Articles tagged with Environmental Economics
Grammy-winning Maná leads a project proposing direct payment schemes for landowners in Mexico's La Primavera Forest, promoting conservation and biodiversity. The model aims to compensate citizens who benefit from the reserve's ecological services while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Researchers at University of York and University of Canterbury disprove the accepted theory of nestedness, finding instead that a species' number of mutualistic partners is a better predictor of individual survival and community persistence. This challenges the idea that ecological communities exhibit nested structures.
Researchers used the Modern Portfolio Theory to develop a diversified land portfolio for conservation in the Prairie Pothole Region. The study found that considering both benefits and costs resulted in the most efficient land acquisition, with the central area proving more cost-effective than the eastern region.
A long-term study on nature tourism in China's Wolong Nature Reserve found that those with resources, education, and government connections were more likely to succeed in the tourism industry. The research highlights the need for balanced policies between economic development and habitat management.
By 2030, humanity's urban footprint will occupy an additional 1.5 million square kilometers, equivalent to the combined territories of France, Germany, and Spain. The forecast urban population in 2050 is expected to reach 6.3 billion, with dense cities designed for efficiency offering a promising path to sustainability.
The UK has launched its Centre for Carbon Measurement to improve climate data accuracy, support carbon markets, and stimulate green innovation. The centre aims to triple the £6m of low-carbon projects already being supported by NPL over three years.
A University of Connecticut study reveals that growing economic uncertainty leads to decreased public belief in man-made global warming. Research found a strong correlation between unemployment rates and climate change skepticism, with jobless rates dropping skepticism among the public.
Researchers from Taiwan studied a local industrial park, measuring air and water pollution, solid waste production, and energy consumption. They proposed a management model based on sustainable practices to reduce the negative environmental impact of industrial parks.
The Eco2 Index ranks countries based on their financial deficits, national debt, and resource consumption. Many high-income countries, including Japan and the US, perform poorly due to high ecological deficits, while South America and parts of Africa score well in terms of financial security.
A new study by Michigan State University economist Soren Anderson suggests that the government mandate for ethanol is not justified due to low demand elasticity. The researcher found that when ethanol prices rose, demand fell only 12-16%, indicating that consumers are not willing to pay a premium to support the corn-based fuel.
A commentary in Nature suggests that the economic pain of a flattening oil supply will trump environmental concerns, with production hitting a wall around 2005. Stagnant oil supplies and volatile prices take a toll on the world economy, with oil production decline expected to continue.
A comprehensive review examines how climate change affects invasive alien species in Canada, highlighting the urgent need for policy development and further investigation. The study predicts profound consequences for environments, economies, and societies worldwide, including the spread of infectious diseases in the Arctic.
The report explores complex consequences of excess nitrogen on ecological communities, human health, and agriculture. Strategies to maximize efficient use of fertilizer and mitigate agricultural sources are also presented.
Researchers found willingness to take financial risks decreases with age and economic downturns. Investors should not adjust their risk tolerance according to the economic climate. Financial planners must consider clients' attitudes toward risk for appropriate investment portfolio recommendations.
Researchers at Imperial College London found that UK's discarded wrapping paper and Christmas cards can be turned into high-grade biofuel, powering vehicles with lower greenhouse gas emissions. The study suggests that using this technology could provide a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels.
Ecosystem services have declined by 60% due to land conversion for food and fiber production. Experts recommend market-based solutions, such as cap-and-trade policies and certification schemes, to incentivize sustainable supply of these services.
The southern pine beetle is the most destructive forest pest in the US, causing significant economic and ecological harm. The new synthesis, Southern Pine Beetle II, updates research on the insect's biology, ecology, and management, providing current state-of-the-art knowledge.
Research by University of Kansas social psychology professor Omri Gillath suggests that economic hardship can lead men to adopt short-term mating strategies, increasing their chances of reproduction. In low survivability conditions, men become more interested in sex and are more likely to pursue multiple partners.
Researchers argue that economic behavior is linked to ecosystem vulnerability to invasive species. Biological invasions serve as a model for studying general ecological processes. Understanding these interactions is crucial for predicting impacts of global change on ecosystem services.
A new study found that rain-index insurance can have ecological consequences if farmers adopt unsustainable grazing practices. The study suggests that insurance payouts in periods of moderate drought may incentivize farmers to abandon sustainable management strategies, leading to overgrazing and increased soil erosion. To mitigate thes...
A survey of young adults in Montreal, Halifax, and New York City reveals a strong desire for sustainable lifestyles, with respondents willing to adopt eco-friendly practices such as reducing car usage and energy consumption. The study highlights the need for better communication and collective action to address global problems like cli...
The UNEP report highlights the need to decouple economic growth from resource consumption to achieve a sustainable future. Experts warn that current trends could lead to unprecedented levels of resource consumption by 2050, posing an existential risk to the planet.
Clemson University is conducting a design-feasibility study for a vertical farm in downtown Charleston, powered by solar and wind energy. The project aims to promote sustainable food systems and community connectivity.
A study found that restaurants 'cherry pick' parties by size, quoting longer wait times to undesired customers. This practice benefits small parties that spend more per person, and makes economic sense when there's excess demand for large parties.
A group of experts has identified 40 critical environmental questions to guide scientific research and inform natural resource management. These questions aim to balance economic, social, and ecological considerations, facilitating collaboration between researchers and policymakers.
Bats play a crucial role in reducing pesticide use and crop damage, with estimates suggesting their value to agriculture is roughly $22.9 billion annually. However, widespread bat population declines due to diseases like White-Nose Syndrome and wind turbine collisions threaten this ecological balance.
A new study suggests that fatality figures from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill may have been greatly underestimated, with a true death toll potentially 50 times higher. Marine conditions and far-off deaths mean recovered carcasses only account for a small proportion of fatalities.
A new statistical model helps regulators identify ships carrying unwanted species, enabling more effective screening of ballast water. The model's findings are published in Environmental Science & Technology, providing a promising solution to prevent bioinvaders from causing environmental damage.
A new integrative climate model recognizes the significance of human-induced causes, such as deforestation and agro-industry, in addition to carbon dioxide emissions. This approach aims to achieve a more effective and socially democratic climate policy, responsive to local conditions.
A recent economic recession has created a shortage of credit for small businesses, forcing many to rely on personal savings and household assets to stay afloat. This can put their personal assets at risk, warns MU researcher Tansel Yilmazer.
The Leopold Leadership Program selects mid-career researchers to engage policymakers, journalists, and business leaders with their research. Fellows receive training and networking opportunities to translate their knowledge into action.
A new life cycle assessment report from the Energy Biosciences Institute identifies seven grand challenges for biofuels, including understanding farmers, feedstock options, and land use, as well as characterizing tailpipe emissions and their health consequences. The report aims to provide a comprehensive framework for evaluating the en...
A global collaboration found that invasive plant species have similar or lower abundance at introduced versus native sites, challenging the 'abundance assumption'. This study used standardized protocols across over 60 sites worldwide to collect population and community data, providing a new approach to address critical ecological issues.
A global collaboration found that invasive plant species often have similar or lower abundance at introduced and native sites, challenging a common assumption. This suggests that biosecurity screening procedures need to be revised to address how species behave in non-native communities.
A €12 billion annual economic impact of invasive species worldwide and a new $4 million project will control invasive plants like giant hogweed in Ireland and Scotland's river catchments. The CIRB project aims to restore biodiversity and prevent environmental damage.
A special section in Ecological Economics analyzes ecological distribution conflicts, linking them to political ecology and social metabolism. The research explores the impacts of resource extraction and waste disposal on economic, environmental, cultural, and social conflicts.
A University of Maryland study assesses the feasibility of developing and operating wind farms in Maryland's Atlantic coastal waters. The study finds that offshore wind holds potential to help meet State Energy Targets, but addresses serious institutional impediments such as radar interference and transmission facility inadequacies.
A study analyzing 180 university campuses reveals that factors such as regulatory pressures, financial constraints, and stakeholder opinions significantly impact adoption of sustainable practices. Smaller institutions may benefit from subsidies or technical assistance to adopt green initiatives and attract environmentally conscious stu...
China's rapid growth has led to significant environmental challenges with worldwide implications, emphasizing the need for a systems approach to tackle these issues. The country's biodiversity is threatened by extinction, and climate change requires global cooperation to develop low-emission industries.
Researchers at UNC Charlotte are using Charlotte as an ideal living laboratory to study urban growth and sustainability. The project aims to determine if there are possibilities for alternative futures where urbanization, forest, and working lands can co-exist in an economic and environmentally sustainable fashion.
Dr. Bogdan Strimbu, a Louisiana Tech University professor, organized a technical session at the IUFRO's XXIII World Congress in Seoul, South Korea. The session focused on the significance of mixed species forest ecosystems in social, economic and environmental areas.
Economists Santanu Roy and Lars J. Olson analyze the balance between controlling invasive species and free trade, finding that some restrictions may be necessary to prevent economic damage while allowing for entry when damages are low. Their study provides a qualitative framework for policymakers to determine optimal response strategies.
Mayor John Fetterman will receive the ESA's Regional Policy Award for his commitment to sustainability, revitalizing the town of Braddock through environmentally-friendly building design. The award recognizes Fetterman's innovative approach to green urban renewal and its potential economic benefits.
Research from Brigham Young University reveals that employees who telecommute and use flexible schedules balance their work and family life better than office workers. The study found that telecommuters can maintain a healthy balance for 57 hours per week, compared to 38 hours for office workers.
The New York City Panel on Climate Change (NPCC) reveals the city's comprehensive plan to adapt to climate change, focusing on energy, transportation, water, and communication systems. The report proposes flexible Adaptation Pathways to mitigate risks and provide win-win opportunities for city managers.
The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB) study estimates annual Natural Capital loss to be between EUR 1.35 trillion - EUR 3.1 trillion, with coral reefs valued at US$ 172 billion annually. TEEB leader Pavan Sukhdev calls for decisive action to prevent biodiversity loss.
A Stanford University study found that public opinion experts' 'most important problem' question systematically underestimates Americans' priority on global warming and the environment. When reframed, however, this question reveals a significant increase in environmental concerns.
Scientists have developed yeast that efficiently converts a wider range of plant waste sugars into alcohols for biofuel production. The modified yeast can produce both ethanol and butanol, which could replace fossil fuels with superior properties.
A scientific study argues that sustainable economic degrowth is both desirable and unavoidable to mitigate climate change and the economic crisis. The study presents diverse proposals for social equity and ecological sustainability, challenging conventional economic thinking.
The American Chemical Society's top R&D official, Paul T. Anastas, emphasizes the importance of green chemistry in achieving sustainability. Green chemistry aims to incorporate 12 principles, including prevention of waste and use of safer chemicals, into product design and manufacture.
A Michigan State University scientist warns that China and India's growing economies and populations will significantly impact the global environment unless they work together. The two countries are urged to exercise environmental stewardship to ensure future economic growth.
A major report by an international team of scientists and policy experts explores the social, economic, health and environmental impacts of the livestock industry. Key findings include the high greenhouse gas emissions from animal feed production and transport, which account for 18% of global emissions.
This study investigates the impact of landscape position on biomass crop yield, finding that summit positions produce higher yields than flat areas. Corn stover yield is positively influenced by terrain slope, nitrogen, and soil darkness profile.
Binghamton University economist Zili Yang's book explores how game theory and integrated assessment models can help mitigate climate change by promoting cooperation among nations. His research argues that climate agreements should be fair and equitable, with industrialized nations contributing their share to address global warming.
Maryland adopts Genuine Progress Indicator to accurately measure standard of living, finding the traditional Gross State Product was 50% inflated by costs counted as benefits. The new index accounts for environmental and social costs, providing a more meaningful guide to policy.
A new report by the Ecological Society of America highlights the need to address potential effects of land-use choices on ecosystems. Native perennial crops, such as switchgrass, are recommended as an inexpensive feedstock option that improves soil quality and provides habitat for native species.
Researchers argue that biologically diverse plantations can alleviate social, economic and ecological pressures on natural forests. These plantations can sequester carbon, mitigate climate change and restore ecological services. Well-planned plantations can help preserve high diversity old-growth forests.
The US liquid detergent market reached $3.1 billion in sales in 2009, driven by innovative eco-friendly products containing natural ingredients. Manufacturers are now offering specialty cleaners that reduce energy or water consumption, combining detergents with fabric softener and static reducers into single sheet-like products.
Climate experts propose international research and field-testing on solar-radiation management (SRM) to limit climate change impacts. SRM could offset this century's predicted global average temperature rise more than 100 times cheaper than cutting emissions.
A team of experts found that knowing fish spawning habits and oceanographic models can increase both conservation and fisheries profitability. Spatial information is key to achieving this balance.