Articles tagged with Pollution Control
A recent study suggests that prolonged exposure to low-dose traffic-derived PM2.5 particles can cause fatty liver disorder in mice. The study found changes in liver function, inflammation, and scar tissue formation, highlighting the potential health risks of air pollution on the liver.
A new study published in Environmental DNA revealed that insecticides and fungicides are the main factors affecting biodiversity in UK waters. The AI technology analyzed water and biofilm samples from 52 freshwater lakes, identifying key links between pollutants and biodiversity loss.
The university aims to improve operational efficiency, manage emissions, and build an inventory of methane emissions through three research projects. The efforts will also support workforce development and improve air quality in local communities.
China's particulate matter emissions have followed an environmental Kuznets curve, peaking in the mid-1990s. However, finer PM fractions and carbonaceous components have increased due to shifts in industrial energy usage and residential sector transitions. This poses new challenges for air quality policies.
A study published in Science of the Total Environment found that stormwater detention basins in Northern Virginia face significant salt stress due to road salts. Native plant species, such as cattails, showed promise in tolerating high salt concentrations, but their impact on overall salt removal was limited.
Research led by the University of Michigan reveals that extreme rainfall disproportionately increases E. coli concentrations in recreational waters of communities of color in Texas, particularly those with higher percentages of Black residents in the north and east, and predominantly Latino communities in the south and west.
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology found that biochar significantly reduces DDT uptake by earthworms in contaminated soil, halving the toxin's presence. This method could enable farming on land deemed unusable due to environmental risks.
The study proposes a novel approach for simultaneous extraction of metabolites and lipids from zebrafish embryos to shed light on PFOS-induced neurotoxicity. The researchers found that sphingolipids are a reliable biomarker of PFOS-induced neurotoxicity, and the method can be expanded to various biomolecules.
A new study from the University of Surrey identifies targeted ventilation strategies as crucial to preventing super-spreader events on cruise ships. The research found that improved air circulation in crowded areas can significantly reduce airborne infection transmission risk, with CO2 levels increasing in higher occupancy spaces.
Researchers developed a novel bioconversion system using mealworm and black soldier fly larvae to transform plastic waste into valuable by-products, including biochar and compost. The system has potential for large-scale adoption in sustainable waste management industries.
A recent study found a 59% decrease in river antibiotic pollution due to improved manure recycling and reduced direct discharge. However, this reduction came with an unintended consequence: increased antibiotic leaching into groundwater by 15%, mainly from expanded manure use as fertilizer.
Experts propose an 18th SDG to protect Earth's orbit from accumulating debris, citing the need for global consensus and mechanisms for enforcement. The proposal builds on earlier calls for a legally-binding treaty to safeguard the planet's orbital environment.
Research integrating natural archive data and modelled atmospheric mercury deposition reveals ecosystem responses to Hg input. Ecosystems like lake sediments exhibit trends similar to atmospheric Hg deposition, while ice and marine sediments show less pronounced responses.
A new study from Tel Aviv University finds minimal environmental pollution resulting from ancient copper production in King Solomon's Mines, with pollution levels confined to smelting furnaces. Researchers also contradict previous claims of widespread industrial pollution, citing low levels of lead and other metals in soil samples.
A study by UAB researchers found that commercial tea bags release significant amounts of nano-sized particles and nanofilamentous structures when used to brew tea. The particles, made from polymers like nylon-6, polypropylene, and cellulose, can interact with human intestinal cells and potentially cause harm.
A new study by researchers at Brown University found that greater race-day pollution is associated with slower average marathon finish times. Runners' efforts to optimize their performance should consider the effect of air pollution.
Researchers developed a compact hyperspectral Raman imaging lidar system for remote detection and identification of plastics. The system can identify plastics from 6 meters away with high accuracy, offering a valuable tool for monitoring and analysis of oceanic plastic pollution.
Researchers warn that refining nickel, cobalt, and other minerals for electric vehicle batteries could increase sulfur dioxide emissions by up to 20% in China and India. The study highlights the need for countries to think strategically about building clean supply chains as they develop decarbonization plans.
A nationwide analysis of Japan's plastic litter removal from rivers found that natural disasters and extreme weather events contribute to spikes in collected plastic waste. The study, led by Tokyo University of Science, also identified positive correlations between basin population, plastic litter recovery, and cleanup activities.
A large US study found a strong association between long-term air pollution exposure and an increased risk of blood clots in deep veins, also known as venous thromboembolism. Participants with higher exposure to particulate matter, oxides of nitrogen, and nitrogen dioxide had a significantly increased risk of developing these conditions.
A new study from Karolinska Institutet reveals that long-term exposure to air pollution in India contributes to millions of deaths annually. The research highlights the need for stricter air quality regulations in the country.
Researchers found that particles can absorb substantially more water than previously thought, potentially extending their time in the atmosphere. This changes how long particles remain suspended in the air and affects strategies for controlling air pollution.
A groundbreaking study found a strong connection between long-term air pollution exposure and an increased risk of depression. Sulfur dioxide was identified as the most significant contributor, with fine particulate matter and carbon monoxide also linked to depressive symptoms.
A Dartmouth-led study suggests using clay to convert CO2 into food for zooplankton, which expel it as carbon-filled feces in the deep sea. This method accelerates the ocean's natural cycle for removing carbon from the atmosphere.
A new study reveals woodburning contributes significantly to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) levels in the region, accounting for 25% of total PM2.5 mass. The experts recommend targeted measures to mitigate health risks associated with woodburning activities, including raising public awareness and promoting cleaner alternatives.
The study found a significantly higher proportion of racial and ethnic minority children in 'higher exposure risk schools' compared to the rest of schools. Hispanic and Latino children make up a larger share of these schools, with a greater number having disabilities.
Researchers at Texas A&M University developed a non-toxic pesticide using neem seed extract and nanotechnology. The new formulation shows improved targeting ability and reduces environmental pollution by up to 80-90% of sprayed pesticides missing their target entirely.
A multidisciplinary team monitored ambient PAHs levels in Beijing from 2014 to 2021, finding a 96.6% decline in concentrations. The study also showed that air pollution control measures reduced human exposure to airborne toxins like PAHs.
Researchers observed microfiber plastics tumbling, rolling, and getting stuck in soil particles, revealing slow movement and potential trapping. The study improves understanding of exposure risks and possible health impacts of widespread plastic pollutants.
A study reveals that soil emissions account for at least a quarter of nitrogen oxide emissions in California's Salton Sea air basin, with annual total emissions reaching 11 tons per day. The findings highlight the need to better understand and account for agricultural soils' emissions to improve air quality in rural areas.
A new study finds that fine particulate air pollution (PM2.5) exposure is associated with altered immune responses and increased inflammation in pregnant women, leading to adverse birth outcomes. The study highlights the importance of minimizing air pollution exposure in pregnant women to protect maternal and fetal health.
A new study suggests that addressing plastic pollution could play a critical role in lowering breast cancer rates. Researchers identified nearly half of the chemicals linked to breast cancer risk as being used in plastics, including 175 potential carcinogens that should be prioritized for regulatory action.
Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and ground-level ozone (O3) are major pollutants degrading China's urban air quality, with serious human health effects. Coordinating their control is central to improving air quality, according to scientists.
A UC Riverside study found that probiotic supplementation can reduce the negative impacts of PBDEs on neurodevelopment, behavior, and metabolism in mouse offspring. The researchers discovered that LR treatment helped normalize body weight gain and tooth eruption timing, as well as improved glucose metabolism and insulin levels.
Researchers found that living in neighborhoods with low food access, contaminated drinking water, and proximity to Superfund sites increases PFAS levels in blood. The study provides evidence for addressing neighborhood-level factors in reducing racial and ethnic environmental health disparities.
A 7-year study found a significant increase in centimetre-sized plastic fragments in the North Pacific Garbage Patch, surpassing larger floating plastics. The research, conducted by The Ocean Cleanup, reveals an unexpected rise in mass concentration of these fragments, likely originating from decades-old plastics discarded globally.
The Center for Translational Exposomics Research (CTER) at USC aims to accelerate environmental health research and find practical solutions. CTER investigates how different exposures impact health across populations using population studies, lab experiments, and community engagement.
Researchers found that a chlorine-cocoa butter mixture can effectively treat diseased corals, reducing tissue loss and environmental harm. The alternative approach offers a cheaper, biodegradable solution to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Researchers found high levels of contamination on Perequê Beach in Guarujá, Brazil, with plastic and cigarette butts predominating. The study, published in Marine Pollution Bulletin, highlights the need for public policies to mitigate litter and protect marine ecosystems.
A new study published in PLOS ONE suggests that air pollution exposure may be associated with an increased risk of eczema. Data from hundreds of thousands of U.S. adults found that every 10-µm/m3 increase in PM2.5 levels doubles the eczema rate among residents.
A new study by Ohio State University researchers has detected lead pollution in ice cores from the Guliya ice cap in northwestern Tibet, revealing a significant change in its origin beginning in 1974. This shift was likely caused by stricter emissions policies implemented in the US during that time period.
A new study published in Science Advances found that the Arctic Ocean has seen a sharp rise in legacy persistent organic pollutants (POPs) decades after global regulations were put in place. POPs, which are toxic and bioaccumulative, pose potential dangers to animals and people in the fragile ecosystem's food web.
A new study found that simple kitchen improvements can significantly reduce exposure to harmful pollutants, preventing over 67,000 premature deaths annually. Widespread implementation of ventilation systems could be an affordable solution to mitigate household air pollution in rural areas.
A new commentary found that power plants' use of air pollution control devices (APCDs) saved up to 9,100 lives and up to $100 billion in health costs in 2023. The researchers estimated that APCD use could plummet and severely jeopardize the health of the public if Project 2025 or the America First Agenda is enacted.
Researchers discovered that when combined, microplastics and PFAS cause more severe toxic effects on aquatic life, including developmental failures and stunted growth. The study highlights the urgent need for regulatory frameworks addressing the unintended combinations of pollutants in the environment.
A new study found that exposure to higher levels of air pollution as a baby is associated with increased odds of developing a peanut allergy and having it persist throughout childhood. Policies aimed at tackling poor air quality could potentially reduce the development and persistence of peanut allergies, according to researchers.
Researchers have developed a novel photocatalyst by combining g-C3N4 with Bi4O5Br2 and graphene, resulting in efficient degradation of pollutants. The CN/BOB-16 heterostructure exhibited superior performance, surpassing existing benchmarks, and confirmed the key role of Z-type heterojunctions in generating active species.
Researchers at Osaka University have developed a way to make tough, chemically recyclable polymers without compromising on heat and chemical resistance. This breakthrough could hugely expand the uses of chemically recyclable polymers.
Rice engineers developed a new synthesis strategy for covalent organic frameworks (COFs) that can be used to trap gases, filter water and speed up chemical reactions. The approach enables faster production of COFs with superior crystallinity and high efficiency in breaking down harmful chemicals.
A critical review reveals a significant oversight in research and global regulatory frameworks regarding microplastics in leave-on cosmetics. The study highlights the need for new analytical methodologies to aid future enforcement efforts.
A human rights-based approach to coral reef protection could ensure governments are held accountable for safeguarding marine ecosystems. An estimated one billion people rely on healthy coral reefs globally for food security and income, highlighting the catastrophic impact of their loss on human health and economic wellbeing.
A study by FAMU-FSU College of Engineering researcher Nasrin Alamdari found that the shape, size, and density of microplastics affect their sinking speed, impacting urban stormwater transport. The research suggests solutions like permeable pavements and green spaces can trap microplastics, reducing pollution.
According to the Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN), lung cancer is the most common type of cancer, with 2.2 million new cases and 1.8 million deaths worldwide in 2020. China had the highest number of new cases, and incidence and mortality rates have been steadily rising from 1990 to 2019.
A Dartmouth-led study found that air pollution from fossil fuels reaches the remote Arctic, altering its fundamental atmospheric chemistry. The researchers detected declines in methanesulfonic acid, a biomarker linked to phytoplankton productivity, which plummeted in environments high in emissions.
Researchers from Kyushu University found that reducing plastic waste entering oceans by 32% by 2035 would result in more than 50% less plastic in the oceans by 2050. The study aims to provide a clear numerical target for global efforts to tackle marine plastic pollution.
Researchers developed a low-cost means of measuring indoor air quality, pinpointing sources and factors affecting PM concentrations. Air pollution levels remained within World Health Organisation guidelines during school hours, with dominant outdoor sources.
Industrial fishing practices in tropical and subtropical waters release high levels of methylmercury into the ocean. The majority of this mercury is found in large pelagic fish like tuna, which are then consumed by humans. This can lead to developmental delays in children and impaired cardiovascular health in adults.
The project aims to create a Great Lakes-focused microplastic action network using proven reduction strategies and new tools. It will empower communities to identify local pollution sources and mitigate microplastic pollution at a local level.
A new USDA-funded research grant supports the development of sustainable, biodegradable mulch films that can provide nutrients to crops while reducing plastic pollution. The project aims to create durable and effective films that can be used for years without harming the environment.
Researchers found that women exposed to higher levels of nitrogen dioxide and inhalable particulate matter during the second trimester face an almost fourfold increased risk of postpartum depression. The study also discovered a sustained effect of air pollution on symptoms of depression for up to three years after birth.