Valuable Natural Resources Research Articles

Identification of Novel Peptides in Distillers' Grains as Antioxidants, α-Glucosidase Inhibitors, and Insulin Sensitizers: In Silico and In Vitro Evaluation.

Distillers' grains are rich in protein and constitute a high-quality source of various bioactive peptides. The purpose of this study is to identify novel bioactive peptides with α-glucosidase inhibitory, antioxidant, and insulin resistance-ameliorating effects from distiller's grains protein hydrolysate. Three novel peptides (YPLPR, AFEPLR, and NDPF) showed good potential bioactivities, and the YPLPR peptide had the strongest bioactivities, whose IC50 values towards α-glucosidase inhibition, radical scavenging rates of 2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6- sulfonic acid) (ABTS) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) were about 5.31 mmol/L, 6.05 mmol/L, and 7.94 mmol/L, respectively. The glucose consumption of HepG2 cells treated with YPLPR increased significantly under insulin resistance condition. Moreover, the YPLPR peptide also had a good scavenging effect on intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) induced by H2O2 (the relative contents: 102.35% vs. 100%). Molecular docking results showed that these peptides could stably combine with α-glucosidase, ABTS, and DPPH free radicals, as well as related targets of the insulin signaling pathway through hydrogen bonding and van der Waals forces. This research presents a potentially valuable natural resource for reducing oxidative stress damage and regulating blood glucose in diabetes, thereby increasing the usage of distillers' grains peptides and boosting their economic worth.

Swarm Robotics surveillance control with Ant Cellular Automata Model in the Cerrado Biome for preserving biodiversity

The Cerrado biome in Brazil plays a vital role in preserving biodiversity, providing essential ecosystem services, and supporting agriculture, making it a crucial and valuable natural resource. Sete Cidades National Park stands out for its rock formations, 10,000-year-old cave paintings and its Cerrado vegetation. The Cerrado is known for being a pyrobiome, so its patrolling becomes essential. In this context, this paper introduces a novel approach to swarm robotics patrolling in the unique ecosystem of the Sete Cidades National Park, located within the Cerrado biome. The study presents three distinct cellular automata models designed for the task, aiming to enhance the efficiency and coverage of patrolling efforts. The key difference between our model presented in this research and the previous one is our focus on a map that encompasses diverse vegetation types, specifically designed to represent the Sete Cidades National Park, with a primary goal of monitoring forest fires. The results demonstrated that the best-performing model was the Forest Tabu Inverted Ant Cellular Automata, which achieved an average of 21.77 complete patrol cycles with 95% confidence. This outcome was obtained using three robots, a tabu queue of |Q| = 80, and a maximum pheromone per cell equals to ρ = 103. These parameters highlight the efficacy of this model in optimizing patrol cycles and the efficient use of resources for environmental surveillance in the Sete Cidades National Park, particularly in the context of fire prevention.

Assessing the economic value of Posidonia oceanica (L.) at Tremiti Islands (Mediterranean Sea): An ecosystem condition-based approach

In the context of limiting global warming, the seagrass Posidonia oceanica (L.) gained the centrality of several international climate change mitigation projects being the most effective carbon storage sink among Mediterranean seagrasses. To assess and monitor the change of environmental conditions and economic values of natural resources, the present study moves from the insights of the System of Environmental-Economic Accounting – Ecosystem Accounting to assess the economic value of the carbon sequestration and storage capacity of the Mediterranean-endemic seagrass P. oceanica at the Tremiti Islands Marine Protected Area. The economic value is compared across: i. the reference study by Pergent-Martini et al.; ii. the ecological condition-based approach; and iii. the unit value transfer. Based on the obtained outcomes, an ecosystem-based approach would prevent biases in the accounting of the ecosystem-service provision capacity of P. oceanica and help the policy maker to implement adequate public investment policies to mitigate its overall degradation.

Potential health and environmental benefits of the identified phytochemicals screening of (Azadirachta indica) neem leaves in Bauchi Metropolis, Bauchi State, Nigeria

The phytochemical screening of (Azadirachta indica) Neem leaf extract was conducted to identify and quantify the presence of bioactive compounds. The study conducted various tests to assess the phytochemical components. About 1kg of matured fresh leaves of (Azadirachta indica) neem was collected from five (5) different location in Bauchi metropolis, these locations are; Kobi Street, Gida Dubu, Yelwan Tudu, Wuntin dada and Federal Low-cost areas in Bauchi metropolis, Bauchi State, Nigeria. The leaves of the plant, which were ground into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle. An ethylacetate solvent was used to derive the A. indica leaf extract. The results of the research shows that the presence of alkaloids, saponins, phenols, and cardiac glycosides in the neem leaf extract is significant, and flavonoids, terpenoids, and steroids were not detected in the neem leaf extract. The presence of alkaloids, saponins, phenols, and cardiac glycosides suggests that neem leaves may hold promise in traditional and contemporary medicinal practices. Alkaloids, known for their pharmacological significance, may contribute to the plant's therapeutic properties. Saponins, with their frothing and foaming characteristics, have been associated with immunomodulatory effects and their potential in agrochemical applications. Phenolic compounds, as evidenced by the positive response to the Ferric chloride test, indicate the antioxidant potential of neem leaves, which can combat oxidative stress. Conversely, the absence of flavonoids, terpenoids, and steroids suggests that these specific phytochemical classes may be limited in neem leaves. These findings open avenues for further research and utilization of neem as a valuable natural resource.

Heavy metal contamination assessment and potential human health risk of water quality of lakes situated in the protected area of Tisa, Romania

Protected areas are significant due to the high value of natural resources they shelter. This study's primary objective is to assess the quality status of the water resources (13 lakes and Tisa River) localized in the protected area of Tisa River on the territory of Romania. A number of 13 lakes and surface water (Tisa River) situated in the protected area through the Natura 2000 ecological network are studied. The chemistry and potential pollution status were analyzed by measuring and analyzing a set of twenty elements and sixteen physico-chemical parameters. The potential impact of anthropogenic activities was settled through the applied analysis and obtained results. A potential human health risk was noticed. Results indicated that waters are rich in Ni and Fe probably due to interaction with groundwater rich in Fe and Ni. Waters are characterized by potential contamination, which if directly or through the food chain consumed could negatively influence the human health. Piper and Gibbs plots indicated that the studied waters are divided into three categories based on water-rock interactions: mixed Ca2+-Na+-HCO3-, CaCO3−, and Na+-HCO3-. Likewise, the applied pollution indices (Heavy metal Pollution Index, HPI and Heavy metal Evaluation Index, HEI) indicated three pollution categories correlated to the As, Ni and Fe amounts. The findings of this research imply that the chemistry of the studied lakes and surface waters is influenced by the geogenic origin and emergence of anthropogenic activities. The significance of this research is related to understanding of mechanisms that influence the water quality, improving and conserving the natural water resources, and correspondingly understanding if any potential human health risks could be identified.

Economic Evaluation of Ewanrigg Botanical Gardens in Zimbabwe Using an Individual Travel Cost Approach

Economists face an environmental goods and services valuation dilemma as natural resources are considered to be common pool resources with no markets. If markets exist they are mostly imperfect which results in undervaluation or overvaluation of natural resources. This study estimated the imputed recreational use value of Ewanrigg Botanical Gardens in Zimbabwe from 2015‑2017 using the Individual Travel Cost Method (ITC) which elicits the consumer surplus and deduces an optimum entry fee. It investigated key socioeconomic factors which influence visits to Ewanrigg Botanical Gardens. A questionnaire survey was conducted on 54 visitors to Ewanrigg Botanical Gardens during the period of the research to solicit for primary data. The primary data were analysed using the Ordinary Least Squares model to obtain a predictive model of visits to Ewanrigg Botanical Gardens. Using the ITC Method the total consumer surplus which equates to the recreational use value of Ewanrigg Botanical Gardens was USD19 142.16/peak period/year. Travel costs, income and employment status were the major factors driving visitation rates to Ewanrigg Botanical Gardens at an optimum entry fee of USD7.81. To maximise profits for self-sustenance of Ewanrigg Botanical Gardens, the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Authority should concentrate on marketing efforts to individuals of higher income and solid employment status and those proximal to the botanical gardens as these incur less travel costs and can afford entry fees. For posterity, the use of ITC Method to ascertain economic value allows for the true valuation of natural resources and is justifiable for the allocation of funds by central government for the management and maintenance of artificial heritage sites such as Ewanrigg Botanical Gardens in developing African countries.

Forest fire vulnerability in Nepal's Chure region: Investigating the influencing factors using generalized linear model

The Chure region, among the world's youngest mountains, stands out as highly susceptible to natural calamities, particularly forest fires. The region has consistently experienced forest fire incidents, resulting in the degradation of valuable natural and anthropogenic resources. Despite its vulnerability, there have been limited studies to understand the relationship of various causative factors for the recurring fire problem. Hence, to comprehend the influencing factors for the recurring forest fire problem and its extent, we utilized generalized linear modeling under binary logistic regression to combine the dependent variable of satellite detected fire points and various independent variables. We conducted a variance inflation factor (VIF) test and correlation matrix to identify the 14 suitable variables for the study. The analysis revealed that forest fires occurred mostly during the three pre-monsoon periods and had a significant positive relation with the area under forest, rangeland, bare-grounds, and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) (P < 0.05). Consequently, our model showed that the probability of fire incidents decreases with elevation, precipitation, and population density (P < 0.05). Among the significant variables, the forest areas emerges as the most influencing factor, followed by precipitation, elevation, area of rangeland, population density, NDVI, and the area of bare ground. The validation of the model was done through the area under the curve (AUC = 0.92) and accuracy (ACC = 0.89) assessments, which showed the model performed excellently in terms of predictive capabilities. The modeling result and the forest fire susceptible map provide valuable insights into the forest fire vulnerability in the region, offering baseline information about forest fires that will be helpful for line agencies to prepare management strategies to further prevent the deterioration of the region.

Nutritional Potency of Mangifera indica L. (Mango): Focus on Mango as Antioxidant

Background:: Mango, known as "the king of fruits," is one of the most popular fruits on the planet. Vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and bioactive substances abound. Objective:: In the present review, we aimed to explore the therapeutic effects of mango as an antioxidant. Methods:: Scopus and ScienceDirect databases were used to gather research papers over the pre-vious 12 years. Results:: Our research explores the formidable antioxidant potential of mango, driven by its ele-vated phenolic and flavonoid content. Within mango, crucial metabolites such as glutathione and euxanthone contribute significantly to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory prowess. A note-worthy bioactive compound, Mangiferin, found in mango, exhibits anti-diabetic properties by inhibiting sucrase and isomaltase, consequently reducing glucose absorption in the intestine. Conclusion:: In our study, mango has demonstrated its ability to lower blood sugar levels, en-hance insulin production, and reduce lipid levels. These beneficial effects are attributed to high soluble fiber, polyphenols, and carotenoids, including quercetin and beta-carotene. Our findings shed light on the multifaceted health-promoting attributes of mango, positioning it as a valuable natural resource for potential dietary interventions and health enhancement. In conclusion, ef-fective blood sugar management hinges on strategic dietary decisions. Steering clear of high-glycemic combinations with mangoes, choosing daytime consumption, and integrating regular physical activity for energy equilibrium is paramount.

ЦЕНА ПРИРОДЫ: ЭКОНОМИЧЕСКАЯ ОЦЕНКА ЭКОЛОГИЧЕСКИХ РЕСУРСОВ И ЕЕ РОЛЬ В УСТОЙЧИВОМ РАЗВИТИИ

The article is devoted to the assessment of environmental resources and their role in sustainable development. In the modern world, awareness of the importance of nature conservation and sustainable use of its resources is becoming increasingly relevant. The features of the economic assessment of natural resources and ecosystem services are considered, as well as the principles and methods of determining their value are analyzed. Special attention is paid to the problems related to the need to integrate the economic assessment of nature into decision-making processes at the level of public policy and business. The importance of taking into account the ecological value of natural resources and ecosystem services in economic models and management practices is emphasized. It is concluded that it is necessary to develop mechanisms that contribute to a more accurate and objective assessment of the value of nature and its consideration in sustainable development.

Thermal and environmental analysis of an infectious medical waste-to-energy

This work presents an infectious medical waste-to-energy (IMWtE) thermal and environmental analysis using combined heat and power (CHP) technology. Steam sterilization can be operated with an infectious medical waste (IMW) of 375 kg/h⋅unit, a maximum per day of 12,000 kg/day for double sterilization units, and a running time of 16 h/day. The CHP system uses a dried IMW of 797 kg/h, generating a power output of 128.98 kWe, providing a drying heat of 382.91 kW, and achieving an overall system efficiency of 8.45 %. Results are obtained for a life cycle assessment (LCA) of the IMWtE by CHP system technology. The endpoint effectiveness comprises considerations of human health: 2.83E+01 DALY, ecosystem quality is represented value of: 9.32E+00 Species⋅y, and natural resource value of: 1.08E+06 USD, all of these are fundamentally linked to the utilization of steel, copper, paint, and gypsum. The LCA impacts are primarily due to the operation phase (93 %), with the smaller contribution of the decommissioning phase (4 %), and the construction phase (3 %), respectively.

Conservation and Exploration of the Potential of Rare Medicinal Plants in the Tropical Rainforest of Bukit Barisan, Sumatra, Indonesia: An Effort Towards Sustainable Herbal Medicine

The Bukit Barisan tropical rainforest in Sumatra, Indonesia, is one of the most biodiverse areas in the world. It is estimated that there are more than 10,000 plant species in this forest, and many of them have potential as herbal medicines. However, deforestation and overexploitation threaten the preservation of medicinal plants in the Bukit Barisan tropical rainforest. This causes loss of valuable natural resources and hinders research and development of new herbal medicines. This research was conducted in several tropical rainforests in Bukit Barisan, Sumatra. Field surveys were conducted to document rare medicinal plant species. Plant samples were collected and analyzed for their phytochemical content. Bioassay tests were carried out to evaluate antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Strategies for conservation and sustainable exploration of rare medicinal plants are developed based on research results. Field surveys found 27 species of rare medicinal plants. Phytochemical analysis shows that this plant contains various bioactive compounds, such as alkaloids, flavonoids and terpenoids. Bioassay tests show that this plant has significant antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. In conclusion, the Bukit Barisan tropical rainforest has great potential for the development of herbal medicine. Sustainable conservation and exploration of rare medicinal plants in the Bukit Barisan tropical rainforest is important to ensure the preservation of these valuable natural resources and to improve community health.

SUBSTITUSI TEPUNG KETAN HITAM SEBAGAI PENGGANTI TEPUNG TERIGU PADA PEMBUATAN DIET COOKIES

Black glutinous rice flour is a staple ingredient for making Indonesian pastries which is widely used by the Indonesian people. The potential of black glutinous rice flour is its very high fiber content which is beneficial in preventing the risk of various types of diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and helps facilitate digestion. In this study, researchers used black glutinous rice flour as a substitute for wheat flour. With the use of black glutinous rice flour, it can show the potential value of natural resources and healthier options as a substitute for wheat flour. The purpose of this study was to determine the difference and quality of the level of liking of diet cookies products through organoleptic tests according to predetermined sensory properties. The method used in this research is an experimental method with steps in the form of hedonic quality test and hedonic test. Sensory attributes that are referenced by panelists include color, aroma, taste, texture. Based on data processing and the results of hedonic and hedonic quality tests conducted by 8 trained panelists and 18 moderately trained panelists, it was found that diet cookies products with 40 and 60 black glutinous rice flour were liked both in terms of color, aroma, taste, and texture.

Mineral wealth paradox: health challenges and environmental risks in African resource-rich areas

BackgroundAfrica is blessed with vast arable land and enriched with valuable natural resources encompassing both renewable (like water, forests, and fisheries) and non-renewable (such as minerals, coal, gas, and oil). Under the right conditions, a natural resource boom should serve as an important driver for growth, development, and the transition from cottage industry to factory output. However, despite its wealth, Africa is often associated with the notion of a resource curse. Negative outcomes are often linked with mineral wealth. This paper investigates the causes of adverse health outcomes in resource-rich regions. The study provides empirical support for the natural resource curse with particular emphasis on the environmental health risks in Africa. We explore the multifaceted connections among mineral deposits, environmental risks, conflict events and population dynamics, shedding light on the complexities of resource-rich areas.ResultsWe amalgamate georeferenced data pertaining to 22 specific mineral deposits with information on the prevalence of reliance on compromised infrastructures at a spatial resolution of 0.5∘×0.5∘\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$^{\\circ } \ imes 0.5^{\\circ }$$\\end{document} for all of Africa between 2000 and 2017. Through comprehensive econometric analysis of environmental health risk factors, including reliance on contaminated water sources, open defecation, unimproved sanitation, particulate matter concentration, and carbon concentration, we uncover the intricate pathways through which mineral deposits impact public health. Our findings revealed the significant role of in-migration in mediating environmental health risks. Moreover, we found that the activities of extractive companies amplify certain environmental risks including reliance on unimproved sanitation and practices and particulate matter concentration. Conflict events emerge as a key mediator across all environmental health risks, underlining the far-reaching consequences of instability and violence on both local communities and the environment.ConclusionThe study contributes to the discourse on sustainable development by unraveling the nuanced associations between mineral wealth and health challenges. By drawing attention to the intricate web of factors at play, we provide a foundation for targeted interventions that address the unique environmental and health challenges faced by mineral-rich communities.

Identification and In-Silico Profiling of Phytoconstituents in Leaves of Punica grantum L.

Punica granatum L. also called Pomegranate, a valuable fruit belonging to Punicaceae family. Pomegranate is not only nutrious but has remarkable medicinal properties. This study aimed to identify the phytochemical constituents present in Pomegranate leaves utilizing Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) technique, and to assess their medicinal potential using the PASS online software. The results of the analysis revealed the presence of several important phytochemicals, like Neophytadiene,Phytol,1,2 Benzene Dicarboxylic acid known for their medicinal properties such as Saccharopepsin inhibitor, Retinol dehydrogenase inhibitor, anti-inflammatory, anti-pyretic and anti-cancer. From the screened potent compounds, notably Phytol showed good activity which can be further evaluated for in-vivo drug evaluation. This study contributes to the understanding of the phytochemical composition and medicinal potential of Pomegranate leaves, highlighting its significance as a valuable natural resource for pharmaceutical research and development.

HABERTAN: Game Petualangan 3D Dengan Tema Pemilahan Sampah Sebagai Upaya Pendekatan Inovatif Untuk Pengenalan Lingkungan

The increasing awareness of the importance of maintaining forest cleanliness as a primary ecosystem is becoming more urgent, especially in remote areas with limited deep socialization. This research aims to develop an innovative game titled "HABERTAN" focusing on waste sorting in forest areas to raise public awareness of the waste present in the forest. By utilizing a 3D model for visual assets with stages of 2D sketch, 3D modeling, UV Mapping, and Texture Baking. The development of this game is conducted using the Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation (ADDIE) method. The ADDIE method is used to ensure a systematic game development process, starting from needs analysis to performance evaluation. The goal of this game is to provide players with an interactive experience that not only entertains but also provides a deep understanding of the impact of waste on forest sustainability. The game "HABERTAN (Let's Clean the Forest)" is designed to provide players with a fun and educational learning experience. The results of the development of this game show that "HABERTAN" provides a unique experience for players, with the ability to learn while playing. It is hoped that this game can be an effective tool in raising public awareness of the importance of maintaining forest cleanliness, especially in the context of waste sorting. Through this innovative approach, it is hoped to encourage active participation from the community in preserving forests as extremely valuable natural resources.

Assessment of Surface Water Physicochemical Variables and Macrophytes Diversity in Sokoto and Rima Rivers, Nigeria

The Sokoto and Rima Rivers are vital water bodies in Nigeria, supporting local ecosystems and communities. This study aimed to investigate various physical and chemical parameters of the water, as well as the diversity of macrophytes present in the Sokoto and Rima Rivers. Standard methods of determining physicochemical parameters and surveys of macrophytes were adopted. Results obtained revealed that temperature and depth were found to be the most influential factors on macrophytes distribution. In Sokoto River, average temperature ranged from 27.00℃ to 27.30℃, and average depth from 285 to 295 meters at both stations A and B. In Rima River, average temperature varied from 25.85℃ to 26.50℃, and average depth ranged from 730 to 735 meters at both stations A and B. Emergent species were dominant among the 20 identified macrophyte species, with 18 species, while free-floating and submerged species each represented one species. This research contributes to understanding the ecological health of the Sokoto and Rima Rivers, guiding conservation efforts, informing water resource management, and identifying potential impacts on human activities in these areas. Ultimately, the goal is to support sustainable development and protect these valuable natural resources for the long term.

COMPARATIVE CHARACTERISTICS OF THE LOW MOLECULAR WEIGHT METABOLOME OF MACROPHYTES IN DIFFERENT WATER BODIES IN THE WATER AREA OF THE KANDALAKSHA BAY OF THE WHITE SEA

The Kandalaksha Bay of the White Sea underwent a first-of-its-kind comparative examination of the composition of essential oils of structure-forming macrophytes growing in freshwater and saltwater habitats. The essential oils of the aquatic macrophytes Nuphar lutea (L.) Sm., Ruppia maritima L., Zostera marina L., Fucus vesiculosus L., and Ascophyllum nodosum (L.) Le Jolis were obtained by steam hydrodistillation using the Clevenger apparatus from dried plants. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS complex SHIMADZU GCMS-QP2010 Ultra) was used to analyze the qualitative and quantitative composition of LMWOCs (low molecular weight organic compounds). The component composition of the low molecular weight metabolome (LM) of macrophytes was shown to depend on both plant species specificity and plant habitat conditions (hydrological features, trophic state). More LMWOCs are found in plants from freshwater habitats than from marine ones. The investigated plants had only a few major compounds, ranging in number from 4 to 14. They accounted for between 70 and 83% of the overall concentration of all compounds in freshwater N. lutea and between 82 and 95% of the total concentration of LMWOCs in marine macrophytes. The most significant (% of the total essential oil) main components in macrophytes were carboxylic acids, specifically hexadecanoic, tetradecanoic, linoleic, and linolenic. The outcomes gained proved that the presence of carboxylic acids is a sign of a healthy macrophyte environment. The composition of LM of plants from northern habitats (marine and freshwater) contains high total concentrations of LMWOCs (including valuable ones from the perspective of economic use), making it possible to consider them as a valuable natural renewable resource for obtaining raw materials for various economic uses.

Inversion of Tidal Flat Topography Based on the Optimised Inundation Frequency Method—A Case Study of Intertidal Zone in Haizhou Bay, China

Coastal tidal flat wetlands are valuable natural resources that provide diverse habitats and important ecological barriers. The physical environment of the intertidal zone poses many challenges to the monitoring of tidal flat topography, making it difficult to implement traditional measurement methods, and satellite remote sensing combined with tide level information makes it possible to invert coastal tidal flat topography more conveniently over large areas. Current methods based on inundation frequency fail to consider the effect of water level distribution of remote sensing images, and usually use all available remote sensing images. However, the uneven distribution of image tide levels will increase the error of the tidal flat construction. Therefore, in this study, according to the distribution characteristics of the water level in remote sensing images, we adaptively exclude the images with a concentrated water level distribution, so as to make the water level distribution more uniform, and thus reduce the topographic inversion error. The validation results of the inversion accuracy show that the root mean squared error of the tidal flat topographic inversion improved by about 5 cm compared with the previous inundation frequency method, which is suitable for reconstructing the tidal flat topography on a large scale and a long-time scale, and it can be used as a basis for coastal tidal flat protection and restoration decision making.

The Growth of Tourism and ‘Development’ in an Indigenous Setting: Exploring a Case of the Chittagong Hill Tracts, Bangladesh

Summary This case study examines the process of tourism development in the Chittagong Hill Tracts of Bangladesh, where multidimensional concerns related to Indigenous communities are coming to the fore. This area contains valuable natural resources that provide huge potential for the growth of tourism. However, accounts of discrimination and violations by the state towards Indigenous peoples indicate the potential for inequality and exploitation while developing tourism. Eleven Indigenous groups live in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, a historically conflict-ridden area where there is tension between the dominant ethnic Bangalee and the Indigenous groups due to the latter's limited control over their way of life and the environment. Structurally, the state endorses mass tourism, where powerful actors – government, military, politically influential individuals, and companies – are engaged in determining the ‘development’ for the Indigenous people and modernising the place as a part of capitalist ventures to gain profits. Given that state actors or private investors wield power and control over tourism, exploitation ranges from Indigenous peoples' lack of control over the planning to limited participation in tourism. Therefore, this case study explores the implications of tourism development for Indigenous peoples, analysing the state’s economic intervention in favour of the Bangalee people, who are an ethnically dominant group in Bangladesh. Moreover, this case study raises questions about how the ‘development’ is taking place and identifies the practice of ‘development’ in an Indigenous setting and how the Indigenous peoples are situated in this capitalistic venture in a post-conflict setting. The case study is based on empirical findings collected through an ethnographic study as part of a PhD. The study followed ethical guidelines approved by the Macquarie University Ethics Committee in 2017. Information © The Author 2024

Metode valuasi ekonomi dalam pengambilan kebijakan lingkungan di sektor pertambangan

The mining sector is a strategic pillar of national economic development. This sector provides a multiplier effect on people's lives but also has the potential for negative impacts on the environment. Economic valuation of natural resources and the environment is needed to determine the quantitative value of the goods and services produced. The purpose of writing this paper is to analyse the comparison of the use of economic valuation methods in environmental policymaking in the mining sector. Literature studies were carried out to look for references in the form of journals that were considered relevant to the purpose of the writing. Economic valuation methods such as cost-benefit analysis (CBA), real option valuation (ROV), and net present value (NPV) are crucial in the context of policymaking in the mining sector. These three methods can be used together or separately, depending on the context and characteristics of the project. The government and mining companies in Indonesia can utilise CBA for general policies, NPV for projects with a low level of uncertainty, and ROV for projects with a high level of uncertainty. The use of appropriate methods will provide a strong foundation for sustainable decision-making and support the development of an economically, environmentally, and socially responsible mining sector.