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Salvidio S. Expanding the human-wildlife interaction framework of Galindo-González (2023). CONSERVATION BIOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY FOR CONSERVATION BIOLOGY 2024:e14374. [PMID: 39230005 DOI: 10.1111/cobi.14374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Sebastiano Salvidio
- Department of Earth Environment and Life Sciences (DISTAV), University of Genova, Genova, Italy
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Ivanova T, Bosseva Y, Chervenkov M, Dimitrova D. Sweet Basil between the Soul and the Table-Transformation of Traditional Knowledge on Ocimum basilicum L. in Bulgaria. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:2771. [PMID: 37570924 PMCID: PMC10420671 DOI: 10.3390/plants12152771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
The study tracks the utilization of Ocimum basilicum L. (sweet basil)-a garden plant popular for its ritual and ornamental value in the past, that is currently applied in various forms and ways as medicine, food, insect repellent, etc.-in Bulgaria. Previous data for Bulgarian rural home gardens showed a significant number of preserved local landraces; however, it remained unclear how people perceive the large varietal diversity of this species and how the traditions related to its use are preserved. We combined a literature review on the cultural value of sweet basil and the breeding of local genetic resources with an online questionnaire, directed to adult laypeople, that sought to access different aspects of past (recalled) and present use and related knowledge. The identification skills of the participants were tested using images of local plant landraces and foreign varieties. Responses from 220 participants showed that potted "Genovese"-type individual was most frequently identified as sweet basil (89.9%), followed by two examples of local landraces in flower. Participants who grow sweet basil or used it in more varied ways had significantly better identification skills. Ocimum basilicum was most frequently reported as food, while ritual/symbolic use was preserved while devalued during the Communism regime (1945-1989). Food and religious uses were negatively associated in the past, but presently, the tendency is completely reversed. Preferences for the informal exchange of seeds and seed-saving practices were discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teodora Ivanova
- Department of Plant and Fungal Diversity and Resources, Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria; (Y.B.); (M.C.); (D.D.)
| | - Yulia Bosseva
- Department of Plant and Fungal Diversity and Resources, Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria; (Y.B.); (M.C.); (D.D.)
| | - Mihail Chervenkov
- Department of Plant and Fungal Diversity and Resources, Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria; (Y.B.); (M.C.); (D.D.)
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Forestry, 1797 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Dessislava Dimitrova
- Department of Plant and Fungal Diversity and Resources, Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Research, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria; (Y.B.); (M.C.); (D.D.)
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Yue Z, Chen J. Direct, indirect, and vicarious nature experiences collectively predict preadolescents' self-reported nature connectedness and conservation behaviors. PeerJ 2023; 11:e15542. [PMID: 37361038 PMCID: PMC10290449 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.15542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The quantity and context of children's nature experiences are undergoing significant changes, exacerbating a pervasive negative cycle that could impact future conservation efforts. Therefore, it is essential to conduct further studies on the potential impacts of these changes on children's willingness to engage in conservation practices. Methods We surveyed 2,175 preadolescents (aged 9-12) from rural and city schools in Hangzhou, Kunming, and Xishuangbanna, China, regarding their nature experiences (direct, indirect, and vicarious) and self-reported nature connectedness and conservation behaviors. Results We found that children in urban areas have higher frequencies of indirect and vicarious experiences than those in rural areas, with some direct nature experiences seldom reported among city respondents. Direct, indirect, and vicarious nature experiences significantly predicted children's conservation behavior and collectively provided the highest predictive power for conservation behavior. Direct and vicarious experiences were strongly correlated with pro-nature behavior, and the latter with pro-environmental behavior. Emotional and cognitive connection with nature positively predicted conservation behavior, influenced by location and residence type. Discussion This study reveals that different types of nature experiences shape children's current conservation behaviors in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhihui Yue
- CAS Key Laboratory of Tropical Forest Ecology, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Mengla, Yunnan, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jin Chen
- CAS Key Laboratory of Tropical Forest Ecology, Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Mengla, Yunnan, China
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Cantillo T, Notaro S, Bonini N, Hadjichristidis C. Assessing Italian household preferences for waste sorting systems: The role of environmental awareness, socioeconomic characteristics, and local contexts. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2023; 163:22-33. [PMID: 36989827 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2023.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Efficient Waste Management Systems (WMS) depend on citizens' willingness to sort waste and to cooperate for its improved provision. Thus, it is essential to understand what attributes individuals value the most and what drives WMS preference heterogeneity. In this paper, we investigate how individuals evaluate WMS attributes (e.g., the number of waste sorting categories, the introduction of textile sorting, and the frequency of collection per week) and how the local contexts, socioeconomics, and environmental values shape their preferences. For this purpose, we conducted a discrete choice experiment on a sample representative of the Italian population interviewed through an online panel survey. We collected information on individual's preferences for WMS attributes, environmental awareness, and socioeconomic characteristics. We analyzed the data using hybrid mixed choice models, which allowed us to integrate environmental awareness values into willingness to pay estimations. We found that individuals are willing to pay for waste sorting, even if this implies more effort on their part and increased storage space. In addition, we found that the extent to which individuals support WMS improvements strongly depends on their environmental values, experiences (which are shaped by their local context), and socioeconomic factors. Our results suggest that to increase recycling rates and citizen satisfaction, there is a need for context-specific WMS designs that acknowledge the observed heterogeneity of preferences.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sandra Notaro
- Department of Economics and Management, University of Trento, Italy
| | - Nicolao Bonini
- Department of Economics and Management, University of Trento, Italy
| | - Constantinos Hadjichristidis
- Department of Economics and Management, University of Trento, Italy; Centre for Decision Research, University of Leeds, United Kingdom
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5
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Soga M, Gaston KJ, Fukano Y, Evans MJ. The vicious cycle of biophobia. Trends Ecol Evol 2023; 38:512-520. [PMID: 36707258 DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2022.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
People can express irrational fears and disgust responses towards certain wild organisms. This so-called 'biophobia' can be useful and indeed necessary in some circumstances. Biophobia can, however, also lead to excessive distress and anxiety which, in turn, can result in people avoiding interactions with nature. Here, we highlight concern that this reduction in interactions with nature might lead to progressive increases in biophobia, entrenching it more in individuals and across society. We propose the 'vicious cycle of biophobia', a concept that encapsulates how excessive aversion towards nature might emerge and grow in society. The vicious cycle of biophobia risks accelerating the extinction of experience, leading to long-term adverse consequences for the conservation of biodiversity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masashi Soga
- Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan.
| | - Kevin J Gaston
- Environment and Sustainability Institute, University of Exeter, Penryn, TR10 9FE, UK
| | - Yuya Fukano
- Graduate School of Horticulture, Chiba University, 1-33, Yayoi, Inage, Chiba 263-8522, Japan
| | - Maldwyn J Evans
- Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Bunkyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan; Fenner School of Environment and Society, The Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, 0200, Australia
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Jakstis K, Dubovik M, Laikari A, Mustajärvi K, Wendling L, Fischer LK. Informing the design of urban green and blue spaces through an understanding of Europeans' usage and preferences. PEOPLE AND NATURE 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/pan3.10419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kristen Jakstis
- Institute of Landscape Planning and Ecology University of Stuttgart Stuttgart Germany
| | - Maria Dubovik
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Espoo Finland
| | - Arto Laikari
- VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Espoo Finland
| | | | | | - Leonie K. Fischer
- Institute of Landscape Planning and Ecology University of Stuttgart Stuttgart Germany
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Wäldchen J, Wittich HC, Rzanny M, Fritz A, Mäder P. Towards more effective identification keys: A study of people identifying plant species characters. PEOPLE AND NATURE 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/pan3.10405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jana Wäldchen
- Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry Jena Germany
- German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle‐Jena‐Leipzig Germany
| | | | | | - Alice Fritz
- Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry Jena Germany
| | - Patrick Mäder
- German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle‐Jena‐Leipzig Germany
- Data Intensive Systems and Visualisation Technische Universität Ilmenau Ilmenau Germany
- Faculty of Biological Sciences Friedrich Schiller University Jena Germany
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Jim CY, Hui LC, Rupprecht CDD. Public Perceptions of Green Roofs and Green Walls in Tokyo, Japan: A Call to Heighten Awareness. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2022; 70:35-53. [PMID: 35362729 DOI: 10.1007/s00267-022-01625-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Many cities advocate retrofitting green roofs and green walls (GRGW) to create additional green areas, especially in cramped urban areas. Yet, worldwide, only a handful of studies have evaluated the public views towards the benefits and negative issues and promotion policies of this innovative greening option. To address this gap in the literature, we conducted a survey (N = 500) of residents' opinions towards GRGW in Tokyo, a city with mandatory installation of GRGW for almost two decades. Respondents mostly agreed with the contribution of GRGW to thermal comfort, air quality, and cityscape but weakly endorsed other potential benefits. High costs as well as mosquitoes and plant litter nuisances were the most recognized negative issues. Mandatory installation was the least preferred promotion policy. Instead, respondents expected installation on public buildings and provision of installation guidance. Respondents predominantly held a "moderate" view towards both the benefits and negative issues, showing indifferent attitudes towards GRGW. Income level and housing type shaped the overall perceptions, whereas age, sex, and current living environment influenced perceptions of individual aspects. Our findings signified a need for a bottom-up strategy to heighten public awareness for the advanced development of GRGW to complement and prime the top-down mandatory installation policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Y Jim
- Department of Social Sciences, Education University of Hong Kong, Lo Ping Road, Tai Po, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Ling Chui Hui
- Department of Social Sciences, Education University of Hong Kong, Lo Ping Road, Tai Po, Hong Kong, China
| | - Christoph D D Rupprecht
- Department of Environmental Design, Faculty of Collaborative Regional Innovation, Ehime University, Ehime, Japan
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How Urban Residents Perceive Nature Education: A Survey from Eight Metropolises in China. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14137820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
“Nature education” has become a striking trend in the field of environmental and sustainable development education in mainland China in recent years, which is considered to be a powerful force to realize the 11th goal of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, namely, “Sustainable Cities and Communities”. Chinese urban residents’ perceptions of “nature education” are fundamental to the success of “nature education” but we still know very little about it. This study aims to gather insights on the awareness, attitudes, and behaviors towards nature and nature education. In this paper, online questionnaires and random sampling methods were used. An online questionnaire survey was conducted among urban residents in eight representative cities in China, namely, Beijing (n = 313), Shanghai (n = 314), Guangzhou (n = 307), Shenzhen (n = 308), Chengdu (n = 206), Xiamen (n = 207), Hangzhou (n = 203), and Wuhan (n = 206). This study implied that Chinese urban residents are willing to accept nature education. There is a strong sense among the Chinese public in cities that living in harmony with nature, improving wellbeing through healthy and sustainable actions, and enjoying and protecting nature are desirable actions. However, respondents were slightly less likely to consider the emotional benefits and the development of social and functional (technical) skills as important elements of participating in nature education. The results also confirm that Chinese urban residents’ perceptions of nature education can be positively predicted by the individual’s relationship with nature and the individual’s experience related to nature education. These are important key messages for nature education organizations to communicate. The results of the study put forward some questions worthy of in-depth consideration for the development of China’s nature education, which can provide a foundation and direction for the further development of nature education in China.
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Teff-Seker Y, Segre H, Eizenberg E, Orenstein DE, Shwartz A. Factors influencing farmer and resident willingness to adopt an agri-environmental scheme in Israel. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2022; 302:114066. [PMID: 34872183 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2021.114066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Providing for growing food demand while minimizing environmental degradation is a major contemporary environmental challenge. Agri-environmental schemes (AESs) are often promoted to meet this challenge by providing subsidies to farmers who adopt agri-environmental practices (AEPs). The success of these schemes depends on the ability to engage farmers, thus understanding farmers' perceptions about AEPs is pivotal. Yet, current knowledge is limited as most research explores farmer's attitudes towards existing AESs, often based on subsidies. We explored the attitudes of farmers and their communities towards five different AEPs, and towards a potential AES, in an area of intensive agriculture in Israel, where currently no AES are implemented. We conducted five focus group sessions with 41 farmers, 12 follow-up interviews, and a survey with 296 community members. Findings indicate that farmers' willingness to implement AEPs was driven by environmental, personal, and social considerations, particularly perceptions of "good farming" practices, such as community cohesiveness and maintaining control of one's field. Farmers' lack of trust in the government, and lack of personal or local experience with specific AEPs, are other major barriers for joining a potential AES. Farmers perceived financial compensation as a safety net, but placed social and cultural values on par with, or above, financial considerations for joining an AES. Farmers' communities demonstrated high support for implementing AEPs, indicating that communities could be an asset for AES development. Therefore, while incentives for many AESs are based primarily on monetary compensation, to achieve their desired long-term results they should also focus on farmer resilience, independence, knowledge creation, and socio-cultural capital development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yael Teff-Seker
- Faculty of Architecture and Town Planning, Technion - Israel Insitute of Technology, Technion City, 3200003, Haifa, Israel; Department of Sociology, College of Letters and Sciences, University of California, Davis, 1 Shields Avenue, Davis 95616, CA, USA.
| | - Hila Segre
- Faculty of Architecture and Town Planning, Technion - Israel Insitute of Technology, Technion City, 3200003, Haifa, Israel; Nature Conservation and Plant Ecology Group, Wageningen University, PO Box 47, 6700 AA, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Efrat Eizenberg
- Faculty of Architecture and Town Planning, Technion - Israel Insitute of Technology, Technion City, 3200003, Haifa, Israel
| | - Daniel E Orenstein
- Faculty of Architecture and Town Planning, Technion - Israel Insitute of Technology, Technion City, 3200003, Haifa, Israel
| | - Assaf Shwartz
- Faculty of Architecture and Town Planning, Technion - Israel Insitute of Technology, Technion City, 3200003, Haifa, Israel
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Teixeira A, Gabriel R, Martinho J, Pinto G, Quaresma L, Faria A, Oliveira I, Moreira H. Connectedness to Nature Does Not Explain the Variation in Physical Activity and Body Composition in Adults and Older People. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:11951. [PMID: 34831707 PMCID: PMC8619523 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182211951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Revised: 11/04/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Connectedness to nature (CN) is a significant predictor of pro-environmental behaviours, human health and well-being. However, research on how this connection to the natural world might promote a more active lifestyle and improve body mass composition according to gender is lacking. This study investigated the influence of CN on physical activity (PA) and body composition in adults and older people. We recruited a sample of 219 individuals (77 men and 142 women), and a self-administered questionnaire was used to measure CN and obtain demographic data. Body composition was assessed by bioimpedance, and PA was assessed by accelerometry. Correlations and stepwise multiple regressions were used in data analysis. CN's association with other variables was more pronounced in women than in men, and we only identified significant associations with steps/day and body composition. However, this variable would not be included in the regression models that we developed. Adiposity levels and muscle status were significant predictors of PA in women. In both genders, age, percentage of fat mass and fat-free mass were selected as regressors in the models developed for visceral fat area and muscle condition (R2 Adjusted ≥ 0.908).
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreia Teixeira
- University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Ronaldo Gabriel
- Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), Department of Sports Science, Exercise and Health, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal;
| | - José Martinho
- Geosciences Centre (CGeo), Department of Geology, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal;
| | - Graça Pinto
- Center in Sports Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development (CIDESD), Department of Sports Science, Exercise and Health, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal;
| | - Luís Quaresma
- Department of Sports Science, Exercise and Health, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal;
| | - Aurélio Faria
- Center in Sports Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development (CIDESD), Department of Sport Science, University of Beira Interior, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal;
| | - Irene Oliveira
- Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), Department of Mathematics, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal;
- Center for Computational and Stochastic Mathematics, CEMAT-IST-UL, University of Lisbon, 1600-214 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Helena Moreira
- Research Center in Sports Sciences, Health Sciences and Human Development (CIDESD), Department of Sports, Exercise and Health Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences (CITAB), Department of Sports, Exercise and Health Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes and Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
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Gosler AG, Tilling SM. Knowledge of Nature and the Nature of Knowledge: Student natural history knowledge and the significance of birds. PEOPLE AND NATURE 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/pan3.10265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew G. Gosler
- Edward Grey Institute of Field Ornithology Zoology Research and Administration Building Oxford UK
- Institute of Human Sciences Oxford UK
| | - Stephen M. Tilling
- Field Studies Council Preston Montford Shrewsbury U.K
- UCL Institute of Education University College London London UK
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We Have Plenty of Water, Don’t We? Social Norms, Practices, and Contentions in a Drought-Ridden Country. HYDROLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/hydrology8040161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Climate and land use change pose global challenges to water policy and management. This article furthers calls for integrated research conceptualizing water management as a holistic, interdependent system that may benefit from sociological research. To better understand how socioenvironmental change affects lifestyle expectations and experiences, interviews with in-migrants (relocated to inland Australia from metropolitan cities), industry and government informants are thematically analyzed. Results show in-migrants engage in adaptive water management and conservation strategies to enhance water security, yet call for council provision of water management education to minimize vulnerability. Industry informants perceive few water supply or pollution issues, favoring technological solutions to support unfettered growth and water amenities, while de-prioritizing environmental sustainability goals. Government priorities reflect drought narratives in Australian water policy reform and show concern about meeting consumer water supply and preserving water quality. With predictions of greater weather severity, including flooding, and in-migrants’ difficulty managing heavy rainfall, national legislation and policy modifications are necessary. Specifically, normalizing climate variability in policy and social identities is desirable. Finally, practices prioritizing water scarcity and trading management over environmental protection indicate a need to surpass environmental commodification by depoliticizing water management.
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Randler C, Heil F. Determinants of Bird Species Literacy-Activity/Interest and Specialization Are More Important Than Socio-Demographic Variables. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11061595. [PMID: 34071521 PMCID: PMC8229662 DOI: 10.3390/ani11061595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Biodiversity is declining around the world and knowledge about biodiversity declines in a similar way. In this study, we addressed predictors of species knowledge, i.e., the question of what influences or causes species knowledge. The focus was knowledge about common bird species in Germany. Data were collected from July to October 2020 via an online questionnaire, containing demographic data, engagement in birdwatching, interest/activity, and images of 28 bird species native to Germany. Data were collected from adult students, lecturers and administrative staff of the Eberhard Karls University Tübingen. Men identified more species than women, garden owners more than non-owners. Hometown size had no influence. Employees scored higher than students. However, we found that birding specialization was the most important predictor, followed by bird-related interest/activity. We suggest including such questions in addition to conventional demographic questions in the future. Abstract Biodiversity is declining, and knowledge about biodiversity declines in a similar way. Previous studies have already addressed predictors of species knowledge. Here, we studied bird species knowledge related to demographics, but also to individual differences in affinity to nature, by including (i) birding specialization and (ii) bird-related activities/interest. Data were collected from July to October 2020 via an online questionnaire, containing demographic data, birding specialization, interest/activity, and images of 28 bird species native to Germany. Participants were adult students, lecturers and administrative staff of the Eberhard Karls University Tübingen. A total of 1967 questionnaires were returned in this study (35.3% male, 53.8% students, 69% had access to a garden). Mean identification score was 16.31 ± 6.38. Thus, participants were able to identify more than half of the species (total species n = 28). Men identified more species than women, garden owners had higher identification scores than non-owners, while hometown size was not significant. A distance to the next forest patch >10 km was related to lower identification scores. Employees scored higher than students. Correlation between species knowledge and birding specialization was high, as was the correlation with bird interest/activity. Higher scores were found in older people. In the linear univariate model, birding specialization and bird interest were the most influential predictors of species knowledge, followed by distance to next forest patch and occupation (student vs employees). Other variables were not significant. We suggest including such measures (interest, attitude, etc.) into further studies and move forward from the urban–rural narrative to more complex analyses of living circumstances.
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