Electronic waste (e-waste) has become a major environmental issue due to its hazardous contents, such as toxic substances like Mercury, Brominated Flame Retardants (BFRs), and Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs), which pose significant risks to human health and ecosystems. The rapid pace of technological advancement and the increasing consumption of electronic devices have caused a substantial surge in e-waste generation. In 2019, global e-waste production reached 53.6 million metric tons, with projections suggesting it will double by 2050. High-income countries have made strides in developing policies and infrastructure for e-waste recycling; however, a significant portion of this waste is exported to low-income countries, where improper processing methods lead to serious environmental and health hazards. Although recycling e-waste has substantial economic value, with raw material recovery potentially worth $57 billion, only 17.4% of global e-waste was properly recycled in 2019, emphasizing the urgent need for improved management strategies and international cooperation to address this growing issue.

Plastic pollution can have negative effects on human health as well as serious effects on marine ecosystems. The widespread production of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) single-use plastics poses a significant threat to aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems in terms of plastic waste. PET is a strong, clear and light plastic that is typically used for food and beverage packaging, as well as for other single-use applications. As a result, removing plastic from the environment is not only difficult but also ineffective financially. Numerous strains of bacteria are capable of biodegrading a variety of plastics. Utilizing beneficial micro-organisms that are capable of breaking down plastic could be an effective and long-term solution to all of the problems. Ideonella sakaeinsis 201-F6 is the most well-known heterotrophic bacteria that can use PET as its primary source of energy and carbon to degrade plastic in the environment. It has a place with the sort of Ideonella and the family Comamonadaceae. With the assistance of specific enzymes like PETase and MHETase, it can ultimately degrade plastic, potentially reducing the problem of plastic waste. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is first transformed by the PETase into mono-(2-hydroxyethyl) terephthalate (MHET), after which MHET is hydrolyzed to produce ethylene glycol (EG) and terephthalic acid (TPA). I. sakaiensis offers a novel strategy for recycling PET because it can mediate the direct transformation of non-biodegradable PET into plastic that is better for the environment.

The assessment of Air pollution tolerance index and anticipated performance index of most occurring plants along National Highway-07 (Nahan – Paonta Sahib), Himachal Pradesh. The investigation has been done along NH-07 from December 2023 to January 2024. There were four 10-km segments of the 40-km NH-07 route between Nahan and Paonta Sahib were separated for analysis. The vehicle activity's effect on vegetation was evaluated by measuring plants at D1 (0–5 m), D2 (5–10 m), and D3 (>10 m) distances from the NH-07 on both sides. Based on the estimated APTI and the socioeconomic traits of most occurring plant species found along the roadside at various locations, the expected performance index (API) was evaluated. The findings revealed that, all the four dominant species scored less APTI score (< 11) and categorised as sensitive plant species. There is no discernible variance in APTI across all sites, according to the two-way ANOVA. The APTI and socioeconomic factors are used in the novel ecological process known as the Anticipated Performance Index (API) to choose plant species that will reduce air pollution. The findings, as reported by API, indicated that among the four most dominant plant species, Shorea robusta (API = 4) considered as "good" performance, Eucalyptus globulus (API = 3) is a moderate performer whereas Ficus roxburghii and Mallotus phillippenis (API = 2) are poor performers. Therefore, it is recommended that a green belt be created for the top performer i.e. Shorea robusta in a particular study area.

The study reports our evaluation of high resolution, hyperspectral leaf reflectance and pigment measurement as a potential tool to aid in identifying and delineating the effect of crop residue management and macronutrients on chlorophyll content and crop health of wheat crop (T. aestivum). The split–plot design was employed for the experiment with rice straw management practice as the main plots, while 4 sub treatments include an increase in N % from 23 % to 50 % compared to the control. Hyperspectral reflectance data (350-1000 nm) at 5 nm resolution were collected after 2nd irrigation and N % dose application at about 85 days of crop maturity using a SPECIM camera under natural light conditions from ~1200-1500 hrs. The reflectance was measured at ~60 cm from the plant tip and the variance and multivariate mean separation among the various treatments. There was a significant increase (~1.5 fold) in reflectance for the T4 treatment compared to the control (T1), and a corresponding increase in chlorophyll content was observed with the T4 treatment compared to the control. The increase in chlorophyll was also correlated with the content of mineral N soil (mg/kg). With the addition of additional N % along with residue-managed plots, there is a linear increase in chlorophyll content, which is also compared with SPAD and green seeker (NDVI) data taken simultaneously at the time of HSI imaging. This is the first observation where the HSI technique is successfully employed to study the impact of crop residue management on crop health.

This editorial addresses the critical role of post-harvest solutions in advancing global food security by minimizing food waste and preserving nutritional value. Post-harvest losses, especially in developing regions, significantly impact food availability and quality. With nutrient loss in harvested crops due to exposure to heat, light, and other environmental factors, methods such as cold storage, biofortification, and smart packaging prove essential for retaining nutrient density. Additionally, supportive policy frameworks and international collaboration are necessary to scale these technologies and empower farmers. By enhancing post-harvest practices, sustainable food systems can be achieved to meet the dietary needs of a growing population.

Fresh cut carrots disinfected with 100ppm sodium hypochlorite solution and coated with different coatings revealed that chitosan coating exerts higher antimicrobial efficacy and inhibits microbial growth. Characterization of chitosan coating revealed presence of functional groups responsible for antimicrobial activity and coating have low water vapour and O2/CO2 transmission rate with non-Newtonian flow behaviour. Standardisation of coating conditions viz. concentration and dipping time was performed using Response Surface Methodology. Results revealed that fresh cut carrots dipped in 1.0% (w/v) chitosan coating for 3 minutes exhibited lowest microbial count and maintained physicochemical properties. Validation at 5.0 kg scale showed microbial counts of coated carrot pieces were within acceptable limits (4.72 log cfu/g total plate count, 2.90 log cfu/g yeasts and moulds, and 2.95 log cfu/g total coliforms) even at 15th day, while uncoated carrots exceeded the acceptable microbial limits after6th day of refrigeration storage. Physicochemical attributes were highly maintained and bioactive compounds including phenolics, ascorbic acid, carotenoids showed low dissipation and were highly preserved with low PPO and POD activities, thus increasing shelf life of produce. Sensory attributes showed high acceptability of chitosan coated fresh cut carrots with overall acceptability score of 7.0 on 15th day of storage.

Rapid industrialization and agricultural expansions had redistributed the metals at regional as well as global levels with consequent environmental pollution producing deleterious effects on diverse living systems. Heavy metals are the most hazardous pollutants as they are non-degradable and undergo bioaccumulation. Lead is one of the major environmental contaminants, occurring in soil, sediments, air, and water. Lead toxicity is a significant public health issue, known to cause severe hepatotoxic effects through oxidative stress, inflammation, and cellular apoptosis. This study evaluates the bio-efficacy of Allium cepa (onion) extract in protecting against lead-induced liver damage in albino rats. Rats received lead acetate and onion bulb extract for 1,7, 14 & 21 days and samples were collected for analyses. Key parameters assessed were liver function biomarkers (ALT, AST, ALP, ACP, LDH), and histopathological changes in liver tissue. Liver injury is manifested by elevated levels of enzymes, as well as histopathological alterations, including massive hepatocyte degeneration and increased collagen deposition. The results revealed that Allium cepa extract significantly reduced liver enzyme levels and notable improvements in liver architecture, including reduced necrosis and inflammation. These findings suggest that Allium cepa extract may serve as a natural therapeutic agent for mitigating lead-induced hepatotoxicity, paving the way for further research into its clinical applications. This study highlights the potent hepatoprotective properties of Allium cepa, attributed to its rich antioxidant and sulphur compounds. Presently, the main objective of the study is to establish herbal dietary supplements as protective agents against heavy metal-induced toxicity that are safe, affordable, and easily available.

Soil ecosystems are important in sustaining flora, fauna, and microbes. It provides key nutrients to the soil—microbial metabolism to help in agricultural production, habitat maintenance, biodiversity restoration, and environmental balance. Soil enzymes play an important role in nutrient cycling, mainly carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus, hence helping to create the availability of nutrients through degradation of substrate and exchange of energy. Microorganisms play a special role in enzyme production, both intracellularly and extracellularly. They are involved in microbial biomass production, organic matter decomposition, and soil productivity. Various soil parameters, viz., soil physicochemical activity, microbial activity, soil contamination, climatic factors, soil operational practices, and seasonal and land use conversion influence the soil enzyme activity. Enzymes play an important role in maintaining soil fertility and health. Therefore, soil enzymes are a great tool for evaluating the soil condition and ecosystem productivity.

Nanoplastics defined as plastic particles with diameters less than 100 nanometers, have become a growing concern due to their widespread presence in consumable goods. The small size and unique chemical properties of nanoplastics make them highly mobile & potentially hazardous to human health. Nanoplastic can enter the human body through the respiratory system via inhalation and, the digestive tract via consumption of contaminated food and water, which compromise immune defenses and increase susceptibility to infections. It influences microbial community dynamics by altering the balance between commensal and pathogenic species. Bioaccumulation of plastics in the human body can potentially lead to infectious diseases, including respiratory disorders like lung cancer and asthma. It can induce apoptosis in cells and have genotoxic and cytotoxic effects. The role of nanoplastics in altering ecological microbial communities and their potential to introduce novel pathogens highlight their contribution to the emergence of infectious diseases. These dynamics are critical for mitigating the risks posed by nanoplastics and require interdisciplinary research in the future.

The current study shows a survey of ethnomedicinal plants in a popular sacred grove, Bherunath Ji Bani, located in the Alwar district of Rajasthan, India. The study shows that Bherunath Ji Bani inhabits 99 different plants belonging to 45 different families and 80 unique genera. The highest number of plants belonged to Fabaceae (17), Malvaceae (12), Asteraceae (8), Euphorbiaceae (7), Moraceae (6), Mimosaceae (5), Caesalpiniaceae (4), Solanaceae (4) and Tiliaceae (3) followed by others. The enlisted plants belonged to 15 different habits, including, Herb (51), Tree (31), Shrub (15), Large tree (7), Erect herb (2), Twining shrub (1), Small tree (1), Evergreen tree (1), Climbing shrub (1), Grass (1), Annual herb (1), Large herb (1), Prostrate herb (1), Shrub like grass (1), Climber shrub (1). The study shows various forms in which ethnomedicinal plants can be used for curing various ailments, including fresh plant material including juices or crushed leaves, dried plant material including powders and teas, infusions, decoctions, ointments, essential oils, poultices, plant extracts and several other forms, in order to cure ailments of different systems of the body.

Salinity limits crop production, affecting over 1.4 billion hectares (10.7% of global land area) of the world's land. Factors like low rainfall, high evaporation, poor water management, and excessive fertilizer use contribute to soil salt accumulation. Salt tolerance, a complex trait influenced by multiple genes, reduces growth rates, alters leaf characteristics, and disrupts nutrient balance. However, salinity also has positive effects on quality and disease resistance. Understanding salt tolerance mechanisms is important for developing mitigation strategies. Genetic variations exist within and among species, with allopolyploid species and crops/varieties adapted to saline soils showing higher tolerance. Strategies for enhancing salt tolerance include developing halophytes, utilizing interspecific hybridization, using existing variation, and generating variation through selection, mutagenesis, or tissue culture. Grafting, selection, interspecific hybridization, tissue culture, and genetic engineering are approaches to developing salt-tolerant crops. Techniques like marker-assisted breeding and genetic transformation hold promise. Specific strategies for improving salt tolerance in selected vegetable crops (brinjal, carrot, pea, pepper, potato, okra, onion, tomato) involve treatments with methyl jasmonate, polyamines, inorganic nutrients, potassium, humic acid, inorganic fertilizers, plant growth regulators, grafting, and genetic approaches. Understanding the genetic, biochemical, and physiological mechanisms underlying salt tolerance is important for enhancing productivity under salinity.

Agroforestry is a land use system where perennial tree species are strategically utilized in the same land management unit as animals, crops, or both, either in a temporal or spatial arrangement. Adopting various agroforestry system approaches is essential to maintaining the livelihood of farmers with limited resources, especially in rainfed areas. The aim of the study was to analyze the existing agroforestry system and its components within traditional agroforestry in the Poonch area of Jammu and Kashmir, India. Agri-silviculture, agri-horti-silviculture, silvi-pastoral and agri-silvi-pastoral were the four distinct kinds of agroforestry systems found to be prevalent in the area. It was found that the majority of the agroforestry systems in this area are made up of horticultural and multipurpose tree species in addition to crop species. In order to fully realize the potential of agroforestry as a sustainable economic and ecological solution in the area, the study calls for continued attention and support from policymakers, scientists, social workers, and extension professionals. Overall, the study highlights the need for increased promotion and development of agroforestry to improve the livelihoods of rural communities.

This work presents the detailed study of the composition and diversity of phytoplankton and its dynamics through different seasons in the pitlake ecosystem. Several pitlakes of Raniganj coalfield were selected for that purpose. A total of 66 species of phytoplankton belonging to 7 phyla and 10 classes of phytoplankton were recorded. Bacillariophyceae was the most prevalent class of phytoplankton, whereas Heterokontophyta was the most prevalent phylum. Several diversity indices such as Menhenik, Margalef, Dominance, Simpson, Shannon, Berger-Parker, Brillouin, and Pielou’s Evenness index were calculated for each site and season. The highest diversity was recorded in the monsoon season, and the highest abundance was recorded in the post-monsoon season. Pitlakes showed a high level of phytoplankton diversity with very little dominance. Both the Shannon-Weiner diversity index and the Margalef index predicted the pitlakes to have a moderate level of pollution.

Environmental pollution is a gigantic challenge faced by the global community belonging to the present era. The researchers and environmentalists around the globe are working tirelessly to combat and reduce the pollution or contaminants with an aim to make the climatic conditions healthy and fit for the global community. The multiple anthropological, industrial, and environmental events are responsible for escalating the deterioration of the environment and earth. Bioremediation is an environment-friendly and sustainable approach to reducing and regulating naturally present pollutants. It utilizes multiple microbial organisms to break down and detoxify environmental pollutants from polluted mixtures to safeguard the environment and earth. The core principles of bioremediation include a number of important techniques to reduce environmental pollutants, such as adsorption, redox processes, and pH level modification. These approaches seek to lessen the effects of pollutants in the environment. The bioremediation procedure suffers from different drawbacks, like the availability of contaminants and their accessibility to microorganisms, and the adaptation/ modification of native microbes for biodegradation of suitable target contaminants, which are critical factors in bioremediation processes. The effective bulk supply of electron collectors and essential components to the microbes poses significant challenges. These limitations can be mitigated through the integration of bioremediation techniques with electrokinetics (EK), specifically utilizing electrobioremediation technology. This approach involves the use of electricity on a perforated subsurface matrix, which activates the targeted precise movement of desired components. Electrobioremediation harnesses electrokinetic effects to enhance and directionalize the transport of environmental pollutants and microbial populations toward remediation targets. The present manuscript discussed the EK-assisted electrobioremediation technology along with its potential application and challenges.

Sport fishing, is a popular leisure activity worldwide, valued for its relaxation, enjoyment, and health benefits. Unlike commercial or subsistence fishing, it is pursued for pleasure rather than profit or food. Historical records from ancient civilizations highlight its long-standing cultural significance. In India, sport fishing has a rich tradition, but there is a notable lack of scientific knowledge and standardized regulations, especially regarding conservation of threatened species. While only a few Indian states enforce government norms, expanding recreational fishing could support ecotourism and generate employment, particularly in rural areas. To ensure sustainable growth, increased government involvement, better regulatory frameworks, and collaboration with local communities are essential. Citizen science and improved fisheries management can help address knowledge gaps and promote the conservation and management of sport fish resources.

Photocatalytic studies emphasize upon the chemical reactions that occur when light and a photocatalyst are present in a chemical reaction. A semiconductor known as a photocatalyst increases the rate of reaction just by being there. Numerous uses for photocatalysis exist, including water purification, self-cleaning, antimicrobial, de-odorizing, air purifying and antifogging. Since photocatalysis is a green chemical route, it is essential in the present times and is the need of the hour. Various industries are using different types of dyes in their routine processes including textile and leather industries. These industries put out a huge amount of dyes in their wastewaters which can be harmful to the human health. This short review emphasizes the application of different photocatalytic systems to degrade the dyes including Orange G, Methyl Orange and Methylene Blue which may be present in the industrial watsewaters.

Coccolithophores, a special group of calcifying phytoplankton in the Indian Ocean, their distribution and productivity are strongly mediated by monsoonal dynamics, and they are a key player in the oceanic biogeochemical cycles. Our study explores the multifaceted dynamics between monsoon-driven environmental variability and coccolithophores, examining the influences of upwelling, nutrient accessibility and stratification. Normally, the Southwest (SW) monsoon is characterized by strong winds and substantial upwelling of nutrients and promotes coccolithophore blooms. In contrast, the population density is often lower with reduced upwelling of the northeast (NE) monsoon. This driving force is also noted in the analysis as different responses across regions of the Indian Ocean highlight the local environmental conditions. In addition, it highlights the importance of detailed long-term monitoring and innovative methods, including remote sensing and in situ measurements. As the monsoon pattern continues to change as a result of climate change, the research on coccolithophores in the Indian Ocean is becoming increasingly important in projecting future changes in marine ecosystems and environmental carbon. This review offers a comprehensive overview of the present state of knowledge, highlights major research gaps and proposes directions for future research to gain an understanding of the resilience and adaptability of coccolithophores in a changing environment.

The fishing business has been greatly impacted by artificial intelligence (AI), which has increased production, sustainability, and efficiency. AI enables ships to collect and analyse enormous volumes of data on things like water temperature, salinity, fish behaviour, and ocean currents by combining sensors, cameras, and machine learning algorithms. Increased catch rates and lower operating expenses result from fishermen using this data-driven method to make well-informed decisions about the best times and places to fish. Additionally, AI has proven crucial in the development of smart fishing gear, lowering bycatch, and lessening the negative environmental effects of fishing. AI-based methods also help with stock availability, population dynamics, fish migration patterns, and resource management optimisation. This makes it possible for fishermen to modify their tactics, set sustainable quotas, and refrain from overfishing, all of which help to preserve fish stocks over the long run and guarantee the sustainability of the fishing sector for coming generations. AI technology has the potential to completely transform the fishing sector as it develops further.

Desiccation tolerance (DT) withstands extreme dehydration (90-95% water loss). Post-gemination DT is one of three types of DT known to be present in angiosperms. Wheat possesses post-germination DT. Present study found post-germination DT superior in drought tolerant cultivar than drought susceptible cultivar. Further investigation demonstrated that grades of phenolics, lignin, anthocyanins, gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA), proline, sugars and starch and activities of guaiacol peroxidase, glutathione peroxidase, sucrose phosphate synthase, sucrose synthase, and amylases were linked to the post-germination-DT of drought tolerant compared to drought susceptible cultivar. Results concluded that post-germination DT can be the marker of drought tolerance in wheat. Antioxidants, proline, sugars, and GABA may be the chief players involved in post-germination DT in wheat.

The main objective of the study was to determine a practical follow-up for the pectin extraction from the whole guava fruit under optimum conditions and to explore the usage of pectin commercially. As guava fruitis available in two different seasons i.e. Rainy (monsoon) and winter respectively. While harvesting, the guavas were procured under different maturity indices viz. Immature green, mature green, over-ripe yellow and infested. So, Pectin was extracted with variation in season and four distinct maturity levels. Extracted pectin undergoes functional characterization and analysis for the best extraction yield. Pectin yield, Moisture content, Ash content and Degree of esterification of extracted pectin were analysed. Physico-chemical properties of guava fruits have proven to be better in the winter season and the highest pectin yield had been recovered from the mature green guava stage from winter guava crop.

Fresh produce is considered as highly beneficial for human health. Post harvest losses and improper storage cause quality related issues. Factors like dehydration, browning, microbial growth, firmness loss, etc contribute to quality loss of fresh-cut fruit. Hence, there are technologies developed to reduce like modified atmospheric packaging, disinfectant washing, and edible coatings have been used to prevent post-harvest losses for quality loss prevention. The use of edible coatings is an area of focus in food industries. Edible coatings have gained considerable attention due to their ability to extend fruit and vegetables shelf life. These coatings are a novel type of primary packaging made up of polysaccharides, proteins, lipids or mixture of these types. They are known to improve quality and appearance of fresh products by decreasing aroma loss and by maintaining its structural integrity. Active coatings can carry supplementary ingredients like antimicrobials, antioxidants, antibrowning agents, texture enhancers, etc which has promising potential for shelf life extension. Information about various types of coatings will help the food processors to identify the most effective formulations to be used for preservation. It is very important to monitor consumer preferences towards the coated products to increase the acceptability of coated fruits and vegetables. This review summarizes the advantages of edible coatings with their types, applying methods and their effect on physicochemical and microbiological and sensorial properties of fresh cut fruits and vegetables.

The progressive industrialization and urbanization of the modern world have resulted in substantial amounts of wastewater, containing a plethora of toxic contaminants that pose serious threats to public health and the environment. As conventional treatment methods often fall short in terms of efficiency and efficacy, novel approaches like nanomaterial-based wastewater purification have received a lot of interest. Owing to their distinctive characteristics, nanomaterials have emerged as promising options for wastewater purification. This paper examines the recent developments in nanotechnology applied to wastewater treatment, highlighting the use of various novel nanomaterials such as metallic nanoparticles, graphene and its derivatives, carbon nanotubes, dendrimers, nanocomposites, nanofiltration membranes, clay nanomaterials, and polymeric nanomaterials, to achieve high adsorption capacities ranging from 80 % to 99.9 %. The mechanisms underlying the purification processes along with the targeted contaminants, removal efficiency and reusability of various nanomaterials are also outlined. Furthermore, the paper also discusses the challenges and future directions of nanomaterial-based wastewater treatment, considering its environmental and practical implications.

The exponential increase in world population has put enormous increased motorization that led to an overwhelming pressure on the earth's finite supply of fossil fuels. For the benefit of human well-being, renewable and sustainable energy sources must be developed because the lack of fossil fuels is negatively affecting the environment and the economy. Algae with high cellulose/starch/lipid accumulation can be the best substitute for food crops in the case of economic and environmental concerns. These algae can be used to produce bioethanol, a sustainable fuel. Some types of algae can directly contribute to the generation of ethanol by producing it during dark-anaerobic fermentation. Production of algal-based biofuel is an economically effective and environmentally friendly energy source that seems to be a promising alternative for the future generation of biofuel. In the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, sustainable transport is mainstreamed across several SDGs and targets, especially food security, health, energy, economic growth, infrastructure, and cities and human settlements. It aims to make cities and human settlements inclusive and identify ways to develop and implement low-carbon and resilient transport strategies. The current review describes the state of the field of algae biofuel in the past present and future. The likelihood of producing biofuel energy from algae cells in the future can be increased by implementing a sophisticated plan to increase biofuel output. Current theories regarding algal potential for producing biofuel are compiled in this study. It discusses each phase of the process, scientific accomplishments, current issues, and recommendations for future research aims and objectives.

Murraya koenigii (L.) Spreng, commonly known as curry leaf, has a rich history in traditional medicine, with purported benefits in managing diabetes and other ailments. Murraya koenigii leaves are pinnate with 11 to 21 small, glossy and aromatic leaflets that are bright green in color. The fresh leaves are highly aromatic, with a distinct somewhat citrusy flavour and native to South Asia. This study investigates the dual potential of M. koenigii leaf extracts by evaluating their α-amylase inhibitory activity and free radical scavenging capacity, key factors in hyperglycemia management and combating oxidative stress. Methodology includes the preparation of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of M. koenigii leaves. α-Amylase inhibitory activity was assessed using a standard colorimetric assay with maltose as a positive control. Antioxidant potential was evaluated using FRAP method. The total phenolic and flavonoid content of the extracts were also identified. Aqueous ethanolic extracts of M. koenigii leaves demonstrated significant α-amylase inhibitory activity, with the ethanolic extract exhibiting superior inhibition compared to the aqueous extract, and approaching the activity of the positive control, maltose and α-amylase inhibitory activity was found to be 61.53%. Furthermore, extracts displayed potent free radical scavenging activity in the FRAP method it was about 1.49 reference standard was ascorbic acid indicating significant antioxidant potential. The extract shows positive phytochemicals like phenols and flavonoids. These findings highlight the promising dual therapeutic potential of M. koenigii leaves. The observed α-amylase inhibition suggests a potential role in managing postprandial hyperglycemia, while the strong free radical scavenging activity offers protection against oxidative stress-related complications often associated with diabetes. M. koenigii leaves warrant further investigation as a potential natural therapeutic agent for diabetes management and related oxidative stress.

One of the most effective approaches for removing heavy metal ions from an aqueous solution is adsorption. However, the synthesis of adsorbents with intended selectivity and performance is a major obstacle in the fight against water pollution. The objective of this investigation is to address the constraints of Graphene Oxide (GO) as an adsorbent by synthesizing Magnetic Graphene Oxide (MGO). Both GO and MGO were synthesized, and their adsorption capacity for heavy metal ions such as lead (Pb (II)) was investigated. The maximum adsorption capacities (Qmax) of GO and MGO under optimal conditions (pH = 6, temperature = 50℃, and contact time = 20 minutes) were determined to be 46.19 mg/g and 49.8 mg/g, respectively. This indicates that magnetizing graphene oxide with iron oxide nanoparticles not only addresses its separation challenges but also enhances its adsorption capacity. Thermodynamic analyses indicated that the adsorption process was spontaneous and endothermic.

Nanoplastic contamination in soil is an emerging environmental concern with significant implications for ecosystems and human health. This review explores strategies to limit plastic production and promote eco-friendly alternatives, emphasizing the importance of incentives for developing biodegradable plastics and establishing proper waste disposal standards to reduce nanoplastics in soil. The effectiveness of various soil remediation technologies, including physical, chemical, and biological methods, is discussed, with a focus on mechanical techniques, chemical degradation, and the use of microorganisms to remove or degrade nanoplastics. Future research directions highlight the need for sustainable solutions and interdisciplinary approaches to mitigate nanoplastic pollution. Key research areas include the impact of soil properties and agricultural practices on nanoplastic accumulation, the development of advanced detection technologies, and the exploration of biodegradable alternatives. Collaborative efforts among scientists, policymakers, industries, and communities are essential to addressing this growing challenge and safeguarding environmental and public health.

Gross biochemical composition and condition index of short neck clam Paphia malabarica was investigated from February 2023 to July 2024. Proteins, lipids and total carbohydrate showed similar patterns of variation according to the reproductive cycles, highlighting the importance of the reproductive cycle and physiological features of the species and also the influence of environmental conditions in determining biochemical composition. Protein and lipids were maximum in the mature clams (533.4 μg/mg and 48.2 μg/mg respectively) and decreased during and after spawning. Carbohydrates increased during summer (126.4 μg/mg in February 2024) and decreased during monsoon. Condition index was influenced by environmental conditions, which further determined the spawning seasons. Condition index was maximum in January 2024 and minimum in June 2024 with an index value of 9.3 and 6.6 respectively.

Emerging Environmental Contaminants (EECs) are industrial effluents that poses risks to ecological integrity throughout the globe as these are the significant contributors of environmental pollution. According to United States Geological Survey (USGS) - any chemical or microorganism (synthetic or natural) not under regular surveillance, suspected for adverse human or ecological effects is considered as Emerging Environmental Contaminant (EEC). Apart from environment issues, these EECs that includes wide array of micropollutants also have serious concerns towards human health. Equally known as Emerging pollutants (EPs), these EECs include perfluorinated compounds, human and veterinary pharmaceuticals, fire retardants, gasoline additives, UV filters, manufactured nanoparticles, synthetic fragrances, personal care products, disinfectants, microplastics and preservatives etc. EECs contaminate all the three abiotic components ie. air, water and soil; therefore, are potentially harmful for microorganisms, plants as well as animals (biotic components) in the biosphere. The diverse groups comprising EECs are unregulated, thereby are increasingly accumulating in the environment. These EECs are continuously challenging the agricultural ecosystem by way of the abiotic as well as biotic stresses. These anthropogenically generated compounds are accumulative in nature leading to both soil as well as water bodies pollution. In recent years, the climate change due to accumulative EECs has led to disturbed ecosystems at different zones of the globe posing numerous challenges to food for human wellbeing and forage for domestic animals. The challenges offered by EECs towards their control measures include lack of perception, misapprehension, scarcity of scientific investigations and explorations for their occurrence, estimations, intensification as the most common hurdles to researcher in unravelling the strategies that may cope these EECs.

Two of the most significant difficulties that the new millennium presents are the achievement of sustainable agricultural productivity and the improvement of global food security. When it comes to addressing these difficulties, innovative technologies are required. These technologies should be able to boost global food production while simultaneously limiting collateral environmental harm and conserving the resilience of agroecosystems against a climate that is changing rapidly. When compared to conventional pesticides, nanomaterials that can encapsulate and deliver pesticidal active ingredients (AIs) responsively (for instance, regulated, targeted, and synchronized) present new options to boost the efficacy and efficiency of traditional pesticides. Although there are benefits to using nanoparticles in standard nanopesticide formulations, current studies indicate that some of these nanoparticles can harm crops and beneficial creatures. This toxicity is caused by the accumulation of nanoparticles in the organisms and their passage via the food chain. Consequently, conventional nanopesticides are considered disadvantageous for "green agriculture". When evaluating the present circumstances, creating "all-organic" nanopesticides might serve as an advanced solution for mitigating the harmful effects of conventional nanopesticides. Nevertheless, their understanding and practical use of concepts are significantly restricted. All-organic nanoparticles synthesized using green methods are more ecologically benign than traditional nanopesticides since they have low residue and dangerous effects. This research examines the present state of development of 'all-organic' nanomaterials and their potential as organic nanopesticides on target species compared to conventional nanopesticides.

The priming of seeds with nanoparticles (NPs) has the potential to aid crop production and agricultural sustainability. Nevertheless, it depends on the crop type being investigated and NPs dosage. The present study reports the impact of seed nano-priming with varied concentrations of iron oxide (Fe2O3) NPs on the seedling growth of black chickpeas. Iron oxide NPs were synthesized via a chemical route using FeCl3 and Fe(NO3)3 as precursors, along with vermiwash (earthworm-based extract) and NaOH for adjusting the pH of the resulting solution. Seed nano-priming was carried out using different concentrations of iron oxide NPs (0, 10, 50, 100, 150, 200 ppm). The primed seeds were air-dried and evaluated for growth using a wet filter paper method. The grown seedlings were evaluated based on various growth parameters such as germination rate, root length, shoot length, root-to-shoot length ratio, fresh and dry weights, and seedling vigour indices (I and II). The study revealed that nano-priming with iron oxide NPs improved the germination percentage at the end of the seventh day and also led to enhancement in various growth indicators, such as root length, shoot length, biomass accumulation, and seedling vigour indices, compared to the control at all concentrations up to 150 ppm. Further increase in NPs concentration inhibited the seedling growth. The correlations among growth parameters were examined using Pearson correlation and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) methods. This study demonstrated the potential of optimized doses of iron oxide NPs as co-fertilizer to aid early-stage growth in black chickpea.