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The use of plastics, valued for its affordability, durability, and convenience, has grown significantly with the advancement of industry. Paradoxically, these very properties of plastics have also led to significant environmental challenges. Plastics are highly resistant to decomposition, resulting in their accumulation on land, where they eventually enter aquatic environments, due to natural processes or human activities. Among these plastics, microplastics, which are tiny plastic particles, are particularly concerning when they enter aquatic ecosystems, including rivers and seas. Their small size makes them easily ingestible by aquatic organisms, either by mistake or through natural feeding behaviors, which poses serious risks. Moreover, microplastics readily adsorb other pollutants present in aquatic environments, creating pollutant complexes that can have a synergistic impact, magnifying their harmful effects compared to microplastics or pollutants acting alone. As a result, extensive research has focused on understanding the effects of microplastics on aquatic organisms. Numerous studies have demonstrated that aquatic organisms exposed to microplastics, either alone or in combination with other pollutants, exhibit abnormal hatching, development, and growth. Additionally, many genes, particularly those associated with the antioxidant system, display abnormal expression patterns in these conditions. In this review, we examine these impacts, by discussing specific studies that explore changes in phenotype and gene expression in aquatic organisms exposed to microplastics, both independently and in combination with adsorbed pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Air pollution is associated with poor asthma outcomes in children. However, most studies focus on ambient or indoor monitor pollution levels. Few studies evaluate breathing zone exposures, which may be more consequential for asthma outcomes. Methods: We measured personal exposures to NO2, O3, PM10 and PM10 constituents, including black carbon (BC), brown carbon (BrC), environmental tobacco smoke (ETS), endotoxins, and 훽-glucan, in a cohort of children with exacerbation-prone asthma for 72 h using wearable monitors. Personal exposures were compared to concentrations from in-home monitors in the child's bedroom and ambient EPA air quality monitoring using correlation analyses. Personal exposures were tested for association with lung function and compared between participants with and without well-controlled asthma and signs of exacerbation in the prior 60 days using censored regression with robust standard errors. Results: 81 children completed 219 monitoring sessions. Personal NO2, O3, and PM10 exposures ranged from < 2 to 99.1 parts per billion (ppb), < 1.5 to 23.3 ppb, and < 1 to 141.9 휇g/m3, respectively. Personal endotoxin ranged from 0.04 to 101.3 EU/m3, 훽-glucan from 18.5 to 1,162 pg/m3, BC from < 0.3 to 46.9 휇g/m3, BrC from < 0.3 to 6.1 휇g/m3, and ETS from < 0.3 to 56.6 휇g/m3. Correlations between personal and ambient PM10, NO2, and O3 concentrations were poor, whereas personal PM10 and NO2 correlated with in-home concentrations. In-home monitoring less frequently detected BrC (Personal:79% > lower limit of detection, Home:36.8%) and ETS (Personal:83.7%, Home:4.1%) than personal exposures, and detected BC in participants without personal exposure (Personal: 26.5%, Home: 96%). Personal exposures were not significantly associated with lung function or daily asthma control. Children requiring corticosteroid treatment for asthma exacerbation within 60 days of exposure monitoring had 1.98, 2.21 and 2.04 times higher personal exposures to BrC (p < 0.001; 95% CI: 1.43–2.37), ETS (p = 0.007; 95% CI: 1.25–3.91), and endotoxin (p = 0.012; 95% CI: 1.14–3.68), respectively. Conclusions: Although in-home monitoring was correlated with personal exposure to PM10 and NO2, in-home detection of ETS and BrC was not associated with personal exposures. Personal PM10 exposures in general, as well as BrC, ETS, and endotoxin levels were associated with recent childhood asthma exacerbations. Clinical trial number: Not applicable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastics are emerging as widespread modern pollutants, posing a variety of health and environmental risks. Microplastics are found in agriculture; they are often introduced via biosolids from wastewater treatment plants and are sold as alternatives to inorganic fertilizers. In Australia, there has been limited research on the agricultural concentrations of microplastics, and there has been no predictive modelling to identify which geographies are most at risk for pollution. Based on global emerging trends, this study uses geospatial modelling to map potential high-risk areas for agricultural microplastics within an area of the Murray-Darling Basin in New South Wales, Australia. In doing so, this study demonstrates the use of a geospatial methodology that may be used in future risk assessments, both within Australia and globally. Risk index mapping was conducted for three different pollutant transport pathways: rainfall-runoff of microplastics, in-soil retention of microplastics, and groundwater infiltration of microplastics. Particular areas of risk were identified for each transport pathway, providing visualised mapping results that represent the value of the study and its methodology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerous technological advancements have been developed to tackle the issue of wastewater remediation effectively. However, the practical application of these technologies on a large scale has faced several challenges that have hindered their progress. These challenges include low selectivity, high energy requirements, and significant expenses. Nanoscale materials have demonstrated remarkable effectiveness in removing a wide range of contaminants. Nanoscale zero-valent iron (NZVI) exhibits a range of distinctive physical and chemical properties that have proven to be highly effective in various environmental remediation applications. These include its impressive surface area, remarkable reactivity, and its capacity to create stable colloidal suspensions. The paper explores the synthetic techniques for NZVI with special emphasis on green synthesis and the use of capping or support agents for maintaining stability and enhancing the reactivity of NZVI. The various structural and reactivity aspects of NZVI have been highlighted for its potential application in wastewater treatment sequestrating various categories of inorganic and organic contaminants. The discussion also delves into the limitations of NZVI, highlighting its dependence on water as a medium for contact reaction or electron transfer through the action mechanism of NZVI in adsorptive and photocatalytic sequestration of contaminants. The beneficial potential of NZVI-based composite systems in the field of environmental remediation has also been included which aids in the application of NZVI in environmental remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research focuses on developing a multipurpose riparian zone designed to effectively reduce erosion and control nutrient flow into Lake Tondano. The goal is to enhance both conservation and pollution control strategies for sustainable ecosystem management. Conducted at Lake Tondano in Minahasa, Indonesia, the research followed three main stages: data collection, analysis, and design. The data collection included a vegetation survey of riparian species, land use mapping, and measuring nitrogen and phosphorus levels in lake sediments. A total of 91 plant species from 60 genera and 42 families were documented. Based on their Importance Value Index (IVI), non-invasive status, and nutrient absorption capabilities, 15 species were selected for restoration in areas with high nutrient concentrations, with sediment levels recorded at 0.09% nitrogen and 0.06% phosphorus in impacted zones. These plant species were carefully identified and rigorously tested, originating from intact riparian zones. They will be strategically employed in areas facing significant challenges from nutrient overloading. Using QGIS analysis, a riparian zone measuring 100 x 30 m was designed at coordinates 1.1745604 latitude and 124.8972748 longitude, targeting areas most impacted by nutrient pollution, which poses a risk of eutrophication and negatively affects aquatic ecosystems. The multipurpose riparian zone incorporates distinct wet, transition, and dry zones, employing a zigzag planting pattern to optimize pollutant filtration and nutrient uptake. This design effectively addresses critical issues of erosion and nutrient excessive enrichment, promoting ecological health and biodiversity in the region. The novel contributions of this study include identifying specific plant species capable of thriving in nutrient-rich sediments and quantifying their nutrient absorption capacities, thereby providing a scientifically grounded model for similar conservation efforts in vulnerable ecosystems and enhancing overall resilience. However, long-term impacts on water quality require further research to assess nutrient mitigation efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mature theory of safety assessment and system operation is crucial to ensure the safety and property of commuters under the tunnel fire condition, but the relationship between pollutants and the quality of the luminous environment is still the weakest link in this research area. To establish this close relation, this study adopted three different scaled experiments to investigate the pollutant-visibility model based on spectral analysis. The first scaled tunnel model fire experiment, conducted on a 20.5-m-long experimental platform, utilized three combustion sources to analyze the light attenuation of natural gas, PVC-insulated cables, and smoke cakes based on the APE index. Then the spectrum selective contrast experiment collected several typical spectral data from coloured transparent panels, and the compared results advocated that there is no much different impact on luminous environment with these combustion sources under smoky conditions. At last, the acrylic box pollutant experiment was conducted with different CO/NO2 concentrations, and the results provided quantitative relationship between the light average attenuation rate and CO/NO2 concentrations. The findings of this study could be able to further establish the connection between pollutants and safety evacuation, as well as ventilation and luminous environment by combining the relatively mature research of tunnel fire. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review explores the removal of textile dyes from wastewater using advanced polymer/clay composites. It provides an in-depth analysis of the chemical and physical properties of these composites, emphasizing how the combination of polymers and clays creates a synergistic effect that significantly improves the efficiency of dye removal. The structural versatility of the composites, derived from the interaction between the layered clay sheets and the flexible polymer matrices, is detailed, showcasing their enhanced adsorption capacity and catalytic properties for wastewater treatment. The review outlines the key functional groups present in both polymers and clays, which are crucial for binding and degrading a wide range of dyes, including acidic, basic, and reactive dyes. The role of specific interactions, such as hydrogen bonding, ion exchange, and electrostatic attractions between the dye molecules and the composite surface, is highlighted. Moreover, the selection criteria for different types of clays such as montmorillonite, kaolinite, and bentonite and their modifications are examined to demonstrate how structural and surface modifications can further improve their performance in composite materials. Various synthesis methods for creating polymer/clay composites, including in situ polymerization, solution intercalation, and melt blending, are discussed. These fabrication techniques are evaluated for their ability to control particle dispersion, optimize interfacial bonding, and enhance the mechanical and chemical stability of the composites. Furthermore, the review introduces advanced characterization techniques, such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), to help researchers assess the morphological, structural, and thermal properties of the composites, aligning these features with their potential application in dye removal. Additionally, the review delves into the primary mechanisms involved in the dye removal process, such as adsorption, photocatalytic degradation, and catalytic reduction. It also provides an overview of the kinetic and thermodynamic models commonly used to describe the adsorption processes in polymer/clay composites. The environmental and operational factors influencing the efficiency of dye removal, such as pH, temperature, and composite dosage, are analyzed in detail, offering practical insights for optimizing performance under various wastewater conditions. In conclusion, this review not only highlights the promising potential of polymer/clay composites for textile dye removal but also identifies current challenges and future research directions. It underscores the importance of developing eco-friendly, cost-effective, and scalable solutions to address the growing concerns related to water pollution and sustainability in wastewater management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates caffeine degradation and mineralisation using Fenton and photo-Fenton processes through a 2k Factorial Design. Key parameters varied include Fe2+ concentration (2 and 10 mg/L), H₂O₂ concentration (50 and 500 mg/L), light intensity (0 and 96 W), and reaction time (0 and 60 min) to optimise degradation. The experimental setup featured a 1 L glass contact column in a UV-controlled chamber with an initial caffeine concentration of 20 mg/L. Results revealed that Fenton was inefficient, achieving only 12% degradation and 9% mineralisation, with dimethylparabanic acid as the main by-product. Conversely, photo-Fenton attained 88% degradation and 40% mineralisation, demonstrating the significant influence of UV light. Energy consumption varied from 3.33 to 50 kWh.m−3. Optimal conditions identified were 10 mg/L Fe2+, 50 mg/L H₂O₂, 96 W UV intensity, and a 60-minute reaction time, highlighting the effectiveness of advanced photo-Fenton oxidation for caffeine treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) can have negative effects on both the pregnancy and perinatal outcomes, as well as the long-term health of the mother and the child. It has been suggested that exposure to air pollution may increase the risk of developing GDM. This study investigated the relationship between exposure to air pollutants with gestational diabetes. Methods: The present study is a retrospective cohort study. We used data from a randomised community trial conducted between September 2016 and January 2019 in Iran. During this period, data on air pollutant levels of five cities investigated in the original study, including 6090 pregnant women, were available. Concentrations of ozone (O3), nitric oxide (NO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulphur dioxide (SO2), carbon monoxide (CO), particulate matter < 2.5 (PM2.5) or <10 μm (PM10) were obtained from air pollution monitoring stations. Exposure to air pollutants during the three months preceding pregnancy and the first, second and third trimesters of pregnancy for each participant was estimated. The odds ratio was calculated based on logistic regression in three adjusted models considering different confounders. Only results that had a p <.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: None of the logistic regression models showed any statistically significant relationship between the exposure to any of the pollutants and GDM at different time points (before pregnancy, in the first, second and third trimesters of pregnancy and 12 months in total) (p >.05). Also, none of the adjusted logistic regression models showed any significant association between PM10 exposure and GDM risk at all different time points after adjusting for various confounders (p >.05). Conclusions: This study found no association between GDM risk and exposure to various air pollutants before and during the different trimesters of pregnancy. This result should be interpreted cautiously due to the lack of considering all of the potential confounders. PLAIN LANGUAGE SUMMARY: The health of pregnant women and their children can be impacted by gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), one of the prevalent pregnancy complications. Some of studies showed that the incidence of gestational diabetes can be influenced by genetic or environmental factors. Air pollution is an environmental stimulus that may predispose pregnant women to GDM. This research explored whether air pollution could increase the risk of developing gestational diabetes. Over 6000 pregnant women in five cities of Iran participated in the study and were screened for gestational diabetes. Their exposure to the various air pollutants during the three months preceding pregnancy and total pregnancy period was measured. In this study, we found no clear association between air pollution and gestational diabetes. However, this finding needs to be interpreted cautiously since all the influential factors were not assessed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Along with exposure to parasites and other biological disease vectors, animal faeces can also contain heavy metals and metalloids. We quantified metals, metalloids, and non-metals in the faeces of capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) that live in parks in the city of Campo Grande (Brazil). Quantification of metalloids was obtained after acid digestion using an inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometer. Higher mean concentrations in mg/kg of aluminium (Al) (140.322), arsenic (As) (0.010), cadmium (Cd) (1.042), chromium (Cr) (26.866), cobalt (Co) (1.946), copper (Cu) (50.764), lead (Pb) (8.762), manganese (Mn) (291.469), molybdenum (Mo) (3.634), nickel (Ni) (5.475), and zinc (Zn) (100.027) were quantified in samples of faeces of capybara that live on the banks of a lagoon that receives input from streams that cross the city. According to the risk assessment, potential risks to the health of children and adults may occur due to the presence of Al, As, Cd, Co, Cu, and Mn through involuntary oral ingestion of faeces, via inhalation and dermal contact. The hazard index (HI) due to oral ingestion was greater than 1 for children and adults. Therefore, we believe that faeces of H. hydrochaeris can be considered as a bioindicator of environmental pollution in urban parks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the relationship between air pollution and daily mobility, focusing on daily bus and subway usage in Seoul using panel data with the fixed effects model. This study empirically examines the effect of air pollutant exposure on the daily moving population volume, including daily bus and subway usage in Seoul over 1271 days. The results show that people's sensitivity to particulate matter is complex. The most remarkable aspect of the results is that people are not sensitive to continuous pollutant levels, but to the comprehensive air-quality index (CAI). In addition, people's sensitivity is different depending on the moving distance and the means of transportation. Considering that CAI is defined by adopting the first air quality guidelines proposed by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2005, these results explain how sensitive people are to the human health risks of particulate matter exposure recommended by the WHO. Our findings can be used as evidence to establish the new particulate matter standards and policies that can be strengthened by reflecting the recently updated WHO's air quality guidelines in 2021. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A model describing the interaction between pollutants and dissolved oxygen in a river environment is investigated. First, by the theory of monotone dynamical systems and principal eigenvalues, a uniqueness and global stability result of positive steady states is established under certain conditions on parameters. Then, via a numerical approach, the effect of various modeling parameters on the spatial distribution of pollutants and dissolved oxygen is carefully examined. These theoretical and numerical results may have important implications to treat the issue of water pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studying air pollution distribution and factors is crucial for control. The research focused on analyzing air pollution distribution and its correlation with climatic variables in Mazandaran Province from 2018 to 2022 using Remote Sensing. Air pollution distribution analyzed with TROPOMI sensor in Google Earth Engine system. Air pollution change point analyzed with Petit's homogeneity test. Additionally, Pearson's correlation test was utilized to assess the correlation among variables. Spatial analysis of air pollution showed that the highest amount of air pollution in the period of 2018-2022 was in the east of Mazandaran and at altitudes of 0-500 m. The test results showed that the concentrations of CO, O3, and SO2 gases had a significant downward trend in some months. However, the average NO2 gas in October 2020 has been significant at the level of 5%. The seasonal air pollution concentration with NO2 gas is higher in winter and autumn. The highest concentration of O3 is in winter and spring. However, the highest concentration of SO2 is related to winter and autumn. The number of sunshine hours with a correlation coefficient between 0.5 and 0.8 has been the most effective climate component on air pollution. Meteorological factors impact temporal-spatial dispersion directly, indirectly.

Co-combustion of sludge with coal can effectively improve the ignition and combustion characteristics and promote the harmless and resourceful utilization of sludge. Inorganic or organic chlorine can be introduced into municipal sewage during the disinfection and dehydration. The increased chlorine content in municipal sludge may adversely affect boiler heat exchange surfaces and environmental protection equipment. The influence of operating parameters on ignition, Cl element release, particle size, and element distribution of fly ash was investigated using a thermogravimetric-Fourier Transform Infrared Analyzer and a laboratory-scale bubbling fluidized bed. The results show that the volatile content in the sludge is high, and there are three weight loss peaks in its derivative thermogravimetric (DTG) curves, and the maximum weight loss peak appears in the volatile release and combustion stage. As the sludge blending ratio increases, the ignition and burnout temperatures of the fuel gradually decrease. The emission concentrations of CO, NO and SO2 increase as the sludge blending ratio increases. The higher volatile content in the sludge promotes the production of CO, while weakening the reducing atmosphere in the dense phase, which is not conducive to the reduction of NO. During the combustion process, both thermo-gravimetric and fluidized bed experiments show that more than 85% of the chlorine elements in the fuel are released in form of HCl, and the self-trapping effect of ash on HCl is weak, and most of the Cl elements in the fuel eventually are emitted in the form of gaseous HCl. The average particle size of fly ash gradually decreases as the sludge blending ratio increases, indicating that sludge ash breaks into finer particles at high temperatures. As the sludge blending ratio increases, the contents of K, P, and Fe elements in fly ash increase significantly, with P showing the most notable increase.

Abstract Microplastics (MPs) have emerged as a significant food‐related risk factor, posing potential threats to human health through dietary intake and the food chain. This review comprehensively analyses the impact of MPs as a novel food safety risk factor on human health (in particular on the gastrointestinal route). Furthermore, we explore the potential mechanisms by which dietary fibers (DFs) may alleviate the health risks associated with MPs. The impact of DFs on human health is intricately linked to factors such as their size, concentration, and composition. We characterize current knowledge and highlight gaps. Although DFs may be a potential strategy to reduce the impact of MPs on organism health, more in‐depth studies are needed to determine their practical effects and application prospects. In particular, research on MPs that actively reduce intake in vivo remains relatively limited and needs to receive more attention from the scientific community.

Water contamination over the years due to hazardous organic and inorganic pollutants poses an immediate threat to both the environment and human health. Extensive research has been conducted on the application of the adsorption technique to treat these effluents. With a focus on adhering to the principles of Green Chemistry and the circular economy, researchers are directing their efforts toward discovering economical, biodegradable, and readily available adsorbents. In this context, the present review article offers insights into recent studies regarding the utilization of the natural biosorbent Luffa cylindrica. This porous, environmentally friendly, and non-toxic material shows promise in the realm of wastewater treatment. Emphasis was also given to several fiber modifications aimed at enhancing the adsorption capacity of this biosorbent. Additionally, comprehensive physicochemical characterizations were conducted, including SEM, TEM, FTIR, XRD, N2 adsorption and desorption and contact angle analyses. The impact of adsorption parameters was discussed in detail. The review delves into kinetic, equilibrium, and thermodynamic data, which have been presented and analyzed. Mechanistic insights into the adsorption interactions between the adsorbent and adsorbate are depicted through illustrative diagrams. Ultimately, the findings underscore the potential of both Luffa and Luffa-based materials as promising candidates for effective wastewater treatment applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastics and nanoplastics are widely present in aquatic environments and attract significant scholarly attention due to their toxicity, persistence, and ability to cross biological barriers, which pose substantial risks to various fish species. Microplastics and nanoplastics can enter fish through their digestive tract, gills and skin, causing oxidative damage to the body and adversely affecting their reproductive system. Given that fish constitute a crucial source of high-quality protein for humans, it is necessary to study the impact of microplastics on fish reproduction in order to assess the impact of pollutants on ecology, biodiversity conservation, environmental sustainability, and endocrine disruption. This review explores the reproductive consequences of microplastics and nanoplastics in fish, examining aspects such as fecundity, abnormal offspring, circadian rhythm, gonad index, spermatocyte development, oocyte development, sperm quality, ovarian development, and changes at the molecular and cellular level. These investigations hold significant importance in environmental toxicology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Horizontal gene transfer plays a key role in the global dissemination of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). AMR genes are often carried on self-transmissible plasmids, which are shared amongst bacteria primarily by conjugation. Antibiotic use has been a well-established driver of the emergence and spread of AMR. However, the impact of commonly used non-antibiotic compounds and environmental pollutants on AMR spread has been largely overlooked. Recent studies found common prescription and over-the-counter drugs, artificial sweeteners, food preservatives, and environmental pollutants, can increase the conjugative transfer of AMR plasmids. The potential mechanisms by which these compounds promote plasmid transmission include increased membrane permeability, upregulation of plasmid transfer genes, formation of reactive oxygen species, and SOS response gene induction. Many questions remain around the impact of most non-antibiotic compounds on AMR plasmid conjugation in clinical isolates and the long-term impact on AMR dissemination. By elucidating the role of routinely used pharmaceuticals, food additives, and pollutants in the dissemination of AMR, action can be taken to mitigate their impact by closely monitoring use and disposal. This review will discuss recent progress on understanding the influence of non-antibiotic compounds on plasmid transmission, the mechanisms by which they promote transfer, and the level of risk they pose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article reports the obtention of a new gellan-based hydrogel linked with Fe3+ and loaded with a natural micro/nanostructured carbon designed as a contaminant's removal from wastewater. Hydrogels are known for their water-retaining properties, high binding capacity, and eco-friendly features. The new material is expected to behave as one cost-effective and efficient sorbent, including natural carbon structures with various functional groups. The encapsulation efficiency ranges between 89% and 95%. The obtained hydrogel particles were characterized using FT-IR spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy techniques. The hydrogel particles' water stability was evaluated by measuring the transmittance for 10 days, and the capacity to retain water was assessed by determining the swelling degree (Q%). The results showed that hydrogel particles are stable (the transmittance value is higher than 97.8% after 10 days), and their properties are influenced by the cross-linking degree, the amount of the carbon particles encapsulated, and the concentration of gellan. For example, the Q% values and encapsulation efficiency increased when the cross-linking degree, the carbon microstructure quantity, and the gellan concentration decreased. The new hybrid material can retain Pb(II) ions and diclofenac molecules, and could be used in different adsorption–desorption cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil contamination has increased significantly over the last few decades due to anthropogenic activities such as industrial waste disposal, agricultural practices, urbanization, construction, mining and drilling, waste dumping, and lack of regulation and enforcement. These activities cause soil contamination with pollutants such as heavy metals, pesticides, industrial chemicals, and pathogens. These pollutants disrupt the food chain, contaminate crops and water, and threaten living beings and the environment. To effectively assess soil pollution, it is essential to establish non-hazardous threshold technologies for determining the quantity of pollutants in the soil. A bio-monitoring approach that focuses on metal toxicity and its availability in the soil, as well as its impact on unidentified metabolites, is appropriate. As a major component of soil biota, earthworms play a crucial role in organic matter decomposition and soil reconstruction in terrestrial ecosystems. Several studies have indicated that earthworms can serve as biological tools for monitoring soil pollutants and exhibit stress responses to contaminants. Their density and biomass are significantly affected by local soil pollution because they are directly exposed to the soil environment. This review article summarizes various research studies on how earthworm species function as bioindicators or biomonitors and their response to different soil pollutants. Further research is required to identify the species-specific responses of earthworms and to understand their biochemical, anatomical, physiological, and genetic changes in particular pollutant-contaminated soils. These efforts are aimed at helping us maintain soil health for sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In terms of environmental pollution, water pollution is the most significant problem facing living organisms worldwide. Pollutants of various types, including toxic, inorganic, and organic materials, have a detrimental impact on terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Materials with layers, such as layered double hydroxides (LDHs), a type of synthetic anion clay, have a wide range of potential applications. In this comprehensive study, we have discussed variety of LDHs, and their explicit properties which have significant advantages for the removal of a variety of pollutants from water. Besides these, LDHs are easily synthesized with high yield and, tuneable structure based on choice of metals, etc. Based on these unique potentials, we have summarized how layered double hydroxides and their hybrids are synthesized efficiently. The performance and applications in removing water pollutants involving heavy metals, inorganic anions, and organics at different parameters such as temperature, adsorbent dosage, pH, and contact time are discussed. Consolidated information has been provided regarding the LDH synthesis, conditions for adsorption, and reference of the particular work. The worked‐up LDH's regeneration potential and methods evolved for regenerating it, different kinetic models and isotherms are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]