Environmental Activism Research Articles

Haunted by Waters: American Literature, Global Hydropolitics, and Environmental Justice

ABSTRACT Edward Abbey’s literature, particularly his popular novel The Monkey Wrench Gang (1975), marks a turning point in American environmental(ist) writing, particularly because of its radical approach to environmental protection. However, Abbey’s so-called ecosabotage was often problematic and limiting in its failure to extend beyond a white, ableist, and cis-heteronormative perspective. Laguna Pueblo Indian writer Leslie Marmon Silko provides a useful corrective to this in her 1991 novel Almanac of the Dead. Similar to Abbey’s works, Silko’s Almanac laments the modification and, in many cases, destruction of the rivers of the American West. Yet Silko, unlike Abbey, brings to her protest novel an invaluable intersectional perspective, asserting that the most significant environmental protests of the future will arise when marginalized, global, Indigenous communities come together in the name of environmental justice. My conclusion turns to international environmental activists – for example, Chinese journalist Dai Qing and Indian writer Arundhati Roy – who are resisting the damming of their nations’ rivers. Like Silko, these writers offer much-needed glimmers of hope as they show us that the only way to cope with increasing environmental precarity is to work together beyond antiquated borders and binaries.

Co-imagining future scenarios can enhance environmental actors’ empathy toward future generations and non-human life-forms

Co-imagining future scenarios can enhance environmental actors’ empathy toward future generations and non-human life-forms

Sustainable Management by Forest Farmer Group in Serayu Watershed

The conservation and development management of watersheds require comprehensive studies, planning, and implementation from the upstream water sources to the downstream areas. The active involvement of stakeholders, including government entities responsible for policies, regulations, and budgets, as well as civil society groups such as forest farmer communities, fishermen, business groups, environmental activists, and empowerment advocates, is essential. This research focuses on watershed management among forest farmer groups in the Serayu River area, the longest river in Central Java, specifically in Cilacap and Banyumas Regencies of Indonesia A qualitative explanatory case study method was employed, utilizing direct observation, in-depth interviews, document analysis, and discussions. Data were analyzed through reduction, classification, clarification, and triangulation. The findings reveal that the management of the Serayu River watershed still requires socialization, coordination, and collaboration among stakeholders in planning, conservation, maintenance, development, monitoring, and evaluation. These stakeholders include local and village governments, socio-economic community groups, private entities, and academics. Relevant watershed management approaches include conceptual, deterministic, stochastic, parametric, and probabilistic methods.

Resolving Mining Disputes in Tanzania: An Examination of The Role of Arbitration

Disputes are an inevitable aspect of socioeconomic activities, and the mining sector is no exception. As one of the most important sectors of Tanzania's economy, mining often witnesses conflicts between various stakeholders, including government entities, mining corporations, local communities, human rights defenders, and environmental activists. Given the significance of this sector, establishing effective dispute resolution mechanisms is essential for ensuring its sustained growth and prosperity. This paper examines the role of arbitration as a key mechanism for resolving mining disputes in Tanzania. Arbitration, as an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) method, provides parties with the opportunity to resolve conflicts outside the traditional court system through a neutral third party. The paper also explores the challenges of using arbitration in mining disputes and suggests ways to improve the arbitration system in Tanzania.

Power, Environment, and Depoliticized Conflict in Social Space: Threats to Sustainable Development from the Perspective of Environmental Activists in Poland

Do local environmental conflicts have a political dimension? Can the fight for social space be an opportunity for ecological activists to enter the “historical level” and question the fundamental principles of the existing political and economic order? This article aims to answer these questions and—based on the statements of environmental activists obtained during a sociological intervention—reconstruct the threats and socioinstitutional obstacles to sustainable development. It also aims to indicate sets of public actors that can be described—from the perspective of environmental activists—as opponents of the ecological movement in Poland. In this sense, the article attempts to determine what is at stake in the conflicts in which the ecological movement is engaged under the conditions of the crisis of democracy. It also asks about the relationship between local environmental conflicts and the dominant logic of the official state policy.

Design of a campaign to promote environmental care in the Ana Paez Educational Unit.

Introduction: Environmental pollution in Ecuador seriously affected the quality of life of the population and natural ecosystems. Factors such as industrial activity, intensive agriculture and mining contributed to the deterioration of air, soil and water, also impacting educational institutions. The Ana Paez Educational Unit, located in Latacunga, faced these challenges, evidencing the need to implement an educational campaign that promotes environmental commitment through practical and participatory activities aimed at students, teachers and staff.Methods: The research adopted a critical propositional approach that questioned traditional methods and proposed concrete solutions. A mixed paradigm was used: quantitative, through surveys applied to a sample of students and teachers, and qualitative, to interpret the impacts of pollution. The study was of the applied, documentary and field type, and information was collected through direct observation, literature review and structured questionnaires.Results: The findings revealed a high level of interest of the educational community in the implementation of environmental activities. A total of 66.7% of the respondents supported the implementation of practical projects, highlighting a greater interest in the cultivation of fruit and medicinal plants. In addition, artistic botany was recognized as an educational tool to foster creativity, reduce stress, and develop intellectual and psychomotor skills.Conclusions: The research concluded that the implementation of an innovative environmental campaign in the Ana Paez Educational Unit has the potential to strengthen environmental awareness, develop practical skills and improve community engagement, laying the foundation for sustainable and replicable change in other educational institutions

Innovative Strategies for Environmental Education in Educational Institutions

The Ana Paez Educational Unit faced environmental problems derived from the lack of preservation of green spaces and the disconnection of the educational community with its surroundings. With 1,198 students and 72 employees, the institution was located in Latacunga, Ecuador, and experienced difficulties similar to those observed in Argentina during 2023. In both contexts, pollution, poor waste management and deforestation affected the environment. Despite initiatives such as the creation of vegetable gardens and reforestation activities, these actions lacked continuity and maintenance, resulting in the progressive deterioration of green areas.Educational institutions in Ecuador and Argentina showed a low commitment on the part of students and teachers, who prioritized obtaining grades over environmental care. In Argentina, the environmental campaigns promoted in 2023 did not achieve genuine participation, generating situations of abandonment in recreational and green school spaces.Faced with this reality, the Ana Paez Educational Unit designed an innovative campaign that sought to involve the entire educational community. This initiative proposed participatory strategies, artistic practices and the use of technology to promote collective responsibility and the formation of environmentally conscious citizens. The need for inter-institutional collaboration and the support of governmental and non-governmental organizations was emphasized to ensure the success of the actions

CONTRIBUTING FACTORS FOR INCREASING INCIDENCE OF MALARIA IN Talata asher VILLAGE, TESSENEY DISTRICT, GASH BARKA, ERITREA 2023

Abstract Background: The expansion of new malaria vector knows to call An. stephensi in Sub-Saharan-Africa (SSA) is another challenge in malaria elimination .The use of long lasting insecticidal net(LLINs) ,indoor residual spraying (IRS) and environmental management targeted to eliminating mosquitoes breeding sites is the main malaria prevention strategies. This study aimed at assessing the factors for increasing incidence of malaria in talataasher village, teseney district gash barka region of Eritrea. Methods: The quantitative descriptive cross sectional & qualitative study was conducted in Talata Asher village, Tesseney district, Gash barka, Eritrea which is found in gash barka, Eritrea in border with Sudan. A total of 102 households interviewed, 10 households for indoor breeding site assessment, 10 outdoor breeding habitat for outdoor breeding assessment and also twelve participants for focus group discussion. Data was collected using a standard structured questionnaire, standard entomological forms and analyzed using SPSS version 2025. Results: Of the 102 households assessed 92.2% of the households own at least one LLINs, 73.2% two or more LLINs. Only about 23% of all households had sufficient numbers of LLINs to meet the desired target in the household. Nearly 87.2 % of household members were used the net for sleeping under, but only 52.9% slept under LLINs during the previous night. The majority of the house holds 40.4 % were slept under LLINs after ten pm. Out of the total 60% of the households mentioned only one environmental management campaign performed through the whole year in the area. With regards to the total morphologically identified Anopheles from the artificial and natural breeding habitat, 34.3% and 27.9% were An.stephensi which is the new emerging malaria vector respectively. Conclusions: The low bed net utilization and practice of environmental management targeted to malaria prevention results the increasing malaria incidence in study site. In addition, to that the presence of new emerging malaria vector An. Stephensi in the study area also the cause increased incidence. Therefore there is a need to a special attention on the behavior of the new vector and a need to promote the whole population on the core malaria prevention methods.

Environmental Hygiene Among Students: A Cross-Sectional Study at Abu Harbi School, Aden, Yemen

Background: This research assessed the awareness, behaviours, and practices concerning environmental hygiene among fourth- and fifth-grade students at Abu Harbi School in Aden, Yemen. The study sought to evaluate students' comprehension of cleanliness, their involvement in hygiene-related initiatives, and the efficacy of the school's infrastructure in facilitating these endeavors. Data were gathered via surveys, interviews, and observations from a cohort of 100 students. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 26. Descriptive analysis was used in this study. Outcomes: The study comprised 46% males and 54% females, with 52% of participants attaining a fourth-grade level and 48% achieving a fifth-grade level. Findings revealed a moderate level of student awareness regarding environmental cleanliness and its health consequences. Although some cleanliness infrastructure, including waste bins, existed, maintenance practices and student involvement in environmental campaigns were deemed insufficient. Gender disparities in waste management practices were noted, with males exhibiting marginally higher rates of consistent garbage disposal (55%) and females displaying a greater propensity for the presence of waste bins in their vicinity (62%). Conclusion: The conclusions emphasise the necessity for enhancements in hygiene teaching, facility upkeep, and student involvement in sustainability initiatives within the educational setting. The study emphasizes the crucial role of schools in fostering environmental consciousness and promoting healthy living among students.

Eco-awareness through a poster: current Ukrainian trends

This article provides an in-depth study of the role of ecological posters as powerful communicative tools in addressing the escalating environmental crisis in Ukraine. By examining the evolution of ecological posters, the authors highlight shifts in visual language, stylistic approaches, and conceptual frameworks that mirror sociocultural transformations and the growing demand for environmental consciousness in society. Through a detailed analysis of communicative functions–informative, mobilizing, and emotionally engaging — the study reveals the potential of ecological posters to raise awareness and influence public perception toward environmental responsibility. The purpose of the article is to provide insights into the cultural significance and communicative role of ecological posters in Ukraine. Through a focus on stylistic evolution and conceptual approaches, the article aims to inform artists, environmental activists, and cultural communicators about the potential of ecological posters to foster public engagement with environmental issues. The methodology involves a theoretical analysis of visual language changes in Ukrainian ecological posters, using comparative stylistic studies, case analysis, and review of environmental messaging techniques. This includes qualitative assessments of the informative, mobilizing, and emotional aspects of posters and their impact on public perception. The results reveal several critical findings: 1. Ukrainian ecological posters have evolved from idealized nature imagery to more realistic and emotionally evocative depictions, highlighting human impact on the environment; 2. Communicative func-tions such as raising awareness, mobilizing action, and shaping attitudes towards ecology are essential in enhancing public ecological consciousness; 3. There is a need to incorporate interactive and digital formats to better reach and engage diverse audiences, especially younger generations. The scientific novelty lies in the comprehensive analysis of ecological posters as a medium for cultural communication, particularly in Ukraine. By bridging artistic evolution with environmental messaging, the study offers a unique perspective on how visual art can contribute to public awareness and social responsibility for environmental issues. The practical significance of this article holds value for artists, cultural communicators, and environmental advocates. It provides a theoretical foundation for understanding the role of visual art in environmental communication and offers practical guidelines for creating impactful ecological posters that resonate with audiences. Recommendations include leveraging digital platforms and integrating interactive elements to increase engagement. Overall, this article presents a nuanced examination of ecological posters in Ukraine, emphasizing their potential as tools for public engagement and environmental advocacy. By analyzing both historical and contemporary approaches, the study equips readers with insights into the role of visual art in fostering ecological consciousness. This research serves as a valuable resource for artists, policymakers, and activists, enhancing understanding of ecological posters’ potential to influence public attitudes and behavior regarding environmental issues.

From Posts to Action: Leveraging Social Media to Inspire Food Waste Reduction in Hospitality for a Net Zero Future

This study explores the contribution of social media to food waste reduction among hospitality customers as part of the global net zero emissions agenda. It does this by using the Stimulus–Organism–Response (SOR) model to examine how social media food waste reduction promotion affects hospitality customer food waste intentions, mediated by social media-driven environmental motivation and sustainability-driven customer happiness. Moreover, gratitude towards food waste initiatives moderates these effects such that motivation and emotional satisfaction are more strongly associated with sustainable behaviors. We find that social media campaigns can effectively elicit cognitive and emotional engagement, which in turn strengthens food waste reduction intentions, using data from 404 hospitality customers in China. Furthermore, the study extends the SOR model to sustainability and consumer behavior literature and provides practical guidance for hospitality businesses to harness social media in engaging customers in sustainability efforts. Organizations can enhance the effectiveness of their environmental campaigns by using emotionally resonant messages and highlighting gratitude. Filling important gaps, this research explores mechanisms driving sustainable behaviors in line with strategies to achieve net zero emissions.

From extraction to contamination: Illegal refineries, polluted waters and environmental activism in Iraqi Kurdistan

This research explores the interplay between extractivism, river pollution, and the proliferation of illegal oil refineries in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Positioned within the framework of the Capitalocene, the study highlights how systemic socio-ecological harm is not merely a by-product of economic activity but a fundamental component of the capitalist systems encouraged locally by power constellations and social dialectics. The paper examines the transformation of the Tanjero River, which became a symbol of ecological disaster, driven by the proliferation of illegal oil refineries and the region's deregulated extractive practices. Through fieldwork conducted in 2021 and 2022, including interviews with environmentalists, governmental officials, and community members, this paper argues that the ecological disaster in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq is fundamentally driven by the dynamics of the Capitalocene and extractivism, which find fertile grounds in new frontiers marked by non-governance, fragility of the state and regulatory failures. Recently, however, environmental activists have mobilised to combat pollution and reclaim natural landscapes, highlighting both the destructive impacts of unchecked extractivism and the potential for community-driven resistance and restoration.

Modular approach to near-time data management for multi-city atmospheric environmental observation campaigns

Abstract. Urban observation networks are becoming denser, more diverse, and more mobile, while being required to provide results in near time. The Synergy Grant “urbisphere” funded by the European Research Council (ERC) has multiple simultaneous field campaigns in cities of different sizes, collecting data to improve weather and climate models and services, including assessing the impact of cities on the atmosphere (e.g., heat, moisture, pollutant, and aerosol emissions) and people's exposure to extremes (e.g., heat waves, heavy precipitation, air pollution episodes). Here, a solution to this challenge for facilitating diverse data streams from multiple sources, scales (e.g., indoors, regional-scale atmospheric boundary layer), and cities is presented. For model development and evaluation in heterogeneous urban environments, we need meshed networks of in situ observations with ground-based and airborne (remote) sensing platforms. In this contribution we describe challenges, approaches, and solutions for data management, data infrastructure, and data governance to handle the variety of data streams from primarily novel modular observation networks deployed in multiple cities, in combination with existing data collected by partners, ranging in scale from indoor sensor deployments to regional-scale boundary layer observations. A metadata system documents (1) sensors and instruments, (2) the location and configuration of deployed components, and (3) maintenance and events. This metadata system provides the backbone for converting instrument records to calibrated, location-aware, convention-aligned, and quality-assured data products, according to FAIR (findable, accessible, interoperable, and reusable) principles. The data management infrastructure provides services (via, e.g., Application Programming Interface – APIs, apps, integrated computing interfaces – ICEs) for data inspection and subsequent calculations by campaign participants. Some near-real-time distributions are made to international networks (e.g., AERONET, PhenoCam) or local agencies (e.g., GovDATA) with appropriate attribution. The data documentation conventions, used to ensure structured datasets, in this case are used to improve the delivery of integrated urban services, such as to research and operational agencies, across many cities.

Differentiating between Iconic Mindbombs and Incongruous Mindbombs Using Pentadic Ratios in the Defacing of Priceless Art in Environmental Activism

This essay applies environmental activist Robert Hunter’s conception of mindbombs to recent environmental activists throwing tomato soup, throwing mashed potatoes, and smearing paint on Van Gogh’s, Monet’s, and Degas’s works of art. Hunter’s mindbombs align with Hariman’s and Lucaites’s (2003; 2007; 2016; 2018) iconic photography while the defacing of priceless works of art adhere to Burke’s (1954) grotesque perspective by incongruity. In turn, iconic mindbombs relied on Burke’s (1969a) scene-purpose pentadic ratio, while incongruous mindbombs rely on Burke’s scene-act pentadic ratio. 

Environmental Risk and Chemical Weapons Disposal: The Case of the U.S. Army’s Chemical Demilitarization Program

In 2023, the U.S. Army announced the completion of a decades-long effort to destroy the nation’s stockpile of chemical weapons. However, the years preceding this announcement were marked by significant discursive debate. We analyze the controversy over chemical weapons demilitarization to provide insight into processes associated with risk framing and counterframing between the military and the public. Research regarding environmental risk framing surrounding risky technologies emphasizes the role of power and information availability, especially in debates over military technologies and weapons. We ask how environmental activists engage in risk framing in cases where the military maintains a distinct power advantage and control over environmental risk management and decision-making. Our analysis reveals that activists engaged in risk framing that highlighted the failures of the Army’s demilitarization program over time. Our findings offer insights into the dynamic processes involved in framing regarding military technology and environmental risk decision-making.

Measurement of the Degree of Environmental Awareness of the Population of Parauapebas Based on Multivariate Analyses

Objective: The study aims to investigate the level of sustainable practices adopted by the population of Parauapebas to generate concrete data and information on the environmental awareness of its residents. Theoretical Framework: In recent years, debates about environmental issues have become frequent in various conferences, governmental institutions, and society as a whole. The adoption of ecological habits is a direct response to this crisis, not only reducing our environmental impact but also paving the way for a more sustainable future. Method: The study was conducted through a survey using a multiple-choice questionnaire addressing daily sustainable practices, knowledge about environmental responsibility, environmental education, and other elements of environmental awareness. Data was processed and tabulated using Microsoft Office Excel (2019), and the IBM SPSS 27 software was used to develop the Environmental Awareness Index of Parauapebas (ICAP), using the principal component analysis method. Results and Discussion: The results showed that approximately 67% of Parauapebas' population has a low level of environmental awareness. Among the 7 explanatory factors, only the “awareness of waste disposal” factor showed a positive result, while the others confirmed a low awareness index. Despite the results, nearly 55% believe that adopting sustainable measures is very important, indicating that residents understand the importance of environmental routines but do not put them into practice. Research Implications: The research highlights the need to strengthen environmental education campaigns to turn theoretical awareness into practical actions. The results can influence public policies aimed at the efficient use of resources, such as water and energy, and improve waste management in Parauapebas. Furthermore, the study can guide interventions to promote urban sustainability and encourage initiatives in the educational and environmental sectors by creating programs that foster ecological habits. Originality/Value: It was possible to develop a quantitative indicator with good statistical quality, allowing us to affirm that 67% of Parauapebas' population has low environmental awareness. Notably, 92% of the population wastes water during routine activities, and 83% do not take action to save energy or reuse discarded materials. The proper disposal of furniture and debris was the only factor with a positive result, where 65% of the population avoids dumping waste on city streets. Although the population understands the importance of sustainable measures, little is done in practice to preserve the city's environment.

‘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.

Green Accounting for Medium-Sized Enterprises: A Review of Participatory Action Research Towards A Sustainable Future

The growth of medium-sized companies in the last decade has had a significant impact on the environment, especially in Indonesia’s major cities. This research aims to develop an environmental reporting model (green accounting) that is suitable for medium-scale companies. Using a participatory action research (PAR) approach, the research involved stakeholders such as entrepreneurs, government, academics, and environmental activists in formulating this reporting model. The study was conducted in Makassar City with 140 medium-scale companies as respondents. Data was collected through questionnaires, interviews, and observations, followed by focus group discussions (FGDs) to develop the reporting model. The results show that sustainability awareness is quite high, but the implementation of environmentally friendly practices is still limited due to the lack of technical knowledge, resources, and multi-stakeholder involvement, especially from the government. The FGDs formulated three main indicators of environmental reporting: water, energy and waste. This research offers an original contribution by developing an environmental reporting model specifically designed for medium-sized enterprises in developing countries. The reporting model developed in this study can be applied to medium-sized enterprises not only in Indonesia, but also in other countries. Theoretically, the results of this study provide theoretical support for the need for a more in-depth study of sustainability issues in medium-sized companies. However, this study has a weakness in that the research respondents are only half of the population of medium-sized companies in Makassar City, Indonesia.

Virtual reality is only mildly effective in improving forest conservation behaviors

Virtual Reality (VR) enables immersive experiences that can enhance awareness about environmental problems. We measure the effectiveness of VR versus 2D in an environmental campaign using a field experiment in Brazil. 617 passers-by at a mall were randomly assigned to watch a video clip about the Amazon Forest through VR or a traditional 2D device, with some being randomly interviewed before watching the movie (control group). We find that both the 2D and VR interventions increase individuals’ propensity to (i) contribute to an Amazonian humanitarian campaign, (ii) share contact information, (iii) interact with a conservation campaign, and (iv) state pro-conservation opinions. We find no additional impact of VR compared to 2D, but VR participants were more likely to engage with pro-conservation content online 3 months later. Our findings provide cautionary evidence about the additional potential of using immersive technologies, like VR, to improve conservation behaviors compared to 2D methods.

Out of Frame: Invisibilisation of Non-Human Nature in Media Framing of a Land Conflict Transformation Policy in Nigeria

ABSTRACT Public policy response to land-use conflict often exacerbates contestation rather than fostering consensus, further polarising stakeholders and darkening peacebuilding prospects. The Nigerian government conceived the National Livestock Transformation Plan (NLTP) to tackle the protracted land-use conflict between nomadic pastoralists and sedentary crop farmers. This study examined the framing of the policy in three select Nigerian newspapers, the Daily Sun, the Daily Trust, and Punch, published between January 2018 and June 2021. The findings revealed the preponderance of five anthropocentric frames. The environmental frame was absent from the newspaper framing of NLTP, reflecting a blind spot in the representation of a farmer–herder conflict rooted in the asymmetric visions of human–nature relations of the conflict parties. The voices of environmental actors and the scientific community did not feature in the discourse on the Plan. Their detachment from the framing contest contributed to the information blackout on the policy’s relationship with the natural environment. Nature is a stakeholder in land-use conflict, a reality that may be obscured, misrepresented, or underrepresented by human-centred news framing. Media framing of land-use conflict policy should aim at the nuanced reflection of the conflict universe and the embeddedness of biodiversity – the voiceless, non-aligned, and indispensable actants in ecological conflict.