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The impact of abandoned mines on the water environment is a significant concern due to the long-lasting ecological and health effects associated with mining activities. Numerous scientific studies highlight that abandoned mines pose substantial threats to local water quality through the release of toxic substances and heavy metals into adjacent ecosystems. The zones of the 2 mines have been subject to various environmental and hydrological assessments, particularly concerning the effects of mining activities on wa...

As the offshore oil and gas industry faces mounting pressure to reduce its carbon footprint, Floating Production, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) units are emerging as critical platforms for implementing clean energy innovations. This paper explores the potential for integrating renewable energy sources such as offshore wind, solar photovoltaic, and wave energy with advanced energy storage technologies, including lithium-ion batteries and hydrogen-based systems, within FPSO operations. The hybridization of power gen...

The paper is devoted to the study of the combustion process in fibrous organic materials based on natural fibers. The paper presents the results of research focused on the study of the relationship between the microstructure of organic fibrous insulation materials, fiber properties and their resulting reaction to fire. This is a comprehensive approach to describing the reaction to fire beyond the scope of classification according to EN 13501-1. The basic test methods used to determine the reaction to fire are used...

This study investigates the flotation-based enrichment of black shale raw materials to selectively separate uranium and rare earth metals (REMs). The efficiency of various reagent systems-xanthogenate, kerosine, and paraffin with trichloroisocyanuric acid (TCCA)-was examined under different grinding fineness conditions. The initial material showed significant concentrations of uranium (0.188%) and REMs, with carbon content reaching up to 15%. The highest uranium removal (up to 98%) into mineral tailings was achiev...

Urtica dioica is a species of the Urticaceae family and the curative properties of this plant have been known since antiquity. Our study aimed to determine whether, in various concentrations and at different action times, the natural extract of Urtica dioica has positive, negative or neutral effects on mitotic cell division. For the proposed study, we used the standard Allium test and tested concentrations of 25%, 50% and 100% of the extract obtained, at action times of 6 and 24 hours. From the results obtained fo...

In order to predict water erosion processes on mountain slopes in the mountainous and foothill landscapes of Georgia, in May and September of 2024 a field scientific study was conducted in the ecosystems of Chiatura Municipality. As a result, five erosion-sensitive sites were selected, for which GPS coordinates and absolute heights above sea level were recorded and plotted on a digital map. Longitudinal and transverse profiles were made at the selected sites, and soil samples weighing up to 3 kg were collected. Te...

The processing of titanium-zirconium concentrates with high chromium content presents a significant challenge due to the inhibitory effect of chromium on industrial applications. This study investigates the composition of titanium-containing concentrate from the Obukhovskoye deposit using X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and thermogravimetric analysis. The findings indicate that chromium is uniformly distributed in both magnetic and non-magnetic fractions, complicating its selective removal by co...

This paper demonstrates the importance of integrating modern technologies in the management of municipal infrastructures and highlights the significant advantages of using a municipal cadastral information system and an external database. With the help of GNSS technology and the total station, this precision requirement is met. The data from the measurements formed the basis for creating municipal cadastral plans that provide a detailed and accurate representation of the municipal networks. The methodology used in...

The maritime industry represents a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, primarily through the combustion of fossil fuels used by ship engines. As international regulations tighten and environmental awareness grows, reducing global greenhouse gas emissions from ships has become an important objective. This study explores the potential for emission reduction on passenger ships through the implementation of a hybrid propulsion system. The study methodology involves solving the following aspects...

During the process of adapting renewable energy and ensuring national energy security in the current geopolitical context, technological progress in the field of green energy has received increased attention. This has led to the development of updated policies on investment in onshore renewable energy (which uses wind and solar energy through wind turbines and photovoltaic parks) and offshore renewable energy (which uses tidal, wave, solar, and wind energy through floating photovoltaic parks and wind turbines that...

Green tea is one of the most widely consumed beverages worldwide. It is consumed on its own or in various combinations. Green tea is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant which originated in Asia. Green tea drinks have many health benefits for consumers due to the compounds present in the raw material - green tea. In order to benefit from all the properties of green tea - antioxidant activity, a wide range of vitamins, provitamins and polyphenolic compounds - the raw materials used are organically gr...

Tea made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis tea plant is one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world, thanks to its sensory qualities and its content of active ingredients beneficial to health. Black tea contains antioxidants that neutralize oxygen free radicals. In these types of foods, the activity of enzymes such as oxidoreductases, which have NAD- (Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide) or FMN- (Flavin mononucleotide) dependent coenzymes is very important in this biodynamics. [4], [5] Heme protein...

In recent years, several definitions of the bioeconomy have been developed, due to the fact that researchers have not been able to reach a common consensus. Through this study, we aim to develop this field and highlight the link between the bioeconomy and the four main resources that ensure the continuity of life on earth: air, water, soil and biodiversity. The main goal of the bioeconomy is to protect nature and biodiversity, by using resources that generate environmentally friendly products, but which also impro...

Cross-border Energy Communities are an essential tool for achieving the European energy transition, as they represent widespread, inter-territorial participation in energy production and sharing. European directives recognise and promote these configurations, both in the form of Renewable Energy Communities and Energy Communities of Citizens. However, actual implementation at national level remains non-homogeneous, creating obstacles to the full operation of the model. The Italian scenario is, in this sense, parad...

This paper focuses on densely clustered housing units located in residential complexes. A specific typology which is not present in European or Western architecture but has a place in Japan. Based on a qualitative research method with a descriptive approach, the current study presents the following hypothesis. This type of development brings the aspects of sustainability with an emphasis on high health and environmental standards, social inclusion, thrifty and efficient use of initial and operational resources whi...

Due to limited resources, development is associated with a process of transformation, including the performance of the transformation. In 2015, following the adoption of the Paris Agreement and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, the political agenda has shifted towards sustainable development for society, which includes environmental criteria. European Union Member States have strengthened the political agenda on sustainable development with the EU Green Deal initiative. Various development indexes could be emp...

The construction industry plays a critical role in global carbon emissions, contributing significantly to climate change. Embodied carbon, which encompasses all greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with the extraction, production, transportation, and construction of materials, has become a critical focus in sustainable design. Building Information Modeling (BIM), with tools such as Autodesk Revit, Autodesk Forma, One Click LCA and Tully, among others, offers opportunities to streamline embodied carbon analysi...

The European Union (EU) climate objectives rely on sustainable agriculture. This research assesses greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and key agricultural indicators in Latvia from 2020 to 2022. This research aims to assess the developmental trends of agricultural GHG emissions and farming indicators in Latvia to identify strategies or future investigations necessary to mitigate GHG emissions and enhance sustainability. In Latvia, agriculture accounted for 21-22% of total GHG emissions in carbon dioxide (CO2) equivale...

Agriculture plays a crucial role in the global carbon cycle, as it serves as a source of one of the greenhouse gases. Therefore, a data-based understanding of how to mitigate its impact on the environment and climate change is needed. The research aim is to evaluate the dynamics of the agrifood system in the European Union (EU) Member States from 2013 to 2022, with a primary focus on carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, livestock population density, and agricultural land use. The results indicate that Germany, France, ...

Abandoned railway lines can be used as hiking trails for tourism development and as coherent eco-logical routes for many species of flora and fauna, such as plants, insects, and birds. The study's objective was to design a strategic plan for using unused railway lines that will increase or maintain the biodiversity in the Prefecture of Peloponnese in southern Greece. The SWOT-AHP-TOWS method analysis was used. The criteria of the SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) method were recorded based o...

The design of urban drainage systems in the European Union generally follows the requirements of the EN 752 standard. Nevertheless, it uses a classical approach that aims only to convey stormwater runoff away from the settlement boundaries, thus preventing local problems. On the other hand, global tendencies are oriented towards a more sustainable approach for climate-adaptive metropolitan infrastructure. To address problems like urban expansion, expected future heavy rainfall events, sewer overloading, flooding, ...

We live in a world where, globally, the urban population represents 50% of the Earth's inhabitants, and in 2035, it is expected to represent 75%. In Romania, in 2024, 55.81% of the total population lives in urban areas and the difference in rural areas. In the paper, we set out to create an "x-ray" of the commitments that our country has assumed within the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development - Goal 11. Romania must find solutions for the sustainable development of communities, based on environmental education,...

Integrating sustainable development and circular economy principles into higher education curricula is critical for preparing future professionals to address complex global challenges. This study examines both the theoretical underpinnings and empirical evidence supporting the inclusion of these themes in academic programs in Latvia, emphasizing their role in fostering the competencies required for sustainable transformation. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research combines qualitative content analysis of cur...

Tourism is a key driver of economic growth and regional development, particularly in emerging destinations that capitalize on natural and cultural resources. This study explores the role of European-funded sustainable projects in enhancing tourism infrastructure, services, and environmental policies in the Western Region of Romania. [1] By analyzing various initiatives supported through EU funding (FEADR, EURI), the research identifies best practices and challenges in implementing sustainable tourism strategies. T...

This study addresses the limitations of conventional incentive systems in encouraging sustainable behaviors -- such as donations, ethical consumption, and CO2 reduction -- by highlighting their lack of transparency, long-term viability, and respect for privacy. To overcome these issues, we propose a decentralized reward framework built upon a blockchain-based Self-Sovereign Information Environment (SSIE). Verified actions are recorded through NFTs and smart contracts, ensuring immutable traceability without disclo...

This paper explores the rural-urban divide in the context of sustainable territorial development in Latvia. By employing a combination of statistical analysis, standardisation, and factor analysis based on 14 development indicators, the research identifies key differences between rural and urban areas. The results reveal that economic activity is notably higher in territories closer to the capital, Riga, although not all urban areas demonstrate superior performance. Simultaneously, urban territories concentrate mo...

Urban development and the construction industry have experienced in the last century massive development worldwide, and in Romania the last two decades have been marked by a considerable advance of construction projects growth. But sustainable urban development must be regulated by norms and standardization systems that lead to harmonious progress. In 1990, the first certification system for building sustainability, BREEAM, appeared in Great Britain and it is applied on a large scale mainly in Europe. The second c...

In this paper, we present some practical considerations regarding the design of power voltage stabilizer equipment. Nowadays, technologies for raising and/or lowering the voltage to a level required by the power line or a consumer are increasingly used (in wind or solar power generation systems, or in energy conversion systems with a direct current intermediate circuit). Our study refers to a conversion solution consisting of two converter stages. The first stage consists of two boost converters operating in antip...

We present herein a thoroughly study regarding the synthesis, structure and biological activity of some hybrid diazine - polyphenols derivatives. The synthesis was performed under conventional thermal heating and microwave irradiation, by using a straight and efficient method: a N-alkylation reaction of diazine (pyridazine or phthalazine) with reactive halogenated derivatives. The structure of the hybrids was proven by elemental and spectral analysis. Under MW irradiation, the N-alkylation reaction of diazine have...

Mannitol is an important raw material in the production of resins, lubricants, coatings, surfactants, explosives, cosmetics and drugs. One of the promising ways to obtain it is the catalytic conversion of inulin, a natural polyfructosan found in large quantities in some agricultural crops. In this study a Ru-containing magnetic catalyst was proposed for the process of hydrolytic hydrogenation of inulin to mannitol. Under optimal reaction conditions a high mannitol selectivity of 44.3 % was obtained 100 % conversio...

Sustainability standards are essential for encouraging eco-friendly practices, social accountability, and ethical management across various industries. Although numerous sustainability standards are voluntary, an increasing number are becoming obligatory due to national laws, international treaties, or industry guidelines. In response to the escalating threats posed by climate change, the European Union (EU) is leading global initiatives aimed at achieving climate neutrality. Certification systems that authenticat...

This research examines how Earth and Environmental Sciences are woven into and how important they are within higher education, particularly as a response to today's environmental problems. It highlights the key issue of their rather limited presence in curricula, which, it's argued, hampers students- preparedness for the sustainability challenges that define the 21st century. Primary data gathered on curriculum content, teaching methods, and how students perceive these, reveals a clear gap between current educatio...

In the more developed European countries, because of the importance given to the poplar species, research in this field has increased, while feeling the need to set up an international coordinating forum. Due to the particularly rapid growth, poplar crops soon produce an important quantity of wood mass that satisfies to an increasing extent the wood needs of society. The wood of this species, with special characteristics, has multiple industrial uses: Timber and light packaging, fibro-woody plates and plywood, fur...

The need to develop an integrated testing system for explosion-protected construction equipment with the type of protection "p" arose from practical considerations. The use of a mobile, versatile and adaptable system for the field performance of tests specific to this type of protection applied to explosion-protected construction equipment brings several novel advantages, the most important of which are: grouping all the test equipment required for the tests, elimination of measurement errors by performing several...

This paper begins with an analysis of the constructive-functional characteristics of hazardous goods transport systems, as required by legislation [3]. It is observed that safety elements primarily concern the materials from which parts or subassemblies in direct contact with or in close proximity to the hazardous substances being transported are made, as well as the general measures applicable to the vehicle-s electrical system, which aim to prevent overheating or to shield and prevent the transmission of heat to...

Asphalt-resin-paraffin deposits (ARPD) are a complex dispersed system formed by substances that have separated from the oil phase according to various signs. The sediments include asphaltenes, resins, paraffins, liquid hydrocarbons, mechanical impurities and water. In conditions of intensive deposition of ARPD, normal operation of wells is impossible without carrying out work using dewaxing equipment. The purpose of the treatment is the use of chemical reagents in the composition of the emulsion to affect the bott...

The intensification of mining requires the increasingly widespread use of a high-performance transport system, i.e. the conveyor transport. At the same time, the requirements for its basic traction and load-bearing element, namely the conveyor belt, which is used in the extraction of mineral raw materials by applying both underground and surface methods, are rising. Increasing the productivity of those transport systems and longer transport distances lead to an increase in the load to which conveyor belts are expo...

Ash accumulating in a power plant-s ash pond represents a significant environmental burden for both nature and the people living nearby. For several years, we have been exploring the potential use of fungi, particularly the oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus), in the remediation and filtration process to ultimately achieve the revitalization of the ash pond site. The ash is mixed into a substrate based on European beech (Fagus sylvatica) wood chips, with the addition of two production strains of oyster mushroom....

The aim of the paper is to examine the role of the break-even point (BEP) as a business management tool in the conditions of natural disasters and to propose various managerial scenarios for effective decision-making after severe damage to production equipment. The break-even point of a company represents the sales volume or revenue level at which total revenues equal total costs (both fixed and variable), meaning that the enterprise neither makes a profit nor incurs a loss. Below this threshold, the company opera...

In our current research project, we explored the factors, that promoting and hindering the spread of the sustainability-ensuring digitalization developments and investments in agricultural production. The main question we sought to answer was why digitalization technologies are spreading in Hungary, which contribute greatly to the achievement of sustainability goals. According to Szabo, [11] 2025 the reason for raising the spreading of these technologies was, that the agricultural sector in Hungary has played a si...

Access to affordable and reliable charging is emerging as a central equity challenge in the transition to electric mobility. While most EV charging in Europe occurs at home, this option is unavailable to many urban residents without private parking, who must depend on more expensive public infrastructure. This study compares everyday EV charging costs in London (United Kingdom) and Riga (Latvia), examining four representative EV user clusters with distinct daily mobility patterns. Using harmonised energy-demand pr...

An AI camouflage design was used to create an IR camouflage textile structure, utilising Grafco screen printing inks and Chromatex HD10 pigments characterised by high brightness and colour resistance. For vector image editing, CorelDRAW software was employed. The screen-printing process was carried out following these steps: frame selection, screen selection, and image preparation. The reflection index was determined using a spectrophotometric method with a UV-VIS-NIR Perkin Elmer Lambda 950 spectrophotometer, mea...

One of a country s most valuable natural resources is its soil, and since it cannot be replaced, it must be protected. In addition to being an important part of the environment with a variety of functions, it is crucial for agricultural and forestry productivity. Nevertheless, the soil is in danger due to a number of processes. In the Czech Republic, these are primarily water and wind erosion. Agroforestry systems are one of the options to reduce them. Furthermore, they can enhance water management, mitigate the e...

The development of cements that produce less CO2 is important for the preservation of our environment. One way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is to produce belite cements that contain a higher proportion of belite than alite. Although the long-term strengths of this type of cement are comparable or even higher than those of ordinary Portland cement, their disadvantage is insufficient initial strengths) due to the slow hydration of belite. In this work, the effect of adding SO3 to the raw meal on the initial st...

The walnut kernel (Juglans regia L.) is highly appreciated for its unique sensory properties and nutritional value. Walnut kernels contain around 60% oil; this varies from variety to variety. Walnut oil is cold-pressed from dried walnut kernels and has a strong and distinctive walnut flavour. The effect of adding some spices as a natural source of antioxidants on the oxidative stability of walnut oil was investigated in the present study. Three types of flavoured walnut oil were obtained: with garlic (Allium sativ...

Soil organic matter (SOM) plays a crucial role in maintaining soil fertility and ecosystem stability by influencing nutrient cycling and water retention capacity. Climate change, manifested through rising temperatures, extreme precipitation variability, and increased frequency of extreme weather events, directly affects the dynamics of SOM decomposition and accumulation. This paper examines the mechanisms by which these climatic changes impact SOM stability, emphasizing their effects on agricultural and natural so...

Mollusca constitute a significant phylum within the Black Sea ecosystem. This study provides the first comprehensive checklist of the phylum Mollusca along the Black Sea Georgian coast. It is based on a collection and synthesis of data from various published sources and unpublished records. The checklist draws on material collected across diverse biotopes at depths ranging from 3 to 205 meters, over a period spanning from 1926 to 2023. These collections were conducted as part of various projects and national monit...

The extensive or intensive green roofs are today the common solution for roofs at new and retrofitted buildings in different climatic regions. In terms of region where the building is located the thermal insulation in the roof is or not. In the direction from the equator further the thermal insulation in the roof is important to decrease the heat flow from the building to the exterior during winter months. The presence of thermal insulation on the roof also influences the heat load of rooms under the roof during s...

Supporting the agricultural sector, a factor of strategic importance for ensuring food security, raw materials for the food industry and for maintaining jobs, in the sense that it must benefit from public policy from the state aimed at compensating for losses generated by the increase in prices and other costs such as labour, veterinary services, agricultural utilities, etc. European, counting over 620 000 beekeepers in the EU. The importance of this sector is much greater than could be deduced from its contributi...

The protection and maintenance of cultural heritage is an integral aspect of urban development. Preserving the original architecture, appearance, and material design of historic buildings is of a significant importance for understanding the development of society and the changes that have occurred throughout history. In the face of increasing demands for durability, mechanical strength, water vapor permeability, and compatibility with other parts of historical construction, research has focused on innovations in l...