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Urban Soil Management: A Growing Concern
Abstract
Although urban and suburban soils are used for many purposes, some of them relevant to agricultural and forest sciences, that these intensively managed and disturbed soils have not been extensively investigated up to now is suggested by the white areas representing most urban zones on soil survey maps. Because urban soils are often developed on composite materials derived from previous uses and exogenous sources, spatial heterogeneity is a typical feature. Their evolution is controlled almost exclusively by humans, who impose very rapid transformation cycles compared with those occurring in less disturbed areas. However, there is a continuum from the natural soils to the extensively disturbed soils, and their basic functions are essentially the same. As a result of their origin and uses, urban soils may contain pollutants, the location, characteristics, and potential evolution of which must be established clearly to ensure safe land uses. These soils can be investigated with the traditional soil survey approach when the techniques are adapted properly to the urban context. A multidisciplinary approach is necessary to ensure that urban soils are well understood in order to ensure their optimum use.
... Key elements of an ecological tunnel system include green lighting systems, green lining systems, green grouting, low-carbon-footprint cement, etc. [127,129,130]. This concept aligns with the ecosystem-based approach advocated by numerous scientists and engineers in recent decades [131][132][133][134], as noted by Agee and Johnson (1989) [135], Kibert (2022) [136], SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities [137], and SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure [138], by promoting sustainable and innovative construction practices. ...
Underground infrastructure projects pose significant environmental risks due to resource consumption, ground stability issues, and potential ecological damage. This review explores sustainable practices for mitigating these impacts throughout the lifecycle of underground construction projects, focusing on recycling and reusing excavated tunnel materials. This review systematically analyzed a wide array of sustainable practices, including on-site reuse of excavated tunnel material as backfill, grouting, soil conditioning, and concrete production. Off-site reuses explored are road bases, refilling works, value-added materials, like aggregates and construction products, vegetation reclamation, and landscaping. Opportunities to recover and repurpose tunnel components like temporary support structures, known as “false linings”, are also reviewed. Furthermore, the potential for utilizing industrial and construction wastes in underground works are explored, such as for thermal insulation, fire protection, grouting, and tunnel lining. Incorporating green materials and energy-efficient methods in areas like grouting, lighting, and lining are also discussed. Through comprehensive analysis of numerous case studies, this review demonstrates that with optimized planning, treatment techniques, and end-use selection informed by material characterization, sustainable practices can significantly reduce the environmental footprint of underground infrastructure. However, certain approaches require further refinement and standardization, particularly in areas like the consistent assessment of recycled material properties and the development of standardized guidelines for their use in various applications. These practices contribute to broader sustainability goals by reducing resource consumption, minimizing waste generation, and promoting the use of recycled and green materials. Achieving coordinated multi-stakeholder adoption, including collaboration between contractors, suppliers, regulatory bodies, and research institutions, is crucial for maximizing the impact of these practices and accelerating the transition towards a more sustainable underground construction industry.
... The increase in TOC content in urban soils compared to background suburban areas is associated with the deposition of carbon-containing aerosol particles, the application of organic fertilizers to areas with turf vegetation, and the creation of reclamation horizons (Beyer et al., 2001;Lorenz, 2006;Wu et al., 1999;Vasenev et al., 2012;Gorbov & Bezuglova, 2013). One of the factors contributing to the accumulation of soil organic matter of natural origin in cities is the development of greenery, especially noticeable in originally treeless areas (De Kimpe & Morel, 2000;Vodyanitskii, 2015). Overall, the dynamics of TOC content is determined by the history of a specific city and its landscaping practices (Jim, 1998). ...
This article presents findings on the study of content, profile distribution, and reserves of various carbon forms (organic carbon (TOC) and inorganic carbon (IC)) in Urbic Technosols and Ekranic Technosols within the residential zone of the city, alongside zonal Calcic Chernozems in the recreational zone of Rostov-on-Don, Aksai, and Bataysk. It was revealed that the TOC content in the upper horizons of Urbic Technosols is significantly lower than in the chernozem horizons of fallow areas, registering at 2.59 ± 0.79% and 3.25 ± 0.94%, respectively. IC exhibits an inverse trend, with maximum content observed in the upper horizons of Ekranic Technosols. Down the soil profile, disparities in TOC and IC contents are mitigated. This specificity in TOC accumulation and profile distribution signifies a “bipartite” profile alteration in buried chernozems, affecting solely the upper stratum rather than the entire soil profile. The presence of woody vegetation in the dry-steppe zone positively influences TOC accumulation. Calcic Chernozems beneath woody vegetation showcase the highest TOC reserves within the 30-cm layer (10.61 ± 1.45 kg/m²). Calcic Chernozems of fallow areas under natural steppe vegetation contain 8.94 ± 1.75 kg/m², Technosols of the residential zone 8.44 ± 2.47 kg/m². For Technosols of the residential zone, a weakening of the dependence of TOC and IC content on the depth of the soil horizon is observed.
... Soils are essential for many ecosystem services, including decomposition, nutrient cycling, carbon storage, and water quality, and soil biodiversity plays significant roles in the delivery of these services [3]. Soils are inherently heterogeneous [4], and this is especially true in urban areas, which can range from containing relatively undisturbed soils of remnant vegetation and urban parks to soils made entirely of exogenous materials [5]. ...
The distribution of earthworm ecological groups in urban areas is not well-known, despite their crucial role in delivering soil ecosystem services such as nutrient cycling and water drainage. Citizen science engages public audiences in the scientific research process and is an excellent tool for collecting biodiversity data in urban areas, where most of the UK population resides. However, a disadvantage is that differing levels of skill and engagement among participants can create statistical challenges. The Earthworm Watch citizen science project used 668 matched-pair surveys to estimate how the abundance and ecological diversity of earthworms respond to land management practices, and soil properties in UK urban habitats. A total of 5170 earthworms were counted during the project with a mean of 8 earthworms per soil pit-equivalent to a density of 198 earthworms per m 2. Soil moisture and texture were the largest drivers of total earthworm abundance, with habitat borderline statistically insignificant. Endogeic earthworms were found in 71 % of soil pits, epigeic in 62 % and anecic in 33 %. Fertiliser use also had a significant effect on total abundance, but only when organic fertiliser was used. Earthworm ecological groups demonstrated varied responses to habitat, with endogeic earthworms consistently the most abundant group, showing slight preferences for grasslands and vegetable beds. Anecic earthworms had the lowest abundance across all habitats but were more prevalent in grasslands and vegetable beds. Epigeic earthworms were most abundant beneath shrubs and hedges. These findings align with expected patterns of earthworm ecology, underscoring the potential of well-designed citizen science projects to yield valuable insights into urban earthworms and soil health.
... It is the application of procedures, techniques, and therapies to enhance soil quality. The standard soil survey approach can be used to investigate if urban soils contain contaminants [4]. Compost and manure applications increase soil aggregation and porosity. ...
In this era, AI has a key role to make revolutionary changes in the field of Agriculture. In the past agricultural work was done manually with lots of difficulties and challenges. AI removed those difficulties by introducing automated systems for this reason nowadays artificial intelligence has a great impact on agriculture. The objectives are to present and gather information about AI's use, challenges, and future. The systematic literature review is used for gathering and presenting the use of AI in agriculture. From the systematic literature review clear that the challenges and difficulties of agriculture are solved with the help of the application of artificial intelligence. Artificial intelligence automates soil management, disease management, crop monitoring, and weeding. The research helps humans to know how to use Artificial intelligence that's why removes human difficulties in agriculture, and needs less manpower in agriculture works, researcher found compact information about the use of AI in agriculture to do more research.
... In order to maximize agricultural output and protect the soil resources, it is essential to have a good understanding of the various types and conditions of soil. To improve soil performance by the application of actions, methods, and treatments, traditional soil survey techniques can be used to investigate the possibility of contaminates in urban soils (De Kimpe and Morel 2000). Soil porosity and aggregate structure can be enhanced It only measures a small number of soil enzymes in the soil. ...
The agricultural sector faces several challenges that hinder productivity, including poor soil management, insect and parasite invasion, output impedance, and a lack of understanding among agricultural producers. A new generation of technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), has recently been introduced into the agricultural sector in an attempt to overcome these challenges. This study highlights the adaptability, excellence, efficiency, and frugality of AI in agribusiness, which can be seen in its potential benefits, such as early detection of crop diseases and improper weeding, and precision farming to regulate individual plants and crops. Furthermore, this study aims to provide an overview of AI’s applications in managing weeds, diseases, crops, and land, as well as the benefits and drawbacks of these applications, and methods for increasing productivity through the use of intelligent systems. In summary, the integration of AI in agriculture can help address the challenges facing the sector, leading to increased output and profitability for farmers. Nonetheless, its successful integration requires careful planning, education, and training.
The study of soil science stands as a cornerstone in understanding the intricate relationships between terrestrial ecosystems and sustainable environmental management. As we navigate through an era characterized by rapid environmental transformations, the significance of soil science in addressing the challenges and fostering innovations for effective ecosystem management has never been more profound. This comprehensive volume, "Current Trends in Soil Science: Challenges and Innovations for Effective Ecosystem Management," encapsulates a collective effort to illuminate the multifaceted dimensions of soil science and its pivotal role in contemporary environmental stewardship. Comprising a compendium of scholarly contributions, this book traverses a diverse landscape of topics essential for comprehending, managing, and conserving our planet's invaluable soil resources. The book is structured into fifteen chapters, each meticulously crafted to unravel the complexities and nuances within the realm of soil science and ecosystem management. From foundational aspects like understanding the interplay between Soil Science and Ecosystem Management to addressing critical concerns such as Soil Degradation, Climate Change Impacts, and Soil Pollution, this book delves into the challenges confronting our soils while offering innovative solutions. Readers will explore a rich tapestry of topics encompassing Soil Health Assessment, Sustainable Soil Management Practices, the pivotal role of Soil Microorganisms, Soil Erosion, and Conservation Strategies, among others. Moreover, this compendium extends its purview to contemporary agricultural paradigms, including Natural Farming, Precision Agriculture, Organic Farming, and the integration of Agroforestry for enhanced ecosystem resilience. As we stand at the precipice of unprecedented environmental changes, the need for informed, science-driven approaches to soil management becomes increasingly urgent. This book aspires to serve as a beacon for researchers, academicians, policymakers, and environmental enthusiasts alike, providing a roadmap towards sustainable soil practices, holistic ecosystem management, and a deeper comprehension of the intricate dynamics governing our planet's vital soil ecosystems. The contributors to this volume bring forth a wealth of knowledge, expertise, and innovative perspectives, laying the foundation for envisioning a future where soil science remains a bedrock for fostering thriving ecosystems and ensuring environmental sustainability. We extend our gratitude to all the contributors whose dedication and scholarly insights have culminated in this comprehensive volume. It is our hope that this book will inspire readers and stakeholders to embark on a collective journey towards safeguarding our soils and nurturing resilient ecosystems for generations to come
Studying urban soils is an important tool for assessing and identifying sources of pollution in urban centers and better understating their impacts on human health, especially given the intensification of urbanization processes in Brazilian cities. Topsoil samples (0-5cm) were collected from urban parks (Bosque Park and Limeira Park) and unforested places (Prada School and School of Technology – FT) from Limeira City (Brazil) during 2019–2020 to quantify the inorganic composition of urban soils, apply pollution indices, compare the results with reference guidelines values, and identify the main contamination sources using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Positive Matrix Factorization Model (PMF). Results showed that all samples presented concentrations of trace elements related to anthropic sources. Cu, Cd, Zn, and Pb concentrations have enriched compared with the upper continental crust values. The FT, Limeira Park, and Prada School had the highest concentrations of Cd, Pb, and Zn, respectively. Bosque Park, in turn, showed the largest Cr, Cu, and Ni concentrations. Distance from issuing sources, the presence of dense vegetation, and the physical and chemical properties of soil (pH, cation exchange capacity – CEC, clay and organic matter percentages) were the main explaining factors for the concentrations found. Overall, the main sources of contamination are related to industries, fertilizers, vehicular exhaust and geogenic sources. Our results suggest that wooded urban parks have greater potential to store toxic elements than unforested places. Moreover, wooded urban parks provide an important ecosystem service in urban areas and should be considered in public policies aimed at promoting sustainable cities.
During single 20-40 minute sessions, 51 volunteer clients were given instructions to either describe their dream images in rich detail, to provide associations to the dream images, or to combine these descriptive and associative activities. Volunteer clients in the association condition reported significantly more exploration/insight gains (e.g., becoming involved while working on the dream, making previously unobserved connections between the dream and waking life) than did volunteer clients in the description condition. No differences were found among conditions on clients'' ratings of session depth (e.g., valuable, powerful), judges'' ratings of the cognitive complexity of client''s dialogue during the session (e.g., clear, elaborative), judges'' ratings of how insightful clients were in their written dream interpretations, and judges'' ratings of the quality of clients'' written action plans. Implications for dream interpretation are discussed.
Urban areas are expanding rapidly. Therefore the interest in soil science activities on urban and industrial sites grows. The paper gives an overview of the research and mapping activities in Germany. A model of soils in urban ecosystems shows the relationships of development of soils and soil quality to land use. The water regime of soils is influenced by the characteristics of urban landscape and sealing. Of special interest are the typical substrates. Some properties of soils which develop on tipped substrates of natural material are discussed. Of importance are technological substrates as rubble, ash, slag, waste material and sludges in urban environments. Proposals of classification of urban and industrial soils are presented. For proper use by the municipal authorities availability and application of information on urban soils must be a part of research.Böden in der städtischen und industriellen UmweltDie Weltbevökerung lebt zunehmend in Städten. Daher wächst das Interesse an bodenkundlichen Arbeiten in Stadt- und Industriegebieten. Die Arbeit gibt eine Übersicht über Kartiervorhaben und einige weitere Forschungsaktivitäten in Deutschland. In einem Modell der Böden im urbanen Ökosystem wird die Beziehung der Bodenentwicklung und -qualität zur Landnutzung aufgezeigt. Stadtlandschaften und Versiegelung beeinflussen den Wasserhaushalt der Böden. Von Interesse sind die stadttypischen Substrate. Dazu werden einige Eigenschaften von Böden auf umgelagerten natürlichen Substraten diskutiert. Von Bedeutung sind auch technogene Substrate wie Bauschutt, Asche, Schlacke, Müll und Schlämme. Vorschläge zur Klassifikation von Stadtböden werden vorgestellt. Für eine Anwendung durch die Städte muß sich die Forschung auch auf die Verfügbarkeit und die Umsetzung von Bodeninformationen konzentrieren.