Managing Cooperatives in the Global Economy presents a unique collection of research-based chapters contributed by leading social and economic thinkers that provide critical insights into how the cooperative business model meets the challenges of the complex global problems in today's competitive economy. Apart from theoretical arguments in favor of the value-based cooperative business model, the book presents the performance indicators of various forms of cooperatives, their potentialities and challenges they face across borders. The contributors reexamine how cooperatives empower the marginalized population of the world by bringing them into the mainstream of socio-economic activities through creating employment opportunities, working towards alleviation of poverty, ensuring for more equitable distribution of scarce resources and providing the basis for a sustainable economy and its meaningful growth. Today, in the global competitive economy, the challenges for cooperatives are enormous due to their particular value commitments, forms of incorporation and organizational structures. In spite of the presence of several challenges, cooperatives promote economic growth and social justice. In this context, this book also presents the critical roles of cooperatives in balancing economic, social and environmental concerns to build a better, equitable and sustainable world.

The natural world is full of awesome surprises, and the animal kingdom is no exception. As The Secret Lives of Animals reveals, it seems that the more we discover about the unusual species that populate our planet, the more we understand just how ingenious, resourceful and downright creative they can be! Did you know that red pandas are not only incredibly cute, but also master escape artists able to flee their enclosures in high security zoos all over the world with alarming frequency? Or that beautiful manta rays have not only been observed recognizing their own reflection in mirrors, but are also able to identify friendly divers and ask for their help when they're in a bit of a jam? Or that elephants, as well as having famously impressive memories, are also sophisticated communicators who send signals to each other using a wide range of body language? Or that parrots, as well as being amazing mimics, are able to learn dance moves? YouTube star Snowball, the dancing cockatoo, has a very entertaining fourteen-move repertoire. With charming and humorous illustrations from BAFTA-award-winning artist Greg McLeod (half of The Brothers McLeod), The Secret Lives of Animals is a window into some of the most complex and impressive minds of the animal kingdom, revealing the little-known skills and natural intuition that have allowed them to survive - and often have a little fun along the way.

The crocodile said to the chimpanzee, "Chimpanzee, I want to be free. The jungle jangle's not for me." Crocodile says goodbye to the jungle and heads for the bright lights of London to find freedom and adventure. But despite the famous sights, city life on a stone-cold street begins to pall... Will crocodile tears become real tears for friends, family and home? A fantastic picture book for reading aloud by poetry legend Roger McGough and award-winning animator Greg McLeod.

Being on the wrong side of the valley doesn't matter if you have the right kind of friends. Mountain had never seen the sun rise. Each morning, the hills around him were washed with a warm glow - sometimes pink, sometimes orange. But the sun always rose behind his rocky back. So, one morning, Bird and Bear put on an ingenious and spectacular show that allows Mountain to experience the sunrise for the very first time. This imaginative celebration of friendship encourages creativity and kindness.