Environmental Sustainability Research Articles

Corporate Liability for Conducting Mining Activities in Forest Areas Without Ministerial Permission Under the Environmental Protection and Management Law

The responsibility of corporations engaged in mining activities within forest areas without the Minister's permit is an important issue in the context of environmental protection and management in Indonesia. Law No. 32 of 2009 on Environmental Protection and Management (UUPPLH) regulates the obligation of all parties, including corporations, to conduct business activities while considering environmental sustainability. In this case, corporations that engage in mining activities without the Minister's permit are considered to violate existing regulations, which may lead to both criminal and administrative sanctions. This study aims to examine the extent of corporate responsibility for environmental damage caused, as well as the implications for law enforcement and environmental protection. The research uses a normative legal method with a legislative, conceptual, and comparative approach, focusing on the analysis of Article 89 Paragraph (2) letter (a) of the P3H Law and its implementation in the enforcement of law related to corporate crimes in the mining sector. Furthermore, the study will discuss how existing policies and regulations can improve corporate accountability in carrying out environmentally friendly mining activities. Through this analysis, it can be concluded that Article 89 Paragraph (2) letter (a) of the P3H Law does not clearly specify who is responsible, preventing the corporate management from being held criminally accountable. This undermines the purpose of the law to provide certainty, justice, and benefits. As a result, the law fails to achieve its goals of criminal punishment and legal protection for the welfare of society and environmental preservation.

On-Site Sanitation Systems in Kiribati: Challenges, Opportunities and the Path Toward Circular Economy Integration

This study explores the challenges, opportunities, and pathways toward integrating circular economy (CE) principles into on-site sanitation systems in Kiribati. Inadequate sanitation and wastewater management, particularly in developing countries, contribute to health risks and environmental degradation. In South Tarawa, the capital of Kiribati, overcrowding and urbanization exacerbate these challenges. Currently, only 17% of the population in South Tarawa is connected to the sewer system, while 43.5% rely on septic tanks, 25.4% practice open defecation, and the remainder use pit latrines. These suboptimal systems contribute to severe groundwater contamination, with fecal coliforms and nitrates exceeding World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines in many wells. This review employs a two-part methodology: the first part examines the current sanitation system in South Tarawa, and the second part investigates innovative, low-cost CE technologies for on-site sanitation. These technologies aim to prevent groundwater contamination and facilitate the transition to a circular economy model, which emphasizes the reuse of resources and waste reduction. Socioeconomic factors, including limited financial resources, further complicate the implementation of effective sanitation systems. A robust governance structure and strong coordination are essential for the successful integration of CE practices. The study highlights the importance of community engagement and the role of institutions, such as the National Water and Sanitation Steering Committee (NWSSC), in driving these efforts. The findings suggest that adopting circular economy technologies could improve public health and environmental sustainability, while addressing the growing challenges posed by limited resources, rapid population growth, and urbanization.

Promotion of Ecotourism Principles by Whale-Watching Companies’ Marketing Efforts

For the whale-watching industry to be managed according to ecotourism principles, it should focus on nature-based attractions, provide environmental education, and promote environmental, economic, and social sustainability. Using 62 whale-watching brochures from 1998, 2005, and 2010, the study analyzed how whale-watching companies on Vancouver Island, Canada, marketed their businesses in line with these three ecotourism principles. The results suggest that Vancouver Island whale-watching companies promote most ecotourism principles, primarily those orientated to nature-based attractions and environmental education, but more attention could be paid to sustainability. The total number of environmental education activities and environmental sustainability initiatives increased over time, but most individual variables addressing the ecotourism principles did not change over time.

Asymmetric Effects of Fiscal Policy and Foreign Direct Investment Inflows on CO2 Emissions—An Application of Nonlinear ARDL

Research on the impact of fiscal policy and foreign direct investment (FDI) on environmental quality has yielded conflicting results on their effects on carbon dioxide emissions. To further explore the asymmetric influences of these two critical factors on environmental quality, we employed a nonlinear ARDL approach to examine how fiscal policy (GOEX), FDI inflows, and other drivers of CO2 emissions, such as trade openness, financial development, and economic growth, have affected environmental quality in Vietnam from 1990 to 2022. Our findings indicate that a positive shock in GOEX results in decreased emissions, whereas a negative shock in GOEX leads to increased emissions, challenging previous research that suggests that higher expenditures typically harm the environment. We also observe that positive changes in FDI result in higher CO2 emissions, whereas negative FDI shifts have no significant impact. Additionally, our study reveals that trade openness improves environmental conditions, whereas economic growth and financial development contribute to increased CO2 emissions. The responses of CO2 emissions to the asymmetric effects of fiscal policy, FDI inflows, and other determinants in the short term last in the long term. These insights are valuable for policymakers in developing environmental sustainability strategies to mitigate climate change by addressing fiscal policies and other determinants of CO2 emissions.

Sustainable Biopolymer Colloids: Advances in Morphology for Enhanced Functionalities.

Biobased polymers such as cellulose, chitin/chitosan, starch, alginate, and lignin are making inroads as sustainable, environmentally safe and biodegradable alternatives to synthetic colloidal materials. This perspective summarizes recent developments in preparation techniques, identifies critical barriers, and proposes future directions for improving the performance and applicability of biopolymer colloidal structures. A major focus is the sustainable colloids morphology as a means of introducing functionality without chemical modification. We discuss the strategies for fabrication of four distinct classes of colloidal morphologies from biobased materials: spherical and nonspherical particles, fibers/fibrils, and films. Their preparation methods can be categorized into physical and chemical approaches. Despite advancements in these methods, challenges persist regarding uniformity, scalability, desired properties, and the need to enhance environmental sustainability. Addressing these challenges is essential for facilitating the transition from synthetic polymers to greener, more sustainable, and microplastic-free colloidal alternatives.

The Impact of the Soil Environment and Surface Mulching on N2O Emissions from Farmland

A reduction in emissions of nitrous oxide (N2O), one of the three major greenhouse gases, is important for achieving environmental sustainability and carbon neutrality goals. Agricultural fields are the primary source of N2O emissions, and their management measures influence greenhouse gas emission reductions and the greening of agriculture. Among these practices, cover cropping plays a key role in promoting sustainable agricultural production as a major cropping technique for efficient water use and increasing crop yields in water-scarce regions worldwide. The present paper systematically reviews the influence of various soil environmental factors, such as soil temperature, moisture, pH, carbon, and nitrogen contents, as well as nitrogen cycle-related enzymes, microorganisms and mulching practices, including general mulching and straw mulching, on N2O emissions from agricultural fields. This review suggests that future research should explore the long-term effects of different mulching materials and their application rates and durations on soil N2O emissions. Furthermore, a networked mathematical model for causal analysis should be employed in future research to elucidate the relationships among soil environmental factors, nitrogen cycle microorganisms, and soil N2O production and consumption. These future studies will help to deepen our understanding of nitrogen cycling processes in agroecosystems with the aim of developing environmentally friendly agricultural technologies and promoting green and sustainable agricultural development.

Empirical insights on organisational sustainability: exploring the influence of communities of practice and associated technologies

Purpose This study aims to provide empirical insights into the role of communities of practice (CoPs) and associated technologies in fostering organisational sustainability (OS), particularly social and environmental sustainability within the oil and gas (O&G) sector in the Middle East. It explores how these mechanisms contribute to the enhancement of these sustainability through knowledge management (KM) and innovation. Design/methodology/approach This quantitative study examines the causal relationships among the key variables. A survey of 330 engineers from six O&G firms across three northern governorates in Iraq was conducted using a structured questionnaire. The collected data were analysed through Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling to validate the research model. Findings The study highlights that knowledge is a fundamental resource for driving innovation and sustainable organisational practices. CoPs serve as a dynamic KM framework, facilitating efficient knowledge exchange, dissemination and application. This, in turn, enhances employees’ ability to address daily professional challenges while reinforcing social and environmental sustainability initiatives. The findings also reveal that CoPs and associated technologies significantly contribute to the economic, social and environmental dimensions of OS, demonstrating a moderate to substantial effect. Practical implications The findings provide actionable insights for O&G companies aiming to integrate sustainability through technology-driven CoPs. By institutionalising CoPs and leveraging digital technologies, organisations can enhance collaborative learning, knowledge retention and sustainable innovation. This research also underscores the need for leaders and managers within O&G firms to prioritise technological advancements and knowledge-sharing strategies to drive social and environmental sustainability efforts. Social implications The study highlights how technology-driven CoPs can foster knowledge-sharing, collaboration and social sustainability within organisations, particularly in the O&G sector. By leveraging digital platforms, virtual knowledge-sharing tools and AI-driven analytics, organisations can enhance workplace inclusivity, cross-disciplinary collaboration and employee engagement in sustainability initiatives. Furthermore, the adoption of CoPs and emerging digital technologies promotes a culture of collective learning and professional development, ensuring that employees at all levels contribute to and benefit from sustainable business practices. This research also underscores the role of technology-enhanced CoPs in bridging knowledge gaps, improving social equity in professional settings and strengthening corporate social responsibility efforts. Originality/value While existing studies have demonstrated a link between KM and sustainable performance, this research uniquely examines CoPs and related technologies as enablers of social and environmental sustainability in the O&G sector. It provides a novel perspective on how organisations can leverage technological tools and knowledge-sharing platforms to enhance OS, bridging a critical gap in sustainability research.

Green product innovation: influences on environmental sustainability performance

PurposeIn the contemporary era, practices that are not sustainable pose risks to both businesses and the environment. Thus, this study explores the interplay between workforce agility, knowledge sharing and product innovation flexibility and their collective impact on driving green product innovation and environmental sustainability.Design/methodology/approachData were collected from 448 managers in the industrial sector to explore how workforce agility facilitates the exchange of critical information with customers and suppliers, thereby fostering collaborative innovation and the development of environmentally friendly products.FindingsThe study reveals a synergistic relationship where workforce agility enhances knowledge sharing, which in turn significantly contributes to green product innovation. This innovation, fostered through collaborative efforts and adaptable product development processes, is crucial for advancing a company’s environmental sustainability performance.Practical implicationsThis study emphasizes the importance of workforce agility and robust knowledge-sharing practices for enhancing environmental sustainability. Firms that invest in adaptable employees and foster open communication with stakeholders can drive sustainable innovation and adapt swiftly to market changes. These strategies enable organizations to meet evolving sustainability demands effectively, strengthening their competitive position.Originality/valueThis study highlights the crucial roles of knowledge sharing and flexible product development in driving sustainable innovation. It provides actionable insights for organizations, underscoring the need to integrate workforce agility and collaborative knowledge sharing as strategies for achieving sustainable business practices and enhancing environmental sustainability.

The relationship between ESG and CSR – achieving synergy through the golden triangle framework

Purpose Environmental social governance (ESG) and corporate social responsibility (CSR) have emerged in recent times as powerful approaches for corporations to add value to social well-being. This study aims to explore the relationship between ESG and CSR, two key parameters by which stakeholders evaluate firms. It develops a framework that positions ESG–CSR in a synergistic “golden triangle” framework, incorporating ESG scores, CSR funding and CSR activities to enhance their mutual impact on sustainable business practices. Design/methodology/approach An empirical analysis was conducted on listed public sector undertakings (PSUs) in India to test the proposed golden triangle framework. The framework leverages quantitative data from ESG scores, CSR funding and CSR initiatives to evaluate their synergistic impact. Data was analysed using statistical models to confirm the synergistic relationship. Findings This study finds a strong synergy between ESG–CSR practices in organisations that are committed to the golden triangle framework. Firms with high alignment among ESG scores, CSR funding and CSR activities tend to exhibit stronger sustainable performance, reflecting the mutual reinforcement of these two parameters. Research limitations/implications This study is limited to listed PSUs in India, which may restrict the generalisability of the findings across other sectors and regions. Future research could broaden the scope by examining private and international firms to validate the framework and its applicability across diverse organisational contexts. Practical implications The framework provides managers with a framework for integrating ESG–CSR as a synergistic strategy that maximises their positive impact on global wellbeing. By adopting the golden triangle framework, firms can better align their ESG–CSR to strengthen their overall corporate sustainability profile. Social implications By demonstrating the synergy between ESG–CSR, this study underscores the role of coordinated corporate responsibility in driving sustainable social and environmental impact. Effective integration of ESG–CSR can lead to more robust contributions to social welfare and environmental sustainability, benefiting the broader community. Originality/value This study offers a novel framework that synergises ESG–CSR in a golden triangle framework, providing empirical evidence from Indian PSUs. It contributes to the existing literature by clarifying the ESG–CSR relationship and proposing a structured approach for firms aiming to enhance their sustainable business impact.

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION ON FARMS WITH ANIMAL PRODUCTION

Livestock production contributes to climate change primarily through the emission of greenhouse gases, which lead to an increase in average air temperature and, consequently, global warming. However, various production strategies can mitigate its negative impact on the climate and the environment. The objective of this study is to identify key production factors affecting the natural environment on farms engaged in animal production. The analysis is based on data collected from 42 farms in the Podkarpackie and Podlaskie voivodeships specializing in pig, cattle, and poultry farming. The study presents the findings of research conducted between 2022 and 2023, utilizing a survey questionnaire to extract data from farm records. The results indicate that environmental sustainability, in terms of appropriate animal stocking rates and fertilizer management, was achieved on cattle and pig farms. A beneficial proportion of cereals was observed in crop rotations across all specializations. Additionally, more than half of the farms managed organic fertilizers appropriately, reducing ammonia emissions by minimizing the deposition period on field surfaces. Organic fertilizers were stored on hardened surfaces to prevent leachate infiltration into the soil and groundwater. The estimated on-farm use of nitrogen fertilizers per hectare of agricultural land exceeded the national average reported by the Central Statistical Office. Most environmental protection measures implemented focused on improving the efficiency of water resource utilization on farms. The adoption of strategies to minimize agriculture’s negative environmental impact is essential for sustainable development and effective environmental protection.

Enhanced Biosorption and Recovery of Copper and Zinc from Acetic Acid-Extracted Livestock Wastewater Sludge Using Baker’s Yeast

This study aims to develop a novel use of baker’s yeast in biosorption as a sustainable metal recovery process for cost-effective and practical applications in recovering copper and zinc from waste gravity-thickened sludge generated at livestock wastewater treatment facilities. The supernatant of the acid-extracted product was separated from the residues through centrifugation. To ensure cost efficiency, the supernatant was treated with 2N acetic acid for 24 h, with the addition of hydrogen peroxide, and used for the biosorption experiments. The filtrated supernatant was adjusted to various pH values (4.5, 5.0, and 5.5) to explore the effects of acidity on the subsequent biosorption of extracted zinc and copper by baker’s yeast. A diluted molasses solution was added to the filtrate as a carbon source to support yeast growth during the 4 h biosorption experiments. The results revealed that the removal efficiency of zinc from the filtrate by baker’s yeast was 97.3%, while the removal efficiency for copper was about 48.8% at pH 5.5 with a reaction time of 4 h. In summary, this combined approach is expected to reduce and recycle heavy metals in livestock sludge. Acetic acid with hydrogen peroxide can extract copper and zinc from the sludge, and baker’s yeast can absorb both metals from the filtrate at pH 5.5 in a 4 h reaction time. This technological innovation has the potential to transform waste management practices in the livestock industry, contributing to resource recovery and environmental sustainability.

Prediction of Carbon Emissions in Indonesia Using Machine Learning: A Focus on Environmental Impact

Carbon emissions represent a critical driver of global climate change, exerting profound impacts on environmental sustainability and public health. This research examines Indonesia's carbon emission trends using a comprehensive dataset spanning global emissions from 1960 to 2018, with specific focus on Indonesia, obtained from Kaggle. Employing Linear Regression (LR) as the primary machine learning technique, the study effectively models and forecasts future carbon emission levels for Indonesia. The findings indicate a projected increase in emissions to 2.38 tons per capita annually by 2030, underscoring the urgent need for robust environmental policies.

Strategic Role of Artificial Intelligence for Sustainable Cooperation in Northeast Asia

This research explores the strategic use of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance sustainable cooperation in Northeast Asia among China, Japan, and South Korea towards UN SDGs. The research uses a mixed methodology approach to understand how AI can bring peace, economic resilience, and environmental sustainability to the region. This paper traces the evolution of cyber security, green technology, and financial partnerships among China, Japan, and South Korea by examining their past and current trilateral meetings. Using Porter’s Diamond Model, a comprehensive statistical analysis that describes each country’s role in global network security work within six dimensions will be applied to evaluate these key countries’ resilience and competitiveness in the digital economy. Cross-border data flow is one of the components of public-private partnerships within cyber defense technologies innovation. Moreover, a holistic perspective on AI adoption highlights its strategic positioning, competitive intelligence, and continuous improvement through unity. AI-powered initiatives could support regional harmony by promoting digital sustainability and facilitating economic resilience and environmental sustainability. Future studies should seek empirical evidence that gives more operational responses for practical AI cooperation among China, Japan, and the Republic of Korea. This article discusses how digital technologies can better address immediate sustainability needs while providing a platform for future generations seeking positive change based on academic insights translated into practical strategies. On a broader scale, AI can be used for peacebuilding, economic recovery, and environmental conservation to make societies more stable, prosperous, and equitable.

Effect of Homestay Management Style on Sustainable Community Development in Lake Region Economic Bloc, Kenya

Purpose: This study sought to establish the effect of effect of homestay management style, on sustainable community development in Lake Region economic bloc, Kenya. Methodology: The study employed a mixed method research design. The target population was 109 homestay operators, 14 County Directors of Tourism, 23,000 guests and 36,577 gazetted village elders. The stratified simple random sampling was used to select homestays operators, tourists (guests) and village elders. Krejcie and Morgan (1973) Table was used to select a sample of 384 guests and 384 village elders randomly. Data was collected using questionnaires and interviews. The questionnaire was tested for face and content validity using expert judgement, and for construct validity using Principal Component Analysis, with Cronbach’s Alpha testing for reliability. Quantitative data analysed using descriptive (means and standard deviation) and inferentially using linear regression analysis. Findings: The results indicated that homestay management style has a positive significant effect on sustainable community development (ẞ = 0.600; p < 0.05). The study concluded that homestay management style significantly increases sustainable community development in the Lake Region Economic Bloc. This finding underscores the critical role of quality homestay management in driving positive development within communities. This highlights the need for supportive policies and integrated approaches to tourism development. Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study was informed by the Social Exchange and Sustainable Development theories. In terms of practical contributions, governments, tourism authorities, and development agencies should prioritize initiatives that promote sustainable management practices among homestay operators, balancing economic viability with socio-cultural and environmental sustainability. Workshops can be held to provide a platform for stakeholders to collaborate, share insights, and co-create solutions, while public hearings can be held to offer opportunities for transparent decision-making and ensure that the voices of all stakeholders are heard.

Statistics and Sustainability in the Iron and Steel Industry: from Resources to Low-Carbon Technologies

Iron and steel are indispensable materials in modern civilization, enabling key sectors such as construction, transportation, and energy. However, the iron industry faces growing challenges related to uncertain resources, environmental limitations aimed at decreasing carbon footprints, and the rising demand for sustainable manufacturing practices. The industry accounts for approximately 7–9% of global CO₂ emissions, underscoring the urgent need for technological innovation and policy-driven decarbonization strategies. This review gathers current statistics on global iron ore reserves, prices, production of various steel grades, and emerging production routes. Additionally, it addresses best available technologies (BAT), the potential impact of CO₂ taxes, and alternative reduction processes like hydrogen-based metallurgy. A comprehensive overview of these aspects will assist stakeholders in improving economic competitiveness, resource efficiency, and environmental sustainability.

Decision-making Factors in Surgical Techniques and Attitudes Towards Environmental Sustainability.

Our study examines factors influencing surgical specialists' choice of surgical technique and assesses the significance of the carbon footprint in this decision-making process. It also investigates their attitudes, behaviours and barriers to environmental sustainability. Climate change significantly threatens health, with surgery being a major contributor to healthcare's carbon footprint. A cross-sectional study was conducted using a discrete choice experiment (DCE) and a questionnaire. Respondents were Dutch-speaking surgeons, gynaecologists and urologists with experience in minimally invasive surgery. They judged 14 choice sets, each presenting two hypothetical surgical scenarios that varied in postoperative length of stay, patient's preference, specialists' experience, costs, national guideline recommendations, and carbon footprint. The questionnaire explored attitudes, behaviours, and barriers to environmental sustainability. Among the 116 respondents, patient's preference emerged as the most important factor in the choice of a surgical technique (Relative Importance (RI) 27.35 [95% Confidence Interval (95% CI) 19.57-35.12]), followed by postoperative length of stay (RI 21.41 [95% CI 14.07-28.75]), specialists' experience (RI 16.07 [95% CI 11.45-20.69]), costs (RI 13.98 [95% CI 8.42-19.55]), national guideline recommendations (RI 13.29 [95% CI 8.41-18.16] and carbon footprint (RI 7.90 [95% CI 3.63-12.18]). Respondents expressed concern about climate change (105/116; 90%), with 85% (98/116) altering personal behaviours, and 49% (57/116) changing work practices. They feel surgical specialists have responsibility to be aware of surgery's environmental impact (97/116; 84%), and a part have knowledge to decrease this impact (39/116; 34%). Main barriers are time (73/116; 63%), costs (74/116; 64%) and inadequate training and information (67/116; 58%). Patient's preference and postoperative length of stay are prioritised in surgical decision-making, while carbon footprint is the least significant factor. To enhance sustainability in surgical practice, barriers must be addressed, and sustainable techniques and devices should be developed and standardised, ensuring sustainability is inherent in the available options, rather than just relying on individual choice.

Harnessing biochemical innovations for sustainable oil recovery: perspectives from the Indian context on green enhanced oil recovery (GEOR) methods for matured petroleum fields.

Green enhanced oil recovery (GEOR) has emerged as an eco-friendly alternative to conventional oil recovery techniques, offering a more sustainable way to increase oil extraction while minimizing environmental harm. This review focuses on the potential of biochemicals, particularly biopolymers, and biosurfactants, in improving oil recovery in Indian oilfields. While these biochemicals, such as xanthan gum, scleroglucan, and HEC, have shown promising results in global oilfields, their application in India remains largely unexplored. By comparing the characteristics of Indian reservoirs with successful international case studies, this review highlights the feasibility and advantages of biopolymer-based EOR methods in India's unique reservoir conditions, including high temperatures, salinity, and other challenges. Despite the proven benefits of biopolymers, such as their environmental sustainability and operational efficiency, they have not yet been widely adopted in Indian oilfields. The review identifies key research gaps, including the need for a deeper understanding of microbial and biopolymer interactions, and stresses the importance of developing sustainable and cost-effective production methods for biopolymers. The findings suggest that integrating biopolymers into India's oil recovery processes could not only enhance extraction rates but also contribute to greener, more efficient practices. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of biopolymer-based EOR and outlines future research directions, contributing to the development of more sustainable oil recovery techniques tailored to India's specific needs.

Embedding Conditionality in the Special and Differential Treatment in WTO Disciplines on Fisheries Subsidies to Achieve Fishery Sustainability

Abstract The Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies is designed to promote fisheries sustainability by curbing harmful subsidies that contribute to overfishing and overcapacity. However, the current approach to applying unconditional and non-negotiable special and differential treatment provisions in the Agreement is based on a North–South binary division and essentially fails to achieve the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 14.6. This article explores the linkage between sustainable development and a conditional right to special and differential treatment, and further presents a conditionality approach to applying appropriate and effective special and differential treatment that necessarily takes into account the diverse needs of different developing countries and better reconciles with economic, environmental, and societal sustainability. A conditionality approach shifts the basis of special and differential treatment from self-claimed ‘developing country’ status to multi-dimensions conditions embedded in the Agreement that can be objectively identified and assessed to achieve fisheries sustainability.

Exploring the socioeconomic and environmental impacts of carbon capture technologies in Bangladesh for sustainable green environments

PurposeThis study aims to comprehensively examine the environmental, health, economic and social benefits of carbon capture technologies (CCTs) in Bangladesh, thereby contributing to sustainable green environments.Design/methodology/approachThis study adopts a unique approach to quantitative surveys and primary data analysis. It actively involves diverse stakeholders in data collection, including policymakers, industry professionals and the public, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.FindingsImplementing CCTs in Bangladesh brings about a host of benefits. It not only leads to a significant reduction in CO2 (carbon dioxide) emissions, thereby improving air quality and public health but also it stimulates public awareness and education, bolstering support for CCTs. The economic benefits are diverse, encompassing job creation and industry expansion, painting a promising picture for Bangladesh’s future. In essence, CCTs can enhance Bangladesh’s social well-being and quality of life, presenting a viable roadmap for sustainable, long-term development.Research limitations/implicationsWhile this study provides significant insights into the impact of CCTs on people’s lives in Bangladesh, it is essential to recognize its limitations. However, this ongoing study is crucial in advancing sustainable technologies, underscoring the necessity for continual research and enhancement to ensure a sustainable future.Originality/valueThis study stands out for its comprehensive examination of the social effects of CCTs in a developing country. Integrating diverse data types and methods provides unique insights to policymakers, business leaders and academics. These insights empower decision-makers to advocate for green technologies and sustainable development in similar contexts, fostering informed decision-making and strategic planning.

Not “just necessity”? Two-x-eco-cultural dilemmas and the ethnobiological importance of the informal grannies’ markets in Moldova

Informal food markets, particularly those managed by (elderly) women in post-communist Eastern Europe, represent a biocultural phenomenon of profound significance since globalisation and increasingly strict legal frameworks often threaten these reservoirs of biocultural food heritage. In the fall of 2022 and 2023, a preliminary field study was conducted by visiting the informal markets of six Moldovan centres: Chișinău, Orhei, Bălți, Călărași, Comrat, and Taraclia, and conversing with approximately 40 mid-aged and elderly sellers. We argue that these markets are crucial in sustaining small-scale farming, preserving biodiversity, and maintaining a connection between urban communities and rural communities and, ultimately, between these rural citizens and their nature, keeping small-scale family farming and domestic traditional gastronomic activities alive. By trading fresh, homegrown, and homemade food and goods (including handicrafts), these mid-aged and elderly vendors support local economies, promote environmental sustainability, and safeguard traditional ecological knowledge and cultural heritage. This paper explores how grannies’ markets contribute to biocultural diversity and sustainable food practices, especially amid the country’s recent turbulent political, socioeconomic, and demographic challenges. The analysis advocates for the survival rights of these ecological, economic, and cultural (2-x-eco-cultural) refugia and invites ethnobiologists, food studies and cultural heritage scholars, rural sociologists, and agricultural economists to defend the biocultural diversity of informal food markets, moving them from an “out of necessity” status to a solid pillar of a possible future, new, family farming and small-scale ecological and gastronomic (conscientious) tourism. Policymakers should protect and enhance these informal spaces, especially the socioecological farming systems behind them, as essential socioeconomic and environmental assets. They should emphasise their importance as hubs for biological diversity, cultural preservation, community cohesion, and ecological sustainability.