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In an era where sustainable energy and environmental conservation are paramount, integration of Microalgae with Microbial Fuel Cells for Wastewater Treatment and Energy Generation emerges as a groundbreaking contribution to biotechnology. The book chapter, “Application of Microalgae-MFC to Mitigate Water Pollution and Resource Recovery” authored by Post-doctoral Research Scholar, Dr Ricky Rajamanickam under the guidance of Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Dr Rangabhashiyam Selvasembian explores the revolutionary potential of microalgae-driven microbial fuel cells (MFCs) in tackling wastewater pollution while generating renewable energy. This work—featured in the book titled, Emerging Trends in Microbial Electrochemical Technologies for Sustainable Mitigation of Water Resources Contamination brings together leading experts offering invaluable insights for scientists, engineers, and policymakers striving for a cleaner and greener future.

Brief Introduction to the Book Chapter

The chapter explores the integration of microalgae with microbial fuel cells (MFCs) for simultaneous wastewater treatment and energy generation. It delves into the mechanisms of microalgae-based MFCs, focusing on electricity generation, carbon capture, and the production of value-added bioproducts. The work highlights this technology’s potential for addressing water pollution and resource depletion while advancing sustainable energy solutions.

Significance of the Book Chapter

This chapter is significant as it addresses pressing global challenges such as water pollution, resource depletion, and the need for sustainable energy solutions. It aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals and contributes to advancing integrated biotechnological solutions for environmental and energy challenges.

Target Audience

The book chapter targets environmental scientists, engineers, policy makers, and researchers working in biotechnology, wastewater management, and renewable energy. It is also resourceful for students and professionals interested in sustainable development and innovative biotechnologies.

Co-Authors or Major Contributors

Dr Ricky – (First author) (Postdoc)

Dr Rangabhashiyam Selvasembian (Corresponding author) (Associate Professor)

 

 

 

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Assistant Professors – Dr Kousik Das, Dr Harish Puppala, Associate Professor- Dr Pankaj Pathak, Uttiya Dey, along with Research Scholars – Mr Mijanur Mondal, Ms Sudeshna Chell, Ms Sumana Dutta, and Ms Pankaj Kumar come up with an interdisciplinary research breakthrough in their paper, “Community-Level Vulnerability of Groundwater Fluoride Contamination and Exposure by the Application of Multi-Criteria Model.” The authors examine fluoride exposure in villages like Chintal Cheruvu, Rompicherla, Shantamangalur, Thimmapur, and Nadendla.

Abstract

Elevated fluoride (F⁻) levels in groundwater, primarily due to geogenic processes, pose significant health risks, including dental and skeletal fluorosis and neurological disorders. This study aimed to quantify source-dependent F⁻ exposure at the community level in selected tropical dry regions of Andhra Pradesh, India. These locations include Chintal Cheruvu, Rompicharala, Shantamangalur, Thimmapur, and Nadendla. Community surveys and drinking water sample analyses were conducted in these regions. Dental Fluorosis Index (DFI) used to estimate exposure levels across age and sex groups. Findings of surveys indicate that groundwater consumption with high F⁻ (4.3 mg/L) results in the highest exposure dose (0.62 mg/kg/day), with Chintal Cheruvu identified as the most affected. A strong positive correlation was observed between exposure dose, water F⁻ content, and the Community Fluorosis Index (CFI). Dental fluorosis prevalence exceeded 80% across all age groups, and household surveys revealed 100% unawareness of F⁻ exposure risks. The magnitude of FII for Chintal Cheruvu is 0.563 which is highest among the considered regions indicating that it is most impacted region that needs remedial measures first in the hierarchy. Rompicharala with FII as 0.252, Nadendla (0.223), Shantamangalur (0.214), and Thimmapur (0.188) follows the hierarchy.

Explanation in layperson’s terms.

The outcome of the study concludes that regionally most of the places of Andhra Pradesh is affected the by the groundwater fluoride contamination. People are getting affected by the consumption of high fluoridated water which is visible from the dental fluorosis. The area is having high groundwater fluoride is having highest severe dental fluorosis cases. Among the villages, Chintal Cheruvu had the highest fluoride level while Thimmapur had the lowest. Signs of dental fluorosis were most noticeable among younger individuals who are still developing. The exposure dose varied across villages, with Chintal Cheruvu having the highest exposure dose followed by Rompicharala. Other symptoms of fluorosis, such as skin allergies and body pain are also predominant. Most villages had alternative sources of drinking water, except for Chintal Cheruvu, where residents continued to use contaminated water due to a lack of alternatives. There is a clear link between lack of awareness about fluoride toxicity and higher exposure levels as apparent from the questionnaire survey.

Practical /Social Implications

The immediate action is necessary to reduce fluoride exposure, provide safe drinking water, and raise awareness about fluoride toxicity to meet sustainable development goals by 2030. The findings highlight the need for integrated approaches combining mitigation, education, and sustainable practices to tackle fluoride contamination and improve the overall well-being of affected communities.

The link to the article

 

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