Water, soil, plants, and animals are the main pillars that support global food security. Plants grow using nutrients from water and soil resources and then used by animals which affects them consequently. Water is the essential condition of life for all living beings, and soil is its support and a crucial reservoir. The interactions between the Water-Soil-Plant-Animal nexus and climate change are of increasing concern to scholars, decision-makers, and researchers. The impacts of climate change on these resources include water and soil quality degradation, infectious disease, shortage, desertification, and erosion. These impacts are accelerated due to human pressure through over-use and pollution. Water-Soil-Plant-Animal Nexus in the Era of Climate Change includes relevant theoretical approaches, empirical research, and bibliometric and bibliographic methods to bring together affordable methods and techniques to optimize the use of the nexus in the context of climate change. It presents an inventory of techniques and practices in the field, and introduces an opportunity to discuss the strengths and weaknesses of these techniques, making it ideal for scholars, researchers, planners, and decision-makers.

Secure supplies of water, food and energy are essential to human dignity and well-being around the globe. Their vitality is dependent on healthy ecosystems supporting thriving biodiversity. All four elements are inter-related in that actions to govern one will automatically affect the others -- known as the Nexus. Global demand for the first three elements is increasing due to population growth and rising per capital incomes in developing countries, with steadily worsening results for the fourth. The Nexus elements are also subject to increasing pressures from climate disruption in the form of more frequent and severe flooding, droughts, storms, pest outbreaks, and extreme heat. Nature's capacity to moderate these impacts is also being eroded by rapid, widespread land use development and associated pollution. The combination of increasing demand, decreasing supplies, and rapidly changing hydro-climatic conditions at all points of the Nexus requires transformative policy responses that encompass economy, equity, social justice, fairness, and the environment. The Climate Nexus outlines these challenges and offers a pathway to resolving them.

The contributions in this book describe the role soils play for plant, animal and human health. They show that soil- and human health are intricately connected, because healthy soils produce healthy crops, which in turn nourish humans and animals, allowing for their health and productivity. Soil quality directly influences the quality and quantity of food that can be produced, as soils provide essential macro- and micronutrients and attenuate environmental pollutants. On the other hand, these same pollutants, thus concentrated in soils, may cause soils to become toxic and degraded. Soils (and their crops) may also be responsible for exposure to pests and pathogens, while, at the same time, providing drug substances and may even suppress diseases. Soil quality is vital on a global scale, as more than 800 million people around the world are undernourished, implying that their intake of food is insufficient to meet their daily energy needs, and the deficiency of essential micronutrients is even more widespread. Nearly one third of the world's population is affected by zinc deficiency, while iron deficiency affects nearly 3 billion people. Climate change has been shown to affect animal and human health, and soils are intricately linked to the atmosphere by being both a source and sink of greenhouse gases. Soils are the largest active terrestrial reservoir of organic carbon and its sequestration in soils can be enhanced by improved management practices. The book summarizes the current state of research of these important issues and provides a comprehensive treatise of the global importance of soils to for humankind.

The world is confronting the reality of climate change, which transcends geographical boundaries, necessitating a multidisciplinary approach. Effective mitigation strategies for climate change demand diversity, inclusion, equity, and collaboration as paramount considerations in the formulation and execution of mitigation strategies. Global Perspectives on Climate Change, Social Resilience, and Social Inclusion illuminates the interplay between climate shifts and society's complex tapestry. Authored by leading sociologists and interdisciplinary scholars, this researched volume offers an exploration of climate change through the lens of sociology, unveiling its implications for our global community. Moreover, the book spotlights the proactive voices of voluntary associations and activists dedicated to championing climate change victims' rights. Their collective message resonates throughout: mitigating climate change risks must be integrated into a broader framework of resilient development, elevating the economic standing and quality of life for disadvantaged groups while fostering equity across all strata of society. This book is ideal for scholars, policymakers, and activists seeking a nuanced understanding of the intricate interplay between climate change and the social fabric of our world.

Food waste has evolved into a global crisis, casting a long shadow over nations and the interconnected fabric of our world. The repercussions of this excess reverberate through environmental and socio-economic landscapes, demanding immediate attention. Globally, the challenge of reducing food waste is acknowledged as a linchpin in achieving a sustainable future. The book Sustainable Disposal Methods of Food Wastes in Hospitality Operations confronts this escalating issue head-on. It contends that the time is ripe for a change in waste disposal practices, advocating for sustainable methods to alleviate environmental strain, combat climate change, and safeguard public health. This book delves into the heart of waste management principles and strategies. Beyond identifying the severity of the issue, the book ventures into uncharted territories, exploring emergent debates surrounding systemic causes and solutions. In a world where information and communication technology empower organizations, a gap persists in translating these advancements into effective waste management initiatives. The book urges a holistic understanding of the issue, drawing attention to the need for collaborative efforts between governments and private industry players to bridge this divide. As it provides a global perspective, the handbook becomes a tool for those seeking to comprehend the intricate web of challenges posed by food waste and navigate towards a sustainable future.

The application of contemporary and emerging operational research optimization methods in renewable energy is vital to creating and maintaining sustainable environments across the planet. More research is needed to understand how modern and innovative technological solutions can enhance accessible global energy. Operational Research for Renewable Energy and Sustainable Environments is a critical scholarly resource that examines the efficient use of modern electrical technology and renewable energy sources that have a positive impact on sustainable development. Highlighting topics such as cogeneration thermal modules, photovoltaic (PV) solar, and renewable energy systems (RES) application practices, this publication is geared towards academics, advocates, government officials, policymakers, humanized managers, practitioners, professionals, and students interested in the latest research on renewable energy and clean technology for sustainable rural development.

Teaching and Learning for a Sustainable Future: Innovative Strategies and Best Practices delves into the critical global challenges of sustainability and the indispensable role of education in forging a sustainable future for generations to come. This interdisciplinary and multi-sectoral endeavor embraces themes ranging from climate change and biodiversity loss to social justice, poverty reduction, and sustainable development. By integrating environmental, social, and economic dimensions, the book offers a holistic approach to teaching and learning for sustainability, presenting innovative strategies and best practices that can be adapted across diverse disciplines, levels of education, and contexts. Drawing upon a rich tapestry of pedagogical approaches, the book illuminates experiential learning, inquiry-based learning, problem-based learning, and project-based learning as powerful tools for addressing sustainability challenges and opportunities. Additionally, it showcases cutting-edge teaching tools and technologies, including online platforms, social media, virtual and augmented reality, and gamification, revolutionizing the dissemination of sustainability education. The book serves as a platform for educators, academics, researchers, policy makers, and students to share experiences, insights, and best practices, propelling the evolution of sustainability education.