Scientific Conference for Young Researchers "Sustainable Environment"
March 20, 2026 The conference will be held in Lithuanian and English.
Copyright © 2021 The Author(s). Published by Vilnius Gediminas Technical University. This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.
Research on additional domestic wastewater treatment using an iron shavings filler
The article examines additional domestic wastewater treatment methods using an iron shavings filler for phosphorus removal. To reduce the impact of eutrophication, the effectiveness of iron processing waste in phosphorus adsorption was investigated. Experiments showed that the iron shavings filler could achieve up to 95.7% phosphorus removal efficiency, and its adsorption capacity could be restored through regeneration using sodium hydroxide and sulfuric acid. The study results indicate that this method can be an effective and sustainable solution for wastewater treatment, reducing the need for chemical precipitation and minimizing environmental pollution.
Copyright (c) 2025 The Author(s). Published by Vilnius Gediminas Technical University. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Research of the effect of iron compounds on the sludge digestion process
One of the most commonly used sludge treatment methods is anaerobic sludge digestion. In some treatment plants, due to increased sludge volumes, the loading of digesters becomes a limiting factor, preventing the achievement of the required sludge degradation level. As a result, during the dewatering of digested sludge, the quality of sludge water deteriorates, and the amount of pollutants entering the wastewater treatment process increases. Due to the increased pollution, higher wastewater treatment plant capacity is required, leading to greater energy consumption. To accelerate the sludge digestion process and improve sludge water quality, this study utilized additives based on iron compounds. The results showed that the highest efficiency of biodegradable dry matter (BDM) degradation was achieved using SBG Plus and SBG additives – their concentrations decreased by 38% and 37%, which is 9.1 and 8.1 percentage points more than in the sludge without additives variant (29%). The Fe(OH)3 additive also improved degradation – BDM decreased by 36.3%, which is 7.4 percentage points more than in the sludge without additives variant. The use of additives increased biogas production: SBG – 11.8%, SBG Plus – 5.1% more than in the sludge without additives variant. Meanwhile, the Fe(OH)3 additive generated more biogas between days 7–11, but the final amount was 5.1% lower than in the sludge without additives variant. The highest methane production was achieved using the SBG additive (27 L, +12.1%), while the highest methane concentration (70.3%) was reached with the Fe(OH)3 additive. In conclusion, the most effective additive for optimizing the anaerobic digestion process was the SBG additive, as it ensured the highest biogas production and methane release.
Rainfall data analysis and application for design of stormwater systems
Keičiantis klimatui, keičiasi ir lietaus intensyvumas. Smarkūs lietūs gali sukelti dideles problemas, tokias kaip gatvių užtvindymas, pastatų rūsių užliejimas bei suardyta infrastruktūra. Norint išvengti lietaus padarinių yra naudojamos paviršinių nuotekų šalinimo tinklų sistemos, per kurias lietaus nuotekos yra surenkamos ir nutekinamos iki paviršinių vandens telkinių, kur yra išleidžiamos. Tam, kad sistema veiktų patikimai, turi būti apskaičiuojamas galimas susidarysiantis paviršinių nuotekų kiekis. Pagal apskaičiuotą paviršinių nuotekų debitą parenkami vamzdynų skersmenys, kurie turi užtikrinti, kad sistema veiktų tinkamai. Šio straipsnio tikslas yra įvertinti Šiaulių miesto lietaus intensyvumo duomenų kaitą 1968–2023 m. ir išanalizuoti jų poveikį suprojektuotai sistemai.
Research of the effectiveness of tertiary treatment of wastewater
As cities grow and expand, pollution and wastewater volumes also increase, surpassing the treatment capacity of wastewater treatment plants and directly impacting the ecological status of rivers. The primary and secondary treatment stages in wastewater treatment plants are becoming increasingly burdened. Additionally, stricter regulations on treated wastewater pollution levels are being introduced. Due to these reasons, the tertiary wastewater treatment stage is becoming more relevant. The study was conducted in a municipal wastewater treatment plant. The research examined the removal efficiency of a tertiary treatment unit for different pollutants under varying reagent dosing conditions, which were divided into two stages: when the reagent dose for phosphorus removal was lower than required and when it was dosed optimally. The study determined that in the first stage, the average removal efficiency was as follows: total phosphorus – 28%, phosphate phosphorus – 20%, BOD₇ – 66%, Tn – 9.3%, and suspended solids (SS) – 83%. In the second stage, the removal efficiency of total phosphorus and phosphate phosphorus reached 30%, BOD₇ – 36%, Tn – 4.3%, and SS – 68%.
Calibration and analysis of a hydraulic model of the Neris stormwater network
This article analyses how the hydraulic model of the stormwater drainage network corresponds to the actual measured flow rate data. The primary scientific challenge is to develop a hydraulic model that accurately aligns with real stormwater flow rates and precipitation data. The analysis of hydraulic models is essential for accurately predicting surface runoff flows, ensuring network efficiency, and reducing flood risks in urban areas. The study employed the rational calculation method, integrated into the CivilStorm software, to analyse actual (measured) precipitation data obtained from meteorological stations and flow rate readings from the outfall flow meter. The results revealed that precipitation intensity variability can significantly impact the accuracy of modelling outcomes.
Investigation of an unglazed transpired solar collector in different climates using TRNSYS software
Solar energy is a widely recognized renewable energy source that offers a sustainable and infinite energy supply. Unglazed transpired solar collectors (UTSCs) have emerged as an effective, eco-friendly solution for harnessing solar radiation. This study examines the performance of UTSCs across various climatic conditions using TRNSYS software. Five cities reflecting different climatic zones have been selected for the UTSC modelling: Kampala (tropical climate), Riyadh (desert climate), Madrid (Mediterranean climate), Vilnius (continental climate), and Svalbard (polar climate). The analysis showed that UTSC efficiency varied depending on the climate. It performed best in tropical and desert regions with consistent solar radiation, such as Kampala and Riyadh, where it provided year-round heating and cooling. Mediterranean climates like Madrid operate well seasonally, while in continental regions like Vilnius, it is mainly beneficial for winter heating. This technology has various applications in buildings and the drying industry, leading to various results. By analysing the performance of UTSCs in tropical, desert, Mediterranean, continental, and polar climates, this research contributes to the advancement of climate-resilient technologies and sustainable energy planning.
Assessing AI algorithms for predictive modelling of spatiotemporal PM₁₀ air pollution
Without a doubt, air pollution is one of the most serious issues confronting our world today, which presents significant health and environmental risks, exacerbating respiratory ailments and contributing to climate change. Air pollutants’ spatial and temporal variability is the basis for effective air quality management, necessitating more accurate predictive models. The study aims to assess particulate matter of a diameter smaller than 10 μm (PM₁₀) forecasts using the European Union’s Space Copernicus program mission of monitoring the atmosphere and tracking air pollutants, the Sentinel-5 Precursor satellite (5P) TROPOspheric Monitoring Instrument (TROPOMI), coupled with meteorological variables and observations from air quality monitoring stations. Root mean square error (RMSE) and mean absolute error (MAE) measure the model’s accuracy. The study integrated machine learning algorithms and diverse datasets to enable precise spatial modelling of PM₁₀ concentrations using a geographic information system (GIS). The results obtained peak accuracy during the heating season validation yielded an RMSE of 4.52 μg/m³, MSE of 20.44 (μg/m³)², and MAE of 3.30 μg/m³, while testing resulted in an RMSE of 4.38 μg/m³, MSE of 19.21 (μg/m³)², and MAE of 3.19 μg/m³.
Application of artificial intelligence in HVAC system optimization: opportunities, challenges, and perspectives
Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies are rapidly advancing, and their application in optimizing the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems operation is becoming more and more common. HVAC systems are using a significant portion of a building‘s energy consumption, moreover systems failures or poor management can lead to substantial energy losses. AI technologies offer a potential to ensure efficient energy use, improve user thermal comfort parameters, and contribute to sustainability efforts. By utilizing real-time data analysis and forecasting methods, AI can optimize HVAC system performance, reduce energy usage, and enhance system reliability, also extend their operational lifespan, by effectively predicting failures, enabling preventive measures and avoiding costly repair expenses. This paper presents a review of the latest literature, examining key AI models and their applications to HVAC systems. Despite the progress in these technologies, multiple challenges still remain, such as model accuracy, adaptability, integration with existing systems, lack of data or it’s quality, model interpretation, high implementation costs, and ensuring user comfort. Nevertheless, AI undoubtedly opens up a lot of new opportunities and become an inevitable part of the future of HVAC systems. Although certain obstacles are currently encountered, technological advancements and the continuous implementation of new solutions will enable even greater application of AI. Therefore, its integration into HVAC systems is not only a technological advancement but also a significant step toward a more sustainable, efficient, and comfortable environment in the future.
Application of innovative packing materials for air purification from volatile organic compounds in a scrubber
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are major contributors to air pollution that are emitted from industrial and domestic sources, inflicting damage on environmental and human health. There are a lot of studies dedicated to the abatement of these VOCs and the mitigation of their impact. Among air purification methods, scrubbers are extensively employed due to their high efficiency in VOC removal, to increase the performance of these VOCs packing materials are used, in the form of beds within the scrubber. The choice of packing material is significant in optimizing mass transfer efficiency, enhancing gas-liquid interaction, and minimizing pressure loss. Conventional materials such as ceramics, plastics, and metals have been the subject of intensive study; however, recent trends have been in the direction of biodegradable and nano-coated materials to promote sustainability and functionality. This review discusses packed-bed wet scrubbers as a tool of air purification from VOCs and the current trends in new packing materials such as biodegradable and nano-coated plastics, assessing their efficacy in VOC absorption and removal.
sustainability, and volatile organic compounds
Research and testing of the noise-absorbing efficiency of different cardboard samples
The study analyses the sound absorption efficiency of cardboard waste samples in order to clarify their potential as alternative reusable sound-absorbing materials. The studies examined panels of various densities and thicknesses made from recycled cardboard waste. The results showed that recycled cardboard has sound absorption potential, and the efficiency of prototypes reaches up to 0.41. The study also emphasises the importance of cardboard as a sustainable and easily recyclable material, suggesting its application for the production of cheaper acoustic panels. These solutions could be useful for socially sensitive groups and environmentally oriented construction innovations. It was found that the sound absorption coefficient in the medium frequencies (2000 Hz to 3150 Hz) reached up to 0.28, and in the high frequencies (3150–5000 Hz) – up to 0.41. This study aims to determine the sound absorption properties of cardboard and adhesive composite material and to propose alternative, easily manufactured sound-absorbing panels.
Artificial intelligence for building management systems: a review of data and security challenges
In the context of enhancing the energy efficiency of buildings, there is a growing emphasis on the development of smart buildings and the optimisation of energy management systems. The integration of artificial intelligence into the control of building indoor climate systems represents a novel approach for energy conservation. However, it is imperative to recognise that the selection of the AI model is not the sole determining factor in the efficacy of this approach. The quality, quantity and reliability of the data, its availability, and other pertinent considerations, such as the ethical utilisation of personal data, are also crucial factors. This paper discusses the data-related challenges of using artificial intelligence to improve the control of HVAC systems and provides insights and recommendations.
Current trends and future perspectives of the Lithuanian national geodetic vertical network
The article discusses the condition of the Lithuanian National Geodetic Vertical Network. It reviews the history of the vertical network’s establishment and contemporary needs. The article examines the technical regulation GKTR 2.12.01:2001, which outlines the requirements to ensure network quality. The analysis uses data from the first geodetic network’s establishment between 1998 and 2008 and data from the 2023 renewal of the vertical network’s 5th polygon to assess and determine the condition of existing geodetic marks. The study showed that the installation of geodetic marks is becoming increasingly challenging. Also, the research revealed that the number of destroyed geodetic marks has decreased. More attention should be given to the technical protection of geodetic marks and updating legal regulations to ensure the longevity of geodetic networks.
Corrigendum “Interactive mechanisms between pfas and soil characteristics: a review”
Dulana Gajaba Kaluarachchi Rathnayaka Kaluarachchige
Application of electrochemical oxidation to remove textile dyes from water
Electrochemical oxidation using electrodes can be applied to remove dyes used in the textile industry from wastewater. In this study, three different electrode types were used to remove dyes (Congo Red, Naphthol Green B, Rhodamine B and Methylene Blue) from water. The electrochemical oxidation study was performed using boron doped diamond (BDD), mixed metal oxides (MMO) and graphite electrodes. Experiments were performed with artificially contaminated water. Dye solutions after the electrochemical oxidation process were analyzed using a PerkinElmer UV/VIS spectrophotometer and a TOC-V CSH Shimadzu total organic carbon analyzer. After 60 min of electrochemical oxidation process, the colors of all dyes were removed using BDD, MMO and graphite electrodes. The removal efficiency achieved was not less than 94.00% for congo red, not less than 31% for naphthol green B, not less than 96% for rhodamine B, and not less than 94% for methylene blue.
Experimental studies on the application of the adsorbtion method for chromium ions removal from contaminated water
Expanding industry and growing urbanization of cities increase the pollution of wastewater with heavy metals. Chromium ions contained in insufficiently effectively treated wastewater can become toxic to the environment and cause negative consequences for living organisms. Due to the toxicity of chromium, it is necessary to remove chromium ions from contaminated water in order to protect human health and the environment, and one of the most suitable methods for removing chromium ions from contaminated water is adsorption. This article describes the application of the adsorption method for removing chromium ions from contaminated water using expanded clay as a adsorbent. Several important parameters were studied: the dependence of the adsorption process on time, chromium ion concentration and pH, and the adsorption process in the column was studied. The results of the study showed that expanded clay is a suitable adsorbent for removing chromium ions from contaminated water.
Harmonisation of marine gravity data in the Eastern Baltic
Marine gravity datasets covering areas of state scale typically consist of data surveyed over multiple campaigns. These campaigns often take place many years apart and are of varying resolution and accuracy. Ship-borne campaigns are much more expensive and time-consuming than the ones on land; because of this, there is added value in validating and possibly correcting older data sets. Throughout the recent BalMarGrav marine gravity project, dense, high-quality gravity data covered most of the Latvian exclusive economic zone. The new data have been compared to campaigns, both as a means of new data validation and to check for possible biases among older data sets. This research aims to further the effort, provide more exhaustive coverage of old marine gravity points, test automated gravity point digitisation, and perform inter-campaign comparisons, using new, filtered and more precise data. Data recovered during this research covers the previous data gaps between sets used in previous research. Using a more complete data coverage can improve new campaign data set validation and provide insights on inter-campaign biases within older data. The recovered data cover shallow coastal areas, where gravity mapping was not done over the BalMarGrav project. Thus, by applying correctional values, geoid errors can be minimised in the problematic transition zone between terrestrial and marine data. Survey reports containing 20th-century marine gravity point data were digitised using optical character recognition. Gravity point values were transferred to the sea surface and transformed to modern reference frames. Modern and historic marine gravity data were filtered for gross errors and bias tracks. Data set robustness was checked using leave-one-out cross-validation. After processing, a comparison was made between old and new data. Results present re-processed and filtered marine gravity datasets, and their comparison statistics. Comparison statistics before and after filtering reveal the data’s increased accuracy and precision. Mean comparison values reveal intercampaign biases and provide correction values, which can increase data accuracy for use as input in future research and surface modelling.
Research of the water permeability of the base layer of the road pavement structure from unbound mixture, using a vertical tubular infiltrometer
This article analyzes the relationship between the water permeability and filtration coefficient of the unbound base layer of a road pavement structure. After installing a protective frost-resistant layer, one of the control tests performed is the determination of the water permeability coefficient k10. Currently, this test is performed in the laboratory on a sampled object. Usually, this test lasts about 1–3 working days, depending on the volume of data required for the suitability test. While other control tests last shorter. In order to accelerate the acceptance of works, the water permeability of the layer under outdoor conditions can be determined using a vertical tubular infiltrometer. The article analyzes the measurement of the water permeability of the base layer of a road pavement structure using an infiltrometer. The results of measurements of the filtration coefficient and water permeability coefficient of a layer from an unbound mixture, carried out in different objects with different materials, are analyzed. The dependence between the filtration and water permeability coefficients of the unbound mixture is evaluated.
Overview of biomass ash usage for soil quality improvement: potential benefits and applications
The degradation of urban soil is caused by pollution, poor land management practices, and soil sealing, all of which lead to lower infiltration, aeration, and permeability. At the same time, there is a substantial increase in biomass power generation, which increases ash generation, posing concerns for waste management and environmental impact. Biomass ash presents an opportunity for an environmentally friendly amendment of soil, as it provides nutrients, stabilises pH, and improves soil structure. The ash is rich in vital nutrients such as calcium, potassium, and phosphorus, which can restore nutrient-stripped soil and counteract soil acidification. The porous nature of ash improves aeration, retention of water, and root growth, especially in sandy and degenerated soil. Pelletisation makes it easier for biomass ash utilisation by reducing airborne dissemination and ensuring nutrient release occurs in a controlled, graduated process. Empirical evidence shows that granulated biomass ash can release its contents of nutrients in a gradual process, hence avoiding surpassing the safety levels of maximum allowable concentrations of heavy metals. With appropriate practices, biomass ash is a valid alternative to fertilisers, improving agricultural output and environmental sustainability and reducing the by-product troubles of biomass power generation.
The influence of non-transparent envelope insulation on the cooling demand of residential buildings in Nigeria
A building envelope’s thermal performance significantly impacts cooling energy consumption, especially in countries with very hot climates like Nigeria. Non-transparent envelope insulation, including walls, roofs, and floors, is important in reducing heat gain, improving indoor thermal comfort, and regulating indoor temperature. This study examines the traditional 3-layer uninsulated wall constructed in Nigeria. It compares it to an insulated 4-layered wall using different insulation materials to evaluate the influence of non-transparent envelope insulation on the cooling demand of residential buildings in Nigeria. By analysing different insulation materials and thicknesses, this study assesses their effectiveness in minimising cooling loads. The research considers key climatic factors such as solar radiation and ambient temperature to determine insulation strategies for energy efficiency. Findings indicate that properly insulated, non-transparent envelopes can reduce indoor temperatures and cooling energy demand in residential buildings. However, some factors like material selection and installation also influence the overall performance of these buildings. This study highlights the importance of adopting energy-efficient envelope designs to enhance sustainability and reduce dependence on mechanical cooling systems. These insights could significantly contribute to developing new practices for improving energy efficiency in Nigeria’s residential building construction and renovation sector.
A methodology for identifying and analysing problematic intersections from the perspective of micro-mobility safety in Lithuania
Micro-mobility is a rapidly growing mode of urban transportation, gaining popularity among users and urban development specialists. However, like many other types of transportation, it has both positive and negative aspects. One of the main concerns is the safety of micro-mobility users. As this mode of transport has gained popularity, the number of traffic accidents involving micro‐mobility users has also increased. Statistics indicate that approximately 40% of all traffic accidents occur at intersections. For this reason, to ensure the safety of micro‐mobility users, it is essential to strategically and effectively develop and improve existing infrastructure, especially at problematic intersections. However, no precise methodology would allow quick and easy identification of problematic intersections from a micro-mobility safety perspective. This paper presents a methodology for identifying problematic intersections using publicly available traffic accident data from Lithuania and the spatial analysis tool QGIS. Additionally, it demonstrates the practical application of this methodology in a selected area of Vilnius, where eight problematic intersections were identified. For one of these intersections, a solution is proposed based on the characteristics of the traffic accidents.
Sustainable transformation of district heating networks: a case study of Salininkai
Global climate challenges, driven by rising greenhouse gas emissions and unsustainable energy practices, demand urgent action to transition toward cleaner and more efficient energy systems. The European Union has set ambitious targets to combat climate change, promoting renewable energy adoption and efficiency. Lithuania plays a crucial role in this transition with its cold winters and reliance on centralised heating systems. District Heating Networks (DHNs), which supply heat to residential and commercial buildings, are vital to achieving energy efficiency and sustainability in Lithuania’s urban areas. The Salininkai DHN in Vilnius serves 46 buildings, including residential structures, a kindergarten, a supermarket, and small businesses. Powered by two 4.7 MW gas boilers with 85% efficiency, the system faces substantial heat losses due to its centralised heating point at one network corner and inefficiencies in many buildings with F and G energy class ratings and outdated radiator systems. This study evaluates Salininkai’s energy production and distribution systems to improve efficiency and sustainability. Using EnergyPRO, the analysis simulates various scenarios, including integrating a 1 MW electric air-to-water heat pump, a 3,000 m³ thermal storage system, and a solar park to reduce natural gas and commercial electricity dependency. Additionally, it explores repositioning the heating source to the network’s centre and decentralising the network. The insights gained will guide recommendations to optimise heat distribution, reduce energy losses, and enhance the network’s sustainability, which will be vetted by the Primary Energy Factor (PEF). These strategies could position the Salininkai DHN as a model for similar networks facing comparable challenges worldwide.
distribution system optimisation of a DHN
The effectiveness of intelligent transport systems in Lithuania’s road infrastructure
Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) are an essential element of modern road infrastructure, allowing us to improve traffic safety, optimise traffic flows and ensure the longevity of pavement. The analysis of ITS on Lithuanian roads has shown that the existing ITS deployment in Lithuania is fragmented, which limits the efficiency of traffic management and increases the rate of pavement deterioration. This paper discusses the unevenness of ITS deployment and the lack of interaction between them, which limits the potential of the technologies to effectively manage traffic flows and ensure the longevity of infrastructure. Based on international practice, an algorithm for assessing the effectiveness of ITS is proposed, which would allow an objective assessment of the benefits of ITS solutions and the efficiency of their application.
road infrastructure, and transport efficiency
More than two-thirds of the world’s energy needs are met by non-renewable energy from natural resources. Research shows that the risk to global and regional energy security is increasing due to the depletion of natural resources. At the same time, building modernization plays a key role in reducing energy consumption and environmental impact. The study analyses the potential of thermal energy recovery from wastewater. Issues related to environmental, economic and practical constraints, how this energy can be realistically recovered, and the possibilities for reducing the carbon footprint are discussed. This article examines the alternative energy supply, how much heat could be recovered from wastewater and whether this heat can be effectively used.
Acoustic performance analysis of perforated metamaterials: comparative study of bio-composites and synthetic conductive materials
Perforated metamaterials are developed for innovative sound control within this research. This study investigates the effects of varying infill patterns (50 % and 100 %) of perforation on conductive TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) and PLA (Polylactic Acid) circular samples (30 mm diameter, with 3 mm wall thickness), which were produced via FDM (Fused Deposition Modelling) 3D printing and tested using an impedance tube setup. The acoustic performance of 3D-printed perforated metamaterials made from bio-composite materials (ProtoPasta Conductive PLA) and synthetic conductive materials (Nylforce and Ninjatek) is explored, emphasising the potential for reducing the environmental impact through the use of bio-composites. Acoustic testing covered a frequency range of 160 Hz to 5 kHz, with adjustable back cavity depths of 8.5 mm, 23.5 mm, and 43.5 mm to assess a wide range of frequency absorption capabilities. The results indicate that thicker samples (50 mm) with 100 % infill show superior absorption, particularly at mid-to-high frequencies (2000–5000 Hz), while lower infill densities reduce absorption efficiency. Statistical analysis confirmed that conductive TPU showed slightly higher mean absorption than conductive PLA, particularly in denser configurations, but the difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Additionally, back cavity depth significantly influenced performance, with deeper cavities enhancing low-frequency absorption. Perforation density and infill geometry played a crucial role in absorption tuning. The comparative analysis underscores the feasibility of sustainable, multifunctional noise control solutions. The findings suggest that perforated metamaterials can be optimized for broad-spectrum and low-frequency noise mitigation, making them suitable for electromagnetic shielding applications.
Darni aplinka: 28-osios teminės Jaunųjų mokslininkų konferencijos "Mokslas - Lietuvos ateitis" straipsnių rinkinys
Konferenciją organizavo VILNIUS TECH Aplinkos inžinerijos fakulteto Aplinkos apsaugos ir vandens inžinerijos, Geodezijos ir kadastro, Kelių ir Pastatų energetikos katedros. Konferencijos tikslas yra skatinti bendradarbiavimą tarp jaunųjų Lietuvos mokslininkų ir socialinių partnerių. Konferencijos metu buvo pristatomi aktualūs pranešimai, skirstomi pagal tokias sekcijas: 1. Aplinkos apsaugos inžinerija / Environmental Protection Engineering; 2. Geodezija ir kadastras / Geodesy and Cadastre; 3. Kelių ir miestų inžinerija / Road and Urban Engineering; 4. Pastatų energetika / Energy for Buildings. Leidinyje pateikiami konferencijos straipsniai (tai yra analitiniai ir moksliniai darbai), kuriuose analizuojami aplinkos apsaugos, geodezijos, kelių ir miestų inžinerijos, pastatų inžinerinių sistemų klausimai. Juo galės naudotis dėstytojai ir mokslo darbuotojai, universitetų ir kolegijų studentai, moksleiviai bei visi, besidomintys minėtomis tematikomis.
Geodezijos ir kadastro katedra / Department of Geodesy and Cadastre
Pastatų energetikos katedra / Department of Building Energetics
Aplinkos apsaugos ir vandens inžinerijos katedra / Department of Environmental Protection and Water Engineering
Knygų leidybos skyrius / Books Editorial Department
Žurnalų leidybos skyrius / Journals Department
Circular economy life cycle CO₂ calculator analysis: examples of plastics and paper
The main objective of this work is to examine the circular economy life cycle in the case of plastics and paper and to compare the sources of CO₂ emissions throughout the entire life cycle of the circular economy. The study focuses on the main two certified standards used for CO₂ emissions calculations: ISO 14064 and the Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHG Protocol). Based on scientific articles, the CO₂ emissions generated during the life cycle of paper and plastic bags are compared. CO₂ emissions arise not only during the product life cycle but also throughout the entire circular economy model process, examining each part of the circular economy cycle for both plastic and paper products. The paths of both products are similar, but the outcomes of the recycling process differ; the secondary raw material use is more efficient in plastic product manufacturing, while the degradation of paper in nature causes much less harm.
Interactive mechanisms between pfas and soil characteristics: a review
Studies related to the interaction of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkylated) substances in soil media are essential for finding means of removal from the environment. This review focuses on the most important soil characteristics, such as pH, temperature, organic matter and nutrient content, potentially toxic elements, soil particle size distribution, total nitrogen content and cation exchange capacity, which determine the different interactions of PFAS in soil media, analysing the sorption mechanism at a deeper level. In addition, the analysis of the interaction of PFAS with soil properties is important for predicting the sorption of PFAS in soil. The requirement for an effective PFAS removal method and methodology with threshold values is greatly influenced by the properties of the medium, environmental conditions and PFAS characteristics. This review discusses the most important features of the interaction between PFAS and soil properties and the mechanisms of PFAS sorption in soil.
Spatial distribution of drug-related events in Lithuanian parks 2015–2023
The increasing prevalence of drug use and related crime in Vilnius City is a major societal problem, with implications for security, community well-being, and the environment. Parks and other green spaces, as accessible public areas, are increasingly affected by these issues, raising concerns about their safety and usage. This study extends a previous study that examined the spatial distribution of drug-related incidents in Vilnius City. The study aims to gain a broader understanding of Lithuania and its regions, primarily by examining the situation in parks and green spaces between 2015 and 2023. At the end of the study, it is expected to identify regional “hot spots” using the results and to assess which incidents most frequently occur in green spaces. Using the Lithuanian Police database of registered incidents and geographical analysis methods, maps will be created showing the regions and locations where crimes are likely to occur according to the different years of the study.
Modelling of noise barrier efficiency with integrated photovoltaic elements
Railway noise pollution is a significant environmental concern, affecting urban and rural areas. Photovoltaic Noise Barriers (PVNBs) represent a multi-purpose solution that reduces noise pollution and generates renewable energy all at once. This study explores the effectiveness of various PVNB configurations in mitigating railway noise, considering factors such as barrier height, surface absorption, and tilt angle of the Photovoltaic segment. Special attention is given to the acoustic properties of bifacial PV modules, evaluating their impact on sound reflection and absorption. This research uses numerical simulations to assess the trade-offs between noise attenuation and solar energy efficiency. The results provide valuable insights for optimising PVNB designs to enhance noise reduction while maintaining energy harvesting performance, contributing to more sustainable urban infrastructure. This research clarifies that the crowning configuration of the PVNB has an impact on noise attenuation efficiency, for instance, the effect of the barrier crowning tilt angle on a point 50 meters away from the source for noise reduction was the highest for the horizontal configuration noise barrier crowning, ranging between ‒10.6 dB(A) neglecting the barrier effect, –30.2 dB(A) for the horizontal crowning barrier, and –28.3 dB(A) for the vertical configuration.
Assessment of the road safety of the main roads according to the level of severity of injure to road users
The number of road fatalities in Lithuania has decreased significantly in the past decade, but the number of lightly injured road users is also very high. The European Union’s strategy aims to halve the number of fatalities and injuries by 2030. By signing the Valletta Declaration, Lithuania committed itself not only to prioritizing pedestrians and cyclists in infrastructure plans but also to improving road safety by developing more road infrastructure. Additionally, it agreed to classify road users who have suffered serious injuries in a road accident using the MAIS3+ injury classification. The study examined data on road accidents and victims collected by the Police and Hygiene Institute, and analyzed the severity of injuries and their distribution on main roads. The study analyzed accident data, identified their shortcomings to implement MAIS3+, provided recommendations for the development of safer road infrastructure, and proposed solutions that allow for an effective assessment of safety not only based on the number of fatalities, but also based on the number of serious injuries.