A review of the global climate change impacts, adaptation, and sustainable mitigation measures

No-till systems restore soil organic carbon stock in Brazilian biomes and contribute to the climate solution

No-till systems grounded in the principles of conservation agriculture can restore the soil organic carbon (SOC) stock and environmental sustainability. Here, we assessed the SOC stocks to 1-m depth for three land-uses (i.e., native vegetation - NV, no-till system - NTS, and plow-based tillage - PBT) across 26 sites in the Cerrado and 37 sites in the Atlantic Forest biomes of Brazil for 3402 soil samples. The depletion of SOC stocks under PBT compared to NV was equivalent to a loss of 38.1 % and 45.8 % of the original NV SOC stock for Cerrado and Atlantic Forest biomes, respectively. The SOC stocks of 16 NTS sites exhibited levels that exceeded those under NV, and SOC stock was restored from 80 to 100 % of its NV levels in 27 other NTS sites across the Brazilian biomes. The SOC stock at seven of 13 edaphoclimatic zones (Clusters) was comparable to or more than that under NV. The duration of NTS to restore SOC stock to that under NV ranged from 36.4 to 55.0 years for the Cerrado and Atlantic Forest biomes, respectively. The NTS/NV SOC stock ratio indicated that one hectare of land under NTS has the potential to avert deforestation for food production of 0.81 ± 0.18 to 1.01 ± 0.15 ha of NV in the Brazilian biomes. In essence, NTS has been demonstrated to effectively restore SOC stocks in Brazil's biomes and play a pivotal role in integrating agriculture as a part of the solution for mitigation strategies for climate change.

From corporate responsibility to green loyalty: How CSR initiatives shape sustainable choices among banking consumers in China

Climate change and environmental degradation demand sustainable corporate responses. In the Chinese banking sector, CSR is increasingly recognized as a driver of green customer loyalty. This study fills a gap by employing a dual mediation-moderation model grounded in Social Identity Theory. Our model reveals that CSR directly influences loyalty (β = 0.11, p < 0.001; 32.2 % variance explained) and indirectly affects loyalty through enhanced customer communal relationships (β = 0.194, p < 0.001) and pro-environmental self-identity (β = 0.352, p < 0.001). Moreover, higher environmental knowledge amplifies these effects. The findings advance theory by demonstrating that CSR fosters a shared identity between banks and consumers, strengthening emotional bonds and driving sustainable loyalty. Practically, our results suggest that banks should integrate CSR into core operations through green financial products and adopt segmented CSR communication strategies, detailed sustainability reports for environmentally savvy customers, and educational content for others. These targeted measures can enhance customer loyalty and support the transition to sustainable banking practices.

Perceived impact of heat stress on health and productivity of tropical female garment workers- a comparison between cool and hot months

BACKGROUND

Challenging work conditions, characterized by high temperatures and humidity without the availability of adequate cooling systems, can put garment workers at an increased risk of heat stress. We examined the impact of heat stress on the health and productivity of young female garment workers, and the heat relief measures they took.

METHODS

We surveyed and compared a total of 753 female responses across three factories in tropical Phnom Penh, Cambodia, between the cool (November 2021 to January 2022, WBGT 25.2 ± 2.0oC) and hot months (April to June 2022, WBGT 29.0 ± 0.8oC). The surveys assessed perceptions of thermal comfort in the workplace, the effects of heat stress on heat-related symptoms and productivity, as well as the heat relief measures taken. Non-parametric tests were used to assess differences in responses between the cool and hot months.

RESULTS

During hot months, respondents reported an increase in heat-related symptoms (68% in cool months vs. 88% in hot months). Common symptoms included thirst (50% vs. 81%, p < 0.001), feeling hot (28% vs. 68%, p < 0.001), and heavy sweating (31% vs. 61%, p < 0.001). The perceived impact on productivity was greater during hot months (59% vs. 68%). Respondents perceived heat degraded their motivation (50% vs. 72%, p < 0.001), task speed (42% vs. 66%, p < 0.001), ability to do physical work (37% vs. 56%, p < 0.001), and understanding of tasks (18% vs. 31%, p < 0.001). Increasing water intake was the most common heat relief measure (87% vs. 95%, p < 0.001), while other strategies such as resting in front of a fan (32% vs. 36%) or pouring water over their head (20% vs. 21%) were similar between the cool and hot months (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Even a small increase in temperature could compromise workers' health and work productivity. Workers had to seek heat relief measures all year round due to constant exposure to high temperatures and humidity. In face of a warming world, it is therefore pertinent that these heat-induced impacts are addressed to safeguard workers' lives and livelihoods, and to ensure productivity in factories.

The Carbon Footprint of Diets with Different Exclusions of Animal-Derived Products: Exploratory Polish Study

Background/Objectives: Analyzing the carbon footprint of diets in various populations is important as it can help identify more sustainable food choices that reduce the overall impact of human activities on ongoing warming of the global climate. This pilot exploratory study analyzed the carbon footprint (measured in kg of CO2 equivalent, eq.) using food diaries collected from Polish individuals with varying levels of animal-derived product exclusion in their diets. Methods: The study employed a food diary method, where participants from four dietary groups (vegan, vegetarian, fish-eater, and meat-eater) recorded all meals and beverages consumed over a 7-day period, including portion sizes and packaging details. These diaries were then analyzed to assess dietary adherence and calculate carbon footprints, utilizing standardized CO2 equivalent emission data from publicly available databases. Results: The analysis revealed a decreasing trend in the carbon footprint corresponding to the degree of elimination of animal-derived products from the diet (R2 = 0.96, p = 0.0217). The mean daily footprint in the vegan group was 1.38 kg CO2 eq., which was significantly lower than in the vegetarian (2.45), fish-eater (2.72), and meat-eater groups (3.62). For each 1000 kcal, the meat-eater diet generated 39.7, 58.3, and 93.9% more CO2 eq. than in the case of fish-eaters, vegetarians, and vegans, respectively. Over a week, a group of 10 vegans had a total carbon footprint lower than vegetarians, fish-eaters, and meat-eaters by 42.9, 52.2, and 61.8%, respectively. Hard and mozzarella cheese had the highest contribution to the carbon footprint in vegetarians, fish, and seafood in fish-eaters, and poultry, pork, and beef had the highest contribution in meat-eaters. Conclusions: Dietary carbon footprints vary considerably by dietary pattern, with lower consumption of animal-derived products associated with lower emissions. Additionally, identifying specific high-impact food items within each diet may inform strategies for reducing environmental impact across various eating patterns.

The time of emergence of Arctic warming, wetting and sea ice melting

In the rapidly warming and wetting Arctic, the time of emergence (ToE) of a new climate state occurs when trends of climate indicators are large enough to surpass the strong natural climate fluctuations in the Arctic. Thus far, uncertainties in climate model projections, variability and methods have yielded diverging estimates of Arctic ToE. Here we use a robust method and future projections of multiple state-of-the-art climate models to show that, generally, sea ice thickness (2036-2051) and surface air temperature (2033-2050) emerge first, followed by sea ice cover (2039-2074), and precipitation/rainfall (after 2077). Autumn generally exhibits the earliest ToE-values due to rapid sea ice retreat. The earliest ToE for temperature and sea ice thickness occurs in the Central Arctic, whereas sea ice cover and rainfall first emerge in the Barents Sea region. Most regions of the Arctic are close to a new climate state (for temperature and sea ice), with wide-ranging and possibly irreversible consequences for vulnerable Arctic ecosystems and human activities.

Quality assessment of online wildfire infographics in the United States

In recent years, the occurrence of global and regional wildfires has increased. Wildfire infographics may serve as effective risk communication tools. In this cross-sectional study, we evaluated US based wildfire infographics posted online. Google search was initiated using the terms: "wildfires," and "infographics". An evaluation tool was used to assess infographics on clear headings, content, font size, visual elements, color theme and overall design on a scale of 1-5. Data was analyzed using the Jamovi statistical software. Seventy-eight wildfire infographics were evaluated with most originating from California. Fact-based infographics (46.15%) predominated while few addressed prevention (6.41%). Forty-six infographics were high quality, 23 were medium quality and 9 were low quality. Governmental sources published 60.26%, of which 65.96% were high quality. Most of the high-quality infographics were text-light (65.21%) and icon-based (65%). A significant association was found between information type and text density (p = 0.005). Out of the total score of 30, the mean total infographic score was 24.85 ± 3.28. None of the infographics were customized for high-risk populations. We recommend creating wildfire prevention infographics targeting high risk populations. Further research is recommended to assess the effectiveness of the infographics.

Porous 3 d-4 f Coordination Clusters for Selective Visible-Light Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction to CO

We report herein two families of porous coordination clusters (PCCs) with 216 nuclearity (M120RE96 or PCC-216MR) and 300 nuclearity (Co144Gd156 or PCC-300CG). For the first family M could be either nickel or cobalt, and RE = Pr, Nd, Sm, Eu, and Gd; while the latter features the highest nuclearity of transition-rare earth metal clusters. Characterized by their cube-like, hollow structures, these clusters exhibit the ability to absorb N2 and CO2. Besides, these clusters can be dissolved in both aqueous and acetonitrile/methanol solutions, and capable of acting as homogeneous catalysts for converting CO2 to CO under visible light. The gadolinium analogues of these clusters all show turnover numbers over 10000 and turnover frequencies over 1 s-1. In particular, the nickel based bimetallic cluster (PCC-216NG) demonstrates nearly 100 % selectivity for the reduction product, which may open a new direction for the design and development of PCCs based catalysts.

The Need for a Travel Medicine Diploma in Saudi Arabia: Addressing National and Global Health Priorities

Travel medicine is a rapidly evolving field essential for addressing the health needs of travelers and managing the public health challenges associated with globalization, mass gatherings, and emerging infectious diseases. In Saudi Arabia, the significance of travel medicine is heightened by its unique status as a destination for millions of Hajj and Umrah pilgrims annually and its growing role as a global tourism and entertainment hub. However, the country faces a critical shortage of specialists to address travel-related health issues. This article highlights the need to establish a Travel Medicine Diploma in Saudi Arabia. The proposed program would equip healthcare workers with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills, including epidemiology, vaccination strategies, risk assessment, and post-travel care. Expected benefits include improved public health preparedness, enhanced healthcare services for travelers, and strengthened global health diplomacy. Despite professional hesitancy and funding limitations, these can be addressed through financial incentives, partnerships, and integrating travel medicine into medical education. By investing in this initiative, Saudi Arabia can not only meet its domestic healthcare needs but also position itself as a regional leader in travel medicine, contributing to the health and safety of travelers worldwide.

Evaluating European countries' progress towards SDGs: Insights from parallel SBM DEA analysis of economic, healthcare, environmental, and educational efficiencies

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations aim to address the sustainable challenges continuously emerging in the world today. This study analyzes the progress of 27 European countries from 2015 to 2019 in achieving SDG Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), Goal 4 (Quality Education), and Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth). The implementation of these three goals is interconnected. Good health enhances the effectiveness of education, as healthy individuals can learn and work better. Improvements in education are not only crucial for personal career development but also promote economic growth and social welfare. Stable and sustainable economic growth provides the necessary resources and conditions for improving health and education. This study uses the Parallel SBM DEA model to quantify the performance of EU countries in the areas of economy, healthcare and environment, and education, and standardizes the scores on a scale from 0 (lowest performance) to 1 (best performance). The results are as follows: 1.The economic performance of 12 countries, the employment performance of 6 countries, and the per capita disposable income of 8 countries were below the average level. This study suggests that these countries could pursue industrial upgrading and transformation (e.g., adopting higher value-added industries), which would create better employment opportunities and increase per capita disposable income. 2. Healthcare performance was strong across all countries, but environmental performance in 10 countries was below the average. The study recommends that these countries promote the use of renewable energy, provide subsidies for energy-saving technologies to businesses and households, and promote green buildings and electric vehicles to reduce toxic gas emissions. 3.The educational performance and college completion rates in 6 countries were below the average level. This study suggests that these countries increase education spending and resource allocation, provide employment support for university graduates, and promote digital learning and lifelong learning policies.

Climate change adaptation: Challenges for agricultural sustainability

Climate change poses a substantial threat to agricultural sustainability globally. Agriculture is a vital component of the gross domestic production of developing countries. The multifaceted impacts of climate change on agriculture, highlighting how extreme weather events such as water stress, heatwaves, erratic rainfall, storms, floods, and emerging pest infestations are disrupting agricultural productivity. The socioeconomic status of farmers is particularly vulnerable to climatic extremes with future projections indicating significant increment in ambient air temperatures and unpredictable, intense rainfall patterns. Agriculture has historically relied on the extensive use of synthetic fertilizers, herbicides, and insecticides, combined with advancements in irrigation and biotechnological approaches to boost productivity. It encompasses a range of practices designed to enhance the resilience of agricultural systems, improve productivity, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By adopting climate-smart practices, farmers can better adapt to changing climatic conditions, thereby ensuring more sustainable and secure food production. Furthermore, it identifies key areas for future research, focusing on the development of innovative adaptation and mitigation strategies. These strategies are essential for minimizing the detrimental impacts of climate change on agriculture and for promoting the long-term sustainability of food systems. This article underscores the importance of interdisciplinary approaches and the integration of advanced technologies to address the challenges posed by climate change. By fostering a deeper understanding of these issues to inform policymakers, researchers, and practitioners about effective strategies to safeguard agricultural productivity and food security in the face of changing climate.

Multi-scale characterisation of cold response reveals immediate and long-term impacts on cell physiology up to seed composition in sunflower

Early sowing can help summer crops escape drought and can mitigate the impacts of climate change on them. However, it exposes them to cold stress during initial developmental stages, which has both immediate and long-term effects on development and physiology. To understand how early night-chilling stress impacts plant development and yield, we studied the reference sunflower line XRQ under controlled, semi-controlled and field conditions. We performed high-throughput imaging of the whole plant parts and obtained physiological and transcriptomic data from leaves, hypocotyls and roots. We observed morphological reductions in early stages under field and controlled conditions, with a decrease in root development, an increase in reactive oxygen species content in leaves and changes in lipid composition in hypocotyls. A long-term increase in leaf chlorophyll suggests a stress memory mechanism that was supported by transcriptomic induction of histone coding genes. We highlighted DEGs related to cold acclimation such as chaperone, heat shock and late embryogenesis abundant proteins. We identified genes in hypocotyls involved in lipid, cutin, suberin and phenylalanine ammonia lyase biosynthesis and ROS scavenging. This comprehensive study describes new phenotyping methods and candidate genes to understand phenotypic plasticity better in response to chilling and study stress memory in sunflower.

Bridging me to we: Awe is a conduit to cohesive collectives

Experiences of awe, frequently elicited by the natural world (but also by art, music, human virtue, among other things), are profound and transformative. We argue that beyond its individual benefits, awe serves a vital social function: It expands an individual's perspective from narrow self-interest to others' needs and collective concerns. We review recent empirical evidence showcasing how awe shifts focus away from the self toward the larger entities one belongs to. These reductions in self-focus are, in turn, associated with systematic shifts in social-cognitive processes key to cohesive collective life: attentiveness to others, prosociality, conformity, and social connectedness. Given its socially-binding functions, awe may help inform solutions to pressing global challenges, including economic inequality, political polarization, and climate change.

Modeling the effect of climate change on the distribution of plant communities in Zayandeh-Rud basin, Iran

Climate change is one of the major threats facing various regions in the world, including the Zayandeh-Rud basin in Iran. Although numerous studies have been carried out to predict the effects of climate change on the distribution of plant species, one important issue that has been largely neglected is the examination of the impacts of climate change on plant communities. Therefore, in this study, we modeled the potential effects of climate change on the distribution of the existing plant communities in the study area, including Semi Steppe-Shrub, Semi Steppe-Semi Shrub, Semi Steppe-Perennial Herbaceous, Steppe-Semi Shrub, Alpine Vegetation, Semi Desert-Salty Plants, and Semi Desert-Shrub. Using the presence points of plant communities and environmental variables, we performed modeling of the current (1970-2000) and future (2070) distribution of the plant communities in the study area. The results of the MaxEnt modeling under two General Circulation Models (MRI-ESM2-0 and HadGEM3-GC31-LL) with SSP245 and SSP585 scenarios showed that the suitable habitats of many of the studied plant communities will face a significant decrease in the next 50 years. The most significant reduction in suitable habitat is projected for the Semi Steppe-Perennial Herbaceous community (18-29.4%) and the Semi Desert-Shrub community (19-29%) within the Zayandeh-Rud basin, highlighting substantial habitat contraction under future climate scenarios. These changes can have significant implications for ecosystem functions and the livelihoods of local communities. The findings of this study emphasize the necessity of designing and implementing targeted conservation and management programs for the plant communities in this important region in response to the growing threat of climate change. Therefore, our findings can guide managers in prioritizing plant communities and adopting proactive measures to mitigate the negative impacts of climate change.

Reversible Thermochromic and Fluorescent Poly(methyl Methacrylate) Nanocapsules for Wearable Devices, Thermal Energy Regulation, and High-Security Anticounterfeiting Inks

Encapsulated phase change materials have gained significant interest in thermal energy storage in recent years. Herein, novel thermochromic and fluorescent nanoencapsulated phase change materials were developed by coencapsulation of crystal violet lactone, bisphenol A, cetyl alcohol or 1-dodecanol, and hexadecane into poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) shell cross-linked by a fluorescent coumarin cross-linker through miniemulsion polymerization. Different ternary thermochromic mixture to PMMA shell ratios were selected to elucidate their effect on the final properties of the dual thermochromic and fluorescent nanocapsules. Encapsulation of the core materials and the cross-linker structure were investigated by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The nanometric size, core-shell morphology, and relatively uniform particle size distribution of the nanocapsules were confirmed by field-emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and dynamic light scattering. Ultraviolet-visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy confirmed the thermochromic properties and thermal fatigue resistance of the nanocapsules over 10 cooling-heating cycles, and fluorescence spectroscopy illustrated the fluorescence properties of the nanocapsules. Thermal properties and encapsulation efficiencies of the nanocapsules were measured by using differential scanning calorimetry. The thermal stability of the prepared nanocapsules was investigated by using thermogravimetric analysis. The sample with a 3:1 ratio of the encapsulated ternary thermochromic mixture to the PMMA shell containing 1-dodecanol was selected as an optimal sample for different applications due to its high thermochromic stability and color change rate in -16 to 26 °C. The optimized nanocapsules were used as anticounterfeiting inks in security documents and packaging to distinguish between original documents and products and their counterfeit counterparts. In addition, they were used to prepare thermal-energy-regulating windows and coatings for buildings. The windows can be used for temperature regulation in buildings and to embellish interior spaces in architectural design. The nanocapsules were also used in wearable devices that adjust the ambient temperature around the body by absorbing, storing, or releasing a significant amount of latent heat during the phase change process.

Insights on the process to develop Australia's first national climate risk assessment

Countries are undertaking national climate risk assessments to help decision-makers respond effectively to climate change impacts. Australia has also started this process, with the release in early 2024 of the first pass assessment report of its National Climate Risk Assessment. This paper describes our experiences of the process undertaken in Australia to conduct a first pass qualitative assessment of climate risks and compare it with the learnings gathered from a desktop review of 15 other national climate risk assessments. Highlighting similarities and differences in approaches, this paper offers insights for others embarking on a similar journey or improving existing ongoing processes. It identifies four process themes that could contribute to a common framework for these assessments, while acknowledging the need for tailored approaches. Having a common framework could increase awareness and incentives for international collaboration on common or shared risks, and lead to more coordinated climate mitigation and adaptation actions.

West Nile Virus (WNV): One-Health and Eco-Health Global Risks

West Nile virus (WNV) is an important zoonotic pathogen belonging to the Flaviviridae family, which is endemic in some areas and emerging in others. WNV is transmitted by blood-sucking mosquitoes of the genus Culicoides, Aedes, and Anopheles, and the infection can cause different clinical symptoms. The most common and benign illness in humans is West Nile fever (WNF), but a lethal neurological disease (WNND), related to the neuro-invasiveness of WNV lineage 2, represents the highest health risk of WNV infection. The neuro-clinical form is recognized in mammals (land and cetaceans), particularly in humans (elderly or immunosuppressed) and in horses, avian species, and wildlife animals ranging free or in a zoological setting. This review highlights the most relevant data regarding epidemiology, virology, pathogenesis and immunity, clinical signs and differential diagnosis, pathology and imaging, histopathology and gross pathology, economic impact, influence of climate change, and surveillance of WNV. Climate change has favored the wide spread of WNV in many areas of the globe and consequent One-Health and Eco-Health emergencies, influencing the health of human beings, animals, and ecosystems.

High temperature and cardiovascular disease in Australia under different climatic, demographic, and adaptive scenarios

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Cardiovascular disease (CVD), the leading cause of death globally and in Australia, is sensitive to heat exposure. This study assesses the burden of CVD attributable to high temperatures across Australia and projects future burden in the context of climate change.

METHODS

Disability-adjusted life years for CVD, including years of life lost and years lived with disability, were sourced from the Australian Burden of Disease database. A meta-regression model was constructed using location-specific predictors and relative risks from prior literature to estimate relative risks of CVD mortality and morbidity due to high temperatures in the Australian context. The baseline CVD burden attributable to high temperatures in Australia for 2003-18 was calculated, and future burdens under two greenhouse gas emissions scenarios [Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP4.5 and RCP8.5)] for the 2030s and 2050s were projected, considering demographic changes and human adaptation.

RESULTS

During the baseline period, high temperatures accounted for 7.3% (95% confidence interval: 7.0%-7.6%) of the CVD burden in Australia, equivalent to 223.8 Disability-adjusted life years (95% confidence interval: 221.0-226.6) per 100 000 population. Future projections suggest a steady increase in the CVD burden across all scenarios examined. By the 2050s, under the RCP8.5 scenario that considers population growth and no adaptation, the total attributable burden of CVD is projected to more than double compared with the baseline, with the Northern Territory facing the most significant increase. These impacts could be mitigated with effective human adaptation to the warming climate.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher temperatures are expected to exacerbate the burden of CVD. This study highlights the need for urgent adaptation and mitigation efforts to minimize the negative health impacts of a warming climate on CVD.

Performance analysis of integrated solar and natural gas combined cycle power plants in high solar potential regions

This study offers a comprehensive techno-economic and environmental evaluation of a hybrid solar-natural gas combined cycle power plant designed for the Kirkuk region, taking advantage of its high solar irradiance. The proposed system incorporates advanced technologies to maximize efficiency and sustainability, including absorption refrigeration systems, steam Rankine cycles, and organic Rankine cycles. Two configurations were analyzed: Model 1 integrates a conventional gas turbine with a steam Rankine cycle driven by exhaust gases and solar energy collectors and an organic Rankine cycle; Model 2 combines all the components of Model 1 with the absorption refrigeration system (ARS) to enhance turbine efficiency through compressor inlet air cooling. The results indicate that Model 2 delivers a net power output between 235 MW and 245 MW, exceeding Model 1 by up to 12.7 MW. It offers significant 5-10% reductions, with electricity costs ranging from $70/MWh to $76.5/MWh, while also cutting CO₂ emissions by 0.7 to 2 kg CO2/MWh, particularly during hotter periods. In June, Model 2 achieved the lowest power cost of $70/MWh and a peak output of 245 MW, compared to $72/MWh and 235 MW for Model (1) During December, however, Model 1 shows slightly better performance due to cooler conditions, with costs of $78/MWh versus $76.5/MWh for Model (2) Exergy analysis highlights the combustion chamber as the main contributor to system losses, accounting for 46.07% of total exergy destruction. Nevertheless, Model 2 integrates solar energy and ARS effectively, achieving energy and exergy efficiencies of 59.25% and 57.21%, respectively, demonstrating its superior overall performance. These findings demonstrate that integrating gas turbines with renewable energy and advanced cooling technologies provides a scalable, economically viable solution to Iraq's energy challenges. Additionally, this research establishes a replicable framework for regions with high solar potential, emphasizing the transformative potential of hybrid energy systems in achieving sustainable energy security while mitigating environmental impacts.

Influences of extreme weather events on the carbon to nitrogen ratios of major staple crops

Carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) contents, along with the corresponding C:N ratios in crops, significantly impact C and N cycles in cropland ecosystems. However, the effects of climate change and the increasing frequency of extreme weather events (EWEs) on the C:N ratios of major crops remain uncertain. Here, we combined field experiments and mathematical modeling to explore the impact of excessive precipitation, precipitation shortage, and heat events on the C and N contents and C:N ratios of rice and wheat in a major grain production base in China. The results showed that the average C:N ratios for different rice organs during the growing season ranged from 26.8 to 47.6, while winter wheat C:N ratios ranged from 26.4 to 41.1. The calibration model based on measured C:N ratios effectively improved the simulation of crop C and N contents. Excessive precipitation led to a 25 %-37 % increase in wheat C contents and a 66 %-76 % increase in N contents, while plant C:N ratios decreased by 30 %-37 %. Precipitation shortage reduced C and N contents in various wheat organs by 4 %-29 % and 8 %-47 %, respectively, while increasing corresponding C:N ratios by 4 %-33 % due to larger reductions in N than C contents. Extreme heat decreased C content in rice grains by 12 %-13 % and N content by 8 %-24 %, while C content in rice leaves decreased by 27 %-30 % and N content by 34 %-41 %. However, C and N contents in roots increased by 13 %-18 % and 33 %-48 %, respectively, leading to an average increase in the C:N ratios of rice grains and leaves by 5 % and 14 %, while the C:N ratio of roots decreased by 26 %. In the future, the effects of heat events on grain C:N ratios are projected to be even more pronounced.

Subtropical lichens from the Afromontane can display rapid photosynthetic acclimation to simulated climate change

Afromontane forests are an important part of the KwaZulu Natal region of southern Africa, having a distinctive flora with a high proportion of endemic species, and lichens are keystone members. Unlike other continental areas, KwaZulu Natal climate change is predicted to increase rainfall and cloudiness. In the present study, hydrated Afromontane lichens from both exposed and shaded microhabitats were given either constant [100 µmol(photon) m-2 s-1] or fluctuating [0, 200, 0 µmol(photon) m-2 s-1] light for 8 h a day for 3 d and changes monitored in nonphotochemical quenching (NPQ) and rates of photosynthetic electron transport. In sun but not shade collections, NPQ strongly increased following treatment with constant and fluctuating light. It seems likely that CO2 fixation may be reduced in moist thalli, and the increase in NPQ may reduce ROS formation during exposure to light while hydrated. Sun lichens can readily modify their NPQ in response to increased cloudiness and rainfall expected in KwaZulu Natal.

Palladium Membrane Applications in Hydrogen Energy and Hydrogen-Related Processes

In recent years, increased attention has been paid to environmental issues and, in connection with this, to the development of hydrogen energy. In turn, this requires the large-scale production of ultra pure hydrogen. Currently, most hydrogen is obtained by converting natural gas and coal. In this regard, the issue of the deep purification of hydrogen for use in fuel cells is very relevant. The deep purification of hydrogen is also necessary for some other areas, including microelectronics. Only palladium membranes can provide the required degree of purification. In addition, the use of membrane catalysis is very relevant for the widely demanded processes of hydrogenation and dehydrogenation, for which reactors with palladium membranes are used. This process is also successfully used for the single-stage production of high-purity hydrogen. Polymeric palladium-containing membranes are also used to purify hydrogen and to remove various pollutants from water, including organochlorine products, nitrates, and a number of other substances.

Investigating the dynamics of climate finance disbursements: A panel data approach from 2003 to 2022

This study investigates the intricate dynamics of international multilateral climate finance disbursements from 2003 to 2022 via an extensive dataset from the Climate Funds Update (CFU). By employing panel data econometric models, including pooled ordinary least squares (OLS), fixed effects (FE), and random effects (RE) models, the study elucidates the impact of grants and approved funds on disbursement levels across different income groups. The analysis reveals that while grants do not significantly influence disbursements, the approval of funds plays a critical role in enhancing disbursement efficiency. The random effects model, validated through the Hausman test, emerges as the optimal model for this context. The findings underscore the importance of streamlined approval processes in ensuring effective climate finance disbursements and highlight the need for further investigation into the non-significance of grants. The forecasting results indicate a positive trend in disbursements from 2023 to 2027, with potential fluctuations driven by external factors. This study provides valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders to optimize climate finance mechanisms and improve fund utilization for sustainable development.

From Ecological Niche to Conservation Planning; Climate-Driven Range Dynamics of Ephedra intermedia in Central Asia

Ephedra intermedia, a medicinally significant plant, is an important component of arid and semi-arid ecosystems across Central and South Asia. This research sought to predict the present and future distribution of E. intermedia by applying ecological niche modeling (ENM) methods. The model incorporated comprehensive bioclimatic and edaphic variables to predict the species' habitat suitability. The results demonstrated high predictive accuracy, highlighting the importance of temperature seasonality, annual temperature range, soil pH, and nitrogen content as key species distribution determinants. The current habitat suitability map revealed core areas in Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Tajikistan mountain regions. Under future climate change scenarios (SSP2-4.5 and SSP5-8.5) for the 2050s and 2070s, the model projected a significant upward and northward shift in suitable habitats, coupled with a notable contraction in the extent of highly suitable areas, particularly under the high-emission SSP5-8.5 scenario. The predicted range shifts reflect the species' sensitivity to increasing temperatures and changing precipitation patterns. This suggests a potential loss of suitable habitats in low-elevation and southern parts of its range. Including edaphic factors in the model provided novel insights, specifically highlighting the critical role of soil properties, such as soil pH and nitrogen content, in shaping the ecological niche of E. intermedia. These findings complement the observed upward and northward shifts in habitat suitability under future climate scenarios, emphasizing the species' reliance on high-altitude refugia as climate conditions change. The results underscore important implications for conservation planning, suggesting that strategies should prioritize the protection of these refugial habitats while also considering measures such as habitat connectivity and assisted migration to support the species' adaptation to shifting environmental conditions.

Managing life cycle impacts of poly(3-hydroxyoctanoate)-based nanocomposites intended for biomedical and packaging applications

The environmental pollution caused by post-consumer plastics and the associated health risks necessitate comprehensive life-cycle analyses of these materials, mainly focusing on their end-of-life impacts. This study presents an in-depth evaluation of the environmental implications of producing nanocomposites using poly(3-hydroxyoctanoate) (P(3HO)), a biodegradable and biocompatible polymer that holds great promise as an alternative to traditional plastics, in combination with calcium-, and zinc-based double-layered hydroxides (LDH) modified with the antioxidant α-tocopherol. Utilising the ReCiPe impact assessment method, we identified critical environmental impact categories, including fine particle formation, global warming potential, and toxicity. The analysis revealed that the biosynthesis of P(3HO) is the primary contributor to environmental impact, with electricity consumption accounting for approximately 95% of the overall effect. Purification processes significantly increase environmental impact, mainly due to the extra electricity used for freezing, centrifugation and evaporation. The preparation of nanoparticles contributes to the overall environmental impact, but its scale is reasonably differentiated and spans from 0,3% for Ca/Al nanoparticles to 9.9% for Zn/Al-toc variants, respectively. Although producing these eco-friendly polymers involves significant energy consumption, they present a viable long-term alternative to petroleum-based polymers. Specific life cycle management decisions, like recovering substrates, using renewable energy sources, or gaining overall process improvement, could bring significant environmental benefits. Investigated materials show substantial potential in biomedical coatings and active packaging applications.

Sustainable food systems transformation in the face of climate change: strategies, challenges, and policy implications

Climate change-induced disruptions to agricultural systems and other socio-economic and geopolitical factors threaten food supply availability, access, and stability. The paper examines the crisis and explores the strategies, challenges, and policy implications of transforming food systems towards sustainability. It highlights the undeniable impact of climate change on agriculture, discussing how it affects crop yields and contributes to the increased frequency of extreme weather events. The paper discusses the extent and causes of food loss and waste in the supply chain, presents various technologies and initiatives to reduce it, and highlights models for efficient food distribution and surplus food redistribution. Lastly, it shifts its attention to food policy and governance, assessing the effectiveness of national and international policies in addressing food security and climate change. Conclusively, it underscores the pressing need for a holistic and sustainable approach to food systems transformation in the face of climate change.

Forward-looking flood defense based on high-resolution risk assessment: Lessons from the Nakdong River Basin

Climate change is anticipated to amplify the intensity and frequency of riverine floods, posing significant challenges to existing flood defense systems. This study assesses future flood risks in the Nakdong River Basin, South Korea's largest and most flood-prone basin, by integrating long-term climate, demographic, and economic projections with high spatial resolution. Using GIS-based damage assessment approaches with extensive spatial datasets, we quantify flood risks at the granular level of individual buildings and farmlands across different SSP-RCP scenarios. Results indicate that intensified extreme rainfall events combined with socioeconomic transformations will likely cause a substantial increase in expected annual damage, potentially tripling by 2100 under the SSP5-8.5 scenario. Moreover, the analysis reveals significant heterogeneity in vulnerability, with certain regions and asset categories disproportionately exposed. These findings highlight the critical need for forward-looking, region-specific flood defense strategies that address both spatial and temporal variability.

Assessing climate change risk and vulnerability among Bhil and Bhilala tribal communities in Madhya Pradesh, India: a multidimensional approach

Climate change presents significant risks to marginalized communities, particularly in tribal groups like the Bhil and Bhilala communities of Madhya Pradesh, India. Limited empirical studies have focused on the effects of climate change on tribes in India. This study aims to assess climate change risk and vulnerability among tribal communities, employing the modified Mann-Kendall (MMK) test to identify climate trends, a risk assessment framework based on the Intergovernmental panel on climate change sixth assessment report (IPCC-AR6), and multiple linear regression (MLR). The MMK test indicates an increasing trend in rainfall (MMK = 1.099) and temperature. However, household perceptions reveal a high awareness of climatic changes, with 97% of respondents reporting irregularity in rainfall and 98% documenting increased summer hot days. The risk assessment shows that Bhil households face higher risk (0.107) than Bhilala households (0.068), which is determined by higher exposure and sensitivity. MLR results further emphasize that 12 of 23 indicators significantly affect risk assessment (R-squared = 0.698), with climatic events (β = 0.015), housing structure (β = 0.07), and food security being key contributors. The findings indicate that long-term climate trends are already affecting tribal livelihoods. It calls for targeted adaptation strategies, incorporating enhanced infrastructure, crop diversification, and better access to climate information and government schemes.

Enhancing drought tolerance in Pisum sativum and Vicia faba through interspecific interactions with a mixed inoculum of Rhizobium laguerreae and non-host beneficial rhizobacteria

Introduction

Harnessing plant growth-promoting rhizobia presents a sustainable and cost-effective method to enhance crop performance, particularly under drought stress. This study evaluates the variability of plant growth-promoting (PGP) traits among three strains of Rhizobium laguerreae LMR575, LMR571, and LMR655, and two native PGP strains Bacillus LMR698 and Enterobacter aerogenes LMR696. The primary objective was to assess the host range specificity of these strains and their effectiveness in improving drought tolerance in three legume species: Pisum sativum, Vicia faba, and Phaseolus vulgaris.

Methods

In-vitro experiments were conducted to assess the PGP traits of the selected strains, including phosphate solubilization, indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) production, and siderophore production. Greenhouse trials were also performed using a mixed inoculum of performing strains to evaluate their effects on plant physiological and biochemical traits under drought conditions.

Results

Significant variability in PGP traits was observed among the strains. R. laguerreae LMR655 exhibited the highest phosphate solubilization (113.85 mg mL-1 PO4 2-), while R. laguerreae LMR571 produced the highest IAA concentration (25.37 mg mL-1). E. aerogenes LMR696 demonstrated 82% siderophore production. Symbiotic interactions varied, with R. laguerreae LMR571 and LMR655 forming associations with P. sativum and V. faba, but none establishing compatibility with P. vulgaris. Greenhouse experiments showed that a mixed inoculum of R. laguerreae LMR571, LMR655, and E. aerogenes LMR696 significantly improved proline, total soluble sugars, proteins, and chlorophyll content under drought stress, with V. faba showing the strongest response.

Discussion

These findings highlight the importance of strain selection based on host specificity and PGP potential. The enhanced drought tolerance observed suggests that tailored microbial inoculants can improve legume resilience in water-limited environments. This study provides valuable insights for optimizing bioinoculant formulations to enhance crop performance under drought stress.

Novel Carvacrol@activated Carbon Nanohybrid for Innovative Poly(lactide Acid)/Triethyl Citrate Based Sustainable Active Packaging Films

It has been well known for the past decade that the accumulation of food E-preservatives in the human body has harmful consequences for human health. Furthermore, scientists have realized that despite the convenience offered by petrochemical-derived polymers, a circular economy and sustainability are two current necessities; thus, the use of biodegradable alternative materials is imposed. The food packaging sector is one of the most rapidly changing sectors in the world. In recent years, many studies have focused on the development of active packaging films to replace old non-ecofriendly techniques with novel environmentally friendly methods. In this study, a novel self-healable, biodegradable active packaging film was developed using poly(lactic acid) (PLA) as a biopolymer, which was incorporated with a nanohybrid solid material as a natural preservative. This nanohybrid was derived via the absorption of carvacrol (CV) essential oil in an activated carbon (AC) nanocarrier. A material with a high carvacrol load of 71.3%wt. into AC via a vacuum-assisted adsorption method, functioning as a natural antioxidant and an antibacterial agent. The CV@AC nanohybrid was successfully dispersed in a PLA/triethyl citrate (TEC) matrix via melt extrusion, and a final PLA/TEC/xCV@AC nanocomposite film was developed. The study concluded that x = 10%wt. CV@AC was the optimum nanohybrid amount incorporated in the self-healable PLA/TEC and exhibited 277% higher ultimate strength and 72% higher water barrier compared to the pure PLA/TEC. Moreover, it remained ductile enough to show the slowest CV release rate, highest antioxidant activity, and significant antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella enterica ssp. enterica serovar Typhimurium. This film extended the shelf life of fresh minced pork by four days, according to total viable count measurements, and decreased its lipid oxidation rate. Finally, this novel film preserved the nutritional value of porkby maintaining a higher heme iron content and showed a higher level of sensory characteristics compared to commercial packaging paper.

Decoupling and peak prediction of industrial land carbon emissions in East China for developing countries' prosperous regions

Urban energy consumption is mostly concentrated in industrial regions, and carbon emissions from industrial land use have significantly increased as a result of fast urbanization and industrialization. In the battle against climate change, the affluent regions of developing countries are increasingly being used as models for reducing carbon emissions. Therefore, in order to accomplish global sustainable development, it is crucial to understand how industrial land use and carbon emissions are decoupled in wealthy areas of rising nations. This study investigates the decoupling effects and the factors influencing them in six East Chinese provinces and one city between 2005 and 2020 using the Tapio decoupling model and the LMDI decomposition approach. At the same time, the industrial carbon emissions from 2021 to 2035 were predicted using a BP neural network model combined with scenario analysis. The findings indicate that: (1) From 29.921 million tons in 2005 to 40.2843 million tons in 2020, the carbon emissions from industrial land in the East China area have nearly doubled. Of these, Shandong and Jiangsu emit more than half of the region's total emissions around East China. (2) The decoupling effect analysis shows the East China region's decoupling trajectory's phased characteristics, with the degree of decoupling gradually increasing from weak decoupling (2006-2012) to strong decoupling (2013-2018) and finally to negative decoupling (2019-2020). (3) The primary causes of the rise in carbon emissions in the East China region are the scale of per capita economic output and industrial land use. (4) The overall industrial carbon peak time in East China is roughly distributed between 2028 and 2032. It is expected that Shanghai, Shandong, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang will be among the first to achieve carbon emission peak.

Mapping climate change interaction with human health through DPSIR framework: Qatar perspective

This study investigates the interactions between climate change and human health with a particular focus on Qatar, using the DPSIR (Driving Forces, Pressures, States, Impacts, Responses) framework. Key drivers, including economic development and population growth, contribute to increased greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, exerting pressure on Qatar's climate through rising temperatures and altered precipitation patterns, as modeled by the MIT Regional Climate Model (MRCM). The findings reveal critical gaps in understanding the state of climate-health interactions, including insufficient disease data, incomplete climate-health linkages, and significant research gaps. These limitations hinder targeted responses to climate-sensitive diseases, which have shown an increase over the years. The study identifies the pathways through which climatic shifts contribute to immediate health risks, such as heat-related illnesses and respiratory conditions, as well as long-term impacts, including chronic diseases and mental health challenges. Despite Qatar's efforts through national and international strategies, the DPSIR analysis highlights the urgent need for enhanced research, improved data collection, and tailored actions to address these challenges. Strengthened adaptation, resilience-building, and emission reduction strategies remain essential for safeguarding public health in the face of accelerating climate change.

ANN-ANFIS model for optimising methylic composite biodiesel from neem and castor oil and predicting emissions of the biodiesel blend

Researchers and stakeholders have shown interest in heterogeneous composite biodiesel (HCB) due to its enhanced fuel properties and environmental friendliness (EF). The lack of high viscosity datasets for parent hybrid oils has hindered their commercialisation. Reliable models are lacking to optimise the transesterification parameters for developing HCB, and the scarcity of predictive models has affected climate researchers and environmental experts. In this study, basic fuel properties were analysed, and models were developed models for the yield of HCB and kinematic viscosity (KV) for composite biodiesel/neem castor seed oil methyl ester (NCSOME) using Artificial Neural Network (ANN) and Adaptive Neuro Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS). Statistical indices such as computed coefficient of determination (R2), root-mean-square-error (RMSE), standard error of prediction (SEP), mean average error (MAE), and average absolute deviation (AAD) were used to evaluate the effectiveness of the techniques. Emission models for NCSOME-diesel blends were also established. The study investigated the impact of optimised fuel types/NCSOME-diesel (10-30 vol%), ZnO nanoparticle dosage (400-800 ppm), engine speed (1100-1700 rpm), and engine load (10-30%) on emission characteristics and environmental friendliness indices (EFI) such as carbon monoxide (CO), Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx), and Unburnt Hydrocarbon (UHC) using Response Surface Methodology (RSM). The ANFIS model demonstrated superior performance in terms of R2, RMSE, SEP, MAE, and AAD compared to the ANN model in predicting yield and KV of HCB. The optimal emission levels for CO (49.26 ppm), NOx (0.5171 ppm), and UHC (2.783) were achieved with a fuel type of 23.4%, nanoparticle dosage of 685.432 ppm, engine speed of 1329.2 rpm, and engine load of 10% to ensure cleaner EFI. The hybrid ANFIS and ANN models can effectively predict and model fuel-related characteristics and improve the HCB process, while the RSM model can be a valuable tool for climate and environmental stakeholders in accurate forecasting and promoting a cleaner environment. The valuable datasets can also provide reliable information for strategic planning in the biodiesel and automotive industries.

Protocol for a systematic review of economic evaluations considering costs and health outcomes of weather and climate-related extreme events in humans

BACKGROUND

Extreme weather and climate-related events are increasing in frequency and intensity, which pose substantial human casualties and economic losses. The healthcare and health-determining sectors require information about how extreme weather events affect the population's health, healthcare and other sectors' capacities to prepare for and manage these events and their aftermath. We aim to conduct a systematic review to identify the recent evidence on the costs and health outcomes of extreme weather events in humans.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Protocols guidelines were followed for reporting this protocol. A comprehensive search will be conducted using several search engines, for example, PubMed, Scopus and Institute for Scientific Information Web of Science. Peer-reviewed and grey literature published in English that evaluated the health outcomes and costs of extreme climate events will be retrieved without restriction on the publication year or geographical location. Two reviewers will independently assess each study for inclusion. Study quality will be evaluated with the recommended quality assessment tools. Data will be reported using descriptive statistics, graphical plots and a narrative synthesis.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

An ethical assessment was not required. The data generated from the systematic review will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journal articles and international conferences and will inform our original research study.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

This systematic review has been registered at the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (registration ID: CRD42024582635).

Effects of Climate Change on Health and Health Systems: A Systematic Review of Preparedness, Resilience, and Challenges

Climate change has a significant impact on the population's health and negatively affects the functioning of healthcare systems. Health systems must be operationally prepared to handle the challenges posed by environmental change. Resilience is required to adapt quickly to critical environmental conditions and reduce carbon emissions. In this systematic review strategies, for health system preparedness and resilience are examined to address the impacts of climate change, and the barriers and challenges faced when implementing them. To identify studies, the Scopus, PubMed and Google Scholar databases were searched three times (from April to October 2024, 21 April, 15 June, and 9 September) for the years 2018 to 2024, using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) methodology. Specifically, the search identified 471 articles, of which the specified inclusion and exclusion criteria (secondary studies with inclusion criteria, being in English, etc.) were met by sixteen (16) studies. According to the findings of the studies reviewed, adaptation strategies focus on structural changes, the development of training programs, the development of surveillance systems, and appropriate operational plans. The leader's ability to motivate employees to achieve defined goals, continuous evaluation of goals and interventions, and learning from previous disasters play an important role in their implementation. Similarly, key policies and strategies for mitigation include the adoption of sustainable practices, such as recycling and cultural change. However, lack of resources (human, material, financial) and increased demand for health services make it difficult to implement adaptation and mitigation strategies. The findings of the review are mainly theoretical in nature and are confirmed by other studies. It is suggested that further research on resilience and preparedness of health systems should be pursued, leading to their sustainability and the formulation of appropriate policies.

Climate change and the sustainable use of medicinal plants: a call for "new" research strategies

Climate change and human activities severely impact the viability of plants and ecosystems, threatening the environment, biodiversity, and the sustainable development of plant-based products. Biotic and abiotic (ecosystem) determinants affect species distribution and long-term survival, which in turn influence the quality of plants used as herbal medicines and other high-value products. In recent decades, diverse anthropogenic impacts have significantly affected these quality aspects. Climate change, excessive plant exploitation, habitat loss, species vulnerability, and other factors have adversely affected the growth, reproduction, and adaptation of species populations, as well as the quality and volume of primary plant materials supplied to pharmaceutical markets. Despite these growing challenges, there is limited knowledge of potential strategies to prevent or mitigate these impacts, particularly for vulnerable species collected from the wild or harvested from traditional production systems. Hence, effective strategies for preserving and increasing plant populations are urgently needed. In this study, we propose a new framework including the main sustainability factors to better understand and address the vulnerability of a species, hence mitigate the impact of climate change. We assess the applicability of our proposed framework via seven case studies of vulnerable species (i.e., Aquilaria malaccensis Lam., Boswellia sacra Flück., Crocus sativus L., Panax quinquefolius L., Pilocarpus microphyllus Stapf ex Wardlew., Rhodiola rosea L., and Warburgia salutaris (G.Bertol.) Chiov.) from main biogeographic realms, all widely used as medicinal plants. These species present various challenges related to the sustainability of their use, impacting their current and future status locally and globally. Their economic importance, combined with rising demands and specific risks of overexploitation, are also key factors considered here. The suggested framework for the sustainability of medicinal and other high-value plant-based products in the phytopharmaceutical industry emphasises strategies that promote conservation and sustainable resource use. It can also be adapted for other vulnerable species requiring urgent attention.

Performance of regional water purification plants during extreme weather events: three case studies from New South Wales, Australia

Climate change is altering weather patterns, which affects water supply systems globally. More frequent extreme weather events like floods, droughts, and heatwaves are impacting the availability of raw water sources that supply cities. These events can lead to less water, higher demand, and potential infrastructure damage. Water agencies and utilities must develop resilient and adaptable systems to withstand shocks and stresses. Case studies demonstrating the impact of extreme weather on water quality are important for developing resilient water supply systems. This paper documents the challenges faced by regional New South Wales (NSW) in managing water quality and supply during extreme weather events. Effective treatment processes, such as ozone treatment and adsorption, are used to maintain drinking water standards during extreme weather. Water-efficient alternatives are provided, and critical water networks are inspected to identify leaks and reduce system demand. Local government areas must collaborate and share resources to ensure that towns can cope with future extreme weather events. Systematic investigation is needed to understand system capacity and identify surplus resources to be shared when demand cannot be met. Pooling resources could benefit regional towns experiencing both floods and droughts. With expected population growth in the area, regional NSW councils will require a significant increase in water filtration infrastructure to handle increased system loading. Continuous research, regular strategy reviews, and innovative approaches are essential to ensure a secure and reliable water supply during future extreme weather events.

Valuation of marine integrated disaster management amidst global warming in Southern Coast of Java, Indonesia

This research explores the valuation of integrated disaster management in the coastal regions of Southern Java, Indonesia, a locale increasingly threatened by the impacts of global warming, which exacerbates marine disasters such as earthquakes and tsunamis. Employing a choice experiment methodology, the study assesses the willingness to pay among local households for various strategies designed to enhance earthquake preparedness. Three distinct scenarios are examined, each reflecting varying levels of integration and sophistication: (1) Educational empowerment and localized alert integration, which emphasizes community education and rapid, self-directed evacuation practices tailored to the immediate onset of tsunamis following seismic events. This scenario advocates for the '20-20-20' rule, underscoring self-evacuation as the most dependable survival method; (2) Strategic evacuation enablement, focusing on the logistics of evacuation and infrastructure development to facilitate timely community response; and (3) Integrated marine disaster management, which merges educational, technological, logistical, and ecological elements into a comprehensive strategy.

Climate change-driven shifts in the global distribution of tomato and potato crops and their associated bacterial pathogens

Introduction

Climate change is increasingly affecting the global distribution and productivity of critical food crops, including Solanum lycopersicum (tomato) and Solanum tuberosum (potato). In particular, bacterial pathogens such as Clavibacter michiganensis and Ralstonia solanacearum are expected to shift their geographic ranges, posing new risks to these crops. This study hypothesizes that under future climate scenarios, the geographic overlap between these crops and their pathogens will increase in certain regions, leading to heightened agricultural risks, especially in areas currently considered safe from these pathogens.

Methods

To test our hypotheses, the objective was to evaluate the potential impact of climate change on the geographic distribution of two key food crops (tomato and potato) and their bacterial pathogens for the current time and by 2050. This study used four species distribution models (SDMs) to predict current and future habitat suitability for both tomato and potato crops, as well as their associated pathogens, under two shared socioeconomic pathways (SSP4.5 and SSP8.5) and four global circulation models (GCMs).

Results

The models projected significant poleward shifts in suitable habitats for tomatoes and potatoes, with notable expansions in higher-latitude regions such as Canada, northern Europe, and Russia, and contractions in current major production zones such as the United States (US), Brazil, parts of Africa, and China. For Clavibacter michiganensis, the overlap with tomatoes was substantial, whereas the overlap between potatoes and Ralstonia solanacearum was comparatively smaller.

Discussion

Our hypothesis was partially supported by the results. While the overall overlap between crop and pathogen habitats remains limited, the risk areas for both pathogens are expected to expand under future climate conditions in regions such as eastern Australia, Japan, Spain, and France. These findings underscore the importance of region-specific agricultural planning and pathogen management strategies to mitigate the risks posed by climate change. Future efforts should focus on vulnerable areas to prevent significant economic losses and ensure food security.

Shifting Herbal Knowledge: The Ecological and Cultural Dynamics Behind Plant Use Changes in the Southern Occitan Alps

This study examines changes in medicinal and wild food plant knowledge in the Alpine Southern Occitan area, focusing on temporal and cultural shifts. Drawing from ethnobotanical data from the Maira Valley (1970, 2022), Stura Valley (2004), and Grana Valley (2011), we explore dynamics in plant use and how they may have been generated by ecological, socio-economic, and cultural changes. A total of 308 plant taxa were recorded, with notable declines in Asteraceae and Lamiaceae utilizations by 2022, suggesting a remarkable erosion of traditional ecological knowledge (TEK). Conversely, the use of families like Brassicaceae and Amaranthaceae increased, possibly due to socio-economic factors. This study also found in recent years a decrease in medicinal plant uses and a greater reliance on food system-related plants. Logistic regression models highlighted altitude (600-1600 masl) as a key factor in plant diversity use, with older participants showing more diverse ethnobotanical knowledge. This study underscores the resilience and transformation of plant knowledge in response to socio-economic and environmental changes in the Alpine area.

Earth: An Oxidative Planet with Limited Atom Resources and Rich Chemistry

Humanity faces an unprecedented survival challenge: climate change, driven by the depletion of natural resources, excessive waste generation, and deforestation. Six out of nine planetary boundaries have been exceeded, signaling that Earth is far from a safe operating space for humanity. In this Viewpoint Article we explore three critical "atomic-molecular" challenges: Earth's limited atomic resources, its oxidative nature, and very rich chemistry. Addressing these requires a transformation in how we produce and consume, emphasizing sustainable practices aligned with the United Nations' 17 goals. The advancement of science and technology has extended human life expectancy and improved quality of life. However, to ensure a sustainable future, we must move towards less oxidative chemical processes, incorporate CH4-CO2 redox chemistry into the circular economy, and transition from a linear, fossil fuel-dependent economy to a circular bioeconomy. Reforestation and the recovery of degraded lands are essential, alongside the shift towards green and sustainable chemistry. Earth's dynamic chemistry is governed by the principles of thermodynamics and kinetics, but science alone is insufficient. Achieving global sustainability requires coordinated economic, political, and social decisions that recognize Earth's limited resources and oxidative nature. Together, these efforts will position humanity to meet the challenges of climate change and secure a sustainable future.

Harnessing technological innovation and renewable energy and their impact on environmental pollution in G-20 countries

Climate change and environmental degradation are critical global challenges, and the G-20 nations play a pivotal role in addressing these issues due to their substantial contributions to global GDP and carbon emissions. Transitioning toward renewable energy sources is imperative for mitigating CO2 emissions and achieving sustainable development. This study investigates the impact of technological innovation, gross domestic product (GDP), renewable energy consumption, economic freedom, and financial advancement on renewable energy use and environmental pollution levels in G-20 countries from 1995 to 2022. Utilizing the PMG-ARDL dynamic panel method, the research analyzes both long-term and short-term relationships among the variables. The findings reveal that technological innovation significantly boosts renewable energy adoption, with a 1% increase in technological innovation leading to a 0.33% rise in renewable energy use in the long run and a 0.17% increase in the short run. Additionally, increased renewable energy consumption is strongly associated with reductions in CO2 emissions, highlighting its critical role in promoting environmental sustainability. The study emphasizes the importance of policies designed to enhance technological innovation to foster renewable energy usage and reduce environmental pollution. It recommends expanding and reforming the technological sector to align international and local resources with renewable energy initiatives, providing a workable framework for supporting the green growth of institutions and achieving a more sustainable future for G-20 nations. This research contributes to understanding the intricate dynamics of renewable energy transitions, offering actionable insights for policymakers and stakeholders in addressing global environmental challenges.

Quantifying sustainable urbanization by predictive modeling for better agricultural management: A case study in the South Asiatic Region

Global population growth and uncontrolled are creating threats to agricultural land. To address urbanization, proactive planning is required. Land use and land cover (LULC) classification maps for 2002-2022 were analyzed using remote sensing (RS) and geographic information systems (GIS) in Sahiwal, Punjab, Pakistan. Idrisi's Cellular Automata (CA)-Markov model was used to predict future scenarios. The results showed that urbanization was rapidly accelerated in large LULC changes that were unpredictable. In particular, the urbanized area increased by 234.7 km2 (91 %) from 22.83 km2 in 2002 to 257.53 km2 in 2022, with a reduction of 656.05 km2 (52 %), from 1252.52 km2 in 2002 to 596.47 km2 in 2022, of agriculture land. About 17.05 km2 of land was lost to urbanization; however, a large portion of CA 251.75 km2 was absorbed due to careless urban growth. The CA-Markov projection revealed that from 2022 to 2042, agriculture will experience the largest net change, losing about -226.09 km2 of land. However, the projected results showed that the urban class will be expanded up to 450.23 km2 and will gain approximately 192.7 km2 in 2042. The overall findings show that it is possible to manage outcomes quantitatively and control haphazard and unplanned urban sprawl by putting forward a comprehensive master plan.

Seven critical challenges in synthetic one-carbon assimilation and their potential solutions

Synthetic C1 assimilation holds the promise of facilitating carbon capture while mitigating greenhouse gas emissions, yet practical implementation in microbial hosts remains relatively limited. Despite substantial progress in pathway design and prototyping, most efforts stay at the proof-of-concept stage, with frequent failures observed even under in vitro conditions. This review identifies seven major barriers constraining the deployment of synthetic C1 metabolism in microorganisms and proposes targeted strategies for overcoming these issues. A primary limitation is the low catalytic activity of carbon-fixing enzymes, particularly carboxylases, which restricts the overall pathway performance. In parallel, challenges in expressing multiple heterologous genes-especially those encoding metal-dependent or oxygen-sensitive enzymes-further hinder pathway functionality. At the systems level, synthetic C1 pathways often exhibit poor flux distribution, limited integration with the host metabolism, accumulation of toxic intermediates, and disruptions in redox and energy balance. These factors collectively reduce biomass formation and compromise product yields in biotechnological setups. Overcoming these interconnected challenges is essential for moving synthetic C1 assimilation beyond conceptual stages and enabling its application in scalable, efficient bioprocesses towards a circular bioeconomy.

Factors Regulating the Potential for Freshwater Mineral Soil Wetlands to Function as Natural Climate Solutions

There are increasing global efforts and initiatives aiming to tackle climate change and mitigate its impacts via natural climate solutions (NCS). Wetlands have been considered effective NCS given their capacity to sequester and retain atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) while also providing a myriad of other ecosystem functions that can assist in mitigating the impacts of climate change. However, wetlands have a dual impact on climate, influencing the atmospheric concentrations of both CO2 and methane (CH4). The cooling effect associated with wetland CO2 sequestration can be counterbalanced by the warming effect caused by CH4 emissions from wetlands. The relative ability of wetlands to sequester CO2 versus emit CH4 is dependent on a suite of interacting physical, chemical, and biological factors, making it difficult to determine if/which wetlands are considered important NCS. The fact that wetlands are embedded in landscapes with surface and subsurface hydrological connections to other wetlands (i.e., wetlandscapes) that flow over and through geochemically active soils and sediments adds a new layer of complexity and poses further challenges to understanding wetland carbon sequestration and greenhouse gas fluxes at large spatial scales. Our review demonstrates how additional scientific advances are required to understand the driving mechanisms associated with wetland carbon cycling under different environmental conditions. It is vital to understand wetland functionality at both wetland and wetlandscape scales to effectively implement wetlands as NCS to maximize ecological, social, and economic benefits.

Changes in Antioxidant and Photosynthetic Capacity in Rice Under Different Substrates

Against the backdrop of a changing global climate, the soil environment may undergo significant changes, directly affecting agricultural productivity and exacerbating global food security issues. Three different substrates were set up in this study, namely, S (high sand and low nutrient content), T (medium sand and medium nutrient content), and TT (low sand and high nutrient content). The results showed that the root/shoot ratio increased as the sand content increased (nutrient content decreased). Rice in different substrates had various degrees of dependence on antioxidant enzymes and antioxidants. For example, seedlings in TT treatment may depend more on ascorbic acid (AsA) compared to T. In addition, compared with S and T, the photosynthetic activity of rice in the optimized substrate (TT) was the highest; the net photosynthetic rate (Pn) of TT seedlings was significantly higher than that of T. This study also detected that the change in substrates affected the gas exchange parameters of rice leaves. The transpiration rate (Tr) and stomatal conductance (Gs) of the TT treatment were higher than those of the T treatment. The results of this study may provide a scientific basis for formulating agricultural management strategies.

Old Plants for New Food Products? The Diachronic Human Ecology of Wild Herbs in the Western Alps

This ethnobotanical study examines the traditional knowledge and usage patterns of wild plants in the western Alps, specifically within the Ubaye and Bellino Valleys, through a comparative analysis of data collected from 1983 (published in 1990) to 2024. Our study aims to assess the change in plant usage, species diversity, and the changing roles of plants in local traditions in the western Alpine mountain ecosystems. While the 1983 survey documented medicinal uses centered around pastoralist practices, the 2024 data highlight a notable increase in the use of synanthropic plants, now utilized both medicinally and as food. Several species such as Allium sativum, Artemisia absinthium, and Urtica dioica have shown resilience and continuity in local cultural practices, maintaining medicinal, culinary, and ritual significance across the four decades. The 1983 survey documented the greatest variety of species (101), a number that decreased in subsequent studies. The 2009 survey identified 36 species not previously recorded in 1983, and the 2024 field study noted an additional 20 species. The study highlights the economic potential of several wild species in these alpine areas, such as Achillea, Artemisia, Verbascum, Veronica, Viola, Polygonum, Bunium, and Sorbus spp., which could be utilized for creating new herbal teas, artisanal beers, liqueurs, ice creams, sweets, and seasoned food products. Expanding the uses of these plants could not only preserve ethnobotanical knowledge but also stimulate local economies and support sustainable development in alpine communities. The documented temporal shifts in plant usage reflect broader cultural, ecological, and socio-economic changes, underscoring the importance of preserving biodiversity and traditional knowledge amidst ongoing environmental and societal shifts. This study underlines the need to conserve ethnobotanical heritage while adapting to the evolving landscape of the region. Future research could focus on exploring the role of these species in broader sustainability initiatives, including conservation strategies, ecosystem services, and community-based tourism while continuing to document the cultural dynamics influencing plant usage.

Examining the associations between emotionally charged reactions toward climate change and self-care, quality of life among older adults, coping mechanisms, and pro-environmental practices

AIM

To examine the associations between emotionally charged reactions to climate change, self-care, quality of life among older adults, coping mechanisms, and pro-environmental practices.

BACKGROUND

Older adults often face unique challenges in coping with climate change and its detrimental effect on self-care and quality of life. They may be particularly vulnerable to this pressing global issue.

METHOD

A multi-center, descriptive, correlational approach from three governorates in Egypt. A convenience sample of 609 older adults answered the Inventory of Climate Emotions, the Older People's Quality of Life-Brief, the Self-care Ability Scale for the Elderly, the Pro-Environmental Practices Assessment, and the Coping Scale with Climate Change.

RESULTS

The overall emotionally charged reactions to the idea of climate change showed a negative correlation with both the older adults' QoL total score (r = -.762) and the Self-care Ability Scale (r = -.775), yet a positive correlation with Pro-environmental Practices (r = .692) and Coping Strategies (r = .992). The regression analyses revealed that emotions explain a substantial variance in the older adult's quality of life (85.6%) and self-care (79.7%), as well as their pro-environmental actions (72%) and coping strategies (38.8%).

RECOMMENDATIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

The research underscores climate change's significant emotional and psychological ramifications on older adults, yielding valuable insights for geriatric nursing practice. The findings can facilitate the development of precise interventions to promote self-care, bolster coping strategies, and advocate for pro-environmental conduct among older adults. Understanding these associations can contribute to the enhancement of quality of life and the fortification of resilience. The research implications may offer pivotal guidance for geriatric nursing education, clinical protocols, and community initiatives dedicated to fortifying older adults' mental well-being, contending with the repercussions of climate change.

Research on the sustainable design strategies of vernacular architecture in Southwest Hubei-A case study of the First Granary of Xuan'en County

Vernacular architecture, optimized over centuries to create comfortable thermal environments using sustainable design strategies and local materials, can offer valuable insights for contemporary eco-friendly architectural design. This research investigates the sustainable design strategies of vernacular architecture in southwest Hubei, focusing on the First Granary of Xuan'en County as a representative case study. Through field investigations of indoor environments, this study explores how traditional architectural practices have addressed the region's complex mountainous terrain and hot, humid climate. Major sustainable design strategies include rational site selection and layout adapted to the terrain, building forms and spatial organizations tailored to the environmental conditions, and the use of a "double-skin" envelope structure to enhance thermal insulation and ventilation. The results demonstrate that the average temperature of the grain depot does not exceed 25°C without active means, meeting the quasi-low temperature storage standard. Through comprehensive field research and analysis, this study demonstrates how these traditional design strategies not only improve indoor thermal comfort and energy efficiency but also align with local economic levels and modern living requirements. By leveraging passive design techniques rooted in local cultural and environmental contexts, this research provides a framework for integrating these strategies into contemporary sustainable architecture.

Role of climate change in economic uncertainty of Pakistan: New approach with qualitative comparative analysis

Globally, the effects of climate change are becoming more pronounced. Simultaneously, concerns associated with climate change effects have garnered widespread attention. The motive of this study is to know about the prominent antecedents of climate abnormalities in Pakistan, which may lead to economic abnormality and instability. The core objectives of this research are to: identify the abrupt changes in the climate of Pakistan, know about the level of disruption towards economic conditions due to climate change, detect the aggregate consequences of climate change on the economy of Pakistan, and finally take steps to hedge the abnormalities resulting from the abnormal climate changes. The accomplices employed qualitative methods to gather information. Fuzzy set Qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) and semi-organized talks to thoroughly separate each plaintiff's extensive knowledge and opinions. For this study, a sample of 30 experienced economic analysts and climate change experts from Pakistan were chosen. The study's findings verified that several important antecedents, including the nature of climate change abnormalities, are identified in the research. This study explored methods to address these abnormalities and was conducted with professional guidance to meet sustainable development goals related to climate change. Scholars and experts are advised to adopt more systematic approaches to mitigate the risks due to the complex and variable combination situations that led to the climate change risks in Pakistan and the surrounding area.

Identifying key monitoring areas for tree insect pest risks in China under climate change

Climate change can exacerbate pest population growth, posing significant threats to ecosystem functions and services, social development, and food security. Risk assessment is a valuable tool for effective pest management that identifies potential pest expansion and ecosystem dispersal patterns. We applied a habitat suitability model coupled with priority protection planning software to determine key monitoring areas (KMA) for tree insect pest risks under climate change and used forest ecoregions and nature reserves to assess the ecological risk of insect pest invasion. Finally, we collated the prevention and control measures for reducing future pest invasions. The KMA for tree insect pests in our current and future climate is mainly concentrated in eastern and southern China. However, with climate change, the KMA gradually expands from southeastern to northeastern China. In the current and future climate scenarios, ecoregions requiring high monitoring levels were restricted to the eastern and southern coastal areas of China, and nature reserves requiring the highest monitoring levels were mainly distributed in southeastern China. Tree insect pest invasion assessment using ecoregions and nature reserves identified that future climates increase the risk of pest invasions in forest ecoregions and nature reserves, especially in northeastern China. The increased risk and severity of tree insect pest invasions require implementing monitoring and preventative measures in these areas. We effectively assessed the pest invasion risks using forest ecoregions and nature reserves under climate change. Our assessments suggest that monitoring and early prevention should focus on southeastern and northeastern China.