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Sustainability
Journal Prestige (SJR): 0.537 Citation Impact (citeScore): 2 Number of Followers: 26 Open Access journal ISSN (Print) 2071-1050 Published by MDPI [258 journals] |
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7243: Advancing the Sustainability of
Geopolymer Technology through the Development of Rice Husk Ash Based Solid
Activators
Authors: Olga Andriana Panitsa, Dimitrios Kioupis, Glikeria Kakali
First page: 7243
Abstract: Rice husk ash (RHA), an agricultural waste byproduct, has already been tested as a component in geopolymeric binders, typically as part of the precursor solid mix, alongside materials like fly ash (FA), slag, and cement. This study presents a novel approach where RHA is employed to create a solid activator, aimed at entirely replacing commercial sodium silicates. The synthesis process involves mixing RHA, NaOH (NH), and water by applying a SiO2/Na2O molar ratio equal to 1, followed by mild thermal treatment at 150 °C for 1 h, resulting in the production of a solid powder characterized by high Na2SiO3 content (60–76%). Additionally, microwave treatment (SiO2/Na2O = 1, 460 W for 5 min) increases the environmental and economical sustainability of alkali silicates production from RHA since this processing is 12 times faster than conventional thermal treatment reducing at the same time the final product’s embodied energy. The efficacy of this new material as a sole solid activator for the geopolymerization of Greek FA is investigated through various techniques (XRD, FTIR, SEM). One-part geopolymers prepared with RHA-based solid activators demonstrated mechanical performance comparable to those prepared with commercial products (~62 MPa at 7 days). This research contributes to the advancement of sustainable construction practices emphasizing the importance of local materials and reduced environmental impact in achieving long-term sustainability goals.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-23
DOI: 10.3390/su16177243
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7244: Capacity Optimization of
Pumped–Hydro–Wind–Photovoltaic Hybrid System Based on
Normal Boundary Intersection Method
Authors: Hailun Wang, Yang Li, Feng Wu, Shengming He, Renshan Ding
First page: 7244
Abstract: Introducing pumped storage to retrofit existing cascade hydropower plants into hybrid pumped storage hydropower plants (HPSPs) could increase the regulating capacity of hydropower. From this perspective, a capacity configuration optimization method for a multi-energy complementary power generation system comprising hydro, wind, and photovoltaic power is developed. Firstly, to address the uncertainty of wind and photovoltaic power outputs, the K-means clustering algorithm is applied to deal with historical data on load and photovoltaic, wind, and water inflow within a specific region over the past year. This process helps reduce the number of scenarios, resulting in 12 representative scenarios and their corresponding probabilities. Secondly, with the aim of enhancing outbound transmission channel utilization and decreasing the peak–valley difference for the receiving-end power grid’s load curve, a multi-objective optimization model based on the normal boundary intersection (NBI) algorithm is developed for the capacity optimization of the multi-energy complementary power generation system. The result shows that retrofitting cascade hydropower plants with pumped storage units to construct HPSPs enhances their ability to accommodate wind and photovoltaic power. The optimal capacity of wind and photovoltaic power is increased, the utilization rate of the system’s transmission channel is improved, and the peak-to-valley difference for the residual load of the receiving-end power grid is reduced.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-23
DOI: 10.3390/su16177244
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7245: Perceived Quality of Service in
Authors: Rommel Velastegui-Hernández, Diego Melo-Fiallos, María Mayorga-Ases, Segundo Hernández-Del-Salto, Eduardo Manobanda-Tenelema, Marcelo V. Garcia
First page: 7245
Abstract: This study investigates the perceived quality of tourist transportation services in Baños de Agua Santa, Ecuador, utilizing the SERVQUAL model to assess service quality. Through an examination of the gap between tourists’ expectations and their actual experiences, the research aims to evaluate service quality. A survey of 203 tourists who utilized the “Chivas” tourist ground transportation service forms the basis of the analysis. The findings reveal significant negative gaps across all dimensions of service quality, indicating a shortfall in meeting tourists’ expectations. Notably, the reliability dimension exhibits the most pronounced gap, highlighting the importance of fulfilling service commitments to cultivate trust. The study underscores the crucial role of service quality in the tourism sector and proposes targeted improvements, including enhancing facility modernity, providing staff training, and enhancing service responsiveness and reliability. Addressing these gaps has the potential to enrich the tourist experience, bolster the positive image of transportation services, and enhance the city’s appeal.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-23
DOI: 10.3390/su16177245
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7246: Characterization of Waste Biomass
Fuel Prepared from Coffee and Tea Production: Its Properties, Combustion,
and Emissions
Authors: Shangrong Wu, Qingyue Wang, Weiqian Wang, Yanyan Wang, Dawei Lu
First page: 7246
Abstract: In order to reduce global warming, new energy fuels that use waste biomass to replace traditional coal are rapidly developing. The main purpose of this study is to investigate the feasibility behavior of different biomass materials such as spent coffee grounds (SCGs) and spent tea grounds (STGs) as fuel during combustion and their impact on the environment. This study involves using fuel shaping and co-firing methods to increase the fuel calorific value and reduce the emissions of pollutants, such as NOX and SO2, and greenhouse gas CO2. The produced gas content was analyzed using the HORIBA (PG-250) laboratory combustion apparatus. The results indicate that, among the measured formed particles, SCG:STG = 8:2, 6:4, and 4:6 had the lowest post-combustion pollutant gas emissions. Compared to using only waste coffee grounds as fuel, the NOx emissions were reduced from 166 ppm to 102 ppm, the CO emissions were reduced from 22 ppm to 12 ppm, and the CO2 emissions were reduced from 629 ppm to 323 ppm. In addition, the emission of SO2, the main component of acid rain, was reduced by 20 times compared to the combustion of traditional fuels. The SO2 emission of five different proportions of biomass fuels was 5 ppm, which is much lower than that of traditional coal fuels. Therefore, SCG and STG mixed fuels can replace coal as fuel while reducing harmful gasses.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-23
DOI: 10.3390/su16177246
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7247: The Impact of Digital Governance on
Entrepreneurial Activity in Deprived Areas: Evidence from Tibet, China
Authors: Aiyan Xu, Pengji Li, Xin Xin
First page: 7247
Abstract: This paper examines the impact of digital governance on entrepreneurial activity in deprived areas from both theoretical and empirical perspectives. Our study is twofold. First, we utilize a economic geography model to theoretically analyze the influence of digital governance on regional entrepreneurial endeavors and develop research hypotheses. Second, using county panel data from Tibet spanning from 2001 to 2021, we empirically examine the influence of digital governance on entrepreneurial activity. The results show that digital governance can significantly increase regional entrepreneurial activity, and that the effect exhibits an upward and then a downward trend over time, with some spatial spillover effects. We argue that differences in regional network infrastructure are an important heterogeneity factor affecting digital governance’s ability to increase entrepreneurial activity. Our conclusions remain robust to various tests.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-23
DOI: 10.3390/su16177247
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7248: Enhancing Distribution Networks with
Optimal BESS Sitting and Operation: A Weekly Horizon Optimization Approach
Authors: Diego Jose da Silva, Edmarcio Antonio Belati, Jesús M. López-Lezama
First page: 7248
Abstract: The optimal sitting and operation of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) plays a key role in energy transition and sustainability. This paper presents an optimization framework based on a Multi-period Optimal Power Flow (MOPF) for the optimal sitting and operation of BESS alongside PV in active distribution grids. The model was implemented in AMPL (A Mathematical Programming Language) and solved using the Knitro solver to minimize power losses over one week, divided into hourly intervals. To demonstrate the applicability of the proposed model, various analyses were conducted on a benchmark 33-bus distribution network considering 1, 2 and 3 BESS. Along with the reduction in power losses of up to 17.95%, 26% and 29%, respectively. In all cases, there was an improvement in the voltage profile and a more uniform generation curve at the substation. An additional study showed that operating over a one-week horizon results in an energy gain of 1.08 MWh per day compared to single daily operations. The findings suggest that the proposed model for optimal sitting and operation of BESS in the presence of Renewable Energy Sources (RES) applies to real-world scenarios.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-23
DOI: 10.3390/su16177248
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7249: CRISP-DM-Based Data-Driven Approach
Authors: Moaaz Elkabalawy, Abobakr Al-Sakkaf, Eslam Mohammed Abdelkader, Ghasan Alfalah
First page: 7249
Abstract: The significant energy consumption associated with the built environment demands comprehensive energy prediction modelling. Leveraging their ability to capture intricate patterns without extensive domain knowledge, supervised data-driven approaches present a marked advantage in adaptability over traditional physical-based building energy models. This study employs various machine learning models to predict energy consumption for an office building in Berkeley, California. To enhance the accuracy of these predictions, different feature selection techniques, including principal component analysis (PCA), decision tree regression (DTR), and Pearson correlation analysis, were adopted to identify key attributes of energy consumption and address collinearity. The analyses yielded nine influential attributes: heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system operating parameters, indoor and outdoor environmental parameters, and occupancy. To overcome missing occupancy data in the datasets, we investigated the possibility of occupancy-based Wi-Fi prediction using different machine learning algorithms. The results of the occupancy prediction modelling indicate that Wi-Fi can be used with acceptable accuracy in predicting occupancy count, which can be leveraged to analyze occupant comfort and enhance the accuracy of building energy models. Six machine learning models were tested for energy prediction using two different datasets: one before and one after occupancy prediction. Using a 10-fold cross-validation with an 8:2 training-to-testing ratio, the Random Forest algorithm emerged superior, exhibiting the highest R2 value of 0.92 and the lowest RMSE of 3.78 when occupancy data were included. Additionally, an error propagation analysis was conducted to assess the impact of the occupancy-based Wi-Fi prediction model’s error on the energy prediction model. The results indicated that Wi-Fi-based occupancy prediction can improve the data inputs for building energy models, leading to more accurate energy consumption predictions. The findings underscore the potential of integrating the developed energy prediction models with fault detection systems, model predictive controllers, and energy load shape analysis, ultimately enhancing energy management practices.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-23
DOI: 10.3390/su16177249
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7250: Measurement and Evaluation of the
Modernization Development Level of Higher Education in China: Based on
Panel Data Analysis of 31 Provinces from 2012 to 2022
Authors: Qingqing Liang, Fang Yin
First page: 7250
Abstract: The scale and quality of higher education are key indicators of a country’s development level and its potential for future growth. This study utilizes literature analysis and the core functions of higher education institutions to construct an evaluation index system for the modernization level of higher education in China, using data from 2012 to 2022. The results reveal the following: (1) From 2012 to 2022, the modernization level of higher education across China’s 31 provinces generally increased, despite some fluctuations. Beijing consistently maintained the highest level of modernization, while Hainan demonstrated the fastest growth rate. (2) The modernization level of higher education exhibited uneven distribution across the provinces: eleven provinces were at a low level, eight at a moderate level, eight at a relatively high level, and four at a high level. (3) The development level of higher education modernization shows a clear correlation with geographic location and economic development, characterized by a distinct ‘high in the east, low in the west’ pattern. (4) There is a urgent need to enhance the internationalization of higher education development in China. (5) The overall index of higher education development in China displayed a slow decline with fluctuations from 2012 to 2022, reflecting ongoing efforts toward balanced development across the 31 provinces and cities. The most significant disparities in higher education development remain between the western and eastern regions.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-23
DOI: 10.3390/su16177250
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7251: Environmental, Social, and Governance
Performance, Platform Governance, and Value Creation of Platform
Enterprises
Authors: Ruixin Su, Na Li
First page: 7251
Abstract: Under the concepts of sustainable development and a sharing economy, the ESG performance of platform enterprises has played a significant role in measuring the operating status and responsible investment of platform enterprises. Platform enterprises have different typical characteristics from traditional enterprises. The mechanisms of ESG and financial performance needs to be further explored. The empirical analysis finds that: (1) the ESG performance of platform enterprises and its S index and G index has a positive impact on corporate financial performance. (2) Media attention plays a positive moderating role between the ESG and ROA. (3) Platform data governance and platform reputation governance are two internal and external paths for platform enterprises’ ESG performance to improve financial performance. (4)There is heterogeneity in the relationship between ESG and ROA in terms of platform enterprise scale and platform type. Based on the above conclusions, this paper provides reference experience for the ESG governance and value creation of platform enterprises.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-23
DOI: 10.3390/su16177251
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7252: Sustainable Impact of Stance
Attribution Design Cues for Robots on Human–Robot
Relationships—Evidence from the ERSP
Authors: Dong Lv, Rui Sun, Qiuhua Zhu, Jiajia Zuo, Shukun Qin
First page: 7252
Abstract: With the development of large language model technologies, the capability of social robots to interact emotionally with users has been steadily increasing. However, the existing research insufficiently examines the influence of robot stance attribution design cues on the construction of users’ mental models and their effects on human–robot interaction (HRI). This study innovatively combines mental models with the associative–propositional evaluation (APE) model, unveiling the impact of the stance attribution explanations of this design cue on the construction of user mental models and the interaction between the two types of mental models through EEG experiments and survey investigations. The results found that under the influence of intentional stance explanations (compared to design stance explanations), participants displayed higher error rates, higher θ- and β-band Event-Related Spectral Perturbations (ERSPs), and phase-locking value (PLV). Intentional stance explanations trigger a primarily associatively based mental model of users towards robots, which conflicts with the propositionally based mental models of individuals. Users might adjust or “correct” their immediate reactions caused by stance attribution explanations after logical analysis. This study reveals that stance attribution interpretation can significantly affect users’ mental model construction of robots, which provides a new theoretical framework for exploring human interaction with non-human agents and provides theoretical support for the sustainable development of human–robot relations. It also provides new ideas for designing robots that are more humane and can better interact with human users.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-23
DOI: 10.3390/su16177252
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7253: Sustainable Resource Allocation and
Base Station Optimization Using Hybrid Deep Learning Models in 6G Wireless
Networks
Authors: Krishnamoorthy Suresh, Raju Kannadasan, Stanley Vinson Joshua, Thangaraj Rajasekaran, Mohammed H. Alsharif, Peerapong Uthansakul, Monthippa Uthansakul
First page: 7253
Abstract: Researchers are currently exploring the anticipated sixth-generation (6G) wireless communication network, poised to deliver minimal latency, reduced power consumption, extensive coverage, high-level security, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability. Quality of Service (QoS) improvements can be attained through effective resource management facilitated by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) techniques. This paper proposes two models for enhancing QoS through efficient and sustainable resource allocation and optimization of base stations. The first model, a Hybrid Quantum Deep Learning approach, incorporates Recurrent Neural Networks (RNNs) and Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs). CNNs handle resource allocation, network reconfiguration, and slice aggregation tasks, while RNNs are employed for functions like load balancing and error detection. The second model introduces a novel neural network named the Base Station Optimizer net. This network includes various parameters as input and output information about the condition of the base station within the network. Node coverage, number of users, node count and user locations, operating frequency, etc., are different parametric inputs considered for evaluation, providing a binary decision (ON or SLEEP) for each base station. A dynamic allocation strategy aims for network lifetime maximization, ensuring sustainable operations and power consumption are minimized across the network by 2 dB. The QoS performance of the Hybrid Quantum Deep Learning model is evaluated for many devices based on slice characteristics and congestion scenarios to attain an impressive overall accuracy of 98%.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-23
DOI: 10.3390/su16177253
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7254: Characteristics of Microplastic
Pollution in Agricultural Soils in Xiangtan, China
Authors: Cong Ye, Jing Lin, Zhenguo Li, Guanghuai Wang, Zeling Li
First page: 7254
Abstract: Microplastic pollution in agricultural soils has drawn significant attention in recent years. The objective of this study is to investigate the forms and characteristics of microplastic pollution in agricultural soils, specifically focusing on rice and vegetable soil in Xiangtan City. Various analytical techniques including stereomicroscopy, SEM, and FTIR spectroscopy were used to analyze the color, particle size, abundance, and types of microplastics in the study area. The findings indicated that the average abundance of microplastics in the soils in the study area was 4377.44 items/kg, with a maximum of 12,292.33 items/kg. Microplastics with smaller particle sizes were more prevalent, with their colors mainly being yellow, transparent, and black. The shapes of the microplastics were mainly thin-filmy and fibrous, and the types mainly included PE and PP. The abundance of microplastics in the vegetable soil with agricultural films applied was four times more than that without agricultural films. In the research area, the use of agricultural films was the most significant source of microplastics. The study’s findings describe the characteristics of microplastic pollution in agricultural soils in Xiangtan City. The findings could serve as a reference for establishing standardized assessments of microplastic pollution in agricultural soils, in addition to offering data support for Xiangtan City’s future efforts to safeguard agricultural soils and regulate microplastic pollution.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-23
DOI: 10.3390/su16177254
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7255: A Cooperative Game Approach for
Optimal Design of Shared Energy Storage System
Authors: Qin Wang, Jincan Zeng, Beibei Cheng, Minwei Liu, Guori Huang, Xi Liu, Gengsheng He, Shangheng Yao, Peng Wang, Longxi Li
First page: 7255
Abstract: The energy sector’s long-term sustainability increasingly relies on widespread renewable energy generation. Shared energy storage embodies sharing economy principles within the storage industry. This approach allows storage facilities to monetize unused capacity by offering it to users, generating additional revenue for providers, and supporting renewable energy prosumers’ growth. However, high investment costs and long payback periods often hinder the development of battery storage. To address this challenge, we propose a shared storage investment framework. In this framework, a storage investor virtualizes physical storage equipment, enabling prosumers to access storage services as though they owned the batteries themselves. We adopt a cooperative game approach to incorporate storage sharing into the design phase of energy systems. To ensure a fair distribution of cooperative benefits, we introduce a benefit allocation mechanism based on contributions to energy storage sharing. Utilizing realistic data from three buildings, our simulations demonstrate that the shared storage mechanism creates a win–win situation for all participants. It also enhances the self-sufficiency and self-consumption of renewable energy. This paper provides valuable insights for shared storage investors regarding optimal design and benefit allocation among multiple stakeholders.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-23
DOI: 10.3390/su16177255
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7256: Spatial-Temporal Evolution and
Environmental Regulation Effects of Carbon Emissions in Shrinking and
Growing Cities: Empirical Evidence from 272 Cities in China
Authors: Xinhang Tang, Shuai Shao, Jia Cui
First page: 7256
Abstract: Shrinking and growing cities are categories of cities characterized by population loss or add, and the issue of carbon emissions in these cities is often neglected. Environmental regulation, as an important influence on carbon emissions, plays an important role in promoting the low-carbon transition in Chinese cities. This study focused on the carbon emissions of 272 cities in China from 2012–2021, constructed a comprehensive indicator to classify four city types, and calculated carbon emissions. Spatial-temporal characteristics and evolution of carbon emissions and impacts of environmental regulation were investigated. Carbon emissions of rapidly growing cities showed a downward trend, whereas those of slightly growing, rapidly shrinking, and slightly shrinking cities showed upward trends. The more rapidly a city grew or shrunk, the higher its average carbon emissions. Growing cities’ center of gravity of their carbon emissions migrated northwest. Carbon emissions of rapidly and slightly shrinking cities were high in the northeast, and their carbon emission centers migrated northeast and southwest, respectively, with obvious spatial autocorrelation of city types. Strengthening environmental regulations significantly positively affected carbon emission reduction. The impact of environmental regulation on carbon emissions reduction was temporally and spatially heterogeneous and more significant in non-resource cities.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-23
DOI: 10.3390/su16177256
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7257: Conceptualization of ESG Management
Values of Professional Sports Clubs: From Consumers’ Perspective
Authors: Wangsung Myung
First page: 7257
Abstract: Discussions and practices of sustainability are actively underway around the world. In this social context, this study conceptualized ESG management values focused on sports organizations, especially professional sports clubs in Korea. Utilizing Q methodology, which is suitable for research on individuals’ subjectivity, we explored ESG management values accepted by consumers of Korean professional sports. As a result, the ESG management values were confirmed as follows: “Type I: Trust Management Emphasis”, “Type II: Local Community Emphasis”, and “Type III: Safety–Respect Culture Emphasis”. While each of the three types accepted governance, social responsibility, safety, and respect culture as their main values, they tended to deny environment-related values. Accordingly, this study provided two discussions: “professional sports consumers’ low awareness of the environment” and “reinterpretation of environmental values among the ESG management values of professional sports clubs”. In conclusion, the three types are significant in that (1) they reflect well the social and cultural context of Korean professional sports and consumers’ perceptions, and (2) they provide a new perspective on the ESG management value of professional sports teams.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-23
DOI: 10.3390/su16177257
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7258: Research on Machine Learning-Based
Method for Predicting Industrial Park Electric Vehicle Charging Load
Authors: Sijiang Ma, Jin Ning, Ning Mao, Jie Liu, Ruifeng Shi
First page: 7258
Abstract: To achieve global sustainability goals and meet the urgent demands of carbon neutrality, China is continuously transforming its energy structure. In this process, electric vehicles (EVs) are playing an increasingly important role in energy transition and have become one of the primary user groups in the electricity market. Traditional load prediction algorithms have difficulty in constructing mathematical models for predicting the charging load of electric vehicles, which is characterized by high randomness, high volatility, and high spatial heterogeneity. Moreover, the predicted results often exhibit a certain degree of lag. Therefore, this study approaches the analysis from two perspectives: the overall industrial park and individual charging stations. By analyzing specific load data, the overall framework for the training dataset was established. Additionally, based on the evaluation system proposed in this study and utilizing both Multilayer Perceptron (MLP) and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) algorithms, a framework for machine learning-based load prediction methods was constructed to forecast electric vehicle charging loads in industrial parks. Through a case analysis, it was found that the proposed solution for the short-term prediction of the charging load in industrial park electric vehicles can achieve accurate and stable forecasting results. Specifically, in terms of data prediction for normal working days and statutory holidays, the Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) algorithm demonstrated high accuracy, with R2 coefficients of 0.9283 and 0.9154, respectively, indicating the good interpretability of the model. In terms of weekend holiday data prediction, the Multilayer Perceptron (MLP) algorithm achieved an R2 coefficient of as high as 0.9586, significantly surpassing the LSTM algorithm’s value of 0.9415, demonstrating superior performance.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-23
DOI: 10.3390/su16177258
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7259: Predicting Energy Consumption for
Hybrid Energy Systems toward Sustainable Manufacturing: A Physics-Informed
Approach Using Pi-MMoE
Authors: Mukun Yuan, Jian Liu, Zheyuan Chen, Qingda Guo, Mingzhe Yuan, Jian Li, Guangping Yu
First page: 7259
Abstract: Hybrid energy supply systems are widely utilized in modern manufacturing processes, where accurately predicting energy consumption is essential not only for managing productivity but also for driving sustainable development. Effective energy management is a cornerstone of sustainable manufacturing, reducing waste and enhancing efficiency. However, conventional studies often focus solely on predicting single types of energy consumption and overlook the integration of physical laws and information, which are essential for a comprehensive understanding of energy dynamics. In this context, this paper introduces a multi-task physics-informed multi-gate mixture-of-experts (pi-MMoE) model that not only considers multiple forms of energy consumption but also incorporates physical principles through the integration of physical information and multi-task modeling. Specifically, a detailed analysis of manufacturing processes and energy patterns is first conducted to study various energy types and extract relevant physical laws. Next, using industry insights and thermodynamic principles, key equations for energy balance and conversion are derived to create a physics-based loss function for model training. Finally, the pi-MMoE model framework is constructed, featuring multi-expert networks and gating mechanisms to balance cross-task knowledge sharing and expert learning. In a case study of a textile factory, the pi-MMoE model reduced electricity and steam prediction errors by 14.28% and 27.27%, respectively, outperforming traditional deep learning methods. This demonstrates that the model can improve prediction performance, providing a novel approach to intelligent energy management and promoting sustainable development in manufacturing.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-23
DOI: 10.3390/su16177259
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7260: Study on the Theme Evolution and
Synergy Assessment of China’s New Energy Vehicle Policy Texts
Authors: Shasha Wang, Sheng Mai
First page: 7260
Abstract: Drawing on data from 133 Chinese New Energy Vehicle (NEV) policy documents from 2007 to 2023, this study utilizes Dynamic Topic Modelling (DTM), social network analysis and a quantitative model to investigate the evolutionary path of policy themes and the coordination effects. The following results were obtained. (1) A thematic cross-sectional analysis identified six core policy themes, namely, coordinated promotion of technology and finance, industry development and safety standardisation, market service and technical support systems, promotion strategy and urban cluster development, industrial capital and safety supervision mechanisms, and policy support and market expansion. The analysis also mapped the distribution of hot spots within these themes. (2) The keyword co-occurrence network of the NEV policy indicated that the network structure evolved from an initial ‘overall dispersion–theme concentration’, comprising 16 policy themes, to an ‘overall stability–theme coordination’, consisting of 14 policy themes. (3) The coordination degrees across the three types of policies exhibited a consistent upward spiral, with the comprehensive coordination index surging from 30 in 2007 to 951 in 2023, underscoring the complementary effects among policy instruments. These conclusions offer valuable insights for government departments to understand NEV development trends and dynamically adjust policy themes accordingly.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-23
DOI: 10.3390/su16177260
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7261: Model Predictive Controlled Parallel
Photovoltaic-Battery Inverters Supporting Weak Grid Environment
Authors: Fatma Selim, Mokhtar Aly, Tamer F. Megahed, Masahito Shoyama, Sobhy M. Abdelkader
First page: 7261
Abstract: The hybrid photovoltaic (PV) with energy storage system (ESS) has become a highly preferred solution to replace traditional fossil-fuel sources, support weak grids, and mitigate the effects of fluctuated PV power. The control of hybrid PV-power systems as generation-storage and their injected active/reactive power for the grid side present critical challenges in optimizing their performance. Therefore, this paper introduces hybrid PV-battery parallel inverters employing a finite control set model predictive control (FCSMPC) method. The proposed FCSMPC-based controller and inverter system achieves multiple functionalities, including maximum power extraction from PV, proper charging/discharging commands for ESS, support for weak grid conditions, support during low-voltage ride-through (LVRT) by increasing reactive power injection to counteract the drop in grid voltage, and economic management based on feed-in-tariff (FiT). The controller significantly improves the performance of the PV-battery system under faulty LVRT conditions and unbalanced grid voltages, satisfying grid code requirements while continuously supplying the microgrid’s delicate local load. A real-time simulation hardware-in-the-loop (HiL) setup, utilizing the OPAL-RT platform, is employed to implement the proposed hybrid PV–ESS with its controller. The results affirm the superior ability of FCSMPC in weak-grid conditions and its capability to achieve multiple objectives simultaneously.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-23
DOI: 10.3390/su16177261
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7262: AI Technology Integrated Education
Model for Empowering Fashion Design Ideation
Authors: Jooyoung Lee, Sungeun Suh
First page: 7262
Abstract: The rapidly increasing importance of technology integration and generative AI in the fashion industry is prompting changes in fashion design education. This study explored a new design methodology utilizing AI for sustainable and future-oriented fashion design education. The methodology involved consulting practitioners to select ChatGPT and Midjourney as AI tools and technology, pedagogy, and content knowledge (TPACK) as the theoretical framework. An AI prompt guide was developed based on specialized books, from which an educational program was created. An experiment with 30 third- and fourth-year fashion design students showed that their overall satisfaction with AI through TPACK was 4 out of 5, suggesting that TPACK enhances students’ creativity and efficiency through generative AI. Prompt guides received a satisfaction score of 4.7, indicating their usefulness for creative and efficient design outputs. AI-powered educational programs, like ChatGPT and Midjourney, also improved student creativity and learning efficiency, with ChatGPT scoring 4.5. However, concerns about technology dependency were noted. This study offers insights into integrating the latest technology into fashion design to improve process efficiency and creative output. This study not only provides a foundation for future research on AI design methodology but also explores practical directions for sustainable design in the fashion industry.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-23
DOI: 10.3390/su16177262
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7263: Energy Transition in Colombia: An
Implementation Proposal for SMEs
Authors: Jhon Pinedo-López, Rubén Baena-Navarro, Nini Durán-Rojas, Lina Díaz-Cogollo, Luis Farak-Flórez
First page: 7263
Abstract: The environmental summits in Rio de Janeiro, Kyoto, Johannesburg, Bali, Copenhagen, and Paris significantly contributed to raising awareness among nations about the need to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. In this context, the energy transition from carbon-based energy sources to renewable energy sources is one of the main goals for both states and companies in the short and medium term. Therefore, the objective of this article is to propose a methodological route for the implementation of energy transition in Colombian SMEs. To achieve this objective, it was necessary to analyze the climate change and energy transition programs included in Colombia’s development plans. The results show that SMEs do not have significant participation in energy transition processes, mainly due to the economic and market barriers they face. However, the fiscal incentives and subsidies established by the government since 2018 increase opportunities for their participation in the present and the coming years.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-23
DOI: 10.3390/su16177263
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7264: How Well Do German A-Level Students
Understand the Scientific Underpinnings of Climate Change'
Authors: Thomas Schubatzky, Rainer Wackermann, Claudia Haagen-Schützenhöfer, Carina Wöhlke
First page: 7264
Abstract: Understanding the scientific underpinnings of climate change is crucial for informed citizenship and future decision-making. This study investigates the understanding of the scientific underpinnings of climate change among German A-level students, focusing on key content areas such as the atmosphere, the greenhouse effect, the carbon cycle, and the distinction between weather and climate. Using a validated climate change concept inventory (CCCI-422), we assessed 501 students from five urban secondary schools in North Rhine-Westphalia. Results indicate that students correctly answered on average 39% of the questions correctly, revealing significant knowledge gaps, particularly in areas like the greenhouse effect and atmospheric composition. We also identified several overarching ideas that many students demonstrate. This study underscores the importance of integrating comprehensive climate science education into national curricula and classroom instruction to foster scientifically literate future generations capable of addressing the global climate crisis.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-23
DOI: 10.3390/su16177264
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7265: Environmental Regulation, Factor
Marketisation Allocation and Carbon Emissions Performance: Empirical
Evidence from Resource-Based Cities in China
Authors: Jiaming Wang, Chengyao Lin, Xiangyun Wang, Shuwen Wang
First page: 7265
Abstract: Resource-based cities had an irreplaceable role in the process of the economic miracle in China. Advancing such cities’ carbon emissions reduction is a crucial aspect of the country’s steady realisation of the dual carbon peak and neutrality strategy. The reasonable implementation of environmental regulation and the efficiency of factor marketisation allocation are the key links for resource-based cities to improve carbon emissions performance, break the resource curse and reduce carbon emissions. Based on this, this study centres on the driving relationship between environmental regulation, the efficiency of factor marketisation allocation and carbon emissions performance as the core research problem. This study takes the panel data of 116 resource-based cities in China from 2006 to 2020 as the research sample; the non-radial meta-frontier total factor carbon emissions performance index is selected as the measurement index of carbon emission performance of resource-based cities based on the applicability analysis of the model. This study explores the characteristics of regional heterogeneity and type heterogeneity of carbon emissions performance driven by environmental regulation under the moderating effect of the efficiency of factor marketisation allocation and further explores the threshold effect, aiming to clarify the driving relationship between the three. The findings reveal that the driving effect of environmental regulation intensity on carbon emissions performance exhibits a fluctuating upward trend, the effect transformed by compliance cost and innovation compensation. The efficiency of factor marketisation allocation has a double threshold superposition effect on carbon emissions performance fluctuation that is driven by environmental regulation, indicating that market and government effectiveness can operate together to improve the carbon emissions performance. Based on these results, this study proposes countermeasures and suggestions for improving carbon emissions performance using environmental regulation and the efficiency of factor marketisation allocation.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-23
DOI: 10.3390/su16177265
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7266: Numerical Simulation Study on
Hydraulic Characteristics and Wear of Eccentric Semi-Ball Valve under
Sediment Laden Water Flow
Authors: Yixiong Cheng, Yuan Tang, Jianhua Wu, Hua Jin, Lixia Shen
First page: 7266
Abstract: To investigate the variation laws of various hydraulic parameters and internal fluid flow patterns of eccentric semi-ball valves under different boundary conditions, the DPM model was used to numerically simulate the eccentric semi-ball valve based on Fluent 2021 R1 software. The flow velocity, pressure distribution, and erosion wear rate on the valve wall were simulated under different combinations of opening, inlet flow velocity, and sediment concentration conditions, and hydraulic parameters such as drag coefficient, flow coefficient, and cavitation coefficient were calculated. The results show that as the opening of the eccentric semi-ball valve increases, the valve drag coefficient decreases, the flow coefficient increases, the cavitation coefficient increases, and the degree of cavitation decreases. The flow velocity in the high-velocity zone at both ends of the valve plate decreases, and the gradient of water flow velocity passing through the valve decreases. The area of the low-velocity zone at the rear of the valve plate decreases, and the vortex phenomenon gradually weakens; as the sediment content in the water increases, the valve drag coefficient increases, the flow coefficient decreases, and the cavitation coefficient first increases and then decreases. The maximum flow velocity of the pipeline decreases faster and faster, causing an increase in pressure gradient in the flow area and drastic changes. This results in higher pressure on the pipe wall near the valve plate, especially a significant increase in negative pressure; As the inlet flow rate increases, the valve drag coefficient decreases, the flow coefficient increases, and the cavitation coefficient gradually decreases. The flow velocity of the water passing through the valve increases, and the low-pressure area downstream of the valve plate increases. The pressure gradient at both ends of the valve port increases significantly from small to large, and the positive pressure upstream of the valve plate gradually increases. The force of the water flow on the valve plate is large, causing friction between the valve stem and the valve body, which is not conducive to long-term operation. With the increase in inlet flow rate, the maximum wear amount and wear range of the valve plate have significantly increased, and erosion wear is mainly distributed in point blocks at the edge of the valve plate. This study can provide certain references and solutions for the key technology research of eccentric semi-ball valves and assess the performance indicators of the operation being maintained.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-23
DOI: 10.3390/su16177266
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7267: The Effect of Multilateral Economic
Cooperation on Sustainable Natural Resource Development
Authors: Tingting Zheng, Zongxuan Chai, Pengfei Zuo, Xinyu Wang
First page: 7267
Abstract: The relationship between natural resource development and sustainable development has long been a focus in academia. In the context of a new global economic cooperation system, many scholars argue that such cooperation can lead to a “resource curse” effect in partner countries, hindering their sustainable development. This study analyzed panel data from 64 countries from 2008 to 2020, using the Belt and Road Initiative as a representative of multilateral economic cooperation (MEC) policies. The aim was to examine the actual impact of multilateral economic cooperation on the sustainable development levels of partner countries and to explore the underlying mechanisms influencing these outcomes. First, we measured and identified the sustainable development index (SDI) under natural resource development schemes and the “resource curse” effect in these countries. Then, we employed a double machine learning approach to evaluate the policy effects of MEC on sustainable resource development. We constructed an interactive double machine learning model to examine and validate the specific mechanisms of resource development effects. The results indicate that the level of sustainable resource development in MEC countries is relatively low, and a “resource curse” effect already exists. However, participating in MEC suppresses this “curse” effect. By promoting innovation cooperation, institutional improvement, structural optimization, trade openness, and pollution reduction, MEC effectively enhances the sustainable development levels of partner countries.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-23
DOI: 10.3390/su16177267
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7268: Financing a Capital-Constrained
Supply Chain under Risk Regulations: Traditional Finance versus Platform
Finance
Authors: Jun Wu, Liyuan Yue, Na Li, Qianqian Zhang
First page: 7268
Abstract: Small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) frequently face challenges in obtaining financial assistance from traditional banks. Platform Supply Chain Finance (PSCF) has emerged as a promising solution for financing issues among SMEs, with an added focus on integrating sustainability aspects. This study focused on a two-tier supply chain as its primary research topic to find strategies to enhance supplier financial viability and improve the efficiency and profitability of the main manufacturing enterprise. In this study, we establish three distinct hypotheses corresponding to the three models involving supplier and manufacturer participation, encompassing parameters such as production batch size, pricing, and supply chain profit. First, it examined financing decisions through the lens of core enterprise-led platform finance. Second, it applied the Stackelberg game theory to investigate financing decisions in three distinct modes: traditional finance, platform internal finance, and external platform finance. Suppliers, manufacturers, and banks can be seen as participants in a Stackelberg game. In this game, suppliers act as leaders, making production and procurement decisions first, while manufacturers and banks act as followers, adjusting their behavior based on the suppliers’ decisions. Finally, it performed a comparative analysis of decisions and supply chain efficiency across these modes. When the risk regulation cost coefficient falls below a certain threshold, suppliers are willing to set up their own PSCF and there is an optimal level of risk regulation effort within the interval (0, 1). We compare platform finance with traditional finance and find that the traditional finance model maximizes profits for suppliers, while the external financing model maximizes profits for manufacturers and the overall supply chain profit. Findings provide insights for platforms, suppliers, manufacturers, and banks to implement optimal financing and channel structures to increase their profits and promote the sustainable development of the financial supply chain. In addition, future research on blockchain platform models would be highly meaningful.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-23
DOI: 10.3390/su16177268
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7269: Does Parking Type Preference Behavior
Differ According to Whether It Is Paid or Free' A Case Study in Istanbul,
Türkiye
Authors: Gürcan Sarısoy, Hüseyin Onur Tezcan
First page: 7269
Abstract: Parking behavior depends on drivers’ choice of parking type and willingness to pay for parking. Generally, the parking type refers to off-street and on-street parking facilities. The main factors affecting the preference for parking types are driver, vehicle, travel, and parking characteristics. Understanding drivers’ parking type preference behavior and accurately modeling drivers’ tendencies helps develop sustainable parking management policies. This study examines the parking preferences of drivers in Istanbul with binary logit models according to whether they pay for parking. The results of the models show that the number of factors influencing parking type preference is higher for free parking than for paid parking, including driver, vehicle, travel, and parking characteristics. Moreover, some factors in the models affect drivers’ parking type preferences differently for paid and free parking. Namely, low-income individuals tend to use on-street parking when parking is free and off-street parking when it is paid. Conversely, individuals who drive small-size vehicles prefer off-street parking for free parking and on-street parking for paid parking. Individuals who prefer off-street parking for free parking expect shorter walking distances to the final destination and parking duration. On the contrary, individuals who choose on-street parking for paid parking anticipate shorter walking distances to the final destination and parking duration.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-23
DOI: 10.3390/su16177269
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7270: Evaluation of the Development Level
of Green Transportation in National Central Cities
Authors: Huan Yu, Qi Yang
First page: 7270
Abstract: Green transportation is the core embodiment of ecological civilization and the concept of green development within the field of transportation, and it is an important strategic choice for sustainable urban development. National central cities represent the highest level in China’s urban system planning. This paper aims to evaluate the level of green transportation development in national central cities. It established a set of 29 specific evaluation indicators from five dimensions: basic indicators, green transportation infrastructure, traffic environmental protection, traffic travel, and traffic safety. It constructed an evaluation index system for the development level of green transportation. The entropy weight TOPSIS method was utilized to evaluate the development levels of green transportation in nine national central cities from 2020 to 2022. An obstacle degree model was constructed to identify key obstacle factors at both the criterion and indicator layers of the green transportation development level evaluation index system for national central cities. Suggestions were proposed from five aspects: establishing a comprehensive policy framework, promoting regional collaborative development, accelerating infrastructure construction, improving transportation service quality, and fostering the green upgrading of industries. The results showed that the comprehensive ranking of green transportation development levels among the national central cities from high to low for the years 2020–2022 was as follows: Shanghai, Chongqing, Chengdu, Beijing, Guangzhou, Tianjin, Wuhan, Xi’an, Zhengzhou. In terms of the regional spatial layout, the green transportation development levels of the nine national central cities generally exhibited a “high on the periphery, low in the center” distribution characteristic. The comprehensive ranking of the obstacle degree in the criterion layer was as follows: basic indicators, traffic travel, green transportation infrastructure, traffic environmental protection, traffic safety. After screening the criteria level where the obstacle degree calculation results are above 15%, traffic safety is eliminated. The nine cities, which were located in different regions, generally maintained consistent internal obstacle factors and their order. The top five indicators with the highest frequency of obstacle degrees at the indicator layer were as follows: total passenger transport volume, number of taxis, new energy vehicle production, expenditure for transportation, and total freight transport volume. The specific key obstacle factors at the indicator level were different in the nine cities.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-23
DOI: 10.3390/su16177270
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7271: Book-Tax Differences during the
Crisis: Does Corporate Social Responsibility Matter'
Authors: Prianto Budi Saptono, Gustofan Mahmud, Intan Pratiwi, Dwi Purwanto, Ismail Khozen, Lambang Wiji Imantoro, Maria Eurelia Wayan
First page: 7271
Abstract: This study investigates the intricate relationship between corporate financial strategies, encapsulated by book-tax differences (BTDs), and firms’ engagement in corporate social responsibility (CSR) programs during economic crises. Using an unbalanced panel dataset drawn from financial, annual, and sustainability reports of over 97 Indonesian non-financial firms from 2017 to 2022, this study reveals that economic crises and CSR activities positively influence total BTD and permanent differences. Notably, firms strategically leverage CSR initiatives amidst crises to enhance their corporate image and manage internal challenges like aggressive tax planning. The robustness of these findings was validated through endogeneity analysis and by examining sub-samples from industries most impacted by the pandemic. In the industries least affected by the pandemic, the direct impact of CSR on BTD was found to be negative, indicating that in the general context, the CSR programs held by these industries are largely driven by normative motives. However, when specified in the crisis context, CSR serves as a strategic buffer for these industries, which reaffirms the prevalence of CSR strategic motives during Indonesia’s pandemic challenges. The findings suggest policy implications for shareholders, regulators, and policymakers to ensure CSR transparency aligns with long-term corporate values and societal impact, incentivizing genuine CSR practices amidst economic uncertainty. Despite its contributions, the study recommends future research explore different domains of CSR and validate findings across diverse contexts to enrich the understanding of CSR’s role in corporate resilience strategies.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-23
DOI: 10.3390/su16177271
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7272: Bridging Built Environment Attributes
and Perceived City Images: Exploring Dual Influences on Resident
Satisfaction in Revitalizing Post-Industrial Neighborhoods
Authors: Xian Ji, Kai Li, Chang Liu, Furui Shang
First page: 7272
Abstract: The deterioration of physical spaces and changes in the social environment have led to significant challenges and low life satisfaction among residents in post-industrial neighborhoods. While resident satisfaction is closely linked to the built environment, physical attributes alone do not directly influence human feelings. The perception and processing of urban environments, or city images, play a critical mediating role. Previous studies have often explored the impact of either city image perception or physical space attributes on resident satisfaction separately, lacking an integrated approach. This study addresses this gap by examining the interplay between subjective perceptions and objective environmental attributes. Unlike previous studies that use the whole neighborhood area for human perception, our study uses the actual activity ranges of residents to represent the living environment. Utilizing data from Shenyang, China, and employing image semantic segmentation technology and multiple regression methods, we analyze how subjective city image factors influence resident satisfaction and how objective urban spatial indicators affect these perceptions. We integrate these aspects to rank objective spatial indicators by their impact on resident satisfaction. The results demonstrate that all city image factors significantly and positively influence resident satisfaction, with the overall impression of the area’s appearance having the greatest impact (β = 0.362). Certain objective spatial indicators also significantly affect subjective city image perceptions. For instance, traffic lights are negatively correlated with the perception of greenery (β = −0.079), while grass is positively correlated (β = 0.626). Key factors affecting resident satisfaction include pedestrian flow, traffic flow, open spaces, sky openness, and green space levels. This study provides essential insights for urban planners and policymakers, helping prioritize sustainable updates in post-industrial neighborhoods. By guiding targeted revitalization strategies, this research contributes to improving the quality of life and advancing sustainable urban development.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-23
DOI: 10.3390/su16177272
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7273: Advancing CO2 Solubility Prediction
in Brine Solutions with Explainable Artificial Intelligence for
Sustainable Subsurface Storage
Authors: Amin Shokrollahi, Afshin Tatar, Abbas Zeinijahromi
First page: 7273
Abstract: Underground CO2 storage is crucial for sustainability as it reduces greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, helping mitigate climate change and protect the environment. This research explores the use of Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) to enhance the predictive modelling of CO2 solubility in brine solutions. Employing Random Forest (RF) models, the study integrates Shapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) analysis to uncover the complex relationships between key variables, including pressure (P), temperature (T), salinity, and ionic composition. Our findings indicate that while P and T are primary factors, the contributions of salinity and specific ions, notably chloride ions (Cl−), are essential for accurate predictions. The RF model exhibited high accuracy, precision, and stability, effectively predicting CO2 solubility even for brines not included during the model training as evidenced by R2 values greater than 0.96 for the validation and testing samples. Additionally, the stability assessment showed that the Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE) spans between 8.4 and 9.0 for 100 different randomness, which shows good stability. SHAP analysis provided valuable insights into feature contributions and interactions, revealing complex dependencies, particularly between P and ionic strength. These insights offer practical guidelines for optimising CO2 storage and mitigating associated risks. By improving the accuracy and transparency of CO2 solubility predictions, this research supports more effective and sustainable CO2 storage strategies, contributing to the overall goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-23
DOI: 10.3390/su16177273
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7274: Analysis of Regulation of Costs for
Operating Buses in a Transport Company
Authors: Valery Kurganov, Mikhail Gryaznov, Andrey Aduvalin, Liliya Polyakova, Aleksey Dorofeev
First page: 7274
Abstract: The problem of increasing passenger traffic remains acute for municipal public transport. The value of this indicator is determined by the interest of citizens in this way of making their trips and determines the feasibility of the carrier’s operation. The authors conducted a study of the problems of public transport services in large- and medium-sized cities, which found that the population’s interest in public urban passenger transport has generally been significantly lost. More than 40% of the city population refuses to travel on public transport, half of the population has questions about the reliability of tariff formation, and the same number of people are not satisfied with the regular route network and schedule. City residents increasingly prefer personal vehicles or taxis for their trips, which negatively affects the revenue side of carriers, as well as the level of social comfort and the quality of life of citizens. Efforts to reduce the operating costs of the carrier are aimed at correcting the current situation with urban transport so that tariffs for transportation are more acceptable for passengers. The formation of tariffs for passenger transportation for transport companies is an urgent and complex task. It is necessary to formulate the tariff in such a way as to cover your own transportation costs in the near future and, at the same time, not exceed the psychological threshold for passengers so as not to cause their negative reaction. In addition, since the transportation of passengers by urban public transport is regulated by the authorities, it is also necessary to provide an economic justification for transportation tariffs. This is difficult in the absence of substantiated indicators of consumption rates of material resources in the transport process. To solve this problem, it is necessary to carefully analyze the current costs of operating the bus fleet, as well as forecast costs for future periods. At different periods, researchers have proposed various approaches for planning the cost of operating a bus fleet. The approach we propose is to use standardization of the consumption of material resources, considering the individual operating conditions of the bus fleet and the influence of various factors.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-23
DOI: 10.3390/su16177274
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7275: Investigation of Novel Transition
Metal Loaded Hydrochar Catalyst Synthesized from Waste Biomass (Rice Husk)
Authors: Laraib Aamir Khan, Rabia Liaquat, Mohammed Aman, Mohammad Kanan, Muhammad Saleem, Asif Hussain khoja, Ali Bahadar, Waqar Ul Habib Khan
First page: 7275
Abstract: The decarbonization of transportation plays a crucial role in mitigating climate change, and biodiesel has emerged as a promising solution due to its renewable and eco-friendly nature. However, in order to maintain the momentum of the “green trend” and ensure energy security, an ecologically friendly pathway is important to produce efficient biodiesel. In this work, activated carbon (AC) obtained from rice husk (RH) is hydrothermally prepared and modified through cobalt transition metal for catalyst support for the transesterification process. The physicochemical characteristics of the synthesized catalysts are examined using XRD, FTIR, SEM and EDS, TGA, and BET, while the produced biodiesel is also characterized using Gas Chromatography and Mass Spectroscopy (GC-MS). To optimize the transesterification process, Fatty Acid Methyl Esters (FAME) are produced by the conversion of waste cooking oil. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) is used to validate temperature (75 °C), the methanol-to-oil molar ratio (1:9), catalyst weight percentage (2 wt.%), and retention time (52.5 min). The highest conversion rate of waste cooking oil (WCO) to biodiesel was recorded at 96.3% and tested as per American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards. Based on the results, it is clear that cobalt-loaded rice husk-based green catalyst (RHAC-Co) enhanced catalytic activity and yield for biodiesel production. Further research should focus on engine performance evaluation and scaling up of the catalyst by optimizing it for the industrial scale.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-23
DOI: 10.3390/su16177275
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7276: Assessing Climate Change Projections
through High-Resolution Modelling: A Comparative Study of Three European
Cities
Authors: Ana Ascenso, Bruno Augusto, Sílvia Coelho, Isilda Menezes, Alexandra Monteiro, Sandra Rafael, Joana Ferreira, Carla Gama, Peter Roebeling, Ana Isabel Miranda
First page: 7276
Abstract: Climate change is expected to influence urban living conditions, challenging cities to adopt mitigation and adaptation measures. This paper assesses climate change projections for different urban areas in Europe –Eindhoven (The Netherlands), Genova (Italy) and Tampere (Finland)—and discusses how nature-based solutions (NBS) can help climate change adaptation in these cities. The Weather Research and Forecasting Model was used to simulate the climate of the recent past and the medium-term future, considering the RCP4.5 scenario, using nesting capabilities and high spatial resolution (1 km2). Climate indices focusing on temperature-related metrics are calculated for each city: Daily Temperature Range, Summer Days, Tropical Nights, Icing Days, and Frost Days. Despite the uncertainties of this modelling study, it was possible to identify some potential trends for the future. The strongest temperature increase was found during winter, whereas warming is less distinct in summer, except for Tampere, which could experience warmer summers and colder winters. The warming in Genova is predicted mainly outside of the main urban areas. Results indicate that on average the temperature in Eindhoven will increase more than in Genova, while in Tampere a small reduction in annual average temperature was estimated. NBS could help mitigate the increase in Summer Days and Tropical Nights projected for Genova and Eindhoven in the warmer months, and the increase in the number of Frost Days and Icing Days in Eindhoven (in winter) and Tampere (in autumn). To avoid undesirable impacts of NBS, proper planning concerning the location and type of NBS, vegetation characteristics and seasonality, is needed.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-23
DOI: 10.3390/su16177276
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7277: The Capacities and Sustainability of
Croatian Cities in Performing Municipal Services
Authors: Suncana Slijepcevic, Tanja Broz, Ivana Rasic
First page: 7277
Abstract: The system of local and regional self-governments in the EU is characterized by an extremely large number of small units. The situation in Croatia, a country with only 3.87 million inhabitants, is no different. There are 576 local and regional self-government units. The basic feature of self-government in Croatia is the equal scope of authority in performing tasks, regardless of the number of inhabitants, the area they inhabit, or their ability to pursue sustainability objectives. In this paper, we analyze the capacities of performing municipal services in 127 Croatian cities and examine whether cities differ in their ability to perform public functions. Results show that cities can be grouped into three different clusters. The validity of the results on clusters was confirmed with an ANOVA, where a significant difference was found between all three clusters. Ranking cities according to the capacity for providing municipal services shows that cities with higher capacities are clustered together, implying that cities indeed differ in their ability to perform municipal services. Further, the results indicate that 80 percent of the cities belong to the cluster that consists of cities with a very low capacity for providing public services.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-24
DOI: 10.3390/su16177277
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7278: Biochar Prepared from Steam-Exploded
Bitter Melon Vine for the Adsorption of Methylene Blue from Aqueous
Solution: Kinetics, Isotherm, Thermodynamics and Mechanism
Authors: Xia Li, Hongyu Jia, Lihua Jiang, Zhengwei Mou, Bo Zhang, Zihui Zhang, Yan Chen
First page: 7278
Abstract: Bitter melon vine (an agricultural waste product with high fiber content) is difficult to treat and has caused problems in the environment. This research aims to produce biochar through low-temperature pyrolysis assisted by non-polluting steam explosion. The physical and chemical properties of the biochar were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images, specific surface area measurements (BET), X-ray diffraction patters (XRD), elemental analysis (EA), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Next, the adsorption mechanism of methylene blue (MB) on the steam-exploded bitter melon vine biochar pyrolyzed at 200 °C (qBC200) and the effects of adsorption time, pH, initial concentration, adsorption temperature, and adsorbent dosage on the adsorption effect were investigated. Steam explosion destroyed the dense structure of the plant, increased the number of oxygen-containing surface functional groups, and improved the adsorption performance of the material. Therefore, qBC200 more effectively adsorbed MB than untreated biochar, reaching a saturated adsorption capacity of 267.72 mg/g. The MB adsorption kinetics and isothermal adsorption process of qBC200 align with the pseudo-second-order kinetic model and Langmuir isothermal equation (monolayer adsorption), respectively. The thermodynamic results show that MB adsorbs via a spontaneous, entropy-increasing exothermic reaction. The adsorption mechanism involves electrostatic attraction, hydrogen bonding, and π–π interactions. The prepared biomass with high fiber content is a promising new material for wastewater treatment.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-24
DOI: 10.3390/su16177278
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7279: Innovative Approaches in Hotel
Management: Integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of
Things (IoT) to Enhance Operational Efficiency and Sustainability
Authors: Tamara Gajić, Marko D. Petrović, Ana Milanović Pešić, Momčilo Conić, Nemanja Gligorijević
First page: 7279
Abstract: The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and the internet of things (IoT) is bringing revolutionary changes to the hospitality industry, enabling the advancement of sustainable practices. This research, conducted using a quantitative methodology through surveys of hotel managers in the Republic of Serbia, examines the perceived contribution of AI and IoT technologies to operational efficiency and business sustainability. Data analysis using structural equation modeling (SEM) has determined that AI and IoT significantly improve operational efficiency, which positively impacts sustainable practices. The results indicate that the integration of these technologies not only optimizes resource management but also contributes to achieving global sustainability goals, including reducing the carbon footprint and preserving the environment. This study provides empirical evidence of the synergistic effects of AI and IoT on hotel sustainability, offering practical recommendations for managers and proposing an innovative framework for enhancing sustainability. It also highlights the need for future research to focus on the long-term impacts of these technologies and address challenges related to data privacy and implementation costs.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-24
DOI: 10.3390/su16177279
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7280: Age-Friendly Cycling
Infrastructure—Differences and Preferences among 50+ Cyclists
Authors: Sreten Jevremović, Ana Trpković, Svetlana Čičević, Marjana Čubranić Dobrodolac, Carol Kachadoorian
First page: 7280
Abstract: In this paper, the needs, attitudes, and perceptions of older (50+) cyclists were examined with the aim of determining the level of comfort, safety, and the way of using different types of cycling infrastructure. Considering that by 2050, 1 in 6 people will be over the age of 65, and that this category of users (particularly cyclists) still receives insufficient attention, the authors believed that in this way, a significant contribution can be made to the existing literature. Data from 389 50+ cyclists were collected through a survey, including Canada, the United States (USA), and Serbia, and analyzed using visual preference testing (VPT), ANOVA, and Kruskal–Wallis test. The countries were chosen to include certain similarities (traffic characteristics), as well as differences (cultural characteristics), in order to enable an adequate exchange of knowledge, good practice, and experience. The results indicate the existence of differences between these countries, especially regarding the perception of safety and the way of using certain infrastructure in Serbia (e.g., major urban collectors and shared space). Based on the obtained results, a set of general guidelines was proposed for countries with similar traffic and cultural characteristics on how to treat and provide sustainable infrastructure for older cyclists.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-24
DOI: 10.3390/su16177280
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7281: Sustainable Human Resource Management
and Employees’ Performance: The Impact of National Culture
Authors: Hilla Peretz
First page: 7281
Abstract: In an era of rapid globalization and increased environmental consciousness, organizations must align their business practices with sustainable development goals. The main objective of this study is to explore the impact of sustainable human resource management (SHRM) on employees’ performance, focusing on the mediating role of employee engagement and the moderating effect of national culture. To do so, data were collected from 1950 individuals across 26 countries. The results of a multilevel analysis show that SHRM positively affects performance, with employee engagement acting as a mediator. Furthermore, the effectiveness of SHRM practices is moderated by cultural tightness–looseness, indicating that SHRM practices are more effective in flexible and adaptive cultural environments. This study contributes to the literature by integrating institutional theory and the JD-R model, demonstrating that SHRM enhances performance through increased employee engagement and that cultural context significantly influences this relationship. The findings emphasize the need for a culturally sensitive approach to SHRM, suggesting that organizations should tailor their sustainable practices to align with the cultural norms of their operational environments. This research provides valuable theoretical insights into the mechanisms through which SHRM impacts performance and practical implications for HR professionals seeking to implement effective and sustainable HR practices globally.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-24
DOI: 10.3390/su16177281
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7282: Multi-Faceted Analysis of Airborne
Noise Impact in the Port of Split (III)
Authors: Luka Vukić, Merica Slišković, Luca Fredianelli
First page: 7282
Abstract: Marginal and neglected until recently, noise pollution is a significant topic of sustainable development today. Port noise has become an increasingly critical problem for the environment. The public and the scientific community have gradually become aware of the harmful impact of noise emissions on residents living near port facilities. It coincides with the increase in complaints from the population about excessive noise pollution in ports, especially in residential areas near the cargo terminals in Split. This paper seeks to empirically investigate overall port noise and assess the significance of the reported disturbances. The methodology includes the measurement of noise in zero state conditions, residual noise and noise during specific work processes, and consideration of conditions for possible adjustments of the selected work process during transport operations. The goal is to propose plans for noise reduction by evaluating the results of noise monitoring with the specified limit values, which determine the highest permissible noise levels for industrial and residential zones in the observed area. The values exceed the maximum permitted noise levels during the night. However, this problem can be reduced through operational and technical adjustments in cargo handling processes, acting as objective mitigation measures. The effectiveness of the defined procedure is demonstrated by its application in the Port of Split, contributing to the port’s sustainability located near the residential area.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-24
DOI: 10.3390/su16177282
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7283: Long-Term Variation Patterns of
Precipitations Driven by Climate Change in China from 1901 to 2022
Authors: Jing Han, Rui Zhang, Bing Guo, Baomin Han, Tianhe Xu, Qiang Guo
First page: 7283
Abstract: Studying long-term precipitation trends is crucial for sustainable development, as the proper utilization of water resources is essential for maintaining a sustainable water supply. The objective and novelty of this paper was to reveal the gradual mutation process of precipitation in China over a century. This study utilized monthly precipitation data from 1901 to 2022 (at a century scale) to analyze and explore the spatiotemporal variability in precipitation across different time scales and regions with a trend analysis, an abrupt change analysis, and gravity center models. The findings indicate that (1) from 1901 to 2022, the precipitation in China generally decreased from the southeast coastal areas toward the northwest inland regions. (2) There were significant differences in the migration of precipitation gravity centers among the different study regions, with the least dispersion being observed in the Liao River basin, while the Hai River basin, various river basins in the northwest, and the Pearl River basin exhibited certain regularities in gravity center movement, and other regions showed periodic variations. (3) Over the period from 1901 to 2022, there was a trend of transitioning from lower to higher precipitation levels. (4) According to continuous long-term abrupt change tests, the timing of precipitation shifts varied across different basins. Precipitation, as a crucial component of natural resources, directly impacts various aspects of socio-economic life. Research findings provide decision support for regional flood control and disaster reduction and offer scientific decisions for ecological security.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-24
DOI: 10.3390/su16177283
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7284: Behavioral Intention to Purchase
Sustainable Food: Generation Z’s Perspective
Authors: Dominika Jakubowska, Aneta Zofia Dąbrowska, Bogdan Pachołek, Sylwia Sady
First page: 7284
Abstract: Sustainable food consumption is critical for addressing global environmental challenges and promoting health and ethical practices. Understanding what drives sustainable food choices among younger generations, particularly Generation Z, is essential for developing effective strategies to encourage sustainable consumption patterns. Using the Theory of Planned Behavior as the theoretical framework, this study aims to explore how the variables of the theory (personal attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control), along with consumer knowledge, trust, and health concerns, affect Generation Z’s intentions to buy sustainable food. The research was carried out in Poland via the online interview method (CAWI), with 438 users ranging between the ages 18 and 27. The results show that attitudes and knowledge are significant predictors of sustainable food consumption among Generation Z, while subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, health consciousness, and trust do not significantly affect purchase intentions. This research underscores the importance of educational campaigns and marketing strategies that enhance consumer knowledge and shape positive attitudes towards sustainable food. These insights offer valuable implications for policymakers, marketers, and educators aiming to encourage sustainable practices. Understanding the drivers of Generation Z’s sustainable food consumption behaviors can provide valuable insights for developing effective strategies to promote sustainable consumption patterns. This study adds to the body of knowledge on sustainable food consumption by highlighting the specific factors that drive Generation Z’s purchasing intentions.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-24
DOI: 10.3390/su16177284
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7285: Investigating the Effectiveness of
Endogenous and Exogenous Drivers of the Sustainability (Re)Orientation of
Family SMEs in Slovenia: Qualitative Content Analysis Approach
Authors: Mojca Duh, Andreja Primec
First page: 7285
Abstract: Large proportions of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are family controlled and play an important role not only in the development of many national economies, but also have great potential to reduce negative effects of human activities on the natural environment and society. This important role of family SMEs has been recognized by the European Union (EU) which has integrated them in its legislative frameworks. The main question addressed in our research is whether family SMEs integrate sustainability concerns into their strategic and operative decisions as required by the EU legislative frameworks. We designed our research with the purpose to broaden our understanding of sustainability (re)orientation of family SMEs and fill the gap in the existing literature on family businesses’ sustainability. We applied a qualitative case study research method where sustainability (re)orientation of 26 family SMEs was explored. The qualitative content analysis was used in the process of analysing data. Theoretically and empirically based cognitions on endogenous and exogenous drivers of the family businesses’ sustainability (re)orientation were applied in interpretation of the research results. Our findings show the low level of sustainability (re)orientation of most of the investigated Slovenian family SMEs. The exogenous drivers have stronger effect on sustainability (re)orientation of family SMEs than endogenous drivers.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-24
DOI: 10.3390/su16177285
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7286: The Impact of Environmental Public
Opinion Pressure on Green Innovation in Construction Enterprises: The
Mediating Role of Green Corporate Image and the Regulatory Effect of
Market Competition
Authors: Huaming Wang, Xing Huang, Bo Wang
First page: 7286
Abstract: Due to growing public concern over environmental preservation and the growing development of Internet information communication platforms, media coverage of corporate environmental issues can exert certain environmental public opinion pressure (EPOP) on enterprises and influence their behaviors. However, the current study of EPOP on the influence mechanism of corporate green innovation (CGI) has not yet formed a systematic and comprehensive theoretical analysis framework. Therefore, based on legitimacy theory and stakeholder theory, this paper explores the impact mechanism and role boundary between EPOP and CGI based on the data from 328 valid questionnaires of construction enterprises of the Chengdu–Chongqing Dual City Economic Circle using hierarchical regression analysis. The findings of the research indicate that EPOP can affect construction company green innovations positively, green corporate image (GCI) plays a partial mediating effect in the relationship between EPOP on CGI; market competition (MC) negatively moderates the relationship between EPOP and CGI, in addition, MC negatively regulates the intermediary effect of GCI in the relationship between EPOP and CGI. The findings of the study serve as theoretical support and decision-making reference to promote Chinese construction enterprise’s transition to green innovation and improve environmental governance level.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-24
DOI: 10.3390/su16177286
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7287: A Sustainable Approach Based on Sheep
Wool Mulch and Soil Conditioner for Prunus domestica (Stanley Variety)
Trees Aimed at Increasing Fruit Quality and Productivity in Drought
Conditions
Authors: Manuel Alexandru Gitea, Ioana Maria Borza, Cristian Gabriel Domuta, Daniela Gitea, Cristina Adriana Rosan, Simona Ioana Vicas, Manuela Bianca Pasca
First page: 7287
Abstract: In the context of extreme climate change, experts in fruit production face a significant challenge in developing new strategies aimed at increasing the productivity of fruit tree crops. In order to investigate the changes in various horticultural indices (production, tree growth, and development) as well as the quality of plum fruits, sheep’s wool mulch, a cornstarch-based soil conditioner, and a combination of the two were applied in a Stanley plum orchard. In parallel, an experimental control variation was used. The results showed that the methods used had a substantial impact on fruit yield, size, and weight, with the best results obtained when mulching with sheep’s wool and soil conditioner. Plum fruits from mulching with sheep wool + soil conditioner exhibited the greatest total phenol concentration (1.30 ± 0.09 mg GAE/g dw), followed by the reference sample at 1.16 ± 0.09 mg GAE/g dw. The antioxidant capacity assessed using the three different methods provided favorable results for the experimental variant, sheep wool + soil conditioner. The results indicate that using the three experimental versions increased the fruit yield with 27% (sheep’s wool mulch) and with, 37% (sheep wool + soil conditioner) on average compared to that of the control group, while also improving the fruit quality. The fruit weight increased with 17.26% (cornstarch-based soil conditioner) and with 48.90% (sheep wool + soil conditioner) compared to that of the control, and the fruit size increased with 5% in two experiments (sheep’s wool mulch and a cornstarch-based soil conditioner) with 19% (sheep wool + soil conditioner), compared to the control group.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-24
DOI: 10.3390/su16177287
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7288: Second Life for Lithium-Ion Traction
Batteries
Authors: Lea H. Guenther, Volker Klein, Georg Loef, André Pohl, Haimanot Okube, Ralf Winterbur, Georg Röwer, Bianca Wegener, Roland Goertz, Stefan Bracke
First page: 7288
Abstract: For the reuse of traction batteries, many different scenarios exist, for example, stationary storage farms or fast charging stations. Another second-life usage scenario is the reuse of batteries as home energy storage in combination with a photovoltaic installation in a private household. This application is the focus of the present study. Home energy storage is a reasonable possibility for storing renewable energy and conserving resources, but it also includes multiple challenges regarding reliability and safety requirements. Within this study, these challenges are investigated. A battery inspection concept was developed, and a logistic model for considering the legal requirements was created. Data from different use cases were selected, and their structure was homogenized. To assess their safety, fire tests were performed. In addition, a concept for a reliability assessment that provides the possibility to evaluate the suitability of a battery for a second-life application based on usage data in its first life was developed. Based on the results, a prototype of a second-life storage system was built from traction battery cells removed from electric vehicles. This prototype is currently used to store energy from a photovoltaic system, and its usage data were collected.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-24
DOI: 10.3390/su16177288
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7289: The Impacts of Remote Work and
Attitudinal Shifts on Commuting Reductions in Post-COVID Melbourne,
Australia
Authors: Gheyath Chalabi, Hussein Dia
First page: 7289
Abstract: This paper analyses the commuting frequencies and modal choices of travellers in Melbourne, using a dataset reflecting travel behaviour before and after COVID-19. A factor analysis of 63 latent variables identified seven key factors, which were used in cluster analysis to examine the relationships between latent constructs, land use, and socio-demographic variables, as well as commuting behaviours. The analysis categorised white-collar employees into four groups based on their remote work engagement, with socio-demographics and industry type as key factors. The analysis shows that female clerical and administrative workers who worked from home during the pandemic are now returning to the office, raising gender equality concerns within society. Meanwhile, the education and training sector mandates office attendance despite the feasibility of remote work, as universities prioritise in-person attendance to attract more international students, impacting societal norms around telecommuting. The analysis revealed that saving on commute costs, reducing travel time, and spending more time with family are the among the primary factors influencing travel behaviour among white-collar employee’s post-pandemic. The study found that the decrease in public transport trips is associated with increased telecommuting rather than service dissatisfaction, especially among Central Business District (CBD) employees who still rely on public transport. This trend suggests that the CBD sector’s growing acceptance of remote work is reducing daily commutes, which puts additional pressure on public transport providers to sustain and improve their services. A decline in service quality could further reduce ridership, highlighting the need for consistent, high-quality public transport. Furthermore, the study found that increased telecommuting is likely to reduce car trips in the future, especially among healthcare and social workers who prefer driving due to public transport’s unreliability for their demanding schedules. By examining variables like the advantages and disadvantages of working from home, convenience, accessibility, and the efficiency of public transport, this study enhances the understanding of transport behaviour and underscores the need to improve public transport reliability to support sustainable cities as remote work grows.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-24
DOI: 10.3390/su16177289
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7290: Analysis of the Characteristics and
Driving Mechanisms of Carbon Emission Decoupling in the Hu-Bao-O-Yu City
Cluster under the “Double Carbon” Target
Authors: Mengting Zhou, Jingran Yang, Xuanwei Ning, Chengliang Wu, Yang Zhang
First page: 7290
Abstract: The Hu-Bao-O-Yu urban area is a major source of carbon emissions in China. It is also a major source of energy exports and high-end chemicals in China. Reaching peak carbon emissions early is especially important for meeting the national peak goal. For urban areas that rely on natural resources, we need to make it clearer how carbon emissions and economic growth affect each other and slowly break the strong link between the two. Therefore, in this paper, based on the data on carbon emissions, the decoupling state and the driving mechanism of carbon emissions in the Hu-Bao-O-Yu City group are researched by using the Tapio decoupling model and GDIM method. A new decoupling index model is constructed by combining GDIM and the traditional decoupling model. The main findings are as follows: (1) The Hu-Bao-O-Yu urban agglomeration, Ordos City, Baotou City and Yulin City have significant growth trends in annual carbon emissions, with Yulin City being the most important carbon source for the Hu-Bao-O-Yu urban agglomeration and its economic contribution to carbon emissions of the whole urban agglomeration is the most efficient. (2) The decoupling of Hu-Bao-O-Yu, Huhhot City, Baotou City, and Ordos City is dominated by expansionary negative decoupling, whereas Yulin City has strong negative decoupling. (3) The Hu-Bao-O-Yu urban cluster mainly affects the carbon intensity of fixed asset investments and output carbon intensity, which is a key part of the carbon separation process. The energy scale and structure also play a part in this process over time. (4) Changes in GDP per capita are a bigger part of changes in carbon emissions in the Hu-Bao-O-Yu urban agglomeration. These changes also determine the direction for changes in carbon emissions in the Hu-Bao-O-Yu urban agglomeration. In the future, the Hu-Bao-O-Yu urban agglomeration needs to coordinate its economic growth. Ordos and Yulin need to speed up the optimisation and transformation of their energy structures. Baotou needs to push for the low-carbon transformation of its industries. Huhhot needs to do more research on carbon sequestration technology and spend more on environmental protection. This will make the Hu-Bao-O-Yu urban agglomeration a resource-saving urban agglomeration and improve its ability to reduce emissions.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-24
DOI: 10.3390/su16177290
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7291: Digital Economy, Green Dual
Innovation and Carbon Emissions
Authors: Yu Zhang, Xiaomeng Liu, Jiaoping Yang
First page: 7291
Abstract: The digital economy serves as a pivotal catalyst for sustainable and eco-friendly development. This study employs a suite of advanced econometric models, including the fixed effects, mediation, threshold and moderation model, to elucidate the intricate dynamics by which the digital economy influences carbon emissions through the lens of green innovation. Building on the existing research on digital economy, green technology innovation and carbon emissions, this paper takes a dual-innovation perspective and divides green technology innovation into disruptive green technology innovation and incremental green technology innovation. And from the government and the public level, it explores how social concerns affect the effect of digital economy on carbon emissions. The analysis is grounded in a comprehensive dataset encompassing a decade of provincial-level data from 2011 to 2021 across China’s 30 provinces. The benchmark regression outcomes indicate the digital economy’s ability to substantially cut down carbon emissions; the threshold effect and mediating effect models demonstrate that a single-threshold effect exists and that disruptive and progressive green technological innovations mediate such ability. Additional research reveals that the digital economy’s impact on carbon emissions could be positively moderated by public and governmental attention. Eastern and western regions in China, as well as those with high levels of foreign investment and low levels of technological transaction activity, are more affected by the digital economy in terms of carbon emission reduction. Our conclusions offer practical recommendations for digital economy’s coordinated advancement and carbon emissions mitigation, and guide local governments to achieve sustainable development goals (SDGs).
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-24
DOI: 10.3390/su16177291
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7292: Spatiotemporal Changes in Air
Pollution within the Studied Road Segment
Authors: Agata Jaroń, Anna Borucka
First page: 7292
Abstract: Environmental protection is a pivotal element of sustainable development, both essential and indispensable in the construction of smart, green cities. Road transport contributes significantly to atmospheric pollution, accounting for as much as 25% of annual emissions within the European Union (EU). To combat the adverse effects of road transport, the EU has set targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from both passenger and commercial vehicles. Consequently, sustainable air pollution management has become a focal point for numerous researchers. This study continues the investigation into the distribution of air pollutants along a specific highway segment in Poland. The article addresses two primary research questions: first, the temporal and spatial variations in air pollution adjacent to a major highway in Poland, and second, whether emission levels exhibit significant annual differences and if there is a correlation between pollutant concentrations and the distance from the roadway. The findings offer valuable data on one of the principal substances polluting the air along EU transportation routes. Moreover, the analysis provides recommendations for future road infrastructure renovation projects and strategies to protect the public from harmful traffic-related pollutants, thereby supporting the development of green cities in accordance with sustainable development principles.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-24
DOI: 10.3390/su16177292
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7293: Carbon Accounting for Permeable
Pavement Based on the Full Life Cycle Approach and Its Application
Authors: Lu Wang, Zhiyuan Shao, Xurui Zhang, Yafei Wang
First page: 7293
Abstract: Conventional pavement in aging communities requires renovation in alignment with global carbon reduction initiatives. This study, centered on upgrading facilities in Guangdong, Hong Kong, and the Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA), utilized the Energy Expert platform to assess the carbon footprint of permeable pavement using life cycle assessment (LCA). The results revealed that the total carbon emission of the 64,065 m2 permeable pavement was 7066.21 tCO2eq. The carbon emission contribution, from highest to lowest, was the production phase, maintenance phase, end-of-life phase, and construction phase. Notably, transportation alone constituted a substantial portion, amounting to 30.15% of total carbon emissions. Compared to traditional pavements, permeable pavement showcased substantial potential for carbon reduction, primarily during the use phase, by enhancing groundwater recharge and mitigating the urban heat island effect, which is critical in reducing the carbon footprint. The estimated total carbon reduction was 853.10 tCO2eq. Sensitivity analysis highlighted diesel energy use in the maintenance phase (51.20%), transportation of cement raw materials in the production phase (45.80%), and transportation of graded gravel for disposal in the end-of-life phase (3.00%) as key factors. Our findings suggest that adopting specific carbon reduction measures, such as substituting gangue for cement binder, transitioning to manual sweeping, and recycling all discarded materials can achieve notable reductions in the respective phases. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the role of permeable pavement in reducing carbon emissions, providing insights for the renovation of aging communities.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-24
DOI: 10.3390/su16177293
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7294: Machine Cost-Effectiveness in
Earthworks: Early Warning System and Status of the Previous Work Period
Authors: Martina Šopić, Mladen Vukomanović, Diana Car-Pušić
First page: 7294
Abstract: Estimating earthwork costs is challenging due to the use of high-cost construction machines, the performance of works in dynamic, changing, and uncertain conditions, and the issues of machine actual productivity. In earthworks, there is a constant need to track, control, and analyze the progress to reduce costs. The management of machines’ work on construction sites is complex due to an unknown or insufficiently accurate assessment of their actual productivity, and it relies heavily on the site manager’s (in)experience. The cost-effectiveness of the contracted price for the operation of the machines may be questionable. This paper proposes a model for machine cost-effectiveness in earthworks. The proposed model consists of an Early warning system and Status of the previous work period. The Early warning system can provide timely and reliable detection of cost-effectiveness and profitability thresholds for excavators and tipper trucks during the excavation and material removal. The Status of the previous work period is time-dependent and provides a final assessment of the cost-effectiveness of excavators and tipper trucks for the past month or a more extended time. Applying the proposed model at the construction site of the infrastructure project demonstrated its practicality and purpose.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-24
DOI: 10.3390/su16177294
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7295: Renewable Energy Consumption
Determinants: Do They Differ between Oil-Exporting Countries and
Oil-Importing Ones'
Authors: Mohammad Makki, Jeanne Kaspard, Fleur Khalil, Jeanne Laure Mawad
First page: 7295
Abstract: This paper delves into the critical determinants of renewable energy consumption, focusing on the contrasting roles of oil imports and exports. It aims to bridge the knowledge gap by comparing these determinants across both oil-importing and oil-exporting nations, offering a comprehensive and nuanced perspective to inform policy recommendations. Using annual data from 1990 to 2018 sourced from the World Bank database, the study employs panel multiple regression analysis and adopts a fixed effects model to explore two main questions: What drives the use of renewable energy sources' How does a country’s oil importer or exporter status affect these factors' The findings reveal a significant but inverse relationship between oil rents and renewable energy consumption (REC) for both types of countries. Additionally, there is a notable negative correlation between GDP growth and REC for both oil-exporting and oil-importing countries. Interestingly, the crude oil average closing price and inflation show an insignificant impact on REC in both contexts. The study also highlights that net energy imports significantly affect REC, with a much stronger inverse relationship in oil-importing countries compared with oil-exporting ones. For oil-importing countries, diversifying energy sources is a crucial investment. Governments should prioritize research and development in renewable energy to spur technological advancements, enhancing efficiency and affordability. Economic growth-promoting policies, such as tax incentives and subsidies for renewable energy businesses, are vital for encouraging sustainable practices. Consistent, long-term policies are essential for providing investor confidence and supporting the transition to renewable energy. For oil-exporting countries, similar strategies are recommended. Additionally, allocating a portion of oil revenues to renewable energy infrastructure and funding research and development in renewable technologies through local universities and startups are crucial steps. This dual approach will not only enhance energy diversification but also foster innovation and sustainability in the energy sector.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-25
DOI: 10.3390/su16177295
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7296: Development of Motorway Horizontal
Alignment Databases for Accurate Accident Prediction Models
Authors: César De Santos-Berbel, Sara Ferreira, António Couto, António Lobo
First page: 7296
Abstract: The safe and efficient operation of highways minimizes the environmental impact, reduces accidents, and promotes the reliability of the transportation infrastructure, all in support of sustainable transportation. The horizontal alignment of highways holds particular importance as it directly impacts driver behavior, vehicle stability, and overall road safety. In many cases, highway inventory data held by infrastructure operators may contain inaccurate or outdated information. The accuracy of the variables used in crash prediction models eliminates possible bias in the variable estimators. This research proposes a methodology to obtain accurate horizontal geometric features from digital imagery based on the analysis of the planimetry, feature geolocation and centerline azimuth sequence. The reliability of the method is verified by means of numerical and statistical procedures. This methodology is applied to 150 km of motorway segments in Portugal. Although it is found that the geometric characteristics of most of the inventory segments closely matched the extracted alignments, very significant differences are found in some sections. The results of the proposed procedure are illustrated with several examples. Finally, the propagation of error in the determination of the geometric design independent variables in the fitting of the statistical models is discussed based on the results.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-25
DOI: 10.3390/su16177296
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7297: Product Characteristics and Emotions
to Bridge the Intention-Behavior Gap in Green Food Purchasing
Authors: Sara de Sio, Giulia Casu, Alessandra Zamagni, Paola Gremigni
First page: 7297
Abstract: Promoting environmentally friendly behaviors is a pivotal strategy in addressing the climate crisis. The food industry’s impact on pollution and resource consumption underscores the importance of fostering eco-sustainable food consumption, which can significantly benefit the environment. However, despite the global surge in green purchase intentions, a noticeable discrepancy persists between these intentions and actual purchasing behavior. This study aimed to investigate the influence of various factors on the likelihood of purchasing green food. An online survey was administered to Italian adult consumers (n = 832, 66% female, aged 18–84 years), collecting sociodemographic data and assessing emotions related to green purchases, perceptions of green food characteristics, intention to buy green food, and frequency of green food purchases. Through cluster analysis, three distinct consumer categories emerged: Coherent Buyers (individuals willing to buy green food and actively doing so), Coherent Non-Buyers (individuals who have no intention to buy green food and do not buy it), and Non-Buyers with Favorable Intentions (individuals expressing willingness to buy green food but not following through with purchases). Results from multinomial logistic regression analysis revealed that several factors influenced the likelihood of being categorized in the other two categories, as opposed to the Coherent Buyers one. These factors included younger age, a lower sense of pride associated with purchasing green products, and considering healthiness, natural content, and eco-sustainability of food less important and familiarity of green food more important. These findings provide valuable insights for marketers and policymakers, facilitating efforts to bridge the gap between green food intentions and behaviors and promote a shift toward a more eco-sustainable dietary pattern.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-25
DOI: 10.3390/su16177297
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7298: How Perceived Proximity to Climate
Change Threats Affects Pro-Environmental Behaviors in South Korea'
Authors: Jeeyoung Park, Kiyoung Chang
First page: 7298
Abstract: This study explores how perceived proximity to environmental threats influences pro-environmental behaviors in South Korea. We find that individuals are more likely to engage in environmentally friendly actions, such as reducing their standard of living, paying higher taxes, and purchasing higher-priced eco-friendly products when they perceive climate change as a nearby threat. Our findings highlight the importance of perceived immediacy in motivating significant lifestyle changes and financial sacrifices for environmental protection. The results also reveal that political ideology influences these behaviors, with conservative individuals showing less support for green taxes and financial sacrifices. Additionally, higher levels of education and income, along with older age, correlate with a greater willingness to adopt pro-environmental behaviors. These insights contribute to environmental psychology by highlighting the role of perceived proximity in shaping environmental attitudes and behaviors, informing the development of targeted policies aimed at fostering sustainable behaviors, and addressing local environmental threats.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-25
DOI: 10.3390/su16177298
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7299: Seasonal Dynamics of the
Silica-Scaled Chrysophytes as Potential Markers of Climate Change in
Natural Model: Deep Cold Lake–Shallow Warmer Reservoir
Authors: Anna Bessudova, Yuri Galachyants, Alena Firsova, Diana Hilkhanova, Artyom Marchenkov, Maria Nalimova, Maria Sakirko, Yelena Likhoshway
First page: 7299
Abstract: In the context of global climate changes, it is important to assess the sustainability perspective of aquatic ecosystems based on marker organisms. In this work, we analyzed seasonal dynamics of silica-scaled chrysophytes in freshwater communicating environments which have considerable differences in water temperature between two ecosystems: the deep and cold oligotrophic Lake Baikal versus the shallower and warmer downstream Irkutsk Reservoir having mesotrophic features. During three seasons of the open water period of 2023, 38 species of silica-scaled chrysophytes were observed at 17 stations using scanning and transmission microscopy. The distribution of silica-scaled chrysophytes was shown to correlate with the water temperature. The greatest species richness was observed in the spring season in a large bay of the Irkutsk Reservoir (23 species), the smallest in the cold spring waters of Southern Baikal (up to 7 species). Widespread species living in Southern Baikal continued to grow in warmer waters of the reservoir. Using the example of silica-scaled chrysophytes, the stability of the high-latitudinal freshwater ecosystems affected by climate change is discussed. Continuous increment of the water temperature can lead to an increased abundance of widespread species and the displacement of psychrophilic species, affecting the overall biodiversity in such ecosystems.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-25
DOI: 10.3390/su16177299
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7300: Sustainability of the Current Account
in Developing Countries: A Fourier Wavelet-Based Unit Root Test
Authors: Erhan Oruç
First page: 7300
Abstract: The sustainability of the current account balance for five fragile economies—Brazil, Argentina, South Africa, India, and Türkiye (namely, BASIT)—is investigated. These countries’ economies operate under a time current account deficit almost all the time, a condition that causes fragility to external shocks; the following fallout from these shocks may risk not only the domestic economy but also the international economy, such as by clogging trade and income distribution. In this study, the sustainability of the current account in BASIT countries is examined via wavelet-based Kapetanios, Shin and Snell (WKSS) and Fourier wavelet-based KSS (FWKSS) unit root tests, in conjunction with linear unit root tests. Even though traditional unit root tests generally support the sustainability of a current account deficit for all countries, a non-linear unit roots test confirms the traditional tests for only India and South Africa. Results from the wavelet transform of non-linear unit root tests indicate the unsustainability of the current account balance, except in the case Türkiye. Moreover, the FWKSS test confirms WKSS.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-25
DOI: 10.3390/su16177300
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7301: UN-Sustainable Urbanism: The
Challenge of “Lock-In”
Authors: Michael W. Mehaffy
First page: 7301
Abstract: The term “sustainable urbanism” has been criticized over its inconsistent and imprecise definition, leading to challenges in implementing actionable reforms and achieving urban sustainability goals. A clearer approach may be to identify its opposite: specifically, forms of urbanism that cause an unacceptable buildup of toxic or climate-altering emissions, deplete resources beyond sustainable levels, progressively destroy critical ecologies, and cause other identifiable sources of potentially catastrophic harm to human and urban welfare. Here, we present a model of such an “unsustainable urbanism”, and we further observe that it is in fact the dominant model of urban structure to this day. Its features include an over-reliance on low-occupancy vehicular transport, at the expense of other modes including walking; inefficient envelope, size, orientation and adaptability of buildings; ecologically destructive infrastructure systems for handling water, energy and other resources; and—under-appreciated but fundamentally important, as we will explore—the decline of a well-connected, walkable, functionally and aesthetically appealing public realm. This model remains dominant in spite of the many goals, agendas and declarations on sustainable urbanism at the highest policy level. We observe that the lack of progress is in large part the result of system “lock-in”—economic and professional incentives and disincentives, standards, laws, codes, and other forms of feedback that reinforce “business as usual” and create barriers to reform. Therefore, the agenda ahead must address the specific levers of change to overcome this systemic lock-in, drawing insights from economics, technology and the social sciences to do so. We present the outlines of this agenda and make conclusions for the necessary steps ahead.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-25
DOI: 10.3390/su16177301
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7302: The “Butterfly Effect” of
Volatility in Net International Capital Flows: An Analysis of Co-Movement
Characteristics and Influencing Factors
Authors: Hang Luo, Jianwei Tan
First page: 7302
Abstract: This paper employs social network analysis to investigate the characteristics and determinants of co-movement in the volatility of net cross-border capital flows. We have identified a significant “small-world” pattern in the co-movement network. Economies with highly positive or negative co-movement of volatility in net capital flows display regional differences. Furthermore, economies with high trade intensity, large interest-rate spreads, membership in the same economic organization, and geographical adjacency exhibit significantly increased co-movement of volatility in net private capital flows and net other investment flows. Economies with large differences in economic growth present less co-movement of volatility in net portfolio flows.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-25
DOI: 10.3390/su16177302
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7303: The Key Factors for Improving Returns
Management in E-Commerce in Indonesia from Customers’
Perspectives—An Analytic Hierarchy Process Approach
Authors: Dimas Haki Prayogo, Roman Domanski, Paulina Golinska-Dawson
First page: 7303
Abstract: The rapid growth of e-commerce has led to an increase in the number of product returns in supply chains, which is both environmentally and economically challenging. E-commerce companies need to effectively manage product returns, as this has a direct impact on their reputation and consumer experience. Reducing returns is key to maintaining sustainable practices for online product sales. A significant increase in e-commerce transactions is also evident in Indonesia, which is the fourth largest country in the world. Despite the very large size of the market, research on e-commerce in the business-to-customer (B2C) market in Indonesia is underrepresented in the literature. The purpose of this paper is to identify key factors from the customer perspective that influence product returns in reverse logistics in Indonesian e-commerce. The novelty of this study stems from the focus on the customer perspective on product returns in the B2C market when shopping online and the spatial scope. Due to the uncertainty inherent in multi-criteria decision making, the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) method was used to rank factors and potential solutions derived from a critical literature review. As a result, the study provides a ranking of factors and alternatives for managing e-commerce returns in Indonesia. The results show that among Indonesian e-commerce customers, product quality (QP) was rated the highest, while (Pu) was rated the lowest. In terms of the alternatives that are the most suitable for improving the customer experience of e-commerce product returns in Indonesia, a clear returns policy (CRP) scored the highest, while the merchandise catalog (Cat) was rated as the lowest priority.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-25
DOI: 10.3390/su16177303
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7304: Integrated Control Design for Hybrid
Grid-Photovoltaic Systems in Distillation Applications: A Reference Model
and Fuzzy Logic Approach
Authors: Hassan Abouobaida, Youssef Mchaouar, Safeer Ullah, Younes Abouelmahjoub, Hisham Alghamdi, Baheej Alghamdi, Habib Kraiem
First page: 7304
Abstract: This paper presents a novel hybrid structural control solution designed for distillation systems that utilize a solar source alongside an electrical grid. The power conversion architecture incorporates a reversible bridge rectifier and a quadratic boost converter. The hybrid photovoltaic grid configuration offers several benefits, including source complementarity, enhanced dependability, and energy availability aligned with power requirements. Leveraging a photovoltaic source operating at maximum power facilitates energy conservation. On the control front, an adaptive technique based on a reference model is proposed. Fuzzy logic governs the quadratic boost converter, simplifying the management of its complex nonlinear nature. The control strategy aims to maximize solar power utilization, minimize harmonic components in the grid current, synthesize an adaptive controller, and achieve a near-unit power factor on the grid. The simulation results for a steady distillation system demonstrate promising findings. Despite variations in irradiation, load power, and grid drops, the system maintains a minimal bus voltage ripple, remaining close to the intended value. Optimization of the panel-generated power leads to improved PV source utilization and enhanced system efficiency. Furthermore, the combination with an electrical grid achieves a low rate of grid current distortion and a unitary power factor.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-25
DOI: 10.3390/su16177304
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7305: The Impacts of Digital Finance on
Economic Resilience
Authors: Xuxin Zou, Wenguan Dai, Shuang Meng
First page: 7305
Abstract: Enhancing economic resilience is crucial to sustainable development. However, issues such as resource misallocation and financing difficulties have severely impacted supply chain stability and security. The rise of digital finance presents potential solutions to these problems. Based on panel data from 30 provinces in China from 2011 to 2020, this study explores the mechanisms and pathways through which digital finance enhances economic resilience. The results reveal four key findings. First, the development of digital finance significantly enhances economic resilience by improving innovation capabilities and consumption vitality. Second, a high degree of marketization strengthens the promoting effect of digital finance on economic resilience. Third, in areas with higher levels of industrial advancement or lower levels of traditional financial development, the enhancement effect of digital finance on economic resilience is more significant. Fourth, digital finance significantly improved the economic resilience of geographically adjacent areas through spatial spillover effects. Overall, this study provides a new perspective on the impact of digital finance on economic resilience in developing countries such as China. In addition to its academic contributions, this study offers detailed practical implications.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-25
DOI: 10.3390/su16177305
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7306: Development and Characterization of
Authors: Muhammed Talha Ünal, Huzaifa Bin Hashim, Hacı Süleyman Gökçe, Pouria Ayough, Fuat Köksal, Ahmed El-Shafie, Osman Şimşek, Alireza Pordesari
First page: 7306
Abstract: Lightweight aggregate concrete (LWAC) is gaining interest due to its reduced weight, high strength, and durability while being cost-effective. This research proposes a method to design an LWAC by integrating coconut shell (CS) as coarse lightweight aggregate and a high volume of wet-grinded ultrafine ground granulated blast furnace slag (UGGBS). To optimize the mix design of LWAC, a particle packing model was employed. A comparative analysis was conducted between normal-weight concrete (M40) and the optimized LWAC reinforced with basalt fibers (BF). The parameters analyzed include CO2 emissions, density, surface crack conditions, water absorption and porosity, sorptivity, and compressive and flexural strength. The optimal design was determined using the packing density method. Also, the impact of BF was investigated at varying levels (0%, 0.15%, and 1%). The results revealed that the incorporation of UGGBS had a substantial enhancement to the mechanical properties of LWAC when BF and CS were incorporated. As a significant finding of this research, a grade 30 LWAC with demolded density of 1864 kg/m3 containing only 284 kg/m3 cement was developed. The LWAC with high-volume UGGBS and BF had the minimum CO2 emissions at 390.9 kg/t, marking a reduction of about 31.6% compared to conventional M40-grade concrete. This research presents an introductory approach to sustainable, environmentally friendly, high-strength, and low-density concrete production by using packing density optimization, thereby contributing to both environmental conservation and structural outcomes.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-25
DOI: 10.3390/su16177306
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7307: How Can the Government Promote
Sustainable Cooperation between Schools and Enterprises' A Quadrilateral
Evolutionary Game Study
Authors: Hexin Wang, Chao Liu, Yu Dai
First page: 7307
Abstract: Sustainable cooperation between schools and enterprises is crucial to maintaining a dynamic balance between the supply and demand of talents and driving the advancement of new quality productive forces. As a result, facilitating school–enterprise cooperation has become an important concern in many countries. However, there remains a gap in understanding the approaches taken by central and local governments to foster such cooperation through the lens of evolutionary game theory. Therefore, this paper develops a quadrilateral evolutionary game model involving schools, enterprises, the central government, and local governments by building the payoff matrix and calculating expected payoffs of different strategies to analyze the conditions under which governments can effectively promote school–enterprise cooperation. Our findings indicate that benefit is a decisive factor that affects the strategies of all parties. Increasing incentives and penalties from the central government and local governments can stimulate school–enterprise cooperation, but these measures are not sustainable in the long term. Additionally, the impact of the central government’s incentives and penalties on local governments in promoting school–enterprise cooperation is limited. Enhancing policy efficacy and the practical outcomes of school–enterprise cooperation is essential, which not only strengthens the bond between schools and enterprises but also ensures deep and enduring governmental involvement. Some suggestions are put forward at the end.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-25
DOI: 10.3390/su16177307
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7308: “Curious Is as Curious
Does”: Fostering Question-Asking in a Sino-Foreign Engineering
School—A Case Study
Authors: Tzipora Rakedzon, Constance Van Horne
First page: 7308
Abstract: Curiosity and question-asking are at the heart of science and engineering education. However, question-asking can be difficult for students due to several factors, including fear, language barriers, and cultural norms. This is especially true among Chinese students, who represent a growing number of upcoming engineers. To address this, in this case study from a university teaching reform project, we investigate the perceptions of curiosity and question-asking among Chinese science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) undergraduate students following a newly developed semester-long project in a second-year communications course at a recently established Sino-foreign engineering school in China. In this period, students engaged in project-based learning centered around Nobel Prize-winning research, allowing them to explore the driving questions behind groundbreaking discoveries. Through a combination of qualitative analyses from students’ personal reflections as well as from a post-survey, the study examines students’ perceptions of curiosity and question-asking, the influence of gender on these skills, and the role of failure and perseverance in scientific inquiry. Findings indicate that the project increased students’ curiosity and improved their confidence in asking questions while providing insights into gender differences. Moreover, students were inspired by the curiosity of the Nobel Laureates, by the “simplicity” of the questions asked, and by the great importance of tenacity, passion, and learning from mistakes.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-25
DOI: 10.3390/su16177308
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7309: The Impact of ESG Regulation on
Environmental Decoupling—An Exploratory Study on Polish Listed
Companies
Authors: Marco Papa, Monika Wieczorek-Kosmala, Anna Losa, Aleksandra Swałek
First page: 7309
Abstract: The sustainable finance framework implements the regulation to enhance firms’ sustainable reporting and increase market transparency in channeling funds. However, firms are under the pressure of going green and, thus, often demonstrate a propensity to environmental decoupling, which means the gap between what is told about environmental performance and what is truly done within. The main purpose of our exploratory work is to detect the environmental decoupling among sampled firms. The research problem relates to the effects of reporting requirements and aligning symptoms of environmental decoupling by comparing the increase in qualitative disclosures (talk) relative to measurable KPIs (real actions). We have empirically confirmed the potential problems of environmental decoupling within the environmental aspects other than carbon emissions. We have observed the improvement of qualitative disclosures, while the KPIs other than carbon-emission-related (use of resources and energy) confirmed no real actions. This result is aligned with the current policymakers’ focus on carbon emission reporting. Firms declare the implementation of policies and targets, but it does not fully drive real change. Our study contributes to the emerging strand of the literature on environmental decoupling, as well as offers implications for policymakers, to enhance the efficiency (and prevent environmental decoupling) within the new sustainable finance regulatory framework of the European Union.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-26
DOI: 10.3390/su16177309
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7310: The Sustainability of Local
Governments—Evidence from the Online Environment in the Slovak
Republic
Authors: Eliška Čičmancová, Jakub Soviar
First page: 7310
Abstract: In recent years, sustainability as a concept has become the subject of several scientific debates. Along with the smart city trend, emphasis is also being placed on the sustainability of cities and towns, yet there is a research gap for smaller municipalities where there is no current scope for increasing the level of digitization or implementing smart city practices. Sustainability here has to be achieved differently, in particular through communication and transparency. This issue is addressed in the present research, which examines 116 Slovak municipalities, as well as their strategic documents and online communication with citizens, using a content analysis method. The study aims to provide knowledge about the functioning of online communication in Slovak local governments by answering seven research questions. These are linked to two research hypotheses, which are also evaluated using a statistical test. One of the main findings is that the overall sustainability work in a local government is dependent on its size. Thus, larger local governments are more likely to implement sustainability. It was also found that larger villages and towns use term sustainability more actively in their strategies than the smaller ones. Additionally, more information channels do not always mean better informing about plans and strategies connected to sustainability in local governments. This paper presents the findings from our research, which can contribute to the field of local government research and management by broadening the view on smaller villages and their functioning in terms of online communication with inhabitants.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-26
DOI: 10.3390/su16177310
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7311: Spatial Differentiation and
Influencing Factors of Available Potassium in Cultivated Soil in
Mountainous Areas of Northwestern Hubei Province, China
Authors: Zhengxiang Wu, Yong Zhou, Lei Xu
First page: 7311
Abstract: This research was conducted based on 701 soil sampling points in cultivated land (0–20 cm) in Shiyan, a mountainous area in northwest Hubei Province, China. The methods of classical statistics, geostatistics, and geodetector were used to explore the spatial differentiation characteristics and influencing factors of soil available potassium (AK) in cultivated land in Shiyan. The results showed that the soil AK content in the study area ranged from 17.00 to 350.00 mg/kg, with an average value of 118.95 mg/kg and a coefficient of variation of 54.06%, exhibiting moderate variability. The spatial structure was well fitted by a spherical model; the block gold effect was 0.027, indicating strong spatial autocorrelation; and spatial variation was mainly caused by structural factors. The spatial differentiation characteristics of the soil AK content are obvious; overall, there was a spatial distribution pattern of high in the northeast and low in the southwest. The factor detection results show that soil pH plays a dominant role in the spatial variation in soil AK in the study area, followed by parent material and annual average temperature. The interaction detection results show that each environmental factor exhibits non-linear or dual factor enhancement between factors, with soil pH slope ranking first in explanatory power. The explanatory power of the interaction between soil pH, parent materials, annual average temperature, and other factors dominates. In the process of the fine management of soil AK in cultivated land in the study area, when considering the influence of dominant factors, the impact of the interaction of various factors on the spatial variation in soil AK should also be taken into account. This study could provide a theoretical reference for improving the soil and farmland improvement, improving farmland quality in this area.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-26
DOI: 10.3390/su16177311
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7312: Changing Culture through
Pro-Environmental Messaging Delivered on Digital Signs: A Longitudinal
Field Study
Authors: John E. Petersen, Cynthia McPherson Frantz
First page: 7312
Abstract: Delivering effective messages is critical to creating a more sustainable and resilient culture. The explosion of social media has enhanced information access but has often reinforced and polarized pre-existing viewpoints and norms. In contrast, digital signs are an “in your face in your space” technology that have the potential to deliver common content to a diverse local audience. Environmental Dashboard (ED) is a communications platform and set of content applications that combines information on current environmental conditions, real-time resource consumption, positive actions being taken by community members, and a community calendar. We conducted a longitudinal study to assess whether ED content delivered via digital signs in public locations would result in desirable psychological changes within a community. Participants completed surveys in six designated signage locations prior to installation (N = 174) and following two years of continuous exposure (N = 133). We observed increases in pro-environmental social norms among people of color (a demographic emphasized); enhanced awareness of and sense of connection with the local community and ecology; increased self-reported electricity conservation; and increased perception of youth engagement (another demographic emphasized). Changes were mediated by exposure to digital signage. These findings support the hypothesis that content delivered through digital signs can strengthen pro-environmental and pro-social culture within communities.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-26
DOI: 10.3390/su16177312
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7313: Exploring the Effects of Low-Carbon
Labels on Purchase Intentions for Green Agricultural Products
Authors: Zhenjiang Song, Mengting Hu, Mingni Leng, Shubin Zhu
First page: 7313
Abstract: Expedited economic expansion and innovative technological advancement have precipitated considerable environmental predicaments, giving rise to extensive ecological conundrums worldwide. In response to the pressing situation, numerous countries have implemented policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions. One such initiative is the “low-carbon label”, which signifies a commitment to lowering carbon emissions. On one hand, it offers consumers an effective means to identify low-carbon products, thereby enhancing their willingness towards green consumption. On the other hand, it motivates businesses to transition towards greener practices, thereby guiding the market towards more environmentally friendly directions. This transition has had a significantly positive impact on reducing carbon emissions and promoting the development of a low-carbon economy, highlighting its critical value within the broader environmental movement. This study focuses on exploring whether the low-carbon label can influence consumers’ willingness to purchase green agricultural products. The theoretical framework was developed based on the theory of perceived value and SOR theory. The data were gathered through a randomized survey conducted in China. The research findings suggest that the perceived environmental value, functional value, and emotional value have significant impacts on consumers’ willingness to purchase green agricultural products. Trust in low-carbon labels plays a critical role in mediating the relationship between perceived value and consumers’ purchasing intentions for green agricultural products. Our research yielded the following conclusions. (1) Consumers are progressively cultivating an independent pro-environmental persona and increasingly aligning themselves with sustainable development, as indicated by their affinity towards carbon labels. (2) The selection of low-carbon agricultural products by consumers is contingent upon sensory perception, emphasizing environmental spillover value, functional enhancement, and emotional support. (3) Consumer confidence in green low-carbon agricultural products stems from an intuitive perception perspective, suggesting that low-carbon labels should accentuate functional and emotional values. The study suggests proactive measures to enhance the role of low-carbon labels in the consumption of green agricultural products. These measures include three parts: (1) Improving the content system of low-carbon labels and integrating digital technologies to reconstruct trust systems; (2) strengthening promotional efforts focusing on enhancing consumers’ intrinsic value perceptions; and (3) establishing a national-level low-carbon labels certification system, raising standards, and strengthening supervision.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-26
DOI: 10.3390/su16177313
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7314: Industry Experts’ Perspectives
on the Difficulties and Opportunities of the Integration of Bio-Based
Insulation Materials in the European Construction Sector
Authors: Salima Zerari, Rossella Franchino, Nicola Pisacane
First page: 7314
Abstract: This paper explores the current status of bio-based insulation materials (BbIMs) integration in Europe, through structured online questionnaires. with industry experts. The findings show that the main common difficulties are obtaining European Conformity (CE) marking, high costs, a skills gap, a lack of trained builders, and slow acceptance from industry decision-makers. On the other hand, the main common opportunities are the gradual improvement with certain supportive policies and incentives, the growing environmental awareness, thermal, acoustic, and environmental performance, long-term cost savings and value, and increasing educational initiatives, advertising, and awareness campaigns. The finding also emphasizes the critical role that users and buyers play in the adoption of these materials as a potential driver and barrier. The professionals suggest strengthening environmentally friendly standards, integrating natural materials into construction databases, leading by example, withdrawing subsidies for hazardous waste disposal, providing continuing education, workshops, collaboration among stakeholders, and referencing exemplary projects in France. Further insights on bio-based building materials integration in building information modeling (BIM) practices indicate that the rate of their integration is very low. This research contributes to the scientific literature on BbIMs, by highlighting the barriers to the widespread use of these materials in practice and promoting the drivers of their widespread use. Future research should address more insights from other uncovered countries and the countries with limited insight (The Netherlands, Switzerland, and Portugal) in the current study as well as End-users’ perceptions.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-26
DOI: 10.3390/su16177314
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7315: Assessing the Impact of Straw Burning
on PM2.5 Using Explainable Machine Learning: A Case Study in Heilongjiang
Province, China
Authors: Zehua Xu, Baiyin Liu, Wei Wang, Zhimiao Zhang, Wenting Qiu
First page: 7315
Abstract: Straw burning is recognized as a significant contributor to deteriorating air quality, but its specific impacts, particularly on PM2.5 concentrations, are still not fully understood or quantified. In this study, we conducted a detailed examination of the spatial and temporal patterns of straw burning in Heilongjiang Province, China—a key agricultural area—utilizing high-resolution fire-point data from the Fengyun-3 satellite. We subsequently employed random forest (RF) models alongside Shapley Additive Explanations (SHAPs) to systematically evaluate the impact of various determinants, including straw burning (as indicated by crop fire-point data), meteorological conditions, and aerosol optical depth (AOD), on PM2.5 levels across spatial and temporal dimensions. Our findings indicated a statistically nonsignificant downward trend in the number of crop fires in Heilongjiang Province from 2015 to 2023, with hotspots mainly concentrated in the western and southern parts of the province. On a monthly scale, straw burning was primarily observed from February to April and October to November—which are critical periods in the agricultural calendar—accounting for 97% of the annual fire counts. The RF models achieved excellent performance in predicting PM2.5 levels, with R2 values of 0.997 for temporal and 0.746 for spatial predictions. The SHAP analysis revealed the number of fire points to be the key determinant of temporal PM2.5 variations during straw-burning periods, explaining 72% of the variance. However, the significance was markedly reduced in the spatial analysis. This study leveraged machine learning and interpretable modeling techniques to provide a comprehensive understanding of the influence of straw burning on PM2.5 levels, both temporally and spatially. The detailed analysis offers valuable insights for policymakers to formulate more targeted and effective strategies to combat air pollution.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-26
DOI: 10.3390/su16177315
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7316: Determining the Equilibrium Point
between Efficiency and Well-Being in Enterprise Social Media Usage: A
Hybrid Approach Using Response Surfaces and Optimization Methods
Authors: Xizi Wang, Guangwei Hu, Yuanyuan Shu, Wenfeng Si
First page: 7316
Abstract: With the progression of digital transformation in the workplace, the use of enterprise social media has become a daily routine in contemporary organizations. In the course of this transition, securing enterprise social media for both efficiency and individual well-being is pivotal as it steers digital transformation towards a sustainable future. Despite the huge benefits, the impact of enterprise social media on individuals is often seen as a double-edged sword, posing a managerial dilemma to organizations. To address this issue, our research developed a hybrid method aiming at maximizing efficiency and protecting employees’ psychological well-being with neither target being compromised. Polynomial regression with response surfaces was employed to visually elucidate the variations in work engagement and work exhaustion, thereby identifying the conditions for optimal values of work engagement. We then transformed the conflicting outcome variables into a single optimization goal. By calculating the equilibrium point and comparing various predictor limits, we determined an optimal condition to achieve both targets. Specifically, the equilibrium point is identified when employees’ psychological detachment slightly exceeds enterprise social media use. The optimal condition can be identified when two predictors are symmetrically aligned with each other. Our method demonstrates that a congruence framework of enterprise social media use is conducive to both efficiency and well-being, challenging the existing assertion that moderate usage is most favorable and questioning linear relationship assumptions. This study extends the innovative application of optimization techniques to broader managerial domains and provides practical solutions for reconciling the contradictory effects between well-being and efficiency, thereby promoting the sustainable success of enterprise social media.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-26
DOI: 10.3390/su16177316
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7317: Sustainable Strategies for Innovative
Cooperation in Human Resources Training between the Business Sector and
Universities through Internship Programs from the Pre- to Post-COVID-19
Period
Authors: Georgia Yfantidou, Eleni Spyridopoulou, Alkistis Papaioannou, Athanasios Koustelios, Vicky Katsoni
First page: 7317
Abstract: Internships can foster educational alliances between industry (business environment) and academic institutions, which can facilitate both flexibility and accelerated innovation. The purpose of this research is to search for the factors that determine HRT through the implementation of the internship program among the students at the Democritus University of Thrace and reveal the correlation between the factors. Also, this paper investigated the impact of the COVID-19 Eras on human resource training (HRT) factors and, finally, investigated the correlation between the two variables “Recruitment in the specialization” and “COVID Eras”. The sample of the research consisted of 1398 students at the DUTh who implemented internships during the academic years from 2015–2016 to 2021–2022. A questionnaire with 60 variables was created for data collection. A random sampling method was applied to collect the sample. From the results of the survey, ten factors were extracted for human resource training that explained 75.512% of the total variance, and for each one, Cronbach’s Alpha reliability was tested, which was high. In detail, the factors revealed were Learning Outcomes, Efficacy, Emotional Commitment, Satisfaction, Participation, Empowerment, Role Ambiguity, Role Conflict, Supervisor, and Collaboration. From the results of the study, it was evident that HR training is a multidimensional concept and is a necessary condition for the competitiveness of the firms. Training can help to improve the flexibility of the firm, but also to motivate the staff by implementing multidisciplinary training programs. Overall, internship programs are beneficial for students to develop a wide range of skills, as the hands-on experience obtained enhances and supplements the theoretical learning from educational institutions.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-26
DOI: 10.3390/su16177317
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7318: Measurement and Spatial-Temporal
Evolution of Industrial Carbon Emission Efficiency in Western China
Authors: Ruixia Suo, Yangyuqing Bai
First page: 7318
Abstract: As it is an important industrial base in China, it is of great significance to improve the industrial carbon emission efficiency in the western region to promote the low-carbon sustainable development of the region. This paper selects the input–output panel data of 11 provinces in western China from 2010 to 2021, and adopts the three-stage DEA model to measure the industrial carbon emission efficiency in western China under a non-traditional geographic division at the overall and regional levels and analyze its influencing factors. The Dagum Gini coefficient, its decomposition method, and the kernel density estimation method are used to analyze the regional differences and dynamic evolution process of industrial carbon emission efficiency in the western region. The results of the study show that (1) after removing environmental and random factors, the industrial carbon emission efficiency in western China has been improved, but there are inter-regional differences, characterized by “the third region > the second region > the first region”; (2) the levels of green development, shared development, innovative development, and coordinated development have a positive impact on the improvement of industrial carbon emission efficiency in western China, while the level of industrialization has a relatively smaller influence, and economic development, government support, open development level, and energy consumption structure have not yet played a significant role; (3) the spatial differences in the efficiency of industrial carbon emissions in western China have generally increased during the sample period, with inter-regional differences being the main source; and (4) the industrial carbon emission efficiency in western China is characterized by overall improvements in time and space but with stage differences and multi-polarization of regional differences. This study has a certain reference value for improving industrial carbon emission efficiency in western China.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-26
DOI: 10.3390/su16177318
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7319: Material Flow Analysis-Based
Sustainability Assessment for Circular Economy Scenarios of Urban Building
Stock of Vienna
Authors: Jakob Lederer, Dominik Blasenbauer
First page: 7319
Abstract: Urban buildings consume raw material and energy, and they produce waste and greenhouse gasses. Sustainable urban development strategies aim to reduce these. Using the case study of buildings in Vienna, this article evaluates the impact of a defined urban development pathway on the heating energy demand, greenhouse gas emissions, and total material requirement of buildings in Vienna for 2021–2050. Furthermore, the impact of recycling to reduce the total material requirement and to increase the circular material use rate is evaluated. The results show that the heating energy demand can be reduced to meet the targets of Vienna’s sustainable development strategy. The same does not count for greenhouse gas emissions. To meet the targets for the latter, the renovation of old buildings by thermal insulation should be expanded and heating systems substituted. With respect to the total material requirement, the recycling of demolition waste from buildings in Vienna to produce secondary raw materials for buildings in Vienna can help to achieve the reduction targets of Vienna’s sustainable development strategy so that in the year 2050, the material footprint is only 44% of the value of the year 2019. Since there is a contradiction between the total material requirement and the circular material use rate, the latter has to be discussed for its use as a circular economy indicator, since the aim of circular economy is not to produce as much recycling materials as possible, but to reduce resource consumption to a sustainable level.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-26
DOI: 10.3390/su16177319
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7320: Change in the Properties of Expanded
Polystyrene Exposed to Solar Radiation in Real Aging Conditions
Authors: Artur Nowoświat, Artur Miros, Paweł Krause
First page: 7320
Abstract: Although polystyrene materials with added graphite are actively used for the thermal insulation of buildings, there are serious problems with the detachment and warping of these materials under the influence of solar radiation. However, no systematic studies have yet been carried out on the aging of polystyrene under exposure to solar radiation. The article presents research aimed at determining changes in the thermal conductivity, compressive stress, tensile strength, and water absorption of expanded polystyrene with the addition of graphite, exposed to direct solar radiation under in situ conditions. For this purpose, expanded polystyrene (EPS) with the addition of graphite (gray EPS) and expanded polystyrene made of composite panels (gray EPS and white EPS) were exposed to direct solar radiation under in situ conditions. A third sample (reference), which was entirely white polystyrene (without the addition of graphite), was included in the tests. The results showed that expanded polystyrene with the addition of graphite degraded under the influence of direct solar radiation but improved its strength properties. Expanded polystyrene made of composite improved its compressive strength properties by nearly 11 kPa (18%), and expanded polystyrene with the addition of graphite improved its compressive strength properties by 0.4 kPa (0.5%). And the tensile strength for composite-made expanded polystyrene increased by 7 kPa (9%), and that for expanded polystyrene with the addition of graphite increased by 26 kPa (37%). At the same time, water absorption for expanded polystyrene made of composite also increased by 0.06 kg/m2 (60%), and that for expanded polystyrene with the addition of graphite increased by 0.04 kg/m2 (44%).
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-26
DOI: 10.3390/su16177320
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7321: Food Waste Valorization: Leveraging
Singapore’s Zero Waste Master Plan and 30-by-30 Goal
Authors: Kiangsoon Heng, Kyeteng Tan, Adeline Chan, Charles C. C. Lee
First page: 7321
Abstract: Singapore, being a land-scarce country, imports more than 90% of the food supply, which poses a challenge in ensuring food security. In the last five years, Singapore, with a population of 5.9 million, generated approximately 759 tonnes of food waste on average, thus further deepening food security challenges and imposing enormous pressure on the country’s food and land resources. The Zero Waste Plan and the 30-by-30 food security goal initiated by the Singapore government focus on reducing waste and improving resource efficiency and encourage the collective efforts from the local agri-food businesses to sustainably provide 30% of Singapore’s nutritional requirements by 2030. In recent years, valorizing food waste streams into higher-value products has been an increasing trend in tackling food wastage and offering a new source of food ingredients. Food wastes such as okara, spent barley grains, and fruit and vegetable wastes have been successfully valorized into a variety of prototypes by local research and development capabilities for food and agricultural applications. However, food waste valorization faces various challenges, i.e., infrastructure development, economy viability, consumer awareness, collaborative partnership, regulatory support, and data management. This review serves as a reference for other countries in ensuring food security and achieving sustainable development goals.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-26
DOI: 10.3390/su16177321
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7322: Optimization Study of Outdoor
Activity Space Wind Environment in Residential Areas Based on Spatial
Syntax and Computational Fluid Dynamics Simulation
Authors: Peng Cao, Tian Li
First page: 7322
Abstract: In the context of increasing global energy shortages and climate change, the human living environment, as a crucial component of residents’ daily lives, has garnered growing attention from the academic community. Research on residential environments is vital for promoting the sustainable development of urban construction and constitutes an important aspect of sustainable development studies. This study focuses on the optimization strategy for the outdoor activity space wind environment in the Xihuayuan residential area in Lanzhou city, utilizing spatial syntax analysis and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulation technology. Firstly, the outdoor activity space is analyzed for visibility and spatial accessibility using DepthmapX0.6 software. Then, the outdoor wind environment in the residential area is simulated using PHOENICS 2018 software, and the analysis is conducted on outdoor spaces with a poor wind environment in terms of high accessibility. The results indicate that residents’ outdoor comfort in these spaces is poor, highlighting the urgent need for improvement in the wind environment. This research attempts to optimize the wind environment in high-accessibility spaces within the residential area by improving building layout, orientation, and height. The simulation results after optimization demonstrate an increase in the overall average wind speed to 1.44 m/s, with the proportion of spaces with a good wind environment in high-accessibility areas during summer rising from 33.4% to 59.2%. The optimization strategy effectively improves the wind environment in high-accessibility areas of the residential area.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-26
DOI: 10.3390/su16177322
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7323: Evaluating the Digital Transformation
Potential in Pre-Construction for Sustainable Practices Using Structural
Equation Modeling
Authors: Khalid K. Naji, Murat Gunduz, Fahid Al-Henzab
First page: 7323
Abstract: This study presents the development of a comprehensive model for evaluating the level of readiness of buildings for digital transformation during the pre-construction phase. The proposed model utilizes structural equation modeling (SEM) and includes a full list of key factors for achieving success. This tool is designed to support industry stakeholders in assessing operational efficiency in terms of digital transformation readiness in the pre-construction phase (DTRPC) and analyze the effectiveness and limitations of DTRPC across various management levels. Key success factors were identified through interviews with experts and a review of the relevant literature. These variables were then validated through two rounds of the 8 Delphi technique, which included the input of 13 highly qualified experts. Finally, an online questionnaire was disseminated to industry professionals, who assessed the factors’ relative levels of significance. Questionnaire responses were collected from a sample of 300 individuals from different professional fields. SEM was then used to quantitatively analyze the relationships between the various components of the DTRPC success factors. The goal was to determine the impact of each construct on the overall level of readiness. The model underwent a thorough evaluation to determine its strength and stability across several parameters, including accuracy, conformity to multivariate normalcy, and reliability and validity. A hypothesis analysis was also conducted. The collected data were used to develop the proposed DTRPC model, consisting of 30 essential performance indicators grouped into four categories. The use of SEM uncovered a significant correlation between the operational indicators of these critical factors and the construct groups, as well as the influence of effective DTRPC constructs on overall project performance. This research expands the current knowledge by identifying important indications for evaluating the success of the DTRPC model and using them to create a comprehensive global SEM that can be used as a tool for measuring readiness at the pre-construction stage. This has the potential to provide essential assistance to organizations, project managers, and policymakers in making informed decisions.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-26
DOI: 10.3390/su16177323
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7324: A Study of the Impact Mechanism of
Corporate ESG Performance on Surplus Persistence
Authors: Ailing Xu, Yuanyuan Su, Yingxin Wang
First page: 7324
Abstract: Although more scholars have studied the economic consequences of ESG, no conclusive results have been reached yet. In addition, there is a lack of research on the relationship between corporate ESG performance and surplus persistence. This paper adopts the ordinary least squares (OLS) method to analyze the impact of corporate ESG performance on corporate surplus persistence based on stakeholder theory and principal-agent theory using companies listed in Shanghai and Shenzhen A-shares from 2010 to 2022 as research objects. It was found that there is a significant positive correlation between ESG performance and both the social (S) and governance (G) dimensions, as well as surplus sustainability; conversely, the environmental (E) dimension is significantly negatively correlated with surplus sustainability in the short term, but further analysis reveals that it can enhance corporate surplus sustainability in the long run. Institutional investor shareholding and debt financing costs mediate the relationship between corporate ESG performance and both the S and G dimensions, influencing surplus persistence. Further analysis shows that the positive correlation between a firm’s ESG performance and its governance (G) dimension related to surplus persistence is more significant in the eastern region.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-26
DOI: 10.3390/su16177324
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7325: Place Attachment Expressed by Hosts
and Guests Visiting Friends and Relatives and Implications for
Sustainability
Authors: Ladan Rokni, Suh-hee Choi
First page: 7325
Abstract: Based on the consensus that visiting friends and relatives (VFR) contributes to sustainable regions by developing place attachment, this qualitative study shows how VFR hosts and visitors express place attachment, and how this is formed and modified. This paper is based on interviews with a total of 16 hosts and guests who had tourism experiences together in South Korea (Korea). The findings describe the place attachment formation and transition processes of both the hosts and the guests. For hosts, extant place attachment and VFR hosting experience affected each other. Hosts especially expressed that the opportunity to explore new places contributed to redefining the relationship between themselves and Korea, which affected place attachment. Among the guests, VFR visits of Koreans living abroad and non-Korean guests appeared to have different mechanisms for place attachment formation, enhancement, and recovery. Cognitive, affective, and conative realms of place attachment were captured within narratives that expressed refreshment, recharged energy, and relaxation. The interactions between the host and guest affected place attachment, as did the experience of revisiting familiar places and local non-touristic experiences during the visit. Such perceptions and experiences of place attachment development further suggest the role of place attachment building through VFR in attaining the sustainability of a destination region. This study contributes to the body of knowledge by enhancing the nuanced understanding of how place attachment is expressed in the VFR context and by discovering the context of the formation and change of place attachment of diverse hosts and guests. The study is also significant in that it advances knowledge about how place attachment facilitates the sustainability of the regions through the lens of VFR.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-26
DOI: 10.3390/su16177325
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7326: How Does Government Intervention
Affect Community Residents’ Satisfaction with Public
Services—Evidence from CSS (2021) in China
Authors: Yapeng Li, Zihao Wang, Yuanyuan Zhu
First page: 7326
Abstract: The traditional model of community public service in China is experiencing a nuanced transformation, which has been spurred by increased government involvement and the growing openness of communities in the realm of public governance. Recent scholarly inquiries have revealed a strong association between the level of government intervention and the satisfaction of residents with public services. This means that communities with higher levels of government intervention typically enjoy more comprehensive public facilities and services, thereby increasing residents’ satisfaction with community public services. This article analyzes 2021 social security system data and finds that government intervention often has a beneficial impact on improving residents’ satisfaction with public services, although it may also have negative effects in certain specific areas. In addition, the impact of government participation and community openness on residents’ satisfaction is moderated by various factors such as residents’ own economic statuses and education levels. To achieve this goal, government officials and community leaders should focus on improving the nature and degree of government intervention and community openness in order to more fully meet the needs of residents and increase their satisfaction.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-26
DOI: 10.3390/su16177326
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7327: Designing and Implementing
Sustainable Professional Development Programs: Embodied Curriculum and
Instruction for Kindergarten Teachers
Authors: Chia-Fu Chang, Su-Chiao Wu, Yu-Liang Chang, Lancelote Andy Chang
First page: 7327
Abstract: Embodied design is a theory-to-practice and pedagogical framework and emphasizes the role of embodied and situated activity. Since embodiment has a powerful impact on young children’s learning, implementing embodied deign in kindergartens is essential and beneficial to their future mathematical learning and performance. Therefore, this qualitative study aimed to develop a professional learning community composed of eight kindergarten teachers and university teacher educators (researchers) and to co-construct a professional development model for curriculum design and instructional implementation of embodied design in mathematics. Accordingly, the main research objectives were to obtain a sustainable professional development model and summarize principles of embodied mathematics curriculum design and strategies for embodied instructional activities, which can be used both in practical settings (i.e., kindergarten and preschool) and early childhood teacher education programs in higher education. Data were gathered through participative observations, including PD meetings and classroom observations, in-depth and follow-up interviews, teachers’ lesson design and reflection notes, and children’s learning profiles, and then were analyzed qualitatively using a descriptive and explanatory approach with replication logic. Based on the data collection and analysis, two major sections of the findings and discussion were included in this report, which were as follows: first, a sustainable “task design professional development model” was generated for collaboratively future improvements of both in-service and pre-service teacher training programs in higher education; second, two principles of embodied mathematics curriculum design and two effective embodied teaching strategies were proposed to promote kindergarten teachers’ professional knowledge and capabilities and their young children’s mathematics learning capabilities.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-26
DOI: 10.3390/su16177327
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7328: Mapping Benggang Erosion
Susceptibility: An Analysis of Environmental Influencing Factors Based on
the Maxent Model
Authors: Haidong Ou, Xiaolin Mu, Zaijian Yuan, Xiankun Yang, Yishan Liao, Kim Loi Nguyen, Samran Sombatpanit
First page: 7328
Abstract: Benggang erosion is one of the most severe geomorphological hazards occurring on deeply weathered crusts in the hilly regions of southern China. Unraveling the susceptibility and pinpointing the risk areas of Benggang erosion are essential for developing effective prevention and management strategies. This study introduced the Maxent model to investigate Benggang erosion susceptibility (BES) and compared the evaluation results with the widely used Random Forest (RF) model. The findings are as follows: (1) the incidence of Benggang erosion is rising initially with an increase in elevation, slope, topographic wetness index, rainfall erosivity, and fractional vegetation cover, followed by a subsequent decline, highlighting its distinct characteristics compared to typical types of gully erosion; (2) the AUC values from the ROC curves for the Maxent and RF models are 0.885 and 0.927, respectively. Both models converge on elevation, fractional vegetation cover, rainfall erosivity, Lithology, and topographic wetness index as the most impactful variables; (3) both models adeptly identified regions prone to potential Benggang erosion. However, the Maxent model demonstrated superior spatial correlation in its susceptibility assessment, contrasting with the RF model, which tended to overestimate the BES in certain regions; (4) the Maxent model’s advantages include no need for absence samples, direct handling of categorical data, and more convincing results, suggesting its potential for widespread application in the BES assessment. This research contributes empirical evidence to study the Benggang erosion developing conditions in the hilly regions of southern China and provides an important consideration for the sustainability of the regional ecological environment and human society.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-26
DOI: 10.3390/su16177328
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7329: Analysis of Change in Summer Extreme
Precipitation in Southwest China and Human Adaptation
Authors: Junyao Luo, Aihua Yang
First page: 7329
Abstract: This study analyzed the change in and mechanisms of summer extreme precipitation in Southwest China (SWC) during 1979–2021. The trend in summer extreme precipitation showed an evident interdecadal mutation in the late 1990s; it decreased during 1979–1996 (P1) and increased during 1997–2021 (P2). It is observed that the moisture flux in SWC is more abundant in P2 than in P1. The South Asian high (SAH) and western Pacific subtropical high (WPSH) contributed to the change in extreme precipitation in SWC. Both the SAH and WPSH weakened in 1979–1996 and enhanced in 1997–2021. The enhanced SAH and WPSH are conducive to forming updrafts in SWC and transporting moisture from the Bay of Bengal (BOB) and South China Sea (SCS) into SWC. Further research found that the causes for the interdecadal variation of the SAH and WPSH are the anomalies of sensible heat flux (SSH) over the Tibetan Plateau (TP) and sea surface temperature (SST) in the tropical western Pacific–Indian Oceans. The SSH is the main energy source of troposphere air and an essential component of the surface heat balance because it can maintain the intensity and influence range of the SAH. The increasing SST stimulated strong upward motion and thus maintained the strength of the WPSH, which also made the WPSH extend westward into mainland China. This study also summarized local human adaptation to climate change. The use of advanced science and technology to improve monitoring and forecasting ability is an important measure for human society to adapt to climate change. At the same time, increasing the participation of individuals and social organizations is also an indispensable way to increase human resilience to climate change.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-26
DOI: 10.3390/su16177329
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7330: Higher Education in China during the
Pandemic: Analyzing Online Self-Learning Motivation Using Bayesian
Networks
Authors: Jiang Li, Yating Chang, Shaobo Liu, Chang Cai, Qingping Zhou, Xiaoxi Cai, Wenbo Lai, Jialing Qi, Yifeng Ji, Yudan Liu
First page: 7330
Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an unprecedented shift towards online learning, compelling university students worldwide to engage in self-directed learning within remote environments. Despite the increasing importance of online education, the factors driving students’ motivation for self-directed online learning, particularly those involving economic incentives, have not been thoroughly explored. This study aims to address this gap by analyzing large-scale data collected from 19,023 university students across China during the pandemic. Using mixed Bayesian networks and multigroup structural equation modeling, the study explores the complex relationships between personal characteristics, academic characteristics, the academic environment, and students’ motivation for self-directed online learning. The results reveal significant associations between online self-directed learning motivation and personal characteristics. such as gender and age, academic characteristics, such as education level and learning incentives, and the geographic location of the school within the academic environment. Moreover, the causal relationship between school location and online self-directed learning motivation varies by gender and educational level. This research not only provides new empirical support for the theoretical framework of online learning motivation but also contributes to the broader fields of educational psychology and online learning research.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-26
DOI: 10.3390/su16177330
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7331: Data Analytics in Agriculture:
Enhancing Decision-Making for Crop Yield Optimization and Sustainable
Practices
Authors: Dua Weraikat, Kristina Šorič, Martin Žagar, Mateo Sokač
First page: 7331
Abstract: Collaboration across the agriculture supply chain is essential to address the high-yield demand and sustainable practices amid global overpopulation. Limited resources, such as soil and water, are compromised by excessive chemical agents and nutrient use. The Internet of Things (IoT) and smart farming offer solutions by optimizing agent applications, data analysis, and farm monitoring. Evidence from numerous studies indicates that collaboration in the supply chain, including farmers, can improve efficiency and productivity, reduce costs, and enhance crop quality. This paper investigates the transformation of traditional agriculture into smart farming through the integration of IoT technology and community partnerships. It presents a case study focused on educating farm owners about advanced technologies to enhance decision-making, improve crop yields, and promote sustainability. Additionally, the paper highlights the role of data analytics in agriculture. Farmers in the southern region of Zagreb, Croatia, were trained on the use of sensors and yield monitoring. Small farms in that region face challenges in improving yields due to limited capacity and lack of entrepreneurial experience. The DMAIC methodology was employed to address these issues and measure relevant parameters. The paper also discusses consistent patterns between electrical conductivity (EC) measurements and potassium levels in soil. It explains the potential of estimating potassium concentrations based on EC readings, or vice versa. Leveraging EC as a proxy for potassium levels could offer a cost-effective means of assessing soil fertility and nutrient dynamics. Additionally, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) biplot analysis is presented, showing that pH values behaved independently. Understanding these dynamics enhances knowledge of soil variability and informs sustainable soil management practices.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-26
DOI: 10.3390/su16177331
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7332: Evaluating the Performance of
Protective Barriers against Debris Flows Using Coupled Eulerian Lagrangian
and Finite Element Analyses
Authors: Shiyin Sha, Ashley P. Dyson, Gholamreza Kefayati, Ali Tolooiyan
First page: 7332
Abstract: Protective structures are critical in mitigating the dangers posed by debris flows. However, evaluating their performance remains a challenge, especially considering boulder transport in complex 3D terrains. This study introduces a comprehensive methodology to appraise the effectiveness of protective structures under the impact of debris flows for real-world conditions along the Hobart Rivulet in Tasmania, Australia. The validation of the Coupled Eulerian-Lagrangian (CEL) model against experimental data demonstrates its high accuracy in predicting flow dynamics and impact forces, whereby flow velocities are estimated for subsequent Finite Element (FE) analyses. By simulating boulder-barrier interactions, weak points in I-beam post barriers are identified, with a broad investigation of the effects on the barrier performance under various conditions. The establishment of a 3D CEL model to assess the interactions between debris flow, boulders, and I-beam post barriers in a complex rivulet terrain is of particular significance. Through CEL and FE analyses, various aspects of debris flow-structure interactions are presented, including structural failure, impact force, and boulder velocity. The findings provide insights into the suitability of various numerical methods to assess the performance of protective measures in real-world scenarios.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-26
DOI: 10.3390/su16177332
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 17 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7231: Research on Optimal Driving Torque
Control Strategy for Multi-Axle Distributed Electric Drive Heavy-Duty
Vehicles
Authors: Shiwei Xu, Junqiu Li, Xiaopeng Zhang, Daikun Zhu
First page: 7231
Abstract: Multi-axle distributed electric drive heavy-duty vehicles have the characteristics of high transmission efficiency, strong maneuverability, and good passability, making them widely used in large cargo transportation. However, the current driving torque control strategies of multi-axle distributed electric drive heavy-duty vehicles lack comprehensive consideration of their longitudinal and lateral dynamic characteristics, making it difficult to comprehensively optimize multiple performances such as power economy, comfort, and stability. In order to solve the above problems, This work focuses on a five-axle distributed electric drive heavy-duty vehicle. Firstly, given the differences in dynamics between two-axle vehicles and multi-axle vehicles, the dynamic model of the multi-axle distributed electric drive heavy-duty vehicle and its critical components is constructed. Then, by analyzing the characteristics of power economy, comfort, and stability of the multi-axle distributed electric drive heavy-duty vehicle, an optimal driving torque control strategy based on multiple performance coordination is proposed. Finally, on the hardware-in-the-loop (HiL) platform, the performance of the optimal driving torque control strategy proposed in this paper is verified by using the China Heavy-Duty Commercial Vehicle Test Cycle for Truck (CHTC-HT) and a straight-line acceleration driving condition on a split friction road. The simulation test results show that, compared with the traditional torque average distribution strategy, the proposed optimal driving torque control strategy can reduce the energy consumption rate by 3.45% in CHTC-HT. The strategy is attributed to the driving torque distribution based on the vehicle’s optimal instantaneous energy consumption, and vehicle comfort is also ensured by the driving mode switching frequency suppression. Subsequently, the vehicle’s stability on the split friction road is effectively improved by the torque coordination compensation strategy. This control strategy significantly improves the comprehensive performance of multi-axle distributed electric drive heavy-duty vehicles.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-22
DOI: 10.3390/su16167231
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 16 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7234: The Impact of Innovative and
Low-Carbon Pilot Cities on Green Innovation
Authors: Song Wang, Yuyao Cao, Yifan Wang, Chaoquan Wang
First page: 7234
Abstract: Green innovation has emerged as a crucial strategy for reconciling economic development with environmental protection. While numerous policies target various aspects of innovation or green development individually, fewer policies address green innovation specifically. This raises the question of whether individual policies alone are sufficient to advance green innovation or whether a combination of policies is required. To address this, we analyze data from Chinese cities at the prefectural level or higher, focusing on the intersecting policies of innovative cities and low-carbon pilot cities as key explanatory variables. Using a longitudinal difference-in-differences model, our study examines the effects of these concurrent policies on green innovation and investigates the mechanisms underlying their effectiveness. Our findings reveal that the dual-pilot policy significantly promotes green innovation through four key pathways: regional economy, financial level, employment conditions, and education level. After confirming the efficacy of each policy individually, we rule out the impact of single or non-overlapping policies. This confirms that the observed enhancement in green innovation results from the combined effect of the two policies rather than from either policy in isolation. The study concludes with recommendations for further enhancing green innovation, based on the empirical evidence obtained.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-22
DOI: 10.3390/su16167234
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 16 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7235: Investigating UK School-Aged
Children’s Sustainable Food Packaging Disposal Knowledge and
Engagement Levels in Ecologically Valid Settings
Authors: Victoria Norton, Stella Lignou
First page: 7235
Abstract: There is a growing emphasis on sustainable approaches; however, consumer-related barriers can modulate adherence. Therefore, engaging future generations from an early age in adopting sustainable food-packaging practices is fundamental. This paper investigates food-packaging-related knowledge, preferences, and engagement levels at a UK science-based event. School-aged children (n = 255; 8–18 years) completed various activities to initiate conversation encompassing food packaging disposal, symbols, issues, preferences, and behaviour, as well as educational-based discussions. Most children were able to select the correct response for disposal-related questions; however, they struggled to correctly identify the appropriate bin for used food items (e.g., pizza box). Children’s knowledge of symbols varied considerably: Mobius loop and Fairtrade symbols were easily recognisable, whereas there was no clear consensus/poor knowledge for the remaining symbols. Children’s main food packaging issues were ‘excessive packaging’ and ‘bins are full’ and key information searching locations were labels-on-pack and digital sources. Currently, 51% of the children adopt sustainable approaches; therefore, engaging more children in such practices is essential. 77% of the children were interested in changing future food-packaging behaviour. Going forward, sustainable food-packaging practices need to be incorporated into the school curriculum to promote engagement as well as improving infrastructure so that children can easily implement appropriate practices; thus, resulting in notable societal impact.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-22
DOI: 10.3390/su16167235
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 16 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7236: Unraveling the Valorization Potential
of Pineapple Waste to Obtain Value-Added Products towards a Sustainable
Circular Bioeconomy
Authors: Sarah L. Paz-Arteaga, Edith Cadena-Chamorro, Ricardo Goméz-García, Liliana Serna-Cock, Cristóbal N. Aguilar, Cristian Torres-León
First page: 7236
Abstract: The pineapple (Ananas comosus) is one of the most commercialized tropical fruits worldwide. Its high processing and consumption generate huge quantities of organic waste and severe economic and environmental issues. Embracing the circular bioeconomy concept, this fruit waste can be applied as a bioresource (raw material) for the obtention of a wide range of high-valued biocompounds by applying innovative and ecofriendly technologies. In this paper, we critically describe pineapple-derived waste, from their chemical composition to their functional and biological properties, as well as the latest advances on valorization technologies, particular solid and submerged fermentations. Notably, this article highlights the possibility of using pineapple waste to obtain bioactive compounds such as bromelain, phenolic compounds, and dietary fiber, which have important biological properties such as antioxidant, anticancer, antimicrobial, and prebiotic capacities. Indeed, pineapple wastes can become valued materials by using green and biotechnological technologies that allow us to maximize their potential and might avoid wastage and environmental issues. Nevertheless, it is necessary to further investigate the biomolecules present in the waste derived from different pineapple varieties and their health beneficial effects as well as emerging technologies in order to obtain a full spectrum of natural value-added compounds that industries and society demand today.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-22
DOI: 10.3390/su16167236
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 16 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7237: Implementing Ireland’s Food
Vision 2030 within the Fresh Produce Sector: An Investigation of the
Barriers and Enablers Using Systems Thinking Principles
Authors: Denis Kenny, Maria Dermiki, Fiona Britton
First page: 7237
Abstract: The Irish Food Vision 2030 (IFV 2030) seeks to restructure Ireland’s agricultural food system to deliver long-term social, economic, and environmental sustainability in keeping with its commitment to the European Green Deal and the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. This study investigates the effectiveness of the IFV 2030 in delivering on this commitment across the fresh produce supply chain in Ireland using a combination of data collected from stakeholders through a survey and systems thinking principles. A review of the literature and Foucault’s genealogical methods guided the development of the survey. Systems thinking principles were used to review the IFV 2030 and assess its capacity to deliver large-scale change for a sustainable Irish food system. Barriers to change were identified, including historical patterns of behaviour between EU and Irish policymakers that have repeatedly hindered progress towards large-scale change events. The results demonstrate that successful, long-term change will depend on the involvement and incentives of stakeholders within the supply chain. Continuous stakeholder engagement is required through a bottom-up organisational and supply chain approach to deliver long-term sustainability within the fresh produce sector. Using a systems thinking lens brings benefits through transdisciplinary collaboration and fosters the multiple stakeholder perspectives needed to deliver new ideas and solutions.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-22
DOI: 10.3390/su16167237
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 16 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7238: Impact of Extracurricular Physical
Activity on Achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals and Academic
Performance: Mediating Cognitive, Psychological, and Social Factors
Authors: Jorge Zarazaga-Peláez, Valentina Barrachina, Alejandra Gutiérrez-Logroño, Oscar Villanueva-Guerrero, Alberto Roso-Moliner, Elena Mainer-Pardos
First page: 7238
Abstract: Physical activity has been recognized as an essential element for the health and well-being of children and adolescents. Therefore, this systematic review delves into the study of the relationship between extracurricular physical activity (PA) academic achievement (AA), and its alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) among students aged 3–16 years. This systematic review was guided by adhering to PRISMA guidelines. The review included studies that evaluated PA as an independent variable and its impact on academic performance (AP) through mediation models, structural equations, and multiple regression analyses. The key mediators identified between PA and AA include cognitive function, psychological well-being, and social factors. Cognitive self-regulation, attention, memory, self-efficacy, and self-esteem are key mediators between PA and AA as well as sleep patterns and a healthy lifestyle. In conclusion, extracurricular PA significantly influenced AA, and its influence was mediated by various cognitive, psychological, and social factors. These results support the inclusion and promotion of PA in educational settings, which aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals by improving AA and overall student well-being.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-22
DOI: 10.3390/su16167238
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 16 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7239: Methodology for Quantification of
Technological Processes in Passenger Railway Transport Using Alternatively
Powered Vehicles
Authors: Martin Kendra, Daniel Pribula, Tomáš Skrúcaný
First page: 7239
Abstract: Due to the reduction in diesel propulsion on railway networks across the world, it is essential to consider the introduction of an alternative propulsion where electrification would not be feasible. The introduction of alternative propulsions may influence the technological processes of train processing and interrupt its quantification methodology, due to their specific operational requirements. The problem of the quantification of technological processes of train processing is not sufficiently solved even in the field of conventional propulsions; therefore, the aim of this paper is to propose a unique methodological procedure for the quantification of selected processes of train processing operated by multiple units with a conventional or alternative propulsion. The new process quantification methodology enables the duration determination of a specific process, which can be simply determined for multiple units of different length and propulsion under local conditions. The duration determination is based on the final formula or its graphical representation. The function is based on data obtained by analysing the evaluated workflow of a model and multiple units using the PERT network analysis method. The proposed methodological procedure is verified by different types of propulsions through a case study using real values. The application of the methodology can prevent the risks related to non-compliance of the required technological times and at the same time increase the sustainability of the operation stability of railway passenger transport.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-22
DOI: 10.3390/su16167239
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 16 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7240: Exploring Sustainable Investments:
How They Drive Firm Performance in Indian Private and Publicly Listed
Companies
Authors: Mohd Yousuf Javed, Mohammad Hasan, Mohd Aqil, Mohd Ziaur Rehman, S. A. Atif Salar
First page: 7240
Abstract: This research aims to present a holistic view of sustainable investments on firm performance by exploring the dimensions of sustainable investments and firm performance concerning Indian private and publicly listed companies. Panel data regression has been used to explore the relationship between sustainable investment and firm performance. The data of 75 BSE-listed companies has been extracted from Prowess IQ from 2012–2022.Two panels based on different ownership structures were created to observe the impact of sustainable investment and firm performance. The findings of this study indicate that sustainable investments positively impact firm performance in private ownership but negatively impact the firm’s performance in public ownership. The study provides an extensive and holistic view of sustainable investments in Indian companies listed in the BSE, which can be helpful for researchers, professionals, and policymakers in the field. The findings of this research contribute to the solutions to socio-economic challenges and support sustainable development goals through sustainable investments. This research is one of the first attempts to provide a holistic view of sustainable investments by including various aspects of sustainability and firm performance in Indian listed companies and ownership.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-22
DOI: 10.3390/su16167240
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 16 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7241: Unveiling the Implications of Organic
Nutrient Management Protocols on Soil Properties, Economic Sustainability,
and Yield Optimization in Fenugreek Cultivation in Acidic Soils of
Northeast India
Authors: Chongtham Tania, Ingudam Bhupenchandra, Chingakham Premabati Devi, Amit Phonglosa, Chongtham Sonia, Mangsatabam Norjit Singh, Phuritsabam Chandramani, Yumnam Prabhabati Devi, Hidangmayum Lembisana Devi, Madhumita Dasgupta, Elizabeth Devi Wahengbam, Mayengbam Premi Devi, Bibhuti Bhusan Sahoo, Manas Ranjan Sahoo
First page: 7241
Abstract: Utilizing yield, profitability, and environmental sustainability in terms of soil quality as the goal variables, we created a methodological protocol for a thorough assessment of nutrient management (NM) technologies for feasibility and optimized fenugreek production employing organic sources of nutrients in the acid soil of Northeast India. Five organic nutrient management technologies were tried and tested comprising T1: absolute control; T2: 2.5 t ha−1 vermicompost (VC) + 250 kg ha−1 lime; T3: 5 t ha−1 farmyard manure (FYM) + 250 kg ha−1 lime; T4: 10 t ha−1 FYM + 250 kg ha−1 lime; and T5: 5 t ha−1 VC + 250 kg ha−1 lime with four replications laid out in a randomized block design for two consecutive growing seasons during 2018–2020. Results indicated that across the differential levels of organic amendments (treatments) employed, the addition of maximum doses of VC and FYM, in general, excelled over the other treatments concerning fenugreek seed yield, its yield attributes, soil properties, and better economic returns. Thus, the overall findings elucidated that the addition of higher doses of organic amendments (VC and FYM) can sustainably improve fenugreek productivity, soil properties, and economic returns for fenugreek growers in the acid soil of Northeast India.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-22
DOI: 10.3390/su16167241
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 16 (2024)
- Sustainability, Vol. 16, Pages 7242: Opportunities and Challenges in the
Implementation of Modular Construction Methods for Urban Revitalization
Authors: Cansu Coskun, Jinwoong Lee, Jinwu Xiao, Geoffrey Graff, Kyubyung Kang, Deniz Besiktepe
First page: 7242
Abstract: The urban landscape is undergoing significant transformations due to economic shifts, urban planning initiatives, technological advancements, and sociopolitical changes. Almost 89% of the U.S. population is projected to reside in urban areas by 2050, which increases a pressing need for innovative and efficient urban revitalization strategies. Modular construction is an extensively researched topic with potential promise for addressing these challenges; however, there is a lack of comprehensive understanding of its specific opportunities and challenges within the context of urban revitalization. This paper explores the potential of modular construction methods as a viable solution in densely populated areas with limited space and competing land uses. This study employs a systematic literature review using PRISMA and mixed methods analysis with NVivo to identify the opportunities and challenges associated with implementing modular construction in urban settings. The findings highlight the advantages of modular construction, including reduced construction time, enhanced quality control, and improved sustainability. However, challenges such as land scarcity, restrictive zoning laws, and the need for innovative planning and collaboration among stakeholders are also emphasized. This paper provides valuable insights for policymakers, urban planners, and developers to effectively leverage modular construction methods for sustainable and efficient urban renewal efforts.
Citation: Sustainability
PubDate: 2024-08-22
DOI: 10.3390/su16167242
Issue No: Vol. 16, No. 16 (2024)