Earthocity magazine offers an engaging platform for individuals to exchange their passions and expertise. From cutting-edge research to personal insights, it cultivates a community where diverse voices thrive. As an enthusiastic member, I deeply appreciate the chance to contribute to this dynamic space, particularly in sharing my fascination with biorobotics. Being part of such an inclusive society enables me to express my interests and engage in enriching conversations that fuel my curiosity
~Aillah Baluch
Aillah Balluch Aillah Balluch Co - Editor
In Earthocity, the opportunity to serve as a conduit for dialogue and collaboration at the intersection of technology and environmental stewardship is cherished. As the editor, I am honored to nurture our inclusive community, where individuals from diverse backgrounds come together to explore, learn, and inspire one another. Within our vibrant ecosystem, passionate enthusiasts converge to exchange ideas, share insights, and cultivate innovative solutions to the pressing environmental challenges of our time.
Devindi Wijekoon
Devindi Wijekoon Devindi Wijekoon Co - Editor
Earthocity Science Hub is now celebrating 2.5 years of its remarkable journey in the field of scientific publication. We have started the science magazine concept back in 2022. With successful impacts and reviews, we have published three science magazines. This year we are going to start our second phase with some new scientific insights and discoveries to our credit. This year our magazine will published bi-annually in January and July featuring different emerging writers from all over the world.
~Talal Ahmed
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Co-Editors Aillah Baluch & Devindi Wijekoon
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Sandali Ariyarathna Environmental Technologist
Contributor
Sandali Ariyarathna is an undergraduate from Sri Lanka. She is enrolled in the BS degree program at the University of Colombo, Sri Lanka, in the Department of Environmental Studies and Technology. Her specializations are Environmental techniques and Environmental assessment. She is very dedicated and passionate about writing scientific blogs and amazing scientific facts. This year, she has contributed to Earthocity Science Magazine Issue IV Vol. II.
Article Contribution: Environmental Impact Assessment - a framework to consider the prospective environmental and socio-economic effects
Contribution Phase: Phase I
Environmental Impact Assessment - A framework
Written by Sandali Ariyarathna | Edited by Talal Ahmed
Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) give a framework to consider the prospective environmental and socioeconomic effects of certain development projects. In the increasing demand for energy worldwide, EIAs become highly relevant as a scientific and policy tool to ensure that development projects are planned and executed in a way consistent with the principles of sustainable development.
The
Role of EIA in Energy Projects
Energy projects, be it solar, wind, hydroelectric, or any other type of fossil fuel source, come with very complex problems of both environmental and social character EIAs try to bring such challenges under systematic estimation through the analysis of a series of impact parameters. For instance, they assess the environmental impacts associated with Green House Gas Emissions (GHG emissions), particulate matter (PM) release, and disturbance of local water resources. Such assessment considers the land-use changes, loss of biodiversity, and alteration of ecological balance during construction and operations.
EIAs also address the socio-economic dimensions, often of equal concern to environmental issues. It ranges from community-level impacts, including displacement and loss of traditional livelihoods, to potential conflicts over land acquisition. Simultaneously identifying the economic gains, including job creation and contributions to regional economic development, this duality in focus ensures that energy projects are both environmentally sustainable and socially equitable.
EIA as a Catalyst for Informed DecisionMaking
One of the most important additions that EIAs make is to embed environmental and social thinking in the early stage of project planning The possibility of identifying sensitive ecosystems, vulnerable communities, and risks allows decision-makers to adopt precautionary and mitigative measures. In the case of renewable energy source projects, such as wind farms, EIAs can guide site selection to minimize impacts on migratory bird populations and other wildlife
Rigorous EIAs in fossil fuel projects can help identify risks of spills and air quality concerns apart from offering strategies to reduce the emissions.
Environmental Impact Assessment - A framework
Written by Sandali Ariyarathna | Edited by Talal Ahmed
Such a process also provides support for evidence-based decision-making through the development of comprehensive reports that can form a basis for regulatory approvals and stakeholder consultations. Another critical aspect is public participation, which is given to local communities through EIAs, hence fostering transparency in project developments.
Challenges and Opportunities in EIA Implementation
While theoretically sound, the effectiveness of EIAs often rests at practical levels. Inadequate environmental and social data impede the accuracy of impact predictions in many regions, especially developing countries. The same forces of political and economic pressures compromise the integrity of the assessment process. More prominently, these challenges are exacerbated by limited technical expertise and institutional capacity to comprehend and effectively address the physical setting, which minimizes mitigation measures. These shortcomings give way to improvements on both technological and methodological grounds. Integration of remote sensing, geographic information systems, and machine-learning algorithms can be applied to increase the accuracy of data
and enable more sophisticated modeling of project impacts. Another increasingly important consideration deemed indispensable for EIAs is that of integrating climate change into their frameworks to ensure long-term sustainability; for example, EIAs accounting for projected climate scenarios will result in adaptive measures regarding infrastructure design and resource management.
EIA as a Tool for Sustainable Development
EIAs are significant tools to make energy development sustainable. In that direction, EIAs ensure rigorous scientific analysis, stakeholder engagement, and informed policymaking, which in turn ensure that the adverse outcomes of development are minimized, and the benefits are maximized. However, fully realizing this potential requires great efforts in strengthening capacities, being inclusive of transparency in all processes, and adopting innovative tools and methodologies. In the coming decades, as energy systems undergo significant global changes, EIAs will remain one of the cornerstones of sustainable development, ensuring progress at a pace that protects the integrity of the environment and social well-being.
Fatima Zaim Marine Scientist
Contributor
Earthocity Science Magazine Issue IV Vol II
Fatima Zaim is a passionate Marine Biologist and Scientist from Pakistan. She is a graduate of Marine Sciences from the University of Karachi
Fatima is a passionate sustainability analyst and advocate for marine conservation. A gold medalist and accomplished academic, she participated in the Sister2Sister Exchange Program, where she studied physical oceanography and presented on ocean acidification. She also runs an Instagram channel dedicated to ocean biology education, merging scientific insights with public outreach This year, she has contributed to Earthocity Science Magazine Issue IV Vol II
Article Contribution: The Spillover Effect of Climate Change on Ocean Chemistry
Contribution Phase: Phase I
The Spillover Effect of Climate Change on Ocean Chemistry
Written by Fatima Zaim | Edited by Tooba Nayab
Oceans are our first line of defense against climate change. They absorb a significant portion of the carbon dioxide (CO2) emitted into the atmosphere, helping to mitigate the impacts of global warming. However, this absorption comes at a cost: it leads to ocean acidification, a process that threatens marine ecosystems and the organisms that inhabit them. As climate change continues to escalate, understanding the interplay between rising CO2 levels, ocean chemistry, and marine life becomes increasingly crucial.
The Chemistry of Ocean Acidification
Ocean acidification is primarily driven by the increase in atmospheric CO2 due to human activities such as fossil fuel combustion and deforestation When CO2 is absorbed by seawater, it reacts with water to form carbonic acid (H2CO3), which subsequently dissociates into bicarbonate (HCO3-) and hydrogen ions (H+). This reaction increases the concentration of hydrogen ions in the water, leading to a decrease in pH and making the ocean more acidic (College of Life Sciences and Agriculture, 2023). Since the beginning of the Industrial Revolution, ocean acidity has increased by approximately 30%, with current pH levels
dropping from about 8.2 to 8.1 (Ocean Acidification, 2024). Although this may seem like a minor change, it represents a significant shift in ocean chemistry due to the logarithmic nature of the pH scale. A decrease of just 0.1 pH units corresponds to a 30% increase in acidity (Ocean Acidification, 2020).
The Impact on Marine Life
The increased acidity of ocean waters poses severe threats to marine organisms, particularly those that rely on calcium carbonate for their shells and skeletons, such as corals, mollusks, and some plankton species. As ocean acidity rises, the availability of carbonate ions (CO3^2-), which are essential for shell formation, decreases. This makes it more difficult for these organisms to build and maintain their structures (Effects of Ocean and Coastal Acidification on Marine Life | US EPA, 2024b). For example, studies have shown that elevated CO2 levels can lead to reduced calcification rates in corals, which compromises their growth and structural integrity (Catsiocca, 2023). Similarly, shellfish such as oysters and clams are particularly vulnerable; their shells may become thinner and more susceptible to dissolution in acidic waters (Northwest Bivalve Shellfish and Marine Snails.
The Spillover Effect of Climate Change on Ocean Chemistry
Written by Fatima Zaim | Edited by Tooba Nayab
The implications extend beyond individual species; as these foundational organisms decline, entire marine food webs may be disrupted
Temperature Stratification and Its Role in Acidification
In addition to increased acidity, climate change also leads to rising ocean temperatures. Warmer water is less dense than colder water, resulting in stratification —where warm surface waters sit atop cooler depths. This stratification can inhibit mixing between layers of water, reducing nutrient availability for phytoplankton and other organisms that rely on these nutrients for growth (Wang et al , 2024)
Stratification exacerbates ocean acidification by limiting the vertical exchange of gases and nutrients. In stratified waters, CO2 can accumulate in deeper layers without being exchanged with the atmosphere or surface waters. This process not only enhances acidification but also contributes to low oxygen levels hypoxia further stressing marine life (Climate Change Impacts on the Ocean and Marine Resources | US EPA, 2024).
The combination of warmer temperatures and increased acidity creates a challenging environment for marine organisms already struggling with climate change.
The Ripple Effect on Ecosystems
The impacts of ocean acidification are not confined to individual species; they ripple through entire ecosystems. For instance, plankton tiny organisms that form the base of many marine food chains—are sensitive to changes in temperature and acidity. If plankton populations decline due to unfavorable conditions, higher trophic levels such as fish and marine mammals may face food shortages (Climate Change Impacts on the Ocean and Marine Resources | US EPA, 2024).
Moreover, economically important fisheries are at risk as key species like shellfish and certain fish populations decline due to acidification and hypoxia. The fishing industry could face substantial economic losses if these trends continue; estimates suggest that mollusk losses alone could exceed $100 billion annually by 2100 if current CO2 emissions persist (Narita & Rehdanz, 2016) Additionally, tourism related to coral reefs may suffer as reef
The Spillover Effect of Climate Change on Ocean Chemistry
Written by Fatima Zaim | Edited by Tooba Nayab
health declines under increasing stress from acidification.
Conclusion
The spillover effects of climate change on ocean chemistry highlight the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and protect marine ecosystems. Ocean acidification represents one of the most significant challenges facing our oceans today; its impacts extend far beyond individual species and threaten the delicate balance of marine ecosystems.
References
College of Life Sciences and Agriculture. (2023, December 6). Ocean Acidification Definition and Causes: An In-Depth Exploration. College of Life Sciences and Agriculture.https://colsa.unh.edu/blog /2023/12/ocean-acidificationdefinition-causes-depth-exploration. Ocean acidification. (2024, May 29).
European Environment Agency’s Home Page.https://www.eea.europa.eu/en/ analysis/indicators/oceanacidification #:~:text=Almost%20one%20quarter%20 of%20human,since%20the%20pre%2Di ndustrial%20era.
Ocean acidification. (2020). National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.https://www.noaa.gov/ education/resource collections/oceancoasts/ocean-acidification.
Effects of ocean and coastal acidification on marine life | US EPA. (2024b, October 21). US EPA. https://www.epa.gov/oceanacidificati on/effects-ocean-and-coastal acidification-marine-life?
Catsiocca, I. (2023). Exploring the impacts of ocean acidification on coral reef ecosystems. American Journal of Natural Sciences, 4(2), 1–11. https://doi.org/10.47672/ajns.1538
Narita, D , & Rehdanz, K (2016) Economic impact of ocean acidification on shellfish production in Europe. Journal of Environmental Planning and Management, 60(3), 500–518. https://doi.org/10.1080/09640568.201 6.1162705
Wang, H., Li, Y., Li, Y., Liu, H., Wang, W., Zhang, P., Fohrer, N., Li, B., & Zhang, Y. (2024). Phytoplankton communities’ response to thermal stratification and changing environmental conditions in a Deep-Water reservoir: stochastic and deterministic processes. Sustainability, 16(7),3058.https://doi.org/10.3390/su16 073058
Hiba Bougtab Radiologist
Contributor
Earthocity Science Magazine Issue IV Vol II
Hiba Bougtab is an undergraduate student at the Department of Radiology, ISPITS LAAYOUNE, Morocco where she is pursuing her academic journey in line with her passion for radiological studies. Hiba is deeply committed to understanding and addressing medical technology challenges and treatment. She strives to contribute positively to nature through her studies and active engagement in her field and her efforts, with a heartfelt dedication to medical technology. This year, she has contributed to Earthocity Science Magazine Issue IV Vol. II.
Article Contribution: Brachytherapy - Modern Technology for Cancer Treatment
Contribution Phase: Phase I
Brachytherapy - Modern Technology for Cancer Treatment
Written by Hiba Bougtab | Edited by Aillah Baluch
Cancer remains one of the world's most major health concerns, with over 10 million being diagnosed annually and 6 million cancer-related deaths reported across the world. Such staggering statistics make it the second most common killer disease, after cardiovascular diseases. Among the most common cancers, women are disproportionately afflicted with breast and cervical cancers, while men more commonly identify with cancer of the prostate and lung.
These trends indicate how crucial it is to develop reliable ways of treating this pervasive disease. Radiotherapy, or the delivery of ionizing radiation, is one of the three main modalities available for treating cancer, along with surgery and chemotherapy It plays a crucial role in both curative and symptomatic treatments. More than half of all cancer patients undergo radiotherapy at some point during their treatment, and it contributes to the successful treatment or cure of more than a third of all cancer patients. Both as a single-modality treatment and in combination with chemotherapy, radiotherapy offers extremely precise dosing of IR in efforts to kill tumor cells.
It is also often used as an adjuvant therapy following surgery, to destroy microscopic residual tumor cells that could lead to recurrence at the surgical site In this manner, radiotherapy can serve in efforts at both tumor control at the local level and systemic disease. Ongoing progress in the technologies and methodologies associated with radiotherapy allows for an increasing potential to improve patient outcomes.
Introduction
Ionizing radiation was first used at the turn of the 19th century as an alternative to surgery in the treatment of cancer shortly following Wilhelm Konrad Roentgen's discovery of X-rays in 1895 and the discovery of radium by Marie and Pierre Curie in 1898. The first treatments performed involved large, single doses delivered by placing low-energy cathode ray tubes or radium glass tubes close to tumors. However, most of these methods were not effective. They rarely killed tumors and, in the process, damaged surrounding healthy tissues. It was later found that the effects of radiation on normal tissue were less profound if the total radiation dose was delivered as small fractions over a number of days rather than as a single large dose.
Brachytherapy - Modern Technology for Cancer Treatment
Written by Hiba Bougtab | Edited by Aillah Baluch
This was evidenced by Claude Regaud by sterilizing a ram ' s testicle by the use of small doses repeated without severe damage to the skin From 1920 to 1926, Coutard used this concept of fractionated radiotherapy on patients with tumors in the larynx and was successful in curing them using this technique. Therefore, fractionation optimized the early techniques in radiotherapy in such a manner that it caused minimum damage to the normal tissue while maximizing the impact of the treatment process.
Fig. 1 First use of radiation to treat cancer March 7, 1903.
This type of treatment uses ionizing radiation aimed directly at the tumor. It has several advanced techniques that help destroy cancerous cells while trying to protect the healthy tissues nearby.
Various radioactive elements are used during the dispensing of this treatment, and the way in which these elements are given will vary depending on the type of tumor and its location.
Another very important radioactive material used in the therapy of internal radiation is Iodine-131 (I-131). The principle use of iodine-131 is for the treatment of thyroid cancer. Iodine-131 can be given to the body by mouth or through a vein. It aims to destroy leftover thyroid cells or tumors directly with radiation. The other sources commonly used are radioactive seeds, including Cesium-137 and Palladium.103.
This is where the seeds are directly placed into the tumor itself to provide radiation exactly where it is needed. For example, Cesium-137 is used in the treatment of tumors such as cervical cancer and prostate cancer in which the seeds are placed directly into the cancerous site. Palladium-103 is also another commonly used isotope for treating prostate cancer and is placed inside the tumor by using special methods.
Yttrium-90 (Y-90) is a radioactive element used in treatment via catheterization.
Brachytherapy - Modern Technology for Cancer Treatment
Written by Hiba Bougtab | Edited by Aillah Baluch
This element is directly injected into tumors through a special tube either through the skin or blood vessels, hitting the tumor and giving it radiation Often used in the treatment of liver tumors, this way of treating is called radioembolization. The treatment is very precise, so the damage to the surrounding tissues is reduced to a minimum. Apart from these methods, Strontium-90 (Sr-90) is used in some instances in the treatment using radioactive elements against tumors that affect bones. The radioactive element is very effective in relieving painful bone tumors.
Thanks to these diverse techniques of internal radiation therapy, it has now become possible to treat various tumors with less damage to the healthy tissues and with more effective treatment outcomes and fewer side effects.
Isotopes such as iodine-131 or rubidium-82 undergo radioactive decay in which beta particles and gamma rays are emitted. During the decay, this isotope emits beta particles ( a neutron inside the nucleus transforms into a proton and highly energetic electrons) with a very short range of penetration. Their energy is then focused on tissues around the point of radiation. Beta particles act directly on DNA, causing breaks in chemical bonds that end in mutations or cell death when reaching cancerous cells. This is an action that works very effectively in localized areas, minimizing damage to tissues surrounding the targeted tumor.
Sometimes, the nucleus of the decaying isotope is left in an excited state after beta emission. To attain a stable state, it emits gamma rays described as high-energy electromagnetic radiation. Compared with beta particles, gamma rays exhibit the best penetration ability, enabling them to access the deepest sites in the body.
Gamma rays interact with water molecules inside the cellular structures to produce reactive oxygen species (ROS), such as hydroxyl radicals •OH These ROS further damage the DNA and other cellular components, which reduces the viability of
Fig. 2 Inserting a radiation source into the body using advanced medical equipment
Brachytherapy - Modern Technology for Cancer Treatment
Written by Hiba Bougtab | Edited by Aillah Baluch
the cancer cells. This synergistic mechanism of direct DNA damage caused by beta particles and also the oxidative stress caused by gamma rays increases tumor ablation, even in regions that may not be within the reach of beta radiation.
DNA damage
Ionizing radiation causes direct and indirect damage to cellular macromolecules, particularly DNA, leading to a complex series of cellular responses. The type of these responses depends on the phase of the cell cycle at which the radiation is administered.
Cells are more sensitive during the G2 and M phases, where active cell division occurs, but less sensitive during the late S-phase, where DNA replication occurs The radiation directly hits the DNA of cancerous cells, causing it to break chemical bonds in big molecules like DNA. The worst damage that cells find hard to repair is the doublestrand breaks in DNA caused by radiation. Radiation also changes the bases or links strands together, making it harder for the DNA to copy itself and work properly. These damages inflicted on the DNA of cancerous cells are some problems that disturb how the cells function and hinder tumor growth. Indirect damage occurs as the radiation interacts with water inside the cells to form free radicals. These free radicals are very reactive; hence, they cause damage to proteins and lipids in the cell, making DNA damage worse, and the genetic problems in cancer cells become more difficult. Generally, both direct and indirect effects of radiation have a strong impact on cancer cells, since it makes tumor cells more sensitive to internal radiation therapy.
Fig. 3 Gamma Radiation Distribution in the Thyroid Gland.
Brachytherapy - Modern Technology for Cancer Treatment
Written by Hiba Bougtab | Edited by Aillah Baluch
Cells try to repair the DNA damage caused by radiation using mechanisms such as DNA repair, which is under the control of specialized enzymes like ATM and ATR. All these processes work together to maintain genomic stability and prevent cellular breakdown. If, however, the damage produced by internal radiation therapy is very serious or irreparable the cells take measures to protect themselves or follow other pathways. One of these pathways is cellular senescence, where the cells become unable to divide again, which helps prevent the spread of radiationinduced damage to healthy cells. These cells that enter senescence remain alive but inactive, reducing the risk of carcinogenesis from the proliferation of damaged cells. Nonetheless, in the case of severe DNA damage, when it is irreparable for a cell to fix itself, then programmed cell death, otherwise known as apoptosis,
is induced to avert damage to an organism through uncontrolled replication. This kind of cell death is very typical for radiationsensitive tumors At extremely high doses of radiation, necrosis takes place, wherein the cells suffer immediate and deep damage that leads to cell death due to the inability of the cells to survive. This form of cell death is common during internal therapy, wherein there is an intense focus of radiation at the affected region. On the other hand, mitotic death occurs when the radiation-caused DNA damage is sufficient enough to prevent cells from properly dividing; it kills cells when they attempt to divide. Lastly, immunogenic cell death may be another explanation for the death of cells releasing signals that activate the immune system to recognize and destroy the tumor, therefore increasing its therapeutic effect.
Fig. 5 DNA damage.
Fig. 4 Impact of Gamma Radiation on DNA.
Brachytherapy - Modern Technology for Cancer Treatment
Written by Hiba Bougtab | Edited by Aillah Baluch
Conclusion
In conclusion, internal radiation therapy showcases the remarkable synergy between physics and advanced technology in revolutionizing cancer treatment This method ensures precise targeting of cancer cells, with minimal damage to surrounding healthy tissues, by leveraging sophisticated physical principles such as ionizing radiation. The harmonious blend of science and technology showcases here the potential of modern innovation to drive efficient and safer therapies, opening doors for groundbreaking advancements in medical care.
References
Wilkins. Hall, E. J., & Giaccia, A. J. (2012). Radiobiology for the Radiologist.
Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.Kumar, R. & Chandra, R. (2015). "Gamma Radiation and Its Biological Effects" Indian Journal of Physics.
Brown, J. M., Carlson, D. J., and Brenner, D. J. (2014). The tumor radiobiology of SRS and SBRT: are more than the 5 Rs involved? Int. J. Radiat. Oncol. Biol. Phys. 88, 254–262. doi: 10 1016/j ijrobp 2013 07 022
Deloch, L., Derer, A., Hartmann, J., Frey, B., Fietkau, R., and Gaipl, U. S. (2016). Modern radiotherapy concepts and the impact of radiation on immune activation. Front. Oncol. 6:141. doi: 10.3389/fonc.2016.00141
Alexandra Hebert (2019) Development of new radioiodination techniques and application to the radiolabeling of molecules of interest
Carlotta Trigila (2019) Development of an ambulatory gamma imager for dose control in vectorized internal radiotherapy
Hugo Bloux (2022) Investigations of new strategies for radiolabeling with iodine isotopes
DENIS WELTIN (1998) In vitro study of the cellular consequences of poly(adpribose) polymerase inhibition associated with antitumor agents and ionizing radiation
Bérengère Phulpin (2011) Modeling of radiation-induced tissue degeneration and conceptualization of rehabilitation of irradiated tissues by cell therapy
Imen Miladi (2012) Study of the radiosensitizing effect of theranostic nanoparticles
Magali Nicolier(2009)Induction of tumor cell apoptosis by staurosporine: mitochondria at the crossroads of death
Poem Corner
Livening horizon
The earth is silent, even the leaves cease to rustle beneath my feet
The eyes of me are lost, bursting somewhere between where the sky and the clouds meet I am swimming in the scent sweet of lavender blooms all around me
Birds, hiding in trees, hundreds for the eyes to see, are silenced by color changing skies
A rising orange brightens the patches of darkness in my eyes
The horizon greets the clouds with bursts of colors true, like the softest pinks and various shades of blue
The horizon has come alive
Ms. Priya Patel Writer, Author & Poet
WELCOME TO
Earthocity Student’s Corner
“Science is not just a journey of discovery; it's a commitment to learning, understanding, nurturing, and cherishing the Earth and its Explorin planet and beyond
A I L L A H B A L U C H
Co-Editor
CONTRIBUTORS
Alizeh Binte Khizar
Alizah Binte Khizar
Science Student & Emerging Space blog writer
Contributor
Earthocity Science Magazine Issue IV Vol II
Alizah Binte Khizar is a school student from Rawalpindi, Pakistan. She is in grade 8, she loves to write about the scientific facts related to space sciences, she interns at Earthocity Science Hub “Scindo Program” this year with her passion and emerging skills in the field of science. She has contributed to the writing in our science magazine Issue IV. Vol.II this year.
Article Contribution: Impact of Space Science on our lives
Contribution Phase: Phase II
IMPACT OF SPACE SCIENCE ON OUR LIVES
Written by Alizah Binte Khizar | Edited by Aillah Baluch
Space science impacts our daily lives in numerous ways, advancements in space have led to the emergence of various technologies that we use in our daily lives GPS is one of the biggest examples that is being used by us frequently, another example is satellite connections, the internet, weather forecasting, and television broadcasting have all been possible due to space science. All these TV shows, Netflix social media, and the internet are all due to the satellite system that is a result of advancement in space science.
How does space science impact healthcare?
In healthcare, space science has led to the development of life-saving technologies. For example, advancements in medical imaging, such as MRI and CT scans, were made possible through technologies originally developed for space exploration. Now such technologies that were initially created for space use have saved the lives of thousands of people, so technically space science is the savior of many people as well.
How does space science save our lives indirectly?
Space science has saved lives indirectly as well, apart from healthcare the satellite system enables us to forecast weather and also senses worsening weather conditions so that primitive measures can be taken for safety. If we take Texas as an example Weather forecasting plays a crucial role in helping people in Texas stay safe and informed, especially given the state's probability to a wide range of tornadoes. Accurate and timely weather forecasts provide Texas residents with the information they need to prepare for these conditions to avoid dangerous situations.
THE FUTURE OF SPACE SCIENCE Have we discovered it all?
The universe is huge waiting to be explored we might call ourselves geniuses after making a few discoveries but little do we know, the whole universe is more than we can imagine no matter how much we expand our horizons the universe remains untouched, we know only about our solar system but can we uncover the mesmerizing galaxies of millions of other solar systems, we can’t say for sure but there might be millions of other creatures in this universe maybe they are more advanced than us, maybe they have
IMPACT OF SPACE SCIENCE ON OUR LIVES
Written by Alizah Binte Khizar | Edited by Aillah Baluch
discovered more than us and maybe they are watching us right now, it seems scary but all these are unusual possibilities, I could go on and on, and if one wishes to explore one needs to expand one ’ s team so that there are more heads working to uncover something new every day. Let’s take NASA as an example, The National Aeronautics and Space Administration is a worldwide famous organization that is working day by day, every day to uncover the mysteries of our solar system and beyond. There are many other nations and organizations as well but NASA is the most famous due to its numerous discoveries.
What is NASA’s contribution to space science?
NASA has contributed a lot and most in the field of space science and exploration. The first ever man on the moon went there on behalf of NASA, Mars is under observation and many discoveries have been made about it in recent years all due to NASA, many contributions have been made by NASA so where there is space there is NASA.
What are some upcoming missions?
Many advancements are yet to be made in the field of space science NASA has many goals that it has to achieve the biggest one
is most probably shifting the human population to Mars, and where that goal seems unachievable and not materialistic with the daily advancements and discoveries like water traces on Mars making it seem possible and with strong determination, this goal is indeed achievable. NASA's Artemis program aims to return humans to the Moon by 2025, with long-term goals of establishing a sustainable lunar presence. This lunar research will pave the way for future missions to Mars, which could potentially involve human exploration by the 2030s. NASA’s scientists have yet not found life on Mars but believe that life existed possible, and where it seems fantasy if one thinks, if this happens many things can improve like pollution, Earth can take some time and finally recover, and technology will reach its peak an humans will expand their horizons by stepping foot on another planet of the solar system which is form the basis of human advancements of outer space, and who knows humans might reach another solar system before the Andromeda galaxy collides with the milky way destroying it, maybe humans can escape this collision all thanks to space science and NASA. Other than this Sierra Nevada Corporation’s Dream Chaser cargo spacecraft will join NASA’s commercial cargo providers Orbital
IMPACT OF SPACE SCIENCE ON OUR LIVES
Written by Alizah Binte Khizar | Edited by Aillah Baluch
ATK and SpaceX to deliver research and supplies to the International Space Station. The Dream Chaser also will be able to bring research back to Earth, and Sierra Nevada Corporation also is developing a crew version of the spacecraft for commercial use.
What are some technologies that are being developed for the future of space science?
Many technologies are being built for and by space science that in return will benefit space science itself. Artificial Intelligence is the biggest example, it is a vast field that is being worked on non-stop, and new tools are being created each day it is a very powerful field that is capable of replacing professions but where it replaces many jobs it also creates new ones, so one should learn to evolve with time so that one run to time and not vice versa. When it comes to space science advanced propulsion Systems like Nuclear Thermal Propulsion (NTP) are also being created which are capable of achieving greater efficiency than chemical rockets.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, Space Science is a huge and extremely vast field that is being explored even more and advancements in the space
science has saved lives and improved our living conditions and these advancements can not only provide a better future for us but also help us to expand our horizons and make us go beyond our planet Earth and the solar system, daily advancements in space science will and has led to human evolution so one should always be aware and update oneself so one does not lag in this fast moving world, though all of these advancements are great ne should also always beware of its drawbacks or all these technologies could lead to a disaster.
EARTHOCITY INTERN ZONE
ALIZAH BINTE KHIZAR
An exclusive interview reveals the girlnext-door behind the space
Earthocity Emerging Talent
Aleeza Anjum, a Cambridge ALevel student from Sargodha, Pakistan with a deep passion for finding ways to preserve our resources and protect our planet.
Aleeza Anjum
Tanveer A. Siddiqui, is an 18year-old emerging talent from Karachi, Pakistan, pursuing his Cambridge A- Level from Highbrow College, Karachi.
Tanveer Alam Siddiqui
Tanveer Alam Siddiqui A
Level student and Emerging Scientific Writer
Contributor
Earthocity Science Magazine Issue IV Vol II
Tanveer A. Siddiqui is an 18-year-old emerging talent from Karachi, he is the co-author of the book “Sustainable Development” by JEC Publications, bronze medalist at the International Bebras Informatics Contest 2023, Quarter-Finalist of the Climate Science Olympiad 2024 and Gold-award winner at the Queen Commonwealth Essay Competition 2024. He is passionate about the fields of mathematics, environmental science, and astrophysics and aspires to be an engineer and develop mechanical systems that help expedite humanity’s strides toward sustainability. This year, he has contributed to Earthocity Science Magazine Issue IV Vol. II.
Article Contribution: Unlocking the Secrets of the Early Universe: The Role of JWST in Astrophysical Discovery
Contribution Phase: Phase II
Unlocking the Secrets of the Early Universe: The Role of JWST in Astrophysical Discovery
Written by Tanveer Alam Siddiqui | Edited by Devindi Wijekoon
The James Webb Space Telescope has revolutionized several aspects of our understanding of the universe, particularly in areas like galaxy formation, the birth of stars, exoplanetary systems, and the early cosmos. Its ability to observe the universe in infrared wavelengths coupled with unparalleled sensitivity has made it a game-changing instrument for astronomy.
Before JWST, the earliest galaxies observed by the Hubble Space Telescope was GNz11, forming around 400 million years after the Big Bang. JWST pushed this boundary even further by detecting galaxies such as GLASS-z13 and CEERS-93316 which existed just 250–300 million years after the Big Bang. This discovery drastically compresses the timeline of galaxy formation and suggests that galaxies emerged much earlier than previously believed.
Fig. 1 GLASS-z13 and CEERS-93316, two of
the oldest galaxies discovered, shining brightly from 300 and 235 million years after the Big Bang."
Prior to JWST, the “top-down” model of galaxy formation was widely believed in that suggested that early galaxies were small, chaotic, and slowly grew over time. Well-ordered structures like disks were expected to appear much later, generally around 1-2 billion years after the Big Bang, as galaxies began to mature and settle into more orderly shapes. However, JWST has identified surprisingly massive galaxies in the early universe such as the SMACS-0273 and BDF-3299 with not only a well-defined ring structure but also evidence of star formation. These galaxies were formed just around 500 million years following Big Bang, challenging the models of galaxy evolution and indicating that galaxies matured far faster than anticipated, leading to the development of the “bottomup ” model of galaxy formation.
Fig 2 The Bottom-Up Theory - Small structures merge to form magnificent galactic giants over cosmic time."
Unlocking the Secrets of the Early Universe: The Role of JWST in Astrophysical Discovery
Written by Tanveer Alam Siddiqui | Edited by Devindi Wijekoon
The universe underwent a significant transformation during the Epoch of Reionization, transitioning from a neutral state to an ionized one approximately 150 million to 1 billion years after the Big Bang. Before JWST, scientists believed that reionization occurred slowly and was driven by just a few massive galaxies. However, JWST’s discoveries of multiple bright early star-forming galaxies such as JADES-GSz13-0 suggest that the universe underwent rapid reionization due to many galaxies emitting powerful light much earlier than scientists expected. These galaxies were more numerous and brighter, and their collective radiation was enough to reionize the universe much sooner than models predicted.
Fig 3 A glimpse into the early universe at redshift z=13.20, captured with cuttingedge filters revealing light from over 13
billion years ago. "
The first generation of stars, known as Population III stars, are believed to have been massive, metal-free, and critical for enriching the universe with heavier elements. Before JWST, these stars were theorized but never observed. JWST has provided indirect evidence of their existence by detecting chemical signatures of low metallicity in early galaxies. The presence of these low-metallicity signatures indicates that Population III stars rapidly formed and then died, releasing the heavy elements that would later create new generations of stars and galaxies. Even though we can't see Population III stars directly, this chemical evidence shows they played a crucial role in shaping the universe.
Before JWST, the formation of super massive blackholes was generally believed to be linked to the growth of the first galaxies. It was hypothesized that these black holes grew alongside galaxies by accreting large amounts of gas. There were some indications that SMBHs formed as early as 500-800 million years after the Big Bang, based on observations of quasars However, this all changed with the discovery of a supermassive blackhole in the galaxy GN z-11.
Unlocking the Secrets of the Early Universe: The Role of JWST in Astrophysical Discovery
Written by Tanveer Alam Siddiqui | Edited by Devindi Wijekoon
While being just 400 million years old, it has a mass equivalent to a billion suns hence challenges previous theories about how such large black holes could form so quickly after the Big Bang.
Fig 4 Distanct galaxy GN-z11, image credits Yale University and copyrights by NASA.
Last but not least, JWST has provided incredible insights into the chemical makeup of early galaxies, including the surprising presence of metals like carbon, oxygen, and nitrogen, in galaxies that existed only a few hundred million years after the Big Bang. Models of early galaxies suggested that it would take hundreds of millions of years for stars to form, live, and explode as supernovae, releasing heavier elements The presence of metals in galaxies was thought to be a process that started gradually, with more
massive stars and subsequent supernovae enriching the gas clouds in galaxies over time. Previous telescopes like Hubble could only observe galaxies formed after roughly 500 million years after the Big Bang, and it was unclear if metals had been incorporated into these early galaxies yet. However, JWST has shown that metals like carbon and oxygen were already present in galaxies at astonishingly early stages of the universe’s history. For example, the observation of the galaxy cluster revealed that these early galaxies forming just around 400 million years after the Big Bang contained oxygen, carbon, and other metals elements that are typically associated with the evolution of more mature galaxies. The presence of these metals suggests that supernovae or other stellar processes had already begun to enrich the intergalactic medium much earlier than expected.
In conclusion, the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has profoundly redefined our understanding of the early universe. By observing galaxies, stars, and black holes that formed just a few hundred million years after the Big Bang, JWST has revealed a far more dynamic and complex cosmos than previously imagined. Its groundbreaking discoveries such as the rapid formation of
Unlocking the Secrets of the Early Universe: The Role of JWST in Astrophysical Discovery
Written by Tanveer Alam Siddiqui | Edited by Devindi Wijekoon
massive, well-structured galaxies, the early emergence of supermassive black holes, and the presence of metals like carbon and oxygen have forced scientists to rethink the timeline and processes of cosmic evolution. JWST’s ability to peer deeper into the past than ever before has not only confirmed and expanded upon existing theories but also introduced new questions that will shape the field of astrophysics for generations to come. With its unparalleled insights into the Epoch of Reionization, Population III stars, and the chemical enrichment of the universe, JWST is rewriting the story of the universe’s birth and early growth, offering a clearer, more detailed picture of the cosmos in its infancy.
Aleeza Anjum A-Level student and Emerging Researcher
Contributor
Aleeza Anjum is currently a Cambridge A-Level student from Sargodha, Pakistan with a deep passion for finding ways to preserve natural resources and protect our planet. She believes in the power of green energy and is dedicated to minimizing the harmful effects on our environment. She is an IKSC silver medalist and an aspiring scientist. Her passion for research and the environment drives me to explore innovative solutions that promote sustainability. She’s eager to contribute to a cleaner, healthier world and make a positive impact on future generations.
Article Contribution: Powering The Future With Microbes
Contribution Phase: Phase II
Powering The Future With Microbes
Written by Aleeza Anjum | Edited by Tooba Nayab
As the globe struggles with climate change and the depletion of fossil fuel supplies, scientists from all relevant sectors and fields are always looking for innovative ways to fulfill our rising energy demands sustainably. One technological advancement in particular, microbial fuel cells stands out for its inventiveness and practicality in addressing the world's energy crisis. These fascinating devices, known as microbial fuel cells or MFCs, use bacteria and other single-cellular creatures to produce electricity. By revolutionizing energy production and consumption, MFCs significantly offer a greener, more sustainable future to come for Earth.
Microbes
Microbes are tiny living organisms present everywhere in our environment. Often referred to as microorganisms, they are invisible without a microscope. They inhabit water, soil, and the atmosphere. While some microbes can cause diseases, many are beneficial for our well-being. The primary categories include bacteria, viruses, and fungi. There are also microorganisms known as protozoa.
Certain bacteria even can convert the chemical potential energy contained in organic pollutants directly into electricity.
Bacteria produce electricity for a reason that is surprisingly relatable to us humans: they need to perform respiration, much like we do when we breathe Just as we inhale oxygen to help our bodies convert nutrients into energy, these bacteria engage in a similar process. During respiration, they transfer electrons, which can generate an electric current. This biological phenomenon enables bacteria to convert chemical energy into electrical energy as they break down organic matter in their environment. So, essentially, the act of producing electricity is a natural part of their metabolic process, driven by their need to respire and sustain their life functions
History and Background
Scientists have been aware that bacteria can generate electricity since the early 1900s when Professor M. C. Potter using Escherichia coli and Saccharomyces discovered that microbes could generate electricity at the University of Durham. However, it is only in the past two decades that researchers have started to harness the power of these electricity-producing bacteria, which are prevalent in various types of sediment, by using microbial fuel cell (MFC) bioreactors.
Powering The Future With Microbes
Written by Aleeza Anjum | Edited by Tooba Nayab
Traditionally, biomass like coal or wood has to be burned or combusted to be converted into electrical energy. Numerous types of biomass, such as food scraps and sewage waste, can be directly transformed into electrical energy by bacteria in a microbial fuel cell. The quantity of the energy lost as heat during the conversion stages is decreased by this direct conversion. The power MFCs can generate is limited by the rate bacteria can degrade their food sources, but they are very efficient. Almost 90% of the energy in waste streams can be converted into electrical current, significantly higher than traditional methods of combustion. The wastewater is also cleaned by microbial reactions in the MFC that prevent the excess nutrients and organics, which cause eutrophication and destruction of aquatic habitats, from entering waterways. The electricity produced by the MFC can then be used to power homes, businesses, and countless other electrical needs.
What Are Microbial Fuel Cells (MFCs)?
Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) can be thought of as miniature power plants, often referred to as "bio-batteries." These ingenious devices take advantage of the unique ability of bacteria, algae, and even fungi to transfer electrons generated during their
metabolic processes. When these microorganisms break down organic material, they release electrons as a byproduct The MFCs capture these electrons and direct them to an electrode, creating an electrical current. This process essentially allows the microorganisms to convert chemical energy from organic substances into electrical energy. By harnessing this natural electron transfer, MFCs can generate a sustainable flow of electricity. This innovative technology not only provides a renewable energy source but also highlights the incredible potential of biological systems to contribute to our energy needs in an eco-friendly and efficient manner The MFCs are typically divided into two chambers, an anode compartment, and a cathode compartment, separated by a semipermeable lipid membrane. The anode compartment contains a carbon-based material (such as graphite) known as the anode, which acts as an electron acceptor for the microorganisms. These microorganisms participate in a metabolic process called anaerobic respiration, where they oxidize organic matter present in the wastewater or substrate. The microorganisms transfer the electrons produced to the surface of the anode material, effectively generating a flow of
Powering The Future With Microbes
Written by Aleeza Anjum | Edited by Tooba Nayab
electrons from the microorganisms to the anode. At the cathode, the electrons combine with protons and an external electron acceptor, producing water and generating an electric current. The process is facilitated by a proton exchange membrane that separates the anode and cathode compartments while allowing proton flow. MFCs have promising applications in wastewater treatment and renewable energy generation, providing an eco-friendly approach to both energy production and waste treatment. However, further research is ongoing to enhance their efficiency.
Types of Microbial Fuel Cells
Microbial Fuel Cells are categorized into various types including H- shaped twochamber reactors, cube-shaped twochamber reactors, and single-chamber air–cathode reactors. The most widely used and most inexpensive design is the Hshaped reactor, consisting of two bottles connected with a tube, and the two chambers are separated by an ionselective membrane. H-shaped systems typically exhibit low power density as a result of the extended distance between electrodes and the limited membrane surface area about the volume of the anode and cathode chambers.
However, their straightforward operation and consistent performance make them advantageous for testing fundamental parameters, including the evaluation of power generation with novel substrates, inoculum, and electrode materials.
Fig. 1 H-shaped two-chamber reactor.
How Microbial Fuel Cells Work
In microbial fuel cells, an electrontransferring surface called an electrode is placed at the bottom of the mud where these bacteria live. This electrode is called an anode. Another electrode, a cathode, is then connected to the circuit at a more positive electrical potential that attracts the negatively charged electrons. At the cathode, electrons react with oxygen, which is the terminal electron acceptor in the system.
Powering The Future With Microbes
Written by Aleeza Anjum | Edited by Tooba Nayab
This is why the cathode needs to be near the surface of the MFC. The flow of the electrons from the anode to the cathode is electricity and can be used to power electrical devices. The bacteria then transfer their electrons to the anode electrode instead of the metals in the mud. A negative electric potential environment is created when these electrons are transferred to the anode. To generate electricity these negatively charged electrons must flow to a more positive electrical potential environment. Oxygen in the air generates a very positive electrical potential environment. If another electrode, called a cathode is placed at the surface of the water where it is exposed to oxygen in the air and then connected to the anode by an electrical wire, the electrons will be free to flow from the anode to the cathode. This flow of electrons is called electricity.
The Need for Microbial Fuel Cells
Fossil fuels - coal, oil, and natural gas are wreaking havoc on our planet by significantly contributing to climate change. When burned for energy, they release a staggering amount of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, which traps heat and leads to global warming.
This warming results in the melting of glaciers, rising sea levels, and extreme weather patterns that threaten ecosystems. Moreover, the extraction and transportation of fossil fuels often lead to environmental disasters, such as oil spills and habitat destruction. Fossil fuels are also not sustainable; they are finite resources that will eventually run out. The pollutants, such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter, harm not only humans but also wildlife and plant life, disrupting entire ecosystems. On the other hand, Microbial fuel cells are an eco-friendly approach to generating electricity while purifying wastewater simultaneously.
How are Microbial Fuel Cells Different from Traditional Energy Sources?
Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) boast numerous substantial advantages over traditional energy sources. To begin with, they are exceptionally eco-friendly, offering a
Powering The Future With Microbes
Written by Aleeza Anjum | Edited by Tooba Nayab
renewable energy solution that significantly cuts down greenhouse gas emissions and pollution. By leveraging naturally occurring microorganisms and organic waste materials, MFCs produce clean, sustainable electricity without adding to the carbon footprint. This is in stark contrast to fossil fuels, which emit harmful carbon dioxide and other pollutants when burned, thereby contributing to global warming and environmental degradation. In addition, MFCs present notable sustainability benefits compared to lithium batteries, which are widely used in applications like wind turbines and electric vehicles. The extraction and processing of lithium involve environmentally detrimental activities, including habitat destruction, water contamination, and soil degradation. In contrast, MFCs utilize microorganisms that are abundant in various natural settings, reducing the need for environmentally taxing mining operations and mitigating the associated ecological damage. Furthermore, MFCs have the potential to revolutionize the field of wastewater treatment. Conventional wastewater treatment methods are energy-intensive, requiring large amounts of energy to break down organic materials MFCs, on the other hand, can perform the same function while simultaneously generating strong electric
signals as a byproduct. This dual capability not only leads to significant energy savings by converting these electric signals into usable electrical currents but also promotes the development of self-sustaining wastewater treatment facilities. These advanced treatment plants can operate more cost-effectively and sustainably, providing a holistic solution to water resource management. Moreover, the integration of MFCs into various applications could spur innovation and technological advancements. For instance, MFCs could be used in remote or off-grid locations to provide a reliable source of power, reducing dependency on traditional energy infrastructure They could also be incorporated into smart grids, enhancing the efficiency of energy distribution networks.
Other Possible Uses of Microbial Fuel Cells
Seawater Desalination
Microbial Fuel Cells are not only capable of producing energy but also have the potential to desalinate large quantities of water. Although this process is still being developed, adapted MFCs could make seawater desalination possible without the need for external electrical sources. Researchers have experimented with a
Powering The Future With Microbes
Written by Aleeza Anjum | Edited by Tooba Nayab
desalination microbial fuel cell, which differs from previous MFC designs by incorporating a third chamber for saltwater between the two electrodes In this setup, positive and negative ions are attracted to their respective electrodes, and the proton exchange membrane removes the salt from the water, resulting in freshwater. Scientists have reported that this method can achieve up to 90% salt removal efficiency, though higher efficiencies are required to produce Grade A drinking water. This innovative approach holds promise for sustainable and energy-efficient desalination.
Wastewater Treatment
Microbial Fuel Cells offer a viable solution for treating sewage water by effectively reducing bacterial content. Research has demonstrated that MFCs can decrease the amount of bacteria in wastewater by up to 80%. Initially, the sewage water undergoes pre-treatment to eliminate toxins and nonbiodegradable materials, a necessary step due to the extreme toxicity and pollution levels of the sewage. This extensive pretreatment is essential before utilizing MFCs for cleaning the water.
Hydrogen Production
Microbial Fuel Cells can also be used to produce hydrogen. This process involves an external power source to convert bacteria into carbon dioxide and hydrogen gas. During the anodic reaction, protons are released and pass through the proton exchange membrane (PEM) towards the cathode. At the cathode, these protons combine with oxygen to form water. The hydrogen generated from the electrons and protons produced by the microorganisms metabolizing within the MFC can pose temperature-related hazards. Therefore, managing the conditions carefully is crucial to ensure the process remains safe and efficient
The Potential Future of Microbial Fuel Cells
Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) are advancing as efficient, cost-effective, and scalable solutions for sustainable energy. They utilize organic waste to provide localized power, supporting rural development and reducing reliance on centralized grids. Microbial fuel cells (MFCs) offer a sustainable solution for clean energy and wastewater treatment, with potential applications in agriculture, food production, and space exploration
explorenewteam. #empoweringfemales
Climate Policy Advocate
Contributor
Alokita Jha is an experienced climate policy advocate and the volunteer contact point for the Loss and Damage Working Group within YOUNGO, the official youth constituency of the UNFCCC. She has actively participated in international climate negotiations, contributing to dialogues on equitable climate finance, grassroots accountability, and youth-driven advocacy This year, she has contributed to Earthocity Science Magazine Issue IV Vol. II.
Article Contribution: Quantifying Non-Economic Loss and Damage: The Importance of Local Context
Contribution Phase: Phase II
Alokita Jha
Quantifying Non-Economic Loss and Damage
Written by Alokita Jha | Edited by Talal Ahmed
Abstract
Non-Economic Loss and Damage (NELD) encompasses the intangible and often unquantifiable impacts of climate change, including the loss of culture, biodiversity, and psychological well-being. While economic losses are more readily measurable, the complexities of NELD necessitate approaches that account for local contexts and cultural nuances. This article explores the significance of integrating community-centered assessments and culturally specific methodologies into frameworks for quantifying NELD. This research aims to advance understanding and improve policy mechanisms to address these critical yet underrepresented dimensions of climate impacts by highlighting key challenges and proposing actionable strategies.
Keywords: Non-Economic Loss and Damage, cultural specificity, biodiversity loss, local context, climate change, participatory assessment
Introduction
A socially engaged and situated science of climate-induced loss focuses on people’s lived experiences, addressing what losses matter most and why. It emphasizes intangible aspects like identity, belonging, and cultural connection, which are often overlooked but deeply affected by climate change. The impacts of climate change extend beyond economic damages to encompass a wide range of non-economic losses. These include losses that are intangible yet deeply significant, such as the erosion of cultural heritage and the psychological toll of displacement. The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change defines these as noneconomic losses, emphasizing their societal, environmental, and personal dimensions (UNFCCC, 2013). Despite their profound implications, these losses remain underrepresented in global discussions, partly because they are challenging to measure. By exploring the importance of local contexts and proposing a framework, this paper aims to address the gap in understanding and quantifying NELD.
Understanding Non-Economic Loss and Damage
NELD spans individual, societal, and environmental dimensions, each of which represents unique challenges:
Quantifying Non-Economic Loss and Damage
Written by Alokita Jha | Edited by Talal Ahmed
Individual Impacts: These include health deterioration, psychological trauma, and loss of life. For example, rising sea levels often result in forced migration, causing mental health struggles among displaced communities (Morrissey & Oliver- Smith, 2013).
Societal Impacts: Cultural identity, traditional knowledge, and heritage are often eroded due to the destruction of culturally significant sites. Coastal erosion in the Pacific Islands has submerged sacred sites, leading to an irreplaceable cultural loss (Adger et al., 2013). 2.
3.
Environmental Impacts: Loss of biodiversity and ecosystem services disrupts local livelihoods and cultural traditions. For instance, deforestation impacts species critical to the spiritual and material practices of Indigenous groups.
Challenges in Quantifying NELD
Quantifying NELD presents numerous challenges due to the intangible nature of the losses and the lack of standardized approaches for their assessment. These challenges are particularly pronounced in diverse cultural and social contexts, where the subjective value of losses varies widely:
Subjectivity of Losses: Non-economic losses, such as emotional trauma, cultural disconnection, or spiritual disruptions, are deeply personal and vary significantly across communities. This variability complicates efforts to create universal measurement systems (Tavoni et al., 2024).
Lack of Standardized Metrics: Unlike economic damages, there is no universally accepted framework or metric to quantify NELD. This gap creates inconsistencies in how losses are reported, making cross-regional comparisons and policy applications difficult (Serdeczny et al., 2018).
Insufficient Local Participation: Many assessments are conducted without adequate engagement of local communities, leading to the risk of misrepresenting the scale and significance of losses (Guadagno et al., 2023). 3
Why Local Context Matters
A downstream approach can make addressing NELD more feasible and effective. This approach emphasizes starting at the community level, focusing on grassroots engagement, and tailoring interventions to align with local realities.
Quantifying Non-Economic Loss and Damage
Written by Alokita Jha | Edited by Talal Ahmed
By integrating local voices, cultural practices, and indigenous knowledge systems, downstream strategies can create solutions that resonate with the affected populations. Such an approach allows for the development of frameworks and policies that are adaptive and contextsensitive.
Furthermore, it enables a flow of information and resources from higher governance levels to the grassroots, fostering inclusive and equitable outcomes.
Proposed Approaches for Quantifying NELD
Effective approaches to quantifying NELD must be inclusive and context-specific: Community-Centered Assessments: Engaging local stakeholders in defining and documenting losses ensures assessments reflect lived realities. Participatory methods, such as focus groups, are particularly effective.
1. Hybrid Methodologies: Combining quantitative metrics, such as biodiversity indices, with qualitative narratives provides a comprehensive understanding of NELD.
3.
2. Context-Specific Metrics: Culturally sensitive frameworks tailored to unique social and environmental contexts are essential for accuracy.
Framework for Quantifying NELD
To address the complexities of quantifying Non-Economic Loss and Damage (NELD), a comprehensive framework is proposed, integrating stakeholder engagement, data collection, and policy integration. The process begins with stakeholder engagement, where local actors such as community leaders and cultural custodians are identified and actively involved. This ensures that the framework aligns with local contexts and reflects communityspecific values and needs. Next, data collection employs mixed methods to capture both quantitative and qualitative information. This includes biodiversity indices and oral histories, providing a holistic understanding of losses. The third step is the categorization of losses, where the collected data is classified into individual, societal, and environmental categories. This step prioritizes losses deemed most significant by the affected communities. Following this, weighting and scoring systems are developed to rank these losses based on community-defined values, enabling policymakers to focus on the most critical areas. Finally, policy integration ensures that the findings inform local and national adaptation strategies, bridging the gap between community needs and actionable governance.
Quantifying Non-Economic Loss and Damage
Written by Alokita Jha | Edited by Talal Ahmed
Together, these steps offer a structured approach to effectively address the multidimensional challenges of NELD.
Conclusion
Quantifying Non-Economic Loss and Damage is a critical step toward fostering climate resilience. To effectively address NELD, global frameworks must adopt inclusive approaches that integrate local contexts and involve affected communities. Policymakers need to create frameworks that: Reflect local contexts in assessments and ensure community-defined needs are prioritized. 1. Integrate NELD considerations into climate finance mechanisms for equitable resource allocation. 2 Promote inclusive policymaking processes that recognize and address non-economic losses. 3.
By incorporating these elements, policymakers can ensure that the voices of vulnerable populations are heard and acted upon in global governance. This approach is essential for creating equitable and effective strategies to address the wide-ranging impacts of climate change on individuals, communities, and ecosystems.
References
Adger, W. N., Barnett, J., Brown, K., Marshall, N., & O’Brien, K. (2013). Cultural dimensions of climate change impacts and adaptation. Nature Climate Change, 3(2), 112- 117. https://doi.org/10.1038/nclimate1666 Kelman, I., & Stough, L. M. (2015). Disability and disaster: Explorations and exchanges. Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4471-74303
Tavoni, M., Andreoni, P., Calcaterra, M., Calliari, E., & Mechler, R. (2024). Economic quantification of Loss and Damage funding needs. Nature Reviews Earth & Environment https://doi.org/10.1038/s43017-024 00565-7
Tschakert, P , Ellis, N R , Anderson, C , Kelly A., & Obeng, J. (2019). One thousand ways to experience loss: A systematic analysis of climate-related intangible harm. Global Environmental Change, 55, 58-72.
UNFCCC. (2013). Non-economic losses in the context of the work programme on loss and damage Technical Paper Bonn, Germany: UNFCCC Secretariat.
Contributor
Science Magazine Issue IV Vol II
Hareem is a dedicated environmentalist and an expert in sustainability management, with a sharp focus on environmental sustainability and innovative energy solutions. A proud graduate of Forman Christian College University, Lahore, Pakistan, she has seamlessly blended her academic excellence in Environmental Sciences with her passion for impactful change. At the Earthocity Research Innovation Centre, she is the Head of the Energy and Environment section, championing groundbreaking research and driving sustainable progress. This year, she has contributed to Earthocity Science Magazine, Issue IV, Vol. II cementing her commitment to creating a greener, more sustainable future.
Article Contribution: Sustainable Pathways: Cleaner Production for a Greener Tomorrow
Contribution Phase: Phase II
Earthocity
Hareem Akhtar Environmental Scientist
Sustainable Pathways: Cleaner Production for a Greener Tomorrow
Written by Hareem Akhtar | Edited by Tooba Nayab
In an era of the modern world when the focus has been given to sustainable advancement of the global economy, “Cleaner Production” presents the best solution to the problem. This approach changes the traditional concept of industrial production in the sense that it aims for industries and the environment to progress in harmony to an idea that is a win-win solution for industries and the environment.
Cleaner production is more than a mere environmental trend; it is a revolution that revolutionizes how companies manage change and sustainable growth and development Cleaner Production can be defined as a practical, systematic, and comprehensive approach to eliminating waste or reducing the utilization of resources in production processes. It is a form of pollution prevention as opposed to traditional environmental management where the emphasis is placed on treating pollution after it has been produced, but here pollution is minimized.
The Business Case for Cleaner Production
Initially, Cleaner Production looks at cost acquiring new equipment, redesigning the methods, and re-training the employees
can be expensive. However, cleaner production often results in some considerable reductions in the long run. The benefits of waste minimization through efficient production include Lowering operational costs, escaping penalties from regulatory agencies, and improving the perception of the business. In a world where consumers are becoming more conscious of environmentally friendly products, Cleaner Production methods can be an added advantage to any company.
The Role of Innovation and Technology
Cleaner Production is based on innovation. Emerging technical systems including automation, artificial intelligence, and renewable resources systems are changing how industries work. There is a need to embrace automation as this replaces manual work thus improving efficiency and reducing the chances of errors By adopting Producibility analysis, an AI system can predict the right time for maintenance and, in the process, reduce the time that a production line is not in use hence allowing maximum utilization of resources. Furthermore, the use of solar and wind power can substitute for fossil fuel-based energy needs in industries and bring down the carbon footprints by several folds. Advances in the technology of water
Sustainable Pathways: Cleaner Production for a Greener Tomorrow
Written by Hareem Akhtar | Edited by Tooba Nayab
recycling, waste heat recovery, and green chemistry in the Reduction of Substance Use and Waste in the process also aid in cleaner production as it makes the industries work with more efficiency in the utilization of resources and the generation of waste.
The purpose of cleaner production is to prevent pollution at its source and minimize emissions during the manufacturing process
A ‘polluter pays ’ principle known as extended producer responsibility is used to address the challenge to cleaner production by making manufacturers responsible for recovering the cost of their product throughout its life cycle.
Challenges on the Path to Cleaner Production
However, the present study reveals the following challenges in the adoption of Cleaner Production, though it is improving the industrial environment immensely. This is one of the major challenges that can be attributed to the considerable initial investment that is required for the adoption of new technologies, systems, and processes. A lot of companies, especially SMEs experience difficulty in sourcing the funds that would enable them to make investments in CP technologies.
Cleaner Production involves a certain level of expertise in sustainability engineering and production process optimization. Lack of such skills may complicate many organizations’ ability to adopt cleaner measures. Furthermore, there are questions as to the existence and adequacy of incentives and or sanctions to support compliance with regulatory frameworks that may be in some regions to compel changes toward Cleaner Production.
The Future of Cleaner Production
As the world moves on with environmental calamities such as climate change, resource depletion, and pollution, the concept of Cleaner Production cannot be underscored. Businesses that adhere to this strategy will not only be part of improving the health of the planet but will also be setting themselves up for long-term compliance with a new market that is emerging It is also important to note that the future of Cleaner Production is bright. This is due to increased innovation, awareness, and concerns about the environment and, the ever-increasing pressure from the law. This means that as many businesses embrace this shift, the overall implication to the sustainability of the world will be enormous. In Clean Production, this is not about the absence of pollution in terms of air and water; it is about the creation of an environment where one can have Industrial Revolution 2 0
Sustainable Pathways: Cleaner Production for a Greener Tomorrow
Written by Hareem Akhtar | Edited by Tooba Nayab
with no compromise towards Mother Nature. Thanks to that, people can change their approach to the production of material items and the utilization of resources and set up a course for a sustainable future.
Amidst the current challenges of sustainability, Cleaner Production stands as the ultimate guide to a sustainable world.
References
Zhao, C., Zhang, Y., & Wang, H. (2021). Cleaner production, environmental management systems, and environmental performance: The moderating role of environmental regulation Journal of Cleaner Production, 295, 129090. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2021.1 29090
Bai, C., Sarkis, J., & Dou, Y. (2020). Corporate sustainability development in China: Review and analysis. Journal of Cleaner Production, 247, 122127. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2020.1 22127
Fang, K., Chen, Y., & Xie, X. (2017). The impact of green innovation on the corporate social responsibility performance: Evidence from China Journal of Cleaner Production, 142(4), 2745-2756.
