Socio-economic Importance Research Articles

Extremes of Temperature and Precipitation Under CMIP6 Scenarios Projections Over Central Hokkaido, Japan

ABSTRACTClimate extreme events are intensifying globally, posing increasing risks across various sectors. Understanding climate extremes' spatiotemporal patterns and responses to climate change is crucial for effective management, especially on a regional scale. This study examines temperature and precipitation extremes, as well as compound dry‐hot events (CDHEs), in the Ishikari River basin (IRB) of Northeastern Japan, an area of significant socioeconomic importance. We focus on spatiotemporal analysis under multiple scenarios of temperature/precipitation extremes and CDHEs based on statistical downscaled datasets from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6. Results indicate that IRB underwent increased trends of extreme hot periods, extreme droughts, and heavy rainfalls during 1985–2014, which are significantly affected by the North Pacific Oscillation and Southern Oscillation Index. Future projections show that warming temperatures and less rainfall shift asymmetrical impacts on temperature and precipitation extremes, expecting increased warm spells and CDHEs but increased wet durations and less heavy rainfalls. Emission scenarios analysis suggests low‐emission scenarios (SSP1‐2.6) could mitigate their exacerbations, especially for CDHEs (decreased by 139%). Moreover, spatial‐pattern analysis reveals regional heterogeneity in temperature and precipitation extremes, with northern mountainous regions more susceptible to thermal extremes and southern plain regions (e.g., Sapporo city) experiencing prolonged drought and CDHEs. This study provides valuable insights into climate risk management and adaptation strategies.

Strength and timing of austral winter Angolan coastal upwelling

The tropical Angolan upwelling system (tAUS) is a highly productive ecosystem of great socio-economic importance. Productivity peaks in austral winter and is linked to the passage of remotely forced upwelling coastal trapped waves (CTWs), where the strength of the productivity peak is associated with the amplitude of the upwelling CTW. Here, we analyze the year-to-year variability in the timing and amplitude of the austral winter upwelling CTW by examining sea surface temperature, sea level anomaly, and wind fields. Our results show that the timing of the CTW is influenced by variability in the equatorial region and along the southern African coast. Weaker equatorial easterlies from April to July delay the generation of the upwelling Kelvin wave, leading to a later arrival of the upwelling CTW. In contrast, the amplitude of the CTW is primarily influenced by variability in the eastern equatorial Atlantic and the central South Atlantic, where the South Atlantic Anticyclone is located. A cooling in the eastern equatorial Atlantic three to four months before the arrival of the CTW causes stronger zonal winds, ultimately leading to a stronger austral winter upwelling CTW. Our results suggest that the timing and amplitude of the upwelling CTW in the tAUS during austral winter are predictable on seasonal time scales.

Straw Craftsmanship from Port of Sauípe-BA: Possibility of Become a Geographic Indication

Objective: Present the potential of the Geographical Indication for straw handicrafts from Porto de Sauípe – Bahia based on the Methodology for Identifying Potential Brazilian Geographical Indications, developed by the Micro and Small Business Support Service (Sebrae). Theoretical Framework: The article shows some reports that provide information about the history and context of straw crafts in Porto de Sauípe, including local traditions and the role of artisans in the production of the products. Method: The research has a qualitative approach with data collection through bibliographic survey and interviews with local artisans. Results and Discussion: The results showed that the Porto de Sauípe region has factors that provide a quality product (handicrafts) with unique characteristics. The handicrafts have market potential, notoriety and great socioeconomic importance for local artisans. One of the main restrictions for the Geographical Indication is related to the criteria that require more attention, such as governance, research involved and vision of the future. Research Implications: The research makes it possible to analyze the potential of Geographical Indications in other regions that have potential for manufacturing products with notoriety and requirements for registration. Originality/Value: The study provides support to academics and artisans in Brazil, demonstrating the importance of the piassava production chain for maintaining crafts and generating local employment and income.

Characterization of the chemical composition, amino acid, and fatty acid profiles of underutilized poultry feathers

Poultry is one of the leading subsectors of animal husbandry. However, despite its socioeconomic importance, it is considered a significant contributor to environmental problems through its waste production, including feathers. Feathers are protective layers that make up the typical outer wrapping. It can be found on feathery and in some non-feathery winged creatures. In this context, this research was conducted to determine the proximate, mineral, fatty acid, and amino acid profile in poultry feathers. The proximate analysis revealed the values of ash (1.40%), moisture (6.30%), crude fiber (9.20%), protein (67.50%), crude fat (2.90%), and carbohydrate (12.70%). The mineral elements (ppm) indicated sodium (0.04), magnesium (0.03), potassium (0.04), calcium (0.06), phosphorus (0.05), manganese (0.01), iron (0.01), and zinc (0.01). The amino acid profile showed that it contained sixteen amino acids which includes important amino acids most especially all the essential amino acids except lysine. In contrast, the fatty acid profile revealed that it contained twelve fatty acids. Among these, it includes basic saturated fatty acids such as glycine and rich in unsaturated fatty acid contents. The finding indicates that poultry feathers can contribute useful nutrients, mineral elements, fatty acids, and amino acids to livestock feed for maximum utilization and rapid development, making it a good potential and sustainable material from waste to wealth.

Laboratory possibilities of prognosis of local complications in hip replacement

BACKGROUND: Endoprosthetics of large joints is a frequently performed operation in traumatology practice. The progression of local infectious sequela among postoperative patients is of major socio-economic importance since more than 30% of cases of inflammatory postoperative reactions are complicated by sepsis. In recent years, new criteria have been sought to assess the risks of infection in the field of surgical intervention, and prognostic scales have also been developed. AIM: The aim of the study was to evaluate the prognostic value of coagulological, biochemical and hematological indicators of the risk of hemorrhagic complications in patients after hip replacement. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The study included 85 patients who were in the clinic of Traumatology and Orthopedics of the I.I. Mechnikov for planned hip replacement. The average age of the patients was 64 ± 10 years. There were 46 women (54%), 39 men (46%). All patients underwent clinical and laboratory examination before surgery, the day after surgery and before discharge. All patients received rivaroxaban (10 mg 1 time/day) after surgery for the prevention of venous thromboembolic complications (46 patients) or apixaban (2.5 mg 2 times/day) (39 patients) during the entire period of stay in the clinic. Retrospectively, depending on the occurrence of complications, the patients were divided into 2 groups: group 1 — 78 patients (42 women and 36 men), whose postoperative period passed without complications, and group 2 — 7 patients (4 women and 3 men), who had hemorrhagic cases. Screening coagulogram (International Normalized Ratio, Activated partial thromboplastin time, fibrinogen) was performed on the STA Compact analyzer (Stago, France), biochemical parameters (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, creatinine, total calcium, ionized calcium, serum iron, C-reactive protein) were determined on the COBAS Integra 400plus analyzer, hematological parameters on the DxH800 analyzer (Beckman Coulter, USA). RESULTS: A retrospective analysis revealed that a decrease in serum iron in male patients before surgery is a marker of the prognosis of hemorrhagic complications. Prognostic significant laboratory indicators of the development of hemorrhagic complications in patients in the early period after hip replacement include an increase in fibrinogen and C-reactive protein; a decrease in serum iron. During the recovery period, the concentration of C-reactive protein and the relative number of monocytes are the most significant for assessing the risk of complications. CONCLUSIONS: Among the laboratory indicators in the structure of the weight coefficients of the prognosis of complications in patients undergoing hip replacement, it is necessary to evaluate the concentration of serum iron before surgery, especially in men, in the early postoperative period — C-reactive protein, fibrinogen and serum iron and at discharge — C-reactive protein and the number of monocytes as additional criteria for the risk of complications.

Práticas higiênico-sanitárias em feiras de arte e gastronomia de Niterói/RJ, Brasil

Introduction: Street food is an important market segment with an impact on the generation of jobs, income, and appreciation of food culture. However, it poses a challenge for public health because it increases the risk of transmission of pathogens from foodborne disease. Objective: Evaluate the hygienic-sanitary practices of food handlers at fairs and the physical-functional conditions of gastronomy and arts fairs in the city of Niterói/RJ. Method: The descriptive methodology was applied, using a qualitative and quantitative approach. For data collection, two scripts were developed and applied to evaluate the functional conditions of the fairs and the hygienic-sanitary practices of the handlers during sales, and a questionnaire was administered to outline the socioeconomic profile of the workers. Results: 68.1% were women; average income of 3 minimum wages; 51.1% had completed higher education; 46.8% had never taken a Good Food Handling Practices course; 70.5% did not use hair protection; and 86.8% used adornments. In 40% of the fairs visited, there was the presence of animals/vectors, as well as the absence of toilet facilities for handlers. Conclusions: Thus, despite its socioeconomic importance, the street food trade represents a potential health risk. Therefore, it is necessary to expand the hygienic-sanitary training of handlers and improve the environmental conditions of fairs.

The Importance of Sustainable Wetland Management

Wetlands have faced a global reduction from 64% to 71% during the 20th century, and it is estimated that habitat loss could lead to the extinction of around 1,700 vertebrate species by 2070. This study analyzed data from SCI, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and a range of theses to explore sustainable wetland management. While previous research focused on the consequences of wetland degradation, this study highlights the critical need for sustainable management. Wetlands are biodiversity hotspots, home to numerous endemic and endangered species, making their conservation vital for protecting global biodiversity. Wetlands also contribute significantly to climate change mitigation by sequestering carbon, regulating water flow, and reducing catastrophe risk. Sustainable wetland management is essential to harness these benefits, particularly in light of growing environmental challenges. Wetlands also provide crucial ecosystem services, such as water purification, flood control, and recreational opportunities, emphasizing their socio-economic importance. Despite these benefits, wetlands face ongoing threats from habitat destruction, pollution, and unsustainable use. Effective management requires a comprehensive approach, incorporating conservation, community engagement, policy development, and scientific research. Embracing sustainable practices is essential to preserve wetlands for future generations, reaffirming their role as critical ecosystems that support life and resilience. This abstract calls for global action to prioritize sustainable wetland management as a key aspect of environmental protection and sustainable development.

The livelihood impacts of eucalypt plantations on rural farm households in Western Gurage Watersheds, Central-south Ethiopia

BackgroundRural landscapes, particularly those close to human settlements and main roads throughout the highlands of Ethiopia, appear greener than the outfields because of eucalypt plantations. The most common factors for eucalypt plantations are two: fuel and construction demands and to generate income. ObjectiveThis study tried to investigate the socioeconomic impacts of eucalypt plantations in Western Gurage Watersheds located in Central-south Ethiopia. The specific objectives are: to evaluate the socioeconomic importance of eucalypt plantations on the livelihood of farm households, and to assess perceptions on impacts of eucalypt plantation and copping strategies. MethodsSystematic and purposive sampling method was employed by selecting households with eucalypt woodlots from the list of each Woreda's Kebeles. Close- and open- ended questionnaires were distributed to every fifth households that possessed eucalypt plantations. Three hundred eighty three questionnaires were distributed and collected from households found in three Woredas (districts) namely Cheha, Enemorna Ener, and Eza located in the Watersheds. To supplement the information critical observations, discussions with focus groups and interviews with key informant were employed. The survey data were analyzed using both qualitative and quantitative techniques. To describe data acquired from critical observations, focus group discussions and key informant interviews; critical and logical qualitative data analysis technique were used. Descriptive and dispersive statistics such as frequency, percentage, mean, variance, standard deviation, p- value and correlation were employed using SPSS Version 20. ResultsThe result showed that eucalypt plantation dominated fuel wood and construction consumption and substituted further encroachment to natural forests. From multiple responses given, households prefer planting eucalypts to indigenous trees because it is fast growing (100 %), profitable (100 %), needs lesser labor (100 %), needs lower capital (100 %), can be used for multipurpose (100 %), and coppice itself fatly (93 %). They rated income gained from eucalypt as 2nd next to enset. ConclusionsHouseholds may continue planting the species particularly for fuel wood and construction need since substituting it by other alternative seems not feasible and challenging. To sustain the livelihood and environment; appropriate management like site selection and substitutions by horticultural and cash crops using micro irrigation schemes for market needs are recommended. Conducting in-depth participatory research and specific policy ratification and promulgation on eucalypt plantations will sustain its utilization and curb the drawbacks.

SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE OF THE TOURISM INDUSTRY IN KAZAKHSTAN AND ITS DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIES

This article explores the development of tourism in Kazakhstan and its socio economic importance. The aim of the study is to analyze the impact of the tourism industry on Kazakhstan's economy, its historical stages of development, and the current state of tourism. The research identifies the benefits tourism brings to the population and the national economy, as well as its role in promoting social and intercultural connections. Methodological approaches used include data collection, comparative analysis, and interpretation. As a result, recommendations for improving the tourism industry in Kazakhstan and suggestions for its future development are provided. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the key factors necessary for advancing tourism in the country.

Convenience orientation, environmental concerns and resource conservation behaviours

There is a concern that convenience orientation, especially lifestyles that prefer convenience to sustainability, could lead to increased resource consumption, posing a challenge to sustainable consumption. This study aims to provide empirical evidence showing that convenience orientation may not necessarily harm the environment but helps conserve resources. We designed our survey to collect data on convenience orientation and environmental concerns from 361 households living in the capital city of Pakistan. Using the structural equation modelling approach, we examine how convenience orientation, environmental concerns and socioeconomic importance affect food, water, and energy conservation behaviours. Our results reveal a positive association between convenience orientation, environmental concerns and conservation behaviours while socioeconomic importance negatively associated with the food, water and energy conservation behaviours. This finding is contradictory to concerns that convenience orientation might undermine sustainability efforts.

A multifaceted approach to expanding conservation efforts in the Pan-Himalayan landscape

The Pan-Himalayan biogeographic domain is a significant region for biodiversity conservation and climate resilience. This region has both tropical and extratropical flora and holds ecological, cultural, and socio-economic importance. However, knowledge about the spatial distribution and threats to threatened plant species in the study area is still poorly known. In this study we evaluate the phylogenetic diversity and phylogenetic endemism of threatened flora in the region, and also examine the effect of rapid land cover transformation and landscape fragmentation between 2000 and 2020 on the preservation of distinct evolutionary lineages. Phylogenetic metrics provide a better understanding of ecological, historical, and evolutionary factors that shape plant communities in highly biodiverse regions. Our result show that current protected areas are insufficient for preserving Pan-Himalayan biodiversity, and also reveal a significant gap in conservation efforts within these areas. We highlight conservation priorities areas in the western Himalayan belt encompassing 2.43 million km2 and covering 26.73% of the total area. However, a large conservation gap encompassed 22.67% (2.06 million km2) hotspots of total study area, whereas non-hotspot priorities covered 67.62% (0.77 million km2) of the total protected area, revealing a mismatch between biodiversity hotspots and protected areas. In addition, biodiversity priority areas have been threatened by rapid land cover transformation and landscape fragmentation between 2000 and 2020. There were 6.93% increase in cropland area and 172.64% increase in impervious surface, while an increase in landscape fragmentation and a decrease in landscape cohesion in different hotspots within protected areas. The biodiversity hotspot regions emphasize the need to conserve unique evolutionary lineages and high species occurrence areas with targeted conservation strategies. Mountainous, but cross-border international cooperation is highly recommended for effective preservation strategies. Our study has implications for advancing biodiversity preservation and sustainable ecosystem management not only in the Pan-Himalayan but also in similar regions, as well as for achieving the 2030 protection goal.

Nocturnal pollinators significantly contribute to tree bean (Parkia timoriana (DC.) Merr.) reproductive success compared to diurnal pollinators

The prevailing scientific research in agricultural pollination is primarily focused on diurnal pollinators. However, the active role of pollinators during the night hours, such as moths and bats, is gradually expanding. Parkia timoriana (tree bean) was selected for the present study to test the significance of nocturnal pollinators in reproductive success. Tree bean is a highly valuable tree species of ecological and socio-economic importance on agricultural farms in Southeast Asia. We examined the contributions of nocturnal and diurnal floral visitors to the reproductive success of P. timoriana via an exclusion bagging experiment in the Mizoram, north-east India. A comparison of the relative contributions of nocturnal and diurnal pollinators to the fruit production of P. timoriana was performed by quantitative parameters. We found that nocturnal pollinators outperformed diurnal pollinators in terms of all the quantity parameters and were significantly different (p < 0.05) from each other. The nocturnal pollinators have clearly facilitated fruit production in P. timoriana, which was statistically similar to the levels of pollination observed in the open pollination treatment. The results of the present study suggest that the nocturnal pollinators significantly affect the reproductive success of P. timoriana (tree bean) in an agricultural land setting.

Socioeconomic impact of livestock production in Gokuleshowor, Baitadi, Nepal

The study was carried out at the Baitadi district's Dilashaini rural municipality. The study area was primarily based on agriculture. Farmers in the studied area adopted a complex type of farming system that includes livestock, crops, fruits, forestry, and vegetable farming. This study was mainly conducted to identify key problems faced by farmers and the socioeconomic importance of livestock farming. Semi-structured questionnaires were used to randomly choose respondents for a key informant interview. 61 households were randomly selected without the replacement method. The results showed that most of the households were headed by men (52 households). The primary occupation was agriculture (72%), followed by business (22%). A benefit-to-cost ratio of 1.65 was discovered. Milk was priced at 48.08 rupees per liter. We found feeding management to be the main problem. Farmers invest a huge amount of their income in managing feed for livestock. Natural breeding was largely prevalent in the study area (96%); artificial insemination was still rare. In the studied area, the dairy sector was profitable, so it emphasized improved breeding programs, improved feeding management, and the establishment of well-managed dairy cooperatives, which helped in the development of the rural economy and the lifestyle of farmers.

Crop Production and Pesticide Use: Has Ghana Overlooked the Obvious on Health?

Vegetables and cereals, besides health benefits, are of significant socio-economic importance in Ghana, because, the whole production process provides employment for both rural and urban dwellers. Unfortunately, the high prevalence of pests (weeds inclusive) and disease complexes, associated with them, inflict significant economic damage on field and storage, if not properly managed. This review purposed to document challenges from pesticide use and suggest perspective recommendations for mitigation. Information was sourced from published journal articles, technical and annual reports (Research Extension Farmer Linkage Committee (RELC), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA, Ghana), and Institutions), the authors’ observations and personal communication with farmers, agricultural extension agents and other experts. The review analysis indicated over 80% of farmers use pesticides, particularly on high-value cash vegetable and cereal crops; and also to alleviate human labour constraints. Challenges such as pesticide resistance, increasing incidence of existing pests and diseases, or the manifestation of new pests and diseases due to climate change or continuous cropping among others were evident, prompting shifts to increased pesticide use for management and also for desired profit. Highlights on concerns for the insatiable quest for pests and disease control by chemical means, consequently increased reports on dangers of continuous pesticide use on human and public health, the environment and the economy. This research revealed that a minimal understanding of the use and application of pesticides contributed to the non-intended effects on health and the environment. Hopefully, the identified gaps and recommendations if properly addressed by policy would significantly enhance quality production systems for global trade and protect local consumers. State the contribution of this study to scholarship. Keywords: Vegetable Crop Production, Pesticide Use, Contamination, Pesticide Residue, Public Health

Quantitative eco-anatomical analysis reveals distinctive stem traits of six Cannabis sativa cultivars in Rif Mountains (Northern Morocco)

Cannabis sativa stands out as an important crop with significant socioeconomic importance in the Rif Mountains of North Morocco. Recently the number of new cultivars developed in this region has gradually increased for different purposes. In this current study, we delve into the eco-anatomical characteristics of stems across six of the most prevalent Cannabis sativa cultivars in Morocco: ‘Avocat’, ‘Beldiya’, ‘Critical Plus’, ‘Industriel’, ‘Khardala’, and ‘Mexicana’. The investigation encompasses the measurement and analysis of six key eco-anatomical traits: plant height, stem diameter, vessel size, vessel density, number of vessels joined in radial files, and coefficient of hydraulic conductivity. Our aim is to elucidate the variations among these cultivars and underscore their agricultural and ecological relevance. Through anatomical examinations of stem cross-sections, our findings reveal notable disparities and distinctive features among the cultivars. The ‘Khardala’ cultivar exhibits the highest values across most measured eco-anatomical traits, while ‘Beldiya’ and ‘Mexicana’ show similar trait values, particularly with low stem diameter and vessel density. In contrast, ‘Industriel’ stands out with the lowest vessel size and highest vessel density. ‘Critical Plus’ and ‘Avocat’ closely resemble ‘Khardala’ in vessel size and stem diameter. Regarding hydraulic conductivity, ‘Khardala’ ranks highest, followed by ‘Avocat’ and ‘Critical Plus’, while ‘Industriel’ registers the lowest. Our findings underscore increased water demand and uptake potential in ‘Khardala’, ‘Critical Plus’, and ‘Avocat’, contrasting with ‘Industriel’, ‘Beldiya’, and ‘Mexicana’. Anatomical diversity among Cannabis cultivars in our study likely stems from genetic lineage and ecological adaptation.

Numerical methods for optimizing logistics systems in the process of inventory management

Scientists have always faced the task of evaluating the effectiveness of the functioning of complex systems, which unambiguously include logistics systems of transport (water, air, rail, automobile and their combinations) and stocks of products (goods), which (stocks of goods) are in static (warehouses) and dynamic (transport) states over time. A huge amount of theoretical material has been accumulated in this field of knowledge, which has been repeatedly tested and successfully applied, especially in relation to logistics systems. However, as is known, on the basis of an efficiency assessment, similar systems are compared, the operation of the systems is promptly evaluated, the system's compliance with its purpose is checked, the presence or absence of targeted targeting is found out, etc. Hence, the relevance of the mathematical apparatus (numerical methods) for optimizing stocks of products (goods) is determined as a calculation for reasoned decision-making on effective inventory management using transport and storage capacities on an economic basis: the objective function is to minimize costs. Cost reduction in the processes of functioning of logistics systems due to the action of two basic laws – the law of saving time and the law of conservation of energy is one of the main modern directions for increasing their efficiency as complex systems [1-5]. Therefore, the optimization of logistics systems according to the criterion of costs (losses) in the processes of their functioning is defined as the formulation of the research task. The aim of the work is to develop the application of numerical methods for optimizing logistics systems in the process of inventory management. The novelty consists in the application of numerical methods and the calculated ratios obtained, which can be used in the practice of the logistics system of water, air, rail and road transport for inventory management by optimizing the determined losses (costs). The result consists in the developed method of studying theoretically calculated losses occurring in the processes of functioning of logistics systems of all types of transport and their combinations (hereinafter transport). The theoretical significance of the results obtained is the development of the application of numerical methods for optimizing logistics systems in the process of inventory management, including: a set of factors and criteria for optimizing logistics processes; a method for modeling and optimizing the processes of functioning of logistics transport systems; a method for analyzing losses in the processes of functioning of logistics transport systems. These theoretical provisions make it possible to optimize the processes of functioning of logistics transport systems and, ultimately, to increase the efficiency of providing consumers, which is of important socio-economic importance.

Nutraceutical Supplementation as a Potential Non-Drug Treatment for Fibromyalgia: Effects on Lipid Profile, Oxidative Status, and Quality of Life.

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic syndrome of unknown etiology, although many studies point to inflammation, oxidative stress, and altered mitochondrial metabolism as some of the cornerstones of this disease. Despite its socioeconomic importance and due to the difficulties in diagnosis, there are no effective treatments. However, the use of non-drug treatments is increasingly becoming a recommended strategy. In this context, the effects of supplementation of FM patients with an olive (poly)phenol, vitamin C, and vitamin B preparation were investigated in this work, analyzing complete blood count, biochemical, lipid, and coagulation profiles, and inflammation and oxidation status in blood samples. To gain a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms and pathways involved in the etiology of FM, a proteomic study was also performed to investigate the mechanisms of action of the supplement. Our results show that the nutraceutical lowers the lipid profile, namely cholesterol, and improves the oxidative status of patients as well as their quality of life, suggesting that this product could be beneficial in the co-treatment of FM. ClinicalTrials.gov (ID: NCT06348537).

Trade and socioeconomic importance of an invasive giant snail in the endemic-rich island of São Tomé, Central Africa.

Managing invasive species is crucial to mitigate their negative impacts on ecosystems, yet conflicts may arise when their social benefits are disregarded. Human pressure on the endemic-rich forests of São Tomé has been high since the island was discovered by the Portuguese in the 15th century, and numerous species have been introduced. These include the invasive West African giant land snail (Archachatina marginata), which was introduced in the mid-20th century, is now widespread on the island, and is a potential threat to native flora and fauna. We assessed the frequency of consumption of this species and its socioeconomic importance to people across the island with household questionnaires, focus group discussions, and semistructured interviews. We explored the prevalence and potential drivers of use (e.g., wealth, household composition, and diversity of occupations) and characterized the commodity chain to identify demographic groups linked to the snail trade. We interviewed 672 people (1 person per household), conducted 6 focus groups, and interviewed 80 key actors belonging to 5 subcategories. The snail was the most widely consumed bushmeat and an important source of income, particularly for women and unemployed youth. Insecure and scarce livelihood alternatives, mostly in rural areas, were reported as drivers for trade involvement. Snail harvesting was more frequent in poorer households with low occupational diversity. Selling tended to occur in households that were well-established in the community and had a higher proportion of children. Both were stimulated by the proximity of communities to the native forest. Buying snails was common in all demographic groups, but it was linked to wealth and occupational diversity. Interventions to manage the impact of this introduced species on the valuable ecosystems of the island should involve multiple sectors of society to ensure societal support. This requires robust consideration of the welfare of vulnerable demographic groups that benefit from the species.

Community perspectives inform coastal marine ecosystem research in northwestern Greenland

The Arctic is warming faster than the rest of the world, affecting the natural environment ecosystem and society. Because human society utilizes coastal areas and relies on marine resources for living, research is needed to study human impacts on the coastal marine ecosystem as well as the influence of the changing ecosystem on society. To better understand the changing coastal environments and the impact on society, we performed multidisciplinary research in Qaanaaq, northwestern Greenland. To share and discuss our research results, we organized workshops with residents in Qaanaaq from 2016 to 2019, and in 2022 and 2023. One workshop topic of intense discussion was the summer distribution of Greenland halibut (Reinhardtius hippoglossoides), because of its socio-economic importance in the region. Another point of interest for the residents was the potential presence of pollution on the beach, as a result of the nearby village. Residents voiced concern about the accumulation of heavy metals in Mytilus spp. (blue mussel) because residents catch mussels near the dump site. Close collaboration with residents as well as co-design and direction of the research is increasingly important for researchers to contribute to a sustainable future for populations living in the Arctic.

Stakeholder Insights: A Socio-Agronomic Study on Varietal Innovation Adoption, Preferences, and Sustainability in the Arracacha Crop (Arracacia xanthorrhiza B.)

Arracacha, a root crop indigenous to the Andean region of South America, holds significant agronomic and socio-economic importance in Colombia. The study aims to evaluate the impacts of adopting the ‘Agrosavia La 22’ variety on agricultural sustainability and productivity, encompassing economic, environmental, and social dimensions. Additionally, it analyzes the preferences of farmers and other stakeholders regarding the sustainability of the introduced technological innovations. Conducted over three years (2021–2023), the study offers comprehensive insights into adoption trends and stakeholder perceptions. Utilizing the Ambitec-Agro methodology, the research assesses the environmental, social, and economic impacts of ‘Agrosavia La 22’. Data collection involved field observations and interviews with farmers and key actors in the arracacha supply chain. Results indicate a substantial increase in the cultivated area from 1500 hectares in 2021 to 2650 hectares in 2023, with the proportion of total cultivated area rising from 47.6% to 84.1%. Economically, ‘Agrosavia La 22’ demonstrated significant input cost savings, reducing costs by USD 347 per hectare by 2023 and enhancing producer surplus from USD 30.95 to USD 651.16 per hectare. Yield comparisons show higher median yields for ‘Agrosavia La 22’ (20 t ha−1 in 2023) compared to traditional varieties (12.5 t ha−1). Socially, there was a marked improvement in farmers’ income perceptions, and environmentally, there was a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions (324.05 kg CO2-eq ha−1) due to optimized fertilizer and pesticide applications. Eco-efficiency (EE) analysis shows that ‘Agrosavia La 22’ consistently demonstrated positive EE values, indicating economic viability alongside lower GHG emissions. In 2021, its EE stood at 2.2 USD/kg CO2-eq, increasing to 27.75 USD/kg CO2-eq by 2023, reflecting substantial economic gains relative to environmental impact. Conversely, the traditional variety initially exhibited lower EE due to high GHG emissions. Challenges such as soil quality decline and market price volatility were noted. Overall, the findings underscore the economic, social, and environmental benefits of ‘Agrosavia La 22’. Furthermore, the methodology used in this study can be applied to the evaluation of other varietal innovations in developing countries with limited resources for assessing agricultural technology impacts.