Regional Sustainable Development Research Articles

Potential of Hyperspectral Data Combined With Optimal Band Combination Algorithm for Estimating Soil Organic Carbon Content in Lakeside Oasis

ABSTRACTAccurate estimation of soil organic carbon (SOC) content is essential for promoting regional sustainable agriculture and improving land quality. Visible and near‐infrared (Vis‐NIR) near‐Earth remote sensing spectroscopy has become an effective alternative to the traditional time‐consuming and costly methods due to its high‐resolution and nondestructive application, but it is vulnerable to the redundancy of spectral information and the overlap between bands. This study delves into the potential of optimal spectral parameters for estimating SOC in arid lakeside oases, using Bosten Lake in Xinjiang, China, as a focal point. Soil samples (0–10 cm, 10–20 cm, 20–30 cm, 30–40 cm) were collected, and their SOC content and hyperspectral reflectance were measured. The spectral data underwent preprocessing techniques, including continuum removal (CR), standard normal variate (SNV), and continuous wavelet transform (CWT). SOC content was predicted using back propagation neural network models constructed based on one‐dimensional (1D), two‐dimensional (2D), and three‐dimensional (3D) correlation coefficients. Results showcased the effectiveness of the CWT method in accentuating potential spectral information and enhancing variable correlation. Among the indices, 3D exhibited the highest performance (R2 = 0.82, RPD = 2.02 for TDI‐1 at 0–10 cm; R2 = 0.85, RPD = 2.28 for TDI‐2 at 10–20 cm; R2 = 0.83, RPD = 2.24 for TDI‐1 at 20–30 cm; R2 = 0.86, RPD = 2.53 for TDI‐4 at 30–40 cm), followed by 2D and then 1D. These insights offer guidance for future strategies in hyperspectral data preprocessing and spectral index determination, facilitating SOC spatial distribution mapping and advancing sustainable agricultural planning. They also have implications for determining the spatial distribution of SOC content based on spatial interpolation, which would contribute to regional agricultural planning and sustainable development.

Artificial Intelligence: Contributions to Efficiency and Sustainability in the Court of Justice of The State of Goiás

Objective: To present analyses related to the integration between Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Sustainable Regional Development (SRD) regarding the expansion of access to justice, based on the experience of the Court of Justice of the State of Goiás (TJGO). Theoretical Framework: Advanced technologies in the Judicial System and their contribution to global sustainability, as well as implications for the formulation of public policies for the responsible integration of AI in judicial processes. Methodology: Qualitative and quantitative analysis of data acquired from research, bibliographical and documentary from Reports and Resolutions of the Court of Justice of Goiás – TJGO and National Council of Justice – CNJ, and literature related to AI and Sustainable Regional Development – SRD, about the relationship between sustainability, SRD and AI; the implementation of AI in Brazilian courts, with emphasis on the guidelines of the CNJ (TJGO); the evolution and impact of AI regulations in the Brazilian Judiciary (TJGO); and the effective use of AI in the context of TJGO and other Brazilian courts. Results and Discussion: As a result of this research, we have identified an improvement in procedural efficiency in the judicial system (in access to justice), based on the implementation of AI, especially for vulnerable groups. Implications of the research: The functionality and dynamism of the social and environmental spheres require studies and analyses that assist in the integration for development based on the balanced alignment between both. In this sense, it is important to direct efforts to identify how and to what extent technological advances can be useful for social development, in this case, based on the practices developed by TJGO. Originality/Value: This study presents recent information and analyses on strategies and practices of the Brazilian Judiciary for the integration of Artificial Intelligence and Sustainable Regional Development regarding the expansion of access to justice, based on the experience of the Court of Justice of the State of Goiás (TJGO).

Scenario Simulation and Efficiency Study of Hydropower Development to Promote Regional Sustainable Development: An Empirical Analysis of a Province in Southwestern China

Hydropower is a significant component of China’s contemporary energy framework, with its construction and operation critically contributing to the advancement of sustainable development in the region. However, the influence of hydropower development on regional sustainable development is not evident, and the course of its effect is not clear. In this work, on the basis of assessing the effect of hydropower development on regional sustainable development, a system dynamics (SD) simulation model was created, and 15 distinct development modes were set and tested. The relative driving efficiency of hydropower growth on sustainable development in a province in Southwest China under several scenarios was assessed using the super-efficiency-slacks-based measurement (Super-SBM), and an efficiency analysis was undertaken. The study’s findings demonstrate that: (1) Hydropower development had a complex driving influence on sustainable development in the province in 2015–2022. (2) The relative driving efficiency of the province over the study period exhibited a changing pattern and was at a high level greater than 0.7. (3) New hydropower investment and hydropower generation are the major factors impacting the relative driving efficiency of hydropower development on regional sustainable development in the province. The study’s findings provide a platform and reference for supporting regional sustainable development through hydropower development.

Spatiotemporal Eolution and Prediction of Ecosystem Service Value in Taihang Mountains Based on MCCA Land Use Scenario Simulation

Ecosystem service value （ESV） is an important indicator related to regional ecological well-being, and understanding its evolution can provide references for regional ecological civilization construction and sustainable development. The Taihang Mountains, an important ecological security barrier in North China, were taken as an example. Based on land use data from 2000 to 2020, this study revealed the changes in land use and ecosystem service value in the Taihang Mountains and conducted multi-scenario simulations of ESV in 2035. Additionally, the land use transfer matrix, improved equivalent factor method, and mixed-cell cellular automata model were used. The results showed that： ① From 2000 to 2020, the main land use types in the Taihang Mountains were cropland, forest land, and grassland. The area of cropland and grassland significantly decreased, whereas the area of forest land and construction land remained stable. The scale of land use transfer was 2.06×104 km2, with a high intensity of transfer from cropland and grassland to other areas, mainly guided by ecological construction. ② The ecosystem service functions in the Taihang Mountains were mainly dominated by regulation services, and the overall ESV showed a stable upward trend, increasing by 1.51×1010 RMB from 2000 to 2020. The spatial distribution of ESV was uneven, and the polarization phenomenon was evident, with high-value areas concentrated in the high-altitude areas in the northern and central-southern parts and low-value areas mostly located in the flat foothills and central plateaus on both sides. They were greatly influenced by human activities. ③ By 2035, compared with that in 2020, the ESV in the Taihang Mountains was projected to increase by 5.37 billion RMB in the natural growth scenario, 4.34 billion RMB in the urban development scenario, and 7.64 billion RMB in the ecological tourism scenario, mainly due to the conversion from cropland and grassland to forest land. The natural growth scenario showed a high intensity of spatial transformation of ESV, the urban development scenario experienced severe ESV loss in cropland, and the ecological tourism scenario showed a significant increase in ESV, which was an effective path for promoting green development in the Taihang Mountains. The research results can provide scientific references for the healthy management and sustainable development of the ecosystem in the Taihang Mountains.

Spatial-temporal Change and Driving Force of Carbon Storage in Three-River-Source National Park Based on PLUS-InVEST-Geodector Model

Exploring the spatial-temporal changes, driving forces, and future development tendency of the carbon sequestration service function of the Three-River-Source National Park ecosystem has great significance for regional ecological protection and sustainable development. Historical land-use data of Three-River-Source National Park from 1990 to 2020 were selected at five-year intervals, and based on the PLUS-InVEST-Geodector model, the spatial-temporal changes of historical carbon storage were analyzed, and the driving forces of spatial-temporal variation were explored combined with multiple factors. The carbon storage of Three-River-Source National Park in 2030 was predicted under the scenarios of natural development and ecological protection. The results showed that： ① The carbon storage of Three-River-Source National Park showed a fluctuating characteristic of increase-decrease-increase-decrease from 1990 to 2020, the carbon storage was increased by 41.85×106 t overall, and the grassland took the largest contribution. ② The spatial distribution characteristics of carbon storage in Three-River-Source National Park had little change between 1990 to 2020, and the evolution of the spatial distribution was relatively stable. The contribution ratio of the Yangtze River source park, Lancang River source park, and Yellow River source park was 7∶1∶2, which was roughly equivalent to the park area. ③ The major driving factors of the spatial-temporal variation of carbon storage in Three-River-Source National Park from 1990 to 2020 were： FVC, soil type, and annual precipitation. The interactive detection of each driving factor showed dual-factor enhancement and nonlinear enhancement. ④ The carbon storage of Three-River-Source National Park was predicted to decrease by 4.87% and 3.98% from 2020 to 2030 under the scenarios of natural development and ecological protection, respectively, and the carbon storage reduction under the ecological protection scenario had a significant inhibitory effect. The findings can provide data support for national spatial planning of Three-River-Source National Park and the enhancement of terrestrial ecosystem carbon storage.

Sosialisasi Pajak Daerah Pajak Bumi dan Bangunan (PBB) serta Pajak Kendaraan Bermotor (PKB)

Regional taxes, especially the Land and Building Tax (PBB) and Motor Vehicle Tax (PKB), have an important role in increasing Regional Original Revenue (PAD) and supporting infrastructure development and public services. Socialization activities carried out in RT. 42 RW. 13 Taman Village, Madiun City, aims to increase public awareness and compliance in paying taxes. Through seminars, direct counseling, as well as print and digital media, this socialization provides information on tax obligations and tax benefits for regional development. The results of the socialization show an increase in public understanding of the tax function, although there are still obstacles, such as a lack of in-depth understanding and access to information. This activity indicates that effective socialization can encourage public awareness and discipline in fulfilling tax obligations, which in turn supports the sustainability of regional development.

Management Strategies for Higher Education Institutions Based on the Principles of Education for Sustainable Development in the Lower Northern Region

Education for sustainable development is globally acknowledged as crucial for fostering knowledge, skills, and values essential for sustainable living. This research aimed to (1) examine the current and desired conditions of administrative strategies in higher education institutions in the lower northern region based on the concept of education for sustainable development, and (2) develop corresponding strategies focusing on economic, social, environmental, and systemic dimensions. A mixed-method approach was employed, with a sample of 243 administrators and personnel from 12 universities in the region. Research instruments included a conceptual framework assessment, a questionnaire, and structured interviews. The findings revealed that current administrative practices ranked as follows: (1) curriculum development, (2) teaching and learning management, and (3) educational measurement and evaluation. While all aspects showed a good level of development, the desired conditions indicated the need for further improvement, with the ranking of (1) curriculum development, (2) educational measurement and evaluation, and (3) educational management. The study identified three core strategies: (1) reforming integrated curriculum design to align with sustainable development by emphasizing comprehensive systems that connect theory to practice; (2) enhancing the quality of educational measurement and evaluation to support sustainability-focused skills and concepts; and (3) transforming teaching and learning management by utilizing technology to foster an environment conducive to learning and innovation. These strategies are essential for guiding universities toward sustainable development and align with Thailand’s higher education standards focused on producing skilled, knowledgeable, and sustainability-minded graduates.

Novel Framework for Exploring Human–Water Symbiosis Relationship: Analysis, Quantification, Discrimination, and Attribution

There is an interdependent symbiotic relationship between humans and water; scientific and effective assessment of the human–water symbiosis relationship is of great significance for the promotion of sustainable development. This study developed a novel framework of the human–water symbiosis relationship under an integrated perspective, which included theoretical interpretation, quantitative assessment, pattern discrimination, and an attribution analysis. Based on the symbiosis theory, the theoretical analysis of the human–water relationship was carried out to analyze the three basic elements of the human–water system, and then the evaluation index system of the human–water symbiosis system was constructed to quantitatively assess the development level of the human system and the water system. The Lotka–Volterra model was used to identify the symbiotic pattern, and the human–water symbiosis index was calculated to characterize the health state of the human–water symbiosis system. The main influencing factors of the human–water symbiosis system were further identified through an attribution analysis. Finally, a case study was carried out with 18 cities in Henan Province. Results reveal that (a) the proposed method can effectively realize the quantitative characterization of the human–water symbiosis relationship, with good applicability and obvious advantages; (b) the human–water symbiosis pattern of cities in Henan Province is dominated by the “human system parasitizes water system (H+W−)” pattern, and more attention should be paid to the water system in the subsequent development of it; and (c) the main factors influencing the human system, the water system, and the human–water symbiosis system are the research and development (R&D) personnel equivalent full-time (H7), per capita water resources (W1), and proportion of water conservancy and ecological water conservancy construction investment (W6), respectively. The findings can provide theoretical and methodological support for the study of the human–water symbiosis relationship and sustainable development in other regions.

Technological Innovation, Trade Openness, Natural Resources, and Environmental Sustainability in Egypt and Turkey: Evidence from Load Capacity Factor and Inverted Load Capacity Factor with Fourier Functions

The environmental degradation in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region leads to significant challenges regarding economic sustainability and the attainment of sustainable development goals (SDGs). The extensive use of fossil fuels in the region, as well as rapid urbanization and economic growth, has led to significant carbon emissions, together with unprecedented ecological footprints compromising environmental sustainability. The study aims to elucidate the influence exerted by technological innovation, trade openness, and natural resources on environmental sustainability in Turkey and Egypt for the period 1990–2022. In assessing the empirical relations, the study employed the Fourier function incorporate estimation techniques, that is, Fourier ADF for unit root test, Fourier ARDL, and Fourier NARDL for long-run and short-run elasticities of technological innovation (TI), trade openness (TO,) and natural resources rent (NRR) on load capacity factor (LCF) and inverted LCF (ILCF); finally, the directional causality evaluate through Fourier TY causality test. The results revealed that both Turkey and Egypt have severe environmental problems due to their high carbon emissions and ecological footprints. Technological change and international trade separately negatively affect environmental sustainability; however, these negative impacts have mixed character. On the one hand, technology can improve efficiency and reduce ecological footprints by obviating the use of high-impact processes or allowing cleaner production systems. In the same vein, trade openness helps transfer green technologies more quickly, but it can also lead to unsustainable resource extraction and pollution. The findings of the paper propose that in order to move forward, Turkey and Egypt need strategic policy shifts to ensure environmental sustainability, including transitioning towards renewable energy from fossil fuels while bolstering their capacity for energy efficiency. Policymakers must balance economic development with environmental conservation to reduce the harmful effects of climate degradation and help safeguard continued economic survival in the face of increasing climatic instability. This research helps to inform policy and investment decisions about how the SDGs can be achieved and how they are relevant for sustainable development in the MENA region.

The impacts of the intended transition of Pakistan from geo-politics to geo-economics

This research explores the implications of Pakistan's intended transition from geo-politics to geo-economics on its foreign policy, analysing the shift through the lens of neoliberalism. The study investigates the economic realignments, foreign policy strategies, and impacts on security and defence posture post-transition. Employing qualitative analysis of policy documents, trade agreements, and economic indicators, the research provides a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics at play. Key findings reveal that Pakistan's geo-economic reorientation has been driven by factors such as globalization, regional integration, and economic diplomacy. Pakistan pursued a more balanced foreign policy, seeking to expand its strategic interests through economic partnerships. Economic reforms have been central to this shift, including privatisation, investment facilitation, and trade liberalisation. However, the transition has also highlighted challenges such as uneven economic growth, dependence on foreign capital, and balancing economic objectives with security concerns. The research concludes that Pakistan's foreign policy has evolved from a traditional geopolitical focus to a more economically oriented approach. While the transition has presented opportunities for growth and development, it has also necessitated a reassessment of security strategies and balancing economic and political objectives. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for navigating the complex geopolitical landscape and achieving sustainable regional development.

Spatiotemporal evolution and driving factors of the coupling coordination of the population‒land‒water‒industry system in the lower Yellow River

Exploring the interaction and coupling effects within the population‒land‒water‒industry (PLWI) system is conducive to promoting high-quality regional sustainable development. Taking the lower Yellow River during the period from 2000 to 2020 as a research sample, this study used the entropy weight TOPSIS method, the coupling coordination degree (CCD) model and kernel density estimation to synthetically evaluate the CCD of the PLWI system. The GeoDetector model was applied to explore the factors influencing the CCD of the PLWI system considering the nonlinear relationship. The major results can be summarized as follows: (1) From 2000 to 2020, the comprehensive development index (CDI) of the population, land, water and industry subsystems followed a gradual upward trend in the lower Yellow River, increasing by 0.293, 0.033, 0.111 and 0.369, respectively. However, the CDI of the land subsystem varied greatly between regions. Some cities, such as Jinan, Jining and Binzhou, experienced large declines in the CDI of the land subsystem, from 0.433, 0.534 and 0.572 to 0.358, 0.481 and 0.522, respectively. (2) The CCD of the PLWI system in the lower Yellow River showed an upward trend, increasing from 0.481 to 0.678, and became more concentrated during 2000–2020. Most of the region transitioned from near disorder to primary coordination. (3) Factors such as number of health technicians per 10,000 people, average salary, number of college students per 10,000 people, per capita GDP and per capita education expenditure were critical to the coordinated development of the PLWI system, the explanatory powers were 0.644, 0.639, 0.610, 0.498 and 0.455, respectively. Finally, this study proposed three policy recommendations to improve coupling coordination in the lower Yellow River Basin: Improving population quality, promoting green technology and rational land planning.

Building ecosystem services-based ecological networks in energy and chemical industry areas

The massive utilization of fossil energy by humans has promoted socio-economic development. However, it has also generated severe regional eco-environmental problems, including water shortage, soil erosion, and land desertification. An optimal ecological-network-based regulation of eco-environmentally damaged areas is necessary to balance economic development with rigid eco-environmental constraints in pursuit of sustainable regional development. Using remote-sensing, meteorology, land use, and soil data of energy and chemical industrial areas in the mid-upper reaches of the Yellow River, we quantitatively evaluated the related ecosystem services (ESs) by applying InVEST, CASA, and RWEQ models. Additionally, we constructed ecological conservation networks comprising ecological source areas, resistance surface, corridors, and nodes. The results are as follows. First, from 2000 to 2020, the areas of cultivated and unused land decreased, but those of forest, grassland, water bodies, and construction land increased. Regarding spatial distribution, the proportion of grassland was the highest, followed by unused land, and other types of land accounting for a relatively low proportion. Second, from 2000 to 2020, all ESs and the overall ecosystem improved. However, ESs demonstrated a clear spatial heterogeneity (i.e., better in the southeast than in the northwest). Third, comparing the two ecological networks constructed by minimum cumulative resistance (MCR) and circuit models, the MCR-based ecological network was considered better because of its higher ε, θ, and σ values. Robustness analysis also showed that the MCR-based ecological network was more stable. Finally, ecological source areas of 110,300 km2 were obtained, accounting for 21.69 % of the study region. Ecological resistance was relatively high in desert areas, which are to the northwest of the study region, and relatively low in the southeast. Fifty-nine ecological corridors (including 31 important ones) and 22 ecological nodes were extracted. The finalized ecological network was diamond-shaped, with the ecological source areas in four directions (i.e., east, south, west, and north) of the study region being closely connected. To promote the spatial optimization of the study region, appropriate measures (e.g., afforestation and soil improvement) must be taken to reduce regional imbalance in ecological condition, improve ecosystem functions and landscape connectivity, reduce various resistance, and ultimately promote conservation outcomes.

Regional Sustainable Management Pathways to Carbon Neutrality

With the background of global climate change and rapid economic growth, there are increasing problems threatening regional sustainable development [...]

Modeling Flood Hazards in Ambon City Watersheds: Case Studies of Wai Batu Gantung, Wai Batu Gajah, Wai Tomu, Wai Batu Merah and Wai Ruhu

Flood hazard modeling in watersheds is an important step in natural disaster risk mitigation, especially in vulnerable areas such as Ambon City. This research focused on the Wai Batu Gantung, Wai Batu Gajah, Wai Tomu, Wai Batu Merah, and Wai Ruhu watersheds, using JRC Global Surface Water Mapping Layers data, NASA SRTM Digital Elevation 30 m data, and USGS Landsat 8 Level 2, Collection 2, Tier 1 data analyzed on the Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform. Prediction of built-up land in flood-prone areas was conducted by utilizing flood history analysis, hydrological modeling, and flood zone mapping. The results show that flood hazard modeling provides a better understanding of flood risk, assists in the development of safer land use planning, and increases public awareness of flood risk in Ambon City. It is hoped that the results of this research can contribute to flood risk management and sustainable regional development in the future.

Exploring the role of regional capacity in human resource development in Indonesia

The role of local government in regional development planning is an essential topic in the context of sustainable local development. This study aimed to analyze the role of local governments in regional development planning and their impact on the effectiveness and sustainability of development at the local level. The research method used is a qualitative approach with data collection techniques through in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and document analysis related to regional development policies and regulations. This research was conducted in several districts/cities in certain regions, considering diverse geographical, social, and economic contexts. The results showed that the role of local governments in regional development planning is vital in coordinating various interests, resources, and related actors. Local governments act as regulators, facilitators, and implementers in determining the direction, policies, and allocation of development resources. In addition, community and private-sector involvement is also recognized as an integral part of democratic and inclusive planning processes. The impact of the role of local governments in regional development planning can be seen in increasing the effectiveness of development programs, increasing community participation, reducing regional disparities, and improving the community’s quality of life. Nevertheless, challenges such as corruption, lack of interagency coordination, and political uncertainty remain obstacles that must be overcome. This study concludes that the role of local governments in regional development planning is a critical factor in achieving sustainable regional development. Therefore, measures are needed to strengthen institutional capacity, increase transparency, and strengthen public participation to ensure sustainable and inclusive development planning at the local level.

Exploring the Coupling Relationship and Driving Factors of Land Use Conflicts and Ecosystem Services Supply–Demand Balances in Different Main Functional Areas, Southwest China

ABSTRACTConflicts between different types of land use, driven by rapid urbanization, are altering ecosystem services supply–demand balances (ESDB), and the reduction of ESDB will threaten regional sustainable development and human welfare. However, there are few studies on the interrelationships and their drivers between land use conflicts (LUCs) and ESDB from a coupling perspective, especially in different main functional areas. Therefore, this study focused on Southwest China. Firstly, the coupling coordination degree model was employed to measure the ESDB‐LUCs relationship and analyze its dynamic changes from 1990 to 2020. Then, the RDA method was used to explore the driving factors of the ESDB‐LUCs relationship in different functional areas (i.e., urban development area (UDA), agricultural development area (APA), and ecological protection area (EPA)). The results show that the LUCs index displayed a downward trend in the SW during 1990–2020, with a decreasing distribution pattern from the northeast to the southwest. The ESDB index exhibited a downward and then upward trend, with an increasing distribution mode from the northeast to the southwest. There was a spatial dependence between LUCs and ESDB. The type of coupling coordination between LUCs and ESDB was dominated by moderate coordination, with the index showing a spatial pattern of UDA > APA > EPA. Among these, the proportion of cropland and the proportion of urban land were the main factors influencing the degree of coordination of the UDA (explanation rate > 80%), showing positive and negative effects, respectively. The proportion of forestland and the proportion of cropland were the main factors influencing the APA and EPA (explanation rate > 70%), with negative and positive effects, respectively. Therefore, mitigating the conflict between cropland and urban land, cropland and forest land is essential to achieve ecosystem balance in the SW.

Changing of the coordination of socioeconomic development and the environment as sustainable development progresses

The relationship between socioeconomic development and the environment is intimately linked with the level of regional sustainable development. Clarifying the evolution pattern of this relationship during the sustainable development progress is crucial for achieving all of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), but less research has focused on this problem. Here, we have utilized statistical and remote sensing data from 290 municipal units in China to analyze the evolution of the coupling coordination degree (CCD) between socioeconomic development and the environment along a progression of sustainable development measured by the SDG Index. The results show that the hotspot areas of CCD are concentrated in coastal regions, gradually decreasing as they move inland. Additionally, as sustainable development progresses, both socioeconomic and environment levels exhibit a nonlinear rise. The coupling coordination between the two demonstrates a pattern of initial increasing, then decreasing, and finally increasing again, which may be related to changes in industrial structure. Our study delves deeply into the patterns of evolution in the relationship between socioeconomic and environments, exploring the challenges and opportunities faced by regions at different stages of sustainable development. The findings can deepen our understanding of sustainable development and provide policy suggestions and theoretical support for achieving SDGs.

How higher education institutions may catalyse regional innovation ecosystems: The case of polytechnics in Portugal

This article explores the crucial role of higher education institutions in catalysing regional innovation ecosystems. In particular, it aims to study how polytechnics in Portugal have been involved in this process. The research utilizes an exploratory and reflective case study approach to present real-world evidence of collaborative efforts within innovation networks that involve both businesses and the social economy. Thus, the study raises awareness of collaborative innovation and entrepreneurship networks, emphasizing genuine interactive learning and knowledge exchange. Polytechnic institutions can enhance regional competitiveness by providing education and training for future entrepreneurs and highly skilled professionals, as well as offering technological and managerial solutions that drive value creation and the emergence of new businesses and markets, potentially even on an international level. The study also emphasizes the fourth mission of higher education institutions, particularly polytechnic institutes, focusing on empowering communities through social innovation projects for sustainable local and regional development.

THE ROLE OF TRANSPORT CORRIDORS IN STRENGTHENING IRANIAN REGIONAL COOPERATION IN CENTRAL ASIA

The role of transport corridors in strengthening regional cooperation in Centra l Asia is critical, especially in the context of Iran's evolving foreign policy. Amidst the backdrop of the Russian-Ukrainian confrontation and the expansion of major infrastructure projects like the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), Iran's strategic initiatives in Central Asia have gained prominence. This article aims to explore how transport corridors can enhance Iran's regional influence and cooperation with Central Asian countries. The main question addressed is: how do these transport corridors contribute to regiona l stability and economic integration? The hypothesis is that Iran's active participation in developing these corridors, particularly through key projects like the Chabahar Port, not only boosts trade and connectivity but also counters geopolitica l isolation and fosters long-term regional cooperation. The research utilizes the theory of regional integration and interdependence, supported by qualitative content analysis of documents, texts, and expert interviews related to regional transport strategies.The findings indicate that efficient transport infrastructure is fundamental for economic development and political stability in Central Asia. Iran's collaboration with Russia and China further amplifies the benefits of these corridors, providing a strategic counterbalance to Western influence. Ultimately, the study highlights that Iran's role in Central Asia is pivotal for broader regional integration and sustainable development.

Spatio-temporal variations and multi-scenario simulation of landscape ecological risk in the drylands of the Yellow River Basin.

Over the past decades, the drylands of the Yellow River Basin (YRBD) have undergone profound changes in landscape patterns and ecological dynamics, significantly impacting regional sustainable development. To assess the spatio-temporal variations of ecological risk in the YRBD and provide guidance for sustainable regional development, we constructed a coupled Land Use-Landscape Ecological Risk Model-Geographical Detector-PLUS framework for the assessment, analysis, and simulation of dryland landscape ecological risk (LER). The main findings are as follows: (1) Between 2000 and 2020, the area of built-up land, forest, grassland, and water in the YRBD increased, while the area of unused land and cropland decreased. (2) LER exhibited significant spatial heterogeneity, dominated by Sub-low and Low risks. High risk areas were primarily located in the western Inner Mongolia Plateau, whereas Low risk areas were prevalent in the Loess Plateau, with an overall decline in risk levels over the 20years. (3) Water resources, ecological status, and human activities are the main driving factors affecting LER, with the impact of human activities becoming increasingly significant over the past 20years. (4) Under three development scenarios in 2030, the LER is projected to further decrease, although the impact of these scenarios varies across different research sub-regions. Notably, the Ecological Priority Scenario emerges as more effective in mitigating regional LER. (5) Developing precise land use policies tailored to regional characteristics, continuously implementing ecological restoration projects, strengthening water resource management, and enhancing monitoring capabilities are effective ways to reduce LER in the YRBD. This study systematically quantified the impact of different development scenarios on LER in the YRBD, revealing its spatio-temporal characteristics, and emphasized the importance of planning guidance, ecological restoration, and risk monitoring to align regional development with ecological protection. The findings provide scientific evidence for ecological protection and sustainable development in the YRBD and other drylands, offering valuable insights for global dryland ecological risk management.