Chapters authored
Risks of Glaciers Lakes Outburst Flood along China Pakistan Economic Corridor
The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) passes through the Hunza River basin of Pakistan. The current study investigates the creation and effects of end moraine, supra-glacial, and barrier lakes by field visits and remote sensing techniques along the CPEC in the Hunza River basin. The surging and moraine type glaciers are considered the most dangerous type of glaciers that cause Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) in the study basin. It can be concluded from the 40 years observations of Karakoram glaciers that surge-type and non-surge-type glaciers are not significantly different with respect to mass change. The recurrent surging of Khurdopin Glacier resulted in the creation of Khurdopin Glacial Lake in the Shimshal valley of the Hunza River basin. Such glacial lakes offer main sources of freshwater; however, when their dams are suddenly breached and water drained, catastrophic GLOFs appear and pose a great threat to people and infrastructure in downstream areas. This situation calls for an in-depth study on GLOF risks along the CPEC route and incorporation of GLOF for future policy formulation in the country for the CPEC project so that the government may take serious action for prevention, response to GLOFs, and rehabilitation and reconstruction of the areas.
Part of the book: Glaciers and the Polar Environment
Green Adsorbents for Water Purification
Water purification is crucial for ensuring access to safe and clean drinking water. As a sustainable and effective solution, green adsorbents have gained significant attention in recent times. These adsorbents are composed of natural or waste-based materials that are biodegradable, renewable, and abundant, making them an eco-friendly substitute for traditional adsorbents. This chapter offers a comprehensive outline of the present and prospects of green adsorbents in water purification. It encompasses a comprehensive overview of the many forms of green adsorption agents comprising natural, agriculture waste-based, & industrial waste-based adsorbents, as well as their synthesis and modification methods. Furthermore, it also explores the potential applications of green adsorbents in removing heavy metals, organic pollutants, and inorganic contaminants from water. The challenges and future directions of green adsorbent research are also discussed, including the limitations of these adsorbents and the opportunities for enhancing their performance. Overall, this chapter offers valuable insights into the potential of green adsorbents as a sustainable and eco-friendly solution for water purification.
Part of the book: Water Purification