Publications

Performance and Degradation of Nonwoven Mulches Made of Natural Fibres and PLA Polymer—Open Field Study
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This paper provides insights into the sustainable alternatives that can replace conventional plastic mulches, such as biodegradable mulches made from natural fibers and biopolymers. The microscopic and FTIR analyses conducted during the study showed the degradation of the fibers from the mulches during the exposure time to a certain extent. The nonwoven mulches provide higher temperatures compared to bare soil, though not as high as those observed beneath traditional agricultural foil. The comparison of humidity in bare soil and soil covered by mulches during the plant growth period (June to October) revealed that soil humidity was higher beneath all mulches. The nonwoven mulches provide superior soil moisture retention compared to conventionally used agrofoils. Almost all nonwoven mulches effectively suppressed weed growth, except hemp mulches. The newly produced mulches do have the potential to replace traditional agrofoil, offering improved conditions for plant growth, effective weed control, and faster degradation without causing harm to the environment.

Latest Posts

1
Oceans Plastics Charter

The Ocean Plastics Charter aims to bring together leading countries, sub-national governments, businesses, and civil society organisations to commit to a more resource-efficient and sustainable approach to keep plastics in the economy and out of the environment. With this charter, it aims to transition to a more sustainable and resource-efficient method of managing plastics. Through[…]

2
Palau National Marine Sanctuary Fishing Regulations

These regulations are intended to promote sustainable development, food security, and the sustainable management of fishing activities in Palau’s waters. They also intend to create economic returns, employment generation, and export earnings from the sustainable harvesting of tuna and tuna-like species by encouraging the development of domestic fishing industries and a local tuna market. These[…]

3
Pesticides program (40 CFR 150-189)

This subchapter E of Title 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations outlines the pesticide programs, including registration and classification procedures, policies, special review procedures, standards, labelling requirements, packaging requirements, data requirements, and good laboratory practice standards. It also covers state registration of pesticide products, rules of practice governing hearings under the federal Insecticide, Fungicide,[…]

4
Reduce and Refuse, Recycle and Replace A Plastics Roadmap for Finland

The Plastics Roadmap aims to decrease littering and other environmental harm brought on by plastics, prevent needless use, enhance plastic recycling, and replace traditional polymers derived from fossil fuels combined with various substances and liquids. To guarantee more focus on sustainable product development, reuse, product recyclability, and the growing usage of recovered plastics, these objectives[…]

5
Regulations of Zhejiang province on prevention and control of aquaculture pollution

The regulations aim to enhance aquaculture pollution prevention and control, protect aquatic ecosystems, ensure product quality and safety, and promote sustainable development. They consist of 24 articles divided into four sections: general provisions, delimitation of prohibited areas, pollution prevention and control, and environmental monitoring and supervision of fishery waters.