Impact of grazing ban of olive plots on floristic richness and diversity, and plant biomass in the Zloul Valley (Morocco)

Khalid BENARCHID
Laboratoire Eco-Conception, Energie, Environnement et Innovation. Faculté des Sciences et Techniques, Université Hassan 1er, Settat– Maroc. Corresponding author: k.benarchid@uhp.ac.ma
Mohammed KHATORI
Laboratoire Eco-Conception, Energie, Environnement et Innovation. Faculté des Sciences et Techniques, Université Hassan 1er, Settat– Maroc
Said HILALI
Laboratoire Eco-Conception, Energie, Environnement et Innovation. Faculté des Sciences et Techniques, Université Hassan 1er, Settat– Maroc

Abstract

In the past half-century, the forest of Zloul Valley has been severely deforested. For forty years, olive trees have been planted on deforested land, and now it is close to 5000 hectares. Therefore, to protect the olive culture, large-scale grazing in the valley is prohibited. The purpose of this study is to determine the impact of the grazing ban on floristic richness and diversity and above-ground biomass (herbaceous and shrub strata). Floristic research has been conducted on 50 surveys, of which 25 were conducted in protected olive fields and 25 were conducted in unprotected areas

The grazing ban had a positive effect on above-ground biomass and species richness. Compared with those produced in unprotected areas, the protected olive plots produced significantly higher above-ground biomass. The floristic analysis revealed also that the prohibition of grazing resulted in a higher species richness compared to that of the unprotected zone with respectively 185 and 119 species. However, it led to a decline in plant diversity, the Shannon-Weaver index values were 4.81 and 4.52, respectively. Furthermore, the floristic composition of the grazing ban olive plots has been more unbalanced compared with the unprotected areas, with equitability indices of 0.59 and 0.68, and perturbation indices of 76.8 and 63%, respectively.

The long-standing ban on the graze seems to be mixed. Despite its positive effect on the species richness and above-ground biomass, it led to low floristic diversity and a perturbated floristic composition.

Keywords: Biodiversity; Floristic diversity; Grazing Ban; Restoration; Therophytisation.

Regional Resiliency Action Plans and the Climate Crisis: A Case Study from Tampa Bay

Courtney Wright

Patel College of Global Sustainability & Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council .courtneyannw@usf.edu  

Mary-Liz Estrada 

Patel College of Global Sustainability & Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council .mestrada4@usf.edu 

Abstract

Resiliency and Climate Action Plans are very helpful tools for municipal departments to formulate localized plans while also informing and engaging the public of city or county government goals. The major focus of this research is to dissect and organize a regional resiliency plan for readability and incorporate a new perspective involving equity, Sustainable Development Goals, and U.S. Green Building Council principles that were not included in the original plan. Other tasks revolved around adding co-benefits and topic tags to each action, to better assist organizing partners in finding goals that aligned with their organization or institution.

The Regional Resiliency Action Plan that was produced by TBRPC was aimed to assist municipalities with a climate and resiliency goal framework. Through multiple sessions of input from stakeholders such as non-profits, local industries, NGOs, and municipalities, the TBRPC was able to compile feedback to formulate and revise goals, objectives, and actions. The development of these regional resiliency action plans is beneficial for the public and stakeholders to understand and better inform policy planning on the local level. The outcome of this Regional Resiliency Action Plan has still not been finalized as it is going through several revisions, both the public and internally. A major takeaway from this project is that within these regional resiliency plans it can be difficult to include and incorporate every topic that intersects with resiliency and climate change that pleases the public and all stakeholder entities.

Keywords: Regional Resilience Action Plan, municipalities, policy, SDGs

Virtualization Technologies for Sustainable Tourism: Adapting the Matterport 360 Platform to Showcase the UN Sustainable Development Goals in Tampa Bay, Florida

Brooke Hansen
Director, Sustainable Tourism, Patel College of Global Sustainability, University of South Florida, https://www.usf.edu/pcgs/about/brooke-hansen.aspx; kbhansen@usf.edu  

Sophia Annis
Digital Interpretation & Virtual Product Coordinator, SDG Action Alliance, University of South Florida 

Samantha Vorce
Digital Interpretation & Virtual Product Coordinator, SDG Action Alliance, University of South Florida   

Jesse Coates
Sustainable Tourism Consulting Coordinator, SDG Action Alliance, University of South Florida 

Alison Farr
Cultural Heritage Coordinator, SDG Action Alliance, University of South Florida  

Abstract

Tourism is the number one industry in the state of Florida with no sign of declining, even with the challenges posed by the global pandemic. Known for its coastline, Florida may not be able to continue marketing pristine beaches if current levels of plastic pollution and harmful algae blooms continue. The University of South Florida researchers have confirmed over 4 billion microplastics in Tampa Bay and red tide outbreaks are among the worst ever recorded along the Florida Gulf Coast. A UN Sustainable Development Goals class project, continued by interns of the USF SDG Action Alliance, focused on documenting plastic pollution and dead fish at popular tourist sites using 3D imaging and annotations with the Matterport 360 platform. Solutions for these challenges to sustainable tourism were explored, including the Ocean Allies initiative to certify tourism businesses as Ocean friendly and reduce single-use plastics in the environment. The annotated 3D Matterport models are ideal for highlighting challenges to sustainable tourism in a format easily transmitted on social media and to policymakers. The benefits and drawbacks of the technology will be discussed with future directions identified. SDGs highlighted in the project included 11.4 Safeguarding Cultural and Natural Heritage, 12 Responsible Consumption and Production, 14 Life Below Water, and 15 Life on Land. This case study fits in with the growing literature on using geoinformatics technologies to promote sustainable tourism.

Key Words: sustainable tourism, geoinformatics, virtualization, SDGs, plastic pollution, Florida

Are bioplastics a sustainable alternative to single-use plastic? A Pilot Project Investigation at the University of South Florida

Sheila Sullivan
Sustainable Materials Project Manager, SDG Action Alliance, University of South Florida, SheilaHSullivan@usf.edu

Abstract

Campaigns to ban single-use plastics have spread globally, increasing awareness about plastic pollution and driving consumer demand for bioplastics alternatives. While biodegradable bioplastics derived from plant-based polymers found in corn, cassava, sugar cane, etc., are made from renewable sources, the materials are processed into a composite with a molecular structure nearly identical to fossil fuel-based plastic counterparts. The perception held by consumers that all bioplastic waste is compostable is a myth. Biodegradable and compostable are not the same. Arguably, everything will eventually biodegrade. Compostable, however, signifies that the product will degrade within a timeframe. In the United States, bioplastics are certified compostable once approved by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) after undergoing a process that replicates the environmental conditions and timing to determine whether the product is suitable for an industrial composting facility. The problem lies in the lack of Industrial Composting Facilities to manage the waste. There are no testing procedures or certifications for bioplastics compostable in backyard composting accreditation in the US. A USF pilot research study investigating the efficacy of biodegradable single-use compostable plastics in a typical backyard compost environment is under development at the Rosebud Continuum Sustainability Education Center. The goal is to provide consumers with sustainable product recommendations, raise awareness about the interdependence between bioplastics and Industrial Composting Facilities, and encourage behavior supportive of sustainable, reusable alternatives. The research findings will inform, inspire, and create adaptative solutions to eliminate single-use plastic through a system thinking nexus approach aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Keywords: bioplastics, single-use plastics, biobased, biomaterials, biodegradable plastic, compostable plastics, SDGs

Accelerating sustainable agri-food production and processing in post-covid recovery within Turkey’s context

Iman Ahmed

Boğaziçi University, 34342 Bebek/Istanbul Turkey, abdulkadir.ahmed@boun.edu.tr

Defne Cılız

Üsküdar American Academy, 34674 Üsküdar/ İstanbul Turkey

Abstract

The pandemic not only has halted our day-to-day life but has also slowed down our progress towards attaining the SDGs by 2030. Hence, an all-hands-on-deck approach in which stakeholders come together to ensure the implementation of the SDGs is essential for a post-pandemic recovery. As the SDGs are perceived to be an invisible whole it is eminent that synergies and trade-offs exist within the different goals. This conference paper explores the environmental-human linkage within SDG 2 and SDG 12 with a focus on the optimization of the synergies between sustainable food production systems and resilient agriculture practices while addressing how to reduce the tradeoffs between these goals. Moreover, the paper will look into specific targets and indicators for both SDG 2 and SDG 12 and will explore these targets within the framework of food loss, proper food waste management, and utilization; increased crop yield; sustainable food production methodologies; the effect of the food production sector on the environment; as well as efficient resource utilization including water, land, and nitrogen in the context of turkey. Additionally, the paper will look into and provide suggestions on how different stakeholders, and most importantly the youth, can play a part in accelerating the realization of these specific targets.

Keywords: SDG 2, post-covid, Food Sustainability, Resilient agriculture systems, Responsible food production, Food security

MONEY – IT’S NOT WHAT MOST OF US THINK

Michael Sauvante

Executive Director, National Commonwealth Group, Inc. msauvante@commonwealthgroup.net

Abstract

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the economic backbone of economies everywhere. My research efforts over the past decade consistently brought me back to the question of how to put more money in the hands of SMEs and communities, and the mechanisms to facilitate them.

Ultimately that led to an examination of money itself and exploring how it is injected into local economies. Ask anyone where they think money comes from and most will guess the government. But most national governments create only about 3% of all their money in circulation. The other ~97% is created by private commercial banks when they make loans. The Bank of England revealed that secret in 2014.

A deeper exploration of the existing money paradigm revealed that bank-created money puts in motion the forces that inevitably will lead to income and wealth disparities in society. That led to the conclusion that to truly break free from the constraints of the current monetary system, money must be injected into the economy via alternative means.

Pursuing that concept, I discovered certain times and places in history where money was issued by the people rather than the government or banks and yielded unparalleled prosperity for those communities. These particular "complementary" currencies drove periods of abundance, while most did not.

Understanding why they succeeded established a new framework for how regions can achieve economic sovereignty. In doing so, many, if not all, of the world's current financial limitations can be eliminated.

KEYWORDS: Small and medium-sized enterprises, economies,

Participatory Initiatives for the Sustainable Development of Italian Mountains - A Path for the Localization of the 2030 Agenda

Laura Cavalli, corresponding author

Program Director - Agenda 2030 and Sustainable Development, Fondazione Eni Enrico Mattei (FEEM)
United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network Manager for Italy (SDSN Italia) 

Veronica Polin

Researcher, Department of Economics, Università degli Studi di Verona

Abstract

Mountains cover one-fourth of the planet, serve as home to about 900 million people - mostly in developing countries - and provide crucial ecosystem services to half of the global population. In Italy alone, they count for 35% of the surface and 12% of the people. Despite deficits in accessing basic infrastructures and services as well as higher exposure to natural hazards, mountain areas are systematically neglected in international and national development agendas. Even the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, despite pledging to leave no one behind, only marginally deals with mountain development and primarily in terms of ecosystem services. This has determined significant inequalities in developing and developed countries alike, but also the fast-spreading of bottom-up initiatives aspiring to reverse the tide and lead the development of their local territory. How COVID 19 influenced this land? This study aims to provide the first comprehensive overview of local participatory initiatives in Italy, to map their contribution to the SDGs, and to engage local stakeholders from municipalities, businesses, the third sector, and academia to develop shared visions for sustainable mountain development. The main aim of the study, employing multiple research tools and solutions, is the one of allowing a dialogue between different forms of knowledge, trying to stress the importance of maintaining an equilibrium between these different spheres. 

Preliminary evidence, coming from the academic expertise, suggests on one side a strong need of rethinking such local areas, highlighting the limits of the business as usual such as the traditional definition of economic development. On the other side, local initiatives materially contribute to the development of these territories, behaving like a boost for the development, embedding tradition and a multidisciplinary approach.

KEYWORDS: mountains, sustainable development goals, localization, ecosystem service

Potential For Green Leaching of Copper from End-of-Life Mobile Phones

Olamilekan John Olowolagba  
Department Of Chemistry, School of Science, Federal University of Technology Akure, P.O. Box 704, Akure, Nigeria Akure 234 Ondo State . olamilekanjohnolowolagba@gmail.com  

Omolade Richard Oluwafunso 

Department Of Chemistry, School of Science, Federal University of Technology Akure, P.O. Box 704, Akure, Nigeria Akure 234 Ondo State Nigeria. Nggm4richey@yahoo.com

Abstract

Copper, a soft malleable, and ductile metal with extremely high thermal and electrical conductivity has become an essential resource for human development. Its status as a fundamental raw material used across many industries and sectors of the economy makes copper a reliable economic indicator. With high demands in copper due to the increasing necessities to create more green and sustainable economies, there is a need for the world to focus on recycling efforts as an alternative source of copper, as well as develop faster and efficient methods of its retrieval from waste products.

This study investigates the leaching of copper from printed circuit boards (PCB) sheets obtained from end-to-life mobile phones using the green leaching agent-acetic acid (CH3COOH) on its own and as a mixture with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) as a potentially green and effective option. The copper content of the PCB samples was determined by aqua regia digestion and was found to be (509.89 ± 126.67) mg/g. Thereafter, the efficiency of CH3COOH was investigated by varying its concentration. Results show that CH3COOH is a poor leaching agent with the best efficiency of (2.1 ± 0.2) % observed at 5 M (the highest concentration tested). However, leaching copper from PCB samples using CH3COOH can still be achieved, but at average efficiency in combination with a green oxidant - H2O2. The increased efficiency observed using H2O2 indicates that the copper leaching process could be achieved using green leaching agents.

KEYWORDS: copper, leaching agent, printed circuit boards(PCB), CH3COOH, Aqua Regia

Comprehensive Analysis of Particulate Matter, Volatile Organic Compounds and Anthropogenic Aerosols using Raspberry Pi Technology

Shreya Halbe

Institute: Jasper High School, Plano Independent School District. shreya13.halbe@gmail.com

Abstract

Indoor Air Pollution, an overlooked aspect of Air Pollution, causes 1.6 million premature deaths annually. COVID-19 pandemic has augmented concerns about this issue, as many people are indoors and more cleaning chemicals are being used. This research focused on investigating correlations between Particulate Matter (PM) content in response to exposure to common aerosols and Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in an indoor setting. It was hypothesized that PM content will increase in presence of aerosols and VOCs exponentially.

The data collected proved the hypothesis and depicted correlations and trends. Analysis of data collected during the exposure of Sodium Hypochlorite as a VOC versus as an aerosol spray depicted that VOCs were much more potent than Aerosols in increasing PM content.

The findings from this project can be applied to improving product designing and formulations, designing indoor spaces, and in developing affordable air quality monitoring systems as an inbuilt feature to all homes. The project is an attempt to offer insight into this less recognized yet highly crucial aspect of Particulate Matter and its interaction with the environment.

Keywords: Raspberry Pi Technology,  Indoor air pollution, volatile organic compounds, Particulate Matter, Aerosols,

YORUBA FOLKSONG PHILOSOHPICAL APPROACH TO HEALTH EDUCATION: CURBING THE SPREAD OF COVID 19

Ayeyemi, Ebenezer Oluwatoyin Ph.D

Department of Music, Adeyemi College of Education. Ondo. Olueben01@gmail.com & ayeyemioe@aceondo.edu.ng

Abstract

In the history of the entire world, there have been records of an epidemic in almost all countries of the world, states, and communities at different times. During the dark age, in Africa, diseases of different kinds caused the premature death of children, youths, adults, and even aged people in clans and communities. In recent times, the cause of the outbreak of an epidemic was believed to be the fierce anger of the gods of the communities but the dirty environment and unhygienic life the people lived were impetus without educative encouragement for a solution. These made the people remained perpetually endangered to the incessant outbreak of epidemic. However, the rich traditional culture of the Yoruba in Southwest, Nigeria among others is bond in the daily life and nature of the people. Music as part of culture accompanies all aspects of individual life and community. Education is key to good life and health. The method of instilling education into the growing citizenry among Yoruba people during the neo-colonial era till date is diversified and encapsulated in the aspect of life. Among these methods are folk songs, folk tales, poems, proverbs, and of course learning by imitation. The emergence of COVID 19 and its deadly implication on humans globally brought about the measure to first prevent it spread through education, then treatment and cure. The prevention of the spread becomes the responsibility of individuals and corporate bodies at the local, national and international levels. This discourse analyses the impact of Yoruba folksong in curbing the spread of this deadly disease, typical examples of such folksongs are x-rayed in this discourse and recommend such at the local level of human habitation in order to comprehend and adapt self to the measure.

 Keywords: Yoruba folksong, Health Education, Spread of COVID 19, Treatment and cure

SDG# 4/ 5 - ISO 10015 Training Guidelines on Post-Natal Caring Therapy for Wellness and New Business

Dr. Shirley Yeung

Associate Professor, Gratia Christian College/ Milky Lau 

Abstract

Under a time of uncertainty with awareness of social inclusion and gender empowerment, “Application of ISO 15001 onto Post-Natal Wellness Therapy Training for Social Inclusion and Opportunities” is feasible to assure and enhance the quality of therapy-related training. Based on the observation of the needs of post-natal services, innovations in post-natal wellness caring services, and the description of the key elements of ISO 10015 (from needs, design, planning, training to evaluation) with UNGC and UNPRME principles can be applied into post-natal wellness caring therapy-related training and activities. Potential candidates for implementing ISO 10015 onto therapy-related training are women in ethnic groups and disadvantaged groups for offering more working opportunities via the establishment of Qualified Service Provider (QSP. Asia) under post COVID-19 for business/ social development.

Keywords: ISO 10015, Post-natal, UNGC, UNSDGs, QSP, Wellness, Therapy, Social Inclusion, Women

ASSESSING FARMERS’ PERCEPTION AND ADAPTATION STRATEGIES IN COMBATING THE EFFECTS OF CHANGING CLIMATE ON AGRICULTURE FOR NATIONAL SUSTAINABILITY

FUNMILAYO O. A. (MRS)

 Department of Geography, Adeyemi College of Education, Ondo. funmilayoolukemi@gmail.com / funmlayooa@aceondo.edu.ng

Abstract

This study assesses farmers’ perception and adaptation strategies in combating the effects of climate change on agriculture in Ondo State. The objectives of this paper are to: assess farmers’ perception of changing climate on agriculture and assess the adaptive measures used by farmers in response to changing climate. Three hundred (300) farmers were randomly selected from fifteen communities in three LGAs; each local government was drawn from the three senatorial districts of the study area based on their level of involvement in agricultural practice. Questionnaire was administered to the respondents to get useful and firsthand information. Both descriptive and inferential statistical tools were used. Descriptive analysis used includes simple percentage, mean, frequency distribution, and charts while inferential statistics used was Tobit Regression model. Findings showed that respondents perceived and observed an increase in temperature and decrease in rainfall with a shortening period. Farmers also followed various soils management practices for better crop yield. Based on the findings, the paper suggested among other things; regular training for the farmers and integration of weather information by the Government into agricultural training programmes.

Keywords: Adaptation, Agriculture, Climate, Perception, Strategies, Sustainability, 

Assessment of Nutritional Constituents of Raw and Fermented Trametes polyzona; an underutilized wild macrofungus

Feyisola J. Ogunnika
Department of Microbiology, Federal University of Technology, P.M.B. 704, Akure, Nigeria

Olusegun V. Oyetayo
Department of Microbiology, Federal University of Technology, P.M.B. 704, Akure, Nigeria

Corresponding E-mail: feyisolaogunnika20@gmail.com

Abstract

Mushrooms are known to be a good source of protein, carbohydrates, crude fibre, and vitamins with low fat contents. The present study is aimed at assessing the nutritional composition of Trametes polyzona subjected to solid fermentation (SSF) and submerged state fermentation (SMF). T. polyzona was collected from farmland around the Federal University of Technology, Akure. The T. polyzona was cleaned, powdered, and subjected to SSF and SMF. The result of the proximate analysis revealed a reduction in crude fibre, ash, and fat contents of T. polyzona subjected to SSF and SMF while there was an increase in crude protein value. Crude protein observed in SMF (35.63%) was however higher than what was observed in the SSF sample (29.73%). Moreover, the amino values in T. polyzona subjected to SSF and SMF were higher and significantly different (p<0.05) than what was observed in the raw T. polyzona sample. Leucine was the most abundant essential amino acid (EAA) while methionine had the least. Glutamic had the most abundant non-essential amino acid (NEAA) whereas serine had the lowest. The results from this study show that fermentation as a food processing method affects the proximate composition and improves the amino acid constituents of T. polyzona which may serve as a cheap source of protein for man and livestock. 

Keywords: Trametes polyzona, fermentation, proximate analysis, amino acids, nutrition

ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN THE NEW NORMAL: A STUDY OF SELECTED SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN OYO STATE

Olalekan Ojumu

Bethel American International School, KM 20 Oyo-Ibadan Road, Fiditi Oyo State, Nigeria
Olalekan Ojumu is a young educator who is passionate about policy, education, international development, climate change, youth development, and technology. Olalekan is fascinated by the changing nature of work and believes that for Nigerian youths to be future-ready, there is a need for them to upskill. He is a graduate of History/ International Relations from Obafemi Awolowo Ile-Ife and he is on the verge of starting his secondary degree in Developmental History from the University of Ibadan. Olalekan is a serial volunteer and is currently engaged with Chatham House in their Common Futures Conversation program.  ojumulekan@yahoo.com, o.ojumu@bethelais.org 

Sowunmi, Gbolahan

Bethel American International School, KM 20 Oyo-Ibadan Road, Fiditi Oyo State, Nigeria
Sowunmi, Gbolahan is a young scholar who feels comfortable with teaching and research. He had his first degree in Educational Management (Economics Option) and Masters in Educational Management (Policy and Planning Option). He has published papers in international journals. His research interests include; educational policy, planning, efficiency, and comparative education. He is a graduate member of the Nigeria Institute of Management (Chartered) (NIM) and Institute of Strategic Management, Nigeria (ISMN). sowunmigbolahan@gmail.com, 

ABSTRACT

As a result of the economic downturn, which is caused by the pandemic and that has affected the global community, people who have lost their jobs are seeking sustainable entrepreneurship opportunities that will change their economic status. To date, relatively few rigorous studies exploring the relationship between sustainable development and entrepreneurship especially in the secondary level of education in Nigeria have been published. This study was designed to address this gap. Thus, this study investigated entrepreneurship and sustainable development in the new normal: a study of selected secondary schools in Oyo State. The study was conducted under a descriptive survey design; seventy students were selected from four local government areas across the State from twenty secondary schools. Descriptive statistics of frequency counts, percentages, and mean were used to analyze the data. The five research questions which guided the study were answered. Findings revealed that many secondary schools in Oyo State offered entrepreneurship programmes. And the students have acquired entrepreneurship skills for self-employment. Finally, the study found that skills learnt by the students are not skills needed for future jobs. Based on the findings, the study thus recommended that skills needed by people to thrive in the future of work in the 21st century should be encouraged and inculcated in the entrepreneurship studies. Finally, a support system (resources, grants, opportunities, and mentorship) should be provided so that the students can thrive in entrepreneurship.  

Keywords: Entrepreneurship, Sustainable development, pandemic, economic downturn

How the competition for low carbon technologies is imported in Africa ?

Mohamed Lamine SIDIBE

Member of Environmental Security Commission at Werra Association. Email: mlsidibe03@gmail.com

Abstract

The covid-19 pandemic has given a boost to the energy transition process in developed and emerging countries. Europe through its famous Green Deal plan to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. In the United States, it is the arrival of the Democrats in business that is once again triggering the decarbonization of the American economy while China through its 14th five-year plan is supplanting the other regions of the world in this matter.

Indeed, critical materials and rare earth essential to initiate the transition to low-carbon technologies are becoming both a strategic and geopolitical issue that is now being played out on African soil in order to have a grip on the mineral resources essential for the energy transition and disruptive innovation in the countries mentioned.

The objective of my presentation is to draw a parallel between the decarbonization policies of advanced economies and their impacts on critical natural resources in the Sub-Saharan African region. It will also highlight the strategic and geopolitical approach of each player, in particular American, Chinese and European, in the acquisition of these materials on the continent in order to begin their transitions to green energies.

Keywords: carbon technologies, decarbonization, Africa, green energies, energy transition

INVESTIGATING THE TOXICITY AND EDIB ILITY OF COCOYAM PLANT (COLOCASIA ESCULENTA) IN AN ARSENIC-CONTAMINATED SOIL

M. E. Amosah
University of Mines and Technology, Tarkwa, Ghana

D. A. Asare
University of Mines and Technology, Tarkwa, Ghana

E. Anderson
University of Mines and Technology, Tarkwa, Ghana

G. Ofori-Sarpong
University of Mines and Technology, Tarkwa, Ghana

ABSTRACT

The exposure of heavy metals like mercury, cadmium, arsenic, chromium, thallium, and lead, and their interaction with soil and plant are of much concern due to their potential health effect. Among the methods used in the cleaning of soils contaminated with these heavy metals is Phytoremediation, which makes use of various plant species. Arsenic is a carcinogenic substance that thwarts plant growth and causes skin cancer in humans, among other health effects. Although arsenic decontamination by phytoremediation has been reported, the literature is silent about the toxicity and edibility of the plant after arsenic uptake. This paper therefore accessed the toxicity of Colocasia esculenta plant after using it as a phytosorbent for 4 weeks in a simulated arsenic-contaminated soil. The Bioaccumulation Factor (BAF) and the Translocation Factor (TF) were calculated after the experiment as 1.43 and 1.60 respectively, indicating its hyper-accumulative property and high translocation of arsenic through the various parts. There was a decreasing trend of arsenic concentration in the solution samples across the weeks, and accumulation of 58%, 28%, and 14% of arsenic in the stem, roots, and leaves of the plant respectively. The results show that Colocasia esculenta is indeed a good accumulator of arsenic from the soil. Comparison of the different arsenic concentration levels recorded in the plant parts with standards indicates great concern in consuming this plant exposed to an arsenic-contaminated environment. However, further studies should be conducted to ascertain the state of arsenic in the plant parts after its uptake.

Keywords: Phytoremediation, Arsenic, Toxicity, Contaminated soil, Colocasia esculenta

The Influence of Covid-19 on Sustainable Development Uptake: A report-based view at the University of Bologna

Khatereh Ghasemzadeh

Khatereh Ghasemzadeh, Post-doc Researcher, Department of Management–University of Bologna, Via Capo di Lucca, 34 - 40126 Bologna (Italy) 

Khatereh is a post-doc researcher in the Department of Management of the University of Bologna (UNIBO). She holds a Ph.D. degree in the field of Innovation Management. Her research and publications include, open & user innovation, user knowledge in organizations, and organizations and sustainability policies. Currently, Khatereh is researching sustainability and higher education and how higher education institutions are transforming societies through sustainable development. She also organizes the communication activities that UNIBO takes to embrace and convey regarding UN SDGs named Almagoals. Her research orientation is multidisciplinary with innovation studies in particular user innovation, sustainability management, sustainability strategy in higher education institutes and, organizational behavior being her main fields. Email: khatereh.ghasemzadeh@unibo.it 

ABSTRACT

The Covid-19 crisis has deteriorated the endeavors towards achieving SDG 4 targets to a large extent, a path that was not even on track before the pandemic. Higher education went under unforeseen pressure like other education systems that made it challenging to cope within a short amount of time. Following a micro perspective, this study aims to unfold the influence of the Covid-19 crisis on the sustainable development actions of the University of Bologna (UNIBO) in Italy by comparing the data of the UN SDG report of the year 2019 and 2020. To do so, we confronted all the four pillars of the activities towards the uptake of SDGs (Teaching, Research, Third mission, Institutional efforts) with 17 goals of the Agenda 2030. Based on the methodology that UNIBO generated a few years ago, each pillar consists of a few sub-areas to measure each of four areas and report them annually. Hence, we mapped the fluctuations of the data of each sub-area of activity comparing the reports of 2019 and 2020 and marked them differently for the increase, decrease, and no change in the numbers. By mapping the fluctuations of each sub-area against each SDG, we can understand the changes over the four pillars of UNIBO to address the following questions:

1. Which areas of activity: teaching, research, third mission, and institutional actions have been influenced the most? In what way?

2. Which dimension of the Agenda 2030 namely economic, social, and environmental has influenced the most? worsened or enhanced?

3. What are the lessons learned from the experience of the UNIBO?

We understand that the data of the report is not a silver bullet to map and analyze the effects of the pandemic crisis on a higher education institution which in reality has multidimensional facets beyond the scope of this research. However, the insights and the lessons learned from this case study could leverage the policies, strategies, and practices for leading the universities to a more sustainable future.

Keywords: Covid-19, SDGs, report, Higher education, Sustainable development

REVAMPING OF THE OIL PALM INDUSTRY IN THE SOUTHERN ATLANTIC AND MIDDLE BELT REGIONS OF NIGERIA FOR SUSTAINABILITY

Iwewe, Emem Nieokpon

Industrial Research/Inspectorate Division, Directorate of Industry, Ministry of Trade and Investment, P.M.B, 1171, Block 5, Idongesit Nkanga Secretariat Complex, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. 07084773261.

Usabor, Robinson Efemena

MD/CEO, Atlantic Region Oil Palm Producing Co. Ltd. No.2 Roberts Street, Off Oron Road By Customs House, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. 08037273095.

Abstract

The transitioning and diversification strategies from crude oil to other sources of wealth generation activities globally are aimed towards sustainability of the economy through skill development

The benefits derived from these strategies are broad-based spanning from job creation, activities, increase income-generating activities, waste recycling into useful products and services amongst others.

These benefits of skills development, job creation, and wealth generation activities, if properly monitored and managed would play key roles in the productivity and sustainability of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) which are the bedrock of industrialization in any nation.

KEYWORDS: Oil palm, Diversify, sustainable development, skills, job creation/wealth generation.

Investigating the Extent of Students’ Anxiety Level During The COVID-19 Lockdown Period in Jos

Toyese OYEGOKE
Chemical Engineering Department, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Nigeria.

John Enemona OGUCHE
Chemical Engineering Department, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Nigeria.

Nkwiri Jesse CHUKWU
Foundations Academy Jos, Nigeria.

Geoffrey Timothy TONGSHUWAR
Maths & Statistics Department, Federal University Wukari, Nigeria.

Olateju Alao BAMIGBALA
Biochemistry Department, Federal University Dutsinma, Nigeria.

Ayodeji Oluwatobi OJETUNDE
Human Physiology Department, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Nigeria.

Ayandunmola Folake OYEGOKE
Public Health & Research Division, Salama Infirmary Zaria, Nigeria.

John OLOTU
Water & Environmental Engineering Department, Ahmadu Bello University Zaria, Nigeria.

Johnson ABAH
Electrical Engineering Department, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Bauchi, Nigeria.

Abstract

Having more upsetting events in life such as the recent COVID-19 and finding it difficult to cope with them all predicts anxiety and stress. The aim of this work is to assess the extent of anxiety among Jos’s students during the COVID-19 lockdown period. A research instrument tagged "COVID19 Lockdown-period Impact Assessment on Students' Anxiety Level (CLIASAL) Questionnaire" was employed to collect data for the study while a 4-by-2 full-factorial design was used in structuring the questionnaire as descriptive statistical methods were employed to analyze the results collected. The overall average score for student anxiety level was found to be 73.42 percent and this has affected a significant proportion of the students. This study concluded that the majority of the scholars are concerned approximately how the lockdown coverage has substantially affected the development of the academics as almost all the students (94.66%) were worried about academic delays/calendar extension while 96.43% worried about the delay in their life plans as a result of the suspension of school and hence graduation.

 Keywords: COVID-19, lockdown policy, tertiary education, anxiety, educational management.

The Impacts of Redlining on Urban Heat in New York’s Capital District

Lucia Wiggers 
Williams College 
Project completed Spring 2021 

Rosa Kirk-Davidoff 
Williams College 
Project completed Spring 2021 

Abstract

The impacts of green space (or lack thereof) on the surface temperature of cities have long been studied through the Urban Heat Island effect. However, the extent to which the historic discriminatory housing policy of redlining influences the temperatures of different neighborhoods in the same city is still being revealed. Here, we investigate how Home Owners’ Loan Corporation (HOLC) maps correspond to land surface temperatures through the uneven distribution of tree canopy and impervious surfaces in New York’s Capital District. Using HOLC maps for Albany, Troy, and Schenectady, we calculated percent tree cover and imperviousness for each of the map’s graded blocks and calculated the land surface temperature for each block using Landsat 8 imagery. Our results showed that neighborhoods rated “hazardous” were generally hotter, more impervious, and less tree-covered than those rated “best” in Albany and Schenectady, but not in Troy. The difference between blocks rated “hazardous” and blocks rated “best” was +2.67°C in Albany, +4.18° in Schenectady, and -1.18° in Troy. Discriminatory housing policies can influence to what extent minority communities with lower resources are exposed to urban heat, and these communities should be identified to help them become more resilient to the environmental, physiological, and social impacts of climate change in the future.

KEYWORDS: Redlining, Home Owners’ Loan Corporation (HOLC), New York, Housing Policy, Heat, Temperature