Effective Natural Resource Management Research Articles

Pattern determination of the territory local factors influence on the land plots’ cadastral value of gardening and horticultural non-profit partnerships

In recent decades, the state has been tasked with the effective management of natural resources, among which land resources hold particular importance due to the necessity of their rational use and sustainable development. The value of land resources and their indispensable role in ensuring the socio-economic development of the country is most clearly reflected in the state’s tax policy, specifically in land taxation. The amount of land tax depends on the cadastral value, which is often subject to methodological shortcomings and challenges. This study, using the Belgorod Region as a case study, proposes an algorithm for determining the cadastral value of land plots within gardening and horticultural non-profit partnerships, taking local factors into account. To determine the specific indicator of cadastral value (SICV) of land plots, a linear regression model was developed. The results, tested for homoscedasticity, confirmed the model’s adequacy and reliability. The findings showed that the cadastral value decreased by an average of 12.2% compared to the current results of the state cadastral assessment in the Belgorod Region, highlighting the influence of local factors and the importance of considering them in the cadastral evaluation of the land plots in question.

Hunting bag statistics of wild mammals in Portugal (1989–2022): on the need to improve data report and compilation

Wildlife monitoring is key for the effective management of natural resources. Hunting-based data (e.g., hunting bag statistics) is an important source of information to overcome the financial constraints imposed to long-term monitoring. Here, taking advantage of three decades (1989–2022) of hunting bag statistics of wild mammals in Portugal, we present the trends and discuss the issues regarding nine game species (five wild ungulates, two carnivores and two lagomorphs). Our results show that hunting bag statistics mirror the general population trends of wild mammal populations at a national scale. The data reflects the increase in number and distribution of roe deer, red deer and wild boar, and the recent expansion experienced by the Egyptian mongoose. The decline in the numbers of European wild rabbit and Iberian hare harvested are also noticeable. Hunting-based data have been used in several research contexts; however, this information is usually affected by geographical, temporal and recording bias. Portugal is no exception. Engaging the interested stakeholders is pivotal to ensure data quality. By reporting reliable and systematically collected hunting data, game managers and wildlife researchers will be able to better understand the main drivers of population dynamics, adjust hunting bags towards sustainable yield and assess the ecological and socio-economic relevance of the hunting sector.

Modelling Water Availability in Livestock Ponds by Remote Sensing: Enhancing Management in Iberian Agrosilvopastoral Systems

Extensive livestock farming plays a crucial role in the economy of agrosilvopastoral systems of the southwestern Iberian Peninsula (known as dehesas and montados in Spanish and Portuguese, respectively) as well as providing essential ecosystem services. The existence of livestock in these areas heavily relies on the effective management of natural resources (annual pastures and water stored in ponds built ad hoc). The present work aims to assess the water availability in these ponds by developing equations to estimate the water volume based on the surface area, which can be quantified by means of remote sensing techniques. For this purpose, field surveys were carried out in September 2021, 2022 and 2023 at ponds located in representative farms, using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) equipped with RGB sensors and survey-grade global navigation satellite systems and inertial measurement units (GNSS-IMU). These datasets were used to produce high-resolution 3D models by means of Structure-from-Motion and Multi-View Stereo photogrammetry, facilitating the estimation of the stored water volume within a Geographic Information System (GIS). The Volume–Area–Height relationships were calibrated to allow conversions between these parameters. Regression analyses were performed using the maximum volume and area data to derive mathematical models (power and quadratic functions) that resulted in significant statistical relationships (r2 > 0.90, p < 0.0001). The root mean square error (RMSE) varied from 1.59 to 17.06 m3 and 0.16 to 3.93 m3 for the power and quadratic function, respectively. Both obtained equations (i.e., power and quadratic general functions) were applied to the estimated water storage in similar water bodies using available aerial or satellite imagery for the period from 1984 to 2021.

Emergence of Forest Environmental Kuznets Curve in Africa: Some New Evidences

ABSTRACT: The African continent, renowned for its diverse landscapes and abundant biodiversity, grapples with a critical environmental challenge – deforestation. The swift depletion of forests, serving as the primary habitat for 80% of the world’s terrestrial animals and plants, poses a severe threat in Africa. Human activities, including logging, agricultural expansion, and urbanization, have jeopardized numerous ecosystems, exacerbating the overarching global climate crisis. Beyond serving as mere collections of trees, forests are intricate ecosystems supporting a staggering diversity of flora and fauna. The repercussions of forest loss in Africa are profound, resulting in a significant decline in biodiversity. Numerous species, some exclusive to these ecosystems and found nowhere else on the planet, now teeter on the brink of extinction. The predicament of deforestation in Africa is intimately intertwined with the broader global challenge of climate change. Urgency is paramount in addressing this crisis, as the loss of forests impacts not only local ecosystems but also exacerbates the overarching climate emergency. Reforestation emerges as a pivotal solution, offering an opportunity to reverse the damage inflicted on these vital ecosystems. This study examines whether forest natural resources can explain the environmental Kuznets curve hypothesis in African countries. The empirical strategy is based on the second-generation cointegration approach, cross-sectional dependency autoregressive distributed lag (CS-ARDL) and Augmented Mean Group (AMG) estimator. The findings show a potential long-run relationship between the forest rent and the environment. Further analysis highlights the importance of effective management of natural forest resources for improving environmental quality in Africa. We recommend that policymakers prioritize the restoration of ecosystems that have suffered carbon depletion due to human activities. Restoration efforts should strategically aim to enhance carbon sequestration capacity and rebuild biodiversity. Additionally, the establishment of robust monitoring and reporting systems is imperative to track current carbon emissions from forests. This entails regular assessments of forest carbon stocks, land-use changes, and the effectiveness of ongoing conservation and restoration initiatives.

ROLE OF NATURAL RESOURCE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: PERSPECTIVE ON FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT

It's a basic element of economic development that natural resources can provide or sustain, while humans first make great use of them in the form of energy, minerals and farm produce. They are also crucial during the process of development. Proper management of natural resources is a factor that affects both how well an economy can be built and this least conjunct of necessary conditions for its long-term stability. Well-managed finances require not only planning but also mechanisms to ensure that these resources are employed effectively and efficiently. From the standpoint of financial management, the management of natural resources includes the accurate calculation of the value of resources, long-term benefit analysis as well as management of risk in Azerbaijan. Investment in resources should take account not only of economic growth but also total environmental impact. And it is important to all a fair share of the income from natural resources for society as a whole whilst maximizing their contribution to the economy as far as is feasible. Therefore, since effective financial management of natural resources is the foundation of sustainable economic development, this process requires developed comprehensive strategies and management practices in Azerbaijan.

Main Characteristics of the Geological Structure of the Evaporite Formation of the Amu Darya Syneclise

The geological structure of the evaporite formation in the Amu Darya syneclise is a complex system that provides valuable insights into the region's geological history and economic potential. The study aims to analyse the main characteristics of the geological structure of the evaporite formation in the Amu Darya syneclise to expand knowledge of the geological and environmental history of the region and to identify the potential of these deposits for various applications. The methods used for this study included geological mapping, mineralogical analysis, stratigraphic analysis and geochemical research. The study identifies three distinct water-bearing horizons within the evaporite complex: Sharaplinsky, Yolotan, and Sakar. These horizons exhibit varying characteristics in terms of composition, water content, and distribution across the basin. Geomorphological manifestations, such as salt lakes and salt marshes, play a crucial role in understanding the ecological and geological history of the region. The evaporite formation holds substantial economic importance, hosting valuable resources including salts, oil, and gas. This geological structure supports regional industrial development, job creation, and overall economic growth. The study also highlights the need for further research into the geology and geomorphology of the Amu Darya syneclise to better understand the formation and dynamics of evaporite deposits and their role in the region’s current environmental and economic sectors. The study emphasizes the need for efficient technologies and methods for resource extraction and management to ensure sustainable development and minimize environmental impact. The research provides crucial data for optimizing mineral extraction strategies and developing effective natural resource management approaches. It underscores the importance of understanding the geological structure for sustainable ecological and economic development in the region. The practical significance of this study is a basis for developing more effective natural resource management strategies based on an understanding of the geological processes of evaporite sedimentation in the Amu Darya syneclise, which is key to the sustainable development of the region’s ecological and economic systems.

Impact of risk factors on the link between natural resources rents and carbon emissions: Evidence from economic, financial, and political risks

Effective management of natural resources is crucial for diminishing carbon emissions. This research explores how economic, financial, and political risks influence the relationship between natural resources rents and carbon emissions. Analyzing data from 66 countries, this study utilizes methods such as quantile regression and dynamic threshold regression to thoroughly assess the data. The findings reveal: (i) Natural resources rents tend to increase carbon emissions consistently across different quantiles (0.1 to 0.9). The fact is confirmed by robustness checks, illustrating that increased natural resources rents lead to higher emissions. (ii) Economic, financial, and political risks affect how natural resources rents impact carbon emissions. Notably, reduced economic and financial risks lessen the propensity of natural resources rents to boost emissions at higher quantiles, while a decline in political risk decreases the exacerbating effect of natural resources rents on emissions from the 0.1 to 0.9 quantiles. (iii) This analysis uncovers threshold effects where economic, financial, and political risks act as threshold factors. Specifically, when economic and political risks are low, a rise in natural resources rents actually leads to a decline in carbon emissions. The findings underscore the importance of considering these risks in the formulation of policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions from natural resource exploitation.

Kolaborasi Pemerintah Desa Kalukubodo Kec. Galesong Selatan Kab. Takalar dan Perguruan Tinggi Stia Yappi Kita Wujudkan Kemandirian Lokal dan Ketahanan Pangan

Community Service Activities (PKM) carried out by the STIA YAPPI LECTURER TEAM in collaboration with the Kalukubodo Village Government, South Galesong District, Takalar Regency, aims to increase local independence and food security in the area. This research explores collaboration between the two parties in designing and implementing programs that support sustainable agricultural development. By utilizing the potential of abundant natural resources, this activity includes training in agricultural techniques, use of technology, and effective natural resource management. The results of this activity show that the community's active participation in the training program increases their knowledge and skills, so they are able to optimize local resources to meet food needs independently. In addition, this collaboration also creates sustainable relationships between village governments and universities, opening up opportunities for innovation in resource management. It is hoped that this research can make a significant contribution to the development of models of local independence and food security in other villages in Indonesia.

Use of environmental indicators to assess the state of forest ecosystems

The purpose of the study was to comprehensively analyse the effectiveness of environmental indicators in determining the state of forest ecosystems and their ability to reflect changes in the ecological balance. During the study, the influence of anthropogenic factors on biomass, soil acidity, and species diversity of forest ecosystems in the Sumy Oblast of Ukraine was evaluated. Field studies were conducted to determine the soil acidity, the biomass of plants and animals in anthropogenic and natural forest areas, followed by statistical analysis of the data. The degree of degradation of forest areas as a result of human activity was determined and the environmental consequences of these changes for natural systems were evaluated. The results showed that anthropogenically modified areas have reduced biomass (100 t/ha) and species diversity (20 plant species), increased soil acidity (pH 6.5-7) and high concentrations of nitrates and phosphates, compared to mixed forests, where biomass reaches 200 t/ha, species diversity – 50 species of flora, and soil acidity varies from moderately acidic to neutral (pH 5.5-6). These data confirmed the negative impact of human activity on ecosystems, in particular on biomass and soil acidity. It was established that environmental indicators allow forming a comprehensive picture of the state of ecosystems, which is necessary for making informed management decisions aimed at preserving and restoring ecosystems, and at effective management of natural resources. The results obtained demonstrated serious environmental problems as a result of anthropogenic impact on forest ecosystems. A decrease in biomass and species diversity, and an increase in soil acidity in anthropogenic zones indicate the need for urgent implementation of measures for the conservation and restoration of natural forests. The study will be useful in the context of long-term monitoring of ecosystems, which would allow a more detailed investigation of the dynamics of their changes

Unveiling the role of natural resources, energy transition and environmental policy stringency for sustainable environmental development: Evidence from BRIC +1

This study investigates the impacts of economic growth, energy transition, mineral market, traditional energy, environmental policy stringency, and load capacity factor on natural resource and sustainable environment management in BRIC +1 countries from 1993 to 2020. The CS-ARDL model is adopted to demonstrate the nexus between the abovementioned constructs. Empirical findings suggest that the mineral market and energy transition positively impact environmental sustainability. Additionally, environmental policy stringency and effective management of natural resources are equally important for developing a sustainable environment in BRIC +1 countries. Overall, there is a significant association between all the examined variables, and they are all equally important in facilitating environmental sustainability in the BRIC +1 countries. The empirical outcomes of the present study help policymakers establish ecological sustainability and guide them toward sustainable development.

Tinjauan Hukum Penerapan Green Industry Era 4.0: Implementasi Biomassa Ramah Lingkungan Melalui Limbah Sawit Berbasis Sustainable Development

Backgrounds. This research aims to identify challenges and obstacles in using energy biomass from palm oil waste in Indonesia, as well as to analyze regulations related to the implementation of green industry era 4.0 in the context of biomass use. Apart from that, the text also highlights the importance of effective natural resource management in accordance with Article 33 paragraph (3) of the 1945 Constitution, as well as discussing the potential of palm oil waste as an environmentally friendly renewable energy source. Methods. This research uses a normative juridical approach to assess the legal framework that supports green industry, especially in using palm oil waste for sustainable development. Data was obtained from a literature study of primary, secondary and tertiary legal norms. The aim of the research is to describe and analyze regulations and obstacles in implementing biomass in the green industry era 4.0 in Indonesia. Results. Regulations in Indonesia related to the implementation of green industry era 4.0 in the sustainable use of biomass from palm oil waste are regulated in Law Number 32 of 2009 concerning Environmental Protection and Management. This regulation integrates environmental, social and economic dimensions in development strategies to achieve environmental sustainability, community welfare and a good quality of life. The main challenges in implementing green industry include inadequate infrastructure and technology, economic and policy challenges, social problems, and limited availability of human resources. The proposed strategy includes the use of technology 4.0, biorefinery development, increasing public awareness, strengthening regulations, and multi-stakeholder collaboration. Conclusions. The Indonesian government has developed sustainable industrial development by applying green industry principles, especially in the use of biomass from palm oil waste as renewable energy. However, challenges such as climate change and inadequate infrastructure still need to be addressed. It is hoped that with a strategy to overcome this, Indonesia can optimally utilize biomass energy while maintaining environmental sustainability.

Seguimiento de los cambios en el uso del suelo y la cobertura del suelo utilizando tecnicas de teledeteccion y SIG en la Isla de Phu Quoc, Provincia de Kien Giang, Vietnam

The changes in land use and land cover (LULC) are among the primary drivers of global environmental changes in many developing countries. In this study, LULC changes were assessed on Phu Quoc Island, located in Kien Giang province, Vietnam, from 2001 to 2022. The study utilized remote sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS) technology using Landsat images for the years 2001, 2009, and 2022. Image classification for each year was conducted through supervised classification using a maximum likelihood classifier, with the main LULC classes being forests, bare land, agricultural areas, water bodies, and built-up areas. The accuracy of the classification was evaluated using the kappa coefficient, achieving values consistently above 0.8 for all three images. Over the 20-year period (2001-2022), the area of forest, agriculture, and water bodies decreased by 14.90 km2, 30.96 km2, and 0.64 km2, respectively. Meanwhile, the areas of bare land and built-up areas increased by 22.22 km2 and 24.28 km2, respectively. Additionally, this study employed the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and the Normalized Difference Built-up Index (NDBI) to quickly assess LULC changes, obtaining results consistent with the supervised classification. The findings underscore the importance of closely monitoring LULC changes to facilitate effective natural resource management and maintain a sustainable environment.

Engagement of forest-dependent communities in the sustainable management of Akure forest reserve

Sustainable forest management is linked to stakeholder involvement, openness, accountability of decision-makers, adherence to the rule of law, predictability, efficient and effective management of natural resources. It is essential in accomplishing the goal of good governance. This study was conducted to evaluate the involvement of the forest-dependent people in the management of the Akure forest Reserve in Ondo state, Nigeria. Two-hundred structured questionnaires were distributed to respondents in four specifically chosen communities out of the twelve communities bordering the Reserve. A total of fifty structured questionnaires were distributed to respondents in each of the four chosen localities. Data were examined using descriptive statistics and chi-square analysis. The results revealed that the majority of the community's population consists of males (72.5%) and individuals aged 43 and above (38.5%), followed by individuals aged 31-36, accounting for 28.0% of the population. The majority of the residents (40.5%) visit the reserve on a daily basis, while thirty percent (30%) visit weekly to collect firewood and for agricultural production. The level of participation of community dwellers in Forest Management and Conservation is significantly influenced by their age (χ²= 9.456, df = 6, p = 0.024), marital status (χ² = 11.873, df = 2, p = 0.003), and occupation (χ²= 44.237, df = 4, p = 0.000). The primary endeavours undertaken by the inhabitants of the reserve are agricultural in nature. Age, household size, marital status and monthly income were the primary factors influencing their decision not to participate in forest governance in the Reserve

Implementasi Nilai Nilai Kebangsaan Bersumber UUD 1945, NKRI, dan Bhinneka Tunggal Ika Guna Menerapkan Kebijakan Kesehatan, Keselamatan, Keamanan & Lingkungan (HSSE) di PT. Pertamina (Persero)

PT. Pertamina (Persero) isl a lState-Owned lEnterprise (BUMN) thatl produces raw materials such as fuel, kerosene, LPG (liquefied fuel gas), LNG (liquefied natural gas), and petrochemical products. Articlel 33 paragraphl (3) ofl the 1945l Constitution confirms thatl the learth, lwater, and naturall resourcesl containedl therein arel controlledl byl the statel andl usedl for thel greatest lprosperity of thel people. This lawl gives the state thel authority to manage natural resources in the public interest and the welfarel of alll people in relation tol the context ofl social justice. However, the implementation of this law requires strict and transparent supervision to ensure that natural resources are actually used appropriately and fairly for all stakeholders and that uncontrolled environmental damage does not occur. This studyl aims tol find outl how human lvalues, which are reflected inl the 1945l Constitution, Unitaryl State olf the Republicl of Indonesial (NKRI), and Bhinneka Tunggal Ika are implemented in the Health, lSafety, Security, andl Environment (lHSSE) program at PT. lPertamina. Focus is also given to efforts to ensure the effectiveness and smooth implementation of the policy. Law Numberl 13 ofl 2003 concerningl Manpower and Lawl Number 1l of 1970l concerning lOccupational Safety andl Health (K3) are described in the State Gazette. PT. Pertamina is committed to carrying out refinery, petrochemical and infrastructure project operations planned safely and environmentally by applying high standards to aspects of Health, Safety, Security & Environment (HSSE) in accordance with moral values, market demands, needsl and expectationsl of customersl and stakeholdersl to supportl thel achievementl of thel company's goals, visionl and mission. The methodl used inl this studyl is thel Literature Studyl approach. In the literature study, the datal used is secondary data in the form of article data from PT. Pertamina (Persero) and various other existing sources. Thel results ofl the study, thel HSSE functionl at PT Pertaminal (X1), and effective management of Natural Resources for prosperity (X2) have a positive relationship with thel 1945 Constitutionl (Y1), the Republicl of Indonesial (Y2), Bhinneka Tunggal Ika (Y3). By applying the value of the essence of nationality based on the 1945 Constitution, the Republic of Indonesia, and Bhinneka Tunggal Ika PT. Pertamina emphasizes equality, territorial unity, law compliance, focusing on independence, justice and mutual assistance.

ВЛИЯНИЕ РЫНКА ЧЕЛОВЕЧЕСКИХ РЕСУРСОВ НА ПОЛИТИЧЕСКУЮ СТАБИЛЬНОСТЬ В СТРАНЕ

Despite the dependence of the human resource market on the market for goods and services, it acts as one of the key segments of the economic system that influences the economic and political decisions of the government. Human capital predetermines the economic development of the country both in the short term and in the long term, creating the prerequisites for effective management of natural resources, self-reproduction and ensuring return on capital. The disequilibrium state of the factor labor market causes a decrease in gross domestic product and changes in other indicators of the system of national accounts. In addition to economic problems, imbalances in the labor market also provoke political instability in the country and increase the level of uncertainty among residents. This situation arose in Great Britain at the beginning of this century, when, after the creation of a single European space for markets for goods and factors of production, uncontrolled migration from Europe became a serious challenge for residents of the country, which caused discontent among the British, the risk of a change of power and, as a result, led to Brexit. The purpose of the study is to identify the interaction between changes in the labor market and political decisions using the example of Great Britain. The objectives of the study are to establish the causes of transformations in the human resources market of the United Kingdom at the turn of the 20th–21st centuries; considering the stages of the creation of the European Union and the country’s break with it; determining the consequences of the UK's exit from the European Union. The methodology of the work includes historical-logical, comparative and systemic approaches. A dynamic study of macroeconomic indicators allows us to draw a conclusion about the direct relationship of the human resource market with the country’s political course.

Financial globalization and economic growth amid geopolitical risk: A study on China-Russia far East federal district

Geopolitics, natural resource efficiency and financial globalization have arisen as a new concept for low CO2 to achieve sustainable economic growth (EG). Therefore, developed and developing economies focus on Geopolitics risk (GPR), natural resource (NRS) efficiency and financial globalization (FG) to cope with CO2 neutrality targets. In order to understand the elements that contribute to achieving CO2 neutrality, this study sought to establish a relevant connection between geopolitics, the efficiency of NRS, financial globalization (FNG), and economic growth. For the abovementioned objectives, modern econometric methods, such as the canonical cointegration, CS-FGLS and GMM were adopted to evaluate the China-Russia Far East dataset between 1990 and 2022. In order to achieve CO2 neutrality in the long run, the study's elements are crucial, according to the results. In addition, GMM shows that each of the parameters affects CO2 neutrality. As a result, the ecological Kuznets curve rules the economic landscape, and long-term CO2 neutrality is greatly facilitated by geopolitics, efficient use of natural resources, financial globalization, and economic growth. Consequently, numerous domains necessitate far-reaching and revolutionary policy changes, such as economic integration to mitigate geopolitical risk, effective management of natural resources, efficient financial systems, and sustainable technology.

Land Use Change Mapping and Analysis Using Remote Sensing and GIS: A Case Study in Tam Ky City, Quang Nam Province, Vietnam

Changes in land use/land cover (LULC) play a critical role in effective natural resource management, monitoring, and development, particularly within the realm of urban planning. In the examination of Tam Ky city, Quang Nam province, Vietnam, spanning from 2000 to 2020, remote sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques were employed. The Landsat satellite data (Landsat 7 ETM+ for 2000, Landsat 5 TM for 2010, and Landsat 8 OLI for 2022) underwent analysis using the supervised classification method in ArcGIS 10.8 software to identify and categorize six primary LULC classes: water bodies, agriculture, settlements, vegetation, construction, and bare soil/rocks. The reliability of the classification was evaluated through k values, revealing high accuracy with values of 0.951, 0.953, and 0.950 for the years 2000, 2010, and 2020, respectively. Notable shifts in LULC were observed during the period from 2000 to 2020. The areas covered by vegetation and settlements expanded by 53 and 1300 ha, respectively, while water bodies, agriculture, construction, and bare soil/rocks experienced reductions of 466, 48, 413, and 425 ha, respectively. To facilitate a rapid assessment, the study also incorporated the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) and normalized difference built-up index (NDBI). The trends identified in this study are consistently aligned with the results of the supervised classification. The identified changes in LULC pose a substantial environmental threat, and the study's outcomes serve as a valuable asset for future land use planning and management in the area. The method's high accuracy enhances the dependability of the results, making them crucial for well-informed decision-making and sustainable development initiatives.

Comprehensive Facies Analysis and Depositional Environments of the Kikim Formation, Garba Mountain, South Palembang Subbasin, Indonesia

This study provides an exhaustive facies analysis of the Kikim Formation within the Garba Mountain area of the South Palembang Subbasin, emphasizing the stratigraphic significance and depositional environments during the Paleogene period. Utilizing field data collected from the Bumi Agung and Batu Belang measurement lines, this research categorizes various lithofacies using Miall’s (1978) classification scheme, identifying eight distinct lithofacies and four facies associations indicative of a predominantly fluvial depositional setting. The results depict a detailed sedimentological framework, showing that the Kikim Formation was characterized by a braided river system with significant gravel and sandstone deposits. This analysis not only sheds light on the geological history and processes shaping the South Sumatra Basin but also enhances the understanding of its potential hydrocarbon reservoirs. By detailing the lithological diversity and facies distribution, this paper contributes to the broader geological knowledge required for effective exploration and management of the region's natural resources.

Incorporating Islamic Environmentalism in Approaches to Conservation in the Trans-Himalaya

Conservationists increasingly acknowledge the value of co-productive conservation efforts that incorporate the Indigenous perspective. In the Trans-Himalayan context, they have begun to incorporate the Buddhist perspective in recent interventions; yet, there is an omission of Islamic environmentalism in these conversations. This omission is even more glaring when one considers that Muslims make up a significant percentage of the Indigenous population of the Trans-Himalaya. A review of the literature reveals a considerable body of Islamic scholarship on sustainable resource management in extremely harsh climates. In fact, co-productive conservation efforts in collaboration with local Muslim communities elsewhere in the world have been very impactful. While scholarship on the history of Islam in the Trans-Himalaya is limited, historians agree that, rather than being forced upon a passive Indigenous population, the widespread adoption of Islam was an active choice by a population that had plenty of exposure to different ideas and belief systems via trade. Supplementing these findings with qualitative research at the grassroots level among the Dard-Shin Scheduled Tribe in the Trans-Himalaya, the authors find further evidence of the syncretic blending of Indigenous and Islamic beliefs, deployed in service of effective natural resource management. It is, thus, proposed that future conservation efforts in this region would be well advised to adopt a more expansive approach to the Indigenous perspective.

The status and future of essential geodiversity variables.

Rapid environmental change, natural resource overconsumption and increasing concerns about ecological sustainability have led to the development of 'Essential Variables' (EVs). EVs are harmonized data products to inform policy and to enable effective management of natural resources by monitoring global changes. Recent years have seen the instigation of new EVs beyond those established for climate, oceans and biodiversity (ECVs, EOVs and EBVs), including Essential Geodiversity Variables (EGVs). EGVs aim to consistently quantify and monitor heterogeneity of Earth-surface and subsurface abiotic features, including geology, geomorphology, hydrology and pedology. Here we assess the status and future development of EGVs to better incorporate geodiversity into policy and sustainable management of natural resources. Getting EGVs operational requires better consensus on defining geodiversity, investments into a governance structure and open platform for curating the development of EGVs, advances in harmonizing in situ measurements and linking heterogeneous databases, and development of open and accessible computational workflows for global digital mapping using machine-learning techniques. Cross-disciplinary collaboration and partnerships with governmental and private organizations are needed to ensure the successful development and uptake of EGVs across science and policy. This article is part of the Theo Murphy meeting issue 'Geodiversity for science and society'.