Physicochemical characterization of peat in the Mpama bog in the Congo Basin in northwestern DR Congo

2025-12-07T14:45:06+00:00

This study is a monitoring of peatlands that aims to determine their natural state in order to obtain scientific information on their physical and chemical properties. It contributes to the characterization of natural capital by evaluating the physical and chemical parameters of peat in the peatlands of the Congo Basin, specifically that of Mpama, with a view to the sustainable management of this ecosystem. The following parameters were determined: temperature (T), hydrogen potential (pH), electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), oxidation-reduction potential (ORP), dissolved oxygen (O2), total organic carbon (TOC), moisture (H), density (D), cellulose (CEL), lignin (LIGN), and ash content (TC). The results obtained show variation in the physicochemical parameters analyzed from one sampling point to another. Overall, Mpama peat is acidic, rich in organic matter, very wet, and low in minerals; it has high carbon storage potential, and its low density and high moisture content confirm that it is still actively decomposing.

Study of Amoxicillin Residues in an Seketak River, Semarang, Indonesia: Eco toxicological Risk Assessment and Recommendations for Pharmaceutical Wastewater Quality Standards

2025-09-12T17:24:04+00:00

This study investigates the presence of amoxicillin, a common antibiotic, in the Seketak River, Tembalang Sub-District, Semarang City, Indonesia, as a basis for recommending pharmaceutical wastewater quality standards. Amid rising concerns over antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and pharmaceutical pollution in aquatic ecosystems, this research addresses the gap in specific effluent limits for antibiotics in national regulations. A quantitative analytical approach was employed, involving water sampling at five points along the river (upstream, midstream, and downstream) near pharmaceutical industries, clinics, and hospitals. Samples were analyzed using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) to detect amoxicillin concentrations. Results revealed detectable levels of amoxicillin at two midstream sites (0.082 mg/L and 0.065 mg/L), while other sites were below the limit of detection (<0.05 mg/L). Physicochemical parameters (pH, BOD, COD, TSS, DO) met national standards (PP No. 22/2021), but benthic community analysis indicated moderate pollution stress, with tolerant species like Chironomus sp. present. The absence of specific amoxicillin thresholds in regulations such as Permen LH No. 5/2014 hinders risk assessment and compliance. Findings underscore the need for integrated wastewater management to mitigate AMR risks. Theoretically, this affirms the role of pharmaceutical residues in environmental degradation. Practically, it urges policymakers to establish antibiotic-specific standards, enhance treatment technologies, and promote stakeholder collaboration for sustainable water quality. In conclusion, targeted monitoring and policy reforms are essential for protecting river ecosystems from pharmaceutical pollution in urban-industrial areas like Semarang.

International Journal of Advances in Scientific Research and Engineering (IJASRE), ISSN:2454-8006, DOI: 10.31695/IJASRE

Physicochemical characterization of peat in the Mpama bog in the Congo Basin in northwestern DR Congo

Study of Amoxicillin Residues in an Seketak River, Semarang, Indonesia: Eco toxicological Risk Assessment and Recommendations for Pharmaceutical Wastewater Quality Standards