Challenges and Solutions of Sustainable Development in the Ecologically Sensitive Areas or Social Fringe Zones

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Agriculture agriculture	4.5	7.8	2011	17.4 Days	CHF 2600	Submit
Businesses businesses	-	-	2021	22.3 Days	CHF 1000	Submit
Earth earth	4.0	5.3	2020	19 Days	CHF 1400	Submit
Economies economies	2.3	5.2	2013	23.3 Days	CHF 1800	Submit
Land land	3.5	6.4	2012	16.4 Days	CHF 2600	Submit
Sustainability sustainability	4.1	8.9	2009	16.9 Days	CHF 2400	Submit
Urban Science urbansci	3.2	3.7	2017	20.8 Days	CHF 1800	Submit
World world	2.8	-	2020	29.5 Days	CHF 1200	Submit

28 pages, 3372 KB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of the Mechanisms and Heterogeneity of How Diversified Ecological Compensation Methods Affect the Livelihood Resilience of Rural Households in Sandy Areas

by Ming Guan and Qingfeng Bao

Sustainability 2026, 18(12), 6105; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18126105 - 13 Jun 2026

Viewed by 550

Abstract

Ecologically fragile areas typically overlap with impoverished zones, rendering them susceptible to a vicious cycle of ecological degradation and poverty aggravation. Reasonable and diversified ecological compensation methods are closely associated with improved livelihood resilience among rural households in sandy areas. Building on this, [...] Read more.

Ecologically fragile areas typically overlap with impoverished zones, rendering them susceptible to a vicious cycle of ecological degradation and poverty aggravation. Reasonable and diversified ecological compensation methods are closely associated with improved livelihood resilience among rural households in sandy areas. Building on this, we take three leagues and cities in Inner Mongolia with severe sandy desertification as the study area. OLS regression and mediating effect models are employed to examine the impact of diversified ecological compensation methods on the livelihood resilience of rural households in sandy areas, as well as the underlying mechanisms and heterogeneity. The results demonstrate that (1) diversified ecological compensation methods exert a significant positive effect on the livelihood resilience of rural households in sandy areas; (2) perceived fairness and livelihood diversity mediate the association between diversified ecological compensation methods and the livelihood resilience of rural households in sandy areas; (3) the effects of diversified ecological compensation methods on the livelihood resilience of rural households in sandy areas vary significantly across compensation modalities, beneficiary groups, and regions. Specifically, capacity-building compensation exerts a significantly stronger effect than direct-transfer compensation; poverty-alleviated households benefit more than general households; and the effects are significantly stronger in western Inner Mongolia than in eastern Inner Mongolia. Therefore, in optimizing ecological compensation policies in sandy areas, it is suggested to enhance the embedding depth of industrial and technical compensation, and to explore differentiated compensation pathways based on regional market capacity and household group characteristics, thereby promoting sustainable livelihood development for rural households in sandy areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Challenges and Solutions of Sustainable Development in the Ecologically Sensitive Areas or Social Fringe Zones)

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17 pages, 317 KB

Open AccessArticle

From Finance to Footprints: Environmental Taxes and the Finance–Environment Nexus in Sub-Saharan Africa

by Wisdom Okere, Cosmas Ambe and Sanele Phumlani Vilakazi

Economies 2026, 14(5), 188; https://doi.org/10.3390/economies14050188 - 20 May 2026

Viewed by 640

Abstract

The finance–environment nexus in Sub-Saharan Africa remains complex, particularly in nations where institutional quality and fiscal policies are in an early stage. To address this, the study evaluates the impact of financial development on environmental sustainability in Sub-Saharan Africa, emphasising the moderating roles [...] Read more.

The finance–environment nexus in Sub-Saharan Africa remains complex, particularly in nations where institutional quality and fiscal policies are in an early stage. To address this, the study evaluates the impact of financial development on environmental sustainability in Sub-Saharan Africa, emphasising the moderating roles of environmental taxes and regulatory quality. Using a balanced panel methodology across 11 SSA nations from 2006 to 2023, the study employs a multi-estimation model (fixed effects (FE), Fully Modified Ordinary Least Squares (FMOLS) and Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL)) to capture both short- and long-run relationships. From the analysis, the FE and FMOLS estimates indicate that financial development significantly increases ecological footprints, while foreign direct investment and government expenditure are associated with lower environmental footprints. However, the ARDL estimates reveal that environmental taxes and regulatory quality significantly reduce the ecological footprint, motivating a policy shift. Most importantly, the moderation estimation reveals that environmental taxes condition the finance–environment nexus in SSA. This depicts that while financial development worsens environmental outcomes, its adverse effects are nullified and reversed under a stronger environmental tax framework. These findings are relevant to the Environmental Kuznets Curve theory and draw insights from the institutional and financial intermediation theory. The study provides evidence that financial development, when integrated with effective environmental taxation and institutional quality, promotes environmental sustainability in SSA. Policymakers are therefore urged to strengthen environmental tax frameworks, integrate green financial intermediation and intensify regulatory institutions to achieve a sustainable finance–environment model and support SDG 13 in SSA. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Challenges and Solutions of Sustainable Development in the Ecologically Sensitive Areas or Social Fringe Zones)

24 pages, 483 KB

Open AccessReview

A Review of Climate Change Impacts on Water Resources, Crop Production and Adaptation Strategies in South Africa

by Mary Funke Olabanji and Munyaradzi Chitakira

World 2026, 7(5), 73; https://doi.org/10.3390/world7050073 - 30 Apr 2026

Viewed by 2029

Abstract

Climate change poses a significant threat to water resources and agricultural sustainability, particularly in semi-arid and socio-economically vulnerable regions such as South Africa. This review synthesizes empirical, modelling, and policy-based evidence on the impacts of climate change on water availability, crop production, and [...] Read more.

Climate change poses a significant threat to water resources and agricultural sustainability, particularly in semi-arid and socio-economically vulnerable regions such as South Africa. This review synthesizes empirical, modelling, and policy-based evidence on the impacts of climate change on water availability, crop production, and adaptation strategies in the country, drawing on approximately 162 peer-reviewed studies and institutional reports published between 2010 and 2025. The findings indicate that rising temperatures, shifting rainfall patterns, and an increasing frequency of extreme events, such as droughts and floods, are intensifying water stress and disrupting agricultural systems. Hydrological models consistently project declines in runoff, soil moisture, and streamflow, while crop simulation models predict reductions in the yields of major staple crops, including maize, wheat, and sorghum, particularly under high-emission scenarios. Although localized improvements in water availability and crop productivity may occur, these tend to be limited and highly context-specific. In response, South Africa has implemented a range of adaptation strategies, including climate-smart agriculture, water-efficient irrigation, ecosystem-based approaches, and policy-driven interventions. However, their effectiveness remains constrained by institutional fragmentation, limited financial capacity, and persistent socio-economic inequalities, particularly among smallholder farmers. The review underscores the need for integrated, inclusive, and context-specific adaptation strategies that strengthen governance, enhance the science–policy interface, and improve access to climate finance. The insights provided offer valuable guidance for advancing climate resilience in South Africa and other vulnerable regions across the Global South. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Challenges and Solutions of Sustainable Development in the Ecologically Sensitive Areas or Social Fringe Zones)

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15 pages, 5119 KB

Open AccessArticle

Forest Degradation Analysis and Management from a Phytogeographical View: A Case Study of Ben En National Park, Vietnam

by Thuy Van Tran Thi, Thanh Tan Mai and Thu Nhung Nguyen

Land 2026, 15(5), 749; https://doi.org/10.3390/land15050749 - 28 Apr 2026

Viewed by 420

Abstract

The forest within the Ben En National Park has a diverse flora, which, although protected, remains subject to degradation. The analysis and management strategies for forest degradation within this park were conducted using a phytogeographical approach supplemented by satellite imagery and a SWOT [...] Read more.

The forest within the Ben En National Park has a diverse flora, which, although protected, remains subject to degradation. The analysis and management strategies for forest degradation within this park were conducted using a phytogeographical approach supplemented by satellite imagery and a SWOT analysis. As a result, the area is characterized by nine distinct vegetation types comprising 1417 vascular plant species (from 902 genera and 196 families). These species belong to endemics from Northern, Central, and all of Vietnam, as well as 16 other phytogeographical elements. Tropical Asian and South China elements dominate the community structure in evergreen broad-leaved closed forests on both limestone and non-limestone mountains. Forest degradation is evident in changes to both floristic composition and vegetation structure. Floristic composition shows a trend of decreasing native elements while simultaneously increasing non-native or introduced elements. This “anthropogenic tropicalization” leads to a declining chain of ecological function from palaeotropical to introduced elements, resulting in biological invasion. For instance, the invasive species, Mimosa pigra, currently occupies about 442 ha in the semi-submerged zone of the Song Muc reservoir, indicating a loss of ecological function and a likely hydrological pathway for further spread. As a consequence of “anthropogenic tropicalization”, the vegetation is fragmented and gradually altered from a natural system to an anthropogenic one through a regressive succession from primary forest to bare land/invaded area. Based on the SWOT analysis, four management actions were proposed: 1—Establish a “sustainable native forest” program and “invasive species control” in the Song Muc reservoir; 2—Launch a “green livelihoods for the buffer zone” initiative; 3—Implement a “Smart forest monitoring” system; and 4—Forge an “ecotourism-conservation-community” alliance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Challenges and Solutions of Sustainable Development in the Ecologically Sensitive Areas or Social Fringe Zones)

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31 pages, 12539 KB

Open AccessArticle

Multi-Objective Optimization of Water and Land Resource Allocation for Ecological Function Enhancement in a Climate-Sensitive Alpine Basin: A Case Study of the Huangheyan Upstream, Yellow River Source Region

by Haoyue Gao, Tianling Qin, Qinghua Luan, Xizhi Lv, Jianming Feng, Weizhi Li and Yuhui Yang

Land 2026, 15(4), 631; https://doi.org/10.3390/land15040631 - 12 Apr 2026

Viewed by 576

Abstract

The ongoing warming–wetting trend is profoundly reshaping water and land resources (WLR) in alpine regions, challenging their ecological functions. Focusing on the Yellow River source region above Huangheyan Station, we developed a synergistic WLR allocation framework explicitly oriented towards ecological function enhancement. We [...] Read more.

The ongoing warming–wetting trend is profoundly reshaping water and land resources (WLR) in alpine regions, challenging their ecological functions. Focusing on the Yellow River source region above Huangheyan Station, we developed a synergistic WLR allocation framework explicitly oriented towards ecological function enhancement. We systematically assessed the spatiotemporal evolution of WLR and key ecological functions from 2000 to 2020, and projected future dynamics for 2030–2060 under four SSP scenarios. A multi-objective optimization model was established to minimize water shortage, maximize water conservation capacity (WCC), maximize vegetation water use efficiency (WUE), and minimize soil erosion amount (SEA), solved using the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II algorithm (NSGA-II). The results indicate significant ecological improvements over the past two decades (Net Primary Production (NPP) +14.3%, WCC +67.9%, SEA −34.1%). Critically, the optimized allocation schemes demonstrated substantial benefits across all future scenarios, enhancing WCC by 4.6–20.2%, improving WUE by 0.6–10.7%, and reducing SEA by 3.9–9.1%. This study offers a useful reference for coordinating ecological conservation and resource management in climate-sensitive and ecologically fragile alpine regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Challenges and Solutions of Sustainable Development in the Ecologically Sensitive Areas or Social Fringe Zones)

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27 pages, 2696 KB

Open AccessArticle

Can Industrial Robotization Drive Sustainable Industrial Wastewater Governance in Developing Regions? Empirical Evidence from China

by Yushan Qiu, Xin Yang, Shijiao Huang and Congxian He

Sustainability 2026, 18(5), 2646; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18052646 - 9 Mar 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 575

Abstract

The conflict between rapid industrialization and ecological deterioration constitutes a critical bottleneck for developing regions, particularly concerning industrial wastewater governance. The primary purpose of this study is to investigate whether industrial robotization (IR) can break this deadlock. This study proposes the [...] Read more.

The conflict between rapid industrialization and ecological deterioration constitutes a critical bottleneck for developing regions, particularly concerning industrial wastewater governance. The primary purpose of this study is to investigate whether industrial robotization (IR) can break this deadlock. This study proposes the central hypothesis that adopting IR significantly mitigates industrial wastewater emissions (IWE). Utilizing comprehensive panel data from 30 Chinese provinces from 2013 to 2022, this proposition is rigorously tested using fixed effects models. The main results clearly demonstrate that IR acts as a robust suppressant against IWE. Importantly, mechanism verification shows that this pollution reduction effect is propelled by stimulating green patents and amplifying technical expenditure. The empirical evidence reveals distinct nonlinear features regarding how IR affects IWE. Crucially, heterogeneity analysis indicates that the emission reduction utility of IR becomes significantly more pronounced in territories with robust financial depth and targeted policy backing. Consequently, this study provides vital strategic blueprints for policymakers to leverage industrial automation to navigate the sustainability crisis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Challenges and Solutions of Sustainable Development in the Ecologically Sensitive Areas or Social Fringe Zones)

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30 pages, 12858 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Tracking Mountain Degradation for the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Using the State of Colorado (USA) as an Example

by Arati Budhathoki, Christopher J. Post, Elena A. Mikhailova, Mark A. Schlautman, Hamdi A. Zurqani, Lili Lin, Zhenbang Hao and Nilesh Timilsina

Earth 2026, 7(2), 38; https://doi.org/10.3390/earth7020038 - 4 Mar 2026

Viewed by 1757

Abstract

Mountain ecosystems, strongly affected by climate-related variability and human impact, are degrading faster than other terrestrial ecosystems. Currently, the United Nations (UN) utilizes Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 15: Life on Land (Target 15.4 and Sub-indicators 15.4.2a and 15.4.2b), along with the System for [...] Read more.

Mountain ecosystems, strongly affected by climate-related variability and human impact, are degrading faster than other terrestrial ecosystems. Currently, the United Nations (UN) utilizes Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 15: Life on Land (Target 15.4 and Sub-indicators 15.4.2a and 15.4.2b), along with the System for Earth Observation Data Access, Processing and Analysis for Land Monitoring, commonly referred to as SEPAL, to track mountain degradation. This SEPAL analysis does not include soil data, which is critical to understanding mountain degradation. The present research focuses on improving the tracking and evaluation of mountain land degradation (LD) utilizing soil data in the state of Colorado (CO) in the United States of America (USA) as an example. Total anthropogenic LD affects an estimated 19% of Colorado’s territory as of 2024, driven mainly by agricultural activities (80%). Between 2001 and 2024, overall LD in CO decreased (−0.4%), but LD from development increased by 23.3%. For mountain areas in CO, the mountain green cover index (MGCI) was 96% for 2024, and it decreased (−0.4%) between 2001 and 2024. The mountain LD proportion was 2.5% as determined by the SEPAL method compared to 4.4% by LULC analysis. Incorporation of soil data into LULC analysis found that between 2001 and 2024 LD increased to 6.6%. All soil types in the mountains exhibited anthropogenic LD due to development with a total developed area of 1385.1 km². Current total mountain LD (inherent + anthropogenic) in CO may be as high as 38.9%. Future estimates of total mountain LD should include both inherent and anthropogenic LD. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Challenges and Solutions of Sustainable Development in the Ecologically Sensitive Areas or Social Fringe Zones)

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15 pages, 1474 KB

Open AccessArticle

Relationship Between Disaster Declarations and Wheat Crops in the Yaqui Valley, Sonora, Mexico

by José P. Vega-Camarena, Luis Brito-Castillo, Jaime Edzael Mendivil-Mendoza, Alejandro García-Ramírez, Martina Hilda Gracia-Valenzuela and Felipe de Jesús Reynaga-Franco

World 2026, 7(2), 20; https://doi.org/10.3390/world7020020 - 28 Jan 2026

Viewed by 1254

Abstract

Sonora state in Mexico, leads the nation in wheat production affected by various hydrometeorological phenomena, which can result in considerable economic losses. This research evaluates the potential relationship between emergency or disaster declarations associated with hydrometeorological events and wheat production from 2000 to [...] Read more.

Sonora state in Mexico, leads the nation in wheat production affected by various hydrometeorological phenomena, which can result in considerable economic losses. This research evaluates the potential relationship between emergency or disaster declarations associated with hydrometeorological events and wheat production from 2000 to 2024 in the Yaqui Valley aquifer in Sonora. This region alone contributed 51.6% of the total production value of Sonora in 2024. The results indicate that the issuance of declarations is consistent with losses and decreased wheat yields, resulting in a significant negative correlation (between r = 0.13 and r = 0.58) between the two variables. A total of 101 declarations were reported, with heavy rains being the primary cause at 44.6%. The municipality most affected was Guaymas, with 33 declarations from a total of 85. Additionally, 972 hectares were damaged in areas where declarations were issued, compared to 174 hectares damaged in areas where no declaration was made. These results provide a quantitative basis for the disaster risk diagnosis of wheat production in the Yaqui Valley, suggesting that the lack of records and timely information on hydrometeorological contingencies may result in a lack of awareness of the disruptive phenomenon, causing inconsistency between the failure to issue a disaster declaration and damaged areas, thereby increasing the vulnerability of the affected areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Challenges and Solutions of Sustainable Development in the Ecologically Sensitive Areas or Social Fringe Zones)

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14 pages, 2524 KB

Open AccessArticle

From Practice to Territory: Experiences of Participatory Agroecology in the AgrEcoMed Project

by Lucia Briamonte, Domenica Ricciardi, Michela Ascani and Maria Assunta D’Oronzio

World 2026, 7(2), 19; https://doi.org/10.3390/world7020019 - 26 Jan 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1516

Abstract

The environmental and social crises affecting global agri-food systems highlight the need for a profound transformation of production models and their territorial relations. In this context, agroecology, understood as science, practice, and movement, has emerged as a paradigm capable of integrating ecological sustainability, [...] Read more.

The environmental and social crises affecting global agri-food systems highlight the need for a profound transformation of production models and their territorial relations. In this context, agroecology, understood as science, practice, and movement, has emerged as a paradigm capable of integrating ecological sustainability, social equity, and community participation. Within this framework, the work carried out by CREA in the AgrEcoMed project (new agroecological approach for soil fertility and biodiversity restoration to improve economic and social resilience of Mediterranean farming systems), funded by the PRIMA programme, investigates agroecology as a social and political process of territorial regeneration. This process is grounded in co-design with local stakeholders, collective learning, and the construction of multi-actor networks for agroecology in the Mediterranean. The Manifesto functions as a tool for participatory governance and value convergence, aiming to consolidate a shared vision for the Mediterranean agroecological transition. The article examines, through an analysis of the existing literature, the role of agroecological networks and empirically examines the function of the collective co-creation of the Manifesto as a tool for social innovation. The methodology is based on a participatory action-research approach that used local focus groups, World Café, and thematic analysis to identify the needs of the companies involved. The results highlight the formation of a multi-actor network currently comprising around 90 members and confirm the effectiveness of the Manifesto as a boundary object for horizontal governance. This demonstrates how sustainability can emerge from dialogue, cooperation, and the co-production of knowledge among local actors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Challenges and Solutions of Sustainable Development in the Ecologically Sensitive Areas or Social Fringe Zones)

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24 pages, 3150 KB

Open AccessArticle

Can Digital Literacy Alleviate the Multi-Dimensional Inequalities Among Rural Residents? Evidence from China

by Shanqing Liu, Yanhua Li, Huwei Wen and Ying Wang

Sustainability 2026, 18(2), 1069; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18021069 - 21 Jan 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 896

Abstract

Multi-dimensional inequality among rural residents has become a major obstacle hindering the achievement of global poverty alleviation goals. This study utilized household sample data from the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) over four periods from 2014 to 2020 and applied them to a [...] Read more.

Multi-dimensional inequality among rural residents has become a major obstacle hindering the achievement of global poverty alleviation goals. This study utilized household sample data from the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) over four periods from 2014 to 2020 and applied them to a high-dimensional fixed effects model to estimate the impact of digital literacy on multi-dimensional inequality among rural residents. The results show that digital literacy can effectively alleviate the multi-dimensional inequality of rural residents. From the perspective of a mediating effect, digital literacy alleviates the multi-dimensional inequality of rural residents by improving the level of social capital and promoting social harmony. Moreover, the alleviation of multi-dimensional inequality among rural residents by digital literacy varies among different groups. The impact of digital literacy on the multi-dimensional inequality of agricultural workers and rural residents in western regions is relatively greater than that of non-agricultural workers and rural residents in other regions. Information processing literacy in digital literacy has the most significant impact on the multi-dimensional inequality of rural residents. This paper enriches the mechanism paths of digital literacy in alleviating the multi-dimensional inequality among rural residents in terms of both material and spiritual aspects, and provides a certain reference value for achieving the all-round development of rural residents and contributing to rural production practices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Challenges and Solutions of Sustainable Development in the Ecologically Sensitive Areas or Social Fringe Zones)

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35 pages, 14790 KB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Interpretation Center for Conservation and Environmental Education in Ecologically Sensitive Areas of the Tumbes Mangrove, Peru, 2025

by Doris Esenarro, Miller Garcia, Yerika Calampa, Patricia Vasquez, Duilio Aguilar Vizcarra, Carlos Vargas, Vicenta Irene Tafur Anzualdo, Jesica Vilchez Cairo and Pablo Cobeñas

Urban Sci. 2026, 10(1), 57; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci10010057 - 16 Jan 2026

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2088

Abstract

The continuous degradation of mangrove ecosystems, considered among the most vulnerable worldwide, reveals multiple threats driven by human activities and climate change. In the Peruvian context, particularly in the Tumbes Mangrove ecosystem, these pressures are intensified by the absence of integrated spatial and [...] Read more.

The continuous degradation of mangrove ecosystems, considered among the most vulnerable worldwide, reveals multiple threats driven by human activities and climate change. In the Peruvian context, particularly in the Tumbes Mangrove ecosystem, these pressures are intensified by the absence of integrated spatial and educational infrastructures capable of supporting conservation efforts while engaging local communities. In response, this research proposes a Sustainable Interpretation Center for Conservation and Environmental Education in Ecologically Sensitive Areas of the Tumbes Mangrove, Peru. The methodology includes climate data analysis, identification of local flora and fauna, and site topography characterization, supported by digital tools such as Google Earth, AutoCAD 2025, Revit 2025, and 3D Sun Path. The results are reflected in an architectural proposal that incorporates sustainable materials compatible with sensitive ecosystems, including eco-friendly structural solutions based on algarrobo timber, together with resilient strategies addressing climatic variability, such as lightweight structures, elevated platforms, and passive environmental solutions that minimize impact on the mangrove. Furthermore, the proposal integrates a photovoltaic energy system consisting of 12 solar panels with a unit capacity of 450 W, providing a total installed capacity of 5.4 kWp, complemented by a 48 V LiFePO₄ battery storage system designed to ensure energy autonomy during periods of low solar availability. In conclusion, the proposal adheres to principles of sustainability and energy efficiency and aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 7, 8, 12, 14, and 15, reinforcing the use of clean energy, responsible tourism, sustainable resource management, and the conservation of marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Challenges and Solutions of Sustainable Development in the Ecologically Sensitive Areas or Social Fringe Zones)

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24 pages, 4397 KB

Open AccessArticle

Spatio-Temporal Dynamics of Urban Vegetation and Climate Impacts on Market Gardening Systems: Insights from NDVI and Participatory Data in Grand Nokoué, Benin

by Vidjinnagni Vinasse Ametooyona Azagoun, Kossi Komi, Djigbo Félicien Badou, Expédit Wilfrid Vissin and Komi Selom Klassou

Urban Sci. 2026, 10(1), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/urbansci10010031 - 4 Jan 2026

Viewed by 1798

Abstract

The degradation of vegetation cover and the vulnerability of urban market gardening systems to climate risks are a major challenge for food security in peri-urban areas. This study analyzes the spatio-temporal dynamics of vegetation using the NDVI and assesses its correspondence with producers’ [...] Read more.

The degradation of vegetation cover and the vulnerability of urban market gardening systems to climate risks are a major challenge for food security in peri-urban areas. This study analyzes the spatio-temporal dynamics of vegetation using the NDVI and assesses its correspondence with producers’ perceptions of hydroclimatic impacts. NDVIs were extracted from the MODIS MOD13Q1v6.1 product via Google Earth Engine, with a spatial resolution of 250 m × 250 m and a temporal resolution of 16 days, then processed in Python v3.14.0 using the xarray library. Additionally, 369 producers in Grand Nokoué were surveyed about the risks of flooding, drought, and heat waves, as well as the adaptation strategies they implement. The results reveal a decline in areas with a moderate to high NDVI (between 0.41 and 0.81) and an expansion of areas with a low or very low NDVI (below 0.41), reflecting increased fragmentation and degradation of vegetation cover. Producers’ perceptions confirm this vulnerability and reveal different strategies depending on the type of crop and risk, including irrigation, temporary abandonment of plots, agroforestry, and the adoption of resilient crops. These observations highlight the need to implement targeted policies and appropriate agroecological practices in order to strengthen the resilience of urban market gardening systems to extreme climate risks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Challenges and Solutions of Sustainable Development in the Ecologically Sensitive Areas or Social Fringe Zones)

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22 pages, 2827 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Resilience Trilemma in Grain Supply Chain: Unpacking Spatiotemporal Trade-Offs Across Production–Consumption Zones from the Case of China

by Congxian He, Lulu Yu and Xiang Su

Agriculture 2025, 15(24), 2531; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15242531 - 6 Dec 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1405

Abstract

This study examines the spatiotemporal evolution of China’s grain supply chain resilience and regional disparities from 2012 to 2022, employing provincial data and a multidimensional framework encompassing resistance capacity, adaptive adjustment capacity, and innovation-driven transition capacity, and utilizing entropy weight method, kernel density [...] Read more.

This study examines the spatiotemporal evolution of China’s grain supply chain resilience and regional disparities from 2012 to 2022, employing provincial data and a multidimensional framework encompassing resistance capacity, adaptive adjustment capacity, and innovation-driven transition capacity, and utilizing entropy weight method, kernel density estimation, convergence models and barrier factor analysis with GIS (v10.8,2) visualization. The results reveal a fluctuating upward trajectory in the composite resilience index. However, spatial heterogeneity persists as Major Grain-Producing Areas demonstrate high resistance capacity but lag in transformation due to path dependency, Major Grain-Consuming Areas excel in innovation yet face vulnerability from import dependence, and Grain Self-Sufficient Areas display rapid adaptive capacity growth but spatial polarization intensifies. Theil index decomposition confirmed that inter-regional disparities dominated, reflecting uneven technological diffusion and institutional priorities. Key drivers include natural endowments, infrastructure investments, and digitalization, though threshold effects in policy regulation and path dependency paradoxes constrain convergence. This study advances a dynamic governance framework to balance resilience trade-offs and align supply chain modernization with sustainable food security goals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Challenges and Solutions of Sustainable Development in the Ecologically Sensitive Areas or Social Fringe Zones)

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