Environmental Advocacy Research Articles

Messy natures: The political aesthetics of nature recovery

Abstract Current aspirations for nature recovery to address biodiversity loss and climate change will involve changing what landscapes look like, which can create challenging aesthetic experiences for members of the public. In this study, we interrogate the role of aesthetics in shaping visions of nature recovery, focussing on the construction and contestation of ‘mess’ and ‘messiness’ in nature recovery. We examine the political aesthetics of messy natures using a qualitative approach investigating visual and text materials across different sites of production in Britain, from newspapers to social media, paying particular attention to visual materials Our results show how the mediated debate around ‘rewilding’ urban environments and a beaver‐themed garden winning a horticultural show are examples of a backlash against untidy environments through a politicised discourse, linking messy nature with left‐wing ideologies, in contrast to the perceived orderliness and conservative ideals of good citizenship associated with tidiness. In contrast, social media imagery of messy and wild gardens demonstrates how mess is consciously framed aesthetically as a desirable ‘look’ for restored nature, symbolising progressive and environmentalist ideals of good citizenship through activities such as nature‐friendly gardening and initiatives such as ‘No Mow May’, which celebrate the aesthetic of a more biodiverse messiness. And finally, we traced how environmental advocacy organisations are prefiguring the future of nature recovery in Britain through commissioned graphical representations that portray a ‘tamed messiness’ and the return of charismatic megafauna. Although these aesthetics may challenge prevailing pastoral aesthetics, they normalise continued inequality in the form of concentrated land ownership, especially in the Scottish Highlands. Policy implications. Our analysis shows that aesthetics play an important role in shaping views of what is ‘natural’, ‘normal’ and ‘good’ and therefore desirable in what a future (recovered) nature looks like. We suggest that nature recovery initiatives take aesthetics seriously, by interrogating how idealisations of ‘how nature should look’ may influence decision‐making alongside ecological and other considerations. Taking aesthetics seriously also opens avenues for engaging with social and environmental justice, where alternative aesthetics can help in imagining more socially and environmentally just futures. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.

Cricket and climate change: an integrative review

The climate crisis is having an increasingly significant impact on sport and cricket, a climate-dependent sport played in some of the most climate-vulnerable regions of the world, is particularly threatened. Conversely, the relationship between cricket and climate change is understudied and the existent knowledge base is widely spread. In response, this paper utilises an integrative review methodology to bring together this disparate knowledge base in order to more effectively understand cricket’s relationship to climate change, with a particular focus on the threat climate change poses to cricket, cricket’s impact on the natural environment, and sustainability initiatives undertaken by cricketing stakeholders. This review revealed that the knowledge base is dominated by environmental advocacy organisations and there is a need for more academic research. Conversely, existing research, especially from outside of cricket, highlights the unequal climate vulnerabilities faced by cricketing stakeholders, as well as a lack of action from these stakeholders.

Exploring the Role of Immersive Media Technologies in Environmental Communication: A Case Study of Underwater Earth Projects

ABSTRACT In the field of environmental communication, immersive media have become powerful tools for engaging audiences and promoting deeper connections with the natural world. This article investigates the role of immersive technologies in environmental communication through a case study of the Underwater Earth project. Employing a thematic analysis approach, the study examines the use of immersive technologies as the medium for conveying environmental messages, including narrative techniques, visual elements, interactive features, and user engagement strategies. The study also highlights the importance of user experiences when creating impactful environmental narratives in virtual environments. The implications of this research extend to environmental experts, communication practitioners, and technology developers who are seeking to leverage immersive technologies for environmental advocacy and education. By understanding the strengths and limitations of immersive technologies as an environmental communication medium, practitioners can use these insights to create more compelling immersive experiences that inspire management and promote sustainability in an increasingly digital world.

Innovating Community Engagement: The Role of Micro-Influencers in Promoting Sustainable Behaviors among Malaysian Millennials

Social Influencers as environmental leaders utilize social media platforms to enhance community engagement in advocating sustainability. This study explores the underexplored role of micro-influencers in fostering pro-environmental behaviors among Malaysian youths and innovating community engagement by employing a qualitative approach in conducting semi-structured interviews with five micro-influencers. Our findings indicate the critical role of micro-influencers in raising awareness and actively engaging communities in adopting sustainable practices. The findings reveal three key themes: leadership qualities, pro-environmental behaviors, and persuasive narrative strategies. Through the innovative use of social media, these influencers overcome linguistic and geographical barriers, fostering enhanced community engagement in the pursuit of environmental stewardship. However, the sample size of five micro-influencers may limit the generalizability of the findings, as it may only partially represent the diverse range of micro-influencers. The result of this research can be used as recommendations for organizations, non-governmental organizations and governmental bodies that can leverage the insights from this study to strategically engage micro-influencers in environmental campaigns, recognizing their unique ability to reach and resonate with specific communities, particularly Malaysian youths. This study offers a novel perspective on digital environmental leadership by uncovering the unique role of micro-influencers in fostering community engagement and cultivating a culture of sustainability. It provides original insights into how these emerging leaders not only inspire but also empower communities to take meaningful action toward environmental preservation. The study highlights the underexamined potential of micro-influencers in exceeding traditional barriers to community engagement, offering valuable implications for future strategies in environmental advocacy.

Environmental Health Attitudes, Practices, and Educational Preferences: A National Survey of Reproductive-Aged Women in Canada

Prenatal exposures to environmental toxicants can adversely affect fetal and child development and lead to increased risk of chronic disease. While regulatory action is essential to reduce sources of environmental toxicants, prenatal care presents an opportunity to educate, mobilize, and support prospective parents to reduce exposures to such hazards. As the first phase of an interdisciplinary research collaboration to inform the development of prenatal environmental health education strategy in Canada, we surveyed reproductive-aged female individuals. The online survey (July–September 2021) yielded a nationally representative sample of 1914 reproductive-aged females living in Canada. The questionnaire topics addressed the respondents’ knowledge and perceptions of environmental health risks, preventive actions and related facilitators and barriers, information sources and preferences, reproductive history, and demographics. The analysis included bivariate and multivariate techniques. Our results suggest broad awareness among reproductive-aged females that exposure to toxicants can be harmful, and that reducing prenatal exposures can benefit child health. However, fewer than half of respondents felt that they had enough knowledge to take protective measures. Despite high levels of preference for prenatal care as an ideal context for learning about environmental health risks and protective measures, fewer than one in four respondents had ever discussed environmental health concerns with a healthcare provider. Our findings reveal a knowledge–action gap and a corresponding opportunity to improve environmental health education and advocacy in prenatal care in the Canadian context.

Conflicts and competing interests in infrastructure development: A case of N2 toll road project, wild coast, South Africa

The Wild Coast region in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa, is arguably the least developed area, primarily due to its historical marginalisation caused by Apartheid. To counter this underdevelopment, the current government of South Africa plans to implement a 550 km N2 Toll Road Project to link East London in the Eastern Cape with Durban in KwaZulu-Natal. The government envisions that the project will lead to spatial development through improved accessibility to resources. However, it has been criticised by many, including local communities and environmental advocacy groups, who contend that it will result in socio-ecological disasters and conflicts. Against this backdrop, this study explored the differing views and conflicts among stakeholders affected by the N2 Toll Road Project. A qualitative research approach was adopted, involving in-depth interviews and focus group discussions (FGDs) with government officials, local communities, business communities, and environmental advocacy groups. The findings indicate that the N2 Toll Road Project has generated significant controversy, with public opinion sharply divided between those who believe the road will have predominantly positive impacts and those who contend that its effects will be overwhelmingly negative. Concerns regarding the disruption of livelihoods, loss of land, destruction of socio-cultural heritage, and lack of consultation emerged as key sources of conflict among stakeholders. The study recommends the use of inclusive consultation processes and mitigation strategies to minimise conflicting ideologies among stakeholders.

The moderating effect of board gender diversity in the environmental sustainability and financial performance nexus

The study investigates the moderating effect of board gender diversity on the relationship between environmental performance indicators (emissions, innovations, and resources) and financial performance. The study adopts a robust research design, drawing on a diverse sample of 6,104 companies operating in various countries. It employs a sophisticated panel data analysis with a fixed-effect model. The findings indicate a significant effect of environmental performance on financial performance. The results also reveal that higher gender diversity on a board is linked to lower returns on assets (ROA). Moreover, there is a positive interaction between management teams, board gender diversity, and financial performance. This study explores the relationship between corporate governance, environmental performance, and financial outcomes, offering practical insights for businesses, policymakers, and stakeholders. It also provides actionable insights for companies to align sustainability practices with financial success, enhancing their environmental stewardship and potentially improving financial performance. Policymakers can use this knowledge to design regulations and guidelines, while stakeholders, including investors and environmental advocacy groups, can use it to make informed decisions. The study's originality lies in its exploration of the moderating impact of board diversity on the relationship between firms' environmental performance and financial performance, using a large sample from different countries. As there is still a lack of consensus on the effect of environmental performance on financial performance, this study contributes to the understanding of corporate governance, environmental responsibility, and financial performance.

Structural Integrity, Environmental Sustainability, and Cost-Effectiveness of Fly Ash Bricks

The construction industry and environmental advocates have increasingly focused on sustainable, long-lasting, and cost-effective building materials in modern construction. Clay bricks and concrete, traditional construction materials, are used extensively, but their environmental impact and resource-intensive production processes are raising concerns. Fly ash bricks, created from industrial waste, have emerged as a promising alternative, offering a unique combination of structural integrity, environmental sustainability, and cost-effectiveness, making them an appealing option for the construction industry. Fly ash, a by-product of coal combustion mainly from power plants was previously considered a pollutant and a disposal challenge. However, the innovative use of fly ash in brick production has transformed this waste into a valuable resource. As awareness of sustainability and eco-friendly building practices has grown, fly ash bricks have gained widespread recognition as a greener alternative to traditional materials like clay bricks and concrete blocks

The Impact of Social Media Campaigns on Reducing Plastic Waste in Thailand’s Coastal Areas

This paper examines the role of social media campaigns in reducing plastic waste in Thailand’s coastal areas, focusing on their impact on public behavior and attitudes. Through campaigns such as #BeatPlasticPollution, #NoMorePlastic, and #TrashHeroThailand, social media has become a powerful tool for mobilizing communities and promoting sustainable practices. These campaigns have significantly influenced the reduction of single-use plastics, increased recycling efforts, and broader participation in environmental clean-up activities. By engaging local stakeholders, including coastal communities, businesses, and government entities, these initiatives have fostered a collective movement toward sustainability. The analysis explores how social media has reshaped public perceptions of plastic pollution and its environmental consequences, comparing behavior and awareness before and after key social media campaigns. The findings underscore the critical role of digital platforms in environmental advocacy and their long-term potential to drive behavior change on a global scale.

Development of over 30-years of high spatiotemporal resolution air pollution models and surfaces for California

California’s diverse geography and meteorological conditions necessitate models capturing fine-grained patterns of air pollution distribution. This study presents the development of high-resolution (100 m) daily land use regression (LUR) models spanning 1989–2021 for nitrogen dioxide (NO2), fine particulate matter (PM2.5), and ozone (O3) across California. These machine learning LUR algorithms integrated comprehensive data sources, including traffic, land use, land cover, meteorological conditions, vegetation dynamics, and satellite data. The modeling process incorporated historical air quality observations utilizing continuous regulatory, fixed site saturation, and Google Streetcar mobile monitoring data. The model performance (adjusted R2) for NO2, PM2.5, and O3 was 84 %, 65 %, and 92 %, respectively.Over the years, NO2 concentrations showed a consistent decline, attributed to regulatory efforts and reduced human activities on weekends. Traffic density and weather conditions significantly influenced NO2 levels. PM2.5 concentrations also decreased over time, influenced by aerosol optical depth (AOD), traffic density, weather, and land use patterns, such as developed open spaces and vegetation. Industrial activities and residential areas contributed to higher PM2.5 concentrations. O3 concentrations exhibited no significant annual trend, with higher levels observed on weekends and lower levels associated with traffic density due to the scavenger effect. Weather conditions and land use, such as commercial areas and water bodies, influenced O3 concentrations.To extend the prediction of daily NO2, PM2.5, and O3 to 1989, models were developed for predictors such as daily road traffic, normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI)–NO2, monthly AOD, and OMI-O3. These models enabled effective estimation for any period with known daily weather conditions.Longitudinal analysis revealed a consistent NO2 decline, regulatory-driven PM2.5 decreases countered by wildfire impacts, and spatially variable O3 concentrations with no long-term trend. This study enhances understanding of air pollution trends, aiding in identifying lifetime exposure for statewide populations and supporting informed policy decisions and environmental justice advocacy.

Green and glam: Celebritisation of environmental activism on instagram

<p>This study examines the celebritization of environmental activism on Instagram, focusing on two prominent Indonesian public figures: Hamish Daud and Nadine Chandrawinata. Through a qualitative discourse analysis of their Instagram posts from July to December 2023, we explore how environmental<br />sustainability is intertwined with the process of celebritization in the Indonesian context. Drawing on Driessens' (2013) framework of mediatization, personalization, and commodification, and employing Stuart Hall's encoding/decoding model, this research investigates how these celebrities construct and promote their environmental activist personas through social media. Our findings reveal that Daud and Chandrawinata strategically blend their celebrity status with environmental messaging, creating a unique form of 'celebrity ecology'. They leverage Instagram's visual and narrative features to present environmental activism as part of an aspirational yet attainable lifestyle. The study identifies key strategies employed by these celebrities, including the integration of activism with personal branding, the use of family narratives to promote eco-friendly practices, and the endorsement of sustainable products. While their approach effectively raises awareness about environmental issues, it also reveals tensions between authentic advocacy and personal brand building. The research highlights how followers' interpretations of these messages can vary, sometimes focusing more on the celebrities' personal lives than on environmental content. This study contributes to the growing body of literature on celebrity activism in non-Western contexts and offers insights into the potential and limitations of using social media for environmental advocacy</p><p> </p>

Comparative Discourse Strategies in Environmental Advocacy: Analysing the Rhetoric of Greta Thunberg and Chris Packham

This paper examines the rhetoric and argumentation of two prominent environmental activists, Greta Thunberg and Chris Packham. From the perspective of Ecolinguistics, Thunberg has given voice to a generational movement for change, galvanising young people everywhere through high-profile protests and speeches. Packham represents British mainstream environmentalism, notably as the presenter of the acclaimed nature documentary ‘Springwatch’. We argue that their influence partially stems from their alignment with dominant cultural narratives: Thunberg’s emphasis on intergenerational discord and Packham’s connection to the natural world. We analyse both figures via the lens of the ‘emotionalisation of media discourse’, highlighting argumentation strategies that feature expressions of negative emotions of which anger is a type. Thunberg’s famous ‘How dare you?’ outburst at the 2019 UN Climate Action Summit and Packham’s statement to Novara Media, ‘I am more angry now than at any point since my 20s’, exemplify this trend. We explore the pragmatic implications of their argumentative and discursive strategies, suggesting that while both have significantly elevated the profile of ecological activism, their discourse may also have a potentially divisive aspect.

Impact of media attention on corporate green innovation: What is the role of dual environmental regulation?

This study explores the intricate interplay between media attention, dual environmental regulation, and corporate green innovation quality using a comprehensive dataset of Chinese A-share listed companies. Thus, our rigorous empirical analysis reveals that media visibility significantly affects corporate environmental sustainability efforts, with formal and informal environmental regulations moderating its impact. Media attention acts as a powerful catalyst for green innovation during growth and mature stages of a company's lifecycle; however, its effect diminishes during recessions. We determine significant heterogeneity across industry types and ownership structures. Non-high-polluting industries and non-state-owned enterprises show stronger positive responses to media scrutiny in their green innovation efforts than high-polluting sectors and state-owned enterprises. Furthermore, formal environmental regulations amplify the positive effect of media attention on green innovation, suggesting a synergistic potential that encourages companies to exceed baseline environmental standards. In contrast, while having no direct impact on green innovation, informal environmental regulation significantly moderates the relationship between media attention and innovation quality. These findings add to the literature on environmental innovation by demonstrating the conditional effectiveness of media attention and the critical role of regulatory frameworks in fostering sustainable corporate practices across industries and ownership contexts, with implications for policymakers, corporate strategists, and environmental advocates.

Evaluation of the Perception and Adoption of Environmental Management System in Small and Medium Enterprises in the Manufacturing Sector in Lagos and Ogun States, Southwestern Nigeria

The objective of this paper was to evaluate the perception and adoption of environmental management system in small and medium enterprises in the manufacturing sector in Lagos and Ogun States, Southwestern Nigeria using appropriate standard techniques. The paper posits that environmental management literacy and advocacy should be carried out in SMEs. Environmental management practices involve engaging both industries and product end-users in sustainable practices. The paper concludes that the implementation of environmental management practices and culture by SMEs will abate environmental pollution and its concomitant health risks to humans, the environment, flora, and fauna. Mandatory and voluntary environmental measures 3 are suggested as a means of engendering eco-friendly innovation for sustainable development, triggering employment, job security, and gross domestic product.

Green Purchsing Behaviour among Generation Z Consumers in Kathmandu Valley

Purpose: The study attempts to examine the general perception regarding green products and determinants of green purchasing behavior. Subsequently, the purpose of this study is to examine the factors that influence green purchasing and general perception among Generation Z in Kathmandu valley. Design/Methodology/Approach: The causal comparative research design was employed in the study to investigate the causal link between determinants of green purchasing behavior. Data, gathered from 221 respondents through structured questionnaires distributed via KOBO toolbox, utilized convenience sampling. Quantitative analysis involved both descriptive and inferential statistics, employing the PLS-SEM method. Findings: The study finds environmental knowledge, government influence, and social influence have significant impact on green purchase behavior. However, environmental attitude, and environmental responsibility did not influence the green purchasing behavior of Gen Z in Kathmandu valley. Research Limitations/Implications: This study is limited to Generation Z in Kathmandu valley, utilizing cross-sectional data, which may restrict generalizability. Future research should explore the determinants of green purchasing behaviors. Nevertheless, the outcome of the study will assist all stakeholders, including policymakers and marketers in Kathmandu Valley. Practical Implication: The application of this study is extensive. The study's findings will assist businesses, marketers, policymakers, and environmental advocates. Understanding these factors can help businesses tailor their products, marketing strategies, and communication efforts to better appeal to this demographic, thereby increasing their market share in the growing green product market. Similarly, the study's findings can contribute to the promotion of sustainable consumption practices in Kathmandu Valley, aligning with global efforts to address environmental challenges. Originality/Value: To the best of the author’s knowledge, this study is one of the earliest studies to examine the relationship between green purchasing behavior among gen Z in Kathmandu valley by using PLS-SEM.

Local nature-based recreation as a pathway to environmental citizenship

Local parks and protected areas (PPAs) offer important settings for nature exposure proximate to home that may encourage local environmental citizenship (LEC); however, there has been limited investigation of this relationship and how it may be impacted by individual characteristics. This national panel study of U.S. adults examined relationships between frequency of visitation to local nature-based recreation settings and LEC, with assessment of differences by race/ethnicity and associations with age and political orientation (N = 556). Results indicate that more frequent visitation to local nature-based recreation settings is associated with significantly greater environmental advocacy and activism, volunteering, literacy, and political ecological citizenship. Age was negatively related to environmental advocacy and activism, volunteering, and literacy, and liberalism was associated with greater participation in all types of LEC, especially political ecological citizenship. Most LEC types did not vary by race/ethnicity, although there were small differences in environmental advocacy and activism, which was higher among Black/African American and Hispanic/Latino populations compared to Asian respondents. Findings indicate that frequency of visitation to local nature-based recreation settings is associated with LEC regardless of one's age, political orientation, or race/ethnicity, and thus increasing equitable access to local nature-based recreation, especially among those who have been historically underserved, has the potential to encourage PPA stewardship through LEC, while also contributing to the advancement of procedural environmental justice. Management implications•Environmental stewardship and volunteer organizations should focus on supporting land managers in advancing equity in local parks and protected areas (PPAs) as well as engaging users in these spaces through programs which leverage people's connection with nature at the local scale and provide opportunities for accessible involvement in environmental citizenship activities.•Interpretation and education can be used to increase individual's environmental knowledge, while contextualizing such information to places they care about.•Enhanced promotion of local opportunities for stewardship among local PPA visitors may be warranted, especially events or programs with few barriers to entry that might encourage greater future participation.

The Environmental Function of Animal Characters Across Different Literary Genres

This article explores the remarkable versatility of animal images and characters through their function in literature. The representation of animals in literature has emerged as one of the powerful tools for promoting environmental awareness and advocacy. Across diverse literary genres, the use of animal imagery and characters serves a multitude of functions in catalyzing ecological consciousness. In lyrical nature writing, vivid descriptions of animals and their habitats evoke emotional resonance, inviting readers to appreciate the fragility and resilience of ecosystems. Allegorical narratives, meanwhile, employ animal protagonists to challenge societal norms and expose environmental injustices through metaphorical storytelling. Even in children's literature, charming portrayals of animal characters serve as accessible gateways for young readers to the natural world.

Integrated developmental and green social work field education to control fall armyworm Infestation in maize crops in Malawi

In Malawi, fall armyworm (FAW) infestation in maize crops is a problem of public importance as it reduces maize yields and exacerbates household food insecurity. In addition to pest resistance, the use of synthetic pesticides to control FAW negatively affects the health of farmers and the environment. Biochemical pesticides from plants contain naturally non-toxic chemotypes and are effective in controlling pests. Tephrosia vogelii plants contain these bioactive phytocompounds that have pesticidal properties. Geographical location and plant species influence the occurrence of phytocompounds in Tephrosia vogelii. Farmers in Sub Sahara-Africa are using Tephrosia vogelii as a pesticide but there are mixed research findings regarding its effectiveness in controlling FAW pests. This study was informed by developmental and Green Social Work frameworks to compare the effectiveness of Tephrosia vogelii leaves extracts, Belt 480 SC, and soap solution in controlling FAW in maize gardens. The study employed a randomized complete block design with four replication gardens and was conducted from November 2022 to March 2023. A social work field education student was assigned to coordinate the project. The study affirmed that the sampled Tephrosia vogelii leaf extracts contained pesticidal chemotypes. The results of field gardens suggest that Tephrosia vogelii leaf extracts have similar potency to Belt SC 480 chemical pesticide. It has been identified that Boom detergent soap is not as effective as Tephrosia vogelii leaf extracts. The study has social work field education implications for empowering practicum students to gain community mobilization skillsets, to participate in environmental justice advocacy, and to uphold social work values.

War and liar: a semiotic account of metaphors in the reports on the discharge of Fukushima nuclear-contaminated water in Chinese media

Abstract The release of nuclear wastewater by Japan has generated strong opposition from Japanese citizens, governments of neighboring countries, and global environmental advocates. China, representing the concerns of neighboring countries, has underscored the illicit and detrimental nature of this action. This study explores the metaphors employed in Chinese media regarding the discharge of Fukushima nuclear-contaminated water. Based on the self-built corpus, we reveal the rhetorical motives underlying the metaphors, drawing on the framework of critical metaphor analysis. The study centers on two major metaphors – war and liar metaphors – in the discourse of two Chinese official media, China Daily and People’s Daily Online. It is found that according to Chinese media, initiating and protesting the discharge of Fukushima nuclear-contaminated water is a war; and that the Japanese government and TEPCO are liars. The metaphor choices reflect China’s stance of opposition and condemnation against the discharge and its intention of uncovering deceptive and misleading information.

New development: A resilient framework for optimizing the Republic of Kosovo's sustainable development

IMPACT This article offers critical insights for policy-makers, development strategists, environmental advocates, and academics engaged in the rigorous pursuit of sustainable development within the context of political uncertainties and evolving global challenges. It amplifies the discourse on integrating and reporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into national development strategies, using Kosovo's endeavours as a pivotal case study. By emphasizing the role of resilience theory in enhancing adaptive governance and multi-sectoral collaboration for SDG achievement, this article substantiates the imperative for innovative, inclusive, and resilient approaches to SDG integration and reporting in national development planning. The findings and recommendations advocate for the strategic alignment of national development initiatives with global sustainability objectives, underscoring the importance of establishing environmental sustainability as a core pillar and the necessity for comprehensive stakeholder engagement in the policy-making process. As such, this work contributes to the broadening evidence base supporting the integration of resilience and sustainability principles into the governance and implementation of development strategies.