Hasil untuk "Environmental effects of industries and plants"

Boqiang Lin, Aoxiang Zhang

Nuchcha Phonphoton, Suwat Suksawatdi and Chotirot Thonotue

This study investigates the dynamics of indoor volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including formaldehyde, xylene, and toluene, within a newly constructed smart urban building in Bangkok, Thailand. It aims to identify key determinants of air quality and to support datadriven strategies for healthier indoor environments. A total of 120 indoor air samples were collected from multiple zones and timeframes, considering building usage patterns, air conditioning operation, and environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and air velocity. Statistical analyses revealed that air velocity and usage time significantly influenced VOC concentrations, while the time period was a critical factor for formaldehyde levels. Toluene concentrations exceeded the ACGIH guideline (20 ppm) in 13% of samples, and formaldehyde levels surpassed NIOSH thresholds in all samples, indicating potential exposure risks. Higher ventilation rates were linked to reduced pollutant accumulation, particularly during peak occupancy. Strong correlations between toluene and xylene also indicated shared emission sources. Although most values remained within regulatory limits, some exceeded health-based guidelines. These findings highlight the complex interactions among building operations, environmental conditions, and chemical exposure, and suggest targeted ventilation scheduling, particularly early-morning activation, to reduce VOC peaks. The study provides a practical framework for designing adaptive ventilation systems and developing guidelines to improve indoor air quality in new buildings. Insights from this research can inform future policy, urban planning, and smart building design aimed at reducing health risks and enhancing environmental resilience.

Sobit Sapkota, Jooyoung Park, Jun-Ki Choi

The cement industry is a primary driver of the environmental footprint of the built environment, representing the most carbon-intensive component of construction material supply chains. Their energy and emissions trajectories directly shape the sustainability of buildings and urban infrastructure. However, forecasting these trajectories remains challenging due to limited data, technological transitions, and policy uncertainties. This study develops an integrated framework that combines a systematic review of forecasting methods with a comparative evaluation of the Grey Model (GM(1,1)) and the Markov-Chain Grey Model (MCGM). Using the cement sector of a rapidly developing economy as a case study, we embed forecasts within alternative scenarios, business-as-usual, efficiency improvement, and decline to assess future pathways of energy use and CO2 emissions. Results show that MCGM significantly improves forecasting accuracy relative to GM in this data-constrained and volatile industrial context and enables robust scenario analysis. Scenario outcomes highlight the risk of rising energy demand and emissions that could undermine sustainability targets in the construction sector, while efficiency pathways demonstrate alignment with international climate and development benchmarks. Beyond this case, the framework underscores the value of Grey–Markov forecasting as a transferable decision-support tool for evaluating the long-term environmental impacts of construction-related industries, supporting policymakers and sector stakeholders in achieving low-carbon development.

P. Latha and P. Kumaresan

Agriculture has been a vital sector for the majority of people, especially in countries like India. However, the increasing need for food production has led to intensive farming practices that have resulted in the deterioration of soil quality. This deterioration in soil quality poses significant challenges to both agricultural productivity and environmental sustainability. To address these challenges, advanced soil nutrient prediction systems that utilize machine learning and deep learning techniques are being developed. These advanced soil nutrient prediction systems utilize various sources of data, such as soil parameters, plant diseases, pests, fertilizer usage, and changes in weather patterns. By mapping and analyzing these data sources, machine learning algorithms can accurately predict the distribution of soil nutrients and other properties essential for precise agricultural practices. A previous study compared machine learning algorithms like SVM and Random Forest with deep learning algorithms CNN and LSTM for predicting crop yields. The most appropriate model is a significant challenge, but several studies have evaluated recommendation system models using deep machine learning techniques. Deep learning models attain accuracy above 90%, while many ML models achieve rates between 90% and 93%. Furthermore, the research seeks to propose specific crop suggestions grounded in soil nutrients for precision agriculture to enhance crop productivity.

P. Muthupriya and B. Vignesh Kumar

The utilization of plastic waste and dry leaves in bricks is a sustainable approach to reducing environmental pollution and managing waste. This study aims to investigate the feasibility of incorporating plastic wastes and dry leaves into the manufacturing of bricks, as well as the potential benefits of using such bricks. The study involves the collection of plastic wastes and dry leaves, sorting and cleaning them before mixing them with clay, sand, and cement in varying proportions. The mixtures are then compressed and molded into bricks, which are allowed to dry and cure before being tested for their physical and mechanical properties. To create plastic soil blocks, the soil was added to the molten plastic paste along with dry leaves in the following ratios: 1.5:1.5:0.5 (plastic, soil, and dry leaves, respectively). Results of the study showed that the inclusion of plastic wastes and dry leaves in brick production can lead to significant improvements in properties such as compressive strength, water absorption, and durability. Furthermore, the use of such bricks can help to reduce the amount of plastic waste and dry leaves in the environment, and also provide a sustainable alternative to traditional bricks that use finite natural resources. In conclusion, the utilization of plastic wastes and dry leaves in bricks is a promising approach toward sustainable construction. Further research is needed to optimize the proportions of the materials used and to investigate the long-term durability of the bricks under different environmental conditions.

parsa pashaei, Mufid Shatari, Ali Ashrafi

IntroductionAs key industries in energy supply, oil refineries play a pivotal role in national economic development; however, their operations are associated with significant environmental consequences. The processes of oil extraction and refining release a range of pollutants—including greenhouse gases, sulfur and nitrogen oxides, and volatile organic compounds—contributing to climate change, acid rain, and adverse human health effects such as respiratory disorders (Mani et al., 2021; Dutta et al., 2020). Moreover, the discharge of untreated wastewater and accidental oil spills into surface and groundwater systems poses serious threats to aquatic ecosystems, leading to reduced biodiversity and habitat degradation (Olokani et al., 2022). Refineries also generate hazardous wastes that contaminate soil and water resources, resulting in long-term ecological damage (Rao et al., 2021). To mitigate these impacts, the implementation of stringent environmental regulations and the adoption of cleaner production technologies are essential (Khan et al., 2023). In Iran, the oil and gas sector holds strategic importance for the economy, yet it remains a major source of environmental degradation through the pollution of air, water, and soil (Pourian & Khalili, 2017). Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) has long been recognized as an effective tool for identifying, predicting, and mitigating the adverse effects of industrial projects such as refineries. While EIA has been systematically applied in many developed countries, its formal implementation in Iran dates back to 1994 (Qaderi et al., 2015). Numerous studies have documented the environmental footprint of refineries in Iran, highlighting issues such as air and water pollution, degradation of natural resources, and public health risks (Askarzadeh-Torqabeh et al., 2003; Azizpour & Ghasemi, 2010; Tavakol & Nozari, 2012; Sadeghian & Sahba, 2012; Ghasemi et al., 2014). These findings underscore the urgent need for improved waste management practices, continuous environmental monitoring, and the integration of sustainable development principles in industrial planning. Despite these efforts, challenges remain, particularly in rural and ecologically sensitive areas, where regulatory enforcement is often weak and environmental data are limited—highlighting the importance of localized, evidence-based assessments to guide policy and practice. Methodology The research methodology employed a descriptive-analytical approach with an applied objective, integrating both documentary and field-based data collection methods. In the documentary phase, relevant literature, reports, and official records pertaining to the Fajr Gas Refinery in Jam County and the broader oil and gas industry were reviewed. For the field investigation, primary data were collected directly from refinery units, and a structured environmental questionnaire was developed and administered to local residents. The validity and reliability of the questionnaire were rigorously assessed and confirmed through expert review and statistical tests (Cronbach’s alpha). Data analysis was performed using SPSS software, employing descriptive statistics and inferential statistical tests—including the one-sample t-test—to evaluate the environmental impacts of the refinery on the study area. This integrated approach enabled a comprehensive assessment of the ecological consequences associated with the refinery’s operations. FindingThe findings of the present study entitled "Investigation and Analysis of the Environmental Impacts of the Fajr Gas Refinery" clearly indicate significant negative impacts resulting from the establishment and operation of the Fajr Gas Refinery in Jam County on the regional environment, particularly in surrounding rural areas. These impacts manifest across multiple dimensions—hydrological, atmospheric, soil, biological, and socio-economic—and are substantiated by statistical data, inferential statistical tests, and local residents’ observations.In terms of water quality analysis, sampling results from the refinery, steam effluent, treatment plants, and downstream qanats reveal a marked deterioration in water quality. Key indicators of this degradation include elevated salinity, high electrical conductivity, excessive water hardness, high concentrations of nitrate and ammonium ions, and severe microbial contamination (with MPN > 1100). Notably, data from the downstream qanat—showing 10.17% salinity, electrical conductivity of 17,440 µS/cm, and total hardness of 2,240 mg/L—indicate highly unsuitable conditions for drinking, agricultural, and industrial uses. These conditions clearly stem from the infiltration of industrial effluents and inadequate management of refinery waste.Furthermore, increased levels of organic pollutants (such as high COD) in both the refinery and steam effluent, coupled with declining groundwater levels, are additional signs of a growing water crisis in the region. Findings from Tables 5 and 6, based on a one-sample t-test assessing 13 environmental indicators, scientifically and statistically confirm that the establishment of the refinery has been associated with significant adverse effects. The significance value (Sig = 0.003), which is well below the 0.05 error threshold, decisively rejects the null hypothesis and supports the primary research hypothesis that negative environmental impacts have occurred. All assessed components—from reduced water resources to noise pollution and land-use changes—exhibit mean values exceeding permissible limits, reflecting serious concerns among local residents and environmental experts alike. Discussion and ResultsThe findings of this study clearly confirm that the establishment of the Fajr Gas Refinery in Jam County has led to extensive negative environmental impacts, including air pollution, degradation of water quality and quantity, depletion of groundwater aquifers, destruction of vegetation cover, soil and noise contamination, and shifts in agricultural practices. These impacts not only threaten the natural ecosystem but also severely affect the health, livelihoods, and overall quality of life of local residents. In order to transform the current situation and taking into account the environmental impacts of the refinery, the following key recommendations can be proposed:Comprehensive Industrial Wastewater ManagementContinuous Environmental MonitoringRestoration of Degraded EcosystemsPublic Education and Community EngagementBalanced and Sustainable DevelopmentThis study emphasizes that without immediate and structured interventions, the environmental consequences of the Fajr Gas Refinery could escalate into an irreversible crisis. Therefore, it is imperative that policymakers, industrial managers, and local communities collaborate proactively to restore the environment and promote sustainable development in the region.

Zipeng Lin, Peng Wang, Linbin Tang et al.

The intensifying demand for energy transition minerals (ETMs) has triggered global concern over water-related issues in mining regions. However, localized and generalizable metrics are lacking to help companies and governments manage social licenses to operate (SLO). In this study, we propose an analytical method that combines digital media data from the Global Database of Events, Language, and Tone (GDELT) with high-resolution mining data to analyze social awareness. LightGBM with Shapley additive explanations models are introduced to uncover key factors influencing public sentiment. This approach was applied to analyze media attention and public sentiment on five categories of water issues across 12 mineral types and 511 mines from 2016 to 2023. Our findings show a 40% increase in water-related events linked to ETM mining since 2020. Regions such as East and Southeast Asia, and Central and South America exhibit rising but negative sentiment, while public discontent in Southern Africa remains consistently high. Cobalt, platinum, and vanadium have the most negative sentiment, particularly concerning water quality and pollution. Manganese shows the most negative sentiment due to concerns over drought and desertification. Model results indicate that the Goldstein scale of events, which reflects the magnitude of cooperation or conflict, was the most influential factor in shaping public sentiment. Precipitation has a significant positive impact on sentiment in drought- and flood-related events, while higher runoff improved sentiment in drought events but negatively affected flood- and water quality-related events. Socio-economic factors, such as educational expenditure and unemployment rates, also demonstrated varied effects across categories. Finally, this study introduces the water sentiment index (WSI) as a proxy for water-related SLO concerns, offering a new tool to track social awareness in ETM regions and providing actionable insights for policymakers and stakeholders to mitigate social risks and ensure sustainable mining practices.

Maja Grünzner, Isabell Richter, Mathew P. White et al.

Fast fashion deliberately targets young consumers' purchase impulse tendencies. It is based on a poor-quality production, high turnover model and has quickly become a major contributor to clothing-related pollution worldwide. This study examines whether reflection tasks can reduce young consumers' (aged 18–34) purchase impulses and if environmental considerations influence their decisions. Using a pre-registered online experimental vignette study with a between-participant design, 1123 UK-based young consumers were randomly allocated to one of three reflection tasks or a control group. The tasks involved (1) thinking of general reasons not to buy (Reflection Neutral), (2) thinking of reasons not to buy including environmental considerations (Reflection Environment) or (3) recalling a happy memory with a favourite clothing item (Reflection Desire). Findings revealed that participants in Reflection Neutral and Reflection Environment conditions reported significantly lower purchase desire and purchase likelihood compared to the control group, with no significant difference between these two conditions. Reflection Desire did not reduce purchase desire or likelihood compared to the control. These results suggest that targeted reflection tasks, particularly those involving reasons not to buy a clothing piece, have the potential to promote more sustainable consumption behaviours. Real-world validation of these findings could contribute to efforts to reduce fast fashion's environmental impact.

Mary Ann Beth L. Kong, Francis Dave C. Siacor, Edwin R. de los Reyes and Gevelyn B. Itao

This study addresses Sustainable Development Goal 12, the management of materials that harm society and the environment. Material Flow Analysis (MFA) of the waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) is are primary requirement for comprehensive monitoring and disposal of electronic waste. In Zamboanga City, Philippines, the collected waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) for 2022 was analyzed and interpreted. The analysis is divided into four primary stages: recycling, disposal, reuse/resell, and storage. According to the findings, 20.02 tons of WEEE were produced, of which 8.01 tons were held, 5.01 tons were recycled or resold, 4.00 tons were reused, and 3.00 tons were disposed of. The composition study of a few chosen WEEE components, such as CPUs, monitors, and printers, reveals significant amounts of recoverable elements, such as iron, aluminum, copper, polymers, and circuit boards. Three types of devices had the highest material recovery efficiency: CPUs (97.607%), displays (91.853%), and printers (98.796%). The study highlights the hazards that informal WEEE processing poses to the environment and public health. It also advocates for regulation and the formal integration of informal sector operations into the WEEE management system. The suggestions include raising public awareness, investing in recycling infrastructure, and enhancing data collection. The study concludes that a comprehensive WEEE management plan supported by robust regulatory frameworks and investments in formal recycling facilities is necessary to balance Zamboanga City’s economic interests, public health, and environmental protection.

Laura García Herrero, Esther Sanyé Mengual, Cecilia Casonato et al.

Sustainability labelling gained prominence in food policy discourse in recent years, particularly in Europe, although its effectiveness in influencing consumer behaviour remains uncertain. This work explores selected sustainability food labels in the EU, reviewing sustainability indicators and the underlying life cycle assessment (LCA) methodologies. It addresses methodological approaches, and how they apply LCA with reference to the Product Environmental Footprint (PEF) method recommended by the European Commission. Four labels were identified from a comprehensive product database, focusing on labels applying LCA and quantifying multiple impacts, while an additional one was identified from the current EU panorama. An evaluation framework was developed on the relevant methodological aspects, encompassing governance, transparency, and clarity. Interviews with label developers complemented the analysis, along with a review of criticisms of LCA and PEF for labelling purposes. Four are scoring labels providing graded and colour-coded visuals, while one is still under development. Methodological adaptations to the PEF were common, and non-LCA sustainability assessments accounted for aspects such as farming management, social issues, and biodiversity. Labels varied in transparency, stakeholder involvement, and clarity. Criticisms of LCA include its reductionist approach, data gaps, and lack of robust methodologies for assessing biodiversity. While sustainability labelling is important to guide sustainable choices, labels need to be part of a broader policy mix and should be underpinned by clear goals and robust methodologies. This analysis will help to develop evidence-based policy instruments for sustainable consumption and set the basis for a harmonized labelling system.

Fairuz Luqyana Ismayanti, Dyah Tjahyandari Suryaningtyas, Nuva Nuva

The management of Artisanal and Small-scale Gold Mining (ASGM) in Sekotong Sub-district, West Lombok Regency, encounters considerable challenges due to environmental and social repercussions. These situations indeed need to be restored by conducting the mining activities sustainably. This study examined stakeholders' interactions and influences in the context of sustainable ASGM management by employing the MACTOR method. MACTOR is a method used to identify key actors, relationships between key actors, and their strategic objectives. Research data were obtained from structured interviews and field data, which were then processed to identify each actor's level of influence and dependence in the management of ASGM Sekotong. The results of the analysis showed DESDM, DLH, DIKOP, and DIKES as actors with high influence and low dependence. Meanwhile, miners and cooperative administrators were actors who had high influence and high dependence on the management of ASGM Sekotong. In addition, the level of convergence between DESDM and UNDP showed a commitment to sustainable practices of ASGM Sekotong, while the divergence of DESDM and miners highlighted the challenges in the management of ASGM Sekotong in aligning the goals of economic development and preserving the environment. This study emphasized the importance of strengthening the role of actors with low influence and reducing their dependence on dominant actors. Strong alliances among actors are essential to support the sustainable management of Sekotong ASGM. These findings provide strategic insights to formulate more inclusive and sustainable Sekotong ASGM policies and practices.

Anushri Barman, Fulena Rajak and Ramakar Jha

With traditional knowledge passing through generations and habits of indigenous people, the local communities perform a crucial role in managing the environment and development. It should be the Local communities who should be involved in the conservation and management of the wetland resources, however, increasing government controls and prohibitions are harming wetland conservation, which potentially promotes responsible use habits in the region. This literature review investigates the role of traditional knowledge systems (TKS) in wetland conservation, focusing on four key domains: agriculture, fishing practices, stormwater management, and traditional knowledge of wetland plants and produce harvesting. This review methodologically synthesizes current research to provide a thorough understanding of the contribution of traditional knowledge to wetland conservation efforts. It does this by using a total selection of 68 papers within a range of five to ten articles per category. Using the PRISMA(Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) methods of literature review as a guide, this study identifies, evaluates, and synthesizes peer-reviewed and localized publications that examine the application of Traditional knowledge systems to various wetland management contexts, drawing from scholarly databases and pertinent literature sources. By delving into diverse disciplines such as environmental engineering, ecology, and environmental science, the review elucidates the multifaceted ways in which indigenous wisdom informs conservation practices, fosters sustainable resource utilization, and enhances community resilience in wetland ecosystems. Moreover, it examines the challenges and opportunities associated with integrating traditional and scientific knowledge paradigms, emphasizing the need for inclusive and participatory approaches to conservation that respect cultural diversity and local knowledge systems. The results of the literature study have been compiled to highlight several traditional systems for wetland conservation. These include traditional stormwater management in wetland watersheds, resource management by local communities, the use of wetland plants in conservation, traditional fishing practices, traditional agricultural practices, and religious and cultural practices. The findings of this review contribute valuable insights to academia, policy development, and on-the-ground conservation efforts, serving as a foundation for future research and practice aimed at promoting the holistic and equitable stewardship of wetland ecosystems. This paper concludes with suggestions on using traditional knowledge systems in the conservation of wetlands in India, along with the different traditional methods that could be part and parcel of the decision-making system in this field. The results of this paper are highly significant, as they demonstrate the integration of traditional knowledge systems as a method for environmental conservation and management, specifically targeting wetland ecosystems and their biota.

Ilma Fitriana, Vivi Novianti, Rob H. Marrs et al.

Overburden (the dumping of mine tailings and other reject materials) from the Warukin geological formation is one of the potential acid-forming (PAF) of 33.17%. Mining can cause overburden to be exposed and affect biotic and abiotic conditions. The study aimed to analyze the biotic and abiotic factors of three different age overburdens from the Warukin Formation, South Kalimantan. Biotic factor measurements included vegetation sampling using line transect, soil insects using pitfall traps, and microbial using total plate count. Abiotic factor measurements included air temperature and humidity, light intensity, temperature, moisture, and pH of the substrate (n=3), and chemical overburden. Identification of plants and insect species using information from locals, identification books, and websites. Plant species diversity was analyzed using the Shannon-Wiener Index. Dominance species were analyzed using the Important Value Index (IVI). The relation of overburden age on biotic and abiotic factors was analyzed multivariate with Non-Metric Multidimensional Scaling (NMDS). The results showed that there are 102 species of plants and 11 species of soil insects. The numbers of fungi and bacteria are 10-4 CFU g-1 and 10-3 CFU g-1, respectively. Plant species diversity is classified as medium (H'= 2.34; 2.50 and 2.82). Changes in plant composition occurred as the microclimate and substrate nutrition improved. The organic matter increased over time. Humidity and light intensity influence the presence and composition of organisms, while pH values affect the adaptability of plants, insects, and microbes. Heavy metal concentrations have increased due to the physicochemical properties of the Warukin formation overburden.

Elena A. Erofeeva

Mattis Keil

To reduce the impact of anthropogenic climate change, healthcare has to transform to a low greenhouse gas emissions sector. Hospitals are a fundamental part of healthcare provision and can play an important role in mitigating the climate impact of healthcare. To help decision-makers and policy-makers, information on the greenhouse gas emissions of individual hospitals is needed. The aim of this paper is to provide an assessment of a hospital in north-western Germany with a cost-based approach based on financial data from the Profit& Loss Statement. Direct emissions and emissions through energy usage were calculated using quantity-based bottom-up emission intensities. Indirect emissions were calculated using monetary-based top-down emission intensities. To determine these emission intensities for the reported cost groups, 8,772 transactions from the profit and loss statement of a German hospital were assigned to industry sectors provided by two input-output databases. In the final model, the emission intensities of cost groups with large differences between the two databases were substituted with bottom-up data. In total, between 10,398 and 11,147 t CO2eq were emitted by the hospital in 2019. Direct emissions sources were responsible for 37%–40%, electricity production was responsible for 13%–14%, and upstream and downstream processes were responsible for 47%–50% of total emissions. The production of medical supplies accounted for 32%–52% of those processes and was the largest emitter among cost groups. The study shows that the calculation of the carbon footprint of a hospital is possible using a hybrid model based on standardized financial data. The study's results are limited by the chosen system boundaries, by methodological limitations of the chosen top-down approach, and data availability.

Yuxi Zhang, Xi Chen, Jingtao Liu and Fengchun Yang

A CB/CCE electrochemical sensor for Cr(VI) detection was prepared by ultrasonic dispersion of Ketjen Black and then the coating of modified carbon cloth electrode. Material morphology and composition were characterized based on XPS, TEM, BET, BJH; electrochemical performance of the electrode was studied based on LSV, EIS and CV. The results show that the high conductivity of Ketjen Black accelerates charge transfer on the electrode surface, while the abundant mesoporous structure and large specific surface area enhance Cr(VI) adsorption and reduction by the electrode. Under the optimal experimental conditions, the relationship between the reduction peak current of Cr(VI) and its concentration in the sample was studied by the i-t method. The reduction peak current intensity and its concentration demonstrate a good linear relationship in the range of 0.025-57?M and 57-483?M. The linear equations are: Ip(?A) = -0.2452C(?M)-0.0303 (R = 0.9908), Ip(?A) = -0.0329C(?M)-15.9212 (R = 0.9853), LOD is 9.88nM (S/N = 3). Compared with other methods, the sensor displays outstanding detection performance advantages. Plus the advantages of low cost and environmental protection, it has good application prospects in detecting Cr(VI) in water.

Wedyan G. Nassif, Basim I. Wahab, Monim H. Al-Jiboori and Abdulrahhman B. Ali

Temporal and spatial analysis of air particulates sampling collection from the in and outside the Al-Tuwaitha, south of Baghdad, was carried out to measure daily gross alpha and beta activity concentrations (AAC and BAC) during the period from January to April of 2017. The results show that most frequencies are within the interval 1-1.49 Bq/m3 for AAC and 3-3.49 Bq/m3 for BAC. Also, the radioactivity levels within the site for both AAC and BAC were found to be higher than those around the outside. Across all air samples at the studied site, the monthly arithmetic means were 3.0 ± 0.5 and 6.7 ± 0.9 Bq/m3 for both AAC and BAC. It was found that a hotspot for both AAC and BAC in air layer with values of 4.0 and 8.5 Bq/m3 respectively situated at ITR-5000 reactor northwest of the site, which is a major source of radioactive contamination, but with wind action. This contamination disperses according to its prevailing direction that is southeast. 6.7 ± 0.9

Chencan Liu

As an important material resource of human being, water resource is of great significance to promote sustainable development of economy and society, and it must be managed and utilized reasonably. Water resources management in Zhejiang Province has always been at the forefront of China, but the lagging development of the local legal system has seriously hindered the construction of water ecological civilization. To meet the actual work demand of water resource management in Zhejiang Province of China, its social development and water resource management situation in 2019 was probed by using comparative analysis. Results show that water resource management and local legal system construction has a logic relationship and that their hidden dangers and shortcomings in the practice of water resources legal system in Zhejiang Province of China. Legislation standard path and countermeasures are put forward for water resources management in Zhejiang Province of China.

Jin Zhao, Yi Wang and Zhengwei Ma

Various problems of traditional cast-in-place buildings, such as heavy energy consumption, severe environmental pollution, and low labour productivity, have hindered the development of the construction industry. Prefabricated buildings have a direct bearing on national economic development and transformation of people’s lifestyles because of their high economic, environmental, social, and safety benefits. The technological research and development level for prefabricated buildings and system policies in China are still in the initial stage, and the environmental performance and influencing factors of prefabricated buildings limit their large-scale implementation. The literature in developed countries regarding the environmental performance and influencing factors of prefabricated buildings was first reviewed in this study. Community A in Zhengzhou City, Henan Province was used as the case study. AHP (Analytic Hierarchy Process) was applied to measure the factors influencing the environmental performance of prefabricated buildings, and policy suggestions were proposed to improve their environmental performance. Results indicate that developed countries tend to construct prefabricated buildings in large areas because of their remarkable economic, environmental, social, and safety benefits. Measurement results of Community A in Zhengzhou City, Henan Province show that the main environmental pollution factor of prefabricated buildings is waste discharge, accounting for 40%, followed by noise pollution, energy consumption, and dust pollution. The environmental performance of prefabricated buildings can be improved by promoting their development, reducing their environmental pollution, establishing a standard prefabricated concrete system, enhancing the environmental standards for buildings, expanding the application scope of prefabricated concrete, encouraging environmental technology innovation of buildings, cultivating prefabricated building bases, and strengthening environmental governance of construction sites. The findings will serve as reference in determining the main factors influencing the environmental performance of prefabricated buildings, establishing an evaluation system for the environmental benefits of prefabricated buildings, promoting their improvement and optimized development, and enriching and perfecting an evaluation research system for their comprehensive benefits.