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Microlitter ( μ m porosity and black grid membranes and examined using a binocular microscope. Items were counted, dimensionally measured and classified according to type, shape, colour and appearance. A total of 56 torrent and sea sediment samples revealed the presence of 4,302 items. The mean concentrations were 1.5 items cm − 3 ± 1.3 standard deviation (SD) and 1.6 items cm − 3 ± 1.3 SD for torrent samples and sea sediment samples, respectively. Transparent fibres predominated, followed by fragments. The most common colour was white-cream. In total, 1.8% of items were analysed with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) 2D imaging, using a focal plane array (FPA) detector to identify their composition. Nylon was the most common plastic polymer type; however, approximately 50% of the analysed samples consisted of cotton transparent fibres. The influences of human activities (cities, port and discharges) on microlitter composition were highlighted and torrents were confirmed as a vector of microlitter from land to sea.

The agronomic management of vineyards, aimed at the maximization of grape yields, is intensive and includes repeated tillage, crop residues removal, strict weed and pest control treatments. In viticulture, healthy soils and a suitable climate are the key factors that influence the quality of the produced wine. Even under intensive agronomic practices, typical of conventional viticulture, the choice of appropriate soil management strategies can preserve soil quality in the long term. The use of biochar as soil amendment has been suggested as a potential practice that allows restoration of the functionality of degraded soils in terms of water retention, chemical and biological fertility. In this paper we report the results of a long field trial on biochar amendment of a vineyard, assessing the impact on soil functionality, VOC emission and fertility. Our results show that biochar effects on soil functions and fertility are maintained in the long term (seven years) after a one-time application.

The information available for the levels of plasticizers in urban air for the European region was reviewed. Wide variability in phthalates and BPA concentrations between differently urbanised areas emerged, due to the influence of vehicular traffic, waste management practices and presence of buildings, from which plasticizers are emitted. The ambient air levels measured have not shown a significant influence on human exposure, confirming that other pathways play a fundamental role. Anyway, given their toxicity, it would be important to intensify measurements campaigns, at least for DEHP and BPA, to monitor and improve air quality, and, finally, limit the health risks deriving from the exposure to a mixture of air toxic molecules.