Showing papers in "Environmental Management and Health in 1996"
TL;DR: The authors argues that a sound and efficient approach and policy for the protection of the environment and restoration of natural resources must include essential features which reflect the harmonization of national and global strategies expected for a sustainable society.
Abstract: Argues that a sound and efficient approach and policy for the protection of the environment and restoration of natural resources must include essential features which reflect the harmonization of national and global strategies expected for a sustainable society. The increasing awareness of governments and international organizations has culminated in several undertakings aimed at systematically facing the overwhelming problems encountered in the establishment of a global policy for environmental management and health for sustainable development. This takes account of environmental changes, patterns of economic development and sociocultural factors. A sustainable society supports the acquisition of basic needs with the extensive opportunity to aspire satisfactorily to a better life in the present and the future. Stresses that, for economic sustainability to occur, developmental action must be supported with available resources within society. The problem of the poverty‐ridden population must be recognized. Suggests that the resource base in a sustainable society can be fortified through effective, efficient and equitable use of available resources and economic growth without the massive introduction of untoward environmental pollutants.
25 citations
TL;DR: In this article, different standard separation techniques were used to separate the unused base oil and other components from the collected samples for characterization and concluded that re-refining of used oil will conserve resources and help to preserve the environment.
Abstract: Studies samples of different used lubricating oils. Details how their physico‐chemical characteristics were determined by the use of modern instrumental analytical techniques; and how different standard separation techniques were used to separate the unused base oil and other components from the collected samples for characterization. Discusses the different re‐refining procedures available in the literature and highlights the merits and demerits of different re‐refining techniques. Concludes that re‐refining of used oil will conserve resources and help to preserve the environment.
13 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the fate of heavy metals in sewage water and sludge produced was examined and the level of metals before and after the use of chemical coagulants as well as throughout every process of the plant.
Abstract: Examines the fate of heavy metals in sewage water and the sludge produced. Investigates the level of metals before and after the use of chemical coagulants as well as throughout every process of the plant. Results reveal that the present upgrading of the plant has a remarkable improvement in the performance of the sewage treatment. Concludes that such upgrading of the plant reduces sewage tax because of the improvement in performance. In addition, the hydrolysis of the pre‐treated sludge can improve the de‐nitrified process and therefore can save energy, while the application of lime can be a substitution for enlarging the plant itself.
10 citations
TL;DR: In this article, a simple framework for examining the factors affecting crop production is described, and this framework can be extended to more complex simulation models of crop growth Considers the uses and current limitations of such simulation models in predicting the effect of climate change on crop growth.
Abstract: Describes a simple framework for examining the factors affecting crop production, and explains how this framework can be extended to more complex simulation models of crop growth Considers the uses and current limitations of such simulation models in predicting the effect of climate change on crop growth, and suggests how the models could be used to assess the impact of climate change and set the levels of emissions for management
10 citations
TL;DR: The concept of the environmental audit was introduced in this paper, where the authors emphasize its importance as one contribution that attempts to prevent the destruction of the world in which we live and stress that it is everyone's responsibility "that of both individuals and the companies and organizations in which they operate".
Abstract: Explores the concept of the environmental audit. Emphasizes its importance as one contribution that attempts to prevent the destruction of the world in which we live. Stresses that it is everyone’s responsibility ‐ that of both individuals and the companies and organizations in which they operate. Describes stages of the audit process that have been successful in practice.
10 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors outline the case for bioregional regeneration modelling in which the concept of place assumes a central role in industrial decision making, and show how recent research into small and medium-sized enterprises' approaches to environmental concerns illustrates the limitations of national and European Union voluntary codes of practice.
Abstract: Proposes that environmental degradation and pollution pose threats to health in a multitude of forms; and that hazardous effects will continue to emanate from industrial processes so long as commercial viability dictates the necessity to deposit hazardous wastes in the air, soil and water. Shows how recent research into small and medium‐sized enterprises’ approaches to environmental concerns illustrates the limitations of national and European Union voluntary codes of practice. Following from this research, outlines the case for bioregional regeneration modelling in which the concept of place assumes a central role in industrial decision making.
10 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the relative nutrient status and public health aspects of six livestock manures when added to soil were examined and the effect of land application of the manure on human health was highlighted.
Abstract: Examines the relative nutrient status and public health aspects of six livestock manures when added to soil. Provides analysis of the chemical composition of soils at pig, cattle, goat, rabbit, sheep and poultry waste dump sites and shows a highly significant difference in the level of added nutrients. Draws the conclusion that the observed levels of micronutrients at all waste sites suggest that potential plant toxicity and food chain accumulation problems will be low. Highlights the effect of land application of the manure on human health.
8 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the importance of environment as it affects organizations in terms of cost containment, dealing with new regulations or reacting to unexpected problems is discussed, and the potential for environmental profit extends far beyond customer appeal.
Abstract: Discusses the importance of environment as it affects organizations in terms of cost containment, dealing with new regulations or reacting to unexpected problems. Looks at the possibilities of “cashing in” on the public’s concern for the environment and views the environment as a means by which to gain competitive advantage in the 1990s. Proposes that pollution management is more than controlling cost; it can be a revenue generator. Concludes that some managers are “out of touch” and that their employees have a better grasp of reality. Emphasizes again that the potential for environmental profit extends far beyond customer appeal.
8 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the analytical methods for trace analysis of organochlorine pesticides, PCBs and chlorophenols in water and soil/sediment samples were described and analyzed in surface, ground and drinking waters, soils, river sediments and wet depositions in Croatia.
Abstract: Reviews compound physico‐chemical properties and water and soil properties influencing the transport and distribution of organochlorine pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and chlorophenols in a water and soil environment. As highly hydrophobic compounds of low water solubility, organochlorine pesticides and PCBs are rapidly and strongly sorbed by most soils and sediments. The sorption of weakly acidic chlorophenols comprises both molecular and ionic forms and depends not only on the soil/sediment organic matter content but also on the pH and ionic strength of the aqueous phase. Briefly describes the analytical methods for trace analysis of organocholorine pesticides, PCBs and chlorophenols in water and soil/sediment samples. Presents some results of those micropollutants’ analysis in surface, ground and drinking waters, soils, river sediments and wet depositions in Croatia.
7 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors examined the treatability of highly polluted wastewater from a dairy factory prior to its final disposal into the public sewerage system and concluded that the quality of the waste produced does not meet with the National Regulatory Standards for wastewater disposal into a sewerage network.
Abstract: Examines the treatability of highly polluted wastewater from a dairy factory prior to its final disposal into the public sewerage system. Physical treatment of the dairy waste via aeration, followed by settling, resulted in a 25 per cent chemical oxygen demand (COD) reduction and elimination of odours. Chemical treatment achieved almost 50 per cent removal of COD. The chemical‐biological process using activated sludge/trickling filter resulted in 64 per cent and 90 per cent removal of the volatile organic matter value respectively. However, the quality of the waste produced does not meet with the National Regulatory Standards for wastewater disposal into the sewerage system. Chemical‐biological treatment using an upflow anaerobic reactor succeeded in reducing the pollutional parameters to coincide with the limits of the Egyptian Law 93/1962 and produces biogas as a source of energy at a rate of 0.39m3/kg COD removed.
6 citations
TL;DR: Experimental studies on rats conducted in laboratories in Croatia and in the USA separately and as collaborative research show that Pb or Cd have effects on reproductive function, and proposes possible sites of action of Cd in the steroidogenic pathway.
Abstract: Lead is a known reproductive toxicant in humans and animals. Data on cadmium reproductive effects in humans are inconclusive, and in female animals are lacking. More information on the toxicokinetics and toxicity of Pb and Cd during the reproductive period and in developing young is needed. Experimental studies on rats conducted in laboratories in Croatia and in the USA separately and as collaborative research show that Pb or Cd have effects on reproductive function. Chronic or subchronic oral Pb or Cd exposure of the dams causes decreased pup weight and survival, and depressed serum progesterone concentration in Cd‐exposed dams at the term. No paternally mediated Pb effects were found in offspring. Organ Pb or Cd accumulation was accompanied by changes in essential element concentrations in both dam and foetus. Acute in vivo and in vitro exposure to Cd had specific effects on gonadal steroidogenesis in both males and females. Proposes possible sites of action of Cd in the steroidogenic pathway.
TL;DR: In this paper, the results of formaldehyde (HCHO) concentration measurements undertaken in ten kindergartens and ten primary schools (one room in each) during the summer and the winter periods were presented.
Abstract: Presents the results of formaldehyde (HCHO) concentration measurements undertaken in ten kindergartens and ten primary schools (one room in each) during the summer and the winter periods. The buildings were of differing age (1‐100 years) and structure (from conventional to prefabricated type), and particle‐board furniture was used in all premises. Results show that the proposed limit value of 120 μg/m3, recommended by WHO for living accommodation, was frequently exceeded. The seasonal differences of concentrations were statistically significant for nine kindergartens and seven schools.
TL;DR: In this paper, the effect of elevated nutrient concentrations on the ecology of the coastal zone has become apparent, and it is only when we understand how the various chemical and biological processes influence the flux of nutrients through the estuarine interface between land and sea that any sensible management strategy can be developed.
Abstract: Research over the last 20 years has had a major focus on the ecology of east coast estuaries, including the interaction between coastal seawater and saltmarshes. It is not possible to separate intertidal coastal saltmarshes from the rest of the coastal marine environment as they are involved in a truly interactive system. The significance of this system is attracting increasing attention as the effect of elevated nutrient concentrations on the ecology of the coastal zone has become apparent. It is only when we understand how the various chemical and biological processes influence the flux of nutrients through the estuarine interface between land and sea that any sensible management strategy can be developed.
TL;DR: There are substantial changes in the distribution pattern of the algal community structure during different seasons and it is concluded that to obtain considerable algal biomass in the maturation pond, the pond system must be subjected to performance control.
Abstract: Carries out an investigation to evaluate the performance of the maturation pond, one of an aerated oxidation pond system at the Mit Mazah Sewage Treatment Plant (Daquahliya Governorate, Egypt), with respect to phytoplanktonic structure and nutrient elimination during different seasons. Details how the study collected composite water samples from the maturation pond at monthly intervals. Observes that there are substantial changes in the distribution pattern of the algal community structure during different seasons. Concludes that to obtain considerable algal biomass in the maturation pond, the pond system must be subjected to performance control.
TL;DR: In this article, published data on the exposure to organochlorine pesticides (DDT, HCH isomers, HCB), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB), poly-chlorinated dibenzo-p‐dioxins (PCDD) and poly-collected dibenzofurans (PCDF) was discussed.
Abstract: Summarizes and discusses published data on the exposure to organochlorine pesticides (DDT, HCH isomers, HCB), polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB), polychlorinated dibenzo‐p‐dioxins (PCDD) and polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDF). Presents the levels of organochlorine compounds found in human blood serum (general population and occupationally exposed subjects) and human milk. Also presents the calculated intake of organochlorine compounds by breast‐fed infants and their mothers. Observes no marked difference between levels of organochlorine compounds in population groups from Croatia and those reported from most European countries.
TL;DR: In this article, the principles of analytical methods, environmental monitoring, biological monitoring and direct human exposure assessment of lead and cadmium are presented, with the results obtained from studies carried out in the Croatian region and performed within the Institute of Medical Research and Occupational Health in Zagreb.
Abstract: Presents the principles of analytical methods, environmental monitoring, biological monitoring and direct human exposure assessment of lead and cadmium. Illustrates each research area, by giving the results obtained from studies carried out in the Croatian region and performed within the Institute of Medical Research and Occupational Health in Zagreb. Also presents the results obtained for lead and cadmium in non‐polluted rural, urban and polluted industrial areas. Considers two main environmental media ‐ air and food ‐ when evaluating human exposure, intake and absorption of lead and cadmium. Compares results obtained in this region to reported European and global data.
TL;DR: In this article, an up-flow anaerobic sludge bed (UASB) was used for the treatment of sewage sludge containing high concentrations of soluble and insoluble sulphides, and the average percentage removal of VOM, total sulphide and biogas for the reactor operation without sulphide was 67 per cent, 65mgS/L and 1 L/day, respectively.
Abstract: Investigates the application of the up‐flow anaerobic sludge bed (UASB) reactor for the anaerobic treatment of sewage sludge containing high concentrations of soluble and insoluble sulphides. Assesses the reactor’s performance in terms of volatile organic matter (VOM) and biogas production rate. The average percentage removal of VOM, total sulphide and biogas for the reactor operation without sulphide was 67 per cent, 65mgS/L and 1 L/day, respectively. The corresponding average percentage removal of VOM, total sulphide and biogas production rate for the experiment with 800mgS/L soluble sulphide was 45 per cent, 450mgS/L and 0.7L/day. Equilibrium concentrations of soluble sulphide up to 200mgS/L exert insignificant toxic effects, but toxicity increases as the concentration of soluble sulphide increases. A concentration of soluble sulphide of 1,200mgS/L produces severe toxic effects and the complete termination of gas production. An inhibitory concentration of sulphides affects gas production first, while significant volatile acid accumulation takes place much slower, and only after gas production has been severely retarded. Insoluble sulphide has an insignificant effect on the UASB up to a concentration of at least 800mgS/L. The addition of iron as ferric chloride prevents the toxicity of soluble sulphides as indicated by the minor effect on gas production. Therefore, the use of iron to precipitate sulphide could be used on a continuous basis to reduce sulphide toxicity.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors used Duan's Cartesianization method to calculate the distribution of exposure to ammonia in living rooms for four population groups of Zagreb inhabitants (high school students, university students, employed and retired persons), for summer and winter periods.
Abstract: Details how distributions of exposure to ammonia in living rooms were calculated by use of Duan’s Cartesianization method for four population groups of Zagreb inhabitants (high‐school students, university students, employed and retired persons), for summer and winter periods. Households were grouped in two categories, city centre and suburbs. The main difference between these two categories was the so‐called green areas (parks, gardens, etc.) in the neighbourhood. The exposure levels are lower in the city centre compared to the suburbs. The results show seasonally dependent contribution to exposure in households from outdoor sources by ventilation in suburbs. Exposure distribution functions could be represented by normal, or summation by proportion of normal, Weibull and Erlang distributions. Concludes that by the comparison of the results and proposed exposure guideline value, it could be argued that no ammonia exposure problem exists in Zagreb.
TL;DR: In this article, the adoption of different abatement technologies in 30 Danish firms, encompassing traditional iron manufacturers and electroplating firms, was investigated, finding that there are big differences between the different types of firms.
Abstract: Presents findings from an investigation of the adoption of different “abatement” technologies in 30 Danish firms, encompassing traditional iron manufacturers and electroplating firms. The abatement measures were all instigated to improve environmental or occupational safety and health conditions. Reasons and incentives for these measures were investigated. Finds that there are big differences between the different types of firms. Moreover public regulation is the most common incentive for adopting abatement technologies. Internal forces in the company ‐ attitudes of management and employees ‐ were also found to have an essential influence, while economic considerations play only a minor role.
TL;DR: In 1995, the UK's Royal Commission on Environmental Pollution (RCOP) was 25 years old as mentioned in this paper, and it has been criticised for the way it has functioned during its life.
Abstract: In 1995 the UK’s Royal Commission on Environmental Pollution was 25 years old. Examines just a few aspects of the way it has functioned during its life.
TL;DR: The most significant sources and environmental pathways of manmade radionuclides have recently been examined by the RADPATH (Biochemical Pathways of Artificial Radionuclide) project, which was initiated under the auspices of the SCOPE (Scientific Committee on Problems of the Environment) unit.
Abstract: The most significant sources and environmental pathways of manmade radionuclides have recently been examined by the RADPATH (Biochemical Pathways of Artificial Radionuclides) project, which was initiated under the auspices of the SCOPE (Scientific Committee on Problems of the Environment) unit. The accident at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant in 1986, with its associated radionuclide release, has provided an unexpected data source concerning movement of materials within various environmental compartments. Outlines some of the findings of the SCOPE‐RADPATH project, a particular focus of which was the Chernobyl accident, with reference to the atmospheric, terrestrial, aquatic and urban environments.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors point out that environmental problems can only be tackled vigorously at the global scale, and that international collaboration over resolving environmental problems and ensuring sustainable development is fraught with difficulties, leading to pessimistic conclusions regarding long-term prospects for human life on earth.
Abstract: Few environmental problems can be contained to one defined segment of the earth’s surface; because of the inter‐connectedness of environmental systems, most problems spill over into other areas. A logical consequence is that environmental problems can only be tackled vigorously at the global scale. But human organization of the earth’s surface has divided it into a large number of territorial containers, each with its own state, whose major goal is to promote the interests of its inhabitants. International collaboration over resolving environmental problems and ensuring sustainable development is thus fraught with difficulties, leading to pessimistic conclusions regarding long‐term prospects for human life on earth.
TL;DR: The Environment Agency as mentioned in this paper was formed by the amalgamation of Her Majesty's Inspectorate of Pollution and the National Rivers Authority (RNAs) in 1976, and it has been described in detail in this paper.
Abstract: Describes the initial moves towards forming the Environment Agency, taken in 1976. Outlines the amalgamation of Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Pollution and the National Rivers Authority. Sets out various obstacles to the integrated administration, and looks at future problems of the Agency regarding its relationship with the European Union.
TL;DR: It is concluded that the available evidence associating cancer and EMF exposure is too tenuous to be convincing but too consistent to be ignored.
Abstract: About 50 epidemiological reports about possible associations between cancer morbidity and exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) were published between 1979 and 1994 The majority of them (60‐75 per cent) documented a slight (15 to twofold) but significant increase in the incidence of certain rare forms of neoplasms (leukaemia, lymphoma, brain tumours) A limited support for carcinogenic potencies of EMFs is provided from cellular studies, but the effects appear to be generally weak, transient and difficult to replicate Concludes that the available evidence associating cancer and EMF exposure is too tenuous to be convincing but too consistent to be ignored Further progress needs better quantification of exposure levels and conditions, evaluation of dose‐effect relationships and liability to confounding carcinogenic factors that may influence morbidity rates in the investigated populations
TL;DR: The recently established SCOPE•RADTEST (Scientific Committee on Problems of the Environment•Radioactivity from Nuclear Test Explosions) programme is examining releases of radioactivity due to nuclear detonations which have occurred at various test sites around the world, for peaceful and military purposes, taking into consideration both ecological and human effects as discussed by the authors.
Abstract: The recently established SCOPE‐RADTEST (Scientific Committee on Problems of the Environment‐Radioactivity from Nuclear Test Explosions) programme is examining releases of radioactivity due to nuclear detonations which have occurred at various test sites around the world, for peaceful and military purposes, taking into consideration both ecological and human effects. Presents the background to this programme, together with a summary of the proceedings of RADTEST’s North Atlantic Treaty Organization Advanced Research Workshop meetings held during 1994 in Vienna, Austria, and Barnaul, Russia, and of the 1995 meeting in Brussels/Liege, Belgium.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors reveal the possible influence of trichloroethylene (TRI) and tetrachlorocethylene via drinking water on the body burden resulting from a study of 55 subjects with no known solvent exposure.
Abstract: Reveals the possible influence of trichloroethylene (TRI) and tetrachloroethylene (perchloroethylene, PER) via drinking water on the body burden resulting from a study of 55 subjects with no known solvent exposure, selected from the residents of the city of Zagreb TRI and PER were determined in blood and their metabolite trichloroacetic acid (TCA) in plasma and urine Drinking water samples were also analysed for TRI and PER TRI concentrations in the blood ranged from <0015‐009 μg/L, PER <0010‐0239 μg/L, TCA in plasma 86‐12397 μg/L, in urine 167‐8518 μg/24 h, TRI in drinking water 258‐2293 μg/L and PER 063‐733 μg/L Correlation analyses reveal significant relationships between TRI and PER in blood (r = 0428; p = 00014), TRI and PER in drinking water (r = 0767; p = 00000), TCA in urine and TCA in plasma (r = 0629; p = 00000), ln TRI in drinking water and ln TCA in plasma (r = 0322; p = 00164) and urine (r = 0348; p = 00093), ln PER in drinking water and ln TCA in plasma (r = 0370; p = 00055) and urine (r = 0345; p = 00098) The latter quantitative relationships between both ln TRI and ln PER in drinking water relate to ln TCA in plasma and urine and may indicate TCA as a possible biologic marker of environmental exposure to TRI and PER
TL;DR: In this article, the authors describe integrated pollution control, the legal regime established by the Environmental Protection Act 1990, and explain the concepts of best practicable environmental option and best available techniques not entailing excessive cost.
Abstract: Describes integrated pollution control, the legal regime established by the Environmental Protection Act 1990. Gives the background to the need for an integrated system of regulation. Explains the concepts of best practicable environmental option and best available techniques not entailing excessive cost. Discusses the way in which the regime attempts to control pollution in terms of the authorization and variation process and through enforcement. Describes the way the regime attempts to utilize market forces. Outlines some of the problems encountered by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Pollution (HMIP) in the operation of the regime.
TL;DR: The transfer of radionuclides from fallout to individual foods has been studied continuously in several areas in the Republic of Croatia, since 1959 as discussed by the authors, focusing on the long-lived fission radions: 137Cs and 90Sr.
Abstract: The transfer of radionuclides from fallout to individual foods has been studied continuously in several areas in the Republic of Croatia, since 1959. Investigations focus on the long‐lived fission radionuclides: 137Cs and 90Sr. In order to estimate doses received by the Croatian population the Caesium and Strontium levels in their diets were calculated and analysed. According to the results obtained the risk to the population from 137Cs and 90Sr ingestion was highest over the 1960s and in the year of the Chernobyl nuclear accident, but the content of radionuclides in the foods were below the permissible levels.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors examined the effect of morphology on the physical and chemical properties of atmospheric aerosols, in the context of fractal theory, using a fractal dimension to describe aggregate morphology.
Abstract: Aerosols play an important role in the radiative balance of the atmosphere. While sulphate aerosols are recognized as the dominant contributor of tropospheric aerosols over and near industrialized regions, smoke aerosols containing soot or elemental carbon are regarded with increasing importance on a global basis. The fate of carbonaceous aerosols is at present poorly understood as a result of various atmospheric processes. This paper examines the effect of morphology on the physical and chemical properties of atmospheric aerosols, in the context of fractal theory. The use of a fractal dimension to describe aggregate morphology enables more accurate modelling of sedimentation and optical characteristics.
TL;DR: In this paper, the use of polarization towards improving the radar monitoring of storms is discussed, but the authors do not provide accurate quantitative information on rainfall rate, but they describe research on using polarization to improve the radar's performance.
Abstract: Radar can provide valuable information on the spatial distribution of rainfall, but is not as yet able to provide accurate quantitative information on rainfall rate Describes research on the use of polarization towards improving the radar monitoring of storms