Search Results (91)

The treatment of polychlorinated dibenzodioxins and polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs) in incineration fly ash presents a significant challenge in solid hazardous waste management. This study systematically analyzed the influence mechanisms of multiple factors on the removal efficiency of PCDD/Fs during fly ash pyrolysis. It integrated 4068 datasets conducted between 2010 and 2025 through meta-analysis. Results show that Al₂O₃, CaO, SiO₂, and Cl in fly ash components enhance the removal efficiency by 14.0%, while Fe₂O₃ (Content greater than 5.7%) exhibits inhibitory effects. Cd and Cr demonstrate a bimodal response pattern: low/high concentrations promote removal, while medium concentrations inhibit it. Process optimization identified the optimal parameter combination as pyrolysis temperatures of 500–900 °C, residence time of 50–90 min, and a gas flow rate greater than or equal to 400 mL/min. A significant negative correlation was observed between the initial dioxin concentration and removal efficiency. This study established a structural equation modeling (SEM) model to describe how metallic and nonmetallic components, fly ash components, and pyrolysis conditions determine removal efficiency. Fly ash composition was confirmed as the most influential factor (total effect = 0.3194), with fixed carbon and ash content being the most reliable indicators. Among pyrolysis conditions, gas conditions (flow rate, gas type) also significantly affected removal efficiency (total effect = 0.2357). Conversely, nonmetallic components and excessively prolonged pyrolysis time (beyond the window) consistently reduced removal efficiency. These findings provide theoretical support for upgrading fly ash pyrolysis processes toward low-carbon and resource-efficient operations. Full article

The present ecological study endeavours to evaluate the variability of life expectancy (MLE) and mortality rate (MR) on a micro scale, specifically between populations of neighbouring villages in the Silesia Province. This endeavour is of particular significance due to the chronic exposure to halogenated persistent organic pollutants (POPs) in one of the villages under study. The present study is innovative in comparison with previous research in this field, as it considers the impact of the most toxic dioxin, 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (2,3,7,8-TCDD), and utilises a village-level reference area. A thorough investigation was undertaken to determine the possible consequences of inhalation exposure within the local community to polychlorinated dioxins and furans (PCDD/Fs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). A robust correlation was evidenced between chronic exposure of case study residents to 2,3,7,8-TCDD and their mortality. Furthermore, an investigation revealed a strong correlation between the concentration of 2,3,7,8-TCDD in the air and actual MLE. An increase in the concentration of 2,3,7,8-TCDD by 10 fg I-TEQ/m³ has the potential to result in a reduction in the mean MLE of the exposed inhabitants of Silesia by 1 year and 9 months. In addition, the results of this study indicate that the female population exhibits a lifespan that is 7 years and 10 months longer than that of the male population. However, given the substantial differences in the mean MLE observed also in low-polluted areas of this region, it is probable that not only environmental factors, including exposure to PCDD/Fs and PCBs, but also various socio-economic factors may be involved. Full article

With the acceleration of global urbanization, polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins/dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs), as a by-product of solid waste incineration, have attracted more and more attention for their environmental pollution and health hazards. By describing the generation and transformation mechanism of PCDD/Fs, this review focuses on the methods to control the generation of PCDD/Fs and reduce their environmental pollution. Initially, the study analyzes the formation mechanisms of PCDD/Fs, and it emphasizes that variations in incineration conditions, feedstock compositions, and technological approaches substantially influence PCDD/F formation. Subsequently, the review examines existing PCDD/F control technologies—including optimization technology of high-temperature pyrolysis and incineration, photocatalytic degradation technology, supercritical water oxidation technology and biodegradation—and evaluates their respective advantages and limitations. The current challenges and future research directions, such as the development of novel monitoring technologies, the development of industry standards, and the enhancement of policy support, are finally presented. Effective PCDD/F control requires advanced real-time monitoring (e.g., AI-enhanced mass spectrometry), unified global standards, and policy support (e.g., subsidies, phased regulations). Future solutions lie in multiscale modeling, international collaboration, and adaptive technologies for sustainable risk reduction. Full article

Viral and chemical analyses were performed on 80 dead cats and 51 dead dogs from the Campania Region (Southern Italy), with the aim of evaluating in vivo the potential correlation between coronavirus (CoV) infections and levels of environmental pollutants such as dioxins and PCSs (PCDD/F, DL-PCB and NDL-PCB). The overall viral prevalence was 16.3% in cats and 23.5% in dogs. Both feline coronavirus (FCoV) and canine coronavirus (CCoV) were identified, with variable detection rates in all the other organs investigated, supporting studies that provide evidence of systemic viral spread. The highest prevalence of coronaviruses (CoVs) was observed in Naples (19.2% for FCoV; 30.7% for CCoV) and Caserta (11.1% for FCoV; 50.0% for CCoV), areas that include municipalities with the highest Municipality Index of Environmental Pressure (MIEP) scores. Chemical analyses showed that DL-PCBs were present at more elevated concentrations in CoV-infected dogs and cats than in non-infected animals, whereas ∑NDL-PCB and ∑PCDD/F were detected in greater amounts in non-infected subjects. Among PCDDs, the congener 2,3,7,8-TCDD displayed different distribution patterns between infected and non-infected animals. In cats, 70.0% of FCoV-positive individuals had 2,3,7,8-TCDD levels above the limit of quantification (LOQ), compared with 38.0% of FCoV-negative cats. In dogs, 78.0% of CCoV-infected animals exceeded the LOQ, compared with 20.0% of non-infected ones; this difference was statistically significant. The results of the study suggest that elevated levels of 2,3,7,8-TCDD may be associated with CCoV infection and replication in dogs, suggesting a possible relationship between environmental pollution and susceptibility to coronavirus infections. Full article

As landfill mining becomes more widely applied, growing attention is being paid to the waste-to-energy conversion of landfill waste. Co-disposal of landfill waste with municipal solid waste represents one of the primary strategies for achieving energy recovery of landfill waste. In this paper, the emission characteristics of pollutants were systematically analyzed during the co-disposal of landfill waste and municipal solid waste in a full-scale municipal solid waste incineration. The study investigated the formation patterns of toxic PCDD/Fs and gaseous pollutants under different co-disposal ratios of landfill waste (0%, 15%, 25%, 35%, and 45%). In total, 136 PCDD/Fs were analyzed to investigate the influence of co-disposal ratios on PCDD/F formation in both flue gas and fly ash. The influence of varying co-disposal ratios on the phase and elemental composition of fly ash was also investigated. Co-disposal led to a significant reduction in the toxic PCDD/F concentration at the boiler outlet, mainly attributed to the higher sulfur content of LW compared to MSW. With increasing co-disposal ratios, the annual emission amounts of toxic PCDD/Fs in fly ash significantly increased. The ∑PCDD/∑PCDF ratio in both flue gas of boiler outlet and fly ash also increased, indicating an enhancement of the precursor formation pathway, while the de novo synthesis pathway was relatively suppressed. The fly ash exhibited a high proportion of highly chlorinated dioxins (degree of chlorination: 7.19–7.23), likely due to their low saturated vapor pressure. According to the Hagenmaier congener distribution, high co-disposal ratios (25–45%) suppressed the chlorination of DD/DF in fly ash but promoted the formation of gas-phase PCDFs. Different co-disposal ratios significantly influenced both the emission concentrations and removal efficiencies of air pollutants, including NOx, SO₂, and HCl. Although co-disposal did not alter the crystalline phase composition of fly ash, it led to an increased content of heavy metals such as Cu, Hg, and Pb. Full article

This study investigates the concentrations and patterns of dioxins and dioxin-like PCBs (TEQ Diox+PCB-DL) and non-dioxin-like PCBs (PCB-NDL) in eels from Lake Garda, assessing their relationship with biometric and lipid parameters. TEQ Diox+PCB-DL levels ranged from 1.70 to 77.1 pg/g (median: 9.90 pg/g), while PCB-NDL levels spanned from 14.0 to 1620 ng/g (median: 65.5 ng/g). Significant, albeit low, correlations were found: length and weight were negatively correlated, and lipid content was positively correlated, with both contaminants. Multivariable regression confirmed length and lipid percentage as significant predictors, although the models explained a limited proportion of variance (R²: 0.23 and 0.17). Classification-based analyses showed that irregularly contaminated eels were shorter and had a higher lipid content. Multinomial logistic regression supported these findings, but showed limited predictive accuracy (AUC = 0.63). Notably, 28 out of 90 samples exceeded the EU regulatory limit for TEQ Diox+PCB-DL, and several surpassed the threshold for PCB-NDL, highlighting potential public health risks. Given the lipophilic nature and toxicity of these compounds, continued monitoring is warranted. The findings underscore the need for broader environmental assessments to better understand pollutant dynamics and support regulatory actions, including the extended ban on eel fishing in the region. Full article

The main objective of this study was to select indigenous fungal species suitable for the potential mycoremediation of the soils polluted by organic pollutants. As a sampling area, Litvínov City (North Bohemia, Czech Republic) was selected. The city is characterized by intensive coal mining, coal processing, and the chemical industry, predominantly petrochemistry. The elevated contents of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) such as polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs) were identified in urban soils due to the long-term industrial pollution. The results confirmed elevated contents of PAHs in all the analyzed soil samples with high variability ranging between 0.5 and 23.3 mg/kg regardless of the position of the sampling area on the city map. PCBs and PCDD/Fs exceeded the detection limits in the soil at the sampling points, and several hotspots were revealed at some locations. All the sampling points contained a diverse community of saprotrophic and mycorrhizal fungi, as determined according to abundant basidiomycetes. Fungal species with a confirmed ability to degrade organic pollutants were found, such as species representing the genera Agaricus from the Agaricaceae family, Coprinopsis from the Psathyrellaceae family, Hymenogaster from the Hymenogasteraceae family, and Pluteus from the Pluteaceae family. These species are accustomed to particular soil conditions as well as the elevated contents of the POPs in them. Therefore, these species could be taken into account when developing potential bioremediation measures to apply in the most polluted areas, and their biodegradation ability should be elucidated in further research. The results of this study contribute to the investigation of the potential use of fungal species for mycoremediation of the areas polluted by a wide spectrum of organic pollutants. Full article

Municipal Solid Waste Incinerators (MSWIs) are facilities designed to burn municipal solid waste to reduce its volume and mass and generate energy. A significant concern related to MSWIs is the emission of toxic and carcinogenic pollutants, including polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and furans (PCDD/Fs), heavy metals, and particulate matter. This review synthesizes global epidemiological and exposure assessment studies investigating cancer risks associated with residential proximity to MSWIs. Findings reveal a complex relationship: older incinerators with high emissions correlate with elevated risks of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), soft-tissue sarcoma (STS), and liver cancer in some studies, particularly in Europe. However, results remain inconsistent due to methodological limitations such as exposure misclassification, latency periods, and confounding factors like socioeconomic status. Modern facilities equipped with advanced pollution control technologies demonstrate reduced risks, often within regulatory thresholds. Key challenges include accurately quantifying historical exposures and disentangling MSWI-specific risks from other environmental or lifestyle factors. While advancements in dispersion modeling and biomonitoring have improved risk assessments, geographical and temporal variations in findings underscore the need for continued research. The review concludes that while historical evidence suggests potential cancer risks near older MSWIs, stricter emissions regulations and technological improvements have mitigated health impacts, although vigilance through long-term monitoring remains essential to safeguard public health. Full article

A causal analysis was conducted in order to examine the relationship between residents’ inhalation exposure to PCDDs/PCBs and the incidence of cancer. A significant association was identified between chronic inhalation exposure to 2,3,7,8-TCDD and the overall incidence of malignant neoplasms in the study area. This association was stronger among men (p = 0.0020) than among women (p = 0.0027). A significantly higher overall incidence of malignant neoplasms was observed among the inhabitants of villages (CY, GN) exposed to higher levels of PCDD/F mixture in comparison with the reference village (p < 0.001). The present study observed the phenomenon in both male (p = 0.008) and female (p = 0.013). Moreover, a considerably elevated incidence of morbidity was observed in the male population of the CY village (p = 0.034) in comparison with the female population, where atmospheric air pollution with PCDD/Fs has been recorded at its most elevated levels. A higher frequency of cancers was also observed among the inhabitants of the villages GN and CY compared to the inhabitants of the reference village. The observed differences were consistent in cancers of the digestive system (p < 0.001), respiratory system and thoracic organs (p < 0.001), skin (p = 0.023), urinary system (p < 0.001), lymphatic and hematopoietic system (p = 0.032), as well as cancers occurring in women (p = 0.041). Full article

There is an urgent need for energy-efficient disposal and resource utilization of the fly ashes from municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI). The low-energy pyrolysis-based detoxification of is a prerequisite for the harmless treatment and sustainable utilization of the fly ashes. In this study, the nitrogen-doped hierarchical porous carbon (NHPC) was prepared from the biomass-derived corn cobs and used to enhance the low-temperature destruction of PCDD/Fs in the MSWI fly ash. On thermal treatment in pure nitrogen (referring to pyrolysis in) at 350 °C for 30 min, the removal efficiencies of PCDD/Fs in fly ash based on mass (η_mass) and TEQ (η_TEQ) are 87.4% and 76.2%, respectively. After 5 wt.% NHPC is added in fly ash, the η_mass and η_TEQ values can be increased to 94.9% and 90.2%. The NHPC can enhance the decomposition and inhibit the regeneration of PCDD/Fs in fly ash, for the NHPC can regulate the structural properties and optimize the chemical environment of the fly ash. It can eliminate the need for the washing process. In addition, the leaching concentrations of heavy metals such as Cu, Zn, Pb and Cr in fly ash experience significant reductions of 83.3%, 73.7%, 35.6% and 22.9% when the fly ash is pyrolyzed at 350 °C with NHPC. This finding suggests that NHPC cannot only facilitate the decomposition of PCDD/Fs but also immobilizes the typical heavy metals in fly ash during low-energy pyrolysis. It is anticipated that the application of NHPC in the low-temperature pyrolysis of fly ash is of great energy-saving effect and can tackle the issues of PCDD/Fs and heavy metals for fly ash within a single step. Full article

The aviation industry significantly contributes to global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, accounting for approximately 2–3% of total annual CO₂ emissions, with high-altitude operations amplifying radiative forcing effects. This study quantitatively examines aviation’s contributions to global pollution compared to other transportation sectors, such as road and maritime, highlighting the substantial challenges in mitigating its environmental footprint. We focus on emissions of organic compounds, including polycyclic aromatic compounds and dioxins, and analyze key pollutants such as CO₂, NO_X, and ultrafine particles alongside the sector’s indirect effects. Our estimation indicates that dioxin emissions from commercial flights are negligible, at only 0.76 g annually; however, the sector’s broader impact on climate and air quality is significant. The analysis also evaluates current mitigation strategies, including the adoption of sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs), international initiatives like CORSIA, and advancements in aircraft technologies and operational efficiency. Despite these efforts, the projected growth in air traffic, estimated to increase annually by 5% over the next decade, underscores the urgent need for accelerated innovation and robust policy frameworks to achieve sustainable aviation. These findings emphasize the necessity of addressing aviation’s unique environmental challenges through international cooperation, technological advancements, and targeted climate actions. Full article

Selective catalytic reduction of nitrogen oxides with NH₃ (NH₃-SCR) was investigated deeper and deeper with poisoning factors such as H₂O, SO₂, heavy metals, etc. In order to remove the reheating process before the SCR reactor, the application trend of NH₃-SCR technology in the non-power industry is concentrated on the condition of low temperature even ultra-low temperature. The present study summarizes the research process of SO₂ and H₂O resistance of NH₃-SCR catalysts under low temperatures related to the working conditions of municipal solid waste incineration plants. In detail, the effects of a high content of H₂O and low concentration of SO₂ are reviewed. Other factors such as heavy metals, alkali, or alkaline earth metals in the reaction system, synergistic removal of NO_x, polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs) are addressed. Finally, the catalytic performance of assembled monolithic catalysts and pilot-scale experiments are also analyzed for the possibility of industrial application. Hopefully, in view of the questions outlined in this study, valuable insights could be taken into consideration for the development of NH₃-SCR in waste incineration. Full article

Polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxin/dibenzofuran (PCDD/F) emissions during the roasting of green Arabica coffee and coffee formulations containing alcohol, sugar, and honey were investigated in this study. Fast and slow roasting methods, which took 5.62 and 9.65 min to achieve a light roast, respectively, were used to evaluate the emissions. The concentrations in the flue gas during the fast roasting of green coffee (0.0296 ng Nm⁻³ and 0.00364 ng WHO-TEQ Nm⁻³) were 13.9% and 70.5% higher than during slow roasting, respectively. However, this was only the trend for some formulations, and no significant differences in concentrations were found between the methods at p = 0.05. Thus, the slow roasting method might not necessarily reduce formation when additives are included. The emission factors were 2.86 ng kg⁻¹ and 0.352 ng WHO-TEQ kg⁻¹, and 4.17 ng kg⁻¹ and 0.176 ng WHO-TEQ kg⁻¹ for the fast and slow roasting of green coffee, respectively. Further investigations are warranted to understand the formation mechanism, assess potential health risks, and explore mitigation strategies. These findings have implications for both coffee processing industries and regulatory bodies, as understanding the impact of roasting methods and additives could inform the development of cleaner production practices and targeted emission reduction policies. Full article

The open burning of sugarcane residue is commonly used as a low-cost and fast method during pre-harvest and post-harvest periods. However, this practice releases various pollutants, including dioxins. This study aims to predict polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans (PCDD/Fs or dioxins) emissions using the grey model (GM (1,1)) and to map the annual flux spatial distribution at the provincial level from 2023 to 2028. An annual emission inventory at the provincial level was developed using the activity rate of dry crop residue from national agencies and literature, following the guidelines set by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Emission distributions from 2016 to 2022 were then mapped. The average PCDD/F emission values show significant variation among the provinces, averaging 309 pg TEQ/year. Spatially, regions with intensive sugarcane production, such as Lampung and East Java consistently show high emissions, often exceeding 400 pg/m². Emissions calculated using the UNEP emission factor tend to be higher compared to other factors, due to its generic nature and lack of regional specificity. Emission predictions using GM (1,1) indicate that North Sumatra is expected to experience a steady increase in PCDD/Fs emissions, whereas South Sumatra and Lampung are projected are projected to see a slight decline. This forecast assumes no changes in regional intervention strategies. Most regions in Java Island show a gradual increase in emissions, except for East Java, which is predicted to have a slight decline from 416 pg/year in 2023 to 397 pg/year in 2028. Additionally, regions such as Gorontalo and parts of East Java are projected to remain ‘hotspots’ with consistently high emissions, highlighting the need for targeted interventions. To address emission hotspots, this study emphasizes the need for cleaner agricultural practices, enhanced enforcement of environmental regulations, and the integration of advanced monitoring technologies to mitigate the environmental and health impacts of PCDD/F emissions in Indonesia. Future studies should consider developing monthly emissions profiles to better account for local agricultural practices and seasonal conditions. The emission data generated in this study, which include both spatial and temporal distributions, are valuable for air quality modeling studies and can help assess the impact of current and future emissions on ambient air quality. Full article

To measure the long-range transport of PCDD/Fs, a background sampling site at Mt. Lulin station (Taiwan) was selected based on meteorological information and its location relative to burning events in Southeast Asia. During regular sampling periods, a higher concentration of PCDD/Fs was recorded in 2008 at Mt. Lulin station during La Niña events, with levels reaching 390 fg I-TEQ/m³. In contrast, a higher concentration of 483 fg I-TEQ/m³ was observed in 2013 during biomass burning events. This indicates that La Niña affects the ambient PCDD/F concentrations. The ratio of ΣPCDD/ΣPCDF was 0.59, suggesting significant long-range transport contributions from 2007 to 2023. From 2007 to 2015, the predominant species was 2,3,4,7,8-PCDF, accounting for 25.3 to 39.6% of the total PCDD/Fs. From 2018 onward, 1,2,3,7,8-PCDD became more dominant, accounting for 15.0 to 27.1%. According to the results from the receptor model PMF (n = 150), the sources of PCDD/Fs were identified as dust storms and monsoon events (19.3%), anthropogenic activity (28.5%), and biomass burning events (52.2%). The PSCF values higher than 0.7 highlighted potential PCDD/F emission source regions for Mt. Lulin during biomass burning events, indicating high PSCF values in southern Thailand, Cambodia, and southern Vietnam. Full article