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The purpose of this paper is to analyse the commitment of the Pan-American Institute of Geography and History (PAIGH) to geographic education and specifically to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through the Geography Commission and the Geographic Education Committee, this organisation is developing various initiatives for the implementation of the SDGs in the Pan-American context. Methodologically, a documentary analysis of the writings of the PAIGH and specifically of the geographic education network was carried out. Among the main results, it can be seen that the documents and works analysed are aimed at developing the SDGs through geographic thinking, the use of new technologies and climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper identifies the links between transnational municipal networks and international agreements in the environmental arena. It is taken for granted that transnational municipal networks support global environmental action and the process of sustainable development, in particular giving access to resources, with technical support and knowledge, but to what extent international agreements such as the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, the Paris Agreement, or the Convention on Biological Diversity guide the action of these networks? The research resorts to content analysis to examine the goals, mission, and published documents of two networks in particular, ICLEI and Mercosur, in the search for clear connections with the intergovernmental level. The paper contributes to the understanding of the role of transnational municipal networks in environmental governance, identifying through abductive reasoning the diffusion of norm from the international to the local level and underlining the importance of the role of international, national and local actors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to analyze the relationship between agricultural methane and nitrous oxide emissions as a function of per capita gross domestic product (GDP) and its quadratic term in 26 Latin American and Caribbean countries (1990-2019). It also considers the stock of foreign investment to test the polluting paradise hypothesis, agricultural land (AL), and, additionally, methane for nitrous function. The study comprised unit root and cointegration tests. Coefficients were estimated by using fully modified least squares (FMOLS), correlated common effects (CCE), and augmented mean group (AMG). Results by FMOLS show statistical evidence of an environmental Kuznets curve in the set of countries for methane and support the polluting paradise hypothesis. However, results from CCE and AMG show the opposite. For nitrous oxide, FMOLS confirms a U-shaped curve. The above supports a joint environmental policy for both gases, where AL is a key element. The previous results must be corroborated with other methods and the studies extended to other countries over time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper aims to address energy poverty from the social dimension of access to energy and its relationship with environmental variables such as relief, temperature, and precipitation in the municipalities of Mexico; through the construction of an energy poverty indicator using 2020 census data and cartographic analysis with GIS. The results for Mexico 2020 reveal that approximately 43.75% of the municipalities experience high and very high energy poverty. Regional differences in energy poverty are noted, three targeted sectors of energy poverty were located, to the north, west and south of Mexico. This can be explained by the marked economic and social differences that exist in the country. A relationship was found between energy poverty and social conditions that can be influenced by climate change. The incorporation of the spatial dimension may be relevant in the study of energy poverty in Mexico. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper analyzes the importance of the melting of the Arctic ice for Mexico. The research examines the impacts of this process, the Mexican government’s environmental policies, citizen’s perception and the media’s approach to climate change and the melting of the Arctic ice. To obtain the results, an exploratory analysis was carried out, from which it was concluded that, despite the importance of the Arctic melting in the current climate crisis affecting all countries, and specifically Mexico, within the political agendas of the nation, the citizenry and the mass media, both climate change and the Arctic melting are secondary issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, many studies are already available on people's theoretical knowledge about climate change. The results of some of these studies show the existence of serious confusion regarding certain phenomena and basic concepts of great importance, even despite the fact that, in recent years, the problem regarding climate change has become increasingly relevant in different media, and it is also present in school curricula as a fundamental part of Education for Sustainability. Some of these confusions constitute true alternative ideas. This paper first analyses the incidence and strength of five of these ideas in students of Compulsory Secondary Education (CSE) and in various groups of teachers in training. Then, a didactic proposal is made to achieve change in one of those ideas, which involves various concepts and principles of Physics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, three case studies are analyzed in Uruguay at the basin level, to identify the factors that favor the flood phenomenon. Transformations in land use and eventually climate change are considered. Over a 30-year period, land use modifications were evaluated using a Geographic Information System, and the variability of rainfall and river levels was analyzed. The three basins show completely different behavior from their land use change, and show increasing trends in rainfall over the period analyzed. It is evident that land use change is one of the most influential factors in the increase of flooding in urban areas. These transformations are mostly related to the exploitation of soil for the generation of commodities for export and generate modifications in the agrarian territories in Uruguay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Are there differences between adolescent men and women in terms of knowledge about climate change? How do adolescents perceive the climate crisis depending on their gender? In order to answer these questions, we carried out a meta-analysis on a sample of 84 international papers selected by conducting a systematic review methodology. To achieve that aim, we identified studies that showed differences according to the gender variable in terms of knowledge, perceptions, and/or opinions among adolescents pursuing secondary education. A total of 26 out of 84 papers (30.95%)"concentrated between 1993 and 2017"addressed gender differences regarding climate change. The meta-analysis revealed that women score lower than men on knowledge about climate change, with the difference increasing as they move forward in their respective secondary education courses. However, women are found to attribute greater risk to the climate crisis, they are more concerned about the problem, and "unlike men, who have a more technical worldview"they show greater ecocentric willingness to accept measures to address it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper makes a comparative study of the socio-state capacities developed during the processes of institutionalising protected natural areas (PNA) in Latin America. It sets them within a framework of their interdependence with global governance processes and in relation to the role human rights have played for these purposes. Taking an approach that combines analysis of multilevel collective action with process monitoring, this work traces the trajectories of national and multilateral institutions; analyses the main dynamics that arise in the delimitation of the protection of natural areas in the countries with the greatest biodiversity in the region; and explores the possibilities for new agreements on the global agenda. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ten years after the creation of the National System of Response to Climate Change (snrcc for its acronym in Spanish) in Uruguay, this paper examines the perceptions among local actors about the impacts of climate change on the Northeast region of the country (Departments of Rivera, Tacuarembó and Cerro Largo). It also analyzes their visions about policies and mechanisms of climate governance defined at the national level, focusing some aspects such as articulation and participation. This way the paper aims to generate relevant inputs for the discussion about the design of policies for mitigation and adaptation to this phenomenon in the specific territory considered here. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper was calculated the return period of coastal floods for each of the coastal settlements that report this extreme event in the Cuban archipelago, based on the period 1901-2020. The chronology and classification of coastal floods for each province was used, as well as the Poisson distribution and the χ² goodness of fit test. It is concluded that the Poisson distribution was suitable in all cases for the significance level of 5%; while the greatest hazard is presented by Havana, Baracoa and the settlements of the Gulf of Batabanó in which the occurrence of a flood event is expected at least once every three to five years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The close relationship that the 2015 Paris Agreement has with the thirteenth sustainable development goal, "adopt urgent measures to combat climate change and its effects, is indisputable." If we talk about this relationship from the point of view of "action", we can influence the importance of the Nationally Determined Contributions technique, since the commitments acquired by the States Parties to the treaty must be achieved through through a series of actions at the national level. This paper aims to reflect on the need for consistency in the implementation of both the Paris Agreement and the 2030 Agenda. In this sense, an analysis will be carried out on the negative effects that, in compliance with both legal instruments, may occur if their implementation is carried out in a fragmented manner and, therefore, without taking into account the links that the objectives of sustainable development they have among themselves and, these, with the technique of Nationally Determined Contributions, within the framework of the Paris Agreement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The close relationship that the 2015 Paris Agreement has with the thirteenth sustainable development goal, "adopt urgent measures to combat climate change and its effects, is indisputable." If we talk about this relationship from the point of view of "action", we can influence the importance of the Nationally Determined Contributions technique, since the commitments acquired by the States Parties to the treaty must be achieved through through a series of actions at the national level. This paper aims to reflect on the need for consistency in the implementation of both the Paris Agreement and the 2030 Agenda. In this sense, an analysis will be carried out on the negative effects that, in compliance with both legal instruments, may occur if their implementation is carried out in a fragmented manner and, therefore, without taking into account the links that the objectives of sustainable development they have among themselves and, these, with the technique of Nationally Determined Contributions, within the framework of the Paris Agreement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a consequence of the incremental complexity of international climate governance, particularly within the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, States face an increasing demand on specialized human resources to participate in different negotiation settings during the Conferences of the Parties (cops). We characterize the Argentinian delegations between 2012 - 2019, identify the negotiation team and analyze the coverage of the team's agenda. Interests regarding climate change international politics can be inferred from the participation or absence of negotiators within different discussions. This paper reviews previous empirical work on delegations in climate change negotiations and draws upon qualitative techniques in order to collect original data to perform an in-depth case analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The close relationship that the 2015 Paris Agreement has with the thirteenth sustainable development goal, "adopt urgent measures to combat climate change and its effects, is indisputable." If we talk about this relationship from the point of view of “action”, we can influence the importance of the Nationally Determined Contributions technique, since the commitments acquired by the States Parties to the treaty must be achieved through through a series of actions at the national level. This paper aims to reflect on the need for consistency in the implementation of both the Paris Agreement and the 2030 Agenda. In this sense, an analysis will be carried out on the negative effects that, in compliance with both legal instruments, may occur if their implementation is carried out in a fragmented manner and, therefore, without taking into account the links that the objectives of sustainable development they have among themselves and, these, with the technique of Nationally Determined Contributions, within the framework of the Paris Agreement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to assess the nature of climate litigation at the international level and its role in sustainable development and nature conservation. Climate litigation has allowed claims to be made against governments regarding the climate crisis and companies, especially the largest generators of greenhouse gas emissions. They have also given way to the recognition of the impact and moral responsibility of companies and the lack of action by governments in the global environmental crisis, as well as highlighting the need for each country to establish regulations that promote truly sustainable development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Latin America shows an accelerated urbanization process and a development model that generate and intensify social and environmental problems. Added to these problems are the risks triggered by climate change that affect today's cities. In Argentina, its effects are manifested differentially over the regions, impacting cities and human settlements. In this scenario, this paper proposes to explore the environmental risk faced by Argentinean cities in a context of climate change from two dimensions: threat and resilience. For this, two synthetic indices were built using the Mean Index Coefficient methodology for each dimension and subsequently the results were articulated by defining risk categories. Results were spatially represented using a Geographic Information System. Gran Posadas, Corrientes, and Salta reach the most unfavorable situations following by Gran La Plata, Gran Mendoza, Gran San Juan, Gran Tucumán-Tafí Viejo, and the Buenos Aires counties. The importance of focusing on adaptation measures under the concept of urban resilience is highlighted. New questions arise from this work and invite further research whose results will allow progress towards sustainability and urban resilience by including them in local policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green infrastructure is being recognized as one of the main strategies for climate emergency mitigation and adaptation in urban contexts. However, there are still very few initiatives in Latin America. This paper explores the Chilean case, in particular the "Stgo+ Green Infrastructure" project, to understand how the climate emergency has been included in green infrastructure planning and the level of priority it has among various types of stakeholders. The research was conducted through a review of planning documents and a participatory methodology, involving institutional, academic, and civil society stakeholders. Chilean urban regulations and territorial planning instruments do not offer much opportunity for the development of green infrastructure systems to face the climate emergency, but there are several indicative instruments that contribute in that sense. On the other hand, there is growing recognition by stakeholders of the importance of green infrastructure, but the climate emergency is an aspect that is still given low priority. The low priority that actors attribute to the climate emergency represents a significant barrier for the incorporation of these issues in public plans and policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change and its effects will be an important factor for the future of tourist destinations. On the Mediterranean basin its influence on water availability will be remarkable. It might have influence on the attractiveness of destinations, and it could affect tourist arrivals. However, there is a little knowledge about how tourists perceive the decrease of water availability and how it is linked with climate change. This paper analyses some of these perceptions from the results obtained carrying out 752 surveys on 19 different tourist accommodation establishments located on the Muga river basin, on the northeast of the Iberian Peninsula. Results determine that some factors of the tourists and their motivations to stay at the destination can be explicative to explain their different perception and behaviour on climate change and water availability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global food security could be threatened in the coming years by the emergence and spread of emerging pests in crops. Psyllids are considered as possible destructive pests due to their relationships with some important plant pathogens. Bactericera cockerelli Sulc (Hemiptera: Triozidae) is recognized as an efficient vector of the bacterium Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum (CaLsol), an invasive pest according to the EPPO, which causes diseases in potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, and other solanaceous and some apiaceous crops. Known the vector-bacteria complex to be present in different countries of the world belonging to the American continent, Europe and New Zealand, 61 scientific papers related to this topic were reviewed. Changes in the climatic variables, the biological distribution of this insect-vector system, the high ecological plasticity that allows this insect to develop different biotypes, depending on the characteristics of the area where it develops, could complicate the control of the insect-pathogen system. These characteristics make necessary a maintained extreme surveillance in those countries where it is not yet present. So far, the bacterium and the vector are not present in Cuba; however, its proximity to countries where it is present, the existence of optimal climatic conditions host plants, and the increasing tourism and international trade, make necessary to offer updated information on this disease, the causal agents and their vectors as a contribution to the preparation of the scientific-technical-productive personnel and other decission makers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bactericera cockerelli Sulc, the potato / tomato psyllid (Solanum tuberosum and S. lycopersicum), is recognized as a threat to the production of solanaceous crops because it is an efficient vector of the bacterium Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum (CaLso) in the American continent, Europe, and New Zealand. The biological and genetic characteristics of the insect make its management difficult, and so do the high number of host, refuge. and feeding plants in which it can be found. Furthermore, the influence of climate change has caused psyllid populations to establish and colonize new areas and countries. At present, the psyllid vectors of microorganisms that cause diseases in plants are widely distributed, and studies are being carried out to understand the impact of their populations on intensive agricultural production systems. In the last decade, studies on the application of new biological control and management techniques have also increased aiming to count on fast and efficient alternatives for reducing the effects on crops and economy. A total of 74 scientific papers related to the host plants of these insect vectors, their biological and chemical control strategies, and the novel alternatives for their management were analysed. In order to maintain surveillance over the vector, the present status of the identification of these species in Cuba, the situation concerning the presence of the cultivation system. -psilid-CaLso in the world and the American and Caribbean regions, as well as the possible implications of the presence of these species for the Cuban agriculture were studied in depth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to provide an experience which implements STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) practices with 12 and 13 year old students in a global climate change scenario. We present a Project-Based Learning (PBL) methodology through a research project on the regeneration of vegetation after a high-severity fire using remote sensing and field work. The experience illustrates how to provide a context for the subjects involved, shows interdependencies between disciplines and models systems as complex as ecosystems. The objectives focus on STEM skills and social awareness about climate change. Regarding the implementation of the experience, we specify the set of actions and protocols developed within the collaboration between secondary and higher education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change is one of the main socio-environmental challenges of the current 21st century. The objective of this research is to analyze the contents about climate change proposed in the textbooks of Primary Education of Social Sciences (3rd cycle) in the Valencian Community (Spain) attending to: 1) the explanation of the phenomenon (causes and consequences); and 2) the description of the main greenhouse emissions. The results indicate that currently, textbooks project an excessively catastrophic image of climate change (increase in extreme atmospheric phenomena) and citing as error carbon dioxide (CO2) as the main effect gas greenhouse. In conclusion, the textbooks do not provide rigorous content and information from scientific papers and academic sources and the presence of stereotypes about climate change (natural disasters) is abused. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article analyses the energy policy as the principal policy field in the fight against global warming and explores the onset of an emerging multi-level governance as well as its effects on human development. Energy policy in Argentina, with special focus on Córdoba, serves as a case study in order to analyze two fields of action in order to strengthen efficiency: energy generation and the promotion of renewable sources, on the one hand, and energy consumption, on the other. The analysis sheds light on the inconsistency of energy policies which come along with contradictory regulations, limiting effects regarding the increase of renewable energy and a rationalization in consumption. These features coincide with an emerging multi-level governance characterized by multiple actors and fragmented regulations as well as partial differences on the technical and ideological level between national governments, within the timeframe for this paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The climatic change in the planet has directly impacted in agricultural results. Conversely, the changes that humanity has carried out to produce agricultural products has impacted in the climatic changes, e.g., the deforestation. That is why there exist complex causal relationships between the climate and the agriculture. A mathematical tool, which has proved its efficacy to study causal relationships among different variables, is the cognitive map, where such relationships are straightforwardly represented in form of directed graphs. This idea was generalized when fuzzy cognitive maps were introduced, it is there considered that those relationships can be partial. The neutrosophic cognitive maps generalize even more this technique, in such a way that possibility of indeterminacy among the variables, due to ignorance, contradiction, inconsistency or other causes, is considered. This paper aims to study causal relationships among the climatic vulnerability variables in the agricultural sector. For this end, we applied neutrosophic cognitive maps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The climatic change in the planet has directly impacted in agricultural results. Conversely, the changes that humanity has carried out to produce agricultural products has impacted in the climatic changes, e.g., the deforestation. That is why there exist complex causal relationships between the climate and the agriculture. A mathematical tool, which has proved its efficacy to study causal relationships among different variables, is the cognitive map, where such relationships are straightforwardly represented in form of directed graphs. This idea was generalized when fuzzy cognitive maps were introduced, it is there considered that those relationships can be partial. The neutrosophic cognitive maps generalize even more this technique, in such a way that possibility of indeterminacy among the variables, due to ignorance, contradiction, inconsistency or other causes, is considered. This paper aims to study causal relationships among the climatic vulnerability variables in the agricultural sector. For this end, we applied neutrosophic cognitive maps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Before writing this paper I asked myself what Professor Martín Mateo would think today of the slogan "Empty Spain" and its environmental connotations. And to reflect on this, two of his books came to mind, "The chicken with the cement eggs" and "The green energy of biomass". And it is on this basis that I have shaped this text, the aim of which is simply to reflect on the formula that we are going to choose to "fill" this Spain that is not yet fallow and in which it is essential to understand that forest areas are the fundamental element of the ecological structure of the European Union and must be integrated into the rest of the sectoral policies. The question I am asking myself and which it is a question of responding to is whether we are being fair to them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The modern world is showing huge gaps for overcoming the inequalities that overwhelm millions of people, which have an impact on population 's quality of life. The coexistence of three epidemics: undernutrition, obesity and climate change represent the challenges that should be faced from a critical perspective of the traditional science in order to adequately feed the planet. Obesity as well as undernutrition are recognized diseases that impair the people's health and represent an increased risk for the development of future diseases. Because of this, a real necessity is the achievement of a balanced, adequate and sufficient diet for all. How to achieve a sustainable diet over time and also to cooperate in the amelioration of the planet's climate changes has become an intense scientific, political and social controversy. The hidden narrative behind the statistics must be brought to the forefront of the debates and for this, it is necessary to broaden the vision of the basic problems faced by the humanity for eating. To explain this phenomenon, a holistic perspective is urgently needed that includes the methodological scientific structure, a trans-sectorial approach and a social qualitative description. In this paper, the modern dilemma is reviewed and an attempt is made to broaden the horizon of understanding through provocative questions that may contribute to advancing the comprehensive approach of the traditional controversies such as hunger and politics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to its impact on human health and its capacity to cause damage, disasters are one of the global problems that most concern the international community. However, and in spite of the efforts made by many health systems, the reduction of vulnerabilities and the lack of strategies to avoid or minimize risks have not received enough attention yet. As Cuba is located in an area of permanent danger of disasters, its health sector has accumulated considerable experience in the management of risks and in the assurance of less risky future scenarios, with active participation of the community and a planned and organized process to address the impact of climate change. This paper summarizes some of these experiences and describes the dangers, vulnerabilities, and risks of disasters in Cuba, its Civil Defense System, and planning and organization in the health sector for disaster reduction, as well as the main effects and challenges of climate change in the health system. Lessons learned and good practices support the key role of human resources to reduce vulnerabilities; the greatest challenges are to avoid or minimize risks, to advance research, to train professionals for climate change, and to optimize the organization of health systems and services in the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the main results of the Fifth Assessment Report of the Ipcc, concerning climate change impacts, present and potential vulnerabilities in the biophysical and socioeconomic areas, and the possibilities to affront these through adaptation policies and actions in the Asian Southeast. Risk, vulnerabilities and adaptation options are presented, followed by an assessment of opportunities, resilience, and limits related to adaptation. Section 1.A of First Part characterizes observed impacts, vulnerability, exposure, and present adaptation responses. Section 1.B examines risks and opportunities. In the Second Part, Section 2.A considers the principles for an efficient adaptation, and the links between adaptation, mitigation and sustainable development; Section 2.B is cantered on regional cooperation mechanism on adaptation issues (Apan), as well as collaboration issues on subnational level and within the countries. The paper concludes that the prospective of resilient pathways to sustainable development are related closely to the transformation of economic, social, technological and political decisions and actions that simultaneously enhance the social and economic wellbeing and the responsible management of the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to present a panoramic view of the impact of climate change on the Cuban Southeast. It discusses the principal threats and risks affecting coastal areas, and describes the most recent and pertinent results of scientific research carried out with the aim of tackling climate change in such areas. Programmes that have been adopted in order to identify and implement solutions regarding Integrated Coastal Zone Management and the management of human settlements are also presented. Such programmes aim to reduce vulnerabilities resulting from serious natural threats, progressive sea-level rise or from the effects observed through models of upwelling in the case of hurricanes of different categories. This paper concludes that climatic change in the Cuban Southeast is a process beyond doubt, and it is currently being confronted as a matter of priority; more than ten programmes have already been put in action, involving various collaborating institutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this paper is to start from the political ecology and the philosophy of the liberation, to present a critique to the Agreements of Climatic Change in Paris 2015, given the little or null effectiveness of the environmental policies that are proposed. For this purpose, a critical theoretical essay was carried out on the current capitalist model and its conflicts regarding sustainable development. The methodology used is a critical test to the production-technology contradiction that capitalism poses to civilization and humanity. The results indicate that there are conflicts between the environmental policies specified in said signed climate change agreement, based on their effectiveness for humanity and nature, such as an expanded reproduction of capital vs. life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective is to analyze the current problems and the environmental impacts of the Brazilian energy matrix and some alternatives for diversification. The methodology used was the bibliographical and documentary research in national and foreign authors, as well as technical studies and other fields of knowledge beyond legal, because of the transdisciplinary nature of the subject. The paper results understand that the Brazilian energy basis is not sustainable and that the decision-makers and the society shall implement an energy transition to alternative renewable energy sources and also need public policies to diminish consumption. There must not be one single choice of source, but decide based on determining the impacts from renewables and on evaluating its pros and cos. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Echinoids play an important role in marine ecosystems structuring. Often, their population density experience markedly fluctuations that promote a state shift in the ecosystems they inhabit. Population increments of some sea urchins may cause catastrophic changes in temperate areas of the planet by decimating the erect macroalgae cover. These population increments results in unproductive and very stable assemblages, known as "blanquizales" (ericeras/moradales), or sea urchin barren ground. Macroalgae are the main ecosystem engineers in temperate areas and generate a suitable nursery and feeding habitat for fishes. These algae stands are also important zones for biofiltration of coastal waters and CO2 uptake. The main consequence of vegetated biomass lost is a trophic disequilibrium that generates important economic losses for artisanal fisheries and tourism. In tropical areas, sea urchin's outbreaks can cause bioerosion in coral reefs. However, the most important event to highlight was the mass mortality occurred in the Caribbean during the 80's. This event favored the development of algae communities that suffocated the coral reef ecosystem. Therefore, both in temperate and tropical areas of the planet, these boom-bust echinoids generate undesired ecosystems states. Very recently, various global scale collaborative papers have highlighted a clear anthropogenic cue. Human activity though overfishing or favoring global warming, weakens marine ecosystem resilience and promote these catastrophic ecosystem shifts. To mitigate the effects of these population changes different management strategies have been used. For instance, in temperate areas, sea urchin reduction actions (manually or by using quick lime), sea urchin harvesting or the implementation of marine reserves have been used, with contrasting results. In Caribbean coral reefs affected by urchin mass mortality, some sea urchin juvenile's reintroduction plans have been used but with very low effectiveness. The more feasible ecosystem scale strategy due to its preventive nature, seems to be the implementation of protected areas. However, the impact of global warming will exceed our capacity to manage marine ecosystems locally and will required more efficient global actions to prevent undesired sea urchin fluctuations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to illustrate the accumulated experiences in the design and implementation of strategies, policies and regulations to promote the development of the renewable energy sources, as well as the increase of the participation in the national energetic balances with different aims. Among these aims we stress the decrease of the dependence on the use of energy fossil sources (which are generally imported), mitigation of emission of greenhouse effect gases and reduction of the local pollution levels, particularly in soils, air and waters associated to great human concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ocean acidification is a growing problem that affects global environment. Its effects are detectable now, putting the most extensive water resource on the planet at risk and influencing the climate changes that can be documented across the globe. This paper analyzes the protection of the sea as a measure to ensure a healthy environment for future generations, guaranteeing a better way of life for them. We present the different principles governing bioethics, and we establish their relationship with the processes of sustainable development and the increase of acidification in the ocean, which affects a large number of communities of scarce resources in the world. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental goods and services (egs) are a thriving market that emerged in the 1990s as a result of international agreements to curb environmental degradation and climate change. What started as a struggle between environmental advocates and trade advocates paved the way for negotiation between two closely interconnected international regimes: climate change and trade. The current international debate on the egs market focuses, on the one hand, on pointing to the poor role that this activity has played in curbing the deterioration of the environment. On the other hand, in the important economic success that the commerce of this type of products is having. Today, the economic spill of the egs trade is just over two trillion dollars and is expected to increase. Australia, Canada, China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand,Singapore and the United States are among the 17 most prosperous economies of this type of market. The supremacy in the international competitiveness of the Asia Pacific Rim over this niche provides elements to expect a relative decrease in environmental impact, because this region emits 63% of all greenhouse gases (ghs) that are generated on the planet. This paper analyzes the importance of the bsa market in a world whose main challenge should be to solve environmental deterioration. However, quantitative data to measure environmental deterioration and economic prosperity show that, at least, in the short term, the environment has not benefited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From the point of view of tourism, scientific knowledge of the alterations in climate and consequent sector impacts is set up as a key issue for the development of policies for adaptation and mitigation of climate change. However, all this is insufficient unless it is accompanied by the knowledge of public attitudes, beliefs and perceptions of risk showing the different stakeholders. This paper explores, based on a mixed methodology that it includes quantitative and qualitative approach, the perception of risk associated with climate change that present key actors in rural tourism. The proposed approach has allowed knowing how the impacts of climate change, its potential impacts on rural tourism businesses and local adaptation responses developed so far are perceived. Research has also enabled to detect subjective barriers to the adaptation actions that could hinder the fight against the phenomenon. From a geographical point of view, research is focused in Alt Empordà, a Catalan small region located in the northeast of the well-known Costa Brava tourism brand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents some of the main arguments related to the use of alternative technologies for generation of electrical energy that have been developed as part of the global climate change mitigation mechanisms. The article focuses on the market of products for generation of solar energy that has had a huge expansion in recent years and, since the People's Republic of China (China) has managed to control large segments of the international market of components and products for generation of solar energy, it has been immersed in commercial disputes. Climate change (cc) is associated with the greenhouse gas (ghg) emissions which are generated in the combustion process; their mitigation becomes a core part of the energy security of the countries with the generation of energy with lower environmental impact resolving, in part, the expansion of the energy demand. The main conclusion in this text is that, in general, the electric energy generated with alternative technologies has created an economic and commercial space of intense competition which translates to new businesses with a bioethical justification associated to the protection of the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper takes us beyond the present economic crisis to where global warming warns of a much more profound problem: a structural flaw in capitalism. Theoretically linking relations between climate change, colonialism, and capitalism, San Lorenzo is investigated as an agricultural frontier where "CO2lonialism" unfolds in African oil palm cultivation and agrofuel production. This re s e a rch highlights the cultural and spatial practices through which Afro - Ecuadorian, Chachi and Awá communities construct and sustain "geographies of hope" amid landscapes of fallen forests, poisoned rivers and social conflicts. Expounding on the ecological debt of the Global No rth to the Global South, this paper condemns discourses and actions that solely focus on improving the economic climate while bulldozing rainforests, livelihoods, and real solutions to climate change. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper was first presented on November 12th, 2015, during the First UNED Encounter: Management, Climate Change and Social Participation; specifically at the Unofficial Perspectives: Paradigmatic Challenges and Community Proposals panel, organized by the Research Center on Culture and Development (CICDE, for its acronym in Spanish). Given that 2016 was declared by the National Council of Rectors (CONARE, for its acronym in Spanish) as the year of Public Universities for Mother Nature, the Journal Rupturas considers it relevant to publish this document in its section: Annotations on the Juncture, while preserving the style of the author. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the tropical Andes, the mountain treeline corresponds to a complex transition zone between páramo forests and páramos. In the lower limit of this ecotone there is a more or less gradual transition between mountain cloud forests and páramo forests. Land planning in these ecosystems has become a highly topical subject given the growing threat for conservation generated by agricultural and mining activities. In this paper we review the research carried out in the Cordillera de Mérida (Venezuela) on the changes in vegetation structure, diversity and response to disturbance along the forest-páramo transition zone. The results of these studies document the high species and life form richness which characterize the ecotone vegetation, as well as a high rate of species turnover (beta diversity) along the elevation gradient. Studies on elevation changes in vegetation successional dynamics in plots disturbed by agriculture at different altitudes along the transition zone indicate that forest woody species have a lower capacity to colonize disturbed areas than dominant páramo species, a process that results in forests patches with a paramo physiognomy. On the basis of the available evidence, the structural elements that could be used for delimiting the different ecosystems present along transition zone are discussed, emphasizing the need to design conservation and restoration strategies which interpret the forest-páramo ecotone as a dynamic and integrated system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this analysis is to reflect on more sustainable family and extensive integrated livestock production models, in which the woody component is integrated, contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gases and favoring the mitigation of the climate change. For such purpose, a revision was made referring to the integration of the forestry activity in livestock production, as a viable alternative of production system. A start is made from the criterion that silvopastoral systems (SPSs), within the agroforestry ones, are agroecosystems in which a tree component is associated with a herbaceous (natural or improved pastures) and a farming component (livestock) in the same site, where biological interactions exist among them and land use is maximized. This paper also describes how SPSs are grouped; their opportunities from the economic, productive, social and environmental points of view; and the effects of the interaction among its components. This analysis allows to state that SPSs are a product of the relation among biology, society and culture, and in them there is a large diversity; likewise, they allow the reconversion of the very little productive extensive livestock production into more productive and sustainable systems, as well as the rehabilitation of the areas degraded by this type of livestock production, deforestation and soil depletion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research paper presents a methodology for the analysis of vulnerability of water supply sources with regional results (Popayan and Cajibío), considering the following points: 1) incorporation of relevant indicators of municipal water supply sources, 2) Local knowledge on perception, and identification of climate related problems, 3) mathematical procedures and adjust the algorithm for calculating the vulnerability and 4) coordination with territorial planning instruments. As a result, the vulnerability in the current scenario of the Rio Las Piedras subbasin (Popayán) is medium low (0.42) product generated by adaptive capacity developed synergistic processes between local actors; in contrast, the basin of the river Michicao (Cajibio) has a high average vulnerability (0.54) due to social dislocation, low institutional presence and zero environmental investment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The availability of water resources could be affected by climate change and with it the degree with which the demands are met. To assess the degree with which the demands are met, indicators that allow identifying water scarcity problems are frequently used. These indicators have been generally developed for hydrological planning analyses in the short and medium term where the effects of climate change are not relevant. Therefore, the capability of the indicators: demand-satisfaction index (I1) and demand-reliability index (I2) in this paper it is analyzed. These indicators were developed to be uses in the short term, and here we focus on their use in systems exposed to climate change (long term conditions). This analysis was performed through the application of these indicators in three Spanish basins (Guadalquivir, Duero and Ebro) and under several reduction levels of the streamflows due to climate change. It was determined that I2 is not capable of capturing the effects of the variability of such streamflows. A new indicator Ip3 was identified, so that keeping the same criteria as I2 to its determination, it is capable of determining the best level with which the demands should be met taking into account the variability of the streamflows. This new indicator was selected out of three proposed indicators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper shows the main findings regarding the climate change perspective in the department of Antioquia. For measuring it, means such as surveys, interviews, and a focus group were used with parties related to academia, the government, and the authorities of Antioquia. The results show that, in Antioquia, there are still gaps to be filled, and few, or little known, commitments for prevention; deficient institutional presence, and little interest from the local government for actions derived from the issue of regulations, and tools for adaptation to climate change to be implemented effectively. Likewise, there is little planning and connection between initiatives and the means for management in the territory. The parties surveyed agree that the most vulnerable sectors in the face of climate change, from an economic viewpoint, are the production units in the livestock, agricultural and energetic fields. From a social point of view, the main problem is what geomorphologic conditions generate, and, from an environmental point of view, the loss of biodiversity. Finally, education is viewed as the main instrument and tool for knowing and approaching the essence of climate change, as well as the implications that it can have for society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to develop an analysis of mitigation and adaptation strategies in the transport sector in the city of Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico. Based on the methodology of the Programs of Action on Climate Change (PACC), we analyzed the Mexicali emissions inventory and generated a diagnosis. Once we analyzed the current situation, we studied mitigation strategies such as Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), the smog check, new importation legislation for used cars, biofuel production, the promotion of loweremission vehicles and urban planning. On adaptation strategies vehicle recycling and the use of non-moto-rized transport were studied as an alternative of sustainable mobility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change, one of the main global risks humankind is currently facing, became a relevant issue on the international agenda in the last few decades. The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), adopted in 1992, includes both mitigation and adaptation strategies; however, though both are considered equally important, adaptation has been historically relegated to a secondary role within the Convention. The paper first presents an overview of the trajectory of adaptation as a UNFCCC guideline, discusses its institutional evolution and the Convention’s financing mechanisms, and, finally, explores the relations between adaptation and development. The conclusions point to the insufficiency of the Convention with respect to the implementation of measures for adaptation to climate change, but highlight its relevant role as a scenario for debate, as a source of funding, and as a promoter of both national and subnational actions, especially in developing countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the rapid increase in the concentration of greenhouse gases derived from a growing social metabolism (use of energy and materials), the implementation of diverse technologies, including those designed to manipulate and control the weather, has been proposed as a potential solution. This paper reviews the prevailing social metabolism and its projections for the coming decades. Subsequently, the problems and challenges of climate change, its implications and the technological solutions based on weather manipulation proposed from a political discourse that advocates for a "green economy" are discussed. By describing the geoengineering proposals, their complexity, feasibility, uncertainties and potential implications are then critically reviewed. Recognizing that the use of geoengineering is more an issue of economics and politics than a technical matter, it is concluded with an appeal to open the debate on different implications and desirability of the diverse geoengineering options, starting from the premise that the main measure towards climate change is the effective reduction of social metabolism and, therefore, of emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper discusses the effects of climate change in agriculture and food in Latin America. In response to Maletta (2009), this essay analyze the real impacts climate change will have in the region. We suggest that global impacts in agriculture and food will be high in Latin America. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]