This paper investigates the potential of a concept for the commercial utilization of surplus intermittent wind-generated electricity for municipal district heating based on the development of an electric-driven heat storage. The article is divided into three sections: (1) A review of energy storage systems; (2) Results and calculations after a market analysis based on electricity consumption statistics covering the years 2005–2013; and (3) Technology research and the development of an innovative thermal energy storage (TES) system. The review of energy storage systems introduces the basic principles and state-of-the-art technologies of TES. The market analysis describes the occurrence of excess wind power in Germany, particularly the emergence of failed work and negative electricity rates due to surplus wind power generation. Based on the review, an innovative concept for a prototype of a large-scale underwater sensible heat storage system, which is combined with a latent heat storage system, was developed. The trapezoidal prism-shaped storage system developed possesses a high efficiency factor of 0.98 due to its insulation, large volume, and high rate of energy conversion. Approximate calculations showed that the system would be capable of supplying about 40,000 people with hot water and energy for space heating, which is equivalent to the population of a medium-sized city. Alternatively, around 210,000 inhabitants could be supplied with hot water only. While the consumer´s costs for hot water generation and space heating would be lowered by approximately 20.0–73.4%, the thermal energy storage would generate an estimated annual profit of 3.9 million euros or more (excluding initial costs and maintenance costs).

Objective: As the scale and importance of official development assistance (ODA) continue to grow, the need to enhance the effectiveness of ODA policies has become more critical than ever before. In this context, it is essential to systematically classify recipient countries and establish tailored ODA policies based on these classifications. The objective of this study is to identify an appropriate methodology for categorizing developing countries using specific criteria, and to apply it to actual data, providing valuable insights for donor countries in formulating future ODA policies. Design/Methodology/Approach: The data used in this study are the basic statistics on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) published annually in the SDGs Report. The analytical method employed is decision tree analysis. Results: The results indicate that the 167 countries analyzed were classified into 10 distinct nodes. The study further limited the scope to the five nodes representing the most disadvantaged developing countries and suggested future directions for aid policies for each of these nodes.

This article examines the legal challenges associated with the utilization of marine genetic resources (MGR) at both the national level and beyond national jurisdiction (BBNJ). The legal challenges addressed are as follows: 1) MGR are located across various jurisdictions, encompassing both national and international domains. The analysis starts with an overview of the international regulations that govern the utilization of genetic resources (GR) and their influence on national legislation. It emphasizes the principle of state sovereignty over natural resources while defining MGR and determining ownership; 2) It further highlights the intersection of national and international laws, particularly in transboundary contexts and within Indigenous and Afro-descendant peoples (IADP) territories, analyzing how these regulations are interpreted and applied in such scenarios; 3) The legal challenges related to the use of MGR in international waters are examined. Special emphasis is placed on the recent United Nations (UN) Agreement concerning this issue. This includes an analysis of its impact and specific provisions related to the utilization of MGR, such as the quantity to be collected, the methodology employed, collection sites, among others. The article concludes by asserting that the equitable distribution of benefits from the use of GR should begin at the earliest stages of access to these resources, including project planning and sample collection, rather than being delayed until the patenting and commercialization phases. Early benefit-sharing is essential for promoting fairness and equity in the use of MGR.

Catfish (Pangasianodon hypothalamus) are known in Asia, specifically in Southeast Asia. Currently, this fish has been exported to almost all countries in the world. This research aimed to examine the existing conditions of the solid waste produced, analyze the chemical composition of the waste, and look for alternatives for the policy and economical use of waste in the catfish processing business. Using the survey method, data were gathered through measurement at the research location and laboratory, interviews with business owners, and field observations. Proximate analysis was conducted on pink slime meat, belly fat, bones, and fish innards. Analysis of acid number, saponification number, iodine number, and fat fatty acid was carried out on stomach fat. Meanwhile, amino acid analysis was carried out for pink slime meat. Handling catfish industrial waste has yet to be carried out properly, which causes a foul smell and disturbs the environment. The catfish industry waste’s chemical content (protein, fat, water content, carbohydrates, and fatty acids) (pink slime meat, belly fat, fish bones, and innards) is still relatively applicable. The study processed fish waste into products like instant porridge, analogous fish sago rice, and fish sago noodles. The proximate analysis results of these products show figures that exceed the minimum standards for similar products.

The telecommunications sector is crucial in a country’s economy. The advancements in information and communication technology have had a significant impact on this sector, particularly in the electronic transactions domain. The utilization of electronic transactions in the telecommunications sector can yield substantial benefits, including increasing non-tax state revenue and economic development in Indonesia. The Covid-19 pandemic has served as a catalyst for the sharp rise in internet usage and telecommunications services, such as work-from-home, distance learning, online shopping or payments, industrial digitization, telemedicine, and others. Consequently, digital transformation has accelerated, necessitating the equitable distribution of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in Indonesia. The utilization of electronic transactions has directly contributed to the increase in state revenue from non-tax sector, particularly in the telecommunications sector. This can be observed through the continuous growth of non-tax revenue achieved by the Ministry of Communication and Informatics, surpassing the set targets each year in terms of realized value. The objective of this research is to analyze the effectiveness, challenges, and impacts of electronic transactions in increasing non-tax state revenue, in order to generate policy recommendations in Indonesia. This study uses a normative juridical method, analyzing positive legal provisions. Data sources were obtained from three types of legal materials, and data collection was conducted both online and offline. The research results indicate that the utilization of electronic transactions can increase non-tax state revenue in the telecommunications sector through various forms such as telecommunications bill payments, e-commerce transactions, sales of prepaid credit and data packages, telecommunications devices, digital services, content delivery, and transaction monitoring and oversight.

Fujian Tubao, a defensive residential structure predominantly found in central Fujian, represents a significant cultural heritage of the region. However, with the rapid urbanization underway, Fujian Tubao faces the threat of extinction, presenting severe challenges to its survival and development. Identifying a sustainable development path for Fujian Tubao is crucial for preserving regional culture. This study uses Fuxing Bao, a quintessential example of Fujian Tubao, as a case study to explore conservation methods based on adaptive reuse. Through field surveys, questionnaires, in-depth interviews, and case studies, we analyze the historical background of the building, focusing on the current physical and social environment of Fuxing Bao. Our findings indicate that the current state of preservation of Fuxing Bao can meet the requirements for adaptive reuse. By integrating results from surveys and interviews with local villagers, we propose sustainable development strategies and conservation methods. This research offers a sustainable development model for Fujian Tubao and other traditional regional dwellings. By adopting an adaptive reuse perspective, it aims to better address the conflict between modern living and traditional architectural preservation, ensuring that these architectural spaces are properly protected and continue to play a unique role in contemporary society.