Mutasem Elfadel - Academia.edu (original) (raw)
Papers by Mutasem Elfadel
Atmospheric Environment, 2006
Lower carbonyl concentrations were measured for the first time in two different sampling sites (A... more Lower carbonyl concentrations were measured for the first time in two different sampling sites (American University of Beirut (AUB) and Abdel-Aziz (AA)) in Beirut, Lebanon. Formaldehyde (C1) and acetaldehyde (C2) were the most abundant carbonyls with respective maximum concentrations of 12.2 and 5.2 ppbv at AUB and 8.6 and 5.1 ppbv at AA. Diurnal variations of carbonyls exhibited similar behaviors, suggesting related formation and decomposition routes. Morning levels of carbonyls were either equal or higher than the ones in the afternoon at the coastal site (AUB) due to atmospheric dilution. However, morning levels were mostly lower than noon levels at a three-busy street intersection (AA) due to the enhancement of photochemical activities. Vehicle emissions constituted the dominant source of carbonyls measured as confirmed by the good correlation between C1, C2 and propanal (C3) and the C1/CO and C2/CO ratios in the mornings. Seasonal variation showed the predominance of summertime photolysis and photo-oxidation reactions of aldehydes. Based on the measured formaldehyde levels, ozone and nitrous acid concentrations, morning and afternoon OH radical fluxes are computed and consequently their contribution to photochemical smog processes are assessed.
Waste management & research : the journal of the International Solid Wastes and Public Cleansing Association, ISWA, 2005
This paper examines the feasibility of introducing food waste disposers as a waste minimization o... more This paper examines the feasibility of introducing food waste disposers as a waste minimization option within urban waste management schemes, taking the Greater Beirut Area (GBA) as a case study. For this purpose, the operational and economic impacts of food disposers on the solid waste and wastewater streams are assessed. The integration of food waste disposers can reduce the total solid waste to be managed by 12 to 43% under market penetration ranging between 25 and 75%, respectively. While the increase in domestic water consumption (for food grinding) and corresponding increase in wastewater flow rates are relatively insignificant, wastewater loadings increased by 17 to 62% (BOD) and 1.9 to 7.1% (SS). The net economic benefit of introducing food disposers into the waste and wastewater management systems constitutes 7.2 to 44.0% of the existing solid waste management cost under the various scenarios examined. Concerns about increased sludge generation persist and its potential env...
Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, 2014
The development of rapid detection assays of cell viability is essential for monitoring the micro... more The development of rapid detection assays of cell viability is essential for monitoring the microbiological quality of water systems. Coupling propidium monoazide with quantitative PCR (PMA-qPCR) has been successfully applied in different studies for the detection and quantification of viable cells in small-volume samples (0.25-1.00 mL), but it has not been evaluated sufficiently in marine environments or in large-volume samples. In this study, we successfully integrated blue light-emitting diodes for photoactivating PMA and membrane filtration into the PMA-qPCR assay for the rapid detection and quantification of viable Enterococcus faecalis cells in 10-mL samples of marine waters. The assay was optimized in phosphate-buffered saline and seawater, reducing the qPCR signal of heat-killed E. faecalis cells by 4 log10 and 3 log10 units, respectively. Results suggest that high total dissolved solid concentration (32 g/L) in seawater can reduce PMA activity. Optimal PMA-qPCR standard curves with a 6-log dynamic range and detection limit of 10(2) cells/mL were generated for quantifying viable E. faecalis cells in marine waters. The developed assay was compared with the standard membrane filter (MF) method by quantifying viable E. faecalis cells in seawater samples exposed to solar radiation. The results of the developed PMA-qPCR assay did not match that of the standard MF method. This difference in the results reflects the different physiological states of E. faecalis cells in seawater. In conclusion, the developed assay is a rapid (∼5 h) method for the quantification of viable E. faecalis cells in marine recreational waters, which should be further improved and tested in different seawater settings.
Waste Management & Research, 1989
A mathematical model for the production and transport of biogenic gases in a landfill is develope... more A mathematical model for the production and transport of biogenic gases in a landfill is developed based on earlier work on the Mountain View Landfill Project in California. The present model incorporates biokinetic model equations for the microbial landfill ecosystems dynamics in a multi-layer, time-dependent gas flow and production model. It is based on first principles of the physics, chemistry, and microbiological processes controlling the production and transport of biogenic gases in a porous media context such as a landfill. The model includes chemical/biokinetic feedback loops for chemical parameter influence on microbiological rate processes. The resulting integrated biokinetic/gas transport model is based on the first principles governing the biokinetics of municipal landfill environment, and the physics of gasmigration. The model was calibrated and verified using approximately 4 years of methane production data from the Mountain View Controlled Landfill Project. Hydrolysis rate appears to be the most sensitive parameter controlling gas generation production. The model can be used to predict the rate and total production of methane in a landfill .
Waste Management and Research, 1999
The biodegradation of organic matter in municipal solid waste (MSW) land®lls increases the void r... more The biodegradation of organic matter in municipal solid waste (MSW) land®lls increases the void ratio and weakens the structural strength of the refuse within a land®ll leading to a substantial loss of volume and settlement. Development of completed land®ll sites, which has become highly desirable particularly in land-limited locations, is invariably hindered by this settlement. Estimating longterm land®ll settlements becomes an integral part of the plans for the ®nal closure of a site and its ultimate reuse. The rate and magnitude of land®ll settlement depend primarily on refuse composition and operational management practices which affect biodegradation and stabilization processes within land®lls. Field scale experiments were conducted to measure refuse settlement rates, amongst other parameters, under different operational management practices including leachate recirculation, and addition of water, pH buffer and microbial seed. The effect of these practices on settlement rates and magnitude is evaluated. Field test data are used to calibrate mathematical models that are traditionally used in soil consolidation. The model parameters obtained can be used as guidance in simulating land®ll settlement rates and correlating these rates to refuse biodegradation and stabilization processes within land®lls.
Waste Management, 2013
Two thermophilic digesters were inoculated with manure and started-up under mixed and stagnant co... more Two thermophilic digesters were inoculated with manure and started-up under mixed and stagnant conditions. The Archaea in the mixed digester (A) were dominated by hydrogenotrophic Methanobateriaceae (61%) with most of the methane being produced via syntrophic pathways. Methanosarcinales (35%) were the only acetoclastic methanogens present. Acetate dissipation seems to depend on balanced hydrogenotrophic-to-acetotrophic abundance, which in turn was statistically correlated to free ammonia levels. Relative abundance of bacterial community was associated with the loading rate. However, in the absence of mixing (digester B), the relationship between microbial composition and operating parameters was not discernible. This was attributed to the development of microenvironments where environmental conditions are significantly different from average measured parameters. The impact of microenvironments was accentuated by the use of a non-acclimated seed that lacks adequate propionate degraders. Failure to disperse the accumulated propionate, and other organics, created high concentration niches where competitive and inhibiting conditions developed and favored undesired genera, such as Halobacteria (65% in B). As a result, digester B experienced higher acid levels and lower allowable loading rate. Mixing was found necessary to dissipate potential inhibitors, and improve stability and loading capacity, particularly when a non-acclimated seed, often lacking balanced thermophilic microflora, is used.
Journal of Urban Planning and Development, 2001
ABSTRACT
Journal of Hydraulic Engineering, 1996
ABSTRACT
International Journal of Water Resources Development, 2002
ABSTRACT This paper presents a case study for the allocation pattern of available water resources... more ABSTRACT This paper presents a case study for the allocation pattern of available water resources within and among competing sectors that would achieve the highest economic return from water use. For this purpose, an optimization model using linear programming was developed. Considering constraints on greenhouse area, crop production and seasonal per capita water requirements along with the area-specific conditions and potential growth, the optimal water allocation pattern between the prevailing and future consuming sectors was determined. The results indicated that, at present, water resources are misallocated as well as under-priced; current municipal and agricultural water prices represent 61% and 69%, respectively, of the actual water cost. With the development of tourism in the area, the agricultural sector is expected to diminish as more profitable uses of water evolve.
Environmental Technology, 2000
ABSTRACT
Environmental Technology, 1999
ABSTRACT
Environmental Impact Assessment Review, 2002
Traffic noise along highways varies with the projected growth in future traffic use, particularly... more Traffic noise along highways varies with the projected growth in future traffic use, particularly near developing urban areas, and the conditions of the tire–road surfacing interface. When traffic demand increases and those interface conditions deteriorate, highway noise impacts become significant and mitigation strategies required. This paper presents a leading application of the US Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)—a newly released Traffic
Environmental Engineering Science, 2004
A study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of step-feed in a rotating biological contact... more A study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of step-feed in a rotating biological contactor (RBC) system consisting of two three-stage units (one control and one step-feed) treating synthetic wastewater. The performance of the system was evaluated in terms of organic rates, applied and removed. The impact on sCOD, sBOD 5 removals, and stage-dissolved oxygen (DO) conditions over a range of hydraulic and organic loading rates (HLR ϭ 0.032 to 0.125 m 3 /m 2 иday and OLR ϭ 11.03 to 111.6 g sCOD/m 2 иday) was evaluated. The results indicate a linear relationship with excellent correlation between the organic loading and removal rates. Varying the HLR and the substrate concentration within the tested range had negligible effect on the removal efficiency of the process. Similarly, the overall removal efficiency with varying OLR showed very limited improvement except at the highest OLR tested (111.6 g sCOD/m 2 иday) where removal increased by 5.2 and 2.4% for COD and BOD 5 , respectively. Increasing the HLR and the OLR resulted in a decrease in DO in all the stages of the two units. However, DO values in the step-feed system were higher than those recorded for the control system. In addition, O 2 limiting conditions (DO Ͻ 2 mg/L) and heavy bacterial mass growth and possible growth of Beggiatoa were detected in the first stage of the control at high loading rates.
Atmospheric Environment, 2006
It is well established that the Mediterranean region experiences high pollution episodes as a res... more It is well established that the Mediterranean region experiences high pollution episodes as a result of its closed location and hot-humid long summers. However, few long-term field measurements have been conducted along the Eastern Mediterranean coast in general and in Arab countries, in particular. Hence, a six-month field study of major indicators like CO, SO 2 , PM 10 and O 3 were conducted in Beirut, Lebanon. Measurements on an upwind site showed that the monthly average concentrations of CO, SO 2 and O 3 were lower than the USEPA air quality standards while the monthly average concentrations of PM 10 were higher. Diurnal variations showed that vehicle-induced emissions contribute significantly to CO levels while winter heaters constitute the major source of SO 2. High diurnal and nocturnal levels of PM 10 and O 3 are the results of several local and long-range transport phenomena.
Construction Congress VI, 2000
The potentialpresence of indoor air pollutants in fire?damaged buildings stemming primarily from ... more The potentialpresence of indoor air pollutants in fire?damaged buildings stemming primarily from fire soot deposits, raises major environmental concerns in relation to potential long term health impacts on building occupants. Litigation claims often occur as a result of perceived ineffective remedial activities and the potential risk hazards of indoor air quality after the remediation is completed. This paper describes environmental remediation activities at an office building in the China Basin district of the City of San Francisco following a fire accident at a nearby wharf, which severely damaged the building. Based on an air quality sampling and chemical analysis program, a health?based risk assessment was conducted to evaluate the health effects of indoor air quality on building occupants. The risk assessment consisted of a toxicity definition of measured indoor air pollutants and an exposure assessment including the characterization of the exposure setting, the identification of exposure pathways, and the quantification of exposure. The results of the exposure assessment are combined with chemical?specific toxicity information to characterize the potential health risks at fire?damaged buildings
International Journal of Environmental Health Research, 2002
This study assesses the association between the proximity of residence to cement and fertilizer p... more This study assesses the association between the proximity of residence to cement and fertilizer plants in industrialized districts and respiratory health complaints among children (5-15 years old) in Northern Lebanon. A multi-stage random sample of households was selected from two exposed districts and a third non-industrialized. One child was randomly selected from each household for a total of 486 children. Living within 0-3 km of industries, as compared to living farther away (4-7 km), was associated with a statistically significant increase in the risk for cough with colds (adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 3.40), phlegm with colds (OR = 2.14), yearly episodes of cough and phlegm (OR = 4.63), yearly chest colds (OR = 4.12), and wheezing (OR = 2.23). When compared to living in the non-industrialized district, children living within 0-3 km of industries showed a significantly higher risk for yearly chest colds (OR = 2.30). However, living in the 4-7 km region of industries was associated with a lower risk of respiratory complaints, as compared to living in the comparison area. This was attributed to higher altitudes and different meteorological characteristics. A higher risk of respiratory problems was reported among children living close to cement than fertilizer industries. Policy intervention measures are recommended.
Impact Assessment and Project Appraisal, 2001
After nearly two decades of civil unrest, Lebanon launched a reconstruction and development initi... more After nearly two decades of civil unrest, Lebanon launched a reconstruction and development initiative. Environmental impact assessments (EIAs) were introduced primarily to secure international financing and assistance. This report discusses an EIA for the proposed Beirut Urban Transport Project. The Lebanese Government is seeking to finance the project through a loan from the World Bank. Since traffic congestion has reached unsustainable levels in recent years, the main objective of the project is to improve traffic management within the City and its surrounding areas. Environmental management and monitoring are emphasized within the context of the EIA process.
Environmental Science & Technology, 2010
ABSTRACT The cost associated with ISO 14001 certification has developing countries companies&... more ABSTRACT The cost associated with ISO 14001 certification has developing countries companies' lag in environmental management.
Atmospheric Environment, 2006
Lower carbonyl concentrations were measured for the first time in two different sampling sites (A... more Lower carbonyl concentrations were measured for the first time in two different sampling sites (American University of Beirut (AUB) and Abdel-Aziz (AA)) in Beirut, Lebanon. Formaldehyde (C1) and acetaldehyde (C2) were the most abundant carbonyls with respective maximum concentrations of 12.2 and 5.2 ppbv at AUB and 8.6 and 5.1 ppbv at AA. Diurnal variations of carbonyls exhibited similar behaviors, suggesting related formation and decomposition routes. Morning levels of carbonyls were either equal or higher than the ones in the afternoon at the coastal site (AUB) due to atmospheric dilution. However, morning levels were mostly lower than noon levels at a three-busy street intersection (AA) due to the enhancement of photochemical activities. Vehicle emissions constituted the dominant source of carbonyls measured as confirmed by the good correlation between C1, C2 and propanal (C3) and the C1/CO and C2/CO ratios in the mornings. Seasonal variation showed the predominance of summertime photolysis and photo-oxidation reactions of aldehydes. Based on the measured formaldehyde levels, ozone and nitrous acid concentrations, morning and afternoon OH radical fluxes are computed and consequently their contribution to photochemical smog processes are assessed.
Waste management & research : the journal of the International Solid Wastes and Public Cleansing Association, ISWA, 2005
This paper examines the feasibility of introducing food waste disposers as a waste minimization o... more This paper examines the feasibility of introducing food waste disposers as a waste minimization option within urban waste management schemes, taking the Greater Beirut Area (GBA) as a case study. For this purpose, the operational and economic impacts of food disposers on the solid waste and wastewater streams are assessed. The integration of food waste disposers can reduce the total solid waste to be managed by 12 to 43% under market penetration ranging between 25 and 75%, respectively. While the increase in domestic water consumption (for food grinding) and corresponding increase in wastewater flow rates are relatively insignificant, wastewater loadings increased by 17 to 62% (BOD) and 1.9 to 7.1% (SS). The net economic benefit of introducing food disposers into the waste and wastewater management systems constitutes 7.2 to 44.0% of the existing solid waste management cost under the various scenarios examined. Concerns about increased sludge generation persist and its potential env...
Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology, 2014
The development of rapid detection assays of cell viability is essential for monitoring the micro... more The development of rapid detection assays of cell viability is essential for monitoring the microbiological quality of water systems. Coupling propidium monoazide with quantitative PCR (PMA-qPCR) has been successfully applied in different studies for the detection and quantification of viable cells in small-volume samples (0.25-1.00 mL), but it has not been evaluated sufficiently in marine environments or in large-volume samples. In this study, we successfully integrated blue light-emitting diodes for photoactivating PMA and membrane filtration into the PMA-qPCR assay for the rapid detection and quantification of viable Enterococcus faecalis cells in 10-mL samples of marine waters. The assay was optimized in phosphate-buffered saline and seawater, reducing the qPCR signal of heat-killed E. faecalis cells by 4 log10 and 3 log10 units, respectively. Results suggest that high total dissolved solid concentration (32 g/L) in seawater can reduce PMA activity. Optimal PMA-qPCR standard curves with a 6-log dynamic range and detection limit of 10(2) cells/mL were generated for quantifying viable E. faecalis cells in marine waters. The developed assay was compared with the standard membrane filter (MF) method by quantifying viable E. faecalis cells in seawater samples exposed to solar radiation. The results of the developed PMA-qPCR assay did not match that of the standard MF method. This difference in the results reflects the different physiological states of E. faecalis cells in seawater. In conclusion, the developed assay is a rapid (∼5 h) method for the quantification of viable E. faecalis cells in marine recreational waters, which should be further improved and tested in different seawater settings.
Waste Management & Research, 1989
A mathematical model for the production and transport of biogenic gases in a landfill is develope... more A mathematical model for the production and transport of biogenic gases in a landfill is developed based on earlier work on the Mountain View Landfill Project in California. The present model incorporates biokinetic model equations for the microbial landfill ecosystems dynamics in a multi-layer, time-dependent gas flow and production model. It is based on first principles of the physics, chemistry, and microbiological processes controlling the production and transport of biogenic gases in a porous media context such as a landfill. The model includes chemical/biokinetic feedback loops for chemical parameter influence on microbiological rate processes. The resulting integrated biokinetic/gas transport model is based on the first principles governing the biokinetics of municipal landfill environment, and the physics of gasmigration. The model was calibrated and verified using approximately 4 years of methane production data from the Mountain View Controlled Landfill Project. Hydrolysis rate appears to be the most sensitive parameter controlling gas generation production. The model can be used to predict the rate and total production of methane in a landfill .
Waste Management and Research, 1999
The biodegradation of organic matter in municipal solid waste (MSW) land®lls increases the void r... more The biodegradation of organic matter in municipal solid waste (MSW) land®lls increases the void ratio and weakens the structural strength of the refuse within a land®ll leading to a substantial loss of volume and settlement. Development of completed land®ll sites, which has become highly desirable particularly in land-limited locations, is invariably hindered by this settlement. Estimating longterm land®ll settlements becomes an integral part of the plans for the ®nal closure of a site and its ultimate reuse. The rate and magnitude of land®ll settlement depend primarily on refuse composition and operational management practices which affect biodegradation and stabilization processes within land®lls. Field scale experiments were conducted to measure refuse settlement rates, amongst other parameters, under different operational management practices including leachate recirculation, and addition of water, pH buffer and microbial seed. The effect of these practices on settlement rates and magnitude is evaluated. Field test data are used to calibrate mathematical models that are traditionally used in soil consolidation. The model parameters obtained can be used as guidance in simulating land®ll settlement rates and correlating these rates to refuse biodegradation and stabilization processes within land®lls.
Waste Management, 2013
Two thermophilic digesters were inoculated with manure and started-up under mixed and stagnant co... more Two thermophilic digesters were inoculated with manure and started-up under mixed and stagnant conditions. The Archaea in the mixed digester (A) were dominated by hydrogenotrophic Methanobateriaceae (61%) with most of the methane being produced via syntrophic pathways. Methanosarcinales (35%) were the only acetoclastic methanogens present. Acetate dissipation seems to depend on balanced hydrogenotrophic-to-acetotrophic abundance, which in turn was statistically correlated to free ammonia levels. Relative abundance of bacterial community was associated with the loading rate. However, in the absence of mixing (digester B), the relationship between microbial composition and operating parameters was not discernible. This was attributed to the development of microenvironments where environmental conditions are significantly different from average measured parameters. The impact of microenvironments was accentuated by the use of a non-acclimated seed that lacks adequate propionate degraders. Failure to disperse the accumulated propionate, and other organics, created high concentration niches where competitive and inhibiting conditions developed and favored undesired genera, such as Halobacteria (65% in B). As a result, digester B experienced higher acid levels and lower allowable loading rate. Mixing was found necessary to dissipate potential inhibitors, and improve stability and loading capacity, particularly when a non-acclimated seed, often lacking balanced thermophilic microflora, is used.
Journal of Urban Planning and Development, 2001
ABSTRACT
Journal of Hydraulic Engineering, 1996
ABSTRACT
International Journal of Water Resources Development, 2002
ABSTRACT This paper presents a case study for the allocation pattern of available water resources... more ABSTRACT This paper presents a case study for the allocation pattern of available water resources within and among competing sectors that would achieve the highest economic return from water use. For this purpose, an optimization model using linear programming was developed. Considering constraints on greenhouse area, crop production and seasonal per capita water requirements along with the area-specific conditions and potential growth, the optimal water allocation pattern between the prevailing and future consuming sectors was determined. The results indicated that, at present, water resources are misallocated as well as under-priced; current municipal and agricultural water prices represent 61% and 69%, respectively, of the actual water cost. With the development of tourism in the area, the agricultural sector is expected to diminish as more profitable uses of water evolve.
Environmental Technology, 2000
ABSTRACT
Environmental Technology, 1999
ABSTRACT
Environmental Impact Assessment Review, 2002
Traffic noise along highways varies with the projected growth in future traffic use, particularly... more Traffic noise along highways varies with the projected growth in future traffic use, particularly near developing urban areas, and the conditions of the tire–road surfacing interface. When traffic demand increases and those interface conditions deteriorate, highway noise impacts become significant and mitigation strategies required. This paper presents a leading application of the US Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)—a newly released Traffic
Environmental Engineering Science, 2004
A study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of step-feed in a rotating biological contact... more A study was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of step-feed in a rotating biological contactor (RBC) system consisting of two three-stage units (one control and one step-feed) treating synthetic wastewater. The performance of the system was evaluated in terms of organic rates, applied and removed. The impact on sCOD, sBOD 5 removals, and stage-dissolved oxygen (DO) conditions over a range of hydraulic and organic loading rates (HLR ϭ 0.032 to 0.125 m 3 /m 2 иday and OLR ϭ 11.03 to 111.6 g sCOD/m 2 иday) was evaluated. The results indicate a linear relationship with excellent correlation between the organic loading and removal rates. Varying the HLR and the substrate concentration within the tested range had negligible effect on the removal efficiency of the process. Similarly, the overall removal efficiency with varying OLR showed very limited improvement except at the highest OLR tested (111.6 g sCOD/m 2 иday) where removal increased by 5.2 and 2.4% for COD and BOD 5 , respectively. Increasing the HLR and the OLR resulted in a decrease in DO in all the stages of the two units. However, DO values in the step-feed system were higher than those recorded for the control system. In addition, O 2 limiting conditions (DO Ͻ 2 mg/L) and heavy bacterial mass growth and possible growth of Beggiatoa were detected in the first stage of the control at high loading rates.
Atmospheric Environment, 2006
It is well established that the Mediterranean region experiences high pollution episodes as a res... more It is well established that the Mediterranean region experiences high pollution episodes as a result of its closed location and hot-humid long summers. However, few long-term field measurements have been conducted along the Eastern Mediterranean coast in general and in Arab countries, in particular. Hence, a six-month field study of major indicators like CO, SO 2 , PM 10 and O 3 were conducted in Beirut, Lebanon. Measurements on an upwind site showed that the monthly average concentrations of CO, SO 2 and O 3 were lower than the USEPA air quality standards while the monthly average concentrations of PM 10 were higher. Diurnal variations showed that vehicle-induced emissions contribute significantly to CO levels while winter heaters constitute the major source of SO 2. High diurnal and nocturnal levels of PM 10 and O 3 are the results of several local and long-range transport phenomena.
Construction Congress VI, 2000
The potentialpresence of indoor air pollutants in fire?damaged buildings stemming primarily from ... more The potentialpresence of indoor air pollutants in fire?damaged buildings stemming primarily from fire soot deposits, raises major environmental concerns in relation to potential long term health impacts on building occupants. Litigation claims often occur as a result of perceived ineffective remedial activities and the potential risk hazards of indoor air quality after the remediation is completed. This paper describes environmental remediation activities at an office building in the China Basin district of the City of San Francisco following a fire accident at a nearby wharf, which severely damaged the building. Based on an air quality sampling and chemical analysis program, a health?based risk assessment was conducted to evaluate the health effects of indoor air quality on building occupants. The risk assessment consisted of a toxicity definition of measured indoor air pollutants and an exposure assessment including the characterization of the exposure setting, the identification of exposure pathways, and the quantification of exposure. The results of the exposure assessment are combined with chemical?specific toxicity information to characterize the potential health risks at fire?damaged buildings
International Journal of Environmental Health Research, 2002
This study assesses the association between the proximity of residence to cement and fertilizer p... more This study assesses the association between the proximity of residence to cement and fertilizer plants in industrialized districts and respiratory health complaints among children (5-15 years old) in Northern Lebanon. A multi-stage random sample of households was selected from two exposed districts and a third non-industrialized. One child was randomly selected from each household for a total of 486 children. Living within 0-3 km of industries, as compared to living farther away (4-7 km), was associated with a statistically significant increase in the risk for cough with colds (adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 3.40), phlegm with colds (OR = 2.14), yearly episodes of cough and phlegm (OR = 4.63), yearly chest colds (OR = 4.12), and wheezing (OR = 2.23). When compared to living in the non-industrialized district, children living within 0-3 km of industries showed a significantly higher risk for yearly chest colds (OR = 2.30). However, living in the 4-7 km region of industries was associated with a lower risk of respiratory complaints, as compared to living in the comparison area. This was attributed to higher altitudes and different meteorological characteristics. A higher risk of respiratory problems was reported among children living close to cement than fertilizer industries. Policy intervention measures are recommended.
Impact Assessment and Project Appraisal, 2001
After nearly two decades of civil unrest, Lebanon launched a reconstruction and development initi... more After nearly two decades of civil unrest, Lebanon launched a reconstruction and development initiative. Environmental impact assessments (EIAs) were introduced primarily to secure international financing and assistance. This report discusses an EIA for the proposed Beirut Urban Transport Project. The Lebanese Government is seeking to finance the project through a loan from the World Bank. Since traffic congestion has reached unsustainable levels in recent years, the main objective of the project is to improve traffic management within the City and its surrounding areas. Environmental management and monitoring are emphasized within the context of the EIA process.
Environmental Science & Technology, 2010
ABSTRACT The cost associated with ISO 14001 certification has developing countries companies&... more ABSTRACT The cost associated with ISO 14001 certification has developing countries companies' lag in environmental management.