Coastal land transformation has been identified as a topic of research in many countries around the world.Several studies have been conducted to determine the causes and impacts of land transformation.However,much les...Coastal land transformation has been identified as a topic of research in many countries around the world.Several studies have been conducted to determine the causes and impacts of land transformation.However,much less is understood about coupling change detection,factors,impacts,and adaptation strategies for coastal land transformation at a global scale.This review aims to present a systematic review of global coastal land transformation and its leading research areas.From 1,741 documents of Scopus and Web of Science,60 studies have been selected using the PRISMA-2020 guideline.Results revealed that existing literature included four leading focus areas regarding coastal land transformation:change detection,driving factors,impacts,and adaptation measures.These focus areas were further analyzed,and it was found that more than 80%of studies used Landsat imagery to detect land transformation.Population growth and urbanization were among the major driving factors identified.This review further identified that about 37%of studies included impact analysis.These studies identified impacts on ecosystems,land surface temperature,migration,water quality,and occupational effects as significant impacts.However,only four studies included adaptation strategies.This review explored the scope of comprehensive research in coastal land transformation,addressing change detection,factor and impact analysis,and mitigation-adaptation strategies.The research also proposes a conceptual framework for comprehensive coastal land transformation analysis.The framework can provide potential decision-making guidance for future studies in coastal land transformation.展开更多
Establishment of Protected Areas （PAs）, in the face of rapid deforestation, forest degradation and climate change has been one of the key efforts in conservation of biodiversity worldwide in recent times. While Bang...Establishment of Protected Areas （PAs）, in the face of rapid deforestation, forest degradation and climate change has been one of the key efforts in conservation of biodiversity worldwide in recent times. While Bangladesh has gained a degree of prominence in the world for its successful social forestry programs, the concept of collaborative pro- tected area management is rather new in the country, initiated in 2004 by the Bangladesh Forest Department in five PAs with financial assistance from USAID. Based on empirical evidence from three of the pilot PAs, we examined the achievements and associated challenges and prospects for co-management. Our fieldwork revealed a number of challenges faced by co-management institutions： （1） institutions were dominated by the elite group, overshadowing the voice of the community people; （2） mutual trust and collective performance are key to good governance but had not taken root in the PAs; （3） encroachment onto forest land and subsequent conversion to agriculture remained a serious problem that discouraged forest-dependent people from participating actively in co-management initiatives; （4） legal provisions （including acts, rules and policies） were not clearly and adequately disseminated and understood at the community level; （5） there remained a degree of ambiguity regarding the roles and responsibilities of forest department （FD） and co-management committees （CMC） in field operations, and this was not enhancing transparency and accountability of the overall initiative; （6） the long-term sustainability of co-management institutions was another major concern, as the local intuitional structure was still in a nascent stage, and provisioning of resources （either internally or externally） remained somewhat uncertain. We offer recommendations for improve- ment.展开更多
Well-managed forests are major sources of livelihoods for the fringed communities. However, the remoteness, inaccessibility of most forested areas coupled with conflicts from adjacent forest communities, who often dep...Well-managed forests are major sources of livelihoods for the fringed communities. However, the remoteness, inaccessibility of most forested areas coupled with conflicts from adjacent forest communities, who often depend on it for livelihood is a daunting task in implementing conservation, viz-a-viz the Sustainable Development Goals. The Mt Oku forest is a unique, remote but represents novelty in forest management in remote areas in Cameroon, with devolution of management rights. The forest is well noted for its high level of endemism. This study is focused on the legal, institutional, socio-economic and regulatory framework put in place, for appropriate conservation and livelihood sustenance as forest management rights were devolved to the local community. A multidimensional framework guiding the development of testable hypothesis that assesses the relationship between the forest users’ activities and forest degradation, which have a multiplier effect on the SDGs, was used. The alternate livelihood options/strategies and benefits after the institution of the Forest Management Project (FMP) was examined in randomly selected frontline and secondary villages. Selected Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) tools and registers from FMIs aided relevant data collection. The results indicated a significant relationship (χ2 = 0.65.4, p = 0.00) between the activities of forest users and forest degradation. Adopted alternate livelihood strategies/options include, direct employment, tourist guides, bee farming, agricultural intensification, agroforestry, capacity building for skill acquisition, selective exploitation and sales of Prunus spp. Forest regeneration strategies ranged from, forest guards, removal of exotic species, forest enrichment, raising nurseries, fire tracing, etc. It is concluded that giving greater access and ownership of forest to the local community in the Mount Oku Region, led to transparency, accountability and social stability, which contributed tremendously both to the recovery and conservation of forest for improved livelihoods. However there is a dire need for the reinforcement of mechanisms for capacity building to improved livelihoods and conservation and the implementation of a system where stakeholders enjoy favorable conditions for information exchange and learning.展开更多
The high mountains of northern Pakistan comprise the western section of the Hindu KushKarakoram-Himalayas(HKH)region of South and Central Asia.They are home to some rare and endangered species of fauna and flora which...The high mountains of northern Pakistan comprise the western section of the Hindu KushKarakoram-Himalayas(HKH)region of South and Central Asia.They are home to some rare and endangered species of fauna and flora which form an important link in the biodiversity of the region as a whole.Increasing population and changing life styles in recent decades have brought unprecedented pressures on the biodiversity of this region.Along with the government,the non-governmental organizations(NGOs)and communities have a crucial role to play in conserving biodiversity.In this regard,a number of undertakings to protect depleting species have been initiated by governmental and nongovernmental entities.These efforts are commendable and some have produced positive results,but many exist on a small scale and,with a few exceptions,are not self-sustaining.This paper reports on some of these initiatives of conserving big mammal species like the Astor markhor,Blue sheep,Himalayan brown bear,Himalayan ibex and Snow leopard,with the aim of collating and highlighting them,identifying gaps in conservation and suggesting a way forward so as to promote conservation projects on a larger and more sustainable basis.展开更多
Despite the presence of bye-laws, solid waste management continues to be an issue in Mbarara municipality with households and businesses continuing to dump solid waste on open plots, low-lying areas, public spaces and...Despite the presence of bye-laws, solid waste management continues to be an issue in Mbarara municipality with households and businesses continuing to dump solid waste on open plots, low-lying areas, public spaces and rivers, or simply burning it in their backyards. This qualitative study aimed at establishing reasons as to why there was still improper solid waste management in Mbarara municipality and also establishing its constraints. Tools used included semi-structured questionnaires, observation and photographs. Two hundred and ninety-four participants （24 solid waste collectors, eight municipal council members and 262 community members） participated in the study. The study revealed both insufficient budget （87.5%） and insufficient equipment （50%） as the most common policy challenges in implementing proper solid waste management. Solid waste collectors not being comfortable with their salaries （79.2%）, limited sensitization regarding solid waste management （66%） and limited necessary tools （58.3%） as other challenges faced by solid waste management policy makers and implementers and finally, community members having limited awareness about laws governing solid waste management （61.1%）. In conclusion, insufficient budget, insufficient equipment, poor motivation and inadequate sensitization were found to be the major reasons as to why there was still improper solid waste management in Mbarara municipality, western Uganda.展开更多
A seroprevalence investigation of human brucellosis was carried out in Kuku Dairy Scheme, Sudan. A total of 176 serum samples were collected and screened by Rose Bengal Plate Test （RBPT）. The positive sera vqere fur...A seroprevalence investigation of human brucellosis was carried out in Kuku Dairy Scheme, Sudan. A total of 176 serum samples were collected and screened by Rose Bengal Plate Test （RBPT）. The positive sera vqere further examined using Tube Agglutination Test （TAT） and c-Elisa. The seropositivity was 15.9%, 14.8% and 11.4% using RBPT, TAT and c-Elisa respectively. Whereas, the active infection based on seropositivity and clinical signs were 4.6%, 4.6% and 2.3% in case of RBPT, TAT and c-Elisa respectively. Based on c-Elisa result the infected individuals were further subjected to clinical examination and treated with streptomycin and doxocycline for six weeks.展开更多
Forests are biodiversity hotspots which provide livelihood and act as safety nets for adjacent communities. Increasing dependence on forest is threatening this biodiversity. Ecotourism, a biodiversity conservation str...Forests are biodiversity hotspots which provide livelihood and act as safety nets for adjacent communities. Increasing dependence on forest is threatening this biodiversity. Ecotourism, a biodiversity conservation strategy has the potential to restore degraded habitat, and create socio-cultural and economic benefits that improve communities’ livelihoods. This study focused on the role of community-based ecotourism in biodiversity conservation in the Mount Oku forest, of the North West region of Cameroon. The study identified and ranked livelihood activities that led to biodiversity destruction, assessed ecotourism potentials and conservation practices, identified ecotourism benefits and assessed household income levels before and after the institution of ecotourism. We randomly selected three communities from the study area. The study was guided by the Forest Management Plan, the Simple Management Plan of the Kilum/Ijim forest project and the concept of Biosphere Reservation. Descriptive statistics were simple percentages presented on tables, while the inferential statistics of Wilcoxon rank test was used to analyze the data collected for the study. Our findings reveal that, the livelihood activities that led to biodiversity destruction include agriculture, logging, fuelwood collection and grazing. Ecotourism potentials/conservation strategies were nature-based, education-based, culture-based, and agriculture-based;value chain was integrated in all these aspects which enhanced livelihood diversification. The benefits include business opportunities, infrastructure development, and forest regeneration. Income level generated after the institution of ecotourism was higher than the level of income before (Z = -1442, p = 0.001). Clear indicators need to be established to measure long-term project effectiveness in biodiversity conservation and livelihood sustainability.展开更多
UV light absorption by aquatic systems affect the physicochemical characteristics of graphene oxide(GO)nanoparticles which ultimately influence its aggregation behavior in water.Regarding this research,various humic a...UV light absorption by aquatic systems affect the physicochemical characteristics of graphene oxide(GO)nanoparticles which ultimately influence its aggregation behavior in water.Regarding this research,various humic and fulvic acids(HA/FA),extracted from China’s different climate zones,were treated with 2 h UV irradiated large(~500 nm)and(~200 nm)GO in 200 mmol/L NaCl.UV irradiated GO particles displayed aggregation even at low humic acid/fulvic acid(HA/FA)concentrations ranging from 0.2 to 1.0 mgC/L,whereas pristine GO particles did not exhibit such behavior.Reduction of functional groups,containing Oxygen(C=O/C–O),via UV irradiation is responsible for this aggregation phenomenon and conversion of GO to reduced graphene oxide(rGO).Consequently,rGO exhibits lower dispersibility,facilitating its agglomeration.Moreover,both small and large-sized GO particles exhibited less aggregation in HAs compared to FAs due to large molecular weight and high polarity of HAs.Aggregation of GO was more obvious with Makou FA and Maqin HA from Plateau and Mountain climate zone and Subtropical Monsoon climate zone,respectively,owing to DOM’s lower molecular weight and aromaticity that reduced their adsorption.The application of the Derjaguin-landau-verwey-overbeek(DLVO)theory did not reveal any significant interaction energy barrier between the 2 h UV irradiated GO particles even in the presence of DOM,indicating that aggregation prevailed despite the addition of DOM.These findings highlight that UV irradiation poses a significant threat to the GO stability in aquatic environments,particularly in the presence of DOM.展开更多
Background:Modeling exchange rate volatility has remained crucially important because of its diverse implications.This study aimed to address the issue of error distribution assumption in modeling and forecasting exch...Background:Modeling exchange rate volatility has remained crucially important because of its diverse implications.This study aimed to address the issue of error distribution assumption in modeling and forecasting exchange rate volatility between the Bangladeshi taka(BDT)and the US dollar($).Methods:Using daily exchange rates for 7 years(January 1,2008,to April 30,2015),this study attempted to model dynamics following generalized autoregressive conditional heteroscedastic(GARCH),asymmetric power ARCH(APARCH),exponential generalized autoregressive conditional heteroscedstic(EGARCH),threshold generalized autoregressive conditional heteroscedstic(TGARCH),and integrated generalized autoregressive conditional heteroscedstic(IGARCH)processes under both normal and Student’s t-distribution assumptions for errors.Results and Conclusions:It was found that,in contrast with the normal distribution,the application of Student’s t-distribution for errors helped the models satisfy the diagnostic tests and show improved forecasting accuracy.With such error distribution for out-of-sample volatility forecasting,AR(2)–GARCH(1,1)is considered the best.展开更多
Kapkatet Wetland is a vital ecosystem in Kenya that supports rural livelihoods through the provision of various ecological goods and services. However, this ecosystem has been undergoing rapid degradation arising from...Kapkatet Wetland is a vital ecosystem in Kenya that supports rural livelihoods through the provision of various ecological goods and services. However, this ecosystem has been undergoing rapid degradation arising from competing land uses. It’s important to document these changes to obtain insights that can aid decision-making for effective restoration and conservation. This study, therefore, sought to assess the extent and patterns of land use and land cover changes in Kapkatet Wetland between 1986 and 2019, and their driving forces. The study followed a mixed-method research approach involving a combination of remote sensing and descriptive surveys. To quantify the wetland changes, remotely sensed imageries for 1986, 2000, and 2019 were utilized in classifying land use and land cover maps through the Maximum Likelihood algorithm. Household questionnaires and focus group discussions were used to obtain information about peoples’ perceptions of the driving forces of landscape change within the wetland. Results generally showed that Kapkatet wetland declined by 24.77% over the past years (1986-2019). Wetland vegetation declined drastically as open grounds increased while tree cover and disturbed reeds showed a fluctuating trend. These changes were majorly driven by land conversion activities within the wetland. The study recommends a community-based enforcement approach to existing laws and policies by both National and Local governments to curb the continuous loss of this wetland.展开更多
In the context of renewed interest in collaboration in natural resource management,the collaborative governance approach has lately been introduced to the forest Protected Areas(PAs)in Bangladesh.The adoption of this ...In the context of renewed interest in collaboration in natural resource management,the collaborative governance approach has lately been introduced to the forest Protected Areas(PAs)in Bangladesh.The adoption of this co-management approach is seen as an attempt to influence the governance process towards a transformation from the conventional custodian system to a more participatory management regime.Recognition of rights and responsibilities,effective participation,and equitable distribution of benefits amongst the key stakeholders working under a facilitative policy and legal framework are believed to address the broader goals of sustainable development Notwithstanding the resurgence of interest in governance of forest PAs through the co-management approach,academic research on the subject remains limited.This article attempts to review selected key information and milestones on the forest PAs governance with special reference to the major policies and legal documents.With a brief introductory section,this article focuses on the genesis and selected major features of the Forest PAs in the country.The discussion then dwells on the policy and legal framework and provides a critique on its relevance for promoting community participation.The existing institutional arrangements for community engagement in protected area governance are also analyzed in light of the national and international commitment and policy obligations on the part of the country.The salient observations and key findings of the study include the following:(1)despite its limitations,comanagement as concept and practice has gradually taken roots in Bangladesh;(2)the degree and level of active community participation remain low and limited,and there is also clear weakness in conscientizing and orientating the local community on the key legal and policy issues related to PA governance in the country;and(3)policy makers,practitioners,and other local stakeholders related to PA governance need to be oriented on international commitment and national development strategies.The study calls for systematic focus on regular research on the performance of co-management in the country,and efforts towards improving the implementation mechanisms in the field.展开更多
The objective of the study was to assess factors affecting market participation of agro-forestry smallholder farmers in Uganda. Primary data on household, farm and marketing characteristics were collected from 153 far...The objective of the study was to assess factors affecting market participation of agro-forestry smallholder farmers in Uganda. Primary data on household, farm and marketing characteristics were collected from 153 farming households using a semi-structured, pre-tested questionnaire. The determinants of market participation were assessed using the Probit model. Descriptive statistics showed that a combination of crop, livestock and tree products were marketed by farmers. The main products included maize, cassava and coffee （crops）; firewood and poles （tree products）; and birds and goats （livestock products）. Results from the Probit model showed that farm size, household size, education level, access to credit and extension visits had positive and statistically significant effects on market participation of farmers in agro-forestry products＇ markets. Age of farmer had a negative and statistically significant effect on the participation. Emphasis on improving the quality and coverage of extension services, extending credit facilities to farmers and intensifying agro-forestry training among farmers are suggested as avenues to enhance participation of farmers in agro-forestry products＇ markets.展开更多
Globally,shallow aquifer groundwater(GW)has been severely affected in recent decades for both geogenic and anthropogenic reasons.The hydro-geochemical characteristics of the GW change inconsistently with the addition ...Globally,shallow aquifer groundwater(GW)has been severely affected in recent decades for both geogenic and anthropogenic reasons.The hydro-geochemical characteristics of the GW change inconsistently with the addition of unwanted inorganic trace elements into the GW aquifer of the Indo-Bangladesh delta region(IBDR),such as arsenic(As)along with fluoride(F-)contamination.Contaminated GW can have a negative impact on drinking water supplies and agricultural output.GW pollution can have serious adverse effects on the environment and human health.Thus,the GW quality of this region is deteriorating progressively,and human health threatening by various life-threatening disorders.Hence,the current study concentrated on the GW quality evaluation and prediction of possible health issues in the IBDR due to elevated contamination of As along with F-within GW aquifers by considering sixteen causative.Field survey-based statistical methods such as entropy quality index(EWQI)combined with health risk index(HRI)was implemented for evaluating the As and F-sensitivity with the help of correlation testing and principal component analysis.The study's outcome explains that a substantial portion of the IBDR has been vastly experiencing inferior GW quality,environmental issues,and health-related problems in dry and wet seasons,correspondingly for As and F-exposure.Piper diagram verified the suitability of water that almost 55%of GW across the study area’s aquifers are unfit for drinking as well as cultivation of crops.Sensitivity analysis and the Monte Carlo simulation method were also applied to assess the contaminant's concentration level and probable health risk appraisal.The present study concludes that the elevated exposure of As and F-pollution has to be monitored regularly and prevent unwanted GW contamination through implementing sustainable approaches and policies to fulfil the sustainable development goal 6(SDG-6)till 2030,ensuring the most basic human right of clean,safe,and hygienic water.展开更多
Unlike developed countries,the process of ageing in the developing country is a major and serious concern where the health infrastructure,geriatric system and social security remain underdeveloped.This paper aims to a...Unlike developed countries,the process of ageing in the developing country is a major and serious concern where the health infrastructure,geriatric system and social security remain underdeveloped.This paper aims to assess the gaps in quality of life among the elderly by socio-economic and demographic characteristics and to know the issues and challenges in the selected developing countries where Study on Global Ageing and Adult Health(SAGE)namely China,India,Ghana,South Africa,Mexico,and Russia has been conducted.The overall score indicates that there is a little variation in the quality of life across the countries,ranging from 52.1(China)to 45.5(Ghana).However,there is considerable variation in the quality-of-life score by socio-economic characteristics.From the existing policy perspectives,different aspects of old age policies are varied across the selected countries.The rapid expan-sion of the private sector into these areas is unlikely to benefit the bulk of the elders.The countries like India,South Africa and Mexico,where the private sector plays a major role,lack health care support for the elderly.However,financial support sig-nificantly contributes to the quality of life in terms of policy intervention in those countries.Thus,the respective governments need to address urgently the areas like health care,financial and social security to achieve the healthy lives and wellbeing for all of the sustainable development goals by 2030.展开更多
文摘Coastal land transformation has been identified as a topic of research in many countries around the world.Several studies have been conducted to determine the causes and impacts of land transformation.However,much less is understood about coupling change detection,factors,impacts,and adaptation strategies for coastal land transformation at a global scale.This review aims to present a systematic review of global coastal land transformation and its leading research areas.From 1,741 documents of Scopus and Web of Science,60 studies have been selected using the PRISMA-2020 guideline.Results revealed that existing literature included four leading focus areas regarding coastal land transformation:change detection,driving factors,impacts,and adaptation measures.These focus areas were further analyzed,and it was found that more than 80%of studies used Landsat imagery to detect land transformation.Population growth and urbanization were among the major driving factors identified.This review further identified that about 37%of studies included impact analysis.These studies identified impacts on ecosystems,land surface temperature,migration,water quality,and occupational effects as significant impacts.However,only four studies included adaptation strategies.This review explored the scope of comprehensive research in coastal land transformation,addressing change detection,factor and impact analysis,and mitigation-adaptation strategies.The research also proposes a conceptual framework for comprehensive coastal land transformation analysis.The framework can provide potential decision-making guidance for future studies in coastal land transformation.
文摘Establishment of Protected Areas （PAs）, in the face of rapid deforestation, forest degradation and climate change has been one of the key efforts in conservation of biodiversity worldwide in recent times. While Bangladesh has gained a degree of prominence in the world for its successful social forestry programs, the concept of collaborative pro- tected area management is rather new in the country, initiated in 2004 by the Bangladesh Forest Department in five PAs with financial assistance from USAID. Based on empirical evidence from three of the pilot PAs, we examined the achievements and associated challenges and prospects for co-management. Our fieldwork revealed a number of challenges faced by co-management institutions： （1） institutions were dominated by the elite group, overshadowing the voice of the community people; （2） mutual trust and collective performance are key to good governance but had not taken root in the PAs; （3） encroachment onto forest land and subsequent conversion to agriculture remained a serious problem that discouraged forest-dependent people from participating actively in co-management initiatives; （4） legal provisions （including acts, rules and policies） were not clearly and adequately disseminated and understood at the community level; （5） there remained a degree of ambiguity regarding the roles and responsibilities of forest department （FD） and co-management committees （CMC） in field operations, and this was not enhancing transparency and accountability of the overall initiative; （6） the long-term sustainability of co-management institutions was another major concern, as the local intuitional structure was still in a nascent stage, and provisioning of resources （either internally or externally） remained somewhat uncertain. We offer recommendations for improve- ment.
文摘Well-managed forests are major sources of livelihoods for the fringed communities. However, the remoteness, inaccessibility of most forested areas coupled with conflicts from adjacent forest communities, who often depend on it for livelihood is a daunting task in implementing conservation, viz-a-viz the Sustainable Development Goals. The Mt Oku forest is a unique, remote but represents novelty in forest management in remote areas in Cameroon, with devolution of management rights. The forest is well noted for its high level of endemism. This study is focused on the legal, institutional, socio-economic and regulatory framework put in place, for appropriate conservation and livelihood sustenance as forest management rights were devolved to the local community. A multidimensional framework guiding the development of testable hypothesis that assesses the relationship between the forest users’ activities and forest degradation, which have a multiplier effect on the SDGs, was used. The alternate livelihood options/strategies and benefits after the institution of the Forest Management Project (FMP) was examined in randomly selected frontline and secondary villages. Selected Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) tools and registers from FMIs aided relevant data collection. The results indicated a significant relationship (χ2 = 0.65.4, p = 0.00) between the activities of forest users and forest degradation. Adopted alternate livelihood strategies/options include, direct employment, tourist guides, bee farming, agricultural intensification, agroforestry, capacity building for skill acquisition, selective exploitation and sales of Prunus spp. Forest regeneration strategies ranged from, forest guards, removal of exotic species, forest enrichment, raising nurseries, fire tracing, etc. It is concluded that giving greater access and ownership of forest to the local community in the Mount Oku Region, led to transparency, accountability and social stability, which contributed tremendously both to the recovery and conservation of forest for improved livelihoods. However there is a dire need for the reinforcement of mechanisms for capacity building to improved livelihoods and conservation and the implementation of a system where stakeholders enjoy favorable conditions for information exchange and learning.
文摘The high mountains of northern Pakistan comprise the western section of the Hindu KushKarakoram-Himalayas(HKH)region of South and Central Asia.They are home to some rare and endangered species of fauna and flora which form an important link in the biodiversity of the region as a whole.Increasing population and changing life styles in recent decades have brought unprecedented pressures on the biodiversity of this region.Along with the government,the non-governmental organizations(NGOs)and communities have a crucial role to play in conserving biodiversity.In this regard,a number of undertakings to protect depleting species have been initiated by governmental and nongovernmental entities.These efforts are commendable and some have produced positive results,but many exist on a small scale and,with a few exceptions,are not self-sustaining.This paper reports on some of these initiatives of conserving big mammal species like the Astor markhor,Blue sheep,Himalayan brown bear,Himalayan ibex and Snow leopard,with the aim of collating and highlighting them,identifying gaps in conservation and suggesting a way forward so as to promote conservation projects on a larger and more sustainable basis.
文摘Despite the presence of bye-laws, solid waste management continues to be an issue in Mbarara municipality with households and businesses continuing to dump solid waste on open plots, low-lying areas, public spaces and rivers, or simply burning it in their backyards. This qualitative study aimed at establishing reasons as to why there was still improper solid waste management in Mbarara municipality and also establishing its constraints. Tools used included semi-structured questionnaires, observation and photographs. Two hundred and ninety-four participants （24 solid waste collectors, eight municipal council members and 262 community members） participated in the study. The study revealed both insufficient budget （87.5%） and insufficient equipment （50%） as the most common policy challenges in implementing proper solid waste management. Solid waste collectors not being comfortable with their salaries （79.2%）, limited sensitization regarding solid waste management （66%） and limited necessary tools （58.3%） as other challenges faced by solid waste management policy makers and implementers and finally, community members having limited awareness about laws governing solid waste management （61.1%）. In conclusion, insufficient budget, insufficient equipment, poor motivation and inadequate sensitization were found to be the major reasons as to why there was still improper solid waste management in Mbarara municipality, western Uganda.
文摘A seroprevalence investigation of human brucellosis was carried out in Kuku Dairy Scheme, Sudan. A total of 176 serum samples were collected and screened by Rose Bengal Plate Test （RBPT）. The positive sera vqere further examined using Tube Agglutination Test （TAT） and c-Elisa. The seropositivity was 15.9%, 14.8% and 11.4% using RBPT, TAT and c-Elisa respectively. Whereas, the active infection based on seropositivity and clinical signs were 4.6%, 4.6% and 2.3% in case of RBPT, TAT and c-Elisa respectively. Based on c-Elisa result the infected individuals were further subjected to clinical examination and treated with streptomycin and doxocycline for six weeks.
文摘Forests are biodiversity hotspots which provide livelihood and act as safety nets for adjacent communities. Increasing dependence on forest is threatening this biodiversity. Ecotourism, a biodiversity conservation strategy has the potential to restore degraded habitat, and create socio-cultural and economic benefits that improve communities’ livelihoods. This study focused on the role of community-based ecotourism in biodiversity conservation in the Mount Oku forest, of the North West region of Cameroon. The study identified and ranked livelihood activities that led to biodiversity destruction, assessed ecotourism potentials and conservation practices, identified ecotourism benefits and assessed household income levels before and after the institution of ecotourism. We randomly selected three communities from the study area. The study was guided by the Forest Management Plan, the Simple Management Plan of the Kilum/Ijim forest project and the concept of Biosphere Reservation. Descriptive statistics were simple percentages presented on tables, while the inferential statistics of Wilcoxon rank test was used to analyze the data collected for the study. Our findings reveal that, the livelihood activities that led to biodiversity destruction include agriculture, logging, fuelwood collection and grazing. Ecotourism potentials/conservation strategies were nature-based, education-based, culture-based, and agriculture-based;value chain was integrated in all these aspects which enhanced livelihood diversification. The benefits include business opportunities, infrastructure development, and forest regeneration. Income level generated after the institution of ecotourism was higher than the level of income before (Z = -1442, p = 0.001). Clear indicators need to be established to measure long-term project effectiveness in biodiversity conservation and livelihood sustainability.
基金financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.42250410319,52170024 and 21677015)the Qingdao Municipal Bureau of Human Resources and Social Security,China(No.QDBSH20220201006).
文摘UV light absorption by aquatic systems affect the physicochemical characteristics of graphene oxide(GO)nanoparticles which ultimately influence its aggregation behavior in water.Regarding this research,various humic and fulvic acids(HA/FA),extracted from China’s different climate zones,were treated with 2 h UV irradiated large(~500 nm)and(~200 nm)GO in 200 mmol/L NaCl.UV irradiated GO particles displayed aggregation even at low humic acid/fulvic acid(HA/FA)concentrations ranging from 0.2 to 1.0 mgC/L,whereas pristine GO particles did not exhibit such behavior.Reduction of functional groups,containing Oxygen(C=O/C–O),via UV irradiation is responsible for this aggregation phenomenon and conversion of GO to reduced graphene oxide(rGO).Consequently,rGO exhibits lower dispersibility,facilitating its agglomeration.Moreover,both small and large-sized GO particles exhibited less aggregation in HAs compared to FAs due to large molecular weight and high polarity of HAs.Aggregation of GO was more obvious with Makou FA and Maqin HA from Plateau and Mountain climate zone and Subtropical Monsoon climate zone,respectively,owing to DOM’s lower molecular weight and aromaticity that reduced their adsorption.The application of the Derjaguin-landau-verwey-overbeek(DLVO)theory did not reveal any significant interaction energy barrier between the 2 h UV irradiated GO particles even in the presence of DOM,indicating that aggregation prevailed despite the addition of DOM.These findings highlight that UV irradiation poses a significant threat to the GO stability in aquatic environments,particularly in the presence of DOM.
文摘Background:Modeling exchange rate volatility has remained crucially important because of its diverse implications.This study aimed to address the issue of error distribution assumption in modeling and forecasting exchange rate volatility between the Bangladeshi taka(BDT)and the US dollar($).Methods:Using daily exchange rates for 7 years(January 1,2008,to April 30,2015),this study attempted to model dynamics following generalized autoregressive conditional heteroscedastic(GARCH),asymmetric power ARCH(APARCH),exponential generalized autoregressive conditional heteroscedstic(EGARCH),threshold generalized autoregressive conditional heteroscedstic(TGARCH),and integrated generalized autoregressive conditional heteroscedstic(IGARCH)processes under both normal and Student’s t-distribution assumptions for errors.Results and Conclusions:It was found that,in contrast with the normal distribution,the application of Student’s t-distribution for errors helped the models satisfy the diagnostic tests and show improved forecasting accuracy.With such error distribution for out-of-sample volatility forecasting,AR(2)–GARCH(1,1)is considered the best.
文摘Kapkatet Wetland is a vital ecosystem in Kenya that supports rural livelihoods through the provision of various ecological goods and services. However, this ecosystem has been undergoing rapid degradation arising from competing land uses. It’s important to document these changes to obtain insights that can aid decision-making for effective restoration and conservation. This study, therefore, sought to assess the extent and patterns of land use and land cover changes in Kapkatet Wetland between 1986 and 2019, and their driving forces. The study followed a mixed-method research approach involving a combination of remote sensing and descriptive surveys. To quantify the wetland changes, remotely sensed imageries for 1986, 2000, and 2019 were utilized in classifying land use and land cover maps through the Maximum Likelihood algorithm. Household questionnaires and focus group discussions were used to obtain information about peoples’ perceptions of the driving forces of landscape change within the wetland. Results generally showed that Kapkatet wetland declined by 24.77% over the past years (1986-2019). Wetland vegetation declined drastically as open grounds increased while tree cover and disturbed reeds showed a fluctuating trend. These changes were majorly driven by land conversion activities within the wetland. The study recommends a community-based enforcement approach to existing laws and policies by both National and Local governments to curb the continuous loss of this wetland.
文摘In the context of renewed interest in collaboration in natural resource management,the collaborative governance approach has lately been introduced to the forest Protected Areas(PAs)in Bangladesh.The adoption of this co-management approach is seen as an attempt to influence the governance process towards a transformation from the conventional custodian system to a more participatory management regime.Recognition of rights and responsibilities,effective participation,and equitable distribution of benefits amongst the key stakeholders working under a facilitative policy and legal framework are believed to address the broader goals of sustainable development Notwithstanding the resurgence of interest in governance of forest PAs through the co-management approach,academic research on the subject remains limited.This article attempts to review selected key information and milestones on the forest PAs governance with special reference to the major policies and legal documents.With a brief introductory section,this article focuses on the genesis and selected major features of the Forest PAs in the country.The discussion then dwells on the policy and legal framework and provides a critique on its relevance for promoting community participation.The existing institutional arrangements for community engagement in protected area governance are also analyzed in light of the national and international commitment and policy obligations on the part of the country.The salient observations and key findings of the study include the following:(1)despite its limitations,comanagement as concept and practice has gradually taken roots in Bangladesh;(2)the degree and level of active community participation remain low and limited,and there is also clear weakness in conscientizing and orientating the local community on the key legal and policy issues related to PA governance in the country;and(3)policy makers,practitioners,and other local stakeholders related to PA governance need to be oriented on international commitment and national development strategies.The study calls for systematic focus on regular research on the performance of co-management in the country,and efforts towards improving the implementation mechanisms in the field.
文摘The objective of the study was to assess factors affecting market participation of agro-forestry smallholder farmers in Uganda. Primary data on household, farm and marketing characteristics were collected from 153 farming households using a semi-structured, pre-tested questionnaire. The determinants of market participation were assessed using the Probit model. Descriptive statistics showed that a combination of crop, livestock and tree products were marketed by farmers. The main products included maize, cassava and coffee （crops）; firewood and poles （tree products）; and birds and goats （livestock products）. Results from the Probit model showed that farm size, household size, education level, access to credit and extension visits had positive and statistically significant effects on market participation of farmers in agro-forestry products＇ markets. Age of farmer had a negative and statistically significant effect on the participation. Emphasis on improving the quality and coverage of extension services, extending credit facilities to farmers and intensifying agro-forestry training among farmers are suggested as avenues to enhance participation of farmers in agro-forestry products＇ markets.
文摘Globally,shallow aquifer groundwater(GW)has been severely affected in recent decades for both geogenic and anthropogenic reasons.The hydro-geochemical characteristics of the GW change inconsistently with the addition of unwanted inorganic trace elements into the GW aquifer of the Indo-Bangladesh delta region(IBDR),such as arsenic(As)along with fluoride(F-)contamination.Contaminated GW can have a negative impact on drinking water supplies and agricultural output.GW pollution can have serious adverse effects on the environment and human health.Thus,the GW quality of this region is deteriorating progressively,and human health threatening by various life-threatening disorders.Hence,the current study concentrated on the GW quality evaluation and prediction of possible health issues in the IBDR due to elevated contamination of As along with F-within GW aquifers by considering sixteen causative.Field survey-based statistical methods such as entropy quality index(EWQI)combined with health risk index(HRI)was implemented for evaluating the As and F-sensitivity with the help of correlation testing and principal component analysis.The study's outcome explains that a substantial portion of the IBDR has been vastly experiencing inferior GW quality,environmental issues,and health-related problems in dry and wet seasons,correspondingly for As and F-exposure.Piper diagram verified the suitability of water that almost 55%of GW across the study area’s aquifers are unfit for drinking as well as cultivation of crops.Sensitivity analysis and the Monte Carlo simulation method were also applied to assess the contaminant's concentration level and probable health risk appraisal.The present study concludes that the elevated exposure of As and F-pollution has to be monitored regularly and prevent unwanted GW contamination through implementing sustainable approaches and policies to fulfil the sustainable development goal 6(SDG-6)till 2030,ensuring the most basic human right of clean,safe,and hygienic water.
文摘Unlike developed countries,the process of ageing in the developing country is a major and serious concern where the health infrastructure,geriatric system and social security remain underdeveloped.This paper aims to assess the gaps in quality of life among the elderly by socio-economic and demographic characteristics and to know the issues and challenges in the selected developing countries where Study on Global Ageing and Adult Health(SAGE)namely China,India,Ghana,South Africa,Mexico,and Russia has been conducted.The overall score indicates that there is a little variation in the quality of life across the countries,ranging from 52.1(China)to 45.5(Ghana).However,there is considerable variation in the quality-of-life score by socio-economic characteristics.From the existing policy perspectives,different aspects of old age policies are varied across the selected countries.The rapid expan-sion of the private sector into these areas is unlikely to benefit the bulk of the elders.The countries like India,South Africa and Mexico,where the private sector plays a major role,lack health care support for the elderly.However,financial support sig-nificantly contributes to the quality of life in terms of policy intervention in those countries.Thus,the respective governments need to address urgently the areas like health care,financial and social security to achieve the healthy lives and wellbeing for all of the sustainable development goals by 2030.
