Socio-economic Impact Assessment Research Articles

Environmental and Socio-Economic Impact Assessment of Renewable Energy Using Machine Learning Models

Renewable energy sources, such as solar, hydro, wind, and geothermal energy, have emerged as key alternatives to fossil fuels in combating climate change and addressing energy security concerns in the USA and ad worldwide. Strategic use of this renewable resource is important not only for carbon emission reduction and improvement of environmental sustainability but also for maintaining future energy supplies. At the same time, such transition raises thorough assessments of environmental and socio-economic impacts. Machine learning (ML) models offer a powerful tool for predicting and analyzing such impacts, allowing for more efficient decision-making and long-term planning. These models are supposed to analyze patterns in energy production, land use, and emissions to make a more dynamic and predictive understanding of how renewable energy adoption influences CO2 levels. The principal aim of this research project was to develop and curate machine learning algorithms for predicting CO2 emissions based on renewable energy data, using the knowledge to better understand how solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal energy systems affect environmental outcomes. The predictive models developed in this research would serve as useful tools for the policymakers and major stakeholders in decision-making on investments in energy infrastructure and characterization of regulatory frameworks. These datasets for this research project were retrieved from several prominent institutions, including governmental agencies, international organizations such as the International Energy Agency-IEA and the World Bank, satellite data repositories, and USA environmental monitoring agencies. For this research project, 3 machine learning algorithms in the experiment were used, namely Logistic Regression, XG-Boost, and Random Forest. Amongst these three, the linear regression model gave the best performance, as it had the least MSE; indicating that its predictive capability was impressive. The comparative analysis of renewable energy projects in Germany, China, and California underlines that effective policy-making plays a very decisive role in the transition toward sustainable energy.

Socio-economic Impact Assessment of Salinity Prevention Structure-Bardasagar Scheme in Porbandar District of Gujarat, India

India's vast coastline, spanning 7,516 kilometers, faces a critical challenge of seawater intrusion, resulting in salinity issues that profoundly affect agriculture, water resources, and socio-economic well-being. Among the coastal states, Gujarat, with its extensive 1,600-kilometer coastline, bears a significant burden of this phenomenon. The Barda Sagar Prevention Scheme aims to mitigate these effects by managing water resources effectively, thereby reducing salinity impact in the Porbandar area of Gujarat and ensuring the well-being of local communities. The Barda Sagar Scheme, situated in Rinavada village within Porbandar taluka of Gujarat, stands as a vital initiative aimed at addressing these challenges. This study meticulously evaluates the scheme's impact on agriculture, livestock, and rural livelihoods in both upstream and downstream villages. The findings underscore the scheme's substantial positive influence on various facets of rural life. Significant shifts in cropping patterns and agricultural land usage, accompanied by notable increases in crop yields, particularly in principal crops like groundnut and cumin, demonstrate the scheme's efficacy in enhancing agricultural productivity. Moreover, changes in livestock population, production, and feeding practices suggest potential improvements in livestock management and productivity, despite some fluctuations in livestock populations. Access to safe drinking water, a fundamental aspect of rural livelihoods, has witnessed considerable improvement due to the scheme's implementation. Increased reliance on the Narmada pipeline and enhanced access to potable water across surveyed villages reflect positive strides in water security and overall living standards. However, the study also identifies various challenges and factors influencing the observed changes. Soil degradation, pest incidence, and the need for sustainable water management strategies emerge as notable challenges that require ongoing attention and intervention. While positive drivers such as increased rainfall and improved market access have facilitated progress, continued monitoring, and adaptive management remain imperative for ensuring the scheme's long-term sustainability and efficacy.

In-training and private physicians' knowledge, attitudes, practices and perceived barriers on the utilization of low dose chest CT scan as lung cancer screening for high-risk patients in a tertiary hospital: Single center experience.

150 Background: Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Aside from smoking cessation efforts and guidelines from all proficient panels, utilizing Low dose CT scan (LDCT) of the chest as lung cancer screening (LCS) has been poorly adopted. Methods: This was conducted after institutional review board approval. The respondents were handed hard copy or electronic consent forms and survey questionnaire depending on the platform of their choice. Results: Majority of the respondents were in-training female physicians with median age of 31 years old who specialized in Internal Medicine practicing between 1-5 years who catered to more than 10 patients per week in outpatient clinics. Nearly half of the respondents answered that the recommended frequency for lung cancer screening (LCS) for high-risk individuals is done bi-annually. Majority agreed that lung cancer screening is effective in decreasing lung cancer mortality and morbidity. Most respondents have initiated discussion about the risks and benefits of low dose chest CT scan (LDCT) as lung cancer screening among eligible high-risk patients. However, most of the respondents disagreed that lung cancer screening is cost effective. The top three perceived barriers on the utilization of Low dose chest CT scan as lung cancer screening reported in descending order revealed that it is not cost-effective, some forgets to screen patients and lung cancer screening has the potential to cause mental anguish or anxiety to patients. Conclusions: This study recommends conducting further studies exploring the socio-economic burden and impact assessment of lung cancer in the Philippines to enable translation of more meaningful strategies for local and national lung cancer screening access, health policies and financing. Promoting continuous lung cancer screening forums, lectures and information dissemination of annual LDCT of the chest among high risk patients will encourage and strengthen interdepartmental and multidisciplinary referral and collaboration in increasing earlier detection of lung cancer and decreasing related morbidity and mortality.

Urban morphology and identity: The dock spaces of melaka on the maritime silk road

Background: This research investigates the intricate relationship between historical docks and the urban development of Melaka, a significant maritime entrepot along the Maritime Silk Road. Focusing on the physical connections and urban morphological performance, this study explores how these docks have influenced the urban morphology and architectural typology of Melaka from its earliest settlement to the present. Method: Utilizing a multidisciplinary approach that combines urban planning, architectural analysis, historical research, and extensive fieldwork, this research identifies key dock spaces along the Melaka River and examines their connections to the city's inland areas. Through historical mapping and analysis of lost docks and market spaces, as well as religious buildings, the study reveals the complex interactions between these maritime infrastructures and urban development. Result: The findings highlight numerous challenges in preserving these historical nodes, including issues related to modern urban integration and conservation. Conclusion: The research concludes with recommendations for the conservation and management of these historical sites, emphasizing their importance in preserving Melaka’s historic urban landscape. By safeguarding these cultural heritage nodes, Melaka can maintain its urban identity and continue to honor its rich maritime history. Novelty/Originality of this study: The development of a comprehensive and adaptive maritime heritage integration model in modern urban planning, which combines urban morphology, historical mapping, and socio-economic impact assessment, provides a multidimensional framework for urban planners to preserve and revitalize infrastructure nodes while accommodating contemporary urban development needs, thereby creating a balance between heritage preservation and urban progress.

Exploring land use conflicts arising from economic activities and their impacts on local communities in the European Arctic

ABSTRACT The European Arctic is commonly thought of as a pristine and homogeneous area. In reality, it is a diverse region experiencing growth relying on natural resource extraction. Despite local communities being primarily affected by industry activities, most socioeconomic impact assessments are conducted at the macro level. This study addresses this gap by examining the impacts of economic activities on local communities. Using secondary data and semi-structured interviews from 15 hubs in five European Arctic countries, the study draws on locally relevant insights. Findings indicate that many activities focus on economic growth, and existing strategies do not adequately address biophysical boundaries. Furthermore, alternative activities need to be developed in a more balanced manner that aligns with the needs of indigenous and local communities. Finally, participation of various actors in future developments is critical to reduce the negative impacts of industry activities.

Socio-economic impacts of resource extraction on indigenous populations in Imbolo Mbue's: How beautiful we were

This paper undertakes a comprehensive analysis of Imbolo Mbue's novel "How Beautiful We Were," employing the novel as a case study to explore the interconnected phenomena of ecological and economic losses affecting the fictional African village of Kosawa. The narrative serves as a poignant lens through which the catastrophic impacts of environmental degradation by external corporate interests, specifically an American oil company, are examined. Drawing on methodologies such as Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) and systemic-functional linguistics, the study illuminates how the novel’s language actively shapes perceptions of ecological destruction and social conflict. The analysis is anchored in a detailed examination of the socio-economic repercussions of environmental exploitation on indigenous communities, reflecting broader global issues of environmental injustice where marginalized populations bear the brunt of industrial activities. By integrating narrative analysis with socio-economic and ecological impact assessments, the paper aims to provide a holistic understanding of the compound crises faced by communities on the frontlines of environmental exploitation. This approach not only highlights the devastating effects on health and local economies but also emphasizes the role of literature as a form of resistance and a vehicle for advocating ecological and social justice. The findings contribute to ongoing discussions on sustainable development and advocate for more nuanced and inclusive approaches in literature and policy, reinforcing the critical role of narrative in shaping public discourse and policy on environmental justice.

Assessment of Socio-Economic Impacts of River Bank Erosion: Enhancing Resilience in the Coastal Belt of Bangladesh

River bank erosion is one of the major natural calamities of Bangladesh. The purpose of this study is to assess the socio-economic impacts of riverbank erosion in Mehendiganj Upazila, Barishal district, using quantitative and qualitative approaches. 58% of the respondents reported that the intensity of erosion is extremely high. 80% of the cultivable land of Ulania union has disappeared in the river where this amount is near 50% for the other two unions. Nearly 45% of the respondents have migrated within the last 4 years. Among the migrated people, 94% reported that their social bondage had been broken. The findings of this research indicate that river erosion significantly affects social, economic, psychological, and ethical risks in the local community. The study will provide a comprehensive guideline to the role of local government, non-government organizations and communities to reduce the adverse impact of river erosion.

The Socio-Economic Impact of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) on Livestock Farming in Sierra Leone, an Empirical Evidence from Six (6) Districts

As a highly infectious disease, Foot and Mouth disease (FMD) has been eradicated by many wealthy nations but remains endemic in most of the world especially countries in Sub-Saharan Africa1. When FMD outbreaks occur in disease free countries and zones that produce livestock for export, the economic impact is clear to see; however, the impact of the disease in endemic countries is more controversial, particularly when compared to diseases that cause greater mortality. Taking into account the limited resources of veterinary services for the implementation of animal disease surveillance anywhere and anytime in Sierra Leone, a socio-economic impact assessment study was conducted to quantify the impacts, spread and occurrence of the disease, in order to target and put in place precautionary control measures including targeted surveillance. The main socio-economic impact question of the study was “What is the social and economic impact of FMD in the districts under review. The study was conducted in 6 districts in the North and East of Sierra Leone. A total of 240 respondents using purposive sampling were interviewed to elicit information on the main socio-economic variables that informed the study. The study established (80%) of the sampled farmers are livestock farmers, while 32 people (13.3%) are crop farmers who mainly practice subsistence farming. The study proved that the yearly income from the sales of livestock both especially large ruminants increase to 154 (64.2%). This percentage plummeted when FMD struck in 2018-2019. The study showed that (55.8% of the household indicated that their cattle suffered from Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) during the outbreak of July-August 2018-2019, while goats and sheep suffered Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) with households reporting (70.8%) and 162 (68%) of Infection rates before the commencement of this study. The study recommended that the veterinary division of maintain and improve on active surveillance of FMD, update surveillance plan targeting priority districts and hotspots of FMD outbreak such as livestock markets to maintain the current status of Low risk to prevent social and economic impacts’

Global assessment of healthcare policies and socioeconomic impact of the rapid rising of non-communicable diseases in LMICs: Case study, Cameroon

Background: The rapid transition from communicable diseases (CDs) to non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) presents a global health challenge, impacting healthcare policies and socioeconomic dynamics. Our study assesses how the prevalence of NCDs influences health and economic indicators, like, quality of life and productivity by conducting a comprehensive global assessment of the role of healthcare policies in addressing this disease transition with a specific focus on Cameroon. Methodology: The study examined the literature from a range of sources, such as Science Direct, PubMed, and official reports, in order to analyse both global and Cameroonian healthcare policies and highlight opportunities and problems with effectively managing NCDs. Results: The socioeconomic impact of the rising NCDs is core concern, as they impose substantial economic burdens on both individuals and healthcare systems. Sub-Saharan countries, Cameroon inclusive, stand to suffer most if it is not addressed early enough. Moreover, by understanding the socioeconomic implications of NCDs, strategies can be developed to mitigate their adverse effects and improve the overall well-being of populations in LMICs. Conclusion: The increasing prevalence of NCDs poses a significant risk to the well-being of the younger generation, jeopardizing their quality of life. Thus, a thorough analysis of healthcare policies and socioeconomic consequences is essential. It highlights the pressing necessity of a multifaceted strategy to tackle this health transition and underscores the importance of customized approaches to address the unique challenges encountered by countries such as Cameroon.

Socio-Economic Impact Assessment of Protected Cultivation: Income, Employment and Livelihood Advancements for Farmers

Socio-Economic Impact Assessment of Protected Cultivation: Income, Employment and Livelihood Advancements for Farmers

Social life cycle assessment for industrial product development: A comprehensive review and analysis

The sustainable development goals outlined in the 2030 Agenda encompass a range of global challenges aimed at promoting prosperity and security for both current and future generations. Within this context, the Social Life Cycle Assessment emerges as a valuable tool for assessing the socioeconomic impact assessment associated with the life cycle of industrial products. Despite the presence of a methodological framework with a structured process, the implementation of the Social Life Cycle Assessment within the industrial domain is hampered by the lack of precise indicators, context-specific databases, limited case studies, and the dynamic characteristics inherent in social data. This study conducts a comprehensive review of the scientific literature and examines methodologies, databases, and software, focusing specifically on its applicability in the design and development of industrial products. The main objective is to evaluate the current research effort, identify available technical and digital resources for implementation in industrial companies, and outline key areas of work and specific challenges related to the social dimension of life cycle assessment. The results emphasize the priority of improving indicator frameworks within specific impact categories and developing novel metrics to mitigate uncertainty in decision-making processes. Furthermore, it underscores the importance of transitioning to standardized application procedures within industrial product sectors, thus ensuring methodological consistency and improving the reliability of assessments.

Assessment of Socio-economic Impact of Human-wildlife Conflict on Agriculture: A Case of Smallholder and Subsistence Farmers in Eastern Bhutan

Human-wildlife conflicts are a great concern in where ecosystem services are shared between humans and wildlife animals. This paper examines the socio-economic impacts of human-wildlife conflicts. A descriptive survey design was employed in this study. Primary data were collected by using a simple random sample from 120 households. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics including frequency and percentages. The study results showed that there is a substantial social and economic impact on the smallholder and marginal farmers through the loss of crops due to wild animals. The majority of farmers (23%) had incurred annual household economic loss ranging from US$49-US$59 per household.

Socioeconomic impact assessment and empowerment of solar photovoltaic projects for autonomous homes in Colombia

A statistical model has been developed using multivariate analysis techniques to evaluate the social and economic impacts of photovoltaic solar energy projects for autonomous rural housing in Colombia. All the general variables of each impact and the conditions specific to each project were analyzed, according to their location, size of the project, among others related to economic and social impacts to create an appropriate evaluation methodology; through a questionnaire, survey was able to measure the satisfaction of beneficiaries in a project developed by the IPSE (Instituto de Planificación y Promoción de Soluciones Energéticas para las Zonas No Interconectadas). The social investment project was aimed at improving the quality of life of 100 families in the department of Casanare, Colombia. This research has a descriptive and applied field methodological approach, including visits to rural dwellings, application and analysis of instruments, photographic record, interview with experts and direct observation. For the validation of this research work, experts in the field of solar photovoltaic electrification were invited as potential users of the evaluation tool

Evaluasi dan impact assessment pelatihan sekolah lapang pengendalian hama terpadu (SL-PHT) tanaman jagung melalui pengenalan dan aplikasi pestisida nabati di Kabupaten Purbalingga

The Sri Lestari farmer group in Karangbanjar Village, Bojongsari District, Purbalingga Regency works on the cultivation of food crops such as corn and rice, some of them working on horticultural crops. The use of chemical fertilizers and chemical pesticides carried out from year to year is quite worrying with the increasing dose of use of Chemical Fertilizers as well as environmentally unfriendly chemicals that are concerned will damage the natural ecosystems. The implementation of integrated pest management field schools (SL-IPM) corn farm efforts are expected to be able to impact the level of application of integrated pesticide control through the identification and application of plant pesticides on the Sri Lestari farmer group. The aim of the study was to analyze the impact of the SL-IPM implementation on the level of application of integrated pest control and the socioeconomic impacts of members of the Sri Lestari group. This research was conducted in May 2023. The number of respondents was 35 people using the census technique. Data is analyzed quantitatively. The observed variables are characteristics, pre-test and post-test, and socio-economic impact assessment of members of the farm group. The results of that there was an improvement in understanding, changes in attitudes, skills, knowledge and behavior in the good category (when an increase in respondent understanding of the training material was more than 30% of all pre-test and post-test questions). The number of members of the peasant group who applied the FS-IPM principle of corn crops was 62.86% with an increase in corn productivity of 50.91%.

Assessment of Socioeconomic Impact of Sericulture in Murshidabad: A Social Outreach Programme of Rammohan College

Assessment of Socioeconomic Impact of Sericulture in Murshidabad: A Social Outreach Programme of Rammohan College

Effects of a Primary Care-Based Intervention on the Identification and Management of Patients with Coronary Heart Disease and Mental or Cognitive Comorbidity-A Study Protocol.

Mental and cognitive disorders (MCD) negatively affect the incidence and prognosis of coronary heart disease (CHD). Medical guidelines recommend the appropriate management of comorbid MCD in patients with CHD, yet there is evidence that the implementation in primary care is not always adequate. We present the protocol for a pilot study that aims to develop a minimally invasive intervention and evaluate its feasibility in the primary care setting to improve the identification and management of comorbid MCD in patients with CHD. The study consists of two consecutive parts and will be carried out in Cologne, Germany. Part 1 comprises the development and tailoring of the intervention, which is guided by qualitative interviews with primary care physicians (PCPs, n = 10), patients with CHD and MCD and patient representatives (n = 10). Part II focuses on the implementation and evaluation of the intervention in n = 10 PCP offices. Changes in PCP behaviour will be analysed by comparing routine data in the practice management system six months before and six months after study participation. In addition, we will explore the influence of organisational characteristics and perform a socio-economic impact assessment. The outcomes of this mixed-method study will inform the feasibility of a PCP-based intervention to improve quality of care in patients with CHD and comorbid MCD.

81 Traac Framework and tool for Regulatory Acceptance and Wider Usability of Tools/Methods for safe Innovation and Sustainability of Nanomaterials

Abstract There has been an increasing use of manufactured nanomaterials in industrial applications and consumer products. It has instigated concerns about the sustainability, risks and uncertainties regarding the interactions of the nanomaterials with humans and the environment. Consequently, significant resources in Europe have been invested into tool and method development to support risk mitigation and management, facilitating the research and innovation process of manufactured nanomaterials. Extended risk analysis, including socio-economic impact and sustainability assessment is moving the conventional risk-based approach towards a wider safety-and-sustainability-by-design perspective. Despite growing tool and method developments, the level of awareness and use by stakeholders is still limited. Regulatory compliance and acceptance, reliability and trust, user-friendliness and compatibility with the users’ needs are important factors traditionally known to hinder their widespread use. Therefore, a framework is presented to quantify the readiness of different tools and methods towards their wider regulatory acceptance and downstream use by different stakeholders. The framework, developed within Gov4Nano, diagnoses barriers which hinder regulatory acceptance and wider usability of a tool/method based on their Transparency, Reliability, Accessibility, Applicability and Completeness (TRAAC framework). An online TRAAC tool is being developed within HARMLESS that will be freely available on https://diamonds.tno.nl/#traac. Fourteen tools and methods were assessed using the TRAAC framework as proof-of-concept. The results provide insights into any gaps, opportunities, and challenges in the context of each of the 5 pillars of the TRAAC framework.

The socio-economic impact assessment of biofuels production in South Africa: A rapid structured review of literature

Biofuels as a substitute for conventional aviation and motor vehicle fuels have received considerable global interest over the past decades mainly due to their perceived economic, social, and environmental benefits. Despite these economic benefits, most developing countries, including South Africa (SA), have yet to produce commercial biofuels. This study aims to inform South African policymakers. Prospective producers of biofuels about the potential socio-economic returns from producing biofuels at a commercial level through a structured rapid review of the literature differs from the peer-reviewed studies to date in South Africa, which focussed more on assessing the economic viability and environmental impacts of biofuels production. The systematic review methodology was used. About 48% of the published empirical studies reviewed integrated the socio-economic and environmental impact assessment, followed by studies that only examined the social impacts of biofuel (about 26%), about 15% of the studies examined economic impact only, and 11.54% examined the socio-economic impact. The results revealed that although the production of biofuels is associated with a positive socio-economic benefit, the biofuel industry is not viable without government support and the selling price of biofuel is not competitive relative to gasoline and petroleum alternatives. Lastly, the results revealed a need for more objective empirical studies in South Africa that can quantify the economy-wide implications of biofuels (especially second-generation biofuels) production. Only two (n = 2) of the 28 reviewed studies were conducted in South Africa from 28 studies reviewed. Both studies conducted in South Africa were feasibility studies focusing more on bioethanol; no study quantified the economy-wide impacts. The study recommends the implementation of the biofuels support mechanism by the government. Furthermore, amendments to the existing biofuels regulatory framework are recommended in order to support the production of advanced biofuels.

Environmental and Socio-economic Impact Assessment in Hazaribag Area of Dhaka for Tannery Relocation

Purpose of the study: The objective of this study is to find out the tannery relocation’s impact on the surrounding environment, social, economic, livelihood conditions, and institutional and stakeholder perception in Hazaribag. Methodology: The methodological framework includes a field survey and Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) tools, i.e., Focus Group Discussion (FGD) and Key Informant Interview (KII). Main Findings: After the relocation, the surrounding environment, odour, and surface water condition have improved at a very satisfactory rate. Nevertheless, many tannery workers either become unemployed or transferred to their non-expertise field, and the economic and business condition of the area has decreased. Also, there are some conflicts between the owner and workers. After the relocation, the government has not properly managed the post-relocation situation in the brownfield. Research implications/limitations: The research findings will be helpful in planning the utilization of the brownfield. The study's limitations include reliance on respondents' perceptions and opinions and not conducting chemical analysis for water and environmental monitoring. Continuous monitoring of the change is needed to find the impact in the long run. Novelty/Originality of this study: Many studies were conducted on the impact of the Tannery in the Hazaribag area, and the Tannery was eventually relocated. The study fills a gap in the literature by presenting the scenario after the relocation to address the impact of relocation in Hazaribag, which is a significant observation for further development of the brownfield area.

Adsorption kinetics studies of ciprofloxacin in soils derived from volcanic materials by electrochemical approaches and assessment of socio-economic impact on human health.

The use of antibiotics in the livestock sector has resulted in the entry of these drugs into the soil matrix through the disposal of manure as an organic amendment. To define the fate of these drugs, it is necessary to evaluate kinetic aspects regarding transport in the soil-solution. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the adsorption kinetic parameters of Ciprofloxacin (CIPRO) in Ultisol and Andisol soil which allows obtaining main kinetic parameters (pseudo-first and pseudo-second order models) and to establish the solute transport mechanism by applying kinetic models such as the Elovich equation, Intraparticle diffusion (IPD) and, the Two-site non-equilibrium models (TSNE). The adsorption kinetics of this fluoroquinolone (FQ), on both soils derived from volcanic ashes, is developed using electrochemical techniques for their determination. The experimental amount of CIPRO adsorbed over time (Qt) data best fit with the pseudo-second order kinetic models; R2 = 0.9855, Ɛ = 10.17% and R2 = 0.9959, Ɛ = 10.77% for Ultisol and Andisol, respectively; and where CIPRO adsorption was considered time dependent for both soils but the lower adsorption capacity in Ultisol; with 17.6 ± 2.8 μmol g−1; which could mean a greater risk in environmental. Subsequently, applying models to describe solute transport mechanisms showed differences in the CIPRO adsorption extent for the fast and slow phases. Adsorption isotherms were evaluated, where Ultisol occurs on heterogenous sites as multilayers and Andisol by monolayer with similar Qmax. Finally, the socio-economic impact of antibiotic usage is presented, giving the importance of antibiotics in the livestock sector and their effects on human health.