Vladimir Krivtsov

The presence of green roofs in urban areas provides various ecosystem services that help mitigate climate change. They play an essential role in sustainable drainage systems, contribute to air quality and carbon sequestration, mitigate urban heat island, support biodiversity, and create green spaces supporting public well-being. Bus stops provide g...

The Gore Glen pond is located in the forested floodplain of the Gore River, in the Mid-Lothian region near Edinburgh, Scotland. This work has considered in detail the hydrology, hydrochemistry, and biodiversity of the pond together with all their interactions and in addition interactions with the adjacent Gore River. It is important as it is one of...

This zip folder contains materials for the short course on Systems Thinking and Systems Dynamics described in the following paper: Vladimir Krivtsov, Irene Pluchinotta, Alessandro Pagano (2023) Teaching Systems Thinking And System Dynamics In Engineering, Ecology And Environmental Sciences: A Concise Course Based On The Water Management And Popula...

The Strategy on reducing greenhouse gas emissions for the period up to 2030 was adopted in October 2021 at COP26. However, it does not take into account the potential of arable soils for carbon sequestration. Meanwhile, on a global scale, carbon sequestration by soils is regarded as one of the most important tools to combat further increases in atm...

In order to reduce the flooding risk in urban and peri-urban river catchments, retention ponds or wet detention ponds are often used. However, there has been little work that uses distributed hydrological modeling to consider their optimum location and design in order to reduce the flood risk in a river catchment. This work considers two existing a...

A well-developed Green and Blue-Green Infrastructure (GI/BGI) network provides a range of ecosystem services, which are defined as all benefits provided to humans from the natural environment. These might include improvements in water and air quality, flood risk mitigation, amenity and biodiversity values, as well as positive influences on the loca...

Ponds and the adjacent green spaces are an important part of urban blue-green Infrastructure (BGI) and contribute to a number of ecosystem services, including alleviation of flood risk, amelioration of climatic fluctuations, and improvement of runoff water quality, as well as biodiversity and amenity values. Multiple benefits associated with urban...

Microscopy materials supplement for the paper on Blackford Pond and associated Green Space.

The integration of Green Roofs (GRs) within urban areas is widely recognised as being crucial for improving urban sustainability. Improvement is largely achieved through the creation of habitats to support urban biodiversity and via the restoration of ecosystem services, which are vital in mediating the impacts of climate change within highly devel...

This paper gives an account of multiple benefits provided by Granton SUDS pond and discusses their relevance to the alleviation of environmental, economic and social risks. The pond was established in 2005 and is situated in a park, close to a supermarket and a college. It has an area of approximately 2600 m² and a hydrographic survey carried out a...

Contaminated runoff from industrial estates is a significant cause of poor quality in receiving watercourses. Pollution risk begins at each of the industrial premises, presenting different environmental risks which require individual treatment and contingency plans. This is best achieved using SUDS technology, which adds green infrastructure with p...

Sustainable urban water management must address interconnected social, technical and environmental issues. Modelling helps us understand these interconnections and provides a tool to analyse interactions between the urban water system and alternative management strategies. Models may be used to simulate not only the effects of climate, social and e...

Sustainable urban water management must address interconnected social, technical and environmental issues. Modelling helps us understand these interconnections and provides a tool to analyse interactions between the urban water system and alternative management strategies. Models may be used to simulate not only the effects of climate, social and e...

Growing urban populations, changes in rainfall patterns and ageing infrastructure represent significant challenges for urban water management (UWM). There is a critical need for research into how cities should adapt to become resilient to these impacts under uncertain futures. UWM challenges in the Ebbsfleet Garden City (UK) were investigated via a...

Soil erosion by water is the most important global environmental problem. A modern system for assessing and monitoring soil erosional degradation should be based on the use of remote sensing data. This raises the issue of correct data decoding. The article proposes a method for visual interpretation of eroded soils according to the Sentinel image o...

Blue-Green Infrastructure (BGI) ponds have an important function of alleviating flood risk and provide water quality improvements among other multiple benefits. Characterisation of sediments and suspended particulate matter (SPM) is understudied, but is indispensable for assessing the ponds' functioning because of their role in biogeochemical cycli...

The main pond within the historic Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is an important component of urban blue-green infrastructure. This paper reports on flood resilience provided by the pond (simulated using the CityCAT hydrodynamic model), its water residence times (obtained using the Shetran hydrological model), and the ecology and biodiversity (vasc...

Achieving urban flood resilience (UFR) at local, regional and national levels requires a transformative change in planning, design and implementation of urban water systems. Flood risk, wastewater and stormwater management should be re-envisaged and transformed to: ensure satisfactory service delivery under flood, normal and drought conditions, and...

SEPA policy (1996) states that it is mandatory for new developments to provide SUDS on site: at source on individual premises; for conveyance and, also, on a regional basis. These SUDS features can serve the whole estate or a part thereof and are all part of the treatment train that consists of various levels of control, including source, local and...

SUDS (Sustainable Drainage Systems) retention ponds are an important part of Blue Green Infrastructure and provide multiple benefits, including flood risk alleviation, water quality improvements, recreation, amenity and biodiversity value. Characterisation of sediments and suspended particulate matter (SPM) is important for assessing SUDS functioni...

Preliminary results of the UK Urban Flood Resilience research consortium are presented and discussed. Adopting a whole systems approach, key themes include: developing adaptive approaches for flexible engineering design of coupled grey and blue-green flood management assets; exploiting the resource potential of urban stormwater through rainwater ha...

The influence of long-term suspended sediment dynamics on stormwater pond performance is not negligible, but often neglected in pond design and performance evaluation. This paper provides systematic simulated quantification of long-term suspended sedimentological effects on stormwater pond performance. Integrated hydrological and two-dimensional hy...

The influence of long-term suspended sediment dynamics on stormwater pond performance should not be ignored, but is often neglected in pond design and performance evaluation. This paper provides systematic simulated quantification of long-term suspended sedimentological effects on stormwater pond performance. Integrated hydrological and two-dimensi...

This paper describes the physical model testing of an array of wave energy devices undertaken in the NTNU (Norwegian University of Science and Technology) Trondheim basin between 8 and 20 October 2008 funded under the EU Hydralabs III initiative, and provides an analysis of the extreme mooring loads. Tests were completed at 1/20 scale on a single o...

This article presents information related to the biodiversity anddistribution of nematodes belonging to the families Longidoridae andTrichodoridae in different habitats in the countries belonging to the CIS(Commonwealth of Independent States, formerly known as theUSSR).The investigations have been conducted in 13 republics of theformer USSR, and in...

This paper presents the research carried out in the marine renewables group of Heriot-Watt University, where the physical models of wave energy converters are first tested in the wave basin, and the results of their behaviour are then compared to the simulations performed using mathematical modelling. An OrcaFlex model is used to assess the scourin...

Photosynthesis versus irradiance relationships were used to estimate primary production (PP) at a number of locations across the seasonally stratified Celtic Sea during summer in 2003 and 2005. A subsurface chlorophyll maximum (SCM) was ubiquitously located at the base of the seasonal thermocline on the nitracline. Average PP for the stratified wat...

In Liverpool Bay (UK), suspended particulate matter (SPM) monitoring data and tidal data collected in the period September 2004 to February 2006 were analyzed by means of entropy analysis and factor analysis in order to identify the meteorological and oceanographic variables of importance for the characterisation of the shape of SPM size spectra. E...

Numerical techniques (e.g. correlation, multiple regression and factor analysis, path analysis, methods of network analysis, and, in particular, simulation modelling) may be very helpful in investigations of indirect relationships in aquatic ecosystems. Here we give a brief overview of some examples of the relevant studies, and focus on 1) a case s...

This paper describes the physical model testing of a wave energy converter (WEC) undertaken in the Heriot-Watt wave basin during October 2010 as part of the SUPERGEN2 project funded by the British government, and provides a preliminary analysis of the extreme mooring loads. Tests were completed at 1/20 scale on a single oscillating water column dev...

Most of the wildfires in upland Britain occur in Spring, with the highest peak in April. However, the highest values of the Met Office Fire Severity Index (MOFSI, based on the Canadian Forest Fire Weather Index System) occur in the height of summer, thus successfully predicting extreme fire weather conditions, but failing to predict when the majori...

Analysis of a dataset obtained from a monitoring programme at the Heron Wood Reserve (Scotland, UK), focuses on the differences in certain properties of soil and forest litter and patterns of ecosystem dynamics in plots dominated by differing vegetation types, especially the arborescent beech (Fagus sylvatica) and birch (Betula pendula x B. pubesce...

The Menai Strait is situated between the Island of Anglesey and the mainland in NW Wales, UK. The Strait has a diverse and well-studied biological community, and for many years have been the subject of intensive research by scientists from Bangor University and other institutions. In 2004 the Menai Strait was designated a Special Area of Conservati...

Measurements of concentrations of easily extractable soil nitrogen (N) were carried out on samples collected at the Heron Wood Reserve, Scotland, concurrently with investigations of N associated with total microbial biomass and the abundances of bacteria, fungi, and invertebrates. Soil biota at the studied site appeared to be limited by N. There wa...

This article presents the direct and indirect effects of fire caused by a wildfire in organic peat soil in a Scottish example of Rothiemurchus forest during the summer of 2006. The results have been an alteration of soil properties due to the burning of accumulated organic matter that formed the base of the soil. After a year and a half since the f...

Underground fires in peatlands are relatively rare events but when active they can smoulder for very long periods and cause significant environmental damage. They emit large quantities of combustion products, including greenhouse gases, into the atmosphere causing deterioration in air quality and public health. These fires are fed by small but cont...

Here we present the results of the monitoring data collected in 8 sampling plots (with different dominant vegetation - beech, birch, and a clearance covered by grass, mainly Holcus lanatus) in the Heron Wood reserve (Scotland) over an autumn period, characterised by intensive fungal fruiting. The data were analysed using Scheffé analysis of contras...

Wildfires are a serious problem affecting many terrestrial ecosystems and causing substantial economic damage. Understanding the variation in structure of fuels (which are predominantly represented by plant litter and live vegetation) is key to understanding the behaviour of wildland fires. An understanding of changes to fuels as vegetation develop...

Suspended particulate matter (SPM) in the marine environment is represented by a mixture of organic and inorganic particles, and is characterised by complex structural and dynamical transformations. This paper describes our SPM studies in Liverpool Bay (UK), and identifies (using Stepwise Regression Modelling) the meteorological and oceanographic v...

Suspended particulate matter (SPM) in the marine environment is represented by a mixture of organic and inorganic particles, and is characterised by complex structural and dynamical transformations. This paper describes our SPM studies in Liverpool Bay ...

Observations of vertical gradients in phytoplankton community structure were made through the water column of the seasonally stratified Celtic Sea, including within the thermocline. A deep chlorophyll maximum (DCM) was located within the thermocline at all stations, coupled to the nitracline. Vertical gradients in phytoplankton community compositio...

This paper gives a brief overview of the important factors relating to fuel properties and the propagation of fire in peatlands, and presents a case study combining monitoring and modelling of factors related to peat fuel moisture in relation to meteorological changes. The discussion relates to the direct and indirect environmental effects of peat...

Wild fires are a serious problem affecting many terrestrial ecosystems and causing substantial economic damage. The occurrence and intensity of wildfire depend (in part) on the availability and characteristics of fuel, which in natural landscapes is predominantly represented by plant litter and live vegetation. Therefore, a comprehensive collation...

An application of harmonic analysis is presented to estimate M2 and M4 tidal constituents of various suspended particulate matter (SPM) fractions in a marine ecosystem. The data were collected on two cruises in August and September 2004. In both sets of data there appeared to be clearly identifiable advection (i.e. semidiurnal increases in concentr...

Suspended particulate matter (SPM) is an important constituent of marine ecosystems, and is involved in a wide range of biogeochemical processes. Because availability of light is dependent upon the concentration of suspended solids, correct representation of SPM dynamics is paramount for simulating the dynamics of primary producers, and therefore f...

In pycnoclines, the density differences can cause light scattering - schlieren - even though only few particulate scatterers may be present. This may pose problems for the interpretation of results obtained with instruments relying on light scattering and transmission, for example the LISST (Laser In Situ Scattering and Transmissometry) particle si...

Microinvertebrate abundance was measured, together with forest soil properties and litter components in eight plots dominated by beech and birch during May to August 2001. The results were analysed using ANOVA, stepwise regression and correlation analysis. Both protozoa and nematodes were analysed according to their functional groups. The protozoa...

Here we report on ecology and biodiversity of fungi in a unique mycological sanctuary in Britain, where data on species composition have been collected since 1994. To complement the biodiversity data by the information on the fungal ecological interactions and their role in the overall ecosystem functioning, soil properties and the composition of f...

This paper describes two interdisciplinary waste management case studies coordinated by the University of Southampton. The first case study addresses the issue of algal species composition in wastewater treatment facilities situated in Kazakhstan. Algal populations in four experimental waste stabilisation ponds fed at surface loading rates from 50-...

In and around pycnoclines the density differences can cause Schlieren effects - waters with differing densities mixes and the density gradients causes scattering, even though no or only few scatterers (e.g. particles) may be present. The Schlieren effect poses problems for the interpretation of results obtained with numerous types of optical instru...

In the past, many landfill sites were constructed and operated without engineering containment, and from which leachate is likely to arise over the next several decades. Landfill leachate can contain high concentrations of toxic substances, which may pose a threat to the surroundings. In the worst cases, leachates may seep through the underlying su...

The composition of forest litter and understorey layer, and fungal biomass (in terms of ergosterol) were measured in eight subplots over a winter–spring period (January to April). The sampling site was positioned in a range of woodland habitats (variously dominated by beech, Fagus sylvatica ; birch, Betula pendula × pubescens , and oak Quercus petr...

The micro and meso-invertebrate abundance was measured, together with forest litter composition, in eight plots of differing vegetation (dominated by beech and birch) over a winter-spring period. The litter moisture content was a mean of 76% during the sampling period and the beech sites were the driest. The results were analysed using a suite of s...

Here we report the results of a comprehensive biogeochemical monitoring of Rostherne Mere in 1998, including changes in dissolved oxygen, organic carbon and nitrogen, nitrate/nitrite, ammonia, Al, Na, S, K, Mg, Ca, Si, Fe, Mn, orthophosphate, particulate N & P, suspended solids, temperature, pH, chlorophyll-a and zooplankton. The results demonstrat...

Electron probe X-ray microanalysis (XRMA) was used to determine the elemental composition of the blue-green alga, Microcystis aeruginosa, in a stratified freshwater lake during the late summer. Colonies of this alga were initially observed in mid-July, at a time when phosphorus concentration in the lake water had decreased to minimal levels (total...

The correct understanding of ecological and environmental processes is indispensable for the sustainable development of Humankind. For practical purposes, the account of ecosystem complexity is greatly aided by the application of computer aided technologies. This paper presents a methodological approach linking computer modelling of natural process...

In this study, a specific landfill leachate (1200 mg l(-1) COD and 600 mg l(-1) BOD(5)) was used to develop a standardised short-term acute and longer-term sublethal ex-situ toxicity testing programme, in order to determine the potential ecological implications of leaching contaminants reaching the water table. Bioassays were undertaken with juveni...

In this study, a specific landfill leachate (1200 mgl?1 COD and 600 mgl?1 BOD5) was used to develop a standardised short-term acute and longer-term sublethal ex-situ toxicity testing programme, in order to determine the potential ecological implications of leaching contaminants reaching the water table. Bioassays were undertaken with juvenile Gamma...

Although waste continues to be produced in large quantities—the rate of increase in waste production being more or less in line with the rate of growth in the economy—society is still grappling with the problem of sustainable waste management. One of the best ways to assess sustainability is in terms of mass and energy balance. A project at the Uni...

This paper presents data on temporal and spatial variability and ecological interactions of bacteria in a Scottish woodland over a winter - spring period (January - April). The study sites covered an area of 1 ha and a range of woodland habitats formed by beech (Fagus silvatica), birch (Betula pendula x pubescens) and oak (Quercus petraea), as well...

Interrelations of fungal mycelium with other soil biota are of paramount importance in forestry and soil ecology. Here we present the results of statistical analysis of a comprehensive data set collected in the first (and the only) British fungus sanctuary over a period of four months. The variables studied included a number of soil properties, bac...

The understanding of complex interactions involving ecosystem components is indispensable for sustainable development of humankind. To date, ecological research has mainly concentrated on investigations of direct relationships, whilst indirect interactions (and in particular the less obvious, e.g. delayed ones) have often been overlooked. Investiga...

Roundput [Int. J. Sustainable Dev. World Ecol. 8 (2001) 29] is one of the most important principles of the development of both natural and industrial ecosystems, and is especially important for analysis of an ecosystem’s dynamics and overall functioning, as it is related to an extent to which energy and matter are recycled and used in a cascade-typ...

This paper contains an editorial to the special issue of Ecological Modelling devoted to the relevant materials presented at the International Environmental Modelling and Software Society (IEMSs) 2002 meeting in Lugano, Switzerland. Fifteen papers were selected for publication after rigorous peer review. Thus, this special issue consists of a set o...

The integration of a comprehensive monitoring programme conducted in a temperate woodland through statistical analysis and simulation modelling is presented here. The Heron Wood Reserve in Peebleshire, Scotland is a 7.5-ha wood, left untended to facilitate investigation into a natural Scottish Woodland Ecosystem. Data on fungal fruiting have been c...

This paper describes a model developed to analyse the energy footprint associated with the collection, separation, processing and disposal of Municipal Solid Waste, allowing evaluation of the different options for its management. The model starts from the point where the material becomes 'waste' and follows it through until disposal and/or processi...

In the past, many landfill sites were constructed and operated without engineering containment, and from which leachate is likely to arise over the next several decades. Landfill leachate can contain high concentrations of toxic substances, which may pose a threat to the surroundings. In the worst cases, leachates may seep through the underlying su...