Sustainable Management Research Articles

Innovative Strategy for Rainwater Harvesting in Saline-affected Urban Areas: A Case Study of a Sports Complex in Delhi

Water scarcity remains a critical global challenge, requiring immediate, sustainable management strategies, particularly in areas with an increasing disparity between water supply and demand. In India, and especially in Delhi, this issue is acute. In response to growing environmental concerns and the urgent need for sustainable water resource management, rainwater harvesting has emerged as a practical and effective solution for water conservation. This study investigates the application of rainwater harvesting to sustainably support water needs for a sports complex located in a salinity affected region. The land, originally intended for agriculture, has been converted into a complex featuring hydro-landscape facilities, including swimming pools, water polo areas, diving pools, toddler pools, and leisure pools. These facilities require an initial water input of 6,754.5 m³ and an annual replenishment of 7,957.28 m³ due to evaporation and seepage. By calculating the total rainwater harvesting potential based on the runoff coefficient, annual rainfall intensity, and the complex's catchment area, the study reveals that 29,693.8 m³ of rainwater can be harvested annually, providing a surplus of 14,981.7 m³ of potable water. This analysis demonstrates the viability of designing sports complexes in saline areas using efficient land use and rainwater harvesting, and presenting a scalable model for sustainable water management in similar regions worldwide.

Residents’ willingness to pay for sustainable solid waste management services: a case of Glenview suburb, Harare, Zimbabwe

AbstractSolid waste generation is an inevitable outcome of anthropogenic activities, which is an issue of concern in Zimbabwe. Among other challenges, inadequate finance is a key challenge to reach sustainable waste management. This study focuses on residents’ willingness to pay for improved solid waste management services. Analytical case study research design, employing quantitative and qualitative data collection, analysis and presentation was adopted. Data was collected using questionnaires, interviews, observations while analysis was done using SPSS and content analysis. Results indicated that most respondents were house owners (53.92%) and 46.08% were tenants. Solid waste generated consists of hazardous and non-hazardous waste. Solid waste collected by the city council (57.84%), private collectors (36.27%) while remaining is collected by other individuals and scavengers. Interviews and questionnaires outcomes denote that solid waste was collected once a week (43.14%), twice a week (3.92%) and rarely collected (38.24%). Solid waste is disposed through open dumping, burning, pits and landfilling, although most of the disposal strategies pose environmental health problems. Solid waste mismanagement is attributed to lack of awareness, weak legal framework and shortage of resources, specifically finance. Questionnaire respondents (66.67%) argued that proper solid waste management is important and needs to be improved. Participants (65.69%) revealed that they were willing to pay for improved solid waste management, however, 34.31% were unwilling. Willingness to pay for improved solid waste management was determined by educational level and house ownership status. Improving residents’ willingness to pay for proper solid waste management requires an integrated approach and increasing residents' awareness.

Effects of Heavy Grazing on Interspecific Relationships at Different Spatial Scales in Desert Steppe of China

This study investigates the effects of grazing intensity and spatial scale on the important values, interspecific relationships, and community stability of desert steppe plant communities in Siziwang Banner, Inner Mongolia, China. Using vegetation data collected at three spatial scales (50 m × 50 m, 25 m × 25 m, and 2.5 m × 2.5 m) under two grazing conditions (no grazing and heavy grazing), we employed ecological statistics, including variance ratio analysis, χ2 tests, and the Jaccard index, to analyze species interactions and community structure. The results indicated that the important values of species vary with both spatial scale and grazing intensity; for example, Stipa breviflori and Chenopodium aristatum exhibited significantly higher important values in heavily grazed areas. Larger spatial scales enhanced the dominance of Cleistogenes songorica and Chenopodium aristatum, while smaller scales favored Stipa breviflori and Caragana stenophylla. Furthermore, interspecific associations were stronger in heavy grazing conditions. The community demonstrated consistent instability; however, no grazing areas were more stable than heavily grazed ones. These findings highlight that species importance, interspecific relationships, and community stability are closely linked to grazing intensity and spatial scale, emphasizing the critical role of sustainable grazing management in maintaining the long-term stability and resilience of desert steppe ecosystems. By emphasizing the need for targeted and sustainable management strategies, this study aims to contribute to the restoration and preservation of these vital ecosystems.

Asymmetric effects of planting pattern and density on leaf-height traits of Glycine max and Amaranthus retroflexus

Abstract Environmentally sustainable weed management is crucial to meet the increasing demand for food. Previous studies have demonstrated that improving spatial uniformity and planting density can effectively suppress weeds. However, research on how planting patterns (PPs) affect the functional traits of crops and weeds is limited. In 2019 and 2021, we conducted a field experiment to compare the functional traits and biomass of Glycine max and Amaranthus retroflexus in two PPs—row (R) and equidistant (E)—with varying combinations of G. max and A. retroflexus densities. We found that the EPP amplified the competitive ability of G. max in size-asymmetric competition with A. retroflexus, and this advantage increased alongside higher G. max density, primarily due to functional traits related to light acquisition. In the EPP, G. max established a closed canopy during the early growth stage, reducing light availability to A. retroflexus. This advantage was reflected in higher leaf area index (LAI) and leaf dry weight (LDW) for G. max in the EPP than in the RPP, while A. retroflexus experienced reduced LAI and plant height (PH) due to increased shading in the EPP. Consequently, the EPP enhanced the total biomass and yield of G. max by an average of 40.81% and 37.72%, respectively, while the biomass of A. retroflexus decreased by an average of 34.52% compared to the RPP. These results suggest that adopting an EPP with a high density of G. max, could be an effective strategy for suppressing A. retroflexus and improving crop yield.

Integrating Mixed Livestock Systems to Optimize Forage Utilization and Modify Woody Species Composition in Semi-Arid Communal Rangelands

Communally owned rangelands serve as critical grazing areas for mixed livestock species such as cattle and goats, particularly in the arid and semi-arid regions of Southern Africa. This study aimed to evaluate the nutritional composition and woody species composition of communal rangelands where cattle and goat flocks graze together and to investigate the influence of grazing intensity on vegetation dynamics. Vegetation surveys were conducted across varying grazing intensities to assess species richness, biomass, and dietary preferences, while soil properties were analyzed to determine their interaction with vegetation attributes. Stepwise regression and path analyses were used to explore the relationships between soil characteristics, vegetation structure, and livestock dietary choices. The results revealed that high grazing pressure significantly reduced grass biomass (p = 0.003) and woody species density (p = 0.007) while increasing shrub cover (p = 0.018). Nutritional analysis indicated that goats preferred woody shrubs, which contributed 42.1% of their diet compared to 27.8% for cattle (p = 0.008). Regression analysis further showed that soil organic carbon (p = 0.002) and tree height (p = 0.041) were strong predictors of shrub cover. Seasonal variation significantly affected forage availability and nutritional content, with higher crude protein levels recorded during the wet season (p = 0.007). These findings suggest that grazing management strategies should be tailored to the distinct forage needs of cattle and goats to maintain the productivity and ecological stability of communal rangelands. A holistic approach that considers livestock dietary preferences, vegetation composition, and soil health is essential for sustainable rangeland management in mixed-species grazing systems.

Correction: Strategic environmental assessment for sustainable coastal zone management in Saudi Arabia, aligning with vision 2030

Correction: Strategic environmental assessment for sustainable coastal zone management in Saudi Arabia, aligning with vision 2030

A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW ON THE DEVELOPMENT TRENDS IN MANAGEMENT ACCOUNTING RESEARCH

Background. The emergence of digital tools, such as data analytics and automation, enhances decision-making, aligns with sustainability, and supports strategic goals, especially in the context of achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Research Purpose. The study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the developmental trends in management accounting by systematically reviewing recent literature. This review focuses on identifying key trends, existing gaps, and emerging themes to establish a framework for future research in this evolving field? ResearchMethod. Using a systematic literature review (SLR) approach, the research includes journal articles, conference proceedings, and reports published over the past decade. Articles were selected based on relevance to management accounting and sorted by topic, findings, and theoretical contributions.? Findings. Key trends in management accounting include the integration of digital technology (e.g., AI, blockchain) for efficiency, accuracy, and improved decision-making, alongside a strong focus on environmental sustainability. The study also found significant interest in sustainability management practices, particularly regarding their role in meeting SDGs and enhancing corporate performance ?Conclusion. Management accounting is increasingly shaped by digitalization and sustainability imperatives. Technologies like AI and blockchain are reshaping data accuracy and efficiency, while sustainability practices encourage responsible business practices.

Habitat Assessment of Bocachico (Prochilodus magdalenae) in Ciénaga de Betancí, Colombia, Using a Habitat Suitability Index Model

This study evaluates the habitat of the Bocachico fish (Prochilodus magdalenae) in the Ciénaga de Betancí, Colombia, using a habitat suitability index (HSI) model. Wetlands like the Ciénaga de Betancí are under significant pressure from anthropogenic activities, affecting biodiversity and ecosystem health. The Bocachico, a species of immense cultural and economic importance, faces habitat degradation and fragmentation. Using hydrodynamic and water quality data, a numerical model (EFDC+ Explorer 11.5), and field data collected from multiple sampling campaigns, we assessed habitat suitability based on five key parameters: water temperature, dissolved oxygen, ammonia nitrogen, velocity, and depth. The model results indicated that environmental conditions in the wetland remained relatively stable during the dry season, with an average HSI score of 0.67, where 9% of the wetland area displayed acceptable conditions, and the remaining 91% displayed medium conditions. The wet season, on the other hand, had an average HSI score of 0.64, with 7.2% of the area in the acceptable suitability range, and the remaining 92.8% in the medium category. Variations in HSI were primarily driven by ammonia nitrogen levels, water velocity, and depth. Despite limited fluctuations in the HSI, areas of low suitability were identified, particularly in regions impacted by human activities. These findings have practical implications for conservation strategies, providing valuable insights for the sustainable management and conservation of the Ciénaga de Betancí, informing strategies for improving habitat conditions for the Bocachico, and supporting wetland restoration efforts.

An ESG-Compliant Framework for Fraud Detection in Online Payments Using Data Privacy and Machine Learning

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to analyze the role of machine learning (ML) in fraudulent online payment transaction detection across industries, with a specific focus on integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles to bring sustainability and ethics in fraud detection. Methodology: This study reviews the effectiveness of machine learning (ML) techniques in real-time fraud detection, presenting the efficiency of different ML techniques across industries and how those techniques can be modified to apply the principles of ESG. It checks on ethical practices concerning data, compliance with data privacy, and sustainable management, further investigating how effectively ML-driven frameworks can support fraud detection without compromising the standards of ESG. Findings: The study finds that integrating ESG principles within machine learning frameworks for fraud detection enhances both the effectiveness and ethical alignment of these systems. ML models not only support real-time fraud detection but also reinforce sustainable data management and governance practices, providing businesses with an advanced approach to mitigating cyber risks while upholding ESG commitments. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice, and Policy: This paper contributes by advancing ESG-integrated frameworks for fraud detection, offering a sustainable and ethical model for using ML in financial systems. In practice, it provides actionable insights for industries seeking to align fraud prevention with ESG goals. The paper also suggests policy considerations, advocating for stronger ethical standards and data governance in ML applications for fraud detection.

Geospatially Informed Water Pricing for Sustainability: A Mixed Methods Approach to the Increasing Block Tariff Model for Groundwater Management in Arid Regions of Northwest Bangladesh

Groundwater depletion in arid regions poses a significant threat to agricultural sustainability and rural livelihoods. This study employs geospatial analysis and economic modeling to address groundwater depletion in the arid Barind region of Northwest Bangladesh, where 84% of the rural population depends on agriculture. Using remote sensing and GIS, we developed an elevation map revealing areas up to 60 m above sea level, exacerbating evaporation and aquifer dryness. Field data collected through Participatory Rural Appraisal tools showed farmers exhibiting “ignorant myopic” behavior, prioritizing short-term profits over resource conservation. To address this, an Increasing Block Tariff (IBT) water pricing model was developed, dividing water usage into three blocks based on irrigation hours: 1–275 h, 276–550 h, and 551+ h. The proposed IBT model significantly increases water prices across the three blocks: 117 BDT/hour for the first block (from current 100–110 BDT/hour), 120 BDT/hour for the second block, and 138 BDT/hour for the third block. A demand function (y = −0.1178x + 241.8) was formulated to evaluate the model’s impact. The results show potential reductions in groundwater consumption: 59 h in the first block, 26 h in the second block, and 158 h in the third block. These reductions align with the principles of integrated water resource management (IWRM): social equity, economic efficiency, and environmental integration. The model incorporates economic externalities (e.g., well lifting costs) and environmental externalities (e.g., crop pattern shifts), with total costs reaching 92,709,049 BDT for environmental factors. This research provides a framework for sustainable groundwater management in arid regions, potentially reducing overextraction while maintaining agricultural productivity. The proposed IBT model offers a locally driven solution to balance resource conservation with the livelihood needs of farming communities in the Barind tract. By combining remote sensing, GIS, and economic modeling, this research provides a framework for sustainable groundwater management in arid regions, demonstrating the power of geospatial technologies in addressing complex water resource challenges.

PENDAMPINGAN KELOMPOK TANI HUTAN DAN PENGELOLAAN HUTAN DESA SECARA PARTISIPATIF DI DESA MASIHULAN KECAMATAN SERAM UTARA

The community engagement program with forest farmer groups and forest managers in Masihulan Village aimed to enhance the community's capacity to sustainably manage forest resources and strengthen the local economy through the diversification of non-timber forest products. A participatory approach was employed in this assistance process, actively involving the community in every stage of the program. The results show a significant improvement in the farmer groups' understanding of agroforestry practices and sustainable forest management. Additionally, the institutional strengthening of the forest farmer groups positively impacted their ability to access government assistance programs and financial institutions.

Sustainability Based Financial Risk Management Strategies For Long Term Resilience: A Systematic Review

This study conducted a systematic literature review on the application of sustainability principles in financial risk management in the banking, agriculture, infrastructure, and decentralized technology sectors. By utilizing a sustainability-based approach and early warning metrics, this study identified significant benefits that can strengthen the financial resilience of organizations to long-term uncertainty. The findings show that this approach is not only effective in reducing financial risks but also generates social and environmental benefits, such as improved reputation, public trust, and strengthened stakeholder relationships. However, the implementation of this approach is faced with challenges, including limited resources, low awareness among organizations, and minimal regulations that support the adoption of sustainability in risk management. Recommendations from this study include the development of more supportive regulations, increased investment in predictive technology, and further in-depth research to strengthen the integration of sustainability in financial risk management. These findings are expected to encourage the adoption of a more strategic, responsive, and sustainable risk management approach, which can ultimately improve organizational resilience in the future.

End-of-life management of electric vehicle batteries utilizing the life cycle assessment

ABSTRACT To achieve sustainable development in the electric vehicle (EV) industry, this study assesses the environmental impacts of retired electric vehicle batteries (EVBs) throughout the life cycle. The life cycle assessment (LCA) with the ReCiPe method is implemented with environmental impacts: CO2eq emissions, human toxicity, terrestrial acidification, particulate matter (PM) formation, metal depletion, and fossil depletion. Four EOL management scenarios, namely the landfilling, remanufacturing, repurposing, and recycling processes, are examined with the background data obtained from the Ecoinvent database v3.6 and data collected from secondary sources. The study results reveal that the landfilling scenario is highly harmful to humans and due to its highest environmental impacts, specifically CO2 emission (2,236 kg CO2eq) from the material extraction process. In contrast, the recycling scenario is the most environmentally friendly scenario, as it reduces the human toxicity (45,934 kg 1,4-DBeq), terrestrial acidification (425 kg SO2eq), and metal depletion (20,129 kg Feeq), achieving the lowest final impact score of -277. The study further examines the recycling scenario with different energy mixes, i.e. natural gas, coal, and renewable energy. The results suggest that the complete use of renewable energy could improve the final impact value to -281.1. The results also recommend the remanufacturing scenario as it reduces CO2eq emission by 1,193 kg CO2eq. The government may utilize the study results to enhance the circular economy of retired EVBs through various strategies to compete in the global market. A comprehensive evaluation of EOL management practices of retired EVBs offers valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders to minimize the ecological footprint of the EV industry and support Thailand’s sustainability goals. A future study may be performed to compare the EOL management scenarios with actual practices and suggest suitable improvements. The policy-based simulations could be implemented to examine long-term impacts of EOL management practices in Thailand. Implication Statement The global warming issue has become critical and countries worldwide initiate policies and strategies to minimize waste and environmental impacts. The use of electric vehicles (EVs) is expected to reduce such impact; nevertheless, it leads to the issue of electric vehicle battery (EVB) waste. This study examines the environmental impacts of the end-of-life (EOL) management of the retired EVBs, specifically the remanufacturing, repurposing, and recycling processes. The results pinpoint several key impacts, namely CO2eq emissions, human toxicity, terrestrial acidification, particulate matter formation, metal depletion, and fossil depletion in the EOL management processes. It is clear that the current practice (i.e. landfilling) is highly harmful to humans and the environment, mainly from the material extraction process. In contrast, the most effective EOL strategy for retired EVBs is recycling, as it generates the lowest human toxicity, terrestrial acidification, and metal depletion. The remanufacturing scenario is the most suitable scenario when CO2eq emission is a major concern. The study also examines the recycling scenario’s different energy mixes (i.e. natural gas, coal, and renewable energy). The results suggest that at least half of the energy used in electricity production should be renewable to improve the final impact of this scenario further. A comprehensive evaluation of EOL management practices of retired EVBs offers valuable insights for the government and stakeholders to plan for sustainable EOL management policies to reduce the ecological footprint and achieve sustainable development in the long term.

Climate-smart forestry: an AI-enabled sustainable forest management solution for climate change adaptation and mitigation

AbstractClimate change is the most severe ecological challenge faced by the world today. Forests, the dominant component of terrestrial ecosystems, play a critical role in mitigating climate change due to their powerful carbon sequestration capabilities. Meanwhile, climate change has also become a major factor affecting the sustainable management of forest ecosystems. Climate-Smart Forestry (CSF) is an emerging concept in sustainable forest management. By utilizing advanced technologies, such as information technology and artificial intelligence, CSF aims to develop innovative and proactive forest management methods and decision-making systems to address the challenges of climate change. CSF aims to enhance forest ecosystem resilience (i.e., maintain a condition where, even when the state of the ecosystem changes, the ecosystem functions do not deteriorate) through climate change adaptation, improve the mitigation capabilities of forest ecosystems to climate change, maintain high, stable, and sustainable forest productivity and ecosystem services, and ultimately achieve harmonious development between humans and nature. This concept paper: (1) discusses the emergence and development of CSF, which integrates Ecological Forestry, Carbon Forestry, and Smart Forestry, and proposes the concept of CSF; (2) analyzes the goals of CSF in improving forest ecosystem stability, enhancing forest ecosystem carbon sequestration capacity, and advocating the application and development of new technologies in CSF, including artificial intelligence, robotics, Light Detection and Ranging, and forest digital twin; (3) presents the latest practices of CSF based on prior research on forest structure and function using new generation information technologies at Qingyuan Forest, China. From these practices and reflections, we suggested the development direction of CSF, including the key research topics and technological advancement.

World Bank Financing and Sustainable Management of Tropical Forests

ABSTRACT Tropical forests contribute to maintaining the global ecological balance and to climate regulation. In 2002, the World Bank adopted a revised Forest Strategy to harness the economic potential of tropical forests, reducing poverty and promoting sustainability. This paper conducts a comparative analysis of forest sector project allocations between 2002 and 2020 using the institution’s global project database. The research results confirm that the forest cover of tropical countries is not a priority for World Bank funding, thus contradicting the stated aims of this institution. Only US$ 4.33 billion was allocated to tropical forests between 2002 and 2020, representing 0.41% of the total resources managed. At a particular disadvantage, due to the limited support received, is the African forest, which experienced a decline of more than 10% in its forest cover between 2002 and 2020. The evidence reported in this study justifies the need to significantly increase funding, reinforcing the link between productive development and sustainable forest management. In order to combat deforestation and restore forest cover in low-income countries, the World Bank must extend project benefits to more tropical countries, tailor new mechanisms to local conditions, and make it a priority to facilitate access to financing and increase non-repayable aid.

Soil Loss Estimation and Community Awareness Assessment on Integrated Watershed Management: The Case of Lake Hashenge Watershed, Tigray, Ethiopia

Ethiopia is recognized as one of the most severely affected regions by soil erosion globally, posing significant threats to its national economy. This study investigates soil loss estimation and community awareness within the framework of integrated watershed management in the Lake Hashenge watershed, Tigray, Ethiopia. The mean annual rainfall and total drainage area of Lake Hashenge watershed is 988.7 mm and 129km2 respectively. Utilizing the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) model, we quantified soil erosion rates and identified critical areas prone to severe soil loss. Our findings indicate significant soil degradation, exacerbated by both natural and anthropogenic factors. The estimated soil loss yield entering Lake Hashenge in the form of sheet and rill erosion was 61.94 tons/ha/year. According to the universal soil loss factsheet, the soil loss estimated in the watershed was categorized as severe, indicating that the lake is in danger. Concurrently, we assessed community awareness and participation in soil conservation practices through surveys and interviews with a multidisciplinary team of researchers. The results reveal a moderate level of awareness and engagement, highlighting the need for enhanced educational and participatory approaches to foster sustainable watershed management. This research underscores the importance of integrating scientific soil loss assessments with community-based integrated watershed management strategies to mitigate soil erosion, protect the lake from sedimentation, and promote environmental sustainability in the region.

IMPLIKASI KARAKTERISTIK BUDAYA MASYARAKAT DALAM PENGELOLAAN HUTAN LINDUNG GUNUNG SIRIMAU KOTA AMBON PROVINSI MALUKU

This study examines the cultural characteristics of communities living around the Sirimau Protected Forest and their impact on sustainable forest management. The surrounding indigenous communities hold a deeply rooted cultural system that includes language, knowledge systems, social organization, technology, livelihoods, and religious beliefs, all of which influence their approach to natural resource management. One of the core elements is local ecological knowledge—an understanding of the forest’s ecosystem, flora, fauna, and geography that has been passed down through generations. Key social structures, such as the roles of local leaders (raja), community councils (saniri), and forest guardians (kewang), play a significant role in ecological stewardship through customary regulations, including the sasi tradition, which restricts forest use during specific periods to prevent overexploitation. The research emphasizes the importance of involving indigenous communities in forest management decision-making processes, which not only supports ecosystem sustainability but also preserves the cultural identity and values of these communities. Findings from this study advocate for community-based forest management approaches that integrate social, economic, and cultural aspects to achieve optimal environmental sustainability.

Energy‐Aware Power Control Scheme For Water Quality Monitoring Systems

ABSTRACTThis research introduces an innovative power management approach for wireless sensor networks in aquatic environmental monitoring. The study presents a dynamic algorithm that optimizes energy consumption in long range (LoRa) communication nodes by adaptively adjusting transmission power based on sensor–gateway distances. Leveraging GPS data and a log‐normal shadowing model, the method enables efficient power allocation. Field testing in an aquaculture setting demonstrates the energy‐aware power control (EAPC) algorithm's efficacy. Nodes at 500 m from gateways achieve up to 39% reduction in power consumption compared to fixed‐power systems. At 1250 m, savings decrease to 22%, and at 1500 m, to 11%, while maintaining reliable communication. This research advances sustainable aquatic resource management, offering applications in aquaculture, environmental conservation, and water resource management. By optimizing power usage, the approach contributes to more effective long‐term monitoring of aquatic environments.

Impact of Paddy Field Expansion on Ecosystem Services and Associated Trade-Offs and Synergies in Sanjiang Plain

In recent decades, the integrity and security of the ecosystem in the Sanjiang Plain have faced severe challenges due to land reclamation. Understanding the impact of paddy field expansion on regional ecosystem services (ESs), as well as revealing the trade-offs and synergies (TOS) between these services to achieve optimal resource allocation, has become an urgent issue to address. This study employs the InVEST model to map the spatial and temporal dynamics of five key ESs, while the Optimal Parameter Geodetector (OPGD) identifies primary drivers of these changes. Correlation analysis and Geographically Weighted Regression (GWR) reveal intricate TOS among ESs at multiple scales. Additionally, the Partial Least Squares-Structural Equation Model (PLS-SEM) elucidates the direct impacts of paddy field expansion on ESs. The main findings include the following: (1) The paddy field area in the Sanjiang Plain increased from 5775 km2 to 18,773.41 km2 from 1990 to 2020, an increase of 12,998.41 km2 in 40 years. And the area of other land use types has generally decreased. (2) Overall, ESs showed a recovery trend, with carbon storage (CS) and habitat quality (HQ) initially decreasing but later improving, and consistent increases were observed in soil conservation, water yield (WY), and food production (FP). Paddy fields, drylands, forests, and wetlands were the main ES providers, with soil type, topography, and NDVI emerging as the main influencing factors. (3) Distinct correlations among ESs, where CS shows synergies with HQ and SC, while trade-offs are noted between CS and both WY and FP. These TOS demonstrate significant spatial heterogeneity and scale effects across subregions. (4) Paddy field expansion enhances regional SC, WY, and FP, but negatively affects CS and HQ. These insights offer a scientific basis for harmonizing agricultural development with ecological conservation, enriching our understanding of ES interrelationships, and guiding sustainable ecosystem management and policymaking.

Indicadores de Sustentabilidade para Gestão da Água

Water safety involves the sustainable use and protection of water sources, so that water is available in adequate quantity and quality to health, livelihoods, ecosystems and production, in addition to protecting it from the negative effects of extreme weather events. Internationally, the concept of water security began being discussed in the 1990s, and more so since 2009, when the issue became the subject of a greater number of publications. In Brazil Federal Law 9433/97, which establishes the National Water Resources Policy, and corresponding state laws implicitly provide the concept of water security. However, the National Water Safety Plan was only launched in 2019, and has became the fundamental instrument for decision-making on this issue. The objective of the research was to pre-select indicators to analyze the water safety of the municipalities contemplated in the Capibaribe river watershed, within the framework of sustainable water management. To achieve the objective, the following methodology was adopted: pre-selection of indicators; application of a questionnaire to a panel of experts; structure a database. Thus, this work aims to bring subsidies that contribute to water security actions and public policies through the development of an indicator database. Additionally, this research is a proposal for future work, helping to define an equation of the water security index for the municipalities in the watershed.