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1
Van Heerden, Jan Horn. "Who would eat more with a food voucher programme in South Africa?" South African Journal of Economic and Management Sciences 12, n. 3 (17 giugno 2011): 297–306. http://dx.doi.org/10.4102/sajems.v12i3.220.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
A Computable General Equilibrium model is used to find the effects of a food voucher scheme on the economy in South Africa. If firms consider the issuing of vouchers as increased remuneration, they will hire fewer labourers. The higher labour cost increases the total cost of production and lowers supply. Real Gross Domestic Product decreases and the economy becomes worse off. However, depending on the size of the government’s involvement in such a scheme as well as the tax policies that are used to fund it, a food voucher scheme could benefit the poor, and improve the distribution of wealth in the country.
2
Msibi, Sunset S., e Gerrit Kornelius. "Potential for domestic biogas as household energy supply in South Africa". Journal of Energy in Southern Africa 28, n. 2 (23 giugno 2017): 1. http://dx.doi.org/10.17159/2413-3051/2017/v28i2a1754.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
Biogas is a clean and renewable form of energy accessible to low-income households through anaerobic digestion of readily available organic waste. The objectives of this desktop study were to investigate the feasibility of biogas use for substitution of presently used solid fuels in rural and peri-urban households, the subsequent health co-benefits, and the constraints to adoption of domestic biogas technology in South Africa. The energy demand of low-income South African households for cooking with fuelwood was found to be 27 MJ/day and the total energy demand 68 MJ/day. This is equivalent to 2 500 L/day/household of biogas for cooking and 6 250 L/day/household of biogas for complete substitution of conventional domestic fuels. Complete substitution of fuelwood used for cooking and household fuelwood use with biogas can result in the avoidance of 43% and 85.4% respectively of total disability adjusted life-years lost (702 790) and mortalities (22 365) from indoor smoke as a consequence of solid fuel use. Approximately 625 000 households in South Africa can potentially benefit from bio-digester fed with cattle and pig waste, on the basis of livestock numbers. It is infeasible to operate a domestic bio-digester fed solely with human waste, chicken waste and food waste because of insufficient feedstock. Non-sewered households with access to on- and off-site water supply generate sufficient greywater for feeding a domestic bio-digester for cooking purposes. This is, therefore, recommended over the use of drinking water.
3
Ngouapegne, Chriss Narick Mangoukou, e Elizabeth Chinomona. "Modelling The Influence Of The Drivers Of Supply Chain Performance In The Food Retail Industry In South Africa". Journal of Applied Business Research (JABR) 35, n. 2 (1 marzo 2019): 43–60. http://dx.doi.org/10.19030/jabr.v35i2.10298.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
The objective of this research is to examine the antecedents of supply chain value in the food trade business in the Gauteng region of South Africa. This study considers three of these drivers, namely buyer-supplier trust, commitment and supply chain relationship durability. A numerical approach was implemented in which a survey questionnaire was used to collect data from 429 managers and staff members from food retailing firms in the Gauteng province. The study used a non-probability convenience sampling technique to select respondents. Information were analysed through two software packages, namely the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS version 24.0) and the Analysis of Moment Structures (AMOS version 24.0). The main goal of this research is to see if the data fits the model. A confirmatory factor analysis was applied in examining and testing the relationships between observed constructs and their causal latent constructs while structural equation modelling helped in testing the hypothesised relationships among variables. The results of the investigation made known that buyer and supplier trust, commitment and supply chain relationship endurance absolutely and meaningfully impact supply chain performance. This investigation concludes that to achieve greater supply chain performance, food retailers should expedite the levels of trust, commitment and length of relationships with their providers. The outcomes of this study offer valuable understandings on how companies in the food retail industry could profit from trust, commitment and relationship longevity along with on how to develop supply chain performance. The results of this study add to the current body of knowledge by generating new information on buyer-supplier relationships. Therefore, the study is useful to buyers and suppliers in the food retail industry who wish to enhance supply chain performance and develop better relationships.
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Moyo, Busiso Helard, e Anne Marie Thompson Thow. "Fulfilling the Right to Food for South Africa: Justice, Security, Sovereignty and the Politics of Malnutrition". World Nutrition 11, n. 3 (29 settembre 2020): 112–52. http://dx.doi.org/10.26596/wn.2020113112-152.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
Despite South Africa’s celebrated constitutional commitments that have expanded and deepened South Africa’s commitment to realise socio-economic rights, limited progress in implementing right to food policies stands to compromise the country’s developmental path. If not a deliberate policy choice, the persistence of hunger, food insecurity and malnutrition in all its forms is a deep policy failure. Food system transformation in South Africa requires addressing wider issues of who controls the food supply, thus influencing the food chain and the food choices of the individual and communities. This paper examines three global rights-based paradigms – ‘food justice’, ‘food security’ and ‘food sovereignty’ – that inform activism on the right to food globally and their relevance to food system change in South Africa; for both fulfilling the right to food and addressing all forms of malnutrition. We conclude that the emerging concept of food sovereignty has important yet largely unexplored possibilities for democratically managing food systems for better health outcomes.
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Rogerson, Christian M., Holly Hunt e Jayne M. Rogerson. "Safari lodges and local economic linkages in South Africa". Africanus: Journal of Development Studies 43, n. 1 (14 novembre 2018): 3–17. http://dx.doi.org/10.25159/0304-615x/5061.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
The potential contribution of tourism to the wellbeing of rural communities is impacted by the development of local economic linkages. For development practitioners and policy makers the importance of evolving linkages between tourism and agriculture demands attention. This article provides an examination of the state of linkages in South Africa’s luxury safari lodge tourism sector. The results reveal the existence of only limited linkages between safari lodge accommodation providers and local agriculture. Current supply chains are mainly organised by intermediary supplier enterprises which source required food mainly from urban markets with only minimal local impacts. Linkages represent a vital potential mechanism through which to achieve the objectives of pro-poor tourism and a first step to maximise pro-poor impacts and avert polarization is to understand why such linkages rarely materialize and to identify the necessary conditions necessary for them to do so. South African policy frameworks for strengthening linkages must be informed by local evidence and draw from international experience.
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Dunga, Steven Henry. "Analysis of the Demand for Private Healthcare in South Africa". Studia Universitatis Babes-Bolyai Oeconomica 64, n. 1 (1 aprile 2019): 59–70. http://dx.doi.org/10.2478/subboec-2019-0005.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
Abstract Access to a good and healthy life is a human right recognised globally. The fight to deal with poverty and food insecurity as the top two sustainable development goals (SDGs) under the global agenda 2030 can only be achieved if a majority of the world population is able to participate in economic activities. However, the provision of healthcare is complicated by the nature of the demand and supply function. There is inefficient provision due to the positive externalities associated with healthcare provision and consequently the social efficiency is not achieved, especially when private provision is considered, and therefore the need for government involvement. This paper analyses the demand for private healthcare in South Africa, using the data collected from a general household survey with a sample of 21601 households. The results of the logistic regression model show that the gender of the head of a household, income, food security status, age of head of household and social grant and pension status were among the significant predictors of demand for private healthcare. The study provides insights on how provision of healthcare should be tailored so as to achieve maximum efficiency in public provision of healthcare.
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Enwereji, P. C. "Impact of Climate Change on Food Security and Water Supply in South Africa : Reports from Local Authorities". African Renaissance 2021, si1 (15 giugno 2021): 61–85. http://dx.doi.org/10.31920/2516-5305/v2021sin1a4.
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Tayob, Shaheed. "Trading Halal: Halal Certification and Intra-Muslim Trade in South Africa". Sociology of Islam 8, n. 3-4 (10 dicembre 2020): 322–42. http://dx.doi.org/10.1163/22131418-08030003.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
Abstract Halal certification introduces a new discursive and material basis for the regulation of Muslim consumption in a world of global trade and complex food technology. Through chemical tests and state of the art supply chain management the halal certification industry aims to replace the necessity of intra-Muslim trade for the practice of halal. This paper presents the approach of two competing halal certification organizations in South Africa in interaction with Muslim businesses. It argues that the aim of the halal certification industry to standardize, trace and trade in halal is limited by the communal practice of halal that emphasizes intra-Muslim trade and exchange. Halal certification is an incomplete recalibration of halal. Attention to Muslim business practices illuminates the limitation of audit cultures to the practice of halal, offering a view of the complexity of halal in practice.
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Gabru, N. "SOME COMMENTS ON WATER RIGHTS IN SOUTH AFRICA". Potchefstroom Electronic Law Journal/Potchefstroomse Elektroniese Regsblad 8, n. 1 (10 luglio 2017): 1. http://dx.doi.org/10.17159/1727-3781/2005/v8i1a2831.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
Human life, as with all animal and plant life on the planet, is dependant upon fresh water. Water is not only needed to grow food, generate power and run industries, but it is also needed as a basic part of human life. Human dependency upon water is evident through history, which illustrates that human settlements have been closely linked to the availability and supply of fresh water. Access to the limited water resources in South Africa has been historically dominated by those with access to land and economic power, as a result of which the majority of South Africans have struggled to secure the right to water. Apartheid era legislation governing water did not discriminate directly on the grounds of race, but the racial imbalance in ownership of land resulted in the disproportionate denial to black people of the right to water. Beyond racial categorisations, the rural and poor urban populations were traditionally especially vulnerable in terms of the access to the right. The enactment of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa 1996, brought the South African legal system into a new era, by including a bill of fundamental human rights (Bill of Rights). The Bill of Rights makes provision for limited socio-economic rights. Besides making provision for these human rights, the Constitution also makes provision for the establishment of state institutions supporting constitutional democracy. The Constitution has been in operation since May 1996. At this stage, it is important to take stock and measure the success of the implementation of these socio-economic rights. This assessment is important in more ways than one, especially in the light of the fact that many lawyers argued strongly against 1/2the inclusion of the second and third generation of human rights in a Bill of Rights. The argument was that these rights are not enforceable in a court of law and that they would create unnecessary expectations of food, shelter, health, water and the like; and that a clear distinction should be made between first generation and other rights, as well as the relationship of these rights to one another. It should be noted that there are many lawyers and non-lawyers who maintained that in order to confront poverty, brought about by the legacy of apartheid, the socio-economic rights should be included in a Bill of Rights. The inclusion of section 27 of the 1996 Constitution has granted each South African the right to have access to sufficient food and water and has resulted in the rare opportunity for South Africa to reform its water laws completely. It has resulted in the enactment of the Water Services Act 108 of 1997 and the National Water Act 36 of 1998.In this paper the difference between first and second generation rights will be discussed. The justiciability of socio-economic rights also warrants an explanation before the constitutional implications related to water are briefly examined. Then the right to water in international and comparative law will be discussed, followed by a consideration of the South African approach to water and finally, a few concluding remarks will be made.
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Paganini, Nicole, Kustiwa Adinata, Nomonde Buthelezi, David Harris, Stefanie Lemke, Alberto Luis, Jennifer Koppelin et al. "Growing and Eating Food during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Farmers’ Perspectives on Local Food System Resilience to Shocks in Southern Africa and Indonesia". Sustainability 12, n. 20 (16 ottobre 2020): 8556. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su12208556.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
The COVID-19 outbreak forced governments to make decisions that had adverse effects on local food systems and supply chains. As a result, many small-scale food producers faced difficulties growing, harvesting, and selling their goods. This participatory research examines local small-scale farmers’ challenges as farmers but also as consumers and their coping strategies during the month of April and one week in June 2020. The study was initiated and conceptualized in collaboration with small-scale farmer members of an existing research network in selected urban and rural areas in South Africa, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and Indonesia. Participants co-designed the research, collected and uploaded data through digital survey tools, and contributed to data analysis and interpretation. A common observation across regions is that the measures imposed in response to COVID-19 highlighted and partly exacerbated existing socio-economic inequalities among food system actors. Strict lockdowns in Cape Town, South Africa, and Masvingo, Zimbabwe, significantly restricted the production capacity of small-scale farmers in the informal economy and created more food insecurity for them. In Maputo, Mozambique, and Toraja and Java, Indonesia, local food systems continued to operate and were even strengthened by higher social capital and adaptive capacities.
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Louw, A., D. Jordaan, L. Ndanga e J. F. Kirsten. "Alternative marketing options for small-scale farmers in the wake of changing agri-food supply chains in South Africa". Agrekon 47, n. 3 (settembre 2008): 287–308. http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/03031853.2008.9523801.
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Vorn, Stephen A., e Michael Lipton. "Population Change in the Wake of Agricultural Improvement: Lessons for Pakistan". Pakistan Development Review 31, n. 4II (1 dicembre 1992): 715–28. http://dx.doi.org/10.30541/v31i4iipp.715-728.
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Since the early 1960s, the mandates of agricultural researchers have been rooted in a "neo-Malthusian" theory of "demographic transition". Population increase in rural South Asia, in particular, had by 1960--63 reached the point where food supply per person could no longer be maintained simply by increases in cultivated area. Food supply was therefore to be raised through higher-yielding varieties of staples. Such HWs were to increase food availability enough to keep ahead of population increase. Extra food availability per person was supposed to reduce population-induced risks of undernutrition and famine, creating a "breathing space" while general socioeconomic development brought about lower fertility. HYV s have raised food output substantially in many parts of Asia and Latin America, and many advocate HYVs as the main approach to agricultural development in Africa. Surely, many poor people's lives have been saved by the extra employment income, and perhaps by the cheaper food, generated by HYVs. Yet the incidence of poverty in South Asia has probably not changed much since 1960, and the underpinnings of the original HYV strategy have been largely discredited.
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Frank, Tamryn, Anne-Marie Thow, Shu Wen Ng, Jessica Ostrowski, Makoma Bopape e Elizabeth C. Swart. "A Fit-for-Purpose Nutrient Profiling Model to Underpin Food and Nutrition Policies in South Africa". Nutrients 13, n. 8 (28 luglio 2021): 2584. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/nu13082584.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
South Africa (SA) is facing a rising prevalence of obesity and diet-related chronic diseases. The government is seeking to develop effective, evidence-based policy measures to address this. A well-designed, fit-for-purpose nutrient profiling model (NPM) can aid policy development. The aim of this study was to develop a fit-for-purpose NPM in SA. Steps included: (1) determining the purpose and target population; (2) selecting appropriate nutrients and other food components to include; (3) selecting a suitable NPM type, criteria and base; and (4) selecting appropriate numbers and thresholds. As part of the evaluation, the nutritional composition of packaged foods containing nutritional information (n = 6747) in the SA food supply chain was analyzed, a literature review was undertaken and various NPMs were evaluated. Our findings indicated that it is most appropriate to adapt an NPM and underpin regulation with a restrictive NPM that limits unhealthy food components. The Chile 2019 NPM was identified as suitable to adapt, and total sugar, saturated fat, sodium and non-sugar sweetener were identified as appropriate to restrict. This NPM has the potential to underpin restrictive policies, such as front-of-package labelling and child-directed marketing regulations in SA. These policies will support the fight against obesity and NCDs in the country.
14
KALEJTA, B., e P. A. R. HOCKEY. "Distribution of shorebirds at the Berg River estuary, South Africa, in relation to foraging mode, food supply and environmental features". Ibis 136, n. 2 (3 aprile 2008): 233–39. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1474-919x.1994.tb01089.x.
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Tripathi, Hemant G., Harriet E. Smith, Steven M. Sait, Susannah M. Sallu, Stephen Whitfield, Astrid Jankielsohn, William E. Kunin, Ndumiso Mazibuko e Bonani Nyhodo. "Impacts of COVID-19 on Diverse Farm Systems in Tanzania and South Africa". Sustainability 13, n. 17 (2 settembre 2021): 9863. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su13179863.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
Emerging information on the interactions between the COVID-19 pandemic and global food systems have highlighted how the pandemic is accentuating food crises across Africa. Less clear, however, are how the impacts differ between farming systems. Drawing on 50 key informant interviews with farmers, village leaders and extension officers in South Africa and Tanzania, we identify the effects of COVID-19 and associated measures to curb the spread of the disease on farming production systems, the coping mechanisms adopted by farmers, and explore their longer-term plans for adaptation. We focus on a diverse range of production systems, from small-scale mixed farming systems in Tanzania to large-scale corporate farms in South Africa. Our findings highlight how COVID-19 restrictions have interrupted the supply chains of agricultural inputs and commodities, increasing the storage time for produce, decreasing income and purchasing power, and reducing labour availability. Farmers’ responses were heterogeneous, with highly diverse small-scale farming systems and those less engaged with international markets least affected by the associated COVID-19 measures. Large-scale farmers were most able to access capital to buffer short-term impacts, whereas smaller-scale farms shared labour, diversified to subsistence produce and sold assets. However, compounded shocks, such as recent extreme climate events, limited the available coping options, particularly for smaller-scale and emerging farmers. The study highlights the need to understand the characteristics of farm systems to better equip and support farmers, particularly in contexts of uncertainty. We propose that policy actions should focus on (i) providing temporary relief and social support and protection to financially vulnerable stakeholders, (ii) job assurance for farmworkers and engaging an alternative workforce in farming, (iii) investing in farming infrastructure, such as storage facilities, digital communication tools and extension services, and (iv) supporting diversified agroecological farming systems.
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Telukdarie, Arnesh, Megashnee Munsamy e Popopo Mohlala. "Analysis of the Impact of COVID-19 on the Food and Beverages Manufacturing Sector". Sustainability 12, n. 22 (10 novembre 2020): 9331. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su12229331.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
The globe has been subjected to an unprecedented health challenge in the form of COVID-19, indiscriminately impacting the global economy, global supply chains, and nations. The resolution of this unprecedented challenge does not seem to be in the short-term horizon but rather something the globe has to live with. Initial data provides for some insights on responses, precautions, and sustainability protocols and processes. The Food and Beverages Manufacturing sector in South Africa (SA) and globally is an expeditious respondent to the COVID-19 challenge. Food is essential for human existence, but the food value chain is subjected to significant COVID-19 risks. The Food and Beverage Sector Education and Training Authority is responsible for skills development in the Food and Beverages (FoodBev) Manufacturing Sector in South Africa and seeks to quantify Foodbev sustainability. This research paper reviews global literature, performs a high-level knowledge classification, with the aim of expedited awareness, knowledge sharing, and most importantly, quantification of an expedited response, within the FoodBev Manufacturing sector in SA. The research is contextualized via a SA sector-based instrument deployment and data analysis. The paper provides insights into COVID-19 impact, adaptations, and responses in the SA Food and Beverages Manufacturing sector.
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Bag, Surajit. "Supplier Management and Sustainable Innovation in Supply Networks: An Empirical Study". Global Business Review 19, n. 3_suppl (28 marzo 2018): S176—S195. http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/0972150918760051.
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Supply chain management researchers acknowledge the importance of innovation in creating value for the business. However, the impact of sustainable innovation in manufacturer–supplier networks lacks focus by previous researchers. The current research attempts to bridge the gaps in existing literature by empirically testing a conceptual model on the basis of survey responses gathered in Gauteng province of South Africa. The findings show that organization culture (OC) influences leadership skills, supplier development (SD) and supplier relationship management (SRM). Second, market forces (MFs) influence SD initiatives. Third, SD is found to influence supplier performance (SP) and SRM. Fourth, SRM is found to influence SP. Finally, SP has a positive effect on sustainable innovation in supplier networks. The study is unique in terms of scope of work and further creates food for thought to the research community.
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Mabhaudhi, Tafadzwanashe, Tendai Chibarabada, Vimbayi Chimonyo, Vongai Murugani, Laura Pereira, Nafiisa Sobratee, Laurencia Govender, Rob Slotow e Albert Modi. "Mainstreaming Underutilized Indigenous and Traditional Crops into Food Systems: A South African Perspective". Sustainability 11, n. 1 (31 dicembre 2018): 172. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su11010172.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
Business as usual or transformative change? While the global agro-industrial food system is credited with increasing food production, availability and accessibility, it is also credited with giving birth to ‘new’ challenges such as malnutrition, biodiversity loss, and environmental degradation. We reviewed the potential of underutilized indigenous and traditional crops to bring about a transformative change to South Africa’s food system. South Africa has a dichotomous food system, characterized by a distinct, dominant agro-industrial, and, alternative, informal food system. This dichotomous food system has inadvertently undermined the development of smallholder producers. While the dominant agro-industrial food system has led to improvements in food supply, it has also resulted in significant trade-offs with agro-biodiversity, dietary diversity, environmental sustainability, and socio-economic stability, especially amongst the rural poor. This challenges South Africa’s ability to deliver on sustainable and healthy food systems under environmental change. The review proposes a transdisciplinary approach to mainstreaming underutilized indigenous and traditional crops into the food system, which offers real opportunities for developing a sustainable and healthy food system, while, at the same time, achieving societal goals such as employment creation, wellbeing, and environmental sustainability. This process can be initiated by researchers translating existing evidence for informing policy-makers. Similarly, policy-makers need to acknowledge the divergence in the existing policies, and bring about policy convergence in pursuit of a food system which includes smallholder famers, and where underutilized indigenous and traditional crops are mainstreamed into the South African food system.
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Constantinides, Shilpa, Shiva Bhandari, Emma Kenney, Edward Frongillo e Christine Blake. "Perspectives on Food Safety and Their Influence on Food Choice in Low- and Middle-Income Countries". Current Developments in Nutrition 5, Supplement_2 (giugno 2021): 550. http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/cdn/nzab043_002.
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Abstract Objectives Current efforts to address food safety through supply-side risk management consider food safety primarily in terms of biological and chemical hazards, ignoring the importance of individuals’ experiences and perspectives. This study aimed to understand how experiences and perspectives of food safety influence food choice in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Methods The Drivers of Food Choice Competitive Grants Program funded 15 projects that aimed to understand food choice among the poor across 10 LMICs in Sub Saharan Africa and South and South East Asia. Summaries of the role of food safety in decisions about food choice were reviewed with principal investigators from 6 projects with significant findings. We used an iterative process of thematic analysis across all project summaries followed by respondent validation to categorize findings with shared meaning into themes of conditions and characteristics that either contributed to perceptions of a lack of food safety or to an overall perspective on food safety. Results Food was considered to be safe if purchased from vendors who had good food and personal hygiene practices or with whom individuals had positive relationships. Food was also considered to be safe if it was prepared at home. Perceptions of a lack of food safety were increased by fears of adulteration by vendors and contamination in physical environments with poor sanitation or handling practices. Policies and regulations offered increased guarantees of safety but were not always trusted nor convenient, and social networks and the media were important sources of both real and false information about food safety. Conclusions Individuals rely on their experiences, attitudes, knowledge, and perceptions in making decisions about what foods to buy, prepare, and consume, and from which sources. Understanding how perspectives of food safety influence food choice can be harnessed to improve food safety and contribute to sustainable healthy diets. Efforts to achieve sustainable healthy diets through behavior change communication or incentives to supply chain actors must acknowledge perspectives on food safety as important drivers of food choice. Funding Sources UK Government's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
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Shi, J., J. Liu e L. Pinter. "Recent evolution of China's virtual water trade: analysis of selected crops and considerations for policy". Hydrology and Earth System Sciences Discussions 10, n. 9 (17 settembre 2013): 11613–41. http://dx.doi.org/10.5194/hessd-10-11613-2013.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
Abstract. China has dramatically increased its virtual water import unconsciously for recent years. Many studies have focused on the quantity of traded virtual water but very few go into analysing geographic distribution and the properties of China's virtual water trade network. This paper provides a calculation and analysis of the crop-related virtual water trade network of China based on 27 major primary crops between 1986 and 2009. The results show that China is a net importer of virtual water from water-abundant areas of North and South America, and a net virtual water exporter to water-stressed areas of Asia, Africa, and Europe. Virtual water import is far larger than virtual water export and in both import and export a small number of trade partners control the supply chain. Grain crops are the major contributors to virtual water trade, and among grain crops soybeans, mostly imported from the US, Brazil and Argentina are the most significant. As crop yield and crop water productivity in North and South America are generally higher than those in Asia and Africa, the effect of China's crop-related virtual water trade positively contributes to optimizing crop water use efficiency at the global scale. In order to mitigate water scarcity and secure the food supply, virtual water should be actively incorporated into national water management strategies. From the national perspective, China should reduce the export and increase the import of water-intensive crops. But the sources of virtual water import need to be further diversified to reduce supply chain risks and increase resilience.
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Ren, Yufeng, Zhemin Li, Yuting Wang e Tianyu Zhang. "Development and Prospect of Food Security Cooperation in the BRICS Countries". Sustainability 12, n. 5 (9 marzo 2020): 2125. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su12052125.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
In recent years, the international status of agriculture in the BRICS countries—Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa—has been continuously improved. In 2018, the gross agricultural production of the BRICS countries accounted for more than 50% of the world’s total. Further strengthening the developing cooperation of the BRICS countries is of great significance for ensuring global food security. Based on the data from FAOSTAT and UN Comtrade Database, this study builds a food self-sufficiency rate and food security cooperation potential index to quantitatively analyze the food security status, cooperation effectiveness, and future trends of the BRICS countries. The study finds that the overall food security of the BRICS countries is generally showing a trend of volatility and growth, with high rates for cereals and relatively low rates for fresh products. In the future, BRICS food security cooperation should be based on their own resource endowment and socioeconomic characteristics. The BRICS countries need to constantly improve the awareness of joint cooperation and action in the future, focusing on scientific and technological cooperation, information sharing, complementary advantages in trade, and improving the global competitiveness of products. With the help of agricultural science and technology, Brazil is growing as a strong export country of food products. Russia needs to increase the introduction of agricultural science and technology and foreign capital to give full play to its resource advantages. India can improve its food self-sufficiency faster by the construction of a BRICS Agricultural Research Platform. China makes full use of BRICS resources, actively promotes agricultural enterprises to go global, and constantly optimizes the food supply structure. South Africa maintains the advantages of fruit and vegetable industry and increases the introduction and promotion of agricultural science and technology to improve the domestic food production capacity.
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Mulaudzi, V. S., A. S. Oyekale e P. Ndou. "Technical Efficiency of African Indigenous Vegetable Production in Vhembe District of Limpopo Province, South Africa". Open Agriculture 4, n. 1 (31 dicembre 2019): 778–86. http://dx.doi.org/10.1515/opag-2019-0077.
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AbstractAfrican indigenous vegetables (AIVs) have long been known in South African rural communities as essential food that is being consumed with starchy staples, and their consumption has increased over the past few decades. There is now a growing interest and awareness of AIVs due to their nutritional benefits and outstanding potential to generate farm incomes. However, several factors are militating against their production along the supply chains of value addition. This study analysed the technical efficiency of AIVs production in Vhembe district of Limpopo province. The data were collected from 114 AIVs farmers through a multi-stage sampling technique. Data analysis was carried out using Stochastic Frontier model via the Cobb-Douglas production function. The results revealed that the average age and years of farming experiences of the farmers were 59.6 and 30.9 years respectively. About 84% of the farmers lacked access to formal credit, while 92% had access to extension services. Elasticity values of land area cultivated, fertiliser, seeds, labour and tractor days in relation to AIV production were 0.4441, 0.1749, 0.1311, 0.2663 and 0.2360 respectively. Furthermore, the results revealed that average technical efficiency in the production of indigenous vegetables was 0.79%. The variables that significantly influenced technical inefficiency were years of schooling, extension services, gender and access to the irrigation system. In conclusion, production of AIV exhibits decreasing returns to scale. However, promotion of AIV production and efficiency requires consideration of gender issues in accessing resources, educational attainments of farmers, access to irrigation services and proper reorientation of the components of agricultural extension services delivery in order to benefit AIV farmers.
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Winkler, Harald, e Andrew Marquard. "Analysis of the economic implications of a carbon tax". Journal of Energy in Southern Africa 22, n. 1 (1 febbraio 2011): 55–68. http://dx.doi.org/10.17159/2413-3051/2011/v22i1a3202.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
A carbon tax should be considered among the range of instruments available to the South African government, economy and society, as part of a broad portfolio of mitigation actions. A carbon tax was one of the most effective wedges or mitigation options analysed for the Long-term mitigation scenarios (LTMS) for South Africa. The LTMS strategic option ‘Using the market’ reduced emissions roughly as required by Science, for several decades. The LTMS research indicated that the effectiveness increases, up to certain tax levels. South Africa might consider a tax starting around R100-200 / t CO2eq, escalating in future. Our paper presents results on research on a carbon tax in South Africa conducted in 2008 and was presented at the Climate Change Summit 2009. The efficiency with which a carbon tax achieves the goal of reducing GHG emissions depends on responsiveness and substitutability. This is shown more fully on the supply-side, while further work will be needed to fully understand the response to a carbon tax on the demand side. Careful design of a carbon tax (or other economic instruments considered) will be important to ensure that it is effective in meeting its objective – reducing GHG emissions. We propose a price discovery and adjustment mechanism that sets a band around the desired ‘peak, plateau and decline’ trajectory. Equity demands that poor households, in particular, be shielded from any burden. Off-setting incentives, such as food subsidies or reduced VAT on basic goods, should in finance measure that which will ensure that the package of tax and incentives is a net benefit to the poor – and not to treat the tax as a revenue-raising instrument. With appropriate design, a carbon tax can be a powerful instrument of mitigation in South Africa, and at the same time, contribute to socio-economic objectives.
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Marechera, George, Grace Muinga e Patrick Irungu. "Assessment of Seed Maize Systems and Potential Demand for Climate-Smart Hybrid Maize Seed in Africa". Journal of Agricultural Science 8, n. 8 (17 luglio 2016): 171. http://dx.doi.org/10.5539/jas.v8n8p171.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
<p>Africa lacks a steady supply of good quality seed due in part to lack of timely development and conveyance of seed technologies to farmers. This study evaluated the performance of national seed systems of five countries in eastern and southern Africa where a consortium of public-private organizations are implementing the Water Efficient Maize for Africa (WEMA) project. WEMA aimed at developing and deploying drought-tolerant and insect-pest-protected maize hybrids (climate-smart hybrids) to smallholder farmers royalty-free. The objectives of the study were to assess the main components of the seed maize systems, their institutional frameworks, and estimate the potential demand for WEMA climate-smart hybrid maize seed to guide in upscaling the seed technology to other African countries. Primary data was gathered from key experts in the seed maize value-chain of each country. Secondary data came from national statistics bureaux to estimate the potential demand for WEMA seed maize. Results showed that farmers in all five countries except South Africa overwhelming rely on the informal seed system. The formal seed system is over-regulated creating unnecessary delays in the release and commercialization of improved seed varieties. It also increases the cost of developing new seed technology. Except South Africa, the demand for seed maize in the other four WEMA countries will grow by 4.1% annually from 31,614 to 35,863 metric tons of certified seed over 2014-2020 period. The study advances several recommendations to improve the efficiency of the seed maize systems, which when implemented, will undoubtedly improve food security in Africa.</p>
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Mashau, Mpho Edward, Lucy Lynn Maliwichi e Afam Israel Obiefuna Jideani. "Non-Alcoholic Fermentation of Maize (Zea mays) in Sub-Saharan Africa". Fermentation 7, n. 3 (18 agosto 2021): 158. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/fermentation7030158.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
Maize, together with its fermented products, is fundamental for human nutrition and animal feed globally. Non-alcoholic fermentation of maize using lactic acid bacteria (LAB) is one of the food preservation methods that has been utilised throughout the centuries and has played a vital role in the manufacturing of many fermented beverages consumed these days. However, the coincidence of LAB and yeasts during the spontaneous fermentation of maize-based products is inevitable. The involvement of other microorganisms such as moulds, Bacillus species and acetic acid bacteria in the fermentation of maize is important to the characteristics of the final product. Fermented beverages are affordable, have been produced traditionally and are known for their organoleptic properties, as well as their health-promoting compounds. The consumption of non-alcoholic beverages has the prospect of reducing the detrimental health and economic effects of a poor diet. Different fermented maize-based gruels and beverages such as ogi, mawe, banku and kenkey in West Africa, togwa in East Africa, as well as mahewu in South Africa have been documented. The physical and biochemical properties of most of these maize-based fermented products have been investigated and modified by various researchers. Attempts to enhance the nutritional properties of these products rely on supplementation with legumes to supply the insufficient amino acids. The production technology of these products has evolved from traditional to industrial production in recent years.
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Shi, J., J. Liu e L. Pinter. "Recent evolution of China's virtual water trade: analysis of selected crops and considerations for policy". Hydrology and Earth System Sciences 18, n. 4 (8 aprile 2014): 1349–57. http://dx.doi.org/10.5194/hess-18-1349-2014.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
Abstract. China has dramatically increased its virtual water import over recent years. Many studies have focused on the quantity of traded virtual water, but very few go into analysing geographic distribution and the properties of China's virtual water trade network. This paper provides a calculation and analysis of the crop-related virtual water trade network of China based on 27 major primary crops between 1986 and 2009. The results show that China is a net importer of virtual water from water-abundant areas of North America and South America, and a net virtual water exporter to water-stressed areas of Asia, Africa, and Europe. Virtual water import is far larger than virtual water export, and in both import and export a small number of trade partners control the supply chain. Grain crops are the major contributors to virtual water trade, and among grain crops, soybeans, mostly imported from the US, Brazil and Argentina, are the most significant. In order to mitigate water scarcity and secure the food supply, virtual water should actively be incorporated into national water management strategies. And the sources of virtual water import need to be further diversified to reduce supply chain risks and increase resilience.
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Wekeza, Siphelele, e Melusi Sibanda. "Factors Influencing Consumer Purchase Intentions of Organically Grown Products in Shelly Centre, Port Shepstone, South Africa". International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 16, n. 6 (17 marzo 2019): 956. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16060956.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
In the last few years, the market of organically grown products (OGPs) has continued to grow due to speculated concerns for the environment, food safety and health issues. The market for OGPs in South Africa appears to be under threat; with their demand outstripping their supply. In light of this background, there are relatively few studies on the consumer purchase intentions of OGPs in South Africa, and thus, less understanding about its demand market drivers. The purpose of this paper is to identify the factors influencing the purchase intentions of OGPs (fruits and vegetables) in Shelly Centre in Port Shepstone in Kwa-Zulu Natal Province of South Africa. Using a quantitative descriptive cross-sectional research design, a hundred and fifty (150) OGP consumers were selected through a systematic random sampling technique from three accredited OGP retail outlets namely Pick n’ Pay, Spar and Woolworths. Generally, descriptive results show that the interviewed consumers in Shelly Centre were reasonably educated and knowledgeable about OGPs. A higher proportion of the interviewed consumers in Shelly Centre consisted of women, employed and not of African descendant (ethnic group) consumers. Most were confident that OGPs are environmentally friendly, safe, high-quality products, and have a better taste compared to conventionally grown food products. A somewhat fair proportion expressed mixed feelings concerning the belief that OGPs are priced higher, their appeal to nature (smell), and their willingness to purchase OGPs regardless of price. Nonetheless, most were adamant that OGPs are difficult to find on the market. A multiple regression model analysis results reveal that consumer demographics; ethnicity (not of African descent) (p < 0.001), and monthly household income (p < 0.05) are statistically significant and positively influence the consumer purchase intentions of OGPs in Shelly Centre. Conversely, consumer perceptions that OGPs are priced higher (p < 0.05), have a better taste and of quality (p < 0.001), and the difficulty to find on the market (p < 0.001) are statistically significant and negatively influence the consumer purchase intentions of OGPs in Shelly Centre. The findings of this paper stress the need to design strategies and elements (marketing mix) to make OGPs affordable and readily available to consumers. Likewise, consumers from all ethnic groups and income levels need to be conscious of the environmental and health benefits of OGPs to make informed purchase decisions. To promote the purchase of OGPs; from a policy perspective, the government can offer support such as a consumer price subsidy to make OGPs affordable, and the provision of effective regulations and certification around the marketing of OGPs.
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Johnson, David. "Settler Farmers and Coerced African Labour in Southern Rhodesia, 1936–46". Journal of African History 33, n. 1 (marzo 1992): 111–28. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/s002185370003187x.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
This paper contributes to a growing body of literature on the socio-economic impact of the Second World War on Africa. The focus is on the inter-relationship between the state, settler farmers and African labour in Southern Rhodesia. The war presented an opportunity for undercapitalized European farmers to enlist state support in securing African labour that they could not obtain through market forces alone. Historically, these farmers depended heavily on a supply of cheap labour from the Native Reserves and from the colonies to the north, especially Nyasaland. But the opportunities for Africans to sell their labour in other sectors of the Southern Rhodesian economy and in the Union of South Africa, or to at least determine the timing and length of their entry into wage employment, meant that settler farmers seldom obtained an adequate supply of labour. Demands for increased food production, a wartime agrarian crisis and a diminished supply of external labour all combined to ensure that the state capitulated in the face of requests for Africans to be conscripted into working for Europeans as a contribution to the Imperial war effort. The resulting mobilization of thousands of African labourers under the Compulsory Native Labour Act (1942), which emerged as the prize of the farmers' campaign for coerced labour, corrects earlier scholarship on Southern Rhodesia which asserted that state intervention in securing labour supplies was of importance only up to the 1920s. The paper also shows that Africans did not remain passive before measures aimed at coercing them into producing value for settler farmers.
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Ndou, Azwinndini, Rachel Tsakani Lebese, Takalani Grace Tshitangano e Jessica Uchechi Damian. "A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Assessment of Caregivers’ Knowledge and Practices Regarding the Prevention and Management of Diarrhea among Children under the Age of Five in Thulamela B Clinics, South Africa". International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 18, n. 18 (8 settembre 2021): 9452. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18189452.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
Diarrhea is a common cause of child-related hospitalization and mortality among children under the age of five in South Africa. This study was conducted to assess the knowledge and practices of caregivers regarding prevention and management of diarrhea among children under the age of five in the Thulamela Municipality of South Africa. A quantitative approach using a descriptive cross-sectional survey was used. A questionnaire was adopted to collect data from caregivers at thirty primary health-care facilities using convenient sampling. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 24.0 was used to analyze data. Most of the respondents have fair knowledge about diarrhea, oral rehydration therapy/salt sugar solution and its usage during diarrheal episodes. However, most of them (81.7%) do not use the salt sugar solution when their children have diarrhea. Almost all the respondents practice a hand washing hygiene for themselves and their children; 97.2% do not reheat cooked food before feeding their children; 95.5% do not drink untreated water as their source of drinking water is the municipal supply. The practices of these respondents do not reflect their knowledge in terms of the use of oral rehydration solution/salt and sugar solution. Further efforts should be made to educate caregivers on the mode of transmission of diarrheal pathogens.
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Charrua, Alberto B., Philip J. Havik, Salomão Bandeira, Luís Catarino, Ana Ribeiro-Barros, Pedro Cabral, Margarida Moldão e Maria M. Romeiras. "Food Security and Nutrition in Mozambique: Comparative Study with Bean Species Commercialised in Informal Markets". Sustainability 13, n. 16 (7 agosto 2021): 8839. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su13168839.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
In Mozambique (South-eastern Africa), Phaseolus vulgaris and Vigna spp. are important staple foods and a major source of dietary protein for local populations, particularly for people living in rural areas who lack the financial capacity to include meat in their daily dietary options. This study focuses on the potential for improving diets with locally produced nutritious legumes whilst increasing food security and income generation among smallholder farmers. Using bean species and varieties commercialised as dry legumes in the country, it sets out to characterize and compare the chemical properties of Phaseolus vulgaris and Vigna spp. among the most commercialised dry legume groups in Mozambique. The principal component analysis showed a clear separation between Phaseolus and Vigna species in terms of proximate composition, whereas protein content was quite uniform in both groups. It concludes that the introduction of improved cultivars of Phaseolus vulgaris and Vigna species maize–legume intercropping benefits yield, diets and increases household income with limited and low-cost inputs while enhancing the resilience of smallholder farmers in vulnerable production systems affected by recurrent drought and the supply of legumes to urban informal markets.
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Blanckenberg, Anelle, Umezuruike Linus Opara e Olaniyi Amos Fawole. "Postharvest Losses in Quantity and Quality of Table Grape (cv. Crimson Seedless) along the Supply Chain and Associated Economic, Environmental and Resource Impacts". Sustainability 13, n. 8 (16 aprile 2021): 4450. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su13084450.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
High incidence of postharvest losses is a major challenge to global food security. Addressing postharvest losses is a better strategy to increase business efficiency and improve food security rather than simply investing more resources to increase production. Global estimates show that fruit and vegetables are the highest contributors to postharvest losses and food waste, with 45% of production lost. This represents 38% of total global food losses and waste. However, the lack of primary data on postharvest losses at critical steps in the fruit value chain and the unknown economic, environmental and resource impacts of these losses makes it difficult to formulate mitigation strategies. This paper quantifies postharvest losses and quality attributes of ‘Crimson Seedless’ table grapes at farm and simulated retail levels. Table grapes were sampled from four farms in the Western Cape Province of South Africa, the largest deciduous fruit production and export region in Southern Africa. Mean on-farm losses immediately after harvest was 13.9% in 2017 and 5.97% in 2018, ranging from 5.51% to 23.3% for individual farms. The main reason for on-farm losses was mechanical damage (7.1%). After 14 days in cold storage (−0.3 ± 0.7 °C, 81.3 ± 4.1% RH), mean grape losses were 3.05% in 2017 and 2.41% in 2018, which increased to 7.41% in 2017 and 2.99% in 2018, after 28 days. After 10 days of further storage under simulated market conditions (5.4 ± 0.6 °C, 83.7 ± 2.9% RH), fruit losses were 3.65% during retail marketing and 4.36% during export. Storing grapes under ambient conditions (25.1 ± 1.3 °C and 46.6 ± 6.0% RH) resulted in a higher incidence of losses, increasing from 7.03 to 9.59 and 14.29% after 3, 7 and 10 days, respectively. The socioeconomic impacts of these postharvest losses amounted to financial losses of over ZAR 279 million (USD 17 million according to the conversion rate of 20 October 2020) annually, and this was associated with the loss of 177.43 million MJ of fossil energy, 4.8 million m3 of fresh water and contributed to the emission of approximately 52,263 tons of CO2 equivalent.
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Deliwe, Ayanda Pamella, Shelley Beryl Beck e Elroy Eugene Smith. "Perceptions of Food Retailers Regarding Climate Change and Greenhouse Gas Emissions". 11th GLOBAL CONFERENCE ON BUSINESS AND SOCIAL SCIENCES 11, n. 1 (9 dicembre 2020): 73. http://dx.doi.org/10.35609/gcbssproceeding.2020.11(73).
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
Greenhouse gas (GHG) emission and its associated effects have been a debate in literature for many years (Hoffman, 2011:5; Williams & Schaefer, 2012:175; Whitmarsh, 2011:690). According to Jackson (2016), climate change is seen as a yearly change within the earth's climate that is a result of changes in its atmosphere, as well as interactions between the atmosphere and other chemical, geologic, geographic and biological factors within the earth's system. Climate change has primarily caused a warming effect of the earth's atmosphere that has affected all aspects of life (Pachauri & Reisinger, 2007:7). While there are limited studies that measure greenhouse gas emissions arising from the entire global food chain, there have been estimates of GHG emissions attributable to global agricultural production (Garnett, 2011:23). Energy consumption is one of the biggest challenges food retailers are facing as it not only increases overhead costs but also GHG emission (Tassou, Hadawey & Marriott, 2011). Garnett (2011) alleges that the food chain produces greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions at all stages in its life cycle, from the farming process and its inputs, through to manufacture, distribution, refrigeration, retailing, food preparation in the home and waste disposal. Technological improvements, while essential, will not be sufficient in reducing GHG emissions. The combination of population growth and rising per capita anticipated consumption of meat and dairy products will undermine the cuts that technological and managerial innovation can achieve. Over the last few years food retailers in South Africa started to focus their attention towards GHG emissions, but there is still no framework for food retailers to reduce GHG emissions in South Africa (Tassou et al. 2007:2988). Various studies have argued that the food and drink, transportation, and construction industry sectors are regarded as the most significant contributors to GHG emissions (European Commission, 2006; SEI, WWF & CURE, 2006 and UNEP, 2008). Significant changes in food production and increases in food transport have resulted. The production of food on farms has become increasingly mechanised, large-scale, and specialised; and food supply chains have become more complicated and transport-intensive (Roelich, 2008). Food retailers are contributing to GHG emissions by means of electricity usage through refrigerator equipment, lighting, heating, air conditioning, baking and other secondary services. There is no general strategy for food retailers to reduce GHG emission and minimal research has been done in this sector (Tassou et al, 2011). Keywords: climate change; food retailers; greenhouse gas emission; perceptions; strategies
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van der Merwe, Melissa, Johann F. Kirsten e Jacques H. Trienekens. "Enforcement mechanisms and governance structures to protect a region of origin lamb product". Supply Chain Management: An International Journal 24, n. 5 (19 agosto 2019): 561–73. http://dx.doi.org/10.1108/scm-01-2019-0026.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
Purpose This paper aims to make an empirical contribution by investigating the enforcement mechanisms and governance structures required to protect and govern a regional food product when public certification fails. As one of the recent additions to South Africa’s repertoire of products with a designated origin, Karoo Lamb made for an interesting case study. Design/methodology/approach A conjoint analysis was conducted to elicit the farmers’ preferred enforcement mechanisms to protect the authenticity of the Karoo Lamb product. The investigation, furthermore, draws on survey data collected among 73 farmers, five abattoirs, two processors/packers and five retail outlets to evaluate the governance structures of the Karoo Lamb supply chain. Findings The results indicate that due to failed public certification that is governed by market-like structures, Karoo Lamb is better off being governed by hierarchical structures. These structures are expected to allow for a stronger focus on stricter enforcement mechanisms. Practical implications At the farm level, the Karoo Lamb supply chain requires better enforcement mechanisms to protect the unique attributes of origin and taste to ensure the authenticity of Karoo Lamb. This change towards stricter enforcement requires more hierarchical structures to allow for private or mutual enforcement mechanisms. Originality/value This paper contributes empirically to the governance structure knowledge base by analysing the enforcement mechanisms and governance structures needed to enforce and protect, the quality and origin standards of a region of origin product, Karoo Lamb, in South Africa.
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Tandlich, Roman. "Citizen science based monitoring of microbial water quality at a single household level in a South African local municipality during the COVID19 lockdown". Nova Biotechnologica et chimica 19, n. 1 (30 giugno 2020): 116–23. http://dx.doi.org/10.36547/nbc.v19i1.586.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
Personal hygiene and access to potable water, which is safe for human consumption, are critical to containing the COVID19 pandemic. Here monitoring results are reported for microbial quality of water samples from the municipal supply in Makana Local Municipality in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa. Access of the human population to sufficient volumes of potable water of required (microbial) quality has been a problem in this local municipality. Samples were taken just before and during 30 days of the strictest phase of the nation-wide lockdown, related to COVID19 in South Africa. Aim of this short communication was to perform the water quality testing with limited to no access to laboratory facilities and using the principles of citizen science. The H2S test kit was used as the basis for the microbial testing, while a cell phone app was used for the temperature monitoring. Five H2S test kit were used per sampling at the author’s house and the kits was developed for the microbial water quality assessment in isolated settings such as those for the lockdown. During the study, the ambient temperature ranged from 17 to 29 °C, with decreases below 18 °C occurring on three out of 12 sampling occasions. Thus the results of the H2S test kit might have been slightly influenced by the fluctuations of the ambient temperature. On 8 sampling occasions between 1 and 4 H2S test kits were positive for faecal contamination. Three samples or 25 % were free of faecal contamination. One sample had all five H2S test kits were positive for faecal contamination. Results of statistical testing indicated that potable water in Makana Local Municipality was probably microbially contaminated at the author’s household on an intermittent basis. Ongoing monitoring of microbial drinking water quality is necessary and continuing at the sampled location.
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de BRUIN, WILLEKE, DENISE OTTO e LISE KORSTEN. "Microbiological Status and Food Safety Compliance of Commercial Basil Production Systems". Journal of Food Protection 79, n. 1 (1 gennaio 2016): 43–50. http://dx.doi.org/10.4315/0362-028x.jfp-15-182.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
ABSTRACT Basil has been implicated in a number of microbe-associated foodborne illnesses across the world, and the source of contamination has often been traced back to the production and/or processing stages of the supply chain. The aim of this study was to evaluate the microbiological quality of fresh basil from the point of production to the retail outlet in the Gauteng and Northwest Provinces of South Africa. A total of 463 samples were collected over a 3-month period from two large-scale commercial herb producing and processing companies and three retail outlets. The microbiological quality of the samples was assessed based on the presence or absence of Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Salmonella Typhimurium and the levels of the indicator bacteria E. coli and total coliforms. Salmonella Typhimurium was detected on four basil samples (0.9%) arriving at the processing facility and at dispatch, but no E. coli O157:H7 was detected throughout the study. Total coliform counts were 0.4 to 4.1 CFU/g for basil, 1.9 to 3.4 log CFU/ml for water, and 0.2 to 1.7 log CFU/cm2 for contact surfaces, whereas E. coli was detected in the water samples and only once on basil. The Colilert-18 and membrane filter methods were used to analyze water samples, and a comparison of results revealed that the Colilert-18 method was more sensitive. Strong evidence suggests that high numbers of coliforms do not necessarily indicate the presence of Salmonella Typhimurium. The study results highlight the importance of effective implementation of food safety management systems in the fresh produce industry.
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Dufresnes, Christophe, e Bérénice Alard. "An odyssey out of Africa: an integrative review of past and present invasions by the Mediterranean tree frog (Hyla meridionalis)". Biological Journal of the Linnean Society 131, n. 2 (31 agosto 2020): 274–90. http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/biolinnean/blaa114.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
Abstract An illustration of the human footprint on biodiversity are the faunal movements that have accompanied commercial and cultural exchanges between civilizations throughout history. In this article, we provide an integrative review of biogeographical and archaeological knowledge to understand these processes for the Mediterranean tree frog (Hyla meridionalis), an African species that has reached several regions of south-western Europe and associated islands. By re-analysing molecular (multilocus mitochondrial and genome-wide markers) and bioclimatic (ecological niche modelling) data, we give a comprehensive picture of the genetic diversity, structure and environmental suitability of H. meridionalis across its natural and exotic ranges, which in turn offer specific clues to the putative routes of colonization and associated events. Long-term monitoring efforts suggest northwards shifts of local range margins, potentially due to global warming, and we further demonstrate that this species is the most frequent amphibian to travel via the food supply chain in Western Europe. High dispersal ability, ecological tolerance and proximity to human settlements have made H. meridionalis a recurrent witness to the complexity and diversity of the civilizations that ruled the Western Mediterranean.
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TSAI, TSUNG-YU, WAN-JU LEE, YU-JU HUANG, KUANG-LO CHEN e TZU-MING PAN. "Detection of Viable Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli O157 Using the Combination of Immunomagnetic Separation with the Reverse Transcription Multiplex TaqMan PCR System in Food and Stool Samples". Journal of Food Protection 69, n. 10 (1 ottobre 2006): 2320–28. http://dx.doi.org/10.4315/0362-028x-69.10.2320.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
Enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli O157:H7 is an infectious pathogen and outbreaks have been reported all over the world, specifically in Australia, Canada, Japan, the United States, and in various countries in Europe and South Africa. Therefore, it is necessary to develop rapid methods to determine the target pathogens for food sanitation and disease. Three combinations of primers and probes were designed to detect and identify E. coli O157 using the TaqMan detection system which focuses on the specific genes eae, rfbO157, and stxII. Reverse transcription (RT) multiplex TaqMan PCR was carried out to accurately detect viable target cells correctly. Furthermore, the acidic pretreatment and immunomagnetic separation (IMS) of food and stool samples also improved the specificity and accuracy of the RT multiplex TaqMan PCR. The developed multiplex TaqMan PCR was effective in differentiating E. coli O157, enterovirulent E. coli, and non–E. coli pathogens from 100 strains which were isolated from clinical patients and the environment. Viable and nonviable cells were also distinguished by this assay. The pretreatment protocol, which included IMS to concentrate and purify the E. coli O157, was developed and the sensitivity of the assay was improved to 100 CFU/ml in pure culture, food, and stool samples. The TaqMan PCR assay is a rapid test for the detection of E. coli O157 in food and stool matrices. It shortens the process time and increases the specificity of the pathogens detected. This is critical for improving the safety and sanitation of our food supply.
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Ndanuko, Rhoda, Damian Maganja, Alex Kibet, Daisy H. Coyle, Judith Kimiywe, David Raubenheimer, Matti Marklund e Jason H. Y. Wu. "Sodium Content and Labelling Completeness of Packaged Foods and Beverages in Kenya". Nutrients 13, n. 4 (20 aprile 2021): 1385. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/nu13041385.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
Increased consumption of unhealthy processed foods, particularly those high in sodium, is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Nutrition information on packaged foods can help guide consumers toward products with less sodium, however the availability of nutrition information on foods sold in Kenya is currently unknown. The aims of this study were to estimate the proportion of packaged foods and beverages displaying nutrition information for sodium and determine the amount of sodium in packaged foods available for sale in Kenya. Data was collected in 2019 from five retail supermarkets in Nairobi. The availability of sodium information provided on packaged products and the sodium content were recorded. As secondary analyses, we compared sodium content labelling of products in Kenya by manufacturing location and the sodium content of products available in Kenya and South Africa. A total of 6003 packaged products in 56 food categories were identified. Overall, 39% of products displayed sodium content, though the availability of labelling varied widely between food categories, with coverage in main categories ranging from 0% (yoghurts and yoghurt drinks) to 86% (breakfast cereals). Food categories with the highest median sodium content were herbs and spices (9120 mg/100 g), sauces (1200 mg/100 g) and meat alternatives (766 mg/100 g) although wide variabilities were often observed within categories. Imported products were more likely to provide information on sodium than locally produced products (81% compared to 26%) and reported higher median sodium levels (172 mg/100 g compared to 96 mg/100 g). Kenyan products reported a higher median sodium content than South African products in six categories while South African products had higher median sodium in 20 categories, with considerable variation in median sodium content between countries in some categories. These findings highlight considerable potential to improve the availability of sodium information on packaged products in Kenya and to introduce reformulation policies to reduce the amount of sodium in the Kenyan food supply.
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Kapwata, Thandi, Angela Mathee, Wouter le Roux e Caradee Wright. "Diarrhoeal Disease in Relation to Possible Household Risk Factors in South African Villages". International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 15, n. 8 (6 agosto 2018): 1665. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ijerph15081665.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
Diarrhoeal disease is a significant contributor to child morbidity and mortality, particularly in the developing world. Poor sanitation, a lack of personal hygiene and inadequate water supplies are known risk factors for diarrhoeal disease. Since risk factors may vary by population or setting, we evaluated the prevalence of diarrhoeal disease at the household level using a questionnaire to better understand household-level risk factors for diarrhoea in selected rural areas in South Africa. In a sub-sample of dwellings, we measured the microbial quality of drinking water. One in five households had at least one case of diarrhoea during the previous summer. The most widespread source of drinking water was a stand-pipe (inside yard) (45%) followed by an indoor tap inside the dwelling (29%). Storage of water was common (97%) with around half of households storing water in plastic containers with an opening large enough to fit a hand through. After adjusting for confounders, the occurrence of diarrhoea was statistically significantly associated with sourcing water from an indoor tap (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR): 2.73, 95% CI: 2.73, 1.14–6.56) and storing cooked/perishable food in non-refrigerated conditions (AOR: 2.17, 95% CI: 2.17, 1.44–3.26). The highest total coliform counts were found in water samples from kitchen containers followed by stand-pipes. Escherichia coli were most often detected in samples from stand-pipes and kitchen containers. One in four households were at risk of exposure to contaminated drinking water, increasing the susceptibility of the study participants to episodes of diarrhoea. It is imperative that water quality meets guideline values and routine monitoring of quality of drinking water is done to minimise diarrhoea risk in relevant rural communities. The security of water supply in rural areas should be addressed as a matter of public health urgency to avoid the need for water storage.
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Mpofu, Raphael T. "Macroeconomic variables and food price inflation, nonfood price inflation and overall inflation: A case of an emerging market". Risk Governance and Control: Financial Markets and Institutions 7, n. 2 (2017): 38–48. http://dx.doi.org/10.22495/rgcv7i2art4.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
The paper analyses the association between certain macroeconomic variables and food price inflation, non-food price inflation and overall inflation in Zimbabwe, and also seeks to determine the level of association between these variables, given food security implications and overall well-being of its citizens. The study reveals that during the 2010 to 2016 period, Zimbabwe experienced stable food prices—annual food price inflation for food and non-alcoholic beverages averaged a relatively low growth rate of 0.12% monthly, while non-food inflation monthly growth rate was 0.09% and overall inflation growth rate was 0.11%. Although inflation from 2010 had been declining, of late, the increase in annual inflation has been underpinned by a rise in non-food inflation. Zimbabwe’s annual inflation remains lower than inflation rates in other countries in the region. Despite the increases lately in overall inflation, it remained below zero in January 2016, mostly driven by the depreciation of the South African rand and declining international oil prices. It should also be noted that domestic demand continued to decline in 2015, leading to the observed decline in both food and non-food prices. While food inflation has remained relatively low, it should be noted that non-food expenditures is significant component of the household budget and the rising prices result often lead to declining purchasing power and force households to make difficult choices in terms of their purchases. The findings of the study are food inflation has a low association with the independent variables under study; Zimbabwe broad money supply, rand-dollar exchange rates and the South Africa food inflation. There is, however, a very strong association between non-food inflation and these independent variables, as well as between overall inflation and the independent variables. Given the mostly rural population and the high level of unemployment in Zimbabwe, it can be surmised that the distributional burden of the effects of rising non-food prices between 2009 and 2016 fell mostly on these vulnerable groups as they had the lowest disposable income. In addition, it can also be surmised that domestic production can cushion the impact of rising prices in general, particularly on food. A deliberate policy of increasing domestic food production would therefore go a long way in ensuring lower price changes of both food and non-food items.
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Viccione, Giacomo, Nicola Immediata, Roberto Cava e Marco Piantedosi. "A Preliminary Laboratory Investigation of a Hydraulic Ram Pump". Proceedings 2, n. 11 (30 luglio 2018): 687. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2110687.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
The nexus of food, energy, and water is one of the most complex issues that face society. By 2050 the Earth’s population is expected to exceed 9 billion and most of the population increase will occur in developing countries. In addition, water scarcity will be particularly pronounced in the Middle East/North Africa and the South Asia regions and is likely to worsen as a result of the climate change. Within this framework, we revised the use of the hydraulic ram as a possible solution to supply water in remote areas. Experimental results of a preliminary investigation carried on a hydraulic ram pump assembled at the Laboratory of Environmental and Maritime Hydraulics of the Department of Civil Engineering, University of Salerno, Italy showed that geometric parameters as well as material properties affect its operating efficiency. The effect of the impulse valve on the pressure temporal trend is assessed by processing video recordings taken with high-speed digital cameras with a sampling rate of 1 KHz. Most of its effect is produced when the percentage of valve opening is in the range 0–20%, where correspondingly the valve coefficient Kv varies of about 80%. Unsteady pressure profiles were detected by means of pressure transducers with an acquisition of up to 1 kHz. The system of acquisition revealed the existence of a family of transient shock waves which intensity depends on the system’s features.
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Belton, Lydia E., Elissa Z. Cameron e Fredrik Dalerum. "Spotted hyaena space use in relation to human infrastructure inside a protected area". PeerJ 4 (19 ottobre 2016): e2596. http://dx.doi.org/10.7717/peerj.2596.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
Increasing human population growth has led to elevated levels of human-carnivore conflict. However, some carnivore populations have adapted to urban environments and the resources they supply. Such associations may influence carnivore ecology, behaviour and life-history. Pockets of urbanisation sometimes occur within protected areas, so that anthropogenic influences on carnivore biology are not necessarily confined to unprotected areas. In this study we evaluated associations between human infrastructure and related activity and space use of spotted hyaenas within one of the largest protected areas in South Africa, the Kruger National Park. Home range size was smaller for the dominant female of a clan living in close proximity to humans than that of the dominant female of a clan without direct access to human infrastructure. The home range including human infrastructure was also used less evenly during the night, presumably when the animals were active. Within this home range, a village area was preferred during the night, when the least modified areas within the village were preferred and administration and highly modified areas were avoided. During the day, however, there were no preference or avoidance of the village area, but all habitats except unmodified habitats within the village area were avoided. We suggest that human infrastructure and associated activity influenced hyaena space use, primarily through alterations in the spatial distribution of food. However, these effects may have been indirectly caused by habitat modification that generated favourable hunting habitat rather than a direct effect caused by access to human food such as garbage. Because of the often pivotal effects of apex predators in terrestrial ecosystems, we encourage further work aimed to quantify how human presence influences large carnivores and associated ecosystem processes within protected areas.
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Essman, Michael, Lindsey Smith Taillie, Tamryn Frank, Shu Wen Ng, Barry M. Popkin e Elizabeth C. Swart. "Taxed and untaxed beverage intake by South African young adults after a national sugar-sweetened beverage tax: A before-and-after study". PLOS Medicine 18, n. 5 (25 maggio 2021): e1003574. http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pmed.1003574.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
Background In an effort to prevent and reduce the prevalence rate of people with obesity and diabetes, South Africa implemented a sugar-content-based tax called the Health Promotion Levy in April 2018, one of the first sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) taxes to be based on each gram of sugar (beyond 4 g/100 ml). This before-and-after study estimated changes in taxed and untaxed beverage intake 1 year after the tax, examining separately, to our knowledge for the first time, the role of reformulation distinct from behavioral changes in SSB intake. Methods and findings We collected single-day 24-hour dietary recalls from repeat cross-sectional surveys of adults aged 18–39 years in Langa, South Africa. Participants were recruited in February–March 2018 (pre-tax, n = 2,459) and February–March 2019 (post-tax, n = 2,489) using door-to-door sampling. We developed time-specific food composition tables (FCTs) for South African beverages before and after the tax, linked with the diet recalls. By linking pre-tax FCTs only to dietary intake data collected in the pre-tax and post-tax periods, we calculated changes in beverage intake due to behavioral change, assuming no reformulation. Next, we repeated the analysis using an updated FCT in the post-tax period to capture the marginal effect of reformulation. We estimated beverage intake using a 2-part model that takes into consideration the biases in using ordinary least squares or other continuous variable approaches with many individuals with zero intake. First, a probit model was used to estimate the probability of consuming the specific beverage category. Then, conditional on a positive outcome, a generalized linear model with a log-link was used to estimate the continuous amount of beverage consumed. Among taxed beverages, sugar intake decreased significantly (p < 0.0001) from 28.8 g/capita/day (95% CI 27.3–30.4) pre-tax to 19.8 (95% CI 18.5–21.1) post-tax. Energy intake decreased (p < 0.0001) from 121 kcal/capita/day (95% CI 114–127) pre-tax to 82 (95% CI 76–87) post-tax. Volume intake decreased (p < 0.0001) from 315 ml/capita/day (95% CI 297–332) pre-tax to 198 (95% CI 185–211) post-tax. Among untaxed beverages, sugar intake increased (p < 0.0001) by 5.3 g/capita/day (95% CI 3.7 to 6.9), and energy intake increased (p < 0.0001) by 29 kcal/capita/day (95% CI 19 to 39). Among total beverages, sugar intake decreased significantly (p = 0.004) by 3.7 (95% CI −6.2 to −1.2) g/capita/day. Behavioral change accounted for reductions of 24% in energy, 22% in sugar, and 23% in volume, while reformulation accounted for additional reductions of 8% in energy, 9% in sugar, and 14% in volume from taxed beverages. The key limitations of this study are an inability to make causal claims due to repeat cross-sectional data collection, and that the magnitude of reduction in taxed beverage intake may not be generalizable to higher income populations. Conclusions Using a large sample of a high-consuming, low-income population, we found large reductions in taxed beverage intake, separating the components of behavioral change from reformulation. This reduction was partially compensated by an increase in sugar and energy from untaxed beverages. Because policies such as taxes can incentivize reformulation, our use of an up-to-date FCT that reflects a rapidly changing food supply is novel and important for evaluating policy effects on intake.
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Ghazaryan, Gohar, Simon König, Ehsan Eyshi Rezaei, Stefan Siebert e Olena Dubovyk. "Analysis of Drought Impact on Croplands from Global to Regional Scale: A Remote Sensing Approach". Remote Sensing 12, n. 24 (9 dicembre 2020): 4030. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/rs12244030.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
Drought is one of the extreme climatic events that has a severe impact on crop production and food supply. Our main goal is to test the suitability of remote sensing-based indices to detect drought impacts on crop production from a global to regional scale. Moderate resolution imaging spectroradiometer (MODIS) based imagery, spanning from 2001 to 2017 was used for this task. This includes the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), land surface temperature (LST), and the evaporative stress index (ESI), which is based on the ratio of actual to potential evapotranspiration. These indices were used as indicators of drought-induced vegetation conditions for three main crops: maize, wheat, and soybean. The start and end of the growing season, as observed at 500 m resolution, were used to exclude the time steps that are outside of the growing season. Based on the three indicators, monthly standardized anomalies were estimated, which were used for both analyses of spatiotemporal patterns of drought and the relationship with yield anomalies. Anomalies in the ESI had higher correlations with maize and wheat yield anomalies than other indices, indicating that prolonged periods of low ESI during the growing season are highly correlated with reduced crop yields. All indices could identify past drought events, such as the drought in the USA in 2012, Eastern Africa in 2016–2017, and South Africa in 2015–2016. The results of this study highlight the potential of the use of moderate resolution remote sensing-based indicators combined with phenometrics for drought-induced crop impact monitoring. For several regions, droughts identified using the ESI and LST were more intense than the NDVI-based results. We showed that these indices are relevant for agricultural drought monitoring at both global and regional scales. They can be integrated into drought early warning systems, process-based crop models, as well as can be used for risk assessment and included in advanced decision-support frameworks.
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Lindfors, Axel, Roozbeh Feiz, Mats Eklund e Jonas Ammenberg. "Assessing the Potential, Performance and Feasibility of Urban Solutions: Methodological Considerations and Learnings from Biogas Solutions". Sustainability 11, n. 14 (10 luglio 2019): 3756. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/su11143756.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
Many cities of the world are faced with multiple sustainability challenges, for example related to food and energy supply, transportation, waste management, clean air, and more. Preferably, these challenges are addressed with broad and interconnected solutions with the ambition of addressing several challenges simultaneously, in this paper referred to as multi-functional urban solutions. Implementation of multi-functional urban solutions requires well informed decisions, supported by knowledge about the potential contributions that the solutions can make to a more sustainable city as well as on issues that may hinder or facilitate their implementation. Thus, in this paper, we suggest a soft multi-criteria decision analysis method that can be used to gather and structure this knowledge. This method acknowledges the importance of incorporating local knowledge, is based on life-cycle thinking, and is flexible and open-ended by design so that it can be tailored to specific needs and conditions. The method contributes to existing practices in sustainability assessment and feasibility studies, linking and integrating potential and performance assessment with issues affecting solutions’ feasibility of implementation. This method offers a way for local authorities, researchers and exporting companies to organize and structure the diverse range of knowledge to be considered for more informed decisions regarding the implementation of multi-functional urban solutions. While the main contributions of the paper are methodological, brief descriptions of two studies that have applied this method to assess biogas solutions are shown as clarifying examples. One of these studies was performed in Chisinau, Moldova and the other in Johannesburg, South Africa.
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Gumma, Murali Krishna, Takuji W. Tsusaka, Irshad Mohammed, Geoffrey Chavula, N. V. P. R. Ganga Rao, Patrick Okori, Christopher O. Ojiewo, Rajeev Varshney, Moses Siambi e Anthony Whitbread. "Monitoring Changes in the Cultivation of Pigeonpea and Groundnut in Malawi Using Time Series Satellite Imagery for Sustainable Food Systems". Remote Sensing 11, n. 12 (21 giugno 2019): 1475. http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/rs11121475.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
Malawi, in south-eastern Africa, is one of the poorest countries in the world. Food security in the country hinges on rainfed systems in which maize and sorghum are staple cereals and groundnut and pigeonpea are now major grain legume crops. While the country has experienced a considerable reduction in forest lands, population growth and demand for food production have seen an increase in the area dedicated to agricultural crops. From 2010, pigeonpea developed into a major export crop, and is commonly intercropped with cereals or grown in double-up legume systems. Information on the spatial extent of these crops is useful for estimating food supply, understanding export potential, and planning policy changes as examples of various applications. Remote sensing analysis offers a number of efficient approaches to deliver spatial, reproducible data on land use and land cover (LULC) and changes therein. Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) products (fortnightly and monthly) and derived phenological parameters assist in mapping cropland areas during the agricultural season, with explicit focus on redistributed farmland. Owing to its low revisit time and the availability of long-term period data, MODIS offers several advantages, e.g., the possibility of obtaining cloud-free Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) profile and an analysis using one methodology applied to one sensor at regular acquisition dates, avoiding incomparable results. To assess the expansion of areas used in the production of pigeonpea and groundnut resulting from the release of new varieties, the spatial distribution of cropland areas was mapped using MODIS NDVI 16-day time-series products (MOD13Q1) at a spatial resolution of 250 m for the years 2010–2011 and 2016–2017. The resultant cropland extent map was validated using intensive ground survey data. Pigeonpea is mostly grown in the southern dry districts of Mulanje, Phalombe, Chiradzulu, Blantyre and Mwanza and parts of Balaka and Chikwawa as a groundnut-pigeonpea intercrop, and sorghum-pigeonpea intercrop in Mzimba district. By 2016, groundnut extent had increased in Mwanza, Mulanje, and Phalombe and fallen in Mzimba. The result indicates that the area planted with pigeonpea had increased by 29% (75,000 ha) from 2010–2011 to 2016–2017. Pigeonpea expansion in recent years has resulted from major export opportunities to Asian countries like India, and its consumption by Asian expatriates all over the world. This study provides useful information for policy changes and the prioritization of resources allocated to sustainable food production and to support smallholder farmers.
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Krysovatyy, Andriy, Roman Zvarych, Iryna Zvarych, Ihor Krysovatyy e Kateryna Krysovata. "Methodological architectonics of inclusive circular economy for eco-security of society under pandemic". Economic Annals-ХХI 184, n. 7-8 (10 settembre 2020): 4–15. http://dx.doi.org/10.21003/ea.v184-01.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
The transition from a linear to a circular economy is determined by the change in the positioning of global risks from year to year, which determines the vectors of such changes. Thus, the main risks for 2020 are those related to the environment and occupying the first positions in the rating for the last three years (in particular, in 2019, the risk of extreme weather events). The gradual increase in awareness of this risk has led to a change in the sentiment of both producers and consumers. Experts assessed climate change as a major risk in 2019, outpacing cyberattacks, financial instability and terrorism. Thus, to mitigate this risk in 2020 and future periods, the global business community should implement circular «designs», reducing resource use and prioritizing low carbon materials. The potential effects of the transition to a circular economy on greenhouse gas emissions are significant, mainly achieved by improving resource efficiency, increasing the useful life of buildings and assets, increasing recycling and reuse, and completely reducing primary raw material use. Thus, the circular economy can be seen as an effective strategy for promoting climate change mitigation. The poly-paradigmatic nature of economic knowledge from the standpoint of the existential nature of the imperatives of economic development in the context of responsibility to the global future causes certain paradigm shifts, and greening is the mainstream and imperative that reflects the heterodox beginning of the theorico-cyclological methodology. Multidisciplinary epistemological perspective for the analysis of economic phenomena from the standpoint of the new pragmatism in the context of the «triad» of sustainability (economic, social and ecological components), distinguishes the humanitarianism of economic science and positions «in the foreground» the role of values in the economic activity of people and society (acceleration of exploitation of natural resources; climate change; the formation of a new environmental order; environmental and food security) and the dominant paradigm formation (exceeding the environmental limit; Paris agreement; changing public sentiment of fossil producers and businesses; global economic losses; UN sustainable development goals with strong circular practices; WTO involvement in supporting new technologies, minimizing waste production and promoting circular trade). The methodological features of the paradigm of the global inclusive circular economy from the standpoint of postmodernism are the strengthening of socio-humanistic orientations (reflecting its ideology and creating the basis for an inclusive-oriented society); ontological nonlinearity (emphasizes circularity); consensus (the need for a global consensus to achieve a goal) emulated using the economic-mathematical method. According to the proposed methodological approach, the integrated index of development of the global inclusive circular economy has been calculated for 28 countries of the world, Includig Germany, USA, China and South Africa. We substantiate the conceptual provisions of the theoretical and methodological model of the global inclusive circular economy, namely: system characteristics (sustainable development; stability; inclusive growth; expanding opportunities for equity; equal access to resources and distribution of benefits) and the principles of circular self-organization (conservation of resources for future and rationalization of their use; counteraction of management dysfunction), determined by criterion constraints of corporate culture, communications in global value chains, dominance of linear economy, unformed circular value of goods and low quality of recycled products, limited implementation of institutional, informational, financial, financial pilot circular business projects and programs. Our approach made it possible to substantiate the basic concepts of forming a paradigm of the global inclusive circular economy: global value chains (supply of secondary raw materials), sharing platforms, circular trade, circular product life cycle, circular cities and circular cores.
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"Ionics to supply water treatment equipment in South Africa". Membrane Technology 1994, n. 49 (maggio 1994): 4. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/0958-2118(94)90281-x.
Testo completo
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Fru, Felix Fon, Clarence Yah, Lebogang Charity Motaung, Palesa Sekhejane e Patrick Berka Njobeh. "A Scoping Review of Mycotoxin Contamination of Maize and Other Grains in South Africa". Shiraz E-Medical Journal In Press, In Press (6 giugno 2021). http://dx.doi.org/10.5812/semj.113558.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
Backgrond: Despite global legislative and regulatory efforts to ensure sustainable food safety and security, mycotoxins remain a challenge in the supply of staple food commodities like maize and other grains in South Africa. Objectives: We reviewed mycotoxin contamination of maize, maize-associated food products, and other cereals to emphasis the need for continuous monitoring and management in South Africa. Methods: A scoping review was conducted on mycotoxin contamination of maize, maize-related products, and other cereals, as well as associated health implications in South Africa. The literature review intended to identify relevant articles and reports from 1980 to 2020 based on Arksey and O’Malley guidelines. Results: Of 103 articles/reports identified for the research question “that defines to what extend the South African population is exposed to mycotoxins, and why”, 31 (30 %) were eligible for this study. The most recurrent mycotoxins were fumonisins (FBs) and aflatoxins (AFs). The levels of FBs and AFs were as high as 140480 µg/kg and 762 µg/kg, respectively. Conclusions: The FBs and AFs were the main mycotoxins in maize, cereals, and related products. Therefore, adopting effective, sustainable, and scalable measures in limiting mycotoxin contamination is critical for the mitigation of food insecurity and the resulted health burden. Training farmers and other stakeholders on good hygiene and farming practices in the food chain supply is important.
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Verschuur, Jasper, Sihan Li, Piotr Wolski e Friederike E. L. Otto. "Climate change as a driver of food insecurity in the 2007 Lesotho-South Africa drought". Scientific Reports 11, n. 1 (16 febbraio 2021). http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-83375-x.
Testo completoAbstract (sommario):
AbstractClimate-induced food production shocks, like droughts, can cause food shortages and price spikes, leading to food insecurity. In 2007, a synchronous crop failure in Lesotho and South Africa—Lesotho’s sole trading partner—led to a period of severe food insecurity in Lesotho. Here, we use extreme event attribution to assess the role of climate change in exacerbating this drought, going on to evaluate sensitivity of synchronous crop failures to climate change and its implications for food security in Lesotho. Climate change was found to be a critical driver that led to the 2007 crisis in Lesotho, aggravating an ongoing decline in food production in the country. We show how a fragile agricultural system in combination with a large trade-dependency on a climatically connected trading partner can lead to a nonlinear response to climate change, which is essential information for building a climate-resilient food-supply system now and in the future.