Legislation and administration of inground waste disposal in new South Wales and Victoria,Australia

Legislation and administration of waste disposal is primarily a State and Local Government responsibility in Australia. The legal and environmental principles that form the base of present and possibly future legislation and administration are described. Some problems are discussed and in particular that of legal retro-responsibility for wastes. New South Wales and Victoria have different legislative and administrative systems. Both are complex with many overlapping Acts. The role of the recently implemented Environment Planning and Assessment Act (1979) on siting waste facilities in N.S.W. in discussed. Control of disposal in Victoria is decentralized whereas in N.S.W. management is focussed in the Metropolitan Waste Disposal Authority.     

Reading Through a Plan

Problem: Planners may read plans often, but the profession continues to view the interpretation of plan content as something that is either too obvious or too unimportant to require explicit discussion. Plans are seldom adequately interpreted. This is regrettable because plans contain a rich variety of content and meaning.

Purpose: This article calls for planners to “read through” plans, not just to grasp their essential ideas or the means of implementing those ideas, but also to perceive additional levels of meaning relating to a) a plan's place within a larger intellectual sphere, b) a plan's statement on the social and political values of the time, and c) a plan as a part of the history of the planning profession and the life of cities.

Methods: I propose a visual approach to plan reading descended from Panofsky's (1939 Panofsky, E. 1939. Studies in iconology: Humanistic themes in the art of the Renaissance, New York, NY: Harper and Row.  [Google Scholar]) theory of iconology and use this to examine three very different plans that describe different size cities (small, large, very large) during different periods over the past 80 years (the 1930s, 1960s, 2000s). I analyze three levels of meaning in each plan: its factual meaning, or “plain sense” (Mandelbaum, 1990 Mandelbaum, S. J. 1990. Reading plans. Journal of the American Planning Association, 56(3): 350–358. [Taylor &; Francis Online], [Web of Science ®] , [Google Scholar]); its contextual meaning, or relation to political, social, economic, and physical conditions; and its temporal meaning, or setting within the scope of observations made by other plan readers in the perspective of elapsed time.

Results and conclusions: Factual readings show that information may be found in diverse aspects of a plan document, from seemingly superficial aspects like its cover to unarguably central elements such as recommendations. Factual readings depend on understanding the relationships among different elements, and reveal information about the plan and its framers that may not otherwise be readily apparent. Contextual readings show us that plan recommendations are as much a product of contemporary conditions and norms as they are of plan-specific “survey and diagnosis” (Nolen, 1936 Nolen, J. 1936. Comprehensive city plan for Dubuque, Iowa, Dubuque, IA: City Planning and Zoning Commission.  [Google Scholar]). This raises the question of whether plan quality is to be judged only in terms of skillful execution of concerns of the day or whether innovation is also important. Temporal readings reveal that plans and planning have changed dramatically over time, simultaneously confirming and questioning the conventional wisdom of planning history.

Takeaway for practice: Many planners read plans on a regular basis, and plans continue to constitute the major printed currency of the planning profession. Both plans and planning will benefit if planners become more discerning readers of the profession's principal idea vessels. Formal plan interpretation is rare, but each planner can become a better plan interpreter.

Research support: None.     

Human- und ökotoxikologische Bewertung von Markierungsmitteln in Gewässern

Uncertainties which arose in the authorization of tracing experiments in ground and surface waters prompted a working group to be convened at the Umweltbundesamt (Federal Environmental Agency – Institute for Water, Soil and Air Hygiene) for their toxicological and ecotoxicological assessment. A total of 17 tracers for use in water were assessed by the working group on the basis of the results of toxicological tests, available literature and the group's own expert knowledge. The use of tracers posing as risk to the environment or human health is to be terminated in the future. Nevertheless, a number of tracers remain available which allow hydrogeological and hydrological techniques to be performed for water pollution control purposes with no adverse environmental impact.     

Predicting risk of water quality failures in distribution networks under uncertainties using fault-tree analysis

The water quality in a distribution system is affected by many factors, including operational and environmental conditions as well as the condition in and around the distribution network. Lack of reliable data as well as knowledge gaps with respect to the impact of these factors on water quality make the quantification of water quality failure risk very challenging. Furthermore, the variability inherent in (sometimes) thousands of kilometers of distribution pipes presents added complexities. Major modes of water quality failures can be classified into intrusion of contaminants, regrowth of bacteria (biofilm), water treatment breakthrough, leaching of chemicals or corrosion products from system components, and permeation of organic compounds through plastic pipes. Deliberate contamination and negligence of operators have in recent years become an added concern. In earlier works by Sadiq et al. (2004 Sadiq, R., Kleiner, Y. and Rajani, B. 2004. Aggregative risk analysis for water quality failure in distribution networks. Journal of Water Supply Research and Technology: Aqua, 53(4): 241–261. [Web of Science ®] , [Google Scholar], 2007 Sadiq, R., Kleiner, Y. and Rajani, B. 2007. Water quality failures in distribution networks – risk analysis using fuzzy logic and evidential reasoning. Risk Analysis – An International Journal, 27(5): 1381–1394. [Crossref], [PubMed], [Web of Science ®] , [Google Scholar]), an aggregative risk analysis approach using hierarchical structure was proposed to describe all possible mechanisms of contamination. In this paper a similar structure is used as a basis for a fault-tree approach. While fault-tree analysis is widely used for many engineering applications, in this paper we specifically explore how interdependencies among factors might impact analysis results. Two types of uncertainties are considered in the proposed analysis. The first is related to the likelihood of risk events, and the second is related to non-linear dependencies among risk events. Each basic risk event (input factor) is defined using a fuzzy probability (likelihood) to deal with its inherent uncertainty. The dependencies among risk events are explored using Frank copula and Frechet's limit. The proposed approach is demonstrated using two well-documented episodes of water quality failures in Canada, namely, Walkerton (ON) and North Battleford (SK).     

A simulation approach to recreation planning (A case of changing quality)

Conventional demand based approaches to recreational economics are reviewed and found unsuitable for analyzing the effects of changes of the quality of recreation. An alternative approach using a simulation model is proposed, which allows the use of both quantitative data and subjective input on the qualitative effects. The critical economic variables are found to be fishing recreation visitor days and investment in recreational facilities at the Salton Sea, California. The model results are projected for 20 years and key parameters and assumptions are identified by parametric analysis. These parameters were then subjected to critical interaction by a group of specialists in the area, during a workshop session. Results of the final model are compared to a previous economic study of the region and found to be more pessimistic about the benefits of quality control. Verification of the model is performed by tests of deviation of the predictions of visitor days by the model from the actual visitor days recorded over eight years.     

The extent and effects of mass wasting in Ghana

Mass wasting in most of its forms have been studied throughout Ghana. The studies covered extent, distribution, effect, and possible corrective measures of slope failures. The performance of a number of slopes have been monitored for long periods and results have served as a basis for re-examination of existing design criteria in Ghana. Back, analysis of one major failure has been performed to obtain velocity and reach of a landslide. From, damage to farms, timber and a road from landslide in one instance, a projection is made to obtain the economic significance of landslides in Ghana. From the mode of failure in one specific case a methodology for corrective measures has been proposed.     

Phylogenetic diversity of aqueous microorganisms separated after the advanced tertiary of tap water

The species composition of bacterial community of the drinking tap water and water samples taken at different purification stages of the water conditioning plant at an enterprise producing special drinks has been analyzed. This study involves the analysis of 16S rRNA gene sequences and the use of molecular biology methods based on the phylogenetic analysis. The following bacterial species were identified: Bacillus nanhaiensis, Brevibacterium frigoritolerans, and Lysinibacillus fusiformis. All the studied strains belong to phylum Firmicutes, class Bacilli representing Gram-positive microorganisms that are not pathogenic to human. The presence of the bacteria investigated in different habitats such as the drinking chlorinated water, in the presence of stress factors (arid climate, high or low temperatures, depleted soil, and the occurrence of disinfectants) indicates their ability to easily adapt to new living conditions expanding their habitat.     

Double quarries—Grade and artificial hard aggregates

The article deals with an interesting quarry in NW Slovenia, Yugoslavia, which exploits two kinds of rock at the same time: quartz keratophyre at the bottom and dolomite at the top, both of them of mid-Triassic age. Both rocks are processed in the same screening plant as aggregates for bitumen and cement concretes. Explorations for quartz keratophyre with tuffs started in 1966 for wearing courses of motorways. As such rocks are relatively few in Slovenia, and also in Yugoslavia, high grade carbonate aggregates were also proposed for less exacting roads and for lower layers of motorways. In the meanwhile, also artificial aggregates made from basic slags from ironworks were investigated. Good quality was ascertained and confirmed by a survey in use on a road.     

Perspectives on multi-benefit water reuse systems: A confluence of water and wastewater management planning

The multiple benefits of water reuse have yet to be fully realized in our urban water management systems. One pathway to optimal implementation is to plan for their integration with wider assets in water resource or drainage and wastewater management plans. This paper explores the perspectives of water resource and wastewater management planners. Qualitative data was gathered from a workshop organized by the Chartered Institution for Water and Environmental Management (CIWEM) with 25 participants from England's Water Service Providers (WSPs), regulators (Ofwat and the Environment Agency) and consultants working within the UK water sector. The participants acknowledged that water reuse is relevant to both water resource and drainage and wastewater management planning, but that current regulatory and funding frameworks are constraining effective engagement between water resource and drainage and wastewater management planners by encouraging the development of separate plans. A general consensus of the participants was that it would be beneficial to include water reuse technology within current and future Water Resource Management Plans (WRMPs) and Drainage and Wastewater Management Plans (DWMPs). Participants suggested this could be developed through collaborative working partnerships and support from regulatory and funding frameworks that allow for the growth and development of innovative technologies and nature-based solutions. Participants also highlighted a stronger economic case could be made for water reuse technologies if the approach seeks to capture the wider benefits and not only the ‘best value’ solution. Societal acceptance and the availability of good quality data will be key to the successful adoption of any incentivized water reuse schemes.     

Enhancement of fire protection with directional cooling spray nozzles by use of AFFF

This paper will describe the work done and results of the study to characterize various directional cooling spray nozzles when used with Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) Agents.     

Evaluation of building code compliance in Mexico City: mid-rise dwellings

The Mexico City Building Code (MCBC-2004 MCBC. (2004). Reglamento de Construcciones del Distrito Federal, Gaceta Oficial del Distrito Federal, 29 de enero de 2004. In Spanish. [Google Scholar]) – Reglamento de Construcciones del Distrito Federal, Gaceta Oficial del Distrito Federal, 29 MCBC. (2004). Reglamento de Construcciones del Distrito Federal, Gaceta Oficial del Distrito Federal, 29 de enero de 2004. In Spanish. [Google Scholar] de enero de 2004 MCBC. (2004). Reglamento de Construcciones del Distrito Federal, Gaceta Oficial del Distrito Federal, 29 de enero de 2004. In Spanish. [Google Scholar] in Spanish – is a state-of-the-art code; the most comprehensive and advanced set of requirements in the country; and it serves as a model for codes in Mexico's regions. However, many recently built mid-rise dwellings seem too weak to withstand earthquakes, with evident structural deficiencies. Insufficient official mechanisms exist for supervising the design and construction of such new structures. This study evaluates current practice and compares it with the guidelines of the MCBC-2004 using a sample of structures of 150 buildings constructed after 2004. Structural analysis and design revisions were made for a subset of 20 buildings. This study confirms that a large number of new buildings in Mexico City do not have a reliable record of technical information. Therefore, it is difficult to reanalyse buildings to assess their earthquake performance. Many buildings have limited information making it impossible to verify their structural seismic behaviour. The analyses performed for those buildings with available information show that many would have inadequate performance during an intense earthquake, as they do not meet the minimum requirements in the MCBC-2004. To improve governance and actual outcomes, an institute is needed to improve construction practices and code enforcement particularly for residential buildings.     

The corridorized concept of household shopping highway-travel behavior

This paper reports the results of a study conducted in Jefferson County, Alabama (coterminous with the Birmingham SMSA) to determine whether there is justification for the concept of a household travel behavior corridor. Specifically, the research was designed to yield at least partial answers to the following questions: (1) Is the concept of an inter-area travel behavior corridor for shopping activities justified? (2) What is the general shape of such a corridor? (3) Do gravity models function as satisfactory explanatory devices of consumer household shopping travel behavior? (4) Does shopping travel behavior within corridorized areas depict a rational cost-conscious process in obtaining goods and services? (5) Do demographic and economic variables explain shopping travel behavior within these corridorized areas? Basic findings were as follows: (1) The shopping travel behavior of households depicted a rational, cost-conscious approach to the process of obtaining merchandise; (2) Relationships to retail centers were isotropic in character, and retail functional hierarchies apparently were easily perceived by households; (3) Corridor formulations were realistic and will be useful for additional analysis; (4) Gravity formulations were of only limited usefulness in explaining the origins and destinations of shopping trips originating from the total area of analysis; (5) Demographic and economic variables did not adequately explain shopping travel behavior within the corridorized areas.     

Prediction of aggregate and pavement polishing

Pavement life is determined by structural performance and degradation of the properties controlling wet friction between tires and pavement. Expulsion of the water from the interface is controlled by aggregate size, binder and mix design. Friction develops where most of the water has been displaced and depends on aggregate microtexture. Traffic reduces this fine texture, but the polishing is not a simple, continuous process. During certain periods the process reverses. Dust and other contaminants further complicate the process. Laboratory machines and procedures are described, which attempt to duplicate the process. Results are presented and the utility of the procedures for pavement management systems is discussed.     

The reconstruction of housing in Palestine 1993–2000: a case study from the Gaza Strip

In the Palestinian Territories, housing is thought to be amongst the most difficult problems facing the National Authority (PNA) (Al‐Agha, 1997 Al‐Agha Z (1997) A national outlook for housing in Palestine in: A. B. Zahlan (Ed.) Reconstruction of Palestine, Urban and Rural Development (London, Kegan Paul)  [Google Scholar], p. 3). Increased Israeli settlements, the large size of Palestinian families, the deteriorating economic situation, the lack of national banks operating in the field of housing, the presence of refugee settlements containing over 1.2 million people, the Israeli state's policy of residential demolition and land confiscation have all combined to present a severe obstacle to urban reconstruction in the region. In an attempt to address these issues and to make some progress towards realising the estimated 180 000 housing units required by the Palestinian people, the Palestinian Housing Council (PHC) was established in 1992 (Abd Alhadi, 1994 Abd Alhadi, R (1994) Construction and Housing in the West Bank and (Gaza) Strip (Geneva, United Nations Commission on Trade and Development)  [Google Scholar]; Ziara, 1997 Ziara M (1997) The Palestinian Ministry of Housing. Challenging and opportunities in A. B. Zahlan (ed.) Reconstruction of Palestine, Urban and Rural Development (London, Kegan Paul)  [Google Scholar]). Although it has had some success, the organisation has been plagued by reports of internal dissent and disputes with its beneficiaries. This paper seeks to cast some light on these controversies by focusing on the PHC's role in the Elkarama Housing Project in the Gaza Strip during the period 1993 to 2000.1 Here it must be emphasised that this paper does not claim to provide an analysis of the current situation in Gaza. The authors acknowledge that conditions in Palestine are extremely fluid and have, to a great degree, overtaken the issues considered above. In examining this rapidly‐evolving environment, however, it is valuable to reflect upon recent changes and, while recognising the acute systemic problems that Palestinian administrators face, to offer critical assessments of domestic policy decisions and their outcome. View all notes It will first outline the broader context in which public institutions within the Gaza Strip operate before offering an account of the structure and background of the PHC. It will then consider Elkarama itself and will conclude by summing up the various factors that have determined the project's outcome. Finally, the paper will offer some tentative recommendations for improved housing provisions within the Gaza Strip in the future.     

A technical basis for regional aggregates policies

The planning system in England and Wales, the scale of the aggregates industry, and problems due to high levels of demand for aggregates are briefly outlined. A planning policy initiative to solve the problems is described. The information base required for preparation of these Guidelines for Aggregates Provision in England and Wales, and the scope of research commissioned by the Department of the Environment in support of work on aggregates policy are reviewed.     

Influence of the South-North Water Diversion Project and the mitigation projects on the water quality of Han River

Situated in the central part of China, the Han River Basin is undergoing rapid social and economic development with some human interventions to be made soon which will profoundly influence the water environment of the basin. The integrated MIKE 11 model system comprising of a rainfall-runoff model (NAM), a non-point load evaluation model (LOAD), a hydrodynamic model (MIKE 11 HD) and a water quality model (ECOLab) was applied to investigate the impact of the Middle Route of the South-North Water Diversion Project on the Han River and the effectiveness of the 2 proposed mitigation projects, the 22 wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) and the Yangtze-Han Water Diversion Project. The study concludes that business as usual will lead to a continuing rapid deterioration of the water quality of the Han River. Implementation of the Middle Route of the South-North Water Diversion Project in 2010 will bring disastrous consequence in the form of the remarkably elevated pollution level and high risk of algae bloom in the middle and lower reaches. The proposed WWTPs will merely lower the pollution level in the reach by around 10%, while the Yangtze-Han Water Diversion Project can significantly improve the water quality in the downstream 200-km reach. The results reveal that serious water quality problem will emerge in the middle reach between Xiangfan and Qianjiang in the future. Implementation of the South-North Water Diversion Project (phase II) in 2030 will further exacerbate the problem. In order to effectively improve the water quality of the Han River, it is suggested that nutrient removal processes should be adopted in the proposed WWTPs, and the pollution load from the non-point sources, especially the load from the upstream Henan Province, should be effectively controlled.     

The challenges of aggregate management in a small developing country—Trinidad and Tobago

The paper discusses the surge of activity in the construction sector in Trinidad and Tobago over the last decade as a direct result of the radically improved economic fortune. This surge had accompanied the discovery of new oil and gas fields and the new oil prices of the 1973/74 period. The paper reviews the development in the quarry industry and the question of aggregate management against a background of an unplanned explosion in demand for all quarry products. It identifies the major constraints and weaknesses of the present operation and concludes by identifying areas of necessary and urgent reform to deal with the challenges created by a decreasing demand for aggregate in the face of decreasing national oil reserves and consequent shrinkage in construction activity.