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Spatiotemporal characteristics and driving factors of the fractional vegetation coverage in the Ertix River Basin LIU Yixuan, Alim SAMAT, LI Wenbo, Jilili ABUDUWAILI Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (3): 100227-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100227 Abstract （80）   HTML （4）    PDF （3219KB）（11）       Knowledge map    Save The rapid acceleration of global warming and intensifying human activities have exacerbated the fragility and climate sensitivity of ecosystems worldwide, particularly in arid regions. Vegetation, a key component of ecosystems, is critical in enhancing the ecological environment. The Ertix River Basin (ERB) is a transboundary watershed that spans multiple countries, mostly in arid regions. However, research on the fractional vegetation coverage (FVC) and its driving factors in the ERB remains limited. Investigating the spatiotemporal changes in the FVC and its relationship with various factors in the ERB can offer scientific support for optimizing regional vegetation restoration policies and promoting the coordinated development of human-environment interactions. The Moderate-resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) MYD13Q1 V6 data were obtained via the Google Earth Engine platform, and methods including the pixel dichotomy method, Theil-Sen median trend analysis, and Mann‒Kendall test were employed to examine the spatiotemporal dynamics of the FVC in the ERB from 2003 to 2023, with future trend forecast using the Hurst index. The impacts of natural and socioeconomic factors on the FVC were evaluated through the partial least squares-structural equation model (PLS-SEM). The results indicated that the FVC in the ERB showed a slight degradation trend with an average annual decrease of 0.046% during 2003-2023, with significant changes occurring in 2004, 2010, and 2019. Spatially, 53.380% of the study area was degraded, and the change in the FVC increased gradually from southeast to northwest. The FVC in 63.000% of the study area was highly stable and displayed long-term persistence; and the direct impact of natural factors (path coefficient of 0.617) on the FVC was significantly higher than that of socioeconomic factors (0.167). Among the natural factors, precipitation (0.999) was the most significant. This study reveals the significant impacts of natural and socioeconomic factors on vegetation dynamics in arid regions, and provides a scientific basis for transnational ecological conservation. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Enhancing climate-smart coastal farming system through agriculture extension and advisory services towards the avenues of farm sustainability Md Maruf BILLAH, Mohammad Mahmudur RAHMAN, Santiago MAHIMAIRAJA, Alvin LAL, Asadi SRINIVASULU, Ravi NAIDU Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (4): 100243-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100243 Abstract （77）   HTML （8）    PDF （914KB）（5）       Knowledge map    Save Agriculture extension and advisory services (AEAS) are integral to smart agricultural systems and play a pivotal role in supporting sustainable agricultural development. The study aimed to assess the role of AEAS in strengthening climate-smart coastal farming system to enhance coastal agricultural sustainability. A mixed-methods study was conducted in the southwestern coastal region of Bangladesh in 2023, which involved administering a structured questionnaire and conducing face-to-face interviews with 390 farmers. Perceived role index (PRI) was employed to assess the potential role of AEAS. To forecast the perceived role outcomes, the machine learning model was undertaken by utilizing suitable algorithms. Additionally, feature importance was calculated to underpin the significant factors of perceived role outcomes. The findings showed that coastal farming communities held a comprehensive understanding of the role of AEAS. Key roles included diffusion of agricultural innovations, acting as a bridge between farmers and research organizations, using demonstration techniques to educate farmers, training farmers on food storage, processing, and utilization, and promoting awareness and adoption of best practices. The machine learning model exposed a significant relationship between farmers’ socio-economic characteristics and their perception behavior. The results identified that factors like innovativeness, awareness, training exposure, access to AEAS, and access to information significantly influenced how farmers perceived the efficacy of AEAS in promoting a smart coastal farming system. However, farmers confronted multiple constraints in receiving demand-driven services and maintaining coastal farm sustainability. These insights can guide concerned authorities and policy-makers in providing AEAS for the purpose of strengthening climate-smart coastal farming system, particularly with a special focus on capacity building programs and machine learning application. Moreover, the outcomes of this study can assist the authorities of similar coastal systems throughout the world to initiate potential strategies for enhancing region-specific agricultural sustainability. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Renewable energy and its impact on agricultural and economic development in the Netherlands and South Africa Saul NGARAVA, Alois Aldridge MUGADZA Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (2): 100209-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100209 Abstract （66）   HTML （6）    PDF （1081KB）（15）       Knowledge map    Save The use of renewable energy is an important way to achieve sustainable agricultural and economic development. However, there are differences in access to renewable energy between the Global North and Global South. This study utilised an autoregressive distributed lag-error correction model and the data spanning from 1991 to 2021 to comparatively analyse the dynamic relationship among renewable energy consumption, the value of agricultural production, gross domestic product (GDP), economic diversification index, urban population, the total water extraction for agricultural withdrawal, and trade balance in the Netherlands and South Africa. In the short run, renewable energy consumption was increased by the value of agricultural production but decreased by GDP in South Africa. In the long run, renewable energy consumption and GDP increased the value of agricultural production, while the value of agricultural production also increased GDP in South Africa. However, in the Netherlands, there was no short- and long-run relationship between renewable energy consumption and agricultural and economic development. The results revealed that there was a short- and long-run relationship in South Africa. Moreover, in the Netherlands, the adjustment speed was -1.46 for renewable energy consumption with an error correction of 0.68 a (8.22 months). In South Africa, the adjustment speed was -1.28 for renewable energy consumption with an error correction of 0.78 a (9.38 months). Therefore, compared to South Africa, renewable energy consumption in the Netherlands takes less time to return to balance after a shock. These findings signify different trajectories on sectoral and economic transition initiatives spurred using renewable energy between the Netherlands and South Africa. Policy relating to initiatives such as “agro-energy communities” in Global South countries such as South Africa should be emphasised to promote the use of renewable energy in the agricultural sector. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Greenhouse gas emission dynamics and climate change mitigation efforts toward sustainability in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region Syed Masiur RAHMAN, Asif RAIHAN, Md Shafiul ALAM, Shakhawat CHOWDHURY Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (4): 100246-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100246 Abstract （66）   HTML （1）    PDF （1089KB）（36）       Knowledge map    Save Greenhouse gas (GHG) emssions from fossil fuel consumption are driving global climate change. This study applied the fully modified ordinary least squares (FMOLS) model and pairwise panel Granger causality test to explore the relationships of GHG emissions with gross domestic product (GDP), population, urbanization, natural resource rents, foreign direct investment (FDI), and renewable energy consumption in 12 Middle East and North Africa (MENA) countries (Algeria, Bahrain, Comoros, Djibouti, Egypt, Qatar, Somalia, Saudi Arabia, Syria, the United Arab Emirates, Tunisia, and Yemen) from 1990 to 2023. Due to the limited data on renewable energy after 2020, the coverage of renewable energy consumption is from 1990 to 2021. Findings showed that Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Algeria, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar are the top 5 GHG emitters in the MENA region, with the GHG emissions of the energy sector rising fastest among all sectors. Results also indicated that a 1.00% increase in GDP, population, urbanization, natural resource rents, and FDI raises GHG emissions by 0.48%, 0.61%, 0.86%, 0.29%, and 0.11%, respectively. Conversely, a 1.00% increase in renewable energy consumption reduces GHG emissions by 0.13%. Effective policies promoting renewable energy investment and the adoption of renewable energy could significantly reduce electricity costs and GHG emissions, contributing to achieving climate goals, such as net-zero emissions and environmental sustainability. Additionally, the increase of renewable energy consumption and technology development would improve energy efficiency, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth in the MENA region. This study recommends tailored policy instruments to support the transition to low-emission technologies and strategies. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Social-ecological indicators and framework for assessing the sustainability of shrimp farming in coastal Bangladesh Kazi Atiah TAIYEBI, Natalie Ann Cooper WELDEN, Md Sarwar HOSSAIN Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (5): 100260-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100260 Abstract （62）   HTML （5）    PDF （965KB）（33）       Knowledge map    Save Shrimp farming is a major global aquaculture activity; however, its social and ecological impacts raise sustainability concerns. While previous research has focused on isolated social or environmental aspects of sustainability in shrimp farming, integrated assessments of these factors using a social-ecological systems (SES) approach are rare. A framework for assessing the sustainability of shrimp farming—comprising a set of social and ecological indicators—is developed and conceptualized in this study for the first time, using an integrated, interdisciplinary, and empirical SES approach. We first identified key social and ecological indicators and developed a conceptual framework based on SES approach, then surveyed 90 shrimp farms across 3 coastal regions (including Satkhira, Bagerhat, and Cox’s Bazar districts) in Bangladesh. Nearly all farmers in Satkhira (97%) and all in Bagerhat (100%) expressed dissatisfaction with the decreasing pattern of shrimp production and profitability over the last decade. In contrast, nearly all respondents in Cox’s Bazar (97%) reported satisfaction with increasing shrimp production. Except in Cox’s Bazar, equity in labor payment remained a concern for the social sustainability of the shrimp farming system. The changing pattern of shrimp production and profitability, which does not ensure equity, poses a threat to the sustainability of shrimp farming. Most of the surveyed farmers recognized the mutual benefits of mangrove forests and shrimp farming (97% in Satkhira and 77% in Cox’s Bazar), which suggests potential for the development of policy on integrated mangrove-shrimp farming with community-based management. This research could help assess the sustainability of the shrimp farming system and contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goals 2 (zero hunger) and 8 (decent work and economic growth). By examining existing practices and developing a novel framework, this study highlights informed decision-making and guides methodological discussion on assessing the sustainability of shrimp farming using the SES approach in coastal regions and different aquaculture systems worldwide. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Analysis of environmental protection priority zones and their impacts on urban planning in small- and medium-sized cities of Indonesia Rizal IMANA, Andrea Emma PRAVITASARI, Didit Okta PRIBADI Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (2): 100211-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100211 Abstract （59）   HTML （6）    PDF （2216KB）（19）       Knowledge map    Save Urbanization in small- and medium-sized cities has often been overlooked in urban studies. Research on urbanization has predominantly focused on large metropolitan cities; however, urbanization in small- and medium-sized cities also contributes to the acceleration of urban sprawl. Urban growth boundary (UGB) is an ecological approach designed to limit urban development. This study aimed to analyze environmental protection priority zones by combining ecological quality and sensitivity indices to identify the areas suitable for UGB implementation. Tegal City and its surrounding areas (including Tegal and Brebes regencies) of Indonesia were selected as the study area. The ecological quality index was calculated using the normalized difference vegetation index, humidity index, land surface temperature, and normalized difference bare soil index. These indices were subsequently subjected to principal component analysis (PCA) to extract orthogonal factors, which were summed to derive the final index value. In parallel, we mapped and evaluated ecological sensitivity based on spatial planning policies and regulations. The results revealed that ecological quality in Tegal and Brebes regencies was predominantly categorized as good and very good ecological quality, whereas Tegal City exhibited moderate and poor ecological quality. Additionally, over 45.00% of the area in Tegal and Brebes regencies demonstrated very high ecological sensitivity. Consequently, more than 50.00% of the area in Tegal and Brebes regencies, along with 27.00% of Tegal City, were classified as ecological constraint zone, making them potential regions for UGB development. The UGB is expected to curtail urban expansion, promote compact city planning, and preserve ecosystem services to achieve urban sustainability. This study implies that planning small- and medium-sized cities is important to prevent urban sprawl and maintain environmental health. Designing UGB to limit urban expansion should be enhanced by better knowledge about its ecological functions in supporting urban sustainability. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Relationship between environmental performance indices and blockchain-based sustainability-focused companies: Evidence from countries in Europe and America Hussain Mohi-ud-Din QADRI, Hassnian ALI, Atta UL MUSTAFA Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (2): 100214-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100214 Abstract （58）   HTML （4）    PDF （952KB）（8）       Knowledge map    Save As the world grapples with increasing environmental challenges, innovative technologies are essential for promoting sustainability and accountability. This study examined the impact of environmental performance indices (EPIs) on the growth and investment trends of blockchain-based sustainability-focused companies in 15 countries (Belgium, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Norway, Poland, Sweden, Spain, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States) from Europe and America during 2010-2022. This study used the negative binomial regression model to assess the relationship between EPIs and blockchain-based sustainability-focused companies based on the data from the CrunchBase and EarthData. Results indicated that in ecosystem vitality, national terrestrial biome protection efforts were negatively correlated the formation of blockchain-based sustainability-focused companies, while global terrestrial biome protection efforts and marine protected areas had a positive impact on the formation of these companies and the number of funding rounds. In environmental health, PM2.5 exposure had a positive impact on the number of funding rounds. Conversely, pollutants such as sulfur dioxide (SO2) and ocean plastics deterred the formation of blockchain-based sustainability-focused companies and reduced the number of funding rounds. In climate change performance, adjusted emission growth rate for carbon dioxide (CO2), adjusted emission growth rate for F-gases, and adjusted emission growth rate for black carbon had a significantly positive impact on the formation of blockchain-based sustainability-focused companies. Conversely, adjusted emission growth rate for Nitrous Oxide (N2O) and projected greenhouse gas emissions in 2050 negatively affected the formation of these companies. These findings highlight the dual role of EPIs as driving factors and barriers in the development and investment of blockchain-based sustainability-focused companies in countries from Europe and America. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Exploring the influence of trade openness, energy consumption, natural resource rents, and human capital in achieving carbon neutrality Olani Bekele SAKILU, CHEN Haibo Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (4): 100247-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100247 Abstract （58）   HTML （2）    PDF （1037KB）（8）       Knowledge map    Save Addressing the pressing challenges of climate change and global warming requires a strong commitment to reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and achieving carbon neutrality. Efficient energy use and international trade play crucial roles in promoting sustainable development and enhancing environmental quality. This study investigated the relationships of CO2 emissions with trade openness (export and import), energy consumption (renewable energy consumption and fossil fuel consumption), natural resource rents, and human capital across 20 developing countries (Brazil, Iran, Russia, China, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Colombia, Mexico, South Africa, Costa Rica, Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Pakistan, Türkiye, India, Peru, Viet Nam, Indonesia, and Philippines) from 1990 to 2022 using the augmented mean group (AMG) and common correlated effects mean group (CCEMG) methods. The findings revealed that export, renewable energy consumption, and human capital significantly reduce CO2 emissions, while import, fossil fuel consumption, and natural resource rents increase CO2 emissions, although the effect of natural resource rents is statistically insignificant. Causality tests indicated the bidirectional relationship of CO2 emissions with export, import, renewable energy consumption, and fossil fuel consumption, and the unidirectional causality from human capital to CO2 emissions. CO2 emissions drive the greenhouse effect, thereby raising global temperature and accelerating climate change. As reducing CO2 emissions becomes an urgent global priority, this study provides actionable insights by identifying key variables that mitigate emissions and enhance sustainability. By bridging research and policy, this study offers targeted recommendations to accelerate progress toward a low-carbon future. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Controlling agricultural product price volatility: An empirical analysis from Cameroon Ivette Gnitedem KEUBENG, George Achu MULUH, Vatis Christian KEMEZANG Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (2): 100215-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100215 Abstract （57）   HTML （2）    PDF （884KB）（11）       Knowledge map    Save Motivated by a significant impact of price volatility on food security and economic stability in Cameroon, this study aims to understand the factors influencing agricultural product price volatility (APPV) and formulate effective policies for mitigating its negative impact and promoting sustainable economic growth. Specifically, this research used the autoregressive distributed lag-error correction model (ARDL-ECM) to analyse the impact of agricultural productivity, agricultural product imports, population, temperature variation, gross domestic product (GDP) per capita, and government expenditure on APPV based on the annual data from 2000 to 2021. The ARDL-ECM estimation results revealed that agricultural productivity (β=4.901), agricultural product imports (β=1.012), population (β=13.635), and GDP per capita (β=2.794) were positively related to APPV, while temperature variation (β= -0.990) and government expenditure (β= -8.585) were negatively related to APPV in the long term. However, temperature variation had a positive relationship with APPV in the short term. Moreover, the Granger causality test showed that there were bidirectional causality of APPV with agricultural productivity and agricultural product imports, and unidirectional causality of APPV with population, temperature variation, GDP per capita, and government expenditure. The findings highlight the importance of public policies in stabilizing agricultural product prices by investing in agricultural research, improving access to agricultural inputs, strengthening farmer capacities, implementing climate adaptation measures, and enhancing rural infrastructure. These policies can reduce APPV, improve food security, and promote inclusive economic growth in Cameroon. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Challenges and opportunities in the energy transition of agribusiness: A deep dive into the rebound effect in Latin America Fábio DE OLIVEIRA NEVES, Eduardo Gomes SALGADO, Mateus CURY, Jean Marcel Sousa LIRA, Breno Régis SANTOS Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (3): 100225-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100225 Abstract （56）   HTML （10）    PDF （451KB）（8）       Knowledge map    Save Growing climate change concerns have intensified the focus on agribusiness sustainability, driving an urgent energy transition to improve production efficiency and mitigate environmental harm. The complex interplay between energy efficiency and energy consumption highlights the essential role of strategic energy policies in ensuring sustainable development. This study used the Double-Log regression model with bootstrap resampling to examine the rebound effect in the energy transition of agribusiness focusing on five Latin American countries including Brazil, Argentina, Uruguay, Colombia, and Mexico based on the agricultural sector data during 2010-2022. The findings revealed that the rebound effect significantly influences energy transition, with varying degrees of impact across agricultural sectors. This study identified partial rebound effect across all five countries, with elasticity coefficient varying from 9.63% (Colombia’s coffee sector) to 89.12% (Brazil’s livestock sector). In Brazil’s sugarcane sector, non-renewable energy, agricultural employment, and irrigation efficiency were identified as key factors influencing energy consumption, while in livestock sector, energy consumption was affected by CH4 emissions, income and well-being of farmers, water consumption, and water conservation practices. In Mexico’s livestock sector, CH4 emissions, non-renewable energy, and water conservation practices were the key factors affecting energy consumption. In Argentina’s sugarcane sector, pesticides, NO2 emissions, renewable energy, and agricultural employment were the key factors affecting energy consumption, while renewable energy, income and well-being of farmers, and water consumption were the key factors affecting energy consumption in livestock sector. In Uruguay’s livestock sector, non-renewable energy, income and well-being of farmers, and irrigation efficiency were the key factors affecting energy consumption. In Colombia’ coffee sector, NO2 emissions and irrigation efficiency were identified as key factors influencing energy consumption. Finally, this study reinforces the importance of aligning energy transition with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensuring that energy efficiency gains do not inadvertently increase energy consumption or environmental degradation. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Impact of environmental taxes, hydroelectricity consumption, economic globalization, and gross domestic product (GDP) on the load capacity factor in the selected European Union (EU) member countries Funda KAYA, Badsha MIA, Most. Asikha AKTAR, Md. Shaddam HOSSAIN, Md Mahedi HASSAN, Muhammad Abdur RAHAMAN, Liton Chandra VOUMIK Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (2): 100210-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100210 Abstract （53）   HTML （2）    PDF （780KB）（7）       Knowledge map    Save The intersection of economic development, energy dynamics, environmental policy, and environmental sustainability presents complex challenges for European Union (EU) countries. This study investigated the impact of environmental taxes, hydroelectricity consumption, economic globalization, and gross domestic product (GDP) on the load capacity factor (LCF) in the 10 EU member countries (including Austria, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, and Sweden) using data from 1995 to 2020. To ensure the reliability and validity of the data, this study applied several advanced econometric tests, including the Pesaran and Yamagata slope heterogeneity test, Pesaran cross-sectional dependence (CSD) test, second-generation unit root test, and Westerlund cointegration test. The data showed important statistical issues such as slope heterogeneity across panels, CSD, mixed-order unit root structures, and long-run associations between variables. To address these issues, we applied an augmented mean group (AMG) model as the main regression approach, and used the pooled mean group-autoregressive distributed lag (PMG-ARDL) method to check the robustness. Specifically, the AMG results indicate that a 1.000% rise in hydroelectricity consumption results in a 0.048% rise in the LCF, while a 1.000% increase in environmental taxes leads to a 0.175% increase in the LCF. Contrary to this, a 1.000% increase in economic globalization results in a 0.370% decrease in the LCF, and a 1.000% increase in GDP leads to a 0.850% decrease in the LCF. Environmental taxes have a more beneficial impact on the environment, and GDP has the most detrimental effect. The findings provide empirical evidence on the role of environmental taxes, hydroelectricity consumption, economic globalization, and GDP in driving the LCF. Additionally, the findings provide valuable information to policy-makers, academicians, and stakeholders shaping energy and environmental policies in the 10 EU member countries. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Would resettlement be better? Understanding how poverty alleviation resettlement influences the well-being of poverty alleviation migrants in China LIU Bingsheng, YIN Yimeng, MA Li Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (3): 100228-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100228 Abstract （53）   HTML （3）    PDF （566KB）（10）       Knowledge map    Save Poverty remains one of the most pressing global challenges of this era, affecting millions of people across both developing and developed countries. The poverty alleviation resettlement (PAR) is a policy with Chinese characteristics for eradicating poverty. By integrating the Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and Amartya Sen’s Capability Approach, this study developed a theoretical framework to analyze the factors influencing the well-being of poverty alleviation migrants (PAMs). A telephone survey conducted between July and August 2022 in Hubei Province, Guizhou Province, Shaanxi Province, and Chongqing Municipality of China yielded 259 valid questionnaires. Using the partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM), this study revealed that financial accessibility, health level, living conditions, and social networks significantly enhanced the well-being of PAMs, with living conditions having the strongest impact on the well-being of PAMs. Furthermore, the factors affecting well-being varied across age groups. Social networks played a more significant role in the elderly group, whereas health level had a greater impact on the young and middle-aged group. These findings deepen the understanding of the PAR and its effects on the well-being of PAMs, offering valuable insights for policy-makers and practitioners to refine poverty alleviation strategies and enhance social welfare. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Integrating farmers’ perceptions and empirical climate data to assess agricultural productivity and food security in coastal Bangladesh Md Tauhid Ur RAHMAN, Adnan KHAIRULLAH Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (5): 100259-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100259 Abstract （52）   HTML （8）    PDF （1497KB）（39）       Knowledge map    Save Coastal Bangladesh is highly vulnerable to various impacts of climate change, including rising temperatures, unpredictable precipitation, cyclones, droughts, and saltwater intrusion. These factors collectively threaten agricultural productivity and food security. This study examines the relationship between farmers’ perceptions and observable climatic trends, with a focus on the sustainability of food systems and the promotion of adaptable farming techniques in Bagerhat District, Bangladesh. A mixed-methods strategy was employed, incorporating household surveys (a total of 110 purposively selected farmers), focus group discussions, key informant interviews, and climatic data analysis. The Mann-Kendall test, Sen’s slope estimator, precipitation concentration index (PCI), and standardized rainfall anomaly index (SRAI) were employed to analyze climate trends from 1991 to 2020. The findings showed that more than 70.00% of respondents indicated that summers were becoming warmer, over 50.00% reported that winters were becoming colder, and 63.00% stated that yearly precipitation was decreasing. Farmers reported an increase in flood occurrences and a decline in the predictability of precipitation. Between 2011 and 2019, the output of most rice varieties decreased, with the exception of high-yielding Aman rice and hybrid Boro rice. The results also showed that 60.00% of respondents reported experiencing salinity intrusion, and 57.00% attributed significant yield losses to salinity. Planting salt-tolerant rice varieties (such as BRRI Dhan 67 and Binadhan-10), practicing homestead vegetable cultivation, and moderately integrating shrimp aquaculture were also common adaptive measures. To improve long-term food security in coastal Bangladesh, we suggest growing more salt-tolerant crop varieties, promoting vertical and homestead gardening, enhancing seed systems that are resilient to climate change, and educating farmers on the use of climate-smart farming methods. This study highlights the importance of aligning farmers’ perceptions with observed climatic data to design effective adaptation strategies. The findings of this study can guide policy-makers and development practitioners in strengthening climate-resilient agriculture and ensuring long-term food security in coastal Bangladesh. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Exploring the transformation mechanism of modern agricultural villages in the loess hilly and gully regions using actor-network theory ZHANG Tianyang, LI Linna Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (2): 100212-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100212 Abstract （50）   HTML （6）    PDF （1286KB）（7）       Knowledge map    Save As urbanization accelerates, rural regions in China are experiencing transformative changes. This study examines the transformation mechanism of modern agricultural villages in the loess hilly and gully regions, using Zhaojiawa Village in Shannxi Province of China as a case study. In this study, we explored the village’s evolution amid China’s rural revitalization efforts, highlighting the transition from a traditional agricultural village to a modern agricultural village in the context of rapid urbanization. This study employed actor-network theory (ANT) to investigate the complex interactions among diverse actors that drive rural transformation. ANT interlinks spatial relationships with intricate social networks. We utilized Google Earth remote sensing images in 2015 and 2021 and interview data to construct ANT. Three key dimensions of rural transformation are identified: economic structure transformation, social relationship reorganization, and spatial layout reconstruction. The transformation mechanism in Zhaojiawa Village is underpinned by a network of diverse actors, both human and non-human, aligned around two pivotal stages of agricultural village development (i.e., construction stage and development stage). In the initial construction stage, the Suide County government led a complex actor network to enhance rural living and production spaces. In the development stage, the village committee emerged as a central actor, with increased participation from villagers and external enterprises, facilitating the creation of a multifunctional space. The evolving goals and roles of these key actors contributed to the reconfiguration of the actor network, promoting rural transformation. These insights are applicable to other ecologically vulnerable and economically challenged rural areas in the loess hilly and gully regions, suggesting that collaboration among stakeholders can effectively facilitate the transition to specialized and integrated industries, thereby fostering rural revitalization. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Promoting sustainable mangrove tourism through payments for ecosystem services: Insights from Tongke-Tongke Village, South Sulawesi, Indonesia Abdul MALIK, Muhammad Ichsan ALI, Abdul Rasyid JALIL, Abdul MANNAN, Rahma MUSYAWARAH Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (2): 100213-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100213 Abstract （50）   HTML （2）    PDF （776KB）（12）       Knowledge map    Save Mangrove ecosystems support biodiversity, protect coastal areas, and provide sustainable livelihoods. However, they face significant threats from deforestation and unsustainable land use practices. This study examines the viability of the payments for ecosystem services (PES) programs in promoting sustainable mangrove tourism in Tongke-Tongke Village, Sinjai District, South Sulawesi Province, Indonesia. We collected data through household surveys, semi-structured stakeholder interviews, and tourist questionnaires to evaluate the economic value of mangrove tourism and tourists’ willingness to pay (WTP) for conservation. Analytical methods included quantitative descriptive analysis, thematic analysis, travel cost analysis, and contingent valuation method. The results indicated strong community support, with 70.00% of respondents acknowledging sustainable mangrove tourism’s economic, environmental, and cultural benefits. Economic estimates revealed that mangrove tourism generated 943.00 USD/(hm²•a), while tourists’ WTP for conservation ranged from 0.21 to 0.56 USD/(person•month), contributing approximately 11.39 USD/(hm²•a). Despite challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, socioeconomic disparities, and land privatization, this study advocates for integrating the PES programs, enhancing governance frameworks, and fostering local community engagement to ensure equitable benefit distribution and maximize the potential of mangrove tourism. These strategies aim to bolster conservation efforts, improve local livelihoods, and strengthen the resilience of mangrove ecosystems. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Desertification dynamics in the Tarim Basin during 1990-2020 YU Xiang, LEI Jiaqiang, GAO Xin, SUN Lingxiao, LYU Zhentao, Ireneusz MALIK, Malgorzata WISTUBA Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (3): 100226-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100226 Abstract （49）   HTML （3）    PDF （5640KB）（15）       Knowledge map    Save Desertification poses a significant ecological threat to global sustainability, notably within arid regions such as the Tarim Basin surrounding the extensive Taklimakan Desert in Northwest China. This study used the Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform and Random Forest (RF) to analyze multi-temporal Landsat images to reveal desertification dynamics in the Tarim Basin spanning from 1990 to 2020. The results showed that land use types of the Tarim Basin were classified into three types: artificial oases, natural oases, and desertified land. To robustly quantify the spatiotemporal dynamics of land use, we introduced the Desertification Change Index (DCI), a novel metric specifically designed to measure the transformation sensitivity of land use types. Our analysis demonstrated that from 1990 to 2020, artificial oases showed a continuous increasing trend, while desertified land decreased significantly. Natural oases decreased during 1990-2000, then continued to grow, and showed a decreasing trend again after 2015. Moreover, natural oases have mainly been converted into desertified land and artificial oases. Artificial oases were mainly converted into natural oases, and most of desertified land was converted into natural oases. Regions with significant oasis expansion (DCI=2) were mostly concentrated within the influence radius of artificial oases. In contrast, regions with significant oasis degradation (DCI= -2) were generally farther from artificial oases. Finally, this study found that the changes in land use types of the Tarim Basin are mainly driven by human activities, which play a dual role—mitigating desertification by controlling oasis expansion and exacerbating desertification through unsustainable resource utilization. Ultimately, this research provides essential insights for policy-makers and land managers aiming to devise adaptive and sustainable desertification control measures in the Tarim Basin and similarly arid regions globally. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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How climate change adaptation strategies and climate migration interact to control food insecurity? Mohammad Reza PAKRAVAN-CHARVADEH, Jeyran CHAMCHAM, Rahim MALEKNIA Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (3): 100229-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100229 Abstract （48）   HTML （3）    PDF （444KB）（8）       Knowledge map    Save As the impact of climate change intensifies, climate migration (climate change-induced migration) has become a pressing global issue that requires effective adaptation strategies to lessen its effects. Therefore, this study delved into the complex relationship between climate change adaptation strategies and climate migration with food insecurity serving as a mediating factor. We collected sample data through face-to-face interviews in Khorramabad City, Iran from February to May in 2023. Using the Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), we explored how food insecurity influences the relationship between climate change adaptation strategies and climate migration. The findings showed that while climate change adaptation strategies can boost community resilience, their success is closely tied to levels of food insecurity. About 78.72% of the surveyed households experienced certain levels of food insecurity, increasing the risk of displacement due to climate-related disasters. Climate change adaptation strategies including economic strategies, irrigation management strategies, organic-oriented strategies, sustainable development-oriented strategies, and crop variety management strategies played a significant role in reducing climate migration. Moreover, we found that climate change adaptation strategies not only impact food security, but also shape migration decisions. This research underscores the importance of an integrated approach that links climate change adaptation strategies, climate migration, and food insecurity. This study emphasizes the importance of food security for formulating sustainable adaptation strategies. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Impacts of land use and cover change on carbon storage: Multi-scenario projections in the arid region of Northwest China FENG Xuyu, ZHAO Xiao, TONG Ling, WANG Sufen, DING Risheng, KANG Shaozhong Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (4): 100248-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100248 Abstract （48）   HTML （3）    PDF （4027KB）（86）       Knowledge map    Save Carbon storage serves as a key indicator of ecosystem services and plays a vital role in maintaining the global carbon balance. Land use and cover change (LUCC) is one of the primary drivers influencing carbon storage variations in terrestrial ecosystems. Therefore, evaluating the impacts of LUCC on carbon storage is crucial for achieving strategic goals such as the China’s dual carbon goals (including carbon peaking and carbon neutrality). This study focuses on the Aral Irrigation Area in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China, to assess the impacts of LUCC on regional carbon storage and their spatiotemporal dynamics. A comprehensive LUCC database from 2000 to 2020 was developed using Landsat satellite imagery and the random forest classification algorithm. The integrated valuation of ecosystem services and trade-offs (InVEST) model was applied to quantify carbon storage and analyze its response to LUCC. Additionally, future LUCC patterns for 2030 were projected under multiple development scenarios using the patch-generating land use simulation (PLUS) model. These future LUCC scenarios were integrated with the InVEST model to simulate carbon storage trends under different land management pathways. Between 2000 and 2020, the dominant land use types in the study area were cropland (area proportion of 35.52%), unused land (34.80%), and orchard land (12.19%). The conversion of unused land and orchard land significantly expanded the area of cropland, which increased by 115,742.55 hm2. During this period, total carbon storage and carbon density increased by 7.87×106 Mg C and 20.19 Mg C/hm2, respectively. The primary driver of this increase was the conversion of unused land into cropland, accounting for 49.28% of the total carbon storage gain. Carbon storage was notably lower along the northeastern and southeastern edges. By 2030, the projected carbon storage is expected to increase by 0.99×106, 1.55×106, and 1.71×106 Mg C under the natural development, cropland protection, and ecological conservation scenarios, respectively. In contrast, under the urban development scenario, carbon storage is projected to decline by 0.40×106 Mg C. In line with China’s dual carbon goals, the ecological conservation scenario emerges as the most effective strategy for enhancing carbon storage. Accordingly, strict enforcement of the cropland red line is recommended. This study provides a valuable scientific foundation for regional ecosystem restoration and sustainable development in arid regions. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Integrating neglected and underutilized crops (NUCs) in South Asian cropping systems and diets: Challenges and prospects Saira SHAFIQ, Muhammad ZIA UL HAQ, Syed Abbas RAZA NAQVI, Wardha SARFARAZ, Hina ALI, Muhammad Majid ISLAM, Gul Zaib HASSAN, Muhammad NAWAZ, Tasawer ABBAS Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (4): 100242-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100242 Abstract （47）   HTML （3）    PDF （1937KB）（6）       Knowledge map    Save The present review critically examines the role of neglected and underutilized crops (NUCs) in enhancing the resilience of South Asian cropping systems and diets in the context of climate change and nutritional challenges. This analysis reveals that integrating NUCs, such as millets, sorghums, amaranth, and indigenous legumes, into existing cropping systems can significantly improve the climate resilience, dietary diversity, and ecological sustainability of the food systems. These crops exhibit superior tolerance to abiotic stress and offer higher nutritional density compared to staple cereals, such as rice and wheat. However, their adoption faces challenges, including limited research investment, fragmented value chains, etc. We further identify that complementary cropping strategies and climate-smart agriculture (CSA) practices can optimize resource use while boosting smallholder farmers’ income. NUCs are pivotal for the transformation of exist cropping systems towards nutrition-sensitive and climate-resilient agricultural and food systems. Strategic integration of NUCs can simultaneously address food insecurity, biodiversity loss, and rural poverty. Yet, unlocking their potential requires coordinated efforts in genetic improvement, market development, and policy frameworks tailored to regional contexts. This synthesis provides a comprehensive roadmap for policy-makers, researchers, and farmers to leverage NUCs as “Future Smart Food”. By bridging agronomic, nutritional, and socioeconomic perspectives, this study highlights the transformative potential of NUCs in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) across South Asian countries. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Leveraging farm heterogeneity to enhance living incomes: A gender-sensitive typology of cocoa farming systems in Côte d’Ivoire Franziska OLLENDORF, Claudia CORAL, Constant Yves ADOU YAO, Stefan SIEBER, Katharina LÖHR Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (4): 100245-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100245 Abstract （46）   HTML （3）    PDF （591KB）（71）       Knowledge map    Save About 44% of the world’s cocoa is produced in one single country, Côte d’Ivoire. Providing this important raw material, most Ivorian cocoa farmers live in severe poverty, which, despite a multitude of sector interventions, is still widespread, affecting social and environmental sustainability in cocoa production. In this context, cocoa farmers are still often treated as a homogeneous group of small-scale producers (mainly males), resulting in interventions being conceptualized as one-size-fits-all approaches and failing to deliver support schemes that take farmers’ specific conditions appropriately into account. Applying a broader typology approach that combines farm characteristics with farmers’ characteristics, this study aims to delineate Ivorian cocoa farmers and their farms into specific types in order to improve advice for targeted sustainability interventions and living income (LI) potentials. Principal component analysis and hierarchical clustering analysis of a household dataset collected in 2022 in five cocoa-growing regions of Côte d’Ivoire were chosen to identify types of male-headed farms. To assure gender sensitive analysis, a female-headed farm type was created artificially. The specific characteristics of the identified types were captured using descriptive analysis. Descriptive statistics and non-parametric tests were then applied to examine the relationships between these farm types and various outcomes. Additionally, a binary logistic model was used to estimate the probability of these links in relation to variables relevant for achieving a LI. Finally, Spearman non-parametric correlation was used to identify eventual differences in the strength of relationships between key variables per farm type. Three different types of male-headed farms are identified: type 1 (the most productive and diversified farms with larger size), type 2 (middle-sized farms with strong focus on cash crops), and type 3 (small-sized farms with a good level of diversification for self-consumption). The artificially created type 4 represents female-headed farms with the smallest size. On average, none of these farm types achieves a LI. However, type 1 shows the smallest LI gap, while type 4 is by far the worst. Our analyses reveal underlying socio-economic factors systematically disadvantaging female-headed cocoa farms, most notably limited access to land and other material assets. The key contribution of this study lies in the empirical identification of the different characteristics of farms in a given farming system, thereby identifying the need for targeted support interventions. Type-specific recommendations are made, showing pathways to provide tailored programs to farmers of different types in order to reduce their LI gaps. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）