Journal of Global Ecology and Environment
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COMPARISON OF VARIED FOREST INVENTORY METHODS AND OPERATING PROCEDURES FOR ESTIMATING ABOVE-GROUND BIOMASS IN MALAWI’S MIOMBO WOODLANDS
No full textThis study assessed forest inventory methods and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for estimating above-ground biomass (AGB) and carbon, as employed in the key REDD+ Miombo Forest Reserves of Malawi. Analysis of Variance statistical technique was applied to investigate the following methods and SOPs: (i) allometry, (ii) sample plot configuration, and (iii) dendrometric measurements. Results indicate that the allometric equations parameter significantly (P<0.001) affected the AGB estimations and was the highest contributor (97.95%) of the total variation. Malawi’s specific allometry provided the highest AGB estimate (113.08±1.56 t/ha). In contrast, the Pan-Tropical/generalized allometric models substantially underestimated AGB within the range of 16.7-67.9%. Furthermore, the findings demonstrate that the use of varied sampling plot sizes significantly (P<0.001) affected the estimates of AGB. However, the plot size parameter contributed only 1.65% to the total variation. The 20m radius plot size registered the highest AGB (75.31±0.77 t/ha) compared to the 17.84m radius plot (66.12±1.61 t/ha). This signifies that the plot size of 17.84m radius underestimated the AGB by 12.2%. However, results on dendrometric measurements showed no significant (P>0.05) differences in the AGB estimates between the use of diameter tape (D-tape) and calliper in measuring dbh of individual trees despite the former yielding higher estimates of AGB (74.65±0.93 t/ha) than the latter (72.53±0.98 t/ha). This demonstrates that the use of calliper in measuring dbh underestimated AGB t/ha by only 2.8% compared to the use of D-tape. Therefore, the study recommends; employment of local allometry, adoption of a circular sampling design of 20m radius, and consistent use of D-tape in measuring dbh for AGB in Malawi’s Miombo Woodlands. In conclusion, incorporation of these changes is envisaged to facilitate quick realisation of Malawi’s REDD+ carbon payments, smooth running of the National Forest Inventory system, robust implementation and global recognition of the REDD+ efforts
FUNGI ASSOCIATED WITH ROT IN PLANTAIN AND ITS EFFECTS OF ON NUTRITITIONAL VALUE OF THE FRUIT
No full textThe nutrients found in Plantain are necessary for the body\u27s metabolism. However, if the fruits are infected with fungi, they can be tampered with. This can lead to a reduction in the nutrients\u27 quality and quantity. Fruit rot of Plantain is a post-harvest fungi that can affect the quality and quantity of the fruit. The objective of the study was to determine the fungi associated with fruit rot of plantain and its effects on the nutritional value of plantain fruits. Three samples of healthy plantain fruits were taken from Eke-Aka market in Anambra state and were transported to Alpha research laboratory Awka, Anambra state in a sterile polythene bag for isolation. Proximate analysis was carried out on both samples to determine the moisture content, crude fat, crude fibre, crude protein, ash content and carbohydrate content determination. The fungi associated with the spoilage of Plantain fruits in Eke Awka, Anambra state were studied using the standard procedure. Potato dextrose agar (PDA) and Sabouraud dextrose agar (SDA) were the culture media used. 39g of PDA and 69g of SDA were poured into one litre of water in the conical flask and autoclaved at 121ºC at 15psi for 20 minutes. Fungi identified were: Aspergillus sp, Fusarium sp and Penicillium sp. The result showed that Aspergillus sp (52.50%) had the highest frequency of occurrence from the fungi isolated while Penicillium sp. (20.00%) had the least occurrence. The result of nutritional analysis showed that the healthy plantain pulp had high moisture content (27%) and low fibre (6.50%) while the spoilt plantain pulp have high moisture content (35.20%) and low protein content (1.30%). From the study, the activity of these microorganisms affect the nutritional value of the plantain fruit
A REVIEW ON THE CURRENT STATUS OF FOREST FIRE IN UTTARAKHAND STATE OF INDIA
No full textForest fires have caused a huge loss to the Himalayan biodiversity, which has adversely affected the productive capacity and natural regeneration of forests species. The Uttarakhand state of India is severely affected by forest fire every year, which is one of the main reasons for loss of biodiversity and ecosystem services of the precious forest resources. As per as record, approximate 700 species of bird and animals are at the high risk of extinction as a consequence of adverse effects of forest fire. In the Uttarakhand state, majority of fire occurs in Chir Pine forests, which later on extends to the associated species, such as, Banj Oak. Worldwide, forest fire has been viewed as a serious issue responsible for the climate change. Subjecting forest areas to regular controlled burning can reduce the incidence of forest fire to the great extent. Further, imparting education, training and awareness on forest fire to the local people and state govt. official can considerably control fire incidence as well as fuel load in the forests
ASSESSMENT OF HEAVY METAL CONCENTRATION IN SEDIMENT AND FISH (Oreochromis Niloticus AND Clarias Gariepinus) IN BONNY ESTUARY, NIGER DELTA, NIGERIA, AND THEIR HUMAN HEALTH IMPLICATIONS
No full textThis study was carried out to examine the concentration of heavy metals in fishes, sediments, and their associated human health implications from Bonny Estuary, Rivers, Nigeria. A total of twenty-four (24) fish specimens and four (4) sediment specimens were gathered and tested using standardized procedures for essential and non-essential trace metals. Simple descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. In fish specimens, health risk indices for both carcinogenic as well as non-carcinogenic impacts of heavy metals were evaluated. The result of metal concentrations in Oreochromis niloticus and Clarias Gariepinus revealed Pb (10.88±3.24 to 37.12±0.42 mg/kg) and Cd (0.94±0.66 to 1.16±0.10 mg/kg) were greater than Food and Agriculture Organization allowable limits. The bioaccumulation variable revealed Pb as the greatest metal accumulator in both O.niloticus and C.gariepinus from sediment specimens. Pb had a hazard quotient (HQ) greater than 1.0, indicative of non-carcinogenic side effects. Cancer Danger (CR) values of Lead (Pb) in Oreochromis niloticus varied from 1.1 × 10−2 to 2.7 × 10−2, while those in Clarias gariepinus ranged from 1.5 × 10−2 to 3.3 × 10−2, showing that both breeds are carcinogenic. The CR values of Cd were as well discovered to surpass the standard parameters of 1.0 × 10−4. The results of this study reveal worrisome levels of Pb and Cd, which need an immediate awareness and quick response to mitigate their associated health risk
ORGANIC MATTER AND PHYSICAL PROPERTIES OF CRUDE OIL CONTAMINATED SOIL AMENDED WITH TERMITE SOIL AND BLUE PORTER PLANT
No full textCrude oil contamination in the Niger Delta has become a serious problem for soil health and agricultural production. We hypothesized that applying Trinervitermes spp of termite soil and introducing the Blue porter plant (Stachytarpheta jamaicensis) to crude oil contaminated soil can accelerate microbial activities and improve the soil\u27s physical properties and organic matter content. A field experiment was carried out on a 0.02 ha land to assess the effects of Trinervitermes geminatus termite soil and Stachytarpheta jamaicensis plant on the physical properties of a sandy loam soil contaminated with crude oil in the Niger Delta of Nigeria. The experiment was arranged in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD), consisting of 13 treatments in 3 replications. The soil was contaminated with 4% crude oil (equivalent of 40,000 mg kg-1) (Cr4) and 5% crude oil (equivalent of 50,000 mg kg-1) (Cr5), in single application. The soil was treated with 10 and 20 t ha-1 of Trinervitermes geminatus termite soil (10Mo and 20Mo, respectively), alone and in combination with Blue porter plant (Stachytarpheta jamaicensis). Results revealed that 6-month applications of Trinervitermes geminatus termite soil and Stachytarpheta jamaicensis plant have significant effects on physical properties and Soil Organic Matter SOM) Applying 10 and 20 t ha-1 of termite soil in combination with Stachytarpheta jamaicensis plant to 4% crude oil increased SOM from 29 g kg-1 in the control plots to about 61 g kg-1 after 6 months. The application of 20 t ha-1 termite soil to 4% crude oil (Cr4+20Mo) reduced soil bulk density, increased saturation water content by 15%, and saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ksat) from zero to 1.67 and 1.53 cm h-1 in 6 months, after the application compared to the untreated Cr4 soil. Macro-aggregates > 0.25 mm were generally higher in the termite soil alone and in combination with the Blue porter plant. Micro-aggregates <0.25 mm dominated the Control plot (54 and 46% after 3 and6 months). Water stable aggregates in 4.75-2.0 mm size class increased from 22% to 56% for Cr5+20mo after 6 months. The termite soil improved the macro-aggregates, while the Blue porter plants improved Ksat of the soil after 6 months
LAND USE CHANGE ASSESSMENT IN KWANA-UKU FOREST RESERVE AND SAMERI COMMUNITY FORESTS ADAMAWA STATE, NIGERIA
No full textThis research assessed land use change of Government and Community forests in Ganye and Jada Local Government Areas of Adamawa State. Data were collected from two selected Forests. The study utilized land use datasets to examine the spatial extent and distribution of forest cover in both areas over two decades. The data used for analysis were satellite imageries downloaded from google earth between the year 2000 and 2020. In an effort to determine the change in land cover of the study area, three different images at ten-year (10) interval were used (2000, 2010 and 2020). Student t-test was used to compare the results of land use classification. Results obtained indicated that all the land cover classes changed (either increased or decreased) in the study areas over the given study period. Findings also unveiled a significant net negative change in forest land cover class with extensive significant increase in bare- surfaces and a remarkable reduction in vegetation. Expansion in bare surfaces in Sammeri community and Kwana uku forest study sites between year 2000 and 2020 were (+514.42%) and (+261.59%) at the expense of a reduction in forested areas which were (−46.75%) and (−56.95) respectively. Additionally, results proved forest stocks or resources were being depleted by anthropogenic agents, owing to their hostile effects which included; fuel wood collectors, farmers, animal grazing, bush burning and unregulated logging of trees. The study recommends the need for the implementation of sustainable forest management practices in the two forests, with further extension to other notable reserves across the country
INVESTIGATING THE IMPACT OF LOCALITY ON THE CARBON MONOXIDE LEVELS AND EFFECTS IN GUATEMALA
No full textGuatemala has been a developing country in a variety of aspects. As the country continues to rise industrially, it faces the major concerns of air pollution. The pollution within Guatemala has continued to rise into dangerous levels. There are major health risks associated with air pollution, including heart disease and chronic respiratory issues. Most under-developed countries face scarcity in the access of medical attention and the distribution of medicine because of insufficient funds, government support, and regulations. A key contributor to the dangers of air pollution is carbon monoxide (CO), an odorless and colorless poisonous gas. Emission of CO is most common through anthropogenic activities. As a result of the rapid industrialization, increase in motor vehicles, and gradual activity post-quarantine, there has been a significant change in the carbon monoxide levels of the country.
The objective of this study was to quantify the carbon monoxide levels of Guatemala City (which consists of the largest urban population) and Tikal using the EasyLog USB-CO. The research team monitored many locations under various conditions: population, ventilation, transportation, and found their mutual relationship among the parameters. The study concluded that CO pollution was more prominent at places of dense population and increased anthropogenic activities
OPTIMIZATION STUDIES FOR MICROALGAL GROWTH AND CAROTENOID PRODUCTION (BEFORE STRESS)
No full textThe demand for carotenoids in the global market is rising due to the high rate of degenerative diseases which have their origin from deleterious free radicals. Carotenoids are antioxidant molecules identified as the potential inhibitors of free radicles. Particularly, Microalgae carotenoids have drawn great attention, ‘due to their high photosynthetic efficiency, lack of land requirement, and ease of scale-up’. Presently, an attempt was made to optimize the primary growth of three microalgae (i.e., Chlorella vulgaris, Microcystis aeruginosa and Scenedesmus obliquus) prior to second fermentation for the production of carotenoids. Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize experimental runs in an orbital shaker (Winpact SI-200, USA) in a controlled setting of pH and temperature. Growth of microalgae was measured as optical density (OD) as well as the total carotenoids (before stress) at the stationary growth stage. Optimum growth of Microalgae was achieved at a range of 250C -300C and pH 8-9 in all the Microalgae. High carotenoids (before stress) was 4.411mg/ml in Scenedesmus obliquus among others; however, this cannot be translated as the highest as carotenoids are optimized during stress.  
CORRELATING THE CONCEPTS OF CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY (CSR) AND SUSTAINABILITY TOWARDS SUSTAINABLE PLASTIC WASTE MANAGEMENT IN LAGOS, NIGERIA
No full textSo far, many CSR studies have focused on developed countries, while little attention has been paid to CSR activities in developing countries. On the other hand, the increasing discussion on sustainable development in developing countries, especially in Nigeria, has made a significant difference and triggered a wide debate on the relationship between CSR and sustainable development. CSR is arguably a dynamic concept that promotes sustainable development irrespective of the motivations and approaches of business organizations. The CSR components implemented by companies should lead to high levels of moral sustainability. The productivity scope of manufacturers and producers in the Nigerian plastics and packaging industry has been limited to economic growth and profit maximization, neglecting product life cycle management. This negligence has resulted in the indiscriminate dumping of empty plastic waste on the streets, leading to environmental degradation. However, it is important to explore how the concepts of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainable development can enable the reduction of plastic waste. The aim of this review paper is to link the concepts of corporate social responsibility and sustainable development to advance the management of plastic waste. The paper is important because it addresses the issues of corporate social responsibility, sustainable development and social well-being of the environment
INVESTIGATING THE ACUTE CARDIAC EFFECTS ON AQUATIC ORGANISMS BY GASOLINE POLLUTION IN LAKE-SIMULATED BEAKERS USING Daphnia magna
No full textPetroleum and its product are one of the most common water and soil pollutant sources and have caused marine and terrestrial spillages. The oil from these spills from polluted groundwater returns to the human population through numerous pathways by consuming fish and shellfish. Daphnia magna, also known as the water flea, is a small planktonic crustacean that lives in bodies of freshwater. They are an ideal model for testing the toxicity of substances due to their high sensitivity to environmental chemicals. Therefore, the data acquired with Daphnia can serve dual purposes: one for an indicator of environmental pollution and the other for estimating adverse effects on the human body, though not directly.
In this study, a lake-simulated model was created using organic materials, laboratory shakers, and temperature control systems in groups of beakers, and their variable dependency was investigated. It was concluded that Daphnia\u27s heartbeat was significantly depressed by the existence of gasoline pollution. Moreover, the impact on the cardiac function was linearly correlated with the lake-simulated model\u27s gasoline volume, organic material concentration, and temperature. However, there seemed to be complicated conditions that existed mutually depending on the variables. Further study may be necessary for any underlying mechanism within the organs in the body