Author Archives: Salman Zafar

About Salman Zafar

Salman Zafar is the CEO of BioEnergy Consult, and an international consultant, advisor and trainer with expertise in waste management, biomass energy, waste-to-energy, environment protection and resource conservation. His geographical areas of focus include Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Salman has successfully accomplished a wide range of projects in the areas of biogas technology, biomass energy, waste-to-energy, recycling and waste management. Salman has participated in numerous national and international conferences all over the world. He is a prolific environmental journalist, and has authored more than 300 articles in reputed journals, magazines and websites. In addition, he is proactively engaged in creating mass awareness on renewable energy, waste management and environmental sustainability through his blogs and portals. Salman can be reached at salman@bioenergyconsult.com or salman@cleantechloops.com.

Everything You Need To Know About NEET

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The National Testing Agency has announced the details about the NEET Examination 2021. NEET stands for National Eligibility Entrance Test. The Medical Council of Indian has released all the relevant details and information regarding the exam. According to data, almost 14,10,800 aspirants applied for the NEET exam in 2021. Out of them, only 7,87,042 out of all of them got selected for the qualifying stage. The NEET is a vital examination for all those aspirants who want to pursue a career in the field of MBBS or BDS. Getting a good rank by preparing notes by Vedantu NEET experts ensures easy solutions for higher studies.

neet-exam-mbbs

Every examination has different aspects that the aspirants should know about. Same goes for NEET. The aspirants should be aware of the eligibility, question pattern, highlights of the examination and the syllabus as well. In today’s blog, we will discuss all of those information with you in detail. Take a look.

NEET Eligibility Criteria 2021

Here is a detailed description of the NEET eligibility criteria for the year of 2021 – 

  • NEET examination is mandatory for Indian/Overseas aspirants who want to get admitted to medical universities and institutions in India.
  • Age Limit: General students – 17 to 25 years (on or before 31st December of the same year). In case of SC/ST/OBC/PWD the age limit is set at 17 to 30 years.
  • All India Quota seats: Foreign aspirants and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI), NRIs, Person of Indian Origin (PIO) are entitled for reservation under the total 15% All India Quota seats. However, the candidates from J&K are not eligible for 15% All India Quota.
  • Qualification: every aspirant who wants to appear for the exam must have  appeared in their class 12 board exam.
    • Must have passed B.Sc. with any two of Physics, Chemistry, Biology (Botany, Zoology) or Bio- technology from any reputed Indian University.
    • Must have passed their first year of the University’s three years’ degree course in PCB.
  • Number of Attempts – all the candidates can attempt the NEET exam as many times as they wish till they reach the eligible age criteria.

Analysis of All Exam Papers For NEET 2021

Here is a detailed analysis of all the examination subjects under the NEET 2021 Syllabus. Take a look – 

NEET Paper Analysis for Physics

  • Mechanics is the most vital chapter that carries the maximum marks in Physics.
  • Electrodynamics consists of at least 9 – 10 and a good amount of weightage.
  • Physics is considered to be the most difficult subject of the NEET exam.
  • Majority of the questions will be accompanied by lengthy calculations.
  • It is important to remember the formulas.

NEET Paper Analysis for Chemistry

  • Chemistry is moderately difficult in the NEET entrance examination.
  • It has been found that application-based questions are increasing in number.
  • 2019 NEET question paper saw more questions from the Class 12 syllabus.
  • Organic Chemistry has grown to be a really important chapter of the subject. One can expect at least 10 – 12 questions.
  • Chemical Bonding and Coordination Compounds must be studied thoroughly.

NEET Paper Analysis for Biology

  • Biology is relatively much easier from both Physics and Chemistry, as students have observed over the years.
  • The paper will consist of 45 questions each from Zoology and Botany.
  • In the 2021 NEET Examination, the Class 12 syllabus had more weightage. Almost 46 questions were from there.
  • Majority of the questions are asked from the NCERT curriculum.

NEET-MBBS

NEET 2021 Syllabus Highlights

Here is a detailed look at the NEET 2021 Syllabus. All the students are required to follow the below mentioned syllabus properly:

NEET 2021 Chemistry Syllabus

Here is the syllabus for Chemistry in 2021:

Class XI

  • Some Basic Concepts of Chemistry
  • Structure of Atom
  • Classification of Elements and Periodicity in Properties
  • Chemical Bonding and Molecular Structure
  • States of Matter: Gases and Liquids
  • Thermodynamics
  • Equilibrium
  • Redox Reactions
  • Hydrogen
  • s-Block Element (Alkali and Alkaline earth metals)
  • Some p-Block Elements
  • Organic Chemistry- Some Basic Principles and Techniques
  • Hydrocarbons
  • Environmental Chemistry

Class XII

  • Solid State
  • Solutions
  • Electrochemistry
  • Chemical Kinetics
  • Surface Chemistry
  • General Principles and Processes of Isolation of Elements
  • p- Block Elements
  • d and f Block Elements
  • Coordination Compounds
  • Haloalkanes and Haloarenes
  • Alcohols, Phenols and Ethers
  • Aldehydes, Ketones and Carboxylic Acids
  • Organic Compounds Containing Nitrogen
  • Biomolecules
  • Polymers
  • Chemistry in Everyday Life

NEET 2021 Physics Syllabus

Here is the syllabus for Physics in 2021:

Class XI

  • Physical world and measurement
  • Kinematics
  • Laws of Motion
  • Work, Energy and Power
  • Motion of System of Particles and Rigid Body
  • Gravitation
  • Properties of Bulk Matter
  • Thermodynamics
  • Behaviour of Perfect Gas and Kinetic Theory
  • Oscillations and Waves

Class XII

  • Electrostatics
  • Current Electricity
  • Magnetic Effects of Current and Magnetism
  • Electromagnetic Induction and Alternating Currents
  • Electromagnetic Waves
  • Optics
  • Dual Nature of Matter and Radiation
  • Atoms and Nuclei
  • Electronic Devices

NEET 2021 Biology Syllabus

Here is the syllabus for Biology in 2021:

Class XI

  • Diversity in Living World
  • Structural Organisation in Animals and Plants
  • Cell Structure and Function
  • Plant Physiology
  • Human physiology

Class XII

  • Reproduction
  • Genetics and Evolution
  • Biology and Human Welfare
  • Biotechnology and Its Applications
  • Ecology and environment

5 Reasons to Get a Countertop Water Filter in Your House

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There is nothing like the convenience of fresh clean healthy water right at your tap and this is why countertop water filters are more popular than ever with today’s cash- and time-pressed homes. Not only are these cost-effective appliances a great option for the home, but those who must travel often can also take advantage of fresh clean water anywhere on the globe.

The water filtration device will provide clean water for drinking, washing and all kinds of hygienic uses. Sources of good clean water are getting harder to find and more costly each year. The filtration system works to remove fluoride, chlorine, lead, pesticides and other minerals and contaminants from the water from the city mains. This keeps you and those in your home freshly supplied with clan healthy water.

If you are interested in learning more about countertop water filters, visit https://waterfilterbase.com/best-countertop-water-filter/ and get information on the latest models that will work for your home. In the following sections we will take a look at a few more good reasons to have a countertop filtration system in your house:

1. Better Tasting Water

The water from the city mains is tired and exhausted from a long trip by the time it arrives at your kitchen sink. Just take a taste and you will find out all about the minerals, chemicals and other contaminants it picked up on the way. One of the primary functions of the countertop filtration system is to carefully pull these unpleasant tasting flavors and pollutants from the water.

Fluoride and chlorine are important for keeping our water supplies clean, but in the home they are not as welcome. These chemicals can irritate the skin and eyes and make the drinking water taste funny. This can lead to spending a king’s ransom in bottled water or even worse, drinking less water during the day.

But, filtration systems breathe fresh life into the kitchen tap water. They also remove the burdens of chemicals and toxins and leave clean fresh tasting water for hydration purposes.

2. Healthier Water Sources

Better tasting water will encourage more hydration which is already good for the health. But, removing all those harmful chemicals and other unnatural compounds will also keep these pollutants from accumulating in your body and affecting good health. Whether the water in your local area is pretty clean or little rusty, your countertop filtration system can ensure your health is protected.

3. Saves Cash

Once people realize that regular city water might not be as healthy as they thought, they are faced with some decisions. Some people will prefer buying bottled water as this seems like a cheaper choice initially.

But if you plan on drinking water for the rest of your life, why not procure a constant source rather than buying bottles for the foreseeable future? Sure the cost is higher initially, but after a year or two, of buying water bottles you will have spent the same amount or more.

4. Better for the Family

Children almost more than anyone else need a constant source of fresh clean water to keep themselves hydrated. Plenty of water in the system is essential for good hydration, elimination of toxins and brain development as well.

Unfiltered water can cause health issues to begin at a young age. In addition to removing harmful chemicals and minerals, some of these water filters can add healthy minerals to the water supply boosting nutritional value.

5. Easier Installation

There are many water filters that can provide the same health and purification benefits that a countertop system will, but these have some setbacks. Whole house filters will ensure that the entire home is supplied with filtered water and then under the sink options can address the needs of one source of water.

But, in addition to being more expensive, these filtration systems requires intermediate to professional DIY skills to install effectively. Furthermore, the countertop option can be packed up and carried with you to visit grandma or to your big conference in Buenos Aires.

Conclusion

The list of benefits continues from here. Filtration systems reduce the levels of plastic bottles being bought and discarded. The countertop option doesn’t require as much maintenance as some of the other options and doesn’t occupy your faucet either. So, have a drink to your health, from your very own cost-effective countertop water filtration system.

Top Reasons Why You Should Recycle Your Cooking Oil

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Cooking oil is one of the most used products in the world. It is used in all restaurants and in every home. Making it the most used product in the world.

Restaurants mostly use cooking oil to deep fry their food. As a result, restaurants have thousands of liters of cooking oil waste. More liters are also wasted from home.

Rarely do hotels, restaurants, and homes practice safe disposal of cooking oil. Many just pour it down the sink drain.

This results in clogged pipes that need you to call a plumber regularly. Beyond the home and the restaurant kitchen, poor disposal of cooking oil leads to clogging up sewage systems.

To avoid this, cooking oil should be recycled. Here are the main reasons why you should recycle cooking oil.

Why You Should Recycle Your Cooking Oil

1. Reduce Impact On The Environment

Proper disposal and recycling of cooking oil help to improve the environment. Pouring used cooking oil down the drain is detrimental to the environment.

Clogged pipes and drainage systems have a great impact on the cleanliness of the environment. Clogged pipes leak. This causes puddles of waste to spill to the ground and polluting the environment.

When homes and restaurants opt for used oil recycling, the impact of the poorly disposed cooking oil on the environment reduces significantly. There are fewer clogged and leaky pipes that cause sewage to leak to the ground.

In addition, homes, restaurants, and city governments in charge of public drainage systems will save lots of money. Clogged and leaky pipes cost lots of money to fix. Homes and restaurants don’t have to keep on calling plumbers to unblock their drainage pipes.

2. Create Unique Products

Used oil recycling results in the creation of unique products. There is a range of products that can be made from recycled cooking oil.

At home, you can make lubricants, soap, and many other products.

Recycling used oil commercially converts the cooking oil to biofuels. These biofuels are then sold to transport and manufacturing companies as environmentally friendly fuel.

renewable-diesel

Biofuels are increasingly being used to power vehicles around the world

When this fuel is used, there is little pollution to the environment. It also burns more efficiently than fossil fuel. This ensures that there is little waste in the process they are used in. Also, if the fuel spills, it causes no harm to the environment.

Recycled used oil can also be converted to animal feeds for pigs, fish, and other commercial animals and pets.

3. A Source Of Income

Another reason why you should recycle cooking oil is that it is a source of income. Homes, hotels, and commercial kitchens can use cooking oil recycling as a source of extra income.

Oil recycling companies buy waste cooking oil from homes and hotels. Recyclers provide participating homes and hotels waste containers. They can pour their waste cooking oil into these containers.

used cooking oil as a source of income

Recyclers will then have select days on which they collect the waste cooking oil from homes and hotels. The more waste cooking oil you have, the more you earn.

The recycling companies also contract transporters to collect the oil from the different homes and hotels supplying to them. This helps to create employment and become a source of income for a large number of operators.

4. It Is Easy And Cost Effective

Recycling used cooking oil is easy and effective. You can recycle used cooking oil at home or commercially.

At home, the reagents for oil recycling are easily available. With the right skills, you can convert your waste cooking oil into soap and pet feeds easily.

used-cooking-oil

Commercially, processing waste cooking oil is a simple five-step process. It is easy to complete with a little training and convert the waste cooking oil into biofuel.

Conclusion

Everyone should recycle their used cooking oil. It is easy to do and you can make a myriad of products from the waste cooking oil. It also helps to create a cleaner environment and reduce the impact of pollution.

Biomass Gasification Process

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Biomass gasification involves burning of biomass in a limited supply of air to give a combustible gas consisting of carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, hydrogen, methane, water, nitrogen, along with contaminants like small char particles, ash and tars. The gas is cleaned to make it suitable for use in boilers, engines and turbines to produce heat and power (CHP).

Biomass gasification provides a means of deriving more diverse forms of energy from the thermochemical conversion of biomass than conventional combustion. The basic gasification process involves devolatization, combustion and reduction.

biomass-gasification

During devolatization, methane and other hydrocarbons are produced from the biomass by the action of heat which leaves a reactive char.

During combustion, the volatiles and char are partially burned in air or oxygen to generate heat and carbon dioxide. In the reduction phase, carbon dioxide absorbs heat and reacts with the remaining char to produce carbon monoxide (producer gas). The presence of water vapour in a gasifier results in the production of hydrogen as a secondary fuel component.

There are two main types of gasifier that can be used to carry out this conversion, fixed bed gasifiers and fluidized bed gasifiers. The conversion of biomass into a combustible gas involves a two-stage process. The first, which is called pyrolysis, takes place below 600°C, when volatile components contained within the biomass are released. These may include organic compounds, hydrogen, carbon monoxide, tars and water vapour.

Pyrolysis leaves a solid residue called char. In the second stage of the gasification process, this char is reacted with steam or burnt in a restricted quantity of air or oxygen to produce further combustible gas. Depending on the precise design of gasifier chosen, the product gas may have a heating value of 6 – 19 MJ/Nm3.

Layout of a Typical Biomass Gasification Plant

The products of gasification are a mixture of carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, methane, hydrogen and various hydrocarbons, which can then be used directly in gas turbines, and boilers, or used as precursors for synthesising a wide range of other chemicals.

In addition there are a number of methods that can be used to produce higher quality product gases, including indirect heating, oxygen blowing, and pressurisation. After appropriate treatment, the resulting gases can be burned directly for cooking or heat supply, or used in secondary conversion devices, such as internal combustion engines or gas turbines, for producing electricity or shaft power (where it also has the potential for CHP applications).

 

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Benefits of Using Used Cooking Oil as a Biofuel

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Used cooking oil is one of the major sources of biofuel. As the push for alternative sources of energy is enhanced, biofuel production has also gone into high gear. As such, it has moved from the unsustainable food sources to more sustainable sources such as used cooking oil.

used-cooking-oil

With the adoption of used cooking oil as a source of biofuel, producers have gained numerous benefits. Here are a few.

Cheap to procure

One of the major benefits of used cooking oil as a source of biofuels is that it is cheap to procure. Sources of used cooking oil abound, and they are happy to have it offloaded off their homes and their premises.

Most times, you will find that those that have the used cooking oil will pay to have it taken away from them. As such, hotels and restaurants and even households pay biofuel companies to collect it from their premises.

This makes the process of collecting used cooking oil efficient and affordable. This is a huge first step in the recycling of used cooking oil into biofuel.

Easy to process

Once the used cooking oil arrives at the processing center, it passes through a chemical process that converts the used cooking oil to biofuel.

The process is easy and uses easily available reagents. This process eliminates all the impurities within the used cooking oil. It is a five-stage chemical process that culminates in the conversion of used cooking oil into a useful biofuel.

Environmentally friendly

Another benefit derived from used cooking oil as a biofuel, is the fact that it is environmentally friendly. Biofuels produced from used cooking oil can replace fossil fuel diesel in a world ravaged by global warming. It burns efficiently and thus has almost zero emissions that can be harmful to the environment.

biofuel-UCO

Further, converting the used cooking oil into biodiesel goes a long way in ensuring that the environment is clean. When poorly disposed of, used cooking oil cause untold harm to the environment and drainage infrastructure.

Used in a myriad of diesel machines

Biofuel from used cooking oil can easily replace diesel in vehicles and plant machinery. After processing, the resulting biofuel can easily replace diesel in numerous existing machines and vehicles. Many of these machines will not need any re calibration for them to use this fuel.

The use of used cooking oil biofuel will thus save money for the users and also help them reduce their impact on the environment. Company trucks and plant machinery that use diesel can easily switch to biofuels and companies will see a significant savings in their fuel expense as well.

Can be used to manufacture diverse products

Used cooking oil when recycled is not limited only to the production of biofuels. Rather, it can be used to produce a range of other products and materials that could be a significant business unit.

Used cooking oil can be processed into raw materials for animal and pet feeds. Used cooking oil contains high amounts of protein that will beneficial in animal feed.

Further, used cooking oil can be used to make soap, lubricants and many other useful products.

With these other products, companies that process used cooking oil have a range of products to get to the market to ensure that they remain afloat profitably.

Alternative source of energy for small businesses

Many small businesses have adopted the use of biofuel that is produced from recycled used cooking oil. This helps them save on high energy costs by using it to power some of the processes that use electricity and other expensive sources of energy.

Conclusion

There are many biofuel producing companies that use used cooking oil as part of their raw materials. I have outlined why it is beneficial not only to biofuel producers, but also to the end users of the biofuel that comes from it.

10 Tips for an Eco-Friendly Home Plumbing

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There are a number of reasons why homeowners should be environmentally conscious. We get oxygen, food, and other fundamental needs from the environment. Hence it plays an important part in the household’s quality of life. The availability and quality of various environmental elements affect the entire family’s living system.

New and creative plumbing systems are emerging as the world works toward a greener planet. Being environmentally conscious has never been easy. With some tips, you can make your plumbing safe for the environment.

Using eco-friendly measures in your home is, of course, an effective way to save money and water. You may live a greener lifestyle by being mindful of your plumbing and usage. This article explains various eco-friendly plumbing options to make your house’s plumbing system eco-friendly.

Tips for an Eco-Friendly Home Plumbing

Importance of Eco-Friendly Plumbing

Sustainability is becoming more and more of a concern and with good cause. In addition to contributing to excessive carbon emissions and climate change, we are rapidly depleting resources such as energy, water, and other natural resources.

Water is the most important component of life, but just 1% of the water on our planet is available for human consumption. To overcome this problem, we must maintain a delicate balance, which is very tough.

Homeowners are always looking for methods to improve the sustainability of the property. Making the plumbing system eco-friendly is one such method. Not only does living in an eco-friendly home help the environment, but it can also help you save money.

10 Tips for Green Plumbing

1. Insulate Your Pipes

People generally leave the tap running for longer lengths of time when the water takes longer to warm up. Improving the insulation of your water pipes is one approach to reduce the time it takes for hot water to reach your bathroom or kitchen.

When water flows from the hot water heater to your faucet through insulated pipes, it loses less heat. Because your water heater won’t have to work as hard to deliver enough hot water, this minor tweak can save both water and electricity.

hot water guide

2. Protect Outdoor Valves

Turn off the valve that leads to your garden hose and search for additional measures to keep your pipes from freezing. When pipes freeze, they can quickly burst or become utterly worse than merely decreasing your overall water usage.

You can also overcome this problem by improving the quality of valves. This can be done by installing valves manufactured by a reputable China ball valve manufacturer.

Chemicals and other solutions that enter your plumbing system should also be considered. Whatever you put into your body has the potential to come into contact with groundwater. So, you should utilize natural products wherever possible. You should also turn off the water for the entire house if you’re going away for the holidays or for a longer amount of time.

3. Purchase Low Flow Plumbing Fixtures

Low-flow toilets, faucets, and other comparable goods are widely available and inexpensive nowadays. If you prefer to acquire a second opinion before making a purchase, most expert plumbers will be aware of the best possibilities.

Low-flow fixtures can help you save money on your water bill while also being sustainable and environmentally beneficial.

4. Use Eco-Friendly Water Treatment Products

You should never flush harsh chemicals or tough food waste, such as grease, down the toilet or drain. These chemicals come in direct contact with groundwater. This can have an adverse effect on your health and environment.

Use a magnetic filter to keep pipes clear or an environmentally friendly plumbing product recommended by a competent plumber to unclog a drain or treat your septic tank.

5. Incorporate Technology in Plumbing

Technology has made it simpler for homeowners to get the most out of their plumbing system while minimizing environmental impact. You can now install motion sensors or touchless faucets in your home. This technology can save you water and money by only turning on faucets when your hands are within a few inches of the faucet or the spout’s lip.

ecofriendly plumbing practices

6. Use Tankless Water Heaters

Tankless water heaters are energy-efficient equipment that also provides a new level of convenience. Tankless water heaters provide on-demand hot water and are significantly more compact than their predecessors.

Water rushes through the tankless system and is instantaneously heated by the electric or gas mechanism when you need hot water for washing your hands or cleaning dishes.

7. Upgrade Your Toilets

Installing dual-flush systems can save hundreds of dollars in water each year for homeowners. You could be flushing nearly three gallons of water every time you use the restroom if your toilet hasn’t been changed since the 1990s. A dual flush toilet can save a lot of water by having one flush for liquid waste and another for solid waste.

8. Clean the Drains

Drains are easily clogged by food, oil, fat, hair, and other similar materials. If not attended to by an experienced plumber, clogged drains can cause serious harm. Drain obstructions are one of the most common reasons for homeowners to hire a plumber. Check this article to know about health and safety considerations in plumbing work.

9. Get Regular Maintenance of House Plumbing System

Taking preventative actions on a regular basis can considerably extend the life of your plumbing system. A routine check once a year will save you a lot of money and time in the long run. Hire a skilled plumber to see growing difficulties and plumbing issues so you can address them before they become a problem and wastewater or cause other problems.

plumbing tips to save money

10. Look for Alternatives to Hot Water

A gas boiler upgrade or replacement can be costly. By looking at the fluctuating nature of energy prices and the emerging trend for using eco-friendly methods, investing in alternatives to gas boilers is a good idea to make your house’s plumbing system eco-friendly. You’ll not only lower the chance of carbon monoxide poisoning in your home, but you’ll also be future-proofing it.

Conclusion

Methods discussed in this article depict how small modifications in your house plumbing can make a big difference in how you care for the environment. This will not only make the process more sustainable and healthy but will also help you cut down various expenses involved in house water and plumbing management, besides increasing your home’s value.

Exploring Sustainable Water Treatment Methods: What Are Your Options?

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As you turn on your tap every day, you may be unaware of the intricate process that brings you clean and safe water. Little did you know that the journey water takes from its source to your home is marked by crucial treatment steps designed to ensure its purity and safety.

However, with the escalating environmental challenges and finite resources, the discussion around water treatment must also evolve. Given this context, the urgency for sustainable methods of water treatment has never been more critical.

options for sustainable water treatment

This article aims to delve into these sustainable alternatives, shedding light on their real-world applications, advantages, and potential limitations. So, read on.

1. Solar Disinfection (SODIS)

This simple yet efficient approach utilizes the sun’s ultraviolet (UV-A) radiation to disinfect water. In this approach, clear polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic bottles filled with contaminated water get exposed to sunlight for 6-8 hours. The UV-A rays in sunlight kill or inactivate microorganisms in the water, thus making it safe to drink.

SODIS has proven beneficial in developing regions with limited access to clean water. To that end, it enjoys the endorsement of the World Health Organization (WHO) as a viable water treatment method for homes.

SODIS also works best for areas with prohibitive heating costs or limited electricity access. Also, it can be practical in instances where emergencies such as floods make drinking water unfit for human consumption.

2. Membrane Bioreactors

The sustainable water treatment arena has benefited from revolutionary membrane chemicals technology. These chemicals’ major role is to remove fouling agents from membrane bioreactors (MBRs), thus enhancing the effectiveness of cleaning procedures.

MBR systems merge biological degradation processes with membrane filtration, allowing for the simultaneous removal of solids and biodegradable pollutants. Membranes, acting as selective barriers, permit water to pass while retaining contaminants.

This sustainable water treatment method has won many hearts across the globe. A good example of its use is the Busan Suyeong sewage treatment plant, commissioned in South Korea in 2012. The plant utilizes MBR technology to achieve high-efficiency purification and meet acceptable effluent discharge quality.

Capitalizing on the promise of membrane chemicals, extensive research and development efforts are ongoing to optimize their performance further. An area of particular interest is enhancing membrane fouling resistance. This involves developing novel membrane materials and chemical formulations that can resist the accumulation of pollutants, extending membrane lifespan and effectiveness.

3. Advanced Oxidization Processes (AOPs)

These powerful techniques employ potent oxidants like ozone, hydrogen peroxide, or UV light to break down pollutants. Unlike other methods, AOPs are particularly good at tackling stubborn contaminants such as pharmaceutical residues and personal care products.

However, their energy requirements are higher, necessitating careful consideration of the energy-environment tradeoff. Typically, many wastewater treatment plants across the globe use AOPs to treat water contaminated with pharmaceutical residues. This method successfully eliminates the contaminants from the final effluent.

effluent-treatment-plant

4. Biofiltration

Biofiltration is an ingenious water treatment solution utilizing the power of microorganisms to break down pollutants. In this process, contaminated water passes through a filter medium (in most cases sand or activated carbon) inhabited by beneficial bacteria and other microorganisms. These tiny organisms consume pollutants, effectively cleansing the water.

Biofiltration is notably effective in treating drinking water and eliminating undesirable compounds. In Antwerp, Belgium, this technology continues getting deployed to improve the city’s drinking water’s taste and odor.

Current research in sustainable water treatment is looking to enhance the potential of biofiltration. The focus is on harnessing a wider variety of microorganisms, each specialized in degrading specific pollutants.

Additionally, exploration to identify the most effective types of filter media that might support more diverse microbial communities or improve the efficiency of pollutant degradation progresses. Through these advancements, biofiltration may redefine its potential as a front for making cleaner water more accessible for all.

5. Nature-Inspired Constructed Wetlands

Nature-inspired constructed wetlands offer a nature-inspired solution to water treatment. Here, water flows through an artificial wetland filled with specific plants and bacteria that naturally degrade or immobilize pollutants. The method offers excellent sustainability benefits due to its low energy consumption, minimal maintenance requirements, and contribution to local biodiversity.

A remarkable case is a natural sewage treatment plant in East Kolkata Wetlands in India. These wetlands process billions of liters of wastewater monthly, transforming pollutants into nutrients for aquatic plants and fish.

In a world increasingly aware of its environmental footprint, constructed wetlands symbolize the exciting intersection of sustainability and innovation. It offers a glance into a future where technology and nature can collaborate to sustainably treat water for human consumption.

Wrapping Up

The sustainable alternatives to traditional water treatments explained above illustrate how your relationship with water can evolve in response to environmental concerns. Each method, with its unique advantages, applications, and potential limitations, reflects human ingenuity in tackling emerging environmental challenges.

While further research is needed to optimize these methods, their growing adoption signals a promising future—one where water treatment aligns with the planet’s health and access to clean water doesn’t compromise our environment. It’s now up to you to support and encourage these sustainable advancements, acknowledging that the future of water treatment lies in these innovative and eco-friendly approaches.

Why Organic Food Practices Will See A Boom In Coming Years?

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Organic foods are going to take off and see a boom in the coming years. The food industry is ready for it and it is time for more people to switch to organic produce.

When you start swapping your everyday foods with organic varieties, you will not just see a change in your health status, but it will also be beneficial for the environment. Here are some of the reasons why the organic food industry using food ERP software is going to take off very soon. Click here to know more about industry-specific ERP software for your business.

growth of organic food industry

1. Digital Awareness Is At An All-Time High

With most people equipped with smartphones and the internet, it is easy to find information about sustainable food practices and the benefits of going organic. Many e-commerce companies work as a sort of facilitator for the growth of the organic industry with people having easy access to such food products.

There is also quite a bit of competition in the food industry which is set to grow. This is a good thing from the point of view of consumers.

2. Price Difference Insignificant

Yes, organic foods may indeed be a bit expensive but the price difference is not significant. Overall, the health benefits that one would expect from organic foods are more compared to the higher price.

food-waste-college

Organic food is a modern, healthy part of a sustainable lifestyle.

3. Going Sustainable

As people move towards a more sustainable world, many practices are becoming common. This report shows how people want to learn how to live more sustainably. Whether it is choosing to buy pre-loved clothes or moving to organic foods, it is all about trying to reduce one’s carbon footprint as much as possible. It is about being sustainable in practices and that translates to food. When one chooses organic produce, it becomes easier to follow sustainable living.

4. A More Natural Way Of Living

People who are inclined to live a more natural way of life or give their bodies more natural foods can take on organic food practices with ease. Organic products are grown without the use of pesticides and chemicals and are therefore less harsh on the body. They are grown following more natural principles of farming.

sustainability-food-supply-chain

Why ERP Helps The Organic Food Industry

With food ERP software, the organic food industry can enjoy a lot more efficiency every step of the way. From production to sales, everything can happen in a more streamlined fashion. Here are reasons why using a food ERP system can help this particular industry:

  • Everything that is happening is in the software. This makes tracking the whole process from organic farming to the end consumer easier and more efficient. Visit TEC to know more about their latest ERPs and choose the right software for your business.
  • With an ERP it is possible to make sure there is little or no food wastage. Organic produce usually has a short shelf life and it is difficult to keep up supply with demand. With this technology, it becomes easy to do so.
  • The reduction of the carbon footprint of the organic food company also becomes easier when food waste is contained.

The Rise of Bioenergy in China: Trends, Challenges and Future Prospects

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China has recently emerged as one of the economic powerhouses of the world. Not only does this status continue to redefine what was considered to represent a somewhat “backwards” society, but plenty of employment opportunities await. This has also given rise to several interesting trends. From the growing number of Chinese classes online which cater to foreign migrants to increased international investment, the future does indeed look bright.

It is also important to mention how China has begun to capitalise upon innovative solutions in the hopes of reducing the impacts of climate change. One interesting example can be seen in the use of bioenergy as a viable substitute for traditional fossil fuels. What are some current trends to note and are there any challenges that will need to be addressed in the coming years?

bioenergy trends in China

Promising Statistics

Many readers will be surprised to learn that up to 80 per cent of raw biomass materials are now being used to generate power throughout China. Considering the population of this nation, it only stands to reason that such sources of energy abound. Furthermore, the implementation of biomass will help to reduce China’s reliance upon outside nations. This provides a much-needed economic boost and promises an impressive long-term return on investment (ROI).

Such a pronounced trend is at least partially due to a younger Chinese generation that has now become well aware of their role in stemming the effects of climate change. Another undeniable benefit is the simple fact that bioenergy now represents a niche employment sector; providing plenty of opportunities for those with the appropriate skill sets.

What Challenges Await?

While all of the observations outlined above are rather promising, we also need to remember that there are some downsides attributed to biomass in relation to energy production. One potential issue involves industry competition as well as to decide how the resources themselves should be allocated. Wealth distribution could also come into play considering the role that corruption may play in terms of profit margins.

As this summary highlights, another possible sticking point could instead involve operational challenges including:

  • Feedstock management
  • Storage issues
  • Supply and demand
  • High transportation costs
  • A relatively new industry

Other problems such as retooling existing factories in order to support biomass energy production can be rather complicated and expensive.

biomass energy in china

So, what might the future of bioenergy in China have in store? Most experts agree that relying upon fossil fuels alone as a source of electricity is no longer a viable option. So, it stands to reason that the Chinese government is looking carefully at how biomass can be used as an alternative. Officials also appreciate that many other nations have already curtailed their use of fuels such as coal and natural gas.

The main takeaway point here is that much like any other emerging industry, bioenergy is associated with undeniable advantages as well as some logistical challenges. Still, China should be able to rise to the occasion with planning and foresight.

What Can You Do To Fall Asleep?

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An average of 6 to 9 hours of sleep per night is considered adequate for adults. A child’s need for sleep is greater than an adult’s. Sleep disorders, work schedules, everyday stress, a noisy or disruptive bedroom environment, and medical issues such as hypertension can all contribute to having sleep troubles. Even healthy food and lifestyle might not help you get enough rest. Therefore, a lack of sleep may be an early symptom of a sleep disorder.

Sleep is a crucial bodily requirement that enables you to feel rejuvenated and refreshed upon awakening. Sleep also helps to promote overall health and to keep diseases at bay. When the brain doesn’t get enough sleep, it doesn’t function correctly. Because of this, it will be difficult to concentrate, make decisions, recall information, or retain knowledge; that’s why it’s extremely important to sleep when you can.

Here are some of the simple things you can do to fall asleep without exerting too much effort:

What Can You Do To Fall Asleep

1. Breathing Exercise

Breathing patterns affect many things in our autonomic nervous system, including heart rate, muscle tension, motivation, and other features of relaxation and excitement. Some breathing patterns might be stressful, but others can help you relax.

Deep breathing is a method that promotes more air circulation in the body while also lowering anxiety and stress; it can also enhance your attention span and alleviate pain.

2. Take Sleeping Aids

There are over-the-counter items in pharmacies or products in the market that can help adults fall asleep faster, especially for those who have insomnia or other factors that can make it challenging to achieve the right amount of sleep.

You may choose to go natural by drinking herbal teas like chamomile, lavender, or other herbs that can help in relaxation. There are also flavored drinks in some groceries and health stores that contain natural ingredients like lemon and balm, which give a calming effect.

Nonetheless, the most popular sleeping aid is melatonin which is widely available in the market. In any of these options, it’s best to consult your doctor first before hopping into taking these supplements.

3. Subscribe to Sleep Apps

You know what they say about using gadgets too much, that it can cause sleeping problems? Though there is some truth to that, the digital space has proven that it can do almost everything once again. For some who are having problems falling asleep, sleep aid apps are available for gadget downloads.

Some of these apps run for free with limited app access, while some may require monthly or yearly subscriptions for broader sleeping aid selections within the app. These apps will run continuously for a set duration and will shut off automatically afterward.

4. Invest in Quality Mattress

Mattress prices can range from $300 to $4000, and it wouldn’t be a bad idea if you’re going to put in a little more bucks for that piece of the household item where you spend most of the time at home.

sleep improvement guide

Other than ready-made mattresses in the stores, there are options to customize the beds, providing better support to the body, promoting better sleep and relaxation. Customized beds are also great for those who have medical conditions that would require specialized mattresses.

It may be required to learn the foundations of excellent sleep hygiene and how to effectively set up your bedroom in order to get adequate rest. While these modifications should help you sleep better, seek treatment from a behavioral sleep medicine practitioner if your problem persists.