Background Climate change is a problem which is global in nature, and whose effects go across a wide range of disciplines. It is therefore important that this theme is taken into account as part of universities´ teaching and research programs. Methods A three-tiered approach was used, consisting of a bibliometric analysis, an online survey and a set of case studies, which allow a profile to be built, as to how a sample of universities from 45 countries handle climate change as part of their teaching programs. Results This paper reports on a study which aimed at identifying the extent to which matters related to climate change are addressed within the teaching and research practices at universities, with a focus on the training needs of teaching staff. It consists of a bibliometric analysis, combined with an online worldwide survey aimed at ascertaining the degree of involvement from universities in reducing their own carbon footprint, and the ways they offer training provisions on the topic. This is complemented by a set of 12 case studies from universities round the world, illustrating current trends on how universities handle climate change. Apart from reporting on the outcomes of the study, the paper highlights what some universities are doing to handle climate issues, and discusses the implications of the research. Conclusions The paper lists some items via which universities may better educate and train their students on how to handle the many challenges posed by climate change.

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The study investigated whether farm practical training (FPT)

Purpose The interconnections between climate change and health are well studied. However, there is a perceived need for studies that examine how responses to health hazards (e.g. cardiovascular diseases, ozone layer effects, allergens, mental health and vector-borne diseases) may assist in reducing their impacts. The purpose of this paper is to review the evidence on health responses to climate hazards and list some measures to address them. Design/methodology/approach A mixed literature review, bibliometric analysis and an original online survey were undertaken on 140 participants from 55 countries spread across all geographical regions. Findings The bibliometric analysis identified that most climate-related health hazards are associated with extreme weather events. However, only one-third of the investigated papers specifically analysed the connections between climate change and health hazards, revealing a thematic gap. Also, although Africa is highly affected by climate change, only 5% of the assessed studies focused on this continent. Many respondents to the survey indicated “heat distress” as a significant vulnerability. The survey also identified social determinants relevant to climate-induced health vulnerabilities, such as socioeconomic and environmental factors, infrastructure and pre-existing health conditions. Most respondents agree that policies and regulations are the most effective adaptation tools to address the public health hazards triggered by climate change. This paper presents some suggestions for optimising public health responses to health hazards associated with climate change, such as the inclusion of climate-related components in public health policies, setting up monitoring systems to assess the extent to which specific climate events may pose a health threat, establishing plans to cope with the health implications of heatwaves, increased measures to protect vulnerable groups and education and awareness-raising initiatives to reduce the overall vulnerability of the population to climate-related health hazards. These measures may assist the ongoing global efforts to understand better – and cope with – the impacts of climate change on health. Originality/value The combination of a literature review, bibliometric analysis and an original world survey identified and presented a wide range of responses.

8 weeks growth and meat quality of WAD sheep study were carried out to compare the digestibility of improved dried elephant grass (EG) (Pennisetum purpureum) supplemented with legume straw (LS) (Lablab purpureus) reared under indoor feeding system (IFS) and free grazing (FG). Twenty-four male west African dwarf (WAD) winner sheep with initial average body weight of 16 ± 0.5kg were assigned to four dietary treatments in a completely randomized design arrangement. Treatments consisted of T1 (sheep on EG and LS free grazing), indoor feeding system IFS; T2 (EG 80%, LS 20%), T3 (EG 70%, LS 30%) and T4 (EG 60%, LS 40%). The results showed that the final body weight of sheep on indoor feeding system T4 differed significantly (P < 0.05) from that of sheep on free grazing, T2 and T3. Physico-chemical properties were better in sheep meat on IFS (EG 60%, LS 40%) compared with other system including FG, control treatment. The sensory perception and fatty acid profiles of sheep meat on IFS were better compared with the sheep meat on FG system. These results showed that rearing of WAD sheep on indoor feeding system were better in terms of growth performance and its meat quality and could serve as an alternative to free grazing especially in region where there are incessant clashes between herders and crop farmers.

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