Socio-economic Role Research Articles

Albania, Potential for the Development of the Blue Economy

The purpose of this study is to help advance the vision of Albania in the Blue Economy, in the framework of the country's aim to join the EU. I will highlight the gaps in knowledge, the risks and deficiencies that our country has in the development of the economy in this field and the measures that the government should take to solve these problems. The most important sectors in the Blue Economy are: fishing, tourism, maritime transport and plastic pollution. The fishing, tourism and transport industries are the three most powerful industries that provide the highest return on investment, as part of the blue economy. These sectors have an important socio-economic and cultural role for coastal communities. A worrying issue facing these coastal areas is the challenges of marine plastic pollution, which require immediate solutions. I will reflect the specific circumstances of Albania and the opportunities arising from the integrated economic development of the maritime sectors. The main objective is to develop a future for "Blue Albania" and build a long-term innovative plan in these sectors. At the end of the study, I will draw up a clear picture of the economic activities that need to be undertaken to accelerate the development of the blue economy in our country Received: 25 September 2024 / Accepted: 24 November 2024 / Published: 3 December 2024

Assessing Agroforestry Impact on Household Income: A Study of the Bu’u Bei Community Forest (HKm) in Tina Bani Village, Ende, Indonesia

Agroforestry systems play a critical role in supporting livelihoods across East Nusa Tenggara, including in the Bu'u Bei Community Forest (HKm) in Tina Bani Village, Ende District, Ende Regency, Indonesia. This study investigates agroforestry patterns and evaluates their contribution to household income among the 47 HKm member households, surveyed through a census in April and May 2024. Employing both descriptive and quantitative analyses, our research reveals that the agrisilviculture system, characterised by a random mixed planting pattern, dominates agroforestry practices in the village. Path dependency, rooted in long-standing traditions, significantly shapes these practices. Agroforestry contributed significantly to household income in 2023, accounting for 98.87% of total income. However, poor infrastructure, particularly damaged roads, limits market access and reduces the economic potential of these systems. The study emphasises the need for integrated land management approaches that address infrastructure deficits while strengthening the resilience of agroforestry systems. This research provides critical insights into the socio-economic and environmental roles of agroforestry, offering a valuable reference for policymakers and stakeholders committed to promoting sustainable forest management and rural development in Indonesia.

‘Het zijn onze armen’

Since its inception in 1824, the Western Cape Synod of the Dutch Reformed Church (DRC) has played a key socio-economic role as provider of a range of poor relief strategies. However, the purpose of these charitable efforts was not solely rooted in theological principles. In the nineteenth and twentieth century South African context, poor relief work carried distinct political undertones, particularly surrounding the so-called ‘poor white problem’. A substantial body of literature has emerged surrounding ‘poor whites’ and the political efforts employed to ‘save’ them in the decades before the implementation of apartheid. While the Church’s poor relief schemes are often mentioned as significant in these studies, the Church’s poor relief systems and their development over time remain understudied. This paper identifies and discusses five distinct phases of development of DRC poor relief strategies over the past two centuries (1824-1860s; c. 1860-1900s; 1910-1940; c. 1940-1980s; and 1990-present) and argues that these stages and the practical implementation of the Church’s poor relief efforts has been notably shaped by the contemporary socio-economic and socio-political zeitgeist in which it was embedded.

Role Of Socioeconomics, Psychological State, and Attitude Toward Care Giving on Quality of Life of Dependent Patients’ Caregivers in the Northeast of Thailand

Background Caring for patients with dependency is a burden on primary caregivers, which impacts them economically, socially, and psychologically. The perception of caregiving and the psychological state associated with it further contribute to these effects. Objectives This cross-sectional analytical study aimed to study the socioeconomic and caregiving burden factors associated with the Quality of Life (QOL) of dependent patients’ caregivers in the Northeastern region of Thailand. Methodology A total of 1,335 dependent patients’ caregivers aged 18–59 years in the Northeastern Region of Thailand were selected by multistage random sampling to respond to a self-administered structured questionnaire. The Generalized Linear Mixed Model (GLMM) was performed to identify socioeconomic and caregiving burden factors associated with QOL while controlling the effects of covariates, presenting Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) and 95% Confidence Intervals (CI). Results Among 1,335 dependent patients’ caregivers, more than half of them had poor QOL (58.05%; 95% CI:39.28 - 44.65). Factors associated with poor QOL were age 46-59 years (AOR=4.30; 95% CI: 2.84-6.51, p-value<0.001), insufficient financial status with debt (AOR=5.89; 95% CI: 3.85-9.01, p-value<0.001), low caregiving knowledge level (AOR=2.43; 95% CI: 1.63-3.64, p-value<0.001), average to low attitude caregiving level (AOR=4.45; 95% CI: 3.30-5.99, p-value <0.001), and having depression (AOR = 3.57; 95% CI: 1.93-6.59, p-value<0.001). Conclusion The findings from this study have important implications for healthcare practice and policy—interventions aimed at improving the QOL of caregivers.

Estimation of carbon stocks in the areas of a seasonally dry tropical forest in the Brazilian semi-arid region

In addition to its ecological importance, the Caatinga biome, one of the most extensive seasonally dry tropical forests (SDTF) in the world, has a relevant socioeconomic role as it is used as a primary natural resource by local communities. However, inadequate ecosystem management practices have resulted in gradual loss of natural vegetation in this ecosystem. Carbon stock estimation is a parameter that can contribute as a support tool for managing and maintaining the few remaining natural vegetated areas. In this study, we calibrated and validated the CENTURY model to simulate carbon stocks in areas of the Caatinga, in the state of Pernambuco, and compared the predictive capacity of the CENTURY model with available estimates. In the validation dataset, the average for biomass stocks was 33.1 Mg C ha−1, this value is close to those observed in the literature for the region. The model also performed well when estimating carbon stocks in the soil (r2 = 0.79, p = 0.017). Ecosystem modeling combined with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) is a promising tool for estimating carbon stocks in the Caatinga, where field sampling campaigns are generally expensive and have scarce research funding opportunities. Furthermore, it also allows the evaluation of the effect of environmental changes on C stocks in long-term studies, which is essential for creating and implementing public policies to mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change on the ecosystem. However, additional efforts are needed to improve C estimates, especially in areas with a strongly negative water balance.

Thirty Years of Research on Ecosystem Services: The Socio-Economic Role of Forest Visits and Foraging in Enhancing Human Well-Being

This paper examines the socio-economic significance of forest visits and the collection of forest berries and mushrooms (FBMs) in the Czech Republic, emphasising their role in enhancing human well-being and contributing to regional economies. Over a 30-year period, data were collected on the quantities and economic values of FBMs, alongside the intensity of forest visits by the Czech population. This study incorporates a detailed analysis of time series data on FBM collection, exploring trends and fluctuations in the harvested quantities and their economic value. A Lorenz curve analysis reveals significant disparities in the distribution of economic benefits, with a small segment of the population accounting for the majority of the FBM-derived value. Additionally, the research investigates the impact of forest visitation on well-being at the regional level, highlighting the relationship between forest access, visitation intensity, and public health benefits. This study also examines visitors’ expectations, motivations, and perceptions regarding an ideal forest for visitation, providing recommendations for effective marketing strategies. Furthermore, the study explores the contribution of FBMs to net income across different regions, demonstrating substantial regional variation in their economic importance. Notably, the analysis shows that the value of FBMs represents approximately 37% of the net income generated by traditional forestry activities, underscoring its significant economic potential. The findings emphasise the potential of territorial marketing strategies to enhance well-being, particularly in economically disadvantaged regions, and advocate for sustainable forest management practices to protect these valuable resources and ensure equitable access to the benefits provided by forest ecosystems.

Active travel in the university setting: Assessing the effects of social behavior, socioeconomics, and spatial location

University campuses are pooling efforts to promote active mobility to reduce their negative impacts on the urban environment, which is significantly influenced by the overreliance on motorized modes of transport. Providing sufficient and safe accessibility conditions for active travel has been highlighted as a crucial strategy for transforming campuses into more livable and sustainable areas in cities. To further explore the likelihood of active mobility uptake at university campuses, this study explored university students’ mobility patterns over time, examining the role of social behavior, socioeconomics, and spatial location factors. The Faculty of Engineering at the University of Porto, Greater Oporto, Portugal, provided the empirical focus for this research. The data analyzed were acquired through surveys of representative samples and spatial analysis over the academic years of 2012, 2017, and 2023. The statistical analysis explained the tendencies and multifactorial influences on travel behavior among university students. Results indicated that travel distance is associated with housing options and travel costs, whereas access to a metro station was associated with walking or cycling. Hence, this study contributed to a deeper understanding of active travel behavior. It provided insights to guide planning practitioners and decision makers in creating integrated transport policy packages that address the barriers and needs of the university community and the surrounding neighborhoods.

A geo-gender-based analysis of human health: The presence of cut flower farms can attenuate pesticide exposure in African communities, with women being the most vulnerable.

The rapid expansion of the cut flower industry in Africa has led to pervasive use and potential exposure of pesticides, raising concerns for local communities. Whether the risks associated with pesticide applications are localised or have broader implications remains unclear. We measured biomarkers of real and perceived pesticide exposure in two Kenyan communities: Naivasha, where the cut flower industry is present, and Mogotio, where the cut flower industry is absent. We measured real exposure by the percentage of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibition and perceived exposure by assessing hair cortisol levels, a biomarker of stress. Additionally, we conducted a demographic survey to evaluate the health and socioeconomic status of participants, as well as their perceptions of pesticide risks associated with the cut flower industry. Perceived pesticide exposure was more common in Naivasha (n = 36, 56%) compared to Mogotio (n = 0, 0%), according to community surveys. However, Mogotio residents had significantly higher mean hair cortisol levels (mean (x̄) = 790 ng/g, standard deviation (SD) = 233) and percentage of AChE inhibition (x̄ = 28.5%, SD = 7.3) compared to Naivasha residents, who had lower mean hair cortisol levels (x̄ = 548 ng/g, SD = 187) and percentage of AChE inhibition (x̄ = 14.5%, SD = 10.1). Location (proximity to cut flower farms) and gender were significant factors influencing pesticide exposure, with individuals living outside the cut flower industrial complexes being at higher risk. Women in both communities were the most vulnerable demographic, showing significantly higher mean hair cortisol levels (x̄ = 646 ng/g, SD = 267.4) and percentage of AChE inhibition (x̄ = 22.5%, SD = 12.4) compared to men hair cortisol levels (x̄ = 558.2 ng/g, SD = 208.2) and percentage of AChE inhibition (x̄ = 10.4%, SD = 13.1). A heightened awareness of the potential risks of pesticide exposure was widespread within cut flower industrial complexes. This may have led to a reduction in exposure of both workers and non-workers living within or close to these complexes. In contrast, communities living outside these complexes showed higher levels of exposure, possibly due to limited chemical awareness and a lack of precautionary measures. Despite this contrast between communities, women remained the most vulnerable members, likely due to their socioeconomic roles in African society. Monitoring women's pesticide exposure is crucial for providing an early warning system for community exposure.

The Socioeconomic Role of Small and Micro Agricultural Projects in Supporting Sustainable Development in Qalyubia Governorate

The Socioeconomic Role of Small and Micro Agricultural Projects in Supporting Sustainable Development in Qalyubia Governorate

EFFECT OF FRESH COONTAIL LEAF (CERATOPHYLLUM DEMERSUM) WITH GRADED LEVEL BERMUDA GRASS (CYNODON DACTYLON) ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE, AND BLOOD INDICES OF WEST AFRICAN DWARF GOATS

The West African Dwarf (WAD) goats play an essential socioeconomic role in the Nigerian economy, hence the effect of 12 weeks of feeding fresh Coontail leaf (FCL) + Bermuda grass (BG) at various dietary levels on WAD goat growth performance and blood indices were explored. A total of 24 WAD goats weighing an average of 6.02kg each were randomly assigned to four treatments of six goats, with two goats per replicate. In a completely randomized form, each treatment was served four experimental diets comprising FCL and BG at Diet 1: Control 100% FCL, Diet 2: 80% FCL + 20% BG, Diet 3: 70% FCL + 30% BG, and Diet 4: 50% FCL + 50% BG, accordingly. Initial weight, final weight, weight gain, feed intake, feed conversion ratio, red blood cell (RBC), white blood cell (WBC), packed cell volume (PCV), and haemoglobin concentration (Hb. The T1 and T4 showed significant (p<0.05) changes in final body weights, weight gain, and feed conversion ratio. There was a significant difference (p<0.05) in all haematological parameters evaluated, except packed cell volume (PCV) which had no significant (p>0.05) difference. All blood biochemical indicators indicated significant (p<0.05) differences with total protein, albumin, and urea, except for cholesterol, globulin, and glucose, which were not statistically (p>0.05) different. It is possible to conclude that FCL+BG Can be included in WAD goat diets up to 50% without negatively affecting growth performance or blood parameters.

Feed additives supplementation: a potential strategy to ameliorate heat stress in sheep

Abstract Given a significant climate-flexible and socio-economic role in developing nations, environmental heat stress imposes a major financial impact on sheep production systems globally endangering their production, reproduction, and growth. In this regard, the adverse effects of heat stress on sheep production systems have to be addressed through adoption of effective heat alleviation measures like animal management, nutritional management and genetic interventions of which the nutritional interventions seems to be the most cost effective way to alleviate heat stress. Nutritional manipulation for heat stress alleviation in sheep involves the use of antioxidant supplements (Vitamin B; Vitamin E and Selenium; Selenium; Zinc sulphate and folic acid; Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Selenium and Zinc; Naringin; Opuntia ficus-indica f. inermis; Açai oil and Brown seaweed like Ascophyllum nodosum and Sargassum latifolium). Further, electrolyte supplements (Dietary Electrolyte Balance (DEB); Sodium bicarbonate and potassium bicarbonate; Sodium hydroxide) have a beneficial effect on thermal responses, respiratory activities, gas exchange parameters, rumen fermentation, blood buffering capacity and acid-base balance. The mineral mixture supplements (Mineral blocks; Mineral mixture and antioxidants; Chromium; Zinc) play a crucial role in increasing the efficiency of antioxidant defence system, immunity-related parameters, production, reproduction, feed digestibility and insulin sensitivity. Probiotic supplements (Lactobacillus acidophilus, Saccharomyces cervisiae, Propionibacterium freudenreichii, Lactobacillus casei, Enterococcus faecium, Lactobacillus lactis, Bacillus subtilis, Propionibacterium freudenreichii, Pediococcus cerevisiae, Megaspha eraelsdenii, Bacillus licheniformis, Aspergillus oryzae, Schizochytrium limacinum, Trichoderma reesei and Saccharomyces cerevisiae) improve lactational performance, dietary energy utilization and productivity. The probiotics (live Saccharomyces cerevisiae) and prebiotics (mannan oligosaccharide plus b-glucans) used in heat stress alleviation improve dietary energy utilisation. Furthermore, the vital role of herbal supplements (Rosemary, Cinnamon, Turmeric, Clove, Naringin, Chestnut tannins, Giloy stem powder, Curcumin, Rocket oil (watercress oil), Flaxseed, Cornus, Oregano, Thyme, Chamomile flowers, Moringa oleifera, Betaine) has been highlighted to promote feed intake, antioxidant status, growth performance, feed utilization, reproductive performance and immune response. Effective adoption of nutritional strategies can thus ensure sustainable sheep production in this changing climate scenario.

Environmental controls on bioluminescent dinoflagellate density, in Laguna Grande, Fajardo, Puerto Rico

Introduction: Bio bays in Puerto Rico play an important socio-economic role and declines in dominant bioluminescent dinoflagellate Pyrodinium bahamense are concerning. Studies show erratic blooms with is weak correlation to in situ environmental factors. Our study examines shorter field and longer proxy records on dinoflagellate density at Laguna Grande de Fajardo (LGF). Objectives: To quantify temporal changes in dinoflagellate density in a long-term monitoring study, understand how the marine environment modulates those changes, and determine the wider impacts of a fluctuating climate and extreme events on proxies for dinoflagellate density. Methods: Bimonthly samples were collected from 2016 to 2021 at three sampling sites in LGF. Dinoflagellates density was estimated by Sedgewick Rafter counting cells. Environmental conditions were obtained from Rio Fajardo 5007100 station and NOAA buoy 41056. Marine climate and biotic proxies were obtained from remote sensing measurements. Kruskal Wallis, Spearman correlations and cross-correlations in the shorter field and longer proxy records were used to evaluate environmental controls on LGF dinoflagellate blooms. Results: Six years of field monitoring densities found a low period in 2016-2017, frequent and intense blooms in 2018-2021 punctuated by hurricanes. Generally low values were recorded in late winter in contrast with higher values in late summer (Aug-Nov). Light winds and mixed layer response to seasonal warming in the form of high tides and low salinity, were found to sustain dinoflagellate reproduction. Conclusions: Bioluminescent dinoflagellates are vital to coastal tourism and require resource management. LGF results show that: 1) dinoflagellate counts fluctuate widely, 2) fluorescing dinoflagellates are sensitive to environmental conditions because of limited seasonality and narrow physiological range, 3) hurricanes play a role by ‘raking and refreshing’ the coastal lagoon for subsequent biotic reproduction, and 4) intra-seasonal fluctuations of density and proxies relate to air-sea thermodynamic conditions, the salinity budget and sea level.

Sustainability of fishing cooperatives in the Gulf of Mexico: A case study

Small-scale fishing, characterised by small groups of people working with basic technology and little investment, is an important economic activity in regional and global contexts. In Latin America, inland fisheries play a very important socio-economic role, providing food and income to local families, alleviating poverty, and contributing to social well-being. They are often structured as a social cooperative, as a way to ensure productivity. Cooperatives tend to be sustainable, and their performance can be judged from the impact they have on the social, economic, and environmental spheres. The aim of this study was to measure the sustainability of inland fishing cooperatives in Mexico from these three viewpoints. Though cooperatives generally show a medium-high level of sustainability, on account of their historical background and their contribution to social and economic indicators, our results revealed some weaknesses in terms of environmental indicators, which are locked in a negative relationship with economic ones. Social indicators, however, were positively related with the other two. The sustainability of fishing cooperatives today faces various challenges, as political decision-making tends to favour the social and economic dimensions over the environmental one.

EVIDENCE OF BRUCELLA ANTIBODIES IN MILK OF COWS IN THE NORTH SENATORIAL DISTRICT OF KADUNA STATE, NIGERIA

In view of the socio-economic and cultural roles played by Cow milk in Nigeria, a study was carried out to determine the status of bovine brucellosis in the North Senatorial District of Kaduna State, Nigeria. Six local Government areas (LGAS) from the North Senatorial district of Kaduna State were used for the study. A total of 202 milk samples from apparently healthy lactating cows were collected and subjected to the Milk Ring Test (MRT) between the Months of July, 2013 and January, 2014. From the 202 samples subjected to the MRT, 77 (38.1%) tested positive while 125 (61.9%) tested negative. The highest prevalence was obtained from Kubau LGA (54.8%) while the least prevalence of 20.0% each was obtained from Ikura and Makarfi LGAs respectively. There was however no statistical significant difference in the prevalence rates between LGAS. The high prevalence of Brucella antibodies in the milk of sampled cattle indicates the great public health risk posed to humans in the study area to infection with Bruclla spp. Stake holders in the Livestock sector should be educated on the public health implication of the dis ase in other animal species and humans.

Fungal cryopreservation across 61 genera: Practical application and method evaluation

ABSTRACT Fungi occupy important environmental, cultural, and socioeconomic roles. However, biological research of this diverse kingdom has lagged behind that of other phylogenetic groups. This is partially the result of the notorious difficulty in culturing a diverse array of filamentous fungal species due to their (i) often unpredictable growth, (ii) unknown preferences for culturing conditions, and (iii) long incubation times compared with other microorganisms such as bacteria and yeasts. Given the complexity associated with concurrently culturing diverse fungal species, developing practical methods for preserving as many species as possible for future research is vital. The widely accepted best practice for preserving fungal tissue is the use of cryogenic biobanking at −165 C, allowing for the preservation and documentation of stable genetic lineages, thus enabling long-term diversity-centered research. Despite the extensive literature on fungal cryopreservation, substantial barriers remain for implementation of cryogenic biobanks in smaller mycological laboratories. In this work, we present practical considerations for the establishment of a fungal culture biobank, as well as provide evidence for the viability of 61 fungal genera in cryogenic storage. By providing a pragmatic methodology for cryogenically preserving and managing many filamentous fungi, we show that creating a biobank can be economical for independently owned and operated mycology laboratories, which can serve as a long-term resource for biodiversity, conservation, and strain maintenance.

The Socio-Economic Role of Small Agribusiness in the Development of Modern Ukraine and Poland

Factors influencing the formation of the socio-economic role of small agribusiness, directions for establishing the institutional and organizational-economic structure of small-scale enterprises in the agricultural sector of Ukraine and Poland are singled out. An analysis of the activities of small agribusiness entities was carried out using statistical data from GUS (Central Statistical Office of Poland) and the State Statistics Service of Ukraine for the period from 2010 to 2020. The trends in running a craft business were disclosed. It has been demonstrated that the development of the agricultural sector is dominated by the direct freedom of decision-making and choice of producers. It was established that small agribusiness in Ukraine and Poland can meet the requirements of a competitive environment and function effectively under the conditions of coronavirus and war in Ukraine. The purpose of our research is to theoretically and methodologically justify scientific provisions and develop recommendations that will accumulate specific institutional and technological capabilities to produce necessary raw materials and create agri-food products in Ukraine and Poland. The methodological basis of the research includes fundamental principles of economic theory, management, and studies of scholars regarding the socio-economic role of small agribusiness in the conditions of war in Ukraine. Observation, sampling, and grouping methods were used for the theoretical justification in identifying problems in the development of small agricultural businesses; generalization and comparative analysis were employed to form the institutional and organizational-economic functionality of small-scale enterprises in the agricultural sector of Ukraine and rural areas, refine the conceptual framework, and draw conclusions and proposals on the selected topic.

A Comprehensive Analysis of Drought Stress Responses in Rice (Oryza sativa L.): Insights into Developmental Stage Variations from Germination to Grain Filling

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is a critical staple food crop vulnerable to drought stress at key growth stages, namely the early seedling stage, vegetative phase, anthesis (reproductive stage), and grain ripening stage. The impact of drought stress on rice extends beyond mere water deficit, influencing a spectrum of morphological, physiological, biochemical, and molecular responses crucial for plant survival and productivity. This review synthesizes current understanding of rice responses to drought stress across its developmental stages, encompassing seed germination, seedling establishment, vegetative growth, reproductive development, and grain filling. Drought stress triggers multifaceted adaptations in rice, involving mechanisms such as escape, avoidance, tolerance, and recovery strategies to mitigate water scarcity effects. These responses are finely tuned across developmental stages, influencing traits like root architecture, stomatal conductance, photosynthetic efficiency, osmotic adjustment, and hormonal regulation. Understanding these responses is pivotal for enhancing rice resilience to drought, thereby safeguarding global food security and supporting the livelihoods of rice-dependent communities worldwide, particularly in regions like India where rice cultivation plays a crucial socioeconomic role. Challenges persist in deciphering the complex genetic and physiological networks underpinning drought responses in rice. Integrating omics approaches and advanced phenotyping techniques holds promise in unraveling these complexities and identifying genetic markers for drought tolerance. Furthermore, strategies such as breeding resilient cultivars and implementing agronomic practices tailored to specific growth stages are imperative for sustainable rice production under increasingly erratic climatic conditions. This review consolidates existing knowledge while highlighting gaps in current understanding, aiming to guide future research endeavors toward innovative solutions for enhancing rice drought resilience. By elucidating the intricate mechanisms governing rice responses to drought stress, this study contributes to the broader discourse on agricultural sustainability and climate change resilience in staple food crops.

Alder-Based Shifting Cultivation in Nagaland – A Theoretical Perspective

Alder-based shifting cultivation, particularly, has been identified for its unique ecological and socio-economic role. It is a distinctive agricultural practice in Nagaland, India, with significant implications for climate change. This study explores the interactions between alder-based shifting cultivation and climate change dynamics. The paper examines how integrating alders into the shifting cultivation system influences carbon sequestration and soil enrichment in this bio-diversity-rich but environmentally vulnerable region. The paper comprehensively analyses the carbon balance within this managed ecosystem. The findings emphasise alder trees’ role in enhancing nitrogen levels in the soil and promoting carbon storage in the biomass and soil organic matter. This paper advocates that agroforestry systems can be effective strategies for climate-resilient development in Nagaland if adequately managed. The study concludes that recognising and reinforcing the role of indigenous practices is crucial in shaping effective and inclusive climate change responses in the region. The other hilly parts of the country can set this as a model.

The Pilot Creation of Sustainable Stall Design to Promote Temporary Pottery Market in the Baan Muang Kung Community

Although local intellectual property products have received support from both the government and private sectors, including increasing consumer interest in craft products, the residents of the Muang Kung community, Chiang Mai province, who produce handmade clay pottery with unique and distinctive shaping techniques and intricate patterns, still lack a market space to accommodate their products. Therefore, it is necessary to study the sustainable market format to help promote community products appropriately and stimulate tourism in this area. This research aims to achieve the following objectives (1) Study sustainable market pattern design principles suitable for community markets (2) Explore the potential capabilities and the local community’s requirements in market (3) Propose sustainable market design guideline to promote community products. This research primarily explores the sustainability value of a sustainable market within the field of retail design, employing qualitative research methods such as interviews, observational note-taking, photography, and comparative case study analysis. The on-site survey to determine the project's feasibility involved convening a community meeting with 50 residents to discuss findings. The outcomes of this gathering were then used in designing the temporary market. The findings present design guidelines that illustrate how markets continue to play important socio-economic roles in local communities, serving as key components that can be transformed to promote sustainable development. The proposed design practice guidelines encompass considerations such as site layout, the application of sustainable design principles, including the thoughtful selection of sustainable materials, the incorporation of flexible design, and the creation of participatory area experiences to attract people.

Spatio-temporal dynamics of agricultural and built-up areas in the Niaye area of Pikine urban wetland (Dakar, Senegal)

The Niaye area of Pikine, a wetland with favorable physical and climatic conditions, is a rich and varied ecosystem that guarantees a supply of water and fertile soil, conducive to market gardening. This plays an important socio-economic role in the Dakar region. However, this sensitive and fragile ecosystem is often affected by poor farming practices. The aim of the study was to analyze the spatial evolution of agricultural areas and built-up areas in order to identify related environmental problems. Interview guides, aerial photographs from 1966 and 1978 and Digital Globe Over view 2 satellite images from 2004 and 2022 were used. The interview guides were used to obtain data on the management of the market gardening activity, and also to identify the environmental problems it generates. Satellite data processing revealed, through cartographic analysis, a progressive market gardening dynamic of +5.07%. In addition, the built-up area around the lake has increased by over 200%, resulting in a 68.4% decline in upland vegetation and a migration of market gardeners to the lake. This situation leads to the destruction of market garden crops in the rainy season as the water rises. What's more, the intensification of market gardening in response to the population's growing demand for vegetables has not failed to encourage bad practices, including the use of pesticides and sewage, which is a public health problem and a threat to the future of this wetland.