Protection Efforts Research Articles

IMPACT OF GREEN FINANCE ON GREEN TOTAL FACTOR PRODUCTIVITY: IMPLICATIONS FOR ECONOMIC GROWTH AND SUSTAINABLE ENVIRONMENT

There needs to be more empirical research quantifying the relationship between the growth of green finance (GF) and green productivity. This study investigates this connection by analyzing data from 30 regions in China from 2006 to 2022. We utilize a comprehensive GF growth index to assess the impact. The results reveal a substantial increase in green manufacturing in response to more excellent green financing, fostering environmental sustainability. Both GF and total factor production exhibit upward trajectories, indicating the effectiveness and productivity of green financial initiatives. Furthermore, regression analysis demonstrates a significant positive effect of increased green financing on output. This effect is expected to be more pronounced in regions with more robust economic and social conditions, lower public interest in environmental preservation and higher pollution levels. Our findings suggest that implementing GF policies further enhances the positive effects of expanding green financing. This research has important implications for China’s environmental protection and green financing efforts, serving as valuable insights for environmental analysts, policymakers, local governments, financial institutions and legislators involved in GF policy implementation.

A Survey on Securing Image-Centric Edge Intelligence

Facing enormous data generated at the network edge, Edge Intelligence (EI) emerges as the fusion of Edge Computing and Artificial Intelligence, revolutionizing edge data processing and intelligent decision-making. Nonetheless, this emergent mode presents a complex array of security challenges, particularly prominent in image-centric applications due to the sheer volume of visual data and its direct connection to user privacy. These challenges include safeguarding model/image privacy and ensuring model integrity against various security threats, such as model poisoning. Essentially, those threats originate from data attacks, suggesting data protection as a promising solution. Although data protection measures are well-established in other domains, image-centric EI necessitates focused research. This survey examines the security issues inherent to image-centric EI and outlines the protection efforts, providing a comprehensive overview of the landscape. We begin by introducing EI, detailing its operational mechanics and associated security issues. We then explore the technologies facilitating security enhancement (e.g., differential privacy) and edge intelligence (e.g., compact networks and distributed learning frameworks). Next, we categorize security strategies by their application in data preparation, training, and inference, with a focus on image-based contexts. Despite these efforts on security, our investigation identifies research gaps. We also outline promising research directions to bridge these gaps, bolstering security frameworks in image-centric EI applications.

Arsenic Contamination in Sludge and Sediment and Relationship with Microbial Resistance Genes: Interactions and Remediation

Arsenic contamination in sludge and sediment has emerged as a pressing environmental issue with far-reaching implications. This review delves into the multifaceted problem of arsenic contamination, focusing on its complex interactions with microbial resistance genes (MRGs). It explores the key role of microorganisms in the biogeochemical cycling of arsenic, including processes such as reduction, oxidation, methylation, and volatilization. It describes how microorganisms resist arsenic through resistance genes that encode proteins such as efflux pumps, enzymatic detoxification, and intracellular sequestration. Arsenic, a naturally occurring element, can enter sludge and sediment through various natural and anthropogenic pathways, leading to detrimental effects on environmental quality. Understanding the role of microorganisms in arsenic mobilization, transformation, and their ability to resist arsenic toxicity through MRGs is essential for effective mitigation and remediation strategies. This review discusses the sources and distribution of arsenic in sludge and sediment, the intricate mechanisms of microbial arsenic resistance, and the potential implications for environmental management and human health. It also examines current research trends and identifies areas requiring further investigation. By unraveling the interplay between arsenic contamination, microorganisms, and MRGs, this review aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of the issue and guide future research and environmental protection efforts.

Enhancing the Legal Protection of Waqf Assets in Banjar City, West Java, Through Land Registration and Regulatory Awareness to Support the Achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Objective: This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the land registration program in enhancing the legal protection of waqf assets in Indonesia, focusing on its contribution to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 16 on peace, justice, and strong institutions. This study specifically focuses on the context of Banjar City, West Java. Theoretical Framework: This research applies Islamic law theory related to the protection of waqf assets and sustainable development theory, linking legal protection efforts with the achievement of SDGs. The Islamic perspective on waqf management emphasizes secure and sustainable stewardship, which aligns with the principles of sustainable development. Method: A juridical-empirical approach with a descriptive-analytical method is used in this study. Data were collected through interviews, field observations, and document reviews regarding the implementation of the land registration program and related policies in Banjar City, West Java. The analysis focuses on evaluating the effectiveness of these initiatives in protecting waqf assets. Results and Discussion: The study finds that the land registration program has made a positive contribution to the protection of waqf assets. However, challenges remain, including insufficient socialization and training for nadzir (waqf managers) and a lack of public understanding regarding the importance of land registration. Regulatory awareness programs, such as waqf land certification, offer significant potential to strengthen legal protection. The synergy between government policies and community participation is crucial for improving the effectiveness of waqf protection. Research Implications: This study provides practical implications for the development of policies aimed at strengthening the protection of waqf assets. It recommends improving socialization and training for nadzir and raising public awareness about the importance of waqf land registration. Collaboration between the government, religious institutions, and the community is essential for enhancing the protection of waqf assets. Originality/Value: The originality of this study lies in its identification of the importance of the land registration program and regulatory awareness in strengthening the protection of waqf assets in Indonesia, particularly in Banjar City. The study also offers practical recommendations to improve the implementation of these initiatives and provides insights into the local context in Indonesia, which can be used as a model for other regions.

‘Water resource’ framing for the value and governance of glacier water availability in the semi-arid Chilean Andes

Water scarcity associated with glacier retreat in mountainous regions is of growing concern worldwide, especially in arid regions, where precipitation is scarce or seasonal. Scientists and decision makers aim to respond to glacier driven water scarcity by improving glacier protection and developing water resource management strategies. Despite the increasingly prominent ‘water resource’ lens for understanding the changing mountain cryosphere, little research has investigated what this framing means for how different actors value, study, manage, and protect cryospheric water stores. This paper therefore presents a critical analysis of how we conceptualise the importance of glaciers. Specifically, this paper examines how environmental campaigns, scientific research, and policy interact to make glaciers into a water resource, and how this impacts glacier protection. Focusing on a case study of glacier management and protection in the Chilean Andes, the motivations and processes that made glaciers into a water resource in Chile are examined, and the impacts of this for glacier protection in a country where glaciers are exposed to threats from climate change and the mining industry are explored. This paper presents qualitative analysis of interviews conducted with experts in glacier science, policy, and environmental campaigning, and documents associated with managing glaciers as a water resource in Chile. The research shows how, in response to mining threats, glaciers were strategically framed as water resources by environmental campaigners to improve Chilean state protection. This framing was institutionalised within Chile’s water resource management system through science and policy, resulting in some successful protection legislation. However, this resource framing has also integrated glaciers into a system which inherently limits their protection, because their protection is conditional on the shifting ways glaciers are valued for storing and releasing water to downstream communities and ecosystems. Here, we highlight processes that make glaciers into a resource, demonstrate that glaciological knowledge is not directly translated into policy, and importantly, show how managing glaciers as a resource may limit, or even undermine glacier protection efforts. As concern globally grows about water scarcity driven by glacial retreat, these findings are vital for the development of glacier protections and effective management of glacial water.

Legal Protection of Women's Rights after Divorce

Divorce results in the termination of the marital relationship, and there are several main reasons that lead to divorce, including the death of one spouse, the decision of the husband or wife to end the marriage, or a judge's decision based on issues within the household. This research uses normative research methodology. A statute approach is used to analyze legal issues related to regulations governing the fulfillment of obligations from the ex-husband to the ex-wife after divorce. Law No. 1 of 1974 on Marriage explicitly regulates the obligation to provide maintenance to the ex-wife after divorce. This provision states that in cases of divorce that result in the termination of the marriage, the ex-husband is required to bear the living expenses of the ex-wife and/or make certain decisions that benefit the ex-wife. However, in reality, the low awareness of ex-husbands in fulfilling the ex-wife's rights after a court decision becomes a major concern regarding how legal protection efforts ensure women's rights are upheld. The rights that can be claimed by the ex-wife after divorce include maintenance, muta'ah, mahr, hadhanah costs, and the division of joint property.

Fulfillment of the Health Rights of Persons with Disabilities

Indonesia has ratified the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) and regulates the right to health services through Law Number 8 of 2016, but there are still challenges in ensuring equal access for people with disabilities in Indonesia. Lack of accessibility of health facilities and discrimination faced by people with disabilities. Using normative legal research methods and statutory provision approaches, this article examines how persons with disabilities can exercise their rights and how the Government of Indonesia implements policies to protect the rights of persons with disabilities. The results show that despite legal protection efforts, gaps still exist in terms of physical accessibility and health services for people with disabilities. Many facilities do not meet accessibility standards, and medical personnel's understanding of the rights of people with disabilities is still limited. Even though several regulations in Indonesia emphasize equal access to health services, much attention is still paid to the issue of physical accessibility, inadequate information, and lack of understanding and awareness on the part of healthcare providers. To achieve equal access for people with disabilities, it is necessary to strengthen legal protection and implement policies and concrete steps in improving facilities, information, and education for health workers.

Adapted RCP 4.5 and 8.5 climate change scenarios for invasive Sus scrofa in Mexico

Climate change is a common factor that contributes to the growth or decline of animal populations. The present study, conducted using the Species Distribution Model, highlights the fact that despite the recognized negative impact of wild boar (Sus scrofa) on semi-natural areas and agricultural systems worldwide, the species remains poorly studied. According to projections for Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP) 4.5 and 8.5, increased clusters of wild boar abundance are expected to emerge around fragmented species assemblages by 2070. Sus scrofa is an extremely destructive and rapidly spreading invasive species whose movement appears to be facilitated by humans. As a consequence, many endemic plants are threatened with extinction. Biological corridors between fragments with poor conservation status should be linked to priority areas for adequate protection. The creation of preserved landscapes in territories separated from semi-natural ecosystems is recommended. Additionally, these measures can help mitigate the negative impact of S. scrofa on local biodiversity. Continuous monitoring and adaptive management strategies will be crucial for long-term conservation of the affected areas. Environmental protection efforts must prioritize the restoration of natural habitats and the implementation of strict regulations to control the spread of this invasive species. Collaborations between conservation organizations, governments, farmers, and local communities are essential to ensure effective wild boar management and the preservation of arable land and forests. Moreover, public awareness campaigns about the environmental impact of wild boar and the importance of conservation efforts are critical for garnering broader support.

Integrating Water Quality Index (WQI) and Multivariate Statistics for Regional Surface Water Quality Evaluation: Key Parameter Identification and Human Health Risk Assessment

Assessing regional water quality and evaluating the associated risks to human health posed by aquatic contaminants are paramount for conserving and managing surface water resources and formulating effective local policy decisions. This study utilizes 17 water quality parameters collected monthly from nine national monitoring stations in Nanning City, China, from January 2021 to March 2023, i.e., water temperature (WT), pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), permanganate index (CODMn), chemical oxygen demand (COD), five-day biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5), ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N), total phosphorus (TP), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), fluoride (F-), selenium (Se), arsenic (As), mercury (Hg), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), and lead (Pb). Analyses were performed utilizing the Water Quality Index (WQI) and multiple stepwise regression to ascertain seasonal and spatial variations in water quality and to identify key water quality parameters. Human health risks were evaluated, focusing on eight heavy metals. The results indicated that the average WQI for the designated area was 94.1, with individual monitoring stations displaying WQIs ranging from 93.22 to 96.44, categorizing the water quality as “excellent”. The WQI exhibited seasonal fluctuations, peaking in spring and winter while decreasing in summer and autumn. All measured parameters met national standards for Class I and II surface waters. The stepwise regression analysis facilitated the construction of minimized WQI models (WQImin) derived from three different training and testing datasets, with a WQImin model incorporating six key parameters, i.e., DO, CODMn, NH3-N, Hg, WT, and Se. The concentration of heavy metals in the water exhibited a sequence of Zn (3.35 µg/L) > Cr (2.00 µg/L) > Cu (1.36 µg/L) > As (1.29 µg/L) > Se (0.32 µg/L) > Pb (0.17 µg/L) > Cd (0.03 µg/L) > Hg (0.01 µg/L), with all metals adhering to the Class I standard. Children are more susceptible to the adverse effects of heavy metal contamination than adults, exhibiting a total environmental health risk of 1.28 times greater. Cr was identified as the predominant contributor to the aggregate health risk, accounting for over 80% of the risk in adults and children, followed by As (19.1%). Future protection efforts are recommended to prioritize the control of Cr and As concentrations in Nanning City.

Legal pathways for China’s blue carbon conservation: a perspective of synergizing ocean and climate rule of law

Blue carbon serves as a significant natural carbon sink and presents substantial opportunities for greenhouse gas mitigation actions. This study first elucidates the importance of blue carbon conservation and its basis in international law, and then analyzes the progress and shortcomings of China’s efforts in blue carbon protection in the areas of legislation, enforcement, and judicial practices related to ocean governance and climate change mitigation. Finally, from the perspective of coordinating ocean and climate governance, this paper proposes legal pathways to improve blue carbon conservation. In terms of legislation, it advocates for the explicit inclusion of the legal concept of “blue carbon” in the legal frameworks governing ocean and climate governance, and for the clarification of the legal status of “blue carbon credits”. In terms of regulatory enforcement, it recommends developing a detailed implementation plan to integrate blue carbon into the China Certified Emission Reduction (CCER) system, designating a regulatory body for blue carbon trading, and establishing a multi-stakeholder governance mechanism involving government, market, and society. In the judicial realm, the paper suggests issuing judicial interpretations to clarify the scope, prerequisites, and implementation of “purchasing blue carbon credit” to prevent such purchases from becoming a “free pass” that could damage marine ecosystems

Analisis Hak Serta Rehabilitasi Nama Baik Korban Tindak Pidana Pencemaran Nama Baik Melalui Media Sosial

The rapid development of globalization today facilitates access to information circulating on social media, both positive and negative. This study examines the increasing cases of defamation in the digital age, focusing on legal protection aspects and rehabilitation efforts for victims. The purpose of this writing is to understand the role of the government and law enforcement authorities in addressing defamation offenses. Using a normative legal research method, it is concluded that: 1. To understand the forms of defamation offenses, 2. To determine the rights of victims of defamation. Protection and rehabilitation efforts for one's reputation are crucial in this era, considering the advancements in technology and the widespread occurrence of defamation.

Implementation of network management in child protection policy: Analysis of mobilization strategy in Makassar City

This study aims to examine network management in the implementation of child protection policies in Makassar City, with a focus on mobilization strategies implemented by the Office of Women's Empowerment and Child Protection (DP3A). The research method used is a qualitative approach with data collection techniques through interviews, observations, and document studies. Informants in this study include representatives from DP3A, Makassar Police, Institute for Public Policy Studies (LSKP), and other related institutions. The results show that the mobilization strategy implemented by DP3A Makassar City, which includes motivating and rewarding networks, utilizing digital platforms, and cross-sector collaboration, has succeeded in increasing the effectiveness of child protection policy implementation. This success is in line with network management theory. DP3A Makassar City has managed to gather and utilize various resources, strengthen cross-sector collaboration, and accelerate responses to child abuse cases. The use of digital platforms and continuous evaluation are also key factors in the success of child protection efforts in Makassar City. This research provides recommendations for strengthening inter-agency coordination and collaboration through the establishment of regular coordination forums, developing efficient information and data exchange mechanisms, and establishing an integrated referral system. Future research is expected to develop a network management model or framework that can be adapted and applied in the context of child protection at the local, regional and national levels in Indonesia.

Environmental Resilience Challenges and Mining Policy in East Kutai Regency, Indonesia: A Case Study

This study aims to identify weaknesses in the oversight of excavation C mining activities by the East Kutai Regency Government, which contribute to soil degradation and alterations to natural landscapes. These mining operations result in large, water-filled pits that become breeding grounds for mosquitoes and disease, while also causing air pollution during the dry season. The research employs a qualitative approach, combining a literature review with interviews. The findings reveal that, first, excavation C mining disrupts ecosystem balance through the overexploitation of natural resources and fosters illegal mining activities. Second, challenges in monitoring excavation C mining involve the Satpol PP (Civil Service Police Unit) as the primary enforcement body, along with the enforcement of local regulations designed to minimize environmental damage. However, a lack of coordination between the East Kutai Regency Satpol PP and the East Kalimantan Provincial Police complicates regulatory enforcement and community protection efforts. This study recommends implementing strict sanctions against companies that illegally damage the environment to improve oversight effectiveness and promote environmental sustainability.

Perlindungan Hukum dan Upaya Pencegahan Pencabulan Anak di Indonesia

Child molestation remains a serious issue in Indonesia, requiring strong legal protection and effective prevention efforts. This study aims to analyze the legal framework for child protection, the implementation of legal protection for victims, prevention efforts, and challenges in law enforcement related to child molestation in Indonesia. Using a literature review method, this research examines various current literature sources. The results show that although Indonesia has a comprehensive legal framework, its implementation still faces challenges such as child-unfriendly judicial processes and limited resources. Prevention efforts involve comprehensive sexual education and active community participation. This study recommends strengthening legal sanctions, improving law enforcement capacity, developing child-friendly justice systems, and intensifying community education programs to enhance protection and prevention of child molestation in Indonesia.

The Sacred <i>Veranus niloticus</i> in Orogun Community, Delta State, Nigeria

This study investigates the cultural significance of the Nile Monitor Lizard (<i>Veranus niloticus</i>) in Orogun community, Delta State, Nigeria. A mixed-methods approach was employed, using questionnaires and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) to gather data. The questionnaire were administered to 200 adults from the total population of the people in the community. Chi-square tests were used for statistical analysis to determine significant associations. The results show that the presence of the Nile Monitor Lizard in Orogun community is not significant (χ2 = 2.418, p > 0.05) based on questionnaire responses. However, observations and KIIs confirmed the species' presence and cultural importance. The abundance of the Nile Monitor Lizard was significant (χ2 = 6.520, p < 0.05), with 60% of respondents affirming its presence. The species holds cultural significance (χ2 = 7.370, p < 0.05), with the community revering it as a deity. Interaction with the lizard is predominantly reverential (χ2 = 0.421, p > 0.05), with minimal disturbance. Conservation efforts are lacking (χ2 = 6.520, p < 0.05), with more respondents indicating a lack of support. Contrary to expectations, the Nile Monitor Lizard is not commonly used as a source of food and medicine (χ2 = 25.240, p < 0.001). The study highlights the importance of cultural conservation and traditional belief systems in protecting umbrella species like the Nile Monitor Lizard. The findings contribute to the understanding of human-reptile interactions and inform conservation strategies that respect cultural significance. Some of the recommendations made includes: Integrate cultural conservation into biodiversity protection efforts, promote education and awareness on the importance of conservation, support community-led conservation initiatives, investigate the impact of cultural beliefs on species conservation.

A Review of Non-Destructive Raman Spectroscopy and Chemometric Techniques in the Analysis of Cultural Heritage.

Today, there is an increasing concern and effort for protection, conservation, and restoration of cultural heritage materials. Non-invasive analytical methodologies such as Raman spectroscopy offers various advantages such as high speed, robust identification, low cost, and in-site analysis. Previous contributions highlighted the potential of Raman spectroscopy combined with multivariate statistics for identification and quality evaluation of cultural heritage materials such as paints, fiber, dyes, woods, stones, inks, and textile materials. Especially, application of chemometrics and multivariate statistics algorithms opens new horizons for scientists and inspectors. In conclusion, the paper provided an overview of the state-of-the-art uses of multivariate statistically equipped Raman spectroscopy methods for evaluation of cultural heritage and art materials with illustrations from previous research studies.

THE STATE BORDER DOCUMENTATION POLICY AND ITS IMPLEMENTATION

The international community considers the border policy to be a crucial aspect of the country's security and political strategy. The resolution of the state border issue has been in accordance with agreements, domestic laws, programs, and projects related to Mongolia's international border. Therefore, the Mongolian government developed and approved the document "The basis of the Mongolian government's border policy" in 2002 to establish a legal framework for coordinating state border activities, addressing related issues, and ensuring border protection. This document is based on the provisions of the Constitution, National Security and foreign policy concepts, and aims to evaluate the implementation of laws and international agreements while optimizing the legal environment. The document remains in force since its approval by the National Assembly in 2002. This supporting document outlines an ideological system that upholds the state's independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the inviolability of its borders. It also includes mechanisms for ensuring state border security, as well as the goals, objectives, principles, and main directions for its implementation. This document has been crucial in maintaining the continuity of government policy. In an era of increasing complexity in the global and regional security landscape, countries are focusing on safeguarding border security, addressing potential threats and risks, and maintaining national borders and territorial integrity. This underscores the significance of emphasizing unity, shared interests, and collective security over individual national interests and security. From ancient times (Great Mongolia) to the present day, Mongolia has consistently prioritized its border security and has implemented various policies and activities to safeguard the integrity of its borders. There has always been a requirement to create policy documents for border protection and enhance legal capabilities to safeguard the integrity of the state border, as well as to coordinate and oversee national border protection efforts based on societal needs, aims, and objectives. In light of Mongolia's development policy and legal reform, the state military and institutions with special functions are undergoing reform. A series of state policy and legal documents have been updated and approved, establishing a legal framework. Consequently, there is a pressing need to review the government's border policy, which has remained unchanged for two decades.

Quantitative Analysis of the Evolution of Production–Living–Ecological Space in Traditional Villages: A Comparative Study of Rural Areas in Tibet

Since the introduction of the rural revitalization strategy by the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China in 2017, there have been significant transformations in the production–living–ecological space (PLES) within villages. Evaluating and enhancing villages’ PLES are crucial for fostering sustainable development. Therefore, this study utilized a multi-scale environmental assessment model and mathematical approach to conduct horizontal and vertical nested correlation analyses of indicators at different levels through a path analysis, a Spearman correlation analysis, a variance analysis, the entropy weight method, data simulation, and other methods to establish a “three-dimensional” comprehensive evaluation system for traditional village PLES. The findings indicate the following: (1) The ecological space of traditional villages in Tibet significantly impacts the overall environment of the PLES, with the components’ impact ranked as follows: ecological space > production space > living space. Furthermore, industry and tourism resources show a significant positive correlation with traditional villages’ PLES; (2) There are no significant differences in natural environmental factors, such as air relative humidity, temperature, humidity index, and wind efficiency index among traditional villages in neighboring cities in Tibet. However, they all possess profound ecological and cultural heritage; (3) There are notable disparities in living space between traditional villages in Lhasa and Nyingchi, indicating unbalanced development. It is evident that traditional village construction should not only focus on the development of certain PLES but also pay attention to the balanced development of the overall spatial environment. This study holds great significance for enhancing the living environment of traditional villages in Tibet and promoting sustainable development through protection efforts in these villages.

Digging into Complexity: The Wicked Problem of Peatland Protection

AbstractThe significance of rewetting peatlands, as a key instrument for peatland protection and response to climate change, is increasingly recognized by both experts and the public. Its widespread implementation however still faces numerous challenges. Characteristics of the issue itself as well as the corresponding policies transform the issue into a wicked problem. Showcasing the lack of clarity in funding structures at the German national and federal‐state levels highlights the linked obstruction of necessary actions, implementation options, and financial resources for peatland protection. This poses challenges to climate protection, adaptation efforts, and the achievement of related Sustainable Development Goals. In Germany, an update of peatland protection policies highlights the structural challenges in coordinating peatland protection efforts and helps identify gaps and opportunities. A mixed methods approach is used to analyze both strategic documents and the results of a survey on associated funding. The results indicate a multi‐level policy structure with several German federal states recognizing the potential and relevance of peatland protection but still facing obstacles regarding the distribution of responsibilities, data availability, and overall structures. Recognizing peatland protection as a wicked problem can highlight research gaps and help in developing individual solutions that can be transferred to an international level.

Assessment of diffusive recharge at regional scale in karst systems, Amazon basin, Ecuador

Karst systems play a crucial role in drinking water supply and biodiversity. Therefore, their comprehensive characterization of their recharge mechanisms is essential for safeguard water resource quality and sustainable management. This study utilizes the open-access thematic cartography of Ecuador to analyze the lithological, geomorphological, and hydrographic boundaries of groundwater karst systems. Then, employing the APLIS method, the diffusive recharge for each system is calculated. As a result, five hydrogeological karst systems and twelve small isolated karst bodies were delineated within the Amazon Region of Ecuador, collectively occupying a total area of 11112 km2. The effective infiltration of precipitation within these systems was found to vary between 11.11% and 77.11%, with a predominant low infiltration range (20%-40%) covering 48% of the karst area. One of the multiple parameters used in water balance calculations is defined by this research, serving as the initial step in creating conceptual models for evaluating karst aquifer systems in Ecuador from a hydrological perspective. The findings not only offer insights into the vulnerability and characteristics of these systems but also establish the foundation for informed decision-making in sustainable groundwater resource management and protection efforts.