Adaptation Policies Research Articles

Scoping review of the societal impacts of compound climate events

Abstract Climatic extremes have historically been seen as univariate; however, recent international reports have highlighted the potential for an increase in compound climate events (e.g., hot and dry events, recurrent flooding). Despite the projected increase in the frequency of compound climate events and the adoption of compound event terminology, few studies identify climate extremes as compound climate events and little evidence exists on the societal impacts of these compound climate events. This scoping review summarizes key findings and knowledge gaps in the current state of empirical studies that focus on the societal impacts of compound climate events. We identified 28 eligible studies published in four databases reporting on the societal impacts of compound climate events in four sectors: agriculture, public health, the built environment, and land use. Overall, we found the need for more research explicitly linking compound climate events to societal impacts, particularly across multiple compound climate events, rather than single case study events. We also noted several key findings, including changes in agricultural productivity, loss of habitat, increased fire risk, poor mental health outcomes, decreased health care access, and destruction of homes and infrastructure from these events. Additional research is needed both globally and locally to understand the implications of compound climate events across different geographic regions and populations to ensure responsive adaptation policies in a compound climate event framework.

Sustainable Development in the Digital Age: Harnessing Emerging Digital Technologies to Catalyze Global SDG Achievement

The digital revolution, characterized by rapid technological advancements, presents a unique opportunity to accelerate progress towards the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This research explores the transformative potential of cutting-edge digital technologies—including artificial intelligence, big data analytics, cloud computing, and the Internet of Things—in fostering sustainable development across economic, social, and environmental dimensions. Our study employs a rigorous empirical approach to quantify the impact of digital innovation on SDG achievement within the European Union. Utilizing the Digital Economy and Society Index (DESI) as a comprehensive measure of technological progress, we apply structural equation modeling to emphasize the complex interplay between digital advancement and sustainable development indicators. A key focus of our analysis is the mediating role of economic performance, measured by GDP per capita, in the relationship between digital technology adoption and SDG progress. This nuanced examination provides insights into how economic factors influence the effectiveness of digital solutions in addressing global challenges. Our findings underscore the need for adaptive policies that harness the power of digital technologies while addressing potential challenges and ensuring inclusive growth.

Towards a buoyant political ecology: Rethinking marginalization for coastal climate change adaptation in the tropics

The land-water dichotomy plays a key role in the prevailing global climate change adaptation (CCA) policy discourse for tropical coastal areas. This dichotomy is implicitly informed by a land centered conception of property which regards areas that fluctuate between water and land, or 'aquaterras', as marginal and in need of development to make them economically profitable. By adopting this perspective, mainstream CCA policies ignore the diverse, vernacular systems of adaptation that communities that dwell in such tropical coastal aquaterras have developed through multigenerational and lived experiences to negotiate climatic and contingent uncertainties. The article calls on political ecologists to jettison land-centered, economic representations of marginality and marginalization in favor of a 'buoyant', critical CCA approach which recognizes and builds on the vernacular knowings and expertise of tropical coastal aquaterra communities.

The impact of online course medium on perceived learning: evidence from a retrospective panel data study of Japanese university students

This study investigates the impact of course delivery methods on perceived learning by analysing the shift from face-to-face to online courses among Japanese university students, using the COVID-19 pandemic as a natural experiment. Data were collected from approximately 750 students, and detailed analyses were conducted on a subset of 426 students’ data. The study controls for variations in psychological states, academic grades, and socio-economic statuses before and after the pandemic through panel data analysis. This approach minimises pandemic-related confounds, focusing on effects of online education modalities. Using random- and fixed-effects models, findings indicate asynchronous online courses significantly reduced students’ perceived learning, unlike synchronous and mixed-mode courses. This impact varied by grade level, with second year students showing the most substantial decrease. These insights highlight the need for adaptive educational policies to respond to rapid transitions to online learning, aiming to preserve quality under challenging circumstances.

The Impact of Policy Quantification on Rural Spatial Development in Suburbs: A Case Study of Dalian’s Main Urban Area

Under China’s rural revitalization strategy, peri-urban villages function as pivotal nodes in urban–rural integration. Existing policy research predominantly emphasizes macro-level land and industrial policies, neglecting their spatial development effects on peri-urban villages. This study addresses the gap by constructing a policy quantification framework and employing a Vector Autoregression (VAR) model to analyze policy impacts on rural spatial development, focusing on peri-urban villages in Dalian’s main districts from 2004 to 2023. The results indicate a fluctuating yet upward trend in policy effectiveness. Initial supply-side policies prioritized infrastructure development, whereas subsequent demand-side policies significantly enhanced living conditions, underscoring the necessity of adaptive policy strategies. The rural revitalization construction index exhibited notable spatial heterogeneity, evolving from clusters near industrial zones to expansion into areas like the Jinzhou District, aligned with urban growth patterns. Granger causality analysis confirmed the strong influence of policy interventions, with the first-order lag VAR model offering reliable predictions of short- and long-term policy effects. Initially, the construction index was entirely self-driven (100%), but its reliance on self-influence waned to 69.8% over time, highlighting a transition toward greater policy-driven development.

Analysis of the Real-Time Phases of Adaptation Through the Lens of an Emergent Risk: Sargassum Adaptation Policy Analysis in the Caribbean

Since 2011, countries across the tropical Atlantic have experienced severe influxes of the seaweed species Sargassum natans and Sargassum fluitans (henceforth, “sargassum”), with nearshore and onshore ecological, economic and social impacts locally and regionally. Not all affected countries have had the same response to this emergent environmental challenge. Here, we explore the first ten years of policies produced in response to sargassum influx risk across islands in the Wider Caribbean Region, considering the variation in form, content and aim of sargassum adaptation policies. This assessment of the variation in Caribbean adaptation policies allows lessons to be identified for rapid adaptation to emergent environmental challenges. We find that several countries have no national policy for sargassum adaptation, and many subnational island jurisdictions have no island-specific policies. Whilst there is increasing anecdotal evidence of private and local adaptations taking place to address sargassum influx events, there remains significant scope for government leadership and resource support in adapting to this emergent threat. The lesson is that private adaptations to emergent threats may be quicker to develop and execute than policy adaptation, but longer-term, larger-scale adaptations depend on evidence-based, widely supported government policies with clear avenues of funding.

The Double-Layer Digital Needs Model in Marketing for Sustainable Digital Development

Background: This study investigates the role of social linkages and community resilience in advancing sustainable development in Tianjin, emphasizing their contribution to environmental sustainability and economic stability. The focus is on understanding how social cohesion and resilience interact with economic growth to influence sustainable development indicators. Objectives: The objective is to examine the impact of social cohesion, resilience, and economic growth on sustainable development indicators and to explore how these factors can drive resource efficiency and renewable energy initiatives in urban settings. Methodology: An empirical approach was employed to analyze a dataset spanning 2000 to 2020. The study utilized Cross-Section Augmented Autoregressive Distributed Lag (CS-ARDL) modeling to evaluate relationships and conducted robustness checks through Feasible Generalized Least Squares (FGLS) and Panel Corrected Standard Errors (PCSE). Results: Findings indicate that strong social linkages and enhanced community resilience positively influence sustainable development outcomes. These outcomes include efficient resource use, increased support for renewable energy initiatives, and improved economic stability. Novelty: This study highlights the critical role of social infrastructure and resilience-oriented policies in fostering sustainable growth in rapidly urbanizing regions. By integrating social linkages and resilience into adaptive policy frameworks, the research provides valuable insights into creating resilient, sustainable urban environments that promote cohesion and sustainable outcomes.

Bending the curve of biodiversity loss requires a 'satnav' for nature.

Georgina Mace proposed bending the curve of biodiversity loss as a fitting ambition for the Convention on Biological Diversity. The new Global Biodiversity Monitoring Framework (GBMF) may increase the chances of meeting the goals and targets in the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF), which requires bending the curve. To meet the outcome goals of KMGBF, the GBMF should support adaptive policy responses to the state of biodiversity, which in turn requires a 'satnav' for nature. The twin pillars of such a satnav are (i) models to predict expected future outcomes of today's choices; and (ii) rapid feedback from monitoring to enable course corrections and model improvement. These same elements will also empower organizations to ensure that their actions are truly nature-positive, but they are not yet written into the GBMF. Without a satnav, society will effectively have to try to find its way to the outcome goals by looking in the rear-view mirror that the current headline indicators provide. Drawing contrasts and parallels with climate modelling, I discuss challenges for indicators, models, data and research culture that must be overcome if we are to bend the curve, and suggest ways forward.This article is part of the discussion meeting issue 'Bending the curve towards nature recovery: building on Georgina Mace's legacy for a biodiverse future'.

Japans Evolving Natural Environment and Sustainable Development: Adaptive Strategies and Policy Implications

This study explores the intricate relationship between Japans evolving natural environment and its pursuit of sustainable development goals. As an island nation uniquely susceptible to environmental changes, Japan offers a critical case study for understanding adaptive strategies in the face of global climate change. The research delves into Japans distinctive geographical and climatic conditions, analyzing recent environmental shifts and their wide-ranging effects on its economy, society, and ecosystems. The findings underscore significant challenges, including a rise in natural disasters, ecological degradation, and growing socio-economic pressures. In response to these issues, the study presents a holistic framework for sustainable development that prioritizes policy enhancements, technological innovations, and active public participation. Key recommendations include tightening environmental regulations, increasing investments in green technologies, and promoting widespread environmental education to raise awareness and foster resilience. This research not only deepens our understanding of how countries like Japan are adapting to environmental changes but also provides valuable insights for other nations facing similar environmental and developmental challenges in an era of increasing climate unpredictability.

The Impact of Status Quo Bias on Monetary Policy Decision-Making: A Case Study of the 2008 Financial Crisis

This research examines the role of status quo bias in shaping monetary policy decision-making during the 2008 financial crisis, focusing on the responses of the Federal Reserve and the European Central Bank (ECB). Status quo bias, a cognitive bias that leads individuals and institutions to resist change, often results in delayed decisions and sub-optimal outcomes. This study employs a comparative case study methodology, analyzing the timing and nature of central bank interventions, such as interest rate cuts and quantitative easing during the crisis. By systematically reviewing policy actions and utilizing qualitative content analysis, the research identifies how status quo bias contributed to delayed responses and inadequate adjustments. The findings indicate that while the Federal Reserve, despite initial hesitation, quickly implemented unconventional measures that helped stabilize the U.S. economy, the ECB's adherence to traditional frameworks led to critical delays, resulting in a slower recovery in the Eurozone. These insights underscore the significant influence of cognitive biases on monetary policy, with implications for future crisis management strategies. Addressing the effects of status quo bias could lead to more agile and adaptive central banking policies, ultimately enhancing economic resilience during times of crisis.

Improving the effectiveness of climate change adaptation measures

To a large degree, economic metrics and mechanisms underpin the design of adaptation policies. Such a focus has undesired consequences on the effectiveness of adaptation measures as well as on our ability to prevent incommensurable losses. The article puts forward four strategic changes in adaptation policy that shift the focus away from markets and toward community-level visions of what a liveable future entails. These changes involve accommodating diverse ethical positions, through decision-making processes that are rich in information, include diverse perspectives, and are transparent with respect to the value trade-offs they entail; reflecting social norms in adaptation, through community-led initiatives whereby local priorities and cultural expressions are given centre-stage in the design of adaptation responses; limiting path dependence, through champions within key institutions that are prepared to affect change in times of disruptive climate disasters; and enfranchising marginalised groups, notably by incorporating multiple knowledges and worldviews in adaptation policy, promoting deliberation and negotiation, and subverting exclusionary practices.

The role of state institutions in the formation of security policy during potential military conflicts

Introduction: The role of state institutions in the formation of security policy during potential military conflicts is the key to ensuring global stability and a proactive response to world peace threats. The aim of the article is to analyse the influence of state institutions on international security policy in light of hybrid wars and innovative methods of conflict.Methods: The philosophical approach is aimed at the moral responsibility of the government to its citizens and the justification of the use of force from an ethical point of view. The article demonstrates that adapting state institutions to contemporary challenges, such as cyberthreats and hybrid technologies, contributes to strengthening global security and stability. The analysis is based on using linear regression to forecast the armament of leading countries in the military sphere and potential conflicts in the future.Results: The results obtained through linear regression predict a 20% increase in military industry and an escalation of potential military conflicts.Conclusions: The philosophical significance of the article lies in the study of the fundamental role of state institutions as bearers of the moral authority of adaptive security policy. Further research suggests delving into the philosophical foundations of creating a global security architecture.

Global drought-flood abrupt alternation: Spatiotemporal patterns, drivers, and projections

<p>The spatiotemporal patterns and driving factors of drought-flood abrupt alternations (DFAA) have been investigated across several regional and watershed scales; however, comprehensive examination at the global scale is lacking. Here, we employed the long period drought-flood abrupt change index (LDFAI), derived from an ensemble of 40 output datasets from eight Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 6 (CMIP6) models, to assess the spatiotemporal patterns, drivers, and future projections of global DFAA. The results indicate that DFAA are influenced by various anthropogenic forcings, and greenhouse gas emissions exert the most significant impact. The changes in the intensity of global DFAA (1950–2014), attributed to natural forcing (NAT), anthropogenic aerosols (AER), and greenhouse gas (GHG) forcing, accounted for 5.65%, 14.57%, and 33.55%, respectively. The rates of change of the DFAA intensity under shared socioeconomic pathways (SSPs) from 2014 to <styled-content style-type="number">2100</styled-content> were estimated to be 21.73% (SSP1-2.6), 45.37% (SSP2-4.5), 63.1% (SSP3-7.0), and 69.51% (SSP5-8.5). This means that under high radiative forcing, the regional rivalry and fossil-fuel development models will lead to a significant increase in DFAA. These findings can aid in the development of global adaptive policies related to DFAA.</p>

Exploring Effective Strategies for Fostering Economic Growth in Developing Nations

Achieving sustainable economic growth is a critical challenge for developing nations. Economic growth is the increase in the production of goods and services in an economy over a specific period, typically measured by the rise in real gross domestic product (GDP). This article explores effective strategies for fostering economic growth, drawing from existing literature published between 1934 and 2024. Key factors identified include robust governance, infrastructure development, education, and technological innovation. The role of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and trade liberalization in stimulating economic activities is emphasized. Inclusive policies targeting poverty reduction and social inequality are crucial to ensure widespread benefits of growth. The article concludes investment in education and skills development, promotion of infrastructure development: promotion of infrastructure development, strengthening institutions and governance: promotion of entrepreneurship and innovation, trade liberalization and regional integration, health and social protection systems, investment in human capital, promoting gender equality, enhancing governance and reducing corruption, supporting small and medium enterprises, encouraging foreign direct investment , fostering innovation and technology adoption, and implementing sound macroeconomic policies as effective strategies for fostering economic growth. The findings highlight the necessity of integrating macroeconomic stability, institutional reforms, and human capital development for sustained economic progress. The study suggests that strategic investments in human capital, strong governance frameworks, and adaptive economic policies can enhance growth prospects, providing valuable insights for policymakers and development practitioners.

Assessment of Municipal-Level Flood Vulnerability Using Logistic Growth Function-Based Flood Damage Function

This study evaluated the flood vulnerability of 228 municipalities in South Korea by constructing logistic growth function-based flood damage functions, utilizing flood damage and rainfall data from 1998 to 2021. Among the derived parameters, a represents flood damage sensitivity to rainfall increase, b indicates the rainfall threshold for flood occurrence, and c denotes the maximum damage amount. Parameter a (0.0688-0.3203) showed regional variations without distinct spatial patterns, whereas b (76.8-343.6) exhibited higher values in the Seoul Metropolitan Area and major cities, suggesting that developed areas with well-established disaster prevention infrastructure possess higher flood thresholds. The proportion of flood reduction facilities (pumping stations, river improvements, and retention basins) exhibited positive correlations with b, suggesting the effectiveness of these measures in increasing flood damage thresholds. Flood damage was typically initiated at 127 mm of maximum daily rainfall and approached maximum levels at 272 mm. This study provides quantitative evidence to establish localized flood management strategies that contribute to the development of future climate change adaptation policies.

Parents' Need for Support From Family and Friends During Their Preterm Infants' Hospitalisation: A Cross-National Qualitative Study.

To explore the need for support from family and friends among parents of preterm infants within neonatal intensive care. A cross-national qualitative study. In autumn 2019, 73 parents of preterm infants hospitalised in neonatal intensive care units in Denmark, Finland, Iceland and Sweden were interviewed. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. The infant's hospitalisation created a complex context for parental support from family and friends. Social, emotional and practical support were crucial but often hindered by challenges related to the environment, timing, individual circumstances and relationships. Parents emphasised the need for family and friends to be supported in understanding the situation. Encouraging the presence and involvement of family and friends, implementing adaptive unit policies and sensitivity of staff are pivotal in fostering a supportive environment. By better understanding parents' need for support, neonatal units can further develop their practices and enhance the parental support. This can be achieved by enabling the presence and involvement of family and friends at the level the parents desire. This study addressed a knowledge gap regarding parents' support need from family and friends during their preterm infant's hospitalisation. This study's results will offer important knowledge to develop unit practices and comprehensive support systems for parents. This study followed the relevant EQUATOR guidelines and COREQ checklist. No patient or public contribution.

Studi Perbandingan Status Kenegaraan Umat Muslim dalam Pelayanan Pendidikan di Inggris dan Jerman

The increasing number of Muslim communities in Europe, especially in the UK and Germany, has highlighted the important role of education in the process of social integration. Inclusive and adaptive education policies can help create equality of opportunity for Muslims and support social cohesion. However, the approach to education policy in the UK and Germany shows significant differences that reflect the history, politics, and culture of each country. This study aims to conduct a comparative study between education policies in the two countries in the context of education services for Muslims. This study is a qualitative study using a literature study approach which will then describe and compare education policies in the two countries in the context of education services for Muslims. By collecting and analyzing data from various sources, including academic journal articles, books, official government reports, and publications from international organizations. The results of the study show that the UK has a more centralized and flexible education policy, allowing support for faith-based schools, including Islamic schools. On the other hand, the decentralized education system in Germany results in variations in policies between states, creating differences in access and implementation of Islamic religious education. Keywords: education, Muslims, education policy, England, Germany

Perceptions of Small-scale Fishermen on the Impact of Climate Change in Coastal and Small Island Areas of Pangkajene and Islands Regency

This study examines the perceptions of small-scale fishers in coastal areas and small islands of Pangkep Regency towards the impacts of climate change. The impacts of climate change experienced by fishers include unpredictable changes in weather patterns, increased sea temperatures, and unpredictable fishing seasons, which overall reduce catches and increase safety risks at sea. The research was conducted for 6 months from May to October 2024. The research was conducted in Pangkep District, South Sulawesi. The research location was purposively selected to illustrate the condition of fishermen who are directly affected by climate change. Data collection techniques were conducted through in-depth interviews, direct observation, questionnaires, and literature studies. The number of samples in this study were 50 fishermen with the criteria of small fishermen who have a ship/boat capacity of 0-10 GT. This research used a qualitative approach with a descriptive method. The qualitative approach allows researchers to explore fishermen's subjective perceptions of the impacts of climate change. Most fishers reported a decrease in catches due to changes in fish migration thought to be related to rising seawater temperatures, which forced them to go further out to sea and incur greater operational costs. In addition, climate change is resulting in extreme weather that often poses accident risks for fishers, while limited access to weather information and technology hinders their adaptation. This suggests the need for adaptation policies, such as climate training and improved access to weather information for small-scale fishers, to strengthen their resilience to climate change.

Cultural Shifts and Policy: How Government Actions Shape Social Behavior

Shaping social behavior through public policy is a basic yet complex process, necessitating a delicate balance between government intervention, societal norms, and individual rights. Policies are created to address a wide array of social issues, such as public health and safety, economic inequality, and environmental sustainability, in an attempt to influence societal behavior for the greater good. However, most of those policies are usually opposed by resistance to change, unintended consequences, and difficulties in enforcement. This paper examines some of the main challenges to the use of policy in designing social behavior: cultural resistance, policy misalignment with social realities, ethical concerns, and political opposition. In addition, it considers the need to consider long-term impacts on society, ensure resource allocation, and adapt policies to evolving needs. This paper reviews challenges in depth and consequently underlines the complexity of using policy to achieve behavior change; it underscores the need for thoughtful design, public engagement, and ongoing adaptation in the quest for successful outcomes from social policy.

THE IMPACT OF ECONOMIC SANCTIONS ON INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT

Economic sanctions, as tools of foreign policy, have a significant impact on the industrial development of affected nations, influencing financial transactions, trade, and technology access. The goal of the article is to show how economic sanctions, on the one hand, create challenges, such as production disruptions and reduced investments, on the other hand, opportunities, such as encouraging innovation, self-reliance, and economic resilience. Through case studies, it seeks to uncover the specific ways in which sanctions impact different industrial sectors, and how countries can transform these challenges into opportunities for growth. By combining economic, legal, and policy perspectives, supported by both qualitative and quantitative analysis, the implemented study offers insights for policymakers and industries on how to reduce the negative effects of sanctions while identifying pathways for sustainable growth and industrial development. The findings emphasize the importance of adaptive policies and strategic legal approaches in achieving industrial resilience under challenging conditions.