Search Results (47)

Agrarian women are at the forefront of rural livelihoods increasingly affected by the frequency and severity of climate change impacts. However, their household livelihood resilience (HLR) remains limited due to gender-blind policies, scarce sex-disaggregated data, and inadequate consideration of gender-specific needs in resilience-building efforts. Grounded in participatory feminist research, this study employed a multi-method qualitative approach, including semi-structured interviews and oral history narratives, with 60 women in two climate-vulnerable provinces. Data were analyzed through thematic coding, CATWOE (Customers, Actors, Transformation, Worldview, Owners, Environmental Constraints) analysis, and descriptive statistics. The findings identify nine major climate-related events disrupting livelihoods and reveal a limited understanding of HLR as a long-term, transformative concept. Adaptation strategies remain short-term and focused on immediate survival. Barriers to HLR include financial constraints, limited access to agricultural resources and technology, and entrenched gender norms restricting women’s leadership and decision-making. While local governments, women’s associations, and community networks provide some support, gaps in accessibility and adequacy persist. Participants expressed the need for financial assistance, vocational training, agricultural technologies, and stronger peer networks. Strengthening HLR among agrarian women requires gender-sensitive policies, investment in local support systems, and community-led initiatives. Empowering agrarian women as agents of change is critical for fostering resilient rural livelihoods and achieving inclusive, sustainable development. Full article

In this work, we examine the correlation between financial inclusion and the Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors of sustainable development with the assistance of an exhaustive panel dataset of 103 emerging and developing economies spanning 2011 to 2022. The “Account Age” variable, standing for financial inclusion, is the share of adults owning accounts with formal financial institutions or with the providers of mobile money services, inclusive of both conventional and digital entry points. Methodologically, the article follows an econometric approach with panel data regressions, supplemented by Two-Stage Least Squares (2SLS) with instrumental variables in order to control endogeneity biases. ESG-specific instruments like climate resilience indicators and digital penetration measures are utilized for the purpose of robustness. As a companion approach, the paper follows machine learning techniques, applying a set of algorithms either for regression or for clustering for the purpose of detecting non-linearities and discerning ESG-inclusion typologies for the sample of countries. Results reflect that financial inclusion is, in the Environmental pillar, significantly associated with contemporary sustainability activity such as consumption of green energy, extent of protected area, and value added by agriculture, while reliance on traditional agriculture, measured by land use and value added by agriculture, decreases inclusion. For the Social pillar, expenditure on education, internet, sanitation, and gender equity are prominent inclusion facilitators, while engagement with the informal labor market exhibits a suppressing function. For the Governance pillar, anti-corruption activity and patent filing activity are inclusive, while diminishing regulatory quality, possibly by way of digital governance gaps, has a negative correlation. Policy implications are substantial: the research suggests that development dividends from a multi-dimensional approach can be had through enhancing financial inclusion. Policies that intersect financial access with upgrading the environment, social expenditure, and institutional reconstitution can simultaneously support sustainability targets. These are the most applicable lessons for the policy-makers and development professionals concerned with the attainment of the SDGs, specifically over the regions of the Global South, where the trinity of climate resilience, social fairness, and institutional renovation most significantly manifests. Full article

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals emphasize the need to assist developing countries in achieving long-term debt sustainability. Global corporate debt has repeatedly reached record levels, and the associated financial costs pose a significant threat to sustainable development. This study uses panel data from Chinese listed companies for regression analysis. The findings show that ESG reduces the interest-bearing debt ratio, the equity pledge of controlling shareholders, and the deviation from the target debt ratio, all of which contribute to improved debt management. Climate risk further strengthens the impact of ESG on debt management. Additionally, green credit policies help reduce the interest-bearing debt ratio in high-pollution industries through ESG practices. Full article

Climate change is a substantial threat to worldwide food security, affecting the supply, stability, accessibility, and quality of food. This study aimed to explore the impact of climate change on household food security of farming communities in dry zones in Sri Lanka, focusing on water resource limitations and agricultural productivity, using a qualitative case study method with 13 cases. The impact of climate change on farming and food security was identified under the key themes of food production and yield, income and economic stability, water resources and management, food availability and access, nutrition quality, and dietary diversity. The findings revealed that climate change can indirectly affect food security by impacting household and personal incomes. It also influences health, access to clean water, and the ability to utilize food effectively. Such climatic changes significantly impact household food security and distinctly affect nutrition quality and dietary diversity, which are identifiable as the primary food security elements. This study suggests moving other income sources to enhance the economic stability of farming households, adopting new farming techniques, organizing government assistance programs, and establishing social safety nets such as food aid programs and financial support for affected households. Such activities will help to address the decline of yield production that is caused by climate change, and will mitigate the effect that climate change has on household food security. It further emphasizes the need to combine modern policy interventions and the existing domestic adaptation framework. This investigation employs a qualitative research method to explore how communities experience actual climate change effects, including water issues and farm failures. It effectively captures and contributes detailed knowledge to the current research on this subject. Full article

This study examines the factors influencing home elevation decisions among participants in Houston’s Homeowner Assistance Program (HoAP) and the Texas General Land Office’s Homeowner Assistance Program (HAP) in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey and other flood events. Using a mixed-methods approach, we conducted surveys and semi-structured interviews with 50 homeowners, supplemented by secondary data analyses of program records and GIS-based flood risk assessments. Additionally, 25 undergraduate students engaged in a structured field trip, conducting site observations, interacting with residents, and discussing home elevation with experts. The findings reveal disparities in home elevation outcomes, with lower completion rates in socially vulnerable neighborhoods despite program eligibility. The study also identifies key factors influencing elevation decisions, including mobility concerns, financial constraints, neighborhood esthetics, and perceptions of long-term flood risk. Homeowners aged 60–79 were more likely to elevate their homes, while individuals with disabilities faced additional barriers. This research highlights the need for targeted policy interventions to improve program equity and ensure that vulnerable populations receive adequate support. Beyond its case study implications, this research contributes to broader discussions on disaster recovery, climate adaptation, and urban resilience. It also serves as a model for integrating student learning into community-based participatory research. While this study is limited in scope, it offers insights into the intersection of social vulnerability and housing adaptation, informing future policy efforts to enhance flood resilience in historically marginalized communities. Full article

This research investigates the Saudi marine sector’s response to climate change. In particular, it assesses industry stakeholder awareness, attitudes, and actions concerning climate-related challenges. A complete survey was distributed to a varied range of industry participants, including executives, managers, seafarers, and academics, to assess their understanding and involvement. The research indicates moderate levels of awareness and engagement, and significant challenges, including financial limitations, a lack of experience and knowledge, and insufficient regulatory support, to implementing more sustainable practices. The study also mentions ongoing attempts to satisfy International Maritime Organization (IMO) requirements, while present mitigating techniques have limited efficacy. Compared to other regions, Saudi Arabia mostly depends on fossil fuels, which poses specific difficulties in the transformation of sustainable maritime practices. The study identifies current strategies and proposes prospects such as raising financial assistance, and the adoption of innovative technologies. These findings are critical to providing the link between the Saudi marine sector and the climate targets, as well as the Saudi Vision 2030. Full article

Environmental sustainability concerns have led to an increased focus on climate finance, resulting in substantial investments to boost financial sector development. However, recently, climate initiatives have encountered multiple policy uncertainties. This study aims to empirically investigate the impact of U.S. climate policy uncertainty (CPU) on Indian financial inclusion, in addition to exploring the moderating role of institutional quality on the aforementioned relationship. To achieve the above objectives, we first constructed two separate indexes for financial inclusion using the weighted method and principal component analysis. Next, to empirically estimate the above relationship, we employed the two-step system-generalized method of moments (Sys-GMM) and the sequential (two-stage) linear panel data model (SELPDM) on the sample data from 2000–2022. The Sys-GMM estimate test validated that climate policy uncertainty negatively influences India’s financial inclusion. However, institutional regulation and governance assist in moderating the negative influence of U.S. climate policy uncertainty on Indian financial inclusion initiatives. Furthermore, the study also confirmed that various dimensions of institutional regulation and governance exert a positive and significant effect on financial inclusion. Finally, the study validates that economic growth and technological advancement assist financial inclusion initiatives in India. The study is an original work and offers several policy recommendations. Full article

Fintech prioritizes the progression of issues related to environmental conservation and the consequences of climate change. This study is among the first investigations exploring the relationship between fintech and sustainable energy. It presents potential financial models that might be developed to assist companies in remaining operational via the use of renewable and clean energy sources. We employ a bibliometric analysis as the statistical methodology to address the study topic. We extract bibliometric data from the Scopus database employing the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) approach, thereafter analyzing the data with the R statistical programming language and the bibliometric applications Biblioshiny and VOSviewer. The results of the research indicate that fintech companies are committed to achieving carbon neutrality and investing in strategies such as environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) which may help them reduce their carbon footprint and enhance their eco-efficiency. In contrast to the United Kingdom, which is frequently regarded as the world’s preeminent financial center, Chinese fintech enterprises appear to demonstrate a more fervent dedication to the improvement of their ecological transition. However, the results, ultimately, emphasize the transition of fintech to an alternative paradigm, namely greentech. Greentech is a new fintech-dependent paradigm which will help cryptocurrencies and fintech reduce their environmental impact and promote carbon-neutral financial institutions via investment. Greentech aims to decarbonize the financial industry by investing in renewable resources and clean energy, therefore enhancing the sector’s environmental sustainability. Full article

Small-sized dairy farms (SSDFs) are integral to the agricultural landscape, providing economic, social, and environmental benefits to rural communities. However, they face growing challenges, including market volatility, rising production costs, labor shortages, and complex regulatory demands. This review synthesizes the current literature on the economic and environmental obstacles confronting SSDFs and explores strategies to enhance their sustainability and competitiveness. Key barriers include limited access to capital, high feed and energy expenses, and difficulties in adopting new technologies due to financial constraints. SSDFs also struggle to compete with larger farms benefiting from economies of scale and increased market power. Potential solutions include strengthening cooperative models, implementing diversification strategies, and leveraging policy support for targeted financial assistance and technology adoption. Case studies of successful SSDFs show that transitioning to organic production, adopting climate-smart techniques, and focusing on niche markets can significantly improve profitability and resilience. This review emphasizes the need for tailored policy frameworks, innovative financial models, and collaboration among stakeholders to support SSDFs. Future research should prioritize understanding SSDF-specific financial dynamics, assessing the cost-effectiveness of technology adoption, and developing strategies to enhance market access and long-term sustainability in the U.S. dairy sector. Full article

Experiential learning and discovery through farmer field schools (FFS) have the potential to empower smallholder livestock farmers who face heightened vulnerability to climate change. However, there are various levels of learning and discovery in FFS that can inform smallholder livestock farmer knowledge and perception. Understanding this is vital, as farmers’ perceptions influence their readiness to adopt climate-smart practices, informing effective resilience-building strategies. Therefore, this study sought to investigate and assess the impact of the FFS approach on smallholder livestock farmers’ perceptions of climate change, taking Raymond Local Municipality in South Africa as a case. The design followed by the study was a longitudinal survey, with three pools each signifying various FFS intervention points. The study utilized simple random sampling to collect data from 80 smallholder livestock farmers using structured questionnaires in each of the three cross-sectional pools, while descriptive statistics, Min–Max Normalization, and t-tests were used for analysis. The results show that there was an increase in the awareness of climate change due to the interventions of the FFS. Furthermore, there are cumulative differences between the knowledge and perception towards climate change between the three pooled cross-sections. In conclusion, participating in FFS had a significant impact on farmers’ level of understanding and adaptation to climate change. The study recommends that the government and policymakers extensively promote FFS and support them financially so that they can provide more support to rural farmers as well as enhance knowledge on climate change. This study recommends the provision of workshops and awareness campaigns on climate change for farmers through FFS as this will assist farmers to be more sustainable on their farming systems and production. Full article

This study presents an innovative financial model that integrates the debt-for-climate swap mechanism with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, specifically designed to support Africa’s transition to clean energy. The model connects debt-for-climate swaps with the creation of internationally transferred mitigation outcomes (ITMOs), offering mutual benefits for both debtor and creditor nations. This approach aims to improve the debt sustainability of African countries while strengthening their climate resilience by combining Article 6 of the Paris Agreement with Official Development Assistance (ODA). Additionally, this model aligns with key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), SDG 13 (Climate Action), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). Furthermore, the study proposes a restructuring of existing environmental safeguards by incorporating the “Do No Significant Harm” (DNSH) criteria and environmental contribution indicators to ensure alignment with the minimum safeguards mandated by Article 6 and international development standards. Through quantitative analysis, our findings indicate that the proposed debt-for-climate swap model could significantly contribute to Africa’s clean energy transition, address the region’s external debt challenges, and enhance climate resilience. Full article

Energy modelling plays a crucial role in assisting governmental and policymaking bodies to strategise long-term investments within the context of energy transition. Among the well-established open-source optimisation models, OSeMOSYS—the Open-Source Energy Modelling System—stands out. This paper introduces clicSAND, a novel user interface designed for OSeMOSYS, aimed at reducing the learning curve and supporting novice energy modelers in efficiently conducting long-term investment analyses. clicSAND, freely available and open-source, features a user-friendly Excel interface for data input, integrated solvers, and a visualisation dashboard for result interpretation. The outcomes, projected up to 2070, hold the potential to inform policy decisions and mobilise financial resources for sustainable development endeavors, such as ensuring affordable and secure energy supply and mitigating climate change impacts. This advancement not only democratises access to energy modelling tools but also empowers policymakers and stakeholders to conduct thorough long-term investment analyses with ease. This paper elaborates on clicSAND’s key advantages, architecture, and functionalities. Additionally, it discusses the evolutionary journey from clicSAND 1.0 to 3.0, emphasising a commitment to continuous improvement and user-centric adaptation, thereby enhancing its utility and relevance. The inclusion of a South African case study, conducted during the EMP-A (Energy Modelling Platform for Africa) 2021 international capacity-building event, showcases clicSAND’s efficacy in facilitating knowledge transfer and skill development among inexperienced users, while providing a tangible example of its application in addressing specific regional energy challenges and policy contexts. Finally, current applications and future extensions of the software are also presented. Full article

In recent years, the topic of climate change has been increasingly noticed by the public, and carbon emission reduction is one of the primary targets for various industries worldwide. The construction industry has a profound influence in this field, so it is significant to consider what kind of efforts can be made in building projects. Many scholars agree to promote prefabrication technology for construction, but its application still faces several challenges. By undertaking desk research, this paper explores the motivation and barriers to adopting modular techniques in construction projects under the lifecycle analysis. The preliminary information of the literature review is collated from dozens of peer-reviewed academic papers. Under the whole lifecycle thought, the PEST analysis tools also present the analytical results. This research finds that the top five barriers are the attitudinal resistance to using modular constructions, lack of sufficient modular expertise and practice, increasing costs and risks on supply chain management, insufficient government support and policy making, and high design and planning requirements. Moreover, the lifecycle analysis can divide the collated barriers into each stage, and adequate government support can assist in promoting the prefabrication in building projects in financial, legal, and technical aspects. The current findings can facilitate the broader use of prefabrication in building projects, improving the environmental sustainability of stakeholders. The process of proposed desk research can also be considered a referenced pattern for other related studies. More first-hand data should be collected and evaluated in further research to improve accuracy and adapt to the newest research field and industrial situations. Full article

Photovoltaic (PV) system reliability and durability investigations are essential for industrial maturity and economic success. Recently, PV systems received much interest in Iraq due to many reasons—for instance, power shortage, global warming and pollution. Despite this interest, the precise economic implications of PV system reliability in harsh climates like Iraq remain uncertain. This work assesses the economic implications of PV system component reliability and soiling in Iraq using field experience and historical data. This study identifies the most common failure modes of PV systems installed in Iraq and similar climatic regions, and also ranks their severity. Simulations explore scenarios of PV module degradation rates, inverter lifetimes, soiling rates, and cleaning intervals, revealing that soiling has the most detrimental effect, with cleaning frequency leading to Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE) losses of over 30%, depending on the location. Inverter lifetime contributes to LCOE losses between 4 and 6%, depending on the PV system’s location. This study also evaluates the impact of tilt angle as a mitigation strategy for reducing soiling loss and its economic implications, finding that installing PV modules at higher tilt angles could reduce the economic impact of soiling by approximately 4.4%. Additionally, the optimal cleaning strategy identified is fully automated dry cleaning with robots, outperforming other strategies economically. Overall, the findings highlight that the LCOE in Iraq is relatively high compared to the global weighted average for utility-scale PV systems, primarily due to high soiling and degradation rates. The LCOE varies within the country, influenced by different degradation rates. This study aims to assist PV stakeholders in Iraq and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region in accurately estimating solar bankability; moreover, increasing reliability by minimizing the technical and financial risks by considering key parameters specific to these regions. Full article

Roots play a fundamental role in forest ecosystems, but obtaining samples from deep layers remains a challenging process due to the methodological and financial efforts required. In our quest to understand the dynamics of Eucalyptus roots, we raise three fundamental questions. First, we inquire about the average extent of the roots of two contrasting Eucalyptus genotypes. Next, we explore the factors that directly influence the growth and depth of these roots, addressing elements such as soil type, climate, and water availability. Lastly, we investigate how the variation in Eucalyptus species may impact root growth patterns, biomass, and carbon stock. In this study, we observed that the maximum root depth increased by an average of 20% when genotypes were grown on sites with higher water availability (wet site). E. urophylla stands had a higher biomass and carbon stock (5.7 Mg C ha⁻¹) of fine roots when cultivated on dry sites (annual rainfall~727 mm) than the wet sites (annual rainfall~1590 mm). In E. grandis × E. camaldulensis stands, no significant differences were observed in the stock of fine root biomass (3.2 Mg C ha⁻¹) between the studied environments. Our results demonstrated that genotypes with greater drought tolerance (E. grandis × E. camaldulensis) tend to maintain higher stocks of fine root biomass (3.2–6.3 Mg ha⁻¹) compared to those classified as plastic (E. urophylla), regardless of the edaphoclimatic conditions of the cultivation site. Finally, our research helps understand how Eucalyptus trees adapt to their environment, aiding sustainable forest management and climate change mitigation. We also provide a practical tool to estimate underground biomass, assisting forest managers and policymakers in ensuring long-term forest sustainability. Full article