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Review Article
Climate Change and Prosopis Juliflora: Impact on Rangelands in the Afar Region, Ethiopia: A Review
Melese Tadesse Morebo*
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
175-185
Received:
2 September 2024
Accepted:
29 October 2024
Published:
22 November 2024
Abstract: This literature review examines the dual impact of climate change and the invasive species Prosopis juliflora on rangelands in the Afar Region of Ethiopia. Climate change has intensified environmental stressors in this arid region, leading to increased temperatures and erratic rainfall patterns, which threaten the productivity of rangelands. Concurrently, Prosopis juliflora, an invasive species introduced for reforestation, has spread aggressively across these rangelands, exacerbating land degradation. The review synthesizes current research on the ecological and socio-economic effects of Prosopis juliflora invasion, including its impact on soil properties, water resources, and livestock productivity. It also explores how climate change may enhance the spread of Prosopis juliflora, creating a feedback loop that further degrades rangeland ecosystems. Despite existing management strategies, such as mechanical removal and chemical treatments, their effectiveness has been limited. The review identifies significant research gaps and emphasizes the need for integrated management approaches that address both climate change and invasive species. Sustainable strategies are crucial for mitigating the combined threats to the Afar Region's rangelands and supporting the livelihoods of local pastoral communities.
Abstract: This literature review examines the dual impact of climate change and the invasive species Prosopis juliflora on rangelands in the Afar Region of Ethiopia. Climate change has intensified environmental stressors in this arid region, leading to increased temperatures and erratic rainfall patterns, which threaten the productivity of rangelands. Concur...
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Research Article
Assessment of the Healthcare Waste Infrastructure at Kambia Government Hospital, Sierra Leone
Abubakarr Mohamed Kamara,
Gibrilla Thullah,
Hamidu David Mansaray,
Yahaya Kudush Kawa*
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
186-191
Received:
9 October 2024
Accepted:
31 October 2024
Published:
26 November 2024
Abstract: This study assessed the healthcare waste management (HCWM) infrastructure at Kambia Government Hospital (KGH), Sierra Leone. We evaluated various aspects of HCWM, including waste segregation, storage, collection, transportation, and disposal. Our findings revealed critical deficiencies, such as inadequate storage facilities, insufficient waste bins, and a lack of dedicated transportation systems. These shortcomings pose significant risks to healthcare workers, the general public, and the environment, including the potential for the spread of infectious diseases and contamination of the environment. To improve HCWM practices at KGH, we recommend implementing several key strategies. These include investing in adequate storage facilities, providing appropriate waste bins, establishing a dedicated waste transportation system, and conducting comprehensive staff training on HCWM protocols. Regular training sessions should cover topics such as waste classification, segregation, storage, collection, transportation, and disposal techniques. By empowering healthcare workers with the necessary knowledge and skills, we can significantly enhance HCWM practices at KGH. Furthermore, it is crucial to establish a robust system for monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of HCWM interventions. Regular inspections of storage areas, waste bins, and transportation vehicles can help identify and address potential issues. By implementing these recommendations, KGH can improve its HCWM practices and contribute to a healthier and safer environment for its community. Effective HCWM is essential to protect public health and the environment. Poor management of healthcare waste can lead to the spread of infectious diseases, contamination of water sources, and exposure to hazardous chemicals. By addressing the identified deficiencies and implementing best practices, KGH can significantly improve its HCWM performance and reduce the associated risks.
Abstract: This study assessed the healthcare waste management (HCWM) infrastructure at Kambia Government Hospital (KGH), Sierra Leone. We evaluated various aspects of HCWM, including waste segregation, storage, collection, transportation, and disposal. Our findings revealed critical deficiencies, such as inadequate storage facilities, insufficient waste bins...
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Research Article
Study of the Biomass of Macrophytes Presumed to Be Phytopurators in Wastewater Treatment in Brazzaville (Republic of Congo)
Dielé Mouko Gavin-Rolin*,
Madiélé Mabika Aimé Bertrand,
Mbemba Kielé Molingo,
Louboungou Makaya Raïssa Jeannette,
Ouamba Jean-Maurille
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
192-200
Received:
21 July 2024
Accepted:
10 August 2024
Published:
28 November 2024
Abstract: The aim of this work is to study the biomass of macrophytes during the wastewater phytoremediation process. To do this, a physicochemical characterization of these waters, including temperature, pH, EC, COD, NH4+, NO3-, and PO43- was carried out and first revealed the very high concentrations. Then, a treatment was done with two types of macrophytes (Echinochloa pyramidalis (Lam) Hutch and Cyperus Alternifolius L) which showed a significant reduction in these physicochemical parameters at the exit of the basins. When comparing the two treatment ponds, the Echinochloa pyramidalis pond performed better on the removal of pollutants from wastewater than the Cyperus Alternifolius pond. Finally, the study of the growth of these two types of macrophytes showed that Echinochloa pyramidalis grows faster than Cyperus Alternifolius and is almost double that of the latter. This study shows that the two macrophytes cannot be together in a filter to treat wastewater because the biomass of Echinochloa pyramidalis (Lam) Hutch is higher than that of Cyperus Alternifolius L and the two will compete against each other, Echinochloa pyramidalis (Lam) Hutch will hinder the growth of Cyperus Alternifolius L and lead to the gradual disappearance of the latter and this competition makes the macrophyte inefficient that seeks to defend its territory and gain space instead of eliminating pollutants.
Abstract: The aim of this work is to study the biomass of macrophytes during the wastewater phytoremediation process. To do this, a physicochemical characterization of these waters, including temperature, pH, EC, COD, NH4+, NO3-, and PO43- was carried out and first revealed the very high concentrations. Then, a treatment was done with two types of macrophyte...
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Research Article
Navigating Climate Challenges: Socio-Economic Impacts in Beledweyne District, Hirshabelle State, Somalia
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
201-208
Received:
9 October 2024
Accepted:
4 November 2024
Published:
28 November 2024
Abstract: This study examines the profound impact of climate change on socio-economic conditions in Beledweyne District, Hirshabelle State, Somalia. Using a descriptive research design, data were gathered from 123 stakeholders, including community leaders, representatives from non-governmental organizations, and internally displaced persons, through semi-structured questionnaires. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with SmartPLS software and Excel for Demographic characteristics. The reliability and validity of the measurement instruments were confirmed through metrics such as Cronbach's Alpha, composite reliability, and Average Variance Extracted (AVE). The findings reveal that climate change intensifies existing vulnerabilities, primarily through recurrent flooding and prolonged droughts, which diminish agricultural productivity, compromise critical infrastructure, and drive population displacement. Specifically, the results indicate substantial declines in crop yields and livestock production, extensive infrastructure damage including roads and community facilities—and rising migration as livelihoods erode. These shifts have deepened poverty, increased food insecurity, and strained social cohesion, highlighting an urgent need for targeted resilience strategies. This study provides valuable insights for policymakers and development practitioners, emphasizing the importance of climate-resilient infrastructure, adaptive agricultural practices, and robust social safety nets as mitigative measures against climate-induced socio-economic degradation. These findings offer a foundation for formulating strategic interventions to enhance resilience in Beledweyne and similarly vulnerable regions.
Abstract: This study examines the profound impact of climate change on socio-economic conditions in Beledweyne District, Hirshabelle State, Somalia. Using a descriptive research design, data were gathered from 123 stakeholders, including community leaders, representatives from non-governmental organizations, and internally displaced persons, through semi-str...
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Research Article
Applications of Innovative Polygon Trend Analysis and Trend Polygon Star Concept Methods for the Variability of Precipitation at Synoptic Stations in Benin (West Africa)
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
209-218
Received:
22 October 2024
Accepted:
9 November 2024
Published:
28 November 2024
Abstract: Climate variability poses new risks and uncertainties. In the sub-Saharan region, the impacts are already being felt and represent an additional level of obstacles for most vulnerable people, as well as a threat to sustainable development. This study analyzes the variability of precipitation in Benin using new approaches. The precipitation data used is the monthly average recorded at synoptic stations from 1970 to 2019 by the Metéo-Bénin agency. Two innovative graphical trend methods, innovative polygon trend analysis (IPTA) and trend polygon star concept (TPSC), are applied to the data. Both methods allow for the assessment of periodic characteristics of the monthly average rainfall and visually interpreting the transition trends between two consecutive months. The results show that the average monthly precipitation does not follow a regular pattern. There is also a general upward trend in precipitation for most months at the stations used. Most TPSC arrows were found in regions I and III. According to the TPSC graphs, the longest transition arrows between two consecutive months were observed in quadrant III. They were noted between the months of June and July in Cotonou, October and November in Bohicon and Save, and between September and October for the remaining stations. The results of this study are of great importance for policies regarding ongoing climate change in the agricultural, health, economic, security, and environmental sectors.
Abstract: Climate variability poses new risks and uncertainties. In the sub-Saharan region, the impacts are already being felt and represent an additional level of obstacles for most vulnerable people, as well as a threat to sustainable development. This study analyzes the variability of precipitation in Benin using new approaches. The precipitation data use...
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Research Article
Ecological Footprint for Environmental Sustainability at the University of Juba, South Sudan
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
219-233
Received:
12 November 2024
Accepted:
27 November 2024
Published:
13 December 2024
Abstract: Given the growing population of students and the new infrastructural development at the University of Juba, it is environmentally significant to investigate the ecological footprint of the University campus ecosystem in light of environmental sustainability. This study aims to assess and quantify the ecological footprint at University of Juba campus and compare them to the environmental sustainability. In this study cross sectional survey of 180 students and component based methods by Rees and Wackernagel were employed to obtain results of ecological footprint of water, food, land, transport, waste and energy at the University of Juba. Considering Ecological Footprint of students and staff on campus, Biocapacity was 1.16, ecological footprint remainder was 1.06 and ecological footprint index was 0.92. While the ecological footprint of Water, food, transportation, waste, energy and built-up land footprint were 0.04, 0.03, 0.03, 0.01, 0.0003 and 0.0002 gha/capita respectively. The result of the environmental sustainability practices on the campus revealed that 11 out of 44 environmental sustainable programs were not practiced on campus implying 27.7% of the university operation was unsustainable. Although, University of Juba was found to be environmentally sustainable, reducing its ecological footprint per capita by 0.89 gha/capita. Based on the study result, the Ecological Footprint per capita of water, energy, transportation, food, waste and build-up land at the University were environmentally sustainable (0.11 gha/capita). If, all people were living the lifestyle of the University of Juba, we would require only one planet Earth.
Abstract: Given the growing population of students and the new infrastructural development at the University of Juba, it is environmentally significant to investigate the ecological footprint of the University campus ecosystem in light of environmental sustainability. This study aims to assess and quantify the ecological footprint at University of Juba campu...
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Review Article
Assessment of Heavy Metals and Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons in Bottom Sediments of Kuwait Bay
Reem Al-Jber*,
Mohammad Al-Sarawi
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
234-245
Received:
20 November 2024
Accepted:
3 December 2024
Published:
19 December 2024
Abstract: Contaminated marine environments can be explicitly studied using chemical compounds and concentration of pollutants suspended in bottom sediment. Sediments act as repositories for pollutants, and have significant implications as they may pose a potential risk to the environment. In this paper, the geochemistry and provenance of bottom sediments from 17 stations, located along the Kuwait Bay, were studied during June and July 2024. The sediment samples were collected from each station using VanVeen grab sampler and were analysed for physical and chemical parameters for inorganic nutrients, BOD, COD, TOC, TPH and related heavy metals to delineate the extent of pollution levels and their distribution in the Bay. The main sources of pollution along the coast of Kuwait Bay are storm water outlets, emergency sewage discharges, ports, navigation channels, and desalination power plants. Results revealed elevated levels of inorganic nutrients (SiO2 (3.75 mg/l), NH3 (2.35 mg/l), NO3 (1.21 mg/l), NO2 (1.22 mg/l) and PO4 (3.25 mg/l)) and TPH (601 mg/kg) in all the investigated sites within the bay. Elevated levels of metals Ni, V and Cr were discovered mostly at station 15 in front of Gazalle outlet and station 17 near the Power station outlet. The metal concentration of Ni (103.4 mg/kg) and V (44.153 mg/kg) exceeded the geo-chemical background levels established for sediment quality guidelines as compared to Cr, Cu and Cd which were found in varying levels (83.5 mg/kg, 40.7 mg/kg and 2.9 mg/kg, respectively), but below the probable effect levels (PEL). While Zn, Fe, Mn were within acceptable limits and Ag, As, Hg, and Pb were found to be very low. The contamination levels are mostly related to the characteristics and homogeneity of the clay presence in the bottom sediments which is highly biogenous. The overall objectives of this study is to determine the distribution, degree of contamination and sources in bottom sediments of Kuwait Bay. The novelty of this study lies in its ability to link pollutant levels to specific anthropogenic activities, offering critical insights into the bay’s environmental health. The findings of this study are essential for formulating targeted mitigation strategies to protect Kuwait Bay’s marine ecosystem from further degradation.
Abstract: Contaminated marine environments can be explicitly studied using chemical compounds and concentration of pollutants suspended in bottom sediment. Sediments act as repositories for pollutants, and have significant implications as they may pose a potential risk to the environment. In this paper, the geochemistry and provenance of bottom sediments fro...
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Research Article
Evaluation of Agricultural Soils Amended with Crop Straw and Straw Biochar on Reduction of Nitrogen and Phosphorus Runoff and Leaching Losses
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
246-256
Received:
22 November 2024
Accepted:
5 December 2024
Published:
23 December 2024
DOI:
10.11648/j.ajep.20241306.18
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Abstract: Nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) losses throughout agricultural soils runoff and leaching can contribute to agricultural non-point source pollution. Here, we conducted an evaluation of long-term effects of mineral fertilizer (NPK), crop straw combined with mineral fertilizer (CSNPK), crop straw biochar combined with mineral fertilizer (BSNPK), and the control with no fertilizer (CK) on runoff and leaching losses of N and P forms in the intensive agricultural cropland. Following that, nitrogen and phosphorus runoff and leaching losses were measured using the free-drain field lysimeter method overs a two years experiment. The results indicated that, the nitrogen forms runoff losses of nitrate N, dissolved organic N and particulate N, accounted by 12.0-64.0%, of the total N runoff losses, while the phosphorus forms runoff losses of particulate P accounted about 98.0% of the total P runoff losses. Similarly, nitrate N, dissolved organic N and particulate N leaching losses, accounted for 25-61% of total N leaching losses, whereas, particulate leaching loss accounted 87% of the total P leaching losses. The total N and P losses fluxes strongly correlated with runoff and leaching discharges, while the relationships between total P losses fluxes and leaching discharges was described by a significant exponential function. The study shows that the combination of crop straw of either straw of biochar with mineral fertilizer could significantly reduce N and P runoff and leaching losses.
Abstract: Nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) losses throughout agricultural soils runoff and leaching can contribute to agricultural non-point source pollution. Here, we conducted an evaluation of long-term effects of mineral fertilizer (NPK), crop straw combined with mineral fertilizer (CSNPK), crop straw biochar combined with mineral fertilizer (BSNPK), and t...
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