International Journal of Global Environmental Issues (4 papers in press)

Regular Issues

• Optimised ensemble machine learning modelling for flood prediction in a Himalayan river  
  by Imran Mirza, Nuzhat Yatoo, Deepika Saxena 
  Abstract: The glacier fed perennial rivers of Himalayas wreak havoc in the valleys when flooded and its accurate prediction is very important. Therefore, in this paper, four ensemble machine learning (ML) models are developed and optimised using the tree-based pipeline optimisation tool (TPOT). The models were trained and tested on the dataset having 6,252 data points and 12 features. Two new factors, earth skin temperature (EST) and dew point temperature (DPT) features were also explored and used to train the models. The results show the significance of EST and DPT in predicting the floods in a Himalayan river. It also demonstrated that the TPOT optimised extra trees classifier (ETC) showed better results in predicting floods than any other ensemble model with the AUROC 0.984, recall 0.97, precision 0.89, and F1 score 0.93. These results can help to develop an early warning system to alert concerned population prior to flooding disaster.
  Keywords: flood prediction; TPOT; Himalayas; machine learning; ML; earth skin temperature; EST; dew point temperature; DPT.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJGENVI.2025.10073169
   
  
• Ritualistic hunting in selected districts of West Bengal (India): implications on wildlife diversity and conservation  
  by Anirban Baitalik, Tanmoyee Bhattacharjee, Dibakar Bera, Alolika Paladhi, Rinku Rani Kar, Monimala Ojha, Akash Hazra, Marufa Dilwara Begum, Rahul Lohar, Moupriya Karan, Rajesh Dandapat 
  Abstract: This study examines the impact of ritualistic hunting practices on wildlife diversity and conservation at the local level in the context of West Bengal, India. In the name of Ritualistic Hunting, lots of globally threatened wild animals are killed each and every year, especially by the local Santhal communities. As a result, the wildlife diversity has declaimed drastically in many parts of the state especially in the western part of West Bengal (locally known as Jungle Mahal). The study revealed that in spite of decreasing forest health and wildlife richness, people lack interest in wildlife conservation practices. So, the implications of the study regarding drivers of illegal hunting, tendencies to stop hunting, awareness about wildlife protection among the local tribal community will be beneficial to policy makers and conservation scientists for identifying a common ground in minimising conflict between traditional culture (ritualistic hunting) and wildlife conservation practices.
  Keywords: conservation; diversity; hunting; Jungle Mahal; Santhal tribes; wildlife; India.
  
  

Special Issue on: The Impact and Implications of Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) and Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) on Global Trade

• Why the CPTPP could be an impetus for the new globalisation  
  by Dimos Chatzinikolaou, Charis Vlados 
  Abstract: This paper investigates the comprehensive and progressive agreement for trans-pacific partnership (CPTPP) as a potential driving force for the emerging phase of globalisation, termed the new globalisation. It introduces the new globalisation scenario matrix (NGSM) to assess the CPTPPs role within this framework. Our study finds that the CPTPP aligns with a medium-high performance scenario, notably emphasising environmental regulations that both counter climate change and anticipate challenges arising from increased cross-border trade and enhanced regional integration. As the world navigates pressing challenges today, the CPTPP emerges as a potentially important player, promoting trade liberalisation while upholding environmental protection, and pointing the way for future international accords.
  Keywords: CPTPP; new globalisation; environmental regulations; trade liberalisation; evolutionary structural triptych; EST; new globalisation scenario matrix; NGSM; International Political Economy; IPE.
  
  
• Unpacking Japans informal leadership in the trans-pacific partnership/comprehensive and progressive agreement for trans-pacific partnership  
  by Siti Darwinda Mohamed Pero, Muhammad Ali Ridha Norman, O.K. Mohammad Fajar Ikhsan, Shazwanis Shukri, Zain Maulana 
  Abstract: The comprehensive and progressive agreement for trans-pacific partnership (CPTPP), which came into effect on December 30, 2018, is described as a cutting-edge trade agreement. Despite the USA’ withdrawal and subsequent minor modifications made to the previous iteration of the agreement, known as the trans-pacific partnership (TPP), the CPTPP continues to be a catalyst for transformation. This paper aims to assess Japan’s informal leadership roles, particularly after the USA chose to exit the agreement. Through document analysis, this study presents its findings on Japan’s informal leadership roles in maintaining and advancing the CPTPP’s agenda. The findings reveal that, thus far, Japan has effectively exercised its informal leadership in two instances: first, in leading the CPTPP when the USA abandoned the agreement, and second, in facilitating the accession of potential new member states to this mega free trade agreement.
  Keywords: Japan leadership; informal leadership; regionalism; multilateral trade agreement; TPP/CPTP.