Regulatory Framework Research Articles

Assessing the Impact of Recycled Building Materials on Environmental Sustainability and Energy Efficiency: A Comprehensive Framework for Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions

In this study, we critically examine the potential of recycled construction materials, focusing on how these materials can significantly reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and energy usage in the construction sector. By adopting an integrated approach that combines Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Material Flow Analysis (MFA) within the circular economy framework, we thoroughly examine the lifecycle environmental performance of these materials. Our findings reveal a promising future where incorporating recycled materials in construction can significantly lower GHG emissions and conserve energy. This underscores their crucial role in advancing sustainable construction practices. Moreover, our study emphasizes the need for robust regulatory frameworks and technological innovations to enhance the adoption of environmentally responsible practices. We encourage policymakers, industry stakeholders, and the academic community to collaborate and promote the adoption of a circular economy strategy in the building sector. Our research contributes to the ongoing discussion on sustainable construction, offering evidence-based insights that can inform future policies and initiatives to improve environmental stewardship in the construction industry. This study aligns with the European Union’s objectives of achieving climate-neutral cities by 2030 and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals outlined for completion by 2030. Overall, this paper contributes to the ongoing dialogue on sustainable construction, providing a fact-driven basis for future policy and initiatives to enhance environmental stewardship in the industry.

Circular Economy Integration in Smart Grids: A Nexus for Sustainability

AbstractThe increased electrification of society and the development of smart grids are often seen as central in the transition towards a more sustainable and secure energy system and necessary to address the challenges of increasing energy demand and limited resources. There are many visions and ideas on what a smart grid is or could be. While most research related to environmental impacts on the smart grid focuses on the energy and climate implications, there is a growing interest in looking into material aspects and resource use, i.e., the Circular Economy (CE) dimensions of the grid. It is increasingly understood that the various technologies in the grid, such as grid infrastructure and electric vehicles, will require massive amounts of natural resources. This research explores how smart grids can integrate CE considerations and the current state of knowledge related to CE issues in smart grid discussions in Sweden. The main methods employed were a literature review and semi-structured interviews with 19 stakeholders. The results show that limited literature deals directly with how CE issues can be integrated with smart grid development. The interviews show that various stakeholders have started to discuss these issues, but the discussion is still in its infancy for most of them. The interviewees also pointed to several barriers to developing a more “circular” grid, such as regulatory frameworks, network maintenance, financing, and cost considerations.

Feasibility of the BBNJ Agreement to regulate bioprospecting in the Southern Ocean

This paper investigates the potential regulatory frameworks applicable to marine bioprospecting in the Southern Ocean and considers the activity could potentially fall under the purview of both the Antarctic Treaty System and the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction Agreement. Through a comparative analysis, this paper discerns the overlap of application and divergence in rules between the two regulatory frameworks, particularly concerning the specific provisions for regulating marine bioprospecting. This includes dissecting differences in the rules regulating the procedures for access to marine genetic resources and the associated benefit-sharing mechanisms. By synthesizing the SWOT analysis and strategic analysis, this paper identifies the internal and external factors influencing the application of the BBNJ Agreement to bioprospecting regulation within the Southern Ocean. It concludes that, due to the priority application of ATS and the region`s unique geopolitical context, the BBNJ Agreement may encounter challenges in the direct implementation and governance of marine bioprospecting. The principle of not undermining should be observed to harmonize application with ATS. Meanwhile, the BBNJ Agreement may contribute to a self-revolution of the ATS in regulating marine bioprospecting, particularly in the aspect of mechanisms for equitable benefit-sharing.

Economic Research on Ethanol Feed-Use Coproducts: A Review, Synthesis, and Path Forward

During the mid-2000s to the early 2010s, the domestic ethanol industry witnessed substantial growth, with ethanol coproducts emerging as vital elements for plant profitability and livestock feeding. Initially serving as supplementary revenue streams, coproducts from ethanol production have evolved into diverse value-added offerings, bolstering revenue streams, and sustaining profit margins. This study reviews existing economic research on ethanol coproducts, detailing methodologies, product focus, and research locations. Initially gathering 972 articles from 9 databases, 110 articles were synthesized. We find that most studies primarily examined the growth and future of the ethanol industry with a limited focus on specific coproducts. Feed-use distillers’ grains, especially dried distillers’ grains, were the most widely published while newer coproducts like pelletized, de-oiled, and high-protein distillers’ grains were relatively understudied. Non-feed-use products were notably overlooked, highlighting the need for exploration beyond conventional applications. The evolving market landscape for ethanol co-products has surpassed published academic understanding of the economic tradeoffs necessitating further research into product dynamics, pricing, marketing, market structures, and regulatory frameworks. This highlights and underscores the importance of investigating value-added grains across diverse commodities and geographic contexts to inform strategic decision-making and policy formulation.

Dirty Money, Clean Consequences: The Impact of Money Laundering in India

Abstract Money laundering, the process of concealing the origins of illegally obtained money which tend to pose formidable threat to the integrity of financial systems globally, and India confronts its repercussions with distinct legal and societal ramifications. This study endeavors to comprehensively address the complex issue of money laundering in India Firstly; the study will analyze the extensive impact of money laundering on the Indian economy, society, and governance structures, with the help of case laws the study will highlight the efforts made to combat the issue of money laundering India. Thirdly, the study will analyze the effectiveness of the current regulatory landscape and enforcement mechanisms related to money laundering in India with that the study will the evaluate will both strengths and weaknesses in the existing framework, shedding light on areas that require improvement to combat money laundering more effectively. Lastly, the study will propose some strategies for enhancing the detection and prevention of money laundering activities in India. By addressing any identified gaps in the regulatory framework. Through shedding light on the multifaceted impact of money laundering and proposing pragmatic solutions, this study aspires to contribute to the fortification of India's financial integrity and foster sustainable economic development.

Valuation of ecosystem goods and services of seven Caribbean coastal lagoons

Objective: This study was to estimate the value of the ecosystem goods and services of seven coastal lagoons in the Sabana – Camagüey Archipelago. Methodology: Results were obtained using general and empirical methods, as well as different research techniques. Four of the lagoons studied are in Cayo Coco and the rest in Cayo Sabinal. Relevance: The methodological framework for this research had dynamic, comprehensive and systemic purposes with two steps: comprehensive characterization of the lagoons and their ecosystem goods and services and the calculation of the value (revenues) of these goods and services (real and potential) for each lagoon, for each territory and for the entire study area. Results: The coastal lagoons from Cayo Coco and Cayo Sabinal offer a wide variety of goods and services (fishing, beekeeping, tourism) still underestimated due to different factors. The direct and indirect use values of these lagoons represented more than 95 % (15 million Cuban pesos) of the total estimated value. Social / management contributions: the current social and economic context of Cuba and the regulatory and institutional frameworks require the use of methods and techniques for economic valuation of ecosystem goods and services, particularly those of coastal ecosystems, in correspondence with the fast development of tourism in coastal areas. For this reason, the results of this study could be a starting point to expand the valuation of ecosystem goods and service to other Caribbean and Cuban coastal lagoons.

ИСПОЛЬЗОВАНИЕ ГЕОИНФОРМАЦИОННЫХ СИСТЕМ В КАДАСТРОВОЙ ОЦЕНКЕ

The relevance of this topic lies in the fact that in the field of cadastral valuation, there is currently an active change in the procedure for conducting and maintaining the results of determining the cadastral value, the development of the regulatory framework, the testing of new methodological guidelines, which determines the formation of the tax base. At the same time, the use of spatial databases significantly affects the quality of work performed and the effectiveness of real estate management in the country and its individual regions. The authors highlight the features and describe various cases and problems of using geoinformation systems in determining cadastral value. The results of the conducted research can be used by budgetary institutions in the cadastral valuation of real estate.

A Review on Blockchain Technology

Blockchain technology has emerged as a disruptive force with the potential to revolutionize various industries by offering decentralized, secure, and transparent solutions for data management and transactions. Initially conceptualized as the underlying technology for cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, blockchain has evolved into a versatile tool applicable across diverse domains such as finance, supply chain management, healthcare, and government services. This paper provides an overview of blockchain technology, its fundamental principles, and key components. It explores the decentralized consensus mechanisms, cryptographic techniques, and data structures that underpin blockchain networks, ensuring immutability, transparency, and integrity of recorded transactions. Furthermore, the paper examines the challenges and opportunities associated with blockchain adoption, including scalability, interoperability, regulatory concerns, and environmental impact. Through a comprehensive review of existing literature and case studies, this research elucidates the potential benefits of blockchain technology, such as increased efficiency, reduced costs, enhanced security, and improved trust among participants. Additionally, it highlights ongoing developments, innovations, and future directions in blockchain research and implementation, emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary collaboration and regulatory frameworks to realize the full potential of this transformative technology. Keywords : IOT, blockchain, cryptocurrency, smart contracts, consensus algorithms, internet of things.

The Oxidative Potential of Airborne Particulate Matter Research Trends, Challenges, and Future Perspectives—Insights from a Bibliometric Analysis and Scoping Review

This study is a comprehensive analysis of the oxidative potential (OP) of particulate matter (PM) and its environmental and health impacts. The researchers conducted a bibliometric analysis and scoping review, screening 569 articles and selecting 368 for further analysis. The study found that OP is an emerging field of study, with a notable increase in the number of publications in the 2010s compared to the early 2000s. The research is primarily published in eight journals and is concentrated in a few academic and university-based institutions. The study identified key research hotspots for OP-PM, emphasizing the importance of capacity building, interdisciplinary collaboration, understanding emission sources and atmospheric processes, and the impacts of PM and its OP. The study highlighted the need to consider the effects of climate change on OP-PM and the regulatory framework for PM research. The findings of this study will contribute to a better understanding of PM and its consequences, including human exposure and its effects. It will also inform strategies for managing air quality and protecting public health. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the field of OP-PM research and highlights the need for continued research and collaboration to address the environmental and health impacts of PM.

International Experience and Reference of China's Financial Regulatory System Reform

Since the 1970s, in order to reduce financial risks in the context of fast-paced growing financial industry, China has been implementing reforms to its financial regulatory structure. In 2023, the State Administration for Financial Supervision and Administration was officially established, bringing China closer to mixed industry regulation. Currently, there are multiple types of financial regulation on a global scale, including segmented regulation, single regulation, functional regulation, and bimodal regulation. Given the rapid development of China's financial market, it is imperative to draw on better international expertise, innovate domestic regulatory framework, and persist pursuing bimodal regulatory mode under the mixed industry background. By implementing the bimodal regulation of macro prudential regulation and micro behavioral regulation, China is managing to control financial risks, protect investors lawful rights and interests, and foster the long-term and stable expansion of China's financial industry

УПРАВЛЕНИЕ ЗАКУПОЧНОЙ ДЕЯТЕЛЬНОСТЬЮ В НОВЫХ РЕГИОНАХ РОССИИ

In 2022, the sphere of public procurement was replenished with new entities - customers of the Donetsk and Lugansk People's Republics, Kherson and Zaporozhye Regions, which became part of the Russian Federation. For obvious reasons, procurement regulation at the initial stage was established for them in a simplified manner. The paper analyzes the regulatory framework of procurement management in new regions of Russia, highlighting problematic issues arising for these customers from the change in the basis of legal regulation of the procurement of goods, works, services for state and municipal needs of these regions. It is noted that new Russian regions were able to achieve high results in terms of procurement volumes already in 2023. The scientific novelty of the work lies in the fact that for the first time in Russian science, the legal regulation of procurement in new regions of the Russian Federation, which became part of it in 2022, was studied and analyzed. The purpose of the paper is to analyze law enforcement practice and develop recommendations for use in procurement activities by customers in new territories, as well as when training specialists in the field of procurement for these regions. The work uses general scientific research methods: comparison, analysis, and the method of expert assessments.

The impact of government support on port industry competitiveness: A qualitative exploration

Focusing on Shanghai Port, this in-depth study explores how government support can make port organizations more competitive. This study shall implement qualitative analysis based on in-depth interviews with key industry and government leaders to break down the complicated actions taken by the government and how they have changed the operational and strategic skills of the port industry. Seven factors were found in our study to be the most crucial support factors: Financial, regulatory, infrastructure growth, talent, market, policy, and organizational support. In their ways, each of these groups undermines the ability of port businesses to compete. For instance, finance can make ports more competitive in aspects such as tax cuts, lower interest rates, innovation and R&D funds, financing programs, venture capital funds, and putting up R&D sites. Supporting regulations makes sure that there is fair competition and smooth operations. This is done by protecting intellectual property, keeping the market going smoothly, improving the business environment, and monitoring market regulations. Building new infrastructure, such as innovation and updated buildings, enables the smooth running of the port businesses and minimizes wastage of time; thus, more time is spent on production. Supporting talent, the market, and policy all work together to make the human capital, international cooperation, and strategic regulatory framework that a company needs to stay ahead in the long run. It is clear from organizational support how important collaborative networks are for making ports more competitive. These networks, for instance, can be of assistance in helping schools and businesses work together, create new technologies, and find ways for companies and colleges to study together. This study examines these support systems to determine where the government should step in and how the systems can be made better to make ports more competitive. In terms of practical contribution, this in-depth study helps policymakers and port workers plan for the future. This study shows a fair way for the government to support the port business, which changes with its needs and stays competitive in the world of trade.

Sustainable Finance: Driving a Greener Future

Sustainable finance represents a pivotal mechanism in reshaping global financial systems towards a more environmentally conscious and resilient future. This paper delves into the multifaceted landscape of sustainable finance, elucidating its historical underpinnings, defining its parameters, and examining its various components. From Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria to the burgeoning green bonds market and the transformative potential of impact investing, each facet is meticulously explored. The paper also probes the integration of sustainable finance principles within financial institutions and the influence of regulatory frameworks on fostering sustainability. Challenges such as the lack of standardized metrics and opportunities offered by technological advancements are scrutinized, offering a nuanced understanding of the field. Through a synthesis of analysis, illustrative examples, and case studies, this paper underscores the pivotal role of sustainable finance in driving economic growth while advancing environmental and social imperatives.

Cross-border data sharing through the lens of research ethics committee members in sub-Saharan Africa.

Several factors thwart successful data sharing-ambiguous or fragmented regulatory landscapes, conflicting institutional/researcher interests and varying levels of data science-related expertise are among these. Traditional ethics oversight mechanisms and practices may not be well placed to guarantee adequate research oversight given the unique challenges presented by digital technologies and artificial intelligence (AI). Data-intensive research has raised new, contextual ethics and legal challenges that are particularly relevant in an African research setting. Yet, no empirical research has been conducted to explore these challenges. We explored REC members' views and experiences on data sharing by conducting 20 semi-structured interviews online between June 2022 and February 2023. Using purposive sampling and snowballing, we recruited representatives across sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). We transcribed verbatim and thematically analysed the data with Atlas.ti V22. Three dominant themes were identified: (i) experiences in reviewing data sharing protocols, (ii) perceptions of data transfer tools and (iii) ethical, legal and social challenges of data sharing. Several sub-themes emerged as: (i.a) frequency of and approaches used in reviewing data sharing protocols, (i.b) practical/technical challenges, (i.c) training, (ii.a) ideal structure of data transfer tools, (ii.b) key elements of data transfer tools, (ii.c) implementation level, (ii.d) key stakeholders in developing and reviewing a data transfer agreement (DTA), (iii.a) confidentiality and anonymity, (iii.b) consent, (iii.c) regulatory frameworks, and (iii.d) stigmatisation and discrimination. Our results indicated variability in REC members' perceptions, suboptimal awareness of the existence of data protection laws and a unanimously expressed need for REC member training. To promote efficient data sharing within and across SSA, guidelines that incorporate ethical, legal and social elements need to be developed in consultation with relevant stakeholders and field experts, along with the training accreditation of REC members in the review of data-intensive protocols.

Forest conversion and timber certification in the public plantation estate of NSW: Implications at the landscape and policy levels

This paper investigates the clearance of native forests and native vegetation for plantation establishment, otherwise known as forest conversion, in the state-owned plantations of New South Wales, Australia. It begins by describing Australia’s forests, plantations, and forest conversion, continues with an outline of the history of public hardwood plantations in New South Wales, and explores the regulatory frameworks that allow this practice to happen, and the responses adopted by non-state environmental governance systems, notably forest certification, to address this problem. The paper presents a case study analysis of conversion in the hardwood plantations of northern NSW, and concludes that the current regulatory environment facilitates deforestation, with cumulative impacts at the landscape level, and that without government intervention, efforts to prevent this by non-state action will only be partially successful, leading to ongoing habitat and species loss. The failure of existing legislative and regulatory frameworks to adequately acknowledge, define, and prohibit conversion will remain an impediment to sustainable forest management, as the entry of such timber into the market contaminates supply chains, resulting in considerable reputation risk. Reform is needed in both public and private governance systems to ensure strong governance, effective planning, and ecosystem integrity at the landscape level. Recommendations are provided for policymakers.

Navigating the Digital Frontier: Exploring the Landscape of Digital Finance in the United States

Driven by technology innovation and digital change, the US financial environment is going through a significant transition. The exceptional accessibility and simplicity of digital finance—which encompasses fintech, bitcoin, and mobile banking—benefits both consumers and businesses. However, regulatory frameworks, consumer behavior, and cybersecurity risks come along with this paradigm shift. Through the integration of contemporary literature studies and empirical data, this study aims to present a comprehensive picture of the digital financial landscape in the United States. We evaluate the revolutionary impact of digital technologies on financial services, client preferences, emerging risks like decentralized finance (DeFi) and cybersecurity vulnerabilities, and regulatory innovations and limits using a systematic evaluation approach. Our findings underscore the multifaceted nature of digital banking and point to important trends, drivers, and stakeholder implications. We suggest enhancing regulatory coordination, fostering financial education and awareness, putting robust cybersecurity measures in place, supporting regulatory innovation, fortifying consumer protection measures, and keeping an eye on and responding to emerging risks to address the opportunities and challenges that have been identified. By putting these suggestions into practice, regulators, legislators, and business stakeholders will be able to handle the complexities of the digital banking ecosystem and fully utilize its potential to promote innovation, financial inclusion, and economic growth.

Preface: AgriVoltaics World Conference 2023

Dear colleagues, I warmly welcome you to the proceedings of the 4th AgriVoltaics World Conference [1] in Daegu, Korea. Our community's journey in the dynamic interplay between agriculture, renewable energy, and sustainability began in 2020 and has shown a remarkable growth and influence. The AgriVoltaics World Conference 2023 saw a remarkable submission of 130 abstracts from 28 countries, bringing together almost 350 delegates from Europe, Asia, the Middle East, North and South America, and Africa, both in-person and online. These proceedings present a diverse collection of scientific investigations, innovative advancements, and forward-thinking techniques, capturing the development of agrivoltaics from theory to a comprehensive resolution that tackles global issues. The concept of agricultural solar power generation, which was first introduced in 1981, has since been validated through empirical studies and regulatory frameworks established from 2013 onwards. As different countries adopt and adapt this concept, it is transforming into a powerful force for positive change, offering sustainable solutions tailored to unique circumstances. Korea, our host country, stands as evidence of the commitments made post the 2015 Paris Agreement. The country's efforts towards achieving carbon neutrality, along with proactive approaches such as population centralisation and rural communalisation, highlight the importance and practicality of our discussions. As we gather in Daegu, let us see this process not just as a repository of information, but as a source of inspiration. Together, let us envision and actively contribute to a future in which agrivoltaics provides practical solutions to address concerns related to climate change, food security, and environmental stewardship. I thank all of the conference participants, authors, presenters, reviewers, session chairs, my co-chair Prof. Jae Hak Jung, and the organizing committee for an extremely successful conference! Yours sincerely,Prof. Soo-Young OhChair of the Scientific CommitteeAgriVoltaics World Conference 2023

EU’s sustainable finance disclosure regulation: does the hybrid reporting regime undermine the goal to reorient capital to climate action?

ABSTRACT Disclosure and reporting are cornerstones of the European Union’s sustainable finance agenda with the goals of reorienting capital flows towards climate and other sustainable investments and minimizing greenwashing. A key component of the regulatory framework is the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR), which requires fund managers to calculate and disclose a ‘sustainable investment’ (SI) percentage, aggregating exposure to activities contributing to climate mitigation and adaptation and the other environmental and social sustainability objectives of the European Union. In turn, financial advisors must use SI percentages when advising customers under the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive II. Defining ‘sustainable investments’ in a robust and consistent way is crucial to the effectiveness of SFDR. Based on a review of the regulatory texts and financial sector participant observations this policy analysis article explores the overlapping guidelines framing how market participants are allowed to define sustainable investments, and the implications for achieving the goals of the sustainable finance agenda. The analysis suggests that the ‘unintentionally hybrid’ SFDR regime may perversely incentivize fund managers to forgo the use of the highly detailed EU Taxonomy rules-based approach that precisely defines climate-related ‘substantial contributions’ and apply the vague principles-based approach found in SFDR Article 2.17. This would allow each financial actor to define and determine independently what constitutes a sustainable investment, circumventing the robust, if imperfect, climate-related rules of the EU Taxonomy. The SFDR regime therefore risks undermining the European Commission’s stated goals of increasing capital allocation to sustainable activities and eliminating greenwashing. Key policy insights: A sustainability disclosure regime allowing the choice between robust rules and vague principles risks creating opportunities for greenwashing and reduced comparability. Fund managers are likely to select definitions that are least difficult to apply and maximize Sustainable Investment percentages. The current EU regime risks tacitly sanctioning the use of weak metrics, in turn slowing the reorientation of capital towards climate-related and other sustainable investments. The EU must at a minimum provide binding guidance on interpreting Article 2.17, require equal prominence for both SI percentages and EU Taxonomy-alignment scores, as well as address the usability issues of the existing Taxonomy.

Exploring Stem-Cell-Based Therapies for Retinal Regeneration

The escalating prevalence of retinal diseases—notably, age-related macular degeneration and hereditary retinal disorders—poses an intimidating challenge to ophthalmic medicine, often culminating in irreversible vision loss. Current treatments are limited and often fail to address the underlying loss of retinal cells. This paper explores the potential of stem-cell-based therapies as a promising avenue for retinal regeneration. We review the latest advancements in stem cell technology, focusing on embryonic stem cells (ESCs), pluripotent stem cells (PSCs), and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), and their ability to differentiate into retinal cell types. We discuss the challenges in stem cell transplantation, such as immune rejection, integration into the host retina, and functional recovery. Previous and ongoing clinical trials are examined to highlight the therapeutic efficacy and safety of these novel treatments. Additionally, we address the ethical considerations and regulatory frameworks governing stem cell research. Our analysis suggests that while stem-cell-based therapies offer a groundbreaking approach to treating retinal diseases, further research is needed to ensure long-term safety and to optimize therapeutic outcomes. This review summarizes the clinical evidence of stem cell therapy and current limitations in utilizing stem cells for retinal degeneration, such as age-related macular degeneration, retinitis pigmentosa, and Stargardt’s disease.

The Era of Artificial Intelligence Deception: Unraveling the Complexities of False Realities and Emerging Threats of Misinformation

This study delves into the dual nature of artificial intelligence (AI), illuminating its transformative potential that has the power to revolutionize various aspects of our lives. We delve into critical issues such as AI hallucinations, misinformation, and unpredictable behavior, particularly in large language models (LLMs) and AI-powered chatbots. These technologies, while capable of manipulating human decisions and exploiting cognitive vulnerabilities, also hold the key to unlocking unprecedented opportunities for innovation and progress. Our research underscores the need for robust, ethical AI development and deployment frameworks, advocating a balance between technological advancement and societal values. We emphasize the importance of collaboration among researchers, developers, policymakers, and end users to steer AI development toward maximizing benefits while minimizing potential harms. This study highlights the critical role of responsible AI practices, including regular training, engagement, and the sharing of experiences among AI users, to mitigate risks and develop the best practices. We call for updated legal and regulatory frameworks to keep pace with AI advancements and ensure their alignment with ethical principles and societal values. By fostering open dialog, sharing knowledge, and prioritizing ethical considerations, we can harness AI’s transformative potential to drive human advancement while managing its inherent risks and challenges.