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Santos VS, Vidal C, Bisinoti MC, Moreira AB, Montagner CC. Integrated occurrence of contaminants of emerging concern, including microplastics, in urban and agricultural watersheds in the State of São Paulo, Brazil. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 932:173025. [PMID: 38723955 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173025] [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: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
Contaminants of emerging concern (CECs), including microplastics, have been the focus of many studies due to their environmental impact, affecting biota and human health. The diverse land uses and occupation of watersheds are important parameters driving the occurrence of these contaminants. CECs such as pesticides, drugs, hormones, and industrial-origin substances were analyzed in urban/industrial (Atibaia) and agricultural (Preto/Turvo) watersheds located in São Paulo state, Brazil. A total of 24 CECs were investigated, and, as a result, only 5 (caffeine, carbendazim, atrazine, ametrine and 2-hydroxytrazine) were responsible for 81.73 % of the statistical difference between watersheds contamination profile. The Atibaia watershed presented considerable concentrations of caffeine (ranging from 75 to 2025 ng L-1), while carbendazim (44 to 1144 ng L-1) and atrazine (3 to 266 ng L-1) presented highest levels in Preto/Turvo watershed. In all sampling points, the cumulative potential aquatic life risk assessed by the NORMAN database indicates some level of environmental concern associated to pesticides and caffeine (risk quotient >1). Microplastics had been analyzed in both watersheds, being the white/transparent fragments in size between 100 and 250 μm the most detected in this study. The estimated abundance in the Atibaia watershed ranged from 349 to 2898 items m-3 presenting some influence of pluviosity, while in Rio Preto/Turvo ranged from 169 to 6370 items m-3, being more abundant in the dam area without a clear influence of pluviosity. In both basins, polyethylene and polypropylene were the most detected polymers, probably due to the intense use of single-use plastics in urban areas. Possibly, due to the distinct physic-chemical properties of microplastics and organic CECs, no correlations were observed between their occurrence, which makes us conclude that they have different transport mechanism, behavior, and fate in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vinicius S Santos
- University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Institute of Chemistry, Campinas, SP 13083-970, Brazil
| | - Cristiane Vidal
- University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Institute of Chemistry, Campinas, SP 13083-970, Brazil
| | - Marcia C Bisinoti
- São Paulo State University, Department of Chemistry and Environmental Sciences, São José do Rio Preto, SP 15054-000, Brazil
| | - Altair B Moreira
- São Paulo State University, Department of Chemistry and Environmental Sciences, São José do Rio Preto, SP 15054-000, Brazil
| | - Cassiana C Montagner
- University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Institute of Chemistry, Campinas, SP 13083-970, Brazil.
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Hossain S, Shukri ZNA, Waiho K, Ibrahim YS, Kamaruzzan AS, Rahim AIA, Draman AS, Wahab W, Khatoon H, Kasan NA. Biodegradation of polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polystyrene (PS) microplastics by floc-forming bacteria, Bacillus cereus strain SHBF2, isolated from a commercial aquafarm. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:32225-32245. [PMID: 38644425 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-33337-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
The ubiquitous proximity of the commonly used microplastic (MP) particles particularly polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polystyrene (PS) poses a serious threat to the environment and human health globally. Biological treatment as an environment-friendly approach to counter MP pollution has recent interest when the bio-agent has beneficial functions in their ecosystem. This study aimed to utilize beneficial floc-forming bacteria Bacillus cereus SHBF2 isolated from an aquaculture farm in reducing the MP particles (PE, PP, and PS) from their environment. The bacteria were inoculated for 60 days in a medium containing MP particle as a sole carbon source. On different days of incubation (DOI), the bacterial growth analysis was monitored and the MP particles were harvested to examine their weight loss, surface changes, and alterations in chemical properties. After 60 DOI, the highest weight loss was recorded for PE, 6.87 ± 0.92%, which was further evaluated to daily reduction rate (k), 0.00118 day-1, and half-life (t1/2), 605.08 ± 138.52 days. The OD value (1.74 ± 0.008 Abs.) indicated the higher efficiency of bacteria for PP utilization, and so for the colony formation per define volume (1.04 × 1011 CFU/mL). Biofilm formation, erosions, cracks, and fragments were evident during the observation of the tested MPs using the scanning electron microscope (SEM). The formation of carbonyl and alcohol group due to the oxidation and hydrolysis by SHBF2 strain were confirmed using the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic (FTIR) analysis. Additionally, the alterations of pH and CO2 evolution from each of the MP type ensures the bacterial activity and mineralization of the MP particles. The findings of this study have confirmed and indicated a higher degree of biodegradation for all of the selected MP particles. B. cereus SHBF2, the floc-forming bacteria used in aquaculture, has demonstrated a great potential for use as an efficient MP-degrading bacterium in the biofloc farming system in the near future to guarantee a sustainable green aquaculture production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahadat Hossain
- Higher Institution Centre of Excellence (HICoE), Institute of Tropical Aquaculture and Fisheries, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Zuhayra Nasrin Ahmad Shukri
- Higher Institution Centre of Excellence (HICoE), Institute of Tropical Aquaculture and Fisheries, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Khor Waiho
- Higher Institution Centre of Excellence (HICoE), Institute of Tropical Aquaculture and Fisheries, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Yusof Shuaib Ibrahim
- Microplastic Research Interest Group (MRIG), Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Amyra Suryatie Kamaruzzan
- Higher Institution Centre of Excellence (HICoE), Institute of Tropical Aquaculture and Fisheries, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Ahmad Ideris Abdul Rahim
- Higher Institution Centre of Excellence (HICoE), Institute of Tropical Aquaculture and Fisheries, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Ahmad Shuhaimi Draman
- Higher Institution Centre of Excellence (HICoE), Institute of Tropical Aquaculture and Fisheries, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Wahidah Wahab
- Higher Institution Centre of Excellence (HICoE), Institute of Tropical Aquaculture and Fisheries, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Helena Khatoon
- Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chattogram, 4225, Bangladesh
| | - Nor Azman Kasan
- Higher Institution Centre of Excellence (HICoE), Institute of Tropical Aquaculture and Fisheries, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia.
- Microplastic Research Interest Group (MRIG), Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030 Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia.
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3
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Ferheen I, Spurio R, Marcheggiani S. Emerging Issues on Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria Colonizing Plastic Waste in Aquatic Ecosystems. Antibiotics (Basel) 2024; 13:339. [PMID: 38667014 PMCID: PMC11047579 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics13040339] [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: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 03/31/2024] [Accepted: 04/07/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB) adhesion onto plastic substrates is a potential threat to environmental and human health. This current research investigates the prevalence of two relevant human pathogens, Staphylococcus spp. and Klebsiella spp., and their sophisticated equipment of antibiotic-resistant genes (ARGs), retrieved from plastic substrates submerged into an inland water body. The results of microbiological analysis on selective and chromogenic media revealed the presence of colonies with distinctive phenotypes, which were identified using biochemical and molecular methods. 16S rDNA sequencing and BLAST analysis confirmed the presence of Klebsiella spp., while in the case of Staphylococcus spp., 63.6% of strains were found to be members of Lysinibacillus spp., and the remaining 36.3% were identified as Exiguobacterium acetylicum. The Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion assay was performed to test the susceptibility of the isolates to nine commercially available antibiotics, while the genotypic resistant profile was determined for two genes of class 1 integrons and eighteen ARGs belonging to different classes of antibiotics. All isolated bacteria displayed a high prevalence of resistance against all tested antibiotics. These findings provide insights into the emerging risks linked to colonization by potential human opportunistic pathogens on plastic waste commonly found in aquatic ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ifra Ferheen
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (I.F.); (R.S.)
| | - Roberto Spurio
- School of Biosciences and Veterinary Medicine, University of Camerino, 62032 Camerino, Italy; (I.F.); (R.S.)
| | - Stefania Marcheggiani
- Department of Environment and Primary Prevention, National Institute of Health, 00161 Rome, Italy
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4
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Hamdani SS, Elkholy HM, Alford A, Jackson K, Naveed M, Wyman I, Wang Y, Li K, Haider SW, Rabnawaz M. Synthesis of Water-Dispersible Poly(dimethylsiloxane) and Its Potential Application in the Paper Coating Industry as an Alternative for PFAS-Coated Paper and Single-Use Plastics. Polymers (Basel) 2024; 16:1006. [PMID: 38611264 PMCID: PMC11014279 DOI: 10.3390/polym16071006] [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: 03/02/2024] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Polyethylene-, polyvinylidene chloride-, and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance-coated paper generate microplastics or fluorochemicals in the environment. Here, we report an approach for the development of oil-resistant papers using an environmentally friendly, fluorine-free, water-dispersible poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) coating on kraft paper. Carboxylic-functionalized PDMS (PDMS-COOH) was synthesized and subsequently neutralized with ammonium bicarbonate to obtain a waterborne emulsion, which was then coated onto kraft paper. The water resistance of the coated paper was determined via Cobb60 measurements. The Cobb60 value was reduced to 2.70 ± 0.14 g/m2 as compared to 87.6 ± 5.1 g/m2 for uncoated paper, suggesting a remarkable improvement in water resistance. Similarly, oil resistance was found to be 12/12 on the kit test scale versus 0/12 for uncoated paper. In addition, the coated paper retained 70-90% of its inherent mechanical properties, and more importantly, the coated paper was recycled via pulp recovery using a standard protocol with a 91.1% yield.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syeda Shamila Hamdani
- School of Packaging, Michigan State University, 448 Wilson Road, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (S.S.H.); (H.M.E.)
| | - Hazem M. Elkholy
- School of Packaging, Michigan State University, 448 Wilson Road, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (S.S.H.); (H.M.E.)
| | - Alexandra Alford
- School of Packaging, Michigan State University, 448 Wilson Road, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (S.S.H.); (H.M.E.)
| | - Kang Jackson
- School of Packaging, Michigan State University, 448 Wilson Road, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (S.S.H.); (H.M.E.)
| | - Muhammad Naveed
- School of Packaging, Michigan State University, 448 Wilson Road, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (S.S.H.); (H.M.E.)
| | - Ian Wyman
- School of Packaging, Michigan State University, 448 Wilson Road, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (S.S.H.); (H.M.E.)
| | - Yun Wang
- Department of Chemical and Paper Engineering, Western Michigan University, 1903 W, Michigan Avenue, Kalamazoo, MI 49008, USA
| | - Kecheng Li
- Department of Chemical and Paper Engineering, Western Michigan University, 1903 W, Michigan Avenue, Kalamazoo, MI 49008, USA
| | - Syed W. Haider
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Muhammad Rabnawaz
- School of Packaging, Michigan State University, 448 Wilson Road, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; (S.S.H.); (H.M.E.)
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5
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Rumi SS, Liyanage S, Zhang Z, Abidi N. Upcycling Low-Quality Cotton Fibers into Mulch Gel Films in a Fast Closed Carbon Cycle. Gels 2024; 10:218. [PMID: 38667637 PMCID: PMC11049410 DOI: 10.3390/gels10040218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Low-quality cotton fibers, often overlooked as low-value materials, constitute a marginalized waste stream in the cotton industry. This study endeavored to repurpose these fibers into mulch gel films, specifically exploring their efficacy in covering moisture-controlled soil beds. Through a meticulously designed series of processing methods, cellulose/glycerol film was successfully fabricated by regenerating cellulose hydrogels in N,N-dimethylacetamide/lithium chloride solutions, followed by plasticization in glycerol/water solutions and hot pressing. The film was then employed to cover soil beds for a duration of up to 252 days, followed by soil burial assessments. Despite expectations of degradation, the film maintained structural integrity throughout the soil covering period but underwent complete biodegradation after 80 days of soil burial, thereby completing a closed carbon cycle. Intriguingly, both tensile strength and modulus exhibited no diminishment but instead increased after soil covering, contrary to expectations given the usual role of degradation. Mechanistic insights revealed that the removal of glycerol contributed to the mechanical enhancement, while microbial activity predominately decomposed the amorphous regions in soil covering and targeted the crystalline portions in soil burial, elucidating the main biodegradation mechanisms. In summary, this study presents, for the first time, the potential of upcycling low-quality cotton fibers into high-value mulch gel films for agricultural practices within a closed carbon cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Zhen Zhang
- Department of Plant and Soil Science, Fiber and Biopolymer Research Institute, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA; (S.S.R.); (S.L.)
| | - Noureddine Abidi
- Department of Plant and Soil Science, Fiber and Biopolymer Research Institute, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, USA; (S.S.R.); (S.L.)
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6
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Hasan MM, Rasul MG, Jahirul MI, Sattar MA. An Aspen plus process simulation model for exploring the feasibility and profitability of pyrolysis process for plastic waste management. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 355:120557. [PMID: 38460332 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.120557] [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: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/11/2024]
Abstract
Plastics, integral to various human activities, have led to a surge in production, posing substantial challenges in waste management. The persistent non-biodegradability of plastics, taking over a century to decompose, necessitates exploration into technologies for their conversion into sustainable fuels. Pyrolysis, an oxygen-free thermal decomposition process, emerges as a promising avenue for producing liquid fuels from plastic waste. This study's primary objective is to create and validate an Aspen Plus simulation model, enabling techno-economic evaluation and sensitivity analysis of pyrolysis for converting waste plastics into liquid fuels. Critical parameters-temperature, retention time, and particle size-are examined for their impact on product yield and quality. The methodology involves model development, validation, and subsequent simulations with various waste plastic types under different pyrolysis conditions. Experimental investigation using waste high-density polyethylene (HDPE) in an auger reactor yielded an oil yield of 61.29%, char yield of 10.98%, and syngas yield of 27.73% at 525 °C. Post-validation against this data, the model explored four plastic types, revealing significant influences of plastic type and reactor temperature on product yields. Polystyrene (PS) at 500 °C produced the highest oil content at 83.69%, with temperature affecting yield before secondary cracking. Techno-economic evaluation for a pyrolysis plant processing 10,000 tons of waste HDPE annually indicated a minimum selling price (MSP) of $302.50/ton, a net present value (NPV) of $12,594,659.7, and a 1.03-year payback period. This study provides crucial insights for designing an economically viable and sustainable pyrolysis process, guiding further research and industrial implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- M M Hasan
- Fuel and Energy Research Group, School of Engineering and Technology, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton, Queensland, 4701, Australia.
| | - M G Rasul
- Fuel and Energy Research Group, School of Engineering and Technology, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton, Queensland, 4701, Australia
| | - M I Jahirul
- Fuel and Energy Research Group, School of Engineering and Technology, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton, Queensland, 4701, Australia
| | - M A Sattar
- Fuel and Energy Research Group, School of Engineering and Technology, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton, Queensland, 4701, Australia; Engineering School, Chisholm Institute, 121 Stud Road, Dandenong, Victoria, 3175, Australia
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7
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Thirumalaivasan N, Mahapatra S, Ramanathan G, Kumar A, Raja T, Muthuramamoorthy M, Pandit B, Pandiaraj S, Prakash S. Exploring antimicrobial and biocompatible applications of eco-friendly fluorescent carbon dots derived from fast-food packaging waste transformation. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 244:117888. [PMID: 38097060 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.117888] [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: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
In the face of escalating environmental concerns, particularly the pervasive issue of non-biodegradable fast-food packaging waste, this study introduces a ground-breaking solution that not only addresses waste management but also advances biomedical technology. Utilizing the underexploited resource of Fucoidan, a sulfated polysaccharide from brown algae, we have innovatively transformed fast-food packaging waste into eco-friendly fluorescent carbon dots (FPCDs). These FPCDs were meticulously characterized through advanced techniques like FT-IR, TEM, and XRD, shedding light on their unique structure, morphology, and composition. A significant discovery of this study is the potent antimicrobial properties of these FPCDs, which demonstrate remarkable effectiveness against specific bacterial and fungal strains. This opens new avenues in the realm of biomedical applications, including imaging, drug delivery, and biosensing. Furthermore, extensive toxicity assessments, including the Brine shrimp lethality assay and Adult Artemia toxicity tests, underscore the safety of these nanoparticles, bolstering their applicability in sensitive medical scenarios. Our research presents a compelling dual approach, ingeniously tackling environmental sustainability issues by repurposing waste while simultaneously creating valuable materials for biomedical use. This dual benefit underscores the transformative potential of our approach, setting a precedent in both waste management and medical innovation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natesan Thirumalaivasan
- Department of Periodontics, Saveetha Dental College, and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Saveetha University, Chennai, 600077, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sonalismita Mahapatra
- Marine Biotechnology Research Laboratory, Department of Basic Sciences, Institute of Fisheries Post Graduate Studies, OMR Campus, Tamilnadu Dr J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Vaniyanchavadi, Chennai, 603103, India
| | - Ganesan Ramanathan
- Postgraduate and Research Department of Microbiology, Sri Paramakalyani College, Alwarkurichi, 627412, India
| | - Anuj Kumar
- Department of Chemistry, GLA University, Mathura, 281406, India
| | - Thandavamoorthy Raja
- Material Science Lab, Department of Prosthodontics, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, SIMATS, Chennai- 77, Tamil Nadu, India
| | | | - Bidhan Pandit
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering and Chemical Engineering, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Avenida de la Universidad 30, 28911, Legnes, Madrid, Spain
| | - Saravanan Pandiaraj
- Department of Self-Development Skills, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Santhiyagu Prakash
- Marine Biotechnology Research Laboratory, Department of Basic Sciences, Institute of Fisheries Post Graduate Studies, OMR Campus, Tamilnadu Dr J Jayalalithaa Fisheries University, Vaniyanchavadi, Chennai, 603103, India.
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Soursou V, Campo J, Picó Y. Spatio-temporal variation and ecological risk assessment of microplastics along the touristic beaches of a mediterranean coast transect (Valencia province, East Spain). JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 354:120315. [PMID: 38350278 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.120315] [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: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
Annually, the Mediterranean region attracts around one-third of the global coastal tourism, which is acknowledged as a substantial contributor to plastic pollution. Coastal municipalities mitigate this through periodic sand and shore cleaning. However, the efficacy of these measures remains uncertain. In this study, the occurrence of MPs (10 μm-5 mm) in sand from seven different, regularly cleaned, touristic beaches of the coastline of Valencia province (E Spain) was assessed. Two different sampling campaigns were performed in winter and in summer (2022) to compare the results and understand the influence of the high touristic activity, as well as, the efficiency of the measures taken against MPs pollution. The methodology used was designed specifically for the matrix and employed density separation using a Sediment Microplastic Isolation (SMI) Unit. In addition to conventional visual inspection and ATR-FTIR, automatic quantification and identification of the polymers of lower size was performed by μFTIR. The average MPs concentration in the summer (339 ± 92 MP kg-1 by stereomicroscopy and 339 ± 189 MP kg-1 by μFTIR) was significantly higher than in the winter (71 ± 92 MP kg-1 and 143 ± 85 MP kg-1) (p < 0.05). The combination of these analytical tools provides comprehensive information about the MPs present in beach sand. Fibers were the most abundant form of MPs, while most of the polymers analyzed were polyethylene (PE) and halogenated polystyrene (Cl-PS and Br-PS) with food packaging, swimming equipment and fishing nets being their most probable sources. Ecological risk assessment was performed through the Pollution Load Index (PLI), the Hazardous Index (HI) and the Risk Quotient (RQ), with the results indicating potential risk that ranges from moderate to high depending on the applied approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasiliki Soursou
- Environmental and Food Safety Research Group of the University of Valencia (SAMA-UV), Desertification Research Centre CIDE (CSIC-UV-GV), Road CV-315 Km 10.7, 46113, Moncada, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Julián Campo
- Environmental and Food Safety Research Group of the University of Valencia (SAMA-UV), Desertification Research Centre CIDE (CSIC-UV-GV), Road CV-315 Km 10.7, 46113, Moncada, Valencia, Spain
| | - Yolanda Picó
- Environmental and Food Safety Research Group of the University of Valencia (SAMA-UV), Desertification Research Centre CIDE (CSIC-UV-GV), Road CV-315 Km 10.7, 46113, Moncada, Valencia, Spain
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Qin ZH, Siddiqui MA, Xin X, Mou JH, Varjani S, Chen G, Lin CSK. Identification of microplastics in raw and treated municipal solid waste landfill leachates in Hong Kong, China. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 351:141208. [PMID: 38219986 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141208] [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: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/12/2024] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Plastics are indispensable in modern society but also pose a persistent threat to the environment. In particular, microplastics (MPs) have a substantial environmental impact on ecosystems. Municipal solid waste landfill leachates are a source of MPs, but leakage of MPs from leachates has only been reported in a few studies. As a modern city, Hong Kong has a remarkably high population density and a massive plastic waste generation. However, it depends on conventional landfilling for plastic waste management and traditional thermal ammonia stripping for leachate treatment. Yet, the MP leakage from landfill leachates in Hong Kong has not been disclosed. This is the first study that aimed to identify, quantify, and characterise MPs in raw and treated leachates, respectively, from major landfill sites in Hong Kong. The concentrations of MPs varied from 49.0 ± 24.3 to 507.6 ± 37.3 items/L among the raw leachate samples, and a potential correlation was found between the concentration of MPs in the raw leachate sample from a given landfill site and the annual leachate generation of the site. Most MPs were 100-500 μm fragments or filaments and were transparent or yellow. Regarding the polymeric materials among the identified MPs, poly(ethylene terephthalate) and polyethylene were the most abundant types, comprising 45.30% and 21.37% of MPs, respectively. Interestingly, leachates treated by ammonia stripping contained higher concentrations of MPs than raw leachate samples, which demonstrated that the traditional treatment process may not be sufficient regarding the removal of emerging pollutants, such as MPs. Overall, our findings provide a more comprehensive picture of the pollution of MPs in landfill leachates in Hong Kong and highlight the urgent need for adopting the consideration of MPs into the conventional mindset of waste management systems in Hong Kong.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Hao Qin
- School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Muhammad Ahmar Siddiqui
- School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Water Technology Center, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Control & Treatment of Heavy Metal Pollution, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xiayin Xin
- Beaty Water Research Centre, Department of Civil Engineering, Union Street, Queen's University, Kingston, K7L 3Z6, Canada
| | - Jin-Hua Mou
- School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Sunita Varjani
- School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Guanghao Chen
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Water Technology Center, Hong Kong Branch of Chinese National Engineering Research Center for Control & Treatment of Heavy Metal Pollution, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Carol Sze Ki Lin
- School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
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Zhou S, Xu H, Wang S, Feng H, Hu Y, Zhang S. Low temperature and facile synthesis of nitrogen-doped hierarchical porous carbon derived from waste polyethylene terephthalate for efficient CO 2 capture. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 914:169856. [PMID: 38190916 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Waste polyethylene terephthalate (PET) with high carbon content (>60 wt%) has shown great potential in the field of synthesizing carbon materials for CO2 capture, attracting increasing attention. Herein, an innovative strategy was proposed to synthesize nitrogen-doped hierarchical porous carbon (PC) for CO2 capture using PET as precursor and sodium amide (NaNH2) as both nitrogen dopant and low-temperature activator. As-synthesized N-doped PC exhibited a significantly high micropore volume of 0.755 cm3/g and a rich content of N- and O-containing functional groups, offering ample active sites for CO2 molecules. Further, the adsorbents demonstrated excellent CO2 capture capacity, achieving 5.7 mmol/g (0 °C) and 3.3 mmol/g (25 °C) at 1 bar, respectively. This was primarily attributed to the synergistic effect of narrow micropores filling and electrostatic interactions. Moreover, as-synthesized PC exhibited rapid CO2 adsorption capability, and its dynamic adsorption process was effectively described using a pseudo-second-order kinetic model. After five consecutive cycles, PET-derived PC still maintained ~100 % of adsorption capacity. They also possessed good CO2/N2 selectivity and reasonable isosteric heat of adsorption. Therefore, as-synthesized nitrogen-doped PC is a promising CO2 adsorbent through low-temperature activation of carbonized PET with NaNH2. Such findings have substantial implications for waste plastic recycling and mitigating the greenhouse effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaojie Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Clean Energy Utilization, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Haiyang Xu
- College of Advanced Materials Engineering, Jiaxing Nanhu University, Jiaxing 314001, China
| | - Shurong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Clean Energy Utilization, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China.
| | - Hongyu Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Clean Energy Utilization, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Yanjun Hu
- Institute of Thermal and Power Engineering, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310023, China.
| | - Shicheng Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Particle Pollution and Prevention (LAP3), Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
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11
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Haleem N, Kumar P, Zhang C, Jamal Y, Hua G, Yao B, Yang X. Microplastics and associated chemicals in drinking water: A review of their occurrence and human health implications. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:169594. [PMID: 38154642 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) have entered drinking water (DW) via various pathways, raising concerns about their potential health impacts. This study provides a comprehensive review of MP-associated chemicals, such as oligomers, plasticizers, stabilizers, and ultraviolet (UV) filters that can be leached out during DW treatment and distribution. The leaching of these chemicals is influenced by various environmental and operating factors, with three major ones identified: MP concentration and polymer type, pH, and contact time. The leaching process is substantially enhanced during the disinfection step of DW treatment, due to ultraviolet light and/or disinfectant-triggered reactions. The study also reviewed human exposure to MPs and associated chemicals in DW, as well as their health impacts on the human nervous, digestive, reproductive, and hepatic systems, especially the neuroendocrine toxicity of endocrine-disrupting chemicals. An overview of MPs in DW, including tap water and bottled water, was also presented to enable a background understanding of MPs-associated chemicals. In short, certain chemicals leached from MPs in DW can have significant implications for human health and demand further research on their long-term health impacts, mitigation strategies, and interactions with other pollutants such as disinfection byproducts (DBPs) and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs). This study is anticipated to facilitate the research and management of MPs in DW and beverages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noor Haleem
- Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD 57007, USA; Institute of Environmental Sciences and Engineering National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan
| | - Pradeep Kumar
- Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD 57007, USA
| | - Cheng Zhang
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD 57007, USA
| | - Yousuf Jamal
- Institute of Chemical Engineering & Technology, University of the Punjab, Lahore 54590, Pakistan
| | - Guanghui Hua
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD 57007, USA
| | - Bin Yao
- Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD 57007, USA
| | - Xufei Yang
- Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD 57007, USA.
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12
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Ghanadi M, Joshi I, Dharmasiri N, Jaeger JE, Burke M, Bebelman C, Symons B, Padhye LP. Quantification and characterization of microplastics in coastal environments: Insights from laser direct infrared imaging. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:168835. [PMID: 38029976 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
The study identified and quantified nine plastic polymers frequently detected in the environment by collecting sediment and seawater samples from coastal areas in Auckland, New Zealand. Polymer types, size distributions, and number of microplastics (MPs) were analyzed using a laser direct infrared (LDIR) imaging technique. Compared to conventional spectroscopic or microscopic methods, LDIR enabled capturing and quantifying MPs in much lower size ranges (20-5000 μm). The results demonstrated the widespread occurrence of MPs in the Auckland coastal environment, with polyethylene terephthalate (PET) being the most frequently detected plastic polymer. MP contamination levels ranged from 13 to 83 particles per liter of coastal water and from 1200 to 3400 particles/kg of dry sand in beach sediments. Six additional locations were investigated to assess the contribution of MPs from stormwater drains to the coastal environment. The total count of identified MPs extracted from sediments near stormwater drains reached a maximum of 18,000 particles/kg of dry sand, representing an order of magnitude increase compared to MP levels found in beach sediments at the same location. In contrast to the prevalence of PET and polyamide observed in beach sediments and coastal waters, polyurethane and polyethylene emerged as the predominant plastic polymers in the vicinity of stormwater drain sediments, implying that the variation could potentially stem from distinct sources of plastics. This significant disparity in quality and quantity underscored the potential link between urban runoff and MP pollution in marine ecosystems. A sample preparation method using 100 g sediment samples was developed and used to assess and compare MPs detection in sediment samples. The commonly used 5 g sample method showed higher extraction efficiency and better detection of the most abundant MPs, but the new 100 g method enabled the detection of previously missed, less abundant plastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahyar Ghanadi
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
| | - Isha Joshi
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
| | - Nirupama Dharmasiri
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
| | - Julia E Jaeger
- Eurofins Environment Testing Australia & New Zealand, Australia
| | - Matthew Burke
- Eurofins Environment Testing Australia & New Zealand, Australia
| | - Cathy Bebelman
- Auckland Transport, 20 Viaduct Harbor Ave, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
| | - Bob Symons
- Eurofins Environment Testing Australia & New Zealand, Australia
| | - Lokesh P Padhye
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1010, New Zealand.
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13
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Yuan P, Wang Y, Chen X, Gao P. An overview of microplastic pollution in the environment over the megacity of Shanghai during 2013-2022. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:168986. [PMID: 38040359 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are emerging pollutants that have been globally found in the environment, and have become a focus of intensive management for the Shanghai government in China. Although there are several studies reporting the abundance of microplastics (MPs) in different matrices in Shanghai city, the general data are still limited. This work comprehensively reviews microplastic (MP) pollution in the water, sediment, atmosphere, and soil of Shanghai during 2013-2022. A summary of characteristics such as the abundance, shape, and polymer composition of MPs is presented. Additionally, the pollution trends, traceability, and ecological risks of MPs are analyzed and evaluated. Based on the analytical results, we find that the inland water in Shanghai city is the most contaminated with the highest abundance of MPs at 14.76 × 103 particles/m3 on average, while the abundances of MPs in the external water, inland sediment, external sediment, indoor atmosphere, outdoor atmosphere, inland soil, and external soil are 2.78 × 103 particles/m3, 0.80 × 103 particles/kg, 1.37 × 103 particles/kg, 0.03 × 103 particles/m3, 0.08 × 103 particles/m3, 0.27 × 103 particles/kg, and 0.18 × 103 particles/kg, respectively. Polyethylene and polypropylene are the top two detected polymer compositions of MPs. Results of ecological risk assessment using risk index and pollution load index models indicate that the risks of MPs in the water and sediment of the Yangtze Estuary are high. It is noteworthy that the abundances of MPs at the junction site of Suzhou Creek and the Huangpu River as well as in the Yangtze Estuary exhibited an increasing trend between 2017 and 2019. This work contributes to a comprehensive overview of MPs in the environment of Shanghai city during 2013-2022 and provides important data for local governments to develop urgent strategies for the management of MP pollution. However, more investigations are increasingly needed for better understand the production, migration, ecological risk, and management of MPs in the environment of Shanghai city.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peikun Yuan
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Yang Wang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China
| | - Xiaoqian Chen
- Bioassay and Safety Assessment Laboratory, Shanghai Academy of Public Measurement, 201203 Shanghai, China
| | - Pin Gao
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, China; National & Local Joint Engineering Laboratory for Municipal Sewage Resource Utilization Technology, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou 215009, China; National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center for Soil Pollution Control and Remediation in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Integrated Agroenvironmental Pollution Control and Management, Institute of Eco-environmental and Soil Sciences, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, China.
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14
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Modekwe HU, Daramola MO, Mamo MA, Moothi K. Recent advancements in the use of plastics as a carbon source for carbon nanotubes synthesis - A review. Heliyon 2024; 10:e24679. [PMID: 38304810 PMCID: PMC10830538 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e24679] [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: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Plastics, which majorly consist of polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE)), polystyrene (PS), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), etc., are the most abundant municipal solid wastes (MSW). They have been utilized as a cheap carbon feedstock in the synthesis of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) because of their high hydrocarbon content, mainly carbon and hydrogen, especially for the polyolefins. In this review, the detailed progress made so far in the use of plastics (both waste and virgin) as cheap carbon feedstock in the synthesis of CNTs (only) over the years is studied. The primary aim of this work is to provide an expansive landscape made so far, especially in the areas of catalysts, catalyst supports, and the methods employed in their preparations and other operational growth conditions, as well as already explored applications of plastic-derived CNTs. This is to enable researchers to easily access, understand, and summarise previous works done in this area, forging ahead towards improving the yield and quality of plastic-derived CNTs, which could extend their market and use in other purity-sensitive applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen U. Modekwe
- Renewable Energy and Biomass Research Group, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering & the Built Environment, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein Campus, 2028, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Michael O. Daramola
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology, University of Pretoria, Private bag X20 Hatfield, 0028, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Messai A. Mamo
- Research Centre for Synthesis and Catalysis, Department of Chemical Science, Faculty of Science, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein Campus, 2028, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Kapil Moothi
- School of Chemical and Minerals Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, University of Johannesburg, Doornfontein campus, 2028, Johannesburg, South Africa
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15
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Li T, Kambanis J, Sorenson TL, Sunde M, Shen Y. From Fundamental Amyloid Protein Self-Assembly to Development of Bioplastics. Biomacromolecules 2024; 25:5-23. [PMID: 38147506 PMCID: PMC10777412 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biomac.3c01129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
Proteins can self-assemble into a range of nanostructures as a result of molecular interactions. Amyloid nanofibrils, as one of them, were first discovered with regard to the relevance of neurodegenerative diseases but now have been exploited as building blocks to generate multiscale materials with designed functions for versatile applications. This review interconnects the mechanism of amyloid fibrillation, the current approaches to synthesizing amyloid protein-based materials, and the application in bioplastic development. We focus on the fundamental structures of self-assembled amyloid fibrils and how external factors can affect protein aggregation to optimize the process. Protein self-assembly is essentially the autonomous congregation of smaller protein units into larger, organized structures. Since the properties of the self-assembly can be manipulated by changing intrinsic factors and external conditions, protein self-assembly serves as an excellent building block for bioplastic development. Building on these principles, general processing methods and pathways from raw protein sources to mature state materials are proposed, providing a guide for the development of large-scale production. Additionally, this review discusses the diverse properties of protein-based amyloid nanofibrils and how they can be utilized as bioplastics. The economic feasibility of the protein bioplastics is also compared to conventional plastics in large-scale production scenarios, supporting their potential as sustainable bioplastics for future applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianchen Li
- School
of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering and Sydney Nano, The University of Sydney, PNR Building, Darlington NSW 2008, Australia
| | - Jordan Kambanis
- School
of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering and Sydney Nano, The University of Sydney, PNR Building, Darlington NSW 2008, Australia
| | - Timothy L. Sorenson
- School
of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering and Sydney Nano, The University of Sydney, PNR Building, Darlington NSW 2008, Australia
| | - Margaret Sunde
- School
of Medical Sciences and Sydney Nano, The
University of Sydney, Sydney NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Yi Shen
- School
of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering and Sydney Nano, The University of Sydney, PNR Building, Darlington NSW 2008, Australia
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16
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Ward CP, Reddy CM, Edwards B, Perri ST. To curb plastic pollution, industry and academia must unite. Nature 2024; 625:658-662. [PMID: 38253760 DOI: 10.1038/d41586-024-00155-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
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17
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de Souza Teodoro L, Jablonski CA, Pelegrini K, Pereira TCB, Maraschin TG, de Sousa Araujo AC, Monserrat JM, de Souza Basso NR, Kist LW, Bogo MR. Toxic effects of environmental-relevant exposure to polyethylene terephthalate (PET) micro and nanoparticles in zebrafish early development. NANOIMPACT 2024; 33:100497. [PMID: 38316295 DOI: 10.1016/j.impact.2024.100497] [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: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is a commonly used thermoplastic in industry due to its excellent malleability and thermal stability, making it extensively employed in packaging manufacturing. Inadequate disposal of PET packaging in the environment and natural physical-chemical processes leads to the formation of smaller particles known as PET micro and nanoplastics (MNPs). The reduced dimensions enhance particle bioavailability and, subsequently, their reactivity. This study involved chemical degradation of PET using trifluoroacetic acid to assess the impact of exposure to varying concentrations of PET MNPs (0.5, 1, 5, 10, and 20 mg/L) on morphological, functional, behavioral, and biochemical parameters during the early developmental stages of zebrafish (Danio rerio). Characterization of the degraded PET revealed the generated microplastics (MPs) ranged in size from 1305 to 2032 μm, and that the generated nanoplastics (NPs) ranged from 68.06 to 955 nm. These particles were then used for animal exposure. After a six-day exposure period, our findings indicate that PET MNPs can diminish spontaneous tail coiling (STC), elevate the heart rate, accumulate on the chorion surface, and reduce interocular distance. These results suggest that PET exposure induces primary toxic effects on zebrafish embryo-larval stage of development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilian de Souza Teodoro
- Laboratory of Genomics and Molecular Biology, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), School of Health and Life Sciences, Av. Ipiranga, 6681 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Graduate Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology, PUCRS, Av. Ipiranga, 6681 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Camilo Alexandre Jablonski
- Laboratory of Genomics and Molecular Biology, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), School of Health and Life Sciences, Av. Ipiranga, 6681 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Graduate Program in Medicine and Health Sciences, PUCRS, Av. Ipiranga, 6690 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Kauê Pelegrini
- Organometallic Compounds and Resins Laboratory, School of Technology, PUCRS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Graduate Program in Materials Technology and Engineering, PUCRS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Talita Carneiro Brandão Pereira
- Laboratory of Genomics and Molecular Biology, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), School of Health and Life Sciences, Av. Ipiranga, 6681 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Graduate Program in Medicine and Health Sciences, PUCRS, Av. Ipiranga, 6690 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Thuany Garcia Maraschin
- Organometallic Compounds and Resins Laboratory, School of Technology, PUCRS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Graduate Program in Materials Technology and Engineering, PUCRS, Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Alan Carvalho de Sousa Araujo
- Graduate Program in Aquaculture, Institute of Oceanography (IO), Federal University of Rio Grande - FURG, Rio Grande, RS, Brazil
| | - Jose Maria Monserrat
- Graduate Program in Aquaculture, Institute of Oceanography (IO), Federal University of Rio Grande - FURG, Rio Grande, RS, Brazil; Institute of Biological Sciences (ICB), Federal University of Rio Grande - FURG, Rio Grande, RS, Brazil
| | | | - Luiza Wilges Kist
- Laboratory of Genomics and Molecular Biology, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), School of Health and Life Sciences, Av. Ipiranga, 6681 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Graduate Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology, PUCRS, Av. Ipiranga, 6681 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil
| | - Maurício Reis Bogo
- Laboratory of Genomics and Molecular Biology, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS), School of Health and Life Sciences, Av. Ipiranga, 6681 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Graduate Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology, PUCRS, Av. Ipiranga, 6681 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil; Graduate Program in Medicine and Health Sciences, PUCRS, Av. Ipiranga, 6690 Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil.
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18
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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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19
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Erceg T, Rackov S, Terek P, Pilić B. Preparation and Characterization of PHBV/PCL-Diol Blend Films. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:4694. [PMID: 38139946 PMCID: PMC10747782 DOI: 10.3390/polym15244694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Biodegradable thin films based on poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyvalerate) (PHBV) and poly(caprolactone diol) (PCL-diol) blend were developed using the solution casting method. PHBV is biodegradable, biocompatible, and produced naturally by bacterial activity, but its use is restricted by high crystallinity and low resistance to thermal degradation with melting temperatures close to degradation thus narrowing the processing window. Solution casting was chosen as a cost-effective method reducing energy consumption and avoiding thermal degradation during processing. The increase in PCL-diol in blend composition (40-60 wt%) enhances the film-forming ability of PHBV and the wettability along with the decrease in the roughness of the resulting materials as revealed by contact angle measurements, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Optimal composition in terms of filmogenity and surface structure has been achieved by the addition of PCL-diol in the amount of 60 wt%. FTIR confirmed the expected chemical structures with no evidence of chemical interactions between the two polymers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara Erceg
- Faculty of Technology Novi Sad, University of Novi Sad, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia; (S.R.); (B.P.)
| | - Sanja Rackov
- Faculty of Technology Novi Sad, University of Novi Sad, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia; (S.R.); (B.P.)
| | - Pal Terek
- Faculty of Technical Sciences, University of Novi Sad, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia;
| | - Branka Pilić
- Faculty of Technology Novi Sad, University of Novi Sad, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia; (S.R.); (B.P.)
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20
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Dehghanian Z, Asgari Lajayer B, Biglari Quchan Atigh Z, Nayeri S, Ahmadabadi M, Taghipour L, Senapathi V, Astatkie T, Price GW. Micro (nano) plastics uptake, toxicity and detoxification in plants: Challenges and prospects. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2023; 268:115676. [PMID: 37979355 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115676] [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: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution has emerged as a global challenge affecting ecosystem health and biodiversity conservation. Terrestrial environments exhibit significantly higher plastic concentrations compared to aquatic systems. Micro/nano plastics (MNPs) have the potential to disrupt soil biology, alter soil properties, and influence soil-borne pathogens and roundworms. However, limited research has explored the presence and impact of MNPs on aquaculture systems. MNPs have been found to inhibit plant and seedling growth and affect gene expression, leading to cytogenotoxicity through increased oxygen radical production. The article discusses the potential phytotoxicity process caused by large-scale microplastics, particularly those unable to penetrate cell pores. It also examines the available data, albeit limited, to assess the potential risks to human health through plant uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Dehghanian
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Azarbaijan Shahid Madani University, Tabriz, Iran.
| | | | - Zahra Biglari Quchan Atigh
- Department of Civil Engineering and Smart Cities, College of Engineering, Shantou University, Shantou, Guangdong 515063, China.
| | - Shahnoush Nayeri
- SP-Lab., ASEPE Company, Industrial Park of Advanced Technologies, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Ahmadabadi
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Azarbaijan Shahid Madani University, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Leila Taghipour
- Department of Horticultural Science, College of Agriculture, Jahrom University, PO Box: 74135-111, Jahrom, Iran.
| | | | - Tess Astatkie
- Faculty of Agriculture, Dalhousie University, Truro, NS B2N 5E3, Canada.
| | - G W Price
- Faculty of Agriculture, Dalhousie University, Truro, NS B2N 5E3, Canada.
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21
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Sun L, Wu J, Chen M, Wang T, Shang Z, Liu J, Huang M, Wu P. Interaction of polystyrene nanoplastics with impurity-bearing ferrihydrite and implication on complex particle sedimentation. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 901:165928. [PMID: 37527713 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/03/2023]
Abstract
Nanoplastics (NPs) usually coexist with impurity-bearing ferrihydrite (ImFh), and their interaction is related to their environmental fate. In this study, the aggregation between ImFh (impurities: Al, Mn and Si) and polystyrene nanoplastics (PSNPs), as well as the sedimentation of ImFh-PSNP complex particles in the aqueous phase were investigated systematically with particle concentrations of 100 mg/L ImFh and 10 mg/L PSNPs. Our results revealed that the PSNP suspension was dispersive and stable under various pH values and low ion strength. After coexisting with ImFh, PSNPs aggregated with the positively charged ImFh to form ImFh-PSNP complex particles, which destroyed the stability of PSNPs. The increase in pH and Na+ concentration could inhibit their aggregation, but high Na+ concentration (>20 mM) caused the homoaggregation of PSNPs. The aggregation capacity of PSNPs with ImFh was in the order of Al-bearing Fh > Fh > Mn-bearing Fh > Si-bearing Fh. Zeta potential and Derjaguin-Landau-Verwey-Overbeek (DLVO) calculations indicated that Al-bearing Fh showed higher positive potential than pure Fh, which caused stronger electrostatic interactions with PSNPs. However, Mn and Si in ImFh decreased the positive potential and inhibited the electrostatic interaction with PSNPs, and the effect of Si was greater than that of Mn. The aggregation between ImFh and PSNPs inhibited the sedimentation of their complex particles, and the higher aggregation capacity appeared to have a greater inhibition degree. Due to the "electrostatic patches" effect of PSNPs, the energy barrier of the ImFh-PSNPs particles was higher than that of the ImFh particles. Our findings clarified the influence of impurities on the interaction between ImFh and PSNPs and provided insight regarding their fate in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leiye Sun
- School of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Centre, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Jiayan Wu
- School of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Centre, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Meiqing Chen
- School of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Centre, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Tianming Wang
- School of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Centre, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Zhongbo Shang
- School of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Centre, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Jieyu Liu
- School of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Centre, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Minye Huang
- School of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Centre, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Pingxiao Wu
- School of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Centre, Guangzhou 510006, PR China; The Key Lab of Pollution Control and Ecosystem Restoration in Industry Clusters, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou 510006, PR China; Guangdong Provincial Engineering and Technology Research Center for Environmental Risk Prevention and Emergency Disposal, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Centre, Guangzhou 510006, PR China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Solid Wastes Pollution Control and Recycling, Guangzhou 510006, PR China; Guangdong Engineering and Technology Research Center for Environmental Nanomaterials, Guangzhou 510006, PR China.
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22
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Możejko-Ciesielska J, Ray S, Sankhyan S. Recent Challenges and Trends of Polyhydroxyalkanoate Production by Extremophilic Bacteria Using Renewable Feedstocks. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:4385. [PMID: 38006109 PMCID: PMC10674690 DOI: 10.3390/polym15224385] [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: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) are biodegradable polymers with immense potential in addressing the global plastic pollution crisis and advancing sustainable bioplastics production. Among the various microbes known for PHA production, extremophilic bacteria possess unique capabilities to thrive under extreme conditions, making them attractive candidates for PHA synthesis. Furthermore, the utilization of renewable feedstocks for PHA production aligns with the growing demand for sustainable bioplastic alternatives. A diverse range of extremophilic bacteria, especially halophiles and thermophiles, has provided cost-competitive platforms for producing customized PHA polymers. Extremophilic bacteria offer unique advantages over mesophiles due to their contamination resistance, high cell density growth, and unique culture conditions. The current status of Halomonas spp. as a chassis further allows exploration of metabolic engineering approaches to overcome the challenges associated with current industrial biotechnology. This article especially focuses on extremophilic bacteria and explores recent advances in utilizing renewable feedstocks such as lignocellulosic biomass, agro-industrial residues, and waste streams for PHA production. The integration of biorefinery concepts and circular economy principles in PHA manufacturing is also examined. This review is an attempt to provide an understanding of renewable substrates as feedstocks and emerging trends in PHA production by extremophilic bacteria. It underscores the pivotal role of extremophiles and sustainable feedstock sources in advancing the feasibility and eco-friendliness of PHAs as a promising biopolymer alternative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justyna Możejko-Ciesielska
- Department of Microbiology and Mycology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10719 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Subhasree Ray
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Basic Science and Research, Sharda University, Greater Noida 201310, India;
| | - Shivangi Sankhyan
- Department of Life Sciences, School of Basic Science and Research, Sharda University, Greater Noida 201310, India;
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23
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Chandra S, Chakraborty P. Air-water exchange and risk assessment of phthalic acid esters during the early phase of COVID-19 pandemic in tropical riverine catchments of India. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 341:140013. [PMID: 37657701 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.140013] [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: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Abstract
Given the increased load of waste plastic in the solid waste stream after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, we investigated the fate of selected plastic additives along open burning dumps, industrial and residential transects in tropical riverine catchments of India. Polyurethane foam disk passive air samples, surface water and community stored water (CSW) samples were collected along the Adyar River (AR), Cooum River (CR) and canals in Chennai and Daman Ganga River (DG) in Vapi. Among the quantified phthalic acid esters (PAEs), a widely used plastic additive, di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), was ubiquitous across all the transects. More open drains and leaching of littered single-use plastic items can be the reason for significantly higher (p < 0.05) levels of PAEs in CR over other rivers with a dominance of di-n-butyl phthalate (DnBP). Prevalence of open burning of dumped plastic waste was the possible primary emission source of PAEs in these riverine catchments. Excluding highly soluble dimethyl phthalate (DMP), air-water exchange processes reflected the secondary emission of all the PAEs from the surface water along the open burning sites. Despite the cleansing effect of the oceanic air mass from the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean, the average atmospheric PAE level was two-fold higher in Chennai than Vapi. Even though Vapi is a coastal city along the Arabian Sea, it was impacted by inland air masses during the sampling event. Open burning dumpsites showed a five-fold increase in atmospheric priority PAEs in Chennai city after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. DnBP was the major contributor to estrogenicity in CSW and DG, and also posed maximum risk for fishes in the open burning transect of these tropical rivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarath Chandra
- Department of Civil Engineering, College of Engineering and Technology, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, Chengalpattu District, Tamil Nadu, 603203, India
| | - Paromita Chakraborty
- Environmental Science and Technology Laboratory, Centre for Research in Environment, Sustainability Advocacy and Climate Change (REACH), SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, Chengalpattu District, Tamil Nadu, 603203, India.
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24
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Xu D, He S, Leng W, Chen Y, Wu Z. Replacing Plastic with Bamboo: A Review of the Properties and Green Applications of Bamboo-Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composites. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:4276. [PMID: 37959955 PMCID: PMC10647463 DOI: 10.3390/polym15214276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Natural fiber composites are receiving more and more attention because of their greenness and low cost. Among natural fibers, bamboo is characterized by fast growth, a short cultivation period, high strength and good toughness, and is one of the strongest natural fibers in the world. A bamboo-fiber-reinforced polymer composite (BFRPC) has the characteristics of high mechanical strength, low density, degradability, etc. It has the industrial applicability comparable to metal materials, the same strong corrosion resistance as composites such as glass and carbon fibers, and the same immunity to electromagnetic interference and low thermal conductivity as natural materials. Its unidirectional specific strength and unidirectional specific modulus is higher than that of glass fiber, second only to the extremely high price of carbon fiber, which is playing an increasingly important role in the field of composite materials, and can be widely used in the fields of wind power, construction, aviation, automotive, medical care and so on. At present, it has been initially used in packaging, automotive and transportation fields, and is expected to replace petroleum-based plastics in various fields. In addition to their environmental protection and green production, they have excellent physical properties. This paper provides an overview of the mechanical properties of bamboo-fiber-reinforced thermoplastic composites and thermoset composites that have been developed so far, such as tensile strength, flexural properties and impact strength. In addition, the prospects of bamboo-fiber-reinforced thermoplastic composites for automotive, packaging and agricultural applications are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dandan Xu
- China National Bamboo Research Center, Key Laboratory of Bamboo High Efficient Processing of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310012, China; (D.X.); (Y.C.); (Z.W.)
| | - Sheng He
- China National Bamboo Research Center, Key Laboratory of Bamboo High Efficient Processing of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310012, China; (D.X.); (Y.C.); (Z.W.)
| | - Weiqi Leng
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University, Nanjing 210037, China
| | - Yuhe Chen
- China National Bamboo Research Center, Key Laboratory of Bamboo High Efficient Processing of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310012, China; (D.X.); (Y.C.); (Z.W.)
| | - Zaixing Wu
- China National Bamboo Research Center, Key Laboratory of Bamboo High Efficient Processing of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310012, China; (D.X.); (Y.C.); (Z.W.)
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25
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Nguyen MK, Lin C, Nguyen HL, Le VR, Kl P, Singh J, Chang SW, Um MJ, Nguyen DD. Emergence of microplastics in the aquatic ecosystem and their potential effects on health risks: The insights into Vietnam. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 344:118499. [PMID: 37480638 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.118499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2023] [Revised: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023]
Abstract
The increase of microplastic contamination in Vietnam is a growing concern due to various domestic, agricultural, and industrial activities. The use of plastic mulch and sludge application in agricultural farmland, textile production, daily consumer items, cleaning agents, and health/personal care products contribute significantly to the increasing microplastic pollution in the aquatic ecosystem. The concentration of microplastics reported in surface water ranged from 0.35 to 519,000 items m-3, with fibers and fragments being the most prevalent shapes. Notably, the high concentration of microplastics was observed in lakes, canals, and megacities such as Ha Noi and Ho Chi Minh City, which poses potential health risks to the local community via drinking-water supply and food chains. As an emerging pollutant, MPs are the transport vectors for contaminants in environmental matrices that act as a carrier of hazardous pollutants, release toxic compounds, and evenly aggregate/accumulate in biota. Recent studies have reported the presence of microplastics in various marine organisms, including fish and shellfish, highlighting the risk of ingestion of these particles by humans and wildlife. Thus, it is imperative to monitor microplastic contamination in the ecosystem to provide helpful information for the government and local communities. Efforts should be taken to reduce microplastic pollution at the source to minimize potential effects on ecological and health safety. This review paper emphasizes the urgent need for further research on microplastic pollution in Vietnam and highlights potential solutions to mitigate this emerging environmental threat. KEYWORKS: single-use plastics; microplastics; ecosystems; plastic waste; health risk; ecological and health safety; pollution mitigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minh-Ky Nguyen
- Program in Maritime Science and Technology, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 81157, Taiwan; Faculty of Environment and Natural Resources, Nong Lam University, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Viet Nam; Department of Marine Environmental Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 81157, Taiwan
| | - Chitsan Lin
- Program in Maritime Science and Technology, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 81157, Taiwan; Department of Marine Environmental Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Science and Technology, Kaohsiung 81157, Taiwan.
| | - Hoang-Lam Nguyen
- Department of Civil Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Van-Re Le
- Ho Chi Minh City University of Food Industry (HUFI), Ho Chi Minh City, 700000, Viet Nam
| | - Priya Kl
- Department of Civil Engineering, TKM College of Engineering, Kollam 691005, India
| | - Jagpreet Singh
- Department of Chemistry, University Centre for Research & Development, Chandigarh University, Mohali, 140413, Punjab, India
| | - Soon W Chang
- Department of Civil & Energy System Engineering, Kyonggi University, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Myoung-Jin Um
- Department of Civil & Energy System Engineering, Kyonggi University, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - D Duc Nguyen
- Department of Civil & Energy System Engineering, Kyonggi University, Suwon, Republic of Korea; Faculty of Environmental and Food Engineering, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, 300A Nguyen Tat Thanh, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City 755414, Viet Nam.
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26
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Chen J, Lei Y, Wen J, Zheng Y, Gan X, Liang Q, Huang C, Song Y. The neurodevelopmental toxicity induced by combined exposure of nanoplastics and penicillin in embryonic zebrafish: The role of aging processes. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 335:122281. [PMID: 37516295 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122281] [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: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/31/2023]
Abstract
As ubiquitous contaminants, nanoplastics and antibiotics are frequently co-presence and widely detected in the freshwater environment and biota, posing a high co-exposure risk to aquatic organisms and even humans. More importantly, how the aging process of nanoplastics affects the joint toxic potential of nanoplastics and antibiotics has not been explored. Here, we generated two aged polystyrene nanoplastics (PS) by UV radiation (UV-PS) and ozonation (O3-PS). Non-teratogenic concentrations of pristine PS (80 nm) and antibiotics penicillin (PNC) co-exposure synergistically suppressed the embryo heart beating and behaviors of spontaneous movement, touch response, and larval swimming behavioral response. Pristine PS and aged UV-PS, but not aged O3-PS, showed similar effects on zebrafish embryo/larval neurodevelopment. However, when co-exposure with PNC, both aged PS, but not pristine PS, showed antagonistic effects. In late-stage juvenile social behavior testing, we found that PS decreased the exploration in light/dark preference assay. The synergistic effect of aged PS with PNC was further explored, including cellular apoptosis, ROS formation, and neurotransmitter metabolite regulation. Mechanistically, aged UV-PS but not O3-PS significantly increased the adsorption rate of PNC compared to pristine PS, which may account for the toxicity difference between the two aged PS. In conclusion, our results confirmed that PS served as a carrier for PNC, and the environmental aging process changed their neurobehavioral toxicity pattern in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiangfei Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, PR China; Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, PR China
| | - Yuhang Lei
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, PR China
| | - Jing Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, PR China
| | - Yi Zheng
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, PR China
| | - Xiufeng Gan
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, PR China
| | - Qiuju Liang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, PR China
| | - Changjiang Huang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Watershed Sciences and Health, Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, 325035, PR China
| | - Yang Song
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085, PR China.
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27
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Wang T, Hosseinzadeh M, Cuccagna A, Alakenova R, Casademunt P, Reyes Rovatti A, López-Rubio A, Porte C. Comparative toxicity of conventional versus compostable plastic consumer products: An in-vitro assessment. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 459:132123. [PMID: 37499498 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132123] [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: 05/09/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
This study investigates the toxicity of methanolic extracts obtained from compostable plastics (BPs) and conventional plastics (both virgin and recycled). Additionally, it explores the potential influence of plastic photodegradation and composting on toxic responses using a battery of in vitro assays conducted in PLHC-1 cells. The extracts of BPs, but not those of conventional plastics, induced a significant decrease in cell viability (<70%) in PLHC-1 cells after 24 h of exposure. Toxicity was enhanced by either photodegradation or composting of BPs. Extracts of conventional plastics, and particularly those of recycled plastics, induced 7-ethoxyresorufin-O-deethylase (EROD) activity and micronucleus formation in exposed cells, indicating the presence of significant amounts of CYP1A inducers and genotoxic compounds in the extracts, which was enhanced by photodegradation. These findings highlight the importance of investigating the effects of degradation mechanisms such as sunlight and composting on the toxicity of BPs. It is also crucial to investigate the composition of newly developed formulations for BPs, as they may be more harmful than conventional ones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiantian Wang
- Environmental Chemistry Department, IDAEA -CSIC, C/ Jordi Girona, 18-26, Barcelona 08034, Spain.
| | - Mahboubeh Hosseinzadeh
- Environmental Chemistry Department, IDAEA -CSIC, C/ Jordi Girona, 18-26, Barcelona 08034, Spain; Interdisciplinary Platform for Sustainable Plastics towards a Circular Economy, Spanish National Research Council (SusPlast-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Alice Cuccagna
- Environmental Chemistry Department, IDAEA -CSIC, C/ Jordi Girona, 18-26, Barcelona 08034, Spain
| | - Rakhat Alakenova
- Environmental Chemistry Department, IDAEA -CSIC, C/ Jordi Girona, 18-26, Barcelona 08034, Spain
| | - Paula Casademunt
- Environmental Chemistry Department, IDAEA -CSIC, C/ Jordi Girona, 18-26, Barcelona 08034, Spain
| | - Alcira Reyes Rovatti
- Food Safety and Preservation Department, Institute of Agrochemistry and Food Technology (IATA-CSIC), Valencia, Spain; Interdisciplinary Platform for Sustainable Plastics towards a Circular Economy, Spanish National Research Council (SusPlast-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Amparo López-Rubio
- Food Safety and Preservation Department, Institute of Agrochemistry and Food Technology (IATA-CSIC), Valencia, Spain; Interdisciplinary Platform for Sustainable Plastics towards a Circular Economy, Spanish National Research Council (SusPlast-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
| | - Cinta Porte
- Environmental Chemistry Department, IDAEA -CSIC, C/ Jordi Girona, 18-26, Barcelona 08034, Spain; Interdisciplinary Platform for Sustainable Plastics towards a Circular Economy, Spanish National Research Council (SusPlast-CSIC), Madrid, Spain
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28
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Zhang Y, Gao Y, Xi B, Li Y, Ge X, Gong Y, Chen H, Chen J, Tan W, Yuan Y. Full life cycle and sustainability transitions of phthalates in landfill: A review. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2023; 170:215-229. [PMID: 37717503 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2023.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
Phthalates (PAEs) are added to various products as a plasticizer. As these products age and are disposed of, plastic waste containing PAEs enters the landfill. The landfill environment is complicated and can be regarded as a "black box". Also, PAEs do not bind with the polymer matrix. Therefore, when a series of physical chemistry and biological reactions occur during the stabilization of landfills, PAEs leach from waste and migrate to the surrounding environmental media, thereby contaminating the surrounding soil, water ecosystems, and atmosphere. Although research on PAEs has achieved progress over the years, they are mainly concentrated on a particular aspect of PAEs in the landfill; there are fewer inquiries on the life cycle of PAEs. In this study, we review the presence of PAEs in the landfill in the following aspects: (1) the main source of PAEs in landfills; (2) the impact of the landfill environment on PAE migration and conversion; (3) distribution and transmedia migration of PAEs in aquatic ecosystems, soils, and atmosphere; and (4) PAE management and control in the landfill and future research direction. The purpose is to track the life cycle of PAEs in landfills, provide scientific basis for in-depth understanding of the migration and transformation of PAEs and environmental pollution control in landfills, and new ideas for the sustainable utilization of landfills.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, and State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Simulation and Control of Groundwater Pollution, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China; College of Water Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Yiman Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, and State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Simulation and Control of Groundwater Pollution, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Beidou Xi
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, and State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Simulation and Control of Groundwater Pollution, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China; College of Water Sciences, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Yanjiao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, and State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Simulation and Control of Groundwater Pollution, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Xiaoyuan Ge
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, and State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Simulation and Control of Groundwater Pollution, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China; Lan Zhou Jiao Tong University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Yi Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, and State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Simulation and Control of Groundwater Pollution, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China; Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China
| | - Huiru Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, and State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Simulation and Control of Groundwater Pollution, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China; North China University of Water Resources and Electric Power, Zheng Zhou 450046, China
| | - Jiabao Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, and State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Simulation and Control of Groundwater Pollution, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China; College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guilin University of Technology, Guilin 541004, China
| | - Wenbing Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, and State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Simulation and Control of Groundwater Pollution, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Ying Yuan
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, and State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Simulation and Control of Groundwater Pollution, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China.
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29
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Liu H, Jiao Q, Pan T, Liu W, Li S, Zhu X, Zhang T. Aging behavior of biodegradable polylactic acid microplastics accelerated by UV/H 2O 2 processes. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 337:139360. [PMID: 37392793 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.139360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023]
Abstract
The usage of biodegradable plastics is expanding annually due to worldwide plastic limits, resulting in a substantial number of microplastics (MPs) particles formed from biodegradable plastic products entering the aquatic environment. Until now, the environmental behaviors of these plastic product-derived MPs (PPDMPs) have remained unclear. In this work, commercially available polylactic acid (PLA) straws and PLA food bags were used to evaluate the dynamic aging process and environmental behavior of PLA PPDMPs under UV/H2O2 conditions. By combining scanning electron microscopy, two-dimensional (2D) Fourier transform infrared correlation spectroscopy (COS) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, it was determined that the aging process of the PLA PPDMPs was slower than that of pure MPs. The 2D-COS analysis revealed that the response orders for the functional groups on the PLA MPs differed during the aging process. The results demonstrated that the oxygen-containing functional groups of the PLA PPDMPs were the first to react. Subsequently, the -C-H and -C-C- structural responses began, and the polymer backbone was ruptured by the aging process. However, the aging of the pure-PLA MPs started with a brief oxidation process and then breakage of the polymer backbones, followed by continuous oxidation. Moreover, compared to the PLA PPDMPs, the pure-PLA MPs exhibited a greater adsorption capacity, which was increased by 88% after aging, whereas those of the two PPDMPs only increased by 64% and 56%, respectively. This work provides new insights into the behaviors of biodegradable PLA MPs in aquatic environments, which is critical for assessing the environmental risks and management policies for degradable MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Liu
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Research Centre for Resource and Environment, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, People's Republic of China
| | - Qingxin Jiao
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Research Centre for Resource and Environment, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, People's Republic of China
| | - Ting Pan
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Research Centre for Resource and Environment, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, People's Republic of China
| | - Weiyi Liu
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Research Centre for Resource and Environment, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, People's Republic of China
| | - Shangyi Li
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Research Centre for Resource and Environment, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiaobiao Zhu
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Research Centre for Resource and Environment, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, People's Republic of China.
| | - Tingting Zhang
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Research Centre for Resource and Environment, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, People's Republic of China.
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30
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Stępień A, Tkaczewska J, Nowak N, Grzebieniarz W, Goik U, Żmudziński D, Jamróz E. Sugar-Free, Vegan, Furcellaran Gummy Jellies with Plant-Based Triple-Layer Films. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 16:6443. [PMID: 37834583 PMCID: PMC10573701 DOI: 10.3390/ma16196443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
Increasing consumer awareness of the impact of nutrition on health and the growing popularity of vegan diets are causing a need to look for new plant-based formulations of standard confectionery products with high energy density and low nutritional value, containing gelatin. Therefore, the aim of this study was to develop vegan and sugar-free gummy jellies based on an algae-derived polysaccharide-furcellaran (FUR). Until now, FUR has not been used as a gel-forming agent despite the fact that its structure-forming properties show high potential in the production of vegan confectionery. The basic formulation of gummy jellies included the addition of soy protein isolate and/or inulin. The final product was characterized regarding its rheological, antioxidant, mechanical and physicochemical properties. Eco-friendly packaging for the jellies composed of a three-layer polymer film has also been developed. It was observed that the highest values of textural parameters were obtained in jellies containing the addition of soy protein isolate, whose positive effect was also found on antioxidant activity. Before drying, all furcellaran-based gel systems showed G' and G" values characteristic of strong elastic hydrogels. Storing jellies for a week under refrigeration resulted in an increase in hardness, a decrease in moisture content and reduced water activity values. Overall, our study indicates the high potential of furcellaran both as a gelling agent in confectionery products and as a base polymer for their packaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Stępień
- Department of Engineering and Machinery for Food Industry, Faculty of Food Technology, University of Agriculture, Balicka Street 122, PL-30-149 Cracow, Poland; (U.G.); (D.Ż.)
| | - Joanna Tkaczewska
- Department of Animal Products Processing, University of Agriculture, Balicka Street 122, PL-30-149 Cracow, Poland;
| | - Nikola Nowak
- Department of Chemistry, University of Agriculture, Balicka Street 122, PL-30-149 Cracow, Poland; (N.N.); (W.G.)
| | - Wiktoria Grzebieniarz
- Department of Chemistry, University of Agriculture, Balicka Street 122, PL-30-149 Cracow, Poland; (N.N.); (W.G.)
| | - Urszula Goik
- Department of Engineering and Machinery for Food Industry, Faculty of Food Technology, University of Agriculture, Balicka Street 122, PL-30-149 Cracow, Poland; (U.G.); (D.Ż.)
| | - Daniel Żmudziński
- Department of Engineering and Machinery for Food Industry, Faculty of Food Technology, University of Agriculture, Balicka Street 122, PL-30-149 Cracow, Poland; (U.G.); (D.Ż.)
| | - Ewelina Jamróz
- Department of Product Packaging, Cracow University of Economics, Rakowicka Street 27, PL-31-510 Cracow, Poland;
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De Filippis F, Bonelli M, Bruno D, Sequino G, Montali A, Reguzzoni M, Pasolli E, Savy D, Cangemi S, Cozzolino V, Tettamanti G, Ercolini D, Casartelli M, Caccia S. Plastics shape the black soldier fly larvae gut microbiome and select for biodegrading functions. MICROBIOME 2023; 11:205. [PMID: 37705113 PMCID: PMC10500907 DOI: 10.1186/s40168-023-01649-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the last few years, considerable attention has been focused on the plastic-degrading capability of insects and their gut microbiota in order to develop novel, effective, and green strategies for plastic waste management. Although many analyses based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing are available, an in-depth analysis of the insect gut microbiome to identify genes with plastic-degrading potential is still lacking. RESULTS In the present work, we aim to fill this gap using Black Soldier Fly (BSF) as insect model. BSF larvae have proven capability to efficiently bioconvert a wide variety of organic wastes but, surprisingly, have never been considered for plastic degradation. BSF larvae were reared on two widely used plastic polymers and shotgun metagenomics was exploited to evaluate if and how plastic-containing diets affect composition and functions of the gut microbial community. The high-definition picture of the BSF gut microbiome gave access for the first time to the genomes of culturable and unculturable microorganisms in the gut of insects reared on plastics and revealed that (i) plastics significantly shaped bacterial composition at species and strain level, and (ii) functions that trigger the degradation of the polymer chains, i.e., DyP-type peroxidases, multicopper oxidases, and alkane monooxygenases, were highly enriched in the metagenomes upon exposure to plastics, consistently with the evidences obtained by scanning electron microscopy and 1H nuclear magnetic resonance analyses on plastics. CONCLUSIONS In addition to highlighting that the astonishing plasticity of the microbiota composition of BSF larvae is associated with functional shifts in the insect microbiome, the present work sets the stage for exploiting BSF larvae as "bioincubators" to isolate microbial strains and enzymes for the development of innovative plastic biodegradation strategies. However, most importantly, the larvae constitute a source of enzymes to be evolved and valorized by pioneering synthetic biology approaches. Video Abstract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca De Filippis
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy
- Task Force on Microbiome Studies, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Marco Bonelli
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Daniele Bruno
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Giuseppina Sequino
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy
| | - Aurora Montali
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Marcella Reguzzoni
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
| | - Edoardo Pasolli
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy
- Task Force on Microbiome Studies, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Davide Savy
- Interdepartmental Research Centre of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance for the Environment, Agri-Food and New Materials (CERMANU), University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy
| | - Silvana Cangemi
- Interdepartmental Research Centre of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance for the Environment, Agri-Food and New Materials (CERMANU), University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy
| | - Vincenza Cozzolino
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy
- Interdepartmental Research Centre of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance for the Environment, Agri-Food and New Materials (CERMANU), University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy
| | - Gianluca Tettamanti
- Department of Biotechnology and Life Sciences, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
- Interuniversity Center for Studies on Bioinspired Agro-Environmental Technology (BAT Center), University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy
| | - Danilo Ercolini
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy.
- Task Force on Microbiome Studies, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.
| | - Morena Casartelli
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
- Interuniversity Center for Studies on Bioinspired Agro-Environmental Technology (BAT Center), University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy.
| | - Silvia Caccia
- Task Force on Microbiome Studies, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
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32
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Verbeek CJR, Yapa PM, Self R, Harrison M. Producing Blends of Polybutylene Adipate Terephthalate and Blood Meal That Are Safe to Render. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:3750. [PMID: 37765603 PMCID: PMC10537986 DOI: 10.3390/polym15183750] [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: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Single-use plastic hygiene control products used during red meat processing can have severe negative impacts on the environment and cannot be processed with offal during rendering into meat and bone meal. However, plastics made from protein could potentially solve this problem as the material would be safe to render. The objective of this work was to prepare blends of blood meal and polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) in the absence of water using the interaction between PBAT and protein as the plasticisation mechanism. The ratio of protein to PBAT (1:1.3), as well as the choice of compatibiliser (PBAT-g-IA), was critical to form a homogenous, compatibilised blend with mechanical properties suitable for injection-moulded hygeine control products. This blend had a tensile strenght of 11.2 MPa, a chord modulus of 492 MPa, and 10% elongation at break. Using less PBAT in the blend, or using Surlyn™ as a compatibiliser, resulted in blends that were either too difficult to process or with inferior mechancial properies. Using simulated rendering, the new material was indistinguishable from tallow or meat and bone meal, suggesting that hygeine control products made from this new material will degrade sufficiently to be safe to render with offal after red meat processing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casparus J R Verbeek
- Centre for Advanced Materials Manufacturing and Design, Faculty of Engineering, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
| | - Priyal M Yapa
- Centre for Advanced Materials Manufacturing and Design, Faculty of Engineering, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
| | - Rachel Self
- School of Biology and Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane 4000, Australia
| | - Mark Harrison
- School of Biology and Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane 4000, Australia
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33
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Tan Y, Wen Z, Hu Y, Zeng X, Kosajan V, Yin G, Zhang T. Single-use plastic bag alternatives result in higher environmental impacts: Multi-regional analysis in country with uneven waste management. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2023; 171:281-291. [PMID: 37690403 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2023.08.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Revised: 08/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Single-use plastics (SUPs) have been the focus of plastic pollution control, and limiting their use while shifting to other alternatives have been widely promoted in various countries. This study tries to verify the life cycle environmental performances of single-use plastic bag and its alternatives under different scenarios in real world. China is chosen as case study, where provincial variability is prominent in waste disposal, and strictest plastics ban has issued lately in this worldwide biggest market. The study found that HDPE plastic bags have relatively lowest environmental footprints regarding to Acidification Potential, Global Warming Potential, Chemical Oxygen Demand, Eutrophication Potential, Fossil Fuel Depletion Potential and Water Use. Sticking to current waste treatment, large-scale promotion of degradable products will increase environmental impacts by 1.4-22.6 times nationwide. Xinjiang has highest impact of using plastic bag at household level, due to its long-distance transport and high landfill ratio. Henan and Hebei will trigger the most significant changes in Global Warming Potential of 4.6 and 4.4 times if single-use plastic bags are all replaced with other alternatives. Uncertainty and sensitivity test further prove the robustness of results, and extends geographical implications of the findings. These suggest that introduction of new alternatives requires systematic deployment with full life cycle thinking, and SUPs pollution control should be a holistic transformation. Reducing bag weight while ensuring carrying capacity, purchasing local products to shorten transportation distances and shifting towards cleaner energy sources are synergetic ways to reduce the environmental impact of single-use plastic products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqi Tan
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environment Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China.
| | - Zongguo Wen
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environment Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China.
| | - Yupeng Hu
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environment Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China.
| | - Xianlai Zeng
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environment Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China.
| | - Vorada Kosajan
- State Key Joint Laboratory of Environment Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China.
| | - Ge Yin
- Institute for Sustainable Resources, University College London, London, UK.
| | - Tingting Zhang
- Institute for Sustainable Resources, University College London, London, UK.
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Maalouf A, Agamuthu P. Waste management evolution in the last five decades in developing countries - A review. WASTE MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOLID WASTES AND PUBLIC CLEANSING ASSOCIATION, ISWA 2023; 41:1420-1434. [PMID: 37125680 PMCID: PMC10416556 DOI: 10.1177/0734242x231160099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
This review provides the history and current paradigms of waste management (WM) practices in developing nations during the last five decades. It explores the evolution of the challenges, complexities, and trends during this period. This paper, for the first time, presents an estimation of the amount of municipal solid waste (MSW) generated in developing nations in the last five decades based on the material flow analysis approach. Overall, the amount of MSW in developing countries has increased from about 0.64 billion Mt in 1970 to 2 billion Mt in 2019. This review demonstrates the importance of finding new WM approaches in developing nations in the context of formulating policies, strategies, and highlights the major trends that re-define WM in developing countries. It also aims to present the holistic changes in technology, economic and environmental feasibility aspects to attain an integrated sustainable WM system in developing countries. Specific focus on open-burning, open-dumping, informal recycling, food waste, plastic pollution, and waste collection with reference to Sustainable Development Goals are explained. Drivers for the way forward including circular economy are investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amani Maalouf
- Oxford Sustainable Finance Group, Smith School of Enterprise and the Environment, School of Geography and the Environment, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Research Department, D-Waste, Athens, Greece
| | - Pariatamby Agamuthu
- Jeffrey Sachs Center on Sustainable Development, Sunway University, Sunway, Selangor, Malaysia
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35
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Díaz-Perete D, Hermoso-Orzáez MJ, Terrados-Cepeda J, Silva-Romano P, Martin-Doñate C. WEEE polymers valorization, its use as fuel in the gasification process and revaluation of the inert by-products obtained: Sustainable mortars as a solution. Heliyon 2023; 9:e20194. [PMID: 37809432 PMCID: PMC10559966 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e20194] [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: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The global production of polymer materials has exploded in the last few decades. Their mechanical properties, erosion and corrosion resistance, good performance as insulation materials, and their ease and flexibility of manufacturing have made polymers one of the most widely used materials in the industry and in daily life. Several institutions and governments are beginning to raise serious environmental and ecological concerns with international impact soon, due to the increasing level of polymer production, which does not seem to be slowing down. It is necessary for the scientific community to make efforts in the development and evaluation of new methodologies to enable the inclusion of these types of materials in the circular economy of various production sectors. This is important in order to reduce the ecological impact caused by the current global production level of polymers. One of the most used methods for the recovery of polymeric materials is energy valorization through thermochemical processes. An example of this is thermal gasification using fuels composed of biomass and a mixture of polymeric waste from electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). Through this thermochemical process, high-energy value synthesis gas, with a high concentration of hydrogen, is obtained on one hand, while waste products in the form of chars, ashes and slag are generated on the other hand. This manuscript presents a detailed study methodology that begins with chemical analysis of the raw material and includes subsequent analysis of mechanical results for the revaluation of these residual inert by-products, using them as partial substitutes in cement clinker to produce building mortars. This described methodology influences directly in the LCC (Life Cycle Costing) of final designed products in plastic and extend material life cycle Plastic materials are here to stay, so the study and optimization of polymer waste recovery processes are vital in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) set by the European Union in terms of efficiency and sustainability. It is also the only possible way to create an environmentally sustainable future world for future generations. After applying the described methodology, the mechanical test results show that the modified mortars exhibit established behaviour during the hardening time and similar strength growth compared to commercial mortars. The maximum mechanical strengths achieved, including compressive and flexural strength, make modified mortars a viable choice for several applications in the civil engineering sector.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Díaz-Perete
- Department of Graphic Engineering, Design and Projects, University of Jaén, 23071, Jaén, Spain
- VALORIZA - Research Center for Endogenous Resource Valorization, Polytechnic Institute of Portalegre, Portugal IP Portalegre - Polytechnic Institute of Portalegre, Portalegre, Portugal
| | - Manuel Jesús Hermoso-Orzáez
- Department of Graphic Engineering, Design and Projects, University of Jaén, 23071, Jaén, Spain
- Centre for Advanced Studies in Energy and Environment, University of Jaén, 23071, Jaén, Spain
| | - Julio Terrados-Cepeda
- Department of Graphic Engineering, Design and Projects, University of Jaén, 23071, Jaén, Spain
- Centre for Advanced Studies in Energy and Environment, University of Jaén, 23071, Jaén, Spain
| | - Pedro Silva-Romano
- VALORIZA - Research Center for Endogenous Resource Valorization, Polytechnic Institute of Portalegre, Portugal IP Portalegre - Polytechnic Institute of Portalegre, Portalegre, Portugal
| | - Cristina Martin-Doñate
- Department of Graphic Engineering, Design and Projects, University of Jaén, 23071, Jaén, Spain
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36
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Rodríguez Y, Silva MA, Pham CK, Duncan EM. Cetaceans playing with single-use plastics (SUPs): A widespread interaction with likely severe impacts. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 194:115428. [PMID: 37639865 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115428] [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: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Play is a common behaviour in wild cetaceans that includes the manipulation of natural, as well as artificial objects such as marine debris. Yet, very little is known about these interactions despite the potential impacts on cetacean health. We combined a detailed review of the scientific literature and social media with 12 years of observations to examine cetacean interactions with plastic litter. A total of 11 odontocete species (Tursiops truncatus, Stenella longirostris, Delphinus delphis, Grampus griseus, Steno bredanensis, Stenella frontalis, Sotalia guianensis, Pseudorca crassidens, Orcinus orca, Globicephala melas and Physeter macrocephalus) were documented in 59 events carrying or throwing plastic litter with their head and/or flippers suggesting a form of play. Interactions occurred in the Atlantic, Pacific, Indian Ocean, Mediterranean, and Red Sea, with single-use plastics composing the main typology registered. While these interactions appeared harmless to the observers, they can pose a significant risk through subsequent entanglement or ingestion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasmina Rodríguez
- Instituto de Investigação em Ciências do Mar - OKEANOS, Universidade dos Açores, 9900-138 Horta, Portugal.
| | - Mónica A Silva
- Instituto de Investigação em Ciências do Mar - OKEANOS, Universidade dos Açores, 9900-138 Horta, Portugal
| | - Christopher K Pham
- Instituto de Investigação em Ciências do Mar - OKEANOS, Universidade dos Açores, 9900-138 Horta, Portugal
| | - Emily M Duncan
- Instituto de Investigação em Ciências do Mar - OKEANOS, Universidade dos Açores, 9900-138 Horta, Portugal
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37
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Genovese M, Mangano MC, Papa F, Romeo T, Greco S. Local businesses' consumption and perception of Single-Use Plastics: A preliminary assessment for conservation and mitigation plans in the Egadi Islands Marine Protected Area. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 194:115252. [PMID: 37437520 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115252] [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: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
Modern society depends on plastic, especially through single-use plastic products (SUPs), which can affect ecological systems after use. Local policymakers can strategically adopt measures against SUPs pollution by setting effective local governance. This work was designed to evaluate SUPs consumption inside the Marine Protected Area of the Egadi Islands. A questionnaire mixed approach to understanding stakeholders' consumption, attitudes and perceptions about the uses and impacts of SUPs in the third sector was used. Results show a significant seasonal consumption of SUPs and uncertainty in the behaviour to discard them. These provide valuable insights to fill research gaps in estimating the use of SUPs and consumers' perceptions. The main aim of this work has been to understand the critical issues regarding the use of SUPs, considering the target area's patterns, in support of designing action plans for changing behaviour and the mitigation of critical issues in favour of environmental conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Genovese
- Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Department of Integrative Marine Ecology (EMI), Calabria Marine Centre (CRIMAC), C.da Torre Spaccata, 87071 Amendolara, CS, Italy; Department of Veterinary Science, University of Messina, Polo Universitario Annunziata, 98168, Italy.
| | - Maria Cristina Mangano
- Department of Integrative Marine Ecology (EMI), Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Sicily Marine Centre, Lungomare Cristoforo Colombo (complesso Roosevelt), 90149 Palermo, Italy
| | - Federica Papa
- Department of Health Science, University "Magna Graecia" of Catanzaro, 88100, Italy
| | - Teresa Romeo
- Sicily Marine Centre, Department of Biology and Evolution of Marine Organisms (BEOM), Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Milazzo, Italy
| | - Silvestro Greco
- Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Department of Integrative Marine Ecology (EMI), Calabria Marine Centre (CRIMAC), C.da Torre Spaccata, 87071 Amendolara, CS, Italy
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38
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Lee J, Hong S, Lim S, Lee J, Jung R, Choi S. A lesser known but emerging issue, recreational fishing debris and the anglers' opinions in South Korea. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 194:115229. [PMID: 37453287 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115229] [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: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
The abundance and characteristics of marine debris originating from recreational fishing were examined across 55 sites in four different regions in Korea. The result shows that the average abundance of debris was 4.3 ± 4.2 (n/m2) in terms of the number and 13.4 ± 18.1 (g/m2) in terms of the weight, and the most often found item was fishing lines (<1 m). Detrimental fishing debris such as fishing lines, hooks and weights comprised 50.9 % of the total debris, suggesting significant impacts on wildlife. A questionnaire survey was conducted with 374 anglers across all four regions to understand their behaviors, perceptions, and preferences regarding government policies. Most of the respondents were aware of the adverse impacts of recreational fishing debris on the environment, and >50 % agreed with the introduction of recreational fishing licenses. This study highlights the urgent need to raise awareness and address the undervalued problem of recreational fishing debris.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jongsu Lee
- Korea Marine Litter Institute, Our Sea of East Asia Network #404, 55-9 Juklim 5ro, Tongyeong, Gyeongnam, Republic of Korea; Department of Marine System Engineering, Gyeongsang National University, Tongyeonghaean-ro 2, Tongyeong, Gyeongnam 53064, Republic of Korea.
| | - Sunwook Hong
- Korea Marine Litter Institute, Our Sea of East Asia Network #404, 55-9 Juklim 5ro, Tongyeong, Gyeongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Sehan Lim
- Department of Oceanography, Faculty of Science, Republic of Korea Naval Academy, Jungwon-ro 1, Changwon-si, Gyeongnam 51704, Republic of Korea
| | - Jongmyoung Lee
- Korea Marine Litter Institute, Our Sea of East Asia Network #404, 55-9 Juklim 5ro, Tongyeong, Gyeongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Raehyuk Jung
- Korea Marine Litter Institute, Our Sea of East Asia Network #404, 55-9 Juklim 5ro, Tongyeong, Gyeongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Sanghyun Choi
- Korea Marine Litter Institute, Our Sea of East Asia Network #404, 55-9 Juklim 5ro, Tongyeong, Gyeongnam, Republic of Korea
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39
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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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40
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Martinho SD, Fernandes VC, Figueiredo SA, Vilarinho R, Moreira JA, Delerue-Matos C. Laboratory Studies about Microplastic Aging and Its Effects on the Adsorption of Chlorpyrifos. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:3468. [PMID: 37631527 PMCID: PMC10459960 DOI: 10.3390/polym15163468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 08/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The constant change in microplastics (MP) due to exposure to environmental conditions leads to physical and chemical changes that enhance their ability to transport other pollutants, increasing the concern about their widespread presence in the environment. This work aimed to simulate the aging process of six MP (polyamide 6, unplasticized polyvinyl chloride, low-density polyethylene, polystyrene, polyethylene-co-vinyl acetate, polypropylene) in freshwater and seawater ecosystems at laboratory scale and evaluate its effects through optical microscope observation, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy-Attenuated Total Reflectance (FTIR-ATR), Raman spectroscopy, and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA). Through a combined experimental study of aged MP, the degradation by UV interaction was evidenced by the appearance of new infrared bands in the FTIR spectra assigned to ketones and hydroxyl groups. While Raman analysis and microscope images reveal the appearance of pores, wrinkles, and roughness in the MP surfaces. Variations in the temperature of the maximum weight loss of the MP were observed in the TGA analysis. The adsorption of chlorpyrifos (CPF), a common pesticide widely used in agriculture, by the pristine and aged MP was also studied. The highest affinity for CPF was observed for pristine LDPE and the lowest for PP. The batch adsorption studies revealed an increase in adsorption capacity as a consequence of the aging process for both MP. These results proved that the weathering effects caused changes in the behavior of MP, namely in the interaction with other pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sílvia D. Martinho
- REQUIMTE/LAQV—ISEP, Polytechnic of Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernandino de Almeida 431, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal; (S.D.M.); (C.D.-M.)
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences of the Porto University, Rua do Campo Alegre s/n, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Vírgínia Cruz Fernandes
- REQUIMTE/LAQV—ISEP, Polytechnic of Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernandino de Almeida 431, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal; (S.D.M.); (C.D.-M.)
| | - Sónia A. Figueiredo
- REQUIMTE/LAQV—ISEP, Polytechnic of Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernandino de Almeida 431, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal; (S.D.M.); (C.D.-M.)
| | - Rui Vilarinho
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Faculty of Sciences of the Porto University, Rua do Campo Alegre s/n, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal; (R.V.); (J.A.M.)
- IFIMUP—Institute of Physics for Advanced Materials, Nanotechnology and Photonics, Faculty of Sciences of the Porto University, Rua do Campo Alegre 687, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - J. Agostinho Moreira
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Faculty of Sciences of the Porto University, Rua do Campo Alegre s/n, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal; (R.V.); (J.A.M.)
- IFIMUP—Institute of Physics for Advanced Materials, Nanotechnology and Photonics, Faculty of Sciences of the Porto University, Rua do Campo Alegre 687, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal
| | - Cristina Delerue-Matos
- REQUIMTE/LAQV—ISEP, Polytechnic of Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernandino de Almeida 431, 4249-015 Porto, Portugal; (S.D.M.); (C.D.-M.)
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41
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Wu X, De Bruyn M, Barta K. Deriving high value products from depolymerized lignin oil, aided by (bio)catalytic funneling strategies. Chem Commun (Camb) 2023; 59:9929-9951. [PMID: 37526604 DOI: 10.1039/d3cc01555f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
Lignin holds tremendous and versatile possibilities to produce value-added chemicals and high performing polymeric materials. Over the years, different cutting-edge lignin depolymerization methodologies have been developed, mainly focusing on achieving excellent yields of mono-phenolic products, some even approaching the theoretical maximum. However, due to lignin's inherent heterogeneity and recalcitrance, its depolymerization leads to relatively complex product streams, also containing dimers, and higher molecular weight fragments in substantial quantities. The subsequent chemo-catalytic valorization of these higher molecular weight streams, containing difficult-to-break, mainly C-C covalent bonds, is tremendously challenging, and has consequently received much less attention. In this minireview, we present an overview of recent advances on the development of sustainable biorefinery strategies aimed at the production of well-defined chemicals and polymeric materials, the prime focus being on depolymerized lignin oils, containing high molecular weight fractions. The key central unit operation to achieve this is (bio)catalytic funneling, which holds great potential to overcome separation and purification challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xianyuan Wu
- University of Groningen, Stratingh Institute for Chemistry, Nijenborgh 4, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Mario De Bruyn
- University of Graz, Department of Chemistry, Organic and Bioorganic Chemistry, Heinrichstrasse 28/II, 8010 Graz, Austria.
| | - Katalin Barta
- University of Groningen, Stratingh Institute for Chemistry, Nijenborgh 4, Groningen, The Netherlands
- University of Graz, Department of Chemistry, Organic and Bioorganic Chemistry, Heinrichstrasse 28/II, 8010 Graz, Austria.
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Abd Karim SB, Norman S, Koting S, Simarani K, Loo SC, Mohd Rahim FA, Ibrahim MR, Md Yusoff NI, Nagor Mohamed AH. Plastic Roads in Asia: Current Implementations and Should It Be Considered? MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 16:5515. [PMID: 37629806 PMCID: PMC10455915 DOI: 10.3390/ma16165515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
The rapid economic and industrial growth experienced in the Asian region has significantly increased waste production, particularly single-use plastic. This surge in waste poses a significant challenge for these countries' municipal solid waste management systems. Consequently, there is a pressing need for progressive and effective solutions to address the plastic waste issue. One promising initiative involves utilizing used plastic to produce components for asphalt pavement. The concept of plastic road technology has gained traction in Asia, with 32 countries displaying varying levels of interest, ranging from small-scale laboratory experiments to large-scale construction projects. However, as a relatively new technology, plastic road implementation requires continuous and comprehensive environmental and health risk assessments to ascertain its viability as a reliable green technology. This review paper presents the current findings and potential implementation of plastic-modified asphalt in Asian countries, with particular attention given to its environmental and human health impacts. While plastic asphalt roads hold promise in waste reduction, improved asphalt properties, and cost savings, it is imperative to thoroughly consider the environmental and health impacts, quality control measures, recycling limitations, and long-term performance of this road construction material. Further research and evaluation are needed to fully understand the viability and sustainability of plastic asphalt roads. This will enable a comprehensive assessment of its potential benefits and drawbacks, aiding in developing robust guidelines and standards for its implementation. By addressing these considerations, it will be possible to optimize the utilization of plastic waste in road construction and contribute to a greener and more sustainable future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saipol Bari Abd Karim
- Department of Quantity Surveying, Faculty of Built Environment, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; (S.-C.L.); (F.A.M.R.)
| | - Syuhada Norman
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; (S.N.); (K.S.)
| | - Suhana Koting
- Center for Transportation Research (CTR), Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; (M.R.I.); (A.H.N.M.)
| | - Khanom Simarani
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; (S.N.); (K.S.)
| | - Siaw-Chuing Loo
- Department of Quantity Surveying, Faculty of Built Environment, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; (S.-C.L.); (F.A.M.R.)
| | - Faizul Azli Mohd Rahim
- Department of Quantity Surveying, Faculty of Built Environment, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; (S.-C.L.); (F.A.M.R.)
| | - Mohd Rasdan Ibrahim
- Center for Transportation Research (CTR), Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; (M.R.I.); (A.H.N.M.)
| | - Nur Izzi Md Yusoff
- Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Selangor, Malaysia;
| | - Abdul Halim Nagor Mohamed
- Center for Transportation Research (CTR), Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia; (M.R.I.); (A.H.N.M.)
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Saleem J, Moghal ZKB, Shakoor RA, McKay G. Sustainable Solution for Plastic Pollution: Upcycling Waste Polypropylene Masks for Effective Oil-Spill Management. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:12368. [PMID: 37569746 PMCID: PMC10419313 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241512368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of Polypropylene PP in disposable items such as face masks, gloves, and personal protective equipment has increased exponentially during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, contributing significantly to microplastics and nanoplastics in the environment. Upcycling of waste PP provides a useful alternative to traditional thermal and mechanical recycling techniques. It transforms waste PP into useful products, minimizing its impact on the environment. Herein, we synthesized an oil-sorbent pouch using waste PP, which comprises superposed microporous and fibrous thin films of PP using spin coating. The pouch exhibited super-fast uptake kinetics and reached its saturation in fewer than five minutes with a high oil uptake value of 85 g/g. Moreover, it displayed high reusability and was found to be effective in absorbing oil up to seven times when mechanically squeezed between each cycle, demonstrating robust oil-sorption capabilities. This approach offers a potential solution for managing plastic waste while promoting a circular economy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junaid Saleem
- Division of Sustainable Development, College of Science and Engineering, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Doha P.O. Box 34110, Qatar;
| | | | - Rana Abdul Shakoor
- Center for Advanced Materials, Qatar University, Doha P.O. Box 2713, Qatar; (Z.K.B.M.); (R.A.S.)
| | - Gordon McKay
- Division of Sustainable Development, College of Science and Engineering, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Qatar Foundation, Doha P.O. Box 34110, Qatar;
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Muthulakshmi L, Mohan S, Tatarchuk T. Microplastics in water: types, detection, and removal strategies. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:84933-84948. [PMID: 37386221 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-28460-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are one of the most concerning groups of contaminants that pollute most of the surroundings of the Earth. The abundance of plastic materials available in the environment moved the scientific community in defining a new historical era known as Plasticene. Regardless of their minuscule size, microplastics have posed severe threats to the life forms like animals, plants, and other species present in the ecosystem. Ingestion of microplastics could lead to harmful health effects like teratogenic and mutagenic abnormalities. The source of microplastics could be either primary or secondary in which the components of microplastics are directly released into the atmosphere and the breakdown of larger units to generate the smaller molecules. Though numerous physical and chemical techniques are reported for the removal of microplastics, their increased cost prevents the large-scale applicability of the process. Coagulation, flocculation, sedimentation, and ultrafiltration are some of the methods used for the removal of microplastics. Certain species of microalgae are known to remove microplastics by their inherent nature. One of the biological treatment strategies for microplastic removal is the activated sludge strategy that is used for the separation of microplastic. The overall microplastic removal efficiency is significantly high compared to conventional techniques. Thus, the reported biological avenues like the bio-flocculant for microplastic removal are discussed in this review article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lakshmanan Muthulakshmi
- Biomaterials and Product Development Lab, Department of Biotechnology, Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education, Krishnankoil, Srivilliputhur, Tamil Nadu, 626126, India
| | - Shalini Mohan
- Biomaterials and Product Development Lab, Department of Biotechnology, Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education, Krishnankoil, Srivilliputhur, Tamil Nadu, 626126, India
| | - Tetiana Tatarchuk
- Faculty of Chemistry, Jagiellonian University, ul. Gronostajowa 2, Kraków, 30-387, Poland.
- Educational and Scientific Center of Materials Science and Nanotechnology, Vasyl Stefanyk Precarpathian National University, Ivano-Frankivsk, 76018, Ukraine.
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Wang J, Tao J, Ji J, Wu M, Sun Y, Li J, Gan J. Use of a Dual-Labeled Bioaccumulation Method to Quantify Microplastic Vector Effects for Hydrophobic Organic Contaminants in Soil. ACS ENVIRONMENTAL AU 2023; 3:233-241. [PMID: 37483307 PMCID: PMC10360207 DOI: 10.1021/acsenvironau.3c00024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
Although in vitro simulation and in vivo feeding experiments are commonly used to evaluate the carrier role of microplastics in the bioaccumulation of toxic chemicals, there is no direct method for quantitatively determining their vector effect. In this study, we propose a dual-labeled method based on spiking unlabeled hydrophobic organic contaminants (HOCs) into soils and spiking their respective isotope-labeled reference compounds into microplastic particles. The bioaccumulation of the unlabeled and isotope-labeled HOCs in Eisenia fetida earthworms was compared. Earthworms can assimilate both unlabeled and isotope-labeled HOCs via three routes: dermal uptake, soil ingestion, and microplastic ingestion. After 28 days of exposure, the relative fractions of bioaccumulated isotope-labeled HOCs in the soil treated with 1% microplastics ranged from 15.5 to 55.8%, which were 2.9-47.6 times higher than those in the soils treated with 0.1% microplastics. Polyethylene microplastics were observed to have higher relative fractions of bioaccumulated isotope-labeled HOCs, potentially because of their surface hydrophobicity and amorphous rubbery state. The general linear models suggested that the vector effects were mainly due to the microplastic concentration, followed by polymer properties and HOC hydrophobicity. This proposed method and the derived empirical formula contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the vector effects of microplastics for HOC bioaccumulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Wang
- Beijing
Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation,
College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jianguo Tao
- Beijing
Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation,
College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jianghao Ji
- Beijing
Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation,
College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Mochen Wu
- Beijing
Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation,
College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Yuanze Sun
- Beijing
Key Laboratory of Farmland Soil Pollution Prevention and Remediation,
College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jun Li
- State
Key Laboratory of Biogeology and Environmental Geology, School of
the Earth Sciences and Resources, China
University of Geosciences, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Jay Gan
- Department
of Environmental Sciences, University of
California, Riverside, California 92521, United States
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46
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Mathew A, Isbanner S, Xi Y, Rundle-Thiele S, David P, Li G, Lee D. A systematic literature review of voluntary behaviour change approaches in single use plastic reduction. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 336:117582. [PMID: 36913853 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.117582] [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: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Plastic waste is a leading contributor to climate change due to its build up in landfill and oceans, releasing harmful greenhouse gases and causing harm to ecosystems. The past decade has seen a rise in the number of policies and legislative regulations surrounding the use of single-use plastics (SUP). Such measures are needed and have shown effectiveness in the reduction of SUP's. However, it is becoming apparent that voluntary behaviour change efforts, which preserve autonomous decision making are also needed to further reduce demand for SUP. This mixed-methods systematic review had three aims, 1) synthesise existing voluntary behavioural change interventions and approaches aimed at reducing SUP consumption, 2) assess the level of autonomy preserved in interventions, and 3) assess the extent of theory use in voluntary SUP reduction interventions. A systematic search was executed across six electronic databases. Eligible studies were peer-reviewed literature published in English between 2000 and 2022 reporting on voluntary behaviour change programs aimed at reducing the consumption of SUPs. Quality was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT). Overall, 30 articles were included. Due to the heterogenic nature of outcome data in included studies, meta-analytic analysis was not possible. However, data were extracted and narratively synthesised. Communication and informational campaigns were the most common intervention approach with most interventions taking place in community or commercial settings. There was limited theory use among included studies (27% used theory). A framework was created using the criteria outlined by Geiger et al. (2021) to evaluate level of autonomy preserved in included interventions. Overall, level of autonomy preserved in included interventions was low. This review highlights the urgent need for more research into voluntary SUP reduction strategies, increased integration of theory in intervention development, and higher levels of autonomy preservation in SUP reduction interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alieena Mathew
- Social Marketing @ Griffith, Griffith Business School, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Road, Nathan, QLD, 4111, Australia.
| | - Sebastian Isbanner
- Social Marketing @ Griffith, Griffith Business School, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Road, Nathan, QLD, 4111, Australia.
| | - Yue Xi
- Social Marketing @ Griffith, Griffith Business School, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Road, Nathan, QLD, 4111, Australia.
| | - Sharyn Rundle-Thiele
- Social Marketing @ Griffith, Griffith Business School, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Road, Nathan, QLD, 4111, Australia.
| | - Patricia David
- Khemistry, 23 Kyabra St, Newstead, QLD, 4006, Australia.
| | - Gabriel Li
- School of Professional Education and Executive Development, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University 9 Hoi Ting Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
| | - Daisy Lee
- School of Professional Education and Executive Development, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University 9 Hoi Ting Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
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Stachowiak N, Kowalonek J, Kozlowska J, Burkowska-But A. Stability Studies, Biodegradation Tests, and Mechanical Properties of Sodium Alginate and Gellan Gum Beads Containing Surfactant. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:polym15112568. [PMID: 37299365 DOI: 10.3390/polym15112568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 05/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The excessive presence of single-use plastics is rapidly degrading our natural environment on a global scale due to their inherent resistance to decomposition. Wet wipes used for personal or household purposes contribute significantly to the accumulation of plastic waste. One potential solution to address this problem involves developing eco-friendly materials that possess the ability to degrade naturally while retaining their washing capabilities. For this purpose, the beads from sodium alginate, gellan gum, and a mixture of these natural polymers containing surfactant were produced using the ionotropic gelation method. Stability studies of the beads by observing their appearance and diameter were performed after incubation in solutions of different pH values. The images showed that macroparticles were reduced in size in an acidic medium and swelled in solution of pH-neutral phosphate-buffered saline. Moreover, all the beads first swelled and then degraded in alkaline conditions. The beads based on gellan gum and combining both polymers were the least sensitive to pH changes. The compression tests revealed that the stiffness of all macroparticles decreased with the increasing pH of the solutions in which they were immersed. The studied beads were more rigid in an acidic solution than in alkaline conditions. The biodegradation of macroparticles was assessed using a respirometric method in soil and seawater. It is important to note that the macroparticles degraded more rapidly in soil than in seawater.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Stachowiak
- Faculty of Chemistry, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Gagarina St. 7, 87-100 Torun, Poland
| | - Jolanta Kowalonek
- Faculty of Chemistry, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Gagarina St. 7, 87-100 Torun, Poland
| | - Justyna Kozlowska
- Faculty of Chemistry, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Gagarina St. 7, 87-100 Torun, Poland
| | - Aleksandra Burkowska-But
- Faculty of Biological and Veterinary Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Lwowska St. 1, 87-100 Torun, Poland
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Kiessling T, Hinzmann M, Mederake L, Dittmann S, Brennecke D, Böhm-Beck M, Knickmeier K, Thiel M. What potential does the EU Single-Use Plastics Directive have for reducing plastic pollution at coastlines and riversides? An evaluation based on citizen science data. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2023; 164:106-118. [PMID: 37044029 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2023.03.042] [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: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
To address environmental pollution by plastic litter, the European Union adopted EU Directive 2019/904, the so called "Single-Use Plastics Directive" (SUPD), which bans several single-use plastic products and addresses additional items with measures such as extended producer responsibility and obligatory requirements for product redesign. This study assessed the potential of the SUPD to reduce litter pollution in the environment with three scenarios. The "best case" scenario assumed that all measures of the SUPD completely prevent targeted items from getting into the environment. Another scenario assumed that no measures besides bans were effective. An intermediate scenario assumed partial effectiveness of measures. Data of almost 5,000 sampling events from citizen science protocols (Plastic Pirates, International Coastal Cleanup, Marine Litter Watch) and the OSPAR protocol were used to analyse litter at riversides and coastlines in Germany and the European Union. 44 to 68% of litter items in citizen science protocols consisted of single-use plastics (cigarette butts were the most prominent items). At coastlines sampled by the OSPAR protocol, fishing gear and undefined plastics prevailed. The scenario analysis revealed that substantial litter reductions could be achieved in the "best case" scenario (upwards of 40%), while the intermediate scenario resulted in litter reductions of 13 to 25%. The marginal effect of the "only bans" scenario achieved a reduction of 2-6% in Germany and the European Union, respectively. Thus, depending on implementation and enforcement, the current SUPD can be an important first step, yet further legislative actions are needed to effectively prevent plastic waste pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Kiessling
- Kiel Science Factory, Leibniz Institute for Science and Mathematics Education (IPN) and Kiel University, Am Botanischen Garten 16i, 24118 Kiel, Germany.
| | - Mandy Hinzmann
- Ecologic Institute. Pfalzburger Strasse 43/44, 10717 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Linda Mederake
- Ecologic Institute. Pfalzburger Strasse 43/44, 10717 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Sinja Dittmann
- Kiel Science Factory, Leibniz Institute for Science and Mathematics Education (IPN) and Kiel University, Am Botanischen Garten 16i, 24118 Kiel, Germany.
| | - Dennis Brennecke
- Kiel Science Factory, Leibniz Institute for Science and Mathematics Education (IPN) and Kiel University, Am Botanischen Garten 16i, 24118 Kiel, Germany.
| | - Marianne Böhm-Beck
- Kiel Science Factory, Leibniz Institute for Science and Mathematics Education (IPN) and Kiel University, Am Botanischen Garten 16i, 24118 Kiel, Germany.
| | - Katrin Knickmeier
- Kiel Science Factory, Leibniz Institute for Science and Mathematics Education (IPN) and Kiel University, Am Botanischen Garten 16i, 24118 Kiel, Germany.
| | - Martin Thiel
- Departamento de Biología Marina, Universidad Católica del Norte, Larrondo 1281, Coquimbo, Chile; Center for Ecology and Sustainable Management of Oceanic Islands, Facultad de Ciencias del Mar, Universidad Católica del Norte, Larrondo 1281, Coquimbo, Chile; Centro de Estudios Avanzados en Zonas Áridas (CEAZA), Coquimbo, Chile.
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49
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Linley S, Reisner E. Floating Carbon Nitride Composites for Practical Solar Reforming of Pre-Treated Wastes to Hydrogen Gas. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2023:e2207314. [PMID: 37171802 PMCID: PMC10375181 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202207314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Solar reforming (SR) is a promising green-energy technology that can use sunlight to mitigate biomass and plastic waste while producing hydrogen gas at ambient pressure and temperature. However, practical challenges, including photocatalyst lifetime, recyclability, and low production rates in turbid waste suspensions, limit SR's industrial potential. By immobilizing SR catalyst materials (carbon nitride/platinum; CNx |Pt and carbon nitride/nickel phosphide; CNx |Ni2 P) on hollow glass microspheres (HGM), which act as floating supports enabling practical composite recycling, such limitations can be overcome. Substrates derived from plastic and biomass, including poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) and cellulose, are reformed by floating SR composites, which are reused for up to ten consecutive cycles under realistic, vertical simulated solar irradiation (AM1.5G), reaching activities of 1333 ± 240 µmolH2 m-2 h-1 on pre-treated PET. Floating SR composites are also advantageous in realistic waste where turbidity prevents light absorption by non-floating catalyst powders, achieving 338.1 ± 1.1 µmolH2 m-2 h-1 using floating CNx versus non-detectable H2 production with non-floating CNx and a pre-treated PET bottle as substrate. Low Pt loadings (0.033 ± 0.0013% m/m) demonstrate consistent performance and recyclability, allowing efficient use of precious metals for SR hydrogen production from waste substrates at large areal scale (217 cm2 ), taking an important step toward practical SR implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stuart Linley
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge, CB21EW, UK
| | - Erwin Reisner
- Yusuf Hamied Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Lensfield Road, Cambridge, CB21EW, UK
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50
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Rangel-Buitrago N, Ochoa FL, Rodríguez RDB, Moreno JB, Trilleras J, Arana VA, Neal WJ. Decoding plastic pollution in the geological record: A baseline study on the Caribbean Coast of Colombia, north South America. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 192:114993. [PMID: 37167662 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
This study presents the first report of plastics in the geological record (rocks and formations composed of plastics) along the central Caribbean Coast of Colombia, northern coast of South America. These novel records of pollution include two rock types (plastiglomerates and quartz plastisandstones), two altered plastic types (pyroplastics and plasticrusts), two soil types (plasticlasts and anthrosols), and a series of artifacts (fossils) found near human settlements. All of them were analyzed using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Polyester, high-density polyethylene, and copolymers of alkyl acrylates or methacrylates were identified as the principal polymers forming these rocks. This research provides new insights into the petrology of these emerging new forms of pollution, for which humans are primarily responsible for their generation and distribution. Similarly, the results presented emphasize that plastics are generating a deluge of pollutants in terms of variety and volume, overwhelming natural environments globally. Controlling or even eliminating their use has become one of the most significant challenges of the 21st Century.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nelson Rangel-Buitrago
- Programa de Física, Facultad de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad del Atlántico, Barranquilla, Atlántico, Colombia.
| | - Felipe Lamus Ochoa
- Departamento de Física y Geociencias, Division de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad del Norte, Barranquilla, Atlántico, Colombia
| | - Rubén Darío Beltrán Rodríguez
- Departamento de Física y Geociencias, Division de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad del Norte, Barranquilla, Atlántico, Colombia
| | - Jose Brito Moreno
- Departamento de Física y Geociencias, Division de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad del Norte, Barranquilla, Atlántico, Colombia
| | - Jorge Trilleras
- Programa de Maestría en Ciencias Químicas, Facultad de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad del Atlántico, Puerto Colombia, Atlántico, Colombia; Programa de Química, Facultad de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad del Atlántico, Puerto Colombia, Atlántico, Colombia
| | - Victoria Andrea Arana
- Programa de Maestría en Ciencias Químicas, Facultad de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad del Atlántico, Puerto Colombia, Atlántico, Colombia; Programa de Química, Facultad de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad del Atlántico, Puerto Colombia, Atlántico, Colombia
| | - William J Neal
- Department of Geology, Grand Valley State University, The Seymour K. & Esther R. Padnos Hall of Science 213A, Allendale, MI, USA
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