https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12738/3 Publications without full text files / Publikationen ohne Volltext(dateien) 2026-06-06T05:45:47Z https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12738/19390 Title: Are universities implementing climate adaptation strategies to foster their sustainability? Authors: Leal Filho, Walter; Neiva, Samara; da Cunha Lopes, Gabriele Abstract: Background: As climate change intensifies, universities face growing pressure to adopt climate adaptation strategies that ensure their sustainability and resilience. This paper examines whether and how universities are implementing these strategies to respond to the increasing risks posed by climate change. Drawing on case studies and a review of existing sustainability frameworks in higher education institutions, the research explores the extent to which climate adaptation is integrated into campus operations, infrastructure planning, research initiatives, and community engagement. Results: The findings suggest that while some universities are leading in climate resilience efforts, others are lagging, often focusing more on mitigation measures rather than comprehensive adaptation. The paper highlights the need for more systematic approaches to adaptation, including climate risk assessments, infrastructure upgrades, and curricular integration of climate resilience. The findings offer insights into best practices and challenges, as collaboration between academic, administrative, and external stakeholders. The results show that universities are key players in advancing climate adaptation and ensuring long-term sustainability. Conclusions: This research emphasizes the critical role of higher education institutions in preparing for the realities of a changing climate, informing future efforts to promote climate resilience in higher education as part of their broader sustainability frameworks. 2026-05-27T15:08:44Z https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12738/19389 Title: Is carbon dioxide removal in the Arctic region really feasible? Authors: Leal Filho, Walter; Luetz, Johannes M.; Dinis, Maria Alzira Pimenta; Hunt, Julian David; Nagy, Gustavo J. Abstract: The Arctic region, warming at nearly four times the global average rate, is both an important carbon sink and a potential source of greenhouse gas emissions, especially due to thawing permafrost. Carbon dioxide removal (CDR) is increasingly recognised as a necessary measure to support global efforts to reduce emissions. This article examines whether, and under what conditions, large-scale CDR deployment in the Arctic is practically feasible. It also discusses the challenges associated with it. We synthesise peer-reviewed evidence on the performance of key CDR approaches relevant to high-latitude environments, including nature-based solutions (NbS), e.g. peatland restoration, blue carbon protection and afforestation, as well as enhanced rock weathering (ERW), ocean alkalinity enhancement (OAE) and direct air carbon capture and storage (DACCS). Across these approaches, the feasibility is constrained by permafrost dynamics, hydrology, ecological sensitivity, energy availability, monitoring and verification, and governance. Whereas some CDR methods offer potential climate benefits, most are characterised by considerable uncertainty and context-dependent trade-offs. None currently demonstrates unequivocal feasibility at scale under Arctic conditions. Beyond these technical and ecological constraints, we identify four clusters of socio-political barriers that further complicate Arctic CDR: governance fragmentation, geopolitical tensions, inadequate regulatory mechanisms, and uneven global deployment. A comparative assessment suggests that peatland restoration and blue carbon protection are the most immediately actionable options, whereas DACCS and OAE would require substantial new infrastructure and energy investment. The study concludes by outlining targeted policy and research priorities to address existing technological, ecological, and governance challenges, and to situate Arctic CDR within broader mitigation strategies without risking over-reliance or mitigation deterrence. The novelty of this paper lies in its analysis of the multiple variables that influence the viability of CDR. Overall, Arctic CDR appears technically possible but remains highly constrained, with its feasibility contingent on meeting stringent operational conditions, robust governance, and continued emissions reductions elsewhere. 2026-05-27T14:55:41Z https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12738/19388 Title: Workplace health and safety under climate stress in Sri Lankan apparel SMEs Authors: Senadeera, Devathanthrige Janaka Chamara Harshana; Sayem, Abu Sadat Muhammad; Leal Filho, Walter; Farhat, Grace; Moda, Haruna Musa Abstract: Climate change poses escalating risks to labor-intensive industries in South Asia. This mixed‑methods study assessed how climate‑related hazards affect the health, safety and productivity of workers in Sri Lankan small‑ and medium‑scale apparel manufacturing companies (SMAMCs). A survey of 384 employees in Biyagama and Katunayake Export Processing Zones captured quantitative data on exposure to excessive heat, flooding, indoor air pollution and mosquito‑borne diseases, and elicited qualitative accounts of workplace experiences. Heat waves and high humidity were the most pervasive stressors: 81.25% (95% CI; 77.3 to 85.2) of respondents reported heat stress, with headaches, dehydration, and diminished concentration frequently linked to needle‑prick injuries. Flood events damaged infrastructure and heightened respiratory, gastrointestinal and dermatological illnesses, while inadequate ventilation compounded air‑quality problems; 95% (95% CI; 92.4 to 96.8) of workers complained of persistent coughing. Dengue incidence over the preceding five years reached 10.68% (95% CI; 8.0 to 14.2), reflecting expanding vector habitats. Chi‑square analysis confirmed statistically significant associations between each hazard and adverse health outcomes. The study underscores the need for integrated adaptation measures, improved ventilation, low‑cost cooling, drainage upgrades and systematic vector control, supported by enforceable regulations and targeted financial assistance. Enhancing climate resilience in SMAMCs is essential for safeguarding worker wellbeing and sustaining Sri Lanka’s export competitiveness, while contributing to global goals on decent work and climate action targets. 2026-05-27T14:43:02Z https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12738/19387 Title: Awareness and skills at a distance : the contribution of distance learning higher education institutions to the implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals Authors: Leal Filho, Walter; Mapar, Mahsa; Viera Trevisan, Laís; Caeiro, Sandra; Pretorius, Rudi W.; Nicolau, Melanie D.; Bacelar-Nicolau, Paula; Lambrechts, Wim Abstract: Distance Learning Higher Education Institutions (DL-HEIs) can advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by expanding access to education, fostering research and innovation, and promoting collaboration on a global scale. This study aims to identify the strategies conducted by DL-HEIs to increase learners’ awareness, knowledge, and skills related to the SDGs and explore how DL-HEIs around the world incorporate the SDGs into their activities. More specifically, it uses a mix of case studies and a global survey that covers six continents and 52 countries to identify important strategies, drivers, and barriers in this field. The case study findings reveal that technology in distance education fosters innovative teaching, boosting engagement and comprehension of complex sustainability topics. The survey results show that DL-HEIs mainly incorporate sustainability through their curriculum and research, with teaching staff and researchers as the main contributors. They often use a mix of live and recorded learning to teach skills like critical thinking, focusing on SDGs 4 (Quality Education), 5 (Gender Equality), and 13 (Climate Action). While commitment from institutions and sustainability policies are significant drivers, limited financial resources and awareness create obstacles. The study concludes that technology-based distance education offers a strong and inventive platform for promoting global sustainability education. 2026-05-27T14:34:39Z