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Pre-results review: Taking transparency in economics research to the next level

The Journal of Development Economics introduces Pre-results Review, a peer review process that evaluates empirical research before results are known. This approach helps improve methodological quality and provides earlier recognition for authors. The practice is gaining traction among journals in various disciplines.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalJournal of Development Economics·DateJul 18, 2019

Colonial policies can result in economic growth

A new study found that areas near historical Dutch sugar factories in 19th century Java are more developed today, with higher per-capita consumption and better schooling. The research suggests that the creation of a colonial manufacturing industry led to a more modern economy, with places near factories having more public infrastructure.

SourceOxford University Press USA·JournalThe Review of Economic Studies·DateMay 14, 2019

China, India economic development key to achieving MDG for safe drinking water

Research led by The University of Tokyo Institute of Industrial Science found that China and India's rapid urbanization, especially in China, and rural development in India were major enablers of the success in achieving MDG Target 7C-Water. Economic development was also found to be imperative in expanding drinking water coverage.

How private households can stall economic growth

A study by the University of Bonn shows that growing income uncertainty among private households can lead to an economic downturn. This is because households may hoard money, reducing demand and negatively impacting the economy. Government investments can stabilize the economy by making it more attractive for households to spend.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalEconometrica·DateFeb 4, 2019

Scientists develop new recycling technology

Russian scientists propose a new recycling method that produces liquid products from organic waste, eliminating the need for specialized plants and reducing oil consumption. The process also generates no environmental emissions, making it compatible with circular economy principles.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalSustainability·DateJan 31, 2019

Satellite images reveal global poverty

Researchers from Aarhus University have developed a method to map economic living conditions using high-resolution satellite data, capturing household-level information with 62% accuracy. This approach makes space-based monitoring a promising technology for effective poverty tracking and achieving the UN's sustainable development goals.

SourceAarhus University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 7, 2019

Biodiversity draws the ecotourism crowd

Research at Michigan State University found that better biodiversity leads to more tourists visiting protected areas. A 1% increase in biodiversity results in a 0.87% increase in annual visitors. Strategic management and local community participation can enhance economic development and livelihood benefits.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalEcosystem Services·DateNov 8, 2018

Experts call for a targeted approach to cancer prevention

A new study suggests that policymakers should consider the socioeconomic circumstances of an area when establishing early intervention initiatives. The research found a link between economic growth and cancer incidence, with poorer people having a greater likelihood of developing certain types of cancer.

SourceUniversity of Stirling·JournalInternational Journal of Healthcare Policy·DateNov 1, 2018

Eliminating emissions in India and China could add years to people's lives

Researchers found that replacing coal-fired powerplants with clean energy could save an estimated annual 15 million years of life in China and 11 million years of life in India. The study used state-of-the-art atmospheric chemistry modeling to calculate province-specific changes in mortality and life expectancy due to power generation.

The science of sustainability

A new study presents a unified path for development and conservation, considering the needs of both people and nature. By using leading projections and aligning with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, researchers envision a world in 2050 where human well-being and nature thrive together.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateOct 16, 2018

New model of polarization sheds light on today's politics

A new model of polarization explains how voters strategically vote for parties to empower their preferred party, contributing to increased polarization. The model also highlights the impact of gerrymandering on polarization and suggests policy changes, such as increasing local party coordination, could help address the issue.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalAmerican Political Science Review·DateOct 3, 2018

Research forecasts US among top nations to suffer economic damage from climate change

A new study estimates that the US is expected to suffer significant economic damage from climate change, with losses of around $50 per ton of carbon emissions. The study reveals that the US will pay approximately $250 billion annually due to its high level of CO2 emissions, outpacing other major economies like India and Saudi Arabia.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Climate Change·DateSep 24, 2018

Poor mental health days may cost the economy billions of dollars

A study by Penn State researchers found that poor mental health days can lead to a 1.84% drop in per capita real income growth rate, resulting in $53 billion less total income each year. Investing in mental health resources may help mitigate these effects, particularly in rural counties with limited access to services.

SourcePenn State·JournalReview of Regional Studies·DateJul 30, 2018

Special issue to highlight climate science for service partnership between China and the UK

The Climate Science for Service Partnership China (CSSP China) has improved understanding of climate change effects and reduced climatic risks through research collaborations with the UK. The partnership has led to advancements in seasonal forecasting, crop security, and climate services.

SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvances in Atmospheric Sciences·DateJun 11, 2018

Global warming hits poorest hardest, new research shows

New research reveals that global warming hits poorest regions hardest, with temperate nations like the UK being less affected than tropical countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo. The study found that as average temperatures rise to 1.5°C or 2°C, wealthy areas will experience fewer climate changes compared to poor nations.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMay 30, 2018

New 'Silk Road' brings challenges and opportunities for biodiversity conservation

The Belt and Road Initiative's economic development corridors coincide with high environmental value areas, posing significant impacts on biodiversity. China can replicate its domestic environmental practices in the BRI to achieve a balance between economic development and sustainability.

Could cleaning up beaches make Americans better off?

A new study by Ohio State University found that cleaning up beaches in Orange County, California could bring in significant economic benefits, ranging from $13 to $42 per resident. The research estimated that reducing ocean debris by 25-75% could lead to a $46 million boost to the county's economy in just one summer.

SourceOhio State University·JournalMarine Resource Economics·DateFeb 26, 2018