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Showing posts from November, 2025

Public acceptance of a large-scale offshore wind power project in South Korea

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Meaning Public acceptance here means the extent to which households, local residents, interest groups (especially fishers and coastal communities), and the broader public support — or at least tolerate — a proposed large offshore wind project. Acceptance covers attitudes, perceived fairness, willingness to host turbines nearby, and behavioral outcomes (e.g., protests, litigation, or cooperation). Several South Korea studies show acceptance depends strongly on perceived economic benefits, trust in government, and environmental concerns. SSRN +1 Introduction South Korea has pursued rapid offshore wind deployment as part of renewable energy and carbon-neutrality goals, with government plans and commercial projects concentrated on the southwest coast and floating wind further offshore. Large projects (GW-scale) promise major emissions reductions and industrial opportunities, but have repeatedly faced local resistance — especially from fishing communities and residents worried about en...

Emergy study shows how scaled-down intensification affected rice system sustainability in Korea.

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1. Meaning The title refers to a comprehensive evaluation of how sustainable South Korea’s rice farming is when farmers gradually reduce intensification —meaning they use fewer fertilizers, pesticides, energy inputs, and machinery over time. The study uses emergy analysis , a scientific method that converts all inputs—environmental, labor, capital, and material—into a single unit of measurement (solar emergy joules) to determine the true environmental cost. In simpler words, the study checks whether “doing rice farming with fewer inputs” makes the system more or less sustainable across ecological, economic, and energy dimensions. 2. Introduction (Elaborated) Rice farming in South Korea has historically relied on intensive agricultural practices , driven by the need to ensure food security and increase yields. However, from 2003 to 2021 , the intensity of rice production gradually declined due to: Rising input costs (fertilizers, fuel, machinery) Changing dietary patterns ...

Climate Change–Induced Impacts on PM2.5 in Taiwan Under 2 °C and 4 °C Global Warming

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  1. Meaning “ Climate change–induced impacts on PM2.5 in Taiwan under 2 °C and 4 °C global warming” refers to how future climate conditions caused by global temperature increases will change the levels, patterns, and behaviour of PM2.5 pollution in Taiwan. PM2.5 (fine particulate matter ≤ 2.5 micrometers) is dangerous because it penetrates deep into the lungs and bloodstream. The study investigates: How PM2.5 will change when global temperatures rise by 2°C and 4°C. Which seasons and regions in Taiwan will be more affected. How climate -driven changes in wind, rainfall, humidity, and atmospheric stability influence PM2.5. 2. Introduction Taiwan faces persistent air-quality challenges due to its topography, dense population, industrial zones, and seasonal monsoon patterns . PM2.5 pollution is especially harmful because it causes cardiovascular, respiratory, and developmental health issues. With global warming progressing, climate conditions such as temperature...

Multiple pregnancy increases postpartum depression risk, Japan study finds, highlighting need for support.

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  Meaning Multiple pregnancy refers to carrying more than one fetus (e.g., twins or triplets). This condition can increase physical, emotional, and financial pressures on mothers, potentially heightening the risk of postpartum depression (PPD). The Japan Environment and Children’s Study explored how multiple pregnancies relate to maternal mental health after childbirth. Introduction Postpartum depression is a serious mental health condition affecting women after childbirth, characterized by persistent sadness, exhaustion, anxiety, and difficulty bonding with the baby. Multiple pregnancies often involve higher medical risks, complications, and caregiving demands. The Japan Environment and Children’s Study (JECS), a large national birth cohort study, examined whether mothers of twins or higher-order multiples are more likely to develop PPD due to increased physical strain, medical interventions, hormonal fluctuations, and stress levels. Understanding this link helps policymakers a...

Pediatric leukemia risk linked to mothers’ workplace anticancer drug exposure in Japanese study.

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  Meaning This topic explores whether children are at greater risk of developing leukemia when their mothers are exposed to anticancer (chemotherapy) drugs in the workplace during pregnancy. It examines how such occupational exposures—common among nurses, pharmacists, and hospital staff—may affect fetal development and childhood cancer risk. Introduction Pediatric leukemia is the most common childhood cancer, and its causes often involve a complex mix of genetic and environmental factors. The Japan Environment and Children’s Study (JECS), a large nationwide birth cohort, investigates how early-life and prenatal environmental exposures influence child health outcomes. One area of focus is maternal occupational exposure to anticancer drugs. These drugs are powerful agents designed to kill rapidly dividing cells but may also harm fetal cells if mothers come into contact with them during pregnancy. Understanding this relationship is essential for developing safer work practices and ...