Gergely Zoltán Macher

58308198300

Publications - 24

The impact of asbestos cement pollution in irrigation water on physiological and germination characteristics of Trifolium pratense, Medicago sativa, and Solanum lycopersicum seeds

A. Torma Gergely Zoltán Macher Dóra Beke

Publication Name: Scientific Reports

Publication Date: 2025-12-01

Volume: 15

Issue: 1

Page Range: Unknown

Description:

This paper investigates how plants respond to stress caused by asbestos cement products in irrigation water. It presents a thorough evaluation of the exposure and risk factors for plants, water, and soil when exposed to these materials. The experimental results provide empirical evidence of plant stress responses based on physiological and germination parameters. The research is motivated by concerns about environmental contamination from asbestos cement in irrigation water, which can be toxic to plants and lead to soil pollution, negatively impacting vegetation and soil quality. When exposed to asbestos in water, plants experience toxic stress that can inhibit photosynthesis, nutrient uptake, and germination. Asbestos can also adversely affect cell division and metabolism, risking plant growth, reproduction, and overall health, as well as making them more susceptible to disease and pests under environmental stress. The paper examines the impact on germination and physiological parameters of Trifolium pratense, Medicago sativa, and Solanum lycopersicum, particularly how they were affected by pre-established concentrations of irrigation water mixed with asbestos cement during a controlled germination experiment. The research methodology was developed in the absence of established global practices, standards, and methods, creating an opportunity for further methodological advancement. The findings could serve as a situational analysis for professionals in environmental plant protection and analytical fields.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-01011-4

The Impact of Rainwater Quality Harvested from Asbestos Cement Roofs on Leaf Temperature in Solanum lycopersicum as a Plant Water Stress Indicator

Gergely Zoltán Macher

Publication Name: Water Switzerland

Publication Date: 2025-07-01

Volume: 17

Issue: 14

Page Range: Unknown

Description:

Rainwater harvesting (abbreviation: RWH) presents a valuable alternative water source for agriculture, particularly in regions facing water scarcity. However, contaminants leaching from roofing materials, such as asbestos cement (abbreviation: AC), may compromise water quality and affect plant physiological responses. This paper aimed to assess how simulated rainwater, reflecting the different levels of contamination (1, 2, 5, 10, and 20 mg/L), influences leaf temperature in tomato plants (Solanum lycopersicum), a known non-invasive indicator of plant water stress. The treatments were applied over a four-week period under controlled greenhouse conditions. Leaf temperature was monitored using infrared thermography. Results showed that higher treatment concentrations led to a significant increase in leaf temperature, indicating elevated water stress. These findings suggest that even low levels of contaminants originating from roofing materials can induce detectable physiological stress in plants. Monitoring leaf temperature offers a rapid and non-destructive method for assessing environmental water quality impacts on crops. The outcomes of this research have direct applicability in the safer design of RWH systems and in evaluating the suitability of collected rainwater for irrigation use.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.3390/w17142070

Mosses in Urban Environments as Passive Biofilters and Organisms Impacted by Asbestos-Contaminated Habitats

Gergely Zoltán Macher Dóra Beke

Publication Name: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

Publication Date: 2025-06-01

Volume: 22

Issue: 6

Page Range: Unknown

Description:

Asbestos cement materials represent a persistent source of environmental contamination, particularly in urban areas where weathering facilitates the release of hazardous chrysotile fibres. Despite extensive research on the human health impacts of asbestos, ecological interactions remain poorly understood. This paper explores the dual role of bryophytes colonising asbestos cement roofing as passive filters that trap airborne fibres and as vulnerable organisms subjected to asbestos-induced stress. Using a synthesis of recent findings, we assess the capacity of mosses to immobilise chrysotile fibres through their dense, mat-like structures, potentially reducing local dispersion. Simultaneously, we examine physiological and biochemical responses to prolonged fibre exposure, including reduced photosynthetic activity and signs of oxidative stress. The findings highlight a paradoxical function of bryophytes: while they contribute to pollution mitigation, they also accumulate contaminants and suffer from sublethal damage. These interactions may have broader implications for contaminant redistribution, particularly through decomposition and trophic transfer. Understanding these dynamics is essential for advancing ecological risk assessments and developing sustainable remediation strategies in asbestos-contaminated habitats.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.3390/ijerph22060838

Examining the Environmental Ramifications of Asbestos Fiber Movement Through the Water–Soil Continuum: A Review

A. Torma Gergely Zoltán Macher Dóra Beke

Publication Name: International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health

Publication Date: 2025-04-01

Volume: 22

Issue: 4

Page Range: Unknown

Description:

The environmental pollution potential of asbestos products is a worldwide health issue, but their dissemination through the water–soil continuum is often an overlooked aspect. Similarly, the behavior of asbestos fibers released from the products is still not fully understood, although our knowledge is based on studies concerning their mineralogical characteristics, health effects, and waste disposal. It has been claimed and contradicted that asbestos harm is only found in air and humans. Asbestos fibers are found not only in industrial settings but also through the industrial use of asbestos cement products, which has contributed to asbestos emissions and its movement in water and soil. Asbestos fibers are diverse in their physicochemical properties, and this diversity has a significant influence on their behavior in the environment. Recent research has confirmed that asbestos can be transported by water and spread to other parts of the environment. However, the mechanisms underlying this, such as the settling of fibers, their attachment to soil particles, or their movement in groundwater, as well as the environmental and health implications, require further investigation. This paper examines the process and impact of asbestos contamination in the interconnected water, soil, and plant environmental sectors, providing a systematic review of the latest literature.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.3390/ijerph22040505

Analysis of Macro- and Microplastic Contaminations in Commercially Available Potting Soil Products

Gergely Zoltán Macher Emese Juhász

Publication Name: Chemical Engineering Transactions

Publication Date: 2025-01-01

Volume: 116

Issue: Unknown

Page Range: 835-840

Description:

Macro- and microplastics have emerged as pollutants in terrestrial ecosystems, yet limited knowledge exists regarding their presence in horticultural substrates. This paper employed qualitative and quantitative methods to analyse seven commercially available potting soil products. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy identified polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyamide as the dominant polymer types, with PE and PP accounting for over 65% of the detected plastics. Notably, particles measuring approximately 0.008 m were commonly observed, raising concerns about potential environmental accumulation. The paper also revealed significant variability in contamination levels across the samples, with S-2 and S-4 exhibiting the highest microplastic content, including the presence of blue and red synthetic fibres as observed microscopically. Additionally, signs of polymer degradation were detected through the identification of carbonyl peaks. These findings highlight a novel source of pollution within the consumer horticulture domain and provide new insights into plastic uptake pathways, potential risks to plant health, and the need for mitigation strategies to support sustainable agriculture. This work contributes to the growing understanding of microplastics in soil environments and may inform future environmental policy actions.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.3303/CET25116140

Water quality of harvested rainwater from asbestos cement roofs and its suitability for irrigation

A. Torma Gergely Zoltán Macher Dóra Beke

Publication Name: Clean Technologies and Environmental Policy

Publication Date: 2025-01-01

Volume: Unknown

Issue: Unknown

Page Range: Unknown

Description:

Rainwater harvesting is increasingly recognized as a sustainable solution for water management, especially in areas affected by water scarcity. However, the potential pollution risks linked to asbestos cement roofing materials, widely used in residential areas, have not been thoroughly explored. This paper addresses this gap by assessing the effects of asbestos cement roof degradation on the quality of harvested rainwater, focusing on its suitability for irrigation. The research combines controlled laboratory experiments and field-based sampling of rainwater in contact with asbestos cement surfaces. Significant changes in water quality were observed, notably, the analysis highlights a substantial increase in heavy metal contamination, including a 75.4% rise in mercury concentration and a dramatic 127.3% increase in lead levels. The findings underscore the need for extensive investigations into the impact of asbestos cement roofs on water quality in Hungary, considering the varying characteristics and contamination levels of asbestos cement products across countries as well as the limited existing scholarship on the subject in Hungary. This research is novel in its pioneering examination of the effects of asbestos cement roofing on harvested rainwater quality in Hungary, with a particular focus on heavy metal contamination (e.g., lead, mercury, zinc), which poses significant environmental and health risks.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.1007/s10098-025-03197-7

Spectroscopi c Anal ysi s of Chrysoti l e Asbestos and i ts Environmental Resistance in Asbestos Cement Waste Products

A. Torma Christopher Teh Boon Sung Gergely Zoltán Macher Fanni Károly Szilveszter Gergely Dóra Beke

Publication Name: Pertanika Journal of Science and Technology

Publication Date: 2024-10-01

Volume: 32

Issue: 6

Page Range: 2441-2458

Description:

Most asbestos-related studies have focused on asbestos exposure risks, their associated health implications, and waste management issues. Our research introduced a unique perspective that has rarely been explored: the impact of environmental factors on asbestos cement products. The novelty of the study is that, in contrast to previous research, in addition to determining the material quality of asbestos, it analyses the trace materials, additives and the emissive nature of chrysotile fibers. This study aims to identify the chrysotile-asbestos content in three common asbestos cement products found in Hungary, with regard to the release of their fibers upon exposure to the environment and to identify trace elements that could be used to identify the origin and function of each of these products. Our analyses revealed the presence of chrysotile in each tested sample, with spectral matches ranging from 59.6% to 86.7%. Asbestos cement products exposed to various environmental influences for long periods showed a greater chrysotile emission capacity than those unexposed or hermetically sealed ones. Additionally, we established that all asbestos cement products contained glass fibers, with an average spectral match of 62.1%. We further identified polysilicate in the materials with an average spectral match of 66.0%, as it was included in asbestos cement products to enhance their heat resistance. Our results pave the way for a new methodology for assessing asbestos cement products with regard to the implementation of their trace element level assessments.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.47836/pjst.32.6.03

The impact of irrigation with harvested rainwater containing asbestos cement matrix on the germination characteristics of Solanum lycopersicum

Gergely Zoltán Macher Dóra Beke

Publication Name: Acta Phytopathologica Et Entomologica Hungarica

Publication Date: 2024-09-06

Volume: 59

Issue: 1

Page Range: 63-73

Description:

The study aims to investigate how the transfer of matrix materials from eroded asbestos cement products induces stress responses in plants. The paper evaluates the exposure and risk factors of plants, water, and soil to asbestos cement materials. Additionally, the experimental results provide empirical evidence for plant stress responses based on physiological and germination parameters. Contamination of irrigation water with asbestos cement raises environmental concerns due to its potential toxicity to plants and soil quality. Asbestos in irrigation water can lead to toxic stress for plants, affecting germination processes and growth. The paper analyzes the effects of preset doses of irrigation water containing asbestos cement matrix on the germination process and physiological parameters of Solanum lycopersicum in a controlled experiment setting. This research proposes methodological developments that could be valuable for environmental plant protection professionals.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.1556/038.2024.00207

Exploring disparities in the generation of food waste from a spatial and sustainability perspective

A. Zseni Andras Horvath Gergely Zoltán Macher Dóra Sipos Judit Pécsinger

Publication Name: Bio Web of Conferences

Publication Date: 2024-08-23

Volume: 125

Issue: Unknown

Page Range: Unknown

Description:

In the near future, food production will encounter numerous challenges. The world's population, per capita intake of calories, protein, and cereals is growing, and expected to continue increasing in the future. According to the World Resources Institute, feeding 9-10 billion people by 2050 will require a 70% increase in food calorie compared to 2006 levels. The expansion of crop and livestock production, the increasing use of fertilisers and pesticides at global level, and the growing adoption of precision farming methods may not be appropriate in the light of problems such as soil degradation, the impact of climate change on yields, the depletion of fish stocks and the reduction of arable land per capita in certain areas. Mitigation of food waste can be a possible way to sustainable food supply but it alone cannot solve the problem. The paper focuses on examining disparities in the generation of food waste from a spatial and sustainability perspective within EU-countries. Data related to food waste and various environmental, social and economic indicators are collected for EU countries. Correlation between these parameters is investigated to find possible connections. Cluster analysis is applied to food waste data to find the groups of countries with similar characteristics. The distribution of environmental, economical, and social parameters is calculated for these groups, and statistical methods are applied to investigate their differences.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.1051/bioconf/202412502002

Effect of asbestos cement contamination in irrigation water on physiological and germination parameters of Trifolium pratense and Solanum lycopersicum seeds

Gergely Zoltán Macher Dóra Beke

Publication Name: Bio Web of Conferences

Publication Date: 2024-08-23

Volume: 125

Issue: Unknown

Page Range: Unknown

Description:

This study aims to examine the plant stress responses induced by the water transport of matrix materials from the eroded and degraded asbestos cement materials. The paper includes a general assessment of the exposure and risk factors of the plant-water-soil system to asbestos cement products. Furthermore, the results of the experimental analysis provide empirical support for the plant stress response results according to the physiological and germination parameters of the tested plants. The background to the topic is that the contamination of irrigation water by asbestos cement raises serious environmental concerns, with toxicity to plants and soil contamination potentially having negative consequences for vegetation health and soil quality. In the presence of asbestos in water, plants are exposed to toxic stress, which can inhibit photosynthesis and nutrient uptake, but can also affect germination processes. The growth, reproduction and flourishing of plants also be at risk, as asbestos has adverse effects on cell division and metabolism. In addition, environmental stress can make plants more susceptible to disease and insect attack. This paper analysed the effects of pre-set dose concentrations of irrigation water containing asbestos cement matrix on the germination and physiological parameters of Trifolium pratense and Solanum lycopersicum in a germination experiment. The research area of the paper was influenced by the lack of minimum international practice, standards, and methodology. Therefore, the used methodology provides an opportunity for methodological development. The results can be used as a situation analysis for environmental plant protection and analytical professionals.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.1051/bioconf/202412501005

Analysing the Environmental Durability and Chrysotile Content of Asbestos Cement Products by FT-IR Spectroscopy

A. Torma Gergely Zoltán Macher Dóra Beke

Publication Name: Chemical Engineering Transactions

Publication Date: 2024-01-01

Volume: 114

Issue: Unknown

Page Range: 709-714

Description:

The aim of this paper is to examine the environmental resistance and chrysotile content of different asbestos cement products and to prove the relationship between these two factors by analytical results. The paper includes Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopic analysis of asbestos cement pipes and asbestos cement products with corrugated and flat characteristics. The methodology of the study is based on FT-IR spectroscopy and general statistical approaches, and the results obtained are compared using correlation analysis. The background to the topic is that asbestos cement products are still widely used today despite their harmful effects on health, contrary to European Union asbestos-free targets. A damaged and eroded asbestos cement product loses several grams of asbestos and cement per year from its matrix structure, which is exacerbated by exposure to various environmental influences. The match rate of the chrysotile spectrum for analysed samples has been over 50 % in each case. In the number of measurements, the chrysotile detection rate was 7.64 % higher for degraded and eroded samples. In addition, in the samples exposed to environmental factors, the percentage variance was approximately 10 % or higher, with the exception of asbestos cement pipes. The results provide a basis for situational awareness options. Analytic practitioners, material science researchers, and analysts can use them.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.3303/CET24114119

APPLICATION OF EMISSION FACTORS TO EXPLORE THE POTENTIAL OF HYDROGEN PRODUCTION FROM SEWAGE SLUDGE

Gergely Zoltán Macher Dóra Sipos Judit Pécsinger Dalma Bódizs Éva V. Pestiné Rácz

Publication Name: Iet Conference Proceedings

Publication Date: 2024-01-01

Volume: 2024

Issue: 8

Page Range: 16-24

Description:

The study aims to investigate the possibility of producing hydrogen from sewage sludge obtained during wastewater treatment, using emission factors. It provides an overview of current trends in treating sewage sludge, analyses the potential for generating biogas and hydrogen from sewage sludge, and examines the role of hydrogen in transitioning towards greener energy. The research methodology uses statistical approaches to derive potential values from baseline data through emission factors and categorizes study areas based on this information. The background indicates that biogas-based hydrogen production offers benefits such as utilizing renewable energy sources and reclaiming sewage sludge. There has been a substantial increase in municipal wastewater treatment sludge generation while simultaneously reducing non-hazardous sludge disposal by landfilling. The focus is on utilizing these resources effectively instead of squandering them, while also identifying previously wasted potential over recent years. The primary objective of the paper is to assess the untapped potential that has not been fully utilized in recent years. The research direction was shaped by access to statistical data, albeit constrained by its focus on a typical technological process. The study delves into an increasingly relevant area, with outcomes applicable for policymakers as well as professionals in energy and environmental fields.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.1049/icp.2024.2675

The Elimination of Illegal Waste in Hungary: New System of Sanctions and the First Results

A. Torma Anita Boros Gergely Zoltán Macher

Publication Name: Chemical Engineering Transactions

Publication Date: 2024-01-01

Volume: 114

Issue: Unknown

Page Range: 907-912

Description:

Illegal dumping is a persistent environmental challenge, with limited comprehensive data collection practices across EU Member States, leading to a lack of comparative databases on this issue. This paper addresses the problem by focusing on illegal dumping in Hungary and examining the development of a digital model for monitoring these activities, along with the characteristics and sanctions related to illegal dumping. By exploring waste management practices in the Visegrad Group Member States, this paper highlights the absence of systematic data collection and presents Hungary as a case example where citizens reported over 22,000 cases of illegal dumping in just six months via the WasteRadar application. The research findings underscore Hungary’s recent reforms, which introduced a nationwide database for tracking illegal dumping and imposed stricter sanctions aimed at mitigating the adverse environmental impacts of such activities. These actions signify important strides in addressing illegal dumping and improving environmental governance. This paper highlights the main characteristics of the reform of the Hungarian regulation, such as the advantages of the introduced method, such as establishing a country-wide database on illegal dumping and introducing significantly stricter sanctions on this activity to reduce the harmful environmental effects.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.3303/CET24114152

A települési és mezogazdasági vízgazdálkodás azbeszt okozta kockázati tényezoi a krizotil-azbeszt vonatkozásában

A. Torma Gergely Zoltán Macher Dóra Beke

Publication Name: Agrokemia Es Talajtan

Publication Date: 2023-06-21

Volume: 72

Issue: 1

Page Range: 44-63

Description:

No description provided

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.1556/0088.2023.00147

Investigation of the Effects of Biodegradable and Compostable Polymers as Sources of Microplastics on the Water-Soil Continuum: A Review

Gergely Zoltán Macher Dalma Bódizs Kornélia Horváth Anett Bedő

Publication Name: Chemical Engineering Transactions

Publication Date: 2023-01-01

Volume: 107

Issue: Unknown

Page Range: 307-312

Description:

The amount of research and publications related to microplastic pollution has been steadily increasing in recent years, but at the same time, our current knowledge on the topic is still based on occasional point measurements. As a result of these point measurements, it becomes obvious that new research areas and disciplines are also connected to the topic of microplastics. Various biotic and abiotic processes can cause microplastics to enter the environment and spread within it. All of these mechanisms can arise from the moisture conditions of the tested medium, temperature differences, or even from the decomposing and transforming activities of microorganisms. The rise of biodegradable and compostable plastic bags can also be considered a source of this kind since polymer products labelled as environmentally friendly can be identified as secondary sources during their decomposition processes. Therefore, both industrial and household compost can contain microscopic polymer residues, the application of which involves a potential risk of environmental pollution. In recent years, several international studies have dealt with various aspects of the degradation of these products, including the use of problems caused by residual microplastics and their environmental effects. The focus of our paper is not on the development of a new scientific methodology but a summary of the current situation formed through research results dealing with the current environmental safety and environmental health risks of microplastic pollution caused by biodegradable polymers.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.3303/CET23107052

Examining the Integrity of Climate Protection Goals and Climate Change Policy Objectives in the Policies of the European Union

Gergely Zoltán Macher Dóra Sipos Judit Pécsinger

Publication Name: Chemical Engineering Transactions

Publication Date: 2023-01-01

Volume: 107

Issue: Unknown

Page Range: 139-144

Description:

Nowadays, the effects and consequences of climate change can be directly felt. As a result, the mitigation of climate change and the fight against its effects are of high priority both from the point of view of the European Union and the world, for which strategies and guidelines define an effective climate policy as an essential tool. At the same time, the vast majority of research related to climate change has so far focused on the greenhouse gas emissions of individual countries, their sectoral distribution and mitigation options, as well as the situation and difficulties in meeting their objectives in this direction. The aim of this study is to examine the integration of the policy objectives related to climate change of the individual European Union member states, as well as to explore the path these states are taking in achieving the emission targets for greenhouse gases planned for 2050. In our study, we examine to what extent the evaluations aimed at achieving the sustainable development goals of individual countries take into account the extent to which the projected climate protection trajectory of the same member states is fulfilled. Based on our results, it can be concluded that there are significant differences in the level of development of each country from a sustainable development point of view, the amount of greenhouse gas emissions of the given member countries, and the degree of consideration and adaptation of individual climate protection goals. Based on our findings, it can be said that the global climate policy plays a significant role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, but the regulation and target system at the member state level is even more pronounced. Achieving the 2050 climate neutrality goals requires a fundamental transformation of some regulations, and if the limitations arising from the dissonance of these specialized sectors with decarbonization are resolved or managed to an adequate extent, and the actual integrity of the individual goals is achieved, then net zero carbon dioxide emissions can be achieved.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.3303/CET23107024

Integrated Analysis and Assessment of the Hungarian Regions in Terms of Health Problems and Waste Management Challenges caused by Asbestos

A. Torma Gergely Zoltán Macher Dóra Beke

Publication Name: Chemical Engineering Transactions

Publication Date: 2023-01-01

Volume: 107

Issue: Unknown

Page Range: 361-366

Description:

Nowadays, more information is available regarding the health problems and waste management challenges caused by asbestos, and the research directions that focus on alternative agents, transport processes and mobilization routes of asbestos have gained ground. Only in recent years has the published research on the subject begun to deal more intensively with the development of evaluation methods that would ensure the consistent numerical qualification of individual territorial units. This paper examines the exposure of certain regions of Hungary along the lines of asbestos-related waste management and health aspects. After that, the individual relationships were identified and explored based on the specific patterns of the formed groups. The methodology of this paper is the calculation of an internationally applied integral index, the advantage of which is that it enables the comparison of numerical values with different dimensions. The focus of research is not the development of a new scientific methodology, but rather an exploration of the situation and regional comparability of asbestos exposure that is much more multidisciplinary, complex and multidimensional than the previous viewpoints. The value of the calculated integral index was 0.310±0.155 in 2005, while 0.339±0.170 in 2020. The rate of change in the value of the asbestos involvement and exposure integral index shows an increase of +28.5 % between 2005 and 2020. Based on the results, there are significant differences between the individual regions of Hungary along the values of the calculated multidimensional integral indices.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.3303/CET23107061

The Dissonances of Asbestos Exposure and the Concept of Sustainable Settlements in the Light of the European Union's 2023 Asbestos Neutrality Objective

Gergely Zoltán Macher Dóra Sipos Judit Pécsinger

Publication Name: Chemical Engineering Transactions

Publication Date: 2023-01-01

Volume: 107

Issue: Unknown

Page Range: 145-150

Description:

Until now, the majority of asbestos-related research has focused on the health challenges of asbestos and the waste management challenges caused by asbestos cement products. The limitation of the research is that there is no uniform indicator or index formation method available for asbestos exposure and involvement on a national scale. Given the neglect of the topic, there are no uniform risk assessment and situation assessment procedures available, neither, as a result, indicators or public databases. The aim of this paper is that, in parallel with the European Union's 2023 asbestos neutrality objectives, asbestos exposure is examined as a kind of indicator to assess the actual level of development of those member states that are progressing along the sustainable development goals. The focus of the paper is an analysis of the situation rather than the discovery of new scientific results. Using an integrated index formation method, the relationship between the indicators of sustainable development and the volume of asbestos consumption in the countries in the focus group is examined. It was established that the average value of the sustainable development index corrected for asbestos exposure in relation to the EU-27 is 0.428, which means a medium level of involvement. A comparison of the two indexes shows that there are significant differences. The average correction rate is -47.4 %. Based on the results and according to previous literature sources, asbestos exposure is an unexamined segment of efforts for sustainable development, which can also result in significant dissonances.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.3303/CET23107025

The Effect of the Dam-building Activity of the Eurasian Beaver (Castor fiber) on Changes in the Soil Moisture Conditions and Vegetation Associations of the Beaver Meadows in the Valley of Ablánc-stream

Gergely Zoltán Macher Dalma Bódizs Anett Bedő

Publication Name: Chemical Engineering Transactions

Publication Date: 2023-01-01

Volume: 107

Issue: Unknown

Page Range: 319-324

Description:

Nowadays, more information is available about the activities of the Eurasian beaver (Castor fiber) as an ecosystem engineer species and the resulting ecosystem services. The environment-shaping activity of beavers not only affects the bed conditions of a given body of water but also affects the degree of diversity of the vegetation and fauna surrounding it. The research published in connection with this topic has only in recent years begun to deal more intensively with the condition characterisation and function analysis of the flooded areas under constant beaver influence, called beaver meadows. The focus of this paper is the investigation of beaver meadows directly connected to the dam system consisting of 19 beaver dams located along the Ablánc stream. The research examines the effect of the activity of the beaver colony, which has been continuously monitored for almost two years, on the soil moisture conditions of the beaver meadows in the Natura 2000 nature conservation area and to what extent this is reflected in the characteristics of the plant community. The focus of the analysis is the vertical distribution of soil moisture in the upper soil layer. During the vegetation mapping, 10 squares were designated to determine plant community parameters. High soil moisture values were detected in the examined quadrates, which varied between 39.0 φ% and a maximum of 50.0 φ%. A significant number of taxa could be identified - such as Myosoton aquaticum and Petasites hybridus - whose primary ecological requirements are a permanent wet environment and continuous water impact.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.3303/CET23107054

The Impact of Biodegradable and Compostable Plastic Products on the Occurrence and Contamination of Microplastics in Compost Leachate

Gergely Zoltán Macher Dóra Sipos Judit Pécsinger Dalma Bódizs Éva V. Pestiné Rácz

Publication Name: Chemical Engineering Transactions

Publication Date: 2024-01-01

Volume: 114

Issue: Unknown

Page Range: 835-840

Description:

The composting of organic and bio-waste is widely practised, and in some regions, it is even a mandatory waste management practice. A valuable by-product of this process is the nutrient-rich liquid known as compost leachate, which holds great potential for use in agriculture and horticulture. This investigation delves into the content, production methods, and impact of compost leachate on different crops while also emphasising its susceptibility to external factors. Compost leachate forms during composting and serves as an effective soil amendment material containing essential nutrients, microorganisms, and humic acids beneficial for plant growth. The quality of this by-product can be compromised by contamination from organic waste materials. Today, there has been widespread adoption of biodegradable or compostable plastic products in household composting systems due to misconceptions or public attitudes towards their usage. In-home composting, the process of decomposition might be slower, and there could be issues with the conventional waste management systems that are still commonly used. Additionally, not all degradable products are exclusively made from natural materials. Sometimes, synthetic polymer chains are utilised to accelerate degradation. This study aims to explore, through a simulated experiment, the possibility of microplastic contamination in composting environments, primarily due to the presence of biodegradable and compostable plastic items in these settings. The research findings indicate that the potential risks of microplastics to compost and compost leachate have been insufficiently explored, only recently becoming a focal point. The key conclusions suggest that the development of strategies to address these ecotoxicological factors is becoming increasingly pressing.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.3303/CET24114140

The Potential for Analyzing the Correlation Between the Compressive Stress Resistance of Red Clover Seeds and the Environmental Conditions during Seed Maturation Using FT-IR Spectroscopy

Eszter Kókai Gergely Zoltán Macher Dalma Bódizs Anett Bedő Marcell Lócsi Szilveszter Gergely

Publication Name: Chemical Engineering Transactions

Publication Date: 2024-01-01

Volume: 114

Issue: Unknown

Page Range: 715-720

Description:

The paper aims to examine the connection between environmental conditions during seed maturation and the ability of seeds to compressive stress, supported by statistically significant findings. The study involves using Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopic analysis on red clover seeds under varying pressure levels, specific tensions, and selected quality parameters. The methodology relies on a general FT-IR spectroscopic approach, with spectral comparisons made against results from pressure-induced rupture. Through this research, new methods for seed testing are intended to be informed by differential and correlation results across technical parameters and different measurement settings. The analyses indicated a noticeable difference of several 10 N in visible features between seed maturation stages and compressive tolerance. Given the novelty of the aspects being explored, one primary influencing factor is identified as the scarcity of available literature, which also serves as a limitation of this research. The obtained results have potential applications for analysts, agricultural specialists, consultants, and experts involved in seed management and distribution.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.3303/CET24114120

Using Multivariate Statistical Analysis for Examining the Relationship between Food Waste Generation and Socio-economic Factors

A. Zseni Andras Horvath Gergely Zoltán Macher Dóra Sipos Judit Pécsinger

Publication Name: Journal of Sustainable Development of Energy Water and Environment Systems

Publication Date: 2025-09-01

Volume: 13

Issue: 3

Page Range: 1-16

Description:

Food waste contributes to social inequalities and sustainability issues by worsening resource overuse and environmental harm. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 17 highlights the importance of reducing food waste to address hunger and promote a sustainable, economically viable global food system. This paper examines the geographic differences in food waste levels among European Union member nations and analyses the associations between food waste and diverse environmental, geographic, social and economic indicators, including Sustainable Development Goals and other sustainability metrics. Using dimensionality reduction methods, nontrivial multivariate connections between food waste and these parameters were identified, allowing for the characterisation of countries based on a few significant factors. Principal Component Analysis (PCA), applied to food waste data across European Union countries, uncovered three distinct groups: (1) those with elevated food waste in primary production, manufacturing and distribution stages; (2) those with lower waste in these domains yet elevated waste in restaurants and households; and (3) those with all of their food waste components smaller than or equal to the average. The multivariate linear correlation between the PCA factors and socio-economic parameters is nonsignificant, but a few (nonlinear) regularities could be identified: five of the six countries of the first group above are characterised by the population settled mainly on flatland and an above-average supply of meat or fish. Another pattern observed is that former Eastern Bloc countries belong to the third group. The research findings offer valuable insights that can inform the efforts of environmental experts, professionals and policymakers working in the circular economy and waste management domains. This knowledge can facilitate the development of more effective strategies aimed at mitigating food waste and promoting sustainability.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.13044/j.sdewes.d13.0579

Assessing the Urban Climate Resilience of Cities in Hungary Using an Index-based Approach

Gergely Zoltán Macher Dóra Sipos Judit Pécsinger Dalma Bódizs Éva Veronika Pestiné Rác

Publication Name: Journal of Sustainable Development of Energy Water and Environment Systems

Publication Date: 2025-09-01

Volume: 13

Issue: 3

Page Range: Unknown

Description:

Climate resilience in urban areas is increasingly critical in the face of climate change, particularly in regions where climate variability poses significant challenges. This study introduces the Climate Resilience Index for Town Sustainability, a novel, multidimensional framework designed to evaluate the resilience of 19 Hungarian cities, including Budapest and county capitals. The framework incorporates 41 parameters across environmental, social, and infrastructural dimensions, addressing significant gaps in existing resilience assessments by providing a region-specific, holistic evaluation. The research employs advanced statistical techniques, including principal component analysis and k-means clustering, to analyse the data sourced from the Hungarian Central Statistical Office and the National Adaptation Geo-Information System. This analysis revealed substantial variability in resilience scores among Hungarian county capitals, with Békéscsaba achieving the highest scores due to its extensive green infrastructure, renewable energy adoption, and lower proportion of vulnerable populations. In contrast, Budapest recorded one of the lowest scores, highlighting challenges such as limited green spaces, high population density, and elevated energy consumption. Clustering analysis grouped the cities into eight distinct categories, emphasising the role of geographic and climatic factors in shaping urban resilience. The findings demonstrate the critical importance of targeted interventions, such as expanding green infrastructure, improving energy efficiency, and enhancing sustainable practices. By offering actionable insights for policymakers, this index not only advances resilience research but also provides a replicable framework adaptable to other regions. Its innovative approach to integrating multidimensional parameters represents a significant contribution to the understanding and improvement of urban climate resilience in a changing world.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.13044/j.sdewes.d13.0596

Pathways to asbestos-free and sustainable cities using multi-level perspective approach

Szigeti Cecília Gergely Zoltán Macher

Publication Name: Discover Sustainability

Publication Date: 2025-12-01

Volume: 6

Issue: 1

Page Range: Unknown

Description:

Urban policymakers, researchers, and municipal planners increasingly face the challenge of managing complex sustainability transitions, particularly in contexts involving persistent environmental hazards such as asbestos contamination. This systematic review applies the Multi-Level Perspective (MLP), which examines interactions between niche innovations, socio-technical regimes, and broader landscapes, to the underexplored area of asbestos-free urban transitions. The concept of an “asbestos-free city” is introduced in this paper as a novel analytical lens to describe urban transitions aiming to eliminate asbestos-related risks through systemic, sustainable interventions. The review was conducted through a structured qualitative analysis of peer-reviewed academic literature, guided by predefined thematic criteria and relevance to urban asbestos-related transitions. The review highlights the factors that enable or hinder the adoption of asbestos-free and strong sustainable solutions, as well as the role of various actors, such as policymakers, industry, and civil society, in driving these transitions. Despite the growing body of work on sustainability transitions, the integration of MLP into asbestos-related urban transformation remains limited. This paper fills that gap by offering a structured synthesis and proposing a roadmap for future research and practice. Our findings provide actionable insights for actors across policy, civil society, and industry seeking to accelerate transitions toward asbestos-free and sustainable cities.

Open Access: Yes

DOI: 10.1007/s43621-025-01932-0