Local Resources Research Articles

The Elevation of the Grassroots Economy Based on Local Resources to Create High Value for Sales in the Modern Trade Market: A Case Study of Krasang District, Buriram Province, Thailand

The objectives of this research were to study the production problems, the factors influencing the production of community products based on local resources to enhance their value, and the strategies for elevating the grassroots economy based on local resources for sale in the modern trade market. The case study focused on Krasang District, Buriram Province. The sample group consisted of 50 community product entrepreneurs selected by purposive sampling and 100 consumers selected through the Taro Yamane formula. The tools used included questionnaires, and the statistical methods applied were percentage, mean, standard deviation, T-test, and F-test. The research findings revealed that the most common production problem was in the area of modern market sales (4.71), with the most critical issue being the distribution of products to purchasing markets (4.76). The factors influencing the production of community products based on production resources were generally rated at a high level (4.32). When examined in detail, the highest-ranked factor was consumer behavior, particularly the preference for unique, identity-driven products. The second-ranked factor was related to community products, specifically the creation of a brand reflecting the community's historical identity. Comparisons by gender and education level showed no significant differences in opinions, with statistical significance at the .05 level.

Effects and Consequences of Climate Change on the Natural Conditions of Mirzachol District

This article examines the effects and consequences of climate change on the natural conditions of Mirzachol district. Through an in-depth analysis of climate data, ecological studies and socio-economic impacts, the study highlights significant changes in temperature, precipitation and extreme weather events in recent decades. These changes have led to changes in local ecosystems, agricultural productivity, and water resources, challenging the county’s predominantly agricultural economy. The paper also discusses existing adaptation strategies and mitigation efforts and recommends additional measures to increase resilience to future climate change.

IMPLEMENTING FLOOD-RESISTANT DESIGN STRATEGIES IN COASTAL REGIONS

This systematic review synthesizes findings from 85 articles to examine flood-resistant design strategies in coastal regions, emphasizing an integrated approach that combines traditional engineering solutions, nature-based strategies, green infrastructure, adaptive design, and predictive modeling. The review identifies a continuing reliance on engineered defenses, such as seawalls and automated floodgates, which have proven effective but are limited in addressing the escalating impact of climate change. Findings highlight the growing importance of nature-based solutions—wetlands, mangroves, and coral reefs—that not only mitigate flood risks but also enhance biodiversity and long-term sustainability. Green infrastructure, including permeable pavements and rain gardens, emerges as a valuable urban solution, although it faces implementation challenges in densely populated areas. The integration of predictive modeling and real-time data is transforming flood management by enabling proactive and adaptive responses, though these technologies remain financially inaccessible for many regions. Comparative analysis underscores that flood-resilient design is highly context-dependent, with successful practices varying based on local geography, resources, and socio-economic factors. This review concludes that future flood-resilient infrastructure must prioritize adaptable, sustainable, and region-specific solutions, highlighting the need for cross-disciplinary collaboration and continued policy support to enhance flood resilience and protect vulnerable coastal communities against the effects of climate change.

The Characterization of the Building Materials Used in the Refectory of the Manzana Jesuítica in Córdoba (Argentina) on the Basis of a Study of Its Historical Background and the Archaeological Evidence

This paper explores the historical and geological background of the refectory of the Manzana Jesuítica in the city of Córdoba (Argentina), as a basis for characterising some of the building materials used in it. The aim is to gain a better understanding of the raw materials, labour, and production methods employed by the Jesuits in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. To this end, six fragments containing brick, render, and paint layers were studied by X-ray diffraction and using optical and scanning electron microscopies. Our results show that the ceramics differed solely in terms of their firing temperature, while the mortars were either air lime- or gypsum-based. The paints, mainly lime-based with clays, have similar mineralogical compositions, with some differences in colour due to the presence of goethite. This study demonstrates that the Jesuits, through their strategically situated settlements in the province of Córdoba, developed an economic system for the extraction and transport of raw materials, centred around the use of local resources. This, combined with construction techniques imported from Spain and adapted to local circumstances, was a sign of the adaptability of the Jesuit Order and their lasting influence on the region. Understanding the materials and techniques used by the Jesuits provides valuable insight into the methods of construction employed in historical buildings, offering key perspectives for their conservation. Moreover, it highlights the significance of local resource management in the longevity and preservation of these architectural works.

Research on Rural e-commerce Development under the Background of Rural Revitalization — Take Daji Town of Cao County as an Example

Rural revitalization has always been an important proposition of The Times. In the context of rural revitalization, the traditional sales methods have also taken a new turn, and the shopping form of "Internet + sales" is gradually accepted by the public. Rural society has also been exposed to the Internet, and has quietly changed the new sales mode. Some rural areas have combined local resources with the Internet, expanded product sales channels, and increased economic income through e-commerce. Thanks to the development of e-commerce, many poor villages have gradually been lifted out of poverty and embarked on the road of prosperity. Now it has become a wealthy Taobao town. Daji Town, Caoxian County, Heze City, Shandong Province, is such a typical village for Internet sales. Through the analysis of rural e-commerce in Daji town, this paper puts forward relevant suggestions for the existing problems of rural e-commerce in Daji town.

Development of Biscuits from Winged Beans (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus L.) as a Primary Source for Milk Production

Background: The high prevalence of stunting, notably in Aceh at 31.2%, highlights the urgent requirement for effective nutrition interventions. Utilizing local resources like winged bean flour in food products can play a vital role in enhancing maternal and infant health, addressing malnutrition, and improving breastfeeding outcomes Objective: This study aims to develop biscuits from winged beans (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus L.) as a primary source for enhancing milk production. Winged beans are known to be rich in protein and essential nutrients for the health of breastfeeding mothers. Methodology: This study employs a true experimental design involving clinical trials on rabbits, proximate analysis, and sensory acceptance testing. In the first year, the focus is on developing winged bean biscuit formulas, conducting nutritional and contamination tests, and measuring weight and milk volume in animal trials. The research will take place from March to August 2024 at various locations, including the Nutrition Department at Aceh Health Polytechnic and Syiah Kuala University. In this research, biscuits were produced with varying additions of winged bean flour at 0%, 10%, 15%, and 20% in the biscuit recipe. Results: The results indicate that biscuits containing winged bean flour can increase milk production in female rabbits and show significant weight gain after biscuit consumption. Proximate analysis reveals good nutritional content, while testing for harmful metal contamination ensures product safety. Organoleptic acceptance testing shows that these biscuits are well-received by consumers. These findings affirm the potential of winged beans as a local food source that can support the health of mothers and children, contributing to efforts to combat malnutrition in Indonesia. Conclusion:. Biscuit made from winged bean flour can enhance milk production and weight gain in female rabbits, while offering good nutritional content and being free from contamination. These findings support the potential of winged beans as a local food source to address malnutrition in Indonesia.

Study of the Importance of Irrigation Projects to Agricultural Water Resources Using the Baiqi Canal as an Example

In the global economic system, the stable development of agriculture as a basic industry is inseparable from the rational utilization of water resources. Irrigation projects play a vital role in ensuring agricultural water use, increasing grain output and promoting agricultural sustainable development. This study aims to explore the scientific experience of Baiqi Canal, an excellent irrigation project in ancient China, and its profound value as a world irrigation project heritage, analyze the importance of irrigation projects to agricultural water resources, and promote the protection and sustainable utilization of irrigation project heritage. Firstly, the irrigation mode of Baiqi Canal and its important role in agricultural development were introduced, and then its influence on local agricultural water resources and ecological environment was analyzed. Finally, the positive influence of international irrigation projects on agricultural water resources was further discussed, and its key role in ensuring food security and promoting agricultural sustainable development was emphasized.

Climate Change Adaptation and Resource Resilience in Semi-Arid Regions: Strategies, Challenges, and Case Studies

Semi-arid regions face unique climate change challenges that threaten local ecosystems, agriculture, and water resources. This review explores climate adaptation strategies, resource resilience practices, and policy interventions tailored to semi-arid ecosystems, with a focus on Rajasthan, India, as a representative region. Key strategies include sustainable water resource management, soil conservation, and climate-smart agriculture. Through case studies and a comparative global analysis, this review underscores the importance of blending traditional and modern practices to enhance resilience and advocates for policy and technological innovation to support sustainable adaptation. Insights gained from this review may serve as a foundation for adaptation strategies applicable to other semi-arid regions globally.

Design-Driven Sustainable Poverty Alleviation: A Case Study of Precise Identification and Resource Optimization in Rural Areas

China’s transition from precise poverty alleviation to rural revitalization represents a critical development stage. This study aims to explore how a design-driven approach can achieve sustainable poverty alleviation and development by addressing challenges such as relative poverty, imprecise targeting, insufficient endogenous motivation, and the risk of returning to poverty. Understanding the inherent relationship between poverty alleviation and sustainable development is crucial for deepening precise poverty alleviation strategies and promoting rural revitalization. This study employs the TOPSIS method to accurately identify target groups for poverty eradication and select optimal poverty alleviation strategies based on multidimensional poverty governance criteria. A case study of Village M in Guangdong Province is conducted, where questionnaire surveys and sampling methods are used to establish the TOPSIS model for precise identification and the design of targeted interventions to support poverty eradication. Both qualitative and quantitative approaches are applied to ensure comprehensive analysis and results. The findings indicate that targeted design interventions, particularly those leveraging local bamboo resources, led to a significant increase in the annual per capita income of identified families by approximately 176.32%, from RMB 3146 (approximately USD 431) to RMB 8700 (approximately USD 1192). This design-driven approach effectively stimulated the innovation consciousness of impoverished farmers, demonstrating the critical role of sustainable design strategies in optimally matching resources to the needs of the poor. This study contributes to the development of a novel framework integrating design methodologies with poverty alleviation strategies, providing empirical evidence on the effectiveness of these interventions. The findings highlight the importance of user-centered design in promoting sustainable development and underscore the need to incorporate design-driven methodologies in poverty alleviation efforts.

Loneliness and Social Isolation: qualitative study among youth in vulnerable situations

Abstract Background Loneliness and social isolation are increasing among young people, particularly those in vulnerable NEET (Not in Education, Employment or Training) situations, potentially leading to poor health and well-being outcomes. We aim to explore these challenges from the perspective of NEET youngsters and link workers who support them in co-creating individual action plans for their social and economic integration. Methods Data were collected through in-depth and semi-structured interviews with 15 young people in NEET situations, aged 18-34, and 7 link workers from several social organisations in rural and urban areas in Portugal. The young participants were selected based on their age, educational level, mental health needs, and urban/rural regions. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the interviews. Results The results showed a convergence between the perspectives of young people and link workers on the factors that influence social isolation and loneliness, including social and emotional skill deficits, excessive use of social media platforms, and mental health problems. Young people reported to being heavily involved in social media platforms, which often did not translate into meaningful relationships in real life. Youngsters also highlighted the lack of local support and community resources in rural areas. Link workers identified specific challenges young migrants face in community integration, including language barriers (for the youth with a migrant origin) and lack of familiarity with local resources. Conclusions This study highlights social media platforms, mental health and social and emotional skill deficits as main factors contributing to the social isolation and loneliness of young people in a NEET situation. This emphasizes the importance of integrated proximity-based interventions that incorporate community resource mapping and local support networks, including mental health support services, and promote multi-sector collaboration. Key messages • Social media platforms, mental health needs, and social and emotional skill deficits drive social isolation in NEET youth, stressing integrated, community-focused interventions. • Proximity-based strategies with community mapping and mental health support enhance NEET youths’ social integration, urging cross-sector collaboration.

Monsoonal impacts on the community trophic niches in two temperate headwater tributaries across a land use continuum

Pulsed flows following heavy monsoon rain events alter riverine food webs, but their impact on headwater stream food webs across the continuum from forested canopy to open agricultural land use remains unclear. We investigated carbon and nitrogen stable isotopes in macroinvertebrates and fish in two tributaries of the Suyeung River, Korea, before and after heavy monsoon rains to assess changes in community trophic niches. Basal resources (leaf litter and biofilms) exhibited consistent δ13C and δ15N values across seasons, with biofilms showing higher δ13C values. δ15N values increased from forested to agricultural reaches, indicating varied nutrient inputs. Consumer isotope values remained stable over time but varied longitudinally, reflecting reliance on local resources. Trophic niches differed between watershed locations but overlapped seasonally. Despite a decrease in consumer δ13C ranges after heavy rainfalls, variations in their δ15N ranges and the ellipse centroid (SEAc) of isotopic niches between sites resulted in broadly consistent SEAc across locations and seasons. This indicates limited evidence for directional reshaping of food-web properties across channel reaches following monsoon rains. Downstream isotopic shifts suggest substantial agricultural influences on food webs. Overall, our findings highlight that monsoon rains may have minimal effects on the community trophic niches of stream food webs.

Exploring Stakeholder Perspectives on the Implementation of WHO iSupport for Dementia Program: A Qualitative Study.

To explore the stakeholders' perspectives and develop a conceptual framework for promotion strategies to implement the iSupport-based intervention for family caregivers of people with dementia. A descriptive qualitative design was adopted. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 49 stakeholders of people with dementia from July to December 2023. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research was applied to guide the development of the interview guide, data collection and analysis. Directed content analysis was employed to identify facilitators and barriers, with data analysed based on the framework and the established its codebook. These findings were then summarised into a conceptual framework of critical components. The identified 16 barriers and 28 facilitators were distributed across all Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research domains. All facilitators and barriers were integrated into a conceptual framework guiding the implementation of iSupport. This four-tier, eight-component conceptual framework guides the global promotion of the web-based dementia care model, covering state, society, hospitals, individuals and strategies. The components included comprehensive and balanced national medical guidelines, a friendly social culture, adequate hospital collaboration, cooperative healthcare workers, responsible family caregivers, a comprehensive intervention system, appropriate learning content and digital health support. The 'iSupport for Dementia' program is seen positively for its potential to improve dementia care by providing mental and technical support to family caregivers. Successful implementation requires addressing barriers, enhancing facilitators and adapting to China's conditions and policies. Mobilising local healthcare resources and gaining stakeholder recognition is crucial. This approach may help develop a localised version of iSupport that suits the needs and habits of Chinese family caregivers, with the potential for broader dissemination. The 'iSupport for Dementia' program could greatly improve dementia care in China by addressing barriers and utilising facilitators. This study offers critical insights for future policy development and effective implementation strategies. Adherence to the COREQ guidelines for reporting qualitative research was maintained. No patient or public contribution.

Social prescribers’ referral processes and decision-making about healthy eating and physical activity

Abstract Background Social Prescribing (SP) connects primary care patients with non-medical sources of support within the community. There are various SP models, with different referral routes. Many involve patients being referred to a link practitioner, who considers their needs and then “prescribes” or links them to appropriate local support services or resources, typically provided by the third sector. The present study aimed to explore the SP process and the decision-making of link practitioners, particularly around food and physical activity practices. Methods Sixteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with link practitioners working across Aberdeen City. A pragmatic Thematic Framework analysis was undertaken. Findings Participating link practitioners described their approach with clients as building rapport and trust while maintaining boundaries and managing expectations, and their community role as resource mapping and networking. Three broad categories of factors were considered during referral: 1) practicality (e.g., location, transport, cost, mobility, availability), 2) clients’ engagement (e.g., interest, motivation, readiness for change), and 3) link practitioners’ past experiences with services. Challenges identified included navigating waiting lists and service limitations, clients’ engagement and expectations, under-resourced services, navigating waiting lists with caseloads and the emotional burden of seeing people in very difficult situations. All link practitioners considered diet and exercise to fit within the remit of social prescribing but emphasised that clients should lead this discussion. Dietary support via social prescribing typically revolved around poverty rather than health. Discussion The study provides insight into the practical reality of making social prescribing decisions and has the potential to inform training and evaluation processes and support the development of health-focused social prescribing lifestyle interventions. Key messages • Social prescribing – a personalised approach, with clients supported to identify and achieve their health and wellbeing goals based on their strengths and resources available in the local community. • Social Prescribing - a promising platform for offering healthy eating interventions tailored to individual needs.

Investigation of an optimal control strategy for a cholera disease transmission model with programs

Cholera is a disease of poverty affecting people with inadequate access to safe water and basic sanitation. Conflict, unplanned urbanization and climate change all increase the risk of cholera. In this article, an optimal control deterministic mathematical model of cholera disease with cost-effectiveness analysis is developed and analyzed considering both direct and indirect contact transmission pathways. The model qualitative behaviors, such as the invariant region, the existence of a positive invariant solution, the two equilibrium points (disease-free and endemic equilibrium), and their stabilities (local as well as global stability) of the model are studied. Moreover, the basic reproduction number of the model is obtained. We also performed sensitivity analysis of the basic parameters of the model. Then an optimal control problem is designed with a control functional having five controls: vaccination, treatment, environment sanitation and personal hygiene, and water quality improvement program. We examined the existence and uniqueness of the optimal controls of the system. Through the implementation of Pontryagin's maximum principle, the characterization of the optimal controls optimality system is established. The numerical simulation results the integrated control strategies demonstrated that strategy 2, 7, and 12 are effective programs to combat cholera disease from the community. Based on the local circumstances, available funds, and resources, it is recommended to the government stakeholders and policymakers to execute any one of the three integrated intervention programs.

Kewirausahaan Sosial di Muara Teweh: Membangun Ekonomi Komunitas Melalui Inovasi dan Kolaborasi yang Berkelanjutan

This study explores social entrepreneurship in Muara Teweh, focusing on how innovative practices and collaborative efforts contribute to community economic development. The research employs a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) methodology to analyze existing literature related to social entrepreneurship and its impacts on local economies. By examining various case studies and theoretical frameworks, this paper identifies key factors that facilitate successful social entrepreneurial initiatives in Muara Teweh. The findings reveal that innovation and collaboration not only enhance the effectiveness of social enterprises but also foster sustainable economic growth in the community. This study highlights the importance of integrating local resources and knowledge, as well as the role of community engagement in driving social entrepreneurship forward. The research concludes with recommendations for policymakers and practitioners to enhance the effectiveness of social entrepreneurship in Muara Teweh, emphasizing the need for supportive frameworks that encourage innovation and collaboration among stakeholders.

Kewirausahaan Sosial di Muara Teweh: Membangun Ekonomi Komunitas Melalui Inovasi dan Kolaborasi yang Berkelanjutan

This study explores social entrepreneurship in Muara Teweh, focusing on how innovative practices and collaborative efforts contribute to community economic development. The research employs a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) methodology to analyze existing literature related to social entrepreneurship and its impacts on local economies. By examining various case studies and theoretical frameworks, this paper identifies key factors that facilitate successful social entrepreneurial initiatives in Muara Teweh. The findings reveal that innovation and collaboration not only enhance the effectiveness of social enterprises but also foster sustainable economic growth in the community. This study highlights the importance of integrating local resources and knowledge, as well as the role of community engagement in driving social entrepreneurship forward. The research concludes with recommendations for policymakers and practitioners to enhance the effectiveness of social entrepreneurship in Muara Teweh, emphasizing the need for supportive frameworks that encourage innovation and collaboration among stakeholders.

Navigating overtourism destinations: Leveraging smart tourism solutions for sustainable travel experience

<p>This paper explores the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and smart tourism technologies to address the multifaceted challenges of overtourism in tourist destinations. Overtourism leads to significant environmental degradation, strains local resources, and diminishes visitor satisfaction, ultimately threatening the sustainability of these destinations. Destinations can enhance sustainability and tailor travel experiences by utilizing cutting-edge technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT), augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and big data analytics. These technologies offer innovative solutions to optimize resource use, enhance visitor engagement, and promote responsible tourism practices. The study underscores the potential of smart tourism technologies to manage tourist flows, reduce environmental impacts, and improve the overall quality of life for local communities. Strategic planning, substantial investment, and collaboration among various stakeholders, including government agencies, local communities, and the private sector, are essential for the successful implementation of these solutions. The findings highlight the critical role of technological innovation in fostering a balanced and sustainable future for tourism, ensuring that destinations can thrive economically while preserving their cultural and natural heritage. This research provides valuable insights for policymakers and tourism managers aiming to mitigate the adverse effects of overtourism through the adoption of AI and smart tourism technologies.</p>

Community-led management of the (urban) commons: lessons from the Narroways Nature Reserve, Bristol

ABSTRACT At a local level, the role of urban green spaces for tackling sustainability issues has received renewed attention, in line with a wider shift in thinking which places cities at the heart of sustainable development action. In parallel, funding for green space provision has reduced, prompting Local Authorities to reimagine how green spaces are governed, including transferring authority to communities. Preference for community-led green spaces is frequently justified with reference to normative arguments derived from “commons” theory, which advocate for self-governing institutions as effective means of managing local resources. What is lacking in this literature is a contemporary focus on urban settings, operational prescription, and an awareness of the real challenges facing self-governance. To fill this gap, the different interactions with, and claims over, a self-governed nature reserve in Bristol, UK, are investigated; alongside the operational and legal mechanisms deployed in its governance and management. Findings reveal that governing commonly held green space in an urban context is highly complex and requires reconciling a multiplicity of claims, interests, and values. This manifests in tensions and challenges for governance, including trade-offs between autonomy and wider support, problematic decisions around prioritisation; and difficulty in establishing and legitimising norms whilst advocating for shared use. This deep empirical case provides valuable insights for policymakers and theorists as they continue to make decisions concerning the future of urban green spaces, in different localities and across scales.

Effects of screening coverage and screening quality assurance on cervical cancer mortality: Implication for integrated framework to monitor global implementation of cervical cancer screening programmes.

Cervical cancer is a global health threat and a manifestation of inequality, and screening is an effective intervention. However, little is known about how screening coverage and quality assurance, influence cervical cancer mortality. We aimed to investigate the association between screening coverage, screening quality assurance and cervical cancer mortality among women from countries at different developmental levels. We obtained data on age-standardised mortality from cervical cancer from the GLOBOCAN 2020 database; coverage of cervical cancer screening from World Health Organization (WHO) Global Health Observatory; and cervical screening programme settings and quality assurance from the Cancer Screening in Five Continents (CanScreen5) database. We assessed the dependency of cervical cancer age-standardised mortality on screening coverage and quality assurance by simple and multiple regression models. We also used linear regression models to identify factors that improved the screening coverage. The study included data from 53 countries. Reduced mortality was associated with increased screening programme quality assurance in 22 high-development countries. In 31 low-development countries, screening coverage in women aged 30-49 years was inversely associated with cervical cancer mortality. Political commitment (documentation of the cervical cancer screening policy as law) and financial support (treatment services provided free of charge) positively associated with screening coverage. Screening programmes need strengthening commensurate with local resources and context. Priority should be given to improving screening coverage through stronger political commitment and financial support in low-development countries, and to ensuring good performance at all levels in high-development countries.

Living with COPD and its psychological effects on participating in community-based physical activity in Brazil: a qualitative study. Findings from the Breathe Well group

Physical activity (PA) improves dyspnoea, psychological wellbeing and quality of life (QoL) for people with COPD reducing their risk of exacerbation. However, engagement in PA is low especially amongst those with anxiety and depression, and PA programmes are limited in countries with limited resources such as Brazil. We explored perceptions of 21 people with COPD about the impact of their disease on taking part in community-based PA programmes in Sao Paulo, Brazil through semi-structured telephone interviews from October 2020 to April 2021. Discussions were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analysed using the Framework method. Five themes were identified: Knowledge about COPD and its management; Self-perception of life with COPD; Knowledge and experiences of depression and anxiety; Opinions on PA and repercussions of COVID-19. PA was considered to be important in bringing physical and mental health benefits but there were barriers in accessibility of formal PR programmes and therefore local community PA programmes were considered to be important. People with mental health conditions tended to view PA more negatively. COVID-19 had reduced PA opportunities, access to COPD treatment and social interaction, and was associated with more exacerbations and emotional suffering. In general, this study showed an urgent need to improve knowledge about COPD and its risk factors and management among both patients, the public and primary healthcare professionals. We provide important content for the formulation of public policies for the implementation of specific activity programmes for people with COPD in community spaces using local resources and intersectoral partnerships.