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Search Results (2,153)

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Keywords = community-based governance

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23 pages, 2858 KiB  
Article
Towards an Explicit Understanding of Network Governance in Urban Forestry Management: A Case Study of Portland (OR), USA
by Quadri Olatunbosun Taiwo and Vivek Shandas
Sustainability 2025, 17(9), 4028; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17094028 - 29 Apr 2025
Viewed by 251
Abstract
As the climate continues to warm, and municipal leaders look for cost-effective and timely approaches to urban sustainability, one increasingly sought-out approach is the use of tree canopy to cool neighborhoods. Despite widespread efforts to expand tree canopy in cities, an overwhelming body [...] Read more.
As the climate continues to warm, and municipal leaders look for cost-effective and timely approaches to urban sustainability, one increasingly sought-out approach is the use of tree canopy to cool neighborhoods. Despite widespread efforts to expand tree canopy in cities, an overwhelming body of evidence suggests that urban green space is declining across the U.S., yet little is known about the factors that propel these changes. Understanding the institutional and governance systems can help identify the opportunities for slow consistent declines. Using social network analysis (SNA) metrics, we examined stakeholder roles in power structures and decision-making processes within Portland, Oregon’s urban forest management. Our results reveal a highly decentralized urban forestry network (density = 0.0079), with weak cohesion (5.4%) among 162 stakeholders. Moving forward, while network governance may face obstacles from conflicting interests among community and interagency groups, transforming governance models at all levels will require developing periodic, collaborative urban forestry management plans to address nature-based planning challenges. These planning documents should strongly emphasize not only the prioritization of tree equity-related ordinances but also the optimization of eco-literacy and awareness through virtual reality (VR) technology. As a novel approach, immersive simulations demonstrate practical potential for showcasing urban forestry benefits in network governance outreach and consensus-building. Full article
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19 pages, 689 KiB  
Review
From Sustainability to Regeneration: A Systems Approach to Mountain Forestscape Restoration
by Andrea Majlingova
Sustainability 2025, 17(9), 4001; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17094001 - 29 Apr 2025
Viewed by 150
Abstract
Mountain forestscapes are among the planet’s most vital socio-ecological systems, functioning as critical reservoirs of biodiversity, regulators of climate, and essential sources of water and livelihood for surrounding and downstream communities. However, these landscapes face intensifying threats from climate change, land-use transformation, resource [...] Read more.
Mountain forestscapes are among the planet’s most vital socio-ecological systems, functioning as critical reservoirs of biodiversity, regulators of climate, and essential sources of water and livelihood for surrounding and downstream communities. However, these landscapes face intensifying threats from climate change, land-use transformation, resource extraction, unsustainable tourism, and fragmented governance. While sustainable forest management has provided essential frameworks for conservation, its focus on maintaining existing conditions is increasingly insufficient amid accelerating ecological and social decline. This paper explores the conceptual and practical evolution from sustainability to regeneration in mountain forest management, distinguishing between the theoretical foundations of each paradigm and analyzing the key drivers of degradation across diverse biocultural regions. Methodologically, the study employs a transdisciplinary and qualitative design, integrating critical literature synthesis, comparative regional analysis, and Indigenous and local knowledge systems. A structured review of 72 peer-reviewed sources and ethnographic materials was conducted, combined with a qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) of mountain case studies from the Alps, Carpathians, Andes, Eastern Arc Mountains, and Himalayas. The study synthesizes regenerative strategies such as ecological connectivity restoration, agroecological landscape design, participatory watershed management, and adaptive, polycentric governance. Based on these insights, an integrated framework for regenerative mountain forestscape management is proposed, aligned with global policy agendas including the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, nature-based solutions (NbS), and the post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework. By prioritizing ecological renewal, cultural continuity, and community agency, this work contributes to transformative, place-based approaches that restore the functionality, resilience, and integrity of mountain landscapes. Full article
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36 pages, 2648 KiB  
Article
Research on Climate Change Initiatives in Nigeria: Identifying Trends, Themes and Future Directions
by Chukwuebuka C. Okafor, Christian N. Madu, Adaobi V. Nwoye, Chinelo A. Nzekwe, Festus A. Otunomo and Charles C. Ajaero
Sustainability 2025, 17(9), 3995; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17093995 - 29 Apr 2025
Viewed by 243
Abstract
Nigeria is among the countries highly vulnerable to climate change impact. Thus, there has been growing emphasis on the pursuit of decarbonization and net-zero (net-zero transition) strategies. The aim of this work is to review major concepts in research publications associated with climate [...] Read more.
Nigeria is among the countries highly vulnerable to climate change impact. Thus, there has been growing emphasis on the pursuit of decarbonization and net-zero (net-zero transition) strategies. The aim of this work is to review major concepts in research publications associated with climate change mitigation in Nigeria. The literature search was conducted on the Scopus database using relevant keyword operators. Mixed methods were adopted to conduct bibliometric, text mining and content analysis. Bibliometric software (VOSviewer) was used. The research objectives were to identify how net-zero transition research has evolved in Nigeria; their important research themes and trends in Nigeria, and potential directions for future research on achieving them in Nigeria. The results show that the number of publications in the field has been increasing, with 87% of the articles included in the dataset published between 2016 and 2024. Through data clustering, eight clusters of articles were identified, namely (i) the renewable energy, economic growth and emission reduction nexus (ii) energy transition in the Nigerian power system, (iii) policy drivers (socio-technical and economic) for a cleaner energy system, (iv) energy transition governance, (v) hybrid renewable energy systems, (vi) low-carbon transition, (vii) energy efficiency and low-carbon growth and others. By checking through the keywords used by authors, it appears that the most popular keywords are carbon neutrality, hydrogen, biomass, circular economy, and electric vehicles. These keywords further highlight areas of research interests. Some of the potential future directions identified include the need for effective research communication and strong cooperation between academia and relevant CC policy-making bodies to translate scientific research into evidence-based policies and actionable frameworks; tiered subsidies or tax rebates to low-income households to promote CC mitigating technologies and align CC objectives with social equity; and others. Although this work focuses solely on Nigeria, the country shares similar characteristics with many sub-Saharan African countries, and some others in the global South. Accordingly, the findings will be relevant to those areas, with some unique adaptations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Energy Sustainability)
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14 pages, 998 KiB  
Article
Developing an Umbrella Brand for Cross-Border Maritime Destinations: A Case Study of Baltic Sustainable Boating
by Marta Czarnecka-Gallas, Liisi Lees and Jonne Kotta
Sustainability 2025, 17(9), 3978; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17093978 - 28 Apr 2025
Viewed by 197
Abstract
The article explores the development of Baltic Sustainable Boating 2030 (BSB2030), a cross-border destination brand for the Baltic Sea Region. Based on stakeholder engagement from 2022–2024, including a branding workshop and preliminary market testing at BOOT Düsseldorf 2024, the study highlights how shared [...] Read more.
The article explores the development of Baltic Sustainable Boating 2030 (BSB2030), a cross-border destination brand for the Baltic Sea Region. Based on stakeholder engagement from 2022–2024, including a branding workshop and preliminary market testing at BOOT Düsseldorf 2024, the study highlights how shared maritime identity and sustainability values can support transnational branding. The findings show that multi-level stakeholder involvement and values-based narratives strengthen regional appeal, yet the brand still lacks emotional resonance, clear messaging, and coherent governance. While BSB2030 successfully promotes eco-consciousness, regional diversity, and accessibility, it faces challenges related to long-term strategy, financing, and cross-border communication. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Oceans)
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21 pages, 747 KiB  
Article
Exploring Antecedents of Rural Users’ Continuance of Use Intention Toward Mobile Financial Services in Bangladesh: Deployment of Expectation Confirmation Model
by Md. Benzeer Rizvee, Md. Nur Alam Siddik and Sajal Kabiraj
J. Risk Financial Manag. 2025, 18(5), 236; https://doi.org/10.3390/jrfm18050236 - 27 Apr 2025
Viewed by 752
Abstract
Numerous studies have focused on the phases of technology adoption or acceptance, while little consideration has been given to rural users’ intentions to continue using the technology. Emphasizing this reality, the study has investigated the antecedents that exert ascendancy on rural communities’ inclination [...] Read more.
Numerous studies have focused on the phases of technology adoption or acceptance, while little consideration has been given to rural users’ intentions to continue using the technology. Emphasizing this reality, the study has investigated the antecedents that exert ascendancy on rural communities’ inclination to continue using mobile financial services. This paper conceived the theoretical model based on the expectation confirmation model. Participants in this study were 400 Bangladeshi rural users who were continuously using mobile financial services. For the sake of data analysis, utilizing a structural equation modeling approach, R version 4.4.1 software was deployed. The robust findings show that users’ satisfaction with mobile financial services was significantly influenced by perceived value, perceived risk, perceived cost, government support, and perceived trust. Furthermore, satisfaction demonstrated a substantial and positive influence on the continuance of use intention. Theoretically, the study expands on ECM by adapting the concept to the technological and socioeconomic realities of rural Bangladeshi users, developing digital financial inclusion by investigating the crucial antecedents of satisfaction toward continuance of use intention through evaluation. Practically, service providers may yield strategies to increase the users’ satisfaction, which will escalate continuous use intention. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Financial Technology (Fintech) and Sustainable Financing, 3rd Edition)
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36 pages, 5902 KiB  
Review
Arctic Warming: Cascading Climate Impacts and Global Consequences
by Ishfaq Hussain Malik, Rayees Ahmed, James D. Ford and Abdur Rahim Hamidi
Climate 2025, 13(5), 85; https://doi.org/10.3390/cli13050085 (registering DOI) - 27 Apr 2025
Viewed by 297
Abstract
The Arctic is undergoing unprecedented transformations with implications for regional ecosystems, Indigenous communities, and global climate systems. Ocean heat transport, permafrost thawing, and ice–albedo interactions are some of the feedback mechanisms that contribute to the increase in average temperatures in the Arctic. These [...] Read more.
The Arctic is undergoing unprecedented transformations with implications for regional ecosystems, Indigenous communities, and global climate systems. Ocean heat transport, permafrost thawing, and ice–albedo interactions are some of the feedback mechanisms that contribute to the increase in average temperatures in the Arctic. These processes increase the risks associated with climate change globally by speeding up the loss of sea ice, changes in biodiversity, and greenhouse gas emissions. This review synthesises recent advances in Arctic climate science, focusing on the drivers and feedback mechanisms of Arctic amplification, its cascading impacts on ecosystems and socioeconomic systems, and emerging governance challenges. It highlights critical knowledge gaps, specifically regarding the importance of Indigenous knowledge and interdisciplinary approaches in climate adaptation strategies. This study emphasises the need for inclusive, transformative, and collaborative approaches by analysing governance frameworks, climate policies, and community resilience initiatives. Innovative adaptation strategies are suggested, such as ecosystem-based adaptations, climate-resilient infrastructure, and the switch to renewable energy to address these issues. Arctic-specific governance recommendations are proposed to develop sustainable solutions that preserve its ecology while reducing its global effects by filling research gaps and promoting international collaboration. The future of the Arctic is not merely a regional issue but also a global one, requiring swift and coordinated action to address climate challenges. Full article
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23 pages, 17721 KiB  
Article
The Sustainable Development Path of Ecological Treatment Technology for Rural Sewage: A Bibliometric Perspective
by Yingying Kou, Fan Liu, Tianyi Li, Chenling Yan, Jinggang Wang, Chen Wang and Donghai Yuan
Water 2025, 17(9), 1299; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17091299 - 27 Apr 2025
Viewed by 148
Abstract
Due to the promotion of sustainable development goals and rapid economic development, the problem of rural sewage treatment is becoming increasingly severe. In order to understand the research hotspots, progress, and trends of ecological treatment technology for rural sewage at home and abroad, [...] Read more.
Due to the promotion of sustainable development goals and rapid economic development, the problem of rural sewage treatment is becoming increasingly severe. In order to understand the research hotspots, progress, and trends of ecological treatment technology for rural sewage at home and abroad, this article analyzes relevant literature published between 2000 and 2023 based on the core collection databases of China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and Web of Science (WOS) using VOSviewer and CiteSpace visualization software. The research results indicate a continuous increase in attention to ecological treatment technologies for rural sewage, both domestically and internationally. Although China started relatively late in this field, it has developed rapidly. “China Water & Wastewater” has had a significant impact in related fields domestically, and a top-tier journal has not yet been founded by China internationally. The collaboration between research authors and institutions is evident, with CNKI focusing on exploring specific governance technologies, while WOS pays more attention to the overall governance framework and critical technologies. The research hotspots of ecological treatment technology for future village and town sewage include specific treatment technologies, treatment efficiency, overall treatment strategies, and environmental impact assessments. At the same time, cross-regional and cross-border cooperation should be strengthened, interdisciplinary collaboration should be promoted, open cooperation platforms should be established, diversified publishing channels should be supported, and research on microbial communities and non-point source pollution should be deepened. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Urban Water Management)
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22 pages, 3380 KiB  
Article
Exploring the Urban Greening Community in Jakarta’s Urban Kampung: A Tactical Urbanism Perspective
by Husnul Fitri and Annisa Ananda Sari
Sustainability 2025, 17(9), 3904; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17093904 - 26 Apr 2025
Viewed by 286
Abstract
This study examines the urban greening community movement through the lens of tactical urbanism as a community-based urban planning model. Tactical urbanism, gaining traction as both a response and an alternative to urban challenges, is defined by active community participation. This approach challenges [...] Read more.
This study examines the urban greening community movement through the lens of tactical urbanism as a community-based urban planning model. Tactical urbanism, gaining traction as both a response and an alternative to urban challenges, is defined by active community participation. This approach challenges traditional top-down planning by offering swift, adaptive, and creative solutions tailored to community needs. By fostering participatory planning, tactical urbanism enhances collective awareness and empowers communities to drive development and address urban issues. The emphasis on grassroots involvement ensures a more inclusive and effective planning process. Despite its potential, tactical urbanism remains under explored within Indonesia’s planning framework. This study analyzes the tactical urbanism process in urban greening communities in Jakarta’s urban kampung, exploring whether tactical urbanism serves as a steppingstone to achieving more strategic long-term goals and examining the role of stakeholders outside the community in this process. In-depth interviews with key members of three urban greening communities and thematic data analysis reveal several key findings: the greening movement is primarily driven by personal initiatives; the formalization of community structures plays a crucial role; government and private sector involvement influences the process of maintaining urban greening community’s needs; empowerment and behavioral changes occur within the community; and organizational sustainability remains a key challenge. Based on the findings, it proposes an “organic tactical urbanism” framework as a practical guide for addressing urban challenges in various contexts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Urban and Rural Development)
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20 pages, 3718 KiB  
Article
Mapping Infodemic Responses: A Geospatial Analysis of COVID-19 Discourse on Twitter in Italy
by Gabriela Fernandez, Siddharth Suresh-Babu and Domenico Vito
Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2025, 22(5), 668; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph22050668 - 24 Apr 2025
Viewed by 265
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic intensified concerns about misinformation, sparking interest in the field of infodemiology, which examines the spread and impact of information on public health perceptions. This research examines how geographic location influenced COVID-19 discourse across 10 Italian cities by analyzing geographically tagged [...] Read more.
The COVID-19 pandemic intensified concerns about misinformation, sparking interest in the field of infodemiology, which examines the spread and impact of information on public health perceptions. This research examines how geographic location influenced COVID-19 discourse across 10 Italian cities by analyzing geographically tagged Twitter data. Our network analysis of 4792 high-degree nodes identifies key information spreaders and community structures, while spatiotemporal mapping reveals regional variations in information patterns and influential narratives. Results demonstrate significant geographic and cultural influences on public discourse. In Milan and Rome, economic and political narratives dominated, suggesting targeted messaging about economic recovery and government transparency. Southern regions like Naples require trust-building through community-led initiatives addressing cultural health beliefs. The study identified a clear dichotomy among influencers: established public figures provided evidence-based information, while another group cultivated followings through conspiracy theories, creating echo chambers for skeptical views. This research informs strategies for location-specific information campaigns, helping public health agencies combat misinformation more effectively. Findings emphasize the need for context-specific interventions that consider geographic, cultural, and socioeconomic factors to enhance community resilience during health emergencies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Climate Change and Medical Responses)
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16 pages, 2707 KiB  
Article
Exploring Doping Awareness: Medical Experts’ Perspectives and Their Commitment to Doping Prevention
by Vanya Rangelov Kozhuharov, Radiana Staynova, Kalin Ivanov, Hristo Manev and Stanislava Ivanova
Pharmacy 2025, 13(3), 59; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmacy13030059 - 24 Apr 2025
Viewed by 233
Abstract
Humanity has used and explored various performance-enhancing remedies since ancient times. To protect clean sport, athletes’ health, and to provide fair and transparent competitions, different anti-doping policies were implemented. Nowadays, the anti-doping policies are evolving every year and are governed by the World [...] Read more.
Humanity has used and explored various performance-enhancing remedies since ancient times. To protect clean sport, athletes’ health, and to provide fair and transparent competitions, different anti-doping policies were implemented. Nowadays, the anti-doping policies are evolving every year and are governed by the World Anti-Doping Agency. The use of doping in sports is regarded as a persistent problem across various athletic disciplines; at the same time, the topic of whether doping is preventable is highly discussed. The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge of medical specialists about doping compounds and to analyze their willingness and preparedness to participate in doping prevention programs. A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted between March 2024 and May 2024. Study participants included medical and pharmacy students, pharmacists, and medical doctors. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 24.0. Descriptive statistics, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and independent-samples t-test were applied to analyze different variables. The results from the study suggested that healthcare professionals, particularly pharmacists, could be successfully engaged in doping prevention. Additionally, community pharmacies could also be involved in doping-prevention strategies since they are recognized as easily accessible healthcare locations. The relationship between medical specialists and professional athletes is essential for raising awareness, receiving trustworthy information, and developing decision-making capability to prevent not only the intentional but also the unintentional anti-doping rule violations. Full article
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14 pages, 220 KiB  
Article
Beyond Crisis Response: A Roundtable on Long-Term Strategies for Managing African Swine Fever
by Lisa Rogoll, Katja Schulz, Jana Schulz, Jonas Brock and Hans-Hermann Thulke
Viruses 2025, 17(5), 604; https://doi.org/10.3390/v17050604 - 23 Apr 2025
Viewed by 188
Abstract
Today, African swine fever (ASF) continues to spread in European wild boar populations, while existing management strategies respond to an animal health emergency. The current disease scenario, characterised by constant re-emergence and persistence of infection, poses a fundamental social problem for the future [...] Read more.
Today, African swine fever (ASF) continues to spread in European wild boar populations, while existing management strategies respond to an animal health emergency. The current disease scenario, characterised by constant re-emergence and persistence of infection, poses a fundamental social problem for the future of ASF policy in the affected regions. A World Café workshop was organised with veterinary epidemiology experts from practice, academia and governance. The aim was to explore the problems caused by ASF in Germany for the various stakeholders and to gather perspectives for the long-term management of ASF. The panel of experts linked the unintended extension of the animal health emergency concept to the tensions between the various stakeholders and the risk of system fatigue. Sustainable management approaches need to balance rapid response to outbreaks with long-term management efforts. The experts emphasised the importance of risk-based strategies, stakeholder involvement and evidence-based policies in ASF management. The expert panel also highlighted the need for transparent communication to increase public trust and acceptance. The need for more flexible approaches requires a more open discussion about the intractable challenges posed by the long-term presence of ASF, the adequacy of existing regulations and possible visions for the future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection African Swine Fever Virus (ASFV))
27 pages, 395 KiB  
Article
Determinants of Value-Added Tax Revenue Transfers in Municipalities of Emerging Economies
by Brahim Abidar, Slimane Ed-Dafali and Miloudi Kobiyh
Economies 2025, 13(5), 117; https://doi.org/10.3390/economies13050117 - 23 Apr 2025
Viewed by 223
Abstract
This paper aims to test the hypothesis of the existence of significant tax competition between communes, which mainly concerns the share of value-added tax (VAT) proceeds, by exploring the system for allocating intergovernmental transfers in Morocco and analyzing the determinants of VAT transfers [...] Read more.
This paper aims to test the hypothesis of the existence of significant tax competition between communes, which mainly concerns the share of value-added tax (VAT) proceeds, by exploring the system for allocating intergovernmental transfers in Morocco and analyzing the determinants of VAT transfers to local authorities. It contributes to fiscal federalism by assessing the design of the decentralized system and intergovernmental transfers. It aims to explore and understand the variables determining decentralization in Moroccan Municipalities over the period 2014–2018, based on institutional, budgetary, and political justifications, as well as their influence on local tax efficiency, highlighting the importance of intergovernmental transfers and their impacts on local government autonomy. We find that VAT revenue transfer antecedents include factors such as public expenditure, fiscal potential, tax effort, and political alignment. The results of this study can help better understand the relationship between VAT and economic variables and guide government tax policies in an emerging economy. This paper offers original perspectives on the importance of an informed vision for government decision-makers to develop effective tax policies considering stringent local budget constraints, the need for VAT revenue autonomy across levels of government, and the need for meeting the redistributive goals of the current VAT system. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Economic Growth, Corruption, and Financial Development)
14 pages, 4291 KiB  
Article
Host Lifeform Shapes Phyllospheric Microbiome Assembly in Mountain Lake: Deterministic Selection and Stochastic Colonization Dynamics
by Qishan Xue, Jinxian Liu, Yirui Cao and Yuqi Wei
Microorganisms 2025, 13(5), 960; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms13050960 - 23 Apr 2025
Viewed by 213
Abstract
The phyllosphere microbiome of aquatic macrophytes constitutes an integral component of freshwater ecosystems, serving crucial functions in global biogeochemical cycling and anthropogenic pollutant remediation. In this study, we examined the assembly mechanisms of epiphytic bacterial communities across four phylogenetically diverse macrophyte species ( [...] Read more.
The phyllosphere microbiome of aquatic macrophytes constitutes an integral component of freshwater ecosystems, serving crucial functions in global biogeochemical cycling and anthropogenic pollutant remediation. In this study, we examined the assembly mechanisms of epiphytic bacterial communities across four phylogenetically diverse macrophyte species (Scirpus validus, Hippuris vulgaris, Nymphoides peltatum, and Myriophyllum spicatum) inhabiting Ningwu Mayinghai Lake (38.87° N, 112.20° E), a vulnerable subalpine freshwater system in Shanxi Province, China. Through 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing, we demonstrate marked phyllospheric microbiome divergence, as follows: Gammaproteobacteria dominated S. validus, H. vulgaris and N. peltatum, while Alphaproteobacteria dominated in M. spicatum. The nitrate, nitrite, and pH value of water bodies and the chlorophyll, leaf nitrogen, and carbon contents of plant leaves are the main driving forces affecting the changes in the β-diversity of epiphytic bacterial communities of four plant species. The partitioning of assembly processes revealed that deterministic dominance governed S. validus and M. spicatum, where niche-based selection contributed 67.5% and 100% to community assembly, respectively. Conversely, stochastic processes explained 100% of the variability in H. vulgaris and N. peltatum microbiomes, predominantly mediated by dispersal limitation and ecological drift. This investigation advances the understanding of microbial community structural dynamics and diversity stabilization strategies in aquatic macrophyte-associated microbiomes, while establishing conceptual frameworks between plant–microbe symbiosis and the ecological homeostasis mechanisms within vulnerable subalpine freshwater ecosystems. The empirical references derived from these findings offer novel perspectives for developing conservation strategies aimed at sustaining biodiversity equilibrium in high-altitude lake habitats, particularly in the climatically sensitive regions of north-central China. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Microbe Interactions)
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44 pages, 13698 KiB  
Article
Leveraging Immersive Digital Twins and AI-Driven Decision Support Systems for Sustainable Water Reserves Management: A Conceptual Framework
by Tianyu Zhao, Changji Song, Jun Yu, Lei Xing, Feng Xu, Wenhao Li and Zhenhua Wang
Sustainability 2025, 17(8), 3754; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17083754 - 21 Apr 2025
Viewed by 347
Abstract
Effective and sustainable water reserve management faces increasing challenges due to climate-induced variability, data fragmentation, and the limitations of traditional, static modeling systems. This study introduces a conceptual framework designed to address these challenges by integrating digital twins, IoT-driven real-time monitoring, game engine [...] Read more.
Effective and sustainable water reserve management faces increasing challenges due to climate-induced variability, data fragmentation, and the limitations of traditional, static modeling systems. This study introduces a conceptual framework designed to address these challenges by integrating digital twins, IoT-driven real-time monitoring, game engine simulations, and AI-driven decision support systems (AI-DSS). The methodology involves constructing a digital twin ecosystem using IoT sensors, GIS layers, remote-sensing imagery, and game engines. This ecosystem simulates water dynamics and assesses policy interventions in real time. AI components, including machine-learning models and retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) chatbots, are embedded to synthesize real-time data into actionable insights. The framework enables the continuous assessment of hydrological dynamics, predictive risk analysis, and immersive, scenario-based decision-making to support long-term water sustainability. Simulated scenarios demonstrate accurate flood forecasting under variable rainfall intensities, early drought detection based on soil moisture and flow data, and real-time water-quality alerts. Digital elevation models from UAV photogrammetry enhance terrain realism, and AI models support dynamic predictions. Results show how the framework supports proactive mitigation planning, climate adaptation, and stakeholder communication in pursuit of resilient and sustainable water governance. By enabling early intervention, efficient resource allocation, and participatory decision-making, the proposed system fosters long-term, sustainable water security and environmental resilience. This conceptual framework suggests a pathway toward more transparent, data-informed, and resilient decision-making processes in water reserves management, particularly in regions facing climatic uncertainty and infrastructure limitations, aligning with global sustainability goals and adaptive water governance strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Water Management in Rapid Urbanization)
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17 pages, 250 KiB  
Article
Management of Religious Diversity in Chile: Experiences from Local Governments
by Nelson Marín Alarcón and Luis Bahamondes González
Religions 2025, 16(4), 535; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel16040535 - 21 Apr 2025
Viewed by 218
Abstract
This article analyzes the origins, characteristics, and functioning of the Chilean public institutions dedicated to managing religious diversity at the municipal level. Paying attention to the effects produced by the promulgation of the 1999 Cults Law, the text problematizes how the tensions between [...] Read more.
This article analyzes the origins, characteristics, and functioning of the Chilean public institutions dedicated to managing religious diversity at the municipal level. Paying attention to the effects produced by the promulgation of the 1999 Cults Law, the text problematizes how the tensions between political, technical, and religious elements affect the daily functioning of the Municipal Offices of Religious Affairs (OMARs in Spanish). Here, the influence of evangelical pressure groups seeking to position themselves at the level of local politics meets local governments led by mayors searching to expand their access to forms of organized citizenship. The article is based on a historical review of the forms of religious management in Chile and interviews with those in charge of the OMARs in communes of the city of Santiago. Full article
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