Development Of Innovative Technologies Research Articles

Exploring the Evolutionary Path of Digital Financial Inclusion in Guangdong Province, China

This study explores the development trajectory of digital financial inclusion in 21 cities in Guangdong Province through fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA). The findings emphasize that the success of digital financial inclusion goes beyond individual dimensions, forming a systematic initiative marked by multifaceted interaction among different disciplines. In the trajectory of high-level digital inclusive finance development, the study identifies economic prosperity and technological innovation as crucial elements, highlighting their centrality, and elucidates the synergistic collaboration between market mechanisms and government guidance. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the government’s pivotal role in supporting market mechanisms and guiding policies, highlighting the need to achieve a nuanced equilibrium in the digital financial inclusion strategy. In contrast, non-high-level development paths of digital inclusive finance show a spectrum of diversities, emphasizing the critical roles played by economic fundamentals, government regulation, market mechanisms, and other contextual factors in different trajectories. Regarding policy implications, the study emphasizes the comprehensive and systemic nature inherent in the development of digital inclusive finance. It proposes four policy recommendations, including integrating development strategies, emphasizing scientific and technological innovation and economic development, achieving a delicate balance between market mechanisms and government guidance, and providing precise policy support. These insights provide valuable lessons for shaping digital inclusive financial policies in Guangdong Province and beyond, offering profound insights for strategically constructing robust digital financial ecosystems.

Valorisation of Seafood Side-Streams through the Design of New Holistic Value Chains: WaSeaBi Project

Growing demand in the fisheries sector has resulted in a high generation of side-streams that are mainly treated as waste despite their potential value in terms of protein, fatty acids, and minerals. The WaSeaBi project, funded by the EU under the Horizon 2020 BBI JU initiative, seeks to address this problem by promoting the sustainable and economically viable utilisation of these side-streams, thus contributing to improved food security and environmental conservation. The project focuses on the development of innovative technologies and methodologies for the efficient valorisation of seafood side-streams into marketable products such as protein-based food ingredients, bioactive peptides, and mineral supplements. The WaSeaBi project started with a comprehensive analysis to identify the bottlenecks hindering the efficient utilisation of side-streams. To this end, a comprehensive study of the European seafood industry was conducted to understand the existing challenges. The main obstacles identified were technological deficiencies, lack of space and personnel, and a limited market for the resulting products. Several laboratory-scale technologies, such as pH-shift, enzymatic hydrolysis, membrane concentration, and flocculation with centrifugation, were explored in order to extract valuable components from the side-streams. Subsequently, these technologies were scaled-up and tested on a pilot scale. For example, membrane concentration technology facilitated the recovery of valuable molecules from mussel cooking side-streams while reducing environmental impact. Flocculation helped recover proteins and phosphates from process waters, crucial for reducing the organic load of effluents. In addition, decision-making tools were developed to help select and build the most appropriate valorisation strategies, taking into account technical, legal, economic, and environmental aspects. Environmental sustainability was assessed through life cycle assessment, which highlighted the factors that contribute most to the environmental impact of each technology. The results revealed that reducing chemical consumption and improving energy efficiency are key to optimising the environmental performance of the valorisation technologies. The WaSeaBi project outlines a promising path towards sustainable and economically beneficial utilisation of seafood side-streams. By employing innovative technologies, the project not only contributes to reducing waste and environmental impact, but also facilitates the transformation of low-value side-streams into high-value products. In addition, it provides a structured framework to help industry stakeholders make informed decisions on the valorisation of secondary streams. This initiative marks a substantial step towards a more sustainable and economically viable fisheries and aquaculture industry, setting a precedent for future projects aimed at overcoming technological and infrastructural barriers to the valorisation of seafood side-streams.

Chronicling the Experiences of Life Sciences Teachers and Learners on the Usage of Enquiry-Based Learning in Enhancing Learners’ Academic Performance

Life sciences research provides critical insights into disease processes and allows for the development of novel treatments and innovative medical technologies, thereby directly improving human health and technology. Despite the widely acknowledged relevance of life sciences, there has been a long-term pattern of low performance. This is due to inefficient teaching methods, as how a lesson is delivered influences the learners' level of understanding, among other things. Hence, the present study examined the experiences of life sciences teachers and learners in using IBL to enhance the academic performance of life science learners. This study was underpinned by the interpretivism paradigm, a qualitative approach, and a participatory research approach. The study population consisted of all life sciences learners in a rural school in the Amathole West district, Eastern Cape province of South Africa, from which 2 life sciences teachers and 14 learners were conveniently sampled. Data were collected using interviews, observations, and document reviews, and they were analysed using thematic analysis. The research findings revealed that enquiry-based learning has the potential to foster the development of critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills among life sciences learners. However, several issues make it difficult to successfully implement enquiry-based learning in the context of teaching and learning life sciences, including a lack of resources, time constraints, misreading of instructions, a lack of support or supervision, and a lack of pedagogical topic expertise among teachers. The study concludes that enquiry-based learning, when done right, can help learners understand life sciences concepts deeper and remember what they have learnt for a longer period.

Rewiring care delivery through Digital Therapeutics (DTx): a machine learning-enhanced assessment and development (M-LEAD) framework

BackgroundDigital transformation has sparked profound change in the healthcare sector through the development of innovative digital technologies. Digital Therapeutics offer an innovative approach to disease management and treatment. Care delivery is increasingly patient-centered, data-driven, and based on real-time information. These technological innovations can lead to better patient outcomes and support for healthcare professionals, also considering resource scarcity. As these digital technologies continue to evolve, the healthcare field must be ready to integrate them into processes to take advantage of their benefits. This study aims to develop a framework for the development and assessment of Digital Therapeutics.MethodsThe study was conducted relying on a mixed methodology. 338 studies about Digital Therapeutics resulting from a systematic literature review were analyzed using descriptive statistics through RStudio. Machine learning algorithms were applied to analyze variables and find patterns in the data. The results of these analytical analyses were summarized in a framework qualitatively tested and validated through expert opinion elicitation.ResultsThe research provides M-LEAD, a Machine Learning-Enhanced Assessment and Development framework that recommends best practices for developing and assessing Digital Therapeutics. The framework takes as input Digital Therapeutics characteristics, regulatory aspects, study purpose, and assessment domains. The framework produces as outputs recommendations to design the Digital Therapeutics study characteristics.ConclusionsThe framework constitutes the first step toward standardized guidelines for the development and assessment of Digital Therapeutics. The results may support manufacturers and inform decision-makers of the relevant results of the Digital Therapeutics assessment.

Research and Practice of Computer Application Technology in Big Data Analysis

 This article aims to discuss the application of computer application technology in the field of BD (big data) analysis and the challenges it faces, and put forward corresponding countermeasures. Firstly, this article introduces the definition, characteristics and theoretical basis of BD analysis. Then, the specific application of computer application technology in BD analysis is elaborated in detail. Through case analysis, the practical application effect and value of computer application technology in BD analysis are demonstrated. The research results show that computer application technology plays a vital role in BD analysis, which can improve the efficiency of data processing, the accuracy of analysis and the scientific decision-making. Moreover, the research also reveals the technical, methodological and practical challenges faced in the process of BD analysis. In view of these challenges, this article puts forward corresponding countermeasures and suggestions, including strengthening the construction of policies and regulations, promoting technological innovation and research and development, and promoting Industry-University-Research's cooperative cooperation. These countermeasures have certain guiding significance and practical value for promoting the development of BD analysis.

Modified Asphalt with Graphene-Enhanced Polymeric Compound: A Case Study

In recent years, the increased use of heavy commercial vehicles with higher axle weights has required the development of innovative technologies to improve the mechanical properties of asphalt concrete conglomerates, such as fatigue resistance and rutting. This study offers a comprehensive comparative analysis of different types of asphalt concrete tested in four trial sections (S1, S2, S3, S4) of the SP3 Ardeatina rural road in Rome, under actual traffic and operational conditions. More precisely, the pavement technologies applied include modified asphalt concrete with graphene and recycled hard plastics for S1, asphalt concrete modified with styrene–butadiene–styrene (SBS) for S2, asphalt concrete with a standard polymeric compound for S3, and traditional asphalt concrete for S4. The evaluation approach involved visual inspections in order to calculate the pavement condition index (PCI) and falling weight deflectometer (FWD) tests. In addition, back-calculation analyses were performed using ELMOD software to assess the mechanical properties. The laboratory tests revealed superior properties of M1 in terms of its resistance to permanent deformations (+13%, +15%, and +19.5% compared to M2, M3, and M4, respectively) and stiffness (10,758 MPa for M1 vs. 9259 MPa, 7643 MPa, and 7289 MPa for M2, M3, and M4, respectively). These findings were further corroborated by the PCI values (PCIS1 = 65; PCIS2 = 17; PCIS3 = 28; PCIS4 = 29) as well as the FWD test results after 5 years of investigation, which suggests greater durability and resistance than the other sections.

A Review of Emerging Technologies and Future Fabrics for Extreme Cold

Human comfort, safety, and performance are severely hampered by extremely cold environments, necessitating the ongoing development of innovative fabric technologies. The ability of materials to keep people warm is crucial, but conventional fabrics frequently have drawbacks in terms of comfort, durability, and thermal performance. To trace the development of fabric technologies insights from historical perspectives are drawn to trace the evolution of fabric technologies and key challenges highlighting their crucial impact on fabric performance in extremely cold situations. Design considerations are explored to improve comfort, movement, and protection by emphasizing the importance of layering systems. Standardized testing methods for the evaluation of fabric performance in cold environments are delved into. These evaluation criteria will be reliable and effective for future fabric solutions in extremely cold environments. Finally, the actual case studies are presented to show how emerging technologies can be successfully used in extremely cold environments.

CONTEMPORARY AND FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF 3D PRINTING TECHNOLOGY IN THE FIELD OF ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY, ORTHOTICS AND PROSTHETICS

3D printing is considered as a helpful technology that facilitates innovative assistive technology, orthotics, and prosthetics development. This technology could likely contribute to positive treatment outcomes. It could also mitigate the challenges encountered when using the traditional methods. Our team’s research in the application of 3D printing in prosthetics, orthotics and biomedical technology has shown beneficial results in its use. This article gives a general description on application of CAD/CAM, digitalization and 3d printing in this industry followed by short description of two spinal-related projects conducted in our research team. Technological and clinical challenges on utilization of this technology have been listed. Finally, this manuscript provides recommendation for broader applications and developments of the aforementioned technology through interdisciplinary practices. A glimpse into the future of 3D printing in the healthcare industry shows that this industry is poised to continue having a significant impact in this sector. It should be emphasized that assistive technology, orthotics, and prosthetics require a human touch and connection, and no digital tool or technology can replace such requirements. Indeed, multi-disciplinary collaboration is the key to the success of applications of 3D printing. Article PDF Link: https://jps.library.utoronto.ca/index.php/cpoj/article/view/42225/32491 How To Cite: Hassan Beygi B, Wong M.S. Contemporary and future development of 3D printing technology in the field of assistive technology, orthotics and prosthetics. Canadian Prosthetics & Orthotics Journal. 2023; Volume 6, Issue 2, No.10. https://doi.org/10.33137/cpoj.v6i2.42225 Corresponding Author: M.S. WONG, PhDThe Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong.E-Mail: m.s.wong@polyu.edu.hkORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4157-9528

ИННОВАЦИОННОЕ ПРЕДПРИНИМАТЕЛЬСТВО

Currently, the issues of the innovative potential of enterprises, the development of innovative technologies, their implementation in human life and production, the digitalization of various phenomena and processes are coming to the fore in connection with the latest trends and changes in society and the state. The gradual formation and development of the global information space and the latest digital technologies is a factor in the development of such a phenomenon as innovative entrepreneurship. To begin with, we will talk about the relevance of this issue at the present time.
 It should be noted that in the era of the information society, almost all aspects of social and economic life are changing: methods of payment for goods and services, their delivery and provision, methods of interaction and communication of economic entities, methods of production. That is why the development and application of the latest digital technologies becomes a factor in ensuring the competitiveness of a commercial organization in the market. In turn, entrepreneurial activity by its essence involves the introduction of various innovations aimed at business development, creating conditions for entering new markets for goods and services, and their comprehensive promotion. We can say that the search for innovations and focus on their application in practice is, first of all, a certain tool for ensuring a high level of entrepreneurial activity with maximum economic benefit. The purpose of the study is to analyze innovative entrepreneurship as a factor in the development of the domestic economic system. In accordance with the goal, the tasks were:
 1. Characterize the concept of «innovative entrepreneurship».
 2. Analyze the main features, as well as factors for the development of innovative entrepreneurship.
 3. Characterize the key directions of formation and development, as well as models of innovative entrepreneurship in Russia.
 4. Develop proposals to stimulate innovative entrepreneurship in Russia with a view to its development.

ANALYSIS OF LABORATORY STUDIES OF HYDROPHOBIC EMULSIONS TO ENSURE WATER INSULATION WORK IN OIL FIELDS

This article is devoted to the research and implementation of methods for ensuring water insulation works (WIW) in the oil sector using hydrophobic emulsions. In the context of modern requirements for environmental safety and efficiency of production processes in the oil industry, where water can become a source of problems, the introduction of innovative materials and technologies plays an important role. Conducting laboratory studies of hydrophobic emulsions for WIW in the oil sector is a multiprocess approach, starting from the initial assessment of the chemical component and ending with thorough testing for compliance with the requirements of specific operating conditions. The analysis evaluates the physico-chemical properties of the emulsion, such as density, viscosity, pH level, degree of dispersion, as well as its adhesive and cohesive characteristics. Special attention is paid to the study of the surface properties of hydrophobic emulsions, since their ability to form stable water-repellent coatings directly affects the effectiveness of protection against water exposure. To do this, tests are carried out on wettability, contact angle, adhesion to various types of surfaces, which allows us to determine the optimal conditions for the use of emulsions in specific situations. The article describes the principles of action of hydrophobic emulsions in the context of waterproofing works, emphasizing their ability to create a protective barrier, preventing moisture penetration into oil facilities. The paper presents the results of laboratory studies demonstrating the effectiveness of the use of hydrophobic emulsions in various operating conditions. The article discusses the technical aspects of the use of hydrophobic emulsions in the WIW process, analyzes their resistance to various environmental factors, and also considers the prospects for the development of this technology in the oil industry. The results obtained can be useful for specialists dealing with water insulation in oil companies, as well as for the scientific and engineering community interested in the development of innovative technologies in the oil sector. The purpose of this article is to analyze laboratory research and provide recommendations on the use of polymer composition.

Fe2O3 Review: Nanostructure, Synthesis Methods, and Applications

Iron sand, which contains magnetite iron ore, exhibits unique magnetic properties when exposed to magnetic fields. Iron ore content, including ?-Fe2O3, FeTiO3, Magnetite (Fe3O4), and others, provides potential uses in various industries such as electronics, energy, chemical, ferrofluids, catalysts, and biomedicine. The location of the discovery of iron sand can affect its mineral characteristics and geological conditions. This research aims to develop innovative synthesis methods to produce hematite nanomaterials from iron sand. Nano-size hematite nanoparticles exhibit unique characteristics, including an increase in specific surface area that is beneficial in applications such as gas sensors, catalysts, lithium-ion batteries, and the manufacture of permanent magnets. Through a literature review, this article presents comprehensive insights into the characteristics of iron sand, variations in synthesis methods, and the structure of hematite nanoparticles. Applications of hematite nanoparticles in water treatment, catalysis, and energy storage are also detailed. This article is expected to contribute to the development of innovative nanomaterial technologies as well as explore the potential of iron sand resources for wider industrial applications.

Waste generation and macroeconomic drivers: a panel study for European countries and regions

PurposeThe vast amounts of waste generated today threaten economies and societies due to high environmental and management costs. The aim is to investigate the short- and long-term patterns of municipal waste generation (MWG) in response to socio-economic and demographic growth variables at national and regional levels.Design/methodology/approachA panel data approach employing ordinary least squares (OLS), fixed effects (FE), random effects (RE), fully modified least squares (FMOLS) and error correction model (ECM) techniques. A sample of 28 European countries (2000–2020) and 44 European Union (EU) regions (2000–2018) were selected.FindingsDuring periods of economic growth and higher employment rates, consumer confidence tends to increase, leading to elevated levels of consumer spending and consumption. Intensification in the production factors, specifically capital and employment, results in an upsurge in MWG, thereby creating a cycle where waste generation becomes deeply entrenched in the economic system in both the short and long terms. Rapid population growth, attributed to higher fertility rates, is associated with increased MWG. At the regional level, a double-aging process and a shift toward an aging population exert less pressure on MWG in both the short and long term. Promoting higher levels of environment-oriented human development yields various benefits, including the generation of greater knowledge spillovers, enhanced environmental literacy, a shift toward circular thinking and the promotion of greener entrepreneurship. Increased R&D expenditures facilitate the development of innovative waste reduction technologies, fostering improvements in waste management techniques, recycling processes and the utilization of sustainable materials.Research limitations/implicationsThe research examines the short- and long-term adjustments of MWG in response to changes in macroeconomic variables from low aggregation (countries) to high aggregation (regions). By analyzing the relationship between economic growth, urbanization, healthcare system quality, labor market functioning, demographic trends, educational level, technological advancement and MWG, the study fills a research gap and enhances understanding of waste management interventions. However, data availability and waste statistics accuracy should be considered. Future research could explore the relationship between macroeconomic variables and waste generation in sectors beyond MWG, such as industrial or construction waste, for a more comprehensive understanding of waste generation as a whole.Practical implicationsThe positive correlation between economic activity levels and waste generation in both the short and long terms, emphasizes the criticality of investing in waste reduction and recycling infrastructure to mitigate landfill waste. The negative correlation between population density and waste generation stresses the importance of strategic waste facility placement in low-density areas. To effectively manage higher MWG, tailored waste collection systems and initiatives promoting healthy lifestyles are of immense importance. The positive relationship between employment rates and waste generation underscores the necessity of waste reduction programs that generate employment opportunities. The positive correlation between fertility rates and waste generation emphasizes the need for the expansion of extended producer responsibility programs to include products and materials specifically associated with families and child-rearing. Education campaigns and governmental support for research and development (R&D) in waste reduction technologies are also integral components of an effective waste management strategy.Originality/valueThe short- and long-term adjustments of MWG reacts to shifts in macroeconomic variables from low aggregation (countries) to high aggregation (regions). Previous research has neglected the long-term information contained in variables by not incorporating the lagged error correction term (ETM). Neglecting this aspect could result in imprecise estimates of the elasticities.

Development and flight test of a manned electric propulsion lightweight airplane

Electrically powered airplanes can cope with global warming by reducing the use of fossil fuels and reduce airplane costs in the long run through the efficient use of energy. For this reason, advanced aviation countries such as the United States and several countries in the European Union are leading the development of innovative technologies to realize a fully electric airplane in the future. Currently, research and development efforts are underway domestically to convert existing two-seater airplanes into electric-powered airplanes. In this study, the KLA-100X, which was developed by converting the existing two-seat lightweight sport airplane KLA-100 into an electric propulsion airplane, was introduced. In this text, the main specifications, design characteristics, and performance of KLA-100X are examined. In addition, the performance of the major components of the propulsion system, in this case the propulsion motor, inverter, and battery developed for application to KLA-100X are assessed, and the control system, additionally altered according to electric propulsion modification, is explained. Finally, the applicability of the developed major components to an electric propulsion airplane is confirmed by conducting ground and flight tests on the KLA-100X and presenting the results. In the future, the expansion of research aimed at improving the performance of current electric propulsion airplanes can be reviewed through the development of a dedicated platform for an electric propulsion airplane.

A Fuzzy Logic Approach to Enhance GPS Accuracy for Blood Cooler Box Tracking

An innovative technological development, the position tracking system uses latitude and longitude coordinates to determine the GPS's location. The covid-19 pandemic has caused the demand for cool box delivery for convalescent blood plasma to increase significantly. The obstacle in the field is the hospital's position and patient rooms far from the reach convalescent donors, so they require a cool box for delivery. The problem is tracking the cool box accurately and precisely so that it can be monitored by the hospital properly. For this reason, it is necessary to increase the accuracy of the GPS position in the cool box by using fuzzy logic algorithms The Ublox NEO-6M is one GPS module that can be utilized for navigation. This module uses UART connection using the NMEA 0183 protocol and has an accuracy level of around 2.5 meters to 10 meters. In this research, validation of the accuracy of the GPS coordinate position was carried out on a Blood Cool Box device which was designed using the fuzzy logic method. The Sugeno method fuzzy logic algorithm is used to validate the accuracy of GPS coordinate positions based on latitude and longitude obtained from the GPS sensor module. The test results show a Mean Absolute Percent Error (MAPE) value of 21.66% which can be concluded that the Sugeno fuzzy logic method algorithm has forecasting model capabilities that are suitable for use as a validation method for testing GPS position coordinates.

Multiple Perspectives on the Adoption of SMART Technologies for Improving Care of Older People: Mixed Methods Study.

Despite the ever-increasing offering of SMART technologies (ie, computer-controlled devices acting intelligently and capable of monitoring, analyzing or reporting), a wide gap exists between the development of new technological innovations and their adoption in everyday care for older adults. This study aims to explore the barriers and concerns related to the adoption of SMART technologies among different groups of stakeholders. Data from 4 sources were used: semistructured in-person or internet-based interviews with professional caregivers (n=12), structured email interviews with experts in the area of aging (n=9), a web-based survey of older adults (>55 years) attending the Virtual University of the Third Age (n=369), and a case study on the adoption of new technology by an older adult care facility. Although all stakeholders noted the potential of SMART technologies to improve older adult care, multiple barriers to their adoption were identified. Caregivers perceived older adults as disinterested or incompetent in using technology, reported preferring known strategies over new technologies, and noted own fears of using technology. Experts viewed technologies as essential but expressed concerns about cost, low digital competency of older adults, and lack of support or willingness to implement technologies in older adult care. Older adults reported few concerns overall, but among the mentioned concerns were lack of ability or interest, misuse of data, and limited usefulness (in specific subgroups or situations). In addition, older adults' ratings of the usefulness of different technologies correlated with their self-rating of digital competency (r=0.258; P<.001). Older adults appeared to have more positive views of various technologies than professional caregivers; however, their concerns varied by the type of technology. Lack of competence and lack of support were among the common themes, suggesting that educationally oriented programs for both older adults and their caregivers should be pursued.

Unleashing the Influence Mechanism of Technology Innovation and Human Development for Ecological Sustainability in Emerging Countries

ABSTRACT The strife for more incredible and sustainable human development is often associated with compromised environmental standards. Early growth may increase pollutant emissions that can be regulated later. Human development, the main ingredient of sustainable development, may increase emissions or reduce them through technological improvements. The emerging seven (E7) economies provide an intriguing case to test the direct and indirect impact of human development on CO2 emissions to confirm the nexus in the early stage of industrialization. The study applies the structural equation approach to investigate the relationship between the human development index (HDI), green technological innovations, and CO2 emissions in E7 economies over the period 1990–2021. Our findings indicate that HDI increases consumption-based CO2 emissions both directly and indirectly, where even the mediating impact of innovations is also positive, thereby confirming the fact that HDI and innovations both may have deteriorated implications for environmental performance at the earlier stages of development. The study findings imply that the policymakers of the transition economies need to rethink their policy choices regarding controlling pollution and safeguarding the environment. The study’s conclusion has essential ramifications for reducing pollution through enacting HDI and supporting innovations.

Challenges and opportunities in building environmental awareness in the Keduang Watershed Region in Indonesia

Watersheds are ecosystems which are crucial for water quality, biodiversity, and overall environmental sustainability. Increasing pressure from human activities such as deforestation, water pollution, and changes in land use has begun to threaten the sustainability of watersheds throughout the world. This research discusses the challenges and opportunities in building environmental awareness in a watershed region. A qualitative research method with a phenomenological approach is used to understand the experiences, attitudes, and actions of the watershed community in relation to environmental issues. The research results show the challenges faced include a lack of understanding about the watershed ecosystem, insufficient access to information technology, economic problems, and poor local leadership to support environmental preservation. An integrated environmental education program, together with community participation and development of technological innovation may offer an effective solution. Strong environmental awareness in watershed regions not only supports environmental preservation but also creates sustainable economic opportunities, strengthens environmental resilience, and improves the life quality of the community. Therefore, building environmental awareness in watershed regions is not only the job of local communities but also the shared responsibility of various stakeholders, which is needed to achieve sustainability of the river ecosystem and the broader environment.

The development of traditional and electronic forms of the book in the context of innovative technologies

Modern technologies have a decisive impact on almost all spheres of human activity, thereby providing opportunities for the development of various forms of objects that are already familiar to us. This study is devoted to the research of new forms of printed and electronic books, the analysis of the specifics and features of the transformation of familiar forms in the context of the development of innovative technologies. An attempt was made to predict further development paths and prospects for long-term coexistence of traditional and electronic publications, areas of their confrontation and interaction.

Engaging Young People in the Development of Innovative Nature-Inspired Technologies for Carbon Sequestration in Cities: Case Studies from Portugal

Currently, cities are the most vulnerable places on the planet to the effects of global change, both anthropogenic and climate-related, and this is not compatible with harmony and well-being regarding the economy, nature, and future generations. Young people have a unique potential to catalyze the transformative sustainable change that the planet needs now, as they are the first generation to grow up with tangible impacts of climate change. We tested a new strategy to empower young people to foster carbon neutrality in cities by engaging them in ecosystem services quantification and technological innovation to increase CO2 sequestration in two Portuguese cities. The species with best performance for carbon sequestration were M. exelsa in Porto and O. europea in Loulé, and for air pollutant removal and hydrological regulation were P. hispanica in Porto and P. pinea in Loulé. Through the innovative advanced summer program SLI, a nature-based learning experience, young people developed two new concepts of technological solutions to accelerate city decarbonization by designing a hedge for air pollution hotspots and a biodevice to be placed at bus stops using autochthonous shrubs and mosses. Initiatives like SLI contribute to a greater awareness among young people about the drivers that brought us to the current climate emergency, motivating them towards more balanced lifestyles and creating innovative nature-based solutions towards a smart and sustainable city.

GREEN FINANCE: THEORETICAL ASPECT AND FEATURES OF FUNCTIONING IN UKRAINE

The article analyzes the concept of "green finance", which is the concept and practice of financial instruments and resources aimed at supporting projects and initiatives that promote environmental sustainability, as well as social and economic well-being. It can cover a wide variety of financial products, from loans and investments to debt and insurance, aimed at reducing the impact of human activities on the environment. The main idea is to promote sustainable development, preserve natural resources and improve the quality of life, while ensuring economic development. The main components of the green finance structure are identified: green bonds, green loans and credits, specialized insurance services, green investment funds, financing of green startups, etc. Green loans and credits issued by banks promote energy saving projects and the use of renewable energy sources. Green bonds issued by governments and companies attract investments for environmental initiatives. Investment funds focused on green technologies and sustainable construction are characterized by specialization. Socially responsible investments include sustainability and environmental responsibility criteria. Specialized insurance products cover risks associated with climate change. Green startup financing supports the development of innovative environmental technologies. This diversity reflects the growing interest in sustainability and environmental finance. Based on the analysis, the importance of theoretical substantiation of the concept of green finance in the context of Ukraine's European integration processes is proved. Strategies for overcoming the difficulties associated with the application of green finance in Ukraine are proposed. As for the strategies to overcome the difficulties, it is important to develop common standards and definitions for green finance, which will help to unify the understanding and application of this concept. In addition, engaging government agencies and international institutions to create a favorable legislative and regulatory environment is an important aspect. Financial barriers can be reduced through the development of incentives, subsidies, and other instruments aimed at green investments. Finally, it is important to promote education and awareness campaigns to raise awareness of the benefits and opportunities of green finance among all stakeholders.