Stakeholder Perceptions Research Articles

A Qualitative Insight into Pre-Departure Orientation Training for Aspiring Nepalese Migrant Workers.

Pre-departure orientation training (PDOT) can help equip aspiring migrant workers with skills and knowledge to mitigate vulnerabilities throughout their migration journey, including health. In Nepal, PDOT has been mandatory since 2004 for migrant workers awaiting labour permits. The current PDOT programme includes country-specific information as well as health and well-being advice. However, the views of trainees and trainers on PDOT are largely unknown. This qualitative study aims to explore perceptions of migrant workers and relevant stakeholders on the content and delivery of PDOT. Six focus group discussions and six in-depth interviews were conducted with migrants, and eight interviews with key stakeholders were conducted. Thematic analysis resulted in five themes: (a) PDOT structure, accessibility, and implementation; (b) role of stakeholders in labour migration process; (c) coordination and governance; (d) curriculum development and relevance; and (e) capacity of trainers and effectiveness of training. Our findings emphasise the need for a more tailored curriculum with relevant information, education, and communication resources, possibly with input from former migrant workers. Regular updates of training topics and resources, as well as continued engagement with migrants after their employment, are essential for meeting the dynamic demands of the global employment market.

Reintroduced, but not accepted: Stakeholder perceptions of beavers in Germany

Abstract While reintroductions of regionally extinct native species usually benefit ecosystems, reintroduced animals often struggle to locate appropriate habitats where they can establish themselves without conflict with humans. European beavers (Castor fiber) were successfully reintroduced to Germany almost 60 years ago and have reached high abundances again. As beavers can damage trees and change landscapes, they are increasingly in conflict with humans. We investigated human perceptions of beavers in Germany using an online survey, as they are an example of a reintroduced species with an expanding population and potential conflicts with humans. We asked participants about their emotions (anger, fear, interest, joy) towards beavers and what they consider to be acceptable beaver habitats. Of nearly 1500 survey participants, 803 (53%) were from the general public, 475 (32%) from the agricultural sector and 219 (15%) from forestry. People in these sectors had very different perspectives: beavers were positively perceived by the general public, but negatively by stakeholders working in agriculture and forestry. Independently of stakeholder groups, we also found regional differences, as participants from Bavaria—the German state with the highest beaver densities—viewed beavers more negatively than those from the rest of Germany. Zoos and wildlife parks, as well as urban and nature conservation areas, were considered to be the most acceptable habitats for beavers, whereas survey participants did not accept private gardens and cultivated areas as beaver habitats. We discuss the sources of negative emotions towards beavers and how ecologically suitable habitats differ from those that appear acceptable by humans. Even 60 years after their reintroduction, beavers in Germany are still being recognized as both a novelty and a nuisance. Our findings highlight the need for active beaver management and increased public engagement to enable positive coexistence between beavers and humans in Germany. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.

Perceptions of Stakeholders and the Way Forward to Implementing the Family Adoption Programme in Medical Education: A Study From Assam, India.

Background The Family Adoption Programme (FAP) has been introduced under the competency-based medical education curriculum wherein each medical student adopts families. Theobjective of this study was to determine the stakeholders' perspective and to suggest measures to make it relevant for Indian medical graduates. Methodology A mixed-method study was conducted among the faculty, undergraduate students, and community using prestructured, validated instruments. The quantitative data were entered into Microsoft Excel (Microsoft Corp., Redmond, WA) and analysed, while the qualitative data were coded and analysed thematically. Results All faculty members (12, 100%), the majority of students (49, 44.30%), and the community members strongly agreed that the policy decision to introduce the FAP was 'right'.The benefits mentioned were that FAP helps improve knowledge, psychomotor skills, attitudes and communication, attitude and behaviour skills, understanding of the social structures, health status of the community, and health-seeking behaviour of the families and provides an appropriate early clinical exposure. The challenges mentioned were selecting a site, gaining cooperation from family, communication, arrangement of logistics and transportation, gettingsupport from teachers, difficulties in managing students in the community and coordinating among faculty, staff and students. Most faculty members recommended that the FAP should be started later in the curriculum and there should be restrictions on the number of families to be adopted. The students suggested that adequate logistics be provided as well as a reduction in the number of family visits. Conclusion The programme has been welcomed by most stakeholders. It requires the necessary support from the institution authorities, prior planning of visits, judicious utilization of social media, and coordination with government field-level health workers e.g. Accreditated Social Health Activists (ASHA).A comprehensive program evaluation and formulation of a standard operating module will further strengthen the programme.

‘Stakeholder Perceptions’ of the Impacts of Climatic Features on Residents and Residences: A UK Study

Liveable housing environments face the menace of global climate change. Built infrastructure (including buildings and houses) continuously experiences significant impacts that are exacerbated by natural variability in the climate. Our study examined how climate change impacts the resilience of residential buildings, increases maintenance frequency, and the wellbeing and comfort of residents in UK residential buildings. This study used deductive reasoning and an empirical epistemological methodology as the basis of primary data collection via a questionnaire survey. The instrument was designed to gather data on the frequency of maintenance and the wellbeing of residents and their perceptions regarding the impacts of climate change. Through regression analysis of the data, the findings showed a significant relationship between climate change and the wellbeing of the occupants of UK residential buildings. Also, physical wellbeing and social wellbeing are more important to the occupants than their mental wellbeing. The cost of maintenance of residential buildings in the UK has an upward trajectory due to the continuously reducing resilience of building fabrics caused by the impacts of climate change; for instance, a recent increase in rainfall/storms resulted in unprecedented flooding, which damaged the fabrics of some UK residential buildings.

ЗАРУБІЖНИЙ ДОСВІД КОРПОРАТИВНОЇ СОЦІАЛЬНОЇ ВІДПОВІДАЛЬНОСТІ

In today's dynamic business landscape, the concept of social responsibility has gained prominence, prompting enterprises to reassess their roles and responsibilities in society. This article undertakes a thorough examination of the definitions of social responsibility proposed by a multitude of authors and scholars. By synthesizing these perspectives, we aim to provide a nuanced understanding that guides enterprises in their pursuit of ethical, sustainable, and socially impactful practices.The primary objective is to comprehensively investigate the relationship between Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives and business performance across various industries and geographic regions. Specifically, the article aims to achieve the following: Analyze the Effectiveness of CSR Practices: The article seeks to assess the effectiveness of different CSR initiatives undertaken by businesses. Measure Financial and Non-Financial Performance Metrics: The study will evaluate the impact of CSR initiatives on both financial performance indicators (e.g., revenue, profitability, stock performance) and non-financial metrics (e.g., brand reputation, customer loyalty, employee satisfaction). Assess Stakeholder Perceptions and Expectations: Understanding the perspectives of key stakeholders, including consumers, investors, employees, and regulatory bodies, is crucial in evaluating the effectiveness of CSR initiatives. Explore Industry and Regional Differences: Business environments vary significantly across industries and geographic regions, leading to diverse approaches to CSR adoption and implementation. Identify Opportunities and Challenges: examine the challenges and limitations associated with CSR implementation. This article provides actionable insights for businesses to leverage CSR initiatives effectively. By aligning CSR practices with stakeholder expectations, leveraging industry insights, and addressing associated challenges, companies can foster sustainable business practices. This not only optimizes business performance but also contributes positively to society. Integrating CSR into corporate strategies emerges as imperative for driving long-term success and societal impact, highlighting the importance of responsible business practices in today's dynamic landscape.

Ethics and context in second language testing: rethinking validity in theory and practice. M. Rafael Salaberry, Albert Weideman, and Wei-Li Hsu (2023). New York, Routledge, 248 Pages, ISBN 9781032471754

A resounding body of scholarship highlights the necessity of considering ethical concerns and social impacts of language tests and assessment practices in second language (L2) education (Brown & Harris, 2016; Davies, 2008; Fan et al., 2017). Without taking these issues into account, ensuring the right, reliable, and fair judgment is a tough task for L2 practitioners (Cohen, 2006; Gipps & Stobart, 2009). Inspired by the significance of ethics in L2 assessment, various studies have been done on the perceptions of stakeholders and common professional codes of ethics in the field of L2 education (Brown et al., 2020; Shohamy, 2020). Nevertheless, the situated nature of ethics across contextual particularities and in light of test validation theory has remained under-addressed. Urged to bridge this gap, Salaberry, Weideman, and Hsu (2023) compiled a handbook entitled “Ethics and Context in Second Language Testing: Rethinking Validity in Theory and Practice”, as a timely response to the need for a critical approach to L2 assessment. In so doing, they collected the voices of different stakeholders from different languages and contexts to comprehensively picture the status of social justice and equity in language education. The book, hence, provides an overview of key concepts, theories, and models of ethics and validity in language education and makes seminal suggestions for researching and practicing these constructs. This invaluable handbook is momentous for teachers, students, and researchers, especially those majoring in applied linguistics, sociolinguistics, and language policy and planning.

Developing a mobile exercise program for individuals with Spinal Cord Injury: Stakeholder perceptions of app features and implementation determinants

BackgroundIndividuals with Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) often experience physical deconditioning, leading to long-term health challenges. While regular exercise can offer substantial health benefits, adherence to exercise guidelines among individuals with SCI is hindered by barriers such as inaccessibility. Exercise programs using the mobile application (App) tailored to individual needs present a promising solution for promoting exercise adherence among individuals with SCI. ObjectiveThis study aimed to identify factors contributing to the successful implementation of an app-based home exercise program for individuals with SCI and gather user feedback on app preferences, functionality, and features. MethodsGuided by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR), twenty-six clinicians completed an expert panel survey to rank factors influencing the implementation of an app-based intervention for increasing exercise adherence for individuals with SCI. CFIR-selected factors and app quality features obtained from the Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS) framework were discussed in seven focus groups with 23 individuals with SCI, 6 caregivers, and 6 clinicians. ResultsThe expert survey identified adaptability, complexity, evidence strength/quality, relative advantage, knowledge/beliefs about the initiative, and execution as the key CFIR factors that affected the intervention's success. Major themes emerging from focus groups with individuals with SCI and caregivers included usability, instruction and guidelines, user-friendly interface, and clinician interaction. In contrast, clinicians mentioned themes such as the representation of the SCI population, time commitment, accessibility, and equipment. ConclusionsThe study highlights the significance of incorporating these determinants into future designs to develop app-based home exercise interventions for individuals with SCI.

Equity/heritage and globalized human capital discourses in Ohio's Seal of Biliteracy policy, promotional materials, and stakeholder perceptions

AbstractThis comparative case study explored the discourses in Ohio's Seal of Biliteracy (SoBL) policy and promotional materials, and the perceptions of stakeholders regarding its value and benefits in an urban, suburban, and rural district. In doing so, this study aimed to analyze the discourses adopted in the SoBL policy and promotional texts at the state level, and the perceptions of the stakeholders regarding its value and benefits. The findings revealed the dominance of globalized human capital (GHC) discourses in not only policy and promotional texts, but also in interviews. By adopting GHC discourses, both the promotional materials and the stakeholder interviews emphasized the marketability benefits of the SoBL, with little emphasis on linguistically minoritized students' home/heritage language maintenance as set forth in the original SoBL policy in California. The findings have implications for policy arbiters to ensure equitable and accessible policy implementation.

Documenting Community Health Worker Compensation Schemes and Their Perceived Effectiveness in Seven sub-Saharan African Countries: A Qualitative Study.

Community health worker (CHW) incentives and remuneration are core issues affecting the performance of CHWs and health programs. There is limited documentation on the implementation details of CHW financial compensation schemes used in sub-Saharan African countries, including their mechanisms of delivery and effectiveness. We aimed to document CHW financial compensation schemes and understand CHW, government, and other stakeholder perceptions of their effectiveness. A total of 68 semistructured interviews were conducted with a range of purposefully selected key informants in 7 countries: Benin, Burkina Faso, Ghana, Malawi, Mali, Niger, and Zambia. Thematic analysis of coded interview data was conducted, and relevant country documentation was reviewed, including any documents referenced by key informants, to provide contextual background for qualitative interpretation. Key informants described compensation schemes as effective when payments are regular, distributions are consistent, and amounts are sufficient to support health worker performance and continuity of service delivery. CHW compensation schemes associated with an employed worker status and government payroll mechanisms were most often perceived as effective by stakeholders. Compensation schemes associated with a volunteer status were found to vary widely in their delivery mechanisms (e.g., cash or mobile phone distribution) and were perceived as less effective. Lessons learned in implementing CHW compensation schemes involved the need for government leadership, ministerial coordination, community engagement, partner harmonization, and realistic transitional financing plans. Policymakers should consider these findings in designing compensation schemes for CHWs engaged in routine, continuous health service delivery within the context of their country's health service delivery model. Systematic documentation of the tasks and time commitment of volunteer status CHWs could support more recognition of their health system contributions and better determination of commensurate compensation as recommended by the 2018 World Health Organization Guidelines on Health Policy and System Support to Optimize Community Health Worker Programs.

Stakeholder’s Perceptions on the Implementation of Comprehensive Sexuality Education in Secondary Schools of Muchinga Province of Zambia

The study was focused on exploring stakeholder’s perceptions on the implemention Comprehensive Sexuality Education secondary schools of Muchinga Province of Zambia. The main objectives was to determine the perception of stakeholders concerning Comprehensive Sexuality Education implementation. The research employed Qualitative method and interpretivism paradigm. It used descriptive design which described the state of affairs of Comprehensive Sexuality Education as it existed at the time when the research was conducted. The study sample comprised of headteachers, teachers, parents and learners with the total number of 384. It employed three instruments namely; semi structured interviews for headteachers, teachers, parents and learners, the close ended questionnaires administered on teachers, parents and learners whereas observation checklist was on used to teachers and learners. The research determined the perception of stakeholders and the responses were as follows; headteachers stated that, Comprehensive Sexuality Education should be implemented in all schools, while teachers echoed that it should be taught as a standalone subject but some felt that, the curriculum raised some sensitive issues that were previously taboo in African society. Most parents supported the implementation because learners were guided and regulated properly and their character and academic performance have improved while others’ opinion was that it should be taught by ifimbusa. Learners felt that they were being equipped with healthy sexuality lifestyle and decision making skills. The recommendation for this research are that; Comprehensive Sexuality Education should be implemented in all schools, school leadership in association with parents should champion the implementation of it, Parents should take responsibility of their children sexual life and behaviour, learners should take responsibility of acquiring sexuality skills, knowledge, values, right altitude and of making informed decisions appropriately. It is highly recommended that, the government should develop a deliberate policy of engaging parents while implementing Comprehensive Sexuality Education and closely supervise its implementation in school should be devised and be reinforced in schools. The future recommendation from this study was that, A research on exploring the potential reasons for implementing Comprehensive Sexuality Education in selected rural public secondary schools from stakeholder’s perceptions would be worthwise in order to establish the expected outcomes on learners. The same research should be conducted in other rural settings in Muchinga Province other than Nakonde District.

Stakeholder perceptions of solutions for sustainable management of the African elephant, Loxodonta africana

Sustainable coexistence with wildlife is essential for life on earth but is challenging particularly when dealing with large mammals. The numbers of African elephants, Loxodonta africana, in the Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe have exceeded the management goal of 5–10 000 to current estimates of 45 000. As a result, elephants leave the park in search of food, causing interactions with the local community such as damages to crops, traffic incidents and mutual aggression. We suggest management options that could support sustainable coexistence between people and elephants as well as other species by assessing the opinions among stakeholders in and around the Hwange National Park. The objective is to ensure the long‐term survival of elephants while balancing other interests. The thematic analysis of interviews and questionnaires highlighted 1) stakeholder insights into different management methods, 2) desire for increased CITES export quotas, 3) increased rights for local communities to derive benefits such as meat and tourist exploits. Both culling and hunting along with derived benefits should be considered to establish a sustainable elephant management strategy in Zimbabwe, and for large wildlife species in general.

Corporate Social Responsibility Practices and Stakeholder Perceptions: A Cross-Cultural Analysis in Kenya

Purpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the corporate social responsibility practices and stakeholder perceptions: a cross-cultural analysis in Kenya. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: The study on CSR Practices and Stakeholder Perceptions in Kenya shows that locally aligned initiatives and environmental sustainability are key to positive stakeholder views. Transparent and participatory CSR approaches enhance corporate reputation and trust, despite challenges like inconsistent implementation and limited stakeholder engagement. Culturally sensitive CSR strategies are crucial for fostering sustainable business practices and favorable stakeholder perceptions in Kenya. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Stakeholder theory, institutional theory & cultural dimensions’ theory may be used to anchor future studies on corporate social responsibility practices and stakeholder perceptions: a cross-cultural analysis in Kenya. Businesses should tailor their CSR strategies to align with the cultural values and expectations of stakeholders in different regions. Policymakers should advocate for regulatory frameworks that incentivize responsible business practices while considering cultural nuances to ensure effective implementation and compliance across diverse global contexts.

RELEVANSI DAN KEBERLANJUTAN PEMBELAJARAN SASTRA INDONESIA DI ERA DIGITAL

Advances in digital technology have significantly changed the educational landscape, including the teaching and learning of literature. This research explores the relevance and sustainability of learning Indonesian literature in a digital environment. It examines the dynamics, challenges and opportunities that arise from digital platforms in the context of Indonesian literature education. It explores how digital tools and resources are reshaping pedagogical approaches, curriculum development, and student engagement in the study of Indonesian literature. Using a qualitative methodology it investigates the perceptions of educators, students and stakeholders regarding the integration of digital technologies in literature learning. It examines the effectiveness of digital platforms in increasing access to Indonesian literary works, encouraging critical thinking skills, and promoting cultural appreciation and identity. It also assesses the sustainability of digital initiatives in literature education, taking into account factors such as infrastructure, digital literacy and institutional support. The findings of this study contribute to the discourse on the role of digital technology in maintaining the relevance and vibrancy of learning Indonesian literature. Ultimately, this research advocates for a balanced approach that integrates traditional pedagogical principles with innovative digital practices to enrich the learning experience and preserve appreciation for Indonesia's literary heritage.

Exploring stakeholder perceptions and policy implications for strategic managment of large‐size classes: A systematic literature review

Exploring stakeholder perceptions and policy implications for strategic managment of large‐size classes: A systematic literature review

Innovation In The Energy Sector: The Transition To Renewable Sources As A Strategic Step Towards Sustainable Development

Purpose: The purpose of the research is a comprehensive analysis of innovative technologies in renewable energy sources and their strategic importance for sustainable development. Design/Methodology/Approach: This study employs a qualitative research design to explore the strategic transition to renewable energy sources to achieve sustainable development. A qualitative approach is chosen to provide in-depth insights into stakeholders' experiences, perceptions, and motivations in this transition. Relevant documents such as policy reports, strategic plans, and case studies were reviewed to provide contextual background and support the findings. The analysis considers the top 10 countries with the highest Energy Transition Index (ETI) scores for 2023. Data from documents were triangulated to enhance the credibility and reliability of the findings. Findings: The results indicate the need for a paradigm shift in the energy sector by reducing dependence on imported fuels and reorienting to renewable sources. Research Limitation/Implications: Realizing Europe’s potential faces several barriers, including the need for significant investment, developing an enabling regulatory environment and overcoming technological challenges. Practical Implication: The dynamism of the energy sector is having a significant impact on the transition of developed nations to renewable energy sources, as they play a pivotal role in shaping the sustainable future of global energy. Social Implication: Innovations in renewable energy have the potential to radically transform the energy landscape, offering solutions to today’s pressing environmental and economic challenges. Originality/ Value: The novelty of the study lies in a comprehensive analysis of the energy sector and emphasising the strategic importance of renewable energy sources for sustainable development. The study highlights innovative achievements in the field of renewable energy and important challenges faced by the energy transformation process.

Working with wood in rivers in the Western United States

AbstractRecognition of the important physical and ecological roles played by large wood in channels and on floodplains has grown substantially during recent decades. Although large wood continues to be routinely removed from many river corridors worldwide, the practice of wood reintroduction has spread across the United States, the United Kingdom and western Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. The state‐of‐science regarding working with wood in rivers was discussed during a workshop held in Colorado, USA, in September 2022 with 40 participants who are scientists and practitioners from across the USA, UK, Europe, and Japan. The objectives of this paper are to present the findings from the workshop; summarize two case studies of wood in river restoration in the western United States; and provide suggestions for advancing the practice of wood in river management. We summarize the workshop results based on participant judgements and recommendations with respect to: (i) limitations and key barriers to using wood, which reflect perceptions and practicalities; (ii) gaps in the use of large wood in river management; (iii) scenarios in which wood is generally used effectively; and (iv) scenarios in which wood is generally not used effectively. The case studies illustrate the importance of the local geomorphic context, the configuration complexity of the wood, and the potential for modification of river corridor morphology to enhance desired benefits. Moving forward, we stress the importance of collaboration across disciplines and across communities of research scientists, practitioners, regulators, and potential stakeholders; accounting for stakeholder perceptions of the use of large wood; and increasing non‐scientist access to the latest state‐of‐science knowledge.

Stakeholders' views on the global guidelines for the sustainable use of non‐native trees

Abstract A large number of non‐native trees (NNTs) have been introduced globally and widely planted, contributing significantly to the world's economy. Although some of these species present a limited risk of spreading beyond their planting sites, a growing number of NNTs are spreading and becoming invasive leading to diverse negative impacts on biodiversity, ecosystem functions and human well‐being. To help minimize the negative impacts and maximize the economic benefits of NNTs, Brundu et al. developed eight guidelines for the sustainable use of NNTs globally—the Global Guidelines for the Use of NNTs (GG‐NNTs). Here, we used an online survey to assess perceptions of key stakeholders towards NNTs, and explore their knowledge of and compliance with the GG‐NNTs. Our results show that stakeholders are generally aware that NNTs can provide benefits and cause negative impacts, often simultaneously and they consider that their organization complies with existing regulations and voluntary agreements concerning NNTs. However, they are not aware of or do not apply most of the eight recommendations included in the GG‐NNTs. We conclude that effectively managing invasions linked to NNTs requires both more communication efforts using an array of channels for improving stakeholder awareness and implementation of simple measures to reduce NNT impacts (e.g. via GG‐NNTs), and a deeper understanding of the barriers and reluctance of stakeholders to manage NNT invasions. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.

Sustaining ex-mining lake-converted constructed wetlands as nature-based solutions: A comprehensive assessment of the carbon-water nexus in Paya Indah Wetlands, Malaysia

Water and carbon, essential for Earth's well-being, face imminent threats from human activities that fuel climate change. This study investigates nature-based solutions, focusing on the carbon-water nexus of ex-mining lake-converted constructed wetlands, specifically in Malaysia's Paya Indah Wetlands (PIW). Addressing research gaps, it assesses the ecosystem services of these wetlands, emphasising integrated evaluations for informed land management and employing a top-down conservation approach. Methodologically, spatial assessments, soil and water sampling, carbon quantification, water quality index calculations, land cover classification and stakeholder surveys were conducted. Results underscore the significant carbon sequestration and water quality improvement potential of constructed wetlands, with soil and sediment carbon accumulation reaching 1553.11 Mg C ha−1 (equivalent to 5700 Mg CO2 ha−1), translating to an annual sequestration capacity of 67.5 Mg C ha−1 year−1. Water quality index values ranged from 58 to 81 (Classes II to III). PIW's establishment led to a reduction of over 90% in barren land, with increases in water bodies (36%) and vegetation-covered land (38%), boosting wildlife populations by 30%. Spatial variations in organic carbon density and water quality underscore the complexity of the carbon-water nexus and its impacts on ecosystem health and water security. Despite land use changes, PIW demonstrates resilience, contributing to climate change mitigation. Stakeholder perceptions vary, emphasising the need for adaptive strategies. The study proposes transdisciplinary conservation initiatives and adaptive plans, stressing the pivotal role of ex-mining lake-converted constructed wetlands in enhancing climate resilience.

Valuation and perception of the costs of climate change on health.

Climate change affects our societies and lives through our economies, our livelihoods, and our health. Economic losses of climate change are estimated at $23 trillion, largely through externalities due to premature mortality, healthcare expenditure, and health-related work losses. Even if there are established methods to quantify the health economic burden, there is limited information on how people perceive this information. The current study aimed to examine different health cost evaluation methods and observe perceptions of stakeholders in the climate change context. The participatory research approach of the World Café with 41 participants was applied to explore four topics associated with valuing the costs of climate change. The data were analyzed following an inductive approach. Despite the willingness-to-pay approach being widely applied, many experts see actual healthcare costs as a more explicit indicator of costs; however, this approach might underestimate actual costs. Participants experienced difficulties accepting and understanding cost estimates that indicated very high externalities as a percentage of gross domestic product. The cost-effectiveness of mitigation and adaptation measures was also challenged by a concern that while the costs of such measures are incurred now, the benefits do not come to fruition until later, for example, when building bike lanes or dams. Policies should favor environmentally friendly activities such as making cycling more convenient in cities with the health benefits presented in monetary terms, while limiting car driving. Moreover, the public might better understand the costs of climate change via tools that map how solutions influence different sectors and outlining the costs in evaluating the benefits for health and the environment.

Evaluating stakeholder perceptions on drone use in forest restoration using a social–ecological systems framework

Abstract Forest restoration is critical for meeting global objectives related to climate change mitigation, biodiversity conservation and sustainable livelihoods. Recently, new technologies such as unmanned aerial vehicles (hereafter drones) have been promoted to support activities across the planning, implementation, monitoring and maintenance stages of forest restoration. Yet, there is little empirical data on how the development and application of drones are perceived by restoration managers and stakeholders and how drones intersect with existing forest social–ecological systems (SESs). Here, we investigate how drone tree planting initiatives in Australia can support ecosystem restoration. Through interviews and focus groups with key actors, we examine the opportunities and challenges that have been experienced or are foreseen with drone use. Opportunities included the ability of drones to access degraded sites that are difficult or unsafe to access on foot, for example, following bushfires, floods or landslides. They were also perceived to ease the labour shortage of bush regenerators in Australia. Drones were considered particularly useful when operating at scales of around 20–100 ha. Challenges included restrictive flying regulations that prohibit use of artificial intelligence to plot courses through complex terrain, their unproven ability to control or eradicate weeds and the uncertain supply, germination and survival rates of seeds—upon which drone‐based restoration relies. Drone use may also reduce the emotional, spiritual and cultural connections of people to the land, as compared to hand‐planting seeds or seedlings. We conclude by conceptualising how drone‐assisted restoration can be embedded within a forest SESs management framework. Ultimately, we argue that drones offer a ‘boutique’ restoration approach that supports, rather than replaces, traditional forest restoration techniques. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.