1
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Ural-Janssen A, Kroeze C, Meers E, Strokal M. Large reductions in nutrient losses needed to avoid future coastal eutrophication across Europe. MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 197:106446. [PMID: 38518406 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2024.106446] [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: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024]
Abstract
Rapid technological development in agriculture and fast urbanization have increased nutrient losses in Europe. High nutrient export to seas causes coastal eutrophication and harmful algal blooms. This study aims to assess the river exports of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P), and identify required reductions to avoid coastal eutrophication in Europe under global change. We modelled nutrient export by 594 rivers in 2050 for a baseline scenario using the new MARINA-Nutrients model for Europe. Nutrient export to European seas is expected to increase by 13-28% under global change. Manure and fertilizers together contribute to river export of N by 35% in 2050. Sewage systems are responsible for 70% of future P export by rivers. By 2050, the top ten polluted rivers for N and P host 42% of the European population. Avoiding future coastal eutrophication requires over 47% less N and up to 77% less P exports by these polluted rivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aslıhan Ural-Janssen
- Earth Systems and Global Change Group, Wageningen University & Research, PO Box 47, 6700AA, Wageningen, the Netherlands; Laboratory of Bioresource Recovery (RE-SOURCE LAB), Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Carolien Kroeze
- Earth Systems and Global Change Group, Wageningen University & Research, PO Box 47, 6700AA, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Erik Meers
- Laboratory of Bioresource Recovery (RE-SOURCE LAB), Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Maryna Strokal
- Earth Systems and Global Change Group, Wageningen University & Research, PO Box 47, 6700AA, Wageningen, the Netherlands
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2
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Contreras E, Jurado-Ezqueta M, Pimentel R, Serrano L, Hidalgo C, Jiménez A, Polo MJ. Assessment of seasonal and annual patterns in phosphorus content in a monitored catchment through a partitioning approach based on hydrometeorological data. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 242:117501. [PMID: 37996003 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.117501] [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: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
High amounts of phosphorus (P) in rivers come mainly from two sources: fertilizers washed off from agricultural and urban areas by runoff water (non-point sources) and urban and industrial development which are translated in P discharges from wastewater treatment plants (WWTP). This work analyses the content of P in water for nearly 40 years inquiring into the origin of the sources, based on the hypothesis of runoff generation from the detection of river streamflow increases during the P contribution episode and the previous precipitation. For this purpose, the Guadaira River, which is located in the South of Spain and has a drainage surface of 1524 km2, was selected. In this watershed agricultural land use converges with numerous human activities resulting in high pressures on water quality. We found 40% of the P contribution episodes found seem to come from the runoff generated after the heaviest rainfall events, which normally occur between November and May. The remaining 60% of the P contribution episodes were found to be linked to point sources, which become more relevant from June to September, reaching the highest concentration values (6-17 mg/L). The results highlight that the target phosphate concentration value of 0.34 mg PO4/L imposed by the national legislation for a good state following the Water Framework Directive 2000/60/EC is exceeded by 96% of the measurements during the period from 1981 to 2022. On a monthly basis, PO4 loads showed a linear relationship with river streamflow (R2 = 0.94). However, on field measurements scale, a potential relationship between both variables was found, which changed according to the improvement in the wastewater treatment and facilities for 1982-1994, 1995-2017 and 2018-2022. In these three periods, different significant decreasing trends of the P content were found, mainly marked by the setup of each individual WWTP.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Contreras
- Fluvial Dynamics and Hydrology Research Group, Andalusian Institute for Earth System Research, University of Cordoba, Cordoba, Spain.
| | - M Jurado-Ezqueta
- Fluvial Dynamics and Hydrology Research Group, Andalusian Institute for Earth System Research, University of Cordoba, Cordoba, Spain.
| | - R Pimentel
- Fluvial Dynamics and Hydrology Research Group, Andalusian Institute for Earth System Research, University of Cordoba, Cordoba, Spain.
| | - L Serrano
- Plant Biology and Ecology Department, Faculty of Biology, University of Seville, Seville, Spain.
| | - C Hidalgo
- Physical, Chemical and Natural Systems Department, Pablo de Olavide University, Seville, Spain.
| | - A Jiménez
- Physical, Chemical and Natural Systems Department, Pablo de Olavide University, Seville, Spain.
| | - M J Polo
- Fluvial Dynamics and Hydrology Research Group, Andalusian Institute for Earth System Research, University of Cordoba, Cordoba, Spain.
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3
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Micella I, Kroeze C, Bak MP, Strokal M. Causes of coastal waters pollution with nutrients, chemicals and plastics worldwide. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 198:115902. [PMID: 38101060 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115902] [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: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
Worldwide, coastal waters contain pollutants such as nutrients, plastics, and chemicals. Rivers export those pollutants, but their sources are not well studied. Our study aims to quantify river exports of nutrients, chemicals, and plastics to coastal waters by source and sub-basin worldwide. We developed a new MARINA-Multi model for 10,226 sub-basins. The global modelled river export to seas is approximately 40,000 kton of nitrogen, 1,800 kton of phosphorous, 45 kton of microplastics, 490 kton of macroplastics, 400 ton of triclosan and 220 ton of diclofenac. Around three-quarters of these pollutants are transported to the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. Diffuse sources contribute by 95-100 % to nitrogen (agriculture) and macroplastics (mismanaged waste) in seas. Point sources (sewage) contribute by 40-95 % to phosphorus and microplastics in seas. Almost 45 % of global sub-basin areas are multi-pollutant hotspots hosting 89 % of the global population. Our findings could support strategies for reducing multiple pollutants in seas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Micella
- Water Systems and Global Change Group, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Carolien Kroeze
- Environmental Systems Analysis Group, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Mirjam P Bak
- Water Systems and Global Change Group, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Maryna Strokal
- Water Systems and Global Change Group, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands
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4
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Soana E, Gavioli A, Neri F, Castaldelli G. Looking back to move forward: Restoring vegetated canals to meet missing Water Framework Directive goals in agricultural basins. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 905:167331. [PMID: 37748619 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167331] [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: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
Nitrate pollution and eutrophication remain pressing issues in Europe regarding the quality of aquatic ecosystems and the safety of drinking water. Achieving water quality goals under the Water Framework Directive (WFD) has proven to be particularly challenging in agricultural catchments, where high nitrate concentrations are the main reason for the failure of many water bodies to meet a good ecological status. Canals and ditches are common man-made features of irrigated and drained landscapes and, when vegetated, have recently been identified as denitrification hotspots. By combining experimental data and GIS-based upscaling estimation, the potential capacity of the canal network to reduce nitrate loads was quantified in several scenarios differing in the level of nitrate pollution and in the extent of the canal network length where conservative management practices are implemented. The analysis was carried out in the irrigated lowlands of the Po River basin, which is the largest hydrographic system in Italy and a global hotspot for nitrogen inputs and eutrophication. Scenario simulations showed that maintaining aquatic vegetation in at least 25 % of the canal network length, selecting sites with high nitrate availability (>2.4 mg N L-1), would promote a greater potential for permanent N removal. The increased denitrification capacity would meet the load reduction target required to achieve a WFD good ecological status in waters draining into the Adriatic Sea during the spring-summer months, when the eutrophication risk is higher. Promoting denitrification in the canal network by postponing the mowing of in-stream vegetation to the end of the growing season could be an effective mitigation strategy to improve water quality in agricultural basins and contribute to achieving the WFD goals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Soana
- Department of Environmental and Prevention Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Anna Gavioli
- Department of Environmental and Prevention Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Federica Neri
- Ferrara Plain Reclamation Consortium, Via Borgo dei Leoni, 28, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Castaldelli
- Department of Environmental and Prevention Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via Luigi Borsari 46, 44121 Ferrara, Italy
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5
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Erşahin S, Bilgili BC. Nitrates in Turkish waters: sources, mechanisms, impacts, and mitigation. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:95250-95271. [PMID: 37603251 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-29202-4] [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: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
Intensive technological developments, rapid population growth and urbanization, and excessive use of nitrogen fertilizers have caused water resources to be contaminated substantially by nitrates in Turkey. The accumulated information should be evaluated to draw a nationwide attention to the problem. The aim of this review article was to highlight the importance of nitrate (NO3) contamination and to discuss the measures to be taken to mitigate the contamination across the nation. Agriculture, especially chemical fertilizers used in irrigated agriculture, was the most important source of NO3 in groundwater. Also, the industrial and domestic discharges substantially contributed to NO3 in both groundwater and surface waters in many cases. The most severe and widespread groundwater (e.g., 344 mg NO3 L-1 in İzmir, 476 mg L-1 in Afyon, 477 mg L-1 in Antalya, and 948.0 mg L-1 in Konya) and surface water contaminations (e.g., 293.8 mg NO3 L-1 in İzmir, 63.3 mg L-1 in Eskişehir, 89.8 mg L-1 in Edirne, and 90.6 mg L-1 in Sakarya) occurred in the regions where intensive agriculture, industrial development, and rapid urbanization were clustered. Well-established irrigation and fertilizer management plans are critical for reducing fertilizer-related NO3 contaminations in the irrigated agriculture. Special attention should be given to the regions where industrially and domestically contaminated running water bodies are in contact with groundwater. Discharge of wastewaters to the streams, creeks, rivers, and lakes should be prevented. Well-designed studies are needed to evaluate potential health effects, including the risk of cancer, of NO3 in drinking water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabit Erşahin
- Department of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition, Faculty of Agriculture, Iğdır University, 76000, Iğdır, Turkey.
| | - Bayram C Bilgili
- Department of Landscape Planning, Faculty of Forestry, Çankırı Karatekin University, 18200, Çankırı, Turkey
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6
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Plunge S, Gudas M, Povilaitis A, Piniewski M. Evaluation of the costs of agricultural diffuse water pollution abatement in the context of Lithuania's water protection goals and climate change. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 71:755-772. [PMID: 36369297 PMCID: PMC10017570 DOI: 10.1007/s00267-022-01745-1] [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: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed at evaluating the scale and costs of an environmentally and economically optimal set of Best Management Practices (BMPs) for agricultural pollution abatement in Lithuania in order to reach water protection goals in both inland and marine waters by distributing BMPs optimally in space, while taking climate change impacts into consideration. The assessment of BMPs impact involved the use of the SWAT model by applying two climate change representative concentration pathways (RCP4.5 and RCP8.5) and two time horizons (mid-century and end-century), as well as five BMPs (arable land conversion to grasslands, reduced fertilization, no-till farming, catch-crops, and stubble fields throughout winter). The optimization of the set of BMPs employed a genetic algorithm. The results suggest that the need for BMPs application will increase from 52% of agricultural areas in the historical period up to 65% by the end of century in the RCP8.5 scenario. This means less arable land could actually be used for crop production in the future if water protection targets are met. The high costs for reaching water targets would rise even more, i.e. by 173% for RCP4.5, and by 220% for the RCP8.5 scenario, reaching approximately 200 million euros/year. In such a context, the BMP optimization approach is essential for significant reduction of the costs. Winter cover crops and reduced fertilization show the best effectiveness and cost balance, and will therefore be essential in pursuing water protection targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Svajunas Plunge
- Department of Hydrology, Meteorology and Water Resources, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Nowoursynowska st. 159, Warsaw, 02-776, Poland.
- Institute of Water Resources Engineering, Vytautas Magnus University, Universiteto st. 10, Kaunas district, Akademija, LT-53361, Lithuania.
| | - Mindaugas Gudas
- Hydrographical Network Division, Environmental Protection Agency, Juozapaviciaus st. 9, Vilnius, LT-09311, Lithuania
| | - Arvydas Povilaitis
- Institute of Water Resources Engineering, Vytautas Magnus University, Universiteto st. 10, Kaunas district, Akademija, LT-53361, Lithuania
| | - Mikołaj Piniewski
- Department of Hydrology, Meteorology and Water Resources, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Nowoursynowska st. 159, Warsaw, 02-776, Poland
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Vigiak O, Udías A, Grizzetti B, Zanni M, Aloe A, Weiss F, Hristov J, Bisselink B, de Roo A, Pistocchi A. Recent regional changes in nutrient fluxes of European surface waters. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 858:160063. [PMID: 36368390 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.160063] [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: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
We have quantified inputs and fate of nutrients in European fresh and marine waters from 1990 to 2018. We have used the conceptual model GREEN to assess the impact of efforts on curbing nutrient pollution in European regions. In the first two decades, i.e. in the 1990s and through the start of the new millennium, nutrient inputs to waters decreased significantly. Nutrient pollution in freshwaters and to the sea largely reduced in all regions, although at different pace. However, around 2008-2010 trends in nutrient inputs changed, marking an increase in the last decade, particularly from agricultural diffuse sources. In some regions, current nutrient inputs to waters are close to those estimated at the beginning of the 1990s. At the end of the study period, nutrient concentrations in freshwaters remain above thresholds congruent with good ecological status of water bodies in most downstream reaches. European policies tackling point sources are close to reach their maximum impact. In the face of this approaching ceiling, sustainable nutrient management on agricultural land becomes pivotal for effective nutrient control in river basins. The regional approach highlighted differences across Europe that may provide tailored opportunities to plan effective strategies for achieving environmental targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Vigiak
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), via E Fermi 2749, 21020 Ispra, VA, Italy.
| | - Angel Udías
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), via E Fermi 2749, 21020 Ispra, VA, Italy; Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, 28933 Mostoles, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Bruna Grizzetti
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), via E Fermi 2749, 21020 Ispra, VA, Italy.
| | - Michela Zanni
- ARHS Developments Italia S.r.l., Via F.lli Gabba 1/A, 20121 Milano, Italy.
| | - Alberto Aloe
- ARHS Developments, 13 Boulevard du Jazz, L-4370 Belvaux, Luxembourg.
| | - Franz Weiss
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), via E Fermi 2749, 21020 Ispra, VA, Italy.
| | - Jordan Hristov
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), via E Fermi 2749, 21020 Ispra, VA, Italy.
| | - Berny Bisselink
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), via E Fermi 2749, 21020 Ispra, VA, Italy.
| | - Ad de Roo
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), via E Fermi 2749, 21020 Ispra, VA, Italy.
| | - Alberto Pistocchi
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), via E Fermi 2749, 21020 Ispra, VA, Italy.
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8
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Yan X, Garnier J, Billen G, Wang S, Thieu V. Unravelling nutrient fate and CO 2 concentrations in the reservoirs of the Seine Basin using a modelling approach. WATER RESEARCH 2022; 225:119135. [PMID: 36155003 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2022.119135] [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: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Reservoirs are active reactors for the biogeochemical cycling of carbon (C) and nutrients (nitrogen: N, phosphorus: P, and silica: Si), however, our in-depth understanding of C and nutrient cycling in reservoirs is still limited by the fact that it involves a variety of closely linked and coupled biogeochemical and hydrological processes. In this study, the updated process-based Barman model was applied to three reservoirs of the Seine Basin during 2019-2020, considering the variations of carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations and key water quality variables. The model simulations captured well the observed seasonal variations of water quality variables, although discrepancies remained for some variables. According to the model, we found that: (1) the three reservoirs are autotrophic ecosystems and showed high removal efficiency of dissolved inorganic carbon and nutrients during 2019-2020; (2) phytoplankton assimilation, benthic denitrification, precipitation and dissolution of calcium carbonate, and gas exchange at the water-air interface are the dominant processes for water quality variations in reservoirs; (3) based on scenarios results, trophic state and mean water depth of reservoir would impact the biogeochemical processes and the retention efficiency of nitrate and dissolved silicate. Finally, we expect that the successful application of Barman model in the reservoirs of the Seine Basin could provide a useful tool for simulating reservoir water quality changes and thus evaluating the impacts of reservoirs on downstream water quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingcheng Yan
- CNRS, EPHE, UMR 7619 METIS, Sorbonne Université, 4 Place Jussieu, Box 105, Paris 75005, France; Center for Eco-Environmental Research, Nanjing Hydraulic Research Institute, Nanjing 210029, China.
| | - Josette Garnier
- CNRS, EPHE, UMR 7619 METIS, Sorbonne Université, 4 Place Jussieu, Box 105, Paris 75005, France
| | - Gilles Billen
- CNRS, EPHE, UMR 7619 METIS, Sorbonne Université, 4 Place Jussieu, Box 105, Paris 75005, France
| | - Shuaitao Wang
- CNRS, EPHE, UMR 7619 METIS, Sorbonne Université, 4 Place Jussieu, Box 105, Paris 75005, France
| | - Vincent Thieu
- CNRS, EPHE, UMR 7619 METIS, Sorbonne Université, 4 Place Jussieu, Box 105, Paris 75005, France
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9
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Chen X, Wang Z, Muneer MA, Ma C, He D, White PJ, Li C, Zhang F. Short planks in the crop nutrient barrel theory of China are changing: Evidence from 15 crops in 13 provinces. Food Energy Secur 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/fes3.389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohui Chen
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, National Academy of Agriculture Green Development, Key Laboratory of Plant‐Soil Interactions, Ministry of Education China Agricultural University Beijing China
- International Magnesium Institute Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University Fuzhou China
| | - Zheng Wang
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, National Academy of Agriculture Green Development, Key Laboratory of Plant‐Soil Interactions, Ministry of Education China Agricultural University Beijing China
- International Magnesium Institute Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University Fuzhou China
| | - Muhammad Atif Muneer
- International Magnesium Institute Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University Fuzhou China
| | - Changcheng Ma
- International Magnesium Institute Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University Fuzhou China
| | - Dongdong He
- International Magnesium Institute Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University Fuzhou China
| | - Philip J. White
- Distinguished Scientist Fellowship Program King Saud University Riyadh Saudi Arabia
- National Key Laboratory of Crop Genetic Improvement Huazhong Agricultural University Wuhan China
| | - Chunjian Li
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, National Academy of Agriculture Green Development, Key Laboratory of Plant‐Soil Interactions, Ministry of Education China Agricultural University Beijing China
- International Magnesium Institute Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University Fuzhou China
| | - Fusuo Zhang
- College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, National Academy of Agriculture Green Development, Key Laboratory of Plant‐Soil Interactions, Ministry of Education China Agricultural University Beijing China
- International Magnesium Institute Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University Fuzhou China
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10
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Krause G, Le Vay L, Buck BH, Costa-Pierce BA, Dewhurst T, Heasman KG, Nevejan N, Nielsen P, Nielsen KN, Park K, Schupp MF, Thomas JB, Troell M, Webb J, Wrange AL, Ziegler F, Strand Å. Prospects of Low Trophic Marine Aquaculture Contributing to Food Security in a Net Zero-Carbon World. FRONTIERS IN SUSTAINABLE FOOD SYSTEMS 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fsufs.2022.875509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
To limit compromising the integrity of the planet, a shift is needed towards food production with low environmental impacts and low carbon footprint. How to put such transformative change towards sustainable food production whilst ensuring food security into practice remains a challenge and will require transdisciplinary approaches. Combining expertise from natural- and social sciences as well as industry perspectives, an alternative vision for the future in the marine realm is proposed. This vision includes moving towards aquaculture mainly of low trophic marine (LTM) species. Such shift may enable a blue transformation that can support a sustainable blue economy. It includes a whole new perspective and proactive development of policy-making which considers, among others, the context-specific nature of allocation of marine space and societal acceptance of new developments, over and above the decarbonization of food production, vis á vis reducing regulatory barriers for the industry for LTM whilst acknowledging the complexities of upscaling and outscaling. This needs to be supported by transdisciplinary research co-produced with consumers and wider public, as a blue transformation towards accelerating LTM aquaculture opportunities in a net zero-carbon world can only occur by considering the demands of society.
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11
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Strokal V, Kuiper EJ, Bak MP, Vriend P, Wang M, van Wijnen J, Strokal M. Future microplastics in the Black Sea: River exports and reduction options for zero pollution. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 178:113633. [PMID: 35398693 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2021] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The Black Sea receives increasing amounts of microplastics from rivers. In this study, we explore options to reduce future river export of microplastics to the Black Sea. We develop five scenarios with different reduction options and implement them to a Model to Assess River Inputs of pollutaNts to seA (MARINA-Global) for 107 sub-basins. Today, European rivers draining into the Black Sea export over half of the total microplastics. In 2050, Asian rivers draining into the sea will be responsible for 34-46% of microplastic pollution. Implemented advanced treatment will reduce point-source pollution. Reduced consumption or more collection of plastics will reduce 40% of microplastics in the sea by 2050. In the optimistic future, sea pollution is 84% lower than today when the abovementioned reduction options are combined. Reduction options affect the share of pollution sources. Our insights could support environmental policies for a zero pollution future of the Black Sea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vita Strokal
- The National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Eke J Kuiper
- Water Systems and Global Change, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands; Independent researcher, The Netherlands
| | - Mirjam P Bak
- Water Systems and Global Change, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Paul Vriend
- Water Systems and Global Change, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands; Independent researcher, The Netherlands
| | - Mengru Wang
- Water Systems and Global Change, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Jikke van Wijnen
- Open Universiteit, Faculty of Science - Environmental Sciences Department, Heerlen, the Netherlands
| | - Maryna Strokal
- Water Systems and Global Change, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, the Netherlands.
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12
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Inácio M, Karnauskaitė D, Gomes E, Barceló D, Pereira P. Mapping and assessment of future changes in the coastal and marine ecosystem services supply in Lithuania. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 812:152586. [PMID: 34954181 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.152586] [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: 11/01/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Assessing and mapping ecosystem services (ES) became an integral part of coastal and marine management practices. Hence, quantitative and validated approaches are lacking, especially to address future conditions. The objective of this study is to apply further existing and develop new methodological frameworks to quantitatively assess and map the current and future supply of 3 ES in the coastal zone of Lithuania: coastal flood protection, nutrient regulation, and maintenance of nursery conditions. For coastal flood ES modelling, 2 time periods (1990 and 2018) and 4 scenarios (A0, A1 A2, A3 - based on future socio-economic changes in Lithuania) were analysed. The coastal flood protection ES model was validated (r2 = 0.30) using tree cover density. The results showed spatial differences among the analysed periods but no statistical differences. High supply areas are located in the southern coastal area, while the central part displays a low supply. For nutrient regulation and maintenance of nursery conditions, 7 time periods were analysed: a historical period and 6 scenarios based on Representative Concentration Pathway 4.5 and 8.5 and 3 Shared Socioeconomic Pathways. The nutrient regulation ES model was validated (r2 = 0.85) using in situ nutrient. Statistical differences were observed for this ES, but a similar spatial distribution of high and low supply areas. A decrease in the supply was observed comparing the historical period and future scenarios. Maintenance of nursery conditions was validated (r2 = 0.72) based on the protection status of the coastal zone. Results show no statistical differences and similar spatial patterns among the periods. Rocky and sandbank areas show a high supply for this ES. Limitations of our work are mainly related to the resolution of the utilised indicators. Nevertheless, the information obtained from our models can support spatial planning and decision-making processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Inácio
- Environmental Management Laboratory, Mykolas Romeris University, Vilnius, Lithuania.
| | - Donalda Karnauskaitė
- Environmental Management Laboratory, Mykolas Romeris University, Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Eduardo Gomes
- Environmental Management Laboratory, Mykolas Romeris University, Vilnius, Lithuania; Centre for Geographical Studies, Institute of Geography and Spatial Planning, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Damià Barceló
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC), Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain; Catalan Institute for Water Research (ICRA-CERCA), Girona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Paulo Pereira
- Environmental Management Laboratory, Mykolas Romeris University, Vilnius, Lithuania
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Constructed Wetlands to Face Water Scarcity and Water Pollution Risks: Learning from Farmers’ Perception in Alicante, Spain. WATER 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/w13172431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Treated wastewater is constantly produced and relatively unaffected by climatic conditions, while Constructed Wetlands (CWs) are recognized as green technology and a cost-effective alternative to improve treated wastewater quality standards. This paper analyses how farmers consider (1) treated wastewater to face water scarcity risk and (2) CW as mechanisms to face agricultural water pollution in a climate change adaptation context. A survey about climate change perception and adaptation measures was answered by 177 farmers from two irrigation communities near El Hondo coastal wetland and the Santa Pola saltmarshes, both perceived as natural-constructed systems in Alicante, southern Spain. Results highlighted how, even with poor-quality standards, treated wastewater is considered a non-riskier measure and more reliable option when addressing climate change impacts. Overall, physical water harvesting (such as CWs) is the favorite choice when investing in water technologies, being perceived as the best option for users of treated wastewater and those concerned about water quality standards. Consequently, CWs were recognized as mechanisms to increase water supply and reduce water pollution. Policy-makers and water managers can use these learnings from farmers’ experience to identify the main barriers and benefits of using treated wastewater and CWs to address water scarcity and water pollution risks.
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14
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Agricultural Water Management Using Two-Stage Channels: Performance and Policy Recommendations Based on Northern European Experiences. SUSTAINABILITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/su13169349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Conventional dredging of ditches and streams to ensure agricultural drainage and flood mitigation can have severe environmental impacts. The aim of this paper is to investigate the potential benefits of an alternative, nature-based two-stage channel (TSC) design with floodplains excavated along the main channel. Through a literature survey, investigations at Finnish field sites and expert interviews, we assessed the performance, costs, and monetary environmental benefits of TSCs in comparison to conventional dredging, as well as the bottlenecks in their financing and governance. We found evidence supporting the expected longer-term functioning of drainage as well as larger plant and fish biodiversity in TSCs compared to conventional dredging. The TSC design likely improves water quality since the floodplains retain suspended sediment and phosphorus and remove nitrogen. In the investigated case, the additional value of phosphorus retention and conservation of protected species through the TSC design was 2.4 times higher than the total costs. We demonstrate how TSCs can be made eligible for the obligatory vegetated riparian buffer of the European Union agri-environmental subsidy scheme (CAP-AES) by optimising their spatial application with respect to other buffer measures, and recommend to publicly finance their additional costs compared to conventional dredging at priority sites. Further studies on biodiversity impacts and long-term performance of two-stage channels are required.
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