Net-zero energy buildings (NZEBs) represent a paradigm shift in sustainable architecture and construction, aiming to balance energy consumption with renewable energy generation on-site, thereby minimizing environmental impact. This review explores the concept of NZEBs as a path to sustainable living, highlighting key principles, benefits, and challenges. NZEBs strive to achieve a delicate equilibrium between energy consumption and production, typically relying on a combination of energy-efficient design, passive solar techniques, and renewable energy systems. By generating as much energy as they consume over the course of a year, NZEBs significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on non-renewable energy sources. The benefits of NZEBs extend beyond environmental considerations. These buildings often provide superior indoor air quality, thermal comfort, and daylighting, enhancing occupant health and well-being. Additionally, NZEBs can lead to long-term cost savings, as reduced energy consumption and reliance on external energy sources result in lower utility bills and operational costs. However, achieving net-zero energy status poses several challenges. The upfront cost of implementing energy-efficient technologies and renewable energy systems can be prohibitive for some projects, requiring careful planning and investment. Additionally, designing NZEBs requires a high level of expertise and coordination among architects, engineers, and builders to ensure that all elements work together seamlessly. Despite these challenges, the momentum behind NZEBs is growing, driven by increasing awareness of climate change and the need for sustainable living solutions. Governments, industry stakeholders, and communities are increasingly embracing NZEBs as a viable path to reducing carbon emissions and building a more sustainable future. In conclusion, NZEBs represent a transformative approach to sustainable living, offering a blueprint for reducing energy consumption, lowering carbon emissions, and enhancing occupant well-being. While challenges remain, the benefits of NZEBs are clear, making them a compelling option for a sustainable built environment.

Globally, our environments (soil, water and air) are increasingly exposed to heavy metals (HMs) contaminations through natural and anthropogenic activities. Thus, it is a matter of great significance to remediate these metals from the ecosystem in order to maintain a safe and healthy environment. The research was carried out to evaluate the phytoextraction capacity of Racinus communis (L) grown on contaminated soils with HMs obtained from three sites in urban Kano. The physicochemical parameters of the soil samples were analysed using Near-Infrared spectrometer (NIRS D-2500) and other standard procedures. The HMs concentrations were analyzed using Micro Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometer (MPA-ES, Model 4210). The degree of HMs contaminants were evaluated using Mueller’s Geoaccumulation Index (Igeo). Data were statistically analysed using one way Analysis of Variance at P<0.05. The physicochemical results revealed that all the soil samples were sandy-loam in texture and slightly acidic with pH values ranging between (6.11±0.02-5.02±0.06). Other concentration of soil physicochemical parameters varies across the soil samples. The results of the HMs analyses across the soils revealed highest concentrations of Fe (311.02 ±0.04 mg/kg), Cu (208.62±0.01 mg/kg) and Zn (112.04±0.04 mg/kg) in soil sample A, Pb (34.03±0.16 mg/kg) and Cr (4.63±0.03mg/kg) were observed to be higher in soil sample C, while the highest concentration of Cd (1.20±0.00 mg/kg) was recorded in soil sample B. Relatively all the concentrations of HMs in the contaminated soil samples after the experiment were defined uncontaminated to moderately contaminated based on Igeo values. The findings provide scientific evidence that R. communis can be used as a veritable tool for the control of HMs pollution in the soil.

Industrialization had been a major driver of the global socio-economic development and its ecosystems but rest on energy security for its sustainable process. Nigeria’s industrialization drive has largely been challenged with inadequate supply of energy due to poor implementation of energy frameworks and infrastructural challenges in the energy sector among others. More than 70% of the industries in Nigeria operate on self-generated power which had always been via fossil-based system that is both finite in supply and environmentally unfriendly. This also affect the competitiveness of light industries resulting in their closure. According to the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA), more than 800 small and medium scale industries closed down between 2009 and 2011 due to energy related issues (PremiumTimes 2012). Meanwhile, Nigeria has a high renewable energy potential which could be harnessed to close the energy supply gap for the industrialization drive. This study assesses the potentials and prospect of renewable energy exploitation for industrialization in Nigeria with focus on the applicability of the current frameworks on renewable energy and industrialization process. Despite the huge renewable energy potential and a number of policy and institutional frameworks on renewable energy, the study found poor implementation of the policy due to no clear leadership in the implementation, hence it recommends energy commission of Nigeria to take a coordinating role. The current industrial policy is also found to be obsolete and recommended to be reviewed while there should be development of home-grown advanced manufacturing technology (AMT) system to utilize low-to-medium density energy obtainable from renewable sources for industrialization in Nigeria

Water treatment processes in chemical engineering play a critical role in addressing environmental challenges and ensuring the sustainability of water resources. This paper examines simulation-driven strategies aimed at enhancing water treatment processes within the domain of chemical engineering. By leveraging advanced simulation techniques and methodologies, engineers can optimize the design, operation, and performance of water treatment systems, thereby mitigating environmental impacts and improving overall efficiency. The review highlights the importance of addressing environmental challenges through innovative approaches in water treatment processes. It underscores the role of simulation-driven strategies in chemical engineering to achieve sustainable solutions for water management. Through a comprehensive review of simulation techniques and case studies, this paper elucidates how simulation-driven approaches can enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of water treatment processes. Furthermore, the review emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of this research, bridging chemical engineering principles with environmental science and technology. By integrating simulation tools with knowledge of water chemistry, fluid dynamics, and process engineering, engineers can develop robust strategies for optimizing water treatment processes while minimizing environmental footprints. Key topics covered include the application of computational fluid dynamics (CFD), process simulation software, and advanced modeling techniques in the analysis and design of water treatment systems. Case studies illustrating the successful implementation of simulation-driven strategies in various water treatment applications are presented to provide practical insights and demonstrate the potential benefits. Overall, this paper underscores the pivotal role of simulation-driven strategies in advancing water treatment processes in chemical engineering. It advocates for the adoption of innovative approaches to address environmental challenges and promote sustainability in water management practices within the oil and gas industry and other sectors reliant on chemical engineering processes.

This study used the recorded daily rainfall, available and monitored during 38 years (from January 1, 1978 to December 31, 2015) in total of 8 rain stations and the meteorology station of Ha’il. The purpose of this study is to analyze the variations and trends of rainfall events through a statistical analysis of data recorded. The analyze the rainfall variability has been processed using the coefficient of variation (CV) and Standardized Analyze Index (SAI) and plotted. While the rainfall trends have been analyzed by three statistically methods widely used: Simple Moving-Average (SMA), Homogeneity of variance (Hartley’s Fmax-ratio) and Semi-averages. The trends analysis of rainfall show that the fluctuations or variations in climatic parameters is a recurring phenomena in the studied stations. Inter-annual variability of rainfall and the cumulative frequency of rainy days are characterized by the high coefficients of variation. In addition, the values of Chi square test reveals the significant Standardized Anomaly Index (SAI) of rainfall. Accordingly, the results contain a total of 18 increasing trends (37.5%) and 30 decreasing trends (62.5%). These results indicate that the aspects of climate change in Ha’il region accelerating in recent decades. This situation may have severe socioeconomic repercussions in many sectors especially the agriculture and surface water resources.

Traffic congestion resulting from the escalation in the number of vehicles in cities, as a result of the increase in population and building density, requires the provision of appropriate infrastructure, especially transportation and logistics systems, that meet the necessary needs of the population, to meet the current multiple challenges, through the introduction of various means of transportation. This is done according to plans that complement each other, such as using environments that encourage pedestrians and cycling and their own lanes, light rail, metro, rapid buses, in addition to public transport buses and others, through the development of high-level road projects, such as annual and main roads and others, in a way Integrated with city planning, and adopting modern technology such as smart applications in transportation, which will facilitate access and participation in developing the city, and achieving transportation integration. Therefore, the research problem is that there is no clear vision of the developments in transportation systems that have increased over time, whether public transportation systems or private transportation, which should be made possible through sustainable planning and design standards in cities. The importance of research is highlighted in trying to diagnose the obstacles of current transportation systems and their contemporary developments, and trying to evaluate them and maximize their potential by applying international standards and approved studies in this field.

Hard water can cause scaling concerns in pipes, turbines, boilers, and heat exchangers used in mining, oil and gas, and industrial applications. It also interferes with nearly every housekeeping chore, from laundry and dishwashing to bathing and personal hygiene. ENRTL-SR and PITZER property models in Aspen Plus V8.8 were chosen during the modelling and simulation of soft water production from a hypothesized hard water stream containing sand. Findings show that, under normal conditions, about 3 m3 of soft pure water can be generated from approximately 40 m3 of raw water using right unit configuration and treatment solvent proportion. Drawbacks which would have address several limitations faced during the simulation, as concluded, can be solved using suggested alternative software tools. Water treatment scientist should try to simulate the same process using Aspen Plus utilizing real data from an existing water treatment facility to correctly test for effectiveness of the software tool. Modification of several existing water treatment plants across the globe to soften water produced is recommended, given its suitability for both domestic and industrial use.

Assessment of building construction material on building sites is a function that critically contributes to the achievement of the project goals. Poor construction materials in construction projects sites has many issues which contribute to it such as: wastage of construction materials, and improper handling on site. This work aims to consider the evaluation of construction materials on project sites. Questionnaires from field survey, interview and site observation were the source of data collected. Descriptive statistics including frequency and mean index score method was used for the study. The study reveals that most problems such as conditions of weather, management of excess materials as well as low response from company to site were identified with mean value above the average mean of 3.32. The study also indicated that most wastage, such as: change in design, improper scheduling of work plan, and lack of supervision in usage of materials observed with mean value above the average mean of 3.37. From the results of the study, it was concluded that, most activities on management of construction materials which are challenging that has to do with wastage in building construction project sites and management of construction material, were identified in the study area. Thus, the study recommends that the consultants, contractors, clients and other professionals that work in the building construction industry should upgrade their commitment toward staff training as well as developing the necessary skills needed in the industry.

This comprehensive review elucidates the intertwined relationship between safety, quality control, and sustainability within the construction sector, highlighting the critical need for integrating these elements to promote optimal project outcomes and long-term industry advancement. The study commences with an in-depth exploration of existing literature, focusing on diverse methodologies, strategies, and frameworks employed to enhance safety and enforce stringent quality control, thus contributing to the overall sustainability of construction projects. Safety is identified as a paramount concern in construction, significantly influencing both quality and sustainability. The lack of safety not only jeopardizes human lives but also results in cost overruns and project delays, undermining the overall quality and sustainability. Quality control, herein, is discussed in relation to its pivotal role in minimizing errors and rework, ensuring adherence to standards, and facilitating the attainment of sustainability goals through resource efficiency and waste reduction. Sustainability in construction is dissected through its three foundational pillars: economic viability, social equity, and environmental integrity. This review details how the integration of safety and quality control significantly impacts these pillars, highlighting the synergy between construction practices, resource optimization, stakeholder well-being, and ecological preservation. Empirical studies, theoretical frameworks, and case studies form the basis of this review, providing a multifaceted understanding of the interdependence between safety, quality control, and sustainability in construction. The assessment reveals that the construction industry is progressively acknowledging the inherent connection between these components, with contemporary practices and policies increasingly reflecting an integrated approach. The article concludes by underscoring the imperative for continuous research and development, innovations, and policy interventions to strengthen the nexus between safety, quality control, and sustainability in construction. It also advocates for a holistic approach that unifies these elements to drive industry resilience, promote sustainable development, and ensure the well-being and prosperity of communities and the environment.

Accurate pore pressure prediction is pivotal in drilling operations, impacting safety, well design, and cost-effectiveness. This research paper aims to assess various pore pressure prediction methods, particularly in transition zones. It introduces a novel descriptive model for quick and reliable pore pressure estimation when essential data parameters are unavailable. The study underscores the importance of selecting appropriate prediction methods based on geological conditions. The research findings reveal that Eaton’s correlation utilizing transit compressive wave velocity offers superior pore pressure prediction when drilling through transition zones. Additionally, the developed descriptive model is a valuable tool for quick look pore pressure estimation, ensuring operational efficiency when data parameters for traditional methods like Eaton’s are lacking. However, a critical caveat emerges as the model’s suitability for pore pressure prediction in fractured or shaled-out reservoirs is questioned, necessitating caution in its application in such geological settings. This paper recommends the continued use of Eaton’s method as a reliable pore pressure prediction tool and advocates for the adoption of the proposed descriptive model in scenarios where time constraints or data limitations are prevalent. By amalgamating these approaches, drilling operations can achieve enhanced accuracy and efficiency in pore pressure assessment, ultimately contributing to safer and more cost-effective well-drilling processes.