Local Development Research Articles

The national-cultural context of the architectural identity of the cities of the North Caucasus

Attempt to correlate the concepts of “image of the city – identity”, the concept of identity in the national-cultural context is considered. The features of the architectural identity of the cities of the North Caucasus are revealed. The article also discusses the issues of preserving the national heritage. The authors actualize the preservation and positioning of the national-cultural context in the architectural structures of the Chechen people. The author’s analysis of the factors of manifestation of the architectural language of local development together with compositional design methods is carried out.

SHIPBUILDING OF SOUTHERN UKRAINE: FROM STATE MONOPOLY TO CLUSTER INTEGRATION

The purpose of this article is to determine the prospects of Ukrainian shipbuilding, based on a review of its historical development. Methodology. In this study, the authors used a mix of methods for collecting, systematising and processing information. Primary data was collected through a review of thematic publications and research conducted by predecessors. Retrospective analysis was used to identify trends in the historical development of the shipbuilding sector of the domestic economy. Statistical analysis was used to determine its current state and foreseeable future. Results. Since Porter's introduction of the cluster theory, the Ukrainian shipbuilding business has failed to take advantage of the benefits it has offered. It has been reckless in building cluster potential as a tool for local economic development and community (hromada) management. While most shipbuilding and related enterprises are concentrated in the areas limited by the administrative boundaries of the country's Black Sea regions. Pessimists insist that the chances of success have been lost completely and irrevocably. The authors, on the other hand, based on a generalisation of current practice, observe the Phoenix effect. The authors illustrate it empirically. In particular, on the example of the Ukrainian Maritime Cluster (UMC). Practical implications. The first part of the article explores the former power of Ukrainian shipyards. The second part discusses the constructive initiatives of the modern shipbuilding business. The third part highlights the initiative to create the UMC. Value / Originality. This paper adds to the existing understanding and provides empirical evidence of the strong and untapped potential of the country's shipbuilding cluster. It also focuses on its attractiveness for cooperation with foreign investors after the onset of peace. The originality of this study lies in the holistic study of shipbuilding practice in the context of development. The authors are optimistic despite the war and the tragic consequences that accompany it.

Coordinate and Optimize Political Ideology, Curriculum Reform and Local Governance to Promote Sustainable Development

Local sustainable development is the main content and long-term goal of regional governance, but in the case of the unification of ideas, it is impossible to deeply develop the potential of sustainable development. Local governments should do a good job in ideological and political work and optimize resources in various ways. Therefore, this paper puts forward the following issues: 1) the relationship between the ideological and political curriculum reform and local governance in region A, 2) the synergy of various resources can promote the reform of the political ideology curriculum, and 3) the promotion and importance of synergy resources and political ideological reform to local governance. The results show that the ideological and political curriculum reform in region A can deepen local autonomy, and the optimization of collaborative resources can positively promote the political curriculum reform. However, the relationship between local governance and political thought courses is not a necessary condition. Synergistic resources and political and ideological reform can jointly promote local governance, and political and ideological reform is the main factor.

Mapalus as a Socio-Cultural System in Minahasa Society

This study aims to examine Mapalus as a socio-cultural system in Minahasa society, with a focus on an in-depth understanding of its historical roots, core values, roles in social structures, and adaptations and challenges faced in the modern era. The method used is a qualitative approach with a literature review type of research, involving a comprehensive analysis of various literature sources including books, journal articles, historical documents, and publications related to Mapalus and Minahasa culture. The results of the study indicate that Mapalus is a mutual cooperation system that has been deeply rooted in Minahasa society since ancient times, reflecting the values of cooperation, solidarity, and reciprocity. Mapalus has been shown to have an important role in the formation of social cohesion, resource management, and local economic development. Despite facing the challenges of modernization, Mapalus shows adaptability, evolution of form, and potential as a development model based on local wisdom. This study concludes that Mapalus remains relevant and has the potential to be a source of inspiration for the development of sustainable community-based development models.

Transforming agricultural land into agrotourism area: Environmental, economic and socio-cultural perspectives

This study investigates the impacts of converting agricultural land into agrotourism areas on environmental, socio-cultural, and economic perspectives within Batukliang District, Central Lombok Regency, Indonesia. With a case study approach, this qualitative descriptive research employed interviews with three target groups: local farmers, residents, and tourism actors. The findings revealed seven key points identified as influences affecting the socio-cultural aspects of land change, including community impact, cultural preservation, cultural identity loss, community dynamics change, local cultural commercialization, cultural heritage loss, and traditional livelihoods. The results also unveiled nine financial impacts, 8 of which were associated with economic implications such as economic challenges, risk management, brand building, costs and investments, market access, increased revenue, and income diversity, which contribute positively to local economic development. The study concluded that integrating community involvement empowerment strategies, income diversification, sustainable farming promotion, and land-use regulation is crucial for developing a successful sustainable agrotourism destination.

Can spatial planning in the Polish Carpathians be enforced? How spatial chaos indicators depict a gap between scientific knowledge and practice

AbstractDespite their strategic hydrological importance for neighbouring areas, the Polish Carpathians are experiencing spatial chaos, which may weaken their adaptability to the progressive climate change. The article attempts to answer the question of whether spatial planning, which is supposed to guarantee spatial order, fulfils its role and whether the knowledge of the natural conditions of spatial development is respected in the spatial planning process. Using GIS techniques, up to 238 communes were analysed in terms of their spatial coverage, the degree of scattered settlement, and the violation of natural barriers by location of buildings in areas that are threatened with mass movements or floods; by settlement on excessively inclined slopes and in areas with adverse climatic conditions. Spearman non-parametric rank correlation analysis and the multidimensional Principal Component Analysis (PCA) technique were performed to investigate relations between spatial chaos indicators and the planning situation. The analysis of the data has revealed that spatial planning does not fulfil its role. Serious errors in location of buildings have been noted even though the communes are covered by local spatial development plans. Scientific knowledge is not sufficiently transferred into planning documents, and bottom-up initiatives cannot replace systemic solutions. There is a need for strengthening the role of environmental studies documents in the spatial planning system. This would facilitate the transfer of scientific knowledge into the planning process and help to protect mountain areas. The development of a special spatial strategy for the Polish Carpathians in compliance with the Carpathian Convention is also recommended.

Study on the Innovative Development Path of Rural Characteristic Sports Events in Ganzi Prefecture under the Background of Culture and Tourism Integration

Under the background of cultural and tourism integration, the development of rural characteristic sports events in Ganzi Prefecture faces new opportunities and challenges. By analyzing the rich culture, natural resources and the current situation of characteristic sports events in Ganzi Prefecture, this paper discusses how to innovate the development of these events in order to realize the deep integration of cultural tourism and rural sports and promote the development of local economy and society. The study finds that Ganzi Prefecture has a broad space for innovation in terms of event branding, integration of events and tourism projects, technological empowerment and community participation. To this end, this paper proposes an innovative path based on the excavation of local cultural resources, branding, digital promotion and industry linkage development, specifically including event branding, exploration of the integration mode of culture and tourism, the application of scientific and technological means, and the improvement of the community participation mechanism.

Low-carbon agricultural technologies improve forage and feed production in the Caatinga biome, Brazil: Characteristics, comparison, effects of climate change, resilience, local development, and food security

Adjustments in Brazilian livestock are necessary to minimize greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, since the largest source of methane comes from ruminants’ enteric fermentation, and of carbon from deforestation. Low-carbon agriculture technologies (LCAT) contribute to mitigating these emissions and this study evaluates the role of these technologies on ruminant forage production in Caatinga. A Strength, Weakness, Opportunity, and Threats analysis was used to elucidate the main features, followed by an Analytic Hierarchical Process, ranking the LCAT, and a risk analysis. Integrated Crop-Livestock-Forest System (ICLFS) is the most recommended technology, followed by Sustainable Forest Management (SFM) and Recovery of Degraded Areas with Pastures (RDA-P). The results can aid in the choice of the LCAT to be implemented by the smallholder in Caatinga, demonstrating the need to strengthen rural technical assistance, so that there is a real benefit to the producer and the environment.

Measuring the Unmeasurable: Decomposing Multidimensional Rural Poverty and Promoting Economic Development in the Poorest Region of Luzon, Philippines

Poverty is the oldest social problem that ever existed and is difficult to reverse. It is multidimensional and unmeasurable. Thus, measuring by decomposing rural multidimensional poverty is critical. Most poverty studies are usually generic, exposed to large sampling errors, and intended for macroeconomic decisions. Thus, measuring poverty for a specific locality with various configurations (15) is critical for economic development. The paper combines predictive analytics and advanced econometrics to decompose poverty at the micro-level by utilizing the Community-Based Monitoring system at complete enumeration (L = 34, S = 4). Logistic Regression (78) Models with 19 Independent Variables and 12 Intervening Variables were fitted. Headcount Analysis (0.2138–0.9845), Poverty Gap (0.2228–0.0502), Severity statistics (0.0723–0.0168) and Watts Index (0.2724–0.0618) are scrutinized. Poverty levels vary by location; a significant fraction of the population (P0i = 68.50%, P0f = 55.80%) and households (P0i = 63.70%, P0f = 50.70%) live below the poverty line and food threshold. It has been revealed that poverty is extreme in Isarog (i = 0.7793), moderate in Poblacion (p = 0.4019), intense in Ranggas (r = 0.6542), and severe in Salog (s = 0.6353). Multidimensional variables (13VAR) significantly predict poverty outcomes (p-value = 0.0000, PseudoR2 = 0.75). Moreover, intervening variables have been impacting poverty across all locals. All models tested are significant across all sectors and correctly predicted by the model classifications (Estat = 73.29–74.12%). Poverty is multifaceted; thus, it requires different interventions. Finally, policy proposals (54) were outlined to alleviate poverty and promote local economic development.

Advancement of Techniques for Precise Visualization and Quantification of Tertiary Lymphoid Structure-Associated Immune Cells in Tissue Samples.

Tertiary Lymphoid Structures (TLS) are considered as genuine markers of inflammation. Their presence within inflamed tissues or the tumor microenvironment has been associated with the local development of an active immune response. While high densities of TLS are correlated with disease severity in autoimmune diseases or during graft rejection, it has been associated with longer patient survival in many cancer types and more recently with positive responses to anti-PD-1 immunotherapy. Their efficient visualization and quantification within human tissues may represent new tools for helping clinicians in adjusting their therapeutic strategy. In clinical settings, the use of single-marker immunohistochemistry (IHC) protocols prevails in immune cell infiltration in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues. In contrast, the development of automated multiplex immunofluorescence markings, i.e., 40-plex, requires very costly investments in equipment and analysis stations. Yet, employing two or more markers can enhance the characterization of immune infiltrates, particularly in the context of TLS. Besides the growing development of multiplex labeling approaches, imaging can also be used to overcome some technical difficulties encountered during the immunolabeling of tissues with several markers.This chapter describes IHC methods to visualize in human tissue (tumoral or not) the presence of TLS. These methods are based on the immunostaining of four TLS-associated immune cell populations, namely, follicular B cells, follicular dendritic Cells (FDCs), mature Dendritic Cells (mDCs), and Follicular Helper T cells (TFH), together with non-TFH T cells. Methodologies for subsequent quantification of TLS density are also proposed, as well as a virtual multiplexing method based on image registration using the open-source software ImageJ (IJ), aiming at co-localizing several immune cell populations from different IHC stainings performed on serial tissue sections.

Perceptions of Local and Traditional Government Leaders for Enhancing Community Development

Purpose: There are two key governance forms in Ghana, specifically traditional governance and democratic governance. Accelerating development in the local communities requires effective collaboration and the fusion of the two governances divide to harness the unique capabilities and opportunities embedded within each paradigm. The perceptions hold by local and traditional leaders about each other is fundamental to collaborative efforts. Such perceptions speak to the psychosocial, convictional and behaviour of local leaders. Methodology: This study through a field survey samples the views of two leadership divide about each other in terms of their ability to drive positive change in the community to drive accelerated community development. The study was conducted among three select districts specifically, the Accra Metropolis, Kumasi Metropolis and the Tamale Metropolis using key informant interviews, and focus group discussions to gather the data. The data was analysed using thematic analysis. Findings: The findings of the study indicated that there are shared perceptions of strengths of both systems of governance for developing local communities. The traditional leaders are seen to be strong on cultural legitimacy, moral authority, communication competence, and historical knowledge, all of which helps in social mobilization within the local communities. The local government leaders were found to exercise strength in the areas of access to money and resources, legal authority, and enforcement authority. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: We conclude that there are opportunities to harness each of these strengths such that a successful fusion of local and traditional systems of government will lead transformative leadership for sustainable local development.

THE POTENTIAL FOR PEER-TO-PEER ELECTRICITY TRADING IN GEORGIA

The global energy transition is fundamentally reshaping electricity markets, moving from centralized systems reliant on fossil fuels to decentralized, renewable energy solutions. Distributed energy resources such as solar panels and storage batteries are empowering consumers to become active participants in the energy market. Peer-to-peer (P2P) electricity trading, enabled by blockchain technology, presents a new model for consumers to trade surplus energy directly with one another, bypassing traditional suppliers. This article explores the potential of P2P electricity trading in Georgia, a country with significant renewable energy resources but limited experience with decentralized energy systems. As Georgia aligns its energy policies with European regulations, the development of a P2P trading market could enhance energy security, empower prosumers, and drive local economic development. Through an analysis of global trends, technological innovations, and the current Georgian energy landscape, this article assesses the opportunities and challenges in implementing P2P trading. By building the necessary infrastructure and fostering public participation, Georgia has the potential to transform its energy market and contribute to a more resilient and sustainable energy future.

Sustainability Indicators of Family Farming in a Rural Community in the Amazon Interior

Objective: The objective of this work was to measure sustainability indicators using the MESMIS methodology in the Colônia do Uraim community in Paragominas, state of Pará, aiming to show the sustainability level of this productive activity. Theoretical Framework: This section introduces the concept and foundations of the MESMIS Method (Marco para Evaluación de Sistemas de Manejo de Recursos Naturales Incorporando Indicadores de Sustentabilidad), which assesses the sustainability of agroecosystems through indicators. Additionally, it explores the concept of sustainable development and the importance of specific indicators to evaluate and strengthen sustainability in family farming systems in the Amazon. Method: The research adopts a case study approach in a community within the Amazon, focusing on nine family agroecosystems. The MESMIS method was used, applying questionnaires and direct observations to gather data from the producers. The analysis was based on identifying and measuring sustainability indicators in the environmental, economic, and social dimensions, which were scored on a scale from 1 to 5. Results and Discussion: The results show an intermediate effort in environmental conservation, primarily through reforestation, but reveal economic and social challenges, such as low diversification of activities and the need for technical support, underscoring the need for public policies adapted to the local context. Research Implications: The implications of this research encompass both the practice of monitoring sustainability in agroecosystems and the development of support policies for family farming. This study is particularly relevant for environmental conservation initiatives and local economic development, providing essential data to improve sustainable agricultural practices. Originality/Value: The study contributes to the sustainability literature by applying and adapting the MESMIS method to Amazonian family agroecosystems, highlighting local specificities. This innovative approach enables a critical assessment and offers recommendations that can influence policies and sustainable development strategies in the region.

Analysis of Sustainability Variables in Revegetation of Ex-Oil and Gas Mining Operation

Revegetation after petroleum mining operations is a complex and multifaceted issue that requires careful consideration of sustainability factors to ensure long-term success. PT Pertamina Hulu Rokan has taken its environmental responsibilities seriously and has restored ex-mining land through replanting efforts at ex-well sites, ex-production facilities, and ex-borrow pits. This is important for environmental sustainability, especially after mining oil and gas. This study aims to identify important variables in maintaining the sustainability of revegetation activities at PT Pertamina Hulu Rokan by describing the intensity of influence and interdependence between variables and grouping them from the most influential to the least influential. Focus group discussions (FGDs) were used to collect data, and the MICMAC approach was used to analyze the relationships between variables. This research has identified 13 ecological, socioeconomic, and conflict mitigation variables that are important in land revegetation activities. Based on the results, the relationships between these variables have been derived by highlighting the key indicators that trigger sustainable revegetation efforts, namely variables such as envreg, amdal, local business development (lbd), and relationship. The lbd variable strongly influences the welfare variable, amdal, and the other variables strongly influence the company's image. Post-mining land revegetation efforts at PT Pertamina Hulu Rokan demonstrate the company's commitment to environmental sustainability. By considering sustainability variables in the revegetation process after petroleum mining operations, PT PHR ensures that its rehabilitation efforts can restore land while promoting sustainable practices and providing benefits to local communities.

Culinary Tourism and its Role in Diversifying Punjab Tourism Offerings

Culinary tourism, a rapidly growing niche within the tourism industry, encompasses travel experiences focused on exploring local food and drink, connecting visitors with a region’s unique culinary traditions. This paper examines culinary tourism in Punjab, India, a region known for its rich flavors, traditional cooking techniques, and vibrant food culture. Punjab’s culinary offerings, especially in cities like Amritsar, Jalandhar, and Patiala, have the potential to diversify and enhance its tourism appeal beyond religious and cultural tourism, attracting food enthusiasts and promoting cultural exchange. Through a descriptive analytical approach, this study explores how culinary tourism can serve as a driver for local economic development, supporting small businesses and local farmers while preserving Punjab’s cultural heritage. By highlighting local food festivals, traditional dishes, and farm-to-table experiences, the paper addresses how Punjab can leverage its culinary heritage to position itself as a premier destination for food tourism. Furthermore, this research emphasizes the role of culinary tourism in supporting sustainable economic development, underlining its potential to create jobs, preserve traditions, and diversify Punjab’s tourism market. The findings suggest that a robust culinary tourism strategy in Punjab can not only elevate the region's tourism profile but also contribute to a more resilient local economy. Keywords: Culinary Tourism, Cultural Heritage, Sustainable Economic Development, Food Tourism Punjab

The Development and Value of Sanbao Art Village in Jingdezhen China

Background and Aim: This study explores the construction and study value of Sanbao Art Village in Jingdezhen, China, to investigate how this art village promotes regional economic and social development through the power of art and culture. As one of the more mature art villages in China, the development history of Sanbao Art Village and its impact on culture inheritance and innovation play an important role in understanding the rural revitalization and development of cultural industries. This study aims to analyze the development process of Sanbao Art Village and inquire about its cultural, economic, and social value, as well as its significance and effect under the contemporary background. Materials and Methods: This study puts to use the methods of literature review and field survey, collects all the relevant information about Sanbao Art Village, and reorganizes the development history of Sanbao Art Village. Through an on-site investigation of Sanbao Art Village, the readers can intuitively understand the art village’s operation model, cultural value, social and economic impacts, and so on. Results: This study found that since its establishment in 1995, Sanbao Art Village has developed from an unknown small village into a well-known art creation and cultural exchange center at home and abroad. Its successful transformation is attributed to Li Jianshen’s founding philosophy and the joint efforts of the artists and the community. It combines effectively traditional ceramic techniques with modern art innovation, thus establishing a platform for international exchanges of ceramic art in Jingdezhen and even China. Sanbao Art Village has great important value in culture, economy, society, and other aspects. Conclusion: Two main conclusions are drawn through the research: (1) Sanbao Art Village has a positive impact on promoting cultural inheritance and innovation, stimulating economic vitality, and improving the quality of life of the community. The development practice of the art village provides a valuable reference for other regions to promote sustainable development by using art and cultural resources. (2) Sanbao Art Village not only combines the traditional ceramic culture and modern art innovation, creating a unique cultural and artistic ecosystem, but also attracts tourists from all overall the world and enhances the international reputation of Jingdezhen and even China’s ceramic art. It is an important place for cultural inheritance and artistic innovation and has made also significant contributions to the local economic development and social well-being.

ANÁLISE DO CASO BRASKEM EM MACEIÓ: UMA INVESTIGAÇÃO NO CONTEXTO DA CPI

This study analyzes the facts surrounding the rock salt extraction by Braskem in Maceió, Alagoas, within the context of investigations conducted by the Parliamentary Commission of Inquiry (PCI) on Braskem. The research employs an exploratory and descriptive qualitative approach, grounded in document analysis and literature review. The rock salt extraction, initiated in the 1970s, holds geological and economic relevance for the region, impacting neighborhoods in the city and presenting significant aspects for local development. The methodology follows the guidelines of Lakatos and Marconi (2010), structuring data collection through public documents, PCI reports, academic articles, and safety standards applicable to the mining sector. The analysis maps areas for improvement in operational and regulatory practices, categorizing them into three dimensions: documental, technical, and operational. The study draws comparisons with safety standards and practices exemplified by Codemin, a unit of Anglo American, which employs continuous monitoring systems and mine closure planning with environmental restoration. Based on these standards, the adoption of measures is suggested to contribute to operational safety and long-term sustainability, promoting practices aligned with responsible development.

The Clean Air Act and Local Employment Base Sensitivity

The Clean Air Act, an important part of U.S. federal environmental regulations, is designed to improve air quality in targeted localities. However, its implementation has unexpected impacts on local industrial structure. The authors identify the effect of nonattainment regulations under the Clean Air Act on the sensitivity of county employment to changes in the national economy, providing guidance for local economic development in counties affected by these regulations. The authors use nationwide, county-level, longitudinal data from 1979 to 2019 and adopt a difference-in-differences approach and implement Coarsened Exact Matching to make the treatment and control groups approximate a fully blocked experiment. The findings indicate that nonattainment for ground-level ozone and sulfur dioxide results in decreased employment sensitivity. This effect is seen immediately for ground-level ozone nonattainment, while it is not seen until 25 years for sulfur dioxide nonattainment. Furthermore, these employment effects persist after attainment status has been regained.

The Interplay Between China’s Regulated and Voluntary Carbon Markets and Its Influence on Renewable Energy Development—A Literature Review

This is the first review study that focuses on the interplay between China’s regulated and voluntary carbon markets, the Emissions Trading System (ETS), the China Certified Emission Reduction (CCER) scheme, and their combined influence on the development of renewable energy in the country. Through a comparative literature review of 52 peer-reviewed academic papers published between 2009 and 2024, this study aims to elucidate how these market mechanisms interact to drive renewable energy deployment. The findings indicate that both the ETS and the CCER system positively affect China’s renewable energy landscape. The ETS, with its Cap-and-Trade (CaT) mechanism, sets a cap on total emissions and allows for the trading of emission quotas, thereby creating financial incentives for companies to reduce emissions and invest in renewable energy. The CCER scheme complements the ETS by allowing companies to use the CCER scheme for a capped share of their ETS certificates, whereby the lower CCER price diverts investments to where the saved ton of CO2 in China is cheapest, further incentivizing investments in renewable energy. This dual mechanism allows for a more flexible and cost-effective approach to achieving emission reduction targets, thereby fostering an environment conducive to investment in renewable energy. It will stimulate additional investment in renewable energy projects in the long run, particularly in economically underdeveloped regions, contributing to both local economic development and national emission reduction targets.

Spatiotemporal Changes and Utilization Intensity of the Zhoushan Archipelago Coastline over Four Decades

Coastal changes in China, notably in the Zhoushan Islands, have primarily been driven by coastal reclamation since the establishment of New China. This study conducted a comprehensive analysis of the Zhoushan Archipelago shoreline spanning four decades, employing remote sensing, aerial photographs, and shoreline data since 1984, along with GIS (Geographic Information System) technology. We assessed shoreline changes using the shoreline change index and shoreline artificialization index, as well as examined the influence of the Yangtze River’s suspended sediment and impoldering activities on Zhoushan’s shoreline. Furthermore, the correlation between local economic development and shoreline development was explored. The results revealed the following key findings: (1) From 1984 to 2018, the Zhoushan Archipelago shoreline decreased by 7.05 km. Temporally, the shoreline change index was −0.08%, with the most significant reduction occurring between 2008 and 2018. Spatially, differences among island groups were not pronounced. (2) The shoreline diversity index consistently increased, indicating greater diversity and complexity in shoreline use over the four decades. (3) The shoreline artificiality index steadily rose, particularly after 2000. It was highest in the south, followed by the center, and lowest in the north. (4) The intensity index of coastal land use continuously increased, with the southern island group having a higher index compared to the Zhoushan Islands. (5) The Yangtze River contributed significantly to sand inflow, influencing shoreline changes and beach shaping in Zhejiang. However, reclamation projects were identified as the primary and direct factor. (6) A positive correlation existed between Zhoushan City’s economic development and the intensity of coastal land use. This study emphasized the need for improving the control over reclamation projects and the better management of coastal protection and use. These measures could optimize resource allocation and establish a more scientific and rational coastal zone pattern.