Abstract (Introduction): Within the framework of the present capitalist system, human beings have become an important polluting agent. Current production and consumption processes do not consider the existence of finite natural resources and a planet incapable of treating the waste that the prevailing way of life generates. Given these circumstances, the study of non-linear models is of interest, which make a more rational use of the waste that the productive activity generates, favoring recycling mechanisms. The phenomenon of recycling becomes particularly relevant in the case of electrical and electronic devices, whose ability to be degraded and metabolized by planet Earth is extremely difficult. (Objective): Evaluate the feasibility of installing and starting a recycling plant for electrical and electronics items in the town of Bahía Blanca (Argentina), during 2021. (Methodology): The conventional method for evaluating investment projects was used, considering technical, legal and economic aspects. (Results): The project is not acceptable according to the profitability intended by the investor. The possibility of financing was also included, which made the project even less profitable, and the sensitivity of the results was measured, finding that the price should be 1.48 % higher than that used in the analysis. (Conclusions): Other alternatives must be explored to make this proposal profitable from an economic and financial point of view.

Resumen (Introducción): En el marco del sistema capitalista vigente, el ser humano se ha transformado en un agente significativo de contaminación. Las dinámicas productivas y de consumo actuales no contemplan la existencia de recursos naturales finitos y de un planeta incapaz de procesar los desperdicios que el modo de vida habitual genera. Dadas estas circunstancias, cobra interés el estudio de modelos no lineales, que hagan un uso más racional de los residuos derivados de la actividad productiva, los cuales favorezcan mecanismos de reciclaje. El fenómeno del reciclaje se vuelve, en particular, relevante para el caso de los artefactos eléctricos y electrónicos; la capacidad del planeta Tierra para degradarlos y metabolizarlos resulta sumamente difícil. (Objetivo): Evaluar la factibilidad de la instalación y puesta en marcha de una planta recicladora de artículos eléctricos y electrónicos en la localidad de Bahía Blanca (Argentina), durante el 2021. (Metodología): Se utilizó la metodología convencional de evaluación de proyectos de inversión, considerando aspectos técnicos, legales y económicos. (Resultados): El proyecto no es aceptable según la rentabilidad pretendida por el inversor. También se incluyó la posibilidad de un financiamiento, lo que hizo que el plan fuera menos rentable aún, y se midió la sensibilidad de los resultados: se halló que el precio debiera ser 1.48 % superior al utilizado en el análisis. (Conclusiones): Se deben explorar otras alternativas para lograr que el proyecto sea rentable desde el punto de vista económico-financiero.

SIGNIFICANCE: Skills are seen as crucial to support a just transition away from a carbon-based economy, both to develop the expertise required for the transition, and to prepare people who work in carbon-heavy jobs for jobs in new and emerging occupations. This Commentary provides an overview of research findings to explore the ways in which our skills system is ready, where it is lacking, and why skills can be only a small part of ensuring a just transition.

Resumen El socioecosistema mezcalero tradicional mexicano posee amplia riqueza biocultural y económica, presentes en las comunidades rurales. Sin embargo, en los últimos años se está experimentando una atractiva articulación en los mercados globales, generándose procesos de agroindustrialización de las prácticas tradicionales diversas y con ello impactando negativamente a la sustentabilidad del sistema. Así, esta investigación tiene como objetivo caracterizar y tipificar las relaciones existentes entre los productores y sus contextos socioambientales, aportando elementos a la construcción de mayores grados de sustentabilidad local dentro de los contextos rurales, usando como caso de estudio la región Queréndaro, en el estado de Michoacán, México. Detectamos que la sustentabilidad de las unidades de análisis varía entre e intra diversas categorías, en tanto la sustentabilidad no es una característica del tipo de mezcal, sino de los productores, pues son sus relaciones culturales tradicionales, su historia y su relación con la naturaleza los criterios que hacen que este elemento se construya.

Abstract The traditional Mexican mezcal socio-ecosystem has extensive biocultural and economic wealth presence in rural communities. However, in recent years an intense demand has been experienced in global markets generating processes of agro-industrialization of diverse traditional practices and thereby negatively impacting the sustainability of the system. Regarding this matter the research aims to characterize and typify the existing relationships between producers and their socio-environmental contexts, contributing elements to the construction of greater degrees of local sustainability within rural contexts, using the Queréndaro region, in the central north of Michoacán state, as a case study. Our results show that the sustainability of the analysis units varies between and intra diversed categories, while sustainability is not a characteristic of the type of mezcal, but of the producers. It is their traditional cultural relationships, their history and their association with nature the criteria which make this element to be created.

Resumo O socio-ecossistema mezcalero tradicional mexicano possui amplia riqueza biocultural e econômica, presentes nas comunidades rurais. Mas nos últimos anos está experimentando-se uma atrativa articulação nos mercados globais, gerando-se processos de agroindustrialização das práticas tradicionais diversas e com isso impactando negativamente à sustentabilidade do sistema. En este sentido, esta investigação tem como objetivo caraterizar e tipificar as relações existentes entre os produtores e seus contextos socioambientais, aportando elementos à construção de graus maiores de sustentabilidade local, dentro dos contextos rurais, usando como caso de estudo a região Queréndaro, no estado de Michoacán, México. Detectamos que a sustentabilidade das unidades de análise varia entre e intra diversas categorias, enquanto a sustentabilidade não é uma característica do tipo de mezcal, mas sim dos productores, pois são suas relações culturais tradicionais, sua história e sua relação com a natureza os critérios que fazem que este elemento seja construido.

Abstract The concept of Good Living plays a crucial role in relation to the community and becomes an opportunity to improve the quality of life. This article systematizes the entrepreneurship experience with peasant women from the rural area of Villamaría, Caldas, Colombia, as a contribution to human flourishing. This research followed the guidelines of the Alforja Network, which proposes a systematization framed within dialectical, systemic, and holistic approaches to popular education. The results are presented in three phases: characterization of the families, the environment, and the entrepreneurship production; interdisciplinary accompaniment and sustainability through the structuring of networks and alliances. The experience reflects the ability of women for the Good Living of themselves and their families, collective organization, and innovation. Additionally, it highlights the importance of the role of the State in strengthening local development through the production chain, preserving its rural identity in the context of equitable processes.

Resumen El concepto del Buen Vivir desempeña un papel crucial en la relación con la comunidad y se convierte en una oportunidad para mejorar la calidad de vida. Este artículo sistematiza la experiencia de emprendimiento con mujeres campesinas del área rural de Villamaría, Caldas, Colombia, como una contribución al florecimiento humano. Esta investigación siguió los lineamientos de la Red Alforja, la cual propone una sistematización enmarcada en enfoques dialécticos, sistémicos y holísticos de la educación popular. Los resultados son presentados en tres fases: caracterización de las familias, el entorno y la producción del emprendimiento; acompañamiento interdisciplinario y sustentabilidad a través de la estructuración de redes y alianzas. La experiencia refleja la capacidad de las mujeres para el Buen Vivir de ellas y sus familias, la organización colectiva y la innovación. Además, resalta la importancia del rol del Estado en el fortalecimiento del desarrollo local mediante la cadena de producción, preservando su identidad rural en el contexto de procesos equitativos.

Resumen O conceito do Bom Viver desempenha um papel crucial na relação com a comunidade e converte-se em uma oportunidade para melhorar a qualidade de vida. Este artigo sistematiza a experiência de emprendimento com mulheres campesinas da área rural de Villamaría, Caldas, Colômbia, como uma contribuindo ao florecimento humano. Esta investigação continuou os linhamentos da Red Alforja, a qual propõe uma sistematização enmarcada em enfoques dialéticos, sistêmicos e holísticos da educação popular. Os resultados são apresentados em três fases: caracterização das famílias, o entorno e a produção do emprendimento; acompanhamento interdisciplinário e sustentabilidade através da estructuração de redes e alianças. A experiência reflete a capacidade das mulheres para o Bom Viver delas e suas famílias, a organização coletiva e a inovação. Além disso, ressalta a importância do role do Estado no fortalecimento do desenvolvimento local mediante a cadeia de produção, preservando sua identidade rural no contexto de processos equitativos.

Resumen El sector turístico en la actualidad está marcado por las concepciones de gestión, los espacios y la visión económica de las regiones, territorios y ciudades. Además, se aprecia que, como industria y como campo, debe contribuir al desarrollo social y comunitario sostenible en función de elevar la calidad de vida de los habitantes. El objetivo de la investigación estuvo encaminado en analizar la producción científica sobre turismo sostenible en la base de datos SCOPUS en el período 2022-2024. Para ello se implementó un diseño mixto en dos etapas, con un estudio bibliométrico como principal y una revisión hermenéutica de la literatura adaptada a los intereses cognoscitivos y metas de la investigación. Los resultados de la primera etapa evidenciaron un ligero incremento de la producción del año 2022 al año 2023, siendo las áreas más representativas las ciencias sociales y las ciencias ambientales. En la segunda etapa se examinó la relación entre sostenibilidad y turismo en el marco de los objetivos del desarrollo sostenible, así como las principales tendencias y retos.

Abstract The tourism sector today is marked by management concepts, spaces and the economic vision of regions, territories and cities. Furthermore, it is appreciated that, as an industry and as a field, it must contribute to sustainable social and community development in order to raise the quality of life of the inhabitants. The objective of the research was aimed at analyzing the scientific production on sustainable tourism in the SCOPUS database in the period 2022-2024. To achieve this, a mixed design was implemented in two stages, with a bibliometric study as the main one and a hermeneutical review of the literature adapted to the cognitive interests and goals of the research. The results of the first stage showed a slight increase in production from 2022 to 2023,0 with the most representative areas being social sciences and environmental sciences. In the second stage, the relationship between sustainability and tourism was examined within the framework of the sustainable development objectives, as well as the main trends and challenges.

ABSTRACT This work aims to identify innovations, technological advances, and best practices to migrate towards a circular economy in air transport. The relevance of the research lies in the contribution to the generation of circular economy knowledge in the field of administration with application in the aeronautical industry. By analyzing literature and best practices, the circular economy could be a viable solution to reduce the use of natural resources in aircraft manufacturing and airport operations. Among the main findings are innovations and technological developments in new materials, fuels, building methods, and best practices implemented at airports to obtain energy and generate less waste. It has also been identified that applying circular economy principles in this mode of transport would contribute to sustainability efforts and increase the competitiveness of organizations in the sector.

RESUMEN Este trabajo tiene como objetivo identificar innovaciones, avances tecnológicos y mejores prácticas para migrar hacia una economía circular en el transporte aéreo. La relevancia de la investigación radica en el aporte a la generación de conocimiento sobre economía circular en el campo de la administración con aplicación en la industria aeronáutica. Al analizar la literatura y las mejores prácticas, la economía circular podría ser una solución viable para reducir el uso de recursos naturales en la fabricación de aeronaves y las operaciones aeroportuarias. Entre los principales hallazgos se encuentran innovaciones y desarrollos tecnológicos en nuevos materiales, combustibles, métodos de construcción y mejores prácticas implementadas en los aeropuertos para obtener energía y generar menos residuos. También se ha identificado que aplicar principios de economía circular en este modo de transporte contribuiría a los esfuerzos de sostenibilidad y aumentaría la competitividad de las organizaciones del sector.

Abstract The energy transition requires minerals that are increasingly difficult to obtain on the surface, so the ocean floor and by virtue of its mineral reserves, could meet projected demand and contribute to achieving the sustainable development goals. However, there are contradictory discourses regarding the role of sustainability in deep-sea mining. On the one hand, it is suggested that it would have less impact than surface mining. On the other hand, it argues about the negative impacts on the ocean and effects on human well-being and the livelihoods of local communities. Thus, the objective is to problematize the relationship between sustainability and deep-sea mining, based on the approach of the resource frontier and how these spaces are produced, the predominant narratives, and what are the dynamics that underlie this process. Using tools of bibliometric analysis and qualitative content analysis, it was possible to account for dominant narratives about circular economy, biodiversity, governance, and blue economy in the literature. Dynamics underlying the creation of the resource frontier are the search for new sources of minerals, the need to control resources, and positioning the ocean as a zone of unlimited development, which configure deep-sea mining as an emerging frontier for sustainability.

Resumo A transição energética exige minerais cada vez mais difíceis de obter na superfície, para que o fundo do oceano e, em virtude de suas reservas minerais, possam atender à demanda projetada e contribuir para alcançar os objetivos de desenvolvimento sustentável. No entanto, há discursos contraditórios sobre o papel da sustentabilidade na mineração em alto mar. Por um lado, sugere-se que teria menos impacto do que a mineração de superfície. Por outro lado, argumenta sobre os impactos negativos no oceano e os efeitos no bem-estar humano e nos meios de subsistência das comunidades locais. Assim, o objetivo é problematizar a relação entre sustentabilidade e mineração em alto mar, a partir da abordagem da fronteira de recursos e, em particular, como esses espaços são produzidos, as narrativas predominantes e quais são as dinâmicas que subjazem a esse processo. Utilizando ferramentas de análise bibliométrica e análise qualitativa de conteúdo, foi possível dar conta das narrativas dominantes sobre economia circular, biodiversidade, governança e economia azul na literatura. As dinâmicas subjacentes à criação da fronteira de recursos são a busca de novas fontes de minerais, a necessidade de controlar os recursos e o posicionamento do oceano como uma zona de desenvolvimento ilimitado, que configuram a mineração em alto mar como uma fronteira emergente para a sustentabilidade.

Resumen La transición energética requiere minerales que cada vez son más difíciles de obtener en superficie, por lo que, el fondo del océano y en virtud de sus reservas de minerales, podría satisfacer la demanda proyectada y contribuir a alcanzar los objetivos de desarrollo sustentable. Sin embargo, existen discursos contradictorios respecto al rol de la sustentabilidad en la minería en aguas profundas. Por un lado, se plantea que tendría menor impacto que la minería en superficie. Por otro lado, se argumenta sobre los impactos negativos en el océano y afectaciones en el bienestar humano y medios de vida de las comunidades locales. Así, el objetivo es problematizar en torno a la relación entre sustentabilidad y minería en aguas profundas, a partir de la aproximación de la frontera de recursos y en particular, cómo se producen estos espacios, las narrativas predominantes, y cuáles son las dinámicas que subyacen en este proceso. Utilizando herramientas del análisis bibliométrico y análisis de contenido cualitativo, se pudo dar cuenta de narrativas dominantes sobre economía circular, biodiversidad, gobernanza, y economía azul en la literatura. Dinámicas que subyacen a la creación de la frontera de recursos son la búsqueda de nuevas fuentes de minerales, la necesidad de controlar los recursos, y posicionar al océano como una zona de desarrollo ilimitado, las que, configuran a la minería en aguas profundas como frontera emergente para la sustentabilidad.

Abstract The study evaluates the generation and recovery capacity of methane at the Villavicencio Landfill in Colombia, using the LandGEM model. It shows a significant increase in methane generation, rising from about 1.5 million cubic meters in 2010 to over 8.5 million in 2020, indicating a growing urgency to implement effective mitigation measures. It was estimated that by the year 2042, the electrical energy production from methane could be 248.067 kW/day, capable of supplying about 43.705 homes monthly. Additionally, thermal energy generation would be 468.572 kWh/day, useful for industrial processes. Management scenarios were proposed, where, for example, operational optimization could increase electric production to 342.333 kW/day, benefiting more than 60.000 homes monthly. The conclusions highlight the direct correlation between the amount of waste and methane generation, and the significant potential for converting these emissions into energy, pointing towards regional energy self-sufficiency and sustainability. Methane recovery represents a valuable alternative to the dependence on fossil fuels and for the development of a circular economy.

Resumen El estudio evalúa la generación y capacidad de recuperación de metano en el Relleno Sanitario de Villavicencio, Colombia, mediante el modelo LandGEM. En donde se observa un aumento significativo en la generación de metano, pasando de alrededor de 1,5 millones de metros cúbicos en 2010 a más de 8,5 millones en 2020, lo que indica una creciente urgencia por implementar medidas de mitigación efectivas. Se estimó que, para el año 2042, la producción de energía eléctrica del metano podría ser de 248.067 kW/día, capaz de abastecer a unos 43.705 hogares mensualmente. Asimismo, se generaría energía térmica de 468.572 kWh/día, útil para procesos industriales. Se plantearon escenarios de gestión, donde, por ejemplo, la optimización operacional podría aumentar la producción eléctrica a 342.333 kW/día, beneficiando a más de 60.000 hogares mensualmente. Las conclusiones resaltan la correlación directa entre la cantidad de residuos y la generación de metano, y el significativo potencial de convertir estas emisiones en energía, apuntando hacia la autosuficiencia y sostenibilidad energética regional. El aprovechamiento del metano representa una alternativa valiosa frente a la dependencia de combustibles fósiles y para el desarrollo de una economía circular.

ABSTRACT Objective: Design a procedure for the management of livestock waste under the principles of the circular economy based on the sustainability of production. Materials and methods: The bibliographic review was used to analyze the literature published on the topic of study. Using the induction-deduction and analysis-synthesis methods, the information collected was interpreted and the proposed procedure was developed with its stages and steps. The Iadov method was used for the methodological validation of the procedure. To process the responses, the Statistical Package for Social Sciences, in Spanish, the Statistical Package for Social Sciences, version 23, was used and descriptive statistical analysis was carried out. Results: Through the stages and steps, the essential aspects were incorporated to achieve sustainable management of livestock waste. With the Iadov method, the satisfaction index was calculated, which resulted in 0.77, which indicated that the procedure proposal was approved and its usefulness was recognized. The procedure is intended to serve as a premise for the prevention, minimization of waste and for the sustainability of livestock production. Conclusions: The circular economy offers potential for improving waste management by considering them as secondary raw materials. The procedure is proposed as an instrument that facilitates and guides the transition towards the circular economy; furthermore, it allows the best use of the economic potential of waste, job creation, reduction of the negative impact on the environment and adaptation of existing treatment technologies to the conditions of the company.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Diseñar un procedimiento para la gestión de residuos ganaderos bajo los principios de la economía circular en función de la sostenibilidad de la producción. Materiales y métodos: Se utilizó la revisión bibliográfica para analizar la literatura publicada sobre el tema de estudio. Con los métodos de inducción-deducción y análisis-síntesis se interpretó la información recogida y se elaboró el procedimiento propuesto con sus etapas y pasos. Se recurrió al método Iadov para la validación metodológica del procedimiento. Para el procesamiento de las respuestas se empleó el Statistical Package for Social Sciences, en español Paquete Estadístico para las Ciencias Sociales, versión 23, y se realizó el análisis estadístico descriptivo. Resultados: A través de las etapas y pasos se incorporaron los aspectos esenciales para el logro de la gestión sostenible de residuos ganaderos. Con el método de Iadov se calculó el índice de satisfacción que dio como resultado 0.77, lo que indicó que se aprobó la propuesta del procedimiento y se reconoció la utilidad del mismo. Se pretende que el procedimiento sirva como premisa para la prevención, minimización de los residuos y para la sostenibilidad de la producción ganadera. Conclusiones: La economía circular ofrece potencialidades para el perfeccionamiento de la gestión de residuos al considerarlos como materias primas secundarias. El procedimiento se propone como un instrumento que facilite y oriente el tránsito hacia la economía circular; además, permite el mejor aprovechamiento de las potencialidades económicas de los residuos, creación de empleo, disminución del impacto negativo al medio ambiente y adecuación de las tecnologías de tratamiento existentes a las condiciones de la empresa.

Abstract The article addresses the relationship between creative activities and urban space through a comparative perspective between two neighborhoods, renowned for their creative dynamics, located in two Brazilian metropolises: Botafogo (Rio de Janeiro) and Santa Tereza (Belo Horizonte). The objective is to analyze how social, economic, cultural, institutional and urban characteristics shape the development of creative economy in these neighborhoods, engendering districts marked by agglomerations of firms and creative workers. Based on literature on productive clusters and cultural quarters, we developed a framework with nine categories: origin; evolutionary trajectory; connections; relational density; activities; built form; meaning; conflicts; and governance. The qualitative methodological procedures of this research included semi-structured interviews with entrepreneurs, professionals, and public managers and urban landscape photographic analysis. Botafogo and Santa Tereza are old neighborhoods in Rio de Janeiro and Belo Horizonte and both stand out in the creative ecosystem of their cities. However, the flourishing processes of their creative activities are different, since Santa Tereza has greater historical and symbolic recognition than Botafogo, which went through a more recent process of development of these activities due to its social and economic characteristics. The obtained results show that cultural and creative districts can be developed by different processes and that governance mechanisms need to be improved to mediate some conflicts in favor of the sustainability of the cultural quarters. Finally, we hope to contribute to urban planning and creative economy development.

Resumen El presente artículo tiene como objetivo principal mostrar un análisis sobre los actores sociales que pueden tener un rol clave para promover la bioeconomía como alternativa para la diversificación productiva y la agregación de valor en el medio rural. Se parte de la revisión al binomio economía-biología, los cuales dieron origen al concepto de Bioeconomía buscando una mejor comprensión sobre su relevancia en la transición hacia una economía sostenible. El método de investigación empleado fue no experimental porque se partió de situaciones ya existentes en torno a los actores sociales y sus facultades organizacionales, a partir de las cuales se identificó qué rol participante podrían desempeñar a favor de la Bioeconomía circular. Destacan como resultados del análisis y evaluación las directrices para una propuesta de política pública que reconozca que la bioeconomía otorga valor tanto a los recursos biológicos como al conocimiento, la investigación, la innovación y a la gestión, para el desarrollo de productos, procesos y servicios bajo el principio de sostenibilidad, donde las universidades públicas tienen un papel central en la promoción y ejecución de dicha política.

Abstract The main objective of this article is to show an analysis of the social actors that can play a key role in promoting the Bioeconomy as an alternative for productive diversification and value addition in rural areas. The starting point is the review of the economy-biology binomial, which gave rise to the concept of Bioeconomy, seeking a better understanding of its relevance in the transition towards a sustainable economy. The research method used was non-experimental because it was based on already existing situations surrounding social actors and their organizational powers, from which it was identified which role participants could play in favor of the Bioeconomy. The results of the analysis and evaluation highlight the guidelines for a public policy proposal that recognizes that the bioeconomy gives value to both biological resources and knowledge, research, innovation and management, for the development of products, processes and services under the principle of sustainability, where public universities have a central role in the promotion and execution of said policy.

RESUMO As hortas comunitárias inspiradas em modelos agroecológicos já são tendências nas cidades que buscam estimular ambientes positivos. Entre as possíveis estratégias, permitem integrar políticas que visam à erradicação da fome, a garantia de qualidade alimentar e o aumento da economia familiar. O presente estudo objetiva analisar os significados simbólicos e afetivos dos usuários diante de suas atividades nas hortas comunitárias urbanas. Foram 40 entrevistados com idade média entre 45 e 80 anos, por meio do Instrumento Gerador de Mapas Afetivos. A pesquisa foi realizada in loco e os participantes foram convidados a desenhar a horta e responder à entrevista. As imagens produzidas foram analisadas a partir de suas estruturas, sentimentos e sentidos. Constatou-se que as vivências nesses ambientes foram mediadas por sentimentos de agradabilidade, pertencimento e restauração. Entre os sentidos atribuídos, destacaram-se a conexão com a natureza e a interação social. Conclui-se que tais dimensões presentes nas hortas estudadas podem contribuir para a promoção da saúde, da sustentabilidade e a preservação ambiental.

ABSTRACT Community gardens inspired by agroecological models are trends in cities that seek to stimulate positive environments. Among the possible strategies, they allow us to integrate policies that aim to eradicate eradicate hunger, guarantee food quality and increase the family economy. This study aims to analyze the symbolic and emotional meanings of users during their activities in urban community gardens. There were 40 interviewees with average age between 45 and 80 years old, through the Affective Map Generator Instrument. The research was carried out on site and the participants were invited to develop the information and respond to the interview. The images produced are analyzed from their structures, feelings and senses. It is confirmed that experiences in these environments are mediated by feelings of pleasantness, belonging and restoration. Among the senses attributed, the connection with nature and social interaction stand out. It is concluded that these dimensions present in the studied gardens can contribute to the promotion of health, sustainability and environmental preservation.

The number of people on Earth and human activities are currently taking on frightening proportions with far-reaching consequences for our planet, its biodiversity and ultimately the human race itself. Ten thousand years ago, humans represented 1% of the total biomass of all land vertebrates. The rest was made up by wild animals. Currently, humans, livestock and pets make up 99% of terrestrial vertebrate biomass, while wild animals represent only 1%. It took millennia for the human population to reach the 1 billion mark and that only by 1890. By 1960, however, the world population had grown to 3 billion. Today there are 8 billion people living on our planet. According to Population Matters, the world population will be approximately 10,4 billion by the end of this century, despite the gradual decline in the growth rate in some countries. There is only a 23% chance that the total population growth rate will tail off before 2100. The population of the 47 least developed countries is likely to triple between 2017 and 2100 to around 3 billion. There are currently 62 million people in South Africa. About 67,9% of our population (in 2021) live in urban areas. The South African population grew by 0,87% in 2023. The fertility rate is 2,30 (2023). It is estimated that by 2050 75,5 million people will be living in South Africa, with 8 out of every 10 people living in urban areas, which would significantly increase the pressure on infrastructure. The Global Footprint Network states that humans currently use the resources of 1,75 Earths. If the situation does not improve, by 2050 we would need the equivalent of three Earths to survive. More than 4 billion people will have little or no water by 2050, and South Africa even now has been classified as a "water-stressed" country. Medical science is continually contributing to more babies surviving their entry into the world and to our living increasingly longer. Life expectancy has risen from 46 years in 1950 to 73,2 years in 2023. By 2050 it will be 77 years. What can be done? Empowerment of women is important. Population growth can be curbed to a reasonable extent by giving more girls access to education. This certainly does not mean that girls or women alone should be held responsible for the current population growth, but much more will have to be done about sex education, women's rights will have to be actively promoted and there will have to be better provision and use of contraceptives. Obviously, these issues should be approached and handled with due caution. In this regard, countries such as Thailand and South Korea have, in the recent past, proved that good education may result in lower birth rates. In Africa, women with no education have an average of 5,4 children; women who completed high school an average of 2,7 children and women with tertiary education an average of 2.2. In Nigeria, every year of school attendance by girls cuts the birth rate by a tenth. In addition, intensified efforts to reform economies and societies should be considered. For the sake of the survival of the human species and the sustainability of the Earth, ecological and economic justice and the empowerment ofwomen have to be encouraged. The Millennium Project - a global participatory think tank that was founded in 1996 under the auspices of the American Council for the United Nations University, but which became independent in 2009 and has since grown into a global network of institutions and individuals - aims to improve humankind's prospects for a better future. It recommends, among other things, the following: • Support a policy aimed at improving the survival of children, responsible family planning and educational opportunities for (especially) girls. • Improve methods that will ensure skills and employment opportunities for young people, as well as care and services for the elderly. • Implement the UN's urban agenda. • Create enough smart cities where citizens with urban intelligence can help in eco-smart ways with the necessary improvements in the city. • Increase training in resilience, and improve disaster prediction and management. • Provide guidance for people about urban ecology. • Intensify research and development in saltwater agriculture (halophytes or salt plants) on coastlines to produce food for humans and animals, biofuel and pulp for the paper industry, and to absorb carbon dioxide (CO2). This will ease the pressure on freshwater agriculture. • Improve agricultural and irrigation management. • Invest in precision agriculture and aquaculture. • Reduce food losses from the "farm to the mouth" (one third or 1,3 billion tons of agricultural production is wasted in this way every year). • Establish seaweed to restore wild fish populations along coastlines. The World Bank estimates that 90% of marine life is completely depleted. • Expand the production of insects for animal feed and human diets (insects have a low environmental impact, and 2 billion people already supplement their diet with insects today). • Encourage vegetarianism. Although there are more ways to address these important global challenges, responsible family planning remains one of the most important. This is an extremely sensitive issue for many people (especially in Africa), but if it is not promoted in a humane, informed and responsible way, the sustainability of life on our planet will increasingly come under tremendous pressure in various respects.

Die aantal mense op aarde en hulle/ons aktiwiteite neem tans skrikwekkende afmetings aan met wydlopende gevolge vir ons planeet, biodiversiteit en uiteindelik onsself. Die moderne mens het sy teenwoordigheid op die aarde en die benutting van hulpbronne baie lank as sy onaantasbare reg gesien. Die huidige uitwerking van byvoorbeeld bevolkingsgroei en besoedeling versteur die aarde se natuurlike ritme in so 'n mate dat ons nou nie meer op 'n kitsoplossing kan hoop nie. Die mens se getalle neem teen so 'n tempo toe dat dit nie net nadelig vir die planeet is nie, maar ook vir die mensdom self. Wat kan gedoen word? Bemagtiging van vroue speel 'n belangrike rol. Dit beteken beslis nie dat meisies en vroue alleen vir die huidige bevolkingsgroei verantwoordelik gehou moet word nie. Die bevolkingsgroei kan egter in 'n redelike mate vertraag word deur veral meer meisies toegang tot onderwys en opleiding te gee - asook hul lewensomstandighede te verbeter. Ook sal daar heelwat meer aan seksopvoeding gedoen moet word, vroueregte sal daadwerklik bevorder moet word en daar sal beter voorsiening en gebruik van voorbehoedmiddels moet wees. Uiteraard moet hierdie kwessies met die nodige omsigtigheid benader en hanteer word. In hierdie verband kan onder andere Thailand en Suid-Korea genoem word wat in die onlangse verlede bewys het dat goeie onderwys geboortesyfers laat daal. In Afrika het vroue wat geen onderwys ontvang nie, gemiddeld 5,4 kinders; vroue wat hoërskool voltooi het gemiddeld 2,7 kinders en vroue wat tersiêre studie deurloop het, gemiddeld 2,2 kinders. In Nigerië sny elke jaar wat meisies skool bywoon, die geboortesyfer met 'n tiende. Hiermee saam sal daar ook verskerpte pogings moet wees om ekonomieë en samelewings te hervorm. Ter wille van die mens se voortbestaan en die volhoubaarheid van lewe op aarde moet ekologiese en ekonomiese geregtigheid, en die bemagtiging van vroue aangemoedig word.

Abstract In Costa Rica, there are significant challenges regarding wastewater treatment. This study evaluated the management of municipal wastewater in Costa Rica, with emphasis on the technological profile, the use of anaerobic systems, and the recovery of generated by-products. A mixed approach was used, combining secondary information from databases, expert consultations, and participatory workshops. It was found that most existing systems work with activated sludge and direct discharge to receiving bodies. Additionally, significant gaps were identified for the implementation of anaerobic systems for wastewater treatment. From a technical standpoint, the lack of training and confidence in designing and operating these systems was noted, along with the relevance of controlling the treatment of emerging contaminants. From an economic standpoint, the lack of financial sustainability of projects, low capacity for user payment, and lack of incentives or tiered tariff systems were identified. Within institutional gaps, the main issue was the need for clearer sectoral leadership and avoiding duplication of functions. All the above requires robust and clear regulations that allow for innovation in the systems to be implemented. Finally, it was found that, for the circular economy principle to become a reality, cultural change is required, and the paradigm that wastewater is only meant for disposal must be changed.

Resumen En Costa Rica, existen grandes desafíos en materia de tratamiento de aguas residuales. Este trabajo evaluó la gestión de aguas residuales ordinarias en Costa Rica, dando énfasis al perfil tecnológico, al uso de sistemas anaeróbicos y a la recuperación de los subproductos generados. Se consideró un abordaje mixto, combinando información secundaria de bases de datos, consultas a expertos y talleres participativos. Se logró evidenciar que la mayoría de los sistemas que existen trabaja con lodos activados y con vertido directo a cuerpo receptor. Además, se evidenciaron brechas importantes para la implementación de los sistemas de tratamiento de aguas residuales, en especial para los sistemas anaeróbicos. Desde el punto de vista técnico, se identificó la falta de capacitación y de confianza en diseñarlos y operarlos, aunado a la relevancia de controlar el tratamiento de contaminantes emergentes; desde el punto de vista económico, se apunta hacia la falta de sostenibilidad financiera de los proyectos y poca capacidad de pago de los usuarios, falta de incentivos o de sistemas tarifarios escalonados; dentro de las brechas institucionales, la principal es la necesidad de tener una rectoría más clara del sector y evitar la duplicidad de funciones. Se demostró que lo anterior requiere ir ligado de una normativa robusta y clara, que permita la innovación en los sistemas a implementar. Finalmente, se pudo detectar que, para que el principio de economía circular sea una realidad, se requiere trabajar en un cambio cultural y en romper el paradigma de que las aguas residuales solo sirven para desecharlas.

Abstract This study analyzes the strategy of the State Secretary of Energy and Sea Economy (SEENEMAR) in promoting the blue economy in the State of Rio de Janeiro (ERJ), focusing on environmental and social sustainability. The analysis of projects, such as the Fishery Naval Hub and offshore wind energy, reveals significant contributions to economic growth, environmental sustainability, and social inclusion. SEENEMAR has shown effectiveness in job creation, attracting investments, and decarbonization, as well as promoting social inclusion through training programs and valuing sea gastronomy. However, the lack of a formal blue economy definition at the federal level may limit the expansion of these initiatives. This study suggests that the continuity and success of SEENEMAR's policies depend on constant monitoring and adjustments based on empirical data.

Resumo Este estudo analisa a estratégia da Secretaria de Estado de Energia e Economia do Mar (SEENEMAR) no fomento da economia azul no Estado do Rio de Janeiro (ERJ), com foco na sustentabilidade ambiental e social. A análise dos projetos, como o Polo Naval Pesqueiro e a energia eólica offshore, revela contribuições significativas para o crescimento econômico, sustentabilidade ambiental e inclusão social. A SEENEMAR demonstrou eficácia na geração de empregos, atração de investimentos e descarbonização, além de promover a inclusão social através de programas de capacitação e valorização da gastronomia do mar. No entanto, a falta de uma definição formal de economia do mar a nível federal pode limitar a expansão dessas iniciativas. Este estudo sugere que a continuidade e o sucesso das políticas da SEENEMAR dependem de monitoramento constante e ajustes baseados em dados empíricos.