Visions for Sustainability

Engaging visions

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0200

Radical climate activism: motivations, consequences and approaches

Quan-Hoang Vuong, Minh-Hoang Nguyen, Minh-Phuong Thi Duong, Viet-Phuong La — Tue, 21 May 2024 00:00:00 +0200

Environmental activism is crucial in increasing awareness of environmental degradation and preventing actions that harm the environment. A radical environmentalist movement has emerged within the community of activists. They advocate using illegal measures to attain their goals. This paper discusses these radical environmentalist groups’ motivations, their actions and their consequences. Activities that many consider unacceptable, such as art vandalism and road blockades, may result in adverse outcomes and diminish public support for environmental endeavors. We propose an alternative solidarity approach whereby activists focus their efforts on disseminating information to the general public on climate change and other environmental issues, advocating for the adoption of eco-surplus culture, and fostering cooperation among governments, businesses, and individuals to develop effective solutions.

Young audiences and climate change

Sat, 16 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0100

This article focuses on the agenda on the different public arenas in relation to the climate change discourse from the perspective of the young audiences: mass media arena, collaborative-activist arena, personal arena, and discussion arena. The variables represent the different axes of environmental sustainability, summarizing the Sustainable Development Goals of the 2030 Agenda and applied to the field of the media and communication. Research questions are related to thematic categories and level of engagement both, on the traditional media arena where young audiences are mere users of news and messages, and the public arenas where they turn out to be generators of information. The results show that traditional media pay less attention to environmental issues from the perspective of activism, social justice or culture, and this can be a problem when it comes to connecting with young audiences which are very active and gives widely feedback for issues that have to do with these particular approaches and which are predominant on other arenas formed by social networks such as Instagram, Twitter and TikTok. Activism (climate action) turned out to be the topic that generates the highest level of response/engagement.

Key words: public arenas, climate change, young audiences, environmental activism, social platforms

Beyond the global warming issue

Inaya Sari Melati, Wahjoedi, Imam Mukhlis, Hari Wahyono — Fri, 29 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0100

Regardless of their status as environmental activists, student volunteers tend to have more complex motivations when deciding to join an environmental community. This study aims to understand more deeply the motivation of student volunteers joining an environmental community and to formulate an effective voluntary system for students focusing on synergizing personal and community goals. This study involved 20 student registrars of the local community concerning Circular Economy (CE) implementation in sub-urban areas. The findings reveal that the three highest motivations for student volunteers are to gain proper organizational experience, make new friends, and use community activities for other personal benefits. The results of this study place the motivation to save the environment in fifth place out of the seven motivations measured. The findings are then analysed with relevant theories and studies to create an environmental community management concept that is expected to be able to facilitate both the personal goals of the volunteers and the common goals of the community.

A technocreativity learning model based on environmental volunteers for waste management

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0200

The present condition of waste management in Indonesia has a negative impact on the environment. This study aimed to: (1) develop a technocreativity learning model based on environmental volunteers for waste management to support Green Campus and Green Entrepreneurship for students; and (2) evaluate the effectiveness of the technocreativity learning model. The research method used is the Research and Development (R&D) method with the ADDIE model (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation). Data collection techniques is used questionnaires, observation, documentation from the implementation of environmental volunteers. Data analysis was carried out by analyzing quantitative data utilizing tabulation analysis, percentages, and graphical representation. According to the findings of the study, the development of the technocreativity learning model based on environmental volunteers for waste management to support Green Campus and Green Entrepreneurship for students is still in early stages. These stages consist of an initial briefing for students, collecting trash, waste sorting, waste processing for the manufacture (biomol, eco-enzyme, ecobrick, organic fertilizer, briquettes), waste processing, and waste profits. The technocreativity learning model based on environmental volunteers for waste management is effective for supporting Green Campus and Green Entrepreneurship for students, because the longer an individual has been a member of an environmental volunteer group, the higher they interest in participating in Green Campus activities. Moreover, the longer a person has been a member of the environmental volunteer group, the more likely they are to become a Green Entrepreneur for waste management in university.

Young people's awareness, perception, and attitude towards sustainable development goals in India

M.C. Minimol, Sebastian Francis — Sat, 16 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0100

To understand how young people's attitudes toward sustainable development goals are formed, this research examines the roles that awareness, perception, and personal value propositions play. We have also tried to investigate the role that worldviews play in young people's attitude development. Our research showed that, in addition to people's knowledge, which is important in fostering a better attitude toward the SDGs, their value propositions and worldviews are also essential in understanding it. We found that people with anthropocentric worldviews will specifically have a better attitude toward and perception of sustainable development goals. The study's findings add to the body of knowledge already available on sustainable development goals by offering empirical proof of the relationship between knowledge, perception, value propositions, worldviews, and attitudes toward such goals. This study also revealed that young people's value propositions have a significant impact on how they feel about and perceive sustainable development goals. Therefore, it is crucial to develop policy-level interventions that could result in better human values among young people.

Sustainability Development Goals: overcoming barriers and catalysing innovation for a sustainable future

Hani Yousef Jarrah, Khaled Nser, Salwa Abdallah AL Majali, Tar Abdallahi — Sat, 16 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0100

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide a universal framework for addressing the world's most pressing economic, social, and environmental challenges. Achieving the SDGs will require overcoming significant barriers and catalyzing innovation across various sectors, from energy and transportation to agriculture and healthcare. This paper reviews the literature on the barriers to achieving the SDGs and the potential for innovation to overcome these obstacles. The analysis suggests that achieving the SDGs will require a coordinated effort across government, civil society, and the private sector. While innovation is critical to achieving the SDGs, it must be accompanied by policies that promote sustainability and social equity. The paper concludes with a call to action for policymakers, business leaders, and civil society to work together to overcome the barriers to achieving the SDGs and create a more sustainable and equitable world. In the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the larger Gulf Coast Countries (GCC) region, responsible market solutions are supported by an academic theory examined in this article. According to the analysis in this article, sustainability theory implementation is crucial for future market development in contemporary marketplaces. The research project contributes to the body of knowledge about organizational and corporate obstacles associated with operating a socially and environmentally responsible firm, as well as issues associated with applying environmental, social, and economic elements of sustainable business practices. The first stage of the study's scope was restricted to data analysis that clarified the model's concept as defined in the research. The model will be used and evaluated in collaboration with the research participants' organizations to demonstrate its validity.

Keywords”: SDGS, barriers, innovations, UAE, sustainable future, 2030 agenda, Abu Dhabi.

Comparison of environmental Kuznet Curve testing before and during the implementation of Sustainable Development Goals

Fri, 02 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0100

This research aims to analyse comparative environmental Kuznet Curve (EKC) testing before and during the implementation of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS). Our study uses a quantitative approach. The sampling technique used is purposive sampling, involving countries that are included in the categories of 10 high, upper middle and lower middle-income countries on the Asian continent during the 2011-2020 period. The data analysis method used is panel data regression analysis by combining cross section and time series data in order to analyse the variables Gross Domestic Product, Population Density, Foreign Direct Investment, Human Development Index, Agricultural Land, and Industrialization and their influence on CO2 emissions in the countries studied.

Enhancing energy justice through solar power proliferation in Kenya's devolved units

Sylvester Chisika, Chunho Yeom — Thu, 25 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0200

In response to escalating human needs and the worsening impacts of climate change attributed to fossil fuel use, the concept of energy justice, especially in relation to solar power, has emerged as a solution to ensure sustainable energy access, security, and affordability universally. Despite efforts to promote solar power in many developing countries, energy injustices persist, exacerbated by limited scientific information on promoting energy justice within the solar power context. Addressing this challenge in Kenya, this study aimed to explore Makueni and Nyeri counties better to understand strategies for universal energy provision through solar power. The study examined the socio-cultural, economic, and environmental contexts relevant to energy justice and solar power usage. Information was gathered from online sources through literature and official documents to analyze qualitatively for insights employing a case study research design and literature review. The examination revealed contrasting scenarios in Nyeri and Makueni counties: Makueni demonstrated robust leadership with community-driven projects and proactive financing, while Nyeri faced challenges with regulatory transparency. Nonetheless, both counties sought equitable solar distribution, with Nyeri prioritizing affordability and Makueni emphasizing public participation and long-term community involvement. The study underscores the influence of contextual factors and governance on energy justice outcomes in solar power expansion, urging solar power stakeholders to prioritize inclusive approaches and regulatory enhancements for sustainable energy justice initiatives.

Future directions for solar energy in a global context with particular emphasis on Saudi Arabia, the Middle East, and North Africa

Fatimah Alamrani — Sun, 31 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0100

Solar energy has emerged as a viable and sustainable replacement for conventional energy sources with significant environmental and financial advantages. Photovoltaic (PV) systems and concentrating solar power (CSP) technologies are used to harness the energy of sunlight and have been widely applied, leading to a sharp increase in solar installations across the globe. The use of solar energy has been propelled even further by decreasing solar panel prices, developments in energy storage, and encouraging regulations. This article analyzes future directions for solar energy in a global context, with a particular emphasis on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. It proposes a discussion of the challenges and opportunities relating to solar cell adoption in the KSA and MENA region, also in the light of the potential paradox of countries who are among the largest producers of fossil-fuels being in the forefront of the move to carbon-negative technologies.

Electric vehicle grid demand

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 00:00:00 +0100

Electric transportation is a societal necessity to mitigate the adverse effects of local emissions and global climate change. To reach net zero emissions by 2050, countries have examined many strategies to electrify road transport and deploy electric vehicles (EVs). Due to falling lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery pack costs, global electric vehicle sales have grown consistently over the past decade and reached 10 million units in 2022. The safe and steady operation of the regional power grid may be compromised by the connection of a sizable random charging load. Therefore, it is crucial to conduct a pre-emptive analysis of the charging load and its potential impact, ensuring that electric vehicles can seamlessly integrate with the grid upon connection. This study employs PVsyst simulation software to assess the feasibility of a 12800 MWp (9000 MWp plus 3800 MWp) PV grid-tied system in India's Delhi-NCR region. The system's affordability and spatial compatibility are considered. The average electrical loads for the Delhi-NCR region have been estimated. The system achieves a 0.846 performance ratio, generating 1648 KWh/KWp/year. About 52.7% of the load has been utilized by the electric vehicle, while the surplus is fed into the power grid. This study emphasizes PV systems effectiveness in alleviating grid peak loads, their cost-effectiveness, low maintenance, and adaptability to peak-time loads.

Enhancing citizen participation in local development planning in Nairobi and Makueni Counties in Kenya

Sylvester Chisika, Chunho Yeom — Wed, 08 May 2024 00:00:00 +0200

PPublic participation in development planning is critical for achieving sustainable development outcomes. Even though participation is still evolving, the existing theoretical models indicate that implementing public participation enhances responsiveness to community needs, leverages diverse skills, and instills a sense of ownership for sustainable development projects. Although Kenya has made strides in ensuring citizens' participation in local government development processes, local authorities and other stakeholders still find the existing public participation inadequate, marginalizing the needs of the local citizens in development planning. This paper aims to explore the current status and determine the factors that affect the active participation of citizens in development planning by examining the preparation process of the 2023- 2027 County Integrated Development Plans for Nairobi and Makueni Counties in Kenya. The intention was to enhance participation by devising strategies for sustainable participation practices. Based on the case study approach, involving literature review and textual analysis of key documents and county-specific County Integrated Development plans retrieved from official online sources, the results revealed that Nairobi and Makueni counties have distinct approaches and challenges in public participation. Despite budget constraints and perceived citizen apathy, Nairobi addresses historical service delivery issues through diverse mechanisms like social media and town hall meetings. Makueni excels in inclusivity using comprehensive matrices, but low budget allocation hinders participation. Both counties aim to enhance participation, with Makueni emphasizing innovative civic empowerment through citizen schools and promoting inclusive decision-making. Unfortunately, the impacts of participation could not be evaluated in both cases because the plans lack a dedicated section on the approach to public participation used to develop the plans. These results imply the need for more studies on the impacts of participation and the effects of integrating technology, such as AI, in participation to promote efficiency in the use of scarce county resources.

Fostering environmental innovation programs in Madiun Regency, East Java, Indonesia

Mon, 20 May 2024 00:00:00 +0200

Madiun Regency faces numerous challenges in maintaining environmental sustainability amidst economic development in the region. To address these challenges, well-planned collaborative and innovative efforts are required, prioritizing environmental protection and sustainable development. This study examines the implementation of regional innovation programs related to the environmental sector in Madiun Regency. Data collection was conducted through Focus Group Discussions (FGD) and primary source searches from relevant local agencies. The study found that the Madiun Regency Government has implemented several regional innovation programs, including turning waste into gold (Merubah Sampah Menjadi Emas/MERAMBAH EMAS), organic fertilizer processing unit (Unit Pengolahan Pupuk Organik/UPPO), recycling waste into handicrafts and public facilities, biological agent, green public open spaces, and the city without slums (Kota Tanpa Kumuh/KOTAKU). These programs have contributed to the promotion of a smart environment which focuses on utilizing technology to manage resources efficiently, promote sustainability, and mitigate environmental impacts. However, to enhance community participation, the Regional Government should increase efforts in socialization and the formation of environmental cadres. This will facilitate the supervision of environmental protection and management functions in Madiun Regency.

Sustainable and responsible creation of shared values in the fast fashion industry

Radka MacGregor Pelikánová, Margherita Sani, Filip Rubáček — Wed, 14 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0100

The fashion industry is well-known for its negative social and environment impacts and a problematic compliance with criteria related to sustainability, Corporate social responsibility (CSR) and Creating Shared Value (CSV). However, even fast fashion businesses, despite their low-cost approach “at any price”, claim to have moved towards sustainability. To examine the extent to which their claims are genuine requires scrutiny involving four steps. First, the concepts of sustainability, CSR, and CSV in relation to the fashion industry are determined. Second, the particularities of their measurement for fast fashion businesses are examined with particular reference the fundamental virtues of respect and no waste. Third, these two virtues are assessed as precursors of the sustainable and responsible creation of shared values regarding a number of well-known fast fashion businesses in the EU, on the basis of their own qualitative content analysis in comparison with that of third-party websites. Fourth, results are critically and comparatively discussed. This leads to conclusions concerning the presence or absence of respect and no waste virtues and the variability in purported sustainable and responsible creation of shared values in the fast fashion industry. Our findings are that what is proclaimed and practiced by fast fashion businesses is thus far highly heterogenous and without regard for the question of measurability and the ability of the public to monitor it. The inherent limitations of our study will need to be offset by future longitudinal studies with a larger sample of businesses involving wider jurisdictions and using more sources.

Sustainable performance of bottled water firms in Ethiopia

Geda Jebel Ababulgu, Zerihun A. Birbirsa, Misganu Getahun Wodajo — Wed, 07 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0100

Due to growing awareness of the negative environmental effects associated with the bottled water industry, there is increased pressure from customers, the government, and stakeholders for firms to adopt green supply chain management (GSCM) practices. These practices aim to minimize environmental consequences while enhancing social and economic performance. However, GSCM and sustainable development are still in their early stages of practice, particularly in Ethiopia where research investigations are limited. This study examines the impact of GSCM practices on environmental, economic, and social performance in the bottled water manufacturing industry in Ethiopia. A survey of 323 managers reveals that GSCM practices have a positive impact on all three dimensions of sustainability performance: environmental, social, and economic. However, the specific impact of each practice varies. All five GSCM practices improve the environmental performance of firms. Some practices also improve other dimensions of sustainability performance. For example, internal environmental management and cooperation with customers significantly improve social performance, but not economic performance. On the other hand, investment recovery improves economic performance. However, eco-design and green purchasing do not have a significant impact on economic or social performance. The findings of this study have theoretical implications and practical insights regarding sustainable performance for managers.

Investigating wildlife crop pests and farmers' willingness to pay for pest management in the Batang Toru Forest, Indonesia

Hamid Arrum Harahap, Yonariza, Endrizal Ridwan, Yuerlita — Sat, 16 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0100

Effective pest regulation is crucial for sustainable agriculture and livelihoods in agricultural landscapes. This study aims to understand the challenges faced by farmers, the strategies they employ, and their willingness to contribute to managing pest-related issues in the Batang Toru region. A quantitative research design was employed, and data were collected through face-to-face interviews with 125 randomly selected respondents from five villages between 2020 and 2022. Descriptive statistical analysis was used to analyze the survey data, and farmers' willingness to pay (WTP) was assessed using a choice experiment method. The findings reveal the diverse range of challenges and strategies associated with pest regulation in various crops, including peanuts, paddy, durian, banana, and bitter bean farming. Wildlife pests such as wild boars, non-human primates, and birds were identified as significant contributors to crop damages and losses. Farmers employed physical barriers, scare tactics, repellents and deterrents, traps, and lethal means to mitigate these challenges. Most farmers expressed their readiness to contribute financially, with a preference for in-kind rewards such as paddy and benzoin over cash payments. The findings highlight the complex and context-specific nature of pest management strategies, emphasizing the importance of understanding local ecological dynamics and cultural factors when designing interventions.

Optimizing environmental education and awareness strategies for sustainable forest management in Kenya

Sylvester Chisika, Chunho Yeom — Tue, 16 Jan 2024 00:00:00 +0100

Forests and allied environmental resources are important for environmental and socio-economic development. However, information is scarce on the ways of optimizing the strategies for forestry and environmental education and awareness in many developing countries. Using a literature review and document content analysis, this study explores the case of four forested ecosystems in Kenya with the aim of contributing to a better understanding of the strategies to achieve sustainable forest management. Results show that the key ingredients of effective forestry and environmental education are formal education infrastructure, community engagement panels, digital platforms, corporate responsibility initiatives, media, arts, policy advocacy, and research with feedback loops on initiatives. In addition, results indicate that Kenya is desirous of establishing robust mechanisms for effective environmental education and awareness, as demonstrated by policy and legal actions. Case studies of Cherangani, Mt. Kenya, Aberdares, and Kakamega forest ecosystems demonstrate these commendable efforts by embedding the ingredients of strategy optimization within their forest ecosystem management plans. However, while there is a general similarity in the approaches across the ecosystems, there is a need to optimize awareness strategies by leveraging the existing educational infrastructure, increasing stakeholder engagement, and addressing outstanding challenges currently inhibiting sustainable forest management in the examined ecosystems.

The challenges of private sector engagement in forest landscape and ecosystem restoration in Kenya

Sylvester Chisika, Chunho Yeom — Mon, 25 Mar 2024 00:00:00 +0100

Private sector participation in forest landscape restoration is critical for sustainable development. Even though the role of the private sector in landscape restoration is still evolving, the existing theoretical models indicate that involving the private sector effectively in forest restoration drives financial, technological, and innovative solutions, forging a collaborative approach that benefits both forest ecosystems and businesses. Although Kenya has made strides in ensuring private sector participation in local forest restoration, private sector participation is still inadequate even though there is interest in landscape restoration. This paper aims to explore the current status of private sector engagement in forest restoration to identify the key challenges facing private actors by examining the cases of Elgeyo Marakwet and Makueni Counties in Kenya. The intention was to enhance participation by devising strategies for sustainable participation practices. Based on the case study approach, involving literature review and textual analysis of key documents and county-specific County Integrated Development plans retrieved from official online sources, the results revealed that Elgeyo Marakwet and Makueni counties have distinct statuses and challenges affecting private sector participation. In Makueni County, private sector involvement in landscape restoration is centered on agroforestry, silvopastoral, and plantation forests, comprising 95% of available options. The focus is on enhancing rangeland resilience against climate-induced drought in targeted project wards, with the TWENDE Project collaborating with various private sector partners. Even though limited information on incentives exists, WRI, backed by the Mastercard Foundation, funded the planting of 1,200,000 seedlings. In Elgeyo Marakwet, the United Nations Development Programme leads private sector engagement, aiming to increase forest cover. Challenges include invasive species, population pressure, limited youth participation, legal framework gaps, and unclear incentives. These results imply the need for a collaborative and well-coordinated approach to restoration, policy reviews, and conducting a total economic valuation of forest landscapes to sustain private sector interest and engagement in the restoration efforts.

Thermal performance study of traditional slate roofed mud houses in the sub-tropical submontane and low hills of Himachal Pradesh

Ridima Sharma, Vandna Sharma — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 00:00:00 +0100

The indoor environment of an area affects its overall functionality and sustainability. Vernacular architecture is noted for its use of sustainable solar passive strategies that result in improved thermal performance. The current study looks at the thermal performance of slate-roofed mud huts, which are common in Himachal Pradesh. The field study, which is based on the adaptive approach, entails both qualitative and quantitative components of thermal comfort via a questionnaire-based thermal comfort survey and onsite measurements of environmental attributes of 130 vernacular dwellings in the sub-tropical submontane and low hills of the north Indian state Himachal Pradesh. A thermal comfort survey about physical and psychological parameters of thermal comfort was done for July, and October of the year 2022 symbolizing the summer and autumn seasons in the region. The parameters were also correlated to the thermal sensation votes of the residents of vernacular houses in the area on the ASHRAE thermal sensation scale. The findings revealed that these traditional dwellings work admirably in the study area's comparably hotter summer season and that the majority of the inhabitants are content in a wider range of temperatures.

Sustainable practices in Keylong's vernacular architecture

Shiv Dayal Singh, Venu Shree, Harsimran Kaur — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 00:00:00 +0200

This study meticulously investigates the resilience and sustainable attributes of vernacular architecture in Keylong, a paradigmatic region located in the Himalayan highlands. The research primarily concentrates on elucidating the indigenous construction techniques, materials, and their concomitant impact on thermal performance, underscoring the intersection between traditional wisdom and sustainable practices. The principal aim of this inquiry is to unravel the intricate relationship between vernacular architectural practices and their inherent sustainability, particularly in the context of the harsh climatic conditions prevalent in the Himalayan region. The objectives encompass a comprehensive analysis of the construction methodologies, material utilization, and the thermal efficiency inherent in these traditional dwellings, juxtaposed against contemporary building practices. Methodologically, the study employs a multifaceted approach, incorporating empirical data collection through state-of-the-art Tempnote TH32 dataloggers, coupled with qualitative assessments derived from local narratives and historical perspectives. This dual approach facilitates a holistic understanding of the vernacular architecture's performance and its adaptive strategies in the face of climatic adversities. The findings reveal a profound congruence between the vernacular architecture of Keylong and the principles of sustainability. The traditional constructions demonstrate remarkable thermal efficiency, primarily attributable to the judicious use of locally sourced materials and time-honored construction techniques. Moreover, these structures exhibit a remarkable resilience to the region’s extreme weather conditions, embodying a sustainable architectural paradigm that harmonizes with the natural environment. The study's outcomes underscore the significance of reviving and integrating traditional architectural wisdom into contemporary sustainable building practices. It posits that such integration could offer viable solutions to the challenges posed by climate change, especially in ecologically sensitive and high-altitude regions. This research not only contributes to the academic discourse on sustainable architecture but also provides practical insights for architects, planners, and policymakers engaged in the development of resilient and sustainable habitats in the Himalayas and similar contexts.

Enhancing cognitive performance and emotional well-being via Nature-induced learning environments

Shreya Rai, Venu Shree, Prabhjot Singh Chani, Farhan Asim — Sat, 16 Mar 2024 00:00:00 +0100

This study, involving 22 participants, explored the impact of nature-induced design on cognitive performance and emotional well-being in educational settings. Key metrics included EEG-based Frontal Alpha Asymmetry (FAA), Normalized Alpha brainwave activity, the Perceived Restorativeness Scale (PRS), and the NASA Task Load Index (NASA-TLX). In ‘more biophilic’ learning environment, i.e., Studio, PRS scores significantly increased, indicating higher perceived restorativeness, while NASA-TLX scores (56.65 in the Studio versus 50.65 in the Seminar Hall, i.e., ‘lesser biophilic’ learning environment) indicated greater cognitive engagement in the Studio. Notably, the Studio exhibited higher left-aligned FAA outcomes, revealing a significant relationship between FAA and the built environment (χ² = 12.239, p < 0.001). The study identified substantial effects, with a significant variance for PRS-11 (F = 12.134, p = 0.001) and moderate influence for NASA-TLX (F = 4.374, p = 0.043). ANOVA analysis revealed significant differences in cognitive performance across various tests: BVRT (F = 9.195, p = .004), DST (F = 20.230, p < .001), BDST (F = 19.563, p < .001), ST (F = 4.319, p = .044), DSST (F = 15.400, p < .001), and the overall Cognitive Score (F = 27.508, p < .001), indicating a robust effect of the built environment on cognitive functions. This research demonstrates that nature-infused educational environments significantly enhance critical cognitive processes essential for learning, suggesting their potential in environmental design for cognitive and emotional development. However, it acknowledges limitations, such as sample variation and experimental settings, and encourages further investigation in diverse contexts and long-term effects.

The transcendence of the Roman Catholic Church’s Holy Bread

John Louis B. Benito — Sat, 16 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0100

Culture is a variable less considered as a part of the pillars of sustainability which is usually composed of social, economic, and environmental pillars alone. It is often associated as a subpart of the social pillar since focuses on ideas and practices of a group of people. However, this paper justifies that it should stand and be permanently designated with its own pillar. This is to be done by focusing on food, bread in particular, as well as religious practices. Specifically, through the analysis of the Holy Bread and the spiritual values and meanings attached to it by the Roman Catholic Church, this study illustrates a two-pronged argument that: (1) the bread, by the process towards and state of transcendence as a Holy Bread, is a bearer and proof of the essentiality of sustainability’s cultural pillar; and (2) through this bearing of cultural sustainability, this pillar becomes essential for the existence of the other three pillars of sustainability. Utilizing official texts and sources from the Church itself, this study provides evidence for its argument leading to a conclusion that the concept of sustainability finds the cultural pillar a necessity. Further recommendations for future studies and policy making are provided.

Keywords: Culture, Sustainability, Cultural Sustainability, Holy Bread, Roman Catholic Church