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Threats to forest ecosystems from pest insects are supposed to become more severe due to climate change. Therefore, understanding the dynamics of forest pest insects and the mechanisms of their outbreaks is going to be of even greater importance. To understand these phenomena and cope with the consequences, the question of which patterns show meta-populations of pest insects before and after outbreaks is of high interest. Therefore, long-term studies have been carried out in two research areas in North-West Poland with the aim of studying the fluctuations of meta-populations of the Nun moth (Lymantria monacha L.) (Lepidoptera: Erebidae) using pheromone traps. Synchronization of the fluctuations at the individual study plots was tested for correlations with the numbers of the Nun moth per trap, changes in the numbers of the Nun moth per trap, and the growth factors. The studied Nun moth meta-populations showed a certain pattern in fluctuations of their sub-populations (interaction groups) with phases of asynchronous and synchronous fluctuations; the latter seem to be important when it comes to distinctive peaks in Nun moth numbers in the meta-populations. We conclude that predicting population dynamics of the Nun moth demands long-term studies, including research on both density-dependent factors and stochastic processes.

https://doi.org/10.3390/f16121852

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Coniferous species are known for their ability to purify air from particulate matter (PM), yet particulates accumulated during cultivation, transport, and outdoor storage may be transferred indoors. This study assesses the particulate load, subsequent retention, and further accumulation/release of PM by commercially available Christmas trees—Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) H. Karst.) and Caucasian fir (Abies nordmanniana (Steven) Spach). Trees were examined in two commercial forms and maintained in six typical households (three with cut and potted P. abies, three with cut and potted A. nordmanianna) for 30 days. Measurements at four intervals included concentration dynamics of total PM, PM size fractions, as well as surface vs. in-wax PM ratios and epicuticular waxes on needles. Results showed that potted trees carried substantially higher initial PM loads than cut trees, with P. abies exceeding 200 µg·cm⁻², likely due to differences in production and handling. Potted P. abies and cut A. nordmanniana retained large PM fractions more effectively than cut P. abies. In contrast, the fine PM fraction, the most health-relevant, was best accumulated by cut P. abies. Wax-bound PM shares increased time in potted trees and decreased in the cut. Overall, the findings suggest that choosing a Christmas tree is not only an aesthetic preference but a decision with measurable implications for winter indoor air quality.

https://doi.org/10.3390/f17010010

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Vegetation mitigates air pollution with trace elements (TEs), by capturing them on plant surfaces. However, retention on foliage is typically temporal and TE can be washed off by precipitation. Due to the inherent variability and unpredictability of natural rainfall, as well as complex environmental factors, pollutant removal via precipitation is often studied using simulated rain. This study aimed to determine whether simulated rainfall can reliably replace natural rainfall in experiments assessing the wash-off of TEs from leaf surfaces. Plant material was foliage of 17 plant species (herbaceous plants, deciduous and evergreen trees, and shrubs), growing in an urban park in Wuhan, China. Across all examined TEs (Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, As, Ba, Pt), simulated rainfall generally removed a higher fraction of pollutants than natural rainfall. Interestingly, natural rainfall was associated with increased amounts of Cu and Zn on foliage after precipitation. Pollutant removal efficiency varied depending on the type of rainfall and plant groups, with natural rainfall being more effective in TEs removal from evergreen trees, while simulated rainfall performed better with deciduous shrubs and herbaceous species. These inter- and intra-group variations suggest that simulated rainfall does not fully replicate the mechanisms of pollution removal occurring in real-life conditions.

https://doi.org/10.1080/15226514.2025.2592248

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Although the leading cause of peatland loss and deterioration is direct human activity, peatlands outside the influence of human activity are also subject to pressures that cause their transformation, evolution, and degradation. Due to the diverse course of accelerating climate change (increases in air temperature, changes in precipitation) and its consequences (changes in groundwater recharge, changes in water balance) across Europe, peatlands of different hydromorphological types at different latitudes respond differently to pressures resulting from climate change. In this study, we analyzed climatic indicators determining the resilience of five different types of natural peatlands representing four European mire regions: the palsa mire region (Šuoššjávri), the northern fen region (Øvre Forra), the typical raised bog region (Midtfjellmåsan), and the continental fen and bog region (Rospuda Valley and Biebrza Valley), along a gradient from subarctic Scandinavia to the temperate climate of Central Europe. We analyzed the variability of six characteristic indicators of meteorological conditions that affect the status of these peatlands over possibly long periods (from 1946 to 2022), namely annual sums and seasonality of precipitation, air temperature, evapotranspiration, water balance, and the length of rain-free periods. We revealed that the variability of these indicators was negative, implying an increased risk of losing or changing the character of these peatlands. The most significant changes were diagnosed for the Šuoššjávri palsa mire in northern Norway. The lowest risk of losing or changing the character of peatlands due to climate change was diagnosed in fens and bogs in the oceanic areas of the European northern fen region. In the case of all analyzed sites, there was a stepwise heterogeneity in the values of the analyzed indicators emerging around 1986–1996. The results highlight the importance of continued protection of natural and well-preserved peatlands to support their resilience under progressive, accelerating climate change.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gecco.2025.e03901

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Air pollution, particularly involving particulate matter (PM) and trace elements (TE), poses significant health risks in urban areas. Road traffic is a major year-round PM source, and vegetated earth berms are commonly used as acoustic barriers, but their role in mitigating airborne pollutants is underexplored. This study quantified PM and TE accumulation by herbaceous plants on a highway berm across four seasons, sampling multiple height levels and sides. Two-way ANOVA showed that study site and season significantly influenced all PM fractions and categories, as well as most TE in plants. Plants on the back-side accumulated 18–66 % less total PM than front-side. Total PM deposition peaked in summer (up to 7-fold higher than in spring), while PM₁₀ in air was highest near the road edge in winter (up to 1.3-fold higher), and back-side PM₁₀ was 32–86 % lower than at corresponding front-side. TE concentrations (Fe, Cu, Zn, As) were highest near the road edge, with winter maxima; RI values were up to 42 % lower on the back-side. PCA explained 72 % of total variance, revealing strong correlations between air PM and deposited PM, highlighting site-specific accumulation patterns. Soil Fe, Cu, and Zn were elevated near the road, whereas Pb peaked at the top; pH and EC varied across sites and seasons. Overall, the berm reduced PM levels in air on the back-side by up to 71 % relative to front-side. These findings demonstrate that herbaceous vegetation on earth berms can substantially reduce traffic-related air pollution in urban environments.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.buildenv.2025.113878

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Among greenhouse gases-generating sources, biosphere sources from natural carbon (C) reservoirs play a significant role. A vital component of the biosphere is peatlands—the largest natural terrestrial carbon storage on the earth. Peatlands function as both C sink and C source, showing their pivot role in mitigating GHGs. Releasing C results from peat oxidation—the decomposition of organic matter in the peat. This decomposition reduces the volume of peat and, hence, causes subsidence. This study introduces an exclusive remote-sensing-based framework for estimating carbon emissions from peatlands using subsidence rates. This framework integrates peat properties—bulk density and soil organic carbon—with the oxidated peat subsidence, which refers to the proportion of subsidence attributed to the oxidation process rather than shrinkage. Achieving a fully remote-sensing-based approach promises time-effective, cost-effective, and consistent C emission monitoring even in unreachable places in peatlands, addressing the critical need for global climate change mitigation strategies. However, this achievement requires collaborative efforts among researchers to implement it in other sites to improve dataset accuracy for each parameter. By improving this framework, the scientific community can pave the way for robust, large-scale assessments of peatland C emission.

https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-025-15293-1

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Microplastic particles (MPs) are an emerging global pollutant of increasing concern due to their widespread occurrence, persistence, and multifaceted impact on aquatic ecosystems. This study provides a comprehensive review of peer-reviewed literature from 2011 to 2025, analysing the presence, distribution, and microbiological associations of MPs in surface waters across five continents. The findings confirm that MPs are present in both marine and freshwater systems, with concentrations varying by region, hydrology, and proximity to anthropogenic sources. Polyethylene and polypropylene were identified as the most common polymers, often enriched in river mouths, estuaries, and aquaculture zones. A key focus of this review is the plastisphere—microbial biofilms colonizing MPs—which includes both environmental and pathogenic bacteria such as Vibrio, Pseudomonas, and Acinetobacter. Notably, MPs serve as vectors for the spread of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), including sul1, tetA and ermF, and β-lactamase genes like blaCTX-M. This highlights their role in enhancing horizontal gene transfer and microbial dissemination. The results emphasize the need for standardized monitoring protocols and further interdisciplinary research. In light of the One Health approach, understanding the microbial dimension of MP pollution is essential for managing risks to environmental and public health.

https://doi.org/10.3390/app15158128

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Simulated rainfall effectively removes particulate matter (PM) from plant surfaces and facilitates subsequent PM re-accumulation, offering potential for enhancing atmospheric PM mitigation. However, comprehensive studies on its efficacy remain limited. This study examined the impact of varying simulated rainfall frequencies on washable PM (_RPM) removal efficiency and PM re-accumulation dynamics in Parthenocissus quinquefolia cultivated on a green screen. PM was categorized into three fractions—_RPM, surface PM (_SPM), and wax PM (_WPM)—and quantified using filter-based assessments. Results indicated that daily simulated rainfall (ED) consistently removed _RPM across all PM fractions (total _RPM, _RPM_10-100, PM_2.5-10, and PM_0.2-2.5) throughout the study. While twelve-day (12D) numerically led to the most _RPM removal, its efficiency was comparable to single ED and six-day (6D) frequencies, with no significant statistical difference. Cumulative _RPM washed off in the ED treatment was significantly higher than in the 12D treatment for all PM fractions (3.0–3.3 times greater), with no adverse effects on plant physiology. Notably, no consistent patterns of _RPM re-accumulation were observed, and simulated rainfall had minimal influence on daily _SPM and _WPM re-accumulation. Extended experimental durations are recommended to validate these findings. This study highlights the simplicity and scalability of frequent simulated rainfall as an effective strategy for accelerating PM phytoremediation in urban environments with persistent air pollution, contributing to sustainable air quality management.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envpol.2025.126649

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Road transportation emits both gaseous and solid air contaminants, along with significant noise pollution. To mitigate the noise, acoustic walls and berms are constructed along roads. When covered with vegetation, these structures can also reduce particulate matter (PM) pollution and provide habitats for invertebrates in environments fragmented by road infrastructure. This study aimed to measure the effectiveness of vegetated acoustic berms (covered with meadow vegetation, Rosa rugosa, or Spiraea japonica) and walls (Parthenocissus quinquefolia or Vitis riparia) created in accumulation of PM and providing shelter for invertebrates along a busy motorway. A combination of field and laboratory analyses, including plant and invertebrate sampling and air quality measurements, was used to assess the links between PM accumulation on vegetation and invertebrate diversity indices (S, H′, D′, J’, Chao1, and BP) on both sides (sidewalk vs. roadside) of a given barrier. Results indicated that all barrier types improved air quality on sidewalks compared to traffic-exposed roadsides. Despite the highest total PM accumulation, berms with meadow vegetation and R. rugosa supported the greatest abundance and diversity of invertebrates (210 species combined). The roadsides were characterized by the lowest diversity indices and the highest prevalence of common taxa, indicating a significant role of PM in shaping invertebrate communities, especially the flying insects. This was further supported by Pearson’s correlations between total PM on plants and ecological indices values. The findings suggest that ecosystem services of noise reduction, PM biofiltration, and invertebrate diversity support are best achieved with earth berms planted with meadow vegetation and R. rugosa shrubs.

https://doi.org/10.1002/ldr.70024 [in press]

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Environmental flow assessment is crucial for sustainable water management. In assessing environmental flows using the most common methods, for example, habitat suitability modelling (HSM), it is assumed that the distribution of aquatic organisms is driven by hydraulic features and substrate type of the habitats. However, most of the existing research does not consider analyses of organisms’ ecological traits and their community structure. To bridge this gap, we present the results of analyses of macroinvertebrate communities carried out for environmental flow purposes. The study was performed at two reaches of the Flinta River, a European, lowland, temperate and perennial river, with different degrees of hydromorphological alterations. We state that more detailed analyses of organisms’ community in environmental flow assessment are needed. Thus, we assess the dissimilarity of the organism community structure sampled during field campaigns by means of statistical tests, and we analyse macroinvertebrate ecological traits and indicators commonly used to evaluate river status. Afterwards, we discuss the applicability of the analyses and provide recommendations for the future environmental flow assessments.

https://doi.org/10.1002/eco.70049

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Nature-based solutions, including green walls (GWs), can provide environmentally and socially sustainable building approaches to urban environmental design. Between 2017 and 2022, as part of a big urban regeneration project in the city of Turin (Italy), the University of Turin promoted the addition of 300 m² of GWs to two newly constructed sustainable buildings in the city centre (Aldo Moro Complex). The GWs were constructed using the modular Decor wall^® system (Dual green, Turin), and comprise 620 modules (80×60 cm each) supporting over 8000 plants, including grasses and shrubs. The research aimed to improve design criteria to maximize the ecosystem services provided by the GWs. Following a literature review, plant species were chosen according to aesthetic, biodiversity, environmental, and management criteria. In June 2021, he atmospheric particulate matter (PM_2.5, PM₁₀, and PM₁₀₀) uptake capacity of five selected plant species was also studied: Lonicera nitida E. H. Wilson, L. nitida ‘Lemon Beauty’, Muehlenbeckia complexa (A. Cunn.) Meisn., Vinca major L. ‘Variegata’, and Cotoneaster salicifolius Franch. The mass of surface and epicuticular in-wax PM was determined gravimetrically by washing off PM from both leaf surfaces with water (surface PM) or chloroform (in-wax PM). After filtration, the filters were dried, weighed, and the amounts of the two size fractions PM (μg cm^‑2 of leaf surface) were measured. The analyses showed that the most efficient plant species in capturing particulate matter is M. complexa with a total value of 217.69 µg cm^‑2 and the least is L. nitida ‘Lemon Beauty’ with 110.46 µg cm^‑2. In addition, a questionnaire on citizens’ perception of ecosystem services was circulated via a printed QR code, through Instagram^® and WhatsApp^®, and garnered 219 responses. The urban regeneration project showed that even minimal urban greening interventions make a substantial impact on citizens’ well-being.

10.17660/ActaHortic.2025.1429.17

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Phosphorus (P) excess in the aquatic environment is a source of eutrophication leading to the deterioration of water quality and biodiversity loss. Methods of in situ controlling P in lakes and reservoirs mostly require the addition of chemical substances to a water body without the possibility of controlling their future interactions with the environment. This study compared the performance of two solutions, laminates and modules, developed for non-invasive P removal from aquatic ecosystems with the use of calcite mineral as a P-reactive material. Both techniques enable reductions in the orthophosphate (OP) availability in lake water, and its removal from the ecosystem, without the permanent deposition of the P binding agent in the environment. In a laboratory mesocosm experiment, both, laminates and modules, lowered the OP concentration in lake water for at least 6 weeks compared to no treatment; the efficiency of modules was, however, much higher. They effectively eliminated the OP initially available in the system and further captured the OP newly supplied by the decomposition processes, showing continuous OP uptake, while laminates appeared to exhaust their capacity after about 1 week. This was mostly because of technical design—the calcite dose per m² of the surface area was 168 times higher in modules compared to laminates. Treatment using both techniques caused a slight pH decrease compared to no treatment with a minor change of up to 0.2 point. Modules have the most potential for the implementation in practice as they are able to decrease the OP concentration for relatively long time periods of weeks to months without the need to be exchanged. They offer a refillable and reusable system for P control, removal, and recovery. Field tests should be performed to verify the performance of modules and laminates under in-lake conditions and complex interactions with the aquatic organisms to check for possible limitations and/or synergies between the non-invasive P removal techniques and native processes.

https://doi.org/10.3390/app15105262

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Extreme temperatures in cities have become even more dramatic, making urban heat island (UHI) mitigation strategies difficult to implement. To understand the contribution of urban green spaces (UGS) to improving the thermal environment under realistic stressor interactions, six stressors – road density (RD), building density (BD), building height (BH), percentage of impervious surface (P_IS), percentage of green space (P_GS) and sky view factor (SVF) – were selected in this study to identify their impact on the cooling intensity of UGS (DLST) in summer using a generalized additive model (GAM) method. The results demonstrated that: (1) individual stressors RD, BD, BH, P_IS, and P_GS had a significant impact on DLST and showed threshold effect on DLST at grid scale; (2) stressor interactions BD × SVF, BD × P_IS, BD × BH and SVF × P_IS had significant impacts on DLST; and (3) stressor interactions contributed 54.07 % to DLST in GAM model, the individual stressors contributed 39.81 % to DLST, while in between BD × BH showed the dominant interactive impact on the cooling effect of UGS. These findings will assist with regulating urban stressors to enhance the cooling effects of UGS, thereby improving the urban thermal environment.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scs.2025.106426

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Maintaining the ecological integrity and functionality of ecosystems is one of the major challenges faced in the sustainable management of natural capital. Urban areas play a key role in this setting, providing multiple ecosystem services for a rapidly growing urban population worldwide while under constant pressure from several interacting natural and anthropogenic stressors. This paper targets the critical knowledge gap concerning how different stressor indicators – traffic (TD), building density (BD), building height (BH), percentage of impervious surface (PLAND_I) and land surface temperature (LST) – and their interactions affect the removal of particulate matter (PM_2.5) by urban blue-green infrastructure at multiple spatial scales. With spatial ranges varying with the area of blue-green infrastructure, the results showed that within the small-scale spatial range (90–450 m) the stressors LST, TD, PLAND_I and their interactions had a significant impact on PM_2.5; in the mesoscale spatial range (240–600 m), the stressors LST, TD, BH, PLAND_I, BD and their interactions had a strong impact on PM_2.5; while in the large-scale spatial range (390–1200 m), stressors of TD, PLAND_I, LST, BH and their interactions had a significant impact on PM_2.5. Additionally, several spatial structures of PM_2.5-stressor interactions were found, especially with larger lakes (exceeding 67.6 ha), which were dominated by negative correlations, which is singularity attributed to their greater capacity for PM_2.5 accumulation and microclimatic regulation and may mitigate the influence of stress factors. Importantly, this study confirmed that interactive stressors contributed more to the GAM model. Thus, overlooking interactive stressors may lead to an overestimation of PM removal by urban blue-green infrastructure. Regarding the spatial interactions of stressors-PM at multiple scales, spatial range conditions can change the properties of the blue-green infrastructure that determine the effective PM accumulation and identify the crucial stressor indices. A framework was developed to address the stressors’ mode of action and the extent to which the combined stressors affect PM mitigation. It allows the scientific community and relevant stakeholders to evaluate which stressors and their interactions in relation to PM removal share a common spatial pattern, and to assess independently the spatial covariation between stressors and PM removal at different spatial scales. It also demonstrates the possibility of using these stressor indicators as potential predictors of the impacts of land-use intensity on PM mitigation.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecolind.2025.113489

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Hydrological conditions of habitats remain one of the key factors determining the occurrence, abundance, condition, successful foraging, and breeding success of a range of wetland bird species. Appropriate saturation of the topsoil, flooding recurrence, and groundwater levels assuring stability of peatland and riparian ecosystems remain critical indicators for habitat suitability and behavioral requirements for wetland biota. Hence, comprehensive and geographically distributed studies on relations between the occurrence of selected wetland bird species and defined hydrological indicators may allow for the formulation of specific target values that remain a key factor to successful habitat management. Based on the extensive automatic water levels monitoring, our research conducted a comprehensive hydrological evaluation on 16 breeding grounds of the Great Snipe Gallinago media located in the westernmost range of lowland populations in east Poland. Our field-research-oriented study over 3 years (2020–2022), was an attempt to find correlations between selected hydrological indicators and Great Snipe males number on the leks. We found that the multi-annual lowest groundwater level during breeding season best explained the abundance of Great Snipes males on the lek and was positively correlated with the number of males present on the lek. We did not find any correlations between changing saturations in habitats and changes in the abundance of males present on the lek over one particular lekking season. Our findings indicate, that management of the Great Snipe habitats, at least in its western-most range of lowland population, should be oriented at assuring high groundwater levels just before and during the lekking season (late April-mid-May), consistently throughout the years. We found that average groundwater levels could have described appropriate hydrological habitat conditions for examined Great Snipe habitats during the lekking season ranging from 0.04 m above the ground level (agl) to −0.43 m agl. We also revealed that the target depths to groundwater table in fens, drained peatlands and floodplains should be kept at the level of at least −0.2 m agl to sustain appropriate hydrological conditions to maintain large and stable leks. Provided results have the potential to become a goal in the Great Snipe habitat management, where drainage and agricultural abuse of habitats have been reported as a main threat to this species’ resilience in the edges of its range in Europe.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jnc.2025.126947

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Festivals are significant markers of cultural heritage and community traditions. Nevertheless, every year, significant increases in pollution levels are recorded during celebratory events, due to the overuse of firecrackers. This study evaluated gaseous and particulate matter (PM) concentrations using a gas and particulate sampler, alongside noise levels measured by a sound level meter, during the pre-to-post-Diwali period of 2023 and 2024 in Malda, India, and PM concentrations in Warsaw, Poland in 2024, using a DustAir dust meter. The results indicated that during Diwali, the concentrations of PM_2.5 and PM₁ exceeded the standard set by the World Health Organization, while gaseous pollutants remained within acceptable limits. Since no standards set for PM₁ exist, PM_2.5 criteria were utilized as a benchmark. Additionally, on New Year’s Eve in Warsaw, concentrations of PM₁₀, PM_2.5, and PM₁ surpassed the standard around midnight, while gaseous pollutants remained within the standard range. An elemental analysis revealed 13 elements in Diwali PM samples, with toxic metals like arsenic and cadmium more prevalent in PM₁. The risk of carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic effects through ingestion was higher for children compared to adults. The findings of this study could potentially raise awareness among researchers and policymakers, prompting them to develop sustainable substitutes for firecrackers and sparklers.

https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos16040442

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Microplastics (MPs) pollution has recently garnered substantial attention worldwide due to their tendency to contaminate ecosystems and transmit toxic substances in the food chain, compromising human health. The primary goal of this study is to provide a level of understanding about the source, occurrence, detection, and potential ecological risk of MPs in Eastern Indian dumping sites in the years 2022 and 2023 as well as representing a scenario encompassing urban, suburban, and rural areas. The MPs concentrations in dumping sites ranged between 10 and 3457 MPs mg/kg. Fragments were the predominant shape in samples from both years, 32% and 36% in 2022 and 2023, respectively. White was the leading color of MPs in both years (34% in 2022, 45% in 2023), followed by grey, blue, green, and others. Based on the chemical analysis, the most common polymers discovered were polyethylene (20%), nylon (15.5%), polyethylene terephthalate (11.62%), and polypropylene (10.28%). Most of the study area has high polymer hazard index (PHI) values (>1000) due to the presence of high-hazard polymers like PVC and PU. According to polymer load index (PLI) values, the samples from English Bazar and river–side dumps are highly contaminated with MPs (PLI: 26 to 49), whereas samples from Manikchak and Old Malda are less contaminated (PLI: 1 for both). The ecological risk index (ERI) values of river–side samples were the highest (ERI: 318950).

https://doi.org/10.1093/etojnl/vgaf086

Abstract

Wetland restoration aims to restore key environmental functions to degraded ecosystems, but it comes with costs, which can hinder public acceptance of restoration. However, the benefits we gain from restoration can be valued higher than the costs of restoration, making restoration an investment. This study aimed to analyse the costs of wetland restoration projects implemented in selected European countries. We analysed 100 projects implemented between 1996 and 2019. Results showed increasing numbers of wetland restoration projects implemented in Europe since the early 21st century. The total budgets for wetland restoration projects rose in the years reviewed, increasing the average project budgets. The average cost of restoring 1 hectare of wetland in the 100 projects analysed was 9,084 EUR∙ha−1, which, including the amortisation rate of actions implemented to restore wetlands, allowed us to estimate the average unit cost of wetland restoration to 227 EUR∙ha−1∙y−1. Available information on the average values of ecosystem services provided by wetlands (estimated to be 4,011 EUR∙ha−1∙y−1) allowed us to conclude that the value of sustainably managed wetlands is from ten to fifty times higher than the average wetland restoration costs. Our findings indicate that wetland restoration should be considered an investment, as the revenue the society gains from reestablished wetlands outweighs the costs of their restoration. These findings contribute to the international discussion on wetland restoration’s role in boosting environmental and economic resilience, underscoring the need for regular restoration efforts to benefit ecosystems, economies, and societies. 

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Particulate matter (PM) is a critical component of urban air pollution, with severe implications for human health and environmental ecosystems. This study investigates the capacity of green roofs at the Warsaw University Library to mitigate air pollution by analyzing the retention of PM and associated trace elements (TEs) across eight perennial plant species during spring, summer, and autumn. The results highlight significant interspecies variability and seasonal trends in PM retention, with peak levels observed in summer due to increased foliage density and ambient pollution. Sedum spectabile and Spiraea japonica emerged as the most effective species for PM capture, owing to their wax-rich surfaces and dense foliage, while Betula pendula demonstrated a high retention of TEs like manganese and zinc. Seasonal shifts from surface-bound PM (_SPM) to wax-bound PM (_WPM) in autumn underline the importance of adaptive plant traits for sustained pollutant capture. These findings underscore the critical role of green roofs in urban air quality management, emphasizing the need for species-specific strategies to maximize year-round phytoremediation efficacy. Expanding the implementation of diverse vegetation on green roofs can significantly enhance their environmental and public health benefits.

https://doi.org/10.3390/air3010004

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Air pollution is highest in winter. The high concentration of particulate matter (PM) and trace elements (TE) after the growing season is influenced by increased pollutant emissions, unfavorable meteorological conditions, and the low efficiency of air phytofiltration. Plants that can remove pollutants from the air during the growing season are leafless in autumn/winter, and therefore unable to capture PM/TE effectively. This study investigated the ability of nine species of leafy evergreen plants to accumulate PM (surface and in-wax PM; PM_2.5 and PM₁₀) and TE in autumn and winter. Plant material was harvested in November and December from the park in Wuhan, China. The amount of accumulated pollutants depended on the species. The shrubs (Loropetalum chinense, Pittosporum tobira, Rhododendron simsii) and grass (Ophiopogon japonicus), were more effective at phytofiltration of PM and TE per leaf area unit than the trees. However, to better understand the potential of plants to accumulate PM in relation to a unit of land area, the leaf area index (LAI) has to be considered. Ligustrum lucidum and P. tobira characterized by low LAI, despite having PM deposition comparable to other trees and shrubs, exhibited a markedly reduced efficacy of pollutants accumulation in relation to square metre of land they occupy. In contrast to the TE concentration in winter, PM deposition on plants did not always increase after the autumn, probably due to the park’s low density of vegetation, PM resuspension by wind, and a decrease in the plants’ physiological activity. Seasonal variations in pollutants accumulation among species were recorded during the autumn/winter. This study reinforces the need for biodiversity and higher-density urban greening to optimize post-growth air phytofiltration. A holistic, year-round air pollution mitigation strategy should be provided by incorporating more diverse evergreen plant species with complementary phytofiltering properties.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.124027

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This study aims to assess the spatial distribution of various types of urban greenery on the example of Poznań city (Poland), considering their potential to supply ecosystem services (ESs) and the demand for these services. Three ESs were assessed: noise attenuation, pollutant filtration, and temperature lowering. By determining both individual services and a bundle of them and considering biophysical and social demand, this study facilitates the integration of ESs in landscape planning and management. This study calculates a budget—the ratio of the supply potential and demand—to identify areas with the greatest need for ESs and gives clear advice to decision-makers. As expected, the results show that the analysis of individual ES generates different results, which suggests that they should be analysed in bundles. Although significant overlap was found between the potential to supply different services, the biophysical and social demands were much more diverse. The final budget showed a correlation between the need to create urban greenery and population and location relative to the city centre. The highest relationship was observed for noise attenuation, while the smallest was in the case of pollutant filtration. Although many studies show the effectiveness of urban greenery in increasing the level of ES and avoiding environmental problems in cities, only a few studies show how to select locations for activities, considering the present state as well as human and ecological needs. The clue of the presented approach is the mapping of structure–process relationships, which may easily translate into planning practice.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ecoser.2025.101713

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