IGEE Proceedings

Narrowing the Attitude-Behavior Gap: EcoStep, a Mobile Application for Plastic Reduction Using Visualization, Gamification, and Personalization†: Il Song, Wonhee Jeong; IGEE Proc. 2026;3(2):100-106. Published online June 29, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2026.014

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Plastic pollution, especially microplastics, has emerged as a serious environmental problem. However, the atti-tude-behavior gap, in which high awareness does not translate into action, has been noted as a barrier to sus-tainable consumption, and a regulation-centered approach alone appears to have difficulty driving voluntary in-dividual behavior change. In response, this study developed EcoStep, a mobile application combining visuali-zation, gamification, and personalization to help convert awareness into action, and examined its effects on practice frequency and response efficacy. Using a mixed methods design, the 20-day study drew on usage logs from 29 app users, end-of-study survey responses from 14 of them, and in-depth face-to-face interviews with 5 partic-ipants. A retrospective pre-post survey on a 5-point scale measured severity awareness, practice frequency, response efficacy, feature ratings, and intention to use. Plastic reduction was calculated through conservative conversion to prevent overestimation, and the quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The 29 participants recorded a total plastic reduction of 7 kg. Practice frequency rose from an average of 2.29 to 3.71, narrowing the attitude-behavior gap from 1.57 to 0.14, and response efficacy from 2.86 to 3.64. Ratings of the main features were generally positive, and about 80% of participants indicated an intention to continue using and recommend the app. These results suggest that concrete, measurable feedback and motivational elements can help narrow the attitude-behavior gap, and that digital interventions can complement regulation-centered policy to support voluntary pro-environmental behavior. This study also relates to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 12, 13, and 14.; Summary

Environmental Inequality and Socioeconomic Vulnerability: A Meta-Analysis and Exploratory GIS-Based Spatial Analysis of Seoul: Seoyoung Park, Minseo Kim, Dayoung Lee, Seohyun Lee, Sohye Lee; IGEE Proc. 2026;3(3):152-166. Published online October 22, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2026.023

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Background
Environmental inequality refers to the unequal distribution of environmental risks and benefits across social groups and geographic areas. Previous studies have reported associations between various environmental indicators and socioeconomic factors; however, substantial heterogeneity across studies has limited the ability to draw generalized conclusions. Therefore, this study aimed to synthesize the overall pattern of association between environmental disadvantage and socioeconomic vulnerability reported in previous empirical studies, explore how related spatial patterns are manifested within Seoul, and consider their implications for environmental justice screening and ESG-informed urban environmental governance.
Methods
Following the PRISMA guidelines, a systematic review of domestic and international literature was conducted, and a random-effects meta-analysis was performed on ten empirical studies. Effect sizes were based on reported correlation coefficients (r), which were transformed using Fisher’s z transformation, pooled, and subsequently converted back to correlation coefficients. In addition, an exploratory area-level GIS analysis was conducted across 426 administrative dongs (neighborhood-level administrative units) in Seoul, South Korea. Potential environmental burden was represented by the proportion of land area located within a 300-m proximity zone surrounding environmental infrastructure facilities, while housing vulnerability was represented by the proportion of publicly supported housing. The association between these proxy indicators was examined using correlation analysis, and spatial clustering of the environmental facility proximity indicator was assessed using Global Moran’s I and Local Indicators of Spatial Association (LISA).
Results
The meta-analysis yielded a positive pooled association between environmental disadvantage and socioeconomic vulnerability (r = 0.316, 95% CI: 0.183–0.438), although substantial between-study heterogeneity indicated considerable variation across research contexts. The GIS analysis of Seoul identified a weak positive area-level association between the 300-m environmental facility proximity indicator and the publicly supported housing ratio (r = 0.187, R² = 0.035). Furthermore, the Global Moran’s I analysis showed statistically significant positive spatial autocorrelation in the environmental facility proximity indicator (I = 0.216, z = 7.790, pseudo p = 0.001; 999 permutations). A 500-m sensitivity analysis produced similar directional results.
Conclusions
This study quantitatively synthesized evidence suggesting an overall positive relationship between environmental inequality and socioeconomic vulnerability. The Seoul case study further provided exploratory evidence of a weak positive association between environmental facility proximity and the proportion of publicly supported housing, as well as the presence of localized spatial clustering patterns. However, given the limited number of included studies, the substantial heterogeneity among them, and the use of proxy measures for both environmental burden and housing vulnerability in the GIS analysis, the findings should be interpreted as preliminary evidence rather than definitive causal conclusions. Accordingly, the Seoul analysis should be interpreted as a screening-oriented exploratory assessment that may help identify candidate areas for more detailed environmental and socioeconomic investigation, rather than as a stand-alone basis for designating environmentally unjust areas or determining direct policy intervention.; Summary

Evaluating How the Concentration of Chitosan Affects the Properties of Bioplastic in Terms of its Biodegradation Rate: Czarina Royce H. Rebanal; IGEE Proc. 2025;2(1):43-52. Published online February 27, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2025.010

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We encounter plastic materials daily. Many companies opt to use plastic in manufacturing their products to keep production costs low, hence making it affordable for consumers. Though this makes it easier for consumers to buy daily necessities, plastic industries release 1.34 billion tons of greenhouse gas annually. Additionally, plastic persists in the environment because of its extremely low rate of biodegradation. The plastic build up has led to dangerous levels of plastic pollution which has affected wildlife, climate, and human health. A prominent solution to this problem is the ongoing research on bioplastics, plastics made from renewable sources (like microbes and plants) instead of petroleum. The current issue with these bioplastics though, is that they are not as durable as normal plastic since these renewable materials easily degrade. The rigorous search for a material that combats synthetic plastic’s durability has led to the research on chitosan, a biodegradable sugar found in the exoskeleton of shellfish. Due to its antimicrobial properties, it has a lower degradation rate compared to other bioplastics. This makes the durability of chitosan-based bioplastics comparable to synthetic plastics. Through this research, the durability of chitosan-based bioplastics will be tested through a soil burial test and tensile strength test. This research discusses how varying the concentration of chitosan in chitosan-based bioplastics mimics natural biodegradation mechanisms whilst combating the durability of synthetic plastics.

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Development, characterization, and optimization of biodegradable composite films from waste potato peel starch reinforced with avocado peel pectin and sisal fiber for packaging applications
Gutema Gebeyehu Bekele, Endrias Adane Bekele, Solomon Demiss Negedu
Scientific Reports.2026;[Epub] CrossRef

Can Electric Motorcycles Save Lives? Evidence from Uganda and Rider-Level Barriers to Electric Transition: Hyeongchan Yun, Beomjun Kim, Seoyoon Jung; IGEE Proc. 2026;3(3):180-194. Published online October 13, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2026.018

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Urban motorcycle taxis, or boda bodas, dominate mobility in Kampala, Uganda, where aging internal combus-tion engine fleets are a primary driver of PM2.5 pollution and associated mortality burdens, yet the transition to electric vehicles (EVs) remains limited. Under a hypothesis that a transition of internal combustion engine motorcycles into electric vehicles will decrease the PM2.5 pollution and eventually generate health benefits, the authors incorporate quasi-experimental method with qualitative thematic analysis. Using a Differ-ence-in-Differences framework that exploits an Ebola-induced mobility lockdown in Mubende district in 2022 as an exogenous shock, we estimate that transportation accounts for approximately 13.9% of ambient PM2.5, implying that full boda boda electrification could reduce total PM2.5 by 5% and avert approximately 58 premature deaths annually in Kampala. Drawing on nine in-depth interviews with boda boda riders analyzed through thematic analysis, we further investigate that adoption hesitancy reflects not attitudinal resistance but three structural barriers: 1) insufficient battery-swap infrastructure generating spatial uncertainty, 2) a policy misalignment between government objectives and riders, and 3) extractive financial structures that amplify income volatility under daily-income dependence. These findings suggest that realizing the public health gains from electrifying motorcycles requires rider-centered policy interventions targeting infrastructure reliability and flexible financing, rather than hardware substitution alone.; Summary

Establishment Plan for Sustainable Villages through Resolving Mongolian Ger District Issues†: Eun-hye Song, Khuslen Bazarragchaa, Geon-young Kim, Sung-kwon Lee; IGEE Proc. 2025;2(2):68-82. Published online June 30, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2025.014

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In recent years, Mongolia has witnessed a steady influx of migrants into the ger districts on the outskirts of Ulaanbaatar. While some have been displaced by climate change-induced zud and desertification, which have devastated traditional livestock-based livelihoods, a larger share of the migration stems from structural inequalities—namely, the concentration of employment opportunities, education, and essential infrastructure in the capital. This surge in population has intensified urban overcrowding and deepened various environmental and social challenges. The ger districts stand out as areas facing particularly acute challenges such as high unemployment, poverty, air pollution, soil contamination, energy poverty, and a critical lack of educational and healthcare services. This study moves beyond the conventional climate refugee framework by analyzing these broader drivers of migration through structured surveys and in-depth interviews with both ger district residents and the general urban population. Based on the findings, a sustainable village model is proposed for the Salkhit area, integrating agriculture, settled livestock farming, agricultural cooperatives, solar power generation, and tourism infrastructure. These systems are designed to operate autonomously and scale to other regions of Mongolia. By offering both policy and practical guidelines, this model aims to relieve metropolitan congestion and promote balanced regional development. However, due to limitations such as insufficient climatic, geographic, and agricultural baseline data and constraints in technical infrastructure, continuous feedback through test-bed operations and phased revisions are essential to ensure long-term viability and effectiveness.

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Student Involvement in SDG Projects: Seven Years of Yonsei University’s Social Engagement Fund (2018–2025)
Sarah Soyeon Oh, In Han Song, Shinki An
IGEE Proceedings.2025; 2(3): 178. CrossRef

Non-Prescription Antibiotic Use and Unsafe Household Medicine Disposal in Indonesia: Implications for Antimicrobial Stewardship: Danik Iga Prasiska, Suk-Yong Jang; IGEE Proc. 2026;3(1):17-26. Published online February 23, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2026.002

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Non-prescription access to antibiotics remains widespread in low and middle-income countries and is a major contributor to antimicrobial resistance. Unsafe household storage and disposal of medicines further reinforce inappropriate antibiotic use and environmental contamination. Yet, national evidence integrating antibiotic knowledge, medicine safety awareness, and household practices remains limited. This study examined associa-tions between antibiotic-related knowledge, awareness of damaged medicines, and non-prescription antibiotic purchase among adults in Indonesia using nationally representative survey data. A cross-sectional analysis was conducted using the 2023 Indonesian Health Survey, including 430,204 adults with complete outcome data. The primary outcome was self-reported purchase of antibiotics without a prescription. Survey-weighted modified Poisson regression models were used to estimate adjusted relative risks accounting for individual and household characteristics. Overall, 19.7% of adults reported purchasing antibiotics without a prescription. Higher risk was observed among adults aged 26 to 44 years, females, rural residents, individuals with chronic conditions or physical disabilities, and those from poorer households. Each 10-pp increase in antibi-otic-specific knowledge was associated with a lower risk of non-prescription antibiotic purchase (adjusted RR 0.97, 95% CI 0.97 - 0.98). In contrast, awareness related to damaged or expired medicines was associated with a higher risk (adjusted RR 1.04, 95% CI 1.03 - 1.04). Household medicine disposal practices were dominated by discarding medicines in household trash, while formal return to pharmacies or health facilities was rare. These findings indicate that antimicrobial stewardship requires integrated strategies addressing both rational an-tibiotic use and safe household medicine management to support progress toward Sustainable Development Goals related to health and responsible consumption.

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Scholarship at “Machine” Speed
Sarah Soyeon Oh
IGEE Proceedings.2026; 3(1): 14. CrossRef

The Social Resource Bank: A University-Based Model for Sustainable Community Engagement: Chung-Min Kang, Soo Jeoung Han; IGEE Proc. 2026;3(2):83-88. Published online June 17, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2026.010

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Climate Action for Balanced Regional Development: Exploratory Youth Preferences for Renewable Energy Policy Using Conjoint-Informed Scenario Ratings: Sujin Kim, Dain Jin, Sihyun Jung; IGEE Proc. 2026;3(3):133-151. Published online October 20, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2026.021

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Background
Korea's Renewable Energy 3020 Implementation Plan targeted a 20% share of power generation from new and renewable energy by 2030, yet such sources supplied only 10.6% of electricity in 2024. This implementation gap highlights social acceptance, community governance, and youth civic participation as important barriers alongside technology and finance. Quantitative evidence on which specific policy design attributes shape young Koreans' willingness to participate in renewable energy initiatives remains limited, and the mechanism by which educational engagement translates into pro-environmental behavioral choice has not been directly examined in this population.
Methods
The study employed a two-phase sequential design. Phase 1 consisted of an on-site preliminary field study at the Yeongdeok Renewable Energy Exhibition Hall (November 2025), involving direct observation of operational infrastructure and structured engagement with local cooperative stakeholders to ground subsequent instrument development in real-world context. Phase 2 was a one-group pre-post quasi-experimental online pilot study (N = 50, ages 18-29) in which participants completed a five-stage integrated protocol: a baseline awareness survey, a 15-minute educational video, four gamified learning modules linked to an Energy Coin (E.C.) reward system, a simulated cooperative online market transaction under experimentally induced point-budget constraints, and a post-survey incorporating an exploratory conjoint-informed scenario-rating task across six policy scenarios defined by four attributes (installation location, economic benefit type, participation mechanism, and governance structure). The six profiles are reported explicitly and treated as a burden-reduced profile set for main-effect exploration rather than a fully orthogonal conjoint design. Sample size was determined via G*Power 3.1 analysis of the paired awareness comparison (93% power at n = 50 for a medium within-person effect); the same n is not sufficient for regression-based attribute modelling, so the attribute results are reported as exploratory.
Results
Renewable energy awareness increased significantly from M = 4.2 to M = 5.7 on a 7-point scale (t(49) = 8.34, p < 0.001, Cohen's d = 1.18). Because the six-profile set cannot identify a full dummy-coded specification, attribute effects are reported as marginal means. Governance structure showed the widest spread (design-dependent relative importance 47.8%; cooperative joint ownership M = 5.69 vs. expert-managed M = 3.92, Δ = +1.77, 95% CI [1.27, 2.26]), followed by economic benefit (26.0%) and installation location (22.2%, Δ = +0.82 for farmland/idle land, 95% CI [0.37, 1.27]); the six scenario profiles accounted for 24.9% of the total variance in ratings (η² = 0.25). Participation mechanism accounted for 4.1% and was not significant; inferential claims are treated cautiously because ratings were repeated within participants, the profile set was small and nonorthogonal, and preferences were measured immediately after the educational intervention. In the only pair of scenarios that differed on governance structure alone (S6 vs. S4), the cooperative joint-ownership profile was rated 1.59 points higher than the expert-managed profile (95% CI [1.08, 2.10]). Energy Coin accumulation was associated with ecofriendly product selection (r = 0.42, 95% CI [0.16, 0.63], p = 0.002), although this association is descriptive because the same E.C. score also determined participants' simulated purchasing budget.
Conclusion
Governance architecture emerged as the strongest observed preference signal among these young Korean university participants, but the finding should be interpreted as exploratory and post-intervention rather than as a stable national estimate for Korean youth. A two-phase design combining field exposure with gamified online simulation was associated with large immediate awareness gains and simulated pro-environmental choice under explicit point-budget tradeoffs, offering a scalable evidence-generating approach for youth-centered climate policy research while requiring replication with more diverse regional and socioeconomic samples.; Summary

Exploring the Moderating Role of Curiosity in the Relationship Between Ethical Awareness and Consumer Behaviors†: Hyerim Gwon, Joohyun Kim, Yerim Kam, Yerin Chae; IGEE Proc. 2026;3(2):107-119. Published online June 29, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2026.016

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Despite the increasing interest in ethical consumption, the intention–behavior gap (I-B gap), where consumers' ethical intentions do not translate into actual behavior, remains a significant challenge. This study aimed to explore the role of curiosity in overcoming this gap. In Study 1, an online survey was conducted with 400 Korean university students to examine whether trait curiosity moderates the relationship between ethical consumption intention and prioritization. In Study 2, an experimental approach with 300 participants was used to investigate whether information gap and ambiguity techniques induce situational curiosity. Results from the first study revealed that although the hypothesized moderating effect of trait curiosity was not supported, exploratory analyses indicated that it independently predicted prioritization, and Stress Tolerance exhibited a negative moderating effect. In the subsequent experiment, while the ambiguity manipulation did not work as intended, exploratory observations suggested that curiosity may increase as information is perceived to be sufficient, showing a pattern contrary to the existing information gap theory. These exploratory findings suggest that transparent provision of information is more effective in eliciting curiosity in the context of ethical consumption.; Summary

Individual and Socioeconomic Determinants of Antenatal Care Access for Disadvantaged Pregnant Women: A Systematic Review and Empirical Analysis: Rani Wulandari; IGEE Proc. 2026;3(1):38-46. Published online February 26, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2026.004

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Socioeconomic disadvantage has consistently been associated with reduced maternal healthcare utilization; however, the extent to which individual-level socioeconomic and demographic characteristics explain antenatal care (ANC) access remains uncertain. This study examined associations between socioeconomic status (SES), basic demographic factors, and ANC completion, while synthesizing global evidence on social vulnerability and maternal healthcare access among disadvantaged pregnant women. The analysis combined secondary data from 2,019 women obtained from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) dataset with a systematic review and meta-analysis conducted in accordance with the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Multivariable logistic regression and exploratory machine learning approaches (K-Nearest Neighbors and XGBoost) were applied to assess the discriminative capacity of individual-level variables for ANC completion. A random-effects me-ta-analysis was used to synthesize adjusted odds ratios (aORs) from eligible observational studies. In the IHME dataset, SES was not significantly associated with ANC completion after adjustment (aOR = 0.97; 95% CI: 0.78–1.21), and individual-level models demonstrated limited discriminatory performance (AUC range: 0.49–0.50). In contrast, the meta-analysis of six studies showed that socioeconomic disadvantage was significantly associated with inadequate or delayed prenatal care (pooled aOR = 1.96; 95% CI: 1.26–3.07), with substantial heterogeneity across studies. Although conceptually distinct, indicators such as migrant status and neighborhood risk were synthesized as proxies of broader social vulnerability. Overall, these findings suggest that individual-level so-cioeconomic and demographic variables alone provide limited explanatory value for maternal healthcare utilization, highlighting the potential importance of broader structural and health system-level factors influencing access to antenatal care.; Summary

Will We Shape AI, or Will AI Shape Us? A Call to Action for Sustainable Development: Jenny Shipley; IGEE Proc. 2026;3(3):121-124. Published online October 7, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2026.017

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The Role of Transnational Advocacy Networks in United Nations Human Rights Council Resolutions†: Yonsoo Kim; IGEE Proc. 2026;3(2):92-99. Published online June 29, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2026.015

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This study examines how civil society participation in target and voting states shapes voting behavior in the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC). Drawing on Transnational Advocacy Network theory, it argues that civil society organizations (CSOs) in target states transmit information on human rights abuses to the interna-tional level, while CSOs in voting states translate this information into domestic political pressure. Using data on target-state CSO complaints submitted to the UN Special Procedures (UNSP) and measures of voter-state civil society participation from V-Dem (2025), the study analyzes UNHRC voting outcomes from 2009 to 2022 using a binary logistic regression. The results show that a higher number of CSO complaints against a target state increases the likelihood of affirmative votes, and this effect is significantly stronger when voting states have more active civil societies. These findings provide empirical evidence that transnational advocacy networks operate within the UNHRC, showing that civil society influence originating in target states is trans-mitted into international decision-making processes and becomes more effective when supported by active civil society in voting states.; Summary

Advancing SDG 16 through political participation on social media: A Comparative Study of Social Capital between South Korea and the United States: In Han Song, Kyeong Won Lee; IGEE Proc. 2024;1(1):32-49. Published online September 30, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2024.004

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The United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 16 (SDG 16) aims to promote peaceful, inclusive societies and build effective, accountable institutions. Despite the growing influence of online media on political activities in the digital age and the increasing importance of achieving SDG 16 through political participation, there has been a lack of empirical research on this topic. This cross-cultural comparative study investigates the relationships among online communication, social capital, and political participation in South Korea and the United States. Online surveys were conducted in both countries, focusing on people's interest and trust in online communication, types of online social capital (bonding and bridging), and engagement in conventional and unconventional forms of political participation. Our findings underscore the pivotal role of social media as a platform for citizens to voice their political opinions and partake in democratic processes. We discovered a significant correlation between heightened interest and trust in online communication and increased political participation in both countries. This correlation is instrumental in achieving SDG 16.7, which advocates for inclusive and participatory decision-making. This study also highlights the nuanced differences in the relationship between online social capital and political participation. In South Korea, bridging online social capital is associated with unconventional political activities, whereas in the United States, bonding online social capital is linked to these forms of engagement. However, in both countries, participation in presidential elections is associated with bridging online social capital, providing a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics at play. The potential of social media to expand opportunities for citizens to participate in the political process and hold their governments accountable contributes to achieving SDG 16.6, which aims to develop effective, accountable, and transparent institutions. However, the study also serves as a reminder of the challenges posed by online polarization and misinformation. To fully realize the benefits of social media in promoting inclusive and sustainable social development, addressing these issues and fostering healthy online communities are essential.In conclusion, this study underscores the importance of promoting online communication and building robust online communities as key strategies for achieving SDG 16, engaging a wide range of stakeholders in the process of building a more equitable and sustainable future.; Summary

Where the Effort Disappears: Opacity, Reciprocity, and Household Organic Waste Practice in Hyderabad, India†: Sohye Park, Sara Nuruddin Panjawani; IGEE Proc. 2026;3(3):167-179. Published online October 15, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2026.020

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Indian waste policy has largely framed the gap between segregation mandates and household practice as a be-havioural problem, to be addressed through messaging and outreach. Where residents already know the rules and still do not follow them, the question becomes under what conditions the practice is sustained. This study ex-amines how urban households in Hyderabad, Telangana, handle organic waste and what judgements about the waste system those practices rest on. Ten household-level semi-structured interviews and in-home observation were conducted, with 35 participants recruited through community networks. Standard composting kits were distributed, followed by a return visit after two and a half months. A contrast observation was conducted in Yavatmal, Maharashtra, where municipal collection is irregular. Data were analysed through reflexive thematic analysis. In Hyderabad, verification of sorted waste stopped at the building gate, where the only visible stage was the watchman consolidating separated bags. Participants explained their departure from official segregation by citing the state's own record, suspending their obligation without denying it. The kits were unused at revisit, yet five of the ten households were diverting peels, eggshells, and used tea to their own plants, one for fifteen years. Set against Yavatmal, where infrequent collection left waste to accumulate and be burned in an open field, the Hyderabad case indicates that where collection infrastructure functions, the obstacle lies in what households can see of it. In the households studied, neither knowledge nor equipment was absent. The findings suggest that intervention should target the visibility of the chain rather than household attitudes, and that performance measurement should record where separation breaks down and whether organic material is diverted at home.; Summary

Strengthening CBRN Preparedness through Military Medical Capabilities and Multisectoral Collaboration: Moonsoo Yoon; IGEE Proc. 2026;3(2):89-91. Published online June 19, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2026.013

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Health inequalities in children: A comprehensive review: Soojin Ahn, Hae Young Kim, Jae Il Shin, Lee Smith; IGEE Proc. 2025;2(3):165-177. Published online October 16, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2025.007

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Health inequalities, defined as systematic, avoidable, and unfair differences in health outcomes between populations, pose a major challenge to public health. This review examined how socioeconomic status, geographical location, and educational attainment affect children’s physical and mental health. It also highlights how the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated these inequalities. Children from lower socioeconomic backgrounds experience less access to healthcare and a higher rate of chronic diseases compared to those from higher socioeconomic backgrounds. Differences in geographical location also increase these gaps, particularly in rural or underdeveloped areas where resources are limited. Limitations in Educational attainment also have a further impact on health by limiting opportunities for health literacy and access to services. The present review explores interventions implemented by governments, hospitals, and schools to address these disparities. While nutritional programs and hospital-based initiatives have achieved some positive progress, challenges remain due to inconsistencies in implementation and funding allocation. In particular, differences in oral health and access to cancer care highlight gaps in existing measures. To overcome these disparities, a coordinated strategy that tackles the socioeconomic determinants of health is required. Politicians, healthcare providers, and educators must work together to guarantee fair allocation of resources and services. Thus, sustained commitment to these activities is required to ensure a healthier and more equitable future for all children.; Summary

Empowering Single Parent Households: A Web Platform to Address Systematic Gaps in Welfare and Care Support†: Mingyu Park, Juhyeong Song, Jiwon Park; IGEE Proc. 2025;2(2):94-102. Published online June 19, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2025.016

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Single parent households in South Korea face significant barriers in accessing welfare support due to fragmented information systems, persistent social stigma, and limited policy utilization. Despite the existence of various support programs, gaps in practical accessibility and reliability remain. This study aimed to develop a web-based platform that improves access to parenting, welfare, and emotional support information for single parent households, thereby promoting self-reliance and social inclusion. A full-stack web platform was developed using React.js, Next.js, Node.js, MongoDB, AWS S3, and the OpenAI GPT-4 API. The platform includes key functions such as an AI-powered chatbot, parenting diaries, health management tools, and structured access to verified welfare information. Domain-specific prompt engi-neering was applied to improve chatbot accuracy and empathy. The study did not involve human participants but relied on literature-based needs analysis and system design methodologies. The developed platform successfully integrated reliable information delivery, real-time AI-based guidance, and tools for tracking child health and caregiving. It addressed challenges such as low information reliability, limited support networks, and emotional isolation. Preliminary implementation confirmed the platform’s usability and relevance, although features like automated policy updates and geolocation services remain in development. The platform demonstrates the potential of digital solutions to mitigate systemic gaps in welfare information and caregiving support for single parent households. By aligning with key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the platform not only alleviates parenting burdens in the short term but also contributes to long-term goals of gender equity, health access, and social inclusion. Further iterations will focus on improving mobile accessi-bility, scaling user engagement, and enhancing AI accuracy.; Summary

South Korea’s existential public health emergency: Tackling the low birth rate, loneliness, and suicide crisis: Peter J. Na, Hae-Won Ryoo, Jim Yong Kim; IGEE Proc. 2024;1(1):50-53. Published online September 30, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2024.005

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South Korea is facing a critical public health emergency characterized by a rapidly declining birth rate, increasing loneliness, and high suicide rates. The fertility rate dropped to 0.72 children per woman in 2023, significantly below the OECD average. This decline is attributed to economic burdens, gender inequality, and changing societal norms. If these trends continue, the youth population could halve by 2040 compared to 2023, severely impacting the nation’s economy and demographic structure. Simultaneously, loneliness has become a significant issue, with over a third of Koreans living alone and a rise in deaths from isolation, particularly among middle-aged and older men. South Korea also faces a severe mental health crisis, marked by high rates of depression and the highest suicide rate among OECD countries for the past 25 years. Troublingly, recent trends indicate an increase in suicides among younger age groups. Efforts to address these issues have included government initiatives for mental health support, but these remain underfunded and insufficient compared to international standards. Additionally, the stigma surrounding mental health persists. South Korea can learn from countries like Japan and the UK, which have implemented successful interventions focusing on social integration and mental health. Addressing these intertwined crises requires collective action and a robust policy response to ensure a sustainable future for South Korea.; Summary

Establishing the ESD and GCEd system in higher education: Analyzing the holistic approach of Yonsei University in South Korea: Jae Eun Shin, Eun Kyoung Rhee, Shinki An, Younah Kang, Keeheon Lee, In Han Song; IGEE Proc. 2024;1(1):6-19. Published online September 30, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2024.002

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Abstract

Purpose
This study assesses the Global Citizenship Education (GCEd) and Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) initiatives at the Yonsei Institute of Global Engagement and Empowerment (IGEE). The objective is to identify strengths and areas for improvement in promoting ESD and GCEd principles and contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Design/Methodology/Approach: This research employs a comprehensive analysis framework to evaluate Yonsei IGEE's initiatives, including the "Understanding Sustainable Development with Ban Ki-moon" lectures, "Social Engagement Fund (SEF)" research program, "SDG Initiative," and "Global Engagement and Empowerment Forum (GEEF))." It considers objectives, environmental focus, pedagogical strategies, topic coverage, learning dimensions, and outcome measurement. Findings: Yonsei IGEE initiatives demonstrate strengths in terms of clear objectives, environmental focus, and pedagogical strategies. They complement each other, fostering synergy in promoting ESD and GCEd principles. The lecture series offers a holistic view of SDG issues, whereas SEF empowers students to address challenges practically. The SDG Initiative guides Yonsei's research community, and GEEF disseminates SDG knowledge and fosters collaboration. Originality: This study contributes originality in two aspects. First, it presents an innovative evaluation framework specifically designed to assess the diverse GCEd and ESD programs at Yonsei IGEE. This framework serves as a valuable tool for future evaluations of similar initiatives in higher education institutions. Second, the data and contents analyzed in this research, drawn from Yonsei IGEE's programs, are novel and provide unique insights into the efficacy of the GCEd and ESD efforts.

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Student Involvement in SDG Projects: Seven Years of Yonsei University’s Social Engagement Fund (2018–2025)
Sarah Soyeon Oh, In Han Song, Shinki An
IGEE Proceedings.2025; 2(3): 178. CrossRef

Building an AI Universal Basic Society: A Call for Global Intelligence Equity: Jiho Cha; IGEE Proc. 2026;3(3):125-128. Published online October 22, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2026.019

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Introducing the 2025 ‘Social Engagement Fund’ Cohort: Sarah Soyeon Oh, Eun Kyoung Rhee; IGEE Proc. 2026;3(3):129-132. Published online October 19, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2026.022

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Time for Action: Emerging Technology & Global Solidarity: Arturo Condo; IGEE Proc. 2026;3(2):77-79. Published online June 12, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2026.012

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Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis: Socioeconomic Determinants of Social Isolation Among Ghanaian Older Adults (2019–2024): Patrick Atanga Azoya, Sarah Soyeon Oh; IGEE Proc. 2026;3(1):27-37. Published online February 23, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2026.001

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Abstract

Background
Older adults in Ghana who experience socioeconomic disadvantage characterized by limited in-come, low educational attainment, inadequate housing, insecure or absent employment face obstacles to main-taining social connections, increasing their vulnerability to isolation and adverse health outcomes. Prolonged loneliness has been likened to the health impact of smoking 15 cigarettes per day (Shafiq et al., 2020). This review and meta-analysis examined cross-sectional studies showing differing relationships between social isola-tion/loneliness and low socioeconomic status (SES) among Ghanaian older adults. The objective was to synthesize quantitative evidence on associations between socioeconomic factors and social isolation or loneliness among older adult populations in Ghana. Methods: We searched PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase and African Journals Online (AJOL) for peer-reviewed English-language studies published from 1 January 2019 to December 2024. Eligible studies were quantitative, included Ghanaian older adults, reported associations between social isolation or loneliness and at least one socioeconomic factor, and provided extractable effect measures (OR/PR or raw counts). Two reviewers independently screened titles/abstracts and full texts. Data extracted covered study characteristics, exposures, outcomes, and adjusted effect estimates. We pooled odds ratios using random-effects meta-analysis (DerSi-monian–Laird) in R (meta/metafor); heterogeneity was quantified with I². Risk-of-bias visualizations were produced with robvis.

Results

Ten cross-sectional Ghanaian studies met inclusion criteria. All indicated that lower SES was associated with elevated odds of social isolation or loneliness (individual ORs 1.60–2.30). The pooled OR was 1.90 (95% CI: 1.69–2.14), indicating approximately a 90% higher likelihood of social isolation or loneliness among soci-oeconomically disadvantaged older adults. The findings suggest that aside cultural enablers, rural-urban migration effects are more severe in low-SES groups, potentially explaining the heightened ORs com-pared to global estimates.

Conclusion

Socioeconomic disadvantage is a substantial correlate of social isolation and loneliness among Ghanaian older adults. Interventions and policies addressing poverty, food insecurity, and broader socio-cultural determinants are needed to support social connectedness and healthy aging.

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Scholarship at “Machine” Speed
Sarah Soyeon Oh
IGEE Proceedings.2026; 3(1): 14. CrossRef

Bridging the Cognitive Digital Divide: A Prototype-Based Interven-tion for Elderly Learners in South Korea†: Yeeun Kim, Haeyoon Shin, Soo Yeon Kim; IGEE Proc. 2025;2(2):103-113. Published online June 30, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2025.017

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The acceleration of digital transformation across public and private sectors has exacerbated disparities in digital literacy, particularly among older adults who face cognitive, sensory, and technological barriers to effective engagement. In South Korea—despite widespread smartphone ownership among the elderly—digital proficiency remains disproportionately low, underscoring the inadequacy of current accessibility-focused interventions and the pressing need for cognitively and perceptually attuned digital education frameworks. This study examines the effectiveness of Ee Eum, a prototype digital literacy intervention specifically designed for adults aged 65 and older, integrating user-centered interface design principles with tiered educational scaffolding. A sequential mixed-methods design was employed. Initial qualitative inquiry through focus group and individual interviews (n = 30) identified key usability obstacles and content needs. This was followed by a series of controlled usability experiments (n = 31), including A/B testing of visual variables (e.g., contrast ratio, font size) and First Click Tests to evaluate interface navigability and perceptual clarity. Results demonstrated that high-contrast color combinations (e.g., yellow text on blue backgrounds) and enlarged text sizes (25–28pt) significantly improved legibility and reduced cognitive load. The inclusion of visual affordances in user interface elements led to substantial gains in navigational accuracy, with First Click Test performance increasing from 39.79% to 86.02% when target areas were visually emphasized. These findings provide empirical support for the role of perceptually optimized interface design in enhancing digital accessibility for older adults. The Ee Eum prototype offers a replicable framework for inclusive UI/UX development and contributes to ongoing discourse in gerontechnology, digital equity, and human-centered aging policy.; Summary

Technological Determinism in Smart Cities: AI’s Role in Urban Transformation and Workforce Disruption in Singapore: Jee Won Kim; IGEE Proc. 2025;2(1):20-30. Published online February 27, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2025.008

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Through the perspective of technological determinism, this study investigates the dual effects of artificial intelligence (AI) in Singapore's Smart Nation plan. Artificial intelligence has been incorporated into waste management, energy systems, and transportation to enhance resource efficiency and reduce carbon emissions, targeting positive impacts on Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. However, the development of AI has raised concerns about SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, as workforce disruptions disproportionately affect low-skilled employment. This essay critically assesses these trade-offs, highlighting the ethical and human factors that are frequently disregarded throughout technological advancements. It draws attention to the pressing need for legal frameworks that strike a balance between workforce inclusion, technological innovation, and ethical AI deployment by comparing data from before and after AI implementation. Additionally, it highlights how external factors–such as the infrastructure, regulatory policies, and public engagement–may alter the effectiveness and society impact of AI in smart cities. Through the suggested policies, this paper aims to guide nations around the world toward a sustainable, smart city while critically examining the setbacks and benefits of AI.; Summary

Care Economy in Korea: Beyond COVID-19 and Towards a Sustainable Caring Society: Nancy Folbre; IGEE Proc. 2025;2(1):9-11. Published online January 21, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2025.001

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Effective solution-building to prevent dropouts in Korea: The case of Q&A diary development^†: Sumin Kim; IGEE Proc. 2024;1(1):65-77. Published online September 30, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2024.010

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The number of out-of-school youth in South Korea has been increasing recently, leading to a corresponding rise in school dropouts. Moreover, the importance of schools is also diminishing. However, schools are a national system designed to protect adolescents, and the collapse of this system is far from desirable. Despite this crisis, support policies for out-of-school youth remain overly simplistic. Current policies in South Korea regarding out-of-school youth are based on a fragmented understanding of these adolescents, focusing primarily on preventing dropouts. These policies fail to consider the various sociocultural backgrounds and contexts influencing adolescents’ decision to leave school. For example, “dropping out” and “academic discontinuation” are more problematic issues. The ultimate goal of this study is not only to prevent dropouts but also to assist adolescents in making the best decisions on the basis of a deep understanding of their identities. As a first step, a diary was designed to enhance self-understanding by fostering narrative identity formation. A user test was conducted to create a Q&A diary that can assist out-of-school youth, and a literature review was performed to design practical solutions for preventing dropouts. Ultimately, this paper proposes increasing the flexibility of the school system and strengthening self-understanding activities in career education as measures to prevent dropout.; Summary

Inclusive Technologies and the Reconfiguration of Care: Giulia De Togni; IGEE Proc. 2026;3(2):80-82. Published online June 16, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2026.011

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A Conceptual Study on ‘After-Critical’ Global Citizenship: A New Perspective of Interconnected Society Based on Critical Realism: Eunbin Lee; IGEE Proc. 2026;3(1):67-76. Published online February 24, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2026.008

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This paper explores the critical realist approach to global citizenship education (GCED) by reviewing con-temporary discussions of GCED, primarily addressing the most relevant concepts of global citizenship from post-colonial/critical perspectives. In particular, this paper aims to discuss the distinctiveness of critical re-alist GCED in comparison with the preceding approach. While critical GCED has advanced important im-plications towards theory and practice in the field, and it is one of the most intensively accepted among the most recent scholarly discussions, it still encounters challenges such as a binary standpoint, a lack of deeper ontological consideration, and a failure to involve generative mechanisms to judge and achieve social justice. This necessitates a new or an alternative conceptualization of GCED. In response to the arguments, this paper suggests ‘after-critical’ global citizenship education that offers theoretical and methodological im-plications in developing a balanced analysis of the complex globalization and education. Calling for trans-formative praxis and reflexivity, it promotes relational engagement with concerns that situate oneself within and beyond a mode of being as global citizen. It envisages reconfiguring and responding the possibility of self and collective ontology, grounded in a deeper recognition of our essential totality in the social world in globalized community.; Summary

Environmental Carcinogens and Cancer Inequality: How Air Pollution Challenges the Achievement of SDG 3: Hyeonjung Yun; IGEE Proc. 2026;3(1):61-66. Published online February 24, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2026.007

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Background
Cancer has traditionally been understood as a disease driven primarily by genetic mutations; however, growing evidence indicates that environmental exposures play a significant role in shaping cancer risk and outcomes. Among these exposures, air pollution has been classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Beyond its biological effects, air pollution is unevenly distributed across populations, raising concerns related to health inequality and long-term public health sustainability.
Methods
This narrative review synthesizes epidemiological and molecular studies examining the association between particulate matter (PM2.5) exposure and carcinogenesis. Key biological mechanisms discussed include oxidative stress, DNA damage, chronic inflammation, and epigenetic dysregulation.
Results
The reviewed literature shows consistent associations between long-term PM2.5 exposure and increased lung cancer incidence and mortality, with more limited evidence for other cancer types. Unequal exposure to air pollution, combined with disparities in healthcare access, contributes to differences in cancer risk and survival across socioeconomic groups.
Conclusion
By integrating biological evidence with environmental and equity perspectives, this paper highlights the importance of addressing air pollution as part of comprehensive cancer prevention strategies. Reducing environmental cancer risk factors is essential for promoting equitable and sustainable population health.; Summary

Collaborative Strategies for Raising Human Capital†: Reinard Primulando, Thomas Kristiatmo, Tri Basuki Joewono; IGEE Proc. 2026;3(1):9-13. Published online February 23, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2026.003

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Christian higher education is rooted in fundamental and axiomatic human values that are open to transcendence and orient toward the fullness of humanity. Christian universities are increasingly challenged to remain faithful to their true identity while responding creatively to new social, cultural, and global realities. Drawing on the experiences of the Universitas Katolik Parahyangan (UNPAR), whose Spirituality and Basic Values emphasize charity in truth, living in diversity, and integral humanity, this paper discusses how collaboration across institutions, disciplines, cultures, and regions, becomes a process of mutual transformation rather than mere resource sharing. Particular attention is given to interdisciplinary initiatives, with the Erasmus+ EcoGreen Project presented as a case study that demonstrates how Christian universities can lead interdisciplinary and global collaboration while remaining firmly rooted in faith-based values.The study suggests that Christian higher education institutions should prioritize wider, value-based collaboration across institutions, nations, and disciplines.

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Scholarship at “Machine” Speed
Sarah Soyeon Oh
IGEE Proceedings.2026; 3(1): 14. CrossRef

Analysis of the Correlation Between Health Status and Social Factors Among Korean Care Workers†: YeJin Yun, Yuna Kim, Miyeon Yoon, Sejin Park; IGEE Proc. 2025;2(2):114-132. Published online June 30, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2025.018

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Amid South Korea’s demographic crisis of a declining birth rate and a rapidly aging population, care work has become an essential yet undervalued sector. This study investigates the physical and mental health conditions of domestic care workers and explores how social and structural factors shape their labor experiences.Using a mixed-methods approach, the research integrates survey data from care workers (n=345) with in-depth interviews of nine individuals working in various care roles, including certified caregivers, disability support workers, childcare teachers, and domestic workers. Quantitative findings reveal strong correlations between job satisfaction and health outcomes. Higher job satisfaction was associated with lower scores on the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), indicating better physical and mental health. Significant disparities were found between care worker subcategories. Qualitative analysis further uncovered recurring themes such as emotional burden, social invisibility, dissatisfaction with compensation, and the absence of grievance mechanisms. Despite these challenges, many workers found meaning in their roles and relied on informal coping strategies such as peer support. This study underscores the urgency of addressing systemic issues in the care sector. The results call for policies that improve working conditions, recognize the social value of care work, and promote health equity. The findings contribute to advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3(Good Health), 5 (Gender Equality), and 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).; Summary

Education for Sustainable Development and Career for High School Students in Seogwipo†: Younghyun Lee, Yumin Hahn, Gayoon Yang; IGEE Proc. 2025;2(2):83-93. Published online June 30, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2025.015

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This study examines the effectiveness of an Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) program conducted at Pyoseon High School in Jeju, Korea. Integrating career education, the program aimed at enhancing students’ awareness of sustainable development and key competencies. Conducted with 124 first-year students during school hours, the program consisted of three phases: an introduction to sustainable development, student-led projects addressing local issues, and final presentations. A mixed-methods approach was employed to measure the effectiveness, combining pre- and post-program surveys with focus group interviews. Paired t-test analysis on survey responses showed statistically significant improvements in overall competency domains. Qualitative analysis of focus group interviews indicated a shift from passive, school-based perceptions of sustainability toward more active and individualized understandings, particularly in connecting sustainable development to diverse career pathways. In conclusion, this program demonstrates the effectiveness of bridging ESD with career education, showing that student-led learning can enhance core competencies for sustainable development. It offers a promising direction for the future advancement of ESD in Korea.; Summary

Revitalization and Awareness of Domestic and International Food Upcycling Industries^†: MinJoo Kim, JiHyun Choi; IGEE Proc. 2024;1(1):56-64. Published online September 30, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2024.009

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Food upcycling refers to the process of reprocessing food by-products generated in the food production process into new products with higher added value. This study aims to achieve a sustainable food system by promoting consumer awareness of food upcycling and revitalizing the domestic food upcycling industry in alignment with UN-SDGs 17 and 2. We utilized the 5 Forces Model and SWOT Analysis to evaluate the domestic market and analyzed financial statements from CRETOP for food upcycling companies. Additionally, we conducted interviews with industry CEOs to understand trends and consumer perceptions. The market analysis indicates that while the industry faces initial profitability challenges, its growth potential is strong, driven by increasing sales and positive market conditions. The analysis highlights the need for consumer awareness and producer sustainability. Through consumer surveys and corporate interviews, we identified a rejection and prejudice towards "food upcycling" and "upcycling jam," as well as effective marketing strategies. South Korea's food upcycling industry shows promise despite its smaller scale compared to North America and Europe. Positive market conditions and consumer responses suggest significant growth potential through in-ternational benchmarking and private investments. Government support and corporate involvement are crucial for sustaining operations and achieving long-term economic, nutritional, and environmental benefits. The government can facilitate a long-term sustainable food system through policies that boost private investments and enhance funding to ensure product safety and reliability. Establishing food upcycling certification systems and legal proposals will be essential in this process.; Summary

The Urgent Call for Academic Action: Rebooting SDGs to Reset Our Future: Shinki An; IGEE Proc. 2024;1(1):20-31. Published online September 30, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2024.003

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This manuscript, presented at GEEF2024, emphasizes the critical role of academia in revitalizing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to address current global challenges. The SDGs, adopted in 2015, aim to eradicate poverty and promote sustainable development by 2030. However, progress has stalled due to financial constraints, governance issues, the COVID-19 pandemic, and geopolitical crises such as the Russian–Ukraine war. The COVID-19 pandemic has had multifaceted impacts, reversing poverty reduction trends and disrupting education and energy investments. It has also exacerbated social inequalities, leading to the conceptualization of COVID-19 as a syndemic, an ecodemic, and an econodemic. These terms highlight the pandemic's complex interplay with preexisting health issues, environmental degradation, and economic disparities. Geopolitical crises have further hindered SDG progress by disrupting food and energy supplies and diverting resources from sustainable development initiatives. Climate change, marked by unprecedented heatwaves and natural disasters, poses additional threats to achieving the SDGs. The need for carbon neutrality and effective international cooperation is more urgent than ever before. In this context, universities play a crucial role in advancing the SDGs through research, innovation, and community engagement. Engaged universities align their research agendas with the SDGs, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and developing solutions to global challenges. Yonsei University's Institute for Global Engagement and Empowerment (IGEE) exemplifies this approach with its Yonsei SDGs Initiative. By analyzing research outputs via natural language processing, the initiative aligns academic activities with SDGs, particularly in health and well-being. The GEEF2024 conference underscored the importance of innovative strategies and international cooperation in achieving the SDGs. Discussions highlighted the need to address mental health crises, low birth rates, and the care economy's undervaluation. The conference also emphasized the necessity of inclusive development strategies that reflect the perspectives and priorities of Africa and Asia. In conclusion, universities must integrate social engagement into their core missions to remain relevant and impactful. By prioritizing research, teaching, and services that contribute to sustainable development, academia can play a pivotal role in overcoming global challenges and achieving the SDGs.

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Student Involvement in SDG Projects: Seven Years of Yonsei University’s Social Engagement Fund (2018–2025)
Sarah Soyeon Oh, In Han Song, Shinki An
IGEE Proceedings.2025; 2(3): 178. CrossRef

Analysis on Coral Bleaching (Soft/Hard Coral) and Coral Ecosystem Restoration Strategies—Linkage to Sustainable Industries and Economic Valuation^†: Nakyung Lim, Haemin Choi; IGEE Proc. 2024;1(1):102-118. Published online September 30, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2024.001

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Among marine ecosystems, coral reefs play crucial roles in terms of ecological functions such as biodiversity protection and coastal protection and have significant economic value, estimated at approximately 2.7 trillion USD per year. However, the current state of coral reefs is alarming, with more than 93% of coral ecosystems being damaged primarily by human activity and climate change. In line with UN Sustainable Development Goals 13 and 14, this research aims to analyze coral bleaching in soft corals in Korea and coral reefs in Malaysia through field surveys and interviews to assess their current conditions. This study also explores strategies for the restoration of coral ecosystems, utilizing economic valuation methods such as the Toolkit for Ecosystem Service Site-Based Assessment (TESSA). Despite the limitations of applying a landscape-focused methodology to the marine environment and the lack of available data, this study emphasizes the importance of sustainable tourism and collaborative educational curricula involving governmental research institutes, universities, NGOs, and divers. These efforts are inspired by interactions with the Borneo Marine Research Institute (BMRI) at Sabah University and the Reef Check Center in Malaysia.; Summary

Navigating the Future of Higher Education: Embracing Change While Preserving the Relational Core of Learning: Shinki An; IGEE Proc. 2026;3(1):1-8. Published online February 23, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2026.006

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Driven by rapid technological innovations, global crises, and growing uncertainty about the role of universities in the 21st century, higher education is at a critical inflection point. This paper proposes a conceptual framework for understanding how these circumstances may be navigated, with a focus on the changing knowledge ecosystem, marked by exponential knowledge growth stemming from the rapid development of artificial intelligence (AI). While these changes offer important opportunities for enhanced learning, they also raise significant ethical and educational concerns that must be addressed. Throughout these shifts, one element that remains unchanged is how humans learn in the context of relationships. Drawing on evidence from medical research and educational theory, this paper argues that social connection and communities of practice are fundamental for institutions that seek to use technology to support, rather than replace, the human connections that shape students into competent and ethical professionals.

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Scholarship at “Machine” Speed
Sarah Soyeon Oh
IGEE Proceedings.2026; 3(1): 14. CrossRef

Beyond Shelter: A Comparative Study on the Right to Independent Living and De-institutionalization through the Lens of Fair Housing and the SDGs†: Hyunseung Lee; IGEE Proc. 2026;3(1):47-60. Published online February 23, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2026.005

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This study investigates how the right to housing choice facilitates de-institutionalization and social justice for persons with disabilities through the framework of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Within international human rights discourse, housing is defined not merely as physical shelter but as a fundamental right encompassing dignity, safety, and the ability to live in peace. The analysis identifies a critical paradigm shift from the medical model of disability toward a social model that emphasizes the removal of societal barriers. Using a comparative methodology, the research evaluates international norms and case studies from the United States and the European Union against South Korea’s domestic policies. It specifically analyzes the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD) to identify normative and fairness gaps within the current administrative framework. Analysis reveals a significant fair housing gap in South Korea, where a discretionary welfare model persists instead of a mandatory rights-based Housing First approach. Domestic structures often rely on a linear care model, whereas international precedents favor immediate community integration. Furthermore, spatial stratification and socio-spatial inequalities exacerbate the exclusion of disadvantaged groups from essential economic and service facilities. These barriers are complicated by the NIMBY phenomenon, where social connections among neighbors can paradoxically increase resistance to inclusive neighborhood planning. The paper advocates for a mandatory integration mandate and individualized funding to ensure substantive autonomy and community inclusion. It proposes developing multi-centric urban structures to decentralize services and improve accessibility across regions.; Summary

Advancing Nursing Education in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: Lessons from Bangladesh for Sustainable Global Health: Taewha Lee, SangA Lee; IGEE Proc. 2025;2(3):155-164. Published online October 23, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2025.024

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Global disparities in the nursing workforce threaten progress toward sustainable and equitable health systems. This paper presents three initiatives from Bangladesh—including the establishment of the National Institute of Advanced Nursing Education and Research, Chittagong Youngone Nursing College, and Shields Nursing Education Program—to illustrate how coordinated public, private, and international partnerships can strengthen nursing education in low- and middle-income countries. These efforts expanded educational capacity, advanced competency-based curricula, and enhanced faculty development, research, and leadership. Lessons from Bangladesh underscore the importance of embedding nursing within national health strategies, investing in faculty development, strengthening governance systems, integrating digital innovation, fostering responsible partnerships, and elevating the professional recognition of nurses. The Bangladesh case demonstrates that investing in nursing education is a strategic pathway to resilient, self-sustaining health systems and sustainable global health.; Summary

Student Involvement in SDG Projects: Seven Years of Yonsei University’s Social Engagement Fund (2018–2025): Sarah Soyeon Oh, In Han Song, Shinki An; IGEE Proc. 2025;2(3):178-183. Published online October 15, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2025.023

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Background
The Institute for Global Engagement & Empowerment (IGEE) at Yonsei University established the Social Engagement Fund (SEF) in 2018 to align with institutional commitments to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This study examines how IGEE's student-led projects as part of Yonsei University's SEF program have expanded SDG coverage over the past seven years and identifies factors contributing to improved integration across multiple goals.
Methods
We analyzed all 49 SEF projects implemented between 2018 and 2025, coding each project for SDG alignment and tracking coverage patterns over time. Annual SDG engagement was measured using two indicators: (1) the total number of SDGs addressed per year and (2) the average number of SDGs addressed per project.
Results
The number of SEF projects increased steadily from 5 in 2018 to 12 in 2025, reflecting growing student participation and institutional support. Over the same period, annual SDG coverage expanded from 9 total SDG mentions in 2018 to 59 in 2025, demonstrating a marked diversification of focus areas. The average number of SDGs addressed per project rose from 1.8 in the early years (2018–2021) to 4.9 in 2025, peaking at 8.3 in 2022. Early projects primarily centered on institutional and educational goals such as SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), while later years showed stronger engagement with SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 13 (Climate Action). Some goals—including SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and SDG 14 (Life Below Water)—remained relatively underrepresented.
Conclusions
Student engagement initiatives like SEF can significantly broaden and deepen SDG coverage through structured mentorship, interdisciplinary collaboration, and targeted project funding. By enabling applied, student-driven practice, IGEE’s SEF model demonstrates how universities can translate institutional SDG commitments into measurable and expanding impact across a wide range of sustainability goals.; Summary

Leadership in Science: Reflections by Dr. John Ioannidis: John P.A. Ioannidis; IGEE Proc. 2025;2(3):149-151. Published online October 14, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2025.022

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Humanitarian Aid in Action: A Global Commitment to Health: Byron Scott; IGEE Proc. 2025;2(3):152-154. Published online October 13, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2025.021

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Introducing the 2024 ‘Social Engagement Fund’ Cohort: Eun Kyoung Rhee, Sarah Soyeon Oh; IGEE Proc. 2025;2(2):64-67. Published online June 30, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2025.019

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Student Involvement in SDG Projects: Seven Years of Yonsei University’s Social Engagement Fund (2018–2025)
Sarah Soyeon Oh, In Han Song, Shinki An
IGEE Proceedings.2025; 2(3): 178. CrossRef

Sustainability Challenges in Korea: Chang Yong Rhee; IGEE Proc. 2025;2(2):58-63. Published online June 30, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2025.012

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A Visionary Leader's Reflections: Reimagining the SDGs Through a Majority World Lens: Puleng LenkaBula; IGEE Proc. 2025;2(1):6-8. Published online January 20, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2025.003

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Empirical Study on the Usage and Promotion of Sustainable Feminine Hygiene Products^†: Chaeni Park, Eunsol So; IGEE Proc. 2024;1(1):78-89. Published online September 30, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2024.011

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Compared with disposable equivalents, sustainable feminine hygiene products are promising for reducing pollution and could lead to the amelioration of the menstrual cycle, with overall health benefits for women. Through empirical research and online promotion, this study aimed to examine the efficiency and comfort of reusable menstrual products and address the SDGs that target climate change and a healthy lifestyle for global citizens. The data were collected by distributing products to 26 women aged 18--28 years and collecting responses through curated questionnaires before, during and after usage for 2 months. Our main findings showed that women reported a better sensory experience with reusable products with improved comfort and positive changes in their perception, which led them to continue using the pads in the future. Thus, we can conclude that sustainable feminine hygiene products may garner positive reviews from their users; with adequate promotion and support, we can work toward the goal of prospective benefits both for women and the environment.; Summary

An Introduction to Yonsei University’s ‘Social Engagement Fund’ 2023: In Han Song; IGEE Proc. 2024;1(1):54-55. Published online September 30, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2024.006

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Scholarship at “Machine” Speed: Sarah Soyeon Oh; IGEE Proc. 2026;3(1):14-16. Published online February 24, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2026.009

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Bridging the Accessibility Gap: Investigating Challenges and Best Practices for Visually Impaired Individuals in STEM and Finance in North America – Policy Implications for South Korea†: Juwon Cheong, Yusung Chae, Jaeyoon Lee; IGEE Proc. 2025;2(2):133-147. Published online June 30, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2025.020

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Background
Global accessibility mandates exist, yet blind and low-vision learners and professionals still face major barriers in STEM and finance; this study explores those gaps to guide South Korean policy.
Methods
Conducted a scoping review of accessibility laws and landmark cases and thematically analysed seven semi-structured interviews with blind South Koreans active in STEM or finance.
Results
The data show chronic shortages of accessible materials and software, limited institutional support, technological lag, and heavy psychosocial strain, whereas North American exemplars demonstrate effective solutions.
Conclusion
South Korea can close the STEM-finance accessibility gap only through systemic reforms—universal design, enforceable digital standards, and professional support structures—rather than relying on individual resilience.; Summary

Women and Children: The First Victims in Times of Crisis: Denis Mukwege; IGEE Proc. 2025;2(2):55-57. Published online June 30, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.69841/igee.2025.013

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