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Strategies for encouraging CSR in SMEs

A recent Spanish study has examined the implications of corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategies in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) related to sustainable development, as well as the role public administrations play in this process. The findings offer ideas that could be included in government policies aimed at promoting social responsibilities and sustainability, especially for SMEs.




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Eco-innovation encouraged by regulatory measures and R&D — especially important for Eastern Europe

The factors enabling eco-innovation have been analysed across 19 European countries in a new study. Regulations and environmental subsidies were found to be more important factors in Eastern Europe than in wealthier Western European countries. External research and development (R&D) was also more relevant in Eastern Europe, demonstrating the need for specific technology transfers from other countries and competitors.




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Positive environmental messages help encourage behavioural change

A Belgian public survey on greener energy consumption has found that positive messages about environmental issues may be more effective than negative messages in encouraging behavioural change for large sections of the public. The researchers suggest this can help policy planners devise targeted communications strategies.




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Broader behavioural focus needed to mitigate climate change

Policy efforts have focused on modifying individual behaviour as one strategy to address climate change. However, this has been met with limited success and a new UK study suggests that policies to encourage behaviour change need to operate on multiple levels and that there is a need for greater co-ordination between individuals, governments, businesses and communities.




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Can loans scheme encourage green refurbishment of homes?

A UK Government scheme, designed to help finance energy efficiency improvements in the home, has been assessed in a recent study. The researchers advise that better information for homeowners is needed to encourage uptake of the ‘Green Deal’ initiative, and point to Germany’s Passivhaus standard as an aspirational model for green retrofitting.




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Can supermarkets encourage customers to cut food waste through social media? Analysis of UK campaign shows mixed results

A study has evaluated three types of media campaign conducted by a large UK supermarket to encourage shoppers to reduce their food waste. These used social media, an e-newsletter and a print/digital magazine, respectively. Although they all appeared to lead to reductions in food waste to some extent, similar behavioural changes were also seen for customers who had not participated in any of the campaigns.




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Parks and beaches may improve children’s behavioural development

City children who spend lots of time in green spaces, such as parks, and at the beach are less likely to have emotional and social difficulties, indicates new research from Barcelona. The study of over 2000 children supports theories that green and blue infrastructure have benefits for our health and wellbeing.




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Green nudges and corporate environmental strategies' prospects for behavioural change

Nudges can foster greener public behaviour but they also raise some moral questions, concludes a recent analysis of behaviour-change schemes. How businesses' behaviour is influenced by consumer concerns for the environment is less clear - and may only result in 'greenwash' - the researchers suggest.




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Selection of policy options to encourage take-up of low-carbon transport assessed

A ‘feebate’ can be an effective policy option to aid the transition to a more environmentally-friendly transport system, a UK study suggests. This combination of fees and rebates can increase the take-up of low-carbon cars, the researchers argue, which leads to reduced life cycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.




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Greener car driving is encouraged by feedback, says Dutch study

Motivation to practise fuel-efficient driving may be more influenced by environmental concerns than by financial benefits, research suggests. In promoting fuel efficiency, this survey of Dutch motorists highlights the power of providing feedback to drivers – both environmental and economic – on their behaviour.




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Policies to encourage green industry

New research has outlined three instruments to encourage green industry: adequate governmental resources, co-operation between interest groups and effective negotiation between state and interest groups. Taking the example of the organic food sector, it explored why Denmark has met these conditions whereas Australia has not.




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Can legislation encourage environmental investment by businesses?

The exact impact of environmental law on investment by EU industry is relatively unknown. A new study has explored the effects of regulation on four types of industry investment and the results indicate that, in general, regulation tends to encourage more investment, but if restrictions are too tight investment levels can start to fall.




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New green VAT system proposed to encourage sustainable consumption and production

A new economic tool designed to encourage sustainable production and consumption has been proposed in a recent study. To ensure that the environmental impact of products is reflected in their cost, the authors of the research recommend a system of green value added tax (VAT) based on life cycle assessment (LCA).




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Changing research assessments could encourage knowledge dissemination

Research assessments should focus more on engagement processes and less on impacts and outcomes, a new study suggests. The authors examined researchers’ intended impacts and motivational factors, and stated that a change in research evaluation methods, together with better direction from university managers, could help incentivise knowledge exchange and engagement between departments and non-academic entities.




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Ship manufacturers encouraged to keep track of materials

An inventory of materials used in ship construction could minimise waste and increase ships’ recycling rates and resale value, according to the Sustainable Shipping Initiative (SSI). Although extra data management would be required on the part of suppliers, manufacturers and owners, it would help make the industry more efficient and future-proof with regard to developments in international legislation on ship building.




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Polycentric governance could encourage effective river basin management

A new study has compared the water governance and management systems of nearly 30 river basins around the world. Results indicated that governance systems with distributed political power and good co-ordination help to implement the principles of good governance in water management practice, and to adopt more advanced climate change adaptation policies.




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Combining behavioural change and game-like incentive models encourages consumers to save water

Domestic water saving is important — not only to address water scarcity and drought, but also to save energy and tackle climate change. Water-management strategies are needed to prevent these shortages, and include incentives to change consumers’ behaviour concerning water use. This study examines the design of a behaviour-change system and a linked incentive model to stimulate a sustainable change in water-consumption behaviour.




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Citizens encouraged to help monitor wild bird species

The public can help assess the human impact on wild birds through amateur 'citizen science' networks, according to new research. Scientists evaluated the suitability of data collected by amateur bird-watchers for long-term monitoring of European bird populations. Their findings suggest that citizen data may significantly improve the accuracy of existing official survey methods, as well as help increase public awareness of wild bird conservation.




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What is ‘favourable conservation status’ for species? Researchers clear up misinterpretations

‘Favourable conservation status’ (FCS) is a critical but often misinterpreted legal concept in the EU’s Habitats Directive. Now, law and ecology researchers have teamed up to help clarify some of the most disputed aspects of this term for species. Correctly applied, the concept will help environmental managers, policymakers and scientists effectively protect biodiversity.




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What encourages farmers to participate in EU agri-environment schemes?

Isolating specific reasons for involvement in agri-environment schemes (AES) is a key step in the formulation of schemes that are more appealing to Europe’s farming community. Through a comprehensive exploration of the literature on AES across the EU, this study contributes to a better understanding of what drives farmers’ participation in such initiatives, revealing important factors, such as previous experience with schemes and flexibility in management.




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What encourages farmers to participate in collective biogas investment?

Biogas production from waste and manure has the potential to make a contribution to environmental, energy and climate policy objectives. However, farmer engagement has remained persistently low. A new study, involving 461 Danish farmers, has investigated their willingness to participate in collective biogas investment (where two or more farmers collectively own a biogas plant). The study suggests that the majority of farmers are willing to participate in partnership-based biogas investment (PBI) and identifies the main factors driving willingness to participate and the intensity of participation. These findings are relevant to policymaking aimed at increasing biogas production and stakeholder engagement.




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ROADS CLOSED ACROSS DISTRICT, MAJOR DETOURS IN USE - VDOT encourages planning for Monday morning commute

LYNCHBURG —(4 pm) Road conditions have improved across the Lynchburg District this weekend; however, approximately 140 roads remain closed from the effects of Tropical Storm Michael late last week. Motorists, particularly those in Halifax and Pittsylvania counties, should prepare now for their morning commute. Several detours are in place and can be expected to add time to travel. In addition, caution is urged as some may be unfamiliar with the routes being used.




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VDOT ENCOURAGES RACE FANS TO FOLLOW SIGNS TO REDUCE TRAFFIC CONGESTION AT MARTINSVILLE SPEEDWAY

SALEM – The Virginia Department of Transportation encourages race fans driving to and from Martinsville Speedway for the race on Saturday, September 29, to follow recommended traffic patterns as posted on signs and message boards. VDOT will place signs and changeable message boards throughout the region to assist travelers. Vehicular and pedestrian traffic will be heavy. Watch for the speed limit to be reduced from 65 mph to 45 mph on the Route 220/Route 58 Bypass as you approach the speedway. From Roanoke and areas north of Martinsville: Race fans traveling south on Route 220 can take the exit onto Route 58 to Martinsville to reach the track or they can continue on the Route 220/Route 58 Bypass to the speedway interchange. From Danville and areas east of Martinsville: Motorists on the Route 58 Bypass should follow signs directing them to use the track’s back gate. This entrance is located off the bypass, east of the track. From Greensboro and areas south of Martinsville: Motorists should watch for electronic message boards and obey police directing traffic. Through traffic should use the left lane. From Stuart and areas west of Martinsville: Motorists should stay on Route 58 east and follow signs and message boards to the track. Those attending the race should closely follow directional information.




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VDOT ENCOURAGES RACE FANS TO FOLLOW SIGNS TO REDUCE TRAFFIC CONGESTION AT MARTINSVILLE SPEEDWAY - Drivers traveling from Roanoke to the race should plan ahead for possible delays on Route 220 southbound

SALEM – The Virginia Department of Transportation encourages race fans driving to and from Martinsville Speedway for the race on Sunday, October 28, to follow recommended traffic patterns as posted on signs and message boards. Drivers travelling from Roanoke to the Martinsville Speedway for the race events this weekend should plan for possible delays due to a left lane closure on Route 220 southbound approaching the Boones Mill area. VDOT will place many signs and changeable message boards throughout the region to assist travelers. Vehicular and pedestrian traffic will be heavy. Traffic is being routed to the speedway in certain patterns to minimize overall congestion as much as possible. Watch for the speed limit to reduce gradually from 65 mph to 35 mph on the Route 220/Route 58 Bypass as you approach the speedway. From Roanoke and areas north of Martinsville: Race fans traveling south on Route 220 are encouraged to allow for extra travel time. A left lane closure is in place for a pipe failure in the median about eight miles south of Roanoke and 1.7 miles north of Boones Mill. Drivers can take the exit onto Route 58 to Martinsville to reach the track or they can continue on the Route 220/Route 58 Bypass past the speedway interchange and turn right onto the access road that leads into the speedway. The entrance is located one mile east of the Route 220 interchange and may provide easier access. Signs are in place designating the entrance to the speedway.  From Danville and areas east of Martinsville: Motorists on the Route 58 Bypass should follow signs directing them to use the track’s back gate. This entrance is located off the bypass, east of the track. From Greensboro and areas south of Martinsville: Route 220 northbound traffic will split into three lanes shortly before reaching the speedway.  Motorists should watch for electronic message boards and obey police directing traffic. Through traffic should use the left lane. From Stuart and areas west of Martinsville: Motorists should stay on Route 58 east and follow signs and message boards to the track.  ADA Parking: Race fans needing ADA Parking are encouraged to enter the Speedway via Old Sand Roa Those attending the race should closely follow directional information and plan to arrive early and expect heavy traffic and delays. Martinsville Speedway has shared the attached graphics for drivers entering and exiting from the race.




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USDA encourages ignoring sell-by date on some foods

In its Week in Review video, a USDA rep says it’s OK to eat that dry pasta several months past its sell-by date.




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College students launch campaign encouraging classmates to tinkle in the shower, not the toilet

If there ever was a reason to invest in a decent pair of shower sandals ...




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Marine artist Wyland encourages kids to connect with the environment through art

Wyland Foundation's National Art Contest helps kids think about how they can protect the oceans.



  • Arts & Culture

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Farmers markets growing at a brisk pace, and other encouraging farmers market news

Farmers markets are making news for encouraging reasons. Find out what’s happening around the country.




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Why free play matters and how to encourage it

Parents may feel the need to protect and schedule, but experts say our kids learn more when we get out of the way as they play.




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President and CEO Izumisawa Offers New Employees Words of Welcome and Encouragement as New Members of MHI Group

Tokyo, April 1, 2020 - This morning Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) Group President and CEO Seiji Izumisawa released a video message of welcome and encouragement to the company's newly joining employees. The video format was chosen after the traditional welcoming ceremony was canceled this year to prevent spread of the novel coronavirus. Mr. Izumisawa called on the new employees to prepare themselves fully as members of MHI Group, and he expressed robust hopes and expectations for their active participation and contributions.




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Tom Talks: Personal Courage, Ethics and Reputation

Southern Company CEO Tom Fanning discusses why our ethics and values are critical to our personal and professional character.




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Kenai River Sportfishing Association Encourages Kids to Go Fishing

Great link Twitter Continue reading here. More like this article. Keywords: Charter fishing trip, Kenai fishing charters, River fishing rods, Alaska fishing vacation, Fishing the kenai river, Kenai fishing charters. Graphics: Share Visual

The post Kenai River Sportfishing Association Encourages Kids to Go Fishing appeared first on RSS News Feed.



  • Recreation and Sports

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From Skydiving To Scuba Diving: Steven Franz Encourages You To Live Life To The Fullest




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Food Allergy Research & Education's Annual Awareness Campaign Encourages Shining a Light on Food Allergy, a Serious Public Health Issue

One in 13 children live with food allergies; nearly 40 percent have experienced a severe allergic reaction




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Signarama Promotes Eco-Friendly Initiatives to Encourage the Sign Industry

Franchisees Share Some of their Best Practices for Going Green




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Author and Sex Therapist Dr. Donna Oriowo Launches Cocoa Butter & Hair Grease Website to Help Encourage Self-Love as it Relates to Skin and Hair

On a Mission to Create Confidence Amongst African American Young Girls & Women




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'Brutally Honest' New Book by GFA World Founder Encourages Church -- 'Never Give Up'

Gripping account of K.P. Yohannan's spiritual journey set for release April 28 as nearly half of North Americans cite COVID-19 as 'last days' warning




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Encouraging Girls and Women to Build Confidence and Courage: Shift Up Now Helps Female Racers Realize Their Motorsport Dreams

Shift Up Now is gaining traction and attention as more female racers–– professional and amateur alike–– lend their names to the cause and the organization.  




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Shaka Smith Encourages the Wrongfully Incarcerated to "Stay Strong" on Debut Single

Accomplished lawyer cum musician shows off a fresh hip hop/reggae sound on his debut social justice single with eclectic remixes from musician Benjamin Patterson, supporting The Innocence Project.




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Alsco Encourages Policy Makers to Enforce Best Management Practices as Business and Dining Establishments Reopen

Part of economic recovery involves keeping restaurant patrons safe by boosting public health and safety practices




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Maya Angelou on Courage and Creativity

Dr. Maya Angelou, renowned author.




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Playing Minecraft with Behavioural Cloning. (arXiv:2005.03374v1 [cs.AI])

MineRL 2019 competition challenged participants to train sample-efficient agents to play Minecraft, by using a dataset of human gameplay and a limit number of steps the environment. We approached this task with behavioural cloning by predicting what actions human players would take, and reached fifth place in the final ranking. Despite being a simple algorithm, we observed the performance of such an approach can vary significantly, based on when the training is stopped. In this paper, we detail our submission to the competition, run further experiments to study how performance varied over training and study how different engineering decisions affected these results.




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Beautiful and functional outdoor spaces can encourage more time spent outside, whether cooking, relaxing or even watching TV

Warm summer nights are on the way.…




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Trespass discouraging device for pets

This device is designed to discourage pets from trespassing in neighbors yards, etc. Primarily, it consists of a plastic cylinder rotatable on a shaft placed in the ground. The cylinder includes a wire whip extending from its outer wall, for striking the pet when it licks bait on a bait stick extending from the device, and a spring on the inside of the cylinder is wound by a crank pin on the shaft, to set the device, which is harmless, and also produces the noise of a rattlesnake.




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Unit for transferring and up-ending sealed packages of pourable food products

A unit for transferring and up-ending at least one sealed package containing a pourable food product and having a first axis, comprising: at least one push member which cooperates with package to feed it along a first path from an in-feed station to an out-feed station; the path extending about a second axis; the unit further comprising a guide cooperating with a first side of package along first path to up-end it from an in-feed position, in which it is positioned with first axis oriented in a first direction, to an out-feed position, in which it is positioned with first axis oriented in a second direction crosswise to first direction; and an anti-rotating mechanism cooperating with package along path to prevent package from rotating about first axis; an anti-rotating mechanism comprising a pressure element rotatable about second axis and adapted to cooperate, in use, with package.




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Textile colouration

A textile comprising a diacetylene compound which is capable of changing color when irradiated with light energy. Methods of imparting color to textiles comprising irradiating the textile with light energy are also provided.




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£700,000 grant to encourage more people to cycle in Hampshire

HAMPSHIRE and the Isle of Wight are set to benefit from a £700,000 fund that aims to encourage more people to take up cycling.




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Marwell's Go! Rhino choir hoping to encourage bidders

IT IS all about the money, money, money that can be raised by Southampton’s rhinos.




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#OTGYpsi: Sense Of Community And Encouragement Grows Out Of Ypsilanti COVID-19 Photo Project

It's safe to say that the COVID-19 crisis will be more than a footnote in world history. In fact, a new initiative is underway to see that this moment in time will be never be forgotten and that "we're all in this together." For this week's "On the Ground-Ypsi," WEMU's Lisa Barry and Concentrate Media's Sarah Rigg talk to local historian Kim Clarke about the "Ypsilanti Coronavirus Digital Archive," a new photo project designed to preserve memories of everyday life during the pandemic.




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parkrun encourages debut Dudley participant

Active Black Country Coordinator proves #ThisGirlCan for International Women’s Day 2020.