Shortage Of Land Research Articles

Health, Socio- Technical, and Economic Constraints of Beekeeping in Bamboutos, Western Highlands of Cameroon

Beekeeping is important as a source of food, employment, and rural poverty alleviation. Honeybees are also important as the main pollinator of agricultural and forestry crops. However, there is a decrease in honeybee population worldwide, hence the objective of this study who was to investigate some of the challenges of beekeeping in Cameroon. Thus, a total of 56 beekeepers were investigated in Bamboutos in western Cameroon, using a questionnaire. Pests, predators and diseases were diagnosed retrospectively using a plate which was shown to beekeepers during the questionnaire administration. Signs of diseases reported by beekeepers included diarrhea (17.9%), chalkbrood (28.6 %), black bee (50%), and deformed wings (3.6%). The only parasite reported was Varroa (3.6%). Common insect pests were wax moth (87.5%), small hive beetle (Aethina tumida) (91.1%), large African hive beetle (Oplostomus fuligineus) (39.3%) and African death's-head hawkmoth (Acherontia atropos) (51.8%). Other pests noticed by beekeepers were ants (96.4%), spiders (78.4%), lizards (69.6%), wasps (66.1%), termites (64.3%), squirrels (60.7%), flies (8.9%), snakes (5.4%), and cockroaches (5.4%). The socioeconomic constraints cited were: lack of funding (87.5%), robbery and vandalism (71.4%), shortage of apiarian lands (60.7%), and proliferation of adulterated honey (48. 2%). The technical challenges were: presence of pests, predators and diseases (100%), lack of technical knowledge (41.1%), pesticides issues (26.8%), and low hive stocking rate (12.5%). The environmental challenges encountered were: strong winds (60.7%), bush fires (64.3 %), and remoteness of apiaries (44.6%). Problems encountered by beekeepers can be addressed through collective efforts from governmental authorities, NGOs and beekeepers.

Evaluation of a Great Agrovoltaic Implementation in an Isle Using SWOT and TOWS Matrices: Case Study of Gran Canaria Island (Spain)

Nowadays, we are heading towards global decarbonisation, with each sector involved contributing partial solutions to the problem, without realising that an overall vision is necessary. Photovoltaics emerged as a technology that requires a lot of surface area, which is why it has been integrated into buildings and other human infrastructures (BPVI). The effects of the implementation of AVS on an island have been analysed, observing the territory’s energy use, population, and social and topographical realities, collecting all the peculiarities that could be affected by a massive implementation of this technology. The method to be followed is a SWOT and TOWS analysis, widely employed in all types of scientific studies. The increase in the island’s resilience has been assessed, as has its decreasing its dependence on the outside. In this case, it has been observed that conventional PV is currently being installed on agricultural land to decarbonise electricity production, which mostly relies on oil and does not consider that the island is a territory with a high food dependence on the outside; a high unemployment rate; a high factor of soil desertification, meaning fires are frequent; a high rate of abandonment of agricultural land; and a shortage of flat land. Therefore, we affirm that the island’s carbon footprint will increase by not taking all these factors into account. In addition to punishing the local economy by destroying fertile soil, local food and jobs, the current method of energy production increases the need for subsidies to import food products from abroad. In addition, we claim that the use of AVS reduces the water needs of the crop, which is relevant on an island with great water scarcity. It is concluded that 11 of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals would be improved with the use of agrovoltaic technology.

Innovations and Quality Seed Potato Multiplication in the Central Kenya Highlands

Aim: Potato is an important food crop in Kenya. Land for seed potato multiplication was allocated at Tigoni, but the volume produced declined due to land grabbing. To overcome this constraint partnerships were forged among various actors. The objective of the study was to unravel the link between partnerships and the history of land tenure in Kenya. Methods: Data was collected through qualitative methods. These included 25 key informant interviews, 9 focus group interviews and observations. This was complemented with secondary sources that included journal articles, books and reports. The qualitative data was transcribed, coded and analysed through ATLAS.ti 23 computer software. Results: The study found that collaborations with smallholder farmer groups did not provide quality seed potato due to inadequate land for crop rotation resulting in disease infestations. The study concluded that R&D partnerships did not deliver a reliable volume of quality seed as predicted, because they failed to address contextual constraints related to historical land shortages. Recommendation: The study recommended a government policy that ensures that all the grabbed land meant for research and seed multiplication was reverted to KALRO Tigoni to guarantee adequate potato seed multiplication.

Managing public floors in private development: perceptions and challenges

PurposeThis paper examines the phenomenon of mixing public floors within private development, shedding light on underlying rationales, the acceptability of integrating different uses, and the various challenges associated with the management and creation of these mixed-use, mixed-ownership buildings.Design/methodology/approachThe topic is reviewed by examining the opinions and perceptions of expert planners and developers using a triangulation of qualitative interviews data and quantitative and qualitative analysis of survey results, cross-referenced with some grey literature in the form of planning tribunal decisions.FindingsFindings suggest that the allocation of public floors is made in response to the shortage of land in high-demand areas with the aim of densifying development and making it more efficient. Experts were generally open to the concept of a private–public floorspace mix, noting that certain public land uses are better than others when combined as floorspace within private structures. Furthermore, the findings highlight managerial obstacles as well as issues with the process of allocating public floors in new plans.Practical implicationsThe findings can be used to provide guidance for municipal authorities and developers looking to make the most of their available land, ensuring that both the public and private domains can coexist as cities continue to grow and become more densely populated in the future.Originality/valueFew studies have reviewed this type of public–private mix, while highlighting challenges in their creation and management. The Israeli case-study in the paper showcases a unique context where high growth rates, increasing densification, and vertical development all spur development in this direction.

Jobs-Housing Balance Dimension in the New Resettlement Areas Affected by the Hydropower Construction Project Case of: Samavkhyxay Village, Xieng Ngeun District, Luang Prabang Province

This study was conducted in Samackhysay Village, Xiengngun District, Luang Prabang Province, emphasizing the dimension of jobs-housing balance in the new resettlement areas of residents affected by the hydropower construction project and the resettlement process. 655 households have been moved from 10 villages. The methodology of the study employed a questionnaire with 250 households. The quantitative and qualitative approaches have been utilized with Binary Logistic Model in order to examine the relationships between housing and workplaces/balancing dimensions. Results of this study revealed that after the resettlement was completed, there are some positive and negative impacts illustrated, for instance, the community-level infrastructure has been updated with roads, schools, clinics, electricity, and water supply for the positive manners. Regarding the negative image, people are hard adapting to the new environment, the shortage of agricultural land and workplaces have been located far away from their residences, and their expenses increased with their longer trips to workplaces. The results also confirmed that the imbalance factor between jobs-housing is a crucial dimension of the resettlement of new locations. The Logistic Model revealed some critical issues regarding the inequalities of ethnicity, location of the original village, level of education, occupation, distance to the workplace, income, and conditions of homes and vehicles. The obvious change is that new occupations in the new resettlement area are workers compared to farmers. The outcomes of the study can be used as a guideline for creating a balance between housing and workplaces, especially the allocation of agricultural areas and the provision of occupations that are appropriate for the people to create a balance, to become the model village for the development and sustainability in the future.

Fisheries management for food security in the Maldives

Purpose. The goal of the study was to assess trends in providing food security with a special emphasis on efficiency of the local fisheries and offer evidence-based improvements, which can improve resource management and protect disadvantaged population in the Maldives from nutrition insecurity aggravated by strong import dependency. Methodology / approach. The methodological basis of this study was a set of modern qualitative economic and quantitative mathematical methods including factor analyses, econometric and optimisation modelling. This approach ensured holistic research and reasonable recommendations on providing food security and maintaining efficient fisheries management compared to international experience and intrinsic aspects that determine a fish catch and consumption in the Maldives. Results. The conclusions of the paper relate to the further development of fisheries to combat the identified negative trends in domestic fish consumption and an unstable fish catch by atoll in the Maldives. The conducted factor analysis detected relationships between a fish catch, fishing trips, engaged vessels, fish species, and fishing methods. The study findings proved the optimal locations where it is advisable to establish additional fish storages and ice plants taking into account indicators of a poverty rate, a share of children, and a population density. The research conclusions allow the authors to state that the outlined scientific proposals can essentially improve food security in the Maldives, which is threatened by land shortage and overpopulation. Originality / scientific novelty. The scientific novelty of the work is in presenting a clarified picture of challenges that Maldivian fishermen face nowadays. The scientific novelty lies in the identification of weaknesses in fisheries management and the proposals of areas of potential growth that are crucial for ensuring food security not only on poor islands but for the whole country. Practical value / implications. The main practical value of the research results is the development of recommendations for increasing fish catch and organising post-harvest processing, which are vital for the Maldivian fishery, as it is the country's main export sector. In addition, the study contributes to food security in the Maldives through proposed interventions aimed at supporting the most disadvantaged populations in the scattered atolls.

Feasibility study of floating solar photovoltaic systems using techno-economic assessment and multi-criteria decision-making method: A case study of Bangladesh

Many developing countries with abundant solar resources and rich history of agriculture, face overpopulation and land shortage issues. Floating solar photovoltaics (FSPVs) do not compete with agriculture for land and offer higher energy potential than land-based photovoltaics (LBPVs). For feasibility and site suitability evaluation of FSPVs, this study proposes an integrated approach of techno-economic assessment (TEA) and multi-criteria decision making (MCDM), based on a case study of Bangladesh. The system advisor model (SAM) was used to conduct TEA, evaluating the potential of nine FSPV sites on a regional scale using ten criteria. Combined compromise solution (CoCoSo) was implemented to determine the optimum site. Bergobindopur lake was ranked top, with the highest energy yield and lowest cost of energy of 1564 kWh/kW and $0.055/kWh respectively. Case study of Bergobindopur revealed buy-all-sell-all electricity tariff was more profitable than net billing and net metering. Energy generation was found to be influenced by tilt angle and soiling. Sensitivity analyses demonstrated the superiority of FSPVs over LBPVs for varying electricity prices, degradation and discount rates, project durations, and investor's equities. Longer project durations and lower equities resulted in higher profits for investors. The proposed approach contributes to the expansion of FSPV in land-constrained areas.

Carbon Emission Analysis of RC Core Wall-Steel Frame Structures

The development of super high-rise building projects has become crucial for mitigating land shortages in rapidly growing urban areas. Super high-rise steel structures, particularly RC core wall-steel frame systems, have become the preferred choice due to their superior performance, high prefabrication level, and construction efficiency. Despite their benefits, super high-rise buildings face challenges related to higher energy consumption and carbon emissions. Consequently, it is important to analyze the carbon emissions of these buildings throughout their lifecycle and propose low-carbon construction strategies. A carbon emission analysis focused on super high-rise buildings with RC core wall-steel frame structures is conducted in this study. A carbon emission analysis model is constructed based on BIM-enabled LCA through a real-world case study. The emission factor method is combined with the BIM model to calculate carbon emission. Furthermore, carbon emissions across various construction strategies are compared, with a particular focus on the manufacturing processes of the main materials. The results indicate that incorporating admixtures in concrete, along with adopting the electric arc furnace (EAF) method and utilizing recycled scrap steel in steel manufacturing, significantly reduces the carbon emissions of the buildings. Lastly, effective low-carbon approaches for these buildings are proposed.

Deciphering Farm Pond Adoption Dynamics and Operational Efficiency in Drought-Prone Regions of Maharashtra, India

The study delves the dynamics of farm pond adoption and operational efficiency in the Vidarbha and Marathwada regions of Maharashtra during 2022-23. Through a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods, data were collected from 160 beneficiaries and 160 non-beneficiaries, employing focus group discussions and structured interviews. Agricultural risks were examined, revealing a significant impact on farm income. Challenges such as low ground water table (MS 0.978), high temperatures (MS 0.966), and least evapotranspiration (MS 0.759) affected farmers' livelihoods, underscoring the need for a multidisciplinary approach to address these issues. The study highlights factors influencing farm pond adoption, with high awareness (96.56%) contrasting with lower adoption rates (51.56%). Adopters cited increased water access (22.81%), and relief from water scarcity (20%) as motives. Non-adopters faced barriers like financial constraints (21.88%) and land shortage (18.75%). Farm pond characteristics were comprehensively explored, revealing variations in size, structure, year of adoption, and irrigation sources. Maintenance activities were examined, showcasing key areas for pond health. Regular inspection (31.88%), vegetation management (17.50%), sediment removal (25.63%), and erosion prevention (19.38 %) emerged as crucial tasks, with variations between the regions. Financial aspects of pond construction and maintenance were elucidated, indicating a need of subsidies. Despite widespread awareness of farm pond benefits, adoption rates remained constrained by financial limitations, land availability, and awareness gaps. The study underscores the importance of targeted interventions, including financial aid, technical guidance, and capacity-building. These efforts are essential for promoting widespread adoption, enhancing agricultural productivity, water management, and the resilience of farming communities in both regions.

A Study of the Effect of Sorghum Varieties and Cowpea Intercropping on Land Productivity and Competition Index in Fedis District, Eastern Ethiopia

Now a day human population increasing rapidly and cause land shortage land degradation, and poor soil fertility. Intercropping provides an opportunity to harness available resources by the cultivation of two or more crops planted simultaneously in the same land to produced cereal-legume for food and feed. A field study was conducted in Fedis District in 2018 to determine the impact of intercropping early maturing sorghum varieties and cowpeas on the land productivity and competition index. With a total of 11 treatments; two cowpea cultivars (9333 and 9334) and three varieties of early maturing sorghum (Teshale, Birhan and Melkam), their intercropping and sole cropping were determined using a randomized complete block design with three replications. Intercropping of sorghum-cowpea varieties produced significantly higher total land productivity than sole cropping of both varieties. The value of land equivalent ratio ranges from 1.21 for Sorghum (Teshale) + Cowpea (9334) to 1.36 for sorghum (Birhan) + cowpea (9333) and the overall mean was obtained as 1.30. The Percentage of the land saved of grain yields obtained was ranges 17.37% to 26.47% from of sorghum Teshale + cowpea varieties (9334) to sorghum Birhan + cowpea varieties (9333) and for Biomass yield production recorded from 27.01% to 36.71% that obtained from sorghum Melkam + cowpea (9333) and sorghum Birhan + cowpea (9334). Intercropped of sorghum-cowpea over all mean 23.25% for grain yield and 31.515% for biomass land was saved than sowing alone. Based on the result sorghum-cowpea intercropped, had the strength of relationship interaction and compatible; preferably sorghum Melkam + cowpea (9333) appropriate to increase the productions in study area and with similar agro-ecology.

Socio-economic and Bio-physical Characterization of Wadego Watershed, Oda-Bultum Woreda, West Hararghe zone, Ethiopia

Baseline characterization is important component of watershed development of rural development and natural resource management strategies in many countries. Hence, the study was designed to; assess and document major biophysical and socio-economic constraints and potentials of Wadego watershed. Firstly, Wadego watershed boundary was delineated and its map was developed based on the preliminary outlet identified with the help of GPS reading. The households for interview were selected randomly from the small householders in the watershed based on proportional to population size. Accordingly, data was collected from 120 sample respondents using various instruments such as: key informant interview using semi-structured checklist, focused group discussion, expert interview, unstructured questionnaire and field observation on bio-physical resources and different concerns of watershed management. Collected data was summarized using descriptive statistics. The result indicated, out of the total 120 sample respondents socio-economic status were; 87.5% of them were male while the rest 12.5% were female, 93% were married, 51% were un educated. The major crops grown in the watershed were Maize, Sorghum, Khat, Teff and others while, Barley and Field Pea were the least grown ones. The result of the survey has indicated 37% uses improved variety, while 64% uses local variety. According to respondents, the slop class of the watershed was 56, 29, and 15% flat, medium and steeply slops respectively. Moreover, soil fertility class was 25%, 54% and 21% low, medium and high respectively in the watershed. Generally, the survey result have characterized and documented bio-physical and socio-economic status as: average land owned half hectare, densely populated, different slope class in the watershed, land shortage, feed problems, presence of soil fertility and erosion problems, climatic problems etc. in the watershed. Accordingly, researchable issues on different prioritized problems concerning to; soil fertility management, soil and water conservation, Agroforestry practice, forage development and forestry practices in the watershed have given prioritization and therefore, adapted and generated technologies nearby research center i.e. Mechara Agricultural Research Center and any concerned research institutions and also development work oriented NGO’S has to intervened the watershed by research development work. Accordingly, intervention areas forwarded are: Creating awareness on climate variability and change and SWC techniques, introducing different biophysical soil and water harvesting technologies, demonstration and awareness creation, Participatory demonstration on different Agroforestry and plantation forestry practices, introducing multipurpose plant species like Bamboo variety in the watershed.

Optimization of municipal solid waste incineration for low-NOx emissions through numerical simulation

With urbanization, municipal solid waste (MSW) generation is increasing. Traditional landfill methods face land shortages and environmental pollution. Waste incineration, which reduces waste and recovers resources, has become a key management method. However, nitrogen oxides (NOx) produced during incineration severely impact the environment, requiring improved control technologies. This study optimized three denitrification technologies—air staging, flue gas recirculation (FGR), and selective non-catalytic reduction (SNCR)—using numerical simulations. The research provides support for improving waste incinerator efficiency and stability while reducing NOx emissions, aiding the sustainable development of waste incineration technology. By optimizing the primary and secondary air distribution ratios, the initial NOx generation was reduced by 8.39%. When 20% of the recirculated flue gas was introduced as secondary air, NOx generation was reduced by 23.54%, and boiler efficiency increased to 83.78%. The study examined the impact of different sludge mixing ratios on the temperature and NOx emissions within the context of municipal solid waste (MSW) incineration. Initially, the study aimed to address the environmental concerns of NOx emissions during the incineration process by exploring how the introduction of sludge at various mixing ratios would affect combustion parameters. The results showed that a sludge mixing ratio between 3 and 13% optimized the combustion process with 7% being the most effective in balancing temperature control and NOx emissions. Specifically, the best value of the sludge mixing ratio refers to achieving an optimal reduction in NOx emissions while maintaining stable incinerator operation. The chemical compositions of the sludge included key elements such as carbon (C), hydrogen (H), nitrogen (N), sulfur (S), and oxygen (O), with approximate proportions of C: 31.2%, H: 4.7%, N: 2.5%, S: 0.6%, and O: 31.8%.

Measuring Traffic Speed Change After the Reallocation of Road Space for Cycling: A Data-Driven Analysis for Bogotá

In recent years, many local authorities have sought to accommodate cycling and active transportation in urban areas by creating dedicated spaces for them. However, densely populated cities face a land shortage, making it challenging to introduce measures such as bike lanes without impacting existing road users. Therefore, understanding the potential impacts of these initiatives is essential for informed decision-making, effective policy formulation, and successful urban planning strategies. In 2020, Bogotá, Colombia introduced extensive bike lanes along important corridors previously exclusively designated for motorized vehicles. The modifications were made possible in response to the unique context of the COVID-19 pandemic. The objective of this study is to provide a data-driven assessment of the impacts of some of the implemented bike lanes by utilizing traffic speed data from 2019 (prior to the lane modifications) and 2021 (after the modifications). Rigorous statistical analysis and modeling were employed to measure the changes on speed levels of road traffic, on both, the treatment group with modified roads as well as on the control group with non-modified roads within the study area. Due to the intricate factors influencing traffic speeds, spatial relationships between road segments and estimation errors were explicitly accounted for. Findings revealed a maximum speed reduction of 4.5 km/h (equivalent to a 19 % decrease), for users on modified roads. Apart from quantifying the worsened speed conditions because of the reduced road space on treated segments, results also highlight that certain parallel road segments experienced an increase in speed levels. This observation lends support to the intervention and emphasizes the importance of comprehensively assessing the entire road network when considering the implementation of bike lane projects in similar context cities.

Hydroponics with Microalgae and Cyanobacteria: Emerging Trends and Opportunities in Modern Agriculture.

The global population is expected to reach 9.5 billion, which means that crop productivity needs to double to meet the growing population's food demand. Soil degradation and environmental factors, such as climate events, significantly threaten crop production and global food security. Furthermore, rapid urbanization has led to 55% of the world's population migrating to cities, and this proportion is expected to increase to 75% by 2050, which presents significant challenges in producing staple foods through conventional hinterland farming. Numerous studies have proposed various sustainable farming techniques to combat the shortage of farmable land and increase food security in urban areas. Soilless farming techniques such as hydroponics have gained worldwide popularity due to their resource efficiency and production of superior-quality fresh products. However, using chemical nutrients in a conventional hydroponic system can have significant environmental impacts, including eutrophication and resource depletion. Incorporating microalgae into hydroponic systems as biostimulants offers a sustainable and ecofriendly approach toward circular bioeconomy strategies. The present review summarizes the plant growth-promoting activity of microalgae as biostimulants and their mechanisms of action. We discuss their effects on plant growth parameters under different applications, emphasizing the significance of integrating microalgae into a closed-loop circular economy model to sustainably meet global food demands.

Biophysical Resource Characterization, Identification and Prioritization of Major Constraints and Potentials of Gara Ebanu Community Watershed in Sululta District, Ethiopia

Baseline characterization helps to understand the initial livelihood condition of the people in the watershed before and after the intervention of the project to measure the amount of change attained by the project. The objective of the study was to characterize baseline information on the existing biophysical resource used as benchmark for planning and impact monitoring and to identify and major constraints and potential in the watershed. The watershed was selected depending on agro-ecological representation, prevalence of resource management and land degradation problems and accessibility for intensive follow-up. Based on the preliminary outlet identified during the watershed selection process, the watershed boundary was delineated using GPS data and the map of watershed was geo-referenced and digitized for its contour, roads, rivers, and other features. Both primary and secondary data were used for the study and primary data was collected through field observation, household survey, focus group discussion and interview of the key informants. From the total 103 household heads living in the watershed, 62 household heads were selected as a respondent for the study. The collected data was managed and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and Microsoft excel 2010. The results of the study showed that about 29.4% of the watershed slope was characterized by flat lands, 45.7% moderate slope and 24.9% steep lands. As well as soil fertility status of cultivated land in the watershed were 33.9% low, 55.9% moderate and 10.2% high. The results of the study showed that the major constraints identified by sampled household heads were decline of soil fertility, soil erosion, climate change, land shortage, and deforestation were significantly contributed to the low crop yield in the watershed. About 27.4% of the sampled households had encountered decline of soil fertility problems, 25.8% of sample farmers encountered soil erosion problem, and 22.6% of sample farmers encountered climate change problem in the watershed. From the identified major constraints, the highest priorities were given for decline of soil fertility, soil erosion problem, shortage of feed and fodder, and decline of crop productivity respectively. In the watershed, immediate short-term actions should be taken particularly participatory integrated watershed management were recommended.

CURRENT STATUS AND EFFICIENCY OF ABANDONED LANDS RE-DEVELOPMENT IN RIVER BASINS OF SOUTH-WESTERN TRANSBAIKALIA

Complex ecological and economic studies of post-agrarian landscapes in the middle reaches of the Selenga, Chikoy and Temnik rivers were carried out within the boundaries of the Selenga administrative region of the Republic of Buryatia (RB). A map of abandoned agricultural lands has been compiled. A brief description of agroclimatic conditions of the study area is given; the structure of agricultural land, the yield of grain and forage crops, the dynamics of livestock and the load of livestock on pastures and hayfields are analyzed. The reasons for the arable land abandonment are formulated. It was revealed that pastures and hayfields are not excluded from the agricultural use. This is due to an increase in the livestock numbers in households, which are the main agricultural producers in the RB, as well as a shortage of natural forage lands. The species composition and the state of shelterbelt forests are described as an integral part of the ecotopes of post-agrarian landscapes. The main taxonomic indicators of trees are given. The study of shelterbelt forests is topical due to the need for their inventory, lack of maintenance, and the adoption of Federal Laws on protective afforestation and land reclamation. A brief agrochemical description of the state of soils in key areas is given. To assess the effectiveness of arable land reuse, a net operating income (NOI) or rental income was calculated for each grain and grainfodder crop grown in the region under study. It was revealed that oats and spring wheat are the most profitable. Recommendations were formulated for the redevelopment of post-agricultural landscapes, optimization of protective afforestation, and reconstruction of shelterbelt forests

The Influence of Land Scarcity on Funeral Method Preferences in the Chinese Community

Chinese public cemeteries in Malaysia, also known as "Yishan," are dedicated burial sites specifically used by the Chinese community for the interment of their deceased loved ones. These cemeteries adhere to Chinese cultural and religious practices related to ancestor veneration and the afterlife. The cemetery land is mostly provided by the local government, and the local association is responsible for managing the cemetery. Since the Yishan located in the city are already nearing saturation, the government cannot afford to allocate land for new Yishan to the relevant guild members, making many Yishan difficult to find. Additionally, Chinese graves occupy more land than those of other races due to the burial practices. Consequently, the Chinese community faces a shortage of burial land, often having to resort to more expensive private cemeteries. This paper is based on a proposal by the Selangor senior exco member, Datuk Teng Chang Khim, to address the issue of land scarcity for Chinese burials. Teng expressed the Malaysia Funeral Association's intention to promote flower burial in Malaysia, a method that uses less land, to alleviate this problem. Therefore, this research aims to identify the funeral methods preferred by the Chinese community and determine their preferences for these methods. In this study, quantitative analysis was adopted to collect data. Central Malacca was chosen as the research location because it is one of the states in Malaysia with a large Chinese population and may face cemetery land scarcity. A total of 384 respondents were needed for this analysis. The results indicate a high preference for flower burial among the respondents. Other methods, such as sea burial and ice burial, also showed satisfactory preference levels. Thus, this research provides insight to the Malaysia Funeral Association that the Chinese community in Malacca is interested in and prefers alternative funeral methods, such as flower burial, which could help address the issue of land scarcity for cemeteries in the future.

Strategic Development for a Sustainable Future: Kau Yi Chau Artificial Island Project

The Kau Yi Chau Artificial Island (KYCAI) project is a landmark initiative aimed at addressing Hong Kong's critical land shortage while enhancing its global competitiveness and fostering sustainable development. Situated between Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and Lantau Island, the project incorporates innovative strategies to balance environmental, social, and economic considerations. Environmental concerns like biodiversity preservation and carbon footprint reduction are tackled through low-carbon building materials, renewable energy, and sustainable transportation. Social justice is promoted by equitable stakeholder engagement, employment opportunities, and fair access to resources. Leadership styles, including transformational and collaborative models, are key to achieving these sustainability goals through effective stakeholder mobilization. The project stands as a testament to strategic planning and collaborative efforts in sustainable urban development, offering valuable insights into balancing environmental, social, and economic goals.

The Benefits of insects as a nutrient

The global population is growing at an alarming rate, leading to a shortage of land and food resources. As a result, there is a need to find alternative sources of food. Edible insects have gained significant attention due to their economic and environmental benefits, as well as their potential in various industries. The consumption of edible insects is not limited to India but is prevalent worldwide. These insects are highly nutritious, containing high levels of fat, protein, and micronutrients that vary among different species. Therefore, they offer a valuable solution to address the food needs of future generations. The demand for alternative protein-rich foods is rapidly increasing globally, and insects present an innovative and sustainable option as a feed source. In addition to protein, insects also provide essential nutrients such as fats, minerals, and vitamins. This paper aims to explore the different types of edible insects and their nutritional value.

Evaluating salt tolerance in fodder crops: A field experiment in the dry land

Abstract Freshwater scarcity and a shortage of agricultural land constitute the primary limiting factors affecting crop production in numerous arid and semi-arid regions across the globe. This study involves the introduction of three sorghum cultivars (Kaoliang, Sudan grass, and Sweet grass) from China into the dry land of Pakistan, with irrigation using different water qualities (fresh water and saline water) during the rainy season. Parameters including plant height, stem diameter, leaves per plant, number of tillers per plant, specific leaf area, aboveground biomass, below ground biomass, and yield per acre were measured. All plant species exhibited a reduction of 30–40% in their physiological functions, growth parameters, and yield under saline water irrigation compared to freshwater irrigation. Sweet grass and Sudan grass demonstrated higher yields under saline water irrigation compared to Kaoliang, although the overall yields of all three cultivars remained within an acceptable range, while using saline water irrigation. It was concluded that these three introduced sorghum cultivars are well-suited for cultivation in the arid region during the rainy season, particularly when irrigated with saline water. This study offers an eco-friendly approach to utilizing dry land resources for agricultural production, thereby assisting local communities in sustaining their livelihoods.