Revista Brasileira de Ciências Ambientais

Plastics and climate change: an overview of two connected global problems

Sat, 11 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0300

This study presents an overview of how plastics and climate change represents two interconnected global problems. Through an interpretive overview of studies retrieved from Scopus, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science databases, we aimed to identify commonalities among the topics through an integrative approach. Initially, we showed that fossil fuels are the primary raw material for plastic production and that the largest emitters of greenhouse gases (GHG) are also the largest producers of plastics. Projections indicate that plastics will account for 20% of global oil consumption by 2050. However, while their production is still modest, bioplastics and recycled plastics are increasing. Secondly, we examined GHG emissions throughout the lifecycle of the plastic, noting that the initial stages account for more than 60% of emissions. We also explored how plastic pollution, by interfering with ocean dynamics, is related to climate change, as well as the consequences of these two problems for marine ecology, the economy, and human health. Finally, we highlighted the global regulatory aspects of plastic use, often overlooked, and future prospects for ending plastic pollution and reducing GHG emissions. Thus, by integrating these two global problems, we seek to demonstrate that, in order to combat both crises, they can no longer be treated separately.

Enzyme production by Trichoderma koningiopsis in an airlift bioreactor: potential for sustainable and circular bioproducts

Sat, 11 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0300

The growing need for sustainable solutions and the advancement of the circular economy highlight the search for more efficient processes with lower environmental impacts. In this context, this study investigated the production of an enzyme-rich fungal extract obtained from Trichoderma koningiopsis, a species known for its high enzyme excretion capacity, widely explored in scientific research focused on agronomic and environmental applications. The enzyme-rich fungal extract was obtained through submerged fermentation in a chemically defined culture medium, using an Airlift bioreactor, with samples collected at 24 and 48 hours for subsequent analysis of enzymatic activity. The enzymes amylase, cellulase, laccase, protease, lipase, ascorbate peroxidase, catalase, superoxide dismutase, and peroxidase were evaluated, with noteworthy results observed within the first 24 hours of fermentation: amylase (209.55 U/mL), cellulase (23.34 U/mL), protease (139.77 U/mL), peroxidase (609.55 U/mL), catalase (3,598.82 U/mL), superoxide dismutase (333.51 U/mL), and ascorbate peroxidase (53.34 U/mL). Enzymatic activity (U/mL) represented the primary parameter, and specific activity (U/mg protein) was additionally calculated to support a purity assessment. These findings demonstrate an enzyme-rich fungal extract with high biotechnological potential, offering purification and future applications in sectors such as bioprocesses, bioremediation, and other environmental solutions, thereby contributing to sustainable circular-economy strategies and supporting the future development of biocomposite-based formulations.

Constructed wetlands in cold-climate regions: performance, challenges, and opportunities: a review

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0300

Untreated wastewater discharges into polluted bodies of water jeopardize the availability of water for human consumption. For that reason, constructed wetlands (CWs) are a sustainable and ecological technology commonly used in marginalized communities as an alternative wastewater treatment method, with low installation and maintenance costs. CWs use endemic vegetation for wastewater treatment, similarly to natural wetlands. Pollutants are removed from wastewater through biological, physical, or chemical processes. Additionally, CWs include deep wells, filter medium, and macrophytes. The radicular system of macrophytes decreases pollutant concentration by interacting with microorganisms associated with their roots. Macrophytes are especially important to CWs because they transport oxygen. For this reason, this review outlines the current state of CW technology and its operational challenges under extreme climate conditions, such as cold weather or winter. The operational conditions of CW systems are analyzed, mainly design modifications, macrophyte selection, and environmental conditions. The analysis is based on case studies and the background of CW systems installed in cold-climate regions or operating during the cold season. The review analysis was conducted using “Methodi Ordinatio”, which systematically analyzes the information with a specific purpose. Overall, CW systems operating in cold climates are an effective, sustainable, and adaptable technology for wastewater treatment. Effective modifications, such as design adaptations, plant species, and CW type, are essential to optimal operation and to maximize their efficiency.

Water quality of public springs and population perception in Pinheiral, RJ, Brazil

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 00:00:00 -0300

The consumption of spring water contributes to meeting population demands and is essential in the context of water scarcity, as well as the proper maintenance of human well-being and environmental sustainability. Given the importance of information availability for the adoption of effective water resource management actions, this study aimed to analyse the water quality of public springs in the municipality of Pinheiral, RJ, based on potability standards and the perception of the local population. Water potability was determined through the analysis of the following parameters: pH, turbidity, colour, total Mn, total Fe, NO₃-, and thermotolerant coliforms, in water samples collected at four time points: summer (March 2021), autumn (June 2021), winter (September 2021), and spring (December 2021). To capture the perception of spring users, interviews were conducted using a questionnaire consisting of closed-ended questions. The results showed that all five springs evaluated failed to comply with legislative standards in at least one sampling period and for at least one of the following parameters: pH, turbidity, colour, total Mn, total Fe, NO₃⁻, and thermotolerant coliforms. Regarding consumption, 83% of respondents reported consuming spring water, motivated by their perception of good water quality and favourable organoleptic characteristics. This perception of quality leads to the non-adoption of hygiene practices during water collection, storage, and consumption. Out of the overall survey respondents, 28.1% reported that they do not wash the container where they collect the water, and 30.2% wash it only with water. Regarding consumption practices, none of the respondents reported boiling the water, and only 45.8% reported always filtering it prior to consumption. Based on the study results, it can be concluded that water from the analysed springs does not meet the limits established by potability standards and may therefore pose health risks to consumers.

Sublethal doses of Eucalyptus benthamii essential oil induce overcompensatory responses in Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae)

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0300

Managing mosquito populations remains the most effective approach to mitigating arbovirus transmission. However, stressor-induced mortality under determined conditions can trigger compensatory or overcompensatory effects in adult mosquito characteristics (total biomass, individual size). In this study, we evaluated the role of Eucalyptus benthamii essential oil as a stressor on Aedes aegyptilarvae, investigating its effects on larval development, adult size, longevity, and overall adult emergence. First-instar A. aegypti larvae were subjected to essential oil concentrations of 8.5 (LD50) and 18.5 ppm (LD90) in controlled laboratory conditions. We assessed pupal mortality, the proportion of pupae that successfully transitioned to adulthood, adult longevity (in days), larval growth rates, wing length, and overall larval mortality. The results revealed that the interaction between time and treatment had a significant effect on larval mortality. Although the essential oil concentration did not affect the number of larvae reaching adulthood, adult longevity and larval development time were notably extended under LD90 and LD50 concentration, respectively. Larval mortality rates were highest during the first week of exposure to the LD90 treatment. Furthermore, males and females produced in microcosms with LD50 and LD90 had significantly larger wings than in the control. These findings suggest that sublethal doses of E. benthamii essential oil may enhance certain adult A. aegypti population characteristics through overcompensatory mortality.

Eastern Amazon State Councils of Water Resources: assessment of fragilities and proposition of the REPARE strategy for strengthening representation, participation, and representativeness

Jaqueline Maria Soares da Silva, Altem Nascimento Pontes — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0300

The effectiveness of the State Councils of Water Resources (CERHs) depends on the legitimacy of representation and the capacity to promote participation and representativeness in water governance. In the Eastern Amazon, this structure faces specific challenges arising from territorial and institutional inequalities that hinder democratic functioning within these collegiate bodies. This study aimed to identify the fragilities that compromise the representation, participation, and representativeness of the CERHs in the Eastern Amazon and to propose strategies for their strengthening. The research employed a qualitative approach, of the descriptive and exploratory kind, based on an extensive documentary survey conducted through the institutional websites of water resources management agencies in five states (Amapá, Maranhão, Mato Grosso, Pará, and Tocantins). Fifteen variables were grouped into three analytical categories—representation, participation, and representativeness—from which a situational overview of the five Councils was constructed. The results revealed fifteen recurrent structural fragilities, including the absence of parity among sectors, low participation among women and traditional peoples and communities, limited dialogue between representatives and those represented, and scarce or inaccessible information. A methodological instrument called the “REPARE Strategy” (Representation, Participation and Representativeness) was developed in order to propose institutional and normative mechanisms to improve water governance in the Eastern Amazon.

Water, health, and rights: challenges of drinking water and sanitation for indigenous communities in Tocantins, Brazil

Valcir Sumekwa Xerente, Liliana Pena Naval — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0300

Indigenous communities in Brazil, particularly in the state of Tocantins (Brazilian Legal Amazon), continue to face persistent challenges regarding water security and sanitation. Historically marginalized by colonial structures and state policies, these populations experience unequal access to safe drinking water and basic sanitation services, undermining health, cultural practices, and environmental justice. This study analyzes the implementation and effectiveness of water supply and sanitation policies targeting Indigenous peoples, with an emphasis on the National Indigenous Peoples Health Policy (PNASPI). The methodology adopted combined a systematic review of literature, national legislation, and health policy documents with the analysis of sanitation infrastructure data from 160 Indigenous villages, sourced from official databases. The review also incorporated thematic mapping and epidemiological data on waterborne diseases, notably acute diarrheal disease (ADD). The results show that only 10% of villages have both water supply systems and sanitary modules, while 30% of the Indigenous population lacks treated water, violating PNASPI provisions. The persistence of high rates of waterborne diseases highlights policy failures and health inequities. The findings call for culturally sensitive, participatory governance models, improved sanitation infrastructure, and the integration of Indigenous knowledge to enhance water security and health outcomes in Indigenous territories.

Proposal for a new evaluation protocol for recyclable waste recovery units: an overview of the western region of the state of Paraná - Brazil

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0300

Brazil generates more than 81 million tons of municipal solid waste (MSW) annually, of which only approximately 30% is potentially recyclable. Despite this, only 3% of this overall amount is recovered, mainly due to the lack of adequate structures for sorting and recovering waste. This low utilization compromises the efficiency of selective collection, increases environmental impacts, and limits the socioeconomic inclusion of waste pickers. Given this scenario, this study aimed to develop a new evaluation protocol for Material Recovery Facility (MRF), based on qualitative and quantitative indicators to identify the quality of the MRFs. The protocol development steps included defining the objective; defining the criteria and indicators; defining the evaluation method; defining the sampling unit for protocol application; collecting data; and analyzing the results. The methodology involves the definition of 12 indicators: location, infrastructure, safety, environmental health, sustainable resources, waste pickers’ association/cooperative, regularization and licensing, protection, support infrastructure, materials and equipment, operational monitoring, accounting/income/benefits distributed in four categories: physical, environmental, technical-operational, and socioeconomic. The evaluation protocol was applied to 34 MRFs in the western region of Paraná in 2024, participants in the Waste Management Program of Itaipu Binacional. Out of the 34 MRFs, 44% were classified as excellent, and 56% were classified as good, meeting 76–96 and 56–74% of the indicators, respectively. Average efficiencies of 85, 77, 59, and 57% were observed for the technical-operational, physical, environmental, and socioeconomic categories, revealing that, even with adequate infrastructure, MRFs still require improvements related to health, sustainability, and the social development of their members. However, all MRFs presented high-quality indices (above 28 points), suggesting that the management of these units, especially those classified as excellent, is aligned with the best practices in the industry and has been efficient in managing recyclable waste. The results confirm that this new protocol is an effective tool for diagnosing, monitoring, and directing continuous improvement actions in MRFs, in addition to offering support in formulating public policies.

Climatic regionalization of the Brazilian Semi-Arid Region and its sociodemographic dynamics

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0300

The history of the Brazilian Semi-Arid (BSA) region is intrinsically linked to extreme climatic variations, such as prolonged droughts and increasing aridity, which severely impact water security, food security, and socioeconomic stability in the region. The aim of this study was to develop a homoclimatic typology for the BSA by identifying homogeneous climatic profiles and associating them with sociodemographic dynamics. Meteorological data, including precipitation, relative humidity, maximum and minimum temperatures, and wind speed, were obtained from the Brazilian Daily Weather Gridded Data, interpolated on a 0.1 × 0.1° grid, covering the period from 1961 to 2020. Additionally, 18 sociodemographic indicators from the 1991, 2000, and 2010 censuses, carried out by the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics, such as infant mortality and urbanization rates, were analyzed. Through cluster analysis using the Ward method, four distinct climatic zones (BSA I, II, III, and IV) were identified. This approach enabled the integration of meteorological and sociodemographic variables, providing a more precise characterization of the region. The results revealed rising temperatures, intensifying droughts, and increased vulnerability in areas such as BSA III, characterized by severe aridity and limited infrastructure. Despite improvements in sociodemographic indicators, regional inequalities persist, underscoring the importance of examining age and sociodemographic characteristics within the identified clusters. This analysis aims to understand the population-specific characteristics of each profile and their relationship with existing vulnerabilities, enabling the identification of specific patterns and supporting the formulation of more targeted and effective public policies.

Sustainable University: challenges for integrating sustainability into the planning of Federal Institutes of Education in the Brazilian Amazon in relation to GreenMetric

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0300

A Sustainable University (SU) should utilize Environmental Management (EM) tools in its institutional routines, such as the UI GreenMetric World University Ranking (GM) as one of the sustainability assessment tools. It presents a global assessment methodology and is widely accepted; however, it does not consider the regional profiles of universities. The objective of this article was to propose guidelines for the Integration of Sustainability in Planning (ISP) of Federal Institutes (FIs) in the Brazilian Amazon in relation to EM. Seven FIs located in the Amazon Biome were compared, as well as their sectoral structures, institutional planning and sustainability documents, adherence to EM tools, and possible integration arrangements. In the field research, EM practices were evaluated. The results show that the seven FIs strive to align with the SU concept, but without systematization and network integration in the sense of union. It is concluded that Higher Education Institutions and FIs that possess a specific EM sector and EM tools demonstrate better sustainability performance. Among the analyzed Amazonian FIs, there is no participation in the GM, and their EM actions are not systemic, as they plan and execute specific actions, distancing themselves from the possibility of ISP. The ISP guidelines pointed out for FIs were the need to adapt institutional documents to encourage the development of actions in Integration Networks; adherence to the GM and the Environmental Agenda Program of the Public Administration (A3P); establishment of a physical EM sectoral channel; and benchmarking with FIs adhering to the GM.

Performance of orbital data and indirect models of evapotranspiration estimation in the agreste region of Pernambuco, Brazil

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0300

Accurate estimates of reference evapotranspiration (ET₀) are essential for water management and agriculture, especially in data-scarce regions such as the Brazilian semi-arid. In this context, the aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of indirect empirical methods for determining ET₀, Hargreaves–Samani, solar radiation, and Jensen–Haise, together with the MOD16A2 remote sensing product and the BR-DWGD gridded dataset. The methodology consisted of an analysis based on observed data from the municipalities of Garanhuns, Surubim, and Caruaru, in the Agreste region of Pernambuco, using the Penman–Monteith FAO-56 model as the standard reference. The results indicated that the solar radiation method achieved the best performance across all three municipalities, being classified as “excellent” (c > 0.85) in every case. The Jensen–Haise and Hargreaves–Samani models also performed well, with classifications ranging from “very good” to “excellent”. In contrast, the MOD16A2 product showed limitations, with greater variability and lower accuracy among the evaluated sites. The BR-DWGD dataset, in turn, demonstrated strong performance, with low error margins and a high correlation with observed data. These results demonstrate that radiation- and temperature-based models are suitable for estimating ET₀ in the Agreste region, while also highlighting the need to improve remote sensing ET al algorithms in climatically heterogeneous environments.

Evaluation of the hydraulic performance of a permeable pavement built in the city of Recife-PE (Brazil)

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0300

The increase in impervious surfaces in urban areas compromises the soil’s infiltration capacity and intensifies surface runoff, worsening environmental impacts, especially when associated with climate change. This study evaluated the implementation of a permeable pavement as a Nature-Based Solution (NbS) to promote more sustainable urban drainage. The intervention took place in the city of Recife, Brazil, in a previously impervious area where 840 m² of permeable pavement with interlocking concrete blocks was installed. The solution aimed to increase rainwater infiltration, reduce surface runoff, and mitigate local flooding. Geotechnical characterization and soil permeability tests were conducted at the site. The hydraulic performance was analyzed through monitoring of the water level inside the system, in conjunction with rainfall data collected between 2023 and 2024, as well as the determination of the permeability coefficients of the newly constructed pavement. The results indicated good infiltration capacity, with the system effectively managing rainfall volumes. Variations in the water level observed in the permeable pavement system were related to local precipitation, with no surface water accumulation recorded during the monitoring period. The NbS was able to manage several intense rainfall events, such as 122.8 mm (May 24, 2023) and 137.6 mm (June 15, 2024). The study contributes to the monitoring of NbS typologies in a tropical Brazilian city, highlighting the importance of experimental research and confirming the effectiveness of permeable pavement in the sustainable management of stormwater. This demonstrates its potential to mitigate flooding impacts in densely urbanized areas.

Density and temporal dynamics of macroplastics in an urban river, Central Brazil

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0300

Macroplastic pollution in riverine systems is a growing concern, particularly in neotropical rivers draining urban and agricultural areas. These environments act as vectors for the transport and deposition of plastic waste, thereby compromising water quality and ecosystem services. This study assessed the influence of temporal variation (seasonal and intraseasonal), spatial variation (along the river stretch), source, and deposition site on the density of macroplastics (>3 cm) in the Meia Ponte River, Goiás, located in the upper section of the Paraná River basin, Central Brazil. Four sampling campaigns were conducted between 2023 and 2024 at three main channel points, covering areas upstream and downstream of the Goiânia metropolitan region. The macroplastics were visually identified and classified in situ by source and deposition site. Density was analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn’s post-hoc tests. A total of 2,024 items were recorded, yielding a total density of 40.4 items.m⁻². Significant differences were observed among the categories of seasonality, intraseasonality, and source (p<0.05). It is concluded that temporal variation (seasonal and intraseasonal) and source are the modulating factors of macroplastic dynamics in the sampled river.

Hybrid neural network for daily streamflow projection on a sub-seasonal timescale

Sat, 28 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0300

Forecasts of hydrological variables are extremely important for water resource management in regions that are particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change and climate variability. The aim of this study was to develop a hybrid neural network capable of producing daily streamflow forecasts on a sub-seasonal scale. This hybrid neural network consists of an artificial neural network with inputs preprocessed by the wavelet transform (WANN). The WANN was tested in the Três Marias, Sobradinho, and Retiro Baixo reservoirs, located in the São Francisco River Basin (SFRB). The obtained results show that WANN was highly accurate in short-term forecasts (7–28 days); however, for long-term forecasts (35 and 42 days), there was a significant drop in performance, especially during the transition periods to the rainy season and in the dry months. The comparison between the performance metrics of the WANN forecasts and the National Electricity System Operator (ONS) operational models for the Três Marias, Sobradinho, and Retiro Baixo basins showed that WANN outperformed all these models. The results obtained show that WANN is a valuable tool for addressing the complex and dynamic challenges of hydrology, making it essential for decision-making on water resource management.

Bisphenol A Acute Toxicity to the Macroinvertebrate Chironomus sancticaroli (Diptera, Chironomidae) and Sensitivity Analysis of the Species to BPA Analogs

Suzelei Rodgher, Driele Tavares, Maiconn Vinicius de Moraes — Sun, 22 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0300

Due to concerns about the potential health risks associated with bisphenol A (BPA), several alternatives have been developed. The most common BPA analogs include bisphenol F (BPF) and bisphenol S (BPS). The objective of this study was to evaluate the sensitivity of the tropical macroinvertebrate Chironomus sancticaroli to BPA by performing acute toxicity tests. In addition, species sensitivity distribution (SSD) curves were constructed to compare the sensitivity of C. sancticaroli to different taxonomic groups when exposed to BPA, as well as to evaluate the sensitivity of varying freshwater organisms exposed to BPF and BPS, addressing the SSD analysis. The Predicted No-Effect-Concentrations (PNECs) values of bisphenols were calculated. The average value of the 48-h EC50 of BPA based on the measured concentration for the first instar larva of C. sancticaroli was 6.71 mg L⁻¹. The SSD curve of BPA demonstrated that C. sancticaroli presented an intermediate sensitivity to BPA when compared to two other chironomid species commonly used in toxicity tests. As demonstrated by PNECS values developed in the present study, the order of toxicity based on all species was BPA > BPF > BPS. This study highlights the need to expand data on the acute and chronic toxicity of BPA and its analogs for tropical freshwater biota to estimate potential effects of bisphenols.

Assessment of metal contamination in Tecoma stans (L.) Kunth (Bignoniaceae) pollen samples from urban environments

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0300

Urbanization profoundly alters ecosystems, introducing various pollutants, including metals, which degrade environmental quality and pose risks to biodiversity, notably affecting pollinators like bees. Pollen, collected by bees during foraging, can serve as a bioindicator for assessing urban environmental quality, as it accumulates airborne and soil-derived contaminants. Studying metal concentrations in urban pollen is therefore critical, not only for monitoring pollution levels but also for understanding the potential toxicological impacts on bee populations, whose health is intrinsically linked to the quality of their food resources. This study aimed to assess the level of metal contamination in pollen samples of Tecoma stans (L.) Kunth, a plant species commonly found in urban settings and frequently visited by bees for foraging. Pollen samples were collected in the urban area of Uberlândia, MG, in 2023. Using spatial analysis of the city, sampling locations with distinct Bee Environmental Quality Index (BEQI) classifications — low, medium, and very high environmental quality — were selected to investigate the influence of environmental quality on metal concentrations. For this purpose, pollen samples from T. stans flowers were collected and analyzed at the designated sites, and the concentrations of aluminum (Al), calcium (Ca), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), and magnesium (Mg) were quantified using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry. Statistical analysis, including PERMANOVA, indicated no significant differences in overall metal profiles across locations with varying BEQI levels, suggesting widespread metal presence regardless of the perceived environmental quality for bees. Principal component analysis and cluster analysis revealed a strong positive association among Fe, Cd, Cr, and Mn, suggesting common origins, while Ca and Cu showed a negative association. Our findings highlight that bees in urban areas are exposed to widespread metal contamination, even in environments classified as having very high BEQI.

Management of agricultural solid waste in the Brazilian semi-arid region: diagnosis and proposals for the Rafael Fernandes Experimental Farm — Brazil

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0300

The rising amount of solid waste in rural areas, especially from agro-pastoral activities, has raised concerns about environmentally sound and sustainable waste management. In this context, the Rafael Fernandes experimental farm (RFEF) aims to improve how it handles waste generated from its research activities. The study plans to systematically analyze waste management at RFEF, identify operational weaknesses and legal issues, and support proposals for technical improvements to the waste management system. The research included a review of relevant technical, scientific, and legal aspects; a qualitative diagnosis with illustrations; visits to agro-pastoral areas; photographic documentation of waste handling; and an assessment of environmental liabilities. The findings showed inefficiencies in the segregation and temporary containment of waste, notably the lack of proper containers and standardized labeling for waste types. There was also no clear schedule for internal waste collection and transportation, leading to material buildup in experimental zones. Additionally, issues were found in storing hazardous waste, such as pesticide packaging that failed to meet safety standards. These results emphasize the need to implement a solid waste management plan, provide ongoing staff training, and upgrade infrastructure to promote sustainable waste practices on the farm.

An empirical investigation on undergraduate students’ perception and assessment of sustainability education

Ferdous Ahmed, Adnan Chowdhury, Tamanna Siddiqua Ratna, Md. Sohel Rana — Sat, 17 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0300

Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030 remains one of the vital global priorities, and Bangladesh is no exception. A key pathway to meeting these goals lies in educating graduates in sustainability to ensure national and global development. The integration of sustainability knowledge into higher education has significantly facilitated the lifelong learning process. At the International University of Business, Agriculture, and Technology, sustainability-focused courses have been incorporated into the undergraduate curriculum since 2013, reflecting a long-standing institutional commitment to fostering sustainable development education in Bangladesh. This study aimed to assess perceptions of sustainability and environmental practices among students on campus; thus, a multinomial logistic regression model was employed as the primary analytical tool. Findings revealed that 91.1% of students demonstrate a sufficient understanding of sustainability, and 93.9% agree that a sustainability-oriented approach positively influences them to change their lifestyles. However, 41.0% of respondents reported that they would participate in on-campus sustainability projects, while 47.8% strongly agreed, demonstrating a gap between awareness and active involvement. Lastly, this study suggests that increasing the number of undergraduate sustainability-focused courses offered by universities can enhance a country’s ability to promote sustainability-related projects. These improvements in education are likely to lead to an increase in the number of graduates who show greater concern for sustainability and are eager to become involved in environmental initiatives both on- and off-campus. Consequently, this aids in global and national endeavors to accomplish the SDGs by 2030.

Chemical characteristics of size-segregated particles from a brazilian coastal megacity

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0300

Particulate matter (PM) size distribution samples were collected using a Micro-Orifice Uniform Deposit Impactor (MOUDI) in Rio de Janeiro between July and September 2016 during the Olympic and Paralympic periods, when there was an increase in tourist flow, changes in the local economy, modifications in traffic and pollution emission patterns. The samples were analyzed for elemental composition using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), for organic and inorganic ions using ion chromatography, and for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The data were processed, interpreted, and discussed through statistical analyses performed in R Language, including boxplots and Pearson correlation methodology. Results were categorized according to particle size: coarse, fine, ultrafine, and nano. Chloride dominated the coarse particulate matter (PMC; 18–3.2 μm), NO₂⁻ the fine fraction (PMF; 1.8–0.56 μm), and HCOO⁻ the ultrafine fraction (PMN; 320–56 nm). Ni, Pb, Sb, and V were enriched in PMN. Four- and five-ring PAHs were predominant across all particle size groups. The species present in the coarse fraction come from natural sources, while those in the fine fraction are of anthropogenic origin, mainly from the combustion of diesel and gasoline by vehicle engines.

Hot spots and their climatic, environmental, and social determinants in the Cuiabá River Headwaters Environmental Protection Area, Brazil

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0300

The State Environmental Protection Area of the Cuiabá River Headwaters, located in the Cerrado biome, experiences recurrent wildfires that threaten its ecological integrity. This study analyzes the spatiotemporal dynamics of fire activity between 2010 and 2019, focusing on the relationship between climatic variables and the occurrence of hot spots. Data on hot spots were sourced from the fire database of the Brazilian National Institute for Space Research, while climate variables — precipitation, air temperature, and relative humidity — were obtained from the Brazilian National Institute of Meteorology database. Monthly fire activity was statistically correlated with climatic conditions using Spearman’s correlation, and the number of consecutive dry days was calculated to assess drought severity. The results revealed a significant increase in hot spot density during the dry season (August to October), strongly associated with low precipitation, high temperatures, and critically low relative humidity. Among these variables, relative humidity showed the strongest and most consistent correlation with fire incidence, evidencing its role as an immediate meteorological trigger. Spatial analysis using kernel density estimation confirmed the concentration of fire activity in areas with recent land use changes, particularly agricultural expansion zones. These findings highlight the role of compound drought–fire dynamics in shaping fire regimes in the Cerrado and support the adoption of climate-informed fire management strategies to reduce wildfire risk in protected areas.

Anthropogenic impacts on water quality in southern Brazil: a multidimensional analysis of tributaries and the Chavantes reservoir

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 00:00:00 -0300

Freshwater is a vital resource, and its quality is critical for both human and environmental health. This study evaluated physicochemical and microbiological parameters of water from the Chavantes Reservoir, upstream tributaries to the reservoir, and downstream sites in the Paranapanema River and in its downstream tributaries, as well as the antimicrobial susceptibility of Escherichia coli. The results showed that variables such as temperature, turbidity, and total dissolved solids remained within the limits established by Brazil’s Environment Council (CONAMA) Resolution 357/2005 and Minister’s Office/ Ministry of Health (GM/MS) Ordinance 888/2021. In contrast, thermotolerant coliforms and E. coli exceeded the permitted values in several tributaries upstream. A strong correlation was observed between turbidity and coliforms, indicating fecal pollution sources related to the lack of sanitation and inadequate waste management. Antimicrobial resistance analysis revealed the presence of tetracycline- and gentamicin-resistant genes in E. coli strains, highlighting the impacts of agricultural activities and the indiscriminate use of antibiotics. Principal component analysis indicated greater dispersion among the upstream tributaries, reflecting high variability, while reservoir samples exhibited lower microbiological contamination, suggesting a dilution effect. These findings reinforce the need for continuous monitoring, riparian zone restoration, and the implementation of integrated sanitation and environmental management strategies. This study contributes to understanding anthropogenic impacts on water resources and supports public policies aimed at conserving water quality in the Chavantes Reservoir region.