Browsing by Author "Buetow, Kristyn A"

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    Documenting and Understanding the Link between Climate Change and Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights Using a Case Study in Buikwe District, Uganda
    (2023-05-05) Buetow, Kristyn A; Kubrom, Selam Y; Shannon-Tamrat, Sisay E; Walkenhorst, Megan E
    The University of Minnesota Humphrey School of Public Affairs, in partnership with Regenerate Africa, collaborated on a study with two main objectives: 1. Conduct an assessment of Uganda´s capacity for integration of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights in the National Adaptation Plan processes 2. Document and understand the linkage and interconnectedness of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights/Family Planning and climate change. Researchers conducted 12 Key Informant Interviews and eight Focus Group Discussions with various expert stakeholders. The Focus Group Discussions were conducted within two communities of Ssi-Bukunja Sub-County, Buikwe District and shaped the case study model. The case study findings were then extrapolated to the larger Ugandan context by speaking to key informants in the Buikwe District and beyond. This report aims to provide Regenerate Africa and other key stakeholders with evidence on the link between climate change and Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights/Family Planning in Uganda, and to apply this link to policy recommendations. The policy recommendations in this report are intended to be used in the comprehensive National Adaptation Plan for Uganda, which currently lacks a focus on Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights/Family Planning. In addition, some recommendations are specific to local government, healthcare, and Civil Society Organizations. The Regenerate Africa team will disseminate this study’s findings and the findings of their larger study to policymakers and leaders of the other organizations mentioned. This report is intended to inspire more research with the inclusion of other communities throughout Uganda who have valuable insights on this topic. This project also marks the first capstone collaboration between the University of Minnesota Humphrey School of Public Affairs and Regenerate Africa, and encourages the continuation of this relationship.
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    Microplastic Pollution in the Minnesota Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness
    (2021-12-01) Cypull, Ethan, J; Buetow, Kristyn A; Sheleski, Emily J
    Researchers collected water samples in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area (BWCA) in northern Minnesota, a heavily protected wilderness area, using a small drag net to capture water-borne microplastics and other debris. These samples were then examined in the laboratory under a microscope to identify microplastics. Potential microplastics were singed with a hot needle and any changes were observed, as plastics react uniquely to heat compared to organic materials. Of the 116 samples that were examined, it was found that 77 samples contained at least one verified microplastic. Within these 77 samples, there were 192 microplastic pieces that were found in total. The most common microplastics found were blue fibers, and an analysis of the colors and types of microplastics was conducted.