114963. [PMID: 37201345 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Marine litter is a global problem. Education has been acclaimed as a potential tool to tackle this issue, yet, integrative, student-centered, and over weeks studies to raise awareness on the theme that compares pre- with post-intervention results are limited in the literature. Furthermore, almost no studies rely on the basis of previous experience on the theme and local reality. This paper presents the design, implementation, and evaluation of an educational intervention to raise awareness and educate students (1st cycle to high-school) about marine litter. Different learning skills were fostered through theoretical, laboratorial, and hands-on activities and students participated in a beach clean-up to summarize the classroom's learnings in loco. Pre- and post-questionnaire results indicate that students' knowledge, perceptions, and behavioral intentions changed. Identification of marine litter estimated degradation times and observation of microplastics in local sand samples were activities highly appreciated by youngsters. This intervention positively impacted schoolchildren's literacy, contributing to advancing education in marine litter and can be further adapted to other educational areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Bettencourt
- Center for Global Studies, Department of Science and Technology, Portuguese Distance Learning University, Lisbon, Portugal; CENSE Center for Environmental and Sustainability Research, CHANGE-Global Change and Sustainability Institute, School of Science and Technology, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Lisbon, Portugal; MARE-Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre/ARNET-Aquatic Research Network, ARDITI Regional Agency for the Development of Research, Technology and Innovation, Madeira, Portugal; OOM-Oceanic Observatory of Madeira, ARDITI-Regional Agency for the Development of Research, Technology and Innovation, Madeira, Portugal.
| | - Diogo Nuno Freitas
- ITI/LARSyS/M-ITI-Madeira Interactive Technologies Institute, Madeira, Portugal; NOVA LINCS NOVA Laboratory for Computer Science and Informatics, Lisbon, Portugal; Faculty of Exact Sciences and Engineering, University of Madeira, Madeira, Portugal
| | - Carlos Lucas
- OOM-Oceanic Observatory of Madeira, ARDITI-Regional Agency for the Development of Research, Technology and Innovation, Madeira, Portugal
| | - Sónia Costa
- MARE-Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre/ARNET-Aquatic Research Network, ARDITI Regional Agency for the Development of Research, Technology and Innovation, Madeira, Portugal; OOM-Oceanic Observatory of Madeira, ARDITI-Regional Agency for the Development of Research, Technology and Innovation, Madeira, Portugal
| | - Sandra Caeiro
- Center for Global Studies, Department of Science and Technology, Portuguese Distance Learning University, Lisbon, Portugal; CENSE Center for Environmental and Sustainability Research, CHANGE-Global Change and Sustainability Institute, School of Science and Technology, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Lisbon, Portugal
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Lu L, Li W, Cheng Y, Liu M. Chemical recycling technologies for PVC waste and PVC-containing plastic waste: A review. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2023; 166:245-258. [PMID: 37196390 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2023.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Revised: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
The extensive production and consumption of plastics has resulted in significant plastic waste and plastic pollution. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) waste has a high chlorine content and is the primary source of chlorine in the plastic waste stream, potentially generating hazardous chlorinated organic pollutants if treated improperly. This review discusses PVC synthesis, applications, and the current types and challenges of PVC waste management. Dechlorination is vital for the chemical recycling of PVC waste and PVC-containing plastic waste. We review dehydrochlorination and dechlorination mechanisms of PVC using thermal degradation and wet treatments, and summarize the recent progress in chemical treatments and dechlorination principles. This review provides readers with a comprehensive analysis of chemical recycling technologies for PVC waste and PVC-containing plastic waste to transform them into chemicals, fuels, feedstock, and value-added polymers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihui Lu
- School of Environmental Science and Technology, Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (Ministry of Education), Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, Liaoning, China
| | - Weiming Li
- School of Environmental Science and Technology, Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (Ministry of Education), Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, Liaoning, China
| | - Ying Cheng
- School of Environmental Science and Technology, Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (Ministry of Education), Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, Liaoning, China
| | - Meng Liu
- School of Environmental Science and Technology, Key Laboratory of Industrial Ecology and Environmental Engineering (Ministry of Education), Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, Liaoning, China.
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17
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Fu S, Wu H, Zhu K, Zhao Z, Liang Z. The Unique Morphology of Coconut Petiole Fibers Facilitates the Fabrication of Plant Composites with High Impact Performance. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:polym15092200. [PMID: 37177346 PMCID: PMC10180731 DOI: 10.3390/polym15092200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The present work explored alkali-treated coconut petiole fibers (ACPFs) characterization and the effect of fiber loadings on the mechanical properties of poly (lactic acid) (PLA)/ACPF composites for the first time. The physical, mechanical, and interfacial properties, as well as the morphology of the ACPFs were reported. It was found that ACPFs with a density of 0.92 g/cm3 have average tensile strength and tensile modulus equal to 355.77 MPa and 5212.36 MPa. The interfacial strength between ACPFs and PLA was high (14.06 MPa), attributed to the micro-sized holes on the fibers, as established from SEM micrographs. Then composites with varying fiber loadings were fabricated by melt-blending and compression molding. The mechanical (tensile, flexural, and impact) performance of composites was reported. Based on the high interfacial strength between fibers and PLA and the unique "spiral" structure of fibers, the composites reached a high impact strength of 8.2 kJ/m2 and flexural modulus of 6959.70 MPa at 50 wt.%, representing 150% and 50% improvement relative to pure PLA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiqiang Fu
- The Key Laboratory of Polymer Processing Engineering of Ministry of Education, National, Engineering Research Center of Novel Equipment for Polymer Processing, Guangdong, Provincial Key Laboratory of Technique and Equipment for Macromolecular Advanced, Manufacturing, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Hongwu Wu
- The Key Laboratory of Polymer Processing Engineering of Ministry of Education, National, Engineering Research Center of Novel Equipment for Polymer Processing, Guangdong, Provincial Key Laboratory of Technique and Equipment for Macromolecular Advanced, Manufacturing, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Kang Zhu
- The Key Laboratory of Polymer Processing Engineering of Ministry of Education, National, Engineering Research Center of Novel Equipment for Polymer Processing, Guangdong, Provincial Key Laboratory of Technique and Equipment for Macromolecular Advanced, Manufacturing, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Zhouxiang Zhao
- The Key Laboratory of Polymer Processing Engineering of Ministry of Education, National, Engineering Research Center of Novel Equipment for Polymer Processing, Guangdong, Provincial Key Laboratory of Technique and Equipment for Macromolecular Advanced, Manufacturing, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Zhifang Liang
- The Key Laboratory of Polymer Processing Engineering of Ministry of Education, National, Engineering Research Center of Novel Equipment for Polymer Processing, Guangdong, Provincial Key Laboratory of Technique and Equipment for Macromolecular Advanced, Manufacturing, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
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18
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Zhang X, Yang Y, Li M, Wu J, Zhu Z, Bi C, Xie Y, Wang T, Sun Y, Yin J, Xie Z, Liu F, Wang J, Yang J. Modified β-cyclodextrin microspheres towards the application in intumescent fire resistance and smoke-suppressing of bio-based poly(L-lactic acid). Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 234:123666. [PMID: 36801221 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.123666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
In this work, the β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) was modified by a phosphazene compound to prepare a novel amorphous derivate (β-CDCP), which was combined with the ammonium polyphosphate (APP) as a synergistic flame retardant (FR) of the bio-based poly(L-lactic acid) (PLA). The effects of the APP/β-CDCP on the thermal stability, combustion behavior, pyrolysis process, fire resistance performance and crystallizability of the PLA were investigated comprehensively and in depth by thermogravimetric (TG) analysis, limited oxygen index (LOI) analysis, UL-94 test, cone calorimetry measurement, TG-infrared (TG-IR), scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectrometer, Raman spectroscopy, pyrolysis-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry and differential scanning calorimetry. The PLA/5%APP/10%β-CDCP showed a highest LOI of 33.2 %, passed V-0 rating and exhibited self-extinguish phenomenon in the UL-94 test. Also, it presented a lowest peak of heat release rate, total heat release, peak of smoke production rate and total smoke release, and a highest char yield treated by cone calorimetry analysis. In addition, the 5%APP/10%β-CDCP shortened significantly crystallization time and enhanced crystallization rate of the PLA. Gas phase and intumescent condensed phase fire proofing mechanisms are proposed to elucidate enhanced fire resistance in this system in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolei Zhang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Hazardous Waste Safety Disposal and Recycling Technology, School of Environmental Science and Safety Engineering, Tianjin University of Technology, 391 Binshui Xidao, Xiqing District, Tianjin 300384, China
| | - Yubin Yang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Hazardous Waste Safety Disposal and Recycling Technology, School of Environmental Science and Safety Engineering, Tianjin University of Technology, 391 Binshui Xidao, Xiqing District, Tianjin 300384, China
| | - Meitong Li
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Hazardous Waste Safety Disposal and Recycling Technology, School of Environmental Science and Safety Engineering, Tianjin University of Technology, 391 Binshui Xidao, Xiqing District, Tianjin 300384, China
| | - Jingxuan Wu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Hazardous Waste Safety Disposal and Recycling Technology, School of Environmental Science and Safety Engineering, Tianjin University of Technology, 391 Binshui Xidao, Xiqing District, Tianjin 300384, China
| | - Zhe Zhu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Hazardous Waste Safety Disposal and Recycling Technology, School of Environmental Science and Safety Engineering, Tianjin University of Technology, 391 Binshui Xidao, Xiqing District, Tianjin 300384, China
| | - Chengliang Bi
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Hazardous Waste Safety Disposal and Recycling Technology, School of Environmental Science and Safety Engineering, Tianjin University of Technology, 391 Binshui Xidao, Xiqing District, Tianjin 300384, China
| | - Yuhong Xie
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Hazardous Waste Safety Disposal and Recycling Technology, School of Environmental Science and Safety Engineering, Tianjin University of Technology, 391 Binshui Xidao, Xiqing District, Tianjin 300384, China
| | - Taoyun Wang
- School of Chemistry and Life Sciences, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, China
| | - Yongyan Sun
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Hazardous Waste Safety Disposal and Recycling Technology, School of Environmental Science and Safety Engineering, Tianjin University of Technology, 391 Binshui Xidao, Xiqing District, Tianjin 300384, China.
| | - Jing Yin
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Hazardous Waste Safety Disposal and Recycling Technology, School of Environmental Science and Safety Engineering, Tianjin University of Technology, 391 Binshui Xidao, Xiqing District, Tianjin 300384, China
| | - Zhanghua Xie
- Tianjin Nengpu Science and Technology Co., Ltd, Huading New Area 1-2-10, Haitai Inovation 6 Road, Huayuan Industrial Park, Tianjin 300384, China
| | - Fude Liu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Hazardous Waste Safety Disposal and Recycling Technology, School of Environmental Science and Safety Engineering, Tianjin University of Technology, 391 Binshui Xidao, Xiqing District, Tianjin 300384, China.
| | - Junsheng Wang
- Tianjin Fire Research Institute of the Ministry of Emergency Management, Tianjin 300381, China.
| | - Jinjun Yang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Hazardous Waste Safety Disposal and Recycling Technology, School of Environmental Science and Safety Engineering, Tianjin University of Technology, 391 Binshui Xidao, Xiqing District, Tianjin 300384, China; Department of Applied Chemistry, Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan.
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19
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Harrison TR, Gupta VK, Alam P, Perriman AW, Scarpa F, Thakur VK. From trash to treasure: Sourcing high-value, sustainable cellulosic materials from living bioreactor waste streams. Int J Biol Macromol 2023; 233:123511. [PMID: 36773882 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.123511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
The appreciation of how conventional and fossil-based materials could be harmful to our planet is growing, especially when considering single-use and non-biodegradable plastics manufactured from fossil fuels. Accordingly, tackling climate change and plastic waste pollution entails a more responsible approach to sourcing raw materials and the adoption of less destructive end-of-life pathways. Livestock animals, in particular ruminants, process plant matter using a suite of mechanical, chemical and biological mechanisms through the act of digestion. The manure from these "living bioreactors" is ubiquitous and offers a largely untapped source of lignocellulosic biomass for the development of bio-based and biodegradable materials. In this review, we assess recent studies made into manure-based cellulose materials in terms of their material characteristics and implications for sustainability. Despite the surprisingly diverse body of research, it is apparent that progress towards the commercialisation of manure-derived cellulose materials is hindered by a lack of truly sustainable options and robust data to assess the performance against conventional materials alternatives. Nanocellulose, a natural biopolymer, has been successfully produced by living bioreactors and is presented as a candidate for future developments. Life cycle assessments from non-wood sources are however minimal, but there are some initial indications that manure-derived nanocellulose would offer environmental benefits over traditional wood-derived sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas R Harrison
- Biorefining and Advanced Materials Research Centre, Scotland's Rural College (SRUC), Kings Buildings, West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH9 3JG, UK; Institute for Materials and Processes, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Vijai Kumar Gupta
- Biorefining and Advanced Materials Research Centre, Scotland's Rural College (SRUC), Kings Buildings, West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH9 3JG, UK.
| | - Parvez Alam
- Institute for Materials and Processes, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Adam Willis Perriman
- School of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Bristol, University Walk, Bristol BS8 1TD, UK; Research School of Chemistry, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia; John Curtain School of Medical Research, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia
| | - Fabrizio Scarpa
- Bristol Composites Institute, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TR, UK
| | - Vijay Kumar Thakur
- Biorefining and Advanced Materials Research Centre, Scotland's Rural College (SRUC), Kings Buildings, West Mains Road, Edinburgh EH9 3JG, UK; School of Engineering, University of Petroleum & Energy Studies (UPES), Dehradun 248007, Uttarakhand, India.
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20
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Chirico A, Pizzolante M, Borghesi F, Bartolotta S, Sarcinella ED, Cipresso P, Gaggioli A. "Standing Up for Earth Rights": Awe-Inspiring Virtual Nature for Promoting Pro-Environmental Behaviors. CYBERPSYCHOLOGY, BEHAVIOR AND SOCIAL NETWORKING 2023; 26:300-308. [PMID: 37015077 DOI: 10.1089/cyber.2022.0260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/06/2023]
Abstract
Virtual nature exposure has emerged as an effective method for promoting pro-environmental attitudes and behaviors, also due to the increased emotional connection with nature itself. However, the role played by complex emotions elicited by virtual nature, such as awe, needs to be fully elucidated. Awe is an emotion stemming from vast stimuli, including nature, and virtual reality (VR) emerged as an effective medium to elicit it. One hundred nineteen participants were exposed to either one of four VR environments: (a) an awe-inspiring virtual nature, (b) a non-natural awe-inspiring virtual scenario, (c) a non-awe-inspiring virtual nature, (d) a non-natural non-awe-inspiring scenario. Pro-environmental attitudes, intentions, discrete emotions, and affect were measured and compared across the different conditions. Two ad hoc tasks were developed to measure two pro-environmental behaviors after each VR exposure. Participants were invited to sign a real petition against plastic production, consumption, and in favor of plastic recycling (a personally engaging behavior), and to take flyers to spread the word on the petition to friends and acquaintances (a socially engaging behavior). Awe-inspiring virtual nature resulted in a significantly increased number of flyers taken by participants (vs. control). Disposition toward the protection of the environment, positive emotional affect, and condition significantly correlated with the number of flyers taken. These results indicated that awe-inspiring virtual nature can influence socially engaging pro-environmental attitudes and behaviors but not personally engaging ones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Chirico
- Department of Psychology, Research Center in Communication Psychology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milan, Italy
| | - Marta Pizzolante
- Department of Psychology, Research Center in Communication Psychology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Sabrina Bartolotta
- Department of Psychology, Research Center in Communication Psychology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milan, Italy
| | - Eleonora D Sarcinella
- Department of Psychology, Research Center in Communication Psychology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milan, Italy
| | - Pietro Cipresso
- Department of Psychology, University of Turin, Torino, Italy
- Applied Technology for Neuro-Psychology Laboratory, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Gaggioli
- Department of Psychology, Research Center in Communication Psychology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milan, Italy
- Applied Technology for Neuro-Psychology Laboratory, Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Milan, Italy
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21
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Yu Y, Miao L, Adyel TM, Waldschläger K, Wu J, Hou J. Aquatic plastisphere: Interactions between plastics and biofilms. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 322:121196. [PMID: 36736560 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 01/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Because of the high production rates, low recycling rates, and poor waste management of plastics, an increasing amount of plastic is entering the aquatic environment, where it can provide new ecological niches for microbial communities and form a so-called plastisphere. Recent studies have focused on the one-way impact of plastic substrata or biofilm communities. However, our understanding of the two-way interactions between plastics and biofilms is still limited. This review first summarizes the formation process and the co-occurrence network analysis of the aquatic plastisphere to comprehensively illustrate the succession pattern of biofilm communities and the potential consistency between keystone taxa and specific environmental behavior of the plastisphere. Furthermore, this review sheds light on mutual interactions between plastics and biofilms. Plastic properties, environmental conditions, and colonization time affect biofilm development. Meanwhile, the biofilm communities, in turn, influence the environmental behaviors of plastics, including transport, contaminant accumulation, and especially the fragmentation and degradation of plastics. Based on a systematic literature review and cross-referencing from these disciplines, the current research focus, and future challenges in exploring aquatic plastisphere development and biofilm-plastic interactions are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Yu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, 210098, Nanjing, People's Republic of China; Department of Civil, Environmental and Geomatic Engineering, ETH Zürich, Zurich, 8093, Switzerland
| | - Lingzhan Miao
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, 210098, Nanjing, People's Republic of China.
| | - Tanveer M Adyel
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Melbourne, VIC, 3125, Australia
| | - Kryss Waldschläger
- Hydrology and Quantitative Water Management Group, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Jun Wu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, 210098, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jun Hou
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, 210098, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
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King CD, Stephens CG, Lynch JP, Jordan SN. Farmers' attitudes towards agricultural plastics - Management and disposal, awareness and perceptions of the environmental impacts. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 864:160955. [PMID: 36549516 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.160955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The amount of plastic waste resulting from agricultural practices is increasing and this trend is expected to continue. Although plastics are essential for certain farming tasks, their impact on the environment is becoming a major issue of concern. Mismanaged larger plastics can disintegrate into microplastics and make their way into soils, surface and groundwater sources. Microplastics are extremely persistent and have the potential to facilitate the transfer of contaminants through the environment, potentially affecting terrestrial and aquatic wildlife. A descriptive survey was conducted on a sample of farmers (n = 430) in Ireland to assess their attitudes on agricultural plastic waste management and their awareness and perceptions of the impacts of microplastics and plastics on the environment. This study found that most farmers (88.2%) are concerned about the amount of plastic waste generated by farming activities. Agricultural plastic disposal methods vary and recycling rates mostly depend on the type of plastic, the cost of recycling and access to facilities. Most farmers view agricultural plastics negatively due to their impact on the environment but also because of the monetary and logistical burdens associated with them. Farmers were relatively aware of microplastics (57.5%), but overall more farmers felt they knew more about plastic pollution than microplastic pollution and these issues in aquatic systems. This was also evident when it came to their perception of the risks plastics pose on the environment with more farmers believing that aquatic environments are at greater risk than the terrestrial environments. Future research efforts must focus on plastic and microplastic pollutions in soils to inform policy-makers and to create greater public awareness. In addition to this, several developments are needed in a collective effort by governments, policy-makers and other stakeholders to reduce plastic and microplastic problems in agriculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clodagh D King
- Centre for Freshwater and Environmental Studies, Dundalk Institute of Technology, Dundalk, Co. Louth, Ireland
| | - Caroline Gilleran Stephens
- Centre for Freshwater and Environmental Studies, Dundalk Institute of Technology, Dundalk, Co. Louth, Ireland
| | - Joseph P Lynch
- Centre for Freshwater and Environmental Studies, Dundalk Institute of Technology, Dundalk, Co. Louth, Ireland
| | - Siobhán N Jordan
- Centre for Freshwater and Environmental Studies, Dundalk Institute of Technology, Dundalk, Co. Louth, Ireland.
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23
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Garcia-Vazquez E, Garcia-Ael C, Mesa MLC, Rodriguez N, Dopico E. Greater willingness to reduce microplastics consumption in Mexico than in Spain supports the importance of legislation on the use of plastics. Front Psychol 2023; 13:1027336. [PMID: 36710796 PMCID: PMC9875725 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2022.1027336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Microplastics (MP) threaten all organisms worldwide. MP are produced directly as microbeads in cosmetics and hygiene products, or indirectly from breakage of larger plastics. The control of MP requires consumers' engagement to refuse products containing microbeads. Methods We conducted a survey on 572 university students from Mexico and Spain, two countries where microbeads are not banned yet. More strict laws for plastic control areenforced in Mexico than in Spain. Results Controlling for age and education, despite knowing less about MP, Mexicans checked for microbeads on product labels more frequently than Spaniards, and desired to reduce MP consumption more. A stronger correlation between individual awareness and willingness of MP control was found for Mexican than for Spanish students. Discussion Perhaps more strict legislation against plastics creates an environment favorable to MP control. Unclear statement of microbeads on labels was the main reason for not checking microbead contents; environmental education and a stricter control of plastics and MP were identified as necessary policy changes in the two countries. Corporation engagement on clearer product labeling is also suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Garcia-Vazquez
- Department of Functional Biology, University of Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain,Faculty of Psychology, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia UNED, Madrid, Spain,*Correspondence: Eva Garcia-Vazquez ✉
| | - Cristina Garcia-Ael
- Faculty of Psychology, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia UNED, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Noemi Rodriguez
- Department of Education Sciences, University of Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Eduardo Dopico
- Department of Education Sciences, University of Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain
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24
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Praet E, Baeza-Álvarez J, De Veer D, Holtmann-Ahumada G, Jones JS, Langford S, Dearte JM, Schofield J, Thiel M, Wyles KJ. Bottle with a message: The role of story writing as an engagement tool to explore children's perceptions of marine plastic litter. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 186:114457. [PMID: 36525759 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.114457] [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: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
As human behaviors play a crucial role in addressing the global threat of plastic pollution, it is vital to understand perceptions about marine plastic litter (MPL) and to develop interventions encouraging pro-environmental behaviors (PEBs). This study evaluates story writing as a window to explore perceptions and as an engagement activity to boost PEBs. During the COVID-19 lockdowns, schoolchildren from the East Pacific coast participated in this activity, each creating a story and answering a pre-post survey. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of 81 stories and 79 surveys show awareness of sources and impacts. Participants identified land and local pollution as significant contributors to MPL and emphasized bio-ecological impacts, reflecting concern for landscape and wildlife. While the stories presented a diversity of solutions, recycling dominated the surveys. As participants reported an increase in self-assessed knowledge and improved PEBs after this activity, it can be seen as an engagement tool to encourage behavior change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estelle Praet
- Department of Archaeology, University of York, York, England, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
| | - Jostein Baeza-Álvarez
- Facultad Ciencias del Mar, Universidad Católica del Norte, Larrondo 1281, Coquimbo, Chile
| | - Diamela De Veer
- Facultad Ciencias del Mar, Universidad Católica del Norte, Larrondo 1281, Coquimbo, Chile
| | | | - Jen S Jones
- Galapagos Conservation Trust, London, England, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Sarah Langford
- Galapagos Conservation Trust, London, England, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | | | - John Schofield
- Department of Archaeology, University of York, York, England, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
| | - Martin Thiel
- Facultad Ciencias del Mar, Universidad Católica del Norte, Larrondo 1281, Coquimbo, Chile; Millennium Nucleus Ecology and Sustainable Management of Oceanic Island (ESMOI), Coquimbo, Chile; Centro de Estudios Avanzados en Zonas Áridas (CEAZA), Coquimbo, Chile
| | - Kayleigh J Wyles
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, England, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
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25
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Wang X, Wang Z, Li Y. Internet Use on Closing Intention-Behavior Gap in Green Consumption-A Mediation and Moderation Theoretical Model. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 20:365. [PMID: 36612687 PMCID: PMC9819838 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20010365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The rapid development of the Internet as an information medium has provided new opportunities for promoting green consumption. Therefore, a study on the theoretical mechanism is helpful to make better use of the Internet media to promote green consumption and close consumers' green consumption intention-behavior gap. In this study, data from 419 valid questionnaires were collected and analyzed through PLS-SEM within the framework of the theory of planned behavior. The results show that there are two pathways of Internet media promoting green consumption, namely the moderating effect and the mediating effect. First, through the moderating effect, Internet use can promote the conversion of intention to behavior and perceived behavioral control to behavior, thus closing the intention-behavior gap. Second, through the mediating effect, Internet use promotes green consumption behavior through the mediator of personal perceived environmental threats. The research indicates that the potential of Internet information media should be fully explored in promoting green consumption, disseminating environmental knowledge, reporting environmental issues, and guiding the transformation of individual green consumption intention into behavior.
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26
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Venâncio C, Lopes I, Oliveira M. Bioplastics: known effects and potential consequences to marine and estuarine ecosystem services. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 309:136810. [PMID: 36228730 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.136810] [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: 01/05/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Bioplastics have been suggested as more sustainable alternatives to conventional, petroleum-based plastics. In this work, the available studies comparing effects of biopolymers and petroleum-based plastics were reviewed to improve the knowledge on the sustainability of biobased polymers, providing a benchmark regarding their ecotoxicological effects, as well as to highlight research priorities in this field. The literature review shows that, only a small number of the available biopolymers have been tested highlighting the need for more research diversifying the tested polymers. Overall, the available studies support the idea that bioplastics are likely to cause physiological impairments (feeding, reproduction, or locomotion) as well as cellular (proteome and enzyme activity) effects on biota. Furthermore, the studies on bioplastic degradation under realistic conditions report changes in water and sediment quality, which may also have consequences to biota. It is evident that some reservations must be kept regarding conventional plastics substitutions by bioplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cátia Venâncio
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Isabel Lopes
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Miguel Oliveira
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM), Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
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27
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Conradi M, Sánchez-Moyano JE. Toward a sustainable circular economy for cigarette butts, the most common waste worldwide on the coast. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 847:157634. [PMID: 35905959 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.157634] [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: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
The circular economy is based on the maximum use of resources by reducing, reusing, and recycling the elements used. Currently, the items littered most frequently in the world are cigarettes butts (CB) as these debris are freely disseminated in the marine habitat, they are generally difficult to collect and very complex to recycle. Litter CB is a great social problem that generates excessive economic costs and serious environmental problems. CB is also not biodegradable and highly toxic to marine organisms and presents a distinctive mixture of physical and chemical contamination. However, little research has been done on the management and recycling of this dangerous waste. Several proposals have been made to incorporate this waste into high-volume articles of direct production or recycling, but collection logistics are lacking since the current system is inefficient, in addition to the poor environmental behaviour of citizens. This work presents a current synthesis of the CB problem from all its possible aspects in order to have a global vision of the life cycle of the CB, indicating both the known and the gaps in the knowledge of each of them, and intends to give a general outline of the steps to follow to try to end such a worrying problem at the global level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercedes Conradi
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Biology, University of Sevilla, Av. Reina Mercedes 6, 41012 Sevilla, Spain
| | - J Emilio Sánchez-Moyano
- Department of Zoology, Faculty of Biology, University of Sevilla, Av. Reina Mercedes 6, 41012 Sevilla, Spain.
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28
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Pires A, Cuccaro A, Sole M, Freitas R. Micro(nano)plastics and plastic additives effects in marine annelids: A literature review. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 214:113642. [PMID: 35724725 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.113642] [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: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Plastic debris are dispersed in the marine environment and are consequently available to many organisms of different trophic levels, including sediment-dwelling organisms such as polychaetae. Plastic degradation generates micro (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) and as well as releases bounded plastic additives, increasing the ecotoxicological risk for marine organisms. Therefore, this review summarizes current knowledge on the accumulation and effects of MPs and NPs and plastic additives in polychaetes, derived from laboratory and field evidences. Thirty-six papers (from January 2011 to September 2021) were selected and analysed: about 80% of the selected works were published since 2016, confirming the emerging role of this topic in environmental sciences. The majority of the analysed manuscripts (68%) were carried out in the laboratory under controlled conditions. These studies showed that polychaetes accumulate and are responsive to this contaminant class, displaying behavioural, physiological, biochemical and immunological alterations. The polychaetes Hediste diversicolor and Arenicola marina were the most frequent used species to study MPs, NPs and plastic additive effects. The consideration of field studies revealed that MP accumulation was dependent on the plastic type present in the sediments and on the feeding strategy of the species. Polychaetes are known to play an important role in coastal and estuarine food webs and exposure to MPs, NPs and plastic additives may impair their behavioural, physiological, biochemical and immunological responses. Thus, the estimated global increase of these contaminants in the marine environment could affect the health of these benthic organisms, with consequences at population and ecosystem levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adília Pires
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM) & Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Alessia Cuccaro
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM) & Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Montserrat Sole
- Instituto de Ciencias del Mar ICM-CSIC, E-08003, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rosa Freitas
- Centre for Environmental and Marine Studies (CESAM) & Department of Biology, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
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29
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Lucrezi S. Public perceptions of marine environmental issues: A case study of coastal recreational users in Italy. JOURNAL OF COASTAL CONSERVATION 2022; 26:52. [PMID: 36311823 PMCID: PMC9589564 DOI: 10.1007/s11852-022-00900-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Marine environments provide ecosystem services jeopardised by human activities, resulting in impacts requiring urgent attention. In Europe and southern Mediterranean countries like Italy, marine environmental problems of note include marine litter, overfishing and climate change, among others. Public engagement is essential in mitigating these problems. In this context, investigating public perceptions and what influences these perceptions is necessary to design the right public engagement strategies. This study evaluated perceptions of marine environmental issues among coastal recreational users along the Conero Riviera in the Adriatic Sea. This is a location used for many coastal activities, affected by several human impacts and considered to become a marine protected area. A total of 202 coastal recreational users were interviewed regarding their perceptions of marine environmental issues including awareness, concern, observed changes in the local coast, and pro-environmental behaviours to combat marine environmental issues. Regression analysis was used to determine influential variables in perceptions. The participants were mainly aware of and concerned about issues including pollution, litter and overfishing. They had observed changes in the local coast primarily encompassing wildlife reduction, toxic algal growth and mucilage. They engaged in pro-environmental behaviours principally including recycling, litter collection and pollution reduction. Awareness of marine environmental issues influenced concern, while the observation of coastal changes and pro-environmental behaviours were mainly influenced by demographic variables like water use and gender. The results of this study were used to make recommendations concerning the design of communication and education campaigns and strategies to stimulate pro-environmental behaviours to support marine conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Lucrezi
- Tourism Research in Economics, Environs and Society (TREES), North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa
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30
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Sun Y, Zheng Z, Wang Y, Yang B, Wang J, Mu W. PLA composites reinforced with rice residues or glass fiber—a review of mechanical properties, thermal properties, and biodegradation properties. JOURNAL OF POLYMER RESEARCH 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10965-022-03274-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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31
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Gao N, Yang L, Lu X, Duan Z, Zhu L, Feng J. A review of interactions of microplastics and typical pollutants from toxicokinetics and toxicodynamics perspective. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 432:128736. [PMID: 35339832 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.128736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The widespread microplastics (MPs) pollution has become a concerning environmental issue. The interactions between MPs and typical pollutants may change the bioaccumulation, and toxicity of pollutants, leading to high uncertainty in risk assessment. Still, significant gaps remain in the knowledge available to integrate these interactions in the perspectives of toxicokinetics (TK) and toxicodynamics (TD), which is also an essential part of quantitative toxicological research. This review systematically summarizes the interaction between MPs and typical pollutants in TK and TD processes. MPs can be acted as the vector or sink of pollutants to increase or decrease their bioaccumulation, and also may not affect their bioaccumulation due to no interaction. The adverse outcome pathway (AOP) framework enables novel approaches for determining the interaction between MPs and pollutants in the TD process. MPs can directly or indirectly enhance, reduce and not affect the toxicity of pollutants. A series of factors influencing the interaction in TK and TD processes are summarized, including MPs characteristics and exposure scenarios. TK-TD approach can quantitatively understand the interaction between MPs and pollutants based on the mechanism. Given the current knowledge gap in TK and TD processes, future perspectives on combined exposure research are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ning Gao
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Technology for Complex Trans-Media Pollution, Key Laboratory of Pollution Process and Environmental Criteria of Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Lanpeng Yang
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Technology for Complex Trans-Media Pollution, Key Laboratory of Pollution Process and Environmental Criteria of Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Xueqiang Lu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Technology for Complex Trans-Media Pollution, Key Laboratory of Pollution Process and Environmental Criteria of Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Zhenghua Duan
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Hazardous Waste Safety Disposal and Recycling Technology / School of Environmental Science and Safety Engineering, Tianjin University of Technology, Tianjin 300384, China
| | - Lin Zhu
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Technology for Complex Trans-Media Pollution, Key Laboratory of Pollution Process and Environmental Criteria of Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Jianfeng Feng
- Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Technology for Complex Trans-Media Pollution, Key Laboratory of Pollution Process and Environmental Criteria of Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China.
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32
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He Z, Zhou Y, Wang J, Shen W, Li W, Lu W. Influence of emotion on purchase intention of electric vehicles: a comparative study of consumers with different income levels. CURRENT PSYCHOLOGY 2022; 42:1-16. [PMID: 35677832 PMCID: PMC9163288 DOI: 10.1007/s12144-022-03253-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Promoting electric vehicles (EVs) adoption has become one of the important paths for countries around the world to address climate change and accelerate the transformation of energy system for achieving sustainable development. As one of the important psychological factors, the research on the explanatory power of emotions to EVs purchase intention is still insufficient. This paper collected 400 valid questionnaires all around China. By incorporating emotions and moral norms into the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) model, this study used structural equation model to estimate the impact of positive anticipated emotion (PAE), negative anticipated emotion (NAE), and moral norms together with TPB elements on EVs purchase intention. In order to explore the heterogeneity effect of the above factors on EVs purchase intention among consumers of different income groups, we divided the total sample into high-income subsample and low-income subsample according to the household monthly disposable income. We concluded as follows: for the total sample, PAE has the greatest impact on EVs purchase intention, followed by attitude, NAE, and perceived behavioral control (PBC). In particular, the purchase intention of high-income consumers mainly depends on NAE, while the purchase intention of low-income consumers mainly depends on PAE. Additionally, PBC has more significant impact on EVs purchase intention of high-income group. Finally, targeted policy implications are proposed to promote EVs purchase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengxia He
- School of Economics, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121 China
| | - Yanqing Zhou
- Business School, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou, 221116 China
| | - Jianming Wang
- School of Business Administration, Zhejiang University of Finance and Economics, Hangzhou, 310018 China
| | - Wenxing Shen
- College of Economics and Management, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing, 210037 China
| | - Wenbo Li
- Business School, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou, 221116 China
| | - Wenqi Lu
- Business School, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou, 221116 China
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Borriello A, Massey G, Rose JM. Extending the theory of planned behaviour to investigate the issue of microplastics in the marine environment. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 179:113689. [PMID: 35598386 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113689] [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: 01/21/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The attention to microplastics and the consequences of its presence in the marine environment is increasing in scientific fields as well as on common media channels. In the absence of regulation in many countries, manufacturers are not required to exclude microplastic from their products, however consumers could force the production in a more sustainable direction with their choices. This study demonstrates the utility of the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) in understanding the publics' intention to avoid buying products which contain microplastics. All three TPB antecedents of intentions are important. The study, based on a sample of respondents in NSW (Australia), also reveals respondents' habitual behaviour of avoiding buying products containing microplastics strongly predicts their intended future behaviour. Last, modelling reveals direct and indirect means through which intentions to avoid buying microplastics can be increased, via increased environmental concerns and public knowledge and health concerns about microplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Borriello
- University of Technology Sydney, Business School, 14/28 Ultimo Rd, Ultimo, NSW 200, Australia.
| | - Graham Massey
- University of Technology Sydney, Business School, 14/28 Ultimo Rd, Ultimo, NSW 200, Australia
| | - John M Rose
- University of Technology Sydney, Business School, 14/28 Ultimo Rd, Ultimo, NSW 200, Australia
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Wang Y, Wang S, Xu T, Cui W, Shi X, Xu S. A new discovery of polystyrene microplastics toxicity: The injury difference on bladder epithelium of mice is correlated with the size of exposed particles. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 821:153413. [PMID: 35090911 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.153413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 01/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs), as widespread hazardous substances in the environment, can cause potential adverse effects on biological health. However, reports on the toxic effects of different diameters MPs on urinary system are limited. Here, we investigated the types and mechanisms of damage to mice bladder epithelial cells treated with diameter (1-10 μm and 50-100 μm) polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs). The results showed that exposure to PS-MPs of both diameters resulted in necroptosis and inflammation to bladder epithelium. However, 1-10 μm PS-MPs posed more severe necroptosis and 50-100 μm PS-MPs led to a higher degree of inflammatory injury at the same exposure concentration. Mechanistically, PS-MPs were found to induce necroptosis as well as p-NFκB-mediated inflammation by triggering oxidative stress and excessive release of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Furthermore, N-Acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC) attenuated the toxic effects of PS-MPs on bladder epithelial cells. In conclusion, our study demonstrated for the first time that PS-MPs caused necroptosis and inflammation in mice bladders tissues, and the difference of injury correlates with the size of PS-MPs particles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China; Key Laboratory of the Provincial Education Department of Heilongjiang for Common Animal, PR China
| | - Shengchen Wang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China; Key Laboratory of the Provincial Education Department of Heilongjiang for Common Animal, PR China
| | - Tong Xu
- State Key Lab of Inorganic Synthesis and Preparative Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, PR China
| | - Wei Cui
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China; Key Laboratory of the Provincial Education Department of Heilongjiang for Common Animal, PR China
| | - Xu Shi
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China; Key Laboratory of the Provincial Education Department of Heilongjiang for Common Animal, PR China
| | - Shiwen Xu
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China; Key Laboratory of the Provincial Education Department of Heilongjiang for Common Animal, PR China; Disease Prevention and Treatment, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China.
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«Let’s Go Deep into the Game to Save Our Planet!» How an Immersive and Educational Video Game Reduces Psychological Distance and Raises Awareness. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14105774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Climate change appears to be the ecological issue which benefits from the most attention in the literature, compared to equally alarming situations such as plastic pollution. In fact, waste management issues took a new step with the recent discovery of microplastics in human blood for the first time, as it used to be a hypothesis. Instead of separating those questions, some researchers tend to consider that a link exists between the effects of global warming and plastic degradation in the ocean. Research focusing on the construal-level theory and the psychological distance explain the lack of public interest in the environmental crisis. However, recent studies highlight the empirical support of the psychological distance instead of the CLT, especially regarding climate change, but a few studies explore the psychological distance related to plastic pollution. With that in mind, any means to reduce the perceived psychological distance regarding environmental issues such as plastic pollution might increase their sensitivity and motivation to act. Moreover, the change of habit could be induced by a new event that would disrupt someone’s daily life according to the habit discontinuity hypothesis, and the use of immersive media such as video games might be the solution. Given numerous possibilities of creation with the scenarios, gameplay, public of interest and gaming contexts, video games also influence motivation, engagement and learning ability. We can also find specific components and mechanisms from game design in media that do not focus on entertainment first but on pedagogical purpose: serious games. Thus, this study investigates how immersive media might reduce specific psychological distance dimensions and trigger emotions using an educational video game on plastic pollution, which might play a major role in changing ones’ daily habits. The research uses a qualitative method centered on semi-structured individual interviews and the experimentation of a video game named Plasticity. Results support all the propositions and show that different types of immersion might reduce each dimension of the psychological distance, which is a first, reinforcing environmental awareness and new intentions of pro-environmental behavior. Other areas of discussion are furthered explored.
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The Relevance of Recyclability for the Life Cycle Assessment of Packaging Based on Design for Life Cycle. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14074076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The awareness for more environmentally sustainable packaging solutions is steadily growing. With both consumers and manufacturers looking to minimize their impacts on the environment, the need for easy-to-implement and standardized measures strengthening a circular economy rises. In the research, the goal was to determine whether the carbon footprint and circularity of non-food plastic packaging can be improved by simple design changes. The results should then lead to design recommendations, providing a Design for Life Cycle approach. The methodology of the study was to conceptually design a single-use plastic packaging with attributes having positive and negative effects on recyclability. Herein, only design characteristics from products obtainable on the market were regarded. Moreover, a comparison over existing recyclability assessment methods is given. The recyclability was then determined with the selected approach by Cyclos HTP, and a reference calculation was conducted. Life Cycle Assessments were implemented for 14 packaging designs using the GaBi software and the Environmental Footprint method. The results showed that dark color, material compounds, insoluble adhesives, and large labels result in lower recyclability of the single-use packaging. The impacts on climate change range from 0.13 kg CO2-equivalent emissions (100% recyclability) to 0.21 kg CO2-equivalent emissions (0% recyclability) per packaging, showing that lower recyclability leads to a larger carbon footprint in all assessed scenarios. Concluding, the research demonstrated that by applying Design for Life Cycle measures, impacts on climate change can be reduced. Lastly, design recommendations for decision makers are outlined.
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Li Z, Li Y, He M, Wang W, Li J. Effects of the species of crosslinking reagents on the structures and properties of biodegradable poly (butanediol sebacate ‐ butanediol terephthalate) copolyester. J Appl Polym Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/app.52145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Zhimao Li
- School of Materials Science and Engineering North University of China Taiyuan China
| | - Yingchun Li
- School of Materials Science and Engineering North University of China Taiyuan China
| | - Maoyong He
- Department of Materials Engineering Taiyuan Institute of Technology Taiyuan China
| | - Wensheng Wang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering North University of China Taiyuan China
| | - Jie Li
- School of Materials Science and Engineering North University of China Taiyuan China
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Natural Polymers Used in Edible Food Packaging—History, Function and Application Trends as a Sustainable Alternative to Synthetic Plastic. POLYSACCHARIDES 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/polysaccharides3010002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In this review, a historical perspective, functional and application trends of natural polymers used to the development of edible food packaging were presented and discussed. Polysaccharides and proteins, i.e., alginate; carrageenan; chitosan; starch; pea protein, were considered. These natural polymers are important materials obtained from renewable plant, algae and animal sources, as well as from agroindustrial residues. Historically, some of them have been widely used by ancient populations for food packaging until these were replaced by petroleum-based plastic materials after World War II. Nowadays, biobased materials for food packaging have attracted attention. Their use was boosted especially because of the environmental pollution caused by inappropriate disposal of plastic packaging. Biobased materials are welcome to the design of food packaging because they possess many advantages, such as biodegradability, biocompatibility and low toxicity. Depending on the formulation, certain biopolymer-based packaging may present good barrier properties, antimicrobial and antioxidant activities Thus, polysaccharides and proteins can be combined to form diverse composite films with improved mechanical and biological behaviors, making them suitable for packaging of different food products.
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Kumar V, Sehgal R, Gupta R. Blends and composites of polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) and their applications. Eur Polym J 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eurpolymj.2021.110824] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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Lusher AL, Hurley R, Arp HPH, Booth AM, Bråte ILN, Gabrielsen GW, Gomiero A, Gomes T, Grøsvik BE, Green N, Haave M, Hallanger IG, Halsband C, Herzke D, Joner EJ, Kögel T, Rakkestad K, Ranneklev SB, Wagner M, Olsen M. Moving forward in microplastic research: A Norwegian perspective. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2021; 157:106794. [PMID: 34358913 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2021.106794] [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: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 07/21/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Given the increasing attention on the occurrence of microplastics in the environment, and the potential environmental threats they pose, there is a need for researchers to move quickly from basic understanding to applied science that supports decision makers in finding feasible mitigation measures and solutions. At the same time, they must provide sufficient, accurate and clear information to the media, public and other relevant groups (e.g., NGOs). Key requirements include systematic and coordinated research efforts to enable evidence-based decision making and to develop efficient policy measures on all scales (national, regional and global). To achieve this, collaboration between key actors is essential and should include researchers from multiple disciplines, policymakers, authorities, civil and industry organizations, and the public. This further requires clear and informative communication processes, and open and continuous dialogues between all actors. Cross-discipline dialogues between researchers should focus on scientific quality and harmonization, defining and accurately communicating the state of knowledge, and prioritization of topics that are critical for both research and policy, with the common goal to establish and update action plans for holistic benefit. In Norway, cross-sectoral collaboration has been fundamental in supporting the national strategy to address plastic pollution. Researchers, stakeholders and the environmental authorities have come together to exchange knowledge, identify knowledge gaps, and set targeted and feasible measures to tackle one of the most challenging aspects of plastic pollution: microplastic. In this article, we present a Norwegian perspective on the state of knowledge on microplastic research efforts. Norway's involvement in international efforts to combat plastic pollution aims at serving as an example of how key actors can collaborate synergistically to share knowledge, address shortcomings, and outline ways forward to address environmental challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy L Lusher
- Norwegian Institute for Water Research (NIVA), Gaustadalléen 21, NO-0349 Oslo, Norway; Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, NO-5020 Bergen, Norway.
| | - Rachel Hurley
- Norwegian Institute for Water Research (NIVA), Gaustadalléen 21, NO-0349 Oslo, Norway
| | - Hans Peter H Arp
- Norwegian Geotechnical Institute (NGI), P.O. Box 3930 Ullevål Stadion, NO-0806 Oslo, Norway; Department of Chemistry, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Høgskoleringen 5, NO-7491 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Andy M Booth
- SINTEF Ocean, Brattørkaia 17 C, NO-7010 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Inger Lise N Bråte
- Norwegian Institute for Water Research (NIVA), Gaustadalléen 21, NO-0349 Oslo, Norway
| | - Geir W Gabrielsen
- Norwegian Polar Institute (NPI), Fram Centre, NO-9296 Tromsø, Norway
| | - Alessio Gomiero
- Norwegian Research Center (NORCE), Nygårdsporten 112, NO-5008 Bergen, Norway
| | - Tânia Gomes
- Norwegian Institute for Water Research (NIVA), Gaustadalléen 21, NO-0349 Oslo, Norway
| | - Bjørn Einar Grøsvik
- Institute of Marine Research (IMR), P.O. Box 1870 Nordnes, NO-5817 Bergen, Norway
| | - Norman Green
- Norwegian Institute for Water Research (NIVA), Gaustadalléen 21, NO-0349 Oslo, Norway
| | - Marte Haave
- Norwegian Research Center (NORCE), Nygårdsporten 112, NO-5008 Bergen, Norway; Department of Chemistry, University of Bergen, Allegaten 41, NO-5007 Bergen, Norway
| | | | | | - Dorte Herzke
- Norwegian Institute for Air Research (NILU), Fram Centre, NO-9296 Tromsø, Norway; Institute for Arctic and Marine Biology, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, N-9037 Tromsø, Norway
| | - Erik J Joner
- Norwegian Institute for Bioeconomy Research (NIBIO), Høyskoleveien 7, NO-1431 Ås, Norway
| | - Tanja Kögel
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Bergen, NO-5020 Bergen, Norway; Institute of Marine Research (IMR), P.O. Box 1870 Nordnes, NO-5817 Bergen, Norway
| | - Kirsten Rakkestad
- The Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food and Environment (VKM), P.O. Box 222 Skøyen, NO-0213 Oslo, Norway
| | - Sissel B Ranneklev
- Norwegian Institute for Water Research (NIVA), Gaustadalléen 21, NO-0349 Oslo, Norway
| | - Martin Wagner
- Department of Biology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Høgskoleringen 5, NO-7491 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Marianne Olsen
- Norwegian Institute for Water Research (NIVA), Gaustadalléen 21, NO-0349 Oslo, Norway
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Teixeira-Costa BE, Andrade CT. Chitosan as a Valuable Biomolecule from Seafood Industry Waste in the Design of Green Food Packaging. Biomolecules 2021; 11:1599. [PMID: 34827597 PMCID: PMC8615795 DOI: 10.3390/biom11111599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Revised: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Chitosan is a versatile biomolecule with a broad range of applications in food and pharmaceutical products. It can be obtained by the alkaline deacetylation of chitin. This biomolecule can be extracted using conventional or green methods from seafood industry residues, e.g., shrimp shells. Chitin has limited applications because of its low solubility in organic solvents. Chitosan is soluble in acidified solutions allowing its application in the food industry. Furthermore, biological properties, such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, as well as its biodegradability, biocompatibility and nontoxicity have contributed to its increasing application as active food packaging. Nevertheless, some physical and mechanical features have limited a broader range of applications of chitosan-based films. Green approaches may be used to address these limitations, leading to well-designed chitosan-based food packaging, by employing principles of a circular and sustainable economy. In this review, we summarize the properties of chitosan and present a novel green technology as an alternative to conventional chitin extraction and to design environmentally friendly food packaging based on chitosan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara E. Teixeira-Costa
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência de Alimentos, Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Avenida Moniz Aragão 360, Bloco 8G/CT2, Rio de Janeiro 21941-594, RJ, Brazil;
- Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Federal do Amazonas, Avenida General Rodrigo Otávio 6200, Manaus 69077-000, AM, Brazil
| | - Cristina T. Andrade
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciência de Alimentos, Instituto de Química, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Avenida Moniz Aragão 360, Bloco 8G/CT2, Rio de Janeiro 21941-594, RJ, Brazil;
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Abstract
The purpose of the presented research is to assess pro-environmental behaviour (PEB) in European Union countries in 2009 and 2019. The study used a synthetic measure developed using the TOPSIS (Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to an Ideal Solution) benchmark method. This method enables distinguishing classes and ranks of countries depending on the adopted characteristics. Basic measures of descriptive statistics, i.e., average, standard deviation and the coefficient of variation, were used in the analysis of the data set. The main research question addressed in this study concerns the relationship between the level of PEB and economic, demographic, and educational factors—not only on a micro scale but also from the macroeconomic perspective. The research has revealed a wide variety throughout the European Union (EU-27) countries in terms of pro-environmental behaviour. Sweden, Finland, and Denmark top the ranking, while Malta, Greece, Spain, and Romania are at the bottom of it. Northern European countries can therefore be identified as a group that represents a positive benchmark in terms of PEB across the European Union (EU-27). The correlation between PEB and selected economic, demographic, and education-related variables was also investigated. Country-level PEB is correlated with demographic and economic variables, but it is not correlated with education-related variables.
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Jędruchniewicz K, Ok YS, Oleszczuk P. COVID-19 discarded disposable gloves as a source and a vector of pollutants in the environment. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 417:125938. [PMID: 34010776 PMCID: PMC8076738 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.125938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
The appearance of the virus SARS-CoV-2 at the end of 2019 and its spreading all over the world has caused global panic and increase of personal protection equipment usage to protect people against infection. Increased usage of disposable protective gloves, their discarding to random spots and getting to landfills may result in significant environmental pollution. The knowledge concerning possible influence of gloves and potential of gloves debris on the environment (water, soil, etc.), wildlife and humans is crucial to predict future consequences of disposable gloves usage caused by the pandemic. This review focuses on the possibility of chemical release (heavy metals and organic pollutants) from gloves and gloves materials, their adsorptive properties in terms of contaminants accumulation and effects of gloves degradation under environmental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Jędruchniewicz
- Department of Radiochemistry and Environmental Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Lublin, Poland
| | - Yong Sik Ok
- Korea Biochar Research Center, APRU Sustainable Waste Management Program and Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Patryk Oleszczuk
- Department of Radiochemistry and Environmental Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Lublin, Poland.
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The Impact of Income Inequality on Subjective Environmental Pollution: Individual Evidence from China. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18158090. [PMID: 34360383 PMCID: PMC8345546 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18158090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Numerous studies have investigated the relationship between income inequality and objective environmental pollution, but few focus on the nexus between income inequality and subjective environmental pollution (SEP). Using micro data from the Chinese General Society Survey (CGSS) in 2013 and official statistical data at the provincial level, this paper tests the impact of individual-level income inequality on subjective environmental pollution in China. The results show that individual-level income inequality has an inverted U-shape relationship with subjective environmental pollution, which indicates that increasing the income inequality at the individual level will first rise and then reduce their perceived subjective environmental pollution after reaching the peak. For about 84% of respondents, their subjective environmental pollution decreases with the increase of individual-level income inequality. Furthermore, the heterogeneity analyses show that the income inequality of urban residents and of the locals have an inverted U-shape effect on SEP, and the SEP of females and of individuals with positive environmental attitude are more sensitive to the effect of income inequality. Additionally, we find that subjective well-being plays a mediating role in the relation between income inequality and SEP. Individual income inequality decreases their self-reported well-being, and an increase in well-being has a negative effect on their subjectively perceived environmental quality. We also find non-television media exposures, such as newspaper, magazine, broadcasting, Internet, and mobile custom messages, will amplify the effect of individual-level income inequality on subjective environmental pollution.
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Abstract
Plastic pollution accumulating in an area of the environment is considered "poorly reversible" if natural mineralization processes occurring there are slow and engineered remediation solutions are improbable. Should negative outcomes in these areas arise as a consequence of plastic pollution, they will be practically irreversible. Potential impacts from poorly reversible plastic pollution include changes to carbon and nutrient cycles; habitat changes within soils, sediments, and aquatic ecosystems; co-occurring biological impacts on endangered or keystone species; ecotoxicity; and related societal impacts. The rational response to the global threat posed by accumulating and poorly reversible plastic pollution is to rapidly reduce plastic emissions through reductions in consumption of virgin plastic materials, along with internationally coordinated strategies for waste management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew MacLeod
- Department of Environmental Science, Stockholm University, SE-106 91 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Hans Peter H Arp
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Norwegian Geotechnical Institute, NO-0806 Oslo, Norway. .,Department of Chemistry, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), NO-7491 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Mine B Tekman
- Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Bremerhaven, Germany.
| | - Annika Jahnke
- Department of Ecological Chemistry, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research-UFZ, DE-04107 Leipzig, Germany. .,Institute for Environmental Research, RWTH Aachen University, DE-52074 Aachen, Germany
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