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Abstract: This epidemiological study aims to assess the cancer risk potentially associated with environmental exposure resulting from cement production and waste co-incineration at the Anhovo cement plant in Western Slovenia and to develop a strong and reliable methodological framework for the long-term surveillance of environmentally related cancer risks in small geographical areas. Materials and methods We integrated all the available data sources: cancer cases from the population-based Slovenian Cancer Registry; background population; and available measurements on exposure to air PM10 particles and chromium (Cr) in the soil in the municipality of Kanal and the wider Goriška region. Relative risks of cancer in small geographical areas were estimated using Bayesian hierarchical spatial models and the population attributable fractions of the modelled risk factors were calculated. The point source analysis compared the cancer risk near the cement plant to that in more distant areas. Results The analysis did not reveal any excess cancer incidence in the area of the Anhovo cement plant or an association with the PM10 particles and Cr in the soil. The incidence of mesothelioma remains high in the region, but stable in the last two decades. Conclusions In view of the environmental pollution caused by either historical cement production or the potential impact of current waste co-incineration activities in Kanal, we strongly recommend that a follow-up epidemiological study be carried out in the next 10 to 20 years. The methodological framework established in the present study provides a foundation for the ongoing surveillance of the cancer burden in the region.
Keywords: cancer incidence, environmental exposure, cancer data
Published in DiRROS: 05.12.2025; Views: 290; Downloads: 0

Keywords: common buckwheat, Tartary buckwheat, physiological traits, environmental conditions, elevation
Published in DiRROS: 24.11.2025; Views: 256; Downloads: 100
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Abstract: Amid ongoing urbanisation, gardens are expected to play an increasing role in enhancing urban biodiversity by supplementing green areas and improving landscape connectivity. Biodiversity-friendly gardens also improve human well-being and foster connections between nature and people. To study these benefits, we distributed a questionnaire (n = 5255), and used a scoring system to evaluate gardens’ ecological value (GAR index), gardeners' attitudes (RES index), and pesticide use habits (PES index). We used machine learning to explore how these indices interact and what sociodemographic factors drive them across Central and Eastern Europe (CEE). Our aim was to explore the ecological values of gardens and gardening practices, identifying characteristics that might contribute to building high biodiversity. We found significant variability within and between countries, with Romania scoring low and Czechia high in all indices. Domestic pesticide use was ubiquitous across CEE and largely unaffected by sociodemographic factors. Increased time spent gardening was associated with the highest pesticide use and a greater potential for fostering high biodiversity. Gardeners aged over 55 tended to uphold longstanding conventional practices and thus lowered both PES and GAR index scores. The local differences highlight the need for regionally tailored biodiversity-friendly gardening guidelines instead of standardised regulations across Europe. Effective environmental education and community programs can be developed based on local biodiversity and the three indices we used. These programs should inform gardeners about the environmental and health impacts of pesticides and provide comprehensive biodiversity-related knowledge. This is especially important in CEE, where such initiatives are currently underrepresented.
Keywords: rural-urban gradient, urban ecosystems, environmental consciousness, sustainable gardening, environmental sensitivity, urbanisation
Published in DiRROS: 08.10.2025; Views: 237; Downloads: 120
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Abstract: Citizen science provides a valuable approach for tracking plastic pollution; however, its effectiveness is often limited by methodological inconsistencies, concerns about data quality, and a persistent gap between data collection and policy implementation. This systematic review addresses the key question: What constitutes a comprehensive set of best practices for addressing these issues and enhancing the scientific and societal impact of citizen science in monitoring plastic pollution from source to sea? Analyzing 84 studies, from beach cleanups to microplastic sampling, this review synthesizes best practices and identifies remaining gaps. It presents a structured framework designed to enhance data quality and volunteer participation. Key challenges include the ‘microplastic analytical bottleneck,’ the ‘digital divide,’ and notable geographical and demographic disparities that hinder the integration of policies. While citizen science is effective for large-scale data collection, its main challenge is translating data into actionable policies. The main contribution of this review is a series of practical recommendations aimed at improving methodological consistency, ensuring fair volunteer participation, and facilitating the transition from citizen data to evidence-based environmental management, thereby enhancing the effectiveness and impact of citizen science.
Keywords: public engagement, plastic pollution data quality, environmental monitoring, policy integration
Published in DiRROS: 25.09.2025; Views: 309; Downloads: 170
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Keywords: forestry, gender equality, youth employment, employment, sustainable development, environmental education
Published in DiRROS: 14.07.2025; Views: 524; Downloads: 292
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