Sign in to use this feature.

Years

Between: -

Subjects

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Journals

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Article Types

Countries / Regions

remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline
remove_circle_outline

Search Results (1,097)

Search Parameters:
Keywords = pollution source localization

Order results
Result details
Results per page
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
15 pages, 924 KiB  
Article
Excessive Smoke from a Neighborhood Restaurant Highlights Gaps in Air Pollution Enforcement: Citizen Science Observational Study
by Nicholas C. Newman, Deborah Conradi, Alexander C. Mayer, Cole Simons, Ravi Newman and Erin N. Haynes
Air 2025, 3(3), 20; https://doi.org/10.3390/air3030020 - 18 Jul 2025
Abstract
Regulatory air pollution monitoring is performed using a sparse monitoring network designed to provide background concentrations of pollutants but may miss small area variations due to local emission sources. Low-cost air pollution sensors operated by trained citizen scientists provide an opportunity to fill [...] Read more.
Regulatory air pollution monitoring is performed using a sparse monitoring network designed to provide background concentrations of pollutants but may miss small area variations due to local emission sources. Low-cost air pollution sensors operated by trained citizen scientists provide an opportunity to fill this gap. We describe the development and implementation of an air pollution monitoring and community engagement plan in response to resident concerns regarding excessive smoke production from a neighborhood restaurant. Particulate matter (PM2.5) was measured using a low-cost, portable sensor. When cooking was taking place, the highest PM2.5 readings were within 50 m of the source (mean PM2.5 36.9 µg/m3) versus greater than 50 m away (mean PM2.5 13.0 µg/m3). Sharing results with local government officials did not result in any action to address the source of the smoke emissions, due to lack of jurisdiction. A review of air pollution regulations across the United States indicated that only seven states regulate food cookers and six states specifically exempted cookers from air pollution regulations. Concerns about the smoke were communicated with the restaurant owner who eventually changed the cooking fuel. Following this change, less smoke was observed from the restaurant and PM2.5 measurements were reduced to background levels. Although current environmental health regulations may not protect residents living near sources of food cooker-based sources of PM2.5, community engagement shows promise in addressing these emissions. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 3070 KiB  
Article
Characteristics and Sources of VOCs During a Period of High Ozone Levels in Kunming, China
by Chuantao Huang, Yufei Ling, Yunbo Chen, Lei Tong, Yuan Xue, Chunli Liu, Hang Xiao and Cenyan Huang
Atmosphere 2025, 16(7), 874; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos16070874 - 17 Jul 2025
Abstract
The increasing levels of ozone pollution have become a significant environmental issue in urban areas worldwide. Previous studies have confirmed that the urban ozone pollution in China is mainly controlled by volatile organic compounds (VOCs) rather than nitrogen oxides. Therefore, a study on [...] Read more.
The increasing levels of ozone pollution have become a significant environmental issue in urban areas worldwide. Previous studies have confirmed that the urban ozone pollution in China is mainly controlled by volatile organic compounds (VOCs) rather than nitrogen oxides. Therefore, a study on the emission characteristics and source analysis of VOCs is important for controlling urban ozone pollution. In this study, hourly concentrations of 57 VOC species in four groups were obtained in April 2022, a period of high ozone pollution in Kunming, China. The ozone formation potential analysis showed that the accumulated reactive VOCs significantly contributed to the subsequent ozone formation, particularly aromatics (44.16%) and alkanes (32.46%). In addition, the ozone production rate in Kunming is mainly controlled by VOCs based on the results of the empirical kinetic modeling approach (KNOx/KVOCs = 0.25). The hybrid single-particle Lagrangian integrated trajectory model and polar coordinate diagram showed high VOC and ozone concentrations from the southwest outside the province (50.28%) and the south in local areas (12.78%). Six factors were obtained from the positive matrix factorization model: vehicle exhaust (31.80%), liquefied petroleum gas usage (24.16%), the petrochemical industry (17.81%), fuel evaporation (11.79%), coal burning (7.47%), and solvent usage (6.97%). These findings underscore that reducing anthropogenic VOC emissions and strengthening controls on the related sources could provide a scientifically robust strategy for mitigating ozone pollution in Kunming. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Air Quality)
Show Figures

Figure 1

33 pages, 3914 KiB  
Article
Ecological Status of the Small Rivers of the East Kazakhstan Region
by Natalya Seraya, Gulzhan Daumova, Olga Petrova, Ricardo Garcia-Mira and Arina Polyakova
Sustainability 2025, 17(14), 6525; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17146525 - 16 Jul 2025
Viewed by 125
Abstract
The article presents a long-term assessment of the surface water quality of six small rivers in the East Kazakhstan region (Breksa, Tikhaya, Ulba, Glubochanka, Krasnoyarka, and Oba) based on hydrochemical monitoring data from the Kazhydromet State Enterprise for the period 2017–2024. A unified [...] Read more.
The article presents a long-term assessment of the surface water quality of six small rivers in the East Kazakhstan region (Breksa, Tikhaya, Ulba, Glubochanka, Krasnoyarka, and Oba) based on hydrochemical monitoring data from the Kazhydromet State Enterprise for the period 2017–2024. A unified water quality classification system was applied, along with statistical methods, including multiple linear regression. The Glubochanka and Krasnoyarka rivers were identified as the most polluted (reaching classes 4–5), with multiple exceedances of Zn (up to 2.96 mg/dm3), Cd (up to 0.8 mg/dm3), and Cu (up to 0.051 mg/dm3). The most stable and highest water quality was recorded in the Oba River, where from 2021 to 2024, water consistently corresponded to Class 2. Regression models of water quality class as a function of time and annual precipitation were constructed to assess the influence of climatic factors. Statistical analysis revealed no consistent linear correlation between average annual precipitation and water quality (correlation coefficients ranging from −0.49 to +0.37), indicating a complex interplay between climatic and anthropogenic factors. Significant relationships were found for the Breksa (R2 = 0.903), Glubochanka (R2 = 0.602), and Tikhaya (R2 = 0.555) rivers, suggesting an influence of temporal and climatic factors on water quality. In contrast, the Oba (R2 = 0.130), Ulba (R2 = 0.100), and Krasnoyarka (R2 = 0.018) rivers exhibited low coefficients, indicating the predominance of other, likely local, sources of pollution. It was found that summer periods are characterized by the highest pollution due to low water flow, while episodes of acid runoff occur in spring. A decrease in pH below 7.0 was first recorded in 2023–2024 in the Ulba and Tikhaya rivers. Forecasts to 2030 suggest relative stability in water quality under current climatic conditions; however, by 2050, the risk of water quality deterioration is expected to rise due to increased precipitation and extreme weather events. This study presents, for the first time, a systematic long-term analysis of small rivers in the East Kazakhstan region, offering deeper insight into the dynamics of surface water quality and providing a scientific foundation for developing adaptive strategies for the protection and sustainable use of water resources under climate change and anthropogenic pressure. The results emphasize the importance of prioritizing rivers with high variability in water quality for regular monitoring and the development of adaptive conservation measures. The research holds strong applied significance for shaping a sustainable water use strategy in the region. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

31 pages, 2663 KiB  
Article
Integrating Noise Pollution into Life Cycle Assessment: A Comparative Framework for Concrete and Timber Floor Construction
by Rabaka Sultana, Taslima Khanam and Ahmad Rashedi
Sustainability 2025, 17(14), 6514; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17146514 - 16 Jul 2025
Viewed by 120
Abstract
Despite the well-documented health risks of noise pollution, its impact remains overlooked mainly in life cycle assessment (LCA). This study introduces a methodological innovation by integrating both traffic and construction noise into the LCA framework for concrete construction, providing a more holistic and [...] Read more.
Despite the well-documented health risks of noise pollution, its impact remains overlooked mainly in life cycle assessment (LCA). This study introduces a methodological innovation by integrating both traffic and construction noise into the LCA framework for concrete construction, providing a more holistic and realistic evaluation of environmental and health impacts. By combining building information modeling (BIM) with LCA, the method automates material quantification and assesses both environmental and noise-related health burdens. A key advancement is the inclusion of health-based indicators, such as annoyance and sleep disturbance, quantified through disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). Two scenarios are examined: (1) a comparative analysis of concrete versus timber flooring and (2) end-of-life options (reuse vs. landfill). The results reveal that concrete has up to 7.4 times greater environmental impact than timber, except in land use. When noise is included, its contribution ranges from 7–33% in low-density regions (Darwin) and 62–92% in high-density areas (NSW), underscoring the critical role of local context. Traffic noise emerged as the dominant source, while equipment-related noise was minimal (0.3–1.5% of total DALYs). Timber slightly reduced annoyance but showed similar sleep disturbance levels. Material reuse reduced midpoint environmental impacts by 67–99.78%. Sensitivity analysis confirmed that mitigation measures like double glazing can cut noise-related impacts by 2–10% in low-density settings and 31–45% in high-density settings, validating the robustness of this framework. Overall, this study establishes a foundation for integrating noise into LCA, supporting sustainable material choices, environmentally responsible construction, and health-centered policymaking, particularly in noise-sensitive urban development. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 5004 KiB  
Article
Local Emissions Drive Summer PM2.5 Pollution Under Adverse Meteorological Conditions: A Quantitative Case Study in Suzhou, Yangtze River Delta
by Minyan Wu, Ningning Cai, Jiong Fang, Ling Huang, Xurong Shi, Yezheng Wu, Li Li and Hongbing Qin
Atmosphere 2025, 16(7), 867; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos16070867 - 16 Jul 2025
Viewed by 75
Abstract
Accurately identifying the sources of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) pollution is crucial for pollution control and public health protection. Taking the PM2.5 pollution event that occurred in Suzhou in June 2023 as a typical case, this study analyzed the characteristics [...] Read more.
Accurately identifying the sources of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) pollution is crucial for pollution control and public health protection. Taking the PM2.5 pollution event that occurred in Suzhou in June 2023 as a typical case, this study analyzed the characteristics and components of PM2.5, and quantified the contributions of meteorological conditions, regional transport, and local emissions to the summertime PM2.5 surge in a typical Yangtze River Delta (YRD) city. Chemical composition analysis highlighted a sharp increase in nitrate ions (NO3, contributing up to 49% during peak pollution), with calcium ion (Ca2+) and sulfate ion (SO42−) concentrations rising to 2 times and 7.5 times those of clean periods, respectively. Results from the random forest model demonstrated that emission sources (74%) dominated this pollution episode, significantly surpassing the meteorological contribution (26%). The Weather Research and Forecasting model combined with the Community Multiscale Air Quality model (WRF–CMAQ) further revealed that local emissions contributed the most to PM2.5 concentrations in Suzhou (46.3%), while external transport primarily originated from upwind cities such as Shanghai and Jiaxing. The findings indicate synergistic effects from dust sources, industrial emissions, and mobile sources. Validation using electricity consumption and key enterprise emission data confirmed that intensive local industrial activities exacerbated PM2.5 accumulation. Recommendations include strengthening regulations on local industrial and mobile source emissions, and enhancing regional joint prevention and control mechanisms to mitigate cross-boundary transport impacts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Air Quality)
Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 7589 KiB  
Article
Analysis of PM2.5 Transport Characteristics and Continuous Improvement in High-Emission-Load Areas of the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei Region in Winter
by Yuyao Qiang, Chuanda Wang, Xiaoqi Wang and Shuiyuan Cheng
Sustainability 2025, 17(14), 6389; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17146389 - 11 Jul 2025
Viewed by 215
Abstract
The air quality in the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei region of China has markedly improved in recent decades. Characterizing current PM2.5 transmission between cities in light of the continuous reduction in emissions from various sources is of great significance for the formulation of future regional [...] Read more.
The air quality in the Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei region of China has markedly improved in recent decades. Characterizing current PM2.5 transmission between cities in light of the continuous reduction in emissions from various sources is of great significance for the formulation of future regional joint prevention and control strategies. To address these issues, a WRF-CAMx modeling project was implemented to explore the pollution characteristics from the perspectives of transport flux, regional source apportionment, and the comprehensive impact of multiple pollutants from 2013 to 2020. It was found that the net PM2.5 transport flux among cities declined considerably during the study period and was positively affected by the continuous reduction in emission sources. The variations in local emissions and transport contributions in various cities from 2013 to 2020 revealed differences in emission control policies and efforts. It is worth noting that under polluted weather conditions, obvious interannual differences in PM2.5 transport fluxes in the BTH region were observed, emphasizing the need for more scientifically based regional collaborative control strategies. The change in the predominant precursor from SO2 to NOx has posed new challenges for emission reduction. NOx emission reductions will significantly decrease PM2.5 concentrations, while SO2 and NH3 reductions show limited effects. The reduction in NOx emissions might have a fluctuating impact on the generation of SOAs, possibly due to changes in atmospheric oxidation. However, the deep treatment of NOx has a positive effect on the synergistic improvement of multiple air pollutants. This emphasizes the need to enhance the reduction in NOx emissions in the future. The results of this study can serve as a reference for the development of effective PM2.5 precursor control strategies and regional differentiation optimization improvement policies in the BTH region. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 6481 KiB  
Article
Aerosol Composition in a Semi-Urban Environment in Central Mexico: Influence of Local and Regional Processes on Overall Composition and First Quantification of Nitroaromatics
by Sara E. Olivares-Salazar, Roya Bahreini, Ying-Hsuan Lin, Telma Castro, Harry Alvarez-Ospina and Dara Salcedo
Atmosphere 2025, 16(7), 827; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos16070827 - 7 Jul 2025
Viewed by 259
Abstract
The Metropolitan Area of Queretaro (MAQ) is a significant industrial hub in central Mexico whose air quality, including high concentrations of particulate matter (PM), poses a risk to the population. However, there have not been many studies on the sources and processes that [...] Read more.
The Metropolitan Area of Queretaro (MAQ) is a significant industrial hub in central Mexico whose air quality, including high concentrations of particulate matter (PM), poses a risk to the population. However, there have not been many studies on the sources and processes that influence the concentration of atmospheric pollutants. We used aerosol chemical composition and meteorological data from 1 January to 15 May 2022, along with back-trajectory modeling, to investigate emission sources not previously described in the region and the impact of local and regional meteorology on the chemical composition of aerosols. Furthermore, this study presents the first quantitative analysis of nitroaromatic compounds (NACs) in particulate matter in the MAQ using ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry. The NAC concentrations ranged from 0.086 to 3.618 ng m−3, with the highest concentrations occurring during a period of atmospheric stability. The secondary inorganic and organic fractions of the PM were the most abundant (50%) of the PM concentration throughout the campaign. Local and regional meteorology played a significant role in the variability of PM chemical composition, as it influenced oxidation and transport processes. The results reveal that emissions from biomass burning are a recurrent PM source, and regional emissions significantly impact the organic fraction of the PM. These results underscore the importance of considering both local and regional sources in assessing air pollution in the region. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Aerosols)
Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 546 KiB  
Article
Environmental and Social Dimensions of Energy Transformation Using Geothermal Energy
by Michał Kaczmarczyk and Anna Sowiżdżał
Energies 2025, 18(13), 3565; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18133565 - 7 Jul 2025
Viewed by 314
Abstract
The use of geothermal energy is gaining strategic importance in the context of sustainable development and the decarbonisation of local energy systems. As a stable and low-emission renewable energy source, geothermal energy offers tangible environmental and social benefits, including improved air quality, reduced [...] Read more.
The use of geothermal energy is gaining strategic importance in the context of sustainable development and the decarbonisation of local energy systems. As a stable and low-emission renewable energy source, geothermal energy offers tangible environmental and social benefits, including improved air quality, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and enhanced energy independence. This article presents a comprehensive overview of the social dimensions of geothermal energy deployment in Poland, with a particular focus on environmental impacts, public acceptance, and participatory governance. Based on a Polish geothermal district heating system example, the paper demonstrates that geothermal projects can significantly reduce local pollution and support low-carbon economic transitions. The study includes a comparative assessment of avoided emissions, a critical discussion of potential social barriers, and SWOT and PESTEL analyses identifying systemic enablers and constraints. The authors argue that for geothermal energy to fulfil its sustainability potential, it must be supported by inclusive planning, transparent communication, and a holistic policy framework integrating environmental, technological, and social criteria. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 4992 KiB  
Article
Spatial Heterogeneity and Controlling Factors of Heavy Metals in Groundwater in a Typical Industrial Area in Southern China
by Jiaxu Du, Fu Liao, Ziwen Zhang, Aoao Du and Jiale Qian
Water 2025, 17(13), 2012; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17132012 - 4 Jul 2025
Viewed by 484
Abstract
Heavy metal contamination in groundwater has emerged as a significant environmental issue, driven by rapid industrialization and intensified human activities, particularly in southern China. Heavy metal pollution in groundwater often presents complex spatial patterns and multiple sources; understanding the spatial heterogeneity and controlling [...] Read more.
Heavy metal contamination in groundwater has emerged as a significant environmental issue, driven by rapid industrialization and intensified human activities, particularly in southern China. Heavy metal pollution in groundwater often presents complex spatial patterns and multiple sources; understanding the spatial heterogeneity and controlling factors of heavy metals is crucial for pollution prevention and water resource management in industrial regions. This study applied spatial autocorrelation analysis and self-organizing maps (SOM) coupled with K-means clustering to investigate the spatial distribution and key influencing factors of nine heavy metals (Cr, Fe, Mn, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Ba, and Pb) in a typical industrial area in southern China. Heavy metals show significant spatial heterogeneity in concentrations. Cr, Mn, Fe, and Cu form local hotspots near urban and peripheral zones; Ni and As present downstream enrichment along the river pathway with longitudinal increase trends; Zn, Ba, and Pb exhibit a fluctuating pattern from west to east in the piedmont region. Local Moran’s I analysis further revealed spatial clustering in the northwest, riverine zones, and coastal outlet areas, providing insight into potential source regions. SOM clustering identified three types of groundwater: Cluster 1 (characterized by Cr, Mn, Fe, and Ni) is primarily influenced by industrial pollution and present spatially scattered distribution; Cluster 2 (dominated by As, NO3, Ca2+, and K+) is associated with domestic sewage and distributes following river flow; Cluster 3 (enriched in Zn, Ba, Pb, and NO3) is shaped by agricultural activities and natural mineral dissolution, with a lateral distribution along the piedmont zone. The findings of this study provide a scientific foundation for groundwater pollution prevention and environmental management in industrialized areas. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 1726 KiB  
Article
Microplastic Pollution in Shoreline Sediments of the Vondo Reservoir Along the Mutshindudi River, South Africa
by Thendo Mutshekwa, Samuel N. Motitsoe, Musa C. Mlambo, Lubabalo Mofu, Rabelani Mudzielwana and Lutendo Phophi
Water 2025, 17(13), 1935; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17131935 - 27 Jun 2025
Viewed by 273
Abstract
Rivers are recognized as significant pathways and transportation for microplastics (MPs), an emerging contaminant, to aquatic environments. However, there is limited evidence on how riverine reservoirs influence MPs transport. To fill this gap and provide baseline empirical data and insights to South African [...] Read more.
Rivers are recognized as significant pathways and transportation for microplastics (MPs), an emerging contaminant, to aquatic environments. However, there is limited evidence on how riverine reservoirs influence MPs transport. To fill this gap and provide baseline empirical data and insights to South African context, the current study assessed the seasonal variation in MP densities from sediments collected upstream, within the reservoir, and downstream of the Vondo Reservoir along the Mutshindudi River. We hypothesised that MP densities would be highest within the reservoir, due to the lack of constant flow that would otherwise transport accumulated particles downriver. Additionally, we expected the cool–dry season to be associated with the highest MP densities. As expected, high MP densities were observed within the reservoir (117.38–277.46 particles kg−1 dwt) when compared to the downstream (72.63–141.50 particles kg−1 dwt) and upstream (28.81–91.63 particles kg−1 dwt) sites of the reservoir. The cool–dry season (91.63–277.46 particles kg−1 dwt) exhibited the highest MP densities compared to the hot–wet season (28.81–141.50 particles kg−1 dwt). However, MP densities downstream the reservoir were higher during the hot–wet season (141.50 ± 24.34 particles kg−1 dwt) compared to the cool–dry season (72.63 ± 48.85 particles kg−1 dwt). The most dominant MP particles identified were white, transparent, and black fibres/filaments composed primarily of polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE). This suggests diverse sources of MP particles. No significant correlations were found between water parameters and MP densities across sampling sites and seasons, indicating a widespread and context-independent presence of MPs. These findings contribute to MP studies in freshwater environments and further reinforce the role of sediments as sink for MPs and suggest that riverine reservoirs similar to dams can trap MPs, which may then be remobilized downstream during high-flow periods. Importantly, the results of this study can support local municipalities in implementing targeted plastic pollution mitigation strategies and public awareness campaigns, particularly because the Vondo Reservoir serves as a critical water resource for surrounding communities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Water Quality and Contamination)
Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 7764 KiB  
Article
Spatiotemporal Distribution of Atmospheric Particulate Matters and Correlations Among Them in Different Functional Areas of a Typical Mining City in Northwestern China
by Yun Liu, Ruoshui Wang, Tingning Zhao, Jun Gao, Chenghao Zheng and Mengwei Wang
Sustainability 2025, 17(13), 5945; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17135945 - 27 Jun 2025
Viewed by 230
Abstract
Identifying the coupling effect mechanisms of particulate matter (PM) in different functional areas on the atmospheric environment will help to carry out graded precision prevention and control measures against pollution within mining cities. This study monitored the pollution of three different functional areas [...] Read more.
Identifying the coupling effect mechanisms of particulate matter (PM) in different functional areas on the atmospheric environment will help to carry out graded precision prevention and control measures against pollution within mining cities. This study monitored the pollution of three different functional areas in Wuhai, a typical mining city in Inner Mongolia. PM1, PM2.5, PM10, and TSP were sampled and analyzed for chemical fractions both in the daytime and at night in spring, summer, autumn, and winter. The results showed that the average daily concentrations of PM were generally higher in the mining area than in the urban and sandy areas in different seasons. The results of the Kerriging analysis showed that the urban area was affected the most when specific ranges of high PM concentrations were detected in the mining area and specific ranges of low PM concentrations were detected in the sandy area. PMF results indicated that the source of pollutants in different functional areas and seasons were dust, industrial and traffic emissions, combustion, and sea salt. The contributions of dust in PM with different particle sizes in the mining and sandy areas were as high as 49–72%, while all the pollutant sources accounted for a large proportion of pollution in the urban area. In addition, dust was the largest source of pollution in summer and winter, and the contribution of combustion sources to pollution was higher in winter. Health risks associated with Cr were higher in the sandy area, and non-carcinogenic risks associated with Mn were higher in the mining area during spring and summer, while there was a greater impact on human health in the urban area during autumn and winter. The results of this study revealed the coupling effect mechanisms of different functional areas on the local atmospheric environment and contribute to the development of regional atmospheric defense and control policies. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 10526 KiB  
Article
Long-Term Spatiotemporal Variability and Source Attribution of Aerosols over Xinjiang, China
by Chenggang Li, Xiaolu Ling, Wenhao Liu, Zeyu Tang, Qianle Zhuang and Meiting Fang
Remote Sens. 2025, 17(13), 2207; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs17132207 - 26 Jun 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 263
Abstract
Aerosols play a critical role in modulating the land–atmosphere energy balance, influencing regional climate dynamics, and affecting air quality. Xinjiang, a typical arid and semi-arid region in China, frequently experiences dust events and complex aerosol transport processes. This study provides a comprehensive analysis [...] Read more.
Aerosols play a critical role in modulating the land–atmosphere energy balance, influencing regional climate dynamics, and affecting air quality. Xinjiang, a typical arid and semi-arid region in China, frequently experiences dust events and complex aerosol transport processes. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the spatiotemporal evolution and potential source regions of aerosols in Xinjiang from 2005 to 2023, based on Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) aerosol products (MCD19A2), Cloud-Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observation (CALIPSO) vertical profiles, ground-based PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations, MERRA-2 and ERA5 reanalysis datasets, and HYSPLIT backward trajectory simulations. The results reveal pronounced spatial and temporal heterogeneity in aerosol optical depth (AOD). In Northern Xinjiang (NXJ), AOD exhibits relatively small seasonal variation with a wintertime peak, while Southern Xinjiang (SXJ) shows significant seasonal and interannual variability, characterized by high AOD in spring and a minimum in winter, without a clear long-term trend. Dust is the dominant aerosol type, accounting for 96.74% of total aerosol content, and AOD levels are consistently higher in SXJ than in NXJ. During winter, aerosols are primarily deposited in the near-surface layer as a result of local and short-range transport processes, whereas in spring, long-range transport at higher altitudes becomes more prominent. In NXJ, air masses are primarily sourced from local regions and Central Asia, with stronger pollution levels observed in winter. In contrast, springtime pollution in Kashgar is mainly influenced by dust emissions from the Taklamakan Desert, exceeding winter levels. These findings provide important scientific insights for atmospheric environment management and the development of targeted dust mitigation strategies in arid regions. Full article
Show Figures

Graphical abstract

13 pages, 2574 KiB  
Article
Assessment of the Human Health Risks Associated with Heavy Metals in Surface Water Near Gold Mining Sites in Côte d’Ivoire
by Mahamadou Kamagate, Traore Lanciné, Kouadio Aya Nelly Berthe, Gone Droh Lanciné, Karim Kriaa, Amine Aymen Assadi, Jie Zhang and Hichem Tahraoui
Water 2025, 17(13), 1891; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17131891 - 25 Jun 2025
Viewed by 347
Abstract
Heavy metals are a major cause for concern in relation to water systems, due to their high toxicity at elevated levels. The metals can originate from both natural processes, including geological weathering and volcanic activity, as well as anthropogenic activi-ties such as industrial [...] Read more.
Heavy metals are a major cause for concern in relation to water systems, due to their high toxicity at elevated levels. The metals can originate from both natural processes, including geological weathering and volcanic activity, as well as anthropogenic activi-ties such as industrial discharges, agricultural runoff, mining, and urbanization, which significantly contribute to water pollution and environmental degradation. The as-sessment of these risks is crucial for protecting public health, especially in populations reliant on contaminated water sources. Exposure to such contaminants can result in severe health consequences, including neurological impairments, organ deterioration, and an elevated risk of cancer. To conduct this assessment study, six surface water sampling sites were selected (i.e., S1 (Gobia), S2 (Kouamefla), S3 (Benkro), S4 (Dou-kouya), S5 (Doka), and S6 (Zengue)) due to their proximity to mining activities. We used the hazard quotient (HQ) and hazard index (HI) methods to estimate the levels of non-carcinogenic health risk associated with heavy metals. Then, the assessment of carcinogenic health risk was carried out using the Incremental Lifetime Cancer Risk (ILCR) methods. First, the highest ILCR total values were observed in the Doya locality (i.e., 0.4237 for the children and 0.5650 for the adults) and during the great dry season (i.e., 0.4333 for the children and 0.5743 for the adults). These findings highlight that populations in this locale experience heightened exposure during the period of the Great Rainy Season. The results indicated that the population exposed to Cd and Hg may experience health concerns irrespective of season and locality. For As and Pb, risks are present in both seasons (i.e., Short Dry Season (SDS) and Short Rainy Season (SRS)). On the other hand, the HIs are well above 1, indicating that the population may be exposed to non-carcinogenic diseases associated with the metals, regardless of the season or locality. To further explore the results, the assessment by ILCR was em-ployed, which demonstrated that for all the designated localities, the ILCRs of As and Cd are well above 10−4 for the entire population, indicating that the population con-suming this water may develop major carcinogenic risks. In addition, the highest ILCR values were obtained for Cd, regardless of the age group. It should be noted that sea-sonal variation had no significant effect on the trend in ILCRs determined for the en-tire population. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Soil-Groundwater Pollution Investigations)
Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 5802 KiB  
Article
Soil Quality and Heavy Metal Source Analyses for Characteristic Agricultural Products in Luzuo Town, China
by Zhaoyu Zhou, Zeming Shi, Linsong Yu, Haiyin Fan and Fang Wan
Agriculture 2025, 15(13), 1360; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15131360 - 25 Jun 2025
Viewed by 231
Abstract
Identifying the soil quality and the sources of heavy metals in the production areas of characteristic agricultural products is crucial for ensuring the quality of such products and the sustainable development of agriculture. This research took the farmland soil of Luzuo Town, a [...] Read more.
Identifying the soil quality and the sources of heavy metals in the production areas of characteristic agricultural products is crucial for ensuring the quality of such products and the sustainable development of agriculture. This research took the farmland soil of Luzuo Town, a characteristic production area of Cangshan garlic in Linyi City, as the research object. The contents of Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, Zn, As, Hg, and Cd in farmland soil were analyzed. The ecological risks were evaluated using the Geographical Cumulative Index (Igeo) and the Potential Ecological Risk Index. The spatial distribution characteristics of the elements were determined through geostatistical analysis, and Positive Matrix Factorization (PMF) was used for source apportionment. The results show the following: (1) The average concentrations of all heavy metals exceeded local background values, with Cr and Hg surpassing the screening thresholds from China’s “Soil Pollution Risk Control Standards” (GB 15618-2018). (2) The results of the Moran’s index show that, except for Hg and Cd, all the elements had a high spatial autocorrelation, and there are two potential highly polluted areas in the study area. (3) Soils were generally uncontaminated or low risk, with Hg and Cd as the primary ecological risk contributors. (4) Five sources were quantified: fertilizer and pesticide sources (32.28%); mixed sources of fertilizer, pesticides, and manure (14.15%); mixed sources of traffic activities and agricultural waste discharge (19.95%); natural sources (20.55%); and incineration sources (13.07%). This study demonstrates the value of integrating geospatial and statistical methods for soil pollution management. Targeted control of Hg/Cd and reduced agrochemical use are recommended to protect this important agricultural region. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Soils)
Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 1021 KiB  
Article
Heavy Metal Pollution of the Świder River, Protection Measures and Impact on Tourism Development
by Mariusz Kluska and Joanna Jabłońska
Water 2025, 17(13), 1853; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17131853 - 22 Jun 2025
Viewed by 429
Abstract
As a fundamental element of nature, water determines the existence of life on Earth. The physicochemical and biological composition of natural waters is closely correlated with the state of the environment through which they flow. The main threat is municipal wastewater, but also [...] Read more.
As a fundamental element of nature, water determines the existence of life on Earth. The physicochemical and biological composition of natural waters is closely correlated with the state of the environment through which they flow. The main threat is municipal wastewater, but also nonpoint source pollution from agriculture, which has a major impact on the state of the aquatic environment. The main objective of this study was to analyse selected heavy metals in surface waters and bottom sediments of the Świder River. Given the intricate nature of how heavy metals interact and move between water and sediment, the study also aimed to show whether bottom sediments of surface waters may pose an environmental risk—particularly through the potential release of toxic metals and the development of tourism on the Świder River. The obtained values of the concentrations of the analysed metals were below the permissible standards. The highest concentrations were found in the lower reaches of the Świder River, where a tourist and more urbanised area is located. The obtained results allowed us to assess the bioavailability of these metals, and will be used by local government units to improve the management of this area in order to minimise anthropogenic pollution. Full article
Show Figures

Figure 1

Back to TopTop