Economic Implications Research Articles

4 - Carapa procera, femme et économie des ménages dans les communautés diola de la Basse Casamance, Sud du Sénégal

Women’s socio-economic conditions are often difficult in rural areas. In order to provide for their needs, this social category relies on the exploitation of part of the plant biodiversity. In Lower Casamance, the Carapa procera is one of these plants whose exploitation is culturally reserved for women but also improves their income and financial empowerment. This work highlights the cultural and economic implications of Carapa procera for women. To carry out this study, the sample size was determined using the DAGNELIE method. Two different questionnaires were administered to each target group. These questionnaires are completed by a focus group involving resource persons in the different localities of the study area. This approach yielded interesting results. Indeed, on the socio-cultural level, the study revealed that carapa provides through the mode of ownership, transmission and knowledge is considered by the communities as a heritage for women. Better still, in this difficult economic context, this heritage is an essential source of income for the women transformers. The exploitation of this heritage can bring them up to 250,000 CFA/year. This income is intended to cover household expenses, hence the importance of this species for the daily life of households, poverty reduction and the empowerment of women.

The Plurality of Economic Classifications

The standard strategy involves evaluating whether economic classifications meet criteria derived from a general theory of natural kinds. The first objective of this article is to show the implementation of this strategy by various relevant authors. We argue that the standard strategy has failed due to its lack of a greater sensitivity to the role played by human interests in the design of different types of natural kinds. The second objective is to outline a new strategy for investigating economic classifications. Our departure from the standard strategy can be described as a shift from assessing economic classifications based on general theories of natural kinds to examining specific cases with the aim of theorizing about their design and application. The cases of the cost-of-living index and race are used to succinctly discuss the objectivity of economic classifications and implications for the relationship between science and democracy.

Measuring the Gains and Losses of Virtual Water Flows in China’s Coastal Areas

The virtual water flow behind product trade provides researchers with ideas to alleviate water problems in China’s coastal areas, with accompanying resource and economic implications. This paper adopts a multi-region input–output model to calculate virtual water flows in coastal areas and analyses resource benefits and economic benefits, by combining the water stress index and shadow price, to measure gains and losses of virtual water flow. This study shows that (1) China’s coastal areas depends on external water supplies; (2) virtual water flows between coastal and inland areas generated 38.26 billion m3 of net scarce water savings and CNY 31,751 billion of net economic benefits, indicating that coastal areas benefited from virtual water flows from both resource and economic perspectives; (3) virtual water flows among coastal provinces and cities caused 11.10 billion m3 of net scarce water losses, but generated CNY 9784 billion of net economic gains, indicating that a further intensification of water stress in coastal areas, but such a virtual water flow pattern was beneficial from an economic perspective. This paper reveals the resource and economic impacts of virtual water flow at the national scale and among coastal provinces and cities and further proposes suggestions for promoting the beneficial flow of virtual water in coastal areas.

Toward Sustainable Urban Mobility: A Multidimensional Ontology-Based Framework for Assessment and Consensus Decision-Making Using DS-AHP

Urban mobility is a critical aspect of sustainable urban development, with significant environmental, social, and economic implications. Assessing the sustainability of urban mobility systems in order to create more carbon neutral, liveable, healthier, and sustainable cities and neighborhoods for the future requires a multidimensional approach that integrates diverse factors. However, the lack of a unified assessment framework poses challenges in comparing and evaluating different urban mobility projects. This article proposes an ontology for assessing the sustainability of urban mobility systems. This ontology is based on a multidimensional approach that integrates knowledge from experts in transportation engineering, urban planning, environmental science, and social sciences to incorporate existing sustainability indicators and frameworks, as well as domain-specific knowledge. A consensus approach based on Dempster–Shäfer (DS) and Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) methods is proposed to account for uncertainties and to allow for the consideration of preferences and ill judgment. Through a case study in Romania, the authors demonstrated the applicability of the proposal to provide a comprehensive and flexible framework for assessing urban mobility sustainability. The proposed ontology provides a valuable tool for policymakers, urban planners, and transportation engineers to make informed decisions towards sustainable urban mobility, and the sensitivity analysis is carried out to demonstrate the robustness of the proposed framework. It has potential for iterative validation and feedback from domain experts, and can serve as a foundation for future research.

How Do Cartilage Lubrication Mechanisms Fail in Osteoarthritis? A Comprehensive Review

Cartilage degeneration is a characteristic of osteoarthritis (OA), which is often observed in aging populations. This degeneration is due to the breakdown of articular cartilage (AC) mechanical and tribological properties primarily attributed to lubrication failure. Understanding the reasons behind these failures and identifying potential solutions could have significant economic and societal implications, ultimately enhancing quality of life. This review provides an overview of developments in the field of AC, focusing on its mechanical and tribological properties. The emphasis is on the role of lubrication in degraded AC, offering insights into its structure and function relationship. Further, it explores the fundamental connection between AC mechano-tribological properties and the advancement of its degradation and puts forth recommendations for strategies to boost its lubrication efficiency.

Transition versus physical climate risk pricing in European financial markets: a text-based approach

Under its climate regulation, the EU is expected to become the first continent with a net-zero emissions balance. We study the pricing of climate risks, physical and transition, within European markets. Using text-analysis, we construct two novel (daily) physical and transition risk indicators for the period 2005–2021 and two global climate risk vocabularies. Applying our climate risk indices to an asset pricing test framework, we document the emergence of economically significant transition and physical risk premia post-2015. From a firm-level analysis, using firms' GHG emissions, GHG emissions intensity, environmental, and ESG scores, we find that rises in transition (physical) risk are typically associated with an increase (decrease) in the return of green (brown) stocks. Firm-level information is used by investors to proxy firms' climate-risks exposure, especially for transition risk since 2015, whereas the sectoral classification appears to proxy firms' exposures to physical risk. From a country-level analysis emerges an intensified connection between European stock markets and climate risks post-2015, yet with some heterogeneity. Our results have important economic implications and show that investors demand compensation for their exposure to both climate risk types. Our novel climate risk vocabularies and indicators find several applications in identifying, measuring, and studying climate risks.

Navigating bioenergy horizons: a critical examination of Europe’s potential, with Belgium as a case study

Estimates of the energy potential of the different energy sources are essential for modelling energy systems. However, the potential of biomass is debatable due to the numerous dimensions and assumptions embedded. It is thus important to investigate further the final potential to understand their implications. Therefore, this study analyses European studies assessing biomass potential and proposes a critical discussion on the different results to converge to a realistic range of potentials for 2030. Biomass is divided into four categories: forestry products, agricultural residues, energy crops and other waste, each with sub-categories. Belgium is used as a case study to highlight the convergences and divergences of the studies. Having a national case study allows for more precise analyses through in-depth comparisons with national data and reports. The potential estimates are compared with the current production for each category in order to have a better view of the gap to be bridged. From these national perspectives, the European potential can be better apprehended. The results show that the realistic potentials for 2030 for Belgium and Europe are somewhat in the lower range of the estimates of the different studies: from 30 to 41 TWh and from 2000 to 2500 TWh, respectively. The forestry biomass is already well exploited with a slight potential increase, while the agricultural residues present the most significant potential increase. The realistic potential for energy crops in Belgium turned out to be close to the minimum estimates. Indeed, the implications of those crops are considerable regarding the agricultural structure and logistics. This article emphasises that no energy potential is neutral, as it involves a specific system in terms of agriculture, forestry or waste management, with broader social, economic or environmental implications. Consequently, using one estimate rather than another is not a trivial matter; it has an impact on the system being modelled from the outset.

Economic Implications of Government Flood Control Policy: A Case of Rice in Japan

Japan’s susceptibility to and severity of floods have necessitated flood control policies by the government. “Overflowing flood control”, in which the floods due to torrential rains are systematically diverted to agricultural lands in the upper to middle reaches, is one of them. More information is needed on the public assessment of the overflowing flood control policy, and this research seeks to bridge this gap. Data evaluating rice affected by the policy were collected from a random nth-price auction using a developed online system. The sample consisted of 47 consumers living in the downstream areas of the Edogawa River, one of Japan’s first-class, or prime, rivers. Data on their attitudes toward the policy were collected with a questionnaire. Multiple ordered probit models are used for regression analysis. The results show that the sample respondents were willing to pay an average of JPY 1578 for 5 kg of rice, slightly higher than the national average rice production cost, and that 36% of the sample agreed with the flood control policy, which is positively associated with large families or owning many assets.

Traumatogenic metaphors and religious motifs in Niger Delta ecopoetry

The Niger Delta has been a site of trauma as a result of decades of non-stop environmental pollution. Existing studies have explored the socio-political and economic implications of pollution and its quotidian impact on the lived experiences of the people. This study, however, focuses on ecopoetry as a genre that reflects, and reflects on, the trauma of ecological degradation and the spiritual implications for the Niger Delta. By doing so, it explores traumatogenic metaphors and religious motifs in ecopoetry from the region. This informs the purposive selection of two Niger Delta poetry collections—Tanure Ojaide’s Songs of Myself: Quartet (2015) and Stephen Kekeghe’s Rumbling Sky (2020). The poems are subjected to critical literary analysis, undergirded by Jacob Olupona’s perspective of ecology of religion and Stef Craps’ trauma theory, to examine how the impact of environmental degradation on the mental health and spiritual well-being of the people is poetically addressed. (This article is published in the thematic collection ‘African ecologies: literary, cultural and religious perspectives’, edited by Adriaan van Klinken, Simon Manda, Damaris Parsitau and Abel Ugba.)

Cyber-Physical Systems as a New Frontier for Economic Security: The Impact of Advanced Data Capturing and Networking Technology on National Economies

This study investigates the burgeoning interface between cyber-physical systems (CPS) and economic security, a vital yet underexplored domain. With the advent of sophisticated data capturing and networking technology, the paradigm within which national economies operate is shifting. This research delineates the ramifications of such technologies on economic stability, employment trends, and national gross domestic product (GDP), alongside the emergent cybersecurity implications. The methodology encompasses a cross-sectional analysis of various economies that have adopted CPS at differing scales and capacities. Through quantitative data, the study reveals trends and patterns in economic performance metrics post-adoption of advanced data capturing and networking infrastructures. Complementarily, qualitative assessments from expert interviews offer insights into the broader economic and security implications. Preliminary findings suggest that the integration of CPS correlates with a multifaceted impact on economic security, including the creation of new industries and the obsolescence of traditional sectors. A notable rise in efficiency and productivity across industries utilizing CPS is counterbalanced by the challenges of increased cybersecurity threats and job market disruptions. The study contributes to the discourse on economic security by framing CPS adoption not just as a technological upgrade but as a critical economic event with widespread and significant consequences.

Study of Different Method of Plastic Waste Management in the Light of Ecosystem Balance

The present study is related to different method of plastic waste management in the light of ecosystem balance. Plastic waste has become a major environmental concern, causing pollution in both land and marine ecosystems. As a result, plastic debris is accumulating in landfills and natural environments instead of decomposing. This accumulation is causing various environmental hazards and negatively impacting habitats and species distribution. To address this issue, researchers have been focusing on finding effective methods of plastic waste management that promote ecosystem balance. These methods include microbial agents and their metabolic enzymes for polymer degradation and destructive thermal treatments like combustion or pyrolysis. In addition, different countries have implemented varying waste management strategies to tackle plastic pollution. Indiscriminate use of plastics such as polyethylene causes environmental pollution and impacts human health due to irreversible changes in the ecological cycle. The future of plastic waste management research lies in the continuous innovation of recycling technologies, the development of environmentally friendly alternatives, and the integration of social and behavioural considerations in waste management strategies. By addressing these areas, research can contribute to the advancement of sustainable and effective solutions for plastic waste handling, furthering the goal of achieving ecosystem balance and minimizing environmental harm. A comprehensive assessment of plastic management strategies should consider their environmental, economic, and social implications to gauge their overall effectiveness in addressing the challenges of plastic waste. This multifaceted approach will provide a holistic understanding of the impact of plastic waste management efforts and guide future decision-making to further enhance the sustainability and effectiveness of plastic waste handling..

Urban Environmental Planning in Shimla Smart City: Review of Related Literature

Urban environmental concerns are on rise due to increasing population pressure on finite natural resources, deforestation, over grazing, unplanned construction, networking of roads and large-scale modification of natural landscape. It has caused irreversible damage to the ecology of this Himalayan state. Number of ultra modern projects, road networking, hydropower projects, and SEZ and real estate projects are costing Himalayan ecology. Unplanned developmental activities and urban processes in city have resulted in several ecological problems like environmental pollution, noise pollution extreme climatic conditions, shortage of drinking water, landslides, sinking land and change in seasonal cycle. Poor urban planning will cause social, economic and environmental implications in long term. Cities needs to be planned professionally keeping in mind future sustainability. Before planning a city in hilly areas, needs proper understanding of complex and dynamic phenomena involving interaction between environmental and socio- economic and political factors with multi disciplinary approach and vision. Urbanization and industrialization on one side is contributing its share in economic development of a region but on the other hand, it is degenerating water, air, soil and natural resources resulting in the degradation of environmental quality (Anjum, 1998). Urban environmental degradation leaves direct impact on the ecology and causes ecological imbalance (Singh, 1996). The most striking reason for the environmental degradation is the changing man and environment relationship. (Dasman, 1976), Shah (2001). Developmental activities in Himalayan region need different treatment and systematic planning.

Sustainable gains from inland waterway investments at port-city interface

The objective of this research is to identify and quantify the sustainable impacts resulting from transportation investments at the port-city interface. These investments encompass two main components: 1) restoring the local inland waterway fairway for navigation, and 2) constructing a new railway bridge that traverses the primary waterway at the entrance of the seaport. The study is centered on the local transportation system in the northwestern region of Poland. Sustainability is assessed using an analytical tool derived from societal cost-benefit analysis and simulation in the relevant market transport performance in options with and without investment. Economic effects are evaluated in terms of savings in generalized transportation costs, which include transport operating expenses and travel durations. Environmental considerations encompass transport-related air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and well-to-tank emissions. Social aspects focus on issues like transport congestion, traffic noise, and transport-related accidents. Each type of investment yields distinct sustainable gains and distributes them among stakeholders differently. Additionally, the enhanced capacity of the rail bridge reveals the potential for a modal shift in the local passenger transport system, wherein passengers may transition from buses/cars to a fast railway. Tangible gains expressed in monetary terms allow for a sustainable assessment of transport investments. The elaborated research scheme can be employed to assess the sustainable ramifications arising from investments in intermodal transport at any port-city interface. It provides decision-makers with comprehensive insights into the economic, environmental, and social implications of various transport policies and interventions.

Sustainable Management of Rechargeable Batteries Used in Electric Vehicles

A Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) quantifies the environmental impacts during the life of a product from cradle to grave. It evaluates energy use, material flow, and emissions at each stage of life. This report addresses the challenges and potential solutions related to the surge in electric vehicle (EV) batteries in the United States amidst the EV market’s exponential growth. It focuses on the environmental and economic implications of disposal as well as the recycling of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). With millions of EVs sold in the past decade, this research highlights the necessity of efficient recycling methods to mitigate environmental damage from battery production and disposal. Utilizing a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Life Cycle Cost Assessment (LCCA), this research compares emissions and costs between new and recycled batteries by employing software tools such as SimaPro V7 and GREET V2. The findings indicate that recycling batteries produces a significantly lower environmental impact than manufacturing new units from new materials and is economically viable as well. This research also emphasizes the importance of preparing for the upcoming influx of used EV batteries and provides suggestions for future research to optimize the disposal and recycling of EV batteries.

Carbon based sensors for air quality monitoring networks; middle east perspective

IoT-based Sensors networks play a pivotal role in improving air quality monitoring in the Middle East. They provide real-time data, enabling precise tracking of pollution trends, informed decision-making, and increased public awareness. Air quality and dust pollution in the Middle East region may leads to various health issues, particularly among vulnerable populations. IoT-based Sensors networks help mitigate health risks by offering timely and accurate air quality data. Air pollution affects not only human health but also the region’s ecosystems and contributes to climate change. The economic implications of deteriorated air quality include healthcare costs and decreased productivity, underscore the need for effective monitoring and mitigation. IoT-based data can guide policymakers to align with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to health, clean water, and climate action. The conventional monitor based standard air quality instruments provide limited spatial coverage so there is strong need to continue research integrated with low-cost sensor technologies to make air quality monitoring more accessible, even in resource-constrained regions. IoT-based Sensors networks monitoring helps in understanding these environmental impacts. Among these IoT-based Sensors networks, sensors are of vital importance. With the evolution of sensors technologies, different types of sensors materials are available. Among this carbon based sensors are widely used for air quality monitoring. Carbon nanomaterial-based sensors (CNS) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) as adsorbents exhibit unique capabilities in the measurement of air pollutants. These sensors are used to detect gaseous pollutants that includes oxides of nitrogen and Sulphur, and ozone, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This study provides comprehensive review of integration of carbon nanomaterials based sensors in IoT based network for better air quality monitoring and exploring the potential of machine learning and artificial intelligence for advanced data analysis, pollution source identification, integration of satellite and ground-based networks and future forecasting to design effective mitigation strategies. By prioritizing these recommendations, the Middle East and other regions, can further leverage IoT-based systems to improve air quality monitoring, safeguard public health, protect the environment, and contribute to sustainable development in the region.

Impact of Gender-based Violence on Local Economy: A Case Study of Gasabo District

Aim: Gender-based violence (GBV) poses a significant challenge to economic development, particularly in regions such as Gasabo District in Rwanda, which has seen remarkable post-genocide recovery and growth. Despite progress, the intricate relationship between GBV and economic outcomes remains understudied, necessitating further investigation. This study addresses the gap in understanding the economic implications such as workforce productivity, healthcare expenditures, and educational attainment of GBV in Gasabo District. Methods: Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, this research combines quantitative and qualitative research methodology to comprehensively assess the prevalence and consequences of GBV in Gasabo District. A sample size of 400 participants was selected using stratified sampling techniques, with data collected through self-administered questionnaires and in-depth interviews with survivors and stakeholders. Results: findings reveal alarming statistics on the prevalence and economic toll of GBV in Gasabo District. Among the respondents, 58.5% reported no experience with GBV during their lifetime, with physical violence (35.5%) most frequent type. Economic consequences were substantial, with 28.8% reporting reduced productivity due to GBV. A significant association between GBV and economic consequences, with chi-square test results revealing a strong correlation (chi-square = 46.949, p < 0.001) between experiencing GBV and reported economic impacts. Conclusion: The study highlights the urgent need for evidence-based interventions to address GBV and its economic repercussions in Gasabo District by implementing comprehensive awareness and education programs to increase understanding of gender-based violence (GBV) and promote zero tolerance for violence

Can Urban Sprawl Promote Enterprise Innovation? Evidence from A-Share Listed Companies in China

Urban sprawl does not invariably impede factor agglomeration; rather, it can foster polycentric urban configurations, thereby enhancing productivity and encouraging enterprise innovation. This study investigates the effect of urban sprawl on enterprise innovation using data for A-share listed Chinese companies from 2010 to 2020. The results reveal a significant inverted U-shaped relationship between urban sprawl and enterprise innovation, particularly among large enterprises, well-established entities, non-state-owned enterprises, and those operating in non-manufacturing sectors. Additionally, the effects of urban sprawl on the inverted U-shaped relationship are more pronounced in the north-eastern regions and small cities. Regional integration significantly moderates the inverted U-shaped relationship between urban sprawl and enterprise innovation. This research contributes new insights to the field of enterprise innovation, offering theoretical and empirical support for analyzing the economic implications of urban sprawl.

Global perspectives on the burden of sexually transmitted diseases: A narrative review.

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) pose a significant global health challenge with far-reaching social, economic, and public health implications. These infections have haunted humanity from ancient times to today, transcending geographical boundaries and cultural contexts. This article explores the multifaceted landscape of STDs, delving into their epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, and global response strategies. The global prevalence of STDs is staggering, with millions of new cases reported annually. Prominent among these infections is HIV/AIDS, which remains a major global health crisis, affecting over 38 million people worldwide. Additionally, bacterial STDs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis continue to pose significant health risks, with millions of new cases reported yearly. Beyond the physical manifestations, STDs have profound social and economic implications. They can result in severe reproductive health issues, stigma, discrimination, and psychological distress, burdening healthcare systems and affecting individuals' quality of life. The global response to STDs has been multifaceted, with international organizations and governments implementing various prevention and control strategies, including sexual education programs and scaling up access to testing and treatment. However, challenges persist, including disparities in healthcare access, sociocultural factors influencing transmission, and evolving pathogens with increasing resistance to treatment. Through case studies and real-world examples, we illuminate the human stories behind the statistics, highlighting the lived experiences of individuals grappling with STDs and the complex interplay of factors shaping their journeys. Ultimately, this review calls for continued research, innovative strategies, and sustained global commitment to mitigating the burden of STDs and promoting sexual health and well-being for all.

Inequality of RightsHow Discrimination Against Sexuality Affect Economic Growth in China

This article delves into the economic implications arising from discrimination based on sexual orientation in China, a country with an estimated 70 million individuals who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT). Despite substantial advancements in social and economic spheres, China still grapples with inequality and discrimination against the LGBT community. This discrimination takes various forms, including exclusion, bullying, and harassment, and not only violates fundamental human rights but also has the potential to undermine sustainable economic growth. The article analyzes the possible economic impact of this significant LGBT demographic by examining its effects on individuals, businesses, and society as a whole. It sheds light on the adverse consequences of such discrimination on diverse groups within Chinese society and considers how this collective impact could impede China's progress in terms of economic development. By recognizing the complex relationship between inequality in rights and economic advancement, this article highlights the critical need to foster an inclusive and prosperous future that benefits all segments of Chinese society.

Analyzing the Economic Impact of Airport Expansion Projects on Local Communities

Airport expansion projects have significant economic implications for local communities, ranging from job creation and increased tourism to enhanced infrastructure and property development. However, the economic impact of such projects is complex and multifaceted, influenced by factors such as location, scale, and community characteristics. This research paper examines the economic effects of airport expansion on local communities, drawing on empirical evidence and case studies to explore the opportunities and challenges associated with these projects. By analyzing various dimensions of economic impact, including employment, tourism, and infrastructure development, this paper aims to provide insights for policymakers, urban planners, and community stakeholders engaged in airport expansion initiatives.