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This study evaluated the antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of Nepeta - faassenii (family Lamiaceae), a perennial aromatic hybrid derived from N. racemosa and N. nepetella [12]. The genus Nepeta is recognized for its essential oils rich in nepetalactones, phenolic acids, and flavonoids, which contribute to notable biological activities such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, and insect-repellent effects [3], [9], [10], [12]. The Nepeta Vegetal Extract (NVE) was obtained through ultrasonic extraction using 60 % e...

By elaborating this work, we want to highlight the advantages of using photovoltaic panels in Dumbravita area, Timis county, Romania, and what is the impact of using these panels on the environment. In the analysis of the commune, we follow aspects starting with the geographical location, natural resources, which highlight that the weather in Dumbravita has the potential and capacity to expand for the use of photovoltaic panels in as many homes as possible, so as to ensure a high quality of life for its inhabitant...

The egg is an animal-derived food with remarkable nutritional value, providing a balanced intake of essential nutrients and high digestibility, making it suitable for all age groups. This study aims to analyze the impact of different hen-rearing systems on egg characteristics, including their mass, the proportion of components (egg white, yolk, shell), and the content of minerals and metals. To determine the quantity of metals in the various egg components (shell, egg white, yolk), the X-ray fluorescence (XRF) met...

This paper presents a comprehensive framework of benchmarks for teaching biodiversity within the Bachelor of Ecology program at Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University, addressing the urgent need for effective educational standards amidst the escalating biodiversity crisis. The proposed benchmarks aim to integrate interdisciplinary and contextually relevant teaching practices, aligning environmental education with international standards while reflecting the unique ecological and conservation challenges of Georgia...

Within the Project -National Biodiversity Future Center (NBFC)-, funded by the European Union Next Generation EU (PNRR), Spoke 2 Activity 3 Task 3.2, the Research Unit of CNR IRSA Taranto (Italy) monitored the growth performances, microbiological and nutritional quality as well as PAHs and PCBs content of the invasive Atlantic pearl oysters Pinctada radiata in the Gulf of Taranto. Oysters were located in lanternets in an integrated multitrophic aquaculture (IMTA) system and co-cultured with polychaetes and macroal...

Climate change and increasing drought frequency pose major risks to legume production in Southeastern Europe, threatening food security and sustainable land use. This study evaluates chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) as a climate-resilient alternative to common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) under the pedoclimatic conditions of Southwestern Romania. A bifactorial field experiment (species - preceding crop) was conducted in 2023 (favorable year) and 2024 (drought year). Results showed that chickpea maintained significant...

Research on rural community attachment, satisfaction and social capital is extensive. Recent work has sought to include attitudes toward local ecosystems as an additional dimension of rural community social relations. We use a social survey of households in four Major Land Resource Areas in Kansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas to establish the association between attachment, satisfaction and social capital and attitudes toward the local environment, with measures of specific knowledge concerning recovery of the ...

Nowadays, sound grazing management is an essential prerequisite for efficient use of agricultural land. As it facilitates the preservation of plant biodiversity, soil properties and natural habitats, grazing management contributes to sustainable agriculture through maintaining ecological sustainability and environmental quality. Grazing (stocking) density of livestock has a profound impact on soil health, including its overall biochemical and microbial properties. If its chosen level is higher than the -carrying c...

Grouping plants by functional traits provides valuable ecological insights and supports the creation of resilient perennial assemblages for urban landscapes. The ecological strategies (CSR) of eight ornamental grasses were assessed using key leaf traits, including leaf area (LA), leaf fresh weight (LFW), and leaf dry weight (LDW). Based on these measurements, additional leaf-level indices were calculated, such as the leaf succulence index (LSI), leaf mass per area (LMA), leaf dry matter content (LDMC), and specifi...

In this work we present the particularities of three standing water NATURA 2000 habitats from southwestern section of Romania (Banat region). This study brings information about the current status of these three habitats and based on this appropriate management measures can be taken or reviewed. The studied habitats are: 3130 Oligotrophic to mesotrophic standing waters with vegetation of the Littorelletea uniflorae and/or Iso-to-Nanojuncetea, 3150 Natural eutrophic lakes with Magnopotamion or Hydrocharition and 31...

Analyzing fire debris is essential for identifying accelerants that may indicate arson. Detecting fire residues remains a significant analytical challenge due to the complexity of burned materials, the volatilization of key compounds, and the interference of pyrolysis byproducts. However, chromatographic separation techniques and mass spectral selectivity advancements provide promising avenues for improving detection accuracy and reliability. Recent developments in portable Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC...

The aim of this work is to determine the concentration of heavy metals in a series of toys used by children and compare them with the regulations in force. The presence of heavy metals in plastic toys is a significant concern to potential health risk to children. Various studies have identified a range of heavy metals in toys including lead, cadmium, mercury, chromium, zinc and other metals which can pose serious health hazards if ingested or absorbed through the skin. Many additives and catalysts used in plastics...

Organophosphate flame retardants (OPFRs) have emerged as replacements for banned brominated flame retardants, raising growing environmental concern due to their persistence, bioaccumulation potential, and toxicity. Despite their global detection, limited data exist for marine environments such as the Black Sea, where monitoring is hindered by the lack of sensitive analytical methods. This study reports the development and validation of a reliable LC-MS/MS method for the simultaneous determination of eight OPFRs an...

Urban green infrastructure is often promoted as a form of nature-based solutions (NbS) designed to simultaneously address environmental, social, and economic challenges. These interventions are expected to deliver benefits across all three dimensions. While existing evidence suggests that urban NbS can indeed tackle multiple issues concurrently, it remains unclear to what extent different components of green infrastructure contribute to these outcomes, and how this translates into practical decisions related to pl...

Although cities are developing rapidly and dynamically, they also face serious challenges related to the environment, the health of the population and the quality of life. Ecological urbanism seeks to respond to these challenges by integrating green infrastructure into urban landscapes. This approach not only improves the aesthetics of cities, but also contributes to sustainable development, improving public health and increasing biodiversity. The main idea is that cities should function not only as places to live...

The research investigates the impact of persistent organic pollutants, particularly pesticides, on the aquatic ecosystems of the Jiul de Est basin. Pesticides are introduced into water bodies via surface runoff, infiltration, and atmospheric deposition, and their bioavailability is influenced by factors such as pH, temperature, and dissolved organic matter. The research evaluates the ecotoxicological effects on key aquatic species, including Salmo trutta fario (river trout) and Squalius cephalus (common chub), by ...

This paper explores the relationship between energy availability and rural domestic architecture in the Ier Valley, a historically agrarian microregion in northwestern Romania. Focusing on the period 1901-1905, the study investigates whether fluctuations in agricultural productivity-and, by extension, in the energy surplus available to peasant households-may have influenced construction practices and spatial organization. The research draws inspiration from Barnabas Calder-s [1] energy-centered historiography, ada...

The paper deals with the presentation of modern quantitative methods for assessing environmental risks. It evaluates individual methods in terms of their suitability for use in individual phases of the risk assessment process. The qualitative comparison of individual methods and techniques is based on predefined criteria. A multi-criteria decision-making method was used for the comparison of the methods and techniques. Methods of Fault tree analysis, Event tree analysis, Monte Carlo simulation, RM/RA CRAMM methods...

Explosive phenomena represent one of the risks present within mining activities. These phenomena can have disastrous consequences on people, structures and the environment surrounding the mining site. In fact, the explosion uses a wave of pressure and heat that affects everything at the time the accident occurs. Different software were studied and developed by many researchers with the aim of simulate explosive effects in order to define the consequences might be on people and the environment, the development time...

The main objective of the theme taken in study is to bring a contribution to the development of an intensive technology for corn, in conditions of good favorability. The area under study is part of the Timis Plain and is characterized by climatic conditions conducive to corn cultivation, being framed in the very favorable cultivation area in our country. In order to highlight the behavior of the corn hybrids taken in the study, determinations were made regarding: grain production, depending on the hybrid (kg ha-1)...

The stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) and purple dead-nettle (Lamium purpureum) are widely distributed plants, known for their medicinal and nutritional properties. Urtica dioica is particularly valued for its significant mineral content, being widely used in traditional medicine and agricultural practices. Similarly, Lamium purpureum presents notable medicinal properties and typically occupies comparable ecological functions. Calcium is critically important for developing cell walls, growth of plant cells as well a...

It is known that environmental problems are numerous, having a global impact. The quality of the environment involves increasing attention from all countries and requires the urgent adoption and implementation of measures to protect it. Sustainable development is justified by making environmental protection expenditures, especially since the state's fiscal policy ensures the achievement of sustainable development objectives. Through this article, the authors emphasize the need for financial resources in the a...

Urban ecology examines the intricate interactions within socio-ecological urban systems, with green infrastructure (GI) emerging as a vital tool for sustainable development by enhancing ecosystem services and promoting human well-being. This study aimed to provide a comparative assessment of moss-based GI, focusing on its capacity to reduce particulate matter (PM10) and absorb rainwater. To evaluate PM10 absorption, laboratory experiments were conducted in a controlled pollution chamber using a vertical barrier de...

With a growing global population and rapid urbanization, cities around the world are facing a multitude of challenges, including climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss. Green infrastructure, a term that encompasses natural and semi-natural systems integrated into urban spaces, provides solutions that not only address these issues but also contribute to creating sustainable and livable cities. Green infrastructure includes a variety of elements, and they work together to provide ecosystem services, includ...

Hermaphroditism in the flathead grey mullet (Mugil cephalus), manifested as intersex conditions, is linked to various environmental factors and anthropogenic pressures. Key contributors include exposure to endocrine-disrupting compounds (EDCs), heavy metals, and pollutants that disrupt hormonal regulation, leading to sexual development abnormalities. Research indicates that Mugil cephalus is particularly sensitive to EDCs in coastal and brackish ecosystems. Our findings reveal that 19% of male individuals from the...

The study focuses on the assessment of geosites in the Doln- Spis region of eastern Slovakia as a foundational framework for the establishment of a potential geopark. This region is characterized by significant geological diversity, notable geomorphological features, and substantial anthropogenic heritage, particularly related to historical mining activities. Based on the inventory of 42 geosites, a typological classification was conducted, dividing the sites into six main types and several subtypes. The evaluatio...

Parsnip (Pastinaca sativa) is a vegetable with high nutritional value, which is cultivated mainly for the consumption of its roots, used as a spice in the preparation of dishes, being appreciated for its rich fiber content, as well as for vitamins and bioactive compounds. The paper aims to assess the differences between raw and cooked parsnip, based on its nutritional composition, focusing on the content of amino acids, fatty acids and essential vitamins, as well as on how these components influence health. Parsni...

The authors of this paper review the main factors of management in general (planning, organization, leadership and control) and environmental management in particular (environmental impact assessment, environmental legislation, pollution control, resource conservation, sustainable development, waste and wastewater management), with a focus on pig farms and their characteristics (biosecurity and health, growth and reproduction and reproduction, housing and food and water management, feed and feed management facilit...

In Romania, Cirsium arvense (creeping thistle) has a high incidence in agricultural crops, approximately 70%, the development being largely influenced by climate but also by the inadequate technologies practiced. This study is an overview of the integrated management of the perennial weed Cirsium arvense in Romania. Therefore, it was done a review of the studies published in Romania, in order to highlight the predominant methods and whether or not cultural and biological measures are used. The methods used were bi...

Old manor parks are generally considered as important features of historic heritage in European cultural landscapes. But these parks are not only historic monuments. Because of presence of veteran trees and other biological legacy (such as dead wood), historic manor parks can be biodiversity hot-spots in urbanized landscapes. This study present results from long-term comparison of bird diversity in large old manor park in Central Europe (Czech Republic). Based on bird species richness comparison between 1997 and 2...

Chenopodium album L., is a plant from the Amaranthaceae family. In many traditional cuisines, the leafy plant is highly valued for the nutritional properties, especially the leaves. Being native to Europe and Central Asia, the plant has been used and cultivated for its nutritional and medicinal properties. Containing several bioactive compounds, makes Chenopodium album very beneficial to human health, including: betalains пїЅ pigments with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties; polyphenols пїЅ antioxidants ...

The energy transition at the current stage involves the decarbonization of the energy sector of the economy, namely, the shift away from fossil and non-renewable sources in favor of renewable ones. The relevance of this transition is driven by climatic, environmental, resource-based, and political factors. Experience has shown that modern global projects, such as the energy transition, cannot be implemented in a straightforward, top-down manner solely by state authorities and environmental agencies. The novelty of...

The transition to renewable energy is a high-priority agenda across Europe, particularly in Northern Europe. This shift is critical for achieving both environmental and economic sustainability. Northern Europe, with its high energy consumption and strong support for green policies, has the potential to lead in this transition. However, the region faces a unique set of social and ecological challenges that, if not carefully addressed, could undermine the sustainability of proposed solutions, harm natural ecosystems...

Cattle are considered one of the most significant contributors to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in livestock farming. The calculation method has been used until now. No data on how well the calculations correspond to the real situation, and how to influence this in practice. The need for real data is becoming increasingly important as farming intensification relates to GHGs and sustainability. The study aimed to investigate the concentrations of methane (CH4) and carbon dioxide (CO2) in cows- breath/burp (BB) in ...

Land improvements refer to measures and works carried out on agricultural or non-agricultural land to increase its value, sustainability and productivity. These improvements are intended to optimize land use, increase efficiency and support economic development. The purpose of this research was to describe the redesign of an irrigation canal, to present the necessary measurements, and to record the results. In this study, we have presented the steps necessary for measuring an irrigation canal and for drawing up lo...

The purpose of this research is to identify the existing environmental problems at the level of the analyzed region and to propose possible solutions to reduce these problems. The main methods used in the creation of the article are the documentary research carried out with the help of the secondary analysis of quantitative data within the Research Center "Business management and entrepreneurial development" within the University, as well as a questionnaire on the perception of residents on environmental pollution...

We are interested in mushrooms mainly for two reasons: for the substances they contain and for their natural abilities. Therefore, they are used as food, as sources of health-promoting and medicinal substances, and as agents for restoring, strengthening, and revitalizing the environment. These are the main reasons why we must continually deepen our knowledge of mushrooms and use them wisely. Among the mushrooms used in remediation processes is Ganoderma lingzhi, originally from China. The physiological activity of...

With rapid urbanization and growing populations, cities around the world are facing multiple challenges related to the environment, public health and quality of life of citizens. In this context, green infrastructure appears not only as a solution but also as a way to revitalize urban spaces by restoring natural ecosystems and improving the vitality of urban areas. Green infrastructure encompasses a network of natural and semi-natural elements that are integrated into urban planning and management. It includes a v...

Specialization of production according to existing resources and the availability of sheep involves the use of new production systems, their readaptation to the demand for raw materials and the availability of feed resources. Depending on the existence of resources and the typology of sheep farms in the research area, production systems can be specialized for producing lamb, young sheep, and sheep reconditioned on pastures, and producing milk-meat in pastoral systems through the seasonal use of alpine pastures or ...

The aim of the study was to develop and validate analytical methods for the detection and quantification of arsenic species (As(III), DMA, MMA and As(V)) in different environmental matrices, including drinking water, surface water, groundwater, and sediments. The experimental tests were performed on a HPLC 1260 Infinity II coupled with an ICP-MS 7850 Agilent. For aqueous matrices, the method was validated within a working range of 10-50 microg/L using an Agilent G3154-65002 guard column and an Agilent G3154-65001 ...

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

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

In today-s world, increasing urbanization poses challenges to the environment and quality of life in cities. This article examines the importance of urban ecology for sustainable urban planning and the transformation of urban landscapes. By integrating ecological principles into planning, cities can become more resilient and adaptable to climate change. Sustainable urban planning focuses on reducing negative environmental impacts, improving quality of life, and creating socially just spaces. Green infrastructure r...

The aim of this study is to analyse the impact of the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect on temperature dynamics across various locations within the city of -ilina during the year 2024. The results reveal significant differences in temperature gradients between urban and rural areas, with urban zones such as Nemocnicna Street and the Vlcince housing estate exhibiting up to 16.6 % slower cooling rates on summer evenings compared to the rural locality of -ilinska Lehota. This phenomenon is attributed to the increased he...