Cybulski M., Sierka E. (2015). Istotne zmiany w standardzie zarządzania środowiskowego ISO 14001, wersja 2015. In: Inżynieria Produkcji. Strona społeczna i przemysłowa (ed. Siwka J., Sierka E.), Częstochowa, 71-86., 2015
Do submerged plants improve the water quality in mining subsidence reservoirs?EdytaSierka
Applied Ecology and Environmental Research, 2020
This paper provides an analysis of the effect of submerged vegetation on the physicochemical parameters of water with particular regard to transparency in mining subsidence reservoirs (MSR). The research encompassed 8 subsidence reservoirs with a diversified structure of submerged plants in the littoral zone. It has been proven that reservoirs where submerged vegetation coverage is greater than 25% of the water surface area are characterized by significantly greater transparency of water. High water transparency is desirable due to a greater utility value of reservoirs and their biologic diversity. The results from this research indicate that supporting the development of submerged vegetation in mining subsidence reservoirs may be an effective method for improving the water quality of such reservoirs.
Vegetation diversity on coal mine spoil heapshow important is the texture of ...EdytaSierka
Biologia, 2019
The relationship between the size of the particle fractions of the soil substrate and the diversity of the spontaneously developing vegetation was investigated on coal mine spoil heaps in Upper Silesia (Southern Poland). The analyses were based on 2567 research plots of developed spontaneous vegetation and their associated soil substrate samples collected from 112 coal mine spoil heaps. For each research plot the prevailing particle size fraction was determined (stones, gravel, sand, silt), the species composition and abundance was recorded and the species richness (S), Shannon-Wiener diversity index (H′), Simpson (C) and Evenness (E) indices were used to determine species diversity. From a total of 119 research plots (in all particle size fraction categories), the values of 15 physicochemical properties (pH, electrical conductivity, water holding capacity, moisture, carbon content, total N, available P, Mg and exchange cations Ca, Mg, K, Na, fine particles (%), gravel (%), stone (%)) were obtained to asses their impact on the floristic composition of vegetation patches using Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA). Additionally, functional traits of the dominant species of each vegetation patch (life forms, life strategies and socio-ecological groups), were selected to analyse their relation to substrate texture. It was shown that the highest species richness and the highest values for Shannon-Wiener diversity index, as well as Simpson and Evenness indices, were obtained in plots formed on stones. Moreover, the greatest variation in the participation of species representing different habitats, life forms, and life strategies was found on gravelly substrates. Contrary to our expectations, the vegetation diversity (in terms of both species and their functional traits) was not highest in habitats with a high composition of fine size particles.
Urban and Industrial Habitats: How Important They Are for Ecosystem ServicesEdytaSierka
Woźniak G., Sierka E., Wheeler A. (2018). Urban and Industrial Habitats: How Important They Are for Ecosystem Services. Ecosystem Services and Global Ecology, http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.75723., 2018
The sustainable management of natural resources can make human survival possible. Sustainable management is based on a deep understanding of the complex mechanisms of the Earth's natural ecosystems and of how those resources can be managed without compromising future benefits and availability. The sustainable management of natural
Problemy i perspektywy ochrony warzuchy polskiej Cochlearia polonica FrohlEdytaSierka
Babczyńska-Sendek B., Sierka E. (2018). Problemy i perspektywy ochrony warzuchy polskiej Cochlearia polonica Frohl. In: XXVIII Sympozjum Jurajskie: CZŁOWIEK I PRZYRODA WYŻYNY KRAKOWSKO-WIELUŃSKIEJ, Będzin, 18-34., 2018
Biominerals and waxes of Calamagrostis epigejos and Phragmites australis leav...EdytaSierka
Protoplasma, 2018
Vascular plants are able to conduct biomineralization processes and collect synthesized compounds in their internal tissues or to deposit them on their epidermal surfaces. This mechanism protects the plant from fluctuations of nutrient levels caused by different levels of supply and demand for them. The biominerals reflect both the metabolic characteristics of a vascular plant species and the environmental conditions of the plant habitat. The SEM/EDX method was used to examine the surface and cross-sections of the Calamagrostis epigejos and Phragmites australis leaves from post-industrial habitats (coal and zinc spoil heaps). The results from this study have showed the presence of mineral objects on the surfaces of leaves of both grass species. The calcium oxalate crystals, amorphous calcium carbonate spheres, and different silica forms were also found in the inner tissues. The high variety of mineral forms in the individual plants of both species was shown. The waxes observed on the leaves of the studied plants might be the initializing factor for the crystalline forms and structures that are present. For the first time, wide range of crystal forms is presented for C. epigejos. The leaf samples of P. australis from the post-industrial areas showed an increased amount of mineral forms with the presence of sulfur.
Comparison of visual estimation of the canopy cover with the canopyscope asse...EdytaSierka
Sylwan, 2016
The visual estimates of tree canopy cover belong to the fundamental measurements of analytical features of forest phytocoenoses. However, it is the subjective method, which results in error difficult to control. The objective of the research was to present a canopyscope and to compare results of canopy cover estimation using it with visual estimates. We conducted several experiments in oak−hornbeam, pine and spruce forest stands in southern Poland. We engaged in fieldwork well− and less−experienced students, i.e. biologists skilled in methods of phytosociology and students of nature engineering as well as three professional phytosociologists. They performed a comparative research in terms of correlation analyses, analysis of coefficients of variation and intra−class correlation (ICC) between−observers and between−methods using both ways of canopy cover estimates. The correlation between canopyscope score and results of visual estimates was highest in the group of phytosociologists (rs=0.82, p<0.001) followed by well−experienced students (rs=0.72, p<0.001) and less−experienced persons (rs=0.62, p<0.001). For purpose of comparison of both methods two variants of visual method were applied: optional visual cover estimate, and adjusted visual method where percentage cover of tree layer was noted using 4% intervals likewise in canopyscope method. The results of visual estimate method were characterized by more than threefold higher variation (CV%=9.72 and CV%=9.46 for optional variant and adjusted variant respectively) in comparison with canopy−scope method (CV%=2.26) in repeating measurements on the same plot. In terms of repeatability, analysis yielded 0.873 (p<0.0001) and 0.622 (p=0.00682) values of ICC for canopyscope and adjusted visual estimate respectively between two phytoso− ciologists. The result of intra−class correlation for comparison between methods within each rater separately revealed low and non−significant value of ICC. We suggest using canopyscope because this method is more precise, reliable and repeatable than visual estimation. Moreover, canopyscope is easier and more convenient to use when compared to objective methods as hemispherical photography of tree canopy and image analysis.
Evaluation of the suitability of anthropogenic reservoirs in urban space for ...EdytaSierka
This document proposes criteria to evaluate the suitability of anthropogenic reservoirs for ecological restoration. It establishes a 3-stage evaluation process: 1) admission criteria, 2) evaluation of a reservoir's potential to perform ecological and social functions, and 3) evaluation of a reservoir's suitability for restoration using submerged plants. Stage 2 assesses factors like shoreline habitat and access on a -2 to 2 scale. Stage 3 evaluates restoration feasibility factors on the same scale. The criteria were tested on 4 reservoirs in Upper Silesia, Poland, which varied in evaluated potential (from -1 to 3) and suitability (from -3 to -1). The author concludes the criteria enable determining reservoirs for restoration activities.
Do submerged plants improve the water quality in mining subsidence reservoirs?EdytaSierka
Applied Ecology and Environmental Research, 2020
This paper provides an analysis of the effect of submerged vegetation on the physicochemical parameters of water with particular regard to transparency in mining subsidence reservoirs (MSR). The research encompassed 8 subsidence reservoirs with a diversified structure of submerged plants in the littoral zone. It has been proven that reservoirs where submerged vegetation coverage is greater than 25% of the water surface area are characterized by significantly greater transparency of water. High water transparency is desirable due to a greater utility value of reservoirs and their biologic diversity. The results from this research indicate that supporting the development of submerged vegetation in mining subsidence reservoirs may be an effective method for improving the water quality of such reservoirs.
Vegetation diversity on coal mine spoil heapshow important is the texture of ...EdytaSierka
Biologia, 2019
The relationship between the size of the particle fractions of the soil substrate and the diversity of the spontaneously developing vegetation was investigated on coal mine spoil heaps in Upper Silesia (Southern Poland). The analyses were based on 2567 research plots of developed spontaneous vegetation and their associated soil substrate samples collected from 112 coal mine spoil heaps. For each research plot the prevailing particle size fraction was determined (stones, gravel, sand, silt), the species composition and abundance was recorded and the species richness (S), Shannon-Wiener diversity index (H′), Simpson (C) and Evenness (E) indices were used to determine species diversity. From a total of 119 research plots (in all particle size fraction categories), the values of 15 physicochemical properties (pH, electrical conductivity, water holding capacity, moisture, carbon content, total N, available P, Mg and exchange cations Ca, Mg, K, Na, fine particles (%), gravel (%), stone (%)) were obtained to asses their impact on the floristic composition of vegetation patches using Canonical Correspondence Analysis (CCA). Additionally, functional traits of the dominant species of each vegetation patch (life forms, life strategies and socio-ecological groups), were selected to analyse their relation to substrate texture. It was shown that the highest species richness and the highest values for Shannon-Wiener diversity index, as well as Simpson and Evenness indices, were obtained in plots formed on stones. Moreover, the greatest variation in the participation of species representing different habitats, life forms, and life strategies was found on gravelly substrates. Contrary to our expectations, the vegetation diversity (in terms of both species and their functional traits) was not highest in habitats with a high composition of fine size particles.
Urban and Industrial Habitats: How Important They Are for Ecosystem ServicesEdytaSierka
Woźniak G., Sierka E., Wheeler A. (2018). Urban and Industrial Habitats: How Important They Are for Ecosystem Services. Ecosystem Services and Global Ecology, http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.75723., 2018
The sustainable management of natural resources can make human survival possible. Sustainable management is based on a deep understanding of the complex mechanisms of the Earth's natural ecosystems and of how those resources can be managed without compromising future benefits and availability. The sustainable management of natural
Problemy i perspektywy ochrony warzuchy polskiej Cochlearia polonica FrohlEdytaSierka
Babczyńska-Sendek B., Sierka E. (2018). Problemy i perspektywy ochrony warzuchy polskiej Cochlearia polonica Frohl. In: XXVIII Sympozjum Jurajskie: CZŁOWIEK I PRZYRODA WYŻYNY KRAKOWSKO-WIELUŃSKIEJ, Będzin, 18-34., 2018
Biominerals and waxes of Calamagrostis epigejos and Phragmites australis leav...EdytaSierka
Protoplasma, 2018
Vascular plants are able to conduct biomineralization processes and collect synthesized compounds in their internal tissues or to deposit them on their epidermal surfaces. This mechanism protects the plant from fluctuations of nutrient levels caused by different levels of supply and demand for them. The biominerals reflect both the metabolic characteristics of a vascular plant species and the environmental conditions of the plant habitat. The SEM/EDX method was used to examine the surface and cross-sections of the Calamagrostis epigejos and Phragmites australis leaves from post-industrial habitats (coal and zinc spoil heaps). The results from this study have showed the presence of mineral objects on the surfaces of leaves of both grass species. The calcium oxalate crystals, amorphous calcium carbonate spheres, and different silica forms were also found in the inner tissues. The high variety of mineral forms in the individual plants of both species was shown. The waxes observed on the leaves of the studied plants might be the initializing factor for the crystalline forms and structures that are present. For the first time, wide range of crystal forms is presented for C. epigejos. The leaf samples of P. australis from the post-industrial areas showed an increased amount of mineral forms with the presence of sulfur.
Comparison of visual estimation of the canopy cover with the canopyscope asse...EdytaSierka
Sylwan, 2016
The visual estimates of tree canopy cover belong to the fundamental measurements of analytical features of forest phytocoenoses. However, it is the subjective method, which results in error difficult to control. The objective of the research was to present a canopyscope and to compare results of canopy cover estimation using it with visual estimates. We conducted several experiments in oak−hornbeam, pine and spruce forest stands in southern Poland. We engaged in fieldwork well− and less−experienced students, i.e. biologists skilled in methods of phytosociology and students of nature engineering as well as three professional phytosociologists. They performed a comparative research in terms of correlation analyses, analysis of coefficients of variation and intra−class correlation (ICC) between−observers and between−methods using both ways of canopy cover estimates. The correlation between canopyscope score and results of visual estimates was highest in the group of phytosociologists (rs=0.82, p<0.001) followed by well−experienced students (rs=0.72, p<0.001) and less−experienced persons (rs=0.62, p<0.001). For purpose of comparison of both methods two variants of visual method were applied: optional visual cover estimate, and adjusted visual method where percentage cover of tree layer was noted using 4% intervals likewise in canopyscope method. The results of visual estimate method were characterized by more than threefold higher variation (CV%=9.72 and CV%=9.46 for optional variant and adjusted variant respectively) in comparison with canopy−scope method (CV%=2.26) in repeating measurements on the same plot. In terms of repeatability, analysis yielded 0.873 (p<0.0001) and 0.622 (p=0.00682) values of ICC for canopyscope and adjusted visual estimate respectively between two phytoso− ciologists. The result of intra−class correlation for comparison between methods within each rater separately revealed low and non−significant value of ICC. We suggest using canopyscope because this method is more precise, reliable and repeatable than visual estimation. Moreover, canopyscope is easier and more convenient to use when compared to objective methods as hemispherical photography of tree canopy and image analysis.
Evaluation of the suitability of anthropogenic reservoirs in urban space for ...EdytaSierka
This document proposes criteria to evaluate the suitability of anthropogenic reservoirs for ecological restoration. It establishes a 3-stage evaluation process: 1) admission criteria, 2) evaluation of a reservoir's potential to perform ecological and social functions, and 3) evaluation of a reservoir's suitability for restoration using submerged plants. Stage 2 assesses factors like shoreline habitat and access on a -2 to 2 scale. Stage 3 evaluates restoration feasibility factors on the same scale. The criteria were tested on 4 reservoirs in Upper Silesia, Poland, which varied in evaluated potential (from -1 to 3) and suitability (from -3 to -1). The author concludes the criteria enable determining reservoirs for restoration activities.
Audyt środowiskowo-prawny jako narzędzie oceny rzeczywistego funkcjonowania p...EdytaSierka
Sierka E., Cybulski M. (2014). Audyt środowiskowo-prawny jako narzędzie oceny rzeczywistego funkcjonowania przedsiębiorstwa. In: WYBRANE ZAGADNIENIA PRODUKCJI I ZARZĄDZANIA W PRZEMYŚLE (ed. Konstanciak A., Kardaś E.), Częstochowa, 139-149., 2014
The article contains information on the scope and effects of environmental and legal audit in the enterprise. The analysis focused on the main environmental issues identified in different types of enterprises. It was pointed out that the identification of discrepancy areas with the environment protection law in force, enables their improvement. The results of the environmental and legal audit aid to minimize the costs of penalties, the amount of which was presented in the article, improve the functioning of the environmental management system and the qualification of market value of enterprise.
Participation of Calamagrostis epigejos (L.) Roth in plant communities of the...EdytaSierka
Sierka E., Kopczyńska S. (2014). Participation of Calamagrostis epigejos (L.) Roth in plant communities of the Bytomka river valley in terms of its biomass use in power industry. Environmental & Socio-economic Studies 2(2): 1-8., 2014
The paper presents an attempt of assessing the potential use of Calamagrostis epigejos (L.) Roth. as a renewable source of energy raw materials. Abandonment of human management is often followed by a decrease in species richness in semi-natural grasslands, mainly due to the increased dominance of clonal grasses as Calamagrostis epigejos which were formerly repressed by management. The biomass resources of this and accompanying species, i.e. from Solidago genus and others e.g. Cirsium rivulare, Deschampsia caespitosa, Moilinia coerulea and Filipendula ulmaria, was evaluated in the green wastelands of the Bytomka River valley (Upper Silesia, Poland). It was found that approx. 1.2 tha-1 of dry matter can be obtained from approx. 30% of the average share of Calamagrostis epigejos in plant communities of unmowed meadows. This is 10 times less than in the case of Miscanthus giganteus, non-native cultivated grass. Increase in Calamagrostis epigejos biomass reduces biomass of Solidago sp. (-0.522176, p< 0.05) and other species (-0.465806, p< 0.05). The calorific value of Calamagrostis epigejos biomass is approx. 15.91 MJkg-1, which is comparable to the calorific value of coal and close to, inter alia, of Miscanthus sacchariflorus (19 MJkg-1) as an energy crop. Abandonment of human management is often followed by a decrease in species richness in semi-natural grasslands, mainly due to the increased dominance of clonal grasses which were formerly repressed by management. Presented research is preliminary and therefore, it is necessary to investigate the reaction of Calamagrostis epigejos to regular mowing and export of biomass on the studied areas.
Energetyka prosumencka, czyli powrót do społeczeństwa funkcjonującego według ...EdytaSierka
Skubała P., Sierka E. (2014). Energetyka prosumencka, czyli powrót do społeczeństwa funkcjonującego według praw natury?. In: Energetyka prosumencka. Pierwsza próba konsolidacji (ed. Popczyk et. al.), Częstochowa, 60-76., 2014
Impact of the salinity gradient on the mollusc fauna in flooded mine subsiden...EdytaSierka
Archives of Environmental Protection, 2014
This paper presents the impact of salinisation on the aquatic mollusc fauna in fl ooded mine subsidences in the Karvina region (Czech Republic). The results of the previous research on salinity in fl ooded mine subsidences show that some of them contain a high content of dissolved inorganic substances (above 1000 mg•l-1). These substances can affect the vegetation and animals occurring in the water and the surrounding area. The phylum of Mollusca was selected as a model group for the fi eldwork as it includes species with the proven bioindication potential. The occurrence of aquatic mollusc species was studied at 10 sites. The sites were selected based on the content of dissolved substances (the salinity gradient from <500 to >1000 mg•l-1. A total of 12 aquatic mollusc species were found, including one species identifi ed as a potential bioindicator of the negative effect of salinisation on aquatic biota. The analysis showed statistically signifi cant positive correlations between the content of dissolved inorganic substances and the presence of alien species Potamopyrgus antipodarum (J.E. Gray, 1843). The gradient of salinity signifi cantly affects the species composition of the mollusc fauna in fl ooded mine subsidences and may affect the biodiversity of this group.
Macrophytes in the assessment of river ecological condition on the example of...EdytaSierka
Sierka E., Tomczak A. (2013). Macrophytes in the assessment of river ecological condition on the example of Pszczynka River (Silesian Upland). Environmental & Socio-economic Studies 1(3), 14-20., 2013
Optymalizacja gospodarki odpadami w przedsiębiorstwieEdytaSierka
Sierka E., Cybulski M. (2013). Optymalizacja gospodarki odpadami w przedsiębiorstwie. In: WYBRANE ZAGADNIENIA INŻYNIERII PRODUKCJI (ed. Kardaś E.), Częstochowa, 55-62., 2013
Różnorodność biologiczna trendów poprzemysłowych województwa śląskiego - zaso...EdytaSierka
Sierka E. (2013). Różnorodność biologiczna trendów poprzemysłowych województwa śląskiego - zasoby, ochrona, zagrożenia. In: Strategia ochrony przyrody województwa śląskiego do roku 2030. Raport o stanie przyrody województwa śląskiego (Parusel J.), Katowice., 2013
Europejska szkoła odnowy terenów nieużytkowanychEdytaSierka
Stalmachová B., Sierka E. (2013). EUROPEJSKA SZKOŁA ODNOWY TERENÓW NIEUŻYTKOWANYCH. In: INNOWACYJNOŚĆ KSZTAŁCENIA W ZAKRESIE OCHRONY ŚRODOWISKA (ed. Sierka E., Ciepał), Katowice, 33-42., 2013
OCHRONA ŚRODOWISKA DLA KAŻDEGO – PROJEKT UPGOW, UNIWERSYTET ŚLĄSKI INNOWACYJN...EdytaSierka
Sierka E., Skubała P. (2013.) OCHRONA ŚRODOWISKA DLA KAŻDEGO – PROJEKT UPGOW, UNIWERSYTET ŚLĄSKI. In: INNOWACYJNOŚĆ KSZTAŁCENIA W ZAKRESIE OCHRONY ŚRODOWISKA (ed. Sierka E., Ciepał R.), Katowice, 59-70., 2013
GIS Technology in Environmental Protection: Research Directions Based on Lite...EdytaSierka
Polish Journal of Environmental Studies, 2012
This article is designed to identify research directions in application of GIS technology in environmental protection through a literature review. Critical analysis has been used to determine the thematic scope and structure of environmental protection, while bibliometric study identifies research directions. The selection of journals to be investigated is based on journal profiles and scientific prestige, together with analyses of selected articles. Two groups of journals are studied for the period 2007 through 2009. The journals Ecological Engineering, Environmental Research, and Remote Sensing of the Environment are studied in the range of environmental protection and Computers & Geosciences, the International Journal of Applied Earth Observation and Geoinformation, and Photogrammetric Engineering & Remote Sensing are in the range of GIS technology.
Applicability of the concept of functional groups for analysis of spatiotempo...EdytaSierka
The document discusses the benefits of exercise for mental health. Regular physical activity can help reduce anxiety and depression and improve mood and cognitive function. Exercise causes chemical changes in the brain that may help protect against mental illness and improve symptoms.
Environmental repercussion of subsidence reservoirs reclamationEdytaSierka
The document discusses the benefits of exercise for mental health. Regular physical activity can help reduce anxiety and depression and improve mood and cognitive functioning. Exercise causes chemical changes in the brain that may help protect against mental illness and improve symptoms.
Autecology of Impatients parviflora DC. in natural forest communitiesEdytaSierka
Chmura D., Sierka E., Orczewska A. (2007). Autecology of Impatients parviflora DC. in natural forest communities. Botanika - Stecina 11, 17-21., 2007
In three neighbouring regions situated in southern Poland, differing in land use, soils, and type of forest vegetation, autecological studies on one of the most invasive alien species of the country, small balsam Impatients parviflora, were conducted. The habitat requirements of I. parviflora were estimated in 139 permanent plots, randomly distributed in various forest communities and varying in the abundance of the examined species. The forest stands were located either in nature reserves (Kraków-Częstochowa Uppland, Silesian Upland) or in old growth forests (Głubczyce Plateau). The physical and chemical properties of soiils (soil reaction, mineral and granulometric composition of substratum), litter depth, slope, and aspect were gathered and showed on ecodiagrams. The study shows that small balsam is a species with a wide ecological amplitude, what probably contributes to its invasiveness and enables success in colonizing and persisting in forest ground vegetation.
The effect of flooded mine subsidence on thrips and forest biodiversity in th...EdytaSierka
Acta Phytopathologica et Entomologica Hungarica, 2008
At the end of the prosperity of the coal mining industry in Upper Silesia in Poland, new habitats were created in disturbed areas which, in the case of flooded mine subsidence, led to the formation of a type of ecological niche not encountered before. In the present work the authors describe the diversity of oak-hornbeam forest in the areas of flooded mine subsidence and the thrips communities connected with them. In 2006 and 2007, the thrips fauna of subsidence areas was sampled in biotopes directly associated with depressions (waterside, contact zones between aquatic and terrestrial-forest biotopes). In both ecosystems a total of 118 plant species and 56 thrips species were found. Disturbance of land resulting in flooded mine subsidence contributes to increased species diversity of both plants and thrips. Other kinds of disturbance such as traffic routes and its direct and indirect impact cause reduce numbers of plants and thrips species.
Introduction to the Probable Movement of Thysanoptera through the Moravian Ga...EdytaSierka
Sierka W., Sierka E., Fedor P. J. (2008). Introduction to the Probable Movement of Thysanoptera through the Moravian Gate (Štramberk, Czech Republic). Acta Phytopathologica et Entomologica Hungarica 43: 367-372, DOI: 10.1556/APhyt.43.2008.2.21., 2008
In the area of the Moravian Gate at Štramberk (Moravia, Czech Republic) detailed field investigations of Thysanoptera were conducted. The Gate offers the possibility of dispersal of thrips species from the South to the North and vice versa. A total of 359 samples were collected, from which 2367 adult specimens of Thysanoptera belonging to 55 species were obtained. Between them are species having their main distribution in the Southern parts of Europe, such as Aptinothrips elegans, Anaphothrips atroapterus, A. euphorbiae, Chirothrips aculeatus, Limothrips consimilis, Neohydatothrips abnormis, Rubiothrips pillichi, R. validus and Theilopedothrips pilosus. Additionally species were found that are absent or dispersed in Southern Europe, such as Aptinothrips stylifer, Chirothrips hamatus, Odontothrips loti and Platythrips tunicatus. In ancient times these species may have used the Moravian Gate, which has been passed by large armies and many traders (the amber route), carrying all kinds of plant products with them.
The invasibility of deciduous forest communities after disturbance: A case st...EdytaSierka
Forest Ecology and Management, 2007
Phytosociological records from three different woodlands, each with oak-hornbeam stands (Tilio-Carpinetum), were analyzed in terms of the presence/absence of two harmful species, alien Impatiens parviflora and native Carex brizoides. Records from the Białowieża Primeval Forest (northeastern Poland) represented old-growth forest, and others from the Silesian Upland (southeastern Poland) represented managed forest and invaded forest. The three sets of records were compared in terms of stand structure, Ellenberg indicator scores, and the shares of various plant functional types. Vegetation analyses also included species richness scores, Shannon-Wiener indices, and DCA and CCA ordination with the cover of the two species as variables. There were fewer differences between managed and old-growth forest than between managed and invaded forest. Invaded forest was characterized by low species richness, higher frequency of hemerophilous species, lower frequency of myrmecochores, and higher light availability and temperature. It was concluded that, of the two invasive species, C. brizoides is a better indicator of human-induced disturbance. Both cover and binary data explained changes in floristic composition in the presence of this species. Invasion by both species was favored by forest management practices. Their presence led to further species impoverishment, and harmed the quality of the forest floor habitat.
Gospodarczo-kulturowe dziedzictwo Cystersów i jego znaczenie dla różnorodnoś...EdytaSierka
Błońska A., Henel A., Kompała-Bąba A., Sierka E., Woźniak G. (2006). Gospodarczo-kulturowe dziedzictwo Cystersów i jego znaczenie dla różnorodności biologicznej regionu. Zagrożenia i ochrona różnorodności biologicznej województwa śląskiego (ed. Babczyńska-Sendek B., et. all), Katowice, 14-31., 2006
Audyt środowiskowo-prawny jako narzędzie oceny rzeczywistego funkcjonowania p...EdytaSierka
Sierka E., Cybulski M. (2014). Audyt środowiskowo-prawny jako narzędzie oceny rzeczywistego funkcjonowania przedsiębiorstwa. In: WYBRANE ZAGADNIENIA PRODUKCJI I ZARZĄDZANIA W PRZEMYŚLE (ed. Konstanciak A., Kardaś E.), Częstochowa, 139-149., 2014
The article contains information on the scope and effects of environmental and legal audit in the enterprise. The analysis focused on the main environmental issues identified in different types of enterprises. It was pointed out that the identification of discrepancy areas with the environment protection law in force, enables their improvement. The results of the environmental and legal audit aid to minimize the costs of penalties, the amount of which was presented in the article, improve the functioning of the environmental management system and the qualification of market value of enterprise.
Participation of Calamagrostis epigejos (L.) Roth in plant communities of the...EdytaSierka
Sierka E., Kopczyńska S. (2014). Participation of Calamagrostis epigejos (L.) Roth in plant communities of the Bytomka river valley in terms of its biomass use in power industry. Environmental & Socio-economic Studies 2(2): 1-8., 2014
The paper presents an attempt of assessing the potential use of Calamagrostis epigejos (L.) Roth. as a renewable source of energy raw materials. Abandonment of human management is often followed by a decrease in species richness in semi-natural grasslands, mainly due to the increased dominance of clonal grasses as Calamagrostis epigejos which were formerly repressed by management. The biomass resources of this and accompanying species, i.e. from Solidago genus and others e.g. Cirsium rivulare, Deschampsia caespitosa, Moilinia coerulea and Filipendula ulmaria, was evaluated in the green wastelands of the Bytomka River valley (Upper Silesia, Poland). It was found that approx. 1.2 tha-1 of dry matter can be obtained from approx. 30% of the average share of Calamagrostis epigejos in plant communities of unmowed meadows. This is 10 times less than in the case of Miscanthus giganteus, non-native cultivated grass. Increase in Calamagrostis epigejos biomass reduces biomass of Solidago sp. (-0.522176, p< 0.05) and other species (-0.465806, p< 0.05). The calorific value of Calamagrostis epigejos biomass is approx. 15.91 MJkg-1, which is comparable to the calorific value of coal and close to, inter alia, of Miscanthus sacchariflorus (19 MJkg-1) as an energy crop. Abandonment of human management is often followed by a decrease in species richness in semi-natural grasslands, mainly due to the increased dominance of clonal grasses which were formerly repressed by management. Presented research is preliminary and therefore, it is necessary to investigate the reaction of Calamagrostis epigejos to regular mowing and export of biomass on the studied areas.
Energetyka prosumencka, czyli powrót do społeczeństwa funkcjonującego według ...EdytaSierka
Skubała P., Sierka E. (2014). Energetyka prosumencka, czyli powrót do społeczeństwa funkcjonującego według praw natury?. In: Energetyka prosumencka. Pierwsza próba konsolidacji (ed. Popczyk et. al.), Częstochowa, 60-76., 2014
Impact of the salinity gradient on the mollusc fauna in flooded mine subsiden...EdytaSierka
Archives of Environmental Protection, 2014
This paper presents the impact of salinisation on the aquatic mollusc fauna in fl ooded mine subsidences in the Karvina region (Czech Republic). The results of the previous research on salinity in fl ooded mine subsidences show that some of them contain a high content of dissolved inorganic substances (above 1000 mg•l-1). These substances can affect the vegetation and animals occurring in the water and the surrounding area. The phylum of Mollusca was selected as a model group for the fi eldwork as it includes species with the proven bioindication potential. The occurrence of aquatic mollusc species was studied at 10 sites. The sites were selected based on the content of dissolved substances (the salinity gradient from <500 to >1000 mg•l-1. A total of 12 aquatic mollusc species were found, including one species identifi ed as a potential bioindicator of the negative effect of salinisation on aquatic biota. The analysis showed statistically signifi cant positive correlations between the content of dissolved inorganic substances and the presence of alien species Potamopyrgus antipodarum (J.E. Gray, 1843). The gradient of salinity signifi cantly affects the species composition of the mollusc fauna in fl ooded mine subsidences and may affect the biodiversity of this group.
Macrophytes in the assessment of river ecological condition on the example of...EdytaSierka
Sierka E., Tomczak A. (2013). Macrophytes in the assessment of river ecological condition on the example of Pszczynka River (Silesian Upland). Environmental & Socio-economic Studies 1(3), 14-20., 2013
Optymalizacja gospodarki odpadami w przedsiębiorstwieEdytaSierka
Sierka E., Cybulski M. (2013). Optymalizacja gospodarki odpadami w przedsiębiorstwie. In: WYBRANE ZAGADNIENIA INŻYNIERII PRODUKCJI (ed. Kardaś E.), Częstochowa, 55-62., 2013
Różnorodność biologiczna trendów poprzemysłowych województwa śląskiego - zaso...EdytaSierka
Sierka E. (2013). Różnorodność biologiczna trendów poprzemysłowych województwa śląskiego - zasoby, ochrona, zagrożenia. In: Strategia ochrony przyrody województwa śląskiego do roku 2030. Raport o stanie przyrody województwa śląskiego (Parusel J.), Katowice., 2013
Europejska szkoła odnowy terenów nieużytkowanychEdytaSierka
Stalmachová B., Sierka E. (2013). EUROPEJSKA SZKOŁA ODNOWY TERENÓW NIEUŻYTKOWANYCH. In: INNOWACYJNOŚĆ KSZTAŁCENIA W ZAKRESIE OCHRONY ŚRODOWISKA (ed. Sierka E., Ciepał), Katowice, 33-42., 2013
OCHRONA ŚRODOWISKA DLA KAŻDEGO – PROJEKT UPGOW, UNIWERSYTET ŚLĄSKI INNOWACYJN...EdytaSierka
Sierka E., Skubała P. (2013.) OCHRONA ŚRODOWISKA DLA KAŻDEGO – PROJEKT UPGOW, UNIWERSYTET ŚLĄSKI. In: INNOWACYJNOŚĆ KSZTAŁCENIA W ZAKRESIE OCHRONY ŚRODOWISKA (ed. Sierka E., Ciepał R.), Katowice, 59-70., 2013
GIS Technology in Environmental Protection: Research Directions Based on Lite...EdytaSierka
Polish Journal of Environmental Studies, 2012
This article is designed to identify research directions in application of GIS technology in environmental protection through a literature review. Critical analysis has been used to determine the thematic scope and structure of environmental protection, while bibliometric study identifies research directions. The selection of journals to be investigated is based on journal profiles and scientific prestige, together with analyses of selected articles. Two groups of journals are studied for the period 2007 through 2009. The journals Ecological Engineering, Environmental Research, and Remote Sensing of the Environment are studied in the range of environmental protection and Computers & Geosciences, the International Journal of Applied Earth Observation and Geoinformation, and Photogrammetric Engineering & Remote Sensing are in the range of GIS technology.
Applicability of the concept of functional groups for analysis of spatiotempo...EdytaSierka
The document discusses the benefits of exercise for mental health. Regular physical activity can help reduce anxiety and depression and improve mood and cognitive function. Exercise causes chemical changes in the brain that may help protect against mental illness and improve symptoms.
Environmental repercussion of subsidence reservoirs reclamationEdytaSierka
The document discusses the benefits of exercise for mental health. Regular physical activity can help reduce anxiety and depression and improve mood and cognitive functioning. Exercise causes chemical changes in the brain that may help protect against mental illness and improve symptoms.
Autecology of Impatients parviflora DC. in natural forest communitiesEdytaSierka
Chmura D., Sierka E., Orczewska A. (2007). Autecology of Impatients parviflora DC. in natural forest communities. Botanika - Stecina 11, 17-21., 2007
In three neighbouring regions situated in southern Poland, differing in land use, soils, and type of forest vegetation, autecological studies on one of the most invasive alien species of the country, small balsam Impatients parviflora, were conducted. The habitat requirements of I. parviflora were estimated in 139 permanent plots, randomly distributed in various forest communities and varying in the abundance of the examined species. The forest stands were located either in nature reserves (Kraków-Częstochowa Uppland, Silesian Upland) or in old growth forests (Głubczyce Plateau). The physical and chemical properties of soiils (soil reaction, mineral and granulometric composition of substratum), litter depth, slope, and aspect were gathered and showed on ecodiagrams. The study shows that small balsam is a species with a wide ecological amplitude, what probably contributes to its invasiveness and enables success in colonizing and persisting in forest ground vegetation.
The effect of flooded mine subsidence on thrips and forest biodiversity in th...EdytaSierka
Acta Phytopathologica et Entomologica Hungarica, 2008
At the end of the prosperity of the coal mining industry in Upper Silesia in Poland, new habitats were created in disturbed areas which, in the case of flooded mine subsidence, led to the formation of a type of ecological niche not encountered before. In the present work the authors describe the diversity of oak-hornbeam forest in the areas of flooded mine subsidence and the thrips communities connected with them. In 2006 and 2007, the thrips fauna of subsidence areas was sampled in biotopes directly associated with depressions (waterside, contact zones between aquatic and terrestrial-forest biotopes). In both ecosystems a total of 118 plant species and 56 thrips species were found. Disturbance of land resulting in flooded mine subsidence contributes to increased species diversity of both plants and thrips. Other kinds of disturbance such as traffic routes and its direct and indirect impact cause reduce numbers of plants and thrips species.
Introduction to the Probable Movement of Thysanoptera through the Moravian Ga...EdytaSierka
Sierka W., Sierka E., Fedor P. J. (2008). Introduction to the Probable Movement of Thysanoptera through the Moravian Gate (Štramberk, Czech Republic). Acta Phytopathologica et Entomologica Hungarica 43: 367-372, DOI: 10.1556/APhyt.43.2008.2.21., 2008
In the area of the Moravian Gate at Štramberk (Moravia, Czech Republic) detailed field investigations of Thysanoptera were conducted. The Gate offers the possibility of dispersal of thrips species from the South to the North and vice versa. A total of 359 samples were collected, from which 2367 adult specimens of Thysanoptera belonging to 55 species were obtained. Between them are species having their main distribution in the Southern parts of Europe, such as Aptinothrips elegans, Anaphothrips atroapterus, A. euphorbiae, Chirothrips aculeatus, Limothrips consimilis, Neohydatothrips abnormis, Rubiothrips pillichi, R. validus and Theilopedothrips pilosus. Additionally species were found that are absent or dispersed in Southern Europe, such as Aptinothrips stylifer, Chirothrips hamatus, Odontothrips loti and Platythrips tunicatus. In ancient times these species may have used the Moravian Gate, which has been passed by large armies and many traders (the amber route), carrying all kinds of plant products with them.
The invasibility of deciduous forest communities after disturbance: A case st...EdytaSierka
Forest Ecology and Management, 2007
Phytosociological records from three different woodlands, each with oak-hornbeam stands (Tilio-Carpinetum), were analyzed in terms of the presence/absence of two harmful species, alien Impatiens parviflora and native Carex brizoides. Records from the Białowieża Primeval Forest (northeastern Poland) represented old-growth forest, and others from the Silesian Upland (southeastern Poland) represented managed forest and invaded forest. The three sets of records were compared in terms of stand structure, Ellenberg indicator scores, and the shares of various plant functional types. Vegetation analyses also included species richness scores, Shannon-Wiener indices, and DCA and CCA ordination with the cover of the two species as variables. There were fewer differences between managed and old-growth forest than between managed and invaded forest. Invaded forest was characterized by low species richness, higher frequency of hemerophilous species, lower frequency of myrmecochores, and higher light availability and temperature. It was concluded that, of the two invasive species, C. brizoides is a better indicator of human-induced disturbance. Both cover and binary data explained changes in floristic composition in the presence of this species. Invasion by both species was favored by forest management practices. Their presence led to further species impoverishment, and harmed the quality of the forest floor habitat.
Gospodarczo-kulturowe dziedzictwo Cystersów i jego znaczenie dla różnorodnoś...EdytaSierka
Błońska A., Henel A., Kompała-Bąba A., Sierka E., Woźniak G. (2006). Gospodarczo-kulturowe dziedzictwo Cystersów i jego znaczenie dla różnorodności biologicznej regionu. Zagrożenia i ochrona różnorodności biologicznej województwa śląskiego (ed. Babczyńska-Sendek B., et. all), Katowice, 14-31., 2006