Environmental Well-being Research Articles

СОСТОЯНИЕ ЭКОЛОГИЧЕСКОЙ ОБСТАНОВКИ В БАШКИРИИ В 1980-Х ГГ.

Today, issues of environmental well-being of the population are becoming more relevant. Environmental protection is a scientifically significant problem. The study of environmental development issues is of theoretical and practical importance, since ecology is associated with many areas of human life. We do not pretend to an extensive analysis of the presented research topic and will consider the main factors influencing the state of ecology in the republic. In this regard, the purpose of the study is to consider the main environmental problems of Bashkiria that have arisen as a result of the actions of industrial enterprises and measures to protect it. Chronological framework of the study: the 1980s. To solve the presented goal, the following tasks were set: analysis of the sanitary condition of air and water basins in Bashkiria and actions to eliminate the consequences of the release of industrial waste into the atmosphere, the aquatic environment, assessment of the degree of environmental impact on the quality of human life and its consequences. The published - periodical press (newspaper "Soviet Bashkiria") and unpublished (archival documents) sources were used in the work. Methods of analysis and historicism were used to solve the tasks set. The results of the study allow us to conclude about the deterioration of the environmental situation in the republic during the period under review. Despite the attention of the republic's leadership to environmental problems: the introduction of wastewater treatment processes, air, etc., it was not possible to significantly solve the issues of environmental well-being of the population. There was an increase in the number of diseases, including children's. Against the background of the ongoing transformations in society, the number of public associations grew, the first of which was the movement for ecology. Nevertheless, it would be wrong to unambiguously assess the current situation, a lot of attention was paid to nature protection, it was possible to solve the issues of reducing harmful emissions, but the environmental background continued to cause concern.

Beyond the rule. Development of a multi-criteria tool for designing and evaluating an inclusive context

There are rules that provide shared information with the aim of guiding the behaviour of individuals or the community regarding spaces, processes and products. Therefore, the goal is to start a normalisation and standardisation procedure, which allows to solve a specific problem. With regard to the culture and practice of accessibility of spaces and environments, the reference legislation (Law 13/89, Presidential Decree 24 July 1996, n. 503, ISO 21541:2021, Ministerial Decree 236/89, UNI 17210:2021) is not only rather obsolete, but also excludes a large part of potential users. This paper aims to open a debate on the current operational tools in order to evaluate and design an inclusive context, proposing a new, more performing and universal one. The culture of accessibility is not only the scrupulous and scientific observance of the rules. It also means combining both quantitative and qualitative needs; therefore, providing environmental well-being. Thanks to the critical description of reference or experimental evaluation or design tools (HCD participatory methodologies for the definition of needs analyses, Quality Function Deployment for the tracking of technical specifications, ICF with a focus on UNI activities, laws, decrees and regulations to observe the Rule), this paper describes some projects that attempted to go beyond the rule, providing an inclusive context and space to meet people’s actual needs. Therefore, putting some operational tools into functional synergy (Rules, Inclusive Methodologies, ICF, QFD) to define a new multi-criteria tool can be an excellent starting point to develop, for each specific environmental context, a list of expectations that are important for planning and evaluation.

Initiatives to enhance the quality of life among patients with hypertension after hospitalization: A phenomenological study

Background: Hypertension is frequently called "the silent killer" because its symptoms are hard to detect and often go unnoticed. Health issues resulting from hypertension can significantly alter the quality of life for those affected, impacting their physical, psychological, social, and environmental well-being. Purpose: To delve deeper into strategies for enhancing the quality of life for hypertensive patients post-hospitalization. Method: Applying a qualitative method with a descriptive phenomenology approach through interviews, this study sampled 8 participants selected through purposive sampling. Results: The study revealed that to enhance the quality of life for hypertensive patients post-hospitalization, participants engaged in reducing salt intake, following a specific diet, exercising, limiting activities, using local remedies, and managing their emotions and thoughts. Conclusion: The research findings suggest that efforts to enhance the quality of life for hypertensive patients after hospitalization include reducing salt intake, following a dietary regimen, engaging in exercise, limiting physical activity, using local remedies, and managing emotions and thoughts.

Detection of Microplastic Contamination in Commercial Insect Meals

Background: Escalating global plastic production, expected to reach 34,000 million tons by 2050, poses a significant threat to human and environmental well-being, particularly in aquatic ecosystems. Microplastics (MP) and nanoplastics (NP), which originate from the degradation of plastics, are of concern due to their potential bioaccumulation and uptake of pollutants. This study addresses identification methods and focuses on insect meal, a raw material for aquaculture feed. Methods: By using different techniques, the study was able to detect MP and NP in insect meal samples. Chemical digestion with KOH at 60 °C efficiently removed organic matter without affecting the synthetic polymer polyethylene (PE). Filtration, confocal Raman microscopy, SEM, and TEM were used for comprehensive analysis, and integrity tests on PE films were performed using Raman and FTIR spectroscopy. The results showed the presence of PE microplastic particles in the insect meal, which was confirmed by correlative Raman and SEM mapping on a positively charged surface. In addition, the increased resolution of the Raman microscope identified submicrometric PE NP (800 nm). Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) confirmed plastic-like structures in the insect meal, highlighting the presence of PE plastics characterized by irregular shapes and some agglomeration. The higher carbon concentration in the EDX analysis supported the plastic nature, which was also confirmed by Raman spectroscopy. Conclusions: The study provides a robust method for the detection of MP and NP in insect meal and provides valuable insight into the possible presence of plastics in insect-based aquafeeds. The combination of different analytical methods increases the reliability of the results and sets the stage for future investigations that could focus on the quantification of NP and the assessment of their potential environmental impact.

Indigenous Intergenerational Resilience and Lifelong Learning: Critical Leverage Points for Deep Sustainability Transformation in Turbulent Times

Rapidly changing conditions and the complexity and interconnectedness of global challenges means that learning across the lifespan is more important than ever. Equally critical are sustainable planetary futurities and associated pedagogical practices which reach beyond the imposition of settler temporalities, modernist technological solutions, and western cognitive imperialism as a means of responding to our cultural-ecological crisis. Pedagogical practices must actively work with diverse generational realities and impacts associated with the cultural, ecological, and climate emergency. This paper reports on a growing conversation across diverse cultural biospheres regarding inclusive Indigenous-led strategies of multi-generational resilience addressing human–environmental wellbeing. Adopting an inclusive Indigenist theoretical and methodological approach, it narrates the epistemological and relational practices of several multigenerational pedagogical forums (land-based and virtual) based in and out of Turtle Island/Canada from 2015–2023. Based on an Indigenist research paradigm and qualitative research methods pertaining to one multi-day land based learning summit and three online virtual learning forums, a thematic analysis of key findings relating to pedagogical practices, intercultural and intergenerational themes, and the shifting dynamics of multi-generational resilience work is provided. Themes include the critical importance of epistemological shifts over time; Indigenous multi spatial-temporalities; relational rather than binary or even hybrid views of sexual, gendered, ethnic, and racial identities within cultural-ecological restoration work; the relevance of transnational gatherings; and the adaption of pedagogical practices to meet fluctuating local–global conditions. The paper then summarizes the key elements of lifelong learning within an Indigenist approach to cultural-ecological restoration work, and concludes with a discussion regarding the relevance of this approach in reorientating three previously identified leverage points for accelerating sustainability transformation.

A critical appraisal of the legal and policy framework for sustainable mining in Ethiopia

The integration of the concept of sustainable mining into major legal frameworks presents a complex challenge of balancing short-term economic gains with the long-term objectives of economic and social development as well as environmental well-being. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of how the Ethiopian legal framework incorporates the principles of sustainable mining. Employing a qualitative research methodology, this study examines the adequacy of the legal framework in addressing sustainability issues arising from mineral resource extraction. Through document analysis, the article investigates the legal challenges associated with achieving sustainable mining practices. It scrutinizes constitutional provisions, mining laws, and policies governing mineral resources in Ethiopia. The findings indicate that the Ethiopian government has made notable efforts to develop a competitive legal framework that ensures that mining activities are conducted in an economically efficient, environmentally conscious, and socially responsible manner. However, this research uncovers significant gaps and inconsistencies within the existing legal framework, which results in uncertainty and confusion among various stakeholders. These problems impede the effective and sustainable management of mineral resources and ultimate ly undermine their potential contribution to Ethiopia's economic growth and social development. Considering these findings, this article proposes several recommendations to address the identified legal and practical challenges associated with regulating mineral resources.

Sustainable Architecture: Energy Efficiency and Environmental Well-Being of the Urban Environment

Sustainable Architecture: Energy Efficiency and Environmental Well-Being of the Urban Environment

Sustainable Leadership: Fostering Long-Term Organizational And Environmental Well-Being

Sustainable Leadership: Fostering Long-Term Organizational And Environmental Well-Being

A GIS-based multi-criteria decision-making approach (GIS-MCDM) for determination of the most appropriate site selection of onshore wind farm in Adana, Turkey

AbstractEnergy stands as an indispensable global need, yet the finite nature of rapidly depleting fossil fuel reserves poses environmental challenges. To address this, numerous nations are shifting toward sustainable energy sources to foster environmental well-being while satisfying their energy requirements. Among these alternatives, wind energy emerges as a particularly efficient option. This study focuses on identifying optimal sites for installing wind power plants in Adana province through the integration of the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and geographic information system (GIS). Within this framework, a comprehensive set of 15 criteria was delineated along with their respective sub-criteria. It is thought that the criteria used in the study will be useful not only for Adana province but also for other provinces that are suitable for wind turbine placement and planned to be built. The outcome of this investigation delineates potential areas in Adana province deemed suitable for establishing wind power plants. As a result, analysis reveals that 9.94% of the study area is conducive to establishing a wind farm (WF), while 51.66% is deemed moderately suitable. Notably, the districts of Feke, Tufanbeyli, Saimbeyli, and Pozantı emerge as particularly well-suited for this purpose. This study aims to contribute to the existing literature by identifying precise and suitable areas by combining GIS and AHP in the WF site selection process. In the study, a new research perspective is presented by taking into account the uncertainty in the site selection process and the concept of sustainability in three different dimensions: technical, economic, and environmental, thus aiming to guide decision-makers for future WF projects. In addition, it is thought that the methods and criteria used in the study will also be guiding for future WF site selection studies. Graphical abstract

Definition and Key Attributes of Impact Investments as an Object of Management

Since the introduction of the term “impact investments” into active use in 2007, the debate about their content and distinctive characteristics in comparison with other classes of investments remain open. To date, there are many different, and in some cases incompatible, points of view in interpreting their definition. This complicates the effective management of impact investments and hinders the pace of industry scaling. The purpose of the paper is to analyze and systematize theoretical and practical approaches to defining the concept of impact investments, as well as to identify their inherent demarcation features that determine the management features and peculiarities. The research methodology includes the analysis of publications in peer-reviewed scientific journals, comparison of the content of reports and reports of international organizations and institutions, as well as quantitative and qualitative content analysis of media materials relevant to this topic. The results obtained indicate the validity of accepting impact investments as an independent conceptual category and the expediency of their allocation and separation into an independent class of investments; their key attributes are established; the principles and features of the management approach applied to them are revealed. The paper has practical significance for actors and participants of the investment sphere as well as researchers and practitioners interested in innovative approaches to investing in social and environmental well-being.

Parental Stress and Quality of Life in Parents of Young Children with Autism

AbstractParents of children with ASD are at risk for chronic stress due to challenging parenting. It is unknown whether stress is already present in early parenthood, similar for mothers and fathers and if this impacts quality of life (QoL). Parental stress and QoL were assessed in 56 mothers and 51 fathers of young children (aged 3 to 7) with autism. Associations between parental stress (OBVL) and QoL (WHOQoL-BREF) were examined. Parents of young children with ASD appear to have high parental stress from conflicting feelings towards their child and from difficulties with parenting. Mothers have higher stress from feeling confined in their motherly role than fathers compared to the OBVL norm population. Both mothers and fathers have a low QoL. Increased maternal conflicting feelings towards the child associated with lower psychological QoL, while high maternal feelings of role confinement associated with low physical QoL. Increased paternal conflicting feelings towards their child related to lower physical and social QoL, while fathers with more parenting difficulties reported less satisfaction with their psychological and environmental wellbeing. Thus, already at young age, parenting children with ASD is a major challenge for both mothers and fathers.

Quality of Life in Caregivers of Alcohol Use Disorder Patients: Role of Family Functioning and Social Support.

Background: Caring for alcohol use disorder (AUD) patients poses significant challenges, impacting caregivers' quality of life (QOL) across all the dimensions. Following Lazarus and Folkman's Transactional Model of Stress and Coping, family functioning (FF) and social support (SS) are crucial coping resources. Purpose: This study aims to explore how FF and SS relate to QOL in caregivers of individuals with AUD, recognising their pivotal role in navigating diverse caregiving-related stressors. Methods: A sample of 128 primary caregivers for AUD patients was collected from two psychiatric hospitals in Amritsar, Punjab. Data were collected using assessment tools, such as the World Health Organization Quality of Life Brief Version (WHOQOL-BREF), Family Assessment Device and PGI Social Support Questionnaire, and were analysed through the Pearson product moment correlation and multiple regression analysis. Results: FF (r = -0.603) and SS (r = 0.641) exhibited significant correlations with caregivers' QOL. Multiple regression analysis confirmed that both FF (β = -0.345) and SS (β = 0.436) significantly predicted QOL among caregivers. Approximately 49% of the variance in QOL was explained by the linear combination of SS and FF. Conclusion: Developing tailored programs is essential to enhance caregivers' physical, mental, social and environmental well-being. Healthcare professionals should recognise the intricate connections among these dimensions, crafting holistic approaches to nurture a supportive caregiving environment.

BM-RCWTSG: An integrated matching framework for electric vehicle ride-hailing services under stochastic guidance

Electric vehicles (EVs) are playing an increasingly vital role in sustainable ride-hailing services, primarily due to their potential to reduce carbon emissions and enhance environmental well-being. A core service of ride-hailing platforms is to match riders with nearby drivers within a short time window. In this mandate, it is crucial to ensure a high matching rate and low rider waiting time since these are key indicators of customer satisfaction and the platform’s operational effectiveness. However, existing matching mechanisms in the literature failed to consider important aspects related to EVs, including the range limit, charging detour time, and charging waiting time. These factors can significantly affect the system matching rate, rider waiting time, and vehicle utilization rate. To address the new challenges of the increased adoption of EVs in ride-hailing services, we propose a data-driven stochastic optimization framework for EV ride-hailing matching. The proposed framework integrates two stochastic optimization models, namely the stochastic guidance (SG) model and the EV matching (EVM) model. The SG model optimizes EV relocation and improves the system matching rate by proactively guiding idle EVs to the designated regions based on probabilistic rider demand forecasting. The EVM model utilizes the relocated EVs and current rider demands to provide the optimal matching solution that minimizes the overall cost associated with rider waiting time, EV charging waiting time, and charging detours. We conduct experimental validation of this approach using two real-world data sets from New York City. Comparative results suggest that by utilizing the proposed framework, the matching rate can be increased up to 22.9%, and the rider and EV waiting times can be reduced up to 14.9% and 73.6%, respectively, compared to the benchmark models.

Legal regulation of the use of forest resources

The purpose of the study was to carry out a comprehensive analysis of the legislative framework in the field of forest resource management in Albania in the context of forest ecology, and species diversity, and to identify the main problems and prospects for sustainable development of the country’s forestry. The research methodology included the analysis of statistical data from the National Institute of Statistics of Albania on the structure of forest ecosystems and forms of their management. The results of studies conducted by international organizations such as the World Bank, Global Environment Facility, and Oikon d.o.o. were also used. The structure and composition of Albania’s forest resources, including those of natural and semi-natural origin, are analysed. The legal framework in the field of forest management in Albania is summarized. Different management structures for forestry land are characterized, with the identification of the specifics of use for different forms of ownership. The main problems of forest management are identified, including intensive exploitation of private forests, lack of subsidies and investments, as well as imperfect legislative regulation. Adaptation measures to increase the sustainability of Albania’s forests within the framework of the Albanian Forest Policy Document for the period 2019-2030 are substantiated. Strategic areas of development, such as the expansion of protected areas, the development of ecotourism and the attraction of green investments, are proposed. The study also emphasizes the importance of international cooperation for financial and technical support, which will facilitate the implementation of sustainable forest management practices and biodiversity conservation. The practical significance of the study is that these results can be used to develop strategic directions for the development of the forest sector in Albania, aimed at ensuring sustainable management and conservation of forest resources, which is a key factor for the country’s economic and environmental well-being

Evaluating the Economic and Environmental Impacts of Carbon Credit Projects in Developing Countries

This master's thesis explores the impact of carbon credit projects on the economy and the environment in developing countries. By focusing on initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable practices, the research aims to understand how these projects influence both economic development and environmental well-being. The study investigates the economic aspects by assessing the projects' contribution to local income generation, employment opportunities, and entrepreneurship. Simultaneously, it examines their environmental effectiveness in terms of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and conserving biodiversity. The research also explores the socio-economic implications of these projects, emphasizing the equitable distribution of benefits and their impact on local communities, including vulnerable populations. Additionally, factors influencing the success or failure of these projects, such as stakeholder engagement and policy frameworks are analyzed. Through this evaluation, the thesis wants to provide insights into achieving a balanced approach between economic development and environmental conservation in the context of carbon credit projects in developing countries. The findings may contribute to informed decision-making for policymakers, stakeholders, and the wider community involved in sustainable development initiatives.

Green nanoparticles for advanced corrosion protection: Current perspectives and future prospects

The article discusses the function of green nanoparticles in preventing corrosion of different alloys such as copper, zinc, steel, and aluminium alloys. Green nanoparticles are characterized by their environmentally friendly and sustainable production methods, which emphasize using natural materials. Environmental issues have long been linked to traditional corrosion inhibitors, which has led to a shift towards more environmentally friendly alternatives. A potential remedy for these issues is the use of green nanoparticles, which are derived from renewable and biodegradable resources. Green nanoparticles support sustainability goals and have strong corrosion inhibition properties. Their combined role makes them essential players in a future where environmental awareness and material safety coexist. The review envisages a significant paradigm shift in critical industrial contexts, which calls for a robust and ecologically friendly approach to corrosion prevention. Green nanoparticles can potentially transform the field of materials protection entirely, and their investigation as corrosion inhibitors opens up new directions for study and development. In conclusion, this review highlights the crucial role of these nanoparticles in creating a sustainable future where creative solutions will enhance industrial productivity and environmental well-being. Finally, the prospects and difficulties of sustainably applying green nanoparticles to corrosion inhibition have also been explored.

The Potential of Radish Leaves (Raphanus sativus) Extract as Shoe Polish

The research titled "The Potential of Radish Leaves (Raphanus sativus) Extract as Shoe Polish" aims to investigate the feasibility of utilizing radish leaf extract as an alternative shoe polish. Conventional shoe polishes available in the market often contain hazardous chemicals that pose potential risks to human health and the environment. This study focuses on extracting radish leaves to formulate a natural shoe polish that is both safe for users and environmentally friendly. The study evaluates the physical attributes of the radish leaf shoe polish before application, such as melting point and pH, as well as post-application aspects including odor, texture, consistency, and color. Furthermore, the research assesses the effectiveness of the shoe polish in terms of glossiness, water repellency, and dust resistance. By combining radish leaves, coconut oil, soy wax, Gumamela, and calamansi, the researchers have successfully developed a shoe care product that not only enhances the appearance of leather shoes but also prioritizes environmental well-being. The outcomes of this research have the potential to contribute to the advancement of eco-friendly shoe polishes that offer efficient performance while minimizing the reliance on harmful chemicals.

Fuzzy modelling of the environmental component of social security

Economic growth has several negative consequences for the environment. At first glance, the impact of the environment on the well-being of the population may seem insignificant. Still, several scientific studies demonstrate that the state of the environment has no less impact on the well-being of the population than economic or social factors. This study aimed to assess Ukraine’s environmental well-being in comparison with the member countries of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. The assessment of environmental well-being is based on indicators from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development Better Life Index and the Environmental Performance Index. Fuzzy set theory is used to research and evaluate environmental well-being. During the study, a fuzzy inference system was constructed, which was used to obtain an assessment of Ukraine’s environmental well-being compared to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development countries. Three indicators were used in the study: air pollution, sanitation and drinking water, and agriculture. Results indicate that compared to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development countries, Ukraine is on the border between medium and high levels of environmental well-being. The research findings are supported by the Environmental Performance Index, where Ukraine ranked 41st out of 180 countries in 2024, climbing 11 positions compared to 2022. Although Ukraine has already demonstrated progress in the Environmental Performance Index in 2024 compared to the 2022 results, it can maintain such a trend only if it knows which specific environmental indicators need improvement. Therefore, the practical value of this research lies in demonstrating the environmental indicators that require improvement

Spatiotemporal Pattern and Drivers of Ecological Quality in Inner Mongolia

With the escalating global climate change and frequent human activities, Inner Mongolia, as a crucial ecological barrier in the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei region, Bohai Economic Rim, and even the whole country, confronts many ecosystem issues. To reveal the intricate interplay between natural processes, human activities, and policy interventions shaping the region’s ecological landscape, we provide a comprehensive analysis of ecological quality in Inner Mongolia from 2002 to 2021. Key findings include: (1) The research uncovers an overall improvement in ecological quality across Inner Mongolia, albeit with certain regions exhibiting a pattern of deterioration followed by improvement, particularly notable in the central part of the province. (2) Cropland, shrub, grassland, barren, wetland, and water are decreasing, while impervious, and forestland are increasing. (3) Precipitation, temperature, and elevation are significant drivers affecting the quality of the ecological environment. Interestingly, while human production and activities have altered ecological conditions, factors like GDP, population density, and night lighting index do not directly impact environmental quality significantly. This underscores the intricate interplay among various factors within the socioeconomic system, highlighting its complexity. (4) Based on these findings, our policy recommendations include strengthening ecological monitoring and management, promoting sustainable urban development, conducting public education and awareness campaigns, and fostering stakeholder collaboration for data sharing and collective understanding. Adopting sustainable management strategies is essential for promoting ecological resilience and mitigating environmental degradation in Inner Mongolia, not only benefiting the local ecosystem but also contributing to national and global environmental well-being.

Chemical health hazards and toxicity of environmental pollutants on humans, animals and others: An overview

Toxicology, rooted in ancient civilizations and evolving through pivotal historical figures like Paracelsus and Alice Hamilton, has become a multidisciplinary field encompassing various branches such as pharmacology, medical, forensic, and environmental toxicology. This exploration embarks on a journey through time and science, unravelling the intricate interplay between chemicals and pollutants and their profound impacts on human, animal, and environmental well-being. Spanning from ancient practices like the use of hemlock in Greek capital punishment to modern-day concerns surrounding industrial chemicals and pesticides, the review delves into the mechanisms by which toxins disrupt biochemical pathways and induce organ dysfunctions. From heavy metals and pesticides persistent effects on the nervous and reproductive systems to the carcinogenic properties of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), hydrocarbons, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The review highlights the diverse range of toxicants and their widespread impact on human health. Additionally, the review underscores the importance of proactive measures to mitigate exposure to harmful substances, advocating for the development of antidotes, bioremediation techniques, and stricter environmental regulations. By addressing the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to combat toxicological hazards, this review aims to contribute to ongoing efforts to safeguard public health and environmental sustainability in the face of evolving chemical threats.