This paper reviews current trends in the reuse and effective disposal of bentonite clay sorbent (montmorillonite, as the main mineral in bentonite and palygorskite clays) after its application in wastewater treatment systems. Special attention is given to its potential applications in construction and polymer composites. A comparative analysis of the advantages and limitations of various approaches to bentonite regeneration, reuse possibilities, and effective disposal of the spent sorbent is conducted. The specifics of using spent bentonite are determined based on the nature of the pollutants sorbed onto the clay mineral surface. Important aspects of using montmorillonite clays, both pristine and pollutant-saturated, are discussed from the perspective of their natural sources, chemical structure, physical and chemical properties. Useful properties for industrial applications include, among others, particle size and layered structure, molecular structure and cation exchange effect, barrier properties, and water absorption. The presented data on the use of spent montmorillonite clays are based on products classified by their industrial application. Most discussions are supported by specific studies and their results.
The object of study was the decline of global water resources in the context of global climate change. This study examines the quantitative and qualitative degradation of water systems and the growing challenges of accessibility for populations worldwide. The analysis highlights the distructive consequences of global warming on ecosystem contamination and all the related issues such as altered precipitation patterns, glacier retreat, disruption of hydrological cycles, intensification of water scarcity, and water quality deterioration. The paper emphasizes the urgent need for effecive management, nature-based solutions, government policies on adaptation, equitable policies to ensure sustainable access to freshwater and to strengthen resilience to ongoing climate pressures. To anchor these global paradigms in empirical reality, the study deploys an advanced ecological monitoring framework within the Lviv region of Ukraine, critically assessing the hydrochemical status of the Dniester and Western Bug river basins. The regional observations reveal significant systemic vulnerabilities stemming from antiquated wastewater infrastructure, unchecked nutrient loading, and recent military-induced environmental disruptions.
This study investigates the structure and porosity of carbon nanocomposites synthesised from wheat straw using a two-stage method. Iron (III) chloride and nickel chloride were used as activators. It was found that iron chloride causes a significant increase in the microporosity of the carbon matrix. The magnetic phase in such a nanocomposite is magnetite. Nickel chloride facilitates more effective incorporation of the magnetic phase (nickel) into the nanocomposite structure, as evidenced by an almost tenfold increase in the specific magnetisation compared to the nanocomposite synthesised using iron (III) chloride. It has been shown that nickel nanoparticles have an average size of 100 nm, whilst Fe3O4 magnetite nanoparticles are of the order of 20 nm in size. It has been established that the zero-charge point (рНPZC) for the nanocomposite synthesised using nickel chloride is 9.28, and for the nanocomposite synthesised using iron (III) chloride is 3.44. Due to its high рНPZC value, the nanocomposite synthesised using nickel chloride will be an effective sorbent for PFAS anions in an aqueous medium via electrostatic interaction.
The article investigates the thermochemical characteristics of solid plant residues obtained after the pharmaceutical processing of wild carrot (Daucus carota) fruits, specifically the extraction of biologically active substances by maceration in the production of Urolesan®-type preparations. The methods of bomb calorimetry, complex thermal analysis, and X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy were used to compare samples before and after extraction. The calorific value of the pelleted residues was determined to be within the range of 14.8–16.5 MJ kg-1, which allows for the assessment of their energy potential as components for solid biofuels. The results confirm the feasibility of using pharmaceutical plant waste as a fuel material with low ash content and stable thermal behavior. A technological solution is proposed for obtaining fuel briquettes through low-temperature drying and pressing without the use of synthetic binders—due to the natural content of pectins and cellulose. The research is consistent with the provisions of the EU Bioeconomy Strategy and the principles of circular resource use, aimed at reducing organic waste and decarbonizing local energy systems.
The article develops and tests a physical and mathematical model for optimizing the operation of a multistage condensation and recovery system (CRS) with the aim of improving energy efficiency and environmental safety. The key task of the modeling was to comprehensively describe the thermophysical processes, taking into account phase transitions, in particular the use of latent heat of evaporation. The modeling was performed based on computational fluid dynamics (CFD) methods, which allowed the integration of mass, momentum, and energy conservation equations with a description of water vapor condensation. This ensured accurate determination of temperature, pressure, and humidity distribution at each stage of heat exchange. The design results demonstrate the advantages of multi-stage schemes: cascade cooling increases energy efficiency by 12–18% compared to traditional single-stage counterparts. This directly leads to reduced fuel consumption and minimized heat and steam emissions, improving environmental performance. The developed model serves as a universal engineering tool for designing highly efficient and low-carbon heat recovery systems in the food industry, particularly in baking ovens and drying installations.
This article presents a theoretical justification of the design parameters of a solar desalination plant intended for the extraction of fresh water from brine. A series of conducted investigations revealed the mechanisms of solar energy distribution and the principal heat losses within the components of the solar desalination plant. This made it possible to theoretically determine the interaction between key natural and anthropogenic factors influencing the increase in the environmental efficiency of the water desalination process. A universal structural scheme for a solar desalination plant is proposed, comprising a thermally insulated casing with inlet and outlet pipes for brine supply and vapour extraction, respectively, and a transparent cover beneath which a basin containing the initial brine is located, with an adsorber positioned on its surface. A novel design of a hermetically sealed, hemispherical heating chamber is introduced, which enables a reduction in the brine boiling point and a considerable increase in the intensity of vapour generation. The derived theoretical dependence of the mass condensation rate of fresh water on the technical parameters of the desalination plant may serve as a foundation for the development of a virtual model, facilitating further optimisation of the plant’s design parameters in order to increase the energy efficiency of the desalination process and minimize the negative impact on the environment.
The article is devoted to a comprehensive study of soil pollution in the area affected by a solid waste landfill. The aim of the work is to conduct a geospatial analysis of soil pollution in the area of the Volodymyr landfill and the environmental risks of its operation. During the study, test pits were dug at three control points at different distances from the landfill and soil samples were taken at depths of 0.2, 0.4 and 0.6 m. A comprehensive assessment of the morphological and ecological-agrochemical properties of the soil was carried out, and the acidity and macroelement content at different depths were determined. Using 3D relief modelling, the main migration routes of pollutants were identified and the territory was zoned according to the degree of environmental risk. Elevated levels of phosphorus (227.7 mg/kg) and potassium (168.3 mg/kg) were found in the immediate vicinity of the landfill, with their concentrations gradually decreasing with distance from it. Hydrochemical analysis of the filtrate revealed a critical exceedance of the MPC for ammonium nitrogen (523 times), phosphate phosphorus (56.5 times) and chlorides (7.8 times). Based on the results of the study, recommendations were developed to minimise the impact of the landfill on the environment.
The article presents the results of developing a web application designed to detect household waste in urban areas and facilitate its cleanup through the involvement of a wide range of citizens. Existing environmental pollution monitoring analogues – TrashOut, EcoHike, Litterati, and Debris Tracker – were analyzed. The developed web application stands out by combining all key features: an interactive map, events, and a reward system. Technologies and implementation tools were used including the Vue.js framework, TypeScript language, Mapbox GL and Axios libraries, Express framework, Node.js environment, and MongoDB database. The web application operates in browsers such as Google Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge (versions 113+) on operating systems including Windows 10+, macOS 12+, iOS 16.5+, and Android 11+. Testing of the web application involved enriching the interactive map with markers of waste accumulation and events for its collection. Directions for further project development have been proposed, including the creation of a mobile application, integration with municipal services, implementation of advanced analytics of collected data, and further addition of gamification elements to encourage user activity.
The article analyzes the current state and key threats to environmental safety arising from pollution of water resources by oil and petroleum products. Emulsions and suspensions are complex dispersed systems that are widely used in industry. Their formation in the natural and industrial environment often leads to environmental problems, in particular, pollution of water bodies by oil-containing emulsions and solid particles. Effective separation of such systems remains a pressing issue. Numerical modeling of a hydrocyclone using the finite element method and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) was carried out to assess the efficiency of separation of sand and petroleum particles depending on the density of the liquid, particle size and water-oil ratio. A three-dimensional model of the hydrocyclone was built, boundary conditions were determined and modeling was carried out to determine the optimal operating parameters. The results showed that the separation efficiency significantly depends on the volumetric flow rate of the liquid, phase composition and particle size distribution. Increasing the flow rate and optimizing the water-oil ratio increases particle removal, while small particles are more prone to turbulent diffusion, making their separation more difficult. Boundary conditions for modeling were established and a simulation analysis was performed to determine the optimal operating parameters of the hydrocyclone and improve its application efficiency. The study confirmed that CFD modeling, combined with optimization of the hydrocyclone geometry, including cone angle, tube diameters, and body length, significantly improves the vortex core stability and overall separation efficiency.
The paper considers innovative chemical technologies and environmental approaches to minimizing the negative impact of invasive species on natural and agroecosystems. The problem of biological invasions is currently one of the key threats to biodiversity, the stability of agricultural landscapes, and food security. A systematic approach is proposed that combines the latest methods of chemical control, biotechnological solutions, and environmentally safe management practices. The novelty of the research lies in the use of selective chemical agents that reduce the risk of secondary pollution, as well as in the development of integrated technologies aimed at restoring the functional stability of ecosystems. Particular attention is paid to assessing the effectiveness of integrated measures in different types of environments, as well as their impact on biota and soil-hydrological processes. The approaches presented are of practical importance for the formation of environmental safety strategies, reduction of economic losses in agriculture, and preservation of natural diversity.
This article examines the impact of climate change on groundwater conditions in the city of Mykolaiv, which is one of Ukraine’s most vulnerable cities in terms of water supply. Rising average annual temperatures and decreasing precipitation, combined with prolonged droughts and lower air humidity, have led to a significant drop in groundwater levels and a decline in water quality in southern Ukraine. The consequences of the armed conflict have created additional risks, including infrastructure damage, environmental pollution, and unregulated well drilling. This study analyzes meteorological indicators—temperature, precipitation, and humidity—for the period from 1995 to 2024. Changes in climatic parameters were tracked, and their potential impact on groundwater was assessed. The conclusions are based on measurement data from a 27-month period, cartographic materials, and statistical data. The article analyzes changes in temperature, precipitation dynamics, and changes in the static water level in a well in the city of Mykolaiv. It also examines adaptation strategies aimed at increasing the resilience of water supply systems to natural and anthropogenic threats
This article investigates the profound environmental contamination caused by explosive ordnance resulting from the russian armed aggression against Ukraine. Drawing on historical precedents, such as the "Zone Rouge" in France following the First World War, the study demonstrates that toxic remnants from munitions can persist for over a century, rendering agricultural lands unusable and posing severe public health risks. The environmental impacts are categorized into physical and chemical dimensions. Physical impacts involve the profound destruction of soil profiles by explosion craters, as evidenced by spatial analysis of satellite imagery from the Kharkiv region. Chemical contamination stems from the release of highly toxic secondary explosives (e.g., TNT, hexogen) and heavy metals into soils and aquifers. Given that up to 40% of the explosive mass can be released into the environment in the event of a dud, the unprecedented scale of artillery deployment by the russian (over 13 million rounds in 2022 alone) imposes a catastrophic ecological burden. The authors conclude that explosive ordnance acts as a long-term threat multiplier; thus, safe economic land reclamation necessitates rigorous environmental monitoring and risk management long after standard mine clearance operations are completed.
Under modern conditions, the traditional biological treatment technologies existing at most wastewater treatment plants in Ukraine do not allow for achieving stable operation of the facilities. The influx of toxic wastewater results in a significant disruption of the functional state of the activated sludge, leading to a deterioration in the biological treatment of wastewater. An effective technology for the intensification of biological wastewater treatment from various types of pollutants is proposed. The method of bio-induced activation of activated sludge microorganisms includes the collection of return activated sludge with its subsequent treatment by Krebs cycle metabolites and continuous aeration for 18–24 hours, followed by feeding with clarified wastewater and the introduction of the treated activated sludge into the aeration tanks. The method of biological activation of activated sludge microorganisms by Krebs cycle metabolites is capable of exerting a comprehensive effect on the biological wastewater treatment processes and achieving stability in the functioning of the activated sludge biocenosis.
Military actions in Ukraine have severely affected water sources, mainly due to the destruction of dams, pumping stations, treatment facilities, canals, and the seizure of water infrastructure. These events damaged water supply systems and contaminated drinking sources, reducing reserves in certain areas. The issue is intensified in Ukraine due to the high industrialization of regions near active conflict zones. This study focuses on the impact of war on drinking water in the Dnipropetrovsk region, located 105–150 km from the front line. Further risks to water quality stem from missile attacks, where debris from rockets and drones targeting cities like Dnipro, Samara, and Kamianske may alter the chemical state of nearby aquatic ecosystems. To evaluate water safety, we conducted a physicochemical analysis of 16 indicators, including pH, oxidation, alkalinity, conductivity, metals (iron, copper, cadmium, zinc), and nitrogen compounds. Results were benchmarked against national sanitary standards (DSanPiN 2.2.4-171-10, 2010) applicable to well and spring waters. Exceedances of pH and permanganate oxidizability were found in Kocherezhky and Novotroitske villages, while nitrate exceedance was recorded only in Bulakhivka. Water quality classes were determined using DSTU 4808:2007 standards. The poorest quality was in Bulakhivka’s well, where 5 of 13 parameters fell into the 4th class (mediocre), while Kocherezhky’s pump room showed the best quality, with 10 of 13 indicators rated as 1st class (excellent).
This study examined the composition, phenology, and ecological significance of nectar-producing flora in the agricultural landscapes of the Hadyach Urban Territorial Community (UTC), Poltava region, Ukraine. A total of 78 species, including native trees, ruderal herbs, meadow forbs, and cultivated crops, provided continuous nectar and pollen availability for honey bees (Apis mellifera) and wild pollinators from early spring to late autumn. Key species such as Tilia cordata, Robinia pseudoacacia, Helianthus annuus, and Phacelia tanacetifolia were identified as major contributors across different seasons. Field experiments demonstrated that the choice of preceding crop strongly influenced flowering phenology, floral density, nectar sugar content, pollinator visitation, and seed yield of Fagopyrum esculentum and H. annuus. Leguminous and nectariferous predecessors, including Melilotus alba, Phacelia tanacetifolia, and Glycine max, enhanced flowering duration, increased flower density by 5–49%, raised nectar sugar concentration by 41–136%, and improved seed yield by 17–46%. Current crop rotations, dominated by non-nectar-producing species, occupy only 18–20% of arable land, limiting temporal continuity of nectar supply. Expanding the share of nectariferous crops to 40–60% of cultivated area is recommended to stabilize nectar flows, support pollinator health, and enhance agroecological sustainability. Strategic integration of high-value nectar plants and perennial legumes into crop rotations can fill seasonal flowering gaps, improve soil fertility, and strengthen the resilience of agroecosystems.
The research investigated the influence of compost-based substrates on plant growth and development over 25 days. The study utilized compost from the Lviv municipal enterprise “Green City”, which consisted of garden and park waste (leaves, branches, and mowed grass), as well as food waste from city residents and organic food waste from manufacturing enterprises. The composting process was conducted in a designated area under controlled conditions. A mixture of compost, peat, soil, sand, and clay, mixed in various ratios, was used to prepare the substrate. The bioindication method was used to evaluate how the substrates influenced the dynamics of plant growth. The experimental results were used to determine the average germination rate of ryegrass in the test samples, along with the average values of key plant parameters, including stem height, root length, and plant weight. It found that, after the experiment ended, the highest germination rate was in option 1 – 95.8%, and the lowest in option 4 – 85.8%. The highest average values of the main parameters of ryegrass were in options 1, 2, 3, and 4, and the lowest in the control sample and option 5.
The main methods for removal dyes from wastewater and the essence of advanced oxidation processes are considered. The advantages of using solid-phase oxidizing agents compared to liquid-phase oxidants are presented. The influence of the specific power (P/V) of ultrasonic cavitation treatment on the efficiency and intensity of dyes degradation using advanced oxidation processes based on simultaneously activated by ultrasonic cavitation and catalysts of solid-phase oxidizing agents is analyzed. It was found that the degradation degree of Congo red using the advanced oxidation process “US/FeSO4/PPI” at P/V=68 W/L was 97.2 %, and the degradation rate constant was 2.401×102 M-1s-1. It was also found that in the case of Rh B degradation using the advanced oxidation process “US/MgMn2O4/SPC” at P/V=51 W/L, the degradation degree was 98 %, and the rate constant was 0.308×102 M-1s-1. The expediency of applying the energy-saving principal when selecting the mode of US treatment is substantiated. A principal technological scheme for dyes degradation was developed, which included combined (cavitation and catalytic) activation of solid-phase oxidizing agents (PPI or SPC).
A thorough evaluation of drinking water quality was performed for several sources in Vynnyky, Lviv region, including springs on B. Khmelnytsky and M. Kypriyan Streets, a well located at 17 K. Hrynevycheva Street, and tap water from the centralized supply system at 14 V. Sukhomlynskyi Street. The parameters analyzed encompassed total hardness, pH level, overall mineral content, as well as concentrations of chlorides, sulfates, iron, ammonium, nitrates, nitrites, and electrical conductivity The analysis revealed that water from the well at 17 K. Hrynevycheva Street had the most parameters exceeding acceptable limits. Notably elevated levels of total hardness, nitrates, and overall mineralization were identified, rendering this source inappropriate for drinking without prior purification The water sample from the spring on B. Khmelnytsky Street showed an elevated iron concentration, which negatively affects the sensory qualities of the water – such as its taste and appearance – and could potentially endanger human health if consumed over an extended period. Water obtained from natural sources exhibited elevated electrical conductivity and total dissolved solids, surpassing the thresholds established by European water quality regulations. In two of the samples – specifically, the spring on M. Kipriyan Street and the well – the nitrate levels were found to be 3 to 5 times higher than the allowable values outlined in Sanitary and Epidemiological Norms 2.2.4-171-10 for drinking water. Although tap water showed the smallest deviations among the tested sources, it still failed to comply with the standards of Council Directive 98/83/EC due to excessive mineral content and high electrical conductivity.
The paper investigates the effectiveness of the modified Fenton method for secondary treatment of solid waste landfill leachates after preliminary treatment using the aerated lagoon method. The study was conducted in laboratory and semi-industrial conditions.Based on the obtained results of reagent purification of filtrates in laboratory conditions, the optimal doses of working solutions of reagents (polyacrylamide, aluminum and iron sulfates, hydrogen peroxide) were established.The results obtained in laboratory conditions were tested and refined during field studies on a prototype of a filtrate pretreatment unit.
The paper examines legislative mechanisms for biodiversity conservation and combating invasive flora as key instruments for ensuring the ecological safety of landscapes. Emphasis is placed on the need to improve the regulatory framework in the field of environmental protection, taking into account current environmental challenges. It analyzes existing national and international legal acts that regulate biodiversity conservation, as well as the specifics of the legal regime for managing invasive plant species. Particular attention is paid to the harmonization of Ukrainian legislation with European environmental standards. The novelty of the study lies in identifying gaps in current legislation and justifying the need to integrate a comprehensive approach to regulating activities related to introduced species. Recommendations are made for improving the legal framework for monitoring, control, and accountability for the spread of invasive plants. The work emphasizes the importance of interagency cooperation and environmental education as components of effective implementation of environmental protection policy.
