Adoption Of Practices Research Articles

Climate-responsive design practices: A transdisciplinary methodology for achieving sustainable development goals in cultural and natural heritage

The 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) defined by the United Nations represent a blueprint for the adoption of global practices and policies to foster sustainability in societies and increase efficiencies in resources uses. The Italian National Trust, FAI, has embraced these goals, developing a holistic and transdisciplinary methodology to promote a more sustainable approach to preserve its natural and built heritage. This methodology combines heritage protection with the SDGs in various macro-areas of interventions, including energy, water, biosphere, responsible consumption, and sustainable communities. The aim is to increase access to affordable and clean energy, reduce water, waste, and soil footprints, promote responsible consumption, and develop human capital. The paper proposes a set of strategies to achieve the SDGs in heritage, involving the collaboration of several stakeholders, ranging from institutions to citizens. The methodology is applied to a specific Italian case study, Casa Macchi in Morazzone, to highlight the challenges in achieving the dual objective of preserving the historic building and promoting sustainability in the built environment.

Understanding the Ivorian market vegetables production: Is the agroecological transition the right strategy?

CONTEXTAfrican agriculture, and especially market vegetables production, which is dominated by smallholder systems, generally faces many challenges. There is growing interest in agroecology as a means to move towards more sustainable food and farming systems. The West African region is considered by FAO to feature the conditions to become “a global frontrunner in agroecology”, and ongoing efforts in Côte d'Ivoire attempts to understand and promote agroecology in vegetable production. OBJECTIVEThe objective of this study is to present a functional analysis of the Ivorian suburban market vegetables value chain, and discuss the suitability of and agroecological transition of the agricultural production link, towards more sustainable vegetables production in the country. METHODSA thorough functional analysis of the Ivorian market vegetables value chain was conducted, including the construction of typologies to identify the links between agroecological practices and overall technical and socio-economic efficiencies. RESULT AND CONCLUSIONThe available data (primary, secondary) allows but only a superficial understanding of the Ivorian market vegetables value chain. The analysis of economic returns as a function of their adoption of agroecological practices suggests that “formal” agroecological farms struggle economically, more so than the rest of producers. Observed relations between yields and certain agroecological practices practiced by most Ivorian producers, in combination with the functional analysis of the value chain, suggest that an intensification of these practices, coupled with improvements of the enabling environment (necessary to palliate the inputs cost and product price variability, as well as improve and secure access to land), may overall contribute to improved yields and higher gross margins. More and more detailed studies are necessary to determine the agroecological practices and their level of adoption that would minimise negative environmental and maximise positive socio-economic impacts. In Côte d'Ivoire, agroecology must prove its worth, through action-research initiatives, in order to further develop in terms of breadth and depth of application. SIGNIFICANCEthis article includes a national functional analysis of vegetable production systems. This is useful for understanding value chains and facilitating agroecological transition.

The Union Army's Surgical Handbook and the Positive Story of Civil War Surgery.

Western armies have relied on surgical field manuals to help physicians deal with unfamiliar combat medical conditions from the Napoleonic wars to the present day, but there has been little discussion of whether these handbooks have been used or improved outcomes. Recent research shows that the Union Army's American Civil War (1861-1865) surgical case fatality rates improved as the war progressed, much like the US Army's experience in later wars, and were generally superior to comparable European results. These positive Civil War outcomes have been attributed to field experience, adoption of best practices, and enhanced communication, without consideration of New York surgeon Stephen Smith's widely-used Hand-Book of Surgical Operations. The Army of the Potomac added Smith's pocket-sized Hand-Book to its supply table in 1862. Northern medical journals applauded it, and Smith's contemporaries documented its wide use. Smith's handbook explained and demonstrated surgical techniques that were adopted as the war progressed, such as the use of general anesthesia and limb-sparing resection (debridement) of gunshot wounds. It offered pithy, well-documented advice from recognized experts along with numerous illustrations, which allowed untrained physicians to visualize anatomical relationships and see contemporary best practices in a way that no other wartime publication provided, making it an exemplar of a mass-media surgical improvement change agent.

Abstract PO5-11-09: Participants’ experience with an online mindfulness-based stress reduction intervention for anxiety management in breast cancer survivors: A secondary analysis of a randomized trial

Abstract Background Breast cancer (BC) diagnosis and treatment can lead to multiple symptoms with a negative impact on the quality of life of survivors. Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) interventions have shown to improve anxiety, depression, and stress in patients with cancer across multiple settings. However, the effectiveness of an online MBSR program has not been studied. Methods This is an explanatory qualitative sub-study of a randomized trial of an online MBSR intervention versus a waitlist control. Participants were Mexican women aged ≥18 years diagnosed with stage 0-III BC 1-5 years prior to inclusion, not currently undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy, with moderate to severe anxiety (baseline GAD-7 score ≥10). The intervention consisted of 8 weekly 2-hour Zoom sessions with body scan meditation and yoga practice led by a certified instructor. Participants received a digital manual with exercises, audio for guided practice, and a video of postures for balance and flexibility. The primary outcome of the trial was anxiety at 2, 5, and 8 months after the intervention. Two focus groups were conducted via Zoom; 21 participants from the intervention arm were selected and invited according to the difference in GAD-7 scores between baseline and 8 months. The first group consisted of 7 participants (median age 53 years, range 39-62) with a decrease in GAD-7 score of ≥4 points (mean -9.1, SD 3.7); the second group consisted of 7 participants (median age 54 years, range 44-64) with a decrease of < 4 points or an increase in GAD-7 score (mean -1.2, SD 1.9). Each focus group was conducted 14 and 9 months after the MBSR intervention, respectively, and had a duration of 110 and 113 minutes, respectively. Audio and video were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Transcripts were analyzed and themes were developed, focusing on participants’ experience with the online intervention and its perceived benefits. Results The weekly sessions and at-home practice functioned as a “personal haven” for participants. At-home deliberate practice and the additional audio and video materials were considered essential for the effectiveness of the intervention. Participants no longer needed to consciously follow step-by-step directions, as the practices had become a part of who they were, even several months after the intervention. Breathing exercises were frequently used by participants on a day- to-day basis. Regarding the mindfulness practice itself, some participants indicated that they noticed positive changes in their character and demeanor, and in their reactions to everyday and BC-related stressors, including situations such as medical consultations and possible news regarding their treatment. In that sense, they mentioned that all they learned is useful for their life in general, and not exclusive to BC survivors. Despite differences in improvement of anxiety by GAD-7 scores between the focus groups, most participants in both groups referred to the intervention as “life-changing”. Most participants in both groups perceived the online format of the intervention as positive: it allowed them to join in from any location and fit the program into their daily routine with less time commitment. Likewise, the privacy of their homes made them feel more comfortable expressing themselves during the weekly sessions. A high level of recognition, appreciation and gratitude towards the instructor was observed. Some participants noted that contact with the instructor and other participants was limited due to the online format, preventing them from forming friendships or a sense of community. Conclusion BC survivors’ opinion of an online MBSR program was largely positive regarding the benefits of the intervention and its delivery format. Moreover, the intervention was successful at facilitating participants’ adoption of mindfulness practice in their daily lives and at improving other aspects of their lives beyond BC. Citation Format: Haydee Cristina Verduzco-Aguirre, Maura Pompa Mansilla, Misael Salazar-Alejo, Javier Gutierrez Ornelas, Fernanda Mesa-Chavez, Ana Ferrigno Guajardo, Cynthia Villarreal-Garza. Participants’ experience with an online mindfulness-based stress reduction intervention for anxiety management in breast cancer survivors: A secondary analysis of a randomized trial [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO5-11-09.

Drivers and barriers to climate-smart agricultural practices and technologies adoption: Insights from stakeholders of five European food supply chains

The adoption of climate-smart agriculture (CSA) is a critical component in the transition to a more sustainable food system. However, the transition calls for significant changes in the food production system, in which stakeholders in the supply chain should work collaboratively. So far, most studies have focused on the perceptions of one actor, the farmer, on implementation of CSA practices. This study aims to include also other stakeholders’ perceptions on drivers and barriers to CSA implementation in the primary production for five European food supply chains. Data were collected from stakeholders using a semi-structured interview guide, including farmers, producers and manufacturers, advisory service providers, advocacy institutions, policy officers, researchers, and consultants. The top three drivers to foster the adoption of CSA practices within the five food supply chains touched on economic, institutional and policy, as well as personal and psychological factors. Similarly, the top three barriers limiting adoption of CSA practices were seen to be economic, technology-related aspects, and institutional and policy factors. According to the stakeholders, addressing these barriers requires financial support, policy changes, and capacity-building efforts to make these practices attractive especially to farmers. They also emphasized that improved coordination among stakeholders, incentives for sustainable practices and customized strategies for communicating and disseminating CSA information can help catalyse effective understanding and implementation of CSA practices.

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Sun Exposure and Sun Protection among the Population of Kazakhstan: A Cross Sectional Study.

The aims of this study were to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding sun exposure and sun protection among the population of Kazakhstan. A cross sectional study was conducted by administering an online questionnaire via social networking sites to residents of Kazakhstan. The questionnaire was designed to determine demographic information as well as knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding sun exposure and sun protection. The responses of 249 participants were analysed. Descriptive tests, bivariate analyses, and multiple linear regression were used to statistically analyse the data. The mean age of the participants was 31.7 ± 11.5 (SD) years. Most participants were of Kazakh nationality (88.7%), female (71.0 %), urban residents (93.9 %), and possessed higher education degrees (88.0 %). The level of knowledge and attitudes were found to be moderate amongst the population whilst practices were determined to be low. Knowledge (p=0.002), attitudes (p=0.002), female gender (p=0.002), and having children educated in school about sun safety (p=0.018) were significantly associated with improved sun-protective practices. This study has demonstrated low adoption of sun protective practices in the Kazakhstan population, despite the identification of certain characteristics associated with higher rates of practice.

Implementation of the WHO Safe Childbirth Checklist: a scoping review protocol

IntroductionThe WHO Safe Childbirth Checklist (WHO SCC) was developed to accelerate adoption of essential practices that prevent maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality during childbirth. This study aims to summarise...

Adopting Trauma-Informed Approaches to Teaching & Learning in Health & Exercise Sciences: a Case Study

The School of Health & Exercise Sciences at the University of British Columbia Okanagan offers a competency-based undergraduate program that prepares students for professional practice in kinesiology and allied health, clinical exercise physiology, and/or health behaviour change. In delivering this program, we aim to 1) provide a safe and inclusive learning environment for all students, and 2) intentionally prepare students for equity-minded and anti-oppressive professional practice. To support both of these goals, we have recently embarked on a multipronged initiative to implement trauma-informed approaches to teaching and learning across our program. Trauma-informed approaches are critical due to the high prevalence of trauma exposure in both the university student and general adult population. Since people from historically, persistently or systemically marginalized groups are more likely to have experienced trauma, trauma-informed approaches should be considered an essential tool for supporting equity and inclusion in higher education. Finally, trauma-informed practice is especially relevant in a discipline like ours, where learning activities and professional practice commonly involve close examination of the body, touching, and other potentially triggering interactions and events. We have taken several steps to support the adoption of trauma-informed teaching practices in our School. These include characterizing the need for trauma-informed approaches in our laboratory courses, selecting an appropriate framework to guide our recommendations, creating an educator guide for designing and facilitating trauma-informed learning experiences, and developing and launching a training program for instructors and teaching assistants. We have also made progress with integrating learning about trauma-informed approaches into our curriculum. To support backward design, we defined one program-level competency related to trauma-informed practice, with five associated learning outcomes. These learning outcomes have been mapped across the curriculum to support mastery of the competency by graduation. This year, we employed two different instructional approaches (large vs. small group and instructor-led vs. guest expert-led sessions) in one first- and fourth-year course (n=209 and 100 students, respectively). Formative assessments indicate that individual learning outcomes were attained by 72-91% of students. Summative assessments of learning and student evaluations of instruction and perceived learning are forthcoming. Here we describe a comprehensive effort to revise both pedagogy and curriculum in support of trauma-informed teaching and learning in health and exercise sciences. By sharing our process, early successes, and lessons learned, we offer a valuable example for educators and educational designers across disciplines related to human anatomy, physiology, and health. This work is happening on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the Syilx Okanagan people and is supported by the UBCO School of Health & Exercise Sciences and the UBCO Sexual Violence Prevention & Response Offce. This is the full abstract presented at the American Physiology Summit 2024 meeting and is only available in HTML format. There are no additional versions or additional content available for this abstract. Physiology was not involved in the peer review process.

Effect of boron fertilization on productivity and sustainability of rice-wheat cropping system in Tarai region, North-West India

Extensive global dependency on rice and wheat crops has necessitated the adoption of intensive cultivation practices, thereby compelling to closely monitor the potential yield-limiting factors, among which, boron (B) deficiency stands out to be a prime concern. The present study explores the effects of B fertilization strategies within the Rice-Wheat Cropping System (RWCS) in the Tarai region of North-West India. A comprehensive six-year field experiment was conducted (2013–2019) at G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Uttarakhand, India. The experiment tested graded B doses (0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 kg ha−1) at varied frequencies (single, alternate, and annual) in a factorial design. The study revealed significant impacts of alternate B application at 1.5 kg ha−1 on crop yields and the Sustainable Yield Index (SYI). The System Rice Equivalent Yield (SREY) exhibited an increase of 6.7% with B supplementation over B-deprived plots, highlighting the pivotal role of B fertilizer in enhancing productivity within the RWCS. The economic optimum B dose was found to be 1.422 kg ha−1 using a linear plus plateau model, resulting in a calculated annual SREY of 9.73 t ha−1 when applied alternately to the cropping system. Continuous application and higher B rates demonstrated substantial increases in various B fractions, while the mobility factor remained within 10%, depicting safe ecological limits. The distribution of fractions in B-treated plots on average followed the order: residual B > organically-bound B > oxide bound B > specifically adsorbed B > readily soluble B. Similarities in the distribution patterns of B fractions between B-treated plots and the control indicated potential influence of biotic or abiotic processes on B fraction dynamics, even in the absence of external B application. To sum up, B application in alternate years at 1.5 kg ha−1 was most sustainable in enhancing the SREY, SYI, available soil B, and B fractions and lowering the environmental hazards.

INDUSTRY PERSPECTIVE ON THE TRANSITION TO ECO-FRIENDLY SINGLE-FAMILY HOMES

As the global climate continues to change, countries across the world face a critical challenge in balancing sustainable construction, lowering construction costs, and increasing housing affordability and the United States is no exception. Since the U.S. building sector is a major contributor to CO2 and other greenhouse gases emissions, it necessitates the adoption of eco-friendly construction practices, which may increase construction costs. On the other hand, with the persistent yet increasing demand for affordable housing, it is imperative to navigate these concurrent issues efficiently. The challenges of climate-friendly buildings, affordable construction, and housing costs come together in a complex way. Ensuring that housing is both environmentally friendly and affordable for everyone, a deep understanding and innovative ideas are essential. The overarching goal of this study is two-fold. First, it aims to understand how the building industry in the state of Massachusetts, U.S. is addressing the transition to building more eco-friendly single-family homes. Second, it looks at the construction costs associated with building these energy-efficient homes by obtaining real estimates from subcontractors. Through these steps, this study offers a clear picture of the challenges and opportunities in an effort to provide housing that is both energy-efficient and affordable.

Passing the message: Peer outreach about COVID-19 precautions in Zambia

During public health emergencies, spreading accurate information and increasing adherence to recommended behaviors is critical for communal welfare. However, uncertainty, mistrust, and misinformation can slow the adoption of best practices. Preexisting social networks can amplify and endorse information from authorities, and technology makes peer-to-peer messaging scalable and fast. Using text messages and small cash incentives, we test a peer-based information campaign to encourage adherence to recommended COVID-19-related health behaviors in Zambia. None of the treatments affected health behavior among primary study participants or their peers. The suggestion to pass messages to peers increases dissemination, but financial incentives do not have any additional impact.

Effect of E-Procurement on the Performance of a Wholesale Pharmacy: A Case of KIPHARMA- Rwanda (2018-2022)

The general objective of this study was to assess the effect of e-procurement on the performance of Kipharma- Rwanda. Especially the study examined the effect of the e-tendering on the performance of KIPHARMA-Rwanda, assessed the effect of e-auction on the performance of KIPHARMA-Rwanda, found out the effects of e-purchasing on the performance of KIPHARMA-Rwanda and found out the effects of e-invoicing on the performance of KIPHARMA-Rwanda. This study refers and uses the theories like Stakeholder Theory and Agency theory. For this study, correlation analysis was used. Both quantitative (questionnaire) and qualitative (interview) research techniques were used by researcher in order to collect data (information) related to the objectives of the study. The entire target population of the study who are supposed to provide the information data related to the objectives of the research study was based on employees of Kipharma-Rwanda who are totalized to 97 employees The researcher has decided to use a census inquiry method instead of sampling due to the relatively small number of individuals in the population. The research relied on questionnaire technique, interview and Documentation technique. Views that were given by the respondents were analyzed through SPSS 23rd version. The R value of 0.922 indicates a strong positive correlation between the predictors (e-invoicing, e-tendering, e-auction, e-purchasing) and the dependent variable. The R Square value of 0.851 signifies that approximately 85.1% of the variability in the performance of KIPHARMA-Rwanda can be explained by the independent variables in the model. For e-tendering (β= 0.297, t = 4.252, p=0.000 < 0.05). Similarly, e-auction shows a positive effect (β= 0.216, t = 3.054, p = 0.003< 0.05). E-purchasing and e-invoicing also have positive effects, contributing to the performance of KIPHARMA-Rwanda, (β= 0.244, t = 2.422, p = 0.018< 0.05) and (β= 0.247, t = 2.530, p = 0.013< 0.05) respectively. These results indicates that the adoption of e-procurement practices, including e-tendering, e-auction, e-purchasing, and e-invoicing, is associated with positive effects on the performance of KIPHARMA-Rwanda. All p-values are statistically significant at p < 0.05, reinforcing the strong relationships. KIPHARMA-Rwanda should focus on enhancing skills related to e-tendering processes, ensuring that all stakeholders are well-equipped to leverage the system effectively. Keywords: E-procurement, E-tendering, E- invoicing, E-purchasing, E-auction and Performance.

Blockchain application in energy trading for grid-connected prosumers

The Gautrain railway link in the Gauteng province of South Africa is a crucial transportation facility that has faced considerable energy-related difficulties and hence a dependable power supply is essential to ensure the continuous operation of railway processes. The total number of passenger trips on the Gautrain, in a year, is two million plus. The railway system, which has always relied on grid electricity to power trains, stations, lights, security, and operations is facing increasing difficulties because of rising electricity demand and costs, and power-related outages. To address these issues, the study designed an optimised power generation system for the Gautrain railway link (GRL) using a photovoltaic (PV) system with energy storage connected to the grid to lower energy costs, promote economic growth, and satisfy its energy demand. The Advanced Interactive Multidimensional Modelling System (AIMMS) tool was used to optimise the incorporation of solar energy generation and battery energy storage into the GRL power system. This study contributes to sustainable energy development by leveraging renewable solar energy, optimising the GRL power system, and integrating blockchain technology for peer-to-peer (P2P) energy trading. A smart contract is compiled and deployed within the Remix Online IDE to apply a logic that manages energy generation, consumption, and P2P energy trading amongst prosumers. It furnishes a replicable model for the advancement of electrical energy systems within diverse transportation networks, therefore fostering the adoption of energy-efficient practices.

Determinants of Smallholder Farmers’ Adoption of Climate-Smart Agricultural Practices in Zomba, Eastern Malawi

Smallholder farmers in Malawi largely depend on rainfed agriculture, despite climate change posing serious threats to this form of agriculture. The adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices is pivotal in offsetting the effects of climate change on agriculture. Despite the great potential of climate-smart agricultural practices in combating the effects of climate change on agriculture, smallholder farmers’ adoption of it remains low. Reasons are varied, suggesting that the factors are largely contextual. This study, therefore, explored the determinants of smallholder farmers’ adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices in Zomba, within the framework of the diffusion of innovations. Using a convergent mixed research design, the study purposively selected key informants and randomly selected smallholder farmers. Questionnaires, interviews, and observation guides were used to collect data. Thematic analysis was used to analyse qualitative data, while descriptive analysis was used to analyse quantitative data. Results indicate that only 26% of smallholder farmers have adopted the promoted climate-smart agricultural practices. Compatibility and simplicity are the chief determinants of climate-smart agricultural practice adoption. The majority of smallholder farmers fall under the late majority. Evidence shows that labour and capital intensive climate-smart agricultural practices are less likely to be adopted by smallholder farmers. Implementing agencies, therefore, should first consult the local farmers on the ground to see practices that are already being followed and are suitable before bringing the new ones. This will ensure that the appropriate climate-smart agricultural practices are promoted.

Usage of soybean waste recycling among rural farmers in Kwara state, Nigeria

This study assesses the usage of soybean waste recycling among rural farmers in Kwara State, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to examine the soybean farmer’s level of awareness on soybean waste recycling and identify the level of usage of soybean waste recycling in the study area. Data were collected through interview schedule and analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistics such as Frequency, Percentage, Mean, Standard Deviation and Pearson Product Moment Correlation. The findings of the study were that: The mean age of the respondents was 43.51 years. Most of the respondents (62%) were males, (80.9%) married, (75.1%) had formal education with an average household size of 6 persons and 16.37 years of farming experience. All (100%) of the respondents indicated awareness of soybean waste recycling and no respondent indicated unawareness. The analysis conducted on the level of usage of soybean waste recycling in the study area shows that majority (65%) had a moderate usage of soybean waste recycling. This study recommends promoting the usefulness of soybean waste to farmers. Additionally, this study suggests establishing partnerships between agricultural institutions and farmers to facilitate the adoption of soybean waste utilization practices.

Perceived Staff Motivation on the Adoption of Total Quality Management Practices in Nigeria

This study explores the relationship between employee motivation and the effective adoption of Total Quality Management (TQM) within modern organizational contexts in Nigeria. TQM, renowned for its all-encompassing strategy for continual enhancement, is widely recognized for its positive impact on product and service quality, employee involvement, and overall organizational effectiveness. Despite these well-documented benefits, the pivotal role of motivation in cultivating a TQM culture represents a critical yet insufficiently examined dimension. This study adopts a quantitative method using a closed-ended self-administered questionnaire to investigate the connections between motivation and TQM. The research focuses on assessing the levels of employee motivation within organizations practising TQM principles. It examines the resulting impact on various TQM dimensions, such as employee involvement and service quality. The findings revealed that staff motivation through intrinsic motivation and extrinsic motivation significantly affects the involvement of employees and the service quality of the selected deposit money banks in the Ilorin metropolis. The findings of this research highlight the importance of motivation in influencing TQM practices. Organizations should be mindful of the balance between intrinsic and extrinsic motivators to foster a work environment that promotes long-term commitment and performance. Practically, the results can guide organizations in developing and implementing strategies to motivate staff in a way that supports the successful implementation of TQM practices. The findings contributed significantly to the existing body of knowledge by elucidating the critical role motivation plays in shaping TQM practices.

The role of policy and regulation in promoting green buildings

Green buildings play a crucial role in sustainable development by reducing energy consumption, minimizing environmental impact, and enhancing occupant health and well-being. This review explores the role of policy and regulation in promoting green buildings, highlighting the importance of government intervention in driving sustainable building practices. Government policies and regulations play a pivotal role in shaping the adoption of green building practices. Through a combination of mandates, incentives, and standards, governments can encourage the construction and renovation of buildings that prioritize energy efficiency, water conservation, and environmental sustainability. Mandatory building codes and standards are among the most effective tools governments use to promote green buildings. These codes set minimum requirements for energy performance, water efficiency, and indoor environmental quality, ensuring that new constructions and major renovations meet established sustainability criteria. In addition to mandatory standards, governments also use financial incentives to encourage green building practices. These incentives may include tax credits, grants, or subsidies for building owners and developers who incorporate sustainable design features or achieve green building certifications. Furthermore, governments can influence the market through procurement policies that prioritize green buildings for public projects. By leading by example, governments can create a ripple effect in the private sector, encouraging more developers and building owners to embrace sustainable building practices. Overall, the role of policy and regulation in promoting green buildings is essential for advancing sustainable development goals. By setting clear standards, providing incentives, and leading by example, governments can create an environment where green buildings are the norm rather than the exception, leading to a more sustainable built environment for future generations.

Unveiling Anxiety Factors in Orthorexia Nervosa: A Qualitative Exploration of Fears and Coping Strategies.

Orthorexia nervosa represents a controversial phenomenon in the realm of eating practices, characterized by an obsessive fixation on consuming only foods deemed 'healthy', and a preoccupation with food purity. While the existing literature has identified the presence of stressful behaviors among individuals with orthorexia, the precise factors and circumstances eliciting these stress-inducing emotions remain the subject of ongoing inquiry. This study aims to explore the triggers and situations that precipitate stressful beliefs and emotions among individuals who self-identify as preoccupied with healthy eating, as well as the coping mechanisms developed to manage these feelings. Through conducting one-to-one interviews with thirteen individuals, thematic analysis was employed to elucidate the nuances of their experiences. Participants articulated concerns regarding the contamination of foods available in supermarkets and restaurants, thereby prompting the meticulous selection of food sources and aversion to dining out. The prospect of trying new foods and engaging in social gatherings involving food emerged as anxiety-inducing scenarios, prompting individuals to adhere to monotonous dietary patterns and impose self-isolation. Additionally, medical appointments were perceived as stressful, driven by health concerns underpinning the adoption of stringent dietary practices. These findings underscore the spectrum of fears and coping mechanisms exhibited by individuals with orthorexia nervosa, which hold profound implications for their overall well-being.

INVESTIGATING BARRIERS IN GREEN SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT

The Green Supply Chain Management (GSCM) has emerged in today’s scenario in response to the growing concern of environmental sustainability. Green Supply Chain is a term that has it’s importance in the entire supply chain starting from the designing of the product to raw material procurement to manufacturing of the product to distribution and until the end-of-life of the product. It’s main aim is to minimize the negative impact of the supply chain activities and also to maximize the efficiency of resources along with reduction of the waste generation. There are a number of challenges in implementing green practices in the organization, which include the need for cooperation, collaboration and coordination among the partners of supply chain and also the need to identify the cost-effective green practices and technologies. There are a number of strategies which have been proposed to address the challenges faced. These include packaging which is eco-friendly, the concept of reverse logistics etc. The organizations which adopt the green supply chain practices in their organizations, gain various types of benefits from it. These benefits include savings in the costs as there is reduction in the consumption and also waste generation. The brand image of the organization is enhanced by the adoption of green practices and there is increase in the customer loyalty etc. Companieswhich use green supply chain management in their supply chain include Johnson and Johnson, Ford, Adidas, Nestle, Coca-Cola, Tesla etc. The adoption of green supply chain management (GSCM) faces multiple challenges including financial barriers, lack of awareness and supplier engagement, and regulatory complexity, while cultural resistance and technological limitations also impede its implementation. Success relies on top management support and overcoming these hurdles to develop sustainable practices across the entire supply chain.

Impact of International Trade Agreements on Corporate Law

International Trade Agreements (ITAs) have a significant impact on corporate law. ITAs typically include provisions that affect a wide range of corporate law issues, such as reducing or eliminating tariffs and other trade barriers making it easier for corporations to export their goods and services to foreign markets, other provisions might protect foreign investment and promote investment flows between countries making it more attractive for corporations to invest in foreign markets. Some ITAs protect intellectual property rights, such as trademarks, copyrights, and patents that is important for corporations that rely on intellectual property to protect their products and services and ITAs also promote competition and prohibit anti-competitive practices which help ensuring that corporations compete fairly in the global marketplace. In addition, ITAs can also have a broader impact, for instance, ITAs can promote the adoption of common legal standards and practices, making it easier for corporations to do business in different countries. For Example, The North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) includes provisions that made it easier for corporations to move goods and services between the United States, Canada, and Mexico leading to increased investment flows between these countries. The World Trade Organization (WTO) Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) has helped to strengthen the protection of intellectual property rights around the world which benefited corporations that rely on intellectual property to protect their products and services. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) includes provisions that promote competition and prohibit anti-competitive practices in the Asia-Pacific region ensuring that corporations are competing fairly in the market. Overall, this Research Paper summarises how ITAs have a significant impact on corporate law and Corporations involved in international trade should be aware of the provisions of the relevant ITAs and how these provisions may affect their business.