Congress has not yet approved regulatory reform in the Mexican energy sector. In fact, the debate is deadlocked, with many political actors disagreeing on even the most basic principles that ought to guide future investments in energy. The disagreement persists even as the structure of the...

Reliable provision of clean and safe drinking water is critical for public health, economic stability and growth in the United States. Due to a combination of financial, regulatory and operational challenges, however, it is becoming increasingly difficult for publicly owned and operated water...

The Athabasca Oil Sands, located in northeastern Alberta, Canada, were for many years anomalous. Two oil sands operators developed their extraction techniques for 30 years, refining their technology before production became economically profitable. In the last 15 years as oil prices climbed, a...

In this study, I analyze several dimensions of the institutional environment that govern contractual exchange between veterinary service providers and farmers in Laos and Cambodia. I hypothesize that the negotiation, implementation, and enforcement of informal service contracts entail economic...

As private non-profit, locally based organizations, community development financial institutions (CDFIs) are increasingly important supporters of community development policies and programs designed to alleviate poverty. In the face of declining federal funds and political support for social...

This research study examines the role that workforce intermediaries within Boston play in creating career pathways for economically disadvantaged, under-skilled residents in the local health care industry. Using a case study analysis, this study compares the outcomes of two workforce...

More high-tech firms are conducting their business over long distances due to the use of new information and communication technologies (ICT). However, regional scientists articulate that geographic proximity is still important, at least, to the high-tech industry and the knowledge-related...

This thesis provides a cash flow analysis of an aquaponics system growing tilapia, perch, and lettuce in a temperate climate utilizing data collected via a case study of an aquaponics operation in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Literature regarding the financial feasibility of aquaponics as a business is...

In Japan, recent changes in socio-economic and political structures -- decreasing tax revenue, declining communication among community members, and privatization of public services-- have influenced existing maintenance systems initiated by the public sector. In this study, I examine maintenance...

Community development loan funds (CDLFs) play a critical role in financing affordable housing, small businesses, and non-profit organizations in low-income communities throughout the US. Since the 2008 financial crisis disrupted CDLFs' primary sources of capital-banks and foundations-many CDLFs...