Revista Geográfica de Chile Terra Australis

Tool for the diagnosis of riverside quality. Ventania system, Argentina

Antonela Volonté, Verónica Gil — Tue, 31 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0300

Riparian zones are areas of extraordinary environmental wealth. They have been occupied and transformed by humans, affecting their appearance and conservation status. The application of riverbank quality indices allows for the detection, monitoring, and management of risks associated with modifications to these areas. The aim of this paper is to apply the Index of Quality of the Pampas Riverbanks (ICRP) in the Oro basin (Sistema de Ventania, Argentina). The ICRP assesses the quality of riverbanks, land use, and the characteristics of the adjacent area. Five segments of three streams in the basin were analyzed in February 2022 and 2024. The results allow for the characterization of the bank quality as "good," noting a deterioration over the two years analyzed due to anthropogenic actions, indicated by the presence of exotic and invasive plant species and the existence of structures crossing the channel.

MINING THE FINAL FRONTIER: EVALUATING THE ECONOMIC VIABILITY OF SPACE MINING

Erik Escalona Aguilar, Rafeel Riaz, Richard Lane, Mohammad Ayaz Alam — Tue, 31 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0300

This research examines the prospects for extraterrestrial resource extraction, particularly emphasizing Chile’s distinctive ability to emerge as a leader in this nascent sector. The analysis covers advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and satellite geospatial analysis, crucial to obtaining materials from extraterrestrial entities, such as asteroids and lunar bodies. Chile’s extensive mining experience, particularly in extreme environments exemplified by the Atacama Desert, positions the country in an advantageous position to adapt these modern technologies to extraterrestrial applications. An assessment of the economic viability of space mining is made, with projections indicating that asteroids may host resources of immense value, potentially amounting to trillions of dollars. However, considerable obstacles are recognized, including significant upfront investments and regulatory impediments. Public-private partnerships are advocated to alleviate financial uncertainties and build on established mining expertise. Furthermore, the importance of technological progress, particularly in autonomous systems and in the use of in-situ resources, is highlighted as a critical element for the success of space mining initiatives. This analysis postulates that, through strategic financial commitments and collaborative efforts, Chile could assume a fundamental role in the future landscape of space mining, thus contributing to economic advancement and resource sustainability.

Exploring Public Perceptions of Prototype Rural Landscapes in Contemporary China: A Survey-based Study

Liu Shaohua, Noor Azizi bin Mohd Ali — Mon, 20 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0300

The present study delves into the public perceptions concerning prototype rural landscapes in China, aiming to unravel the varied layers of appreciation, concerns, and aspirations among respondents. Employing a quantitative approach through a structured questionnaire, the survey collected insights from a diverse demographic to unveil compelling facets of rural landscape perceptions. The findings revealed a collective admiration for cultural heritage preservation, natural beauty, and traditional architectural styles within rural settings. However, amidst this appreciation, concerns regarding infrastructural deficiencies, environmental sustainability, and socio-economic disparities emerged meanwhile. These insights underscore the necessity of integrating public perceptions into future landscape planning endeavors to develop culturally resonant, sustainable and community-centric rural landscapes. Recommendations for future research highlight avenues for deeper exploration, emphasizing the need for innovative strategies to bridge infrastructural gaps, enhance environmental sustainability, and empower communities in shaping the future of rural landscapes in China.

Keywords: Prototype Rural Landscapes, Public Perception, China, Landscape Design, Community Development