Nature Environment and Pollution Technology

Sustainable Energy Recovery from Coastal Plastic Waste: A Pyrolysis-Driven Micro Power System Approach

Plastic waste accumulation in coastal regions poses a critical environmental and energy access challenge, particularly in underserved areas. This study introduces a novel integration of pyrolysis technology with a micro-scale thermal power generation system designed to convert coastal plastic waste into both thermal and electrical energy. The originality lies in the systematic coupling of a shell-and-tube pyrolysis reactor with a mini steam turbine-generator unit, optimized through thermodynamic analysis, including heat transfer performance, turbulent fluid dynamics, and energy conversion efficiency. Experimental results show that the reactor achieves efficient thermal decomposition (Re = 5,622; shell-side heat flux = 13,212.5 W), while the system produces 13.2 W of electricity with an overall efficiency of 60.66%. Additionally, a spiral condenser enhances heat recovery, reinforcing system sustainability. This integrated design demonstrates a practical, scalable, and eco-friendly solution for simultaneous plastic waste mitigation and decentralized energy generation, particularly in coastal and remote communities where infrastructure is limited. The system sets a precedent for developing modular waste-to-energy technologies that align with circular economy principles and climate resilience goals.

Dwi Novalita Tanri Abeng, Abd. Wahid Wahab, Winarni Monoarfa and Eymal Bahsar Demmallino

Achieving Sustainability in India: Analyzing Carbon Neutrality Scenarios Using the Novel Fourier-NARDL Approach

India’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2070 represents the strategic significance of cleaner energy sources, such as nuclear energy, in reducing environmental degradation. This study examines the asymmetric relationship between nuclear energy R&D spending and environmental quality, as determined by the Load Capacity Factor (LCF), from 1978 to 2022. The Fourier Nonlinear Autoregressive Distributed Lag (Fourier-NARDL) model is used to obtain potential nonlinear adjustments and continuous structural changes. Empirical findings show that positive shocks in nuclear energy consumption (NUC) expenditure play a very positive role in improving environmental quality in the long run (?? = 0.37, p < 0.05), and negative shocks have a negative effect (?? = ?0.29, p < 0.10). There is also asymmetric behavior in short-run dynamics, but of a smaller dimension. These results provide empirical evidence of the Load Capacity Curve (LCC) hypothesis for India and highlight the importance of the long-term ecological balance that can be attained by focusing on long-term nuclear R&D investment. This research has practical implications for policymakers who aim to align energy innovation strategies with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the 2070 carbon-neutral objective of India.

A. Mohanapriya, R. Shenbagavalli and M. Balamurugan

Index-Based Evaluation (IBE) and Geospatial Mapping of Heavy Metal Contamination in Groundwater of an Industrially Influenced Peri-Urban Area of Guwahati, Assam, India

This study evaluates the geospatial variability of heavy metal contamination in groundwater within an industrially influenced peri-urban area spanning parts of Guwahati, Assam, and Meghalaya, India. A total of 26 samples were analyzed for nine heavy metals, As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb, Zn, and Fe, using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) during both pre- and post-monsoon seasons. Index-Based Evaluation (IBE) was employed to assess cumulative contamination levels. Results revealed maximum concentrations of Pb (0.206 mg.L-1), Cd (0.011 mg.L-1), Ni (0.049 mg.L-1), and Mn (1.983 mg.L-1) in the groundwater samples. Metal Index (MI) values ? 6 at 21 (pre-monsoon) and 7 (post-monsoon) sites indicated serious contamination, while Heavy Metal Pollution Index (HPI) values > 100 at 22 and 20 sites, respectively, classified the water as unsuitable for drinking. Kernel Density Estimation (KDE) and box plots further supported the temporal patterns of contamination. Geospatial mapping of MI using the Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW) technique revealed that 78% (pre-monsoon) and 69% (post-monsoon) of the area were seriously or strongly affected, while HPI interpolation indicated 97% and 95% of the area under high-pollution zones, respectively. The findings underscore the strong anthropogenic impact of cement and brick industries on groundwater quality, emphasizing the need for continuous monitoring and effluent control. The adopted framework provides a transferable model for early detection, spatial prioritization, and remediation of heavy metal contamination in industrially stressed aquifers globally.

Debasish Chutia, Satyajit Kataki and Aditya Shankar Kataki

Comparison of Optimum Dosages of Biocoagulant and Commercial Coagulant Alum in the Coagulation-Flocculation Process of Tofu Wastewater

The tofu industry produces wastewater containing organic matter, suspended solids, and high nitrogen compounds that have the potential to pollute the environment. This research compares the effectiveness of natural biocoagulants derived from maggot shells and moringa seeds with commercial alum coagulants in the coagulation-flocculation process of tofu wastewater. The novelty of this research lies in the use of maggot shells, which are biomass waste, as a natural coagulant. Until now, maggot shells have rarely been used in wastewater treatment, unlike moringa seeds, which have been extensively researched and proven to be effective due to their 44.8?tionic protein content. The research methods included the production of biocoagulants, the determination of the optimum dose through jar tests, and the analysis of pH, TSS, turbidity, and color parameters. The results indicated that all coagulants effectively reduced TSS, turbidity, and color levels. The alum coagulant demonstrated the highest efficiency, achieving 98.66% TSS removal, 86.67% turbidity removal, and 96.17% color removal at an optimal dose of 250 mg.L-1. The moringa seed biocoagulant achieved a comparable performance with 98.66% TSS, 86.67% turbidity, and 96.17% color removal at 150 mg.L-1. In contrast, the maggot shell biocoagulant showed moderate efficiency, removing 83.89% TSS, 74.96% turbidity, and 77.48% color removal at 150 mg.L-1.

Okik Hendriyanto Cahyonugroho, Nur Laili Alfiatin Mukharomah and Muhammad Rizky Firmansyah

Thermogravimetric Analysis and Determination of Kinetic Parameters for Pyrolysis of Lotus Seed Biomass

Optimal usage of omnipresent biowaste materials is vital for truly accomplishing global sustainable development goals. In this regard, naturally abundant, nutrient-rich lotus seeds (Nelumbo nucifera) biomass holds high potential as a suitable alternative source of energy. This research systematically investigates the high temperature thermochemical, morphological and spectral changes which occur in lotus seeds (LS) biomass. This study also successfully correlates the thermogravimetric changes in LS biomass with its compositional changes, highlighting the overall mechanism of this thermal process. Furthermore, a detailed theoretical analysis of the thermal data was also carried out using various models to obtain all of the involved kinetic parameters. Results showed that LS biomass thermal degradation followed a first-order reaction kinetics mechanism with significantly low activation energy requirements (~ 2-8 kJ.mol-1) for different reaction phases. These results provide critical information for optimizing the energy production on an industrial scale. High volatile content (~76%) and lower pyrolysis temperature requirement (< 400o C) for inducing significant structural changes in this biomass also enhances its potential as a bioenergy alternative. Ultimately, this research work underscores the potential of lotus seed biomass to contribute to sustainable energy solutions and mitigate environmental pollution, aligning with global efforts toward renewable energy practices.

Gurneet Kaur, Vivekanand and Jaibir Kherb

Environmental Policies in Mexico: A Critical Analysis of Their Implementation and Results

Mexico, as a megadiverse country, is particularly vulnerable to climate change. In response, it has implemented various environmental policies, including Payment for Water Environmental Services (PES), the ban on single-use plastics, and the carbon tax. The purpose of this article is to systematically analyze recent environmental policies, evaluating their impact and contribution to sustainable development. To this end, a methodology based on a Systematic Literature Review (SLR), complemented by a bibliometric analysis, was employed. The information search was conducted using the Scopus and Web of Science (WoS) databases, as well as institutional repositories, resulting in the selection of 134 qualified publications. The analysis of these documents enabled the identification and grouping of key findings in areas such as renewable energy, the circular economy, and environmental governance. Although the results demonstrate substantial progress in these fields, they also reveal critical shortcomings in waste management, reforestation efforts, and environmental monitoring. Additionally, the study identifies tensions between economic interests and sustainability goals, low levels of citizen participation in public policy implementation, and pronounced regional disparities in policy execution. The study concludes by emphasizing the urgent need to strengthen environmental governance through increased citizen engagement, professionalization of institutions, and the assurance of long-term policy continuity.

Rosa Llerena, Oscar Moncayo, Leandra Arboleda, Malena Zambrano and Evelyn Navia

Clay Brick Performance with Red Mud, Waste Foundry Sand, and Silica Fume: A Taguchi Approach

This study addresses the environmental concerns associated with the disposal of red mud (RM) and Waste Foundry Sand (WFS). It explores the use of these industrial by-products, along with silica fume, fly ash, and Desur clay, to produce geopolymer clay bricks as a sustainable alternative to traditional clay bricks. Initially, 5M geopolymeric clay bricks were produced by partially substituting natural clay with RM, fly ash, WFS, sodium silicate, and caustic. The highest compressive strength achieved was 3.27 N.mm- ² with a 5M caustic concentration. To further optimize the raw materials and enhance the strength, WFS was partially replaced with different percentages of silica fume. Grey Relational Analysis (GRA) was used to identify the most effective mix, transforming multiple objectives into a single optimal solution. Nine mix designs were developed following the Taguchi L9 orthogonal array. The optimum mix demonstrated a compressive strength of 5.02 N.mm- ², comprising 13.75% red mud, 10% silica fume, 12.85% WFS, 33.43?sur clay, and 30% fly ash. Water absorption remained within allowable limits across all samples. Variance analysis indicated that silica fume (47.45%) was the most influential factor, followed by red mud (30.36%), while WFS contributed the least (21.17%). Microstructural and mineralogical analyses using SEM, FTIR, and XRD confirmed the formation of geopolymeric gels and stable phases. Heavy metal assessments via ICP verified that the bricks are environmentally safe for utilization.

Smita S. Borchate, Praveen A. Ghorpade, Basavaraj G. Katageri and Nayana P. Hoolikantimath

Acceptance Rate and Publication Time

Acceptance rate: 20%
Preliminary Scrutiny: 10-15 days from submission
Initial Acceptance Letter: 7-8 weeks from submission
Prepublished Paper: 4-6 weeks from final acceptance
Final Publication: 7-10 months from final acceptance

Journal Metrics

Scopus CiteScore (2024): 1.5
Scopus SJR Index (2024) = 0.234
SJR H Index (2024) = 20
Index Copernicus International (2023) = 132.21
NAAS Rating (2024) = 5.33

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