Environmental and Earth Sciences Proceedings

9 pages, 5437 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Assessment of Machine Learning Techniques to Estimate Reference Evapotranspiration at Yauri Meteorological Station, Peru

by Efrain Lujano, Rene Lujano, Juan Carlos Huamani and Apolinario Lujano

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2025, 32(1), 20; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2025032020 - 4 Jun 2025

Abstract

Reference evapotranspiration (ETo) is crucial for agriculture and is traditionally estimated using the Penman–Monteith (PM) method, which relies on multiple climatic variables. This study assessed machine learning (ML) techniques to estimate ETo at the Yauri meteorological station in Peru. Two ML models—K-nearest neighbors [...] Read more.

Reference evapotranspiration (ETo) is crucial for agriculture and is traditionally estimated using the Penman–Monteith (PM) method, which relies on multiple climatic variables. This study assessed machine learning (ML) techniques to estimate ETo at the Yauri meteorological station in Peru. Two ML models—K-nearest neighbors (KNN) and artificial neural networks (ANN)—were tested and compared against both the PM and the Hargreaves–Samani (HS) methods. Their accuracy was measured using metrics such as mean absolute error (MAE), anomaly correlation coefficient (ACC), Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE), Kling–Gupta efficiency (KGE), and spectral angle (SA). The results indicate that ML techniques can effectively estimate ETo, providing robust alternatives in areas with limited meteorological data, thus enhancing water resource management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 8th International Electronic Conference on Water Sciences)

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56 pages, 489 KiB

Open AccessConference Report

Abstracts of the 4th International Electronic Conference on Forests (IECF 2024), 23–25 September 2024

by Giorgos Mallinis

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2024, 31(1), 20; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2024031020 - 3 Jun 2025

Abstract

The 4th International Electronic Conference on Forests—Science, Society and Innovation Nexus in Forestry: Pathways to Global Sustainability (IECF 2024) was organized by MDPI and MDPI Forests. The conference took place online from 23–25 September 2024. This conference report is an abstract collection [...] Read more.

The 4th International Electronic Conference on Forests—Science, Society and Innovation Nexus in Forestry: Pathways to Global Sustainability (IECF 2024) was organized by MDPI and MDPI Forests. The conference took place online from 23–25 September 2024. This conference report is an abstract collection from six different sessions of IECF 2024. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 4th International Electronic Conference on Forests)

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13 pages, 3074 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Evaluation of Surface Area Dynamics of Manta and Beleu Lakes

by Ana Jeleapov

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2025, 32(1), 19; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2025032019 - 3 Jun 2025

Abstract

This study evaluated the surface area and volume dynamics of the largest and most important natural lakes in the Republic of Moldova: Manta and Beleu. Lakes and surrounding areas represent the main natural ecosystem of the country, are a shelter to thousands of [...] Read more.

This study evaluated the surface area and volume dynamics of the largest and most important natural lakes in the Republic of Moldova: Manta and Beleu. Lakes and surrounding areas represent the main natural ecosystem of the country, are a shelter to thousands of animals and plant species, and are included in the protected areas network. The lakes are situated in the Lower Prut floodplain, with the main water sources being the Prut River through channels, as well as groundwater, surface runoff and precipitation. Regulations of the Prut River flow, climate change, and the increasing frequency of droughts and floods have a certain impact on lake extension and volume dynamics. The main methods used to evaluate surface area variation are the analysis of satellite images (Landsats, from 1975 to 2024) and the application of the NDWI index. As a result, it was identified that the extent of Beleu Lake varied from 0 to 19 km², and that of Manta Lake from 5 to 27 km². The actual average surface area is 7–11 km² for Beleu and 15–19 km² for Manta. The last catastrophic drought in 2022 decreased the surface area of Beleu by up to 3.7 km² and that of Manta by up to 5 km², while the most recent floods in 2020 extended the area of Beleu by up to 12 km² and that of Manta by up to 27.3 km². The volumes of Beleu vary from 0 to 40 mil.m³, with an average of 6.5–9 mil.m³, and of Manta from 4.5 mil.m³ to 55 mil.m³, with an average of 15–22 mil.m³. The shoreline lengths corresponding to the average water surface areas are 14–20 km for Beleu and 35–40 km for Manta. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 8th International Electronic Conference on Water Sciences)

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3 pages, 1257 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Preface of the 6th International Conference on Green Environmental Engineering and Technology 2024 (IConGEET2024)

by Norazian Mohamed Noor

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2025, 33(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2025033011 - 13 May 2025

Abstract

The International Conference on Green Environmental Engineering and Technology (IConGEET) is an annual event organized by the Sustainable Environment Research Group (SERG), a sub-research group under the Centre of Excellence Geopolymer and Green Technology (CEGeoGTech), Universiti Malaysia Perlis, and co-organized by the National [...] Read more.

The International Conference on Green Environmental Engineering and Technology (IConGEET) is an annual event organized by the Sustainable Environment Research Group (SERG), a sub-research group under the Centre of Excellence Geopolymer and Green Technology (CEGeoGTech), Universiti Malaysia Perlis, and co-organized by the National Institute for Research and Development in Environmental Protection (INCDPM), Bucharest, Romania [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 6th International Conference on Green Environmental Engineering and Technology (IConGEET 2024))

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2 pages, 146 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Statement of Peer Review

by Norazian Mohamed Noor

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2025, 33(1), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2025033010 - 13 May 2025

Abstract

In submitting conference proceedings to Environment Sciences Proceedings, the volume editors of the proceedings certify to the publisher that all papers published in this volume have been subjected to peer review administered by the volume editors [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 6th International Conference on Green Environmental Engineering and Technology (IConGEET 2024))

10 pages, 4514 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Assessment of the Lower Danube Sediment Regime and Morphology for the Identification of Habitats for Critically Endangered Sturgeon

by Isabela Sadîca, Georgeta Tudor, Elena Holban, Miruna Arsene, Maria Carachiciu, George Cucu and Sorin Stegărescu

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2025, 33(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2025033009 - 12 May 2025

Abstract

The investigation of sediment morphology and sediment regime is crucial for the initial stages of the hydromorphodynamic modeling of the Lower Danube basin. This helps in identifying significant habitats and potential obstacles that may disrupt the migration patterns of anadromous sturgeon species in [...] Read more.

The investigation of sediment morphology and sediment regime is crucial for the initial stages of the hydromorphodynamic modeling of the Lower Danube basin. This helps in identifying significant habitats and potential obstacles that may disrupt the migration patterns of anadromous sturgeon species in the Lower Danube. This investigation involved the analysis of 10 samples, which were collected in equal quantities from specific places where hydrotechnical activities were conducted, specifically the Bala and Caleia branches. The sediment samples were analyzed to determine their morphological and structural characteristics through granulometric assessments. Additionally, three significant parameters, namely, the standard deviation, symmetry index (skewness index), and flattening index (kurtosis index), were used for further characterization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 6th International Conference on Green Environmental Engineering and Technology (IConGEET 2024))

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7 pages, 1349 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Synthesis and Photocatalytic Performance of g-C₃N₄/ZnO Nanocomposites for the Efficient Degradation of Dyes Under Sunlight

by Suneel, Mohd Arsh Khan, Neda Tabassum, Abdul Rahman Khan, Zainab Feroz and Qazi Inamur Rahman

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2025, 32(1), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2025032018 - 7 May 2025

Abstract

In recent years, carbon-derived nanomaterials have been efficiently utilized for wastewater treatment. Herein, we report a facile route to synthesize g-C₃N₄/ZnO nanocomposites (NCs) by utilizing thermal condensation methods and demonstrateits photocatalytic performance against Rhodamine-B (RhB) and Reactive blue-171 (Rb171) [...] Read more.

In recent years, carbon-derived nanomaterials have been efficiently utilized for wastewater treatment. Herein, we report a facile route to synthesize g-C₃N₄/ZnO nanocomposites (NCs) by utilizing thermal condensation methods and demonstrateits photocatalytic performance against Rhodamine-B (RhB) and Reactive blue-171 (Rb171) under open air sunlight. The crystalline nature of synthesized NCs was examined by utilizing X-ray diffraction; however, their purity was evaluated through Fourier transform spectroscopy (FT-IR), which conveyed that the synthesized NCs exhibited excellent crystallinity and purity. Moreover, the g-C₃N₄/ZnO NCs displayed efficient photocatalytic activity of 82.60 and 74.46% for RhB and Rb171, respectively, in 125 min of sunlight exposure. The degradation of the dyes followed the pseudo-first-order kinetics with apparent rate constants of 0.01531 and 0.01012 min⁻¹ for RhB and Rb171, respectively, and their half-life was found to be 45.27 and 68.49 min. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 8th International Electronic Conference on Water Sciences)

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9 pages, 2763 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

A Sediment Supply Assessment in a Touristic Zone: A Case Study of West Cyprus

by Stamatia Papasarafianou, Giada Varra, Luca Cozzolino and Ourania Tzoraki

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2025, 32(1), 16; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2025032016 - 23 Apr 2025

Abstract

Sediment transport plays a crucial role in shaping coastal and riverine environments, influencing both natural and human activities. This study assesses sediment supply from the entire basin of a touristic zone of Cyprus, where coastal erosion and sediment deposition impact infrastructure, tourism, and [...] Read more.

Sediment transport plays a crucial role in shaping coastal and riverine environments, influencing both natural and human activities. This study assesses sediment supply from the entire basin of a touristic zone of Cyprus, where coastal erosion and sediment deposition impact infrastructure, tourism, and environmental sustainability. Human activities, such as dam construction, further disrupt the sediment balance. This study focuses on Coral Bay and Potima Gulf, a popular tourist destination along an ~11 km shoreline in western Cyprus, fed by four small rivers draining a total area of 66.5 km². The sustainability of the Coral Bay–Potima system is threatened by the Mavrokolympos stream dam, which traps upstream sediments. Using the USLE method, mean sediment yield at the basin outlet is estimated at 888 t km⁻² yr⁻¹. These findings underscore the link between watershed processes and sustainable coastal management, emphasizing the need for integrated sediment transport assessments in touristic coastal zones. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 8th International Electronic Conference on Water Sciences)

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7 pages, 4672 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Performance Evaluation of the ERA5, MERRA-2, and PERSIANN-CDR Gridded Products in the Tambo Basin

by Cristhian Apaza-Vilca, Maria Liz Mamani-Yupanqui and Efrain Lujano

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2025, 32(1), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2025032017 - 22 Apr 2025

Abstract

Gridded meteorological data help to address the scarcity of data in sparse hydrometeorological networks, but their validation is crucial. This study evaluated the performance of ERA5, MERRA-2, and PERSIANN-CDR gridded products in the Tambo basin, comparing their data with meteorological stations and basin-wide [...] Read more.

Gridded meteorological data help to address the scarcity of data in sparse hydrometeorological networks, but their validation is crucial. This study evaluated the performance of ERA5, MERRA-2, and PERSIANN-CDR gridded products in the Tambo basin, comparing their data with meteorological stations and basin-wide averages using the Pearson correlation coefficient (CC), percent bias (PBIAS), and root mean square error (RMSE). PERSIANN-CDR showed the best performance (CC: 0.84–0.94, PBIAS: 6.90–83.10%, RMSE: 21.97–38.78 mm/month). MERRA-2 underestimated precipitation, while ERA5, despite its high correlation (CC: 0.83–0.94), overestimated it. PERSIANN-CDR is the recommended product for the region, providing a better representation of precipitation for hydrological studies and water resource management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 8th International Electronic Conference on Water Sciences)

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7 pages, 1823 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Assessing the Vulnerability of Water Resources to Drought by Applying the Standardized Drought Vulnerability Index to the Lake Karla Basin

by Stylianos Voudouris, Athanasios Loukas, Pantelis Sidiropoulos and Lampros Vasiliades

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2025, 32(1), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2025032015 - 17 Apr 2025

Abstract

Drought as an extreme weather phenomenon has recently become more frequent with significant impacts on water resources, such as reduced infiltration and surface runoff. To assess the vulnerability of water resources to drought, the Standardized Drought Vulnerability Index (SDVI) was applied to the [...] Read more.

Drought as an extreme weather phenomenon has recently become more frequent with significant impacts on water resources, such as reduced infiltration and surface runoff. To assess the vulnerability of water resources to drought, the Standardized Drought Vulnerability Index (SDVI) was applied to the hydrological basin of Lake Karla in Thessaly, Central Greece. The Lake Karla basin has a semi-arid climate and is an agricultural basin in which water-demanding crops are cultivated. The SDVI is a composite index that integrates all types of droughts and, with its holistic approach, can be used as a monitoring tool to provide knowledge for the delineation of vulnerable areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 8th International Electronic Conference on Water Sciences)

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10 pages, 1782 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Vulnerability of Coastal Heritage in the Context of Climate Adaptation: A Review

by Aliki Gkaifyllia, Thomas Hasiotis and Ourania Tzoraki

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2025, 32(1), 14; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2025032014 - 8 Apr 2025

Abstract

Mediterranean coastal heritage sites face escalating threats from climate change, including sea-level rise, coastal erosion, and extreme weather events. These risks endanger both the physical preservation of archeological sites and thei socio-economic significance/contribution. This review evaluates advanced tools such as Geographic Information Systems [...] Read more.

Mediterranean coastal heritage sites face escalating threats from climate change, including sea-level rise, coastal erosion, and extreme weather events. These risks endanger both the physical preservation of archeological sites and thei socio-economic significance/contribution. This review evaluates advanced tools such as Geographic Information Systems (GISs), remote sensing, and flood modeling for assessing vulnerabilities and supporting adaptive conservation strategies. Significant research disparities among Mediterranean regions are identified, underscoring the need for equitable and collaborative frameworks. The findings emphasize the integration of innovative technologies with sustainable practices to safeguard cultural heritage, ensuring resilience against climate-induced risks and contributing to long-term conservation goals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 8th International Electronic Conference on Water Sciences)

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14 pages, 7545 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Water Quality Classification in Terms of WQI Using Machine Learning Algorithms in Keenjhar Lake, Pakistan

by Muhammad Imran, Danrong Zhang, Muhammad Zaman, Shazia Parveen and Nur E Jannat Mishu

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2025, 32(1), 13; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2025032013 - 7 Apr 2025

Abstract

Water quality management is critical for sustainable resource utilization, public health protection, and environmental conservation. This study employs machine learning techniques to enhance the water quality classification (WQC) for Keenjhar Lake, Karachi, Pakistan, using a comprehensive dataset spanning from 1993 to 2022. Three [...] Read more.

Water quality management is critical for sustainable resource utilization, public health protection, and environmental conservation. This study employs machine learning techniques to enhance the water quality classification (WQC) for Keenjhar Lake, Karachi, Pakistan, using a comprehensive dataset spanning from 1993 to 2022. Three machine learning models, the Support Vector Machine (SVM), K-Nearest Neighbor (KNN), and Random Forest (RF) algorithms, were evaluated for their performance on a dataset comprising 360 monthly instances and 6 key water quality parameters: temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, electrical conductivity, BOD5, nitrate, fecal coliform, and total coliform. The models were assessed using statistical metrics, including accuracy, precision, recall, Pearson’s correlation, and F1-score. Among the models, the SVM algorithm demonstrated superior performance, achieving a classification accuracy of 99.50% for WQC. This study highlights the integration of machine learning in water quality analysis as a novel approach for precise classification, offering insights into improved decision-making for water resource management and treatment strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 8th International Electronic Conference on Water Sciences)

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14 pages, 4772 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Preserving Tradition, Protecting the Environment: The Potential of Water Cadastre Systems to Mitigate the Effects of Batik Production on Groundwater and Subsidence in Pekalongan

by Alfita Puspa Handayani, Heri Andreas and Dhota Pradipta

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2025, 33(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2025033008 - 27 Mar 2025

Abstract

Batik, a traditional Indonesian textile art, significantly contributes to Pekalongan’s economy but has severe environmental impacts. The production process depletes groundwater and causes land subsidence. This study evaluates the potential of a water cadastre system to address these issues while preserving cultural heritage. [...] Read more.

Batik, a traditional Indonesian textile art, significantly contributes to Pekalongan’s economy but has severe environmental impacts. The production process depletes groundwater and causes land subsidence. This study evaluates the potential of a water cadastre system to address these issues while preserving cultural heritage. By analysing batik production data, groundwater extraction, and subsidence trends via satellite imagery and field surveys, the research reveals a marked decline in groundwater levels and increased subsidence. The findings underscore the need for integrated water management to protect Pekalongan’s environment and cultural legacy, with a water cadastre system offering a possible solution. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 6th International Conference on Green Environmental Engineering and Technology (IConGEET 2024))

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6 pages, 779 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Techno-Economic Performance Assessment of Malt Dust Derived Biochar Application for Municipal Wastewater Treatment: A Water Reuse Strategy

by Pelin Soyertaş Yapıcıoğlu and Mehmet İrfan Yeşilnacar

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2025, 32(1), 12; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2025032012 - 19 Mar 2025

Abstract

Wastewater is a sustainable water supply which uses reclamation and reuse processes to protect freshwater resources. Biochar application is considered an efficient and low-cost wastewater reclamation and reuse technique in recent years. From this perspective, this paper mainly aimed to obtain reclaimed water [...] Read more.

Wastewater is a sustainable water supply which uses reclamation and reuse processes to protect freshwater resources. Biochar application is considered an efficient and low-cost wastewater reclamation and reuse technique in recent years. From this perspective, this paper mainly aimed to obtain reclaimed water using biochar application, with an aim of contributing to a circular economy. The major aim of this study was to assess the quality and reuse potential of treated water through the biochar adsorption process. The assessment was based on the EU (741/2020) wastewater reuse legislation. Turbidity, Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD₅), Total Suspended Solid (TSS), and E. coli analyses were performed to determine the effluent quality. In the end of the biochar adsorption process, a Class B reclaimed water quality according to EU legislation was obtained. This study validated that malt-dust-derived biochar is an efficient and low-cost adsorbent and can achieve a high quality of reclaimed water. An average reduction of 31.3% in operational costs was reported compared to an activated sludge system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 8th International Electronic Conference on Water Sciences)

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19 pages, 6951 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Numerical Analysis of Debris Impact Forces and Its Environmental Repercussions Using Smoothed Particle Hydrodynamics

by Muhammad Khairi A. Wahab, Mohd Remy Rozainy Mohd Arif Zainol, Mohamad Aizat Abas and Norizham Abdul Razak

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2025, 33(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2025033007 - 13 Mar 2025

Abstract

Debris flow is a destructive event occurring in elevated terrains, causing significant damage to the affected areas. It results in casualties and significant harm to the environment and society. Hence, a comprehensive evaluation is essential in order to prevent, mitigate, and increase knowledge [...] Read more.

Debris flow is a destructive event occurring in elevated terrains, causing significant damage to the affected areas. It results in casualties and significant harm to the environment and society. Hence, a comprehensive evaluation is essential in order to prevent, mitigate, and increase knowledge of the consequences of debris flows. This paper focuses on evaluating the impact of the deposition board. The methodology involved a simulation of two cases to demonstrate the debris flow based on the steepness of the flume slope at 25° angles with full and half openings at the gate. The limestone particles with a total volume of 1 × 10³ m³ acted as debris and were released with water from the tank to the deposition board with an area of 1 m². The force of particle distribution from the flume that hit the building block on the deposition board was determined. Based on the numerical results, the maximum force was about 55.2 N and 47.3 N for each fully open and half open gate, respectively. In actual situations, the maximum impact force (5520 N) can be 100 times greater compared to model values (55.2 N). Research indicates that pressures over 100 kPa cause damage to reinforced concrete structures. Debris flow can pose a substantial risk to the impacted area in real-life scenarios. This study is valuable for conducting risk assessments, creating guidelines, and reducing the likelihood of debris flows in high-risk areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 6th International Conference on Green Environmental Engineering and Technology (IConGEET 2024))

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5 pages, 244 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Microwave Drying of Melia dubia and Its Effect on Mechanical Properties

by Rohit Sharma, Rakesh Kumar and Anil Kumar Sethy

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2024, 31(1), 19; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2024031019 - 12 Mar 2025

Abstract

This study explores the microwave (MW) drying of Melia dubia wood, with a comprehensive approach that addresses various facets. The primary objectives were to examine drying behavior and the evaluation of drying defects. The drying rates for various treatments were calculated both above [...] Read more.

This study explores the microwave (MW) drying of Melia dubia wood, with a comprehensive approach that addresses various facets. The primary objectives were to examine drying behavior and the evaluation of drying defects. The drying rates for various treatments were calculated both above and below the Fiber Saturation Point (FSP). The most optimal treatment, characterized by minimal defects, exhibited a drying rate of 0.4 g/min above FSP, 0.29 g/min below FSP, and an overall drying rate of 0.35 g/min. There were no observable drying-induced defects in the dried wood, suggesting a promising aspect of MW drying. Static bending and compression tests parallel to the grain were carried out to analyze the impact of MW drying on the mechanical properties. MW-dried wood exhibited reductions of 7 ± 3%, 10 ± 2%, and 9 ± 2% in the modulus of elasticity (MOE), modulus of rupture (MOR), and maximum compressive strength (MCS), respectively. The decline in mechanical properties may be attributed to the micro-cracks or damage in its microstructures. These findings emphasize the need for a balanced approach in optimizing MW drying methods to mitigate the reduction in mechanical properties while capitalizing on the advantages of reduced drying time and uniform drying. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 4th International Electronic Conference on Forests)

8 pages, 1260 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Early Detection of Invasive Species on Roadside Slopes in An-Dean Patagonian Forests of Austrocedrus chilensis (Argentina)

by Giselle Ailin Chichizola, Sofía Laura Gonzalez and Adriana Edit Rovere

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2024, 31(1), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2024031018 - 7 Mar 2025

Abstract

The invasion of exotic plants threatens biodiversity, affecting ecosystem services and ecological processes in native ecosystems. Road construction creates new environments and contributes to the introduction and spread of exotic and invasive plants. This study aimed to evaluate the representation of different functional [...] Read more.

The invasion of exotic plants threatens biodiversity, affecting ecosystem services and ecological processes in native ecosystems. Road construction creates new environments and contributes to the introduction and spread of exotic and invasive plants. This study aimed to evaluate the representation of different functional groups (annual/biannual herbs and grasses, perennial herbs and grasses, shrubs, trees) in the invasion of exotic species within the assemblage on roadside slopes in the Austrocedrus chilensis forest in northwest Andean Patagonia, Argentina. Roadside slopes (RS) and nearby reference areas (RA) were selected, and the cover of native, exotic, and invasive species from the functional groups was evaluated in 1 m² plots using the Braun-Blanquet method. It was found that invasive perennial herbs and grasses predominated on RS, with a cover (19.6 ± 3.0%) higher than that of RA (8.9 ± 1.5%). Agrostis capillaris and Rumex acetosella were the most abundant invasive species. Native shrubs and perennial herbs and grasses were predominant on RS, with Baccharis rhomboidalis and Acaena pinnatifida being the most abundant. This study demonstrates that the roadside slopes of the Austrocedrus chilensis forest harbor invasive exotic species that can invade nearby natural areas. Early detection of these species is important for proper management and control, thus promoting the conservation of biodiversity in forest environments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 4th International Electronic Conference on Forests)

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8 pages, 5067 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Flood-Risk Map for Büyükçekmece District Based on Socioeconomic Factors

by Gülşah Kılıç and Filiz Bektaş Balçık

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2025, 32(1), 11; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2025032011 - 6 Mar 2025

Abstract

Büyükçekmece District, located on Istanbul’s European side, faces flood risks due to climate change, uncontrolled urbanization, and inadequate stream rehabilitation. This study aims to develop a flood-risk map of the district and link it to socioeconomic factors for the purpose of developing improved [...] Read more.

Büyükçekmece District, located on Istanbul’s European side, faces flood risks due to climate change, uncontrolled urbanization, and inadequate stream rehabilitation. This study aims to develop a flood-risk map of the district and link it to socioeconomic factors for the purpose of developing improved flood-management strategies. Key factors such as slope, elevation, land use, proximity to rivers, and precipitation were weighted, using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), to generate risk maps. The results indicate that 54% of Neighborhood 9 (Dizdariye) and 59% of Neighborhood 18 (Mimarsinan) fall into very high risk categories. Additionally, the Social Vulnerability Index (SVI), calculated through Principal Component Analysis (PCA), revealed that Ahmediye and Kumburgaz neighborhoods exhibit the highest socioeconomic vulnerabilities, while Alkent 2000 and Sinanoba have the lowest. The research identifies the need to prioritize high-risk neighborhoods and integrate social vulnerability into flood management to reduce risk and enhance community resilience in Büyükçekmece District. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 8th International Electronic Conference on Water Sciences)

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13 pages, 1624 KiB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Granger Causality Analysis of Air Pollutants and Meteorological Parameters

by Wong Yee Ping, Zulkifli Abd Rais, Norazrin Ramli, Norazian Mohamed Noor, Ahmad Zia Ul-Saufie, Hazrul Abdul Hamid and Mohd Khairul Nizam Mahmad

Environ. Earth Sci. Proc. 2025, 33(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/eesp2025033006 - 6 Mar 2025

Abstract

This study investigated the relationships between air pollutants (PM₁₀, SO₂, NO₂, O₃, CO) and meteorological parameters (wind speed, relative humidity, ambient temperature) across urban, suburban, and industrial areas in Malaysia from 2017 to 2021. Using [...] Read more.

This study investigated the relationships between air pollutants (PM₁₀, SO₂, NO₂, O₃, CO) and meteorological parameters (wind speed, relative humidity, ambient temperature) across urban, suburban, and industrial areas in Malaysia from 2017 to 2021. Using data from six monitoring stations, this research employed descriptive analysis, trend analysis, and Granger causality testing to uncover complex interactions. The results revealed distinct patterns: suburban areas showed strong ambient temperature-ozone (p-value = 0.0063) and relative humidity–nitrogen dioxide relationships (p-value = 0.0411); industrial zones exhibited bidirectional causality between SO₂ and PM₁₀ and had a strong nitrogen dioxide–PM₁₀ relationship (p-value = 0.0292); urban areas exhibited complex multi-pollutant interactions. Notably, the 2020 Movement Control Order significantly improved air quality. This research provides crucial insights for targeted air quality management strategies, contributing to public health improvements and aligning with global sustainability goals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 6th International Conference on Green Environmental Engineering and Technology (IConGEET 2024))

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Environmental and Earth Sciences Proceedings

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ECWS-8

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