Ecological Stewardship Research Articles

An Empirical Study on Biodiversity Disclosure and Firm’s Market Value in North America Based on Linear Regression Model

Biodiversity loss is a pressing global risk poised to significantly impact the corporate landscape over the next decade. As companies face escalating demands for transparency, non-financial disclosures, especially those concerning ESG factors, have garnered considerable attention. However, there is a notable deficiency in disclosures specifically highlighting biodiversity, an oversight this paper aims to address. Employing an empirical approach, this study scrutinizes the influence of biodiversity disclosure on corporate market value, focusing on a U.S. firm sample. This paper uncover a robust positive relationship between the level of biodiversity disclosure and a firm's market valuation. This correlation underscores the growing investor and stakeholder interest in corporate biodiversity initiatives. This analysis further reveals that the market value impact of biodiversity disclosure is not uniform. It varies with corporate size and industry characteristics, with small-sized and high-pollution firms experiencing a more substantial effect. This variability suggests that the market rewards smaller and more environmentally impactful companies for their transparency and commitment to biodiversity conservation. Drawing on Signaling Theory, Legitimacy Theory, and Stakeholder Theory, this study offers a comprehensive understanding of the motivations behind biodiversity disclosure and its tangible market impact. It highlights the strategic significance of integrating biodiversity considerations into corporate communications and underscores the need for further research into the nexus between ecological stewardship and financial success. The findings advocate for a proactive corporate approach to biodiversity, aligning with the growing market demand for environmental responsibility and sustainable business practices.

The Effect of Corporate Social Responsibility on Environmental Performance in China’s Manufacturing Industry: The Mediating Role of Environmental Strategy and Green Innovation

Within the ever-changing manufacturing landscape of China, corporate social responsibility (CSR) is a key factor influencing environmental performance. Knowing the relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts and environmental results is crucial as environmental concerns throughout the world grow more pressing. This research explores the complex relationship between CSR practices and environmental performance, focusing on how green innovation and environmental strategy function as mediating factors. The urgent need to prevent industrial environmental consequences in the face of fast economic expansion highlights the need for this investigation. China, a major force in world manufacturing, must balance environmental sustainability with economic expansion. In addition to improving a company’s reputation, effective CSR initiatives are essential for promoting sustainable development. Through an analysis of the mediating functions of green innovation, which propels technological developments, and environmental strategy, which comprises policies and practices, we clarify how proactive CSR methods can ignite revolutionary shifts towards more environmentally friendly manufacturing processes. In order to create a harmonious balance between industrial growth and ecological stewardship, this research aims to provide theoretical insights as well as practical implications for industry leaders and policymakers. It achieves this by promoting strategic alignment between CSR goals and environmental imperatives.

Dissolved trace elements in the upper reaches of Lancang River, southeast Qinghai-Tibet Plateau: Current status and distribution, risk and source

The environmental impact of dissolved trace element (DTE) pollution is becoming increasingly well understood. The southeastern edge of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau is a region with high environmental vulnerability, making it highly susceptible to various anthropogenic disturbances. The Lancang River (LCR), as the most representative river in this area, serving as the largest international river in Southeast Asia, the LCR is crucial for the downstream regions, supporting fisheries, agriculture, and even economic development, earning it the title of the “water tower” for these areas. This study mainly focuses on the upstream unbuilt dam area. In this study, we gathered 25 surface water samples from the upstream of the LCR and examined the geographical distribution, primary sources, and associated human health risks of seven dissolved trace elements (Mn, Cr, Fe, Co, Cu, Ni, Zn). Cr, Fe, Co, Ni, and Cu in the main stream are primarily associated with natural sources, including rock weathering, soil erosion, and similar processes. Mn, however, predominantly originates from human activities such as industrial construction and road transportation. Zn mainly originates from the specialized fertilizers used for highland barley in plateau regions. Almost all DTE concentrations exhibited a downward trend from upstream to downstream. However, due to inputs from various sources along the way, there will be some abnormal points. The concentrations of DTE in the study area were within the acceptable limits set by drinking water standards in China, the USA, and the WHO. Overall, the water quality in this region is considered good. The results from a Monte Carlo simulation assessing health risks indicate that the non-carcinogenic health risk caused by DTE in the upper reaches of Lancang River was very weak. The primary pathway through which DTE can harm human health is ingestion, with children being particularly vulnerable. These findings offer a critical scientific basis for understanding the migration of DTE in aquatic environments and for the ecological stewardship of the Lancang River.

School gardens as sites for community, empowerment, and justice: a participatory action research study

ABSTRACT School garden advocates often describe and justify school gardens for the ways that these spaces can improve content knowledge, physical health, and ecological stewardship of K-12 students. Rather than begin with these outcomes in mind, this study explores the meaning of a school garden through Participatory Action Research (PAR) within a low-income neighborhood in a small mid-western U.S. city. Participants included community partners and school staff who led the garden project. Using photovoice, mapping, and interviews, participants shared their perspectives and reflections on the garden. The findings revealed three overarching themes of community, empowerment, and justice, voiced by participants when describing the meaning and hopes they had for the garden. Such themes demonstrated the ways school garden practitioners experienced the depth of possibility in a garden project, far beyond the typical measures and outcomes used to assess school gardens. This research suggests that school garden projects hold meaning and transformative possibilities for schools that are critically important though may often be overlooked. When it comes to sustaining and justifying school garden programs, it is important that districts consider the latent experiences and values that these spaces may bring to students, staff, and communities.

New Technique for Identification of Ichthyoplankton and Its Application in Biomonitoring Studies, Management and Conservation of Neotropical Fish.

Despite significant advancements in ichthyoplankton collection and data processing, challenges persist in the taxonomic identification of these organisms, particularly their eggs. To overcome these challenges, a novel technique has been developed to facilitate the identification of live eggs collected directly in wild. This user-friendly technique includes the collection, processing of the material, and field incubation. Sampling must be conducted using a pelagic net towed at low speed, preferably during early evening. The material processing involves pre-sorting and sorting to remove eggs and larvae. The separated eggs, kept in an aerated bowl, can be identified based on their morphological and meristic characteristics. Unidentified eggs can be placed in plastic bags with oxygen and incubated directly in the aquatic environment for 48-72 h. After this incubation period, the hatched larvae at the yolk-sac or preflexion stage, are identified to the lowest possible taxonomic level. Depending on the study's purpose, hatched larvae and field-collected larvae can be transported to research centers for further development, released back into the natural environment, or fixed to complete the collection. The application of this technique supports management and monitoring programs by identifying spawning areas through egg identification, forming broodstock, and replenishing threatened species, thereby enhancing scientific collections of ichthyoplankton. Additionally, it reduces mortality in ichthyoplankton techniques, including endangered species. Therefore, we believe that this novel taxonomic technique for identifying live ichthyoplankton represents a paradigm shift in the monitoring, management, and conservation of fish, as well as in ecological stewardship and advances in this area of research.

Another Gulf Is Possible

This interdisciplinary design studio engages the tensions between climate mitigation and climate adaptation efforts along the United States Gulf Coast, a region widely recognized as the domestic backbone of the oil and gas industry. Rooted in entangled narratives and tensions between economic prosperity, ecological stewardship, the systemic disenfranchisement of Indigenous and racialized communities, and industrial-scale energy production, this studio asked students to explore nuanced, nonconventional scenarios for adapting to ecosystem change, with projective considerations for new power relationships and collective ways of living on vanishing land. The pedagogical approach emphasized multiscalar systems analysis and collective world-building grounded in environmental justice organizing, to encourage students to think beyond technocratic design solutions for a changing climate.

Enhancing Ecological Security in Ili River Valley: Comprehensive Approach

The growing tension between economic development and ecological preservation in the Ili River Valley underscores the need for advanced analytical methods to effectively balance these interests. In this study, we utilized the InVEST model to quantify ecosystem services, combined with an analysis of ecological sensitivity, to comprehensively assess the ecological health of the region. By applying circuit theory, the research identified key ecological components such as sources, corridors, and critical nodes, alongside barriers; thus, mapping an ecological security pattern tailored specifically for the wetland oasis of the Ili River Valley. The analysis identified 15 ecological source sites covering 43,221.17 km2, 31 ecological corridors totaling 782 km in length, and 32 vital ecological nodes each exceeding 1 km2. Notably, 81.8% of these ecological source areas exhibited high ecological resilience, thus emphasizing their crucial role in maintaining the region’s ecological balance. The findings provide essential guidance for the ecological stewardship and management of the Ili River Valley and underscore the importance of incorporating ecological considerations within economic planning frameworks in arid regions.

Fauna and Flora of Gunung Datuk Recreational Forest, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia: A Brief Documentation

The biodiversity of forests in Negeri Sembilan, such as the Gunung Datuk Recreational Forest, is remarkably diverse and supports a wide array of fauna and flora species. These species play crucial roles in nutrient cycling, pollination, medicinal and providing habitats for other species. The study documented nine (9) plant species of the Kingdom Plantae and family Ebenacae, Dioscoreaceae, Dipterocarpaceae, Arecaceae, Rubiaceae, Polypodiaceae, Piperaceae and Poaceae, four (4) fungal species of the kingdom Fungi and family Physalacriaceae, Podoscyphaceae, Omphalotaceae and Amanitaceae and five (5) animal species from the kingdom Animalia and family Trigoniulidae, Zephroniidae, Scincidae, Arebidae and Formicidae. The species abundance in the forest emphasizes the interconnectedness of biodiversity and its role in maintaining the ecological balance. This study integrates ecology, environmental science, and cultural values, providing a holistic framework for managing biodiversity. Preserving the forest biodiversity of Gunung Datuk is crucial for ecological stewardship, safeguarding cultural heritage, and ensuring sustainable development for future generations. This fosters a harmonious coexistence where biodiversity and human needs are harmonized.

Effectiveness of Environmental Leadership Indicators Based on Local Wisdom in Development Horticultural Agriculture in Ngada - Indonesia

This research delves into the pivotal role of farmer groups in driving the development of horticultural agriculture in Ngada Regency, Flores, Indonesia, under the leadership of their respective group chairmen who adopt an environmental leadership approach rooted in local wisdom, recognizing its significance in fostering effective agricultural development. Employing an interpretive phenomenological qualitative research approach, the study unravels the intricate dynamics of environmental leadership by delving into the lived experiences and perceptions of participants. Data collection involves diverse methods including observations, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions (FGD) within horticultural farmer groups, highlighting nuances of their organizational structure and practices. Findings elucidate a spectrum of indicators emblematic of effective environmental leadership within the context of agricultural development, such as possessing an ecological vision, adeptness in motivating others, exemplifying leadership through personal conduct, effective communication skills, and a steadfast commitment to goal attainment, underscoring the interconnectedness between local wisdom, ecological stewardship, and leadership efficacy.

Black Soldier Fly (BSF): A Sustainable Solution for Protein, Waste Management, and a Circular Bio-Economy

The Black Soldier Fly (BSF) is emerging as a game-changer in the animal feed industry and waste management. This article explores the potential of BSF larvae as a sustainable, high-protein feed source for various animals, including fish, poultry, and pigs. It delves into open and closed BSF production systems, highlighting their advantages and considerations. Furthermore, the article details the diverse products derived from BSF, including larvae, oil, and protein meal, showcasing their applications in animal feed formulations. The concept of a BSF circular economy is introduced, emphasizing its potential for fostering resource conservation, ecological stewardship, and cascading environmental benefits. Finally, the article discusses the challenges and opportunities associated with BSF production and integration into the animal feed sector.

Global Perspectives on Climate Crisis in Postcolonial Literature: Decolonizing Ecological Narratives

This paper explores the intersection of postcolonial literature and global perspectives on the climate crisis, focusing on how literary narratives decolonize ecological discourse and advocate for environmental justice. Postcolonial literature, emerging from regions formerly colonized by Western powers, offers unique perspectives on environmental issues, challenging dominant Western narratives and proposing alternative frameworks rooted in cultural and historical contexts. Through a comparative and thematic analysis of selected texts, this research examines how postcolonial authors critique colonial legacies, highlight environmental degradation’s disproportionate impact on marginalized communities, and envision sustainable futures grounded in cultural resilience and ecological stewardship.

Becoming an Ecological Citizen: The Concept of an Ecological Citizen in the movie Avatar

Avatar intricately intertwines ecological resistance and citizenship themes on Pandora, presenting a rich avenue for ecological scholarship. Despite its cinematic prowess, there is a research gap in understanding the film's impact on ecological consciousness. This paper aims to explore Avatar within the context of environmental cinema, analyzing its portrayal of ecological themes. Recent trends in film studies demonstrate a growing interest in such intersections, making Avatar a pertinent subject for investigation. Experts like Levinas, Dobson, and Rousseau are selected for their profound insights into ethics, environmental citizenship, and the human-nature relationship, offering relevant, authoritative, and influential perspectives that align with the research goals. By examining existing literature on the urgency of ecological awareness and critical reviews, the paper aims to uncover the film's influence on ecological attitudes. The implications extend to environmental advocacy and education, emphasizing the potential of popular media, like Avatar, to shape attitudes toward sustainable coexistence and ecological citizenship. Integrating Avatar into educational curricula has the potential to enhance environmental literacy among students, fostering a deeper understanding of ecological issues and inspiring proactive engagement. By leveraging the film's themes of interconnectedness and ecological stewardship, educators can instill values of environmental responsibility and citizenship in future generations.

Building Stock Models for Embodied Carbon Emissions—A Review of a Nascent Field

Building stock modeling emerges as a critical tool in the strategic reduction of embodied carbon emissions, which is pivotal in reshaping the evolving construction sector. This review provides an overall view of modern methodologies in building stock modeling, homing in on the nuances of embodied carbon analysis in construction. Examining 23 seminal papers, our study delineates two primary modeling paradigms—top-down and bottom-up—each further compartmentalized into five innovative methods. This study points out the challenges of data scarcity and computational demands, advocating for methodological advancements that promise to refine the precision of building stock models. A groundbreaking trend in recent research is the incorporation of machine learning algorithms, which have demonstrated remarkable capacity, improving stock classification accuracy by 25% and urban material quantification by 40%. Furthermore, the application of remote sensing has revolutionized data acquisition, enhancing data richness by a factor of five. This review offers a critical examination of current practices and charts a course toward an environmentally prudent future. It underscores the transformative impact of building stock modeling in driving ecological stewardship in the construction industry, positioning it as a cornerstone in the quest for sustainability and its significant contribution toward the grand vision of an eco-efficient built environment.

Navigating sustainable project management in construction: Exploring the differential impact of coercive pressures and ethical responsibility using importance-performance matrix analysis (IPMA)

This study explores the primary drivers influencing sustainable project management (SPM) practices in the construction industry. This research study seeks to determine whether firms are primarily motivated by external pressures or internal values when embracing SPM practices. In doing so, this study contributes to the ongoing discourse on SPM drivers by considering coercive pressures (CP), ethical responsibility (ER), and green transformational leadership (GTL) as critical enablers facilitating a firm’s adoption of SPM practices. Based on data from 196 project management practitioners in Pakistan, structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was employed to test the hypothesized relationships. Results highlight that CP influences the management of sustainability practices in construction projects, signifying firms’ concern for securing legitimacy from various institutional actors. As an ‘intrinsic value’, ER emerges as a significant motivator for ecological stewardship, driven by a genuine commitment to promoting sustainable development. This study also unveils the significant moderating effect of GTL on the association among CP, ER, and SPM. Lastly, the results of IMPA reveal that ER slightly performs better than CP as it helps firms internalize the essence of sustainability. This research study expands our understanding of SPM drivers in construction projects by exploring the differential impact of external pressures and the firm’s intrinsic values. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners, aiding them in promoting SPM to attain sustainable development goals.

Transforming Object Design and Creation: Biomaterials and Contemporary Manufacturing Leading the Way.

In the field of three-dimensional object design and fabrication, this paper explores the transformative potential at the intersection of biomaterials, biopolymers, and additive manufacturing. Drawing inspiration from the intricate designs found in the natural world, this study contributes to the evolving landscape of manufacturing and design paradigms. Biomimicry, rooted in emulating nature's sophisticated solutions, serves as the foundational framework for developing materials endowed with remarkable characteristics, including adaptability, responsiveness, and self-transformation. These advanced engineered biomimetic materials, featuring attributes such as shape memory and self-healing properties, undergo rigorous synthesis and characterization procedures, with the overarching goal of seamless integration into the field of additive manufacturing. The resulting synergy between advanced manufacturing techniques and nature-inspired materials promises to revolutionize the production of objects capable of dynamic responses to environmental stimuli. Extending beyond the confines of laboratory experimentation, these self-transforming objects hold significant potential across diverse industries, showcasing innovative applications with profound implications for object design and fabrication. Through the reduction of waste generation, minimization of energy consumption, and the reduction of environmental footprint, the integration of biomaterials, biopolymers, and additive manufacturing signifies a pivotal step towards fostering ecologically conscious design and manufacturing practices. Within this context, inanimate three-dimensional objects will possess the ability to transcend their static nature and emerge as dynamic entities capable of evolution, self-repair, and adaptive responses in harmony with their surroundings. The confluence of biomimicry and additive manufacturing techniques establishes a seminal precedent for a profound reconfiguration of contemporary approaches to design, manufacturing, and ecological stewardship, thereby decisively shaping a more resilient and innovative global milieu.

Sustainable practices in the agro-industrial complex: A pathway to enhanced ecological stewardship

This article delves into the transformative potential of sustainable practices within the agro-industrial complex, positing them as crucial for advancing ecological stewardship and ensuring the long-term viability of our planet’s ecosystems. It critically examines the current environmental challenges posed by conventional agro-industrial operations, including soil degradation, water scarcity, and biodiversity loss, driven by the relentless pursuit of productivity and efficiency at the expense of ecological balance. Through a comprehensive review of recent innovations and case studies, the paper highlights effective strategies and technologies that promote sustainability in the agricultural sector, such as precision farming, organic agriculture, integrated pest management, and the use of renewable energy sources. It also explores the role of policy frameworks, market mechanisms, and community engagement in fostering a more sustainable agro-industrial paradigm. By synthesizing findings from diverse contexts, this article argues that integrating sustainable practices into the agro-industrial complex is not only essential for preserving environmental integrity but also for enhancing food security, farmer livelihoods, and resilience to climate change. The conclusion calls for a concerted effort among stakeholders to prioritize sustainability in agricultural policies and investments, thereby paving the way for a more ecologically responsible and economically viable agricultural future.

ОРГАНІЗАЦІЙНО-ЕКОНОМІЧНІ ІННОВАЦІЙНІ РІШЕННЯ ДЛЯ РОЗВИТКУ АКВАКУЛЬТУРИ В УКРАЇНІ

The article addresses the multifaceted challenges and burgeoning opportunities within the aquaculture sector, especially in the context of environmental disruptions exacerbated by armed conflicts, with a particular focus on the Black Sea basin. It underscores the urgent necessity for innovative solutions to bolster sector resilience and efficiency. The study identifies critical issues pervasive throughout the technological process and proposes a suite of organizational-economic measures to effectively tackle these challenges. Among the key strategies discussed are the introduction of cutting-edge water purification technologies, the implementation of robust resource management systems, and the adoption of novel cultivation techniques. These innovations are designed not only to mitigate environmental pollution and optimize production but also to enhance economic competitiveness through the establishment of collaborative networks and the adoption of sustainable practices. Central to the article's thesis is the advocacy for concerted collaborative efforts among a diverse array of stakeholders to build adaptive capacity and bolster economic competitiveness. By emphasizing a multidimensional approach, the research elucidates the transformative potential of integrated aquaculture systems in promoting ecological sustainability and fostering economic growth across Ukraine's various regions. It highlights the pivotal role that advanced technologies play in making aquaculture a more sustainable and economically viable sector, which is crucial for safeguarding Ukraine's aquatic ecosystems and furthering its overarching economic development goals. The article's emphasis on the strategic integration of innovative technologies and sustainable practices underscores the essential balance between ecological stewardship and economic advancement. It posits that through comprehensive stakeholder collaboration and the adoption of advanced technological solutions, the aquaculture sector can achieve significant strides in environmental protection while simultaneously driving economic growth. Furthermore, the study's focus on the Black Sea basin illustrates a critical geographic locus where these proposed strategies can be implemented and observed, providing a model for broader application across similar ecological and economic contexts. By doing so, it envisions a future where the aquaculture sector not only survives but thrives, contributing to both ecological preservation and economic prosperity.

Thinking Sustainability through the Earth-Eco-Socialist Paradigm

Safeguarding our environment, which is home to both humans and nonhumans, is imperative to prevent widespread negative impact. The urgency for collaborative efforts to maintain the earth’s well-being is underscored by the escalating environmental crises worldwide. This paper posits that the environmental degradation we witness is significantly occasioned by capitalist practices that exploit both human and nonhuman entities. It critiques the classical free-market approach as insufficient for fostering environmental sustainability. In contrast, the paper advocates for “Earth-eco-socialism,” a model it champions as conducive to harmonizing human-nature relations. This model diverges from the capitalist fixation on perpetual material growth and environmental exploitation, which undermines the potential for meaningful existence for many. Earth-eco-socialism is grounded in the conviction that development and social progress must address social issues and environmental challenges simultaneously, through legislation and democratic processes, without compromising human needs. This approach merges ethical considerations with ecological stewardship, promoting cooperative environmental management, flexible environmental legislation, and its rigorous enforcement. The conclusion underscores the imperative of embracing the Earth-eco-socialist framework for our interactions with nature and one another, as a pathway to achieving environmental sustainability.

Innovated Urban Display System for Carbon Neutrality in Urban Construction and Management

As China’s urbanization process gradually slows down and the concept of carbon neutrality takes center stage, a notable shift is emerging in urban development – a shift towards utilising existing regenerative resources rather than pursuing conventional incremental growth. Consequently, the effective regeneration of existing architectural spaces becomes pivotal for ensuring cities’ sustainable development, particularly in the context of achieving global carbon neutrality goals. Among various aspects of popular urban renewing activities, architectural exhibitions stands out as a prime example of wastefulness. The tradition display technologies cost huge substantial one-time waste production. This make urban exhibitions has environmental disadvantages outweigh the advantages in terms of social benefits. This paper will discuss a innovated urban display system in carbon neutral context. Such system aim to reduce the material abandons on urban display activities, at the same time, enhancing the interactivity between urban interfaces and the users. While the urban surface achieving self renewal, it will reduce the cities management costs and carbon emissions from it could be control. Those exhibitions focusing on display, therefore will better match the context on sustainable urban development. The study introduces an renewable urban exhibition system, conceptualized and fabricated with modular uniformity. And Carbon emissions profiling reveals that the system substantially advancing urban ecological stewardship, architectural innovation, and administrative oversight in city planning.

The Role of Administrative Law in Safeguarding the Environment: A Jordanian Perspective Administrative Law and Environmental Protection in Jordan

Objective: The primary objective of this study is to scrutinize the role of administrative law, particularly the administrative judiciary, in safeguarding the environment within the Jordanian legal framework. The study aims to elucidate the mechanisms through which the administrative judiciary exercises oversight over administrative and regulatory authorities and to delineate the legal foundations underpinning administrative liability for environmental damages. Theoretical Framework: The theoretical underpinning of this study is anchored in the jurisprudential doctrines of administrative law and environmental governance. The study explores the intricate relationship between administrative jurisprudence and ecological stewardship, particularly in Jordan's unique environmental challenges and legal landscape. It posits that the administrative judiciary serves not merely as a procedural instrument but as a substantive agent of ecological governance. Method: The methodology employed is a rigorous legal analysis, incorporating a review of Jordan's statutes, regulations, and judicial decisions relevant to environmental protection. The study also draws upon secondary sources, including scholarly articles and commentaries, to comprehensively understand the subject matter. Result and Conclusion: The study reveals that the administrative judiciary in Jordan plays a pivotal role in environmental protection. It serves a dual function: as a guardian of environmental integrity and an oversight body for administrative regulatory authorities. The study also highlights the adoption of the doctrine of strict liability in the Jordanian legal system, emphasizing its significance in holding the administration accountable for environmental harm. Research Implications: The findings of this study have far-reaching implications for the development of environmental policy and legal frameworks in Jordan. They underscore the need for a more integrated approach harmonizing administrative law principles with environmental governance objectives. This necessitates reevaluating and recalibrating existing legal mechanisms to ensure they align with sustainable development principles and ecological justice. Originality/Value: The study offers a novel contribution to the existing body of literature on environmental law in Jordan by focusing on the often-overlooked role of the administrative judiciary. It provides a nuanced understanding of the complexities involved in environmental governance and offers a theoretical framework that could serve as a foundation for future research in this domain.