Sustainable Landscape Research Articles

How corporate social responsibility reporting affects financial performance? Evidence from Saudi Arabia

This study examines the relationship between CSR disclosures and the performance of Saudi Arabian companies. It analyzes the annual financial reports of 90 non financial companies listed on the Saudi Stock Exchange (Tadawul) from 2019 to 2023. Using content analysis software, the study evaluates the quality of financial reports and identifies the extent of philanthropic, environmental, and social related disclosures. Subsequently, the impact of philanthropic, environmental, and social disclosures on key performance indicators, such as return on assets (ROA) and return on equity (ROE), is assessed. A CSR disclosure list was developed through a principal content analysis of the annual financial reports. The findings reveal a significant positive relationship between CSR disclosure and corporate performance metrics across all models. These results align with stakeholder and signaling theories, suggesting that robust CSR practices enhance financial performance and serve as credible signals to stakeholders. Notably, sector specific variations were identified, with non manufacturing firms exhibiting stronger positive correlations between CSR disclosures and performance measures compared to manufacturing firms. Additionally, firm characteristics such as size were found to significantly influence the CSR performance relationship. This research contributes to the expanding body of literature on CSR and corporate performance in emerging markets. It offers valuable insights for policymakers, investors, and corporate leaders navigating the evolving sustainable business landscape in Saudi Arabia. The findings underscore the pivotal role of CSR disclosure in fostering sustainable and responsible business practices in the region. Keywords: Corporate Social Responsibility, Disclosure, Philanthropic, Social, Environmental, Financial Performance.

Navigating human–plant reciprocity: Commercial harvesting by professionals of a medicinal plant fosters multi‐actor landscape management

Abstract Studies of human–nature relationships increasingly recognise not only nature's contributions to people but also the positive contributions of human practices to ecosystems. The concept of reciprocal contributions emphasises positive human–nature relationships. But trade‐offs between natural elements implies that human favouring of one element (e.g. via the protection of its habitat) can be detrimental to others. Discussing the concept of reciprocal contributions encourages us to rethink human management of landscape by shifting from a primary focus on instrumental values associated with plant extraction, to relational values related to the multiple interests of human and non‐human actors. To study how relational values are integrated into the configuration of multifunctional landscapes, we focused on professional harvesters of Arnica montana. We asked what role professional harvesters play in the stewardship of their harvesting sites through reciprocal relations with plants, landscapes and other actors to shape the future of plant and landscape sustainability. We show that even though professional harvesters live far from their harvesting sites, they develop both a strong attachment to them, and an experience‐based ecological knowledge of the relationships between arnica and other plant species and the environment. This attachment and experience‐based knowledge provide harvesters with legitimacy in the eyes of other actors (e.g. cattle farmers, managers of natural areas, pharmaceutical and cosmetic laboratories) and allow them to play the role of mediator between these other actors and the harvested plant in order to influence the management of the environment—for example by burning, mowing or grazing. This creates a reciprocal benefit with this particular species, but also with other co‐occurring species. Integrating the interests of the harvesters with those of other stakeholders requires negotiation and the search for synergies between values. Synthesis and applications. Within the framework of ‘reciprocal contributions’, we argue that human engagement in reciprocal relations with specific species is read as a form of care that privileges the maintenance of certain lives over others; trade‐offs between plants but also between plants, animals, landscape and humans have to be incorporated in the theoretical framework. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.

The future is now: pioneering transformative approaches in higher education within creative fields

This study investigates transformative approaches in arts and arts management education, highlighting the urgency for adaptive pedagogies in response to the unprecedented disruptions caused by recent global crises. The impact of these crises has profoundly affected the arts and cultural sectors, emphasising the need for higher education to equip students with skills to navigate and lead through complex and evolving cultural, social and economical landscapes. Our research focuses on immersive learning experiences and transformative learning theories as crucial methodologies in fostering essential future skills like adaptability, critical thinking, and innovative problem-solving in higher education. By integrating transformative learning theory and UNESCO’s model of future skills, we explore how such educational frameworks can profoundly influence students’ abilities to address societal transitions effectively. This study draws on qualitative data from immersive learning experiences in arts universities and provides empirical insights into the pedagogical effectiveness of combining transformative learning with hands-on, real-world engagement. The findings advocate for an educational paradigm that not only transfers knowledge but also significantly enhances the resilience and inclusivity of future arts professionals. This research contributes to the discourse on higher education’s role in cultivating creative leaders adept at navigating transitions towards more sustainable and inclusive cultural landscapes.

Sustainability committees’ influence on ESG controversies and sustainability assurance: a comparative study in polluting and non-polluting firms

Purpose This study aims to examine the correlation between sustainability controversies and external sustainability audits, placing specific emphasis on evaluating how the presence of sustainability/CSR committees moderates this connection in firms with both high and low emissions. Design/methodology/approach Using a thorough quantitative approach, this study analyses a data set comprising 1,726 firm-observations from Europe, covering the years 2006–2021. The primary econometric model used is ordinary least squares, complemented by robustness tests including random effects regressions, a two-step generalized method of moments approach, sub-analysis and Propensity Score Matching. Findings This study reveals a significant role for sustainability external audits in alleviating ESG controversies, particularly within less-polluting firms. Also, it uncovers that the existence of a sustainability/CSR committee significantly moderates the relationship between ESG controversies and external sustainability assurance. Practical implications This study has crucial implications for organizations seeking to improve sustainability practices and build stakeholder trust. Insights into the relationship between ESG controversies, sustainability audits and the role of sustainability/CSR committees provide practical guidance for enhancing sustainability performance. This information is valuable for managers, regulators and stakeholders in shaping decisions and policies for a more sustainable corporate landscape. Originality/value This study provides fresh insights into how companies manage environmental challenges and enhance their reputation through external assurance. The integration of institutional theory enriches the theoretical framework, revealing external influences on companies’ decisions. This study’s focus on sustainability/CSR committee contributes to understanding organizational responses to environmental challenges, advancing knowledge in sustainability and corporate governance.

Assessing and optimizing the potential for climate change mitigation and carbon sequestration in urban residential green spaces: energizing sustainable cities

IntroductionUrban green spaces play a crucial role in mitigating climate change by sequestering atmospheric carbon dioxide. This study aimed to evaluate the carbon sequestration potential of common plant species in urban residential areas and provide recommendations for optimizing green space design and management.MethodsThe research was conducted in four residential areas of Nanjing, China, where key growth parameters of 20 plant species, including evergreen trees, deciduous trees, evergreen shrubs, and deciduous shrubs, were measured. The assimilation method was employed to calculate carbon sequestration per unit canopy area and for entire plants.ResultsThe results showed that the carbon sequestration capacities of different plant species and types exhibited significant differences, with p-values less than 0.05. In terms of daily carbon sequestration per unit canopy projection area, the ranking was as follows: evergreen trees > evergreen shrubs > deciduous trees > deciduous shrubs. For total plant carbon sequestration, the ranking was: evergreen trees > deciduous trees > evergreen shrubs > deciduous shrubs. Evergreen trees performed excellently in both carbon sequestration metrics, with the average daily carbon sequestration per unit canopy projection area and for the entire plant being 18.0024 g/(m2·d) and 462.28 g/d, respectively. The study also observed seasonal variations, with carbon sequestration rates being higher in autumn and summer compared to spring and winter. During the summer, the average daily carbon sequestration per unit canopy projection area and for the entire plant were 11.975 g/(m2·d) and 161.744 g/d, respectively, while in autumn, these values were 13.886 g/(m2·d) and 98.458 g/d. Seasonal variations were also observed, with autumn and summer exhibiting higher carbon sequestration rates compared to spring and winter. Additionally, CO2 concentrations were monitored across the four residential areas, providing insights into the spatial and temporal dynamics of carbon sequestration.DiscussionBased on the findings, optimization strategies were proposed, such as prioritizing the selection and integration of high-performing evergreen tree species in urban green space design and incorporating diverse plant types to enhance year-round carbon sequestration. This study contributes to the development of sustainable urban planning and landscape management practices, promoting the role of green spaces in mitigating climate change and enhancing urban resilience.

Advances in water splitting and lithium-ion batteries: pioneering sustainable energy storage and conversion technologies

The global energy landscape is currently facing an unprecedented crisis. To address these difficulties, it is vital to create efficient and reliable energy storage and converting technologies. This review discusses the two important technologies; Water Splitting and Li-ion batteries for energy storage. Lithium-ion battery revolutionised convenient devices and electric motors with their higher energy-density, prolonged efficiency, and decreasing costs. Concurrently, Water splitting offers a pathway for hydrogen generation a clean fuel with high energy density, through electrolysis process. In this analysis, we will explore at the most recent breakthroughs, as well as the latest materials and catalysts, boosting the productivity and economic viability of water splitting. Electrode materials, electrolytes, and battery architectures that enhance performance and safety for Li-ion batteries are discussed. The integration of these technologies within renewable energy systems, highlighting their complementary roles in achieving carbon neutrality are also addressed in this review. We underscore the critical importance of water splitting and lithium-ion batteries in the sustainable energy landscape, through a comprehensive analysis of current research and future directions.

Impacts of Reclaimed Water Irrigation on Soil Salinity, Nutrient Cycling, and Landscape Plant Growth in a Coastal Monsoon Environment

This study investigated the impacts of reclaimed water (RW) irrigation on soil properties and landscape plant growth in a coastal monsoon city over a 13-month period. Soil properties in plots irrigated with RW and tap water (TW) were monitored monthly, including electrical conductivity, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, soil organic matter, and overall variations of soil enzyme activities. The results show that RW irrigation led to increased fluctuations in soil salinity indicators, with higher peaks during periods of low rainfall. Rainfall can efficiently mitigate the salinity increase associated with RW irrigation, highlighting the influence of monsoon climate variability on salinity dynamics. RW application increased soil total nitrogen and organic matter and decreased soil total phosphorus. This suggests that RW irrigation induces complex nutrient interactions within the soil–plant system. Furthermore, RW irrigation promoted the activities of soil enzymes related to carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus cycling, indicating potential alterations in nutrient bioavailability. Plant growth responses varied among species, with Nephrolepis cordifolia and Cordyline fruticose exhibiting signs of salt stress, especially in the initial months of planting in RW plot. Other species demonstrated greater tolerance to RW irrigation, suggesting the importance of species selection for sustainable landscape management with RW. This study demonstrates the challenges and opportunities associated with RW utilization for urban greening.

CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES FOR SUSTAINABLE INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT IN INDIA'S FINANCIAL SECTOR

Sustainable industrial development in India faces significant challenges and opportunities within the financial sector. This study explores the interplay between financial markets and sustainable practices in industries, emphasizing the need for financial instruments that support environmental sustainability. Key challenges include limited access to green finance, inadequate regulatory frameworks, and a lack of awareness among businesses regarding sustainability practices. Moreover, the current financial institutions frequently emphasize immediate profits rather than long-term sustainability objectives. However, opportunities for enhancing sustainable industrial development exist through the promotion of green bonds, impact investing, and public-private partnerships. By analyzing case studies and relevant literature, this research highlights successful initiatives that have leveraged financial markets to foster sustainability in industrial practices. The findings suggest that aligning financial incentives with sustainable development goals can significantly contribute to the growth of green industries in India. This study provides valuable insights for policymakers and financial institutions aiming to promote a more sustainable industrial landscape.

Technological innovations in sewage treatment plants for sustainable landscape design

Technological innovations in sewage treatment plants for sustainable landscape design

Refined Wilding for Functional Biodiversity in Urban Landscapes: A Verification and Contextualisation

Optimising existing knowledge sets and encouraging the integration of interdisciplinary study findings can facilitate the advanced functions of biodiversity required for sustainable urban landscapes. Urban Green Spaces (UGS) can reach across an urban landscape, including indoor environments. The existing and traditional knowledge sets and practices for urban development and greening provide extensive and pertinent guidance; they are however variably implemented. More recent and advanced knowledge sets where properly utilised can optimise and provide advanced function. When adequately brought together, advanced sustainability for urban landscapes can significantly improve global sustainability performance. This article uses the final step of classic grounded theory to contextualise, verify and define refined wilding as a substantiating concept for functional biodiversity as theory for urban landscapes and for sustainable urban development. Refined wilding works toward wild refined UGS that functionally connect across an urban space and landscape, including positive influential flows with grey and transparent spaces. Where used to guide urban design, strategies, vision and goals this concept can provide (i) a conceptual framing that optimises and encourages an organisation of interdisciplinary and advanced knowledge, improving and advancing sustainable urban development, and (ii) a specificity, and overarching and comprehensive guidance for various UGS types toward the positive outcome of functional biodiversity. Functionally biodiverse UGS and landscapes require lower maintenance and perform at an advanced level for human health, economic development, the natural environment, and built or paved environments and landscapes. In turn, addressing how human activity and modification of urban landscapes can significantly degrade human health and the natural environment, or underachieve. Refined wilding (i) substantiates functional biodiversity as a positive outcome for urban landscapes, with a balance between ecological functions and functions for human populations; (ii) considers quality, function, and connectivity of and between UGS and spaces where UGS could be introduced or improved; (ii) enables an improvement, and addresses common barriers to UGS accomplishing advanced functions for urban sustainability; (iii) encourages urban wilding by functional native and non-native selections, and natural and semi-natural UGS; (iv) positively influences and is influenced by grey (built environment) and transparent spaces (blue/aquatic and air).

Evaluation of Sustainable Landscape Design: Presence of Native Pollinators in an Urban Park in Mexico City, Mexico

Evaluation of Sustainable Landscape Design: Presence of Native Pollinators in an Urban Park in Mexico City, Mexico

Sustainable synergy: exploring the nexus of green initiatives and digitalization in gulf countries – a comprehensive study on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) indicators

Purpose This research investigates the trajectory of Gulf region, focusing on the interplay between environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors and key elements – digital economy, green economy (GE), green finance, green energy and green innovation. This study aims to provide a nuanced understanding of how Gulf economies align their developmental pursuits with sustainability principles amidst the rapid evolution of digital technologies. Design/methodology/approach A data set of 95 listed companies from six Gulf Cooperation Council countries – Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates – from year 2016 to 2022 was compiled from reputable sources. Using fixed effect regression techniques, this study explores relationships, accounting for individual and time-specific variations. Findings This study indicates that key factors – digital economy, GE, green energy and green innovation – significantly influence ESG performance across Gulf nations underscoring the potential for strategic integration of these elements to enhance sustainable practices. However, the nonsignificant impact of green finance highlights a need for further exploration and refinement of financial mechanisms to effectively contribute to ESG goals in the Gulf region. Research limitations/implications The findings underscore the importance for Gulf policymakers to prioritize ongoing support and policy formulation fostering digitalization and green initiatives. Businesses in the region can enhance ESG performance by integrating sustainable practices, promoting long-term resilience and reputation. Investors and financial institutions can use these insights to guide investment decisions, prioritizing projects contributing to environmental sustainability and social responsibility. Originality/value Amidst the current sustainability imperative, this research holds unique value in its timely exploration of the Gulf region’s sustainable landscape, providing crucial insights into the interplay between ESG factors and digital and green initiatives.

Envisioning ‘Jefore’ and Its Attributes: Evidence from Gurage Rural Landscape

Contemporary understandings of landscapes are focusing on their attributes for sustainable human-environment interactions. This article explores the socio-cultural, aesthetic, and therapeutic attributes of Jefore as a peculiar socio-ecological landscape of Gurage countryside. As research design and tools of data collection, ethnographic research design and ethnographic data collection tools such as key informant interviews, focus group discussions, observations, and a transect walk were used to generate data from three districts of West Gurageland. Scoring from diverse data sources, Jefore is the long-existing local landscape tradition. It has diverse attributes that embeds aspects of Gurage's life such as identity, social interactions, socio-cultural and economic productions, livelihoods, and well-being. For socio-cultural attributes, it remains the core of cultural production and reproduction, social interactions, social alliances, identity as well as heritages for the group. Aesthetic and therapeutic attributes magnify the wider well-being associations of the landscapes for its embodiment effects. Largely, maintaining Jefore landscape tradition ensuring sustainable socio-ecological landscape values and attributes that serve long generations. Hence, diverse stakeholders need to consider indigeneity of Jefore landscape and its diverse attributes in the midst of their decisions and interventions.

A Capabilities Approach to Carbon Dioxide Removal

ABSTRACT The recent ethical debate concerning the implementation of carbon dioxide removal (CDR) has expanded the traditional scope of ethical analysis to investigate the appropriate role of CDR within the larger climate change mitigation discussion. Specifically, the recent scholarship is embedded in the disputed sustainable development landscape that presents various and competing visions of desirable futures. This article unpacks and clarifies the discussion between Darrel Moellendorf and Henry Shue as representatives of two camps in the recent debate, the former supporting carbon removal to achieve poverty-targeting sustainable development and the latter rejecting overreliance on CDR’s potential. Finally, moving beyond this discussion, the article proposes that a capabilities approach to CDR can adequately inform the debate, tackling some important limitations in the recent literature by offering a broader account of human well-being relevant to CDR implementation.

Key Ecological and Cultural Characteristics of Homestead Windbreak Forest Landscapes in Okinawa, Japan

This study investigates the Fukugi (Garcinia subelliptica) windbreak landscapes on Iriomote Island through case studies in two of its oldest villages, Sonai and Hoshitate. These windbreak forests, integral to the cultural landscape of Okinawa, offer both ecological and socio-economic benefits. Using field measurements and surveys, the research analyzes the distribution, growth patterns, and historical significance of Fukugi groves within the village setting and compares naturally regenerated forests with those planted by humans. The findings underscore the importance of Fukugi trees in promoting sustainable rural landscapes, where they dominate the local ecosystem of rural settlements. Fukugi windbreak landscapes in Okinawa are characterized by trees encircling homes on all four sides, distinguishing them from homestead windbreaks found in other regions of Japan. Surveys from the two villages suggest that the original homestead windbreak forests in the Yaeyama region contain a diverse mix of tree species, with Fukugi and Calophyllum inophyllum being predominant, along with other useful species like Diospyros ferrea and Podocarpus macrophyllus. These species were selected not only for their windbreak capabilities but also for timber and home furniture production. The study’s findings on naturally regenerated Fukugi groups support the hypothesis that the cultivation of Fukugi as a windbreak species originated in the Yaeyama region and likely spread to other parts of Okinawa, influencing both the ecological and cultural evolution of the region’s landscapes.

Household Solid Fuel Use and Associated Factors in Somaliland: A Multilevel Analysis of Data From 2020 Somaliland Demographic and Health Survey.

This study, utilizing data from the 2020 Somaliland Demographic and Health Survey, investigates the prevalence of household solid fuel use in Somaliland and the factors associated with this practice. Our analysis reveals that a staggering 97.2% of households rely on solid fuels like wood and charcoal for cooking, with only 2.8% utilizing clean energy sources. We employed multilevel logistic regression to examine the influence of individual and community-level variables on fuel choice. Results highlight the significant roles of education level, gender of the household head, wealth status, and location of cooking in shaping fuel selection. The study, aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy, emphasizes the urgency of promoting clean energy alternatives, improving cooking practices, and addressing the health and environmental impacts of solid fuel usage to foster a more sustainable energy landscape in Somaliland.

Do circular innovations and carrying capacity of natural environment enhance circular economy in the European Union? Evidence from simulation and machine learning methods.

The longevity of the natural environment is fundamental for sustainable production and consumption. The circular economy conserves natural resources, ensures sustainable production and consumption, and protects the natural environment. The role of circular innovations, particularly the carrying capacity of nature, is ignored in literature. This study analyses the impact of circular innovations and the carrying capacity of the natural environment on the circular economy for 27 European Union countries. Panel data from 2010 to 2022 were analyzed using simulation and machine learning methods. Empirical estimates revealed that circular innovations and resource productivity have been instrumental in propelling circular practices, while the carrying capacity of nature and per capita output have a detrimental impact. More specifically, the carrying capacity of the natural environment signifies potential threats to the adoption of circular practices. This study suggests that innovation in recycling technologies and reuse processes is mandatory for enhancing the adoption of circular practices. Furthermore, the European Union must limit the use of naturally occurring endowments and increase the use of recycled resources. Concludingly, this study provides unique insight into the sustainable and circular landscape in the European Union.

تأثير تضاريس الأرض على الهندسة المعمارية للمناظر الطبيعية من خلال منظورات متعددة الأوجه

This research focuses on the different relationship between land topography and landscape architecture, examining how natural terrain influences design decisions, spatial organization, and overall landscape quality. The study evaluates the effectiveness of topographic analysis techniques and their implications for the practice and education of landscape architecture. Findings indicate that land topography significantly shapes design processes and outcomes, highlighting the importance of integrating topographic considerations into landscape architecture practice. Practical recommendations are offered to enhance the integration of land topography into design practice, with a focus on contextually sensitive approaches and sustainable landscape practices. Furthermore, the research identifies challenges and opportunities in landscape architecture education related to the incorporation of topographic analysis. The research aims to contribute to the creation of resilient and harmonious landscapes that enrich human experience and support ecological integrity, thereby fostering a culture of innovation within the landscape architecture profession. Keywords: Landscape architecture. Land topography. Design decisions. Sustainability

Embedded in the park: the Vanoi Ecomuseum as a lever for sustainable landscape management in the Italian Alps

Embedded in the park: the Vanoi Ecomuseum as a lever for sustainable landscape management in the Italian Alps

Evaluating the Impact of Sustainable Landscape Planning on Student Well-Being and Academic Performance: A Case Study of the University of Ibadan

This study investigates the impact of sustainable landscape planning on the well-being and academic performance of students at the University of Ibadan. Utilizing survey data, the research highlights the positive effects of well-maintained green spaces on students' mental health, stress reduction, physical health, and connection to nature. The findings indicate that a significant proportion of students perceive sustainable landscape planning as beneficial to their overall well-being and academic experience. Hypothesis testing results further confirm the substantial positive impact, underscoring the importance of incorporating sustainable landscape practices in educational institutions. These results advocate for increased investment in sustainable landscaping to foster a healthier and more conducive learning environment.