Environmental Sanitation Practices: A Case Study of Solid Waste Management in Semi-Urban Communities in Orlu, Imo State Nigeria

Background: Environmental sanitation is a fundamental process that is a key public health intervention which is essential for social, economic and overall health development of communities. Objective: To determine Knowledge, Attitude and Practices of Environmental Sanitation in Semi-Urban Communities in Orlu, Imo State, Nigeria. Methods: A cross sectional descriptive design using a multistage random sampling technique to select 426 participants from households and business premises in semi-urban communities in Orlu Local Government Area of Imo State. Data was collected using a pretested, semi structured, interviewer administered questionnaire. Descriptive analyses were done with frequencies and summary statistics to assess the respondents’ knowledge, attitude and practices of environmental sanitation. Results: The results revealed that the mean age of the respondents’ was 37.0 ± 2.2 with a male to female ratio of 1:1.2. Despite high awareness about environmental sanitation (95.0%) reported among the respondents, proportion of them with good knowledge about environmental sanitation (22.9%), attitude (38.6%) and practice (20.8%) towards environmental sanitation was low. The mean quantity of waste generated per week per household or business premise was 14.1 ± 0.94 kg with a majority of the respondents (80.0%), not separating their waste before disposal. The commonest solid waste component generated was organic/perishable materials (74.8%) and the commonest disposal practice reported was open dumping (49.8%). Conclusion: A lot of attention is still required in the development of basic sanitation infrastructure and also, in the promotion of strategies or interventions that influence behavioural change towards environmental sanitation especially in developing countries like Nigeria.

Fluidized mining and in-situ transformation of deep underground coal resources: a novel approach to ensuring safe, environmentally friendly, low-carbon, and clean utilisation

Traditional coal mining and utilisation patterns are severely detrimental to natural resources and environments and significantly impede safe, low-carbon, clean, and sustainable utilisation of coal resources. Based on the idea of in situ fluidized coal mining that aims to transform solid coal into liquid or gas and transports the fluidized resources to the ground to ensure safe mining and low-carbon and clean utilisation, in this study, we report on a novel in situ unmanned automatic mining method. This includes a flexible, earthworm-like unmanned automatic mining machine (UAMM) and a coal mine layout for in situ fluidized coal mining suitable for the UAMM. The technological and economic advantages and the carbon emission reduction of the UAMM-based in situ fluidized mining in contrast to traditional mining technologies are evaluated as well. The development trends and possible challenges to this design are also discussed. It is estimated that the proposed method costs approximately 49% of traditional coal mining costs. The UAMM-based in situ fluidized mining and transformation method will reduce CO2 emissions by at least 94.9% compared to traditional coal mining and utilisation methods. The proposed approach is expected to achieve safe and environmentally friendly coal mining as well as lowcarbon and clean utilisation of coal.

A Device to Improve Collaborative Practices of Sanitation Department Agents of a Territory: The Case of the Lamkansa District in Casablanca

The aim of this article is to strengthen and improve the collaboration between professional agents of a service that manages one of the technical processes acting on a given territory by synchronizing the spatio-temporal dimensions including all agents assembled for the task. This proposal was tested in the Lamkansa neighborhood in Casablanca, Morocco. The employed approach is based GIS resources and on systemic analysis of communication present in a territory. We were inspired by several methodological developments that carried multi-actor processes in land use planning. We focused our work on strengthening the collaboration between professionals, field agents and office agents, in the process of design and monitoring the liquid sanitation system. The device is based on geolocation and synchronous feedback of topological, geographical, and multimedia data related to the liquid sanitation network. Thanks to a geo-collaborative, participative, and motivating logic, we reduced the management costs of the network and made it faster and more efficient by equally mobilizing another type of non-specialized actors (the inhabitants). This device uses spatial and temporal dimensions to consolidate collaborative work tools through ICT and GIS technologies that thematize and exchange information collected in the field. Furthermore, this device raises great interest as it entails the concept of integration of several actors in a geo-collaborative mode while combining geomatics with communication and information sciences.

Characterization of Wastewater in School Environments for an Ecological Treatment Solution: A Case Study of Ndiebene Gandiol 1 School

The study conducted at Ndiebene Gandiol 1 school in Senegal has unveiled serious environmental and public health challenges. The wastewater analysis revealed high levels of Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD5), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), and fecal coliforms, signaling potential risks to the well-being of students and staff. This situation mirrors a wider issue in rural educational settings, where inadequate sanitation persists. Intensive wastewater treatment options are known for their effectiveness against high pollutant loads but are resource-intensive in both energy and cost. Conversely, extensive treatment systems, while requiring more land, provide a sustainable alternative by harnessing natural processes for pollutant removal. The research suggests a hybrid treatment approach could serve the school’s needs, balancing the robust capabilities of intensive methods with the ecological benefits of extensive systems. Such a solution would need to be tailored to the specific environmental, financial, and logistical context of the school, based on comprehensive feasibility studies and stakeholder engagement. This study’s findings underscore the urgency of addressing sanitation in schools, as it is intrinsically linked to the health and academic success of students. Quick, effective, and long-term strategies are vital to secure a healthier and more prosperous future for the youth. With proper implementation, the school can transform its sanitation facilities, setting a precedent for rural educational institutions in Senegal and similar contexts globally.

Design and Sizing of an Ecological Wastewater Treatment System in a School Environment: A Case Study of Ndiebene Gandiol 1 School

The primary objective of this study was to design and size a sustainable sanitation solution for the Ndiebene Gandiol 1 school located in the eponymous commune in northern Senegal. Field investigations led to the collection of wastewater samples. Their analysis revealed specific pollutant loads, including loads of BOD5 3.6966 kgO2/day and COD of 12.8775 kgO2/day, which were central to the design phase. Following a rigorous assessment of the existing sanitation infrastructure, constructed wetland (CWs) emerged as the most appropriate ecological solution. This system, valued for its ability to effectively remove contaminants, was tailored to the specific needs of the site. Consequently, the final design of the filter extends over 217.16 m2, divided into two cells of 108.58 m2 each, with dimensions of 12.77 m in length and 8.5 m in width. The depth of the filtering medium is approximately 0.60 m, meeting the standards while ensuring maximized purification. Typha, an indigenous and prolific plant known for its purification abilities, was selected as the filtering agent. Concurrently, non-crushed gravel was chosen for its proven filtration capacity. This study is the result of a combination of scientific rigor and design expertise. It provides a holistic view of sanitation for Ndiebene Gandiol. The technical specifications and dimensions of the constructed wetland filter embody an approach that marries indepth analysis and practical application, all aimed at delivering an effective and long-lasting solution to the local sanitation challenges. By integrating precise scientific data with sanitation design expertise, this study delivers a holistic solution for Ndiebene Gandiol. The detailed dimensions and specifications of the constructed wetland filter reflect a methodology that combines meticulous analysis with practical adaptation, aiming to provide an effective and sustainable response to the challenges of rural and school sanitation in the northern region of Senegal.

Ecological Wastewater Treatment System in a School Environment Using a Horizontal Flow Biological Reactor: The Case of Typha

The overarching goal of this study is to offer an effective and sustainable solution to the challenges of sanitation in rural and school settings in the northern region of Senegal. The study explores a wastewater treatment approach based on phytoremediation, with a particular focus on the use of horizontally-flowing reed bed filters. Furthermore, it aims to adapt and optimize these systems for the specific needs of Senegal, focusing on wastewater in school environments. Thus, we constructed a horizontally-flowing reed bed filter, planted with Typha, at the Ndiébène Gandiol school in Senegal. We will investigate the efficiency of wastewater treatment by this horizontally-flowing reed bed filter, emphasizing the role of the plant used: Typha. The filter is described in detail, specifying its dimensions, its composition of flint gravel, and the choice of plants, namely Typha. The experimental protocol is detailed, describing the sampling at the entrance and exit of the filter to evaluate water quality. The parameters analyzed include Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Biochemical Oxygen Demand over 5 days (BOD5), suspended solids, ammonium, nitrates, phosphates, pH, conductivity, and fecal coliforms. The results indicate a significant improvement in water quality after treatment. COD, BOD5, suspended solids, and fecal coliforms are greatly reduced, thus demonstrating the efficacy of the Typha filter. However, nitrate concentrations remain relatively stable, suggesting room for improvement in their elimination. A perspective of reuse of the treated water is considered, showing that the effluents from the planted filter meet Senegalese and international standards for irrigation. The findings suggest that these waters could be used for a variety of crops, thereby reducing the pressure on freshwater resources. In conclusion, the Typha-based filtration system shows promising results for improving water quality in this region of Senegal. However, adjustments are necessary for more effective nitrate removal. This study paves the way for sustainable use of treated wastewater for irrigation, thus contributing to food security and the preservation of water resources.

A Mechanism for Digital Finance to Drive Green and Low-Carbon Development

Given the global focus on green and low-carbon development and the increasing prominence of digital finance,it is particularly important to explore how to leverage digital finance to achieve these environmental goals.This study,through mechanism analysis,deeply examines how China’s digital finance promotes green and low-carbon development and elucidates the positive interaction between digital finance and the green industry.The study found that digital finance,through more flexible and efficient financial functions,alters the cost structure of carbon emissions,and reduces the risks and costs of green investments,thereby creating a cooperative green mechanism benefiting all parties,and guiding social groups toward a green and low-carbon transformation.Additionally,the rapid development of digital finance has strengthened the implementation of environmental protection policies,effectively promoted the expansion of the environmental protection industry,and established the green ethos as a mainstream concept in financial development.This study aims to provide reference perspectives and suggestions,assist policymakers in promoting the green and lowcarbon development of digital finance,and offer insights into the integrated development of digital finance and the green environmental protection industry.

Low-carbon Living Environment Design

Based on the review of the influence of human activity on global environment,and recognition of current climate warming,it is considered that human activity is the primary reason and climate change has caused serious global environmental problems and threatened human's survival and development.After the introduction of low carbon and conclusion of the main contents and development of researches,it has emphasized that low-carbon urban living mode is an important component of low-carbon urban planning.In view of the situation of China,the main content of low-carbon urban living mode has been illustrated from the perspective of low-carbon life behavior,low-carbon life consumption and carbon budget life mode.On this basis,the purpose and significance of low-carbon living environment design,design principles and requirements,low-carbon life measures have been analyzed.

Investigating environmental quality among G20 nations: The impacts of environmental goods and low-carbon technologies in mitigating environmental degradation

Environmental goods and low-carbon technologies have long been identified as having the potential to drive long-term economic progress without compromising environmental quality. However, their exact role in mitigating environmental degradation are yet to be unravelled. In addressing this shortfall, the extant literature relied on research funding and patent application as proxies for green technologies. Having established the weaknesses in the use of these variables as proxies for green technologies, this study explored the role of trade in environmental goods and low-carbon technologies in boosting environmental quality among G20 nation using a panel dataset from 1994 to 2018. The study employed the Method of Moment quantile regression for the model estimation and the Ridge regression, Discroll-Kraay standard error, and the Newey-West standard error estimators to test the robustness of our findings. Our findings indicate that whereas environmental goods promote environmental quality, low-carbon technologies decrease same. Also, the study found economic growth to exert an aggravating effect on environmental quality, while foreign direct investments, natural resource rents, human capital development, and renewable energy consumption exert positive influence on environmental quality. Based on the findings of the study, G20 nations are encouraged to improve green market structures to improve the trade in environmental goods and low-carbon technologies. Also the share of renewable energy sources in the overall energy basket must be improved to help improve environmental quality.

An Empirical Study on the Environmental Kuznets Curve for China's Carbon Emissions:Based on Provincial Panel Data

Based on the Environmental Kuznets Curve theory, the authors choose provincial panel data of China in 1990-2007 and adopt panel trait root and co-integration testing method to study whether there is Environmental Kuznets Curve for China＇s carbon emissions. The research results show that： carbon emissions per capita of the eastern region and the central region of China fit into Environmental Kuznets Curve, but that of the western region does not. On this basis, the authors carry out scenario analysis on the occurrence time of the inflection point of carbon emissions per capita of different regions, and describe a specific time path.

Assessment of Environmental Cleaning Practices and the Impacts on Infection Prevention and Control in Selected Hospitals in Tanzania

To achieve Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) in healthcare facilities (HCFs,) the provision of water, sanitation, healthcare waste management, hand hygiene and environmental cleanliness services is crucial. Good WASH services in HCFs settings have the potential to reduce healthcare acquired infections (HAIs), increase trust and uptake of healthcare services, increase efficiency and improve staff morale. To address this, a National Assessment was carried out to ascertain environmental cleanliness condition of the healthcare facilities at all levels. The assessment of healthcare waste management in the facilities was conducted in all the 26 regions of Tanzania Mainland including districts and lower healthcare facilities. A standardized checklist and tools were used to assess and monitor various aspects related to healthcare waste management using open source software for data collection (ODK). Data were analyzed using SPSS computer software. It was observed that most of permanent staff (88%) in the Healthcare facilities had knowledge on hand hygiene, but the gap was observed to the waste handlers (12%) who were not equipped with the hand hygiene knowledge. About 89% of the hand washing stations were available at mortuary units, followed by 75% at main entrance and the lowest was 3% at waste zone areas of the healthcare facilities. Hand washing materials like soap were mainly found at theaters (64%) followed by mortuary (60%) and last at waste zones. The assessment concludes that handling of healthcare wastes is not practiced to the expectations, and there is a need to strengthen the situation. The findings provide evidence for those engaged in improving HCF conditions to develop evidence-based policies and efficient programs, enhance service delivery systems, and make better use of available resources.

Environmental Impacts of Waste Management Deficiencies and Health Issues: A Case Study in the City of Kaya, Burkina Faso

In this study, a stratified survey sampling was used in order to broaden our knowledge on the management systems of household waste in the town of Kaya/Burkina Faso. Population study consists of households of the town of Kaya. The sample size was fist determined using the sample size calculation formula. Then four (04) strata comprising the town of Kaya sectors that have a Health and Social Promotion Center (HSPC) have been considered. A random household selection method, used inside each stratum and a number of 468 households representative of the town’s population, was surveyed. We have addressed all solid and liquid waste management strategies in those four strata. For each stratum, waste disposal infrastructure, its management in the households and its impacts on the town’s environment and populations’ health were screened. Data collected are presented through descriptive statistics in mean of tables and graphs. Frequently reported diseases in the four HSPCs have been correlated with waste management and disposal methods in the town. Poor handling, evacuation and disposal of waste have numerous negatives impacts on the city’s environment such as proliferation of mosquitoes and flies, bad odors, visual pollution. These negatives impacts on the environment in turn have negatives impacts on the health of the city residents. Malaria appears the most encountered disease followed by Acute Respiratory Infection and Diarrhea. Suggestions aimed at improving waste management and the reduction of its deficiencies impacts on the health of the population has been made.

Anthropogenic Activities and the Degradation of the Environmental Quality in Poor Neighborhoods of Abidjan,Cote d’Ivoire:Abia Koumassi Village

This study deals with the degradation of the quality of the water environment in the village of Abia Koumassi, due to the pollution that has risen in Abidjan. The method used in this study is based on piezometric measurements, the physico-chemical and microbiological analysis. The results were processed using statistical and hydrochemical methods. The groundwater in the village is shallow, with a piezometric average level 0.55 m. The groundwater flows from the north of the village to the south. The Water resources have a neutral pH that varies between 6.8 and 7.43. Water temperature varies from 27.7°C to 29.8°C. The Water is highly mineralized, with electrical conductivity ranging from 585 μS/cm to 1310 μS/cm. The groundwater contains high levels of nitrate (116.81 mg·L-1) greater than the WHO standard for drinking water. High levels of Metallic Trace Elements (Ni, Zn, Co, Cr, Pb, Fe, Cu and Cd) are found in the water. Microbiological analysis shows that the water contains important levels of Escherichia coli, faecal streptococci, Clostridium perfringens and thermo tolerant coliform. These microorganisms create microbiological pollution in the water from the area. The Water resources of the village are facing a recent faecal pollution of human origin. This pollution comes from anthropogenic activities taking place in the area.

Development Trend of Energy and Key Points of Ecological Environment Protection in China's "14^(th) Five-Year Plan" Period

From the changes of total primary energy consumption and primary energy consumption structure,installed capacity and power generation of secondary energy(electricity),etc.,the development characteristics of China's energy structure in the"13^(th) Five-Year Plan"period was comprehensively studied.Combined with the complexity of the international situation,the diversification of the domestic energy system,the intelligence of the energy industry,etc.,the situation and challenges faced by China's energy development were deeply discussed in the four aspects of energy security,energy low-carbon transformation,energy system efficiency,and energy technology level.From the angle of ecological environment protection,the development of energy in the"14^(th) Five-Year Plan"period in China was analyzed,and some policies and measures were put forward.

Design and Implementation of an Intelligent Monitoring and Early Warning System for Kitchen Garbage Treatment

With a population of 1.4 billion in China and a huge daily output of kitchen waste,intelligent treatment of kitchen waste is imperative.This article elaborates on the design and implementation of an intelligent monitoring and early warning system from five aspects:system architecture design,hardware equipment selection and configuration,data collection and processing flow,early warning algorithm and model development,and system integration and testing verification.It also points out the advantages of the intelligent monitoring and early warning system in kitchen waste treatment.

Ecological Wastewater Treatment System Using a Horizontal Flow Biological Reactor: The Case of Vetiver

Confronted with the challenge of wastewater management, particularly in the school environment of Senegal, our study set out to achieve multiple objectives. Following field surveys, laboratory analyses of wastewater samples were carried out, revealing a significant pollutant load. In the community of Gandiol, near Saint-Louis (Senegal), the school of Ndiebene Gandiol 1 faces significant sanitation challenges. Our study aimed to address this issue by using a constructed filter composed of two filtering bed cells measuring 12 × 8.5 m, preceded by a septic tank. We particularly focused on the influence of Vetiver;a plant chosen for its purification potential. Our analyses showed remarkable efficiency of the filter. Elimination rates reached 95% for 5-Day Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD5), 91% for Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), and 92% for SS, far exceeding the Senegalese standards set at 50 mg/L, 200 mg/L, and 40 mg/L, respectively. Furthermore, the concentration of fecal coliforms was reduced to 176 FCU/100mL, well below the Senegalese threshold of 2000 FCU/100mL and close to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommendation of 1000 FCU/100mL. However, despite these promising results, some parameters, particularly the concentration of certain pollutants, approached the thresholds defined by European legislation. For example, for Suspended Solids (SS), the post-treatment level of 3 mg/L was well below the Senegalese standard but edged close to the European minimum of 10 mg/L. In conclusion, the Vetiver filter demonstrated a remarkable ability to treat school wastewater, offering high pollutant elimination percentages. These results suggest significant opportunities for the reuse of treated water, potentially in areas such as irrigation, though some adjustments may be necessary to meet the strictest standards such as those of the European union (EU).

底面合一粉末涂料在环卫装备行业的应用

为寻求一种绿色环保、节能高效的环卫装备涂装技术,选择环卫装备类产品适用的水性涂料、2C2B粉末、底面合一粉末3种涂料进行实验。模拟相应工艺流程,随线喷涂样板和样车,研究了样板涂膜的机械性能、耐介质、耐盐雾、耐老化等性能,分析了样车外观质量数据。结果表明:采用底面合一粉末涂装技术,产品耐盐雾性达到800 h,耐老化性达到1 000 h,对比水性涂料涂装工艺具有成本低、质量高、好控制等优点,对比底粉+面粉工艺可减少1次喷涂、1次烘干,效率提高20%以上,能耗降低36%左右,综合成本降低15%左右。

环卫工程城市生活垃圾处理技术研究

我国城市化发展速度不断加快,城市人口数量不断增加,人们产生的生活垃圾量也大规模增长,为此,需要采取有效的生活垃圾处理技术降低生活垃圾对自然环境、城市经济与文明等方面发展的影响。基于此,列举了卫生填埋、堆肥等生活垃圾处理技术,概述其技术内容与优缺点,分析垃圾处理存在的问题,并提出具有针对性的改善措施。以此提高城市生活垃圾处理技术运用效益,促进生活垃圾处理的产业化、资源化发展。

A Comparative Analysis of Vetiver and Typha in Ecological Wastewater Treatment Using a Horizontal Flow Constructed Wetlands in Rural Setting

This study presents an assessment of wastewater ecological treatment processes utilizing a horizontal flow bio-reactor at the Ndiebene Gandiol 1 school. It primarily aims to juxtapose the filtration efficacy of two distinct vegetative cells, Vetiver and Typha, in the pursuit of sustainable wastewater management strategies for rural scholastic institutions. A synergistic approach was employed, integrating on-site surveys for site-specific insights and laboratory analyses to quantify the pollutant loads pre- and post-treatment. Our findings indicate that both Vetiver and Typha-infused filter beds significantly reduce most contaminants, with particular success in diminishing chemical oxygen demand (COD) and biological oxygen demand (BOD5). Vetiver was notable for its superior reduction of COD, achieving an average effluent concentration of 74 mg/L, in contrast to Typha’s 155 mg/L. Conversely, Typha excelled in suspended solids removal, registering 1 mg/L against Vetiver’s 3 mg/L. While both systems notably surpassed the target metrics across several indicators, including fecal coliform reduction, our results pinpoint the need for refinement in phosphate remediation. Conclusively, the study underscores the efficacy of both Vetiver and Typha systems in rural wastewater treatment contexts, with their integrative application potentially paving the way for enhanced system robustness and efficiency. The outcomes herein highlight the imperative for continued research to further hone these ecological treatment modalities, especially concerning phosphate elimination.

深圳市生猪屠宰环境卫生调查及控制关键点

为调查深圳市四家生猪定点屠宰场屠宰环境卫生情况,分析找出影响肉品卫生质量的关键控制点,并给出优化建议。本文在不同时间段,采集屠宰车间空气样品、屠宰各环节水样品、环境表面涂抹样品等三大类样品,覆盖车间空气、屠宰用自来水、烫毛池水、冲洗池水、刀具、托盘、吊钩、冲洗设施设备表面、墙面和地面等10个采样环节,共278份样品。开展了菌落总数(细菌总数)和大肠菌群等卫生指示菌项目的动态检测分析。结果显示,屠宰车间空气细菌总数范围为1-151 CFU/皿。烫毛池水大肠菌群值相对较低,但菌落总数均值高达2.8×10^(6)CFU/mL,冲洗池水与烫毛池水相比,菌落总数值降低,大肠菌群值升高。各环境表面涂抹样品菌落总数占比最大的数据区间均为1×10^(3)CFU/mL以下,大肠菌群数据占比最高区间为10CFU/mL以下。通过以上研究,基本掌握了屠宰各环节环境中的菌落总数(细菌总数)和大肠菌群数据情况,对各环节卫生状况作出初步评价,发现卫生管理控制关键点,为政府监管和企业加强自我管理提供科学依据。