Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Conservation policies could improve human health

A study published in PNAS found that strictly protected areas, like parks and reserves, have lower incidences of malaria, acute respiratory infections, and diarrhea. By preserving biodiversity, these areas can act as a barrier to disease transmission, suggesting a potential double win for public health benefits.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 15, 2015

How do political debates affect advertising?

A recent study by University of Chicago Press Journals found that political debate can sometimes decrease the impact of subsequent ads. Researchers discovered that inducing supportive elaborations increased ad effectiveness, while counterarguing mindset decreased it. This suggests context plays a significant role in advertising efficacy

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateSep 14, 2011

Is oil pricing itself out of the market?

U of A researchers explore hypothetical economic models that suggest oil producers should pay attention to emerging alternatives. If an alternative resource becomes more economically attractive, oil producers may have to adjust to make sure they don't hasten their own obsolescence.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Environmental Economics and Management·DateAug 19, 2011

Could economics solve the prison crisis?

Researchers argue that economic analysis can inform more effective criminal justice policies by reducing incarceration rates and focusing on prevention. They suggest devolving budgets for custodial sentences to local authorities, with financial incentives to drive cost-saving measures.

SourceSAGE Publications UK·JournalProbation Journal·DateSep 24, 2010

Saving rainforests may help reduce poverty

A new study by Georgia State University professor Paul J. Ferraro found that saving rainforests and protecting national parks reduced poverty in Costa Rica and Thailand in the long term. The research suggests conservation efforts may provide economic opportunities through tourism and infrastructure development.

SourceGeorgia State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 25, 2010

Lost in the supermarket?

A study by Bart Minten found that global supermarket chains charge significantly higher prices for food in poor countries, making affordable options inaccessible to the majority. In Madagascar, shoppers preferred locally sourced foods at lower margins over imported goods from multinational chains.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalEconomic Development and Cultural Change·DateJun 19, 2008

Study examines performance-based pay for teachers

A recent study by economists at the University of Missouri-Columbia and Vanderbilt University found that linking teacher pay to student achievement results in improved student outcomes. The researchers advocate for school districts to explore performance-based systems as a potential solution to increase teacher effectiveness.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalJournal of Policy Analysis and Management·DateSep 4, 2007