Journal Description
Sustainability
Sustainability
is an international, peer-reviewed, open-access journal on environmental, cultural, economic, and social sustainability of human beings, published semimonthly online by MDPI. The Canadian Urban Transit Research & Innovation Consortium (CUTRIC), International Council for Research and Innovation in Building and Construction (CIB) and Urban Land Institute (ULI) are affiliated with Sustainability and their members receive discounts on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE and SSCI (Web of Science), GEOBASE, GeoRef, Inspec, AGRIS, RePEc, CAPlus / SciFinder, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Environmental Studies) / CiteScore - Q1 (Geography, Planning and Development)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 18.8 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 3.6 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Testimonials: See what our editors and authors say about Sustainability.
- Companion journals for Sustainability include: World, Sustainable Chemistry, Conservation, Future Transportation, Architecture, Standards, Merits and Wind.
Impact Factor:
3.9 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
4.0 (2022)
Latest Articles
Pioneering Sustainability: Insights from the Integrative Role of Knowledge Management Processes and Technological Innovation
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4296; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104296 (registering DOI) - 20 May 2024
Abstract
This paper examines the quantitative relationship between knowledge management and technological innovation and their influence on sustainable development. Organizations have increasingly focused on knowledge management processes, recognizing their importance for maintaining competitiveness and sustainability. The purpose of our study was to shed light
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This paper examines the quantitative relationship between knowledge management and technological innovation and their influence on sustainable development. Organizations have increasingly focused on knowledge management processes, recognizing their importance for maintaining competitiveness and sustainability. The purpose of our study was to shed light on the impact of knowledge management processes on a firm’s sustainability and innovation. Specifically, we investigated the relationship between knowledge acquisition, knowledge storage, knowledge transfer, and knowledge application and their effects on product/service innovation, process innovation, radical innovation, and incremental innovation. Using data from 272 questionnaires completed by top managers from companies operating in Greece, we provide strong evidence of a positive relationship between knowledge acquisition, storage, and application on product innovation whereas knowledge acquisition, storage, and transfer have a statistically significant effect on process innovation. Furthermore, we found a strong positive relationship between knowledge transfer and radical innovation. Finally, all four knowledge management processes have a strong positive impact on incremental innovation. The strength of these statistically significant results is reinforced by the magnitude of the corresponding estimated coefficients. The robustness of our results was further confirmed through the estimation of a Structural Equation Model (SEM) with the application of the Partial Least Squares (PLS) technique.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Strategic Enterprise Management and Sustainable Economic Development)
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Open AccessArticle
Characteristics of Various Single Wind-Power Distributed Generation Placements for Voltage Drop Improvement in a 22 kV Distribution System
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Santipont Ananwattanaporn, Surakit Thongsuk, Praikanok Lertwanitrot, Suntiti Yoomak and Issarachai Ngamroo
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4295; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104295 (registering DOI) - 20 May 2024
Abstract
A major challenge in distribution systems is the issue of voltage drop along the distribution line resulting from an increased load capacity connected to the utility. A significant voltage drop can affect the performance of a distribution system and cause quality issues for
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A major challenge in distribution systems is the issue of voltage drop along the distribution line resulting from an increased load capacity connected to the utility. A significant voltage drop can affect the performance of a distribution system and cause quality issues for end users, impacting the system’s long-term sustainability and reliability. Therefore, regulations have been set stating that the voltage level should not be more that 5% higher or lower than the rated voltage. Thus, in this study, we aimed to evaluate the voltage level characteristics of a 22 kV distribution system that replicates the actual distribution system in the Provincial Electricity Authority. A voltage improvement technique based on distributed generation placement was proposed. In addition, the distribution system characteristics with and without distributed generation placement were evaluated under fault conditions. The results indicate that distributed generation placement in the distribution system can improve the voltage level along the distribution line. However, the level of increase in voltage depends on the size of the load, the capacity of the distributed generation, and the location of the distributed generation system on the distribution line. Furthermore, placing a distributed generation system with a minimum capacity at the proposed location can improve the voltage within the utility’s standard level. Thus, the installation of a distributed generation system in the distribution system is beneficial in terms of voltage improvement in the distribution system and provides the power system with a sustainable method to address the issue of voltage drop.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Raising Power Energy from Distributed Renewable Sources)
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Open AccessArticle
Study on Mechanical Characteristics of Living Stumps and Reinforcement Mechanisms of Slopes
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Xueliang Jiang, Wenjie Liu, Hui Yang, Haodong Wang and Zhenyu Li
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4294; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104294 (registering DOI) - 20 May 2024
Abstract
As a novel technology for slope protection, living stumps have demonstrated the ability to significantly enhance slope stability. This study aims to investigate the mechanical properties of living-stump root systems and their reinforcement mechanisms on slopes through three-dimensional modeling tests. Using ABS materials,
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As a novel technology for slope protection, living stumps have demonstrated the ability to significantly enhance slope stability. This study aims to investigate the mechanical properties of living-stump root systems and their reinforcement mechanisms on slopes through three-dimensional modeling tests. Using ABS materials, a 3D model of a living elm stump was created via 3D printing; this was followed by slope model testing. The reinforcement mechanisms of living stumps were examined through a combination of model testing and numerical simulation. The results reveal that the presence of living stumps in the lower and middle sections of a slope causes the maximum-shear-stress zone of the soil to shift deeper. The stress distribution around the living stump is notably improved owing to the lateral root system. Living stumps positioned in the lower part of the slope intersect the potential sliding surface, gradually transferring soil shear stress to the root system through root–soil interactions. Furthermore, the tap roots and lateral roots of living stumps form a robust spatial network that can collectively withstand soil shear stress, thereby enhancing slope stability.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Sustainable Geotechnical Engineering and Civil Engineering)
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Public Bicycle Dispatch Method Based on Spatiotemporal Characteristics of Borrowing and Returning Demands
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Zhizhen Liu, Ziyi Wu, Feng Tang, Chao Gao, Hong Chen and Wang Xiang
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4293; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104293 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
Public bicycle systems (PBSs) serve as the ‘last mile’ of public transportation for urban residents, yet the problem of the difficulty in borrowing and returning bicycles during peak hours remains a major bottleneck restricting the intelligent and efficient operation of public bicycles. Previous
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Public bicycle systems (PBSs) serve as the ‘last mile’ of public transportation for urban residents, yet the problem of the difficulty in borrowing and returning bicycles during peak hours remains a major bottleneck restricting the intelligent and efficient operation of public bicycles. Previous studies have proposed reasonable models and efficient algorithms for optimizing public bicycle scheduling, but there is still a lack of consideration for actual road network distances between stations and the temporal characteristics of demand at rental points in the model construction process. Therefore, this paper aims to construct a public bicycle dispatch framework based on the spatiotemporal characteristics of borrowing and returning demands. Firstly, the spatiotemporal distribution characteristics of borrowing and returning demands for public bicycles are explored, the origin–destination (OD) correlation coefficients are defined, and the intensity of connections between rental point areas is analyzed. Secondly, based on the temporal characteristics of rental point demands, a random forest prediction model is constructed with weather factors, time characteristics, and rental point locations as feature variables, and station bicycle-borrowing and -returning demands as the target variable. Finally, bicycle dispatch regions are delineated based on actual path distances between stations and OD correlation coefficients, and a public bicycle regional dispatch optimization method is established. Taking the PBS in Ningbo City as an example, the balancing optimization framework proposed in this paper is validated. The results show that the regional dispatch optimization method proposed in this paper can achieve optimized dispatch of public bicycles during peak hours. Additionally, compared with the Taboo search algorithm (TSA), the genetic algorithm (GA) exhibits a 11.1% reduction in rebalancing time and a 40.4% reduction in trip cost.
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(This article belongs to the Collection Bicycling Today: Establishing and Learning from the State of the Art)
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Green Investor Holdings and Corporate Green Technological Innovation
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Lin Zhang, Yamin Xie and Dingjie Xu
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4292; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104292 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
This study builds upon existing research on institutional investors and corporate green innovation by distinguishing green investors, who prioritize environmental contribution, from general institutional investors. Drawing on the stakeholder theory and the Porter hypothesis, we hypothesize that the shareholdings of green investors can
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This study builds upon existing research on institutional investors and corporate green innovation by distinguishing green investors, who prioritize environmental contribution, from general institutional investors. Drawing on the stakeholder theory and the Porter hypothesis, we hypothesize that the shareholdings of green investors can effectively stimulate corporate enthusiasm for green innovation, with state ownership exerting a positive moderating influence. Utilizing panel data from China’s A-share listed manufacturing firms spanning from 2010 to 2019, we employ a fixed effect regression model to test these hypotheses. Our empirical findings confirm our expectations, demonstrating that green investors’ shareholdings indeed foster corporate green innovation. Moreover, we observe that this positive relationship is amplified within state-owned enterprises, indicating the presence of a robust and stable environmental regulatory framework across the market. Additionally, our results support the Porter hypothesis, suggesting that adherence to environmental regulations can coexist with firm performance rather than being mutually exclusive. This study contributes to the literature on green investors and corporate green innovation, providing valuable insights for the development of China’s green financial system and sustainable development strategies.
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Open AccessArticle
Application of Cotton Stalk as an Adsorbent for Copper(II) Ions in Sustainable Wastewater Treatment
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Mary Triny Beleño Cabarcas, Ricardo Torres Ramos, Benjamín Valdez Salas, Daniel González Mendoza, Aurelia Mendoza Gómez, Mario Alberto Curiel Álvarez and Jonathan Rafael Castillo Sáenz
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4291; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104291 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
The capacity of untreated cotton stalk to remove and adsorb Cu2+ ions in synthetic and natural aqueous solutions was evaluated. The influence of three sensitive parameters of the adsorption process—solution pH, adsorbent dosage, and contact time—on the percentage of Cu2+ removal
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The capacity of untreated cotton stalk to remove and adsorb Cu2+ ions in synthetic and natural aqueous solutions was evaluated. The influence of three sensitive parameters of the adsorption process—solution pH, adsorbent dosage, and contact time—on the percentage of Cu2+ removal in agricultural wastewater, livestock wastewater, and synthetic samples was studied. Physicochemical and morphological properties were studied using thermogravimetry, Fourier infrared spectrophotometry, and scanning electron microscopy. The elemental composition, proximal composition, zero charge point, and acid–base sites were determined. In addition, kinetic studies were performed, and the adsorption equilibrium was analyzed. The optimum conditions for Cu2+ adsorption were the following: solution pH = 5.5, adsorbent dosage of 0.6 g, and contact time of 60 min. Under these conditions, the percentage of Cu2+ removal in synthetic samples was 66.5% when the initial copper concentration was 50 mg/L. The removal percentage in agricultural and livestock wastewater samples was 87.60% and 85.05%, respectively, when the initial copper concentration was 25 mg/L. The adsorption data are consistent with the Freundlich isotherm model, which achieved a quadratic fit of 0.991 compared to 0.5542 for the Langmuir model. The experimental results indicate that the adsorption adequately fits the pseudo-second-order kinetic model. The results suggest that cotton stalks are a promising adsorbent for the ecological and economical removal of Cu2+ in wastewater. This research, therefore, provides relevant information that contributes to the sustainable management of agricultural waste and instills hope for a reduction in water pollution from heavy metals derived from agricultural activities.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Technologies and Materials for Wastewater Treatment and Reclamation)
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The Impact of Corporate Social Responsibility on Labor Investment Efficiency: Evidence from China
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Zhizhu Yuan, Junze Yu and Yue Yin
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4290; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104290 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
This study examines the impact of corporate social responsibility (CSR) on labor investment efficiency utilizing a sample of China’s listed companies. The empirical results demonstrate that CSR improves labor investment efficiency, and the effect is significant in terms of both overinvestment and underinvestment.
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This study examines the impact of corporate social responsibility (CSR) on labor investment efficiency utilizing a sample of China’s listed companies. The empirical results demonstrate that CSR improves labor investment efficiency, and the effect is significant in terms of both overinvestment and underinvestment. Findings from cross-sectional tests indicate that CSR has a more significant effect on labor investment efficiency in non-state-owned firms and firms with more financing constraints or higher labor adjustment costs. The conclusion is robust after utilizing a 2SLS regression, replacing indicators for labor investment efficiency and accounting for the impact of non-labor investment. In general, the results support stakeholder theory and confirm that CSR can enhance external monitoring and improve firms’ investment behavior.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Sustainability: Whether or How?)
Open AccessArticle
Factors Influencing Public Building Energy Consumption: A Case Study of Changjiang River Administration of Navigation Affairs in China
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Longhua Wang, Jingxin Cao, Yuanzhou Zheng, Yang Xu, Long You and Yibo Wang
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4289; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104289 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
Based on the energy consumption data of the Changjiang River Administration of Navigation Affairs public building located in Wuhan, China, this paper analyzes the energy consumption characteristics of public buildings. Using the DesignBuilder energy simulation software (v7.0.0.096), various factors influencing building energy consumption
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Based on the energy consumption data of the Changjiang River Administration of Navigation Affairs public building located in Wuhan, China, this paper analyzes the energy consumption characteristics of public buildings. Using the DesignBuilder energy simulation software (v7.0.0.096), various factors influencing building energy consumption are investigated. Furthermore, SPSS (v26.0.0.0) is employed to conduct correlation analyses between measured and simulated energy consumption data. The results indicate that the most significant factors affecting energy consumption are outdoor temperature, office equipment usage time, anticipated room temperature settings, boiler usage time, and per capita daily water consumption. By exploring the factors influencing energy consumption in public buildings, this study contributes novel insights into setting targets, adjusting schemes, and achieving energy-saving effects.
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Open AccessArticle
Can Digital Finance Enable China’s Industrial Carbon Unlocking under Environmental Regulatory Constraints? Joint Tests of Regression Analysis and Qualitative Comparative Analysis
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Weicheng Xu and Hanxia Li
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4288; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104288 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
Sustainable development goals challenge the carbon lock-in dilemma of the industrial economy, and identifying the motivation and mechanism behind carbon unlocking has become an urgent priority. With its inclusive and precise advantages, digital finance (DF) provides a new impetus for the economy’s low-carbon
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Sustainable development goals challenge the carbon lock-in dilemma of the industrial economy, and identifying the motivation and mechanism behind carbon unlocking has become an urgent priority. With its inclusive and precise advantages, digital finance (DF) provides a new impetus for the economy’s low-carbon transformation, while reasonable environmental regulation (ER) acts as an important guiding constraint. We focus on the carbon unlocking performance of DF under ER constraints. After constructing and calculating the industrial carbon unlocking efficiency (ICUE), we observe the trends of ICUE fluctuating positively, clustering towards the eastern region, and polarization. Subsequently, based on theoretical analyses, we explore the marginal and configuration effects of DF and ER in improving ICUE using panel data from 30 Chinese provinces between 2011 and 2021 and adopt a mixed research method with regression analysis (Tobit hierarchical regression and quantile regression for panel data (QRPD)) and dynamic fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA). The regression analysis results show that DF can notably enhance China’s provincial ICUE, with ER generally serving as a positive moderator; however, the unlocking potential of informal environmental regulations needs further exploration. As ICUE improves in a specific location or time, the positive contribution of DF to ICUE also increases, whereas the moderating effect of ER exhibits an optimal range and follows an inverted U-shape. The dynamic fsQCA results support the findings of the regression analysis and further emphasize that effective cooperation between DF and ER is crucial for high ICUE, while inadequate DF support and the absence of formal environmental regulations remain bottlenecks in industrial carbon lock-in. Moreover, configuration paths demonstrate clear path dependency in both time and space, indicating a prolonged unlocking endeavor.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Growth and Carbon Neutrality)
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Conceptual Models of Franchisee Behaviors in the Dietary Supplements and Cosmetics to Imply the Business Investments
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Patcharapol Suttidharm and Adisorn Leelasantitham
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4287; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104287 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
Franchise businesses have demonstrated resilience before, through, and after the circumstances of COVID-19. This can be attributed to the inherent appeal of rapid success and risk mitigation for investors. Therefore, investors are attached to engaging in a franchise business model. Fierce competition exists
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Franchise businesses have demonstrated resilience before, through, and after the circumstances of COVID-19. This can be attributed to the inherent appeal of rapid success and risk mitigation for investors. Therefore, investors are attached to engaging in a franchise business model. Fierce competition exists among franchise businesses, with numerous brands within the same industry, especially the cosmetic and dietary supplement franchise category, which has garnered significant popularity in Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand. The expansion of this franchise category has accelerated, surpassing the growth rates observed in other countries. Investment decisions across various investor levels are influenced by diverse factors, including intense competition, contributing to the rapid expansion. Therefore, a comprehensive study and understanding of the investment behavior of cosmetic and dietary supplement franchise businesses has become imperative. The success of a franchise business hinges on different factors encompassing decisions made before, during, and after investments. This study delves into the decision-making behaviors preceding and following investments across different investor levels in the cosmetics and dietary supplement franchise industry, utilizing fundamental aspects derived from rational choice theory (RCT) and additional variables. The researcher gathered responses through questionnaires from 490 respondents with investment experience in the cosmetics and dietary supplement franchise business. The study revealed that factors postulated in this study significantly influenced investment choices within cosmetics and dietary supplement franchises. When segmented based on investor levels, distinct considerations emerged for each group. Furthermore, there is a compelling need for cosmetic and dietary supplement franchise owners to implement enhancements in services to uphold and expand investor bases, representing an intense challenge in the cosmetics and dietary supplement franchise business nowadays. This study is intended only for individuals with prior investment experience in the cosmetics and dietary supplement franchise industry. It focuses on examining the factors that influence investment decisions both before and after the initial investment, particularly with regard to dietary supplement and cosmetics franchises.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Management and Consumer Behavior Studies)
Open AccessArticle
Discrepancies of Functional Requirements of Façade Opening System between Real-Life Public and Built Environment Experts Focusing on Thermal Comfort and Ventilation
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Woohyoung Lee, Dong Hee Choi and Dong Hwa Kang
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4286; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104286 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
A survey was conducted to analyze the discrepancies of the functional requirements of the façade system in residential units among 605 of the real-life public and 73 experts. Personal and housing information, resident life patterns, public façade usage behavior, and functional requirements were
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A survey was conducted to analyze the discrepancies of the functional requirements of the façade system in residential units among 605 of the real-life public and 73 experts. Personal and housing information, resident life patterns, public façade usage behavior, and functional requirements were collected from the respondents. Both the public and experts recognized insulation as the main function of façade opening systems. More than 85% of the public and experts opened windows for ventilation, but ventilation was ranked 3rd amongst the public and 4th amongst experts in the main functions list of façade systems. The public cited the inflow of fine dust as the main reason for dissatisfaction with opening windows. In contrast, the experts cited a decrease in thermal comfort due to the inflow of external moisture as the reason for dissatisfaction with opening windows. The results showed that discrepancies exist between the public and experts’ perceptions of the main function of housing façade systems. Analyzing the common points and differences between the public and experts’ perception can help in developing façade system design and control technology.
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(This article belongs to the Section Green Building)
Open AccessArticle
A Multi-Information Fusion Method for Repetitive Tunnel Disease Detection
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Zhiyuan Gan, Li Teng, Ying Chang, Xinyang Feng, Mengnan Gao and Xinwen Gao
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4285; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104285 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
Existing tunnel defect detection methods often lack repeated inspections, limiting longitudinal analysis of defects. To address this, we propose a multi-information fusion approach for continuous defect monitoring. Initially, we utilized the You Only Look Once version 7 (Yolov7) network to identify defects in
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Existing tunnel defect detection methods often lack repeated inspections, limiting longitudinal analysis of defects. To address this, we propose a multi-information fusion approach for continuous defect monitoring. Initially, we utilized the You Only Look Once version 7 (Yolov7) network to identify defects in tunnel lining videos. Subsequently, defect localization is achieved with Super Visual Odometer (SuperVO) algorithm. Lastly, the SuperPoint–SuperGlue Matching Network (SpSg Network) is employed to analyze similarities among defect images. Combining the above information, the repeatability detection of the disease is realized. SuperVO was tested in tunnels of 159 m and 260 m, showcasing enhanced localization accuracy compared to traditional visual odometry methods, with errors measuring below 0.3 m on average and 0.8 m at maximum. The SpSg Network surpassed the depth-feature-based Siamese Network in image matching, achieving a precision of 96.61%, recall of 93.44%, and F1 score of 95%. These findings validate the effectiveness of this approach in the repetitive detection and monitoring of tunnel defects.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emergency Plans and Disaster Management in the Era of Smart Cities)
Open AccessArticle
Strategies of Public University Building Maintenance—A Literature Survey
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Jakub Grącki and Edyta Plebankiewicz
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4284; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104284 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
In this article, comprehensive insights into the field of building maintenance, emphasizing the importance of keywords, collaborative efforts among authors, and the evolving research landscape, are provided. The use stage, as the longest phase in a building’s life cycle, involves economic, technical, and
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In this article, comprehensive insights into the field of building maintenance, emphasizing the importance of keywords, collaborative efforts among authors, and the evolving research landscape, are provided. The use stage, as the longest phase in a building’s life cycle, involves economic, technical, and social activities. Numerous authors have contributed to the broader topic of building maintenance, covering aspects such as maintenance prioritization, improvement actions, decision-making guidelines, factors affecting success, cost estimation models, and BIM usage in maintenance. The study conducts a thorough literature review using Scopus as a search engine, employing the full-counting method for authorship, and uses VOSviewer 1.6.20 software for bibliometric analysis to identify gaps and outline future research directions. The results reveal distinct data sets focusing on building maintenance from general to specific, with each set reflecting unique aspects and considerations. Bibliometric maps illustrate author collaboration and keyword connections within each set, highlighting evolving research trends and areas of focus. Overall, the analysis highlights the importance of prioritizing maintenance, integrating technology, and fostering collaboration to enhance building maintenance in educational institutions. The study concludes with recommendations for future research, emphasizing the ongoing need for exploration and development in building maintenance, especially on maintenance strategies and Life Cycle Costs of university buildings.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Approaches in Construction: Between Circular Economy and Industrial Symbiosis)
Open AccessArticle
Driving Economic Growth through Transportation Infrastructure: An In-Depth Spatial Econometric Analysis
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Jianwei Shi, Tongyuan Bai, Zhihong Zhao and Huachun Tan
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4283; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104283 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
This research investigates the crucial role of transportation infrastructure in influencing economic activity, thus employing advanced econometric methods including Moran’s I index, LM, Hausman, and LR tests to ensure analytical accuracy and select the appropriate spatial model. Our findings reveal that freight volumes
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This research investigates the crucial role of transportation infrastructure in influencing economic activity, thus employing advanced econometric methods including Moran’s I index, LM, Hausman, and LR tests to ensure analytical accuracy and select the appropriate spatial model. Our findings reveal that freight volumes across road, waterway, and civil aviation significantly enhance economic activity by bolstering domestic trade, industrial production, and supply chains. Conversely, the impact of passenger turnover is comparatively minor, although it still contributes to labor mobility and urban accessibility. This study highlights the need for strategic investment in transportation infrastructure and efficient public transport systems to foster economic growth and sustainable development. We recommend that policymakers focus on optimizing transportation networks and integrating intelligent transport technologies to boost economic competitiveness and societal well-being. This analysis not only sheds light on the direct economic impacts of transportation but also underscores the broader social implications, thus advocating for a holistic approach to transportation planning and policymaking.
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Open AccessArticle
A Study on the Impact of Income Gap on Consumer Demand: An Empirical Test Based on the Spatial Panel Durbin Model
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Dan Wang
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4282; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104282 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
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The study utilizes China Household Panel Survey (CFPS) data from 2010 to 2020 to create a spatial panel Durbin model and examines the spatial spillover effect of the income gap on consumer demand using spatial econometric techniques. Studies have shown that the income
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The study utilizes China Household Panel Survey (CFPS) data from 2010 to 2020 to create a spatial panel Durbin model and examines the spatial spillover effect of the income gap on consumer demand using spatial econometric techniques. Studies have shown that the income gap has a notable inverted U-shaped influence on consumer demand, and there is a strong inverted U-shaped spatial spillover effect between surrounding locations. Expanding the income difference within a specific range boosts consumer demand in both local and surrounding areas. Further increasing the income difference impedes the growth of consumer demand in both local and surrounding regions. Regional variations significantly impact how the income gap affects consumer demand through spatial spillover. From the perspective of consumption quantity, the “inverted U-shaped” inflection point in economically developed regions and eastern regions is on the left side of economically underdeveloped regions and western regions; from the perspective of consumer quality, this result is exactly the opposite. China should persist in enhancing efforts to advance income distribution system reform and improvement, bolster the development of inclusive, fundamental, and grassroots livelihoods, manage residents’ income gap amid evolving income levels, and stimulate consumer demand in local and neighboring regions.
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Is There a Digital Rebound in the Process of Urban Green Development? New Empirical Evidence Using Ensemble Learning Methods
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Ying Ping and Zhuolin Li
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4281; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104281 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
The convergence of digitization and greening is an unavoidable path of modern economic progress. Nonetheless, the digital economy does not consistently align with the principles of green development, potentially leading to a rebound effect in urban digitalization initiatives. To investigate the correlation between
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The convergence of digitization and greening is an unavoidable path of modern economic progress. Nonetheless, the digital economy does not consistently align with the principles of green development, potentially leading to a rebound effect in urban digitalization initiatives. To investigate the correlation between the digital rebound effect and urban green development, this study utilizes panel data from Chinese prefecture-level cities spanning from 2011 to 2019. By examining the dual impact of the digital economy on green development, the paper posits a theoretical hypothesis regarding the nonlinear marginal effect of the digital economy. This research demonstrates an inverted U-shaped correlation between the digital economy and urban green development via empirical analyses employing the random forest algorithm and partial dependency plots. It supports the existence of a moderate digital resiliency effect, which eventually reaches a state of stability rather than greatly diminishing the degree of green development in urban areas. In addition, the heterogeneity analysis reveals that the positive effects of the digital economy are more popular in cities located in the eastern and central regions, as well as in the National Comprehensive Pilot Zone for Big Data. However, these effects do not vary significantly among different ranks of cities. The mechanism test found that the information effect and the capital allocation effect are the mechanisms by which the digital economy affects green development, and there is a “U-shaped” relationship between the digital economy and information asymmetry and capital mismatch. According to the study’s results, improving the digital economy’s governance structure continues to make more sense than merely increasing the number of digital inputs.
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(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)
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Systemic Risk Arising from Shadow Banking and Sustainable Development: A Study of Wealth Management Products in China
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Hongjie Pan and Hong Fan
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4280; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104280 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
Shadow banking is a main way for the financial market to serve the real economy today, and this process is closely related to systemic risk. This study examines the impact of shadow banking associated with sustainable development in China’s banking on systemic risk.
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Shadow banking is a main way for the financial market to serve the real economy today, and this process is closely related to systemic risk. This study examines the impact of shadow banking associated with sustainable development in China’s banking on systemic risk. We analyze the data obtained from a rich sample of 31 listed commercial banks in China and shadow banking represented by wealth management products (WMPs) by constructing a dynamic complex interbank network model. The results show that the risks and vulnerabilities generated by shadow banking spread out through the interbank network and cause systemic risk to increase. The effect operates through increasing the number of default banks, reducing banks’ survival rate and profit, and forcing central bank bailout funds expansion. However, it has a positive impact in terms of augmenting liquidity and enhancing investment opportunities. Furthermore, the variability in the influence of different categories of shadow banking is assessed, emphasizing that short-term shadow banking exerts a more pronounced impact on systemic risk. In addition, the heterogeneity of the shadow banking effect on different types of commercial banks is explored, revealing that local and rural commercial banks experience a more conspicuous effect compared to state-owned and joint-stock banks. Our findings highlight that improving external supervision, promoting financial internal governance, and constraining credit linkages are vital for alleviating the increase in risks in shadow banking and maintaining the sustainable development of banking.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Developments in Sustainable Corporate Finance and Financial Innovations)
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An Approach to the Key Soil Physical Properties for Assessing Soil Compaction Due to Livestock Grazing in Mediterranean Mountain Areas
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Rafael Blanco-Sepúlveda, María Luisa Gómez-Moreno and Francisco Lima
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4279; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104279 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
The selection of key soil physical properties (SPPs) for studying the impact of livestock treading is an unexplored research topic, especially in studies that analyze the influence of livestock management on the degradation process. The objective of this work was to demonstrate that
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The selection of key soil physical properties (SPPs) for studying the impact of livestock treading is an unexplored research topic, especially in studies that analyze the influence of livestock management on the degradation process. The objective of this work was to demonstrate that the key SPPs for studying the impact of livestock treading depend on the objectives of the research and the environmental characteristics of the study site. This work used discriminant analysis to establish the most significant SPPs among the following: bulk density (BD), total porosity (P), field capacity (FC), infiltration capacity (IC), and aggregate stability (AS). Results showed that (1) IC and BD are the key properties for identifying the areas affected (bare patch) and unaffected (vegetated patch) by livestock treading, (2) none of the SPPs are significant under increasing stocking rates, and (3) BD is the key property for analyzing livestock impact with increasing stocking rate, using soil calcium carbonate content, slope exposure, and grass cover. We concluded that the relationship between physical soil degradation and stocking rate is not linear because it depends on environmental factors; therefore, to establish the key SPPs, it is necessary to take this fact into account.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agricultural Engineering: Agroecology Sustainable Development and Agriculture Environmental Impact Assessment and Measurement)
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Open AccessArticle
Functional-Combination-Based Comprehensive Benefit Evaluation of Energy Storage Projects under Source-Grid-Load Scenarios via Super-Efficiency DEA
by
Hong Qu and Ze Ye
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4278; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104278 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
As an important support for power systems with high penetration of sustainable energy, the energy storage system (ESS) has changed the traditional model of simultaneous implementation of electricity production and consumption. Its installed capacity under the source-grid-load scenario is rising year by year,
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As an important support for power systems with high penetration of sustainable energy, the energy storage system (ESS) has changed the traditional model of simultaneous implementation of electricity production and consumption. Its installed capacity under the source-grid-load scenario is rising year by year, contributing to sustainable development, but it faces the problems of insufficient utilization and benefits. This study analyzes the functional combination of ESS under source-grid-load scenarios. A comprehensive benefit evaluation method of energy storage projects (ESPs), based on a fuzzy decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) and super-efficiency data envelopment analysis (DEA), is proposed. Firstly, the functional requirements of energy storage in source-grid-load scenarios are explored, and the characteristics of various functions are analyzed to form eight functional combination schemes. Secondly, index modeling is carried out from three aspects—the whole life cycle cost, functional combination benefits, and social and environmental benefits—and a comprehensive benefit evaluation index system of ESP is proposed. Then, the intuitionistic trapezoidal fuzzy number (ITFN) is combined with DEMATEL to form an effective analysis method for the input–output relationship of the indices, and the comprehensive evaluation is realized based on the SE-DEA model. Compared with other methods, this model can ensure the objectivity and stability of the evaluation results in ESP evaluation. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed evaluation method and the rationality of the functional combination are verified under source-grid-load scenarios. The calculation results show that in the application scenario of source-grid-load, after adopting the functional combination scheme formulated in this article, the comprehensive investment benefits of ESPs have been improved. Moreover, the source side effect is at its best, with an efficiency value of 2.209.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Renewable Energy and Power System Transformation: Striving towards Carbon Neutrality)
Open AccessReview
Application of Aggregates from Construction and Demolition Wastes in Concrete: Review
by
Hua Luo, José Aguiar, Xiaoqi Wan, Yinggu Wang, Sandra Cunha and Zhiyou Jia
Sustainability 2024, 16(10), 4277; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16104277 (registering DOI) - 19 May 2024
Abstract
In the current century, urbanization and the development of the construction industry have led to the generation of construction and demolition waste (CDW), imposing pressure on ecology and the environment. This has attracted the attention of industry personnel and researchers. This work discusses
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In the current century, urbanization and the development of the construction industry have led to the generation of construction and demolition waste (CDW), imposing pressure on ecology and the environment. This has attracted the attention of industry personnel and researchers. This work discusses the current research on recycled coarse or fine aggregate, mainly focusing on the physical, mechanical and durability properties of sustainable concrete with recycled coarse or fine aggregate. Furthermore, it also summarizes CDW recycling and classification in major countries, the production processes of recycled aggregate, and the physical properties. This review will provide a reference for the application of concrete with recycled coarse or fine aggregate. Moreover, this review notes that replacing natural aggregates with both coarse and fine recycled aggregates awaits further experimental exploration.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Resource and Waste Management: Landfill Technology)
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