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Association between people’s attitudes towards human-elephant conflict and their locational, demographic, and socio-economic characteristics in Buxa Tiger Reserve and its adjoining area, India Chiranjib NAD, Tamal BASU-ROY Regional Sustainability    2024, 5 (1): 100109-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2024.03.003 Abstract （156）   HTML （13）    PDF （392KB）（85）       Knowledge map    Save “Human-elephant conflict (HEC)”, the alarming issue, in present day context has attracted the attention of environmentalists and policy makers. The rising conflict between human beings and wild elephants is common in Buxa Tiger Reserve (BTR) and its adjoining area in West Bengal State, India, making the area volatile. People’s attitudes towards elephant conservation activity are very crucial to get rid of HEC, because people’s proximity with wild elephants’ habitat can trigger the occurrence of HEC. The aim of this study is to conduct an in-depth investigation about the association of people’s attitudes towards HEC with their locational, demographic, and socio-economic characteristics in BTR and its adjoining area by using Pearson’s bivariate chi-square test and binary logistic regression analysis. BTR is one of the constituent parts of Eastern Doors Elephant Reserve (EDER). We interviewed 500 respondents to understand their perceptions to HEC and investigated their locational, demographic, and socio-economic characteristics including location of village, gender, age, ethnicity, religion, caste, poverty level, education level, primary occupation, secondary occupation, household type, and source of firewood. The results indicate that respondents who are living in enclave forest villages (EFVs), peripheral forest villages (PFVs), corridor village (CVs), or forest and corridor villages (FCVs), mainly males, at the age of 18-48 years old, engaged with agriculture occupation, and living in kancha and mixed houses, have more likelihood to witness HEC. Besides, respondents who are illiterate or at primary education level are more likely to regard elephant as a main problematic animal around their villages and refuse to participate in elephant conservation activity. For the sake of a sustainable environment for both human beings and wildlife, people’s attitudes towards elephants must be friendly in a more prudent way, so that the two communities can live in harmony. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Sustainable smart city and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): A review Z. R. M. Abdullah KAISER, Apu DEB Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (1): 100193-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100193 Abstract （147）   HTML （6）    PDF （3150KB）（288）       Knowledge map    Save The rapid urbanization and increasing challenges are faced by cities globally, including climate change, population growth, and resource constraints. Sustainable smart city (also referred to as “smart sustainable city”) can offer innovative solutions by integrating advanced technologies to build smarter, greener, and more livable urban environments with significant benefits. Using the Web of Science (WoS) database, this study examined: (i) the mainstream approaches and current research trends in the literature of sustainable smart city; (ii) the extent to which the research of sustainable smart city aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); (iii) the current topics and collaboration patterns in sustainable smart city research; and (iv) the potential opportunities for future research on the sustainable smart city field. The findings indicated that research on sustainable smart city began in 2010 and gained significant momentum in 2013, with China leading, followed by Italy and Spain. Moreover, 59.00% of the selected publications on the research of sustainable smart city focus on SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities). Bibliometric analysis outcome revealed that artificial intelligence (AI), big data, machine learning, and deep learning are emerging research fields. The terms smart city, smart cities, and sustainability emerged as the top three co-occurring keywords with the highest link strength, followed by frequently co-occurring keywords such as AI, innovation, big data, urban governance, resilience, machine learning, and Internet of Things (IoT). The clustering results indicated that current studies explored the theoretical foundation, challenges, and future prospects of sustainable smart city, with an emphasis on sustainability. To further support urban sustainability and the attainment of SDGs, the future research of sustainable smart city should explore the application and implications of AI and big data on urban development including cybersecurity and governance challenges. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Preparedness, knowledge, and perception of nursing students about climate change and its impact on human health in India Ramya Kundayi RAVI, Priya BABY, Nidhin ELIAS, Jisa George THOMAS, Kathyayani Bidadi VEERABHADRAIAH, Bharat PAREEK Regional Sustainability    2024, 5 (1): 100116-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2024.100116 Abstract （135）   HTML （9）    PDF （428KB）（155）       Knowledge map    Save Higher education plays an important role in all aspects of sustainability. Infusing climate change and sustainability into the curriculum is important to prepare future health-care professionals for climate change and sustainability actions to build resilient health systems. In this study, we evaluated the preparedness, knowledge, and perception regarding climate change and its impact on human health among Indian nursing students. A quantitative descriptive survey was conducted among 644 undergraduate nursing students studying in three institutes in the southern, northern, and western parts of India. We used a structured online questionnaire with established validity and reliability to collect data. The data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 26 software. The results showed that more than half of the students reported experiencing excessive increase (362; 56.2%) and decrease (374; 58.1%) in temperature in recent years. Though more than three quarters of the students (494; 76.7%) accepted the general truth that climate change is mainly caused by human activities, only less than half of the students (309; 48.0%) perceived the impact of climate change to be high. Three quarters of the students (483; 75.0%) had a high level of knowledge regarding climate change. The students who had a high level of knowledge about climate change exerted a high perceived impact of climate change (χ2=75.47; P<0.01). More than half of the students (50.9%) felt that they needed information about climate change to be included in the nursing curriculum, and only one sixth of the students (16.1%) were highly confident about engaging in climate change-related conversation with patients. Most of the students who participated in the study had basic knowledge about climate change and its impact on human health. However, there is an observed gap between knowledge and their preparedness and confidence to engage in climate change actions. Hence, we propose to strengthen the nursing curriculum by integrating various curricular and co-curricular activities related to climate change, so that future nurses are empowered to become climate change advocates. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Cost and benefit analysis of Climate-Smart Agriculture interventions in the dryland farming systems of northern Ghana Felix KPENEKUU, Philip ANTWI-AGYEI, Fred NIMOH, Andrew DOUGILL, Albert BANUNLE, Jonathan ATTA-AIDOO, Frank BAFFOUR-ATA, Thomas Peprah AGYEKUM, Godfred ADDAI, Lawrence GUODAAR Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (1): 100196-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100196 Abstract （133）   HTML （11）    PDF （611KB）（14）       Knowledge map    Save There is a need for more focus in understanding the economic benefits of Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) interventions, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where extreme climate events are significantly affecting agriculture and rural livelihoods. This study used the Net Present Value (NPV), Internal Rate of Return (IRR), Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR), and payback period to evaluate the economic viability of the adopted CSA interventions in the three villages (Doggoh, Jeffiri, and Wulling) of the dryland farming systems of northern Ghana, where CSA interventions were mostly practiced. Data were collected from 161 farm households by the questionnaire survey. The results showed that CSA interventions including livestock-crop integration, mixed cropping, crop rotation, nutrient integration, and tie ridging enhanced crop yield and the household income of smallholder farmers. The five CSA interventions selected by smallholders were in the following order of priority: livestock-crop integration (BCR=2.87), mixed cropping (BCR=2.54), crop rotation (BCR=2.24), nutrient integration (BCR=1.98), and tie ridging (BCR=1.42). Results further showed that livestock-crop integration was the most profitable CSA intervention even under a pessimistic assumption with a long payback period of 5.00 a. Moreover, this study indicated that the implementation of CSA interventions, on average, was relatively profitable and had a nominal financial risk for smallholder farmers. Understanding the economic viability of CSA interventions will help in decision-making process toward selecting the right CSA interventions for resilience development. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Encouraging circular economy and sustainable environmental practices by addressing waste management and biomass energy production Nazim Forid ISLAM, Bhoirob GOGOI, Rimon SAIKIA, Balal YOUSAF, Mahesh NARAYAN, Hemen SARMA Regional Sustainability    2024, 5 (4): 100174-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2024.100174 Abstract （133）   HTML （7）    PDF （942KB）（18）       Knowledge map    Save The current linear economy assumes abundant, easily accessible, and cost-effective natural resources. However, this assumption is unsustainable, especially considering the world’s current trajectory exceeding the Earth’s ecological limits. In contrast, circular economy (CE) reduces wastes and improves resource efficiency, making them a more sustainable alternative to the dominant linear model. Biomass energy generated from agricultural leftovers, forestry wastes, and municipal trash provides a renewable substitute for fossil fuels. This reduces greenhouse gas emissions and improves energy security. Proper waste management, including trash reduction, recycling, and innovative waste-to-energy technology, reduces the burden on landfills and incineration and creates renewable energy from materials that would otherwise go to waste. Although integrating these techniques is consistent with the CE’s resource efficiency and waste minimization principles, it requires addressing environmental, technical, and socioeconomic challenges. Given the pressing global issues, transitioning to a CE and implementing sustainable environmental practices are crucial to mitigate the current waste management crisis. The aim of this study is to emphasize the viability of biomass as a source of sustainable energy, the necessity of comprehensive strategies that prioritize ecological sustainability, community involvement, and innovation to achieve a circular principle based future, and the potential obstacles to the implementation of sustainable environmental practices. This study will aid in implementing CE practices to accomplish the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and landfill loads. Beyond environmental benefits, it can also bring economic, social, and health improvements. Furthermore, this study will assist societies in addressing global issues, such as resource scarcity, pollution, and climate change, as well as transitioning to a more sustainable and resilient future. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Spatial distribution and potential ecological and health risks associated with heavy metals in the Ijero-Ekiti mining site, Nigeria Johnson Adedeji OLUSOLA, Adeyinka Oluyemi ATURAMU, Olufunke ASAOLU, Olusesan Sola OGUNLEYE Regional Sustainability    2024, 5 (1): 100110-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2024.03.004 Abstract （129）   HTML （7）    PDF （4688KB）（65）       Knowledge map    Save Artisanal gold mining, a labor-intensive and antiquated technique, is a growing industry and the source of income for rural communities all over the world. However, artisanal gold mining has potential negative and long-term effects on economy, environment, and society. This study collected soil samples from 16 sample points including a control point to examine the pollution degrees and spatial distribution of heavy metals, as well as ecological and health risks associated with heavy metal pollution in the Ijero-Ekiti mining site, Nigeria. Geographical Information System (GIS) and remote sensing technologies were used to identify regions with high concentrations of heavy metals and assess the environmental impact of gold mining activities. The results show that the mean heavy metal concentrations of 16 soil pointa are 8.94 (±5.97) mg/kg for As, 0.18 (±0.54) mg/kg for Cd, 0.11 (±1.06) mg/kg for Co, 14.32 (±3.43) mg/kg for Cr, 6.89 (±0.64) mg/kg for Cu, 48.92 (±11.77) mg/kg for Fe, 135.81 (±30.75) mg/kg for Mn, 5.92 (±0.96) mg/kg for Ni, 5.72 (±1.66) mg/kg for Pb, and 13.94 (±1.38) mg/kg for Zn. The study reveals that heavy metal concentration in soils follows the order of Mn>Fe>Cr>Zn>As>Cu>Ni>Pb>Co>Cd. An analysis of soil samples indicates that 3 principal components (PCs) account for 70.008% of the total variance and there are strong positive correlations between various pairs of heavy metals. The total potential ecological risk index (309.599) in the study area is high. Non-carcinogenic risk suggests that there may be long-term health impacts on people who work in the mining areas due to chronic exposure to the environment. Based on the study, the hazard index of carcinogenic health risks associated with heavy metals through ingestion is 520.00×10-4. Dermal contact from As and Cr also increases the risk of cancer, with the highest hazard index value of 18.40×10-4. The lowest exposure pathway, with the hazard index value of 0.68×10-4, indicates that the inhalation of heavy metals has a comparatively low risk of cancer. This study recommends the formulation of policies to monitor the Ijero-Ekiti mining site and other regions in Nigeria where indiscriminate artisanal gold mining activities exist. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Spatial differences of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) among counties (cities) on the northern slope of the Kunlun Mountains WANG Tao, ZHOU Daojing, FAN Jie Regional Sustainability    2024, 5 (1): 100108-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2024.03.002 Abstract （123）   HTML （27）    PDF （879KB）（100）       Knowledge map    Save The county (city) located on the northern slope of the Kunlun Mountains is the primary area to solidify and extend the success of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China in poverty alleviation. Its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are intertwined with the concerted economic and social development of Xinjiang and the objective of achieving shared prosperity within the region. This study established a sustainable development evaluation framework by selecting 15 SDGs and 20 secondary indicators from the United Nations’ SDGs. The aim of this study is to quantitatively assess the progress of SDGs at the county (city) level on the northern slope of the Kunlun Mountains. The results indicate that there are substantial variations in the scores of SDGs among the nine counties and one city located on the northern slope of the Kunlun Mountains. Notable high scores of SDGs are observed in the central and eastern regions, whereas lower scores are prevalent in the western areas. The scores of SDGs, in descending order, are as follows: 62.22 for Minfeng County, 54.22 for Hotan City, 50.21 for Qiemo County, 42.54 for Moyu County, 41.56 for Ruoqiang County, 41.39 for Qira County, 39.86 for Lop County, 38.25 for Yutian County, 38.10 for Pishan County, and 36.87 for Hotan County. The performances of SDGs reveal that Hotan City, Lop County, Minfeng County, and Ruoqiang County have significant sustainable development capacity because they have three or more SDGs ranked as green color. However, Hotan County, Moyu County, Qira County, and Yutian County show the poorest performance, as they lack SDGs with green color. It is important to establish and enhance mechanisms that can ensure sustained income growth among poverty alleviation beneficiaries, sustained improvement in the capacity of rural governance, and the gradual improvement of social security system. These measures will facilitate the effective implementation of SDGs. Finally, this study offers a valuable support for governmental authorities and relevant departments in their decision-making processes. In addition, these results hold significant reference value for assessing SDGs at the county (city) level, particularly in areas characterized by low levels of economic development. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Relationship between drought and soil erosion based on the normalized differential water index (NDWI) and revised universal soil loss equation (RUSLE) model Muhammad RENDANA, Wan Mohd Razi IDRIS, Febrinasti ALIA, Supli Effendi RAHIM, Muhammad YAMIN, Muhammad IZZUDIN Regional Sustainability    2024, 5 (4): 100183-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2024.100183 Abstract （123）   HTML （7）    PDF （1408KB）（29）       Knowledge map    Save The Langat River Basin in Malaysia is vulnerable to soil erosion risks because of its exposure to intensive land use activities and its topography, which primarily consists of steep slopes and mountainous areas. Furthermore, climate change frequently exposes this basin to drought, which negatively affects soil and water conservation. However, recent studies have rarely shown how soil reacts to drought, such as soil erosion. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to evaluate the relationship between drought and soil erosion in the Langat River Basin. We analyzed drought indices using Landsat 8 satellite images in November 2021, and created the normalized differential water index (NDWI) via Landsat 8 data to produce a drought map. We used the revised universal soil loss equation (RUSLE) model to predict soil erosion. We verified an association between the NDWI and soil erosion data using a correlation analysis. The results revealed that the southern and northern regions of the study area experienced drought events. We predicted an average annual soil erosion of approximately 58.11 t/(hm2•a). Analysis of the association between the NDWI and soil erosion revealed a strong positive correlation, with a Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.86. We assumed that the slope length and steepness factor was the primary contributor to soil erosion in the study area. As a result, these findings can help authorities plan effective measures to reduce the impacts of drought and soil erosion in the future. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Exploring well-being disparities between urban and rural areas: A case study in the Stavropol Territory, Russia Anastasia CHAPLITSKAYA, Wim HEIJMAN, Johan van OPHEM Regional Sustainability    2024, 5 (1): 100114-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2024.100114 Abstract （121）   HTML （12）    PDF （349KB）（34）       Knowledge map    Save Rural areas are crucial for a country’s sustainable economy. New strategies are needed to develop rural areas to improve the well-being of rural population and generate new job opportunities. This is especially important in countries where agricultural production accounts for a significant share of the gross product, such as Russia. In this study, we identified the key indicators of satisfaction and differences between rural and urban citizens based on their social, economic, and environmental backgrounds, and determined whether there are well-being disparities between rural and urban areas in the Stavropol Territory, Russia. We collected primary data through a survey based on the European Social Survey framework to investigate the potential differences between rural and urban areas. By computing the regional well-being index using principal component analysis, we found that there was no statistically significant difference in well-being between rural and urban areas. Results of key indicators showed that rural residents felt psychologically more comfortable and safer, assessed their family relationships better, and adhered more to traditions and customs. However, urban residents showed better economic and social conditions (e.g., infrastructures, medical care, education, and Internet access). The results of this study imply that we can better understand the local needs, advantages, and unique qualities, thereby gaining insight into the effectiveness of government programs. Policy-makers and local authorities can consider targeted interventions based on the findings of this study and strive to enhance the well-being of both urban and rural residents. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Assessment of vegetation cover changes and the contributing factors in the Al-Ahsa Oasis using Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) Walid CHOUARI Regional Sustainability    2024, 5 (1): 100111-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2024.03.005 Abstract （112）   HTML （10）    PDF （822KB）（53）       Knowledge map    Save The abandonment of date palm grove of the former Al-Ahsa Oasis in the eastern region of Saudi Arabia has resulted in the conversion of delicate agricultural area into urban area. The current state of the oasis is influenced by both expansion and degradation factors. Therefore, it is important to study the spatiotemporal variation of vegetation cover for the sustainable management of oasis resources. This study used Landsat satellite images in 1987, 2002, and 2021 to monitor the spatiotemporal variation of vegetation cover in the Al-Ahsa Oasis, applied multi-temporal Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) data spanning from 1987 to 2021 to assess environmental and spatiotemporal variations that have occurred in the Al-Ahsa Oasis, and investigated the factors influencing these variation. This study reveals that there is a significant improvement in the ecological environment of the oasis during 1987-2021, with increase of NDVI values being higher than 0.10. In 2021, the highest NDVI value is generally above 0.70, while the lowest value remains largely unchanged. However, there is a remarkable increase in NDVI values between 0.20 and 0.30. The area of low NDVI values (0.00-0.20) has remained almost stable, but the region with high NDVI values (above 0.70) expands during 1987-2021. Furthermore, this study finds that in 1987-2002, the increase of vegetation cover is most notable in the northern region of the study area, whereas from 2002 to 2021, the increase of vegetation cover is mainly concentrated in the northern and southern regions of the study area. From 1987 to 2021, NDVI values exhibit the most pronounced variation, with a significant increase in the “green” zone (characterized by NDVI values exceeding 0.40), indicating a substantial enhancement in the ecological environment of the oasis. The NDVI classification is validated through 50 ground validation points in the study area, demonstrating a mean accuracy of 92.00% in the detection of vegetation cover. In general, both the user’s and producer’s accuracies of NDVI classification are extremely high in 1987, 2002, and 2021. Finally, this study suggests that environmental authorities should strengthen their overall forestry project arrangements to combat sand encroachment and enhance the ecological environment of the Al-Ahsa Oasis. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Assessment of soil erosion in the Irga watershed on the eastern edge of the Chota Nagpur Plateau, India Ratan PAL, Buddhadev HEMBRAM, Narayan Chandra JANA Regional Sustainability    2024, 5 (1): 100112-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2024.03.006 Abstract （107）   HTML （12）    PDF （3410KB）（44）       Knowledge map    Save Human activities to improve the quality of life have accelerated the natural rate of soil erosion. In turn, these natural disasters have taken a great impact on humans. Human activities, particularly the conversion of vegetated land into agricultural land and built-up area, stand out as primary contributors to soil erosion. The present study investigated the risk of soil erosion in the Irga watershed located on the eastern fringe of the Chota Nagpur Plateau in Jharkhand, India, which is dominated by sandy loam and sandy clay loam soil with low soil organic carbon (SOC) content. The study used the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) and Geographical Information System (GIS) technique to determine the rate of soil erosion. The five parameters (rainfall-runoff erosivity (R) factor, soil erodibility (K) factor, slope length and steepness (LS) factor, cover-management (C) factor, and support practice (P) factor) of the RUSLE were applied to present a more accurate distribution characteristic of soil erosion in the Irga watershed. The result shows that the R factor is positively correlated with rainfall and follows the same distribution pattern as the rainfall. The K factor values in the northern part of the study area are relatively low, while they are relatively high in the southern part. The mean value of the LS factor is 2.74, which is low due to the flat terrain of the Irga watershed. There is a negative linear correlation between Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and the C factor, and the high values of the C factor are observed in places with low NDVI. The mean value of the P factor is 0.210, with a range from 0.000 to 1.000. After calculating all parameters, we obtained the average soil erosion rate of 1.43 t/(hm2•a), with the highest rate reaching as high as 32.71 t/(hm2•a). Therefore, the study area faces a low risk of soil erosion. However, preventative measures are essential to avoid future damage to productive and constructive activities caused by soil erosion. This study also identifies the spatial distribution of soil erosion rate, which will help policy-makers to implement targeted soil erosion control measures. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Agricultural intensity for sustainable regional development: A case study in peri-urban areas of Karawang Regency, Indonesia Setyardi Pratika MULYA, Delik HUDALAH Regional Sustainability    2024, 5 (1): 100117-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2024.100117 Abstract （106）   HTML （8）    PDF （2529KB）（44）       Knowledge map    Save Peri-urban areas are playing an increasingly crucial role in the agricultural development and intensification in Indonesia. Peri-urban agriculture is highly vulnerable to change compared with urban and rural agriculture, due to its location in transitional areas. Indicators of peri-urban agricultural intensity can help guide regional development. In this study, we assessed the sustainability of peri-urban areas based on agricultural intensity in Karawang Regency, Indonesia. We developed a village-based index to assess the region’s agricultural intensity by rescaling the village agriculture index (VAI) and combining the local sustainability index (LSI) with factor analysis. Since the unit of analysis is the village, we modified the LSI to the village sustainability index (VSI). In addition, we also developed a logical matrix analysis to determine the level of agricultural sustainability (LoAS) of each village. The combined results of the three indices (VAI, VSI, and LoAS) generated information about agricultural sustainability. The results indicated that peri-urban villages with high agricultural intensity tended to exhibit low levels of social welfare, economic development, and disaster risk. Moreover, high agricultural intensity did not necessarily ensure the prosperity of the people. Instead, there was the economic disparity among the villages in the study area. Encouraging diversity of agricultural intensity seems to be more critical than promoting agricultural intensity itself. Overall, this study highlights the distinctive characteristics and dynamic of peri-urban areas. New approaches, variables, and information regarding the combination of agricultural intensity and sustainability need to be developed as valuable tools for regional planning. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Socio-economic vulnerability level in the Jeneberang watershed in Gowa Regency, South Sulawesi Province, Indonesia Andi Rachmat ARFADLY, Hazairin ZUBAIR, MAHYUDDIN, Andang Suryana SOMA Regional Sustainability    2024, 5 (1): 100113-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2024.03.007 Abstract （105）   HTML （8）    PDF （523KB）（105）       Knowledge map    Save Jeneberang watershed is vital, particularly for people living in Gowa Regency (South Sulawesi Province, Indonesia), who benefit from its many advantages. Landslides and floods occur every year in the Jeneberang watershed, so it is imperative to understand the socio-economic vulnerability of this region. This research aims to identify the vulnerability level of the Jeneberang watershed so that the government can prioritize areas with high vulnerability level and formulate effective strategies to reduce these the vulnerability. Specifically, this study was conducted in 12 districts located in the Jeneberang watershed. The primary data were collected from questionnaires completed by community members, community leaders, and various stakeholders, and the secondary data were from the Landsat satellite imagery in 2020, the Badan Push Statistic of Gowa Regency, and some governmental agencies. The socio-economic vulnerability variables were determined using the Multiple Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) method, and each variable was weighted and analyzed using the Geographical Information System (GIS). The study reveals that the levels of socio-economic vulnerability are affected by variables such as population density, vulnerable groups (disabled people, elderly people, and young people), road network and settlement, percentage of poor people, and productive land area in the Jeneberang watershed. Moreover, all of the 12 districts in the Jeneberang watershed are included in the medium vulnerability level, with the mean percentage of socio-economic vulnerability around 50.92%. The socio-economic vulnerability of Bajeng, Pallangga, and Somba Opu districts is categorized at high level, the socio-economic vulnerability of Bungaya, Parangloe, and Tombolo Pao districts is classified as medium level, and the remaining 6 districts (Barombong, Bontolempangan, Bontomarannu, Manuju, Parigi, and Tinggimoncong) are ranked as low socio-economic vulnerability. This study can help policy-makers to formulate strategy that contributes to the protection of biodiversity and sustainable development of the Jeneberang watershed, while improving disaster resilience and preparedness of the watershed. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Green hydrogen production from wind energy in Far Eastern Federal District (FEFD), the Russian Federation Mihail DEMIDIONOV Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (1): 100199-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100199 Abstract （105）   HTML （4）    PDF （1184KB）（23）       Knowledge map    Save There is a gradual increase in the proportion of renewable energy sources. Green hydrogen has the potential to become one of the major energy carriers in the future. The Russian Federation, in partnership with countries in the Asia-Pacific region and especially China, has the potential to play a significant role in green hydrogen market. This study assessed the potential of developing green hydrogen energy based on wind power in the Far Eastern Federal District (FEFD) of the Russian Federation. Empirical wind speed data were collected from 20 meteorological stations in 4 regions (Sakhalinskaya Oblast’, Primorskiy Krai, Khabarovskiy Krai, and Amurskaya Oblast’) of the FEFD. The Weibull distribution was used to predict the potential of green hydrogen production. Five different methods (Empirical Method of Justus (EMJ), Empirical Method of Lysen (EML), Maximum Likelihood Method (MLE), Power Density Method (PDM), and Median and Quartiles Method (MQM)) were used to determine the parameters (scape factor and scale factor) of the Weibull distribution. We calculated the total electricity generation potential based on the technical specifications of the three wind turbines: Senvion 6150 onshore, H165-4.0 MW, and Vestas V150-4.2 MW. The results showed that Vladivostok, Pogibi, Ilyinskiy, Yuzhno-Kuril’sk, Severo-Kuril’sk, Kholmsk, and Okha stations had the higher potential of green hydrogen production, of which Vladivostok exhibited the highest potential of green hydrogen production using the wind turbine of H165-4.0 MW, up to 2.56×105 kg/a. In terms of economic analysis, the levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH) values of lower than 4.00 USD/kg were obtained at Yuzhno-Kuril’sk, Ilyinskiy, Pogibi, and Vladivostok stations using the wind turbine of H165-4.0 MW, with the values of 3.54, 3.50, 3.24, and 2.55 USD/kg, respectively. This study concluded that the FEFD possesses significant potential in the production of green hydrogen and, with appropriate investment, has the potential to become a significant hub for green hydrogen trading in the Asia-Pacific region. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Livelihood vulnerability of indigenous people to climate change around the Kerinci Seblat National Park in Bengkulu, Indonesia Septri WIDIONO, Ekawati Sri WAHYUNI, Lala M. KOLOPAKING, Arif SATRIA Regional Sustainability    2024, 5 (4): 100181-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2024.100181 Abstract （99）   HTML （2）    PDF （612KB）（7）       Knowledge map    Save Indigenous people around the Kerinci Seblat National Park (KSNP), Indonesia, have a high dependence on forest resources as their main source of livelihood. This study addressed the vulnerability of Rejang indigenous people around the KSNP to climate change. The popular livelihood vulnerability index (LVI) model was adapted by adding and modifying subcomponents suitable for the study area. Primary data were collected through household surveys in two communities: Embong and Topos. In total, 146 samples were selected for this study using stratified random sampling. The results showed that Embong was more vulnerable to climate change than Topos. Embong exhibited a higher level of vulnerability to the effects of socio-demographic profile, social network, health, and natural disasters and climate variability, whereas Topos was more vulnerable to livelihood strategy, food, and water. Furthermore, Embong was more exposed to natural disasters and climate variability than Topos, but it demonstrated higher adaptive capacity and lower sensitivity than Topos. Nevertheless, socio-demographic profile influenced adaptive capacity in both communities. Sensitivity was influenced most by health in Embong, and sensitivity was influenced most by food in Topos. Although the vulnerability levels were not high in the two communities, several subcomponents must be specifically considered. Overall, this study can help the government make informed decisions to enhance adaptive capacity of the KSNP to climate change. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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A system-integrated approach for the design of tourist areas at the local level under changing conditions: A case study in the Altay Mountains Alexandr Nikolaevich DUNETS, Evgeniya Mikhailovna TABAKAEVA, HAN Fang Regional Sustainability    2024, 5 (2): 100142-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2024.100142 Abstract （96）   HTML （13）    PDF （3750KB）（107）       Knowledge map    Save The existing approaches for the design of tourist areas often lead to limited flexibility in project implementation. To realize a more flexible approach, in this study, we formulated a model for planning and designing tourist areas at the local level. Moreover, specific tools for analyzing tourist areas and ensuring sustainable development under changing conditions were developed. This study was conducted in two tourist regions, Biryuzovaya Katun tourist complex and Belokurikha destination (including Belokurikha City with Belokurikha 2 Gornaya tourist complex and surrounding areas), in the Altay Mountains. We employed the recreation opportunity spectrum and proposed a system-integrated programming approach for the design of tourist areas at the destination and site levels. The key of this approach was the collection and analysis of current spatial data, including the spatial distribution of attractions and visitor flows. We constructed heat maps using video recording and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) observation data. Moreover, we analyzed the video stream using an image-analyzing framework You Only Look Once (YOLO) v5 software. The heat map of visitor flows based on video recording data in the Andreevskaya Sloboda museum of Belokurikha 2 Gornaya tourist complex allowed us to highlight the most attractive sites in this area and classify them into one of three types: points of functional concentration, points of transitional concentration, and points of attractions. The heat maps in Biryuzovaya Katun tourist complex, created using UAV observation data, allowed us to determine the spatiotemporal patterns of visitor flows and tourists’ preferences throughout the day within four time intervals: 09:00-12:00, 13:00-14:00, 14:00-15:00, and 16:00-18:00 (LST). The maximum visitor flow density occurred from 16:00 to 18:00 in the beach area of the artificial lake. A comparison between the visitor-concentrated sites and the current facilities provided insights into the demand for attractions and facilities and the lacking areas. Heat maps are useful in analyzing the land use at the site level, while zoning based on the recreation opportunity spectrum can be used to design tourist areas at the destination level. The proposed methods for analyzing the use of tourist areas contribute to the development of adaptive tourism design. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Preserving environmental quality of ecotourism sites through community participation in Purulia District of West Bengal, India Piyall CHATTERJEE, Soumyendra Kishore DATTA Regional Sustainability    2024, 5 (3): 100163-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2024.100163 Abstract （95）   HTML （7）    PDF （440KB）（13）       Knowledge map    Save The importance of valuing environmental resources, especially in ecotourism sites, has become increasingly important over the last two decades. Ecotourism is now considered as an important source of livelihood of local stakeholders in backward regions. Therefore, the preservation of ecotourism sites through community participation seems very important to maintain continued flow of tourists. This study aimed at recognizing the importance of community participation for the preservation of ecotourism sites. For this, this study executed a survey based on non-probability sampling in two ecotourism sites (Garpanchkot and Baranti) covering 100 respondents in Purulia District, West Bengal of India. The central issue of this study was to assess the tendency of community participation for the conservation of ecotourism sites and find the optimum condition for offering participatory labour time. This study showed that the participation of young people is high, and the majority of respondents are aware of the importance in protecting ecotourism sites. Because respondents were too poor to offer money, the contingent valuation method (CVM) was used to elicit their willingness to pay (WTP) participatory labour time for the conservation of ecotourism sites. Respondents’ age, income, education level, caste, and their perceived environmental quality had significant relationship with their WTP participatory labour time by applying the ordinary least square (OLS) model. It was found that the mean WTP participatory labour time of each respondent in a month is approximately 3.64 h. The significance of this study is that community participation can improve the sense of belonging, trust, and credibility of ecotourism sites, making them more appreciative of the value and protection of these sites. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Qualitative assessment of the impact of waste littering and dumping on surface water quality in Nigeria Gloria FAYOMI, Ednah ONYARI, Onyeka NKWONTA Regional Sustainability    2025, 6 (1): 100194-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2025.100194 Abstract （94）   HTML （6）    PDF （824KB）（191）       Knowledge map    Save Water resources are vital for all living beings and should be managed properly to ensure the safety and well-being of humankind. Surface water bodies are constantly faced with serious contamination risks generated primarily by human activities and urbanization. The problem of waste littering and dumping in developing countries like Nigeria is increasingly affecting environmental resources such as air and water. Several studies have revealed alarming levels of heavy metals that exceed the World Health Organization (WHO) standards. Plastic waste represents a substantial portion of litter, affecting water quality. Pollution results in the depletion of aquatic ecosystems and an increase in water-related diseases. This review aims to assess the impact of waste littering and dumping on surface water quality in Nigeria. In this review, the findings of various studies on surface water bodies in Nigeria, particularly those under the influence of urbanization and waste disposal, were compiled. This review compared numerous physical and chemical parameters like pH, dissolved oxygen, and heavy metals, and microbiological properties such as total coliforms. The water quality index (WQI) was also computed in these studies to ascertain the suitability of the water samples for human consumption. Review results showed that numerous water bodies in Nigeria have significantly diverse water quality levels, with some samples meeting or exceeding the WHO guidelines for microbiological, chemical, and physical characteristics. Notably, levels of heavy metals, turbidity, and pH frequently exceeded permissible limits, pointing to contamination from agricultural and industrial sources. The WQI results for multiple locations revealed that the majority of surface water sources were classified as “bad” to “very bad”, meaning they were unfit for human consumption. The results emphasized the critical need for immediate action to prevent further harm and deterioration of surface water bodies in Nigeria. Recommendations include strengthening waste management policies, promoting recycling initiatives, fostering collaborations among stakeholders, developing littering penalties and enforcing fines to curb the challenge, and raising educational awareness from the primary level. This review emphasizes the need for proactive measures to protect the environment and surface water quality in Nigeria. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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What are the underlying causes and dynamics of land use conflicts in metropolitan junction areas? A case study of the central Chengdu- Chongqing region in China TIAN Junfeng, WANG Binyan, QIU Cheng, WANG Shijun Regional Sustainability    2024, 5 (3): 100161-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2024.100161 Abstract （91）   HTML （8）    PDF （2088KB）（20）       Knowledge map    Save Land use conflicts (LUCs), as a spatial manifestation of the conflicts in the human-land relationships, have a profound impact on regional sustainable development. For China’s metropolitan junction areas (MJAs), the existence of “administrative district economies” has made the issue of LUCs more prominent. Based on a case study of the central Chengdu-Chongqing region, we conducted an exploratory spatial data analysis of the evolutionary process of regional LUCs. Furthermore, structural equation modeling was utilized to analyze the dynamic mechanism of LUCs in MJAs, with a particular emphasis on exploring the influences of administrative boundary. The results showed that from 2010 to 2020, LUCs in the central Chengdu-Chongqing region continued to worsen, and the spatial process conflict and spatial structure conflict indices increased by more than 30.0%. The intensification of LUCs in the central Chengdu-Chongqing region from 2010 to 2020 was mainly the result of the deterioration of conflicts in evaluation units with low conflict levels. LUCs in China’s metropolitan areas generally presented a circular gradient distribution, weakening from the core to the periphery, but there were some strong isolated conflict zones in the outer regions. LUCs in China’s MJAs were the result of interactions among multiple factors, e.g., natural environment, socio-economic development, policy and institutional processes, and administrative boundary effects. Administrative boundary affected the flow of socio-economic elements, changing the supply-and-demand competition of stakeholders for land resources, consequently exerting an indirect influence on LUCs. This study advances the theory of the dynamic mechanism of LUCs, and provides theoretical support for the governance of these conflicts in transboundary areas. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）

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Coupling coordinated development among digital economy, regional innovation, and talent employment: A case study in the Hangzhou Metropolitan Circle, China QIU Luyi, Sharina OSMAN, HUA Yidi Regional Sustainability    2024, 5 (1): 100115-.   DOI: 10.1016/j.regsus.2024.100115 Abstract （91）   HTML （10）    PDF （521KB）（226）       Knowledge map    Save Coordinative development across various systems, particularly the economic, social, cultural, and human resources subsystems, is a key aspect of urban sustainability and has a direct impact on the quality of urbanization. The Hangzhou Metropolitan Circle, comprising Hangzhou City, Huzhou City, Jiaxing City, and Shaoxing City, was the first metropolitan circle approved by the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) as a demonstration of economic transformation in China. To evaluate the coupling coordination degree of the four cities and analyze the coordinative development in three systems (including digital economy, regional innovation, and talent employment), we collected panel data during 2015-2022 from these four cities. The development level of the three systems was evaluated by the standard deviation method and comprehensive development index. The results are as follows: (1) the level of coupling coordinated development of the three systems in the Hangzhou Metropolitan Circle was relatively low; (2) the coupling coordination degree of the four cities in the Hangzhou Metropolitan Circle showed significant regional differences, among which Hangzhou City was in the leading position, and Huzhou, Jiaxing, and Shaoxing cities made steady but slow progress in the coupling development of the three systems; and (3) the development of digital economy and talent employment needs to be strengthened. This study contributes to the coordinative development of Hangzhou Metropolitan Circle by innovatively focusing on the coupling coordination relationship among digital economy, regional innovation, and talent employment, which also meets the industrial layout of Hangzhou Metropolitan Circle. In this way, the optimal allocation and sustainable development of digital economy, regional innovation, and talent employment in the Hangzhou Metropolitan Circle can be achieved. Table and Figures | Reference | Related Articles | Metrics | Comments（0）