Abstract: This study analyzes the technical and economic feasibility of using Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) as an alternative to hydropneumatic tanks for controlling transient pressures in pumping systems. The methodology involved computational modeling of hydraulic transients in a 400 mm diameter ductile iron pipeline, with a total length of 10,346 meters, connected to a pumping station with a nominal flow rate of 200 LPS and a head of 285 meters. Two scenarios were compared: (i) the use of hydropneumatic tanks (HPT) combined with a bidirectional surge tank (BST); and (ii) the implementation of a BESS, enabling gradual pump shutdown. Results indicated that the BESS, by facilitating a 4-minute ramp-down, reduced the peak pressure by 155.31 mwc and maintained a minimum pressure of 1.7 mwc, successfully preventing vacuum formation. In contrast, the HPT solution reduced peak pressure by 134.44 mwc but resulted in a subpressure of -3.5 mwc, necessitating additional BST installation. Furthermore, the BESS demonstrated a lower total lifecycle cost compared to the HPT/BST alternative. The study concludes that BESS is an effective and innovative solution for mitigating hydraulic transients, offering superior technical performance and cost-effectiveness while enhancing the safety and reliability of water supply systems. Key words: hydraulic transients, BESS, battery energy storage system, water hammer, pumping systems
Abstract: Freshwater scarcity and increased cost put pressure on the need to find innovative ways to reuse water in the oil and gas sector. Flowback water represents the crucial period following fracking activity where the injected frack fluids in the formation returns to the surface and collected for proper management. Flowback has undesirable characteristics which makes it unusable for practical reuse, unless adequately treated. The purpose of this study is to evaluate viable and practical methods to reclaim flowback water for beneficial industrial and societal reuse, aiming to enhance environmental protection. Batch treatments of flowback water included ozone, electrocoagulation, and combined charcoal-ozone. Results showed that electrocoagulation was more effective, yielding a 90% reduction in COD compared to 52% with the ozone treatment while TSS and turbidity were reduced to 99% and 90% by the electrocoagulation and the ozone treatment, respectively. Reduction in priority heavy metals ranged from 21% to 62% while destruction of heterotrophic bacteria was 90% and 100%, respectively. The charcoal-O3 technique proved largely ineffective as a treatment modality. Key words: flowback, treatment, COD, turbidity, TSS, reuse
Abstract: Blackwater reuse is a growing practice, integrating technological solutions for water sustainability and natural resource management. This master’s research proposes to evaluate the Water Reuse Production Station (EPAR) installed in an administrative building in Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil, a development that holds LEED Platinum certification for sustainable buildings. The aim is to analyze its potential as a model of environmental and economic efficiency in sustainable urban constructions. Based on the future collection and analysis of operational monitoring data and water quality parameters, the expected results will indicate the feasibility of EPAR in reducing potable water consumption, verifying its compliance with the regulatory criteria of CONSEMA-RS Resolution No. 419/2020. The economic analysis intends to demonstrate potential reductions in operational costs and the mitigation of environmental impacts, reinforcing the replicable potential of this technology in different urban contexts. This master’s work will aim to contribute to advancing knowledge on the eco-efficiency of blackwater reuse and to support future public policies for incentive. Key words: eco-efficiency, EPAR, water reuse
Abstract: This research is a call for a solution that balances human well-being with environmental sustainability. At our college, we as a team observed how students and staff feel against paintings and artworks, inspiring us to propose the Green Wall as an effective solution. The primary methods to explore the effects of vertical gardens within architectural and interior design studies. By having field studies for observations and assessment of installing vertical gardens. To verify the problem, we conducted on-site measurements using some Ranger devices in a selected site with a number of field test results. And observed results confirmed the presence of high concentrations of particulate matter and VOCs in the environment, confirming the problem identified and calling for further study and mitigation which is the main part of our research work. Vertical garden offers environmental and educational value to Oman to be used in Oman’s public buildings as living design elements that reflect Oman Vision 2040, particularly in supporting the goal of improving the Environmental Performance Index. By enhancing air quality and introducing greenery in educational facilities. The team proposed the use of a vertical garden as one of the measures to reduce indoor contaminants to get healthy indoor environments. Key words: vertical garden, VOC mitigation, indoor environment, Oman, well-being, experimental study, sustainable benefits
Abstract: This study analyses the availability and quality of information in the National Basic Sanitation Information System (SINISA), using the state of Minas Gerais as a case study. The analysis is based on the Basic Sanitation Deficit Index (IDESB), developed by the João Pinheiro Foundation (FJP), using data from 2017 to 2021. The IDESB serves as a management tool for monitoring deficiencies in sanitation services, focusing on water supply, sewage collection and treatment, solid waste disposal, and stormwater management. The study reveals that 58.3% of municipalities in Minas Gerais present either insufficient or inconsistent data, compromising public policy planning. The results indicate significant information gaps particularly in smaller municipalities, and highlight the need for improved data collection, verification, and capacity building at the local level. Recommendations include restructuring the State Sanitation Information System (SEIS) with updated technologies, respondent training, and cross-validation mechanisms. Reliable data is critical to achieve the universalization goals outlined in the National Basic Sanitation Plan. Key words: sanitation deficit index, data quality, National Basic Sanitation Information System (SINISA), basic sanitation services, Minas Gerais
This study proposes a sustainable funding mechanism for afforestation and reforestation initiatives in Lagos, Nigeria, through the Land Use Charge System under the Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD) framework. The initiative seeks to enhance urban greenery, mitigate natural disasters, and improve air quality and biodiversity. The paper outlines the goals, implementation plan, business model, and expected outcomes of the project, highlighting its alignment with national climate change policies.
Abstract: This study explores the potential of vernacular courtyard architecture as solution to contemporary urban housing challenges, which include social disconnection, environmental degradation, and rapid urbanization. Modern housing models often emphasize density and economic efficiency, overlooking essential aspects of social interaction and environmental sustainability. Vernacular courtyard houses, however, have historically fostered social cohesion and environmental responsiveness through shared, shaded communal spaces, natural ventilation and privacy. By examining these traditional forms across diverse cultural contexts, our research aims to identify design principles that can inform contemporary housing. Using a mixed-methods approach, this study combines qualitative and morpho-typological analyses of historical examples with a literature review and examines modern adaptations inspired by courtyard designs. The Italian Tendenza school’s insights help frame the typological and morphological analysis, emphasizing how courtyard housing shapes and interacts with urban form. Additionally, the focus on “void” spaces in courtyard houses reveals their role as social and environmental moderators. To illustrate these principles, we present one of the chosen case studies, that of Hanoi, where traditional courtyard houses remain integral to the urban landscape. Our findings advocate for adapting vernacular courtyard housing principles to contemporary housing, bridging past architectural practices and future design needs, and promoting resilient, socially inclusive, and sustainable urban living. Key words: vernacular architecture, courtyard house, social interactions, housing quality
Abstract: Aerobic liquid organic nanofertilizer corresponds to the generation of our own knowledge, within the framework of the “Living Soil Paradigm”, and arises as an alternative to the global climate crisis, which at the present time is no longer a technical, ideological or political problem, but a question of survival; this serious situation forces the change of life patterns and current scientific approaches, in the case of agriculture to value processes based on knowledge rather than conventional inputs. The initial findings of the aerobic liquid organic fertilizer NAOLA verify that it contains phytohormones, some still unknown, vitamins, antibiotics, enzymes, available nutrients, nanobacteria and other compounds, which as a foliar nutritional supplement for plants, improve their growth in organically fertilized soils, and also as irrigation revitalize the “living soil”; it is quite versatile in its use as foliar fertilizer, bio-irrigation, biohydroponics, bio-burners and bioremediation of contaminated soils. It is part of an agricultural sustainability strategy that makes quality organic fertilizers the main basis for the resilience of soils and plants in the face of the global climate crisis. Key words: organic nanofertilizers, high Andean composting, biohydroponics
Abstract: One of the challenges of the present is to understand how to update a large housing stock inherited from the Modern. Imagined as a genre of production, Modern movement design research was focused exclusively on housing determined by economic and regulatory parameters. The inhabitant was pushed aside. The modification of domestic living models due to contemporary social changes made it necessary to define new paradigms centered on comfort and on the respect for the needs of the inhabitants. Looking at two European examples, this contribution aims to define a new design approach in which the inhabitant is at the center. Reflecting on the interaction between inhabitant and domestic space, leads the contemporary architect to understand the importance of the performance of the inhabitants who continuously adapt living space according to their own aspirations. This almost daily action can be an important tool for contemporary architects to redevelop and renovate the existing residential heritage. Key words: modern housing renovation, inhabitants’ performance, new ways of inhabiting
Abstract: Historical buildings are being abandoned in many parts of the world in order to meet modern requirements, and these neglected structures negatively affect the urban texture, economy, and social structure of urban area. There is a growing trend towards repurposing historical buildings, which play a crucial role in transferring cultural heritage to future generations. These interventions sometimes involve minor enhancements such as strengthening the structure. However, they sometimes include extensive measures such as adding modern equipment or changing the function of the building. These different scaled interventions influence the building's resistance and can sometimes reduce the earthquake resistance of the building in earthquake prone regions. However, the standards which are used to determine the earthquake resistance of buildings are often based on modern construction techniques. Therefore, it is usually difficult to evaluate the earthquake resistance of historical buildings constructed by using traditional methods. These interventions sometimes negatively affect the historical character of the building as well. In order to preserve the historical and urban texture of cities it is crucial to prevent excessive interventions and to carry out these interventions in a controlled manner. This study evaluates the preservation and improvement interventions which are carried out in earthquake-prone regions. Key words: historical buildings, traditional construction techniques, heritage protection, intervention, seismic resistance
Abstract: This research investigates critical land use governance and urban planning concerns, focusing on sustainable development, information technology incorporation, and global change adaptations. These questions are: How can national land use policies be mainstreamed sustainably? How can local leaders better appreciate comprehensive land use planning? What are the ethical implications of using AI in urban planning? And how can public awareness of land use management be increased? The study adopts a comprehensive literature review methodology that combines findings from various urban planning disciplines. It argues that sustainable and inclusive land-use governance must take an integrated approach focusing on sustainability, social equity, technological advancement, and local context. Current practices usually fall short of addressing intricate urban issues, necessitating new paths to resilient, sustainable, and just cities. This study is driven by the pressing need for adaptive governance systems and novel approaches to urban planning amidst rapid urbanization, climate change, and technological disruptions. Key words: urban planning, smart cities, sustainability, governance, environmental planning
This article combines the author's past software development and other work practices related to computer-aided design and construction of building enclosure walls, discussing how computer technology can assist in various methods and directions during the design and construction of building enclosure walls. It mainly involves structural design of load-bearing enclosure walls, structural design of non-load-bearing enclosure walls, thermal insulation design of building enclosure walls, waterproof design of building enclosure walls, planning for enclosure wall hoisting, calculation verification for enclosure wall hoisting, and construction of enclosure walls. Whether in the design of the main structure of the building or in the planning and decoration of the building space, designers need to put in a lot of effort for enclosure walls. It is worth studying how to fully utilize the capabilities of computer technology to free up more time for designers. This article has certain reference value for research and application in related fields.
Abstract: Reverse logistics is defined as the management of reverse flows of products and materials, from consumption back to their origin. It stands out as a crucial tool for boosting environmental sustainability and mitigating the adverse impacts of human activities on the environment. In southern Brazil, a region rich in natural ecosystem diversity, implementing reverse logistics is highly significant to mitigate the effects of goods production and consumption. However, challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, lack of public awareness, and the need for specific regulations hinder the practice in this region. This study aims to explore options adopted in other countries as models to enable the implementation and use of reverse logistics for biodiversity conservation, promoting the dissemination of the circular economy as a critical aspect. Through a literature review, viable solutions and successful examples of reverse logistics application were sought. Adapting international experiences to the local reality in southern Brazil could contribute to environmental preservation and foster a sustainable and permanent circular economy. Despite challenges like infrastructure deficits, public awareness, and regulatory gaps, this study underscores the importance of exploring successful international models and tailoring them to the local context. Government cooperation through laws and decrees is essential to institutionalize reverse logistics practices. By doing so, we can contribute to environmental preservation and promote a sustainable and enduring circular economy in southern Brazil. Key words: reverse logistics, environmental sustainability, Southern Brazil, environmental legislation
Abstract: Torres Vedras is a county in the west of Portugal with about 80.000 inhabitants and 407 km2. This area is divided into 13 smaller regions, known as “councils”, each one of them with its own Local Public Authority. In the 2006/2007 school year the National Government established the obligation of all the municipalities to be in charge for managing the school meals for kindergartens and primary schools and, in 2020 all school levels became part of the Municipality’s management. At the present moment, around 6.000 are served in schools per day. Instead of hiring a single catering company, the municipality decided to opt for an integrated strategy of governance and territorial development. This involved: 1) Decentralization to local public authorities: For the 12 small regions outside the city area, the responsibility for school meals was decentralized to the local public authorities. This means these authorities, rather than a central body or a private company, manage the school meal services in their respective areas by acquiring this service from the local NGOs; 2) Direct management in the city: In the city area, the Municipality directly manages the school meals through five municipal kitchens. These kitchens not only provide meals, but also serve as a “laboratory” for creating guidelines to the NGOs. Key words: school meals, education, public procurement, social economy, local economy, territory
Abstract: Climate change is one of the biggest problems the world is facing. The Paris agreement (2015) commits signatory nations to limit global warming to well below 2C, preferably 1.5C, compared to pre-industrial levels. In Australia, the construction industry contributes around 18% of total greenhouse gas emissions. Australia consumes, approximately 29 million m3 of concrete each year. The embodied carbon of structural concrete typically ranges from 230 to 615 kg CO2e/m3. On this basis, total embodied carbon associated with concrete in Australia is estimated as 12 Mt CO2e. Therefore, decarbonization of concrete is a key component to Net Zero 2050 strategy across the construction industry. A typical concrete mix consists of 12% Portland cement material, 77% fine & coarse aggregates, 3% supplementary Cementitious material (SCM) and 8% admixtures/ water. Portland cement is the highest embodied carbon material (approximately 905 kg CO2e/t) in a concrete mix and is responsible for approximately 90% of concrete’s footprint. Most concrete decarbonization strategies propose partial or full replacement of Portland cement to reduce the carbon footprint of concrete. This paper presents an overview of a systematic analysis of various concrete decarbonization technologies being adopted worldwide. The study shows that none of the technologies can achieve the net zero goal on a standalone basis. It is recommended that a custom strategy combining more than one technology will have to be adopted to suit the circumstances. Key words: concrete, Portland cement, carbon footprint, embodied carbon, recycled materials
Abstract: Flexible pavements are the most verified type of structures in Mozambique. These, which have too many pathologies, which makes their good performance questionable. The presence of these negatively affects the road mobility of people and goods, a fact that contributes to large losses in the general economic scope of the country. With the repeated passage of the wheelsets combined with the viscoelastic characteristic of the flexible pavement, it is verified that after the removal of the load on it, the pavement does not fully recover its initial position. This phenomenon is called creep, defined as a slow and progressive deformation of the material when subjected to constant stress, in which the deformations grow over time even under a non-variable load. The objective of this research is to eliminate the pathologies that occur in flexible pavements in Mozambique, demonstrating that the effect of temperature should be considered in the calculation of pavement sizing. In the present work, the scope of the problem is directed through the hypothesis that the lack of consideration of the viscoelasticity phenomenon in the analysis of flexible pavements, underestimates the stresses and strains actions required in the structural calculation. In this study, two analysis models are adopted for the simulations, in which the first is the elastic A-linear model, which assumes all layers as elastic linear and the second, as the B- viscoelastic model, which admits the first layer as viscoelastic and the remaining linear elastic. For this purpose, in the study a methodology was adopted based on the results of the deformations of the simulations carried out for each model, in the case of the study of the road construction project in section 1 - Maputo By Pass, Maputo ring road, whose results demonstrated the existence of a strong correlation between the temperature effect and the excessive deformations during the analysis of model pavements. Each model was made up of 6-layer structures, and each structure was considered to have a double circular wheel-loaded area, the sensitivity parameters of the pavement materials, such as load, tire contact pressure, Poisson coefficients and modulus of elasticity, were also considered. From the simulation made with the help of the KENLAYER program for the two pavement models, it was revealed that: Model A — Elastic linear pavement admits low surface stresses in relation to Model B — viscoelastic pavement, both models showed that both the stresses as well as the deformations, decrease as the depth increases and being higher in the positions of load location. Key words: floors, viscoelasticity, temperature variation
Abstract: The primary purpose of a pavement is to create a resistant, regular and adherent surface that facilitates the circulation of vehicular traffic safely and with minimum operating costs for users. To maintain its useful life, floors require periodic diagnostics. Therefore, the assessment of the conservation conditions of a pavement is relevant for analyzing the causes of pathologies as well as a better design of highway recovery projects. This research aims to evaluate the functional condition of the flexible pavement of National Road Number Two (N2), Boane – Namaacha, over a length of 2 km, through the PCI method which was based on the survey, quantification and definition of the causes of pathologies, accompanied by photographic report with the aid of the metric wheel. The classifications were low, medium and high depending on their severity. The results revealed that crocodile skin and depression-type pathologies presented a high level of severity and hole-type pathologies presented three levels of severity (low, medium and high). Finally, it is concluded that there is a predominance of hole-type pathology in the flexible pavement of the N2 road. Key words: flexible flooring, pathologies, PCI, National Road N2
Abstract: This study examines Primary Education teachers’ perceptions regarding the impact of Environmental Education (EE) and Health Education (HE) on students, and how these perceptions influence their teaching practices, with particular focus on differences between kindergarten and elementary school levels. Research indicates that EE is considered crucial for developing responsible environmental behaviors, while HE aims to improve hygiene habits and disease prevention. Teachers at both kindergarten and elementary levels play a pivotal role, as their personal beliefs and training significantly affect the implementation of EE and HE programs. Students participating in EE programs develop knowledge and positive attitudes toward nature, while the integration of health topics promotes healthier lifestyles. Teachers broadly recognize the importance of EE and HE in fostering environmental awareness and healthy habits from early childhood. In kindergarten settings, emphasis is placed on experiential learning activities, whereas elementary school programs focus on deepening knowledge and developing critical thinking skills. However, teachers report facing implementation challenges. This highlights the need for: (1) targeted program design, (2) enhanced teacher professional development, and (3) adequate infrastructure support." Key words: environmental Education, Health Promotion, primary education, teacher perceptions, teaching practices
Abstract: The labor market is shaped by the demand and supply of the workforce, influenced by national economic growth and various political processes. These factors can alter the demand for certain professions. The interaction between the education sector and employers is crucial to ensure that educational programs prepare specialists needed in the labor market. This study examines the labor market in the field of spatial planning in Latvia, including planner professions, job positions, vacancies, and the associated requirements and duties. Spatial planning, as an interdisciplinary field aimed at improving the quality of places, encompasses various professional disciplines such as territorial planning, urban planning, transportation, environmental, economic, and community planning. The work of a spatial planner includes several distinct professions and job positions. While at the local level in Latvia, the focus of spatial planners is more on territorial planning. The findings indicate systemic issues in the field of planning and a gap between the qualifications prepared by the University of Latvia's Spatial Development Planning Master's program and the job market. The study calls for further discussions on the meaning and significance of spatial planning in the context of sustainable development and suggests updating the professional standard for spatial planners to better align with labor market demands. Key words: spatial planning, competence, profession, labor market, Latvia
Abstract: Nuclear power plants are often characterized and criticized as non-sustainable entities. To explore this characterization and criticism, we move beyond common environmentalist perspectives and study nuclear power plants within the framework of broader sociotechnical system theory. This approach incorporates two distinct interpretations of sustainability: political and economic. We focus on organizational culture, participation, and communication strategies to examine how nuclear power plants perceive sustainability at both the political and business levels. To support our conclusions, we conduct a case study analyzing the initiatives undertaken by the Krško Nuclear Power Plant to implement new sustainability standards. Key words: nuclear power plant, sustainability, socio-technical theories, environmental discourses, organizational culture, participation, communication
