Search

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]

The network structures that have arisen out of globalisation could provide an alternative means of addressing major global challenges (climate change, mitigation of its effects or the prevention of pandemics). Cities increasingly consider themselves "actors motivated by interests" and they turn to urban diplomacy and interestbased networks to change the conversation - and, ultimately, the power structure - of multinational governance. Starting with a definition of what urban power is, this paper examines the rise of urban networks and their leverage of data to claim a more active role in the face of their nation-states, and on a global scale. Drawing on two brief case studies - the C40 network and Voluntary Local Reviews - it points to possible ways forward for urban influence networks in the near-term future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With climate change in the making and an international context that tends towards energy transition, the right to energy claims a space of greater prominence in the international arena and in the systems of human rights protection to incline this process towards a deep transition. Hence, this paper aims to contribute to the debates and possible relationships between energy transition and human rights. To this end, a comparative law methodology is used, with a hermeneutic approach of dense description. The concept of the right to energy in the 2030 Agenda and its sustainable development goals as well as the references in other instruments of the human rights protection systems-both universal and regional-are reviewed. From this comparative overview, it is concluded that the Inter-American Human Rights System is at the forefront of the legal literature on the right to energy, establishing a doctrine to avoid the restriction of the energy transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change leads to an increase in the frequency, duration and intensity of climate risks. Rising temperatures and heat waves constitute the climatic risk that causes the most deaths in Europe. More and more economic and natural implications are also being identified. Municipalities must guarantee a fair and equitable socio-ecological transition in urban centers through adaptation. Nature-based Solutions (NbS) can facilitate this and several European cities are already applying them. However, smaller municipalities may be left behind. The literature identifies different incentives and barriers during the phases of adaptation policy making. The research objective of this paper is to determine the perception that technical and political managers have of this climate risk, the level of adaptation through NbS of the municipalities and the incentives and barriers that may arise in the Costa Brava Region. To do this this, seven public officials from different municipalities of Cap de Creus (Alt Empordà, Catalonia) have been interviewed. The analysis has been carried out with a mixed triangulation methodology. The main results indicate that the risk studied is not perceived as being of great concern. NbS are adaptation measures that are little known by municipalities but relevant measures in the adaption process. New incentives and barriers not identified in the literature have also emerged. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transition towards a more sustainable energy supply becomes relevant in the face of a critical climate scenario. Since the 1970s, there has been concern among academics, governments and non-governmental organisations about the need to reduce the use of fossil fuels and associated greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The tourism sector is not exempt from these challenges, and for this reason, this paper aims to analyse the situation of tourism in the context of energy transition, in order to identify the challenges for its decarbonisation. In order to achieve this, this exploratory-descriptive study is based on secondary sources of information from specialised literature, statistical and regulatory documents. The results show that academic-scientific studies have gradually increased in recent years, detecting socio-cultural, economic-financial, political-regulatory, technical and environmental challenges that each of the components of the tourism sector must face for a transition to a low-carbon economy. However, it is necessary to deepen the analyses from holistic approaches that critically address energy appropriation in the tourism sector. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper provides a panoramic and comparative analysis of the legislation passed by the Autonomous Communities to tackle climate change. The Paris Agreement gives them a leading role, together with other actors, as subnational entities to face and achieve the challenges posed by climate change mitigation and adaptation. At the time of writing, only three autonomous communities have approved legislative instruments to mitigate and adapt to climate change. These are Catalonia, Andalusia, and the Balearic Islands. However, other regions have approved strategies and policies for the same purpose, and some have begun the process of approving the relevant legislation. In this paper we study the objectives to mitigate and adapt to climate change set out in these laws, the legal instruments they prescribe to achieve them, and their effective implementation and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of current climate change, it is a priority to develop mechanisms that facilitate the integration of the public's perspective in the fight against this phenomenon. Organisations such as the IPCC have highlighted the importance of paying attention, in the inexorable transition that is approaching, to the perception and experiences of the population as sources of information complementary to scientific evidence. In addition, it is of interest to check the assessment of institutional action in this respect and the degree of social awareness of this global challenge. Thus, this paper, based on an extensive survey carried out on the island of Tenerife (Canary Islands), analyses the resident population's perception of the causes and effects of climate change, as well as their environmental commitment and knowledge of governmental mitigation and adaptation initiatives. There is a high degree of concern about the issue among citizens, who support the existence of climate change, say they know what it consists of and generally have a negative view of the actions of public administrations, and are unaware of the initiatives that have been approved. [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]

The meridional mountains of Europe are located in Andalusia, in the south of the Iberian Peninsula. In this region, orographic and climatic factors are the main circumstances that condition the landscape and cultural peculiarities. Nowadays, its ecosystems show a high vulnerability to climate change, its traditional ways of life are in crisis and its cultural heritage is endangered by abandonment and depopulation. This paper analyzes some of the main documents that include proposals of environmental education at European, national and regional levels from the point of view of its adaptation the territory of the Andalusian Mediterranean mountains. Some educational actions are also evaluated in order to detect the possible existence of dysfunctionalities or deficiencies among the different educational policies and projects. Finally, a series of actions are proposed to optimize environmental education programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some thoughts regarding the emergency climate situation in which we are living are presented in this paper. They are inspired by psychoanalytic reflection although not exclusively. A path is described from traumatizing information to denial manoeuvres, and from these to awareness and responsible reactions, which must necessarily be reparative. [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]

This paper examines the interaction between public policies and plans and the Sustain-able Development Goals (SDGs). For this purpose, this paper analyzes the instruments indicated in the Voluntary National Reports of Chile and Uruguay (2019), especially those referred in ODS 13: Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts. The analysis carried out shows the possibilities of fulfilment that are presented from SDG 13, in an interrelated way with the other SDGs, in order to evaluate the viability of an integral and sustainable development model. [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]

Brazil, Mexico and Uruguay have adopted wind energy as a means to fight climate change. However, their experiences are different and insufficiently documented. This paper analyzes the advantages and disadvantages of the wind industry in light of its future expansion in Latin America. The methodology consists of the systematization and analysis of literature written in Spanish, Portuguese and English. Four advantages and five disadvantages were identified. The advantages are wind energy's reduced carbon footprint, low production costs, the potential for job creation and income from land rentals, while the disadvantages are possible vegetation loss, impact on birds and water sources, oil and waste contamination and health damage. The challenges for public policy are: supporting research on the socioenvironmental impacts of the wind industry and designing tools for their mitigation; developing a full supply chain of materials through technological innovation; distributing the benefits of wind energy equally among the local population, and prioritizing public needs of electricity above the interest of the private sector. If these challenges are not fully met, wind energy projects will be part of a hegemonic structure that claims to solve the problems created by climate change, while in fact continuing to use an extractivist logic, incapable of benefitting people. [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]

This paper shows the translations and variations of the smart city model in Latin American cities. The smart city has emerged as a new urban model based on the use of technologies to respond to the varied and complex challenges facing contemporary cities, ranging from security to climate change. Based on the policy mobility approach, the network of actors committed to the diffusion of this urban model is identified and the inclusion of the smart city's narratives and projects in the debates and agendas of the planning and governance of the Latin American cities. The results reveal the prescriptive character of the model, its standardization, and the conformation of an "elite epistemic community" that has been decisive in the narrative and material production of the smart city in the region. [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 adaptation has multiple definitions, to have a reference conceptual framework we understand it as the reduction of vulnerability to climate variability. This paper's objective was to assess the adaptive capacity and response to climate variability in three rural communities at Sierra de San Pedro Martir National Park. We applied discourse analysis and non-participatory observation. As for data collecting, we carried out structured interviews during community workshops and semi-structured ones to external stakeholders. Results show that communities recognized droughts as the most important climate phenomenon, given that it impacts their economic activities and daily life alike. But inhabitants did not associate water availability to environmental services provided by the National Park. Our main contribution was modifying the methodological tool. Conclusions indicate that adaptive responses are associated with social characteristics of the local population and their strategies diversity. The public institutions' role in rural adaptation was not addressed in-depth. [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]

In this paper, a review of the state of the art of the control strategies used for the water distribution control in irrigation systems is developed, aimed at increasing the operability of these systems, as well as reducing water losses due to operation. The historical advances of this kind of control systems are shown. Finally, some of the challenges of the international scientific community are offered to continue improving the capability and performance of the controllers used in irrigation systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-altitude cushion peatlands contain important records for high-resolution palaeoenvironmental studies, due to their high carbon accumulation rates and sensitivity to climatic changes. In this study, we present the paleoenvironmental history for the last 2 500 years based on the study of APA01 core, located in the headwaters of the Cachi river basin in Ayacucho. Radiocarbon dating by an accelerator mass spectroscopy (AMS) and by an elemental PDZ Europa ANCA-GSL analyzer to estimate particulated organic carbon were determined. Our results reveal changes in the peatlands during the Late Holocene. The palaeo climate varied significantly during the last 2 500 years. During the Medieval Climatic Anomaly (ACM) from around 1040 DC (Before Christ - BC, in spanish paper) to 1300 DC, the drier climate caused a slowdown in peat accumulation due to a reduced water table inducing a reduced organic matter production with a negative peak of carbon concentration. At the end of the Small Ice Age (PEH), between 1600 DC and 1890 DC, carbon accumulation showed high variability. Subsequently, the peat environment is mainly characterized by a considerable increase of carbon accumulation rates due to high sedimentation rates that is possibly related to the retreat of glaciers in the Central Andes. The recent drastic increase in the sedimentation rate and the reduction of carbon concentrations are a warning of a possible future decline of these ecosystems. [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]

The present paper has objective informer the compartment the Weeds Global Invasive in sugar cane crop Saccharum spp. L. (WWGIS) with climate change for Green House Effect. The WWGIS-Worst Weed Global Invasive in Latina American and Caribbean were selection in the I and II curse of weed biology and management in sugarcane, Tabasco sugarcane, 2010-2013. The results of the first course were highlighted by the participants and corroborated in the second. These plants growth in habitats worm and limited water available. The species selections are: 1) ROOEX-Rottboellia exaltata L.f.1782; 2) TRCYN- Digitaria insularis (L.) Fedde, 1904; 3) CYNDA-Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. 1805; 4) CYNPL-Cynodon plectostachyus (K. Schum.) Pilg.1907; 5) CHRPO-Chloris elata Desv, 1831; 6) PANPU-Brachiaria mutica (Forssk.) Stapf, 1919; 7) DIGNU-Digitaria nuda Schumach, 1827; 8) DIGAD-Digitaria ciliaris (Retz.) Koeler, 1802; 9) PANMA-Panicum maximum Jacq. 1781; 10) SORHA-Sorghum halepense (L.) Pers. 1805; 11) CYPRO-Cyperus rotundus L. 1753; 12) SYNPO-Syngonium podophyllum Schott, 1851. Ten plants per square meter of each species were height determined. The WWGIS excluded the total organisms in this habitat. With climate changes, there was an increase of 1.03 °C since 1981, alter their biological behavior, with difficult and onerous weed control. With appearance of dwarf plants and produced seeds in winter. After 2005 the biological comportment were graduates altered with normal seeds productions in spring, summer and winter, showed mini plants 0.10-1.30 m high. The behavior of PMIGS is directly linked to the highest minimum winter temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The climate change consequences have been manifested on the environmental condition's changes (temperature, rainfall, frost, drought, and soil salinity), then, the analysis of maize genetic diversity and their environment interaction is suggested. The objectives of this research were to determine the yield potential, the response to different environments of 63 maize landrace populations representative of the genetic variation in the southeast of Coahuila, Mexico. Method: The agronomic evaluation of native maize populations of eight racial groups was carried out in the spring-summer cycle in 2013 in two contrasted and representative locations of the environmental conditions in the southeast of Coahuila. Blocks were established independently within each location, and, in one location, blocks were different planting date. The blocks × location combinations were considered different environments to explore and make an interpretation of the genotype by environment interaction. In this paper, the response to the environment is analyzed based on grain yield and days to male flowering. Results: Eight populations were identified with an outstanding average yielding potential across environments, with values between 7.4 and 8.5 t ha-1, mainly representative from the Tuxpeño, Raton and Tuxpeño Norteño races. Populations adapted to transition-high altitude areas had an average yield reduction of 4.1 t ha-1 (55.0%) after been exposed to intermediate altitude conditions. Discussion or Conclusion: The graphic interpretation of the genotype x environment interaction allowed to identify and to group the genotypes with specific adaptation in the environments of evaluation, as well as the ones with an average performance across environments. Twenty-two populations were identified with adaptation to transition- high altitude conditions, 14 to intermediate altitude areas and 27 populations with an average performance across environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Cuban State, aware of the meaning of climate change for the sustainable development of the country, designed a plan to confront climate change called "Task Life", in which all sectors of society and especially the local authorities of the Power Popular together with citizens. tobleIn this paper, reference is made to the preparation of the cadres for the implementation of this plan, which consists of five actions and eleven tasks. The Ministry of Science, Technology and Environment (CITMA) is the governing institution of the Life Task, has the responsibility of guiding the institutions and offering information and knowledge for the preparation of all the actors, especially the cadres . The information, research results and regulations issued by the CITMA, contribute to the preparation of the cadres. To fulfill the objectives proposed in this plan, trained cadres are needed to guarantee the active participation of the population. [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]

Introduction: The application of the ISO 14000 Standard for environmental management in Cuban companies, demonstrates the high degree of concern of the Cuban State, to achieve sustainable development, with an impact on the economic and social, without prejudice to what the generations present can bequeath to future generations. The objective of this paper is to demonstrate the progress achieved through the results of the application of this rule in three companies of the Electric Union of the Ministry of Energy and Mines in Cuba. Methods: Diagnostic of the problem of study and characterization of companies. The guide prepared by the Electric Union was applied to evaluate the implementation of the ISO 14000 Standard. Results: In the three cases of study; The Electric Company of the Island of Youth, Hydroenergy and the Maintenance Company to Power Plants, evidenced the importance of applying the ISO 14000 Standard on Environmental Management Systems, to diagnose the variables that affect the efficiency of the company and contribute, to preserve the environment, with the consequent proposal of corrective measures to amend the damage caused by industrial waste and achieve savings of raw materials, water and fuel. Conclusions: The consistent application of the ISO 14000 Standard in Cuban companies constitutes a guarantee to achieve the objectives of sustainable development with impact on the economic and social, in the Electric Union on Cuba. [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 paper addresses vulnerability to Global Environmental Change of rural producers of Mendoza River basin, in Argentina. Vulnerability is a complex phenomenon that is generated at the intersection of environmental, social and economic dimensions. From a qualitative study based on in-depth interviews with producers of the study area, the paper explain the processes affecting actors (exposures / sensitivities) and the practices (adaptations) they develop to address these phenomena. The main idea is that hydroclimatological events act on a number of previous, long-term vulnerabilities defined by access to resources. Also it shows that resources are critical to the development of adaptive capacities, but finds that "availability of resources" and "capacity building" are not phenomena always related by a linear and direct causality. That is, sometimes the mere existence of resources is not enough to foster adaptive capacities. Noting some capacities gaps, the article identifies critical factors that could improve rural actors' capacities and could strengthen them to cope with future global climate events and other factors that affect their living conditions. [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]