Sustainability

Research

19 pages, 2934 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Investigation of Global Reporting Initiative Performance Indicators in Corporate Sustainability Reports: Greek, Italian and Spanish Evidence

by Lara Tarquinio^*

, Domenico Raucci and Roberto Benedetti

Department of Economic Studies, “G. d’Annunzio” University, 65127 Pescara, Italy

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 897; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040897 - 21 Mar 2018

Cited by 54 | Viewed by 9530

Abstract

This study has two main purposes. First, it explores the performance indicators disclosed in the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI)-based Sustainability Reports (SRs) produced by the companies of three different countries: Italy, Spain and Greece. Second, it verifies how some corporate variables, country of [...] Read more.

This study has two main purposes. First, it explores the performance indicators disclosed in the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI)-based Sustainability Reports (SRs) produced by the companies of three different countries: Italy, Spain and Greece. Second, it verifies how some corporate variables, country of origin variables and “attributes” of the SRs can explain the disclosure of GRI indicators. To verify the quantity and type of the indicators disclosed, we performed a content analysis of the SRs. We use a regression trees technique to describe how the companies’ variables explain a different use of the indicators. The findings show that Spanish companies, on average, disclose the greatest number of indicators. The social indicators related to Labour are those more frequently reported in the SRs of the three countries. The least reported are social indicators related to Human Rights. The results show the central role that assurance, ROA and sector may have in classifying the disclosure level of indicators. The study contributes both theoretical and empirical literature on sustainability indicators. It also sheds further light on the determinants of the disclosure of indicators. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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22 pages, 1523 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Role of Place in Adapting to Climate Change: A Case Study from Ladakh, Western Himalayas

by Kimiko Barrett^1,* and Keith Bosak²

¹ Headwaters Economics, Bozeman, MT 59715, USA

² Department of Society and Conservation, College of Forestry and Conservation, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812, USA

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 898; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040898 - 21 Mar 2018

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 10700

Abstract

This research explores the nexus of climate change and socio-economic change with a focus on the significance that local conditions (physical and cultural) can have in influencing vulnerability and resilience. In order to better examine how climate change impacts interact with socio-economic changes [...] Read more.

This research explores the nexus of climate change and socio-economic change with a focus on the significance that local conditions (physical and cultural) can have in influencing vulnerability and resilience. In order to better examine how climate change impacts interact with socio-economic changes and are experienced at the community scale, this research integrates household survey data with geospatial processing techniques. Two comparative study sites, one rural and one urban, were selected in the region of Ladakh; an area experiencing severe climate change impacts alongside rapid socioeconomic and political changes. Archival data was used to supplement survey responses and provide additional historical context. Survey responses were then combined with Hot Spot and Kernel density analysis in ArcGIS to identify areas of high and low spatial concentration and correlation. While climate change is widely perceived in many Western Himalayan mountain communities, impacts of climate change as an issue of high importance are moderated by other pressing socioeconomic, cultural, and political concerns. The role of locality and place-based themes such as community attachment, social cohesion, and sense of place, emerged as influential factors in enhancing social resilience and thereby reducing dimensions of local vulnerability to climate change impacts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Social Ecology and Sustainability)

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14 pages, 276 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Recasting the Understanding of Habits for Behaviour-Oriented Policies in Transportation

by Kevin Marechal^1,2

¹ Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech-Université de Liège, B-5030 Gembloux, Belgium

² Centre for Economic and Social Studies on the Environment (CESSE-ULB), Université Libre de Bruxelles (Brussels Free University), 1050 Bruxelles, Belgium

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 899; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040899 - 21 Mar 2018

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3182

Abstract

The role of habits in influencing transportation behaviour is acknowledged in many studies. However, most of these analyses draw on a narrow perspective of habits. In this paper, we adopt a reversed perspective regarding the interplay between habits and rationality. The insightfulness of [...] Read more.

The role of habits in influencing transportation behaviour is acknowledged in many studies. However, most of these analyses draw on a narrow perspective of habits. In this paper, we adopt a reversed perspective regarding the interplay between habits and rationality. The insightfulness of this perspective is illustrated with the findings of two empirical studies on urban transportation. This paper shows that the underlying structure (i.e., the “genotype”) behind the phenotypic manifestation of a habit is essential to grasp for getting a better understanding of the role played by habits in explaining car use. The framework of habitual practices is then put forward in discussing the results. Its rationale is to provide a characterisation of the interconnected elements that make and shape the transportation practices, together with important aspects regarding how they are formed and sustained over time. Adequately picturing both constituent elements as well as dynamic aspects is crucial for explaining the strength of habitual practices and thus car dependence. In doing so, the framework of habitual practices could thus well be of help for policy-makers in reflecting on the design of efficient and innovative interventions for the transition towards more sustainable transportation behaviours. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Transportation)

22 pages, 9469 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Research on the Spatial Differentiation and Driving Factors of Tourism Enterprises’ Efficiency: Chinese Scenic Spots, Travel Agencies, and Hotels

by Bing Xia^1,2,3

, Suocheng Dong^1,*, Duoxun Ba³, Yu Li¹, Fujia Li¹, Haimeng Liu¹

, Zehong Li¹ and Minyan Zhao¹

¹ Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China

² College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China

³ Tourism College, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou 730070, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 901; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040901 - 21 Mar 2018

Cited by 33 | Viewed by 5452

Abstract

Tourism is an important sustainable industry in the economy that optimizes the industrial structure. Thus, as a core part of this market, tourism enterprises perform a key role in the effective operation of this industry. This paper applies data envelopment analysis (DEA) and [...] Read more.

Tourism is an important sustainable industry in the economy that optimizes the industrial structure. Thus, as a core part of this market, tourism enterprises perform a key role in the effective operation of this industry. This paper applies data envelopment analysis (DEA) and Malmquist index (MI) models to calculate the efficiency of Chinese tourism enterprises between 2005 and 2014. Results showed that: (1) The efficiency and the total factor productivity change index (TFPC) of tourism enterprises remained low, and both have decreased. (2) The efficiency of regional tourism enterprises across China cloud be characterized as high in the east region, low in the central region, and high in both northeast and western regions. (3) The efficiency levels of the cities of Beijing and Shanghai were ahead of the country over the period of this study, while Chongqing, Tibet, Qinghai, and Ningxia all possess a number of obvious advantages in the western region. (4) Centers of overall tourism enterprise efficiency mainly moved in a southeast-to-northwest direction over the period of this research. (5) The spatial autocorrelation of tourism enterprise efficiencies is also assessed in this study, and the results show that the comprehensive efficiency (CE) of tourism enterprises in southeastern coastal regions of China tended to a certain spatial agglomeration effect, while the correlation between the central region and northern China was not significant. (6) The Geodetector model is applied to analyze the key factors driving the spatial differentiation of tourism enterprise efficiencies, and the results show that the degree of opening to the outside world, potential human capital, and traffic conditions were the most important factors driving spatial differentiation in the efficiency of tourism enterprises. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quality Management and Sustainable Development)

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14 pages, 1343 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of the Ecosystem Service Function of Sandy Lands at Different Times Following Aerial Seeding of an Endemic Species

by Lei Zhang^1,2

, Guangyu Hong^2,3, Zhuofan Li², Xiaowei Gao², Yongzhi Wu², Xiaojiang Wang^2,*, Pingping Wang² and Jie Yang^1,*

¹ School of Ecology and Environment, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot 010021, China

² Inner Mongolia Academy of Forestry Sciences, Hohhot 010010, China

³ College of Grassland, Resources and Environment, Inner Mongolia Agriculture University, Hohhot 010020, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 902; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040902 - 21 Mar 2018

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3679

Abstract

Desertification is a global and pressing environmental problem in the course of environmental changes, and considerable efforts have been made to restore these degraded ecosystems. Aerial seeding has been widely used to accelerate ecological restoration around the world. However, few efforts have been [...] Read more.

Desertification is a global and pressing environmental problem in the course of environmental changes, and considerable efforts have been made to restore these degraded ecosystems. Aerial seeding has been widely used to accelerate ecological restoration around the world. However, few efforts have been made to assess the ecosystem service function after aerial seeding has occurred. In this study, we analyzed variations in the ecosystem service function after varying periods of elapsed time after aerial seeding of Hedysarum laeve Maxim. (14a, 30a and 38a) in the Mu Us Sandy Land, China. We also assessed the carbon sequestration ability, biodiversity, soil properties, wind-break and sand-fixation ability on a typical windward slope. We found that the overall assessment value of ecosystem services had generally increased with the elapsed time after aerial seeding. Additionally, the assessment values increased as the slope position moved downwards. Moreover, we observed a gradual replacement of H. laeve by Artemisia ordosica Krasch and grass species with the increase in elapsed years after aerial seeding, indicating a positive succession towards locally native vegetation. Compared with the local natural vegetation, our results suggest that the practice of aerial seeding stimulated vegetation restoration without the need for follow-up field interventions, and the practice of aerial seeding might fit more ecosystems with similar vegetation degradation problems. Full article

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21 pages, 6033 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Addressing the Passenger Transport and Accessibility Enablers for Sustainable Development

by Nazmus Sakib^*

, Federica Appiotti^*

, Filippo Magni

, Denis Maragno

, Alberto Innocenti

, Elena Gissi

and Francesco Musco

Department of Design and Planning in Complex Environments, University IUAV of Venice, 191 Santa Croce, Venice 30135, Italy

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 903; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040903 - 21 Mar 2018

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 8307

Abstract

Sustainable Development (SD) is a fundamental objective in the European Union (EU) and transport is considered one of the key challenges necessary to achieve it. Although transport is mostly contested from the environmental dimension, an investigation of peer-reviewed literature along with EU policy [...] Read more.

Sustainable Development (SD) is a fundamental objective in the European Union (EU) and transport is considered one of the key challenges necessary to achieve it. Although transport is mostly contested from the environmental dimension, an investigation of peer-reviewed literature along with EU policy documents suggests that the transport and accessibility (T&A) criteria of infrastructure, accessibility distance, and multimodality can positively contribute to SD. However, despite this synergetic relation between T&A and SD, a practical analysis of such enablers is unknown at the regional European level. Therefore, this study investigates the Mediterranean as a study area by analyzing 79 identified passenger ports as passenger transport land-sea interaction points. Based on open access data, port infrastructure and ship accessibility, hinterland accessibility, and multimodality are evaluated as the passenger T&A enablers for SD. Comparative geo-spatial analyses are also carried out among the passenger ports’ levels of enablers by using the data normalization method. These data driven comprehensive analytical results can bring added value to SD policy and planning initiatives in the Mediterranean. This study may also contribute to the development of relevant passenger port performance indicators for boosting port or regional competition and attractiveness towards SD. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Transportation)

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17 pages, 3713 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Decision-Aiding Evaluation of Public Infrastructure for Electric Vehicles in Cities and Resorts of Lithuania

by Vytautas Palevičius¹, Askoldas Podviezko²

, Henrikas Sivilevičius³ and Olegas Prentkovskis^3,*

¹ Department of Roads, Faculty of Environmental Engineering, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Saulėtekio al. 11, LT-10223 Vilnius, Lithuania

² Department of Economics Engineering, Faculty of Business Management, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Saulėtekio al. 11, LT-10223 Vilnius, Lithuania

³ Department of Mobile Machinery and Railway Transport, Faculty of Transport Engineering, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Plytinės g. 27, LT-10105 Vilnius, Lithuania

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 904; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040904 - 21 Mar 2018

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 5787

Abstract

In the National Communication Development of 2014–2022 Program and Guidelines of the Development of the Public Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure confirmed by the Government of the Republic of Lithuania, it is planned that, until the year of 2025, among newly registered vehicles, electric [...] Read more.

In the National Communication Development of 2014–2022 Program and Guidelines of the Development of the Public Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure confirmed by the Government of the Republic of Lithuania, it is planned that, until the year of 2025, among newly registered vehicles, electric ones should make at least 10%. Analysis of the trend of electric vehicles makes evident that the target does not have a real chance to be achieved without targeted efforts. In order to improve the infrastructure of electric vehicles in major cities and resorts of Lithuania, we have carried out a comparative analysis of public infrastructure for electric vehicles in 18 Lithuanian cities and resorts. For the quantitative analysis, we proposed eight criteria describing such an infrastructure. As perception of the infrastructure by owners of electric cars depends on complex factors, we used multiple criteria evaluation methods (MCDM) for evaluation of the current state of its development by four such methods: EDAS, SAW, TOPSIS, and PROMETHEE II. Based on the evaluation results, prominent and lagging factors were understood, and proposals for effective development of public infrastructure of electric vehicles were proposed for improvement of the infrastructure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Construction Engineering)

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28 pages, 2214 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimization of Passive Envelop Energy Efficient Measures for Office Buildings in Different Climate Regions of China Based on Modified Sensitivity Analysis

by Zhaoxia Wang and Jing Zhao^*

School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 907; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040907 - 21 Mar 2018

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 5060

Abstract

With the growing desire for new buildings and better indoor comfort, the amount of energy consumption of office buildings in China is increasing rapidly, which will lead to the great challenge for energy supply and sustainable development. Building passive envelop energy efficient measures [...] Read more.

With the growing desire for new buildings and better indoor comfort, the amount of energy consumption of office buildings in China is increasing rapidly, which will lead to the great challenge for energy supply and sustainable development. Building passive envelop energy efficient measures (PEEEMs), mainly including exterior wall insulation, roof insulation, different glazing types, and shading system, were widely applied. However, the specific energy efficient performance of PEEEMs was various in different climate conditions that have not been evaluated clearly yet. The priority order of PEEEMs was not recommended in relative standards. The economic benefits cannot be considered synchronously with PEEEMs optimization. This paper modified the sensitivity analysis to fit the building energy efficiency evaluation. By combining the modified method with a simulation tool, the energy efficiency and economic effects of PEEEMs of office buildings in various climate regions can be considered at the same time. Four case buildings in Shenyang, Tianjin, Ningbo, and Shenzhen were proved to reach the energy-saving potentials of 9.44%, 7.75%, 20.87%, and 13.27% respectively, with the payback period of no more than 1.5 years. Finally, the recommended application priority rankings and the recommended ranges of thermal performance properties of PEEEMs in the four typical climate regions were presented. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Sustainable Built Environment)

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19 pages, 10957 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Protocol to Manage Heritage-Building Interventions Using Heritage Building Information Modelling (HBIM)

by Isabel Jordan-Palomar^1,*, Patricia Tzortzopoulos²

, Jorge García-Valldecabres³ and Eugenio Pellicer⁴

¹ Instituto de Restauración del Patrimonio, Universitat Politècnica de València, 46022 Valencia, Spain

² School of Art, Design and Architecture, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield HD1 3DH, UK

³ Graphic Expression Department, Universitat Politècnica de València, 46022 Valencia, Spain

⁴ School of Civil Engineering, Universitat Politècnica de València, 46022 Valencia, Spain

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 908; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040908 - 21 Mar 2018

Cited by 102 | Viewed by 19860

Abstract

The workflow in historic architecture projects presents problems related to the lack of clarity of processes, dispersion of information and the use of outdated tools. Different heritage organisations have showed interest in innovative methods to resolve those problems and improve cultural tourism for [...] Read more.

The workflow in historic architecture projects presents problems related to the lack of clarity of processes, dispersion of information and the use of outdated tools. Different heritage organisations have showed interest in innovative methods to resolve those problems and improve cultural tourism for sustainable economic development. Building Information Modelling (BIM) has emerged as a suitable computerised system for improving heritage management. Its application to historic buildings is named Historic BIM (HBIM). HBIM literature highlights the need for further research in terms of the overall processes of heritage projects, its practical implementation and a need for better cultural documentation. This work uses Design Science Research to develop a protocol to improve the workflow in heritage interdisciplinary projects. Research techniques used include documentary analysis, semi-structured interviews and focus groups. HBIM is proposed as a virtual model that will hold heritage data and will articulate processes. As a result, a simple and visual HBIM protocol was developed and applied in a real case study. The protocol was named BIMlegacy and it is divided into eight phases: building registration, determine intervention options, develop design for intervention, planning the physical intervention, physical intervention, handover, maintenance and culture dissemination. It contemplates all the stakeholders involved. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cultural Heritage Conservation and Sustainability)

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18 pages, 1075 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Does Sustainability Affect Corporate Performance and Economic Development? Evidence from the Asia-Pacific region and North America

by Kyungbok Kim¹ and Sang-Myung Lee^2,*

¹ Department of Economics, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA

² School of Business, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, South Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 909; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040909 - 21 Mar 2018

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 5538

Abstract

This paper explores how sustainability influences financial returns and economic development in the Asia-Pacific region and North America, utilizing real data empirically. It is controversial that sustainable activities are related to financial performance. For clarification, we tested hypotheses analyzing sustainability index, seven stock [...] Read more.

This paper explores how sustainability influences financial returns and economic development in the Asia-Pacific region and North America, utilizing real data empirically. It is controversial that sustainable activities are related to financial performance. For clarification, we tested hypotheses analyzing sustainability index, seven stock markets, financial data such as ROI, ROIC, and ROA from eleven companies, and GDP/GNI per capita, based on the Asia-Pacific region and North America. The results indicate that both financial return for companies and economic development in the two regions are positively germane to sustainable investment. Besides, we found evidence that sustainable investment impacts economic development based on variance decomposition analysis, depending on GDP per capita between the two regions. This implication will be interesting for both practitioners and researchers regarding the measurement of sustainable performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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23 pages, 2618 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Municipal Sustainability Influence by European Union Investment Programs on the Portuguese Local Government

by Paulo Caldas^1,2, Diogo Cunha Ferreira^2,*

, Brian Dollery¹ and Rui Cunha Marques²

¹ School of Business, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia

² CESUR, CERis, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon, 1649-004 Lisbon, Portugal

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 910; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040910 - 21 Mar 2018

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3555

Abstract

The assessment of the impact of European Structural and Investment Funds (ESIF) on Portuguese local government and which factors determine it is important given the magnitude of funds involved. As part of this larger question, this paper considers whether the holistic sustainability of [...] Read more.

The assessment of the impact of European Structural and Investment Funds (ESIF) on Portuguese local government and which factors determine it is important given the magnitude of funds involved. As part of this larger question, this paper considers whether the holistic sustainability of local authorities—as measured by a Council Sustainability Index—can influence the impact of ESIF on the performance of Portuguese councils and which factors best explain these performance differences. Using a geometric distance function jointly with the Hicks-Moorsteen index, we investigate and present a conclusion on the differential impact of ESIF on sustainable and non-sustainable Portuguese councils over the period 2000 to 2014. Our findings also suggest that ESIF should continue fostering economic and social development at the local level regardless of council size or regional location since overall development will flow from this economic and social structural adjustment strategy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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15 pages, 1761 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Uncovering the Topic Landscape of Product-Service System Research: from Sustainability to Value Creation

by Hakyeon Lee, Hanbin Seo and Youngjung Geum^*

Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, Seoul 01811, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 911; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040911 - 21 Mar 2018

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 4274

Abstract

As the product-service system (PSS) is considered a promising business model that can create more value for customers, PSS research has enjoyed remarkable growth in its volume and coverage over the last decade. This study aims to delineate the thematic landscape of PSS [...] Read more.

As the product-service system (PSS) is considered a promising business model that can create more value for customers, PSS research has enjoyed remarkable growth in its volume and coverage over the last decade. This study aims to delineate the thematic landscape of PSS research by identifying latent topics from a large amount of scholarly data. Ten topics of PSS research are identified by applying the Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) model to 1229 PSS publications published between 2000 and 2016. The ten PSS topics are briefly reviewed to provide an overview of what has previously been studied in PSS research. We also investigate which topics rise or fall in popularity by identifying hot and cold topics of PSS research. It is observed that the focus of discussions on the benefits of PSS has shifted from sustainability to value creation. Also, increasing attention has been paid to more practical topics such as PSS implementation. The areas of subspecialty of the top ten PSS journals are also examined to explore the interdisciplinary nature of PSS research and thematic differences across disciplines. The findings of this study can provide rich implications for both academia and practice in the field of PSS. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Engineering and Science)

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25 pages, 1563 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How Personal Accessibility and Frequency of Travel Affect Ownership Decisions on Mobility Resources

by Vaclav Plevka^1,*, Paola Astegiano¹, Willem Himpe¹

, Chris Tampère¹ and Martina Vandebroek^2,3

¹ L-Mob Leuven Mobility Research Centre, KU Leuven, B-3000 Leuven, Belgium

² Faculty of Economics and Business, KU Leuven, Naamsestraat 69, 3000 Leuven, Belgium

³ Leuven Statistics Research Centre, KU Leuven, Celestijnenlaan 200B, 3001 Leuven, Belgium

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 912; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040912 - 21 Mar 2018

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3395

Abstract

This paper presents a mobility-resource ownership model. The model captures inter-related personal mobility decisions: which transport mode (out of those available to a decision-maker) to use for a particular trip and which mobility resources (e.g., car, bicycle, transit season ticket or a combination) [...] Read more.

This paper presents a mobility-resource ownership model. The model captures inter-related personal mobility decisions: which transport mode (out of those available to a decision-maker) to use for a particular trip and which mobility resources (e.g., car, bicycle, transit season ticket or a combination) should the decision-maker own to enable the most “appropriate” set of transport modes. Importantly, the mobility decisions are not evaluated only for a single trip or a single day. In fact, for each decision-maker, an entire set of trips, observed over multiple days, is evaluated. We call this personal accessibility to travel. We present a two-step discrete choice model that includes both mode choice and ownership decisions. The model is estimated based on household travel survey data from Germany. This paper also investigates the simulation of travel times for non-chosen modes that are required as an input. The estimation results show significant effects of the personal accessibility and travel frequency on mobility-resource ownership decisions. To further validate the estimation, the forecasting and sensitivity analysis of the model for different scenarios is evaluated. The proposed model offers an efficient solution to situations when the impact of transport sustainability measures on mobility behaviour needs to be plausibly predicted. Full article

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14 pages, 1778 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Plant-Extract-Assisted Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Origanum vulgare L. Extract and Their Microbicidal Activities

by Mohammed Rafi Shaik¹

, Mujeeb Khan¹

, Mufsir Kuniyil¹

, Abdulrahman Al-Warthan¹, Hamad Z. Alkhathlan¹, Mohammed Rafiq H. Siddiqui¹

, Jilani P. Shaik², Anis Ahamed³, Adeem Mahmood¹, Merajuddin Khan^1,* and Syed Farooq Adil^1,*

¹ Department of Chemistry, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia

² Department of Biochemistry, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia

³ Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 913; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040913 - 22 Mar 2018

Cited by 288 | Viewed by 16827

Abstract

Plant-mediated green synthesis of nanomaterials has been increasingly gaining popularity due to its eco-friendly nature and cost-effectiveness. In the present study, we synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) by using an aqueous solution of Saudi Origanum vulgare L. plant extract as a bioreducing agent. The [...] Read more.

Plant-mediated green synthesis of nanomaterials has been increasingly gaining popularity due to its eco-friendly nature and cost-effectiveness. In the present study, we synthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) by using an aqueous solution of Saudi Origanum vulgare L. plant extract as a bioreducing agent. The as-synthesized AgNPs were characterized using various microscopic and spectroscopic techniques. The results indicated the formation of crystalline face-centered cubic (fcc) AgNPs. Additionally, FT-IR study confirmed that the O. vulgare L. extract not only functioned as a bioreductant but also stabilized the surface of the AgNPs by acting as a capping agent. Moreover, the effect of the amount of the plant extract on the size and the antimicrobial activity of the NPs was also assessed. It was found that with increasing amounts of plant extract, the size of the NPs was decreased. Moreover, as-synthesized AgNPs as well as O. vulgare L. plant extract were separately tested to examine their antimicrobial activities. The activities were tested against various bacterial and fungal microorganisms including Shigella sonnei, Micrococcus luteus, Escherichia coli, Aspergillus flavus, Alternaria alternate, Paecilomyces variotii, Phialophora alba, and so on. These results evidently show that the inclusion of O. vulgare L. extracts improves the solubility of AgNPs, which led to a significant enhancement in the toxicity of the NPs against the assessed microorganisms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green and Sustainable Catalysts)

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19 pages, 4758 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Towards More Effective Water Quality Governance: A Review of Social-Economic, Legal and Ecological Perspectives and Their Interactions

by Susanne Wuijts^1,2,*

, Peter P. J. Driessen²

and Helena F. M. W. Van Rijswick³

¹ National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), P.O. Box 1, 3720 BA Bilthoven, The Netherlands

² Copernicus Institute of Sustainable Development, Utrecht University, P.O. Box 80115, 3508 TC Utrecht, The Netherlands

³ Utrecht Centre for Water, Oceans and Sustainability Law, Utrecht University, Newtonlaan 231, 3584 BH Utrecht, The Netherlands

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 914; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040914 - 22 Mar 2018

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 6889

Abstract

In this article, social-economic, legal and ecological perspectives on effectiveness of water quality governance and their interactions have been studied. Worldwide, authorities are facing the challenge of restoring and preserving aquatic ecosystems in accordance with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 6). [...] Read more.

In this article, social-economic, legal and ecological perspectives on effectiveness of water quality governance and their interactions have been studied. Worldwide, authorities are facing the challenge of restoring and preserving aquatic ecosystems in accordance with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 6). Over the last few decades, governance approaches have often been used to realise these ambitions. To date, scholars have identified that it is difficult to relate governance approaches to water quality improvement and have offered several different explanations for this. Combined with a targeted conceptualisation of the perspectives and their interactions, the systematic literature review demonstrates the gap that exists in the current understanding of these interactions and what their effects are on water quality improvement, especially in regard to the identification of ecological issues and their boundary conditions for the legal framework and the development of measures and follow-up. The review also reveals that the scientific debate is focused on the planning rather than implementation phase. A step forward can be made by supplementing existing analytical frameworks by the interactions between the different perspectives, especially those related to problem definition and the development and realisation of measures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Social Ecology and Sustainability)

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15 pages, 1795 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spatial–Temporal Analysis of the Relationships between Agricultural Production and Use of Agrochemicals in Eastern China and Related Environmental and Political Implications (Based on Decoupling Approach and LMDI Decomposition Analysis)

by Yaoben Lin^1,2

, Jianhui Yang^3,* and Yanmei Ye^1,2

¹ School of Public Affairs, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China

² Laboratory of Rural-Urban Construction Land Economical and Intensive Use, Ministry of Land and Resources, Beijing 100812, China

³ China Institute of Regulation Research, Zhejiang University of Finance & Economics, Hangzhou 310018, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 917; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040917 - 22 Mar 2018

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3840

Abstract

Agrochemical inputs such as chemical fertilizers and pesticides have been recognized as sources of agricultural non-point source pollution and are controlled in order to prevent further deterioration of water pollution. In consideration of the available and effective measures to improve agricultural output value [...] Read more.

Agrochemical inputs such as chemical fertilizers and pesticides have been recognized as sources of agricultural non-point source pollution and are controlled in order to prevent further deterioration of water pollution. In consideration of the available and effective measures to improve agricultural output value in a long-term, the key to the adoption of reduction control on agrochemical inputs is to ensure the decoupling relationship of agrochemical inputs to agricultural economic growth and to find out the endogenous growth of agrochemical inputs. This paper analyzed the relationship of agrochemical input consumption and agricultural output value in Eastern China by the Topia decoupling model. Interestingly, the transformation of expansive negative decoupling—expansive coupling—weak decoupling—strong decoupling was exposed, which can be used as a theoretical support to the source reduction control on agricultural non-point source pollution. The source reduction can be influenced of three factors: area factor, agricultural productivity factor and efficiency factor, which were decomposed by applying a log-mean Divisia index (LMDI) method, and the efficiency factor can promote the slowing down of the increase of agrochemical input consumption, while the agricultural productivity factor was the main factor to increase agrochemical input consumption; the area factor was not obvious. In addition to that, the formulation and implementation of source reduction control policies was affected by the differences of the spatial framework in Eastern China, where the source reduction control in different regions would be used to move ahead (or to delay). Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Agriculture)

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26 pages, 3910 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Developing Boundary-Spanning Capacity for Regional Sustainability Transitions—A Comparative Case Study of the Universities of Augsburg (Germany) and Linz (Austria)

by Gesa Pflitsch¹ and Verena Radinger-Peer^2,*

¹ Department of Geography, Philipps-University, 35032 Marburg, Germany

² Department of Economics and Social Sciences, Institute for Sustainable Economic Development, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, 1180 Vienna, Austria

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 918; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040918 - 22 Mar 2018

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 6249

Abstract

The potential of universities to become ‘change agents’ for sustainability has increasingly been highlighted in the literature. Some largely open questions are how universities get involved in regional sustainability transitions and how that affects their role in these processes. This paper argues that [...] Read more.

The potential of universities to become ‘change agents’ for sustainability has increasingly been highlighted in the literature. Some largely open questions are how universities get involved in regional sustainability transitions and how that affects their role in these processes. This paper argues that universities need to develop a boundary-spanning capacity, which enables them to transcend disciplinary as well as sectoral boundaries in order to adopt a developmental role in regional sustainability transitions. It is investigated how universities develop this capacity within a particular regional context, using the method of a transition topology. Comparing how the relationships of universities with their surrounding regions developed in Augsburg (Germany) and Linz (Austria), the paper shows why these processes are place-specific. A university’s boundary-spanning capacity develops over time and differs according to the actors involved. The primarily bottom-up driven process in Augsburg was thematically quite broad and involved diverse actors. In Linz, the top-down initiated process was fragmented and more narrowly focused. Individual value-driven actors that made use of their personal networks played an important role in both regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Putting Sustainability Transitions into Spatial and Socio-Cultural Context)

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22 pages, 539 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Efficiency, Conflicting Goals and Trade-Offs: A Nonparametric Analysis of the Water and Wastewater Service Industry in Italy

by Corrado Lo Storto

Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Naples Federico II, Piazzale V. Tecchio 80, 80125 Naples, Italy

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 919; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040919 - 22 Mar 2018

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 4327

Abstract

This paper presents a benchmarking study of the water and wastewater industry in Italy. A three-stage modeling approach was implemented to measure the efficiency of 53 utility operators. This approach is based on the implementation of network and conventional data envelopment analysis (DEA) [...] Read more.

This paper presents a benchmarking study of the water and wastewater industry in Italy. A three-stage modeling approach was implemented to measure the efficiency of 53 utility operators. This approach is based on the implementation of network and conventional data envelopment analysis (DEA) to model the production process of the water service utility operators. In comparison to the conventional black-box or one-stage production model generally adopted in previous studies, the proposed approach provides information relative to the different efficiency components of the stages and blocks of the water service production process and its overall efficiency. Further, by shifting the efficiency analysis to a two-dimensional performance space, i.e., resource and market-efficiency, it offers a more comprehensive view of the water service industry and allows accounting for different business goals at the same time and for an investigation of industry trade-offs. Results show that the operators’ efficiencies in the Italian water service industry are generally variable and low. There are no water service utilities which are 100% efficient from the resource-efficiency perspective, and the maximum efficiency score is 0.545. Efficiency measurements suggest that there is a general orientation of the Italian water industry to not invest in upgrading and improving the infrastructure assets, and achieving an acceptable efficiency in the operations is critical to delivering water services to market in an efficient way. Only one utility operator is 100% efficient from the market-efficiency perspective. The low tariffs adopted by the water service operators do not allow the gaining of satisfactory service remuneration and the achievement of long-term business sustainability. The joint analysis of the resource and market efficiency scores indicates that there is a trade-off between the corresponding business goals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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16 pages, 1514 KiB

Open AccessArticle

CSR Actions in Companies and Perception of Their Reputation by Managers: Analysis in the Rural Area of an Emerging Country in the Banking Sector

by Jesús Ángel Del Brío^1,*

and Edmundo Lizarzaburu Bolaños²

¹ Escuela Politéncia, Universidad de Oviedo, Campus de Viesques, 33071 Gijón, Spain

² Universidad de ESAN, Alonso de Molina 1652, Lima 33, Peru

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 920; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040920 - 22 Mar 2018

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 4724

Abstract

This paper tests, from a managerial point of view, the influence of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) actions directed towards health and environmental matters over the perception of a company’s reputation. The literature review suggests an absence of this kind of study focused on [...] Read more.

This paper tests, from a managerial point of view, the influence of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) actions directed towards health and environmental matters over the perception of a company’s reputation. The literature review suggests an absence of this kind of study focused on the banking sector of developing countries. CSR activities oriented to health and subsistence in the rural areas of emerging countries are proved to hold a positive influence on the perception of managers of the banking sector of corporate reputation. On the other hand, it has not been possible to validate whether CSR activities oriented to environmental issues (or infrastructure) in rural areas will positively influence the perception of Peruvian banking sector managers of corporate reputation. The outcomes mentioned seem plausible due to health and subsistence being undoubtedly the most valued factors among people living in rural areas, where there are the most development deficiencies. This work contributes by empirically analyzing a relationship barely addressed in the field of business administration: the influence of CSR and corporate reputation. Furthermore, the authors take the analysis to a context unexplored by previous researchers, applying the concepts to the banking sector of an emerging country. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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13 pages, 1287 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Energy-Saving Potential and an Economic Feasibility Analysis for an Arctic Route between Shanghai and Rotterdam: Case Study from China’s Largest Container Sea Freight Operator

by Zheng Wan^1,2,*, Jiawei Ge³ and Jihong Chen¹

¹ College of Transport and Communications, Shanghai Maritime University, Shanghai 201306, China

² Institute of Transportation Studies, University of California Davis, Davis, CA 95616, USA

³ Institute of Logistics Science & Engineering, Shanghai Maritime University, Shanghai 201306, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 921; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040921 - 22 Mar 2018

Cited by 55 | Viewed by 11158

Abstract

Global warming has significantly reduced summer ice coverage in the Arctic region, providing long-awaited opportunities for the shipping industry to open new routes through a region known for its harsh navigational conditions. If a shortcut between Asia and Europe via the Northern Sea [...] Read more.

Global warming has significantly reduced summer ice coverage in the Arctic region, providing long-awaited opportunities for the shipping industry to open new routes through a region known for its harsh navigational conditions. If a shortcut between Asia and Europe via the Northern Sea Route (NSR) is adopted, significant energy saving and pollution reduction are possible compared with conventional southern routes. However, opinions in literature differ regarding this shortcut’s economic viability. We present an analysis from the perspective of COSCO, China’s largest container sea freight operator. We perform a cost–benefit analysis under several scenarios considering the following current realities: (1) declining oil prices not seen for decades, even lower than the lowest prices assumed in previous studies; (2) declining Russian NSR tariff as an effort to attract shipping traffic; (3) possible emission control areas along a northern route may require much cleaner energy and thus impact costs not studied in previous models; and (4) the capital cost difference between a hired and a self-owned vessel. Classical case studies of shipping routes between Shanghai and Rotterdam are adopted for comparison. We explain how different factors impact the shipping costs and to what extent can the NSR be economically viable. Occasional usage of NSR (e.g., one time transit) is unlikely to be more profitable given the higher unit transportation cost, but the route could be economically competitive in terms of the total profits earned for continuous usage. A more aggressive scenario which requires ships on the NSR to switch to much cleaner fuel would erode this route’s competitiveness, but extra environmental benefits should be taken into consideration if future carbon emission trading schemes include the shipping industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Transportation)

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17 pages, 2373 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Parameter Uncertainty Analysis of the Life Cycle Inventory Database: Application to Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Brown Rice Production in IDEA

by Chun-Youl Baek^1,2,*, Kiyotaka Tahara² and Kyu-Hyun Park³

¹ Center for Resources Information & Management, Korea Institute of Industrial Technology, Gangnam-gu, Seoul 06211, Korea

² National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), 16-1 Onogawa, Tsukuba Ibaraki 305-8569, Japan

³ Department of Animal Industry Convergence, Kangwon National University, 1 Kangwondaehak-gil, Chuncheon 24341, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 922; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040922 - 22 Mar 2018

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 4784

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to develop a simple method for analyzing the parameter uncertainty of the Japanese life cycle inventory database (LCI DB), termed the inventory database for environmental analysis (IDEA). The IDEA has a weakness of poor data quality because [...] Read more.

The objective of this paper is to develop a simple method for analyzing the parameter uncertainty of the Japanese life cycle inventory database (LCI DB), termed the inventory database for environmental analysis (IDEA). The IDEA has a weakness of poor data quality because over 60% of datasets in IDEA were compiled based on secondary data (non-site-specific data sources). Three different approaches were used to estimate the uncertainty of the brown rice production dataset, including the stochastic modeling approach, the semi-quantitative DQI (Data Quality Indicator) approach, and a modification of the semi-quantitative DQI approach (including two alternative approaches for modification). The stochastic modeling approach provided the best estimate of the true mean of the sample space and its results were used as the reference for comparison with the other approaches. A simple method for the parameter uncertainty analysis of the agriculture industry DB was proposed by modifying the beta distribution parameters (endpoint range, shape parameter) in the semi-quantitative DQI approach using the results from the stochastic modeling approach. The effect of changing the beta distribution parameters in the semi-quantitative DQI approach indicated that the proposed method is an efficient method for the quantitative parameter uncertainty analysis of the brown rice production dataset in the IDEA. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Agroecology: Principles and Application for Efficient and Sustainable Agricultural Production)

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15 pages, 3268 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Biomass Blend Co-Firing for Post Combustion CO₂ Capture

by Angelika Więckol-Ryk^1,*

, Alicja Krzemień¹

, Adam Smoliński²

and Fernando Sánchez Lasheras³

¹ Department of Risk Assessment in Industry, Central Mining Institute, Plac Gwarków 1, Katowice 40-166, Poland

² Science Secretary in Central Mining Institute, Plac Gwarków 1, Katowice 40-166, Poland

³ Department of Mathematics, University of Oviedo, Calle Federico García Lorca 18, 33007 Oviedo, Spain

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 923; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040923 - 22 Mar 2018

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4685

Abstract

The correct conduction of the CO₂ capture process in coal-fired power plants with the use of monoethanolamine (MEA) requires constant process parameter monitoring and ensuring a specific flue gas chemical composition. One of the most common problems in these types of installations [...] Read more.

The correct conduction of the CO₂ capture process in coal-fired power plants with the use of monoethanolamine (MEA) requires constant process parameter monitoring and ensuring a specific flue gas chemical composition. One of the most common problems in these types of installations is the progressive corrosion and degradation of the valuable solvent. Despite the established reduction levels of oxygen and impurities entering into irreversible reactions with the absorber, the flue gas composition may change as a daily and annual function of time. The article presents a detailed analysis of the flue gas components that have the greatest influence on carbon dioxide capture installation technical safety, i.e., SO_x, NO_x, O₂, and fly ash. The analysis was based on the results of experiments conducted at the Jaworzno III Tauron Wytwarzanie SA Polish coal power plant. The results show a significant influence of the flue gas desulfurization (FGD) process on MEA oxidative degradation. The amount of oxygen in flue gas during biomass and coal blend co-firing was nearly twice as low compared to pure coal combustion. Differences were also observed in the amounts of gas impurities with relation to the time of year and time of day of power plant operation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clean Coal Technologies)

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22 pages, 685 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bottom-Up Energy Transition Narratives: Linking the Global with the Local? A Comparison of Three German Renewable Co-Ops

by Martin David^1,2,* and Sophia Schönborn³

¹ Department of Urban and Environmental Sociology, Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research GmbH—UFZ, 04318 Leipzig, Germany

² Institute of Sociology, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, 07743 Jena, Germany

³ Social Sciences and Cultural Studies, Justus Liebig University Giessen, 35390 Giessen, Germany

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 924; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040924 - 22 Mar 2018

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 5577

Abstract

Bottom-up transition narratives help to enable the implementation of energy transitions. Yet, scholarship shows that little light has been shed on how bottom-up transition narratives change during the course of transition. By proposing a framework that envisions bottom-up transition narratives, we analyze narratives [...] Read more.

Bottom-up transition narratives help to enable the implementation of energy transitions. Yet, scholarship shows that little light has been shed on how bottom-up transition narratives change during the course of transition. By proposing a framework that envisions bottom-up transition narratives, we analyze narratives on three German bottom-up renewable energy initiatives to address this gap. Relying on semi-structured interviews with innovators and adopters, we show that, during the establishment phase, the analyzed narratives take non-place-bound factors like climate change as a point of contention. At the same time, narratives underscore place-bound factors as, for instance, civil society’s knowledge and participation as means for an alternative, non-rent-seeking energy system. During the adoption phase, the analyzed narratives travel easily. This represents a paradox because bottom-up energy transition narratives move beyond their local, place-bound origin in order to be reproduced in different spatial settings. By so doing, bottom-up energy transition narratives diverge from their original message. By falling short on the promotion of citizen’s participation, they begin to promote sociotechnical systems that differ little from the sociotechnical systems from competing, rent-seeking energy industries during the innovation adoption pathway. Our comparative approach outlines how bottom-up energy transition narratives adapt to this trade-off during innovation adoption events. We discuss what this means for bottom-up energy transitions and conclude that bottom-up energy transition narratives are faced with a fixity–travel dilemma during the adoption phase. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Putting Sustainability Transitions into Spatial and Socio-Cultural Context)

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29 pages, 1776 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

An Integrated Approach to a Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE) Indicator for the Food Production–Consumption Chain

by Jan Willem Erisman^1,2,*

, Allison Leach³, Albert Bleeker^4,†

, Brooke Atwell⁵, Lia Cattaneo⁵ and James Galloway⁵

¹ Louis Bolk Institute, Driebergen 3972LA, The Netherlands

² Faculty of Science, Earth and Climate, VU University, Amsterdam 1081HV, The Netherlands

³ Department of Natural & The Environment and The Sustainability Institute, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH 03824, USA

⁴ Energy Research Center of the Netherlands, Petten 1755LE, The Netherlands

⁵ Department of Environmental Science, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22904, USA

^† Current address: PBL Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency, The Hague 2594AV, The Netherlands.

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 925; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040925 - 22 Mar 2018

Cited by 78 | Viewed by 10666

Abstract

Reducing nitrogen pollution across the food chain requires the use of clear and comprehensive indicators to track and manage losses. The challenge is to derive an easy-to-use robust nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) indicator for entire food systems to help support policy development, monitor [...] Read more.

Reducing nitrogen pollution across the food chain requires the use of clear and comprehensive indicators to track and manage losses. The challenge is to derive an easy-to-use robust nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) indicator for entire food systems to help support policy development, monitor progress and inform consumers. Based on a comparison of four approaches to NUE (life cycle analysis, nitrogen footprint, nitrogen budget, and environmental impact assessment), we propose an indicator for broader application at the national scale: The whole food chain (NUE_FC), which is defined as the ratio of the protein (expressed as nitrogen) available for human consumption to the (newly fixed and imported) nitrogen input to the food system. The NUE_FC was calculated for a set of European countries between 1980 and 2011. A large variation in NUE_FC was observed within countries in Europe, ranging from 10% in Ireland to 40% in Italy in 2008. The NUE_FC can be used to identify factors that influence it (e.g., the share of biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) in new nitrogen, the imported and exported products and the consumption), which can be used to propose potential improvements on the national scale. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Sustainability and Applications)

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23 pages, 5790 KiB

Open AccessArticle

House Prices, Mortgage Rate, and Policy: Megadata Analysis in Taipei

by Chien-Ming Yu¹ and Pei-Fen Chen^2,*

¹ Department of International Business Studies, National Chi-Nan University, No.470 Daxue Rd., Puli Township, Nantou County 54561, Taiwan

² Institute of China and Asia-Pacific Studies, National Sun Yat-Sen University, No.70, Lianhai Rd., Gushan Dist., Kaohsiung City 80424, Taiwan

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 926; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040926 - 22 Mar 2018

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 6676

Abstract

There are intensive concerns about the causes of rising housing prices in Taipei. The aims of this study are twofold. The first addresses the issue of whether the low-interest-rate policy is adversely driving housing prices in the metropolitan area of Taipei. The second [...] Read more.

There are intensive concerns about the causes of rising housing prices in Taipei. The aims of this study are twofold. The first addresses the issue of whether the low-interest-rate policy is adversely driving housing prices in the metropolitan area of Taipei. The second is to investigate if two important housing policies, luxury tax and actual price registration, help to depress the rising residential house prices. With the mega tick data of Taipei city for more than 80,000 residential house transaction records, we examined the factors influencing the actual house prices spanning the period from June 2008 through May 2014. We applied the least squares regression and the quantile regression in the model estimations for housing valuation. In addition, the megadata set is organized in time series and cross-section structures for five subdistricts and the whole Taipei city as well. The empirical results show that low mortgage rates have been the most significant factor for soaring housing prices in Taipei for the past decade. We estimate that a 1% increase in mortgage rates reduces housing prices from 5% to 17%. The actual price registration policy contributes to the decrease in housing prices by 4% to 29%. Housing policy implications are made based on our empirical findings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Urban and Rural Development)

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14 pages, 670 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Influence of Cross-Cultural Awareness and Tourist Experience on Authenticity, Tourist Satisfaction and Acculturation in World Cultural Heritage Sites of Korea

by Hao Zhang¹

, Taeyoung Cho², Huanjiong Wang^1,*

and Quansheng Ge^1,*

¹ Key Laboratory of Land Surface Pattern and Simulation, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 11A, Datun Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100101, China

² Department of Airline Service Science, Joongbu University, 201 Daehak-ro, Chubu-myeon, Geumsan-gun, Chungnam 312-702, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 927; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040927 - 23 Mar 2018

Cited by 64 | Viewed by 12869

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the relationship among the following factors: cross-cultural awareness, tourist experience, authenticity, tourist satisfaction, and acculturation. It also sought to determine what role that tourist activities play in acculturation. Furthermore, this study looked to provide a feasibility plan for [...] Read more.

This study aimed to identify the relationship among the following factors: cross-cultural awareness, tourist experience, authenticity, tourist satisfaction, and acculturation. It also sought to determine what role that tourist activities play in acculturation. Furthermore, this study looked to provide a feasibility plan for the effective management, protection, and sustainable development of World Cultural Heritage Sites. We chose Chinese in Korea (immigrants, workers, and international students) who visited the historic villages of Korea (Hahoe and Yangdong) as the research object, and used 430 questionnaires for analysis. The confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation model were used to verify proposed hypotheses. The results showed that (1) Chinese in Korea, who have higher cultural awareness, had more interests in objective authenticity (e.g., historical traditions, cultural heritage, and architecture) of world heritage sites; (2) Chinese in Korea could feel and appreciate the true value of traditional culture through tourist experience; (3) The objective authenticity and existential authenticity have a positive effect on tourist satisfaction; and, (4) Higher tourist satisfaction could effectively promote cultural integration and assimilation, and prevent cultural separation and marginalization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Tourism, Culture, and Heritage)

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16 pages, 2288 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Carbon Footprint and Driving Forces of Saline Agriculture in Coastally Reclaimed Areas of Eastern China: A Survey of Four Staple Crops

by Jianguo Li^1,2,*

, Wenhui Yang¹, Yi Wang^2,*, Qiang Li¹, Lili Liu¹ and Zhongqi Zhang¹

¹ School of Geography, Geomatics, and Planning, Jiangsu Normal University, Xuzhou 221116, China

² Department of Geography and School of Global Studies, University of Sussex, Falmer, Brighton BN1 9RH, UK

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 928; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040928 - 23 Mar 2018

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 5058

Abstract

Carbon emissions have always been a key issue in agricultural production. Due to the specific natural factors in the soil of saline agriculture, there are distinctive characteristics in saline agricultural production as compared with traditional agricultural zones. Here, we have adopted the theory [...] Read more.

Carbon emissions have always been a key issue in agricultural production. Due to the specific natural factors in the soil of saline agriculture, there are distinctive characteristics in saline agricultural production as compared with traditional agricultural zones. Here, we have adopted the theory of life cycle assessment and employed the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) greenhouse gas (GHG) field calculation to estimate the GHG emissions, derived from the staple crop productions (i.e., barley, wheat, corn and rice). In addition, our study further analyzed the main driving forces of carbon emissions and proposed some effective measures to reduce them. Our results have showed that: (1) carbon footprint from the four crops in the study area varies from 0.63 to 0.77 kg CO₂ eq·kg⁻¹, which is higher than that from traditional agriculture; (2) GHG emissions from Fertilizer-Nitrogen (N) manufacture and inorganic N application have contributed to the greatest percentage of carbon footprint. Compared with traditional agricultural zones, fertilizer-N application and paddy irrigation involved with crop productions have overall greater contributions to carbon footprint; (3) carbon emissions from saline agriculture can be reduced significantly by planting-breeding combination to reduce the amount of N fertilizer application, improving the traditional rotation system, and developing water-saving agriculture and ecological agriculture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Agriculture)

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10 pages, 236 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Business Area Changes and Entrepreneurial Persistence in Ecology- and Food-Related Industries: Knowledge Heterogeneity and Emotion Perspectives

by Hongmin Chen¹, Fu-Sheng Tsai^2,3,*

and Han-Chang Ling⁴

¹ ANTAI College of Economics and Management, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China

² Loonguard Research Institute, Guangzhou 510000, China

³ Department of Business Administration, Cheng Shiu University, Kaohsiung 83347, Taiwan

⁴ Graduate Institute of Technology and Innovation Management, National Chengchi University, Taipei 11605, Taiwan

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 929; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040929 - 23 Mar 2018

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3673

Abstract

Entrepreneurs’ changes to different business areas can be viewed as shifts in entrepreneurial knowledge domains (e.g., from restaurant to food waste processing firm as an ecological helping business). From a sample of 73 representative entrepreneurs, we present a study of the impact of [...] Read more.

Entrepreneurs’ changes to different business areas can be viewed as shifts in entrepreneurial knowledge domains (e.g., from restaurant to food waste processing firm as an ecological helping business). From a sample of 73 representative entrepreneurs, we present a study of the impact of such area changes on the persistence of entrepreneurship (i.e., the degree an entrepreneur remains in entrepreneurial activities). Furthermore, two mediators, managerial experience and insecurity, and two moderators, positive and negative affect, were proposed and examined to make a more comprehensive theoretical inference of the relationship between area difference and persistence. The results revealed that, counter-intuitively, area difference was significantly and positively associated with entrepreneurial persistence. The mediation effects of managerial experience and psychological insecurity were also confirmed. However, only the moderation of positive affect was effective. Based on the knowledge heterogeneity and entrepreneurial emotion perspectives, academic and practical implications for inter-temporal dynamics of entrepreneurship are discussed. Full article

13 pages, 5795 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Identification of Population Growth and Distribution, Based on Urban Zone Functions

by Ida Bagus Ilham Malik^1,2,*

and Bart Julien Dewancker³

¹ Graduate School of Environmental Engineering, The University of Kitakyushu, Kitakyushu 808-0135, Japan

² Engineering Faculty, the University of Bandar Lampung, Bandar Lampung 35142, Indonesia

³ Department of Architecture, The University of Kitakyushu, Kitakyushu 808-0135, Japan

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 930; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040930 - 23 Mar 2018

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4322

Abstract

Population growth and distribution are still widely seen from the perspective of urban areas. Though the city has many zones with various functions, so comes the question, what zone will have population growth and hold the highest population growth distribution? And why would [...] Read more.

Population growth and distribution are still widely seen from the perspective of urban areas. Though the city has many zones with various functions, so comes the question, what zone will have population growth and hold the highest population growth distribution? And why would residents choose that zone? The study was conducted in Bandar Lampung, Indonesia, using population data from 2004 to 2011 (8 years) and urban zoning data from government documents. The results show that the conservation zone has the highest population growth and receives the highest population growth distribution. This result is confirmed by a cross section survey of respondents who live in the conservation zone. The survey results show that purchase, wide land, environment, and native inhabitants are variables affecting the population’s choice of the conservation zone as their residential location. The study also shows that the zones with the highest population do not automatically have the highest population growth and accommodate the highest population increase. Population analysis using the zonation system can help us better understand population growth and population growth distribution in urban areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Land Uses and Rural Governance)

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14 pages, 26399 KiB

Open AccessArticle

QSI Methods for Determining the Quality of the Surface Finish of Concrete

by Francisco Javier Benito Saorin^1,*

, Isabel Miñano Belmonte¹, Carlos Parra Costa¹, Carlos Rodriguez Lopez² and Manuel Valcuende Paya³

¹ Department of Architecture and Building Technoloy, Technical University of Cartagena, Paseo Alfonso XIII, 30203 Cartagena, Spain

² Department of Construction Material, Technological Research Center of Murcia Country, 30820 Alcantarilla, Spain

³ Department of Architecture Constructions, Polythenic University of Valencia, Camí de Vera, 46022 Valencia, Spain

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 931; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040931 - 23 Mar 2018

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 5027

Abstract

The surface finish of a concrete element may become an index of its quality, relating the external and internal porosity with the mechanical and durability properties. Few methods are used to determine the surface quality of concrete elements. Mention must be made the [...] Read more.

The surface finish of a concrete element may become an index of its quality, relating the external and internal porosity with the mechanical and durability properties. Few methods are used to determine the surface quality of concrete elements. Mention must be made the Quality Surface Index (QSI) proposes a simplified method to quantify the surface occupied by the pores in relation with the total surface inspected, analyzing groups of pores by their diameter. The method of the CIB W29 (Commission W29 “Concrete Surface Finishings”) proposes an inspection of the concrete element and its visual comparison with some standard templates. Finally, the digital processing of images allows the zones with surface defects to be delimited and quantified according to premises of quality introduced into the control software. These three methods are employed in this work and are applied in three concrete walls situated three meters from the observer (M-1, M-2 and M-3). Following the conversion of the results of the method with ImageJ and QSI, the results suppose differences that go from 0.1 tenths (2%) for M-3 up to 0.3 tenths (8%) for M-1. All values are within the obtained range with CIB W29 templates. This can validate the QSI and digital processing methods and allows a quick verification of the results. With the digital method, it is obtained that 23.5% of the total pores of M-1 have a diameter of less than 10 mm² and 44% of less than 100 mm². For M-2 and M-3 the proportions of pores with a dimension below 10 mm² is of 43.1% and 27.7%, respectively, and that 77.5% and 60.7% are smaller than 100 mm². From all the above it can be highlighted that M-1 is the one with the lowest amount of pores, however the proportion of the largest is greater than for M-2 and M-3. In the case of M-3, although it has a lower proportion of larger pores than M-1, its greater amount means it is the worst in terms of surface finish of the three. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Cementitious Materials for the Construction Industry)

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13 pages, 1252 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Quantitative Determination of Potable Cold Water Consumption in German Hospitals

by Alfonso González González¹

, Justo García-Sanz-Calcedo^2,*

and David Rodríguez Salgado³

¹ Department of Mechanical, Energy, and Materials Engineering, University of Extremadura, 06800 Mérida (Badajoz), Spain

² Department of Graphical Expression, University of Extremadura, 06071 Badajoz, Spain

³ Department of Mechanical, Energy, and Materials Engineering, University of Extremadura, 06071 Badajoz, Spain

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 932; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040932 - 23 Mar 2018

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 4062

Abstract

A hospital’s water installations are critical for its function, but the environmental cost is high. This study quantifies the mean potable cold water consumption (PCWC) in 19 hospitals belonging to the German Public Health System. The hospital floor area ranges from 3000 to [...] Read more.

A hospital’s water installations are critical for its function, but the environmental cost is high. This study quantifies the mean potable cold water consumption (PCWC) in 19 hospitals belonging to the German Public Health System. The hospital floor area ranges from 3000 to 151,000 m² and the number of beds from 45 to 1003 beds. To this end, 60 Eco-Management and Audit Scheme statements were analyzed corresponding to the period 2005–2015 in accordance with their geographic location, heating-degree-days per year, cold-degree-days per year, hospital category depending on the number of beds, floor area, and number of workers. It was found that PCWC is greater in hospitals located in areas with greater heating-degree-days per year. The potential mean annual savings estimated were 8,600,000 m³ of water equivalent to 15,000,000 euros, 4000 MWh energy, and 30,000 tons of CO₂ emissions. It was concluded that, to determine the mean annual water consumption, it is preferable to use the number of beds as reference indicator, and the value of the consumption as reference indicator was proposed as 103 m³ per bed per year. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Water Management)

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13 pages, 29757 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Quantifying and Monetizing Renewable Energy Resiliency

by Kate Anderson^1,*, Nicholas D. Laws¹, Spencer Marr², Lars Lisell¹, Tony Jimenez¹, Tria Case², Xiangkun Li¹, Dag Lohmann³ and Dylan Cutler¹

¹ National Renewable Energy Laboratory, 15013 Denver West Parkway, Golden, CO 80401, USA

² Sustainable CUNY, The City University of New York, 205 East 42nd Street, New York, NY 10017, USA

³ KatRisk LLC, 2397 Shattuck Ave., Suite 212, Berkeley, CA 94704, USA

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 933; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040933 - 23 Mar 2018

Cited by 56 | Viewed by 11030

Abstract

Energy resiliency has been thrust to the forefront by recent severe weather events and natural disasters. Billions of dollars are lost each year due to power outages. This article highlights the unique value renewable energy hybrid systems (REHS), comprised of solar, energy storage, [...] Read more.

Energy resiliency has been thrust to the forefront by recent severe weather events and natural disasters. Billions of dollars are lost each year due to power outages. This article highlights the unique value renewable energy hybrid systems (REHS), comprised of solar, energy storage, and generators, provide in increasing resiliency. We present a methodology to quantify the amount and value of resiliency provided by REHS, and ways to monetize this resiliency value through insurance premium discounts. A case study of buildings in New York City demonstrates how implementing REHS in place of traditional backup diesel generators can double the amount of outage survivability, with an added value of $781,200. For a Superstorm Sandy type event, results indicate that insurance premium reductions could support up to 4% of the capital cost of REHS, and the potential exists to prevent up to $2.5 billion in business interruption losses with increased REHS deployment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Security and Sustainability)

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15 pages, 2106 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Role of ‘Community Spaces’ in Residents’ Adaptation to Energy-Efficient Heating Technologies—Insights from a UK Low-Energy Housing Development

by Sonja Oliveira^* and Elena Marco

Department of Architecture and the Built Environment, University of the West of England, Bristol BS16 1QY, UK

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 934; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040934 - 23 Mar 2018

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4621

Abstract

Advanced energy-efficient heating technologies are often integral to low-energy home design, practice, and policy. The expectation is that technologies designed to lower space-heating energy use may also contribute to better performing buildings and a comfortable indoor environment. Too often, though, it is found [...] Read more.

Advanced energy-efficient heating technologies are often integral to low-energy home design, practice, and policy. The expectation is that technologies designed to lower space-heating energy use may also contribute to better performing buildings and a comfortable indoor environment. Too often, though, it is found that residents do not use technologies as intended due to multiple socio-technological phenomena. Whilst increasing efforts have been made to better understand residents’ social engagement with energy-efficient heating technologies, there is a lack of evidence that takes into account the wider context of a housing development. This paper draws on residents’ experiences across 40 dwellings in a recently completed low-energy residential development in the United Kingdom (UK). Implications of the research are twofold. First, the study contributes to a better understanding of the emerging roles, motivations, and expectations that a ‘community’ has for residents living in domestic low-energy environments. Second, there are implications for design professions to take account of the potential effects that specific external collective spaces such as playgrounds, allotments, and gardens can have on the ways that residents adapt to new technologies within their home. There are also implications for international energy policies on low-energy housing, specifically in relation to energy efficiency technology adaptation and learning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Social Innovations in the Energy Transition)

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23 pages, 35564 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A DSM Test Case Applied on an End-to-End System, from Consumer to Energy Provider

by Nikoleta Andreadou^1,*

, Yannis Soupionis², Fausto Bonavitacola¹ and Giuseppe Prettico¹

¹ Energy Security, Systems and Markets Unit, Directorate of Energy, Transport and Climate, Joint Research Centre, 21027 Ispra, Italy

² Technology Innovation in Security Unit, Space, Directorate of Security and Migration, Joint Research Centre, 21027 Ispra, Italy

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 935; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040935 - 23 Mar 2018

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4388

Abstract

Current decarbonisation goals have, in recent years, led to a tremendous increase in electricity production generated from intermittent Renewable Energy Sources. Despite their contribution to reducing society’s carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions they have been responsible for numerous challenges that the current [...] Read more.

Current decarbonisation goals have, in recent years, led to a tremendous increase in electricity production generated from intermittent Renewable Energy Sources. Despite their contribution to reducing society’s carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions they have been responsible for numerous challenges that the current electricity grid has to cope with. Flexibility has become a key mechanism to help in mitigating them. Real-time informed consumers can offer the needed flexibility through modifying their behaviour or by engaging with Demand Side Management (DSM) programs. The latter requires the intervention of several actors and levels of communication management which makes this task difficult from an implementation perspective. With this aim we built and tested a small scale system in our lab which represents a real end-to-end system from the consumer to the energy provider. We programmed the system according to the Object Identification System (OBIS) specification to obtain consumers’ consumption through smart meters with high frequency (one minute). This allows remote control of their appliances in order to reduce the total neighbourhood consumption during critical time periods of the day (peak time). These results and the realisation of a realistic end-to-end system open the way to more complex tests and particularly to the possibility of benchmarking them with other lab tests. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Power System and Sustainability)

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15 pages, 5939 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Identification and Quantification of Physicochemical Parameters Influencing Chlorophyll-a Concentrations through Combined Principal Component Analysis and Factor Analysis: A Case Study of the Yuqiao Reservoir in China

by Ran Chen, Meiting Ju^*, Chunli Chu^*, Weiqiang Jing and Yuqiu Wang

College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 936; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040936 - 23 Mar 2018

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 5052

Abstract

Algal outbreaks caused by excessive nutrients in lakes result in eutrophication. Chlorophyll-a, as a primary productivity feature, is used as a representative index of algal presence in lakes. Physicochemical parameters are known to affect the type and amount of nutrients in lakes, which [...] Read more.

Algal outbreaks caused by excessive nutrients in lakes result in eutrophication. Chlorophyll-a, as a primary productivity feature, is used as a representative index of algal presence in lakes. Physicochemical parameters are known to affect the type and amount of nutrients in lakes, which are related to eutrophication. In this study, factor analysis was used in conjunction with principal component analysis to reveal the relationship between chlorophyll-a and its associated parameters. The combination of these two methods helps to identify the main influencing parameters by quantifying the respective extent of parameters using FA, after which the meaning is explained by PCA. We investigate physicochemical parameters, including temperature, dissolved oxygen (DO), pH, suspended solids, chemical oxygen demand (COD) and five-day biochemical oxygen demand, as well as nutrients, such as ammonium, nitrite, nitrate, total nitrogen, and total phosphorus (TP). Yuqiao Reservoir, an important drinking water source in northern China, has been affected by eutrophication for years. Analysis was performed using daily monitoring data of physicochemical parameters and chlorophyll-a concentrations collected from Yuqiao Reservoir between 2003 and 2014. Results show that main parameters affecting chl-a concentrations are TP, temperature, DO, COD, and nitrogen, with correlation coefficients of 0.977, 1.983, 1.797, and 1.595, respectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Eutrophication and Sustainable Management of Water)

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14 pages, 2542 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pro-Environmental Behavior: The Role of Public Perception in Infrastructure and the Social Factors for Sustainable Development

by Darshana Rajapaksa¹, Moinul Islam² and Shunsuke Managi^1,2,3,*

¹ QUT Business School, Queensland University of Technology, Level 8, Z Block, Gardens Point, 2 George St, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia

² Urban Institute, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishiku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan

³ Departments of Urban and Environmental Engineering, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-ku, Fukuoka 819-0395, Japan

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 937; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040937 - 23 Mar 2018

Cited by 81 | Viewed by 11564

Abstract

The importance of public participation in the successful implementation of climate change-related policies has been highlighted in previous research. However, existing environmental behavioral studies have not sufficiently addressed the relationship among perceptions of climate change, living conditions, social demographic factors and environmentally friendly [...] Read more.

The importance of public participation in the successful implementation of climate change-related policies has been highlighted in previous research. However, existing environmental behavioral studies have not sufficiently addressed the relationship among perceptions of climate change, living conditions, social demographic factors and environmentally friendly behavior. Therefore, this paper investigates whether environmental perception and other social determinants such as living conditions and the subjective evaluation of social inequality affect environmentally friendly behavior. We use survey data (N = 1500) collected in Mumbai, India, and analyze our hypotheses using a structural equation model (SEM). The empirical results confirm the direct and indirect influences of environmentally related perceptions, the subjective evaluation of living environments, social factors and other demographic characteristics on pro-environmental behavior. In particular, we find a robust positive effect of education level on pro-environmental behavior, where we observe both a direct impact and an indirect impact through positive effects on environmental knowledge. Thus, we confirm the importance of living environment, social equality and education in sustainable urban planning and efforts to mitigate climate change. Full article

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10 pages, 705 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Relationship between Healthy Habits and Perceived Motivational Climate in Sport among University Students: A Structural Equation Model

by Ramón Chacón Cuberos^1,*

, Félix Zurita Ortega²

, Pilar Puertas Molero², Emily Knox³

, Cristián Cofré Bolados^4,5, Virginia Viciana Garófano² and José Joaquín Muros Molina²

¹ Department of Integrated Didactics, University of Huelva, 21007 Huelva, Spain

² Department of Didactics of Musical, Plastic and Corporal Expression, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain

³ School of Health Sciences, The University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK

⁴ School of Sciences of Physical Activity, Sport and Health ECIADES, University of Santiago of Chile, 9170022 Santiago de Chile, Chile

⁵ School of Sports Science and Physical Activity, University Santo Tomas, 837003 Santiago de Chile, Chile

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 938; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040938 - 23 Mar 2018

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 5561

Abstract

(1) Background: Several studies have shown how certain types of motivation for sports can favour healthy habits or can cause risk behaviours. (2) Methods: The aim of this study was to establish and verify an explanatory model for motivational climate in sport which [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Several studies have shown how certain types of motivation for sports can favour healthy habits or can cause risk behaviours. (2) Methods: The aim of this study was to establish and verify an explanatory model for motivational climate in sport which considers other possible influential variables related to health. This research was conducted with a sample of 490 university students from Spain. The 33-item Perceived Motivational Climate in Sport Questionnaire (PMCSQ-2) was used to assess perceived motivational climate. The Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT), the Questionnaire of Experiences Related to Video Games (QERV), the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Adolescents (PAQ-A), and the KIDMED test were used to assess healthy habits; (3) Results: Findings revealed that task-involved climate and ego-involved climate were both positively associated with physical activity with the strongest relationship emerging for a task-involved climate. Furthermore, task climate was positively associated with a good adherence to a Mediterranean diet. A direct relationship was found between ego climate and alcohol intake and problematic use of video games; (4) Conclusions: The findings imply that students who have greater intrinsic motivation to participate in sport and perceive a task-involved climate also report healthier habits. This highlights the importance of creating task-involved motivational climates in sport and physical education lessons. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity as a Means of Culture, Leisure and Free Time)

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20 pages, 9647 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Transforming Data Centers in Active Thermal Energy Players in Nearby Neighborhoods

by Marcel Antal, Tudor Cioara^*, Ionut Anghel, Claudia Pop

and Ioan Salomie

Computer Science Department, Technical University of Cluj-Napoca, Memorandumului 28, 400114 Cluj-Napoca, Romania

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 939; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040939 - 23 Mar 2018

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 5552

Abstract

In this paper, we see the Data Centers (DCs) as producers of waste heat integrated with smart energy infrastructures, heat which can be re-used for nearby neighborhoods. We provide a model of the thermo-electric processes within DCs equipped with heat reuse technology, allowing [...] Read more.

In this paper, we see the Data Centers (DCs) as producers of waste heat integrated with smart energy infrastructures, heat which can be re-used for nearby neighborhoods. We provide a model of the thermo-electric processes within DCs equipped with heat reuse technology, allowing them to adapt their thermal response profile to meet various levels of hot water demand. On top of the model, we have implemented computational fluid dynamics-based simulations to determine the cooling system operational parameters settings, which allow the heat to build up without endangering the servers’ safety operation as well as the distribution of the workload on the servers to avoid hot spots. This will allow for setting higher temperature set points for short periods of time and using pre-cooling and post-cooling as flexibility mechanisms for DC thermal profile adaptation. To reduce the computational time complexity, we have used neural networks, which are trained using the simulation results. Experiments have been conducted considering a small operational DC featuring a server room of 24 square meters and 60 servers organized in four racks. The results show the DCs’ potential to meet different levels of thermal energy demand by re-using their waste heat in nearby neighborhoods. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development of Electrical Energy Storage Technologies in Energy Production)

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21 pages, 1011 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Environmental Regulation, Government R&D Funding and Green Technology Innovation: Evidence from China Provincial Data

by Yingyuan Guo¹, Xingneng Xia^1,2, Sheng Zhang^1,* and Danping Zhang¹

¹ School of Public Policy and Administration, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China

² School of Management, Xi’an University of Science and Technology, Xi’an 710054, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 940; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040940 - 23 Mar 2018

Cited by 302 | Viewed by 16151

Abstract

The “environmental pollution–economic development” circle is a problem in the process of national sustainable development. As a complex concept of environmental protection and technology innovation, green technology innovation is the key to cracking this strange circle. This paper divides green technology innovation into [...] Read more.

The “environmental pollution–economic development” circle is a problem in the process of national sustainable development. As a complex concept of environmental protection and technology innovation, green technology innovation is the key to cracking this strange circle. This paper divides green technology innovation into green product innovation and green process innovation and measures green technology innovation based on the perspective of energy saving and emission reduction. Furthermore, we examine the effects of environmental regulation and government R&D funding on green technology innovation. The empirical findings are as follows: (1) from the dynamic point of view, we test whether there is a significant ”U-shaped” relationship between environmental regulation and green technological innovation, and we find there exists an “inflection point” in the role of environmental regulation in green technology innovation, and China is at the stage of inhibition before the “inflection point”; (2) direct government funding and tax incentives can promote green technology innovation, but the promotion of government tax incentives to green technology innovation is not significant; (3) the interaction between environmental regulation and government R&D will promote green product innovation and inhibit green process innovation, which is closely related to the imbalance of environmental regulation intensity in energy saving and emission reduction. In addition, this paper also gives out three kinds of control variables (the level of regional development, the proportion of the regional manufacturing industry, and the development level of regional export-oriented economy) and presents their effects on green technology innovation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmentally Sustainable Competitive Strategies)

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21 pages, 5391 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

SWAT-Simulated Streamflow Responses to Climate Variability and Human Activities in the Miyun Reservoir Basin by Considering Streamflow Components

by Tiezhu Yan¹, Jianwen Bai^1,2, Amelia LEE ZHI YI³ and Zhenyao Shen^1,*

¹ State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China

² College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Jilin Normal University, Siping 136000, China

³ Soil and Water Management and Crop Nutrition Laboratory, Joint FAO/IAEA Division of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture, IAEA, Seibersdorf 2444, Austria

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 941; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040941 - 23 Mar 2018

Cited by 44 | Viewed by 4997

Abstract

The streamflow into Miyun Reservoir, the only surface drinking water source for Beijing City, has declined dramatically over the past five decades. Thus, the impacts of climate variability and human activities (direct and indirect human activities) on streamflow and its components (baseflow and [...] Read more.

The streamflow into Miyun Reservoir, the only surface drinking water source for Beijing City, has declined dramatically over the past five decades. Thus, the impacts of climate variability and human activities (direct and indirect human activities) on streamflow and its components (baseflow and quickflow) needs to be quantitatively estimated for the sustainability of regional water resources management. Based on a heuristic segmentation algorithm, the chosen study period (1969–2012) was segmented into three subseries: a baseline period (1969–1979) and two impact periods I (1980–1998) and II (1999–2012). The Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) was adopted to investigate the attributions for streamflow change. Our results indicated that the baseflow accounted for almost 63.5% of the annual streamflow based on baseflow separation. The contributions of climate variability and human activities to streamflow decrease varied with different stages. During impact period I, human activities was accountable for 54.3% of the streamflow decrease. In impact period II, climate variability was responsible for 64.9%, and about 8.3 mm of baseflow was extracted from the stream on average based on the comparison of the observed streamflow and simulated baseflow. The results in this study could provide necessary information for water resources management in the watershed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Sustainability and Applications)

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16 pages, 1523 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Competitive Capabilities on Sustainable Manufacturing Applications in Romanian SMEs from the Textile Industry

by Eduard Gabriel Ceptureanu^1,*

, Sebastian Ion Ceptureanu¹

, Razvan Bologa² and Ramona Bologa²

¹ Department of Management, The Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest 010374, Romania

² Department of Computer Science and Cybernetics, The Bucharest University of Economic Studies, Bucharest 010374, Romania

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 942; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040942 - 23 Mar 2018

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 4794

Abstract

This paper examines the impact of competitive capabilities on sustainable manufacturing practices in Romanian small and medium-sized enterprises from the textile industry. We developed an econometric model based on previous research conducted by prestigious specialists and validated on a survey data from 221 [...] Read more.

This paper examines the impact of competitive capabilities on sustainable manufacturing practices in Romanian small and medium-sized enterprises from the textile industry. We developed an econometric model based on previous research conducted by prestigious specialists and validated on a survey data from 221 Romanian small and medium enterprises from the textile industry. Our article proposes a number of implications to encourage entrepreneurs and managers from textile industry to engage in pro-environmental behaviour. Full article

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11 pages, 10176 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Soil Organic Matter Alteration Velocity due to Land-Use Change: A Case Study under Conservation Agriculture

by Ádám Rieder¹, Balázs Madarász^2,3, Judit Alexandra Szabó², Dóra Zacháry², Anna Vancsik², Marianna Ringer^2,4, Zoltán Szalai^2,4 and Gergely Jakab^2,4,*

¹ Earth Surface Science Institute, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK

² Geographical Institute, Research Centre for Astronomy and Earth Sciences Hungarian Academy of Sciences, 1112 Budapest, Hungary

³ Department of Soil Science and Water Management, Szent István University Faculty of Horticultural Science, 1118 Budapest, Hungary

⁴ Faculty of Science, Eötvös Loránd University, 1117 Budapest, Hungary

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 943; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040943 - 23 Mar 2018

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 4082

Abstract

The cultivation of native forest soils usually triggers a decline in soil organic matter (SOM) and a deterioration of aggregates. Although switching to conservation tillage (CT) can supply SOM, little is known about the temporal resolution of this change. This study aims to [...] Read more.

The cultivation of native forest soils usually triggers a decline in soil organic matter (SOM) and a deterioration of aggregates. Although switching to conservation tillage (CT) can supply SOM, little is known about the temporal resolution of this change. This study aims to quantify changes in soil organic carbon (SOC) content and SOM composition of the same soil under 14 years of CT, plowing tillage (PT), and native forest (NF). Plowing ameliorates the macroaggregate-mediated loss in SOC content, in both the fine fraction and the coarse particles. Decades of CT can significantly increase both the microaggregates and fine particles related to SOC content, whereas in the finest fraction, the volume of recalcitrant SOC increased the most, and reached the original value under NF. Continuous plowing triggered SOM molecular size increases in both aggregates and the fine fraction, whereas switching to CT restored the molecular SOM size of the fine fraction only. Therefore, this fraction can be changed, even in short periods. Water dissolved the largest and middle-sized molecules of SOM, which are mainly from macroaggregates. Even if aggregation did not increase due to turning to CT, the content of the larger molecules of SOM increased in this short time. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Agriculture)

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20 pages, 5634 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Supply-Demand-Discrepancy of Sustainable Financial Products in Germany from a Financial Advisor’s Point of View

by Kristin Heinemann^*, Bernhard Zwergel, Stefan Gold, Stefan Seuring

and Christian Klein

Faculty of Economics and Management, University of Kassel, 34117 Kassel, Germany

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 944; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040944 - 23 Mar 2018

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 5927

Abstract

Although retail investors’ interest in sustainable investment is constantly increasing, German credit unions and co-operative banks offer few sustainable financial products. The purpose of the study is to explore the current gap between supply and demand of sustainable financial investments in German retail [...] Read more.

Although retail investors’ interest in sustainable investment is constantly increasing, German credit unions and co-operative banks offer few sustainable financial products. The purpose of the study is to explore the current gap between supply and demand of sustainable financial investments in German retail banking from a financial advisor’s point of view. We use qualitative analysis of interviews with financial advisors based on a Grounded Theory approach with the aim to identify the key causation in the cause-effect relationship of the supply-demand-discrepancy. Our findings yield two explanations of the discrepancy. First, investment advisors attribute responsibility towards private investors, i.e., they ask for a clear signal whether private investors are interested in sustainable investment. Thereby, we refer to causal and responsibility attribution theory for grasping this phenomenon. Second, investors are risk-averse and therefore reluctant to invest in stocks, which represent the common form of sustainable investment in Germany. Accordingly, we propose risk averseness as a variable moderating the relationship between demand and supply of sustainable investment products within the frame of attribution theory. The study contributes towards the state-of-the-art by proposing an explanation for the mechanisms underlying the advisor-customer-relationship in the context of predominant risk-averse investment culture that currently hamper the expansion of the Socially Responsible Investment (SRI) segment of private investors in Germany. This paper outlines measures for promoting sustainable financial products in Germany, namely, among others, the creation of a more customizable offering of SRI products and the importance to inform customers about sustainable investment opportunities by advisors and banks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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18 pages, 11120 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Typically Diverse: The Nature of Urban Agriculture in South Australia

by Georgia Pollard^*, James Ward and Philip Roetman

School of Natural and Built Environments, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes SA 5095, Australia

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 945; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040945 - 23 Mar 2018

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 7375

Abstract

In our visions of the future, urban agriculture has long been considered an integral part of the ‘sustainable city’. Yet urban agriculture is an incredibly diverse and variable field of study, and many practical aspects remain overlooked and understudied. This paper explores the [...] Read more.

In our visions of the future, urban agriculture has long been considered an integral part of the ‘sustainable city’. Yet urban agriculture is an incredibly diverse and variable field of study, and many practical aspects remain overlooked and understudied. This paper explores the economic sustainability of urban agriculture by focusing on the physical, practical, and economic aspects of home food gardens in South Australia. New data from the Edible Gardens project online survey is presented on a broad range of current garden setups, including a figure illustrating the statistically typical South Australian food garden. The differences between the survey data and a recent optimized garden model further highlight the gap in knowledge regarding existing home food gardens. With regard to the financial accessibility and economic sustainability of home food gardens, there is also still much more work to be done. Although saving money is a top motivation, with many survey respondents believing that they do succeed in saving money, it remains to be seen whether their current gardening practices support this aspiration. Measurement of the full costs of different gardens would allow for better predictions of whether growing food can save household’s money and under what circumstances. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assessing the Sustainability of Urban Agriculture: Methodological Advances and Case Studies)

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14 pages, 5803 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring a Third Space for Sustainable Educational Development—HIV/AIDS Prevention, Zambia

by Ellen Carm

Department of International Studies and Interpreting, Faculty of Education, OsloMet University, PB 4 St. Olavs plass, Oslo NO-0130, Norway

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 946; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040946 - 23 Mar 2018

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3728

Abstract

This study was conducted in Zambia from 2002 to 2008, a country greatly affected by the HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)/AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) epidemic. The global, national, as well as local discourses on spread and mitigation were clustered around scientific knowledge and [...] Read more.

This study was conducted in Zambia from 2002 to 2008, a country greatly affected by the HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)/AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome) epidemic. The global, national, as well as local discourses on spread and mitigation were clustered around scientific knowledge and the local context and cultural traditions. The education sector struggled with implementing the national HIV/AIDS education strategy but by a broader stakeholder involvement, and a close collaboration between the educational sector and tribal chiefs and their traditional internal structures, a localized approach emerged. The overall objective of the paper is to illustrate how a multi-voiced strategy can bring about sustainable change, illustrated by this study. The study used qualitative constructivist and grounded theoretical approaches, and applied the third generation of cultural and historical activity theory (CHAT) as an analytical tool. Bernstein’s concept, symbolic control, contributes to a broader understanding of the underlying processes and outcomes of the study. The findings revealed that the strategically monitored multi-voiced participation of local stakeholders created a learning space where both scientific and indigenous knowledge were blended, and thereby creating solutions to preventive action meeting the local needs. The study exemplifies these processes by identifying contradictions between the various levels and activity systems involved, by listing some of their characteristics, manifestations and finally their negotiated solutions. These solutions, or the third space interventions, the outcome of the multi-voiced participation, is in the paper used to explore a theoretical framework for an ethical and decolonized development strategy; a precondition for sustained local development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Teaching and Learning for Sustainability)

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23 pages, 342 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of the Risk of Bankruptcy of Tomato Processing Companies Operating in the Inter-Regional Interprofessional Organization “OI Pomodoro da Industria Nord Italia”

by Mattia Iotti^1,*

and Giuseppe Bonazzi^2,3

¹ Department of Civil Engineering, Environment, Territory and Architecture (DICATeA), University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy

² Department of Veterinary Science, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy

³ University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1417DSE, Argentina

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 947; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040947 - 24 Mar 2018

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 4206

Abstract

The tomato sector is a major area of agricultural activity in Italy; tomato production and processing characterize different Italian regions; in particular, there are two production districts, one in southern Italy and one in northern Italy, in the Po Valley. In recent years, [...] Read more.

The tomato sector is a major area of agricultural activity in Italy; tomato production and processing characterize different Italian regions; in particular, there are two production districts, one in southern Italy and one in northern Italy, in the Po Valley. In recent years, processing firms have encountered increasing difficulties, due both to an increase in raw material costs and market difficulties. Tomato processing firms are often characterized by significant investment in fixed assets and working capital, with an ensuing increase in equity or debt financing, which increases the risk of bankruptcy, as has happened to many firms in the sector in recent years. Therefore, the aim of this research was to analyze the financial sustainability of tomato processing firms by applying financial ratios. To achieve this goal, this research focused on the annual data of a sample of 17 tomato processing firms operating in the Inter-regional Interprofessional Organization, “OI Pomodoro da Industria Nord Italia”. The firms were divided into still-active (not-distressed) and failed (distressed) firms, with the aim of analyzing the differences between the financial data and management practices of the two groups. The data suggest that larger firms, with an adequate financial structure, have been able to withstand the tomato market crisis in recent years, whereas distressed firms are on average smaller and suffer from higher recourse to debt capital and lower profit margins than not-distressed firms. This research could be applied by entrepreneurs, managers, bankers and public operators to define good management practices that should be achieved and measured with financial ratios, even as a means of reducing the risk of distress for firms operating in the tomato sector. This research highlights that financial ratios could be usefully applied for predicting the continuity of activity and therefore the sustainability of the management cycle, including its relationship to the whole socio-economic system over time. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

15 pages, 20186 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Phase Change Material (PCM) Application in a Modernized Korean Traditional House (Hanok)

by Jaewook Lee¹

and Jiyoung Park^2,*

¹ Illinois School of Architecture, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL 61820, USA

² Department of Architecture, Inha University, Inharo 100, Namgu, Incheon 22212, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 948; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040948 - 24 Mar 2018

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 8874

Abstract

Social and policy interest in the modernization and revitalization of the Korean traditional house (Hanok) has increased recently in Korea but its low thermal performance is one of its weaknesses. A feasibility study was conducted to evaluate the suitability of a [...] Read more.

Social and policy interest in the modernization and revitalization of the Korean traditional house (Hanok) has increased recently in Korea but its low thermal performance is one of its weaknesses. A feasibility study was conducted to evaluate the suitability of a Phase Change Material (PCM) in a modernized Hanok. The research method involved a test of the heating and cooling load reduction and Predicted Mean Vote (PMV) analysis for human comfort using an Esp-r simulation adopting multi variable PCM types as the building wall composite. The influence of PCMs on reducing the building energy load was assessed as a criterion for upgrading materials and infiltration to the passive house regulation. Compared to the base case, the heating and cooling load reduction ratio were as follows: Case 1 (old-Hanok), 10%; Case 2 (Korean Building Act), 21%; and Case 3 (passive house regulation), 53%. The optimal phase change temperatures of the PCMs were Case 1 (24–26 °C), Case 2 (23–25 °C) and Case 3 (24–26 °C). PMV analysis showed that the use of a PCM can narrow the comfort range and centralize the optimal point. Therefore, the following contents can be presented as the design and material guidelines. First, the optimal PCM temperature can vary according to the combination of materials and local climate. In addition, the infiltration and insulation should be verified and a certain portion of them should be secured. Finally, the addition of insulation to a passive house level should be considered actively using a PCM as a supplement for net zero energy building (nZEB). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Innovative Solutions for Final Design in Terms of Energy Sustainability of Nearly/Net Zero Energy Buildings (nZEB))

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17 pages, 23170 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Short-Term Impacts of Livestock Grazing on Vegetation and Track Formation in a High Mountain Environment: A Case Study from the Himalayan Miyar Valley (India)

by Michal Apollo^1,*

, Viacheslav Andreychouk² and Suman S. Bhattarai³

¹ Department of Tourism and Regional Studies, Institute of Geography, Pedagogical University of Cracow, Podchorazych Street 2, 30-084 Cracow, Poland

² Faculty of Geography and Regional Studies, University of Warsaw, Krakowskie Przedmiescie 30, 00-927 Warsaw, Poland

³ Department of Biology, Tri-Chandra M. Campus, Tribhuvan University, Ghantaghar 2323, 44600 Kathmandu, Nepal

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 951; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040951 - 24 Mar 2018

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 10593

Abstract

Animals’ activities are a significant geomorphologic factor. An important reliefogenic role is played by animals introduced by man; that is, livestock. The activity of livestock on the earth’s surface can be direct (horizontal displacement of the soil), or indirect (preparation of ground for [...] Read more.

Animals’ activities are a significant geomorphologic factor. An important reliefogenic role is played by animals introduced by man; that is, livestock. The activity of livestock on the earth’s surface can be direct (horizontal displacement of the soil), or indirect (preparation of ground for degradation). In this research the areas that livestock tread most often were put under examination, that is, places used for resting (e.g., during the night) and paths used for moving (e.g., while passing to and from grazing spots). The experimental research areas were divided into two groups. During the two-week study period it was noted that (1) the number of plants and their stems had declined by 9.5% and 19% respectively, and the paths had widened by 6%; (2) the soil level had decreased, uncovering the measurement pins by 3.5 mm up to 24 mm, depending on the slope of the ground, while in the comparison (control) areas the pins were uncovered only up to an average 1.8 mm. The results of the research show the scale of the phenomenon of zoogenic erosion caused by livestock. Based on the research the following formula has been elaborated

y = (- 0.005 x + 0.0526) \frac{T \times N \times S P}{100 \times 0.86}

. This provided the opportunity to calculate the average (hypothetical) data for soil loss (y), according to the slope degree (x), the number of animals (N), the time that those animals spend in the area (T), and the static pressure they caused on the ground (SP). The paper makes recommendations that could lead to a reduction in soil erosion caused by livestock. Full article

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15 pages, 18634 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Eco-Efficiency Assessment of Bioplastics Production Systems and End-of-Life Options

by Kunnika Changwichan^1,2

, Thapat Silalertruksa^1,2 and Shabbir H. Gheewala^1,2,*

¹ The Joint Graduate School of Energy and Environment, King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi, 126 Prachauthit, Bangmod, Tungkru, Bangkok 10140, Thailand

² Center of Excellence on Energy Technology and Environment, PERDO, Bangkok 10140, Thailand

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 952; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040952 - 24 Mar 2018

Cited by 129 | Viewed by 20133

Abstract

Bioplastics demand has been increased globally due to concerns regarding environmentally friendly consumption and production. Polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), and polybutylene succinate (PBS) are promising bioplastics with bio-based feedstocks and property of biodegradability. They are produced by bacterial fermentation of sugars from [...] Read more.

Bioplastics demand has been increased globally due to concerns regarding environmentally friendly consumption and production. Polylactic acid (PLA), polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), and polybutylene succinate (PBS) are promising bioplastics with bio-based feedstocks and property of biodegradability. They are produced by bacterial fermentation of sugars from carbohydrate sources. With flexibility in their properties, PLA, PHAs, and PBS can potentially substitute conventional plastics such as polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and polystyrene (PS). This study aims at evaluating the environmental and economic sustainability of bioplastics production together with end-of-life (EOL) options. The combination of environmental and economic indicators, eco-efficiency (E/E), was selected to investigate the performance of PLA, PHAs, and PBS from sugarcane and cassava in comparison with PP. The environmental impacts were determined using life cycle assessment. The product cost was used to represent the economic value. The E/E results showed that the environmental and economic sustainability could be enhanced with 100% mechanical recycling of all kinds of studied plastics. It is also important to highlight that mechanical recycling showed a better performance in terms of E/E than composting of bioplastics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Responsible Value Chains for Sustainability: Practices and Challenges from EcoBalance)

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20 pages, 8379 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Development of Rural Tourism in An Giang Province, Vietnam

by Nguyen Thanh Long^1,† and Thanh-Lam Nguyen^2,*,†

¹ Faculty of Business Administration, Industrial University of Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam

² Office of International Affairs, Lac Hong University, Dong Nai 810000, Vietnam

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 953; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040953 - 25 Mar 2018

Cited by 45 | Viewed by 12646

Abstract

This study aims at sustainably developing rural tourism in An Giang Province, an agricultural province located in the South of Vietnam, by identifying the determinants of the satisfaction and revisit intention of tourists based on both qualitative and quantitative approaches. From exploratory interviews [...] Read more.

This study aims at sustainably developing rural tourism in An Giang Province, an agricultural province located in the South of Vietnam, by identifying the determinants of the satisfaction and revisit intention of tourists based on both qualitative and quantitative approaches. From exploratory interviews with experts and comprehensive group discussions, we developed a questionnaire for an official survey of 507 tourists at different tour-sites in An Giang Province. It is found that: (1) there are seven key factors affecting the satisfaction of the tourists, including: spirituality, tourism safety and security, people, food and beverage, natural environment, service prices and tourism infrastructure; and (2) revisit intention of tourists is affected by six factors, including: satisfaction, spirituality, tourism safety and security, people, food and beverage and service prices. Among them, spirituality is a new factor to be thoughtfully considered due to its significant influence on both the tourist satisfaction and revisit intention. From these findings, we proposed some managerial implications for the sustainable development of rural tourism in An Giang Province by enhancing the satisfaction and revisit intention of the tourists after they visit the province. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Developing Tourism in Rural and Agricultural Regions)

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18 pages, 285 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Education: Analyzing the Determinants of University Student Dropout by Nonlinear Panel Data Models

by Donggeun Kim¹ and Seoyong Kim^2,*

¹ Department of Economics, Ajou University, Worldcup-ro 206, Suwon 16499, Korea

² Department of Public Administration, Ajou University, Worldcup-ro 206, Suwon 16499, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 954; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040954 - 25 Mar 2018

Cited by 36 | Viewed by 6671

Abstract

University dropout is a serious problem. It affects not only the individual who drops out but also the university and society. However, most previous studies have focused only on the subjective/individual level. University dropout is a very important issue in South Korea, but [...] Read more.

University dropout is a serious problem. It affects not only the individual who drops out but also the university and society. However, most previous studies have focused only on the subjective/individual level. University dropout is a very important issue in South Korea, but it has not received much research attention so far. This study examined the possible causes of university dropout in South Korea at the aggregate level, focusing on four fundamental categories: students, resources, faculty, and university characteristics. Three-year balanced panel data from 2013 to 2015 were constructed and estimated by using nonlinear panel data models. The findings show that cost and burden for students, financial resources, qualitative and quantitative features of faculty, and type/size of the university have significant effects on university dropout. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Education and Approaches)

20 pages, 899 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Energy Transition in the Nebular City: Connecting Transition Thinking, Metabolism Studies, and Urban Design

by Griet Juwet^*

and Michael Ryckewaert

Cosmopolis Centre for Urban Research, Department of Geography, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, BE-1050 Brussels, Belgium

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 955; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040955 - 25 Mar 2018

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 5619

Abstract

Transforming urban infrastructures is an essential part of creating more sustainable urban regions. But rethinking these complex systems requires a better understanding of their spatial dimensions and their relation with urban morphology and spatial structure. This paper addresses that gap by examining different [...] Read more.

Transforming urban infrastructures is an essential part of creating more sustainable urban regions. But rethinking these complex systems requires a better understanding of their spatial dimensions and their relation with urban morphology and spatial structure. This paper addresses that gap by examining different conceptualizations of technical infrastructure and space in science, technology and society studies (STS), transition thinking, urban metabolism studies, and urban political ecology, and draws connections with the spatial perspective of urban planning and design. It illustrates and tests these concepts through the case of energy transition in the Flemish region of Belgium. Transport and supply networks have played a crucial role in facilitating, structuring, and reproducing the region’s characteristic dispersed and energy-intensive urban landscape. Bringing different disciplinary perspectives together, the research broadens the conceptualization of the spatial dimension in transition thinking, and identifies useful concepts and design parameters for urban design to engage with the technical and socio-political complexity of transforming urban infrastructure. It reveals the energy transition as an inherently spatial project, and explores the spatially and socio-politically transformative potential of the transition towards a new energy system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Putting Sustainability Transitions into Spatial and Socio-Cultural Context)

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19 pages, 6111 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Automated Mobility Transitions: Governing Processes in the UK

by Debbie Hopkins^*

and Tim Schwanen

Transport Studies Unit, School of Geography and the Environment, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3QY, UK

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 956; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040956 - 26 Mar 2018

Cited by 58 | Viewed by 8331

Abstract

Contemporary systems of mobility are undergoing a transition towards automation. In the UK, this transition is being led by (often new) partnerships between incumbent manufacturers and new entrants, in collaboration with national governments, local/regional councils, and research institutions. This paper first offers a [...] Read more.

Contemporary systems of mobility are undergoing a transition towards automation. In the UK, this transition is being led by (often new) partnerships between incumbent manufacturers and new entrants, in collaboration with national governments, local/regional councils, and research institutions. This paper first offers a framework for analyzing the governance of the transition, adapting ideas from the Transition Management (TM) perspective, and then applies the framework to ongoing automated vehicle transition dynamics in the UK. The empirical analysis suggests that the UK has adopted a reasonably comprehensive approach to the governing of automated vehicle innovation but that this approach cannot be characterized as sufficiently inclusive, democratic, diverse and open. The lack of inclusivity, democracy, diversity and openness is symptomatic of the post-political character of how the UK’s automated mobility transition is being governed. The paper ends with a call for a reconfiguration of the automated vehicle transition in the UK and beyond, so that much more space is created for dissent and for reflexive and comprehensive big picture thinking on (automated) mobility futures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Transport Policy)

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11 pages, 3316 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Building Customer Loyalty in Rural Destinations as a Pre-Condition of Sustainable Competitiveness

by Kateřina Ryglová¹, Ida Rašovská^1,*, Jakub Šácha¹ and Vanda Maráková²

¹ Faculty of Business, Mendel University in Brno, 631 00 Brno, Czech Republic

² Faculty of Economics, Matej Bel University, 975 90 Banska Bystrica, Slovakia

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 957; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040957 - 26 Mar 2018

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 5041

Abstract

The paper is dedicated to the issues of rural tourism with regard to the visitor’s loyalty towards the destination in a sustainable development context. Particularly, the findings of the research focused on exploring mutual relations among quality dimensions of the rural destination, overall [...] Read more.

The paper is dedicated to the issues of rural tourism with regard to the visitor’s loyalty towards the destination in a sustainable development context. Particularly, the findings of the research focused on exploring mutual relations among quality dimensions of the rural destination, overall satisfaction of the visitor, and his or her loyalty towards the destination are presented. A structural model was used to explore the relations among quality dimensions, overall satisfaction, and loyalty in the specific environment of the Czech Republic (inland European country, EU member, until 1989 a socialist country, nearly 93% municipalities with fewer than 3000 inhabitants). The research results allow deeper understanding of the visitor’s behavior and the factors influencing the loyalty towards the destination. The significance order of the dimensions according to their direct influence on the required loyalty towards the destination, i.e., coming back to the destination and spreading positive references to the destination, is as follows: 1. well-being, 2. image, 3. services. We conclude that overall satisfaction directly influences loyalty towards the destination. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Alliances and Network Organizations for Sustainable Development)

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17 pages, 17040 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Forecasting of Energy-Related CO₂ Emissions in China Based on GM(1,1) and Least Squares Support Vector Machine Optimized by Modified Shuffled Frog Leaping Algorithm for Sustainability

by Shuyu Dai^1,2,*, Dongxiao Niu^1,2 and Yaru Han^1,2

¹ School of Economics and Management, North China Electric Power University, Beijing 102206, China

² Beijing Key Laboratory of New Energy and Low-Carbon Development, North China Electric Power University, Beijing 102206, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 958; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040958 - 26 Mar 2018

Cited by 42 | Viewed by 5264

Abstract

Presently, China is the largest CO₂ emitting country in the world, which accounts for 28% of the CO₂ emissions globally. China’s CO₂ emission reduction has a direct impact on global trends. Therefore, accurate forecasting of CO₂ emissions is crucial [...] Read more.

Presently, China is the largest CO₂ emitting country in the world, which accounts for 28% of the CO₂ emissions globally. China’s CO₂ emission reduction has a direct impact on global trends. Therefore, accurate forecasting of CO₂ emissions is crucial to China’s emission reduction policy formulating and global action on climate change. In order to forecast the CO₂ emissions in China accurately, considering population, the CO₂ emission forecasting model using GM(1,1) (Grey Model) and least squares support vector machine (LSSVM) optimized by the modified shuffled frog leaping algorithm (MSFLA) (MSFLA-LSSVM) is put forward in this paper. First of all, considering population, per capita GDP, urbanization rate, industrial structure, energy consumption structure, energy intensity, total coal consumption, carbon emission intensity, total imports and exports and other influencing factors of CO₂ emissions, the main driving factors are screened according to the sorting of grey correlation degrees to realize feature dimension reduction. Then, the GM(1,1) model is used to forecast the main influencing factors of CO₂ emissions. Finally, taking the forecasting value of the CO₂ emissions influencing factors as the model input, the MSFLA-LSSVM model is adopted to forecast the CO₂ emissions in China from 2018 to 2025. Full article

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17 pages, 833 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Economic Valuation of Change in the Quality of Rural Tourism Resources: Choice Experiment Approaches

by Hyun No Kim

Department of Sustainable Development Research, Korea Environment Institute, Sejong 30147, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 959; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040959 - 26 Mar 2018

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4651

Abstract

This study examined tourists’ preferences for the change in the quality of rural tourism resources in Korea. This study measured tourists’ satisfaction levels about their recent tourism experience in a stated preference mechanism to estimate the economic value of qualitative improvement associated with [...] Read more.

This study examined tourists’ preferences for the change in the quality of rural tourism resources in Korea. This study measured tourists’ satisfaction levels about their recent tourism experience in a stated preference mechanism to estimate the economic value of qualitative improvement associated with tourism resources. Using a pivot-style experimental design approach in developing the choice experiment, this study estimated econometric models that allow for flexible structures in error components of the utility function. The results revealed that the welfare impacts of increase in satisfaction levels for tourism resources appear to be substantial. Among tourism resources, the households are more sensitive for the change in the quality of local amenities than other tourism resources. Total aggregated benefits generated by the improvement of satisfaction levels for local amenities make up 17.9–18.1% of the total tourism costs. This suggests that the continuous efforts to enhance the quality of tourism resources in rural areas and attract and satisfy rural tourists are important and necessary for the sustainability of rural economies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Developing Tourism in Rural and Agricultural Regions)

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16 pages, 10161 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impacts of Land-Use and Land-Cover Changes on Water Yield: A Case Study in Jing-Jin-Ji, China

by Suxiao Li¹, Hong Yang^2,3, Martin Lacayo⁴

, Junguo Liu⁵

and Guangchun Lei^1,*

¹ School of Nature Conservation, Beijing Forestry University, Qinghua East Road 35, Haidian District, Beijing 100083, China

² Eawag, Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, Uberlandstrasse, 133, 8600 Dubendorf, Switzerland

³ Department of Environmental Science, MGU, University of Basel, Vesalgasse 1, 4051 Basel, Switzerland

⁴ EnviroSPACE, Institute for Environmental Sciences, University of Geneva, Bd Carl-Vogt 66, 1205 Geneva, Switzerland

⁵ Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil and Groundwater Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Xueyuan Road 1088, Nanshan District, Shenzhen 518055, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 960; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040960 - 26 Mar 2018

Cited by 107 | Viewed by 8744

Abstract

Knowing the impact of land-use and land-cover (LULC) changes on the distribution of water yield (WY) is essential for water resource management. Using the Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Tradeoffs (InVEST) model, we investigated the spatial-temporal variations of WY from 1990 to [...] Read more.

Knowing the impact of land-use and land-cover (LULC) changes on the distribution of water yield (WY) is essential for water resource management. Using the Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Tradeoffs (InVEST) model, we investigated the spatial-temporal variations of WY from 1990 to 2015 in China’s northern semi-arid region of Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei (Jing-Jin-Ji). We quantified the combined effects of LULC dynamics and climatic variation on WY. Furthermore, we identified the relative contribution of main LULC types to WY. For our study region, the built-up area increased by 35.66% (5380 km²) during the study period. In the meantime, cropland, grassland, and wetland decreased continuously. The expansion of built-up area and decline of vegetated land led to an increase of 1047 million m³ (5.1%) in total WY. The impacts of LULC changes on WY were mainly determined by the biophysical characteristics of LULC composition. Vegetated land has relatively lower WY coefficients due to higher rates of evapotranspiration and water infiltration. Built-up areas and bare land have higher WY coefficients as a result of their impermeable surface. The spatial-temporal analysis of WY with specification of WY coefficients by LULC types can facilitate integrated land-use planning and water resource management. Full article

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14 pages, 9208 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of Tillage and Straw Incorporation on Soil Organic Carbon Status, Rice Crop Productivity, and Sustainability in the Rice-Wheat Cropping System of Eastern China

by Muhammad Sohail Memon^1,3

, Jun Guo², Ahmed Ali Tagar³, Nazia Perveen⁴, Changying Ji^1,*

, Shamim Ara Memon³ and Noreena Memon³

¹ College of Engineering, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210031, China

² Yancheng Vocational Institute of Industry Technology, Yancheng 224005, China

³ Faculty of Agricultural Engineering, Sindh Agriculture University, 70060 Tando Jam, Pakistan

⁴ State Key Laboratory of Soil and Sustainable Agriculture, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 961; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040961 - 26 Mar 2018

Cited by 58 | Viewed by 8613

Abstract

Soil management practices are used to enhance soil organic carbon, fertility, and crop productivity around the world. However, accurate information about the appropriate amount of straw incorporation is not available, because it is generally believed that at least 30% of the soil surface [...] Read more.

Soil management practices are used to enhance soil organic carbon, fertility, and crop productivity around the world. However, accurate information about the appropriate amount of straw incorporation is not available, because it is generally believed that at least 30% of the soil surface should be covered by straw, which is not implemented in all field environments. Therefore, a two-year (2016–2017) field experiment was conducted to investigate the impact of different percentages of straw incorporation and tillage methods, i.e., reduced tillage (RT) and conventional tillage (CT), on crop yield, soil organic carbon (SOC), total nitrogen (TN), and soil carbon storage (SCS) in rice–wheat cropping systems, under eight treatments. The experimental results showed that the greatest reduction in soil dry bulk density (

ρ_{b}

) was found under CT with 100% straw coverage (9.79%), whereas the least reduction occurred under CT with no straw (1.31%). The mean TN concentration, soil organic matter (SOM), and soil carbon storage (SCS) were significantly higher by 0.98 g/kg, 17.07%, and 14.20%, respectively, under reduced tillage with 60% straw incorporation (RTsi₆₀) compared with all other treatments. Our findings demonstrate that the incorporated wheat residues resulted in the highest rice production (7.95–8.63 t/ha) under RTsi₆₀. We recommend the adoption of reduced tillage with 60% straw incorporation to increase rice yield, improve soil structure, and enhance TN, SOM, and SCS in paddy soil under rice-wheat rotation fields for agricultural sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Agriculture)

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22 pages, 9091 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Sustainable Industry-Environment Model for the Identification of Urban Environmental Risk to Confront Air Pollution in Beijing, China

by Guilin Gao¹, Xueting Zeng^2,*, Chunjiang An³ and Lei Yu⁴

¹ School of Law, Capital University of Economics and Business, Beijing 100072, China

² School of Labor Economics, Capital University of Economics and Business, Beijing 100072, China

³ Department of Building, Civil and Environment Engineering, Concordia University, Montreal, QC H3G 1M8, Canada

⁴ MOE Key Laboratory of Regional Energy Systems Optimization, Sino-Canada Energy and Environmental Research Center, North China Electirc Power University, Beijing 102206, China, yulei1060220069@sina.com

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 962; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040962 - 26 Mar 2018

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3897

Abstract

In this study, an optimized industry-environment model is proposed for identifying environmental risk under uncertainties. The strategy associated with an emission-permit trading mechanism has been introduced into the industrial-environment regulation (model) for remitting the pressures of frequent/severe haze events in Beijing City. A [...] Read more.

In this study, an optimized industry-environment model is proposed for identifying environmental risk under uncertainties. The strategy associated with an emission-permit trading mechanism has been introduced into the industrial-environment regulation (model) for remitting the pressures of frequent/severe haze events in Beijing City. A dual stochastic mixed fuzzy risk analysis method with Laplace’s criterion (DSFRL) can be embedded into industry-environment issues with a trading emission-permit trading mechanism (IEST) for handling uncertainties regarded as possibility and probability distributions. Meanwhile, this can also reflect the environmental risks and corresponding system benefits due to the occurrence of a random event (such as random wind velocity). Based on the application of the proposed IEST with DSFRL, the numbers of the obtained results associated with production reduction, adjustment of industrial layout pattern, emission-permit transactions, pollutant mitigation and system benefits under various Laplace criterion cases can be analyzed. A tradeoff between production development and pollution mitigation based on the preference of policymakers can be used for rectifying current strategies with a sustainable mode, which can prompt an effort to confront air pollution Full article

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14 pages, 2343 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Co-Development of Supply Chain in the BOP Markets

by Tsai Chi Kuo^1,*

, Wei-Jung Shiang¹, Jessica Hanafi²

and Sz Ying Chen¹

¹ Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Chung Yuan Christian University, Taoyuan City 32023, Taiwan

² Department Industrial Engineering, Universitas Pelita Harapan, Lippo Karawaci, Tangerang, Banten 15811, Indonesia

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 963; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040963 - 26 Mar 2018

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4007

Abstract

The challenge for enterprises to enter the market in the bottom of the pyramid (BOP) segment is to revise their supply chain design. This article compiles the cases that demonstrate how enterprises can successfully enter BOP markets. Factors are extracted and analyzed according [...] Read more.

The challenge for enterprises to enter the market in the bottom of the pyramid (BOP) segment is to revise their supply chain design. This article compiles the cases that demonstrate how enterprises can successfully enter BOP markets. Factors are extracted and analyzed according to the stages of the value chain and the supply chain. Furthermore, the Importance—Performance Analysis (IPA) is used to explore the gap and the opportunities for improvement. Also, the multinational enterprises (MNEs) in Taiwan and local manufacturers in Indonesia are compared for their suitability to the different business strategies. Results of these analyses could serve as a gap analysis tool for decision-making and business strategies entering the BOP market. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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13 pages, 258 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Proactive Corporate Environmental Responsibility and Financial Performance: Evidence from Chinese Energy Enterprises

by Ying Jiang^1,2, Xiaolong Xue^1,3,* and Weirui Xue³

¹ School of Management, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, China

² School of Economics, Heilongjiang University of Science and Technology, Harbin 150022, China

³ School of Management, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 964; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040964 - 26 Mar 2018

Cited by 57 | Viewed by 6678

Abstract

With increasing concerns about environmental issues and the advancement of China’s “going global” strategy, a new issue-proactive corporate social responsibility has emerged. Proactive corporate environmental responsibility refers to business actions that go beyond regulatory requirements for supporting sustainable environmental development. This study examines [...] Read more.

With increasing concerns about environmental issues and the advancement of China’s “going global” strategy, a new issue-proactive corporate social responsibility has emerged. Proactive corporate environmental responsibility refers to business actions that go beyond regulatory requirements for supporting sustainable environmental development. This study examines the role of proactive corporate environmental responsibility on corporate financial performance in the Chinese energy industry by the multi-variables regression analysis of panel data. Using data of 264 firm-year observations from 2009–2014 in the energy industry, the results showed that Proactive corporate environmental responsibility has a positive effect on corporate financial performance passing the endogeneity test. The results also demonstrate that private ownership has stronger promotion on the relationship between proactive corporate environmental responsibility and corporate financial performance. This study helps to increase the body of knowledge about proactive corporate environmental responsibility of the emerging economy, provides insights into the corporate environmental responsibility practice, and government environmental regulation and policy. Full article

25 pages, 539 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Natural Resources Curse in the Long Run? Bolivia, Chile and Peru in the Nordic Countries’ Mirror

by Cristián Ducoing^1,*,†

, José Peres-Cajías^2,†

, Marc Badia-Miró³

, Ann-Kristin Bergquist⁴, Carlos Contreras⁵, Kristin Ranestad^1,6 and Sara Torregrosa¹

¹ Department of Economic History, Lund University, 221 00 Lund, Sweden

² School of Production and Competitiveness, Bolivian Catholic University “San Pablo”, Avenue 14 de Septiembre Number 2, La Paz 4807, Bolivia

³ Department of Economic History, Institutions, Policy and World Economy, University of Barcelona, 08034 Barcelona, Spain

⁴ Department of Geography and Economic History, Umeå University, 901 87 Umeå, Sweden

⁵ Department of Economics, Catholic University of Perú, Av. Universitaria 1801, San Miguel, Lima 15081, Peru

⁶ Department of Archaeology, Conservation and History, University of Oslo, 0851 Oslo, Norway

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 965; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040965 - 26 Mar 2018

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 12702

Abstract

The new estimates of the Maddison Project show that GDP per capita ratio at purchasing power parity (ppp) between Bolivia and Finland has changed from 0.68 ca. 1850 to 0.16 in 2015; similarly, that between Chile and Norway from 0.65 to 0.28. The [...] Read more.

The new estimates of the Maddison Project show that GDP per capita ratio at purchasing power parity (ppp) between Bolivia and Finland has changed from 0.68 ca. 1850 to 0.16 in 2015; similarly, that between Chile and Norway from 0.65 to 0.28. The aim of this article is to present a review of the literature and available quantitative evidence to understand how these extreme differences became possible between countries with similarly enormous natural resource endowments. Specifically, the article seeks to: (a) identify some stylized facts that may help understand the divergence between Andean and Nordic countries; (b) identify key historical processes that explain the divergent effect of natural resource abundance in Andean and Nordic economies. In order to achieve these objectives, four topics are covered: GDPpc, population, trade and taxation. The analysis comprises three Nordic countries (Finland, Norway and Sweden) and three Andean countries (Bolivia, Chile and Peru) from the mid-Nineteenth Century to present day. The sample size, time span covered and thematic approach provide new evidence regarding previous work. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Resources Economics)

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29 pages, 8474 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Portrayals in Print: Media Depictions of the Informal Sector’s Involvement in Managing E-Waste in India

by Verena Radulovic^†

¹ Independent Researcher, Washington, DC 20460, USA

^† The author is employed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20460, USA. The views expressed in this paper are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 966; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040966 - 26 Mar 2018

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 5595

Abstract

For over a decade, media stories have exposed health and environmental harm caused by informal electronics recycling in less industrialized countries. Greater awareness of these risks helped inform regulations across the globe and the development of recycling standards. Yet, media depictions also shape [...] Read more.

For over a decade, media stories have exposed health and environmental harm caused by informal electronics recycling in less industrialized countries. Greater awareness of these risks helped inform regulations across the globe and the development of recycling standards. Yet, media depictions also shape public perceptions of informal workers and their role in handling electronic waste, or e-waste. This paper examines how mainstream print media describes the informal sector’s involvement in handling e-waste in India, especially as policymakers and other stakeholders currently grapple with how to integrate informal workers into formal, more transparent e-waste management schemes. This study evaluates depictions of the informal sector in print articles from both non-Indian and Indian news media outlets, employing controversy mapping principles and digital research tools. Findings may help inform stakeholder agendas seeking to influence public awareness on how to integrate informal workers into viable e-waste management solutions. Subsequent research based on these results could also help stakeholders understand the actors and networks that shape such media depictions. Results from the dataset show that most news articles describe informal workers negatively or problematically due to activities causing health risks and environmental damage, but usually do not discern which activities in the value chain (e.g., collection, dismantling, metals extraction) represent the greatest risks. Comparatively fewer articles portray informal workers positively or as contributing to e-waste solutions. Most articles also do not explain challenges that arise when working with informal workers. As such, media depictions today often lag behind policy debates and obscure multiple facets—good and bad—of the informal sector’s involvement in managing e-waste. Thus, an opportunity exists for policymakers, manufacturers, and advocacy groups to bridge the gap between current media representations of informal workers’ involvement in e-waste management and policy recommendations surrounding their role. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Waste, Space, and Place)

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22 pages, 1620 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Bi-Objective Green Closed Loop Supply Chain Design Problem with Uncertain Demand

by Ming Liu¹

, Rongfan Liu¹, Zhanguo Zhu^2,*, Chengbin Chu^1,3 and Xiaoyi Man⁴

¹ School of Economics and Management, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China

² College of Economics and Management, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China

³ Laboratoire Génie Industriel, Centrale Supélec, Uniersité Paris-Saclay, Grande Voie des Vignes, 92290 Châtenay-Malabry, France

⁴ Glorious Sun School of Business and Management, Donghua University, Shanghai 200051, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 967; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040967 - 26 Mar 2018

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 3697

Abstract

With the development of e-commerce, competition among enterprises is becoming fiercer. Furthermore, environmental problems can no longer be ignored. To address these challenges, we devise a green closed loop supply chain (GCLSC) with uncertain demand. In the problem, two conflict objectives and recycling [...] Read more.

With the development of e-commerce, competition among enterprises is becoming fiercer. Furthermore, environmental problems can no longer be ignored. To address these challenges, we devise a green closed loop supply chain (GCLSC) with uncertain demand. In the problem, two conflict objectives and recycling the used products are considered. To solve this problem, a mathematical model is formulated with the chance constraint, and the

ϵ

-constraint method is adapted to obtain the true Pareto front for small sized problems. For larger sized problems, the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm (NSGA-II) and the multi-objective simulated annealing method (MOSA) are developed. Numerous computational experiments can help manufacturers make better production and sales plans to keep competitive advantage and protect the environment. Full article

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15 pages, 254 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Business Sustainability: How Does Tourism Compare?

by Char-lee Moyle^1,*

, Brent Moyle², Lisa Ruhanen³, Alexandra Bec² and Betty Weiler⁴

¹ Australian Centre for Entrepreneurship, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane 4000, Australia

² USC Business School, Faculty of Arts, Business and Law, University of the Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs 4556, Australia

³ UQ Business School, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia

⁴ School of Business and Tourism, Southern Cross University, Coolangatta 4225, Australia

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 968; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040968 - 26 Mar 2018

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 4576

Abstract

This study aims to empirically compare the adoption of business sustainability amongst 291 randomly-selected tourism and non-tourism businesses in New South Wales, Australia. Tourism businesses were found to be more committed to environmentally-sustainable practices than other types of businesses with there being a [...] Read more.

This study aims to empirically compare the adoption of business sustainability amongst 291 randomly-selected tourism and non-tourism businesses in New South Wales, Australia. Tourism businesses were found to be more committed to environmentally-sustainable practices than other types of businesses with there being a clear correlation with their ability to learn and adapt. This contradicts criticisms in the literature that tourism businesses are slow adopters of sustainability. This study highlights the need for further research into why tourism businesses in New South Wales, Australia, are reporting higher levels of performance in terms of adopting environmental values than other businesses in contradiction to the general perception of tourism businesses in the literature. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges and Opportunities for Sustainable Tourism)

24 pages, 4563 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Renovation of a School Building: Energy Retrofit and Seismic Upgrade in a School Building in Motta Di Livenza

by Tiziano Dalla Mora^*

, Maria Pinamonti, Lorenzo Teso, Giosuè Boscato, Fabio Peron and Piercarlo Romagnoni

Department of Design and Planning in Complex Environments, University IUAV of Venice, Santa Croce, 191, 30135 Tolentini Venice, Italy

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 969; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040969 - 26 Mar 2018

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 5242

Abstract

The main part of Italian building stock was built before the energy and seismic regulations, so most of buildings need comprehensive refurbishment to achieve the performance required by laws that are in force. This paper presents an experimental study for an energy and [...] Read more.

The main part of Italian building stock was built before the energy and seismic regulations, so most of buildings need comprehensive refurbishment to achieve the performance required by laws that are in force. This paper presents an experimental study for an energy and structural upgrade methodology, applied to an existing school building in the north-east of Italy. The methodology is based on the International Energy Agency–Energy in Buildings and Communities Programme (IEA–EBC) Annex 56 project guidelines. For the energy retrofit, a set of interventions is defined concerning the building envelope and systems. Among these interventions, the optimal cost is identified: this minimizes the energy demand and the CO₂ emissions, and reduces the financial commitment. The analysis of the seismic retrofit is developed using innovative techniques of intervention and high-performance materials. The proposed interventions are evaluated in terms of efficacy and cost. The results show that it is possible to identify a comprehensive energy retrofit at optimal cost, thanks to high energy saving and subsidies. For the seismic retrofit, the intervention with the higher cost-effectiveness ratio is determined, but the related investment does not have a payback time. The union of the two retrofits permits the combination of benefits and has a payback time for both the interventions. It is possible to state that the cost of a combined intervention is lower than the costs of two different interventions; therefore, when a single retrofit is needed, the possibility of a combined intervention should be evaluated. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy and Seismic Renovation Strategies for Sustainable Cities)

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9 pages, 558 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Update of the INPRO Methodology in the Area of Waste Management

by Jon Rowan Phillips^1,*, Andriy Korinny^2,*, Frank Depisch³ and Zoran Drace⁴

¹ International Atomic Energy Agency, Wagramer Strasse 5, P.O. Box 100, 1400 Vienna, Austria

² Independent Consultant, Myru 10, 30100 Netishyn, Ukraine

³ Independent Consultant, Enggleis, 91058 Erlangen, Germany

⁴ Independent Consultant, Fleischnmarkt 26, 1010 Vienna, Austria

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 970; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040970 - 27 Mar 2018

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3677

Abstract

Judgment on the sustainable development of energy systems, including nuclear, should be based on the results of thorough, comprehensive, and unbiased assessment. To minimize the influence of human factors on assessment results, a systematic methodological approach for the evaluation of the sustainability of [...] Read more.

Judgment on the sustainable development of energy systems, including nuclear, should be based on the results of thorough, comprehensive, and unbiased assessment. To minimize the influence of human factors on assessment results, a systematic methodological approach for the evaluation of the sustainability of nuclear energy systems has been developed in the IAEA INPRO section based on the experience acquired in different countries. The methodology comprises several areas of a nuclear energy system (NES) assessment including the area of waste management. In this area it defines three major issues relevant to sustainability and the nine corresponding criteria to be used as assessment tools. Assessment of sustainability in the area of waste management is a part of the holistic system assessment to be performed to make reasonable judgments on sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nuclear Waste Management and Sustainability of Nuclear Systems)

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10 pages, 32688 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Physical Forcing-Driven Productivity and Sediment Flux to the Deep Basin of Northern South China Sea: A Decadal Time Series Study

by Hon-Kit Lui^1,2,*

, Kuang-Yu Chen^1,3, Chen-Tung Arthur Chen², Bo-Shian Wang¹

, Hui-Ling Lin^1,2, Shih-Hu Ho¹, Chiung-Jung Tseng¹, Yih Yang¹ and Jui-Wen Chan¹

¹ Taiwan Ocean Research Institute, National Applied Research Laboratories, Kaohsiung 80143, Taiwan

² Department of Oceanography, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung 80424, Taiwan

³ Geosat Aerospace and Technology Inc., Tainan 701, Taiwan

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 971; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040971 - 27 Mar 2018

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 6607

Abstract

Understanding the driving forces of absorption of anthropogenic CO₂ by the oceans is critical for a sustainable ocean carbon cycle. Decadal sinking particle flux data collected at 1000 m, 2000 m, and 3500 m at the South East Asia Time Series Study [...] Read more.

Understanding the driving forces of absorption of anthropogenic CO₂ by the oceans is critical for a sustainable ocean carbon cycle. Decadal sinking particle flux data collected at 1000 m, 2000 m, and 3500 m at the South East Asia Time Series Study (SEATS) Station (18° N, 116° E), which was located in the northern South China Sea (nSCS), show that the fluxes undergo strong seasonal and interannual variability. Changes in the flux data are correlated with the satellite-derived chlorophyll-a concentration, indicating that the mass fluxes of the sinking particles are largely controlled by the export production at or near the SEATS station. The cooling of seawater and the strengthening of wind in winter increase the nutrient inventories in the euphotic zone, thus also increasing export production in the nSCS. This study reveals that the intrusion of low-nutrient seawater from the West Philippine Sea into the nSCS significantly reduces the productivity, and hence the flux, of sinking particles. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Carbon Cycles)

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18 pages, 2060 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Identification and Prioritisation of Risk Factors in R&D Projects Based on an R&D Process Model

by Junseok Shin¹, Sungjoo Lee² and Byungun Yoon^3,*

¹ Department of Systems Management Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University, 2066, Seobu-ro, Jangan-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do 16419, Korea

² Department of Industrial Engineering, School of Engineering, Ajou University, Woncheon-dong, Yeongtong-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi-do 16499, Korea

³ Department of Industrial & Systems Engineering, School of Engineering, Dongguk University, 30, Pil-dong-ro, Chung-gu, Seoul 04620, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 972; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040972 - 27 Mar 2018

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 7137

Abstract

Although the importance of risk management and failure management has been emphasized in many organizations for sustainable development, most of the related studies have dealt with manufacturing or service processes, rather than R&D processes. Since R&D projects have high uncertainty in schedule and [...] Read more.

Although the importance of risk management and failure management has been emphasized in many organizations for sustainable development, most of the related studies have dealt with manufacturing or service processes, rather than R&D processes. Since R&D projects have high uncertainty in schedule and the quality of output, more attention should be paid to manage the risks of R&D activities. Thus, this paper proposes a systemic approach to performing R&D failure and risk management in the R&D process. To these ends, failure mode and effect analysis (FMEA) is employed, and is modified to meet the specific features of R&D activities with a stage-gate model that can identify the failure modes in each stage of the R&D process model. In addition, a process to prioritize the risks of R&D failure is suggested to support a decision-making process in R&D management, by applying the decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL). The proposed approach is applied to a case of R&D process of a software development company, in order to illustrate its validity. This paper can help R&D managers to identify and cope with the risks in the R&D process by employing a systematic method. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Urban and Rural Development)

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14 pages, 1272 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Advertising Campaigns on Social Media Networks

by Jurgita Raudeliūnienė

, Vida Davidavičienė

, Manuela Tvaronavičienė^*

and Laimonas Jonuška

Department of Business Technologies and Entrepreneurship, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, 10221 Vilnius, Lithuania

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 973; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040973 - 27 Mar 2018

Cited by 43 | Viewed by 30323

Abstract

As the virtual environment is constantly changing, not only users’ informational and knowledge needs but also the means and channels of communication with customers applied by organizations change. There is a noticeable trend to move more and more advertising campaigns to social media [...] Read more.

As the virtual environment is constantly changing, not only users’ informational and knowledge needs but also the means and channels of communication with customers applied by organizations change. There is a noticeable trend to move more and more advertising campaigns to social media networks because of the opportunities they provide to organizations and users, which results in the ever-increasing popularity of social media networks and a number of their users. Such a transition is explained by one of the main objectives organizations have: to inform their customers in an appropriate way and receive feedback on social media networks, which is difficult when traditional advertising channels and means are applied. Since advertising campaigns on social media networks are evolving rapidly, their assessment factors and methods, which receive controversial opinions in both scientific literature and practice, change too. Researchers assess and interpret the factors that influence the effectiveness of advertising campaigns on social media networks differently. Thus, a problem arises: how should we evaluate which approach is more capable of accurately and fully reflecting and conveying reality? In this research, this problem is studied by connecting approaches of different researchers. These approaches are linked to the effectiveness assessment of advertising campaigns on social media network aspects. To achieve the objective of this study, such research methods as analysis of scientific literature, multiple criteria and expert assessment (a structured survey and an interview) were applied. During the study, out of 39 primary assessment factors, eight primary factors that influence the effectiveness of advertising campaigns on social media networks were identified: sales, content reach, traffic to website, impressions, frequency, relevance score, leads and audience growth. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in E-Business)

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8 pages, 6857 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Leveraging Sustainable Irrigated Agriculture via Desalination: Evidence from a Macro-Data Case Study in Israel

by Eran Raveh¹ and Alon Ben-Gal^2,*

¹ Department of Fruit Trees, Institute of Plant Science, Agricultural Research Organization, Gilat Research Center, Mobile Post Negev 85280, Israel

² Department of Environmental Physics and Irrigation, Institute of Soil, Water and Environmental Sciences, Agricultural Research Organization, Gilat Research Center, Mobile Post Negev 85280, Israel

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 974; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040974 - 27 Mar 2018

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 6449

Abstract

Israel has been a global frontrunner in (a) irrigation water application efficiency; (b) utilization of non-conventional (recycled and brackish) water supplies containing salts for irrigation; and recently (c) large-scale seawater desalination to provide water. Irrigation with water high in salts in many dry [...] Read more.

Israel has been a global frontrunner in (a) irrigation water application efficiency; (b) utilization of non-conventional (recycled and brackish) water supplies containing salts for irrigation; and recently (c) large-scale seawater desalination to provide water. Irrigation with water high in salts in many dry regions has been shown to be non-sustainable, mostly due to contamination of soils, subsoils, and groundwater resulting from the application and leaching of salts. We hypothesized that the move to desalination would reverse prior problematic trends of salinization and provide a path to sustainable irrigated agriculture in Israel and similar environments. To investigate effects of desalination in Israel on the status of salinity trends, we evaluated citrus leaf sodium, chloride, and magnesium in the years since the onset of large-scale national desalination in 2008 and examined fresh produce in the country for sodium and magnesium. We found remarkable reversal of previous trends until 2006, when salinity was found to rise consistently, in the recent data showing decreases of 20, 34, and 30% for Na, Cl, and Mg, respectively. A tendency for Israeli produce to be high in concentrations of salts compared to international standards was also reversed following large-scale desalination. Sodium in Israeli fresh produce is no longer much higher than that expected in equivalent sources in the USA while magnesium is lower in Israel fruits and vegetables compared to USDA standards. We present these results and trends to support the argument that desalination can allow and promote sustainable irrigated agriculture in the world’s dry areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agriculture: The State of the Great Debates)

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23 pages, 48505 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spatial Evolution of Producer Service Sectors and Its Influencing Factors in Cities: A Case Study of Hangzhou, China

by Yizhou Wu¹, Peilei Fan² and Heyuan You^3,*

¹ Department of Urban Planning, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310058, China

² School of Planning, Design, and Construction & Center of Global Change and Earth Observation, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA

³ School of Public Administration, Zhejiang University of Finance and Economics, Hangzhou 310018, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 975; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040975 - 27 Mar 2018

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 6058

Abstract

Producer service industries are an important feature in the current development of a metropolis. Researchers from different countries are increasingly concerned about location changes and the motives of producer service sectors in cities. Given the rapid development of producer service sectors in developing [...] Read more.

Producer service industries are an important feature in the current development of a metropolis. Researchers from different countries are increasingly concerned about location changes and the motives of producer service sectors in cities. Given the rapid development of producer service sectors in developing countries, this study examines changes in the distribution of producer service sectors over the past decade and factors influencing them in a case study using the city of Hangzhou in China. Results show that Hangzhou’s producer service sector is still mainly concentrated in the central business district (CBD). However, a distinct trend of diffusion to suburban areas was observed, which formed several secondary clusters on the periphery of the city. Locations of the CBD, sub-centers, and professional clusters of producer service sectors established by the government are the most important factors that affect the spatial distribution of producer service sectors. The main influencing factors for the spatial evolution of producer service sectors are: (1) the high development cost and residential suburbanization of the central areas of the city promote the development of producer service sectors toward the periphery; (2) city planning has guided the clustering of producer service sectors on the city’s CBD and secondary city centers; (3) city renewal has provided personalized and diversified development space for producer service sectors; (4) incentive policies introduced by the government, such as rentals, and taxes have enhanced the orderly aggregation of producer service sectors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Smart Cities and Smart Villages Research)

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18 pages, 1716 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Bio-Based Economy: Dynamics Governing Transition Pathways in the Swedish Forestry Sector

by Therese Bennich^1,*, Salim Belyazid¹, Birgit Kopainsky²

and Arnaud Diemer³

¹ Department of Physical Geography, Stockholm University, SE-106 91 Stockholm, Sweden

² System Dynamics Group, Department of Geography, University of Bergen, Postboks 7802, NO-5020 Bergen, Norway

³ Center for Studies and Research on Internal Development (CERDI), University of Clermont-Auvergne, FR-320, 63009 Clermont-Ferrand, France

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 976; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040976 - 27 Mar 2018

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 6277

Abstract

A transition to a bio-based economy would entail change in coupled social–ecological systems. These systems are characterised by complexity, giving rise to potential unintended consequences and trade-offs caused by actions aiming to facilitate a transition process. Yet, many of the analyses to date [...] Read more.

A transition to a bio-based economy would entail change in coupled social–ecological systems. These systems are characterised by complexity, giving rise to potential unintended consequences and trade-offs caused by actions aiming to facilitate a transition process. Yet, many of the analyses to date have been focusing on single and predominantly technological aspects of the bio-based economy. The main contribution of our work is to the development of an integrated understanding of potential future transition pathways, with the present paper focusing specifically on terrestrial biological resources derived from the forestry sector in Sweden. Desired change processes identified include a transition to diversified forest management, a structural change in the forestry industry to enable high-value added production, and increased political support for the bio-based economy concept. Hindrances identified include the ability to demonstrate added values for end consumers of novel biomass applications, and uncertainty linked to a perceived high level of polarisation in the forestry debate. The results outline how these different processes are interrelated, allowing for the identification of high order leverage points and interventions to facilitate a transition to a bio-based economy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability Transition Towards a Bio-Based Economy: New Technologies, New Products, New Policies)

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13 pages, 64347 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spatial Pattern and Regional Relevance Analysis of the Maritime Silk Road Shipping Network

by Naixia Mou^1,2, Caixia Liu^1,*

, Lingxian Zhang¹, Xin Fu^3,*, Yichun Xie⁴

, Yong Li⁵ and Peng Peng²

¹ College of Geomatics, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266590, China

² State Key Laboratory of Resources and Environmental Information System, Geographical Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China

³ School of Resources and Environment, University of Jinan, Jinan 250022, China

⁴ Institute for Geospatial Research and Education, Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, MI 48197, USA

⁵ Guangzhou Institute of Geography, Guangzhou 510070, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 977; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040977 - 27 Mar 2018

Cited by 48 | Viewed by 8051

Abstract

Under the strategy of “One Belt and One Road”, this paper explores the spatial pattern and the status quo of regional trade relevance of the Maritime Silk Road shipping network. Based on complex network theory, a topological structure map of shipping networks for [...] Read more.

Under the strategy of “One Belt and One Road”, this paper explores the spatial pattern and the status quo of regional trade relevance of the Maritime Silk Road shipping network. Based on complex network theory, a topological structure map of shipping networks for containers, tankers, and bulk carriers was constructed, and the spatial characteristics of shipping networks were analyzed. Using the mode of spatial arrangement and the Herfindahl–Hirschman Index, this paper further analyzes the traffic flow pattern of regional trade of three kinds of goods. It is shown that the shipping network of containers, tankers and bulk carriers are unevenly distributed and have regional agglomeration phenomena. There is a strong correlation between the interior of the region and the adjacent areas, and the port competition is fierce. Among them, the container ships network is the most competitive in the region, while the competitiveness of the tankers network is relatively the lowest. The inter-regional correlation is weak, and a few transit hub ports have obvious competitive advantages. The ports in Northeast Asia and Southeast Asia are the most significant. The research results combined with the Maritime Silk Road policy can provide reference for port construction, route optimization, and coordinated development of regional trade, which will help to save time and cost of marine transportation, reduce energy consumption, and promote the sustainable development of marine environment and regional trade on the Maritime Silk Road. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Methodological Advances in Research on Sustainable Ecosystems)

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12 pages, 1049 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Moving to a Low-Carbon Economy in China: Decoupling and Decomposition Analysis of Emission and Economy from a Sector Perspective

by Rui Jiang¹, Yulin Zhou¹ and Rongrong Li^1,2,*

¹ School of Economic and Management, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao 266580, China

² School of Management & Economics, Beijing Institute of Technology, Haidian District, Beijing 100081, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 978; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040978 - 27 Mar 2018

Cited by 52 | Viewed by 4435

Abstract

Understanding decoupling China’s emissions from the economy and identifying the drivers of emissions at a sector perspective can facilitate China’s move to a low-carbon economy that makes economic growth compatible with carbon reduction. This study combined decoupling and decomposition econometric techniques to quantify [...] Read more.

Understanding decoupling China’s emissions from the economy and identifying the drivers of emissions at a sector perspective can facilitate China’s move to a low-carbon economy that makes economic growth compatible with carbon reduction. This study combined decoupling and decomposition econometric techniques to quantify both the decoupling effects and the driving elements of carbon emissions in China’s six major sectors. The study found that the leading source of all carbon emissions in China come from the industrial sector, followed by the ‘Other’ sectors and the Transport sector. Further, the decoupling status in those sectors differed: Construction (weak decoupling), other (weak decoupling), Trade (weak decoupling), Industry (weak decoupling), Transport (expansive coupling) and Agriculture (expansive negative decoupling). Finally, the economic output effect becomes the major contributor for carbon emissions among these six sectors, followed by the energy intensity effect. However, the energy structure effect and carbon coefficient effect are both weak. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Energy Sustainability)

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16 pages, 14780 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Implementation of PEF Treatment at Real-Scale Tomatoes Processing Considering LCA Methodology as an Innovation Strategy in the Agri-Food Sector

by Álvaro J. Arnal¹, Patricia Royo¹

, Gianpiero Pataro², Giovanna Ferrari^2,3, Víctor J. Ferreira^1,*

, Ana M. López-Sabirón^1,*

and Germán A. Ferreira^1,*

¹ Research Centre for Energy Resources and Consumption (CIRCE), CIRCE Building-Campus Río Ebro, Mariano Esquillor Gómez, 15, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain

² Department of Industrial Engineering, University of Salerno, via Giovanni Paolo II, 132, 84084 Fisciano (SA), Italy

³ ProdAl Scarl, University of Salerno, via Ponte don Melillo, 84084 Fisciano (SA), Italy

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 979; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040979 - 27 Mar 2018

Cited by 57 | Viewed by 7919

Abstract

In Europe, science and innovation are boosting the agri-food sector and, in parallel, are helping to decrease greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) and European dependency on non-renewable resources. Currently, it is well-known that this sector contributes to the consumption of energy and material resources, [...] Read more.

In Europe, science and innovation are boosting the agri-food sector and, in parallel, are helping to decrease greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) and European dependency on non-renewable resources. Currently, it is well-known that this sector contributes to the consumption of energy and material resources, causing significant environmental impacts that require a complex and comprehensive environmental evaluation in order to manage them effectively. This becomes even more complicated when new technologies are reaching the level of technological maturity needed to be installed in the production lines. To address this scientific challenge, the life cycle assessment (LCA) has been used in this paper to evaluate the potential of pulsed electric fields (PEF) technology at an industrial scale to facilitate the steam peeling of tomato fruits. Considering the thermo-physical peeling stage, the LCA has shown that PEF technology is environmentally friendly, because when PEF technology is applied, all the considered environmental indicators improve between 17% and 20%. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Food Innovation)

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28 pages, 6730 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Addressing Complex Societal Problems: Enabling Multiple Dimensions of Proximity to Sustain Partnerships for Collective Impact in Quebec

by Nii A. Addy^* and Laurette Dubé

McGill Centre for the Convergence of Health and Economics (MCCHE), Desautels Faculty of Management, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 1G5, Canada

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 980; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040980 - 27 Mar 2018

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 6140

Abstract

Sustainable solutions for complex societal problems, like poverty, require informing stakeholders about progress and changes needed as they collaborate. Yet, inter-organizational collaboration researchers highlight monumental challenges in measuring seemingly intangible factors during collective impact processes. We grapple with the question: How can decision-makers [...] Read more.

Sustainable solutions for complex societal problems, like poverty, require informing stakeholders about progress and changes needed as they collaborate. Yet, inter-organizational collaboration researchers highlight monumental challenges in measuring seemingly intangible factors during collective impact processes. We grapple with the question: How can decision-makers coherently conceptualize and measure seemingly intangible factors to sustain partnerships for the emergence of collective impact? We conducted an inductive process case study to address this question, analyzing data from documents, observations, and interviews of 24 philanthropy leaders and multiple stakeholders in a decades-long partnership involving Canada’s largest private family foundation, government and community networks, and during which a “collective impact project” emerged in Quebec Province, Canada. The multidimensional proximity framework provided an analytical lens. During the first phase of the partnership studied, there was a lack of baseline measurement of largely qualitative factors—conceptualized as cognitive, social, and institutional proximity between stakeholders—which evaluations suggested were important for explaining which community networks successfully brought about desired outcomes. Non-measurement of these factors was a problem in providing evidence for sustained engagement of stakeholders, such as government and local businesses. We develop a multidimensional proximity model that coherently conceptualizes qualitative proximity factors, for measuring their change over time. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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27 pages, 18337 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Initial Provincial Allocation and Equity Evaluation of China’s Carbon Emission Rights—Based on the Improved TOPSIS Method

by Yong Wang^1,2,*

, Han Zhao¹, Fumei Duan¹ and Ying Wang¹

¹ School of Statistics, Dongbei University of Finance and Economics, Dalian 116025, China

² Postdoctoral Research Station, Dongbei University of Finance and Economics, Dalian 116025, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 982; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040982 - 27 Mar 2018

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 7909

Abstract

As the world’s largest carbon emitter, China considers carbon emissions trading to be an important measure in its national strategy for energy conservation and emissions reduction. The initial allocation of China’s carbon emissions rights at the provincial level is a core issue of [...] Read more.

As the world’s largest carbon emitter, China considers carbon emissions trading to be an important measure in its national strategy for energy conservation and emissions reduction. The initial allocation of China’s carbon emissions rights at the provincial level is a core issue of carbon emissions trading. A scientific and reasonable distinction between the carbon emission rights of provinces is crucial for China to achieve emissions reduction targets. Based on the idea of multi-objective decision-making, this paper uses the improved Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to an Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method to allocate China’s initial carbon emission rights to the provinces and uses the Gini coefficient sub-group decomposition method to evaluate the fairness of the allocation results. First, the results of a theoretical distribution show that in the initial allocation of carbon emission rights, a large proportion of China’s provinces have large populations and high energy use, such as Shandong Province, Jiangsu Province, Hebei Province and Henan Province; the provinces with a small proportion of the initial allocation of carbon emissions consist of two municipalities, Beijing and Shanghai, as well as Hainan Province, which is dominated by tourism. Overall, the initial allocation of carbon emission rights in the northern and eastern regions constituted the largest proportion, with the south-central region and the northwest region being the second largest and the southwest region being the smallest. Second, the difference between the theoretical allocation and the actual allocation of carbon emission rights in China was clear. The energy consumption of large provinces and provinces dominated by industry generally had a negative difference (the theoretical allocation of carbon emissions was less than the actual value), while Qinghai, dominated by agriculture and animal husbandry, showed a positive balance (the theoretical allocation of carbon emissions was greater than the actual value). Third, the results based on the Gini coefficient showed that the carbon emission right allocation scheme proposed by the Topsis model in this paper has good fairness. Fourth, the economic development structure, technological innovation level, carbon emissions and other indicators have certain impacts on the fairness of the initial allocation of carbon emission rights. Finally, this paper offers some suggestions on energy conservation and emissions reduction in China, taking four aspects into account: regional disparities, technological innovation, industrial structure and the initial allocation of carbon emission rights. This paper could be helpful to provide a reference for the rational allocation of China’s carbon emission right. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Energy Sustainability)

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17 pages, 5998 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Life Cycle Assessment of a Highly Diverse Vegetable Multi-Cropping System in Fengqiu County, China

by Li Li^1,2,3

, Wenliang Wu¹, Paul Giller², John O’Halloran², Long Liang¹, Peng Peng¹ and Guishen Zhao^1,*

¹ College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China

² School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University College Cork, Distillery Fields, North Mall, T23 N73K Cork, Ireland

³ International Ecosystem Management Partnership, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100102, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 983; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040983 - 27 Mar 2018

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 5495

Abstract

Agricultural biodiversity usually leads to greater sustainability in production practices. To understand the environmental implications of the development of village-level multi-cropping in rural China, we compared the environmental impact of a highly diverse vegetable multi-cropping system to a conventional wheat/maize rotation system based [...] Read more.

Agricultural biodiversity usually leads to greater sustainability in production practices. To understand the environmental implications of the development of village-level multi-cropping in rural China, we compared the environmental impact of a highly diverse vegetable multi-cropping system to a conventional wheat/maize rotation system based on the method of life cycle assessment (LCA). Using household level cultivation data, this study examined the gate-to-gate environmental impacts of on-site cultivation practices relating to the production of 10,000 nutrient equivalent units. Results show that vegetable multi-cropping resulted in decreased average land requirement, and diesel, water and electricity usage by 69.8%, 62.2%, 71.7%, and 63.4%, respectively, while average nitrogen (Total N), phosphorus (P₂O₅), and potassium (K₂O) usage in vegetable multi-cropping systems decreased by 16.3%, 42.1%, and 75.8%, respectively. Additional corresponding effects led to a decrease in the total global warming, eutrophication, and acidification potentials from external inputs by 21.6%, 16.7%, and 16.2% of the entire system, respectively. Moreover, the midpoint human toxicity potential from pesticide usage of the vegetable multi-cropping system was lower than that of the conventional system. However, the midpoint eco-toxicity potential from pesticide usage was higher due to certain highly toxic substances, and both human and eco-toxicity potentials from heavy metals were all higher by a few orders of magnitudes. Thus, to mitigate these detrimental consequences, some related measures are proposed for sustainable practices in the future implementation of multi-cropping systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Agroecology: Principles and Application for Efficient and Sustainable Agricultural Production)

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17 pages, 33720 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Seismic Retrofit Measures for Masonry Walls of Historical Buildings, from an Energy Saving Perspective

by Mariangela De Vita^*, Antonio Mannella

, Antonio Sabino and Alessio Marchetti

Construction Technologies Institute CNR, Via G. Carducci 32 C, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 984; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040984 - 27 Mar 2018

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 5117

Abstract

The planning of energy saving and structural retrofit interventions on masonry buildings are usually two separate projects; combined interventions are rare. Solutions tackling both aspects can reduce total refurbishment costs and improve global building performance. However, heavy interventions on the envelope have to [...] Read more.

The planning of energy saving and structural retrofit interventions on masonry buildings are usually two separate projects; combined interventions are rare. Solutions tackling both aspects can reduce total refurbishment costs and improve global building performance. However, heavy interventions on the envelope have to be carefully designed in order to improve both seismic and energy performance whilst mitigating environmental impact. National energy saving regulations are generally less strict for historical buildings, making this category of buildings very interesting not only because of their widespread diffusion across Italy but also because of the possibility of planning interventions that will allow significant improvements by combining building efficiency and safety. This research looks at these aspects and proposes new methods for refurbishing masonry buildings combining seismic improvements and energy saving interventions. Among those mostly commonly applied on masonry buildings in Italy, and described in this paper, are various combined retrofit interventions, and we report the results of these interventions on thermal transmittance reduction and global costs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy and Seismic Renovation Strategies for Sustainable Cities)

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15 pages, 14215 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ecosystem Services Management Based on Differentiation and Regionalization along Vertical Gradient in Taihang Mountain, China

by Hui Gao^1,2,†, Tonggang Fu^1,†, Jintong Liu^1,*, Hongzhu Liang^1,2,3

and Lipu Han¹

¹ Key Laboratory of Agricultural Water Resources, Hebei Laboratory of Agricultural Water-Saving, Center for Agricultural Resources Research, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shijiazhuang 050021, China

² College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shijiazhuang 050021, China

³ College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, China

^† These authors contributed equally to the work.

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 986; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040986 - 27 Mar 2018

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 4248

Abstract

The regulation and management of ecosystem services are fundamental for sustainable development in mountain areas. Although no obvious vertical band spectrum exists in Taihang Mountain region, vertical differentiation of ecological characteristics in the region is obvious. The ecosystem characteristics of vertical differentiation were [...] Read more.

The regulation and management of ecosystem services are fundamental for sustainable development in mountain areas. Although no obvious vertical band spectrum exists in Taihang Mountain region, vertical differentiation of ecological characteristics in the region is obvious. The ecosystem characteristics of vertical differentiation were analyzed using 4 typical ecological indices (land use, temperature, net primary productivity, and water yield). The ecosystem service functional pattern was determined based on analysis of the ecosystem services value per unit area. The 2 ecosystem critical zones of vertical differentiation (500–600 m and 1400–1500 m) were determined. The mountain area was divided into 3 ecological zones—sub-alpine zone (>1500 m), mid-mountain zone (600–1400 m) and hilly zone (<500 m). The ecosystem services functional pattern was as follows: provisioning services was the main ecosystem services function in the hilly zone, 4 ecosystem service functions were equally important in the mid-mountain zone, regulating, supporting and cultural services were the main ecosystem service functions in the sub-alpine zone. The model of ecosystem service regulation and management in 3 ecological zones was built based on the functional patterns to promote sustainable development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Sustainability and Applications)

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16 pages, 23459 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Importance and Characteristics of Biophilic Design Patterns in a Children’s Library

by Hyo Chang Lee¹ and Sung Jun Park^2,*

¹ Department of Interior Architecture & Built Environment, Yonsei University, Seoul 120-749, Korea

² Department of Architectural Engineering, Keimyung University, Daegu 42601, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 987; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040987 - 27 Mar 2018

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 9905

Abstract

This paper stresses the results of a consciousness survey on the characteristics of biophilic design elements and patterns applied within a children’s library. Biophilic design is a sustainable design strategy that intends to bring about positive change in users by integrating and linking [...] Read more.

This paper stresses the results of a consciousness survey on the characteristics of biophilic design elements and patterns applied within a children’s library. Biophilic design is a sustainable design strategy that intends to bring about positive change in users by integrating and linking people and nature. The aim of this study is to suggest a space design method for children’s libraries, applying several natural elements based on biophilic design patterns. To investigate space design characteristics based on the biophilic design of children’s libraries, we summarized the elements that have been included in patterns of biophilic design in previous studies, and analyzed the characteristics of biophilic design patterns in children’s libraries through case studies. Also, we conducted a questionnaire survey from 261 caregivers of children’s libraries. The conclusions are as follows. First, children’s libraries need to offer an experience of nature, considering a natural ecosystem. Second, children’s libraries need natural shelter space designs and open space designs based on natural elements. Third, children’s libraries need multi-functional space designs that enable reading, rest, gathering, play, performance, and facilitate children of various ages interacting with each other. Fourth, children’s libraries need space designs that can induce interest and experiences by various forms of sensory information created by natural elements. This research intends to find out the priority application method of biophilic design patterns and elements of a children‘s library through a survey of caregivers’ consciousness, and contribute greatly to the potential possibilities of the application of biophilic designs to indoor spaces. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Sustainable Built Environment)

23 pages, 156791 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Neighborhood Unit’s Planning Elements and Configuration Methods in Seoul and Singapore from a Walkability Perspective

by Jeeun Lee

and Sohyun Park^*

Department of Architecture & Architectural Engineering, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul 08826, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 988; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040988 - 27 Mar 2018

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 9302

Abstract

This paper is to explore how the neighborhood-unit concept, which had been initially promoted by North America and the United Kingdom, was adopted and utilized in the Asian cities of high-density developments, such as Seoul and Singapore from a walkability perspective. Among various [...] Read more.

This paper is to explore how the neighborhood-unit concept, which had been initially promoted by North America and the United Kingdom, was adopted and utilized in the Asian cities of high-density developments, such as Seoul and Singapore from a walkability perspective. Among various environmental elements of walkability in a given neighborhood unit, 10 planning elements, as well as their configuration methods, were drawn from the review of the existing studies, which became an analytical framework for this paper. The findings of the analysis are as follows. First, there were similarities, yet also marked distinctions between the cases of Seoul and Singapore, on the one hand, and those in North America and the UK on the other, with respect to the configuration methods, categorized into four groups of typologies: ‘Neighborhood Size’, ‘Neighborhood Structure’, ‘Neighborhood Network’, and ‘Neighborhood Facilities’. The differences largely resulted from the high-density developments in Seoul and Singapore. In the years since the 1990s, however, when the concept of sustainable development was strengthened, the configuration methods, related to ‘Neighborhood Structure’ and to ‘Neighborhood Facilities’ in most cases, were enhanced to suit more neighborhood walking. The initial concept of the neighborhood unit was actively modified to accommodate the high-density urban situations in Seoul and Singapore, having both positive and negative impacts on neighborhood walkability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Urban Innovation Strategies)

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18 pages, 27532 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Reducing Amazon Deforestation through Agricultural Intensification in the Cerrado for Advancing Food Security and Mitigating Climate Change

by Carlos Eduardo Pellegrino Cerri^1,*

, Carlos Clemente Cerri^2,†, Stoécio Malta Ferreira Maia³

, Maurício Roberto Cherubin¹

, Brigitte Josefine Feigl² and Rattan Lal⁴

¹ Department of Soil Science, “Luiz de Queiroz” College of Agriculture, University of São Paulo, 11 Pádua Dias Avenue, Piracicaba 13418-900, SP, Brazil

² Center for Nuclear Energy in Agriculture, University of São Paulo, 303 Centenário Avenue, Piracicaba 13400-970, SP, Brazil

³ Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of Alagoas, Campus Marechal Deodoro, 176 Lourival Alfredo Street, Marechal Deodoro 57160-000, AL, Brazil

⁴ Carbon Management and Sequestration Center, SENR/FAES, The Ohio State University, 422B Kottman Hall, 2021 Coffey Rd, Columbus, OH 43201, USA

^† In memorian.

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 989; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040989 - 27 Mar 2018

Cited by 60 | Viewed by 19227

Abstract

Important among global issues is the trilemma of abrupt climate change, food insecurity, and environmental degradation. Despite the increasing use of fossil fuel, about one third of global C emissions come from tropical deforestation and indiscriminate use of agricultural practices. Global food insecurity, [...] Read more.

Important among global issues is the trilemma of abrupt climate change, food insecurity, and environmental degradation. Despite the increasing use of fossil fuel, about one third of global C emissions come from tropical deforestation and indiscriminate use of agricultural practices. Global food insecurity, affecting one in seven persons, aggravates environmental degradation. The importance of judicious land use and soil sustainability in addressing the trilemma cannot be overemphasized. While intensifying agronomic production on existing land, it is also essential to identify suitable eco-regions for bringing new land under production. Based on 35-years of data from Brazil, we report that C emissions from agroecosystems are 4 to 5.5 times greater by bringing new land under production in Amazon than in the Cerrado for pastures and cropland production, respectively. The data presented indicate that agricultural intensification is feasible in the Cerrado, and the forest in Rondônia and Mato Grosso states must be protected and restored for nature conservancy. Now is the time to think beyond COP 21—Paris 2015 and take concrete actions to address these issues of global significance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Land-Use Competition)

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22 pages, 2456 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Can Legislation Promote a Circular Economy? A Material Flow-Based Evaluation of the Circular Degree of the Chinese Economy

by Yuan Hu^1,*, Xuan He² and Mark Poustie^1,3

¹ School of Law, Shanghai University of Finance and Economics, 777 Guoding Road, Shanghai 200433, China

² School of Public Economics and Administration, Shanghai University of Finance and Economics, 777 Guoding Road, Shanghai 200433, China

³ School of Law, University of Strathclyde, Lord Hope Building, 141 St James Road, Glasgow G4 0RQ, Scotland, UK

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 990; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040990 - 27 Mar 2018

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 5524

Abstract

The circular economy has been widely developed in China and other countries. However, China has been the most proactive country in upgrading its economic model by enacting a Circular Economy Promotion Law (CEPL). Nearly 10 years have passed since the adoption of the [...] Read more.

The circular economy has been widely developed in China and other countries. However, China has been the most proactive country in upgrading its economic model by enacting a Circular Economy Promotion Law (CEPL). Nearly 10 years have passed since the adoption of the CEPL, and it is thus essential to evaluate the progress of circular economy development to see if the targets have been achieved. Although it is extremely difficult to evaluate the role of the CEPL in the development of a circular economy in China, we think that if we can estimate the circular degree of the Chinese economy and identify the changes of some key indicators before and after the adoption of the CEPL, it will be helpful in judging whether the CEPL has played a key role in promoting the transition of the economic development model. Since the existing circular economy indicators and evaluation systems have focused mainly on the recycling of resources, we designed a methodology based on the material flow that can be used to evaluate the circular degree of the whole national economy. Through a detailed observation of the circular economy indicators of China, we conclude that the CEPL has not yet played a significant role in promoting the circular economy as was previously believed. Full article

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14 pages, 4158 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Construction Projects Assessment Based on the Sustainable Development Criteria by an Integrated Fuzzy AHP and Improved GRA Model

by Seyed Morteza Hatefi¹

and Jolanta Tamošaitienė^2,*

¹ Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Shahrekord University, P.O. Box 115, 64165478 Shahrekord, Iran, smhatefi@alumni.ut.ac.ir

² Civil Engineering Faculty, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Saulėtekio al. 11, LT 2040 Vilnius, Lithuania

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 991; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040991 - 27 Mar 2018

Cited by 55 | Viewed by 7096

Abstract

Due to the increasing population and earth pollution, managing construction and infrastructure projects with less damage to the environment and less pollution is very important. Sustainable development aims at reducing damage to the environment, making projects economical, and increasing comfort and social justice. [...] Read more.

Due to the increasing population and earth pollution, managing construction and infrastructure projects with less damage to the environment and less pollution is very important. Sustainable development aims at reducing damage to the environment, making projects economical, and increasing comfort and social justice. This study proposes fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and improved grey relational analysis (GRA) to assess construction projects based on the sustainable development criteria. For doing so, sustainable development criteria are first identified in economic, social, and environmental dimensions using literature review, and are then customized for urban construction projects using experts’ opinions. After designing questionnaires and collecting data, fuzzy AHP is used for determining the importance of sustainable development criteria and their subcriteria. Then, improved GRA is employed for assessing six recreational, commercial, and official centers in Isfahan regarding the weights of criteria and subcriteria. The proposed fuzzy AHP-improved GRA help us to prioritize construction projects based on the sustainable development criteria. The results of applying fuzzy AHP show that the weights of economic, social, and environmental criteria are equal to 0.330, 0.321, and 0.349, respectively, which are close to each other. This means that the importance of all three aspects of sustainability is almost equal to each other. Furthermore, “Having profits for the society”, “Increasing social justice”, and “Adherence to environmental policies” are identified as the most important indicators of sustainable development in terms of economic, social, and environmental aspects, respectively. Finally, the results of employing improved GRA determine Negin Chaharbagh recreational and commercial complex as the best project. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Construction Engineering)

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14 pages, 41272 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spatial Distribution Characteristics of Agritourism Consumption

by Youxue Jiang^* and Shujin Wang^*

College of Economics and Management, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 992; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040992 - 28 Mar 2018

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4250

Abstract

Agritourism is a newly developed type of tourism, which is significant in promoting the sustainable development of rural economies and ecological environments. The spatial distribution of agritourism consumption is an important basis on which to formulate an agritourism development plan. This paper introduces [...] Read more.

Agritourism is a newly developed type of tourism, which is significant in promoting the sustainable development of rural economies and ecological environments. The spatial distribution of agritourism consumption is an important basis on which to formulate an agritourism development plan. This paper introduces the concept of agritourism consumption, which is applied to develop a theoretical model of spatial distribution based on the analogy that the attraction to agritourism by urban residents is similar to the attraction among charges in physics. With this model, the spatial distribution characteristics of agritourism consumption are investigated under the superposition of multifield sources arising from metropolitan regions. The results indicate that the field strength of agritourism consumption is gradually attenuated with spatial distance. The trend that field strength under multifield sources varies with distance is generally similar to that under a single field source, but the decay rate under multifield sources tends to slow down slightly in different directions. Due to the superposition of multifield sources, the spatial distribution of field strength is no longer in a pattern of concentric circles, but an uneven distribution of contour lines. In addition, there is a positive correlation between field strength distribution and the consumption demand of agritourism. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Developing Tourism in Rural and Agricultural Regions)

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15 pages, 4316 KiB

Open AccessArticle

R&D Project Valuation Considering Changes of Economic Environment: A Case of a Pharmaceutical R&D Project

by Jung Ho Park¹ and Kwangsoo Shin^2,*

¹ Technology Management, Economics, and Policy Graduate Program, Seoul National University, Gwanak-ro 1, Gwanak-gu, Seoul 151-742, Korea

² Department of Biomedical Convergence, College of Medicine, Chungbuk National University, Chungdae-ro 1, Seowon-gu, Cheongju-si, Chungbuk 28644, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 993; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040993 - 28 Mar 2018

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4258

Abstract

R&D project valuation is important for effective R&D portfolio management through decision making, related to the firm’s R&D productivity, sustainable management. In particular, scholars have emphasized the necessities of capturing option value in R&D and developed methods of real option valuation. However, despite [...] Read more.

R&D project valuation is important for effective R&D portfolio management through decision making, related to the firm’s R&D productivity, sustainable management. In particular, scholars have emphasized the necessities of capturing option value in R&D and developed methods of real option valuation. However, despite suggesting various real option models, there are few studies on simultaneously employing mean-reverting stochastic process and Markov regime switching to describe the evolution of cash flow and to reflect time-varying parameters resulting from changes of economic environment. Therefore, we suggest a mean-reverting binomial lattice model under Markov regime switching and apply it to evaluate clinical development with project cases of the pharmaceutical industry. This study finds that decision making can be different according to the regime condition, thus the suggested model can capture risks caused by the uncertainty of the economic environment, represented by regime switching. Further, this study simulates the model according to rate parameter from 0.00 to 1.00 and risk-free interest rates for regimes 1 and 2 from (

r_{1}

= 4%,

r_{2}

= 2%) to (

r_{1}

= 7%,

r_{2}

= 5%), and confirms the rigidity of the model. Therefore, in practice, the mean-reverting binomial lattice model under Markov regime switching proposed in this study for R&D project valuation contributes to assisting company R&D project managers make effective decision making considering current economic environment and future changes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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15 pages, 16604 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spatial Spillover Effects of Environmental Pollution in China’s Central Plains Urban Agglomeration

by Lichun Xiong¹, Martin De Jong^2,3, Fengting Wang⁴, Baodong Cheng^1,*

and Chang Yu^1,*

¹ School of Economics and Management, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China

² Faculty of Technology, Policy & Management, Delft University of Technology, Mekelweg 2, 2628 CD Delft, The Netherlands

³ School of International Relations and Public Affairs, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China

⁴ College of Economics and Management, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 994; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040994 - 28 Mar 2018

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 4640

Abstract

Promoting the rise of Central China is one of the most important national strategies regarding the promotion of China’s economic development. However, the environmental issues in the central regions have become remarkably severe. It is therefore worthwhile exploring how economic development and environmental [...] Read more.

Promoting the rise of Central China is one of the most important national strategies regarding the promotion of China’s economic development. However, the environmental issues in the central regions have become remarkably severe. It is therefore worthwhile exploring how economic development and environmental protection can be coordinated. Focusing on the 29 prefecture-level cities in the Central Plains Urban Agglomeration, the authors empirically analyze the relationship between the economy and the environment from 2004 to 2014. The combined methods of the spatial autocorrelation model, the environmental Kuznets curve, and the global spatial correlation test are systematically employed. The results show that: (1) a strong spatial correlation exists between industrial wastewater discharge, industrial sulfur dioxide, and dust emissions in the Central Plains Urban Agglomeration; (2) the relationship between the economy and the environment of this urban agglomeration reveals an inverted “U” curve, which confirms the classical environmental Kuznets curve hypothesis. Industrial dust emissions have surpassed the inflection point of the Kuznets curve, but its spatial spillover effect still remains strong. This is caused by an accumulation effect and a lag effect; (3) the proportion of the secondary industry and population has a strong positive effect on pollution discharge; investments in science and technology have a certain inhibitory effect on industrial sulfur dioxide emission. Moreover, an increase in the number of industrial enterprises has a negative effect on industrial wastewater emission. At the end, the authors put forward policy recommendations regarding the establishment of a joint supervisory department and unified environmental standards at the regional level to deal with the spillover effects of pollution. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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21 pages, 10866 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Knowledge Graph in Smart Education: A Case Study of Entrepreneurship Scientific Publication Management

by Yang Chi¹, Yue Qin¹, Rui Song² and Hao Xu^1,3,4,5,*

¹ College of Computer Science and Technology, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China

² College of Software Engineering, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China

³ School of Management, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China

⁴ Department of Computer Science and Technology, Zhuhai College of Jilin University, Zhuhai 519041, China

⁵ Symbol Computation and Knowledge Engineer of Ministry of Education, Jilin University, Changchun 130012, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 995; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040995 - 28 Mar 2018

Cited by 58 | Viewed by 10359

Abstract

In recent years, with the rapid growth of science and innovation, plenty of constantly-updated scientific achievements containing innovative knowledge can be acquired and used to solve problems. However, most undergraduate students and non-researchers cannot use them efficiently. In traditional teacher-centric education, education for [...] Read more.

In recent years, with the rapid growth of science and innovation, plenty of constantly-updated scientific achievements containing innovative knowledge can be acquired and used to solve problems. However, most undergraduate students and non-researchers cannot use them efficiently. In traditional teacher-centric education, education for sustainability is often marginalized and the interdisciplinary demand is neglected. Additionally, it fails to provide education for learners to connect abstract knowledge with actual world problems. This paper presents the design of a scientific publication management model to integrate scientific metadata based on the knowledge graph and data analysis technologies. Based on this model, an interdisciplinary transregional multiple application platform could be realized for scientific resource retrieval and analysis, the purpose of which is to enhance scientific retrieval efficiency and reduce learning difficulty in the scientific domains and encourage non-researchers to utilize scientific resources in their study and work. Finally, to evaluate this model, the use of the case of an entrepreneurship scientific publication management prototype system was implemented. This work not only favors student’s learning for sustainability through analysis and knowledge management functions, but also promotes their awareness, comprehensive thinking, and the skills to deal with the issues of sustainability in their future work. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart Sustainable Education: Innovative Digital Transformation for Innovation and Entrepreneurship)

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17 pages, 1089 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Teaching and Learning about Biomass Energy: The Significance of Biomass Education in Schools

by Guang Han^*

and Robert A. Martin

Department of Agricultural Education and Studies, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50011, USA

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 996; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040996 - 28 Mar 2018

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 5895

Abstract

Biomass energy can mitigate climate change, revitalize rural economies, and achieve energy independence. Using biomass energy as subject matter content, American agricultural education programs at the secondary school level can prepare future agricultural professionals with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics skills to solve [...] Read more.

Biomass energy can mitigate climate change, revitalize rural economies, and achieve energy independence. Using biomass energy as subject matter content, American agricultural education programs at the secondary school level can prepare future agricultural professionals with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics skills to solve complex issues. Through a state-wide survey (N = 100) in the U.S., this study found agriculture teachers’ interest in biomass energy is motivated by economic, environmental, pedagogical, and learning factors. Nine relevant topics were determined as high training needs perceived by teachers. Teacher educators are recommended to incorporate the four factors and nine topics in planning, delivering, and evaluating in-service training programs of biomass energy for agriculture teachers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Teaching and Learning for Sustainability)

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25 pages, 3561 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Consumer Attitudes toward Sustainable Development and Risk to Brand Loyalty

by Daniel G. J. Kuchinka¹, Szilvia Balazs², Marius Dan Gavriletea^3,*

and Borivoje-Boris Djokic⁴

¹ Psychology Department, Keiser University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309, USA

² Department of Business and Information Technology, College of Applied Science and Technology, University of Akron, Akron, OH 44325, USA

³ Business Department, Business Faculty, Babes-Bolyai University, Cluj-Napoca 400084, Romania

⁴ Business Department, Graduate School, Keiser University, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309, USA

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 997; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040997 - 28 Mar 2018

Cited by 49 | Viewed by 27277

Abstract

The present study reveals the importance of understanding how business decisions focused on sustainability can impact companies, due to the risks associated with brand loyalty. The relationship between brand loyalty and consumers’ environmental viewpoint is investigated, including how consumers’ brand loyalty would be [...] Read more.

The present study reveals the importance of understanding how business decisions focused on sustainability can impact companies, due to the risks associated with brand loyalty. The relationship between brand loyalty and consumers’ environmental viewpoint is investigated, including how consumers’ brand loyalty would be impacted after environmental-based expansion decisions are announced. College students from the USA and Romania (N = 92) were asked to voluntarily participate in a survey. The Brand Loyalty Scale (BLS) is used to assess brand loyalty before and after a fictitious expansion announcement was made and the New Ecological Paradigm (NEP) scale is utilized to assess attitudes toward sustainability. A paired samples t-test analysis reveals a significant positive correlation between NEP scores (attitudes toward sustainability) and brand loyalty. No significant differences are found in attitudes toward sustainability regarding region (Romania and USA) or gender. These results indicate that individuals who generally show concern towards the environment will stay loyal to their favorite companies after sustainability is introduced. Results also indicate that the gap regarding region and gender is slowly closing in attitudes toward sustainability; individuals in developing countries are also showing a major concern toward environmental issues. Males indicate just as much concern toward the environment as females, which is confirmed by other findings in previous literature. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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13 pages, 6551 KiB

Open AccessArticle

From Cascade to Bottom-Up Ecosystem Services Model: How Does Social Cohesion Emerge from Urban Agriculture?

by Anna Petit-Boix^1,2,*

and Defne Apul³

¹ Chair of Societal Transition and Circular Economy, University of Freiburg. Tennenbacher Str. 4, 79106 Freiburg i. Br., Germany

² Sostenipra, Institute of Environmental Science and Technology (ICTA), Unidad de excelencia «María de Maeztu» (MDM-2015-0552), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), 08193 Bellaterra, Barcelona, Spain

³ Department of Civil Engineering, The University of Toledo, 2801 W. Bancroft St., Toledo, OH 43606, USA

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 998; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040998 - 28 Mar 2018

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 8499

Abstract

Given the expansion of urban agriculture (UA), we need to understand how this system provides ecosystem services, including foundational societal needs such as social cohesion, i.e., people’s willingness to cooperate with one another. Although social cohesion in UA has been documented, there is [...] Read more.

Given the expansion of urban agriculture (UA), we need to understand how this system provides ecosystem services, including foundational societal needs such as social cohesion, i.e., people’s willingness to cooperate with one another. Although social cohesion in UA has been documented, there is no framework for its emergence and how it can be modeled within a sustainability framework. In this study, we address this literature gap by showing how the popular cascade ecosystem services model can be modified to include social structures. We then transform the cascade model into a bottom-up causal framework for UA. In this bottom-up framework, basic biophysical (e.g., land availability) and social (e.g., leadership) ecosystem structures and processes lead to human activities (e.g., learning) that can foster specific human attitudes and feelings (e.g., trust). These attitudes and feelings, when aggregated (e.g., social network), generate an ecosystem value of social cohesion. These cause-effect relationships can support the development of causality pathways in social life cycle assessment (S-LCA) and further our understanding of the mechanisms behind social impacts and benefits. The framework also supports UA studies by showing the sustainability of UA as an emergent food supplier in cities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assessing the Sustainability of Urban Agriculture: Methodological Advances and Case Studies)

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11 pages, 60247 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Landfill Site Selection by Weighted Overlay Technique: Case Study of Al-Kufa, Iraq

by Mohammad A. Al-Anbari¹, Mohanad Y. Thameer¹ and Nadhir Al-Ansari^2,*

¹ Collage of Engineering, University of Babylon, Hila 51001, Iraq

² Department of Civil, Environmental and Natural Resources Engineering, Lulea University of Technology, 971 87 Lulea, Sweden

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 999; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040999 - 28 Mar 2018

Cited by 43 | Viewed by 9228

Abstract

Landfill siting is a hard and complex process. For this reason, it is considered as one of the major problems in waste management. This is due to the fact that a number of factors are involved within the process such as such as [...] Read more.

Landfill siting is a hard and complex process. For this reason, it is considered as one of the major problems in waste management. This is due to the fact that a number of factors are involved within the process such as such as inhabitants’ growth, rapid economic growth, living standards improvements, etc. In Iraq, landfill siting does not follow environmental regulations. Al-Kufa city located is located south-western part of Iraq (area of 550 km² and inhabitants 372,760). Existing landfills are not selected according to the environmental standards. Landfill site that is required was achieved using a multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) and spatial overlay analysis using a geographic information system (GIS). Many factors were considered in the siting process; including geology, water supplies resources, urban centers, sensitive sites, and wells. AHP (analytic hierarchy process) method was used in weighting the criteria used. The result showed that there are six sites most suitable covering an area about (113) km². Full article

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11 pages, 2858 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Study on the Spontaneous Representation of Animals in Young Children’s Drawings of Plant Life

by José Domingo Villarroel^1,*

, Alvaro Antón¹

, Daniel Zuazagoitia² and Teresa Nuño¹

¹ Faculty of Education Bilbao, University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU, 48940 Lejona, Spain

² Education and Sport Faculty, University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU, 48940 Lejona, Spain

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1000; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041000 - 28 Mar 2018

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 5658

Abstract

Previous research indicates that complex biological concepts may be successfully introduced in preschool age, provided that suitable educational interventions are designed for the initial stages of education. In this regard, there is evidence that a basic understanding of the issue of the ecological [...] Read more.

Previous research indicates that complex biological concepts may be successfully introduced in preschool age, provided that suitable educational interventions are designed for the initial stages of education. In this regard, there is evidence that a basic understanding of the issue of the ecological interactions among organisms may be achieved in the preschool years. With this in mind, this research project tests the assumption that recognising the fact that plants and animals are not isolated creatures, but live engaged in constant interactions in nature, may begin to be understood in early education. To that end, this study examines the content of free drawings that a sample of 328 children aged four to seven years of age, undertook when explaining their understanding of plant life. Data regarding the type and frequency of the depictions of animals found in the children’s graphic explanations on flora is collected and read in conjunction with participants’ gender and academic level. The results show that a substantial proportion of the children in the sample spontaneously drew illustrations of animals in their graphic explanations concerning vegetable life and, more significantly, some pictures show plants and animals engaged in clear contact. This is the case, despite the fact that the drawing activity had been focused solely on the issue of plant life and no indication linked to depicting other kinds of living things mentioned during the activity. The conclusions discuss the data collected in connection with the growing number of research projects that study the question of how young children begin to embrace the fundamental biological concepts that pave the way to the understanding of natural phenomena and make the public capable of making responsible choices when it comes to sustainability issues. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Science Education Promoting Sustainability)

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28 pages, 47629 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Supervised Event-Based Non-Intrusive Load Monitoring for Non-Linear Appliances

by Zhuang Zheng^1,2, Hainan Chen^1,2 and Xiaowei Luo^1,2,*

¹ Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong 999077, China

² Architecture and Civil Engineering Research Center, Shenzhen Research Institute of City University of Hong Kong, 8 Yuexing 1st Road, Shenzhen Hi-tech Industrial Park, Nanshan District, Shenzhen 518057, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1001; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041001 - 28 Mar 2018

Cited by 96 | Viewed by 7162

Abstract

Smart meters generate a massive volume of energy consumption data which can be analyzed to recover some interesting and beneficial information. Non-intrusive load monitoring (NILM) is one important application fostered by the mass deployment of smart meters. This paper presents a supervised event-based [...] Read more.

Smart meters generate a massive volume of energy consumption data which can be analyzed to recover some interesting and beneficial information. Non-intrusive load monitoring (NILM) is one important application fostered by the mass deployment of smart meters. This paper presents a supervised event-based NILM approach for non-linear appliance activities identification. Firstly, the additive properties (stating that, when a certain amount of specific appliances’ feature is added to their belonging network, an equal amount of change in the network’s feature can be observed) of three features (harmonic feature, voltage–current trajectory feature, and active–reactive–distortion (PQD) power curve features) were investigated through experiments. The results verify the good additive property for the harmonic features and Voltage–Current (U-I) trajectory features. In contrast, PQD power curve features have a poor additive property. Secondly, based on the verified additive property of harmonic current features and the representation of waveforms, a harmonic current features based approach is proposed for NILM, which includes two main processes: event detection and event classification. For event detection, a novel model is proposed based on the Density-Based Spatial Clustering of Applications with Noise (DBSCAN) algorithm. Compared to other event detectors, the proposed event detector not only can detect both event timestamp and two adjacent steady states but also shows high detection accuracy over public dataset with F1-score up to 98.99%. Multi-layer perceptron (MLP) classifiers are then built for multi-class event classification using the harmonic current features and are trained using the data collected from the laboratory and the public dataset. The results show that the MLP classifiers have a good performance in classifying non-linear loads. Finally, the proposed harmonic current features based approach is tested in the laboratory through experiments, in which multiple on–off events of multiple appliances occur. The research indicates that clustering-based event detection algorithms are promising for future works in event-based NILM. Harmonic current features have perfect additive property, and MLP classifier using harmonic current features can accurately identify typical non-linear and resistive loads, which could be integrated with other approaches in the future. Full article

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17 pages, 402 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Optimal Decisions for a Sustainable Supply Chain with Carbon Information Asymmetry under Cap-and-Trade

by Baiyun Yuan¹, Bingmei Gu¹, Jin Guo¹, Liangjie Xia² and Chunming Xu^3,*

¹ Research Center of Energy Economy, School of Business Administration, Henan Polytechnic University, Jiaozuo 454000, China

² School of Business, Tianjin University of Finance and Economics, Tianjin 300222, China

³ Department of Mathematics, College of Science, Tianjin University of Technology, Tianjin 300384, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1002; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041002 - 28 Mar 2018

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 5657

Abstract

In this paper, we firstly investigate issues of low carbon supply chain including one retailer and one manufacturer in the context of joint information asymmetry and cap-and-trade mechanism, where the retailer is a leader and faces a stochastic demand, and the manufacturer is [...] Read more.

In this paper, we firstly investigate issues of low carbon supply chain including one retailer and one manufacturer in the context of joint information asymmetry and cap-and-trade mechanism, where the retailer is a leader and faces a stochastic demand, and the manufacturer is a follower and keeps private information in carbon emissions. Our aim is to design an incentive contract to make the manufacturer disclose the carbon information. Furthermore, we quantify the effects of the carbon price, the carbon emissions and the carbon quota on the supply chain model and design an incentive contract for improving supply chain performance. Finally, we give a couple of numerical examples and undertake sensitivity analysis to illustrate the proposed model and provide some managerial inferences in the conclusions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Supply Chain System Design and Optimization)

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11 pages, 496 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Steel Plate Roughness on the Frictional Properties of Cereal Kernels

by Zdzisław Kaliniewicz^1,*

, Zbigniew Żuk¹ and Zbigniew Krzysiak²

¹ Department of Heavy Duty Machines and Research Methodology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, ul. Oczapowskiego 11, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland

² Department of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, ul. Głęboka 28, 20-612 Lublin, Poland

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1003; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041003 - 28 Mar 2018

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3823

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the correlation between the external friction angle of cereal kernels and the roughness of a steel friction plate. The experiment was performed on the kernels of five principal cereals: wheat, rye, barley, oats, and triticale. [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to determine the correlation between the external friction angle of cereal kernels and the roughness of a steel friction plate. The experiment was performed on the kernels of five principal cereals: wheat, rye, barley, oats, and triticale. Flat seed units composed of three spaced kernels joined by adhesive tape were analyzed in each experimental variant. The external friction angle of flat seed units was determined on nine steel friction plates with different roughness. Measurements were performed in three replications with a photosensor device which registered the external friction angle of cereal kernels. On friction plates with surface roughness Ra = 0.36 to Ra = 6.72, the average values of the angle of external friction ranged from 17.56° in rye kernels to 34.01° in oat kernels. The greatest similarities in the angle of external friction were observed between wheat and triticale kernels, whereas the greatest differences were noted between barley and oat kernels and between barley and triticale kernels. Friction plates made of ST3S steel should be characterized by the lowest surface roughness to minimize energy consumption during grain processing. The optimal surface roughness of steel friction plates was determined at Ra = 0.9. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Theoretical and Applicability Problems of Agricultural Engineering and Associated Research Areas—Sustainable Agricultural Engineering—Sustainable Biomass to Energy Conversion)

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12 pages, 3299 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Depopulation and the Aging Population: The Relationship in Italian Municipalities

by Cecilia Reynaud^* and Sara Miccoli

Department of Political Sciences, Roma Tre University, 00146 Rome, Italy

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1004; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041004 - 28 Mar 2018

Cited by 61 | Viewed by 11368

Abstract

In European countries, many territories have experienced and are still experiencing a depopulation, caused by a deficit of births relative to deaths, a negative net migration, or both. At the same time, many of these territories are also facing the population aging process, [...] Read more.

In European countries, many territories have experienced and are still experiencing a depopulation, caused by a deficit of births relative to deaths, a negative net migration, or both. At the same time, many of these territories are also facing the population aging process, caused by a decrease in births and prolonged rise in longevity. Depopulation and the population aging processes are strongly connected. The aim of this work is to study the relationship between depopulation and the aging population and the sustainability of the two phenomena. We studied these phenomena in the Italian territories in the period of 1951–2011. The study was conducted by using the census data of the Italian municipalities. The correlation coefficient between depopulation and aging population indicators was calculated in order to investigate the relationship between the two phenomena. A regression model was applied in order to understand if population aging is linked to population variation. Finally, the municipalities, which experienced continuing depopulation, are examined in depth. Our results show that a strong depopulation trend contributed to subsequent levels of population aging, but recent population aging has also contributed to ongoing depopulation, creating a vicious circle. Long-term depopulation and continuing population aging does not seem to be sustainable in the near future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Urban and Rural Development)

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18 pages, 313 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Critique of the Application of Neighborhood Sustainability Assessment Tools in Urban Regeneration

by Luke Boyle^*, Kathy Michell and François Viruly

Urban Real Estate Research Unit, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7701, South Africa

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1005; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041005 - 29 Mar 2018

Cited by 66 | Viewed by 8296

Abstract

Neighbourhood Sustainability Assessment Tools (NSA tools) are fast becoming the principal framework for urban planners and developers for promoting urban sustainability. The majority of NSA tools promote a specific type of urban development that effectively excludes regeneration projects from the urban sustainability conversation. [...] Read more.

Neighbourhood Sustainability Assessment Tools (NSA tools) are fast becoming the principal framework for urban planners and developers for promoting urban sustainability. The majority of NSA tools promote a specific type of urban development that effectively excludes regeneration projects from the urban sustainability conversation. Given that the world’s megacities are mostly built, it is argued that it is essential that strategies for global sustainability consider that urban development is focussed internally to address existing, under-serviced communities in particular need of meaningful intervention and sustainable redevelopment frameworks. The paper uses existing knowledge on NSA tools to highlight the shortcomings of outcomes-based approaches to urban governance and builds the case that the technocratic “one-size-fits-all” approach adopted by many tools inadequately accounts for underlying institutional, social and economic arrangements that influence urban development, making them inappropriate for application in both planned and existing communities. The paper proposes that urban redevelopment strategies need to be derived from the urban realities of a particular place or context. Such strategies must be grounded in principles of urban governance, participatory action and an understanding of market dynamics. Without these collaborative procedural frameworks, urban regeneration projects will continue to inadequately transition towards more comprehensive sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Regeneration and Sustainability)

12 pages, 5478 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Gypsum and Legume Residue as a Strategy to Improve Soil Conditions in Sustainability of Agrosystems of the Humid Tropics

by Emanoel Gomes De Moura^1,*, Stefanny Barros Portela¹, Vinicius Ribamar Alencar Macedo², Virley Gardeny Lima Sena³, Carlos Cesar Martin Sousa¹ and Alana Das Chagas Ferreira Aguiar⁴

¹ Programa de Pós-Graduação em Agroecologia, Universidade Estadual do Maranhão, Caixa Postal 3004, São Luís 65000-000, Brazil

² Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia do Piauí, Campus Uruçuí—Rodovia PI 247, Km 7, S/N, Portal do Cerrado, Uruçuí 64860-000, Brazil

³ Universidade Estadual Paulista “Júlio de Mesquita Filho”, Programa de Pós-Graduação em Agronomia, Botucatu, São Paulo 18.610-307, Brazil

⁴ Universidade Federal do Maranhão, Departamento de Biologia, Avenida dos Portugueses, 1966, São Luís 65080-805, Brazil

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1006; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041006 - 29 Mar 2018

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3780

Abstract

Gypsum combined with leguminous residue may extend rootability and improve growth and maize grain yield. The aim of this study was to evaluate the combined effects of gypsum and leguminous residue on soil rootability in the root zone and on maize grain yield [...] Read more.

Gypsum combined with leguminous residue may extend rootability and improve growth and maize grain yield. The aim of this study was to evaluate the combined effects of gypsum and leguminous residue on soil rootability in the root zone and on maize grain yield in a cohesive tropical soil. We used seven treatments: (i) control; (ii) urea; (iii) leguminous; (iv) 6 t/ha of gypsum with leguminous or (v) with urea or (vi) with both; and (vii) 12 t/ha of gypsum with urea and leguminous. Gypsum was applied in January 2010 and soil samples were analyzed in 2012–2015. Maize was sown in 2011–2013 and 2015, when maize yield was determined. Soil penetration strength and the analysis of plant tissue was performed in 2015. The leaf area index, nitrogen accumulation amount, total N concentration and amount of N remobilization were also determined in 2015. Gypsum with leguminous residue modified the root zone by increasing calcium and organic matter levels and by reducing soil penetration strength. The leaf area index and the remobilization of nitrogen to grains increased, due to greater uptake before and after tasseling. The gypsum and leguminous residue combination is a more suitable strategy to improve agrosystems in cohesive soils of the humid tropics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Agriculture)

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11 pages, 14758 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Lighting Policies: The Contribution of Advertisement and Decorative Lighting to Local Light Pollution in Seoul, South Korea

by Jack Ngarambe

and Gon Kim^*

Department of Architectural Engineering, Kyung Hee University, Yongin 446-701, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1007; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041007 - 29 Mar 2018

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 8309

Abstract

We carried out field measurements to determine the contribution of advertisement and decorative lighting to local light pollution in Seoul. We used the lighting limits set by the “Light Pollution Prevention Act”, which regulates light pollution, as measuring criteria. Our results show that [...] Read more.

We carried out field measurements to determine the contribution of advertisement and decorative lighting to local light pollution in Seoul. We used the lighting limits set by the “Light Pollution Prevention Act”, which regulates light pollution, as measuring criteria. Our results show that both advertisement and decorative lighting are significant contributors to local light pollution in Seoul. Thirty percent of advertisement lighting measured in our study areas exceeded the legal limits. Moreover, we found that certain types of advertisement lighting are more likely to cause light pollution than the others. In addition, 73% of the decorative lighting found in our sample areas exceeded the legal limits. Based on our findings, we suggest that local light pollution policies establish a curfew time when all advertisement and decorative lighting must be completely turned off. Such an approach is essential in reducing lighting levels in outdoor environments. Furthermore, it lessens the burden on law enforcement personnel, who otherwise must ensure that advertisement and decorative lighting levels are kept within the legal limits. In light of the ongoing debate over the role of lighting in public well-being and the sustainability of cities, the present study provides a discussion on the status and management policy of light pollution caused by advertisement and decorative lighting. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Policy for Sustainability)

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25 pages, 506 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Policies, Politics, and Paradigms: Healthy Planning in Australian Local Government

by Anthony McCosker^*, Anne Matan and Dora Marinova

Curtin University Sustainability Policy (CUSP) Institute, Curtin University, Perth 6102, Australia

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1008; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041008 - 29 Mar 2018

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4967

Abstract

Local government in Australia is critically positioned to provide built environment initiatives that respond to the increasing prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCD), climate change, and various other human and ecological health considerations. However, action on the ground has not been as widespread as [...] Read more.

Local government in Australia is critically positioned to provide built environment initiatives that respond to the increasing prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCD), climate change, and various other human and ecological health considerations. However, action on the ground has not been as widespread as might be expected, particularly in improving community health. This research explores the barriers to and enablers of the implementation of healthy planning and active living initiatives through in-depth interviews with healthy planning and active living advocates. Advocates are seen to promote healthy planning in relatively weak policy settings, where politicised, largely reactive decisions by individual politicians or practitioners are the main determinants of project success. The most important factor affecting project uptake and implementation is how the ‘problem’ of healthy planning, or what might be considered a healthy planning paradigm, is presented. Such a paradigm includes a strong reliance on the co-benefits of projects; it is also subject to the way that healthy planning is communicated and framed. Potential problems around such a setting are subsequently examined, identifying the potential reasons for the slow delivery of healthy planning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Urban and Rural Development)

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13 pages, 1417 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Business Models for Social Innovation of Municipal Solid Waste Recycling Companies: Comparison of Two Business Cases in Thailand and Taiwan

by Xiujuan Chen¹

, Chih-Tsung Tai², Linhai Wu¹, Fu-Sheng Tsai^2,3,*

and Kotchaphorn Srimanus²

¹ Institute for Food Safety Risk Management, School of Business, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China

² Department of Business Administration, Cheng Shiu University, Kaohsiung 83347, Taiwan

³ Loonguard Research Institute, Guangzhou 510000, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1009; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041009 - 29 Mar 2018

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 5475

Abstract

The significant increase of municipal solid wastes (e.g., food disposals, biomedical wastes, recyclable materials, etc.) is a very important environmental issue around the world. Waste recycling, reduction, and reuse are not only methods to solve environmental problems, but also directions for social innovation [...] Read more.

The significant increase of municipal solid wastes (e.g., food disposals, biomedical wastes, recyclable materials, etc.) is a very important environmental issue around the world. Waste recycling, reduction, and reuse are not only methods to solve environmental problems, but also directions for social innovation for business to create potential social value. This study investigates the business models of two waste recycling companies in Thailand and Taiwan. First, the basic micro and macro environmental factors were analyzed, including the period of firm’s business operations, location of the firm, space for separating and storing recyclable waste and various types of recyclable waste purchasing affecting the firms’ performance in these two economies. Second, different recyclable waste materials, volumes and price strategies between the case companies were compared. Third, this study also investigates the impacts of factors regarding resource characteristics, a firm’s capabilities and an entrepreneur’s abilities to improve a firm’s performance all compose a critical business model. The results showed that there were an increasing number of owners of waste recycling businesses developing and adapting to new business models. Detailed comparisons are reported and discussed in the article to shed light on managerial and policy implications. Full article

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15 pages, 2116 KiB

Open AccessArticle

P2P Network Lending, Loss Given Default and Credit Risks

by Guangyou Zhou¹

, Yijia Zhang¹ and Sumei Luo^2,*

¹ School of Economics, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China

² School of Finance, Shanghai University of Finance and Economics, Shanghai 200433, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1010; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041010 - 29 Mar 2018

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 9493

Abstract

Peer-to-peer (P2P) network lending is a new mode of internet finance that still holds credit risk as its main risk. According to the internal rating method of the New Basel Accord, in addition to the probability of default, loss given default is also [...] Read more.

Peer-to-peer (P2P) network lending is a new mode of internet finance that still holds credit risk as its main risk. According to the internal rating method of the New Basel Accord, in addition to the probability of default, loss given default is also one of the important indicators of evaluation credit risks. Proceeding from the perspective of loss given default (LGD), this paper conducts an empirical study on the probability distribution of LGDs of P2P as well as its influencing factors with the transaction data of Lending Club. The results show that: (1) the LGDs of P2P loans presents an obvious unimodal distribution, the peak value is relatively high and tends to concentrate with the decrease of the borrower’s credit rating, indicating that the distribution of LGDs of P2P lending is similar to that of unsecured bonds; (2) The total asset of the borrower has no significant impact on LGD, the credit rating and the debt-to-income ratio exert a significant negative impact, while the term and amount of the loan produce a relatively strong positive impact. Therefore, when evaluating the borrower’s repayment ability, it is required to pay more attention to its assets structure rather than the size of its total assets. When carrying out risk control for the P2P platform, it is necessary to give priority to the control of default rate. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in Developing Countries: Current Trends and Development)

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24 pages, 58416 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evolution of Rural Livelihood Strategies in a Remote Sino-Mongolian Border Area: A Cross-Country Analysis

by Munkhnasan Tsvegemed^1,†,‡, Alimu Shabier^1,2,‡, Eva Schlecht¹, Greta Jordan³ and Martin Wiehle^3,4,*

¹ Section Animal Husbandry in the Tropics and Subtropics, University of Kassel and University of Göttingen, Steinstrasse 19, 37213 Witzenhausen, Germany

² Rangeland Research Institute, Xinjiang Academy of Animal Science, Urumqi 830011, China

³ Section Organic Plant Production and Agroecosystems Research in the Tropics and Subtropics, University of Kassel, Steinstrasse 19, 37213 Witzenhausen, Germany

⁴ Tropenzentrum and International Center for Development and Decent Work (ICDD), University of Kassel, Steinstrasse 19, 37213 Witzenhausen, Germany

^† Current address: Department of Coordination and Implementation of Livestock Policy, Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Light Industry, 13381 Ulanbataar, Mongolia.

^‡ The first two authors have contributed equally to this paper.

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1011; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041011 - 29 Mar 2018

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 5332

Abstract

Ecologically sound natural resources management is still the backbone of rural livelihoods in many regions of the world. The Altai-Dzungarian region between China and Mongolia constitutes an ideal site to study how political, economic, infrastructural, and cultural differences affect rural livelihoods. Structured semi-quantitative [...] Read more.

Ecologically sound natural resources management is still the backbone of rural livelihoods in many regions of the world. The Altai-Dzungarian region between China and Mongolia constitutes an ideal site to study how political, economic, infrastructural, and cultural differences affect rural livelihoods. Structured semi-quantitative interviews were conducted with 483 households on both sides to characterise their current livelihood strategies and assess the importance of the various activities for the households’ current socio-economic situation by means of the categorical principal component and two-step cluster analysis. In total, four livelihood clusters were identified across both regions, whereby one cluster was only present in Mongolia. In general, all clusters mirrored the transition from almost pure pastoralist to agro-pastoralist livelihood strategies. While animal husbandry was more common in Mongolia and crop farming more common in China, most households in both countries pursued a rather mixed approach. The composition of the herds, as well as the richness and diversity of the livestock species, differed significantly between the countries and was generally higher in Mongolia. Supplementary feedstuff and pesticide and fertiliser use were higher in China, along with diversification of produces. Our analysis indicates that until very recently the livelihood strategies on both sides of the border were the same, manifesting in the fact that we can define three identical clusters across countries (environment factor) even though there are slight differences in land, livestock and asset endowment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Achieving Sustainable Village Development though Traditional and Innovative Approaches)

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15 pages, 10232 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Towards a Sustainable Sun, Sea, and Sand Tourism: The Value of Ocean View and Proximity to the Coast

by Gabriela Mendoza-González^1,2,3,*

, M. Luisa Martínez¹

, Roger Guevara¹

, Octavio Pérez-Maqueo¹

, María Cristina Garza-Lagler^2,3

and Alan Howard⁴

¹ Institute of Ecology, C.A., Carretera Antigua a Coatepec No. 351, El Haya, Xalapa 91500, Mexico

² CONACYT—Faculty of Sciences, Academic Unit of Yucatan, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Carretera Sierra Papacal Chuburná Puerto Km 5, Sierra Papacal, Yucatan 97302, Mexico

³ National Coastal Resilience Laboratory (LANRESC), National Autonomous University of Mexico, Sisal, Yucatan 97302, Mexico

⁴ Statistical Software Support & Consulting Services, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, USA

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1012; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041012 - 29 Mar 2018

Cited by 50 | Viewed by 8635

Abstract

Coastal tourism is expanding worldwide, mostly owing to the attraction to relevant ecosystem services such as the scenic beauty and recreational activities. The aim of this study was to analyze the value of these, using hedonic analysis by assessing how prices of hotel [...] Read more.

Coastal tourism is expanding worldwide, mostly owing to the attraction to relevant ecosystem services such as the scenic beauty and recreational activities. The aim of this study was to analyze the value of these, using hedonic analysis by assessing how prices of hotel rooms are related to the scenic view, location, non-ecosystem amenities, and size of the hotels in three touristic areas of Veracruz, México. We found that, besides the size of the hotel and the number of non-ecosystem amenities, room prices increased by 8% and 57%, depending on the ocean view and accessibility to the beach, respectively. These results help to understand why hotels are built very close to the coastline, despite the high risk of extreme and frequent meteorological events. The unorganized and intense development of the tourist industry may act in contrast to the necessity for conservation of the natural ecosystems, rendering this activity highly unsustainable. The question is how to deal with the dilemma of tourism growth and conservation. We suggest some alternatives that might help with the conservation of natural ecosystems, while maintaining the combined provision of simultaneous coastal ecosystem services such as an aesthetically pleasing view and recreation, as well as additional services such as storm protection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Coastal Ecosystems: Monitoring, Management, Restoration, Preservation, and Valuation)

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17 pages, 20086 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Scenarios Simulation of Spatio-Temporal Land Use Changes for Exploring Sustainable Management Strategies

by Yu Zhang¹, Pengcheng Wang¹, Tianwei Wang^2,*, Chongfa Cai², Zhaoxia Li² and Mingjun Teng¹

¹ College of Horticulture and Forestry Sciences/Hubei Engineering Technology Research Center for Forestry Information, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China

² College of Resources and Environment, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1013; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041013 - 29 Mar 2018

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3869

Abstract

Land use and land cover change have received considerable attention from global researchers in recent decades. The conflicts between different development strategies for land uses have become a problem that urgently needs to be solved, especially in those regions with a fragile ecological [...] Read more.

Land use and land cover change have received considerable attention from global researchers in recent decades. The conflicts between different development strategies for land uses have become a problem that urgently needs to be solved, especially in those regions with a fragile ecological environment. The development of scenario simulations is essential in order to highlight possible alternative pathways for the future under the backgrounds of urbanization, economic growth and ecological protection. This study simulated land use changes for Tekes in 2020 with the Conversion of Land Use and its Effects at Small regional extent (CLUE-S) model under a ‘business as usual’ scenario, cropland protection scenario, ecological security scenario, and artificial modification scenario. The results indicated that the spatial patterns of the land use types were explained well by the environment variables, and the selected models had a satisfactory accuracy in this study. The requirements and the patterns were quite different owing to the variation of the major objectives of the four scenarios. In addition to the constraint rules of the land use transformation, the hot point for land use change was its spatial coherency. Areas near to an existing land use type were more likely to transform to that type than those farther away. The increased cropland and urban land were mainly located around the current cropland and urban land while forests and grassland were more likely to occur in places with flat terrain and good hydrological conditions. The results could contribute to better insight into the relationships between land use changes and their driving factors and provide a scientific basis for regional management strategies and sustainable land use development. Full article

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27 pages, 3123 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Opening the Black-Box in Lifelong E-Learning for Employability: A Framework for a Socio-Technical E-Learning Employability System of Measurement (STELEM)

by Juan-Francisco Martínez-Cerdá¹

, Joan Torrent-Sellens²

, Inés González-González^3,* and Pilar Ficapal-Cusí²

¹ Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya, 08035 Barcelona, Spain

² Faculty of Economics and Business Studies, Universitat Oberta de Catalunya, 08035 Barcelona, Spain

³ Faculty of Business and Communication, Universidad Internacional de La Rioja, 26006 Logroño, Spain

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1014; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041014 - 29 Mar 2018

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 7842

Abstract

Human beings must develop many skills to cope with the large amount of challenges that currently exist in the world: media empowerment for an active and democratic citizenship, knowledge acquisition and conversion for lifelong and life-wide learning, 21st century skills for matching demand [...] Read more.

Human beings must develop many skills to cope with the large amount of challenges that currently exist in the world: media empowerment for an active and democratic citizenship, knowledge acquisition and conversion for lifelong and life-wide learning, 21st century skills for matching demand and supply in labor markets, and dispositional employability for unpredictable future career success. One of the tools for achieving these is online education, in which students have the chance to manage their own time, content, and goals. Thus, this paper analyzes these issues from the perspective of skills gained through e-learning and validates the Socio-Technical E-learning Employability System of Measurement (STELEM) framework. The research was carried out with former students of the Universitat Oberta de Catalunya. Exploratory and confirmatory factorial analyses validate several consistent and reliable scales in two areas: (i) employability, based on educational social capital, media empowerment, knowledge acquisition, knowledge conversion, literacy, digitalness, collaboration, resilience, proactivity, identity, openness, motivation, organizational culture, and employment security; and (ii) socio-technical systems existing in this open online university, based on its information and communications technology (ICT), learning tasks, as well as student-centered and organizational approaches. The research provides two new psychometrical scales that are useful for the evaluation, monitoring, and assessment of relationships and influences between socio-technical e-learning organizations and employability skills development, and proposes a set of indicators related to human and social capital, valid in employability contexts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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19 pages, 5745 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Trust and Distrust in E-Commerce

by Suk-Joo Lee, Cheolhwi Ahn, Kelly Minjung Song and Hyunchul Ahn^*

Graduate School of Business IT, Kookmin University, Seoul 02707, Republic of Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1015; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041015 - 29 Mar 2018

Cited by 63 | Viewed by 11107

Abstract

Trust is the key ingredient for sustainable transactions. In the concept of trust, the trustor trusts the trustees. In e-commerce, the trustor is the buyer and the trustees are the intermediaries and the seller. Intermediaries provide the web-based infrastructure that enables buyers and [...] Read more.

Trust is the key ingredient for sustainable transactions. In the concept of trust, the trustor trusts the trustees. In e-commerce, the trustor is the buyer and the trustees are the intermediaries and the seller. Intermediaries provide the web-based infrastructure that enables buyers and sellers to make transactions. Trust is the buyer’s judgment and comprises two distinct concepts; both trust and distrust reside in the trustor. The purpose of this study was to examine the complicated effects of trust and distrust on a buyer’s purchase intentions. Previous studies have provided theoretical frameworks illustrating co-existent trust and distrust, trust transfers from one to another, and trust in buyer-intermediary-seller relationships. Based on these frameworks, this study (i) presented a holistic model that contained the judgment of buyers resulting in trust or distrust in the intermediary and the seller; (ii) investigated trust and distrust transfer from the intermediary to the seller, and (iii) explored the effects of various antecedents that affect trust and distrust. To validate the proposed model, we employed Partial Least Squares (PLS). A summary of key findings are as follows. First, buyer’s trust in an intermediary positively affected his or her trust in the seller, positively influencing purchase intention. In other words, we found the trust transfer from an intermediary to its seller. Second, distrust in an intermediary directly impacted on the buyer’s perceived risk, negatively influencing his or her purchase intentions. Third, structural assurance and perceived website quality of an intermediary gave a positive impact on buyer’s trust in the intermediary. The results of this study shed light on the necessity of managing both trust and distrust to facilitate sales in e-commerce. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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22 pages, 7316 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Dynamic Impacts of Employment Subcenters on Residential Land Price in Transitional China: An Examination of the Beijing Metropolitan Area

by Daquan Huang^1,2,*, Xiaoqing Yang^1,2, Zhen Liu^3,4, Xingshuo Zhao⁵ and Fanhao Kong^1,2

¹ School of Geography, Faculty of Geographical Science, Beijing Normal University, No. 19, XinJieKouWai St., HaiDian District, Beijing 100875, China

² Beijing Key Laboratory of Remote Sensing of Environment and Digital Cities, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China

³ Key Laboratory of Regional Sustainable Development Modeling, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Nature Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 11A Datun Road, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100101, China

⁴ University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yuquan Road 49, Beijing 100049, China

⁵ Urban-Rural Planning Administration Center, Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development of China, Beijing 100835, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1016; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041016 - 29 Mar 2018

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 4969

Abstract

In recent years, increasing attention has been paid to the urban spatial structure in developing countries. In China, studies have shown that many mega cities or big cities have been transformed into polycentric spatial structures. However, polycentric spatial structures’ impact on urban development [...] Read more.

In recent years, increasing attention has been paid to the urban spatial structure in developing countries. In China, studies have shown that many mega cities or big cities have been transformed into polycentric spatial structures. However, polycentric spatial structures’ impact on urban development requires further empirical research, including in relation to land price, commuting, and population distribution. Taking Beijing as an example, this paper discusses employment subcenters’ rise and evolution on residential land prices. Using the land transaction data for 2001–2013, this paper analyzes the residential market characteristics in terms of their temporal and spatial variation and studies the impact of employment subcenters on residential land prices using a Hedonic model of Beijing city for 2001–2004, 2005–2008, and 2009–2013. This paper finds that (1) Beijing’s employment subcenters increased from one in 2001 to four in 2004 and six in 2008, while the spatial distribution was diffused from the center of the city to the suburbs; (2) Beijing’s main center’s influence on residential land price is on the decline, while that of employment subcenters is on the rise, although their influence and scope of influence remain limited; (3) the impact of different employment subcenters on land prices is significantly different. The impact of Zhongguancun is very significant, while that of other employment sub-centers is relatively limited, particularly the “new town” employment subcenter. Based on this, this paper argues that with the development of subcenters of employment, their influence on urban development will become increasingly obvious. Therefore, urban policy-makers need to consider this influence and make corresponding strategic adjustments. Full article

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19 pages, 6146 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Integrating Ecosystem and Urban Services in Policy-Making at the Local Scale: The SOFA Framework

by Sara Antognelli¹, Marco Vizzari^1,*

and Catharina J. E. Schulp²

¹ Department of Agricultural, Food, and Environmental Sciences, University of Perugia, 06121 Perugia, Italy

² Environmental Geography Group, Institute for Environmental Studies, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1087, 1081 HV Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1017; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041017 - 29 Mar 2018

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 5256

Abstract

Despite ecosystem services having been broadly studied in the scientific literature, they are still hardly integrated in policy-making and landscape management. The lack of operative tools for their application is a main limiting factor of such operationalization. In this work, a framework including [...] Read more.

Despite ecosystem services having been broadly studied in the scientific literature, they are still hardly integrated in policy-making and landscape management. The lack of operative tools for their application is a main limiting factor of such operationalization. In this work, a framework including 53 livability services produced by the biophysical and socioeconomic subsystem, or by their interaction, was developed considering a local study area. All the services were characterized in terms of the need to access their Service Benefiting Areas (SBAs, the geographical units where the services benefit consumers) from the Use Regions (URs, the usual location of users). Moreover, the Service-Providing Areas (SPAs, the geographical unit where the service is produced) were also classified and characterized. Such analysis, together with empirical observations, helped to classify the spatial relationships between the SPAs, SBAs and URs of each service. In addition to a list of detailed information about all the services included in the framework, a visual scheme representing the different SBA types and an operational flow diagram synthesizing the spatial organization of service flow were designed to apply the methodology in other study areas. Two examples show the practical applicability in policy-making of the whole framework for supporting different aspects of local decision-making. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Land Uses and Rural Governance)

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21 pages, 2639 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Turning Farmers into Business Partners through Value Co-Creation Projects. Insights from the Coffee Supply Chain

by Elena Candelo, Cecilia Casalegno, Chiara Civera^* and Fabrizio Mosca

Department of Management, University of Turin, Corso Unione Sovietica 218bis, 10134 Turin, Italy

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1018; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041018 - 29 Mar 2018

Cited by 36 | Viewed by 10265

Abstract

This study examines the empowerment of low-power, vulnerable stakeholders of global, complex supply chains as one effective strategy to increase value co-creation and to moderate the vulnerabilities that threaten supply chain resilience. Previous scholars have indicated the necessity of investigating the concept of [...] Read more.

This study examines the empowerment of low-power, vulnerable stakeholders of global, complex supply chains as one effective strategy to increase value co-creation and to moderate the vulnerabilities that threaten supply chain resilience. Previous scholars have indicated the necessity of investigating the concept of value co-creation further by including various stakeholder perspectives and suggesting systems of evaluation. This research thus focuses on low-power smallholder farmers within the coffee supply chain by qualitatively evaluating the effectiveness of value co-creation projects. The study also analyzes the extent of development and the nature of empowerment initiatives designed conjointly by nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) and coffee roasters that are addressed to farmers. The mixed qualitative methodology includes a literature review, interviews, focus groups, and content analysis of 20 value co-creation projects conducted in various developing and emerging coffee-producing countries. The research proposes a theoretical framework employed to conduct focus groups with Brazilian coffee farmers. This framework empirically demonstrates that these farmers are in the process of becoming business partners of the coffee supply chain thanks to various empowerment initiatives, common to most of the analyzed projects, that appear to moderate specific vulnerabilities of the coffee supply chain and therefore benefit supply chain resilience. Full article

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21 pages, 82605 KiB

Open AccessArticle

‘Urban-Rural’ Gradient Analysis of Landscape Changes around Cities in Mountainous Regions: A Case Study of the Hengduan Mountain Region in Southwest China

by Erfu Dai^1,2, Yahui Wang^1,2,*

, Liang Ma^1,2, Le Yin^1,2 and Zhuo Wu³

¹ Key Laboratory of Land Surface Pattern and Simulation, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China

² University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China

³ School of Geographical Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1019; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041019 - 30 Mar 2018

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 6385

Abstract

It is of great significance to explore landscape pattern changes around urban areas to maintain regional ecological security and encourage sustainable development. Few studies have focused on the small cities located in the mountain regions. In this study, we established an ‘urban-rural’ gradient, [...] Read more.

It is of great significance to explore landscape pattern changes around urban areas to maintain regional ecological security and encourage sustainable development. Few studies have focused on the small cities located in the mountain regions. In this study, we established an ‘urban-rural’ gradient, and combined with landscape metrics to analyze the spatial-temporal changes of the landscape pattern around cities located in the Hengduan Mountain region in China. We also explored the impacts of topography on urban sprawl using the ‘relief degree of land surface’ index. Our results showed that: (1) There was an inverse relationship between the urban sprawl and restricted topography; (2) From the city center to rural areas, the landscape dominance degree and connectivity decreased initially and then increased, while the diversity presented an opposite trend and the shape complexity increased first and then fluctuated; (3) For temporal changes, in the internal buffers, the landscape dominance degree and connectivity increased, and the shape complexity and diversity decreased. However, in the outer buffers, the landscape showed opposite trends. It is advisable to use gradient and landscape metrics to explore landscape pattern changes. Similar to cities on plains, the landscape around mountain cities exhibits a circular structure, however, it also possesses unique characteristics when facing topographic restrictions. Full article

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13 pages, 3641 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Natural Stabilized Earth Panels versus Conventional Façade Systems. Economic and Environmental Impact Assessment

by Carmen Galán-Marín^1,*

, Alejandro Martínez-Rocamora²

, Jaime Solís-Guzmán³ and Carlos Rivera-Gómez¹

¹ Departamento de Construcciones Arquitectónicas 1, Escuela Técnica Superior de Arquitectura, Universidad de Sevilla, Avda. Reina Mercedes, 2, 41012 Seville, Spain

² GACS Research Group, Department of Construction Sciences, Faculty of Architecture, Construction and Design, University of Bío-Bío, Av. Collao, 1202 Concepción, Chile

³ ArDiTec Research Group, Department of Architectural Constructions II, Higher Technical School of Building Engineering, University of Seville, Av. Reina Mercedes, 4-a, 41012 Seville, Spain

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1020; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041020 - 30 Mar 2018

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 5419

Abstract

More effective construction technologies are needed nowadays in order to reduce construction energy consumption during the life-cycle of buildings. Besides which, it is necessary to consider the economic feasibility and associated costs within the framework of these alternative technologies so as to favouring [...] Read more.

More effective construction technologies are needed nowadays in order to reduce construction energy consumption during the life-cycle of buildings. Besides which, it is necessary to consider the economic feasibility and associated costs within the framework of these alternative technologies so as to favouring their practical implementation in the construction sector. In this sense, this paper presents an economic and environmental comparison of a new non-bearing façade construction solution based on the extruded unfired stabilized clay panels as opposed to three traditional solutions with similar physical, thermal, and aesthetic characteristics in terms of the exterior cladding. The proposed panels are a sandwich type configuration with an intermediate insulating material and two exterior pieces manufactured by extrusion with raw earth stabilized with alginate and animal wool fibers. In this paper, details of the constructive technology of the system are provided. From the results obtained, it is possible to conclude that the solution is a valid alternative from the environmental point of view, considerably reducing the Global Warming Potential and the Cumulative Energy Demand. And although the environmental improvement of the system can be considered the primary objective of this investigation, on the other hand, once executed, it will also be a competitive constructive technology from the perspective of the system’s final costs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Sustainable Built Environment)

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18 pages, 38270 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Environmental Justice: A Panoptic Overview Using Scientometrics

by Jake R. Nelson^*

and Tony H. Grubesic

Center for Spatial Reasoning & Policy Analytics, College of Public Service & Community Solutions, Arizona State University, 411 N Central Avenue, Suite 400, Phoenix, AZ 85004, USA

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1022; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041022 - 30 Mar 2018

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 5957

Abstract

Since its initial introduction in the 1970s, the field of environmental justice (EJ) continues to grow, with significant contributions from the disciplines of sustainability science, geography, political science, public policy and administration, urban planning, law, and many others. Each of these disciplines approach [...] Read more.

Since its initial introduction in the 1970s, the field of environmental justice (EJ) continues to grow, with significant contributions from the disciplines of sustainability science, geography, political science, public policy and administration, urban planning, law, and many others. Each of these disciplines approach EJ research from slightly different perspectives, but all offer unique and valuable insight to the EJ knowledge domain. Although the interdisciplinary nature of environmental justice should be viewed as a strength, it presents a challenge when attempting to both summarize and synthesize key contributions to the field, due to disciplinary bias, narrow subfield foci, or gaps in knowledge by a research team without a representative disciplinary composition. The purpose of this paper is to provide a succinct, panoptic review of key research contributions to environmental justice, while simultaneously minimizing common problems associated with traditional reviews. In particular, this paper explores the utility of co-citation network analysis, to provide insight into the most important subdomains of environmental justice research. The results suggest that while early EJ research is initially focused on environmental disamenities and a continued focus on race and inequality, the research gradually shifts to foci more concerned with environmental amenities, such as parks and greenspace. We also find that race and inequality remain an important and consist line of research over the duration of the study time period. Implications for environmental justice research and its allied subfields are discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Urban and Rural Development)

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18 pages, 302 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Firm as a Common. Non-Divided Ownership, Patrimonial Stability and Longevity of Co-Operative Enterprises

by Ermanno C. Tortia

Department of Economics and Management, University of Trento, Via Inama, 5, 38122 Trento, Italy

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1023; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041023 - 30 Mar 2018

Cited by 43 | Viewed by 5538

Abstract

Contemporary literature dealing with the governance and exploitation of common-pool natural resources was initiated by Elinor Ostrom in 1990, and has been growing fast ever since. On the contrary, within the same research stream, the study of the presence and economic role of [...] Read more.

Contemporary literature dealing with the governance and exploitation of common-pool natural resources was initiated by Elinor Ostrom in 1990, and has been growing fast ever since. On the contrary, within the same research stream, the study of the presence and economic role of common resources in entrepreneurial organizations is, to date, under-researched. This work endeavors to fill some theoretical gaps in this research perspective by: (i) spelling out a new-institutionalist framework for the analysis of the accumulation and governance of common capital resources within organizational boundaries; (ii) considering co-operative enterprises as the organizational form that, on the basis of historical record, and of behavioral and institutional characteristics, demonstrated to be most compatible with a substantial role for common and non-divided asset-ownership and with its governance thereof; and (iii) evidencing and explaining the theoretical connection between cooperative longevity and the presence of non-divided asset ownership. The economic forces influencing the optimal level of self-financed common capital resources in co-operatives are enquired. Conclusions to the paper evidence the main reasons why the new approach can better explain than preceding ones the economic sustainability and longevity of cooperative enterprises. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cooperative Longevity: Why are So Many Cooperatives So Successful?)

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13 pages, 12796 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Can Arable Land Alone Ensure Food Security? The Concept of Arable Land Equivalent Unit and Its Implications in Zhoushan City, China

by Yongzhong Tan^1,*, Ju He¹, Zhenning Yu^1,*

and Yonghua Tan²

¹ Department of Land Management, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China

² Second Institute of Oceanography, State Oceanic Administration, Hangzhou 310012, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1024; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041024 - 30 Mar 2018

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4673

Abstract

The requisition–compensation balance of farmlands (RCBF) is a strict Chinese policy that aims to ensure food security. However, the process of supplementing arable land has substantially damaged the ecological environment through the blind development of grasslands, woodlands, and wetlands to supplement arable land. [...] Read more.

The requisition–compensation balance of farmlands (RCBF) is a strict Chinese policy that aims to ensure food security. However, the process of supplementing arable land has substantially damaged the ecological environment through the blind development of grasslands, woodlands, and wetlands to supplement arable land. Can arable land alone ensure food security? To answer this question, this study introduced the concepts of arable land equivalent unit (ALEU) and food equivalent unit (FEU) based on the idea of food security. Zhoushan City in Zhejiang Province, China was selected as the research area. This study analyzed the ALEU supply and demand capabilities in the study area and presented the corresponding policy implications for the RCBF improvement. The results showed that the proportion of ALEU from arable land and waters for aquaculture is from 46:54 in 2009 to 31:69 in 2015, thereby suggesting that aquaculture waters can also be important in food security. Under three different living standards (i.e., adequate food and clothing, well-off, and affluence), ALEU from arable land can barely meet the needs of the permanent resident population in the study area. However, ALEU from aquaculture waters can provide important supplementation. Therefore, we suggest that food supply capability from land types other than the arable land be taken seriously. Furthermore, RCBF can be improved with ALEU as core of the balance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Institutions and Policies for Rural Land Conversion in the Quest for Sustainability)

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17 pages, 48083 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dynamic Change in the Water-Level Fluctuation Zone of the Danjiangkou Reservoir and Its Influence on Water Quality

by Jie Yin^1,†

, Hai Liu^1,2,3,*,† and Xiaoling Chen^4,5,*

¹ Faculty of Resources and Environment Science, Hubei University, Wuhan 430062, China

² School of Remote Sensing and Information, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430062, China

³ Jiangxi Provincial Geomatics Center, Nanchang 330209, China

⁴ State Key Laboratory of Information Engineering in Surveying, Mapping and Remote Sensing, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China

⁵ Key Laboratory of Poyang Lake Wetland and Watershed Research, Ministry of Education, Jiangxi Normal University, 99 Ziyang Road, Nanchang 330022, China

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1025; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041025 - 30 Mar 2018

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 5662

Abstract

The water-level fluctuation zone (WLFZ) of the Danjiangkou Reservoir is the last barrier to ensure the water quality of the middle route of the South-North Water Diversion (SNWD) Project and has therefore received widespread attention. Based on the 17-year serial dynamics of the [...] Read more.

The water-level fluctuation zone (WLFZ) of the Danjiangkou Reservoir is the last barrier to ensure the water quality of the middle route of the South-North Water Diversion (SNWD) Project and has therefore received widespread attention. Based on the 17-year serial dynamics of the Danjiangkou Reservoir WLFZ extracted from satellite images from 2000 to 2016, this study analyzed the annual and inter-monthly changes in inundation area as well as the non-flooded area within the WLFZ. The first comprehensive map of the temporal and spatial nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) release characteristics of the Danjiangkou Reservoir WLFZ is presented. The results showed that the inundation area underwent a significant increasing trend during this period, and the WLFZ was more frequently affected by off-season alternative drying-wetting than before the water diversion. The total amounts of N and P released into the water from the WLFZ soil layer are considerable (7.6 tons of P and 301.2 tons of N per year) and increasing. Optimizing land use in the WLFZ is an important means to ensure water quality in the Danjiangkou Reservoir and the sustainability of the SNWD Project. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Sustainability and Applications)

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27 pages, 37815 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Geographically Weighted Regression Models in Estimating Median Home Prices in Towns of Massachusetts Based on an Urban Sustainability Framework

by Yaxiong Ma and Sucharita Gopal^*

Department of Earth and Environment, Boston University, Boston, MA 02215, USA

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1026; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041026 - 30 Mar 2018

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 6733

Abstract

Housing is a key component of urban sustainability. The objective of this study was to assess the significance of key spatial determinants of median home price in towns in Massachusetts that impact sustainable growth. Our analysis investigates the presence or absence of spatial [...] Read more.

Housing is a key component of urban sustainability. The objective of this study was to assess the significance of key spatial determinants of median home price in towns in Massachusetts that impact sustainable growth. Our analysis investigates the presence or absence of spatial non-stationarity in the relationship between sustainable growth, measured in terms of the relationship between home values and various parameters including the amount of unprotected forest land, residential land, unemployment, education, vehicle ownership, accessibility to commuter rail stations, school district performance, and senior population. We use the standard geographically weighted regression (GWR) and Mixed GWR models to analyze the effects of spatial non-stationarity. Mixed GWR performed better than GWR in terms of Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) values. Our findings highlight the nature and spatial extent of the non-stationary vs. stationary qualities of key environmental and social determinants of median home price. Understanding the key determinants of housing values, such as valuation of green spaces, public school performance metrics, and proximity to public transport, enable towns to use different strategies of sustainable urban planning, while understanding urban housing determinants—such as unemployment and senior population—can help modify urban sustainable housing policies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Sustainable Built Environment)

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21 pages, 460 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Study of Utility Valuation of Single-Name Credit Derivatives with the Fast-Scale Stochastic Volatility Correction

by Shican Liu¹, Yanli Zhou^2,*, Benchawan Wiwatanapataphee¹, Yonghong Wu¹ and Xiangyu Ge^3,*

¹ Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6845, Australia

² School of Finance, Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, Wuhan 430073, China

³ Department of Finance, Wuhan Technology and Business University, Wuhan 430065, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1027; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041027 - 30 Mar 2018

Viewed by 2949

Abstract

In this paper, we study the risk aversion on valuing the single-name credit derivatives with the fast-scale stochastic volatility correction. Two specific utility forms, including the exponential utility and the power utility, are tested as examples in our work. We apply the asymptotic [...] Read more.

In this paper, we study the risk aversion on valuing the single-name credit derivatives with the fast-scale stochastic volatility correction. Two specific utility forms, including the exponential utility and the power utility, are tested as examples in our work. We apply the asymptotic approximation to obtain the solution of the non-linear PDE, and make a comparison of the utility before and after the stochastic volatility modification, and we find that incorporation of fast-scale volatility will lower down the utility. By using the indifference price, we also give the yield spread impacted by the risk adverse valuation. We find that by considering the default risk, yield spread is sloping in a short period and converge in a long run. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Risk Measures with Applications in Finance and Economics)

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15 pages, 523 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Stochastic Assessments of Urban Employees’ Pension Plan of China

by Yueqiang Zhao¹, Manying Bai^1,*, Peng Feng² and Mengyuan Zhu³

¹ School of Economics and Management, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China

² COFCO Nutrition & Health Research Institute, Beijing 102209, China

³ School of Electronic Information and Electrical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1028; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041028 - 30 Mar 2018

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3669

Abstract

In the uncertain environment of population and economy; the pension plan for urban employees in China is under threat from various types of financial risk. This paper mainly builds a comprehensive risk assessment system to evaluate the solvency sustainability of the urban employees’ [...] Read more.

In the uncertain environment of population and economy; the pension plan for urban employees in China is under threat from various types of financial risk. This paper mainly builds a comprehensive risk assessment system to evaluate the solvency sustainability of the urban employees’ pension plan of China. Specifically, we forecast annual accumulative net asset; actuarial balance; and potential support ratio for the next seventy years. To account for the impact of demographic uncertainty on long-term finances, stochastic simulations are used to estimate the probability distribution of relative risk indicators. Moreover, we integrate the Lee–Carter model into the population projection. According to the median projection, the public pension fund will have a gap in about 35 years; and the cash flow will be negative about 25 years later. Furthermore, under the existing policy, the burden of insured employees will increase rapidly. Delayed retirement could relieve the coming solvency risk, but it does not fundamentally resolve the solvency problem in the long run. Full article

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20 pages, 40282 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Gateway to Successful River Restorations: A Pre-Assessment Framework on the River Ecosystem in Northeast China

by Xin Jiang¹, Yuyu Liu^2,*, Shiguo Xu¹ and Wei Qi³

¹ Institute of Water and Environmental Research, Faculty of Infrastructure Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China

² School of Resources and Environment, University of Jinan, Jinan 250002, China

³ School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1029; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041029 - 30 Mar 2018

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4697

Abstract

Natural rivers have been disturbed for hundreds of years by human activities. Previous water conservancy projects in the form of dams, reservoirs, dykes, and irrigation infrastructure focused on the social and economic benefits and disregarded the adverse effects on the physical, chemical, and [...] Read more.

Natural rivers have been disturbed for hundreds of years by human activities. Previous water conservancy projects in the form of dams, reservoirs, dykes, and irrigation infrastructure focused on the social and economic benefits and disregarded the adverse effects on the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of the affected rivers. Since the 2000s, the comprehension of river remolding has transformed so decisions are more socially and ecologically beneficial. However, restoration actions are often implemented aimlessly, without a detailed plan or sufficient communication, leading to the failure of accomplishing objectives for a variety of ecologic, financial, and social reasons. Thus, a pre-assessment framework is proposed in this paper, to determine river restoration priorities, emphasizing both social and ecological aspects. The vague notion of river health is evaluated using the Variable Fuzzy Assessment Model (VFAM) and expressed by modified Nightingale Rose Diagrams (NRDs). The river social ecosystem was subsequently analysed using this framework in the Ashihe River near Harbin City, Northeast China. The application of VFAM demonstrated that the health status of the upper, middle, and lower sections of the river could be classified as sub-healthy, degraded, or sick in terms of ecosystem structures, and sub-healthy, degraded, or degraded in terms of social functions, respectively. The health status of the lower section was the poorest and should be restored first. Using NRDs, we found that water quality deterioration and irrigation works are the two key factors in river degradation, which must be improved throughout the entire watershed. Aesthetics and recreation should also be given priority to restore the lower section due to the demands of nearby residents. Several measures are also suggested for decision makers who need a more detailed design to implement. This framework potentially assists with communicating with stakeholders, avoids aimless restoration actions, and contributes to comparing with the measuring after restorations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Sustainability and Applications)

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20 pages, 310 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of the 2010 Women’s Rugby World Cup on Sustained Volunteering in the Rugby Community

by Niki Koutrou

School of Sport & Exercise Sciences, University of Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NZ, UK

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1030; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041030 - 30 Mar 2018

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3711

Abstract

Major sport events increasingly rely on volunteers to sustain their operations. Thus, event organisers are concerned with the task of identifying volunteers and utilising appropriate strategies to retain them. The purpose of the study is to explore the potential of harnessing volunteer activity [...] Read more.

Major sport events increasingly rely on volunteers to sustain their operations. Thus, event organisers are concerned with the task of identifying volunteers and utilising appropriate strategies to retain them. The purpose of the study is to explore the potential of harnessing volunteer activity in different contexts, as a result of previous single-sport event experience, and to determine which factors influence future volunteering decisions. Data that was related to volunteers’ profile, motivations, satisfaction, and future volunteer intentions was gathered through an online survey on 70 volunteers of the 2010 Women’s Rugby World Cup. Factor analysis was employed to summarise volunteers’ motivations and satisfaction with their experience. Regression analysis was then applied to identify which of these factors, for example, which motivations, aspects of satisfaction with the experience, socio-demographic characteristics, and previous sport engagement determine future intentions to volunteer in similar events or in sport clubs. The implications of the findings for event organisers are then discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Leisure, Tourism, Sport and Community Development)

22 pages, 2660 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Social Life Cycle Approach as a Tool for Promoting the Market Uptake of Bio-Based Products from a Consumer Perspective

by Pasquale Marcello Falcone^1,*

and Enrica Imbert²

¹ Bioeconomy in Transition Research Group, IdEA, Unitelma Sapienza—University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena, 291, 00161 Roma, Italy

² Department of Law and Economics, Unitelma-Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena, 295, 00161 Roma, Italy

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1031; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041031 - 30 Mar 2018

Cited by 77 | Viewed by 8754

Abstract

The sustainability of bio-based products, especially when compared with fossil based products, must be assured. The life cycle approach has proven to be a promising way to analyze the social, economic and environmental impacts of bio-based products along the whole value chain. Until [...] Read more.

The sustainability of bio-based products, especially when compared with fossil based products, must be assured. The life cycle approach has proven to be a promising way to analyze the social, economic and environmental impacts of bio-based products along the whole value chain. Until now, however, the social aspects have been under-investigated in comparison to environmental and economic aspects. In this context, the present paper aims to identify the main social impact categories and indicators that should be included in a social sustainability assessment of bio-based products, with a focus on the consumers’ category. To identify which social categories and indicators are most relevant, we carry out a literature review on existing social life cycle studies; this is followed by a focus group with industrial experts and academics. Afterwards, we conduct semi-structured interviews with some consumer representatives to understand which social indicators pertaining to consumers are perceived as relevant. Our findings highlight the necessity for the development and dissemination of improved frameworks capable of exploiting the consumers’ role in the ongoing process of market uptake of bio-based products. More specifically, this need regards the effective inclusion of some social indicators (i.e., end users’ health and safety, feedback mechanisms, transparency, and end-of-life responsibility) in the social life cycle assessment scheme for bio-based products. This would allow consumers, where properly communicated, to make more informed and aware purchasing choices, therefore having a flywheel effect on the market diffusion of a bio-based product. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability Transition Towards a Bio-Based Economy: New Technologies, New Products, New Policies)

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17 pages, 4620 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Aligning Strategy with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Process Scoping Diagram for Entrepreneurial Higher Education Institutions (HEIs)

by Elena Fleacă^1,*, Bogdan Fleacă¹ and Sanda Maiduc²

¹ Department of Entrepreneurship and Management, Faculty of Entrepreneurship, Business Engineering and Management, University Politehnica of Bucharest, Bucharest 060042, Romania

² Department of Management for Scientific Research Activities, University Politehnica of Bucharest, Bucharest 060042, Romania

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1032; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041032 - 30 Mar 2018

Cited by 78 | Viewed by 16277

Abstract

Seeing that the prosperity of people and society is possible with the aid of sustained and inclusive economic growth of all countries and regions, the sustainable development of our world has gained the particular attention of a wide range of decisional factors; civil [...] Read more.

Seeing that the prosperity of people and society is possible with the aid of sustained and inclusive economic growth of all countries and regions, the sustainable development of our world has gained the particular attention of a wide range of decisional factors; civil society, the business sector, and the scientific community. Education has a decisive impact on changes in the way that societies are coping with national, regional, and global challenges and opportunities brought by sustainable development. The paper addressed the lack of capacity of higher education institutions (HEIs) to integrate the principles and practices of sustainable development into all aspects of education and learning, which hampers the capability to act as an entrepreneurial university. Embarking on the path of sustainable development goals (SDGs) requires HEI to design, launch, implement, and customize specific processes architecture to govern the advance of the sustainability approach. The authors applied the process scoping diagram to capture and conceptualize the educational model needed to guide the HEI through the process of change in its daily operations. The SIPOC method (Supplier, Input, Process, Output, Customer) was applied and with the aid of Visio software tool, the processes relationships were articulated and embedded in the educational model of HEI. Finally, the authors shared their views on the scalability of the model, which may be customized and harmonized in accordance with different HEI’s circumstances and priorities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Entrepreneurship and Business Cases for a Sustainable Accounting and Financial System)

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18 pages, 478 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Organizational Orientations, Industrial Category, and Responsible Innovation

by Christine Chou

Department of International Business, National Dong Hwa University, Hualien 97401, Taiwan

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1033; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041033 - 30 Mar 2018

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3893

Abstract

This paper explores the foundations of firms’ involvement in responsible innovation. A number of hypotheses appearing in the literature, regarding the direct effect of strategic orientations and the moderating effect of industrial category on responsible innovation engagement, were tested by using text analytics [...] Read more.

This paper explores the foundations of firms’ involvement in responsible innovation. A number of hypotheses appearing in the literature, regarding the direct effect of strategic orientations and the moderating effect of industrial category on responsible innovation engagement, were tested by using text analytics and statistical methods. The data comprise 475 documents of firms’ annual reports with a total word count of 192,179,794 and a mean of 404,589, supplemented with corresponding financial data, yielding 372 firm-year observations. The results show that long-term orientation and organizational virtue orientation are positively associated with responsible innovation, while profitability orientation is negatively correlated. The results also show that industrial category moderates the relationship between strategic orientations and responsible innovation engagement, such that the positive relationship between both long-term and organizational virtue orientation and responsible innovation is weaker in the industrial products category than in the consumer products category. The theoretical and practical implications are discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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16 pages, 780 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Exploring Farmers’ Indigenous Knowledge of Soil Quality and Fertility Management Practices in Selected Farming Communities of the Guinea Savannah Agro-Ecological Zone of Ghana

by Richard Ansong Omari¹, Sonoko Dorothea Bellingrath-Kimura^2,3, Elsie Sarkodee Addo⁴, Yosei Oikawa⁴ and Yoshiharu Fujii^4,*

¹ United Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan

² Leibniz Centre for Agricultural Landscape Research, 15374 Müencheberg, Germany

³ Institute of Agriculture and Horticulture, Faculty of Life Science, Humboldt-University of Berlin, 14195 Berlin, Germany

⁴ Institute of Agriculture, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo 183-8509, Japan

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1034; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041034 - 30 Mar 2018

Cited by 36 | Viewed by 8260

Abstract

Efforts to improve soil productive capacity aimed at boosting crop production in the Northern Ghana has primarily focused on field-based experiments with little documentation on farmer practice and local indigenous knowledge of soil management. A sample group of 114 farmers from five farming [...] Read more.

Efforts to improve soil productive capacity aimed at boosting crop production in the Northern Ghana has primarily focused on field-based experiments with little documentation on farmer practice and local indigenous knowledge of soil management. A sample group of 114 farmers from five farming communities in the Guinea Savannah was interviewed to evaluate their indigenous knowledge of crop production practices in the context of soil health, fertilization management, and crop yield. Data were collected using semi-structured interviews and responses for each category were calculated using simple proportions. Farmers’ fertilization practice was primarily influenced by fertilization resource availability and crop yield response. The results showed that inorganic fertilization was the commonest fertilization type among farmers. Farmer local indicators of soil health were predominantly limited to visually observable signs such as presence or absence of indicator plants, growth vigor of plants, soil color, and tilth, texture, and compaction. Non-tactile and visible indicators, notably soil chemical composition and presence of soil microorganisms, was rarely used. The listed indicators were congruent with scientific reports, although some knowledge gaps, particularly on the use of indicator plants, were identified. The use of indicator plants as determinants of healthy or non-healthy soils appeared to be influenced by the ease of control of weeds, its utilitarian benefits, benefits to the soil, and threats on cultivated crops. Famers were well informed about the decreasing crop yield. Fertilization practices and limitations in soil management practices with proposed capacity building approaches aimed at enhancing productive capacities of cultivated farmlands are discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Agriculture, Landscape, Ecosystem Services and Biodiversity: New Challenges for Sustainable Development)

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33 pages, 32912 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Path Walkability Assessment Index Model for Evaluating and Facilitating Retail Walking Using Decision-Tree-Making (DTM) Method

by Ali Keyvanfar^1,2,3,4

, M. Salim Ferwati^5,*, Arezou Shafaghat^2,3,* and Hasanuddin Lamit³

¹ Facultad de Arquitectura y Urbanismo, Universidad Tecnológica Equinoccial, Calle Rumipamba s/n y Bourgeois, Quito 170508, Ecuador

² MIT-UTM MSCP Program, Institute Sultan Iskandar, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai 81310, Malaysia

³ Department of Landscape Architecture, Faculty of Built Environment, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai 81310, Johor, Malaysia

⁴ Jacobs School of Engineering, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA

⁵ Department of Architecture and Urban Planning, College of Engineering, Qatar University, Doha 2713, Qatar

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1035; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041035 - 31 Mar 2018

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 7066

Abstract

Transportation is the major contributor of ever-increasing CO₂ and Greenhouse Gas emissions in cities. The ever-increasing hazardous emissions of transportation and energy consumption have persuaded transportation and urban planners to motivate people to non-motorized mode of travel, especially walking. Currently, there are [...] Read more.

Transportation is the major contributor of ever-increasing CO₂ and Greenhouse Gas emissions in cities. The ever-increasing hazardous emissions of transportation and energy consumption have persuaded transportation and urban planners to motivate people to non-motorized mode of travel, especially walking. Currently, there are several urban walkability assessment models; however, coping with a limited range of walkability assessment variables make these models not fully able to promote inclusive walkable urban neighborhoods. In this regard, this study develops the path walkability assessment (PWA) index model which evaluates and analyzes path walkability in association with the pedestrian’s decision-tree-making (DTM). The model converts the pedestrian’s DTM qualitative data to quantifiable values. This model involves ninety-two (92) physical and environmental walkability assessment variables clustered into three layers of DTM (Layer 1: features; Layer 2: Criteria; and Layer 3: Sub-Criteria), and scoped to shopping and retail type of walking. The PWA model as a global decision support tool can be applied in any neighborhood in the world, and this study implements it at Taman Universiti neighborhood in Skudai, Malaysia. The PWA model has established the walkability score index which determines the grading rate of walkability accomplishment for each walkability variable of the under-survey neighborhood. Using the PWA grading index enables urban designers to manage properly the financial resource allocation for inspiring walkability in the targeted neighborhood. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Transportation)

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16 pages, 22247 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Waste Brick Powder in the Mechanical Properties of Recycled Aggregate Concrete

by Viviana Letelier¹, José Marcos Ortega^2,*

, Pedro Muñoz³, Ester Tarela¹ and Giacomo Moriconi⁴

¹ Departamento de Obras Civiles, Universidad de la Frontera, Av. Fco. Salazar, Temuco 01145, Chile

² Departamento de Ingeniería Civil, Universidad de Alicante, Ap. Correos 99, 03080 Alacant/Alicante, Spain

³ Escuela Superior de Ingeniería y Tecnología (ESIT), Universidad Internacional de La Rioja, Av. de la Paz, 137, 26006 Logroño, La Rioja, Spain

⁴ Department of Science and Engineering of Matter, Environment and Urban Planning, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Via Brecce Bianche, 60131 Ancona, Italy

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1037; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041037 - 31 Mar 2018

Cited by 97 | Viewed by 8170

Abstract

Brick and concrete are the main materials contributing to demolition and construction waste. Considering this precedent, the effects of using both residuals in medium strength concretes are analyzed. Waste brick powder is used as a cement replacement in three different levels: 5%, 10%, [...] Read more.

Brick and concrete are the main materials contributing to demolition and construction waste. Considering this precedent, the effects of using both residuals in medium strength concretes are analyzed. Waste brick powder is used as a cement replacement in three different levels: 5%, 10%, and 15%, and it is tested in concretes with no recycled aggregates and concretes with 30% of recycled coarse aggregates replacing natural ones. The compressive strength, the flexural strength, and modulus of elasticity are calculated and compared to a control concrete with no brick powder and no recycled aggregates. The effects of the simultaneous use of both residuals on the physical properties of the recycled concrete are highlighted. Results show that 15% of cement can be replaced by waste brick powder together with 30% of recycled aggregates without suffering significant losses in the strength of the final material when compared to a control concrete. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Cementitious Materials for the Construction Industry)

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16 pages, 3135 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Beyond the Certification Badge—How Infrastructure Sustainability Rating Tools Impact on Individual, Organizational, and Industry Practice

by Kerry Griffiths^1,*

, Carol Boyle² and Theunis F. P. Henning¹

¹ Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand

² Faculty of Science Engineering & Built Environment, Deakin University, Geelong Waurn Ponds Campus, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1038; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041038 - 31 Mar 2018

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 5728

Abstract

Sustainability consideration in designing, constructing, and operating civil infrastructure requires substantive action and yet progress is slow. This research examines the impact third-party infrastructure sustainability rating tools—specifically CEEQUAL, Envision, Greenroads, and Infrastructure Sustainability—have beyond individual project certification and considers their role in driving [...] Read more.

Sustainability consideration in designing, constructing, and operating civil infrastructure requires substantive action and yet progress is slow. This research examines the impact third-party infrastructure sustainability rating tools—specifically CEEQUAL, Envision, Greenroads, and Infrastructure Sustainability—have beyond individual project certification and considers their role in driving wider industry change. In this empirical study, engineering and sustainability professionals (n = 63) assess and describe their experience in using rating tools outside of formal certification and also the impact of tool use on their own practice and the practices of their home organizations. The study found that 77% of experienced users and 59% of infrastructure owners used the tools for purposes other than formal project certification. The research attests that rating tool use and indeed their very existence has a strong influence on sustainability awareness and practice within the infrastructure industry, providing interpretation of sustainability matters in ways that resonate with industry norms. The rating tools impact on individuals and their professional and personal practice, on the policies and practices of infrastructure-related organizations, and more widely on other industry stakeholders. The findings can be used to increase the value gained from sustainability rating tool use and to better understand the role such tools play in creating cultural change within the industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Civil Engineering: from Sustainable Materials to Sustainable Cities)

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35 pages, 658 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Social Sustainability in Apparel Supply Chains—The Role of the Sourcing Intermediary in a Developing Country

by Deniz Köksal^1,*, Jochen Strähle¹ and Martin Müller²

¹ School of Textiles & Design, Reutlingen University, Alteburgstraße 150, 72762 Reutlingen, Germany

² Institute of Sustainable Corporate Management, Ulm University, Helmholtzstraße 18, 89081 Ulm, Germany

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1039; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041039 - 31 Mar 2018

Cited by 34 | Viewed by 11808

Abstract

After considering significant literature on sustainable supply chain management (SSCM), it is evident that research has neglected the social dimension and still lacks in highlighting the role of sourcing intermediaries in supply chains. The apparel supply chain has increased enormously in length and [...] Read more.

After considering significant literature on sustainable supply chain management (SSCM), it is evident that research has neglected the social dimension and still lacks in highlighting the role of sourcing intermediaries in supply chains. The apparel supply chain has increased enormously in length and complexity, driving apparel retailers to employ sourcing intermediaries who manage their sourcing activities with suppliers from developing countries overseas. Thus, the purpose of this study is to enrich existing findings on SSCM by exploring the management of social sustainability when sourcing intermediaries are in between the focal company and the respective developing country factories. More specifically, this study aims to understand the role of apparel sourcing intermediaries for the implementation of social management strategies based on the perception of multiple supply chain actors. Qualitative data was collected through semi-structured interviews conducted in Vietnam and Europe. Ultimately ten propositions are presented, all explicitly concentrating on the apparel intermediary’s role as a significant enabler for social sustainability in apparel supply chains. The roles are social sustainability, supplier developer and coordinator, gatekeeper and safeguard, cultural broker, and social risk manager. The social sustainability roles assumed by the apparel sourcing intermediary offer great opportunities to both apparel retailers and developing country factories. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in Developing Countries: Current Trends and Development)

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15 pages, 888 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Global Synthesis Reveals Gaps in Coastal Habitat Restoration Research

by Y. Stacy Zhang^1,*

, William R. Cioffi²

, Rebecca Cope¹, Pedro Daleo³, Eleanor Heywood¹, Carmen Hoyt¹, Carter S. Smith⁴

and Brian. R. Silliman¹

¹ Division of Marine Science and Conservation, Nicholas School of the Environment, Duke University, Beaufort, NC 28516, USA

² University Program in Ecology, Duke University Marine Lab, Beaufort, NC 28516, USA

³ Intsituto de Investigaciones Marinas y Costeras (IIMyC), UNMdP, CONICET, CC1260, Mar del Plata 7600, Argentina

⁴ Institute of Marine Sciences, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Morehead City, NC 28557, USA

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1040; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041040 - 1 Apr 2018

Cited by 62 | Viewed by 9031

Abstract

Coastal ecosystems have drastically declined in coverage and condition across the globe. To combat these losses, marine conservation has recently employed habitat restoration as a strategy to enhance depleted coastal ecosystems. For restoration to be a successful enterprise, however, it is necessary to [...] Read more.

Coastal ecosystems have drastically declined in coverage and condition across the globe. To combat these losses, marine conservation has recently employed habitat restoration as a strategy to enhance depleted coastal ecosystems. For restoration to be a successful enterprise, however, it is necessary to identify and address potential knowledge gaps and review whether the field has tracked scientific advances regarding best practices. This enables managers, researchers, and practitioners alike to more readily establish restoration priorities and goals. We synthesized the peer-reviewed, published literature on habitat restoration research in salt marshes, oyster reefs, and seagrasses to address three questions related to restoration efforts: (i) How frequent is cross-sector authorship in coastal restoration research? (ii) What is the geographic distribution of coastal restoration research? and (iii) Are abiotic and biotic factors equally emphasized in the literature, and how does this vary with time? Our vote-count survey indicated that one-third of the journal-published studies listed authors from at least two sectors, and 6% listed authors from all three sectors. Across all habitat types, there was a dearth of studies from Africa, Asia, and South America. Finally, despite many experimental studies demonstrating that species interactions can greatly affect the recovery and persistence of coastal foundation species, only one-fourth of the studies we examined discussed their effects on restoration. Combined, our results reveal gaps and discrepancies in restoration research that should be addressed in order to further propel coastal restoration science. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Social-Ecological Restoration for Coastal Sustainability)

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23 pages, 1106 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Doing Well or Doing Good: The Relationship between Corporate Social Responsibility and Profit in Romanian Companies

by Camelia-Daniela Hategan^1,*

, Nicoleta Sirghi², Ruxandra-Ioana Curea-Pitorac²

and Vasile-Petru Hategan³

¹ Department of Accounting and Audit, Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, West University of Timisoara, 16 Pestalozzi Street, 300115 Timisoara, Romania

² Department of Economics and Modeling, Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, West University of Timisoara, 16 Pestalozzi Street, 300115 Timisoara, Romania

³ Philosophy and Communication Studies Department, Faculty of Political Sciences, Philosophy and Communication Studies, West University of Timisoara, 4 V. Parvan Blvd, 300223 Timisoara, Romania

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1041; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041041 - 1 Apr 2018

Cited by 112 | Viewed by 17222

Abstract

The traditional goal of a company is to earn profit to pay its shareholders, but, nowadays, for the business to be sustainable in the long term, a strategy of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities is needed to meet stakeholder demands, respect ethical principles [...] Read more.

The traditional goal of a company is to earn profit to pay its shareholders, but, nowadays, for the business to be sustainable in the long term, a strategy of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities is needed to meet stakeholder demands, respect ethical principles and give an appropriate answer to organizational stakeholders. The objective of the paper is to identify how strong the correlation between CSR and profit is, and how companies behave in the periods they have losses, whether they continue to do CSR activities, they reduce the activities, or they give them up. Thus, CSR is attributed to the concept of “doing good” and profit to the expression of “doing well”, from which a “positive business” can be built. Our empirical research consists of a panel data econometric model using logistics regressions to highlight the correlation between profit and the decision to do CSR activities and feasible generalized least squares (FGLS) regressions to identify the correlations between the level of CSR activities and the dimension of profit, an expression of financial performance. The main results emphasize that the companies which implement CSR activities in a greater extent are more profitable in economic terms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in Developing Countries: Current Trends and Development)

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12 pages, 6048 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Network Analysis on Green Technology in National Research and Development Projects in Korea

by Jae Yun Jeong^1,2

, Inje Kang¹, Ki Seok Choi^1,2 and Byeong-Hee Lee^1,2,*

¹ Department of Science and Technology Management Policy, University of Science and Technology, 217, Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34113, Korea

² NTIS Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology Information, 245, Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34113, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1043; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041043 - 2 Apr 2018

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4898

Abstract

This study examined how green technology (GT) has evolved recently in the domain of national research and development (R&D) in Korea. The analysis considered social network analysis by using keywords of national R&D projects in environmentally benign (‘green’ in this paper) technologies. Data [...] Read more.

This study examined how green technology (GT) has evolved recently in the domain of national research and development (R&D) in Korea. The analysis considered social network analysis by using keywords of national R&D projects in environmentally benign (‘green’ in this paper) technologies. Data for analysis were collected from the R&D database of the National Science and Technology Information Service (NTIS). By selecting the official GT category in the NTIS’s database, we gathered 53,896 GT R&D projects from 2011 to 2016 inclusive. By constructing a co-occurrence matrix with keywords, we conducted a centrality analysis (including degree, closeness, betweenness centrality) and visualized the network matrix to display a cluster map. This study presents the following findings: (1) the chronical trends of GT R&D, (2) focused fields of GT R&D, (3) the relations between keywords and GTs, and (4) the characteristics and problems in GT R&D. The paper ends with suggested policy implications to boost national GT R&D and to develop GTs in the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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15 pages, 975 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Investigating Young Consumers’ Purchasing Intention of Green Housing in China

by Lin Zhang^1,2,*

, Liwen Chen^1,*, Zezhou Wu³

, Sizhen Zhang² and Huanbin Song²

¹ School of Economics and Management, Hebei University of Technology, 5340 Xiping Road, Beichen District, Tianjin 300401, China

² School of Management Engineering, Shandong Jianzhu University, 1000 Fengming Road, Licheng District, Jinan 250101, China

³ Department of Construction Management and Real Estate, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1044; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041044 - 2 Apr 2018

Cited by 143 | Viewed by 12355

Abstract

The issues of energy crisis, environmental degradation, and climate change present a severe challenge to the sustainable development in China. The development of green building (GB) is considered one of the most popular strategies toward a sustainable construction industry. Apart from advanced green [...] Read more.

The issues of energy crisis, environmental degradation, and climate change present a severe challenge to the sustainable development in China. The development of green building (GB) is considered one of the most popular strategies toward a sustainable construction industry. Apart from advanced green technologies, consumers’ purchasing intention toward green housing (GH) plays a crucial role in the large-scale promotion of GB. However, which determinants significantly affect consumers’ purchasing intention remain unclear, especially for the young generation in developing countries. This study attempts to investigate young consumers’ purchasing intention of GH in China. On the basis of extended theory of planned behavior (TPB), seven constructs are identified, and nine hypotheses are proposed. A total of 241 responses were collected from the questionnaire survey, and structural equation modeling was employed to test the proposed hypotheses. Governmental incentives are affirmed to be the most important determinant, followed by consumers’ attitude toward behavior and subjective norm. Perceived behavioral control is an insignificant determinant for young consumers to purchase GH. In addition, subjective knowledge has an indirect effect through attitude toward behavior. Environmental concern also confirms an indirect effect through attitude toward behavior and subjective norm toward purchasing intention, respectively. Thus, the government is implied to play a crucial role in GH promotion at this stage. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Construction, Development and Management in the Built Environment)

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15 pages, 20912 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Long-Term Design of Mangrove Landfills as an Effective Tide Attenuator under Relative Sea-Level Rise

by Hiroshi Takagi

School of Environment and Society, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Tokyo 152-8550, Japan

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1045; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041045 - 2 Apr 2018

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 5408

Abstract

A mangrove ecosystem is an important option in Ecosystem based Disaster Risk Reduction (Eco-DRR). The effectiveness of an artificial mangrove landfill in reducing tidal amplitudes was studied by performing a coupled numerical model that simulated wave propagation and soil consolidation. The constructed model [...] Read more.

A mangrove ecosystem is an important option in Ecosystem based Disaster Risk Reduction (Eco-DRR). The effectiveness of an artificial mangrove landfill in reducing tidal amplitudes was studied by performing a coupled numerical model that simulated wave propagation and soil consolidation. The constructed model simulated the propagation of tide over an artificial landfill that was subjected to land subsidence, sea-level rise, vegetation growth, and sediment deposition. A case study analysis confirmed that the tidal amplitudes are reduced if the initial elevation of the landfill is appropriately considered to achieve an equilibrium state of the landfill over its lifetime. Sediment deposition may be the only dependable source to sustain the surface elevation of a mangrove with relative sea-level rise. Sediment deposition is important to promote vegetation growth, which in turn contributes to sedimentation by enhancing a tranquil hydrodynamic environment. An insufficient initial elevation of the landfill will result in less effective protection against tidal propagation after it substantially subsides. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Green Infrastructure and Climate Adaptation)

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17 pages, 70585 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Sweet Sorghum-Based Ethanol Potential in China within the Water–Energy–Food Nexus Framework

by Xiaoxi Yan^1,2,†, Dong Jiang^1,2,3,†

, Jingying Fu^1,2,* and Mengmeng Hao^1,2

¹ Institute of Geographical Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 11A Datun Road, Beijing 100101, China

² College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 19A Yuquan Road, Beijing 100049, China

³ Key Laboratory of Carrying Capacity Assessment for Resource and Environment, Ministry of Land & Resources, Beijing 100101, China

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1046; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041046 - 2 Apr 2018

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 5261

Abstract

As bio-ethanol is developing rapidly, its impacts on food security, water security and the environment begin to receive worldwide attention, especially within the Water–Energy–Food nexus framework. The aim of this study is to present an integrated method of assessing sweet sorghum-based ethanol potential [...] Read more.

As bio-ethanol is developing rapidly, its impacts on food security, water security and the environment begin to receive worldwide attention, especially within the Water–Energy–Food nexus framework. The aim of this study is to present an integrated method of assessing sweet sorghum-based ethanol potential in China in compliance with the Water–Energy–Food nexus principles. Life cycle assessment is coupled with the DSSAT (the Decision Support System for Agrotechnology Transfer) model and geographic information technology to evaluate the spatial distribution of water consumption, net energy gain and Greenhouse Gas emission reduction potentials of developing sweet sorghum-based ethanol on marginal lands instead of cultivated land in China. Marginal lands with high water stress are excluded from the results considering their unsuitability of developing sweet sorghum-based ethanol due to possible energy–water conflicts. The results show that the water consumption, net energy gain and Greenhouse Gas emission reduction of developing sweet sorghum-based ethanol in China are evaluated as 348.95 billion m³, 182.62 billion MJ, and 2.47 million t carbon per year, respectively. Some regions such as Yunnan Province in south China should be given priority for sweet sorghum-based ethanol development, while Jilin Province and Heilongjiang Province need further studies and assessment. Full article

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23 pages, 4247 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Facilitating Low-Carbon Living? A Comparison of Intervention Measures in Different Community-Based Initiatives

by Martina Schäfer^1,*, Sabine Hielscher¹, Willi Haas²

, Daniel Hausknost³

, Michaela Leitner⁴, Iris Kunze⁵ and Sylvia Mandl⁴

¹ Center for Technology and Society, Technische Universität Berlin, Sekr. HBS 1, Hardenbergstraße 16-18, D-10623 Berlin, Germany

² Institute for Social Ecology, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (BOKU), Schottenfeldgasse 29, A-1070 Vienna, Austria

³ Institute for Social Change and Sustainability (IGN), Vienna University of Economics and Business, Welthandelsplatz 2, A-1020 Vienna, Austria

⁴ Austrian Institute for Sustainable Development, Lindengasse 2/12, A-1070 Wien, Austria

⁵ Center for Global Change and Sustainability (gW/N), University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences (BOKU), Borkowskigasse 4/4, A-1190 Vienna, Austria

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1047; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041047 - 2 Apr 2018

Cited by 41 | Viewed by 7737

Abstract

The challenge of facilitating a shift towards sustainable housing, food and mobility has been taken up by diverse community-based initiatives ranging from “top-down” approaches in low-carbon municipalities to “bottom-up” approaches in intentional communities. This paper compares intervention measures in four case study areas [...] Read more.

The challenge of facilitating a shift towards sustainable housing, food and mobility has been taken up by diverse community-based initiatives ranging from “top-down” approaches in low-carbon municipalities to “bottom-up” approaches in intentional communities. This paper compares intervention measures in four case study areas belonging to these two types, focusing on their potential of re-configuring daily housing, food, and mobility practices. Taking up critics on dominant intervention framings of diffusing low-carbon technical innovations and changing individual behavior, we draw on social practice theory for the empirical analysis of four case studies. Framing interventions in relation to re-configuring daily practices, the paper reveals differences and weaknesses of current low-carbon measures of community-based initiatives in Germany and Austria. Low-carbon municipalities mainly focus on introducing technologies and offering additional infrastructure and information to promote low-carbon practices. They avoid interfering into residents’ daily lives and do not restrict carbon-intensive practices. In contrast, intentional communities base their interventions on the collective creation of shared visions, decisions, and rules and thus provide social and material structures, which foster everyday low-carbon practices and discourage carbon-intensive ones. The paper discusses the relevance of organizational and governance structures for implementing different types of low-carbon measures and points to opportunities for broadening current policy strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Social Ecology and Sustainability)

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15 pages, 69295 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Urban Agriculture as a Sustainability Transition Strategy for Shrinking Cities? Land Use Change Trajectory as an Obstacle in Kyoto City, Japan

by Kimisato Oda^1,2, Christoph D. D. Rupprecht^1,*

, Kazuaki Tsuchiya³

and Steven R. McGreevy¹

¹ FEAST Project, Research Institute for Humanity and Nature, Kyoto 603-8047, Japan

² Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8502, Japan

³ Department of Ecosystem Studies, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-8657, Japan

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1048; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041048 - 2 Apr 2018

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 14711

Abstract

Can shrinking cities harness population decline to improve their sustainability by repurposing land use, for example, for localizing food production? Whether such a transition is feasible depends on the pre-shrinkage state of urban agricultural land use, including ongoing trends in local land use [...] Read more.

Can shrinking cities harness population decline to improve their sustainability by repurposing land use, for example, for localizing food production? Whether such a transition is feasible depends on the pre-shrinkage state of urban agricultural land use, including ongoing trends in local land use change. This study examined agricultural land use from 2007–2017 in Kyoto City, Japan. Kyoto is on the brink of a large projected population decline (~190,000 or ~13% until 2040) and serves as a representative for a large number of regional Japanese cities in a similar situation. Analysis was based on a public 2007 land use data set, aerial and satellite imagery and ground truthing. Results showed a decline of 209 ha or 10% in agricultural land use over ten years, but also highlight the diversity of ongoing agricultural land use types not captured by standard categories. The main post-agricultural land uses were residential (40%) and vacant land (28%). These results have implications for planning and policy. Kyoto City is currently not set to benefit from the projected shrinking process through localizing food production, despite a tradition of vegetable production. Future research should analyze drivers of change for observed agricultural land use. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustaining the Shrinking City: Concepts, Dynamics and Management)

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22 pages, 52488 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Landscape Greening Policies-based Land Use/Land Cover Simulation for Beijing and Islamabad—An Implication of Sustainable Urban Ecosystems

by Shahid Naeem^1,2

, Chunxiang Cao^1,2,*, Khunsa Fatima³

, Omaid Najmuddin^1,4 and Bipin Kumar Acharya^1,2

¹ University of Chinese Academy of Sciences (UCAS), Beijing 101408, China

² Division of Environmental Health, State Key Laboratory, Institute of Remote Sensing and Digital Earth (RADI), Beijing 100101, China

³ Institute of Geographical Information Systems, National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad 44000, Pakistan

⁴ Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources (IGNRR), Beijing 100101, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1049; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041049 - 2 Apr 2018

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 7118

Abstract

City green infrastructure (CGI) makes cities more resilient and sustainable, as required by the United Nations’ (UN) Sustainable Development Goal 11–Sustainable Cities and Communities. Based on the CGI policies of Beijing, land use/land cover (LULC) changes of two Asian capitals, Beijing, China and [...] Read more.

City green infrastructure (CGI) makes cities more resilient and sustainable, as required by the United Nations’ (UN) Sustainable Development Goal 11–Sustainable Cities and Communities. Based on the CGI policies of Beijing, land use/land cover (LULC) changes of two Asian capitals, Beijing, China and Islamabad, Pakistan, are simulated. LULC maps for 2010 and 2015 are developed by applying object-based image analysis (OBIA) to Landsat imagery. Dynamics of land system (DLS) model was used to simulate the LULC changes for 2020 and 2025 under three scenarios: (1) business-as-usual (BAU); (2) urban green space work plan (UGWP); and (3) landscape and greening policies (LGP). Results reveal that DLS is efficient than other simulation models. The BAU scenario predicts an overall expansion in Beijing’s greenery, while Islamabad will encounter a decline by 7.3 km² per year. Under the UGWP scenario, urban green spaces and other vegetation area of Beijing will expand by 7.6 km², while, for Islamabad, vegetation degradation rate will slow down to 6.9 km² per year. The LGP scenario envisage a massive increase of 23.5 km² per year in green resources of Beijing and Islamabad’s green land loss rate will further slowdown to 6.1 km² per year. It is inferred from the results that vegetation degradation in Islamabad need to lessen by implementing LGP policy after basic amendments according to the local conditions and available resources. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Land Uses and Rural Governance)

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19 pages, 4330 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Environmental Implications of Eco-Labeling for Rice Farming Systems

by Solhee Kim¹

, Taegon Kim²

, Timothy M. Smith³

and Kyo Suh^4,*

¹ Institute of Green Bio Science Technology, Seoul National University, Pyeongchang 25354, Korea

² Institute on the Environment, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55108, USA

³ Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems Engineering, and Institute on the Environment, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN 55108, USA

⁴ Graduate School of International Agricultural Technology, and Institute of Green Bio Science Technology, Seoul National University, Pyeongchang 25354, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1050; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041050 - 2 Apr 2018

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4968

Abstract

Concerns about climate change have forced countries to strengthen regulations, standards, and certifications related to greenhouse gas emissions. Various policies targeting farm products, such as carbon labeling and the Environmentally-Friendly Agricultural Product Certification (EFAPC) for agricultural products, have been implemented in South Korea [...] Read more.

Concerns about climate change have forced countries to strengthen regulations, standards, and certifications related to greenhouse gas emissions. Various policies targeting farm products, such as carbon labeling and the Environmentally-Friendly Agricultural Product Certification (EFAPC) for agricultural products, have been implemented in South Korea to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the agricultural sector. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the implications of the various certification systems for rice farming, including organic farming, non-pesticide farming, and low-pesticide farming. For this study, we constructed a life cycle inventory (LCI) of rice farming systems including conventional, low-pesticide, non-pesticide, and organic farming systems in South Korea. Finally, we compared international farming systems in South Korea, the U.S., and the EU. The rice farming systems with eco-labeling certifications have reduced the environmental impacts. The environmental impacts of rice farming by country were highest in the U.S. (100.0), followed by the EU (53.7), and Korea’s conventional (48.6), low-pesticide (35.8), non-pesticide (28.9), and organic (16.7) farming practices. These results may be useful in proliferating and improving the methodology to evaluate eco-labeling and carbon labeling systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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15 pages, 3263 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Photovoltaic Applications on Urban Landscapes Based on Visual Q Methodology

by Ming Lu^1,2, Alin Lin^1,2,*

and Jiyi Sun¹

¹ School of Architecture, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150006, China

² Heilongjiang Cold Region Urban-Rural Human Settlements Science Key Laboratory, No. 66 Xidazhi St., Harbin 150006, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1051; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041051 - 2 Apr 2018

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 4259

Abstract

In recent years, the installation of photovoltaic systems in China has increased steadily to gradually become large-scale, having a significant impact on the urban landscape. Research on this impact mostly focuses on visual impact and glare risk. However, differences in urban land use [...] Read more.

In recent years, the installation of photovoltaic systems in China has increased steadily to gradually become large-scale, having a significant impact on the urban landscape. Research on this impact mostly focuses on visual impact and glare risk. However, differences in urban land use types may lead to differences in the impact of photovoltaic applications on the landscape. This study adapts visual Q methodology to assess the impact of photovoltaic applications on the landscape in urban areas. Landscape photographs of photovoltaic applications in different cities of China are collected and used during the concourse and Q sorting. The final Q sample is composed of 36 photographs of different photovoltaic materials at different levels of integration in six urban land use types. The P set is composed of 36 respondents, including experts and non-experts. In conclusion, environmental harmony, power generation, innovative design, installation height, and social benefits of photovoltaic systems are the main impacts of photovoltaic systems on urban landscapes. Photovoltaic systems in different urban land use types have different impacts on the landscape. The conclusions have policy implications for different urban land use types, which has significance for the construction of urban photovoltaic systems in the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Urban and Rural Development)

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25 pages, 2246 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Green Total Factor Productivity Growth and Its Determinants in China’s Industrial Economy

by Chaofan Chen^1,2, Qingxin Lan^3,*, Ming Gao¹ and Yawen Sun¹

¹ School of Economics and Resource Management, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China

² School of Statistics, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China

³ School of International Trade and Economics, University of International Business and Economics, Beijing 100029, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1052; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041052 - 2 Apr 2018

Cited by 123 | Viewed by 8898

Abstract

This paper employs directional distance function (DDF) and the global Malmquist–Luenberger (GML) productivity index to measure the green total factor productivity (GTFP) growth of China’s 36 industrial sectors from 2000 to 2014. Based on this, this paper ascertains the determinants of GTFP from [...] Read more.

This paper employs directional distance function (DDF) and the global Malmquist–Luenberger (GML) productivity index to measure the green total factor productivity (GTFP) growth of China’s 36 industrial sectors from 2000 to 2014. Based on this, this paper ascertains the determinants of GTFP from the perspectives of institution, technology, and structure, and the determinant factors that affect GTFP are empirically tested by a dynamic panel data (DPD) model. The research shows that, considering energy consumption and environmental undesirable outputs, the industrial GTFP goes backwards by 0.02% per year on average, and the contributions of GTFP to output growth are far from the target value of 50% in all industrial sectors, which indicates that the growth of industrial economy sacrifices resources and environment to a certain degree. In terms of the determinant factors of GTFP, environmental regulation does improve the GTFP, while environmental regulation is difficult to promote GTFP by the route of technological innovation. Compared with technology importation, the driving effect of independent research and development on GTFP is obvious, especially promoting the GTFP of moderately and lightly polluting industries, while the driving effect in heavily polluting industries is poor. Endowment structure and property right structure play a positive role in improving GTFP, but the impacts of capital structure and energy structure on GTFP are poor. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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17 pages, 2848 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimal Quality Strategy and Matching Service on Crowdfunding Platforms

by Wenqing Wu^1,*, Xuan Huang¹, Yue Li¹ and Chien-Chi Chu^2,*

¹ College of Management and Economics, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China

² Department of Finance, Business School of Shantou University, Shantou 515063, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1053; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041053 - 2 Apr 2018

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 6763

Abstract

This paper develops a crowdfunding platform model incorporating quality and a matching service from the perspective of a two-sided market. It aims to explore the impact of different factors on the optimal quality threshold and matching service in a context of crowdfunding from [...] Read more.

This paper develops a crowdfunding platform model incorporating quality and a matching service from the perspective of a two-sided market. It aims to explore the impact of different factors on the optimal quality threshold and matching service in a context of crowdfunding from the perspective of a two-sided market. We discuss the impact of different factors on the optimal quality threshold and matching service. Two important influential factors are under consideration, simultaneously. One is the quality threshold of admission and the other is the matching efficiency on crowdfunding platforms. This paper develops a two-sided market model incorporating quality, a matching service, and the characters of crowdfunding campaigns. After attempting to solve the model by derivative method, this paper identifies the mechanism of how the parameters influence the optimal quality threshold and matching service. Additionally, it compares the platform profits in scenarios with and without an exclusion policy. The results demonstrate that excluding low-quality projects is profitable when funder preference for project quality is substantial enough. Crowdfunding platform managers would be unwise to admit the quality threshold of the crowdfunding project and charge entrance fees when the parameter of funder preference for project quality is small. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Air, Climate Change and Sustainability)

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14 pages, 300 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Investigating Low-Carbon City: Empirical Study of Shanghai

by Xuan Yang¹ and Rongrong Li^1,2,*

¹ School of Economic and Management, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao 266580, Shandong, China

² School of Management and Economics, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 10081, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1054; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041054 - 2 Apr 2018

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3566

Abstract

A low-carbon economy is an inevitable choice for achieving economic and ecological sustainable development. It is of significant importance to analyze a city’s low-carbon economy development level scientifically and reasonably. In order to achieve this goal, we propose an urban low-carbon economic development [...] Read more.

A low-carbon economy is an inevitable choice for achieving economic and ecological sustainable development. It is of significant importance to analyze a city’s low-carbon economy development level scientifically and reasonably. In order to achieve this goal, we propose an urban low-carbon economic development level evaluation model based on the matter-element extension method. First, we select some indicators from the existing indicator system based on past research and experience. Then, a matter-element model is established on the basis of weight to evaluate the level of a city’s low-carbon, the critical value of each index is determined through the classical domain and the section domain, calculating the correlation degree of a single index and a comprehensive index. Finally, we analyze the low-carbon economy development status and future development trends according to the analysis results. In this study, we select Shanghai as an empirical study—the results show that Shanghai is a city with a low-carbon level and there is a trend of further improvement in Shanghai’s low-carbon economy. But its low carbon construction and low carbon technology investment are relatively low. In summary, this method can provide another angle for evaluating a city’s low-carbon economy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Energy Sustainability)

20 pages, 2181 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Korean Golf Tourism in China: Place, Perception and Narratives

by Jinah Park¹, Alastair M. Morrison^2,*

, Bihu Wu³ and Yeung Kong⁴

¹ Department of Tourism Management, Shenzhen Tourism College of Jinan University, Shenzhen 518053, China

² National Kaohsiung University of Hospitality and Tourism Management, Kaohsiung 82444, Taiwan

³ International Centre for Recreation and Tourism Research, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China

⁴ Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region 999077, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1055; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041055 - 3 Apr 2018

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 6129

Abstract

Tourism is a critical, cross-cultural social behavior in contemporary society and provides diverse experiences based on different regional resources in destinations. This research identified the attributes associated with Korean golf tourists’ images of seven destination regions in Mainland China. A content analysis of [...] Read more.

Tourism is a critical, cross-cultural social behavior in contemporary society and provides diverse experiences based on different regional resources in destinations. This research identified the attributes associated with Korean golf tourists’ images of seven destination regions in Mainland China. A content analysis of 328 golf tourists’ blogs indicated that each region had different combinations of destination attributes, but these were partially hidden in vivid descriptions of playing experiences. The narratives were coded with 15 golf destination attributes with 136 headwords and they reflected both place-centred images and interactions through perceptual experiences with different social groups. The golfers greatly appreciated congestion control at courses and social interaction during their tours, including the services of local human resources and play partners. The seven Chinese golf destinations had different perceived characteristics and relationships with South Korean society. Thus, they had dissimilar destination images for Korean golf tourists. Historical ties and geographical proximity played important roles, including, for example, the significant presence of ethnic Koreans in northeast China. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Leisure, Tourism, Sport and Community Development)

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17 pages, 3200 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Converting UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to Decision-Making Objectives and Implementation Options at the River Basin Scale

by Yingchun Ge^1,2,*

, Xin Li^3,4, Ximing Cai², Xiangzheng Deng⁵, Feng Wu⁵, Zhongyuan Li⁵ and Wenfei Luan¹

¹ Key Laboratory of Remote Sensing of Gansu Province, Cold and Arid Regions Environmental and Engineering Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Science, 320 West Donggang Road, Lanzhou 730000, China

² Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana-Champaign, IL 61801-3633, USA

³ Institute of Tibetan Plateau Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China

⁴ CAS Center for Excellence in Tibetan Plateau Earth Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China

⁵ Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Science, Beijing 100101, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1056; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041056 - 3 Apr 2018

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 8044

Abstract

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations cover all living things on Earth. However, downscaling the SDGs to regional scales for implementation is challenging. In the paper, we convert the general SDGs into tangible and actionable goals, targets and indicators for [...] Read more.

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations cover all living things on Earth. However, downscaling the SDGs to regional scales for implementation is challenging. In the paper, we convert the general SDGs into tangible and actionable goals, targets and indicators for use in integrated river basin management (IRBM). Further, we propose a decision support framework that can be used to support IRBM implementation based on the SDGs. The framework offers a context for open thinking in which IRBM decision makers envision socioeconomic and ecosystem goals and the development tracks of a river basin and explore the various paths that can be followed to reach the goals. In particular, indicators are proposed for use in IRBM, which consider five aspects of river basins, specifically water, ecosystems, socioeconomic development, ability and data. To enable decision-making that promotes progress toward the goals, five scenarios, 17 sub-scenarios and 29 key parameters are provided that form a diverse set of scenarios corresponding to specific decision schemes. Moreover, these scenarios, sub-scenarios and parameters consider future uncertainties and both engineering and non-engineering measures that can be taken to achieve the co-development of human and natural factors in a basin. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable River Basin Management)

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28 pages, 8517 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A 10-Year Statistical Analysis of Heavy Metals in River and Sediment in Hengyang Segment, Xiangjiang River Basin, China

by Jingwen Tang¹, Liyuan Chai^1,2, Huan Li^1,3, Zhihui Yang^1,2 and Weichun Yang^1,2,*

¹ School of Metallurgy and Environment, Central South University, Changsha 410083, China

² National Engineering Research Center for Heavy Metals Pollution Control and Treatment, Changsha 410083, China

³ Changsha Environmental Protection College, Changsha 410004, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1057; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041057 - 3 Apr 2018

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 4209

Abstract

Heavy metal elements in water and surface sediments were characterized in Hengyang river segment in Xiangjiang River basin, one of China’s most important heavy metal control and treatment region. Data of heavy metal monitoring results in water and sediment for 10 years were [...] Read more.

Heavy metal elements in water and surface sediments were characterized in Hengyang river segment in Xiangjiang River basin, one of China’s most important heavy metal control and treatment region. Data of heavy metal monitoring results in water and sediment for 10 years were acquired from an environmental monitoring program in the main channel of the studied area. Descriptive and exploratory statistical procedures were performed to reveal the characteristics of the sample distributions of heavy metal elements. The sample distributions of heavy metal elements were largely skewed right. Data censoring and too severe rounding in the water monitoring data were identified to have caused discretization in the sample distributions. Temporal and spatial characteristics of the data sets were addressed. The chromium (Cr) in the sediment possessed unique behavior, and this could be caused by a rapid deposition and releasing process. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heavy Metals: Environmental Health Risk Assessment and Sustainable Management)

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18 pages, 8142 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing the Sustainability of Decentralized Renewable Energy Systems: A Comprehensive Framework with Analytical Methods

by Aparna Katre^1,*

and Arianna Tozzi²

¹ Department of World Languages and Cultures, University of Minnesota Duluth, 1201 Ordean Court, Duluth, MN 55812, USA

² Sustainable Energy Consultant, High Wycombe HP10 8JW, UK

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1058; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041058 - 3 Apr 2018

Cited by 36 | Viewed by 7516

Abstract

The number of models of Decentralized Renewable Energy (DRE) systems, particularly for rural electrification, is growing globally. Most approaches to assess the sustainability of these solutions beyond simple techno-economic considerations are comparative in nature, and only allow us to evaluate performance within a [...] Read more.

The number of models of Decentralized Renewable Energy (DRE) systems, particularly for rural electrification, is growing globally. Most approaches to assess the sustainability of these solutions beyond simple techno-economic considerations are comparative in nature, and only allow us to evaluate performance within a set of other interventions. This leaves a gap in our understanding of the conditions for a specific model to be sustainable and whether its replication is likely to succeed. The approach suggested develops a framework to evaluate the sustainability of specific models for energy access individually and proposes analytical methods to illustrate its use. It combines the multi-dimensional analysis over five sustainability dimensions and the Multi-Tier Framework (MTF) to assess technical sustainability, extending MTF’s rigorous scoring methodology to the other dimensions. The scores are based on qualitative and quantitative data collected from key stakeholders, taking into account different perspectives and aims. The framework and analytical methods are exemplified using a subset of data collected in over 40 off-grid DRE systems utilizing a common community ownership and hybrid financial structure. The proposed methodology can be used to understand the sustainability conditions of a given approach to energy access and can therefore be used by practitioners and policy makers to develop strategies and guide policies to roll out effective solutions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Energy Sustainability)

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19 pages, 37698 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Novel Method of Protection to Prevent Reverse Power Flow Based on Neuro-Fuzzy Networks for Smart Grid

by Ali Hadi Abdulwahid^1,2,* and Shaorong Wang²

¹ Department of Engineering Electrical Power, Engineering Technical College, Southern Technical University, Al-Zubair Road, Basrah 61001, Iraq

² School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, Hubei, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1059; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041059 - 3 Apr 2018

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 6338

Abstract

This paper addresses the energy challenges related to the weak protection of renewable energy from reverse energy flow and expanding access to high-quality energy at the same time. Furthermore, this paper focuses on participation in the global transition to clean and low-carbon energy [...] Read more.

This paper addresses the energy challenges related to the weak protection of renewable energy from reverse energy flow and expanding access to high-quality energy at the same time. Furthermore, this paper focuses on participation in the global transition to clean and low-carbon energy systems. Moreover, the increased demand for renewable energy seems to likely depend on whether it will be possible to greatly accelerate rates of progress toward increased efficiency, de-carbonization, greater generating diversity and lower pollutant emissions. This paper focuses on the protection of renewable energy technologies because they can be particularly attractive in dispersed areas and therefore, represent an important option for rural areas that lack electrical energy and distribution infrastructure. This paper proposes an improved protection device for a reverse power protection system using a new intelligent decision support system (IDSS). The IDSS is a support system for decision making, which makes extensive use of artificial intelligence (AI) techniques. The new method integrates the powerful specification for neural networks and fuzzy inference systems. The main advantage of this method is that it causes a decrease in the steady state oscillation for the reverse power relay. In addition, the proposed method has the ability to monitor extreme environmental conditions. The generator can be converted into a motor when the steam supply to a turbine is interrupted while the generator is still connected to a grid (or operates in parallel with another generator). As a result, the generator will become a synchronous motor and will actually cause significant mechanical damage. The reverse energy protection device should be included in the generator protection scheme. Smart grids use communication networks with sophisticated algorithms to ensure coordination between protection systems. ZigBee is a newly developed technology that can be used in wireless sensor networks (WSNs) to comply with the IEEE 802.15.4 standard. Low data rates, low power consumption and low cost are key features of ZigBee. The execution of star, tree and mesh topologies as well as support comparison is based on end-to-end delay, throughput, medium access control load in addition to sent and received traffic parameters. The use of star topology obtained a delay of 0.2 s. The simulation results show that this method is superior to the traditional method in terms of speed and steady-state oscillation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart Power Grid for Sustainable Energy Transition)

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14 pages, 4057 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Introduction of Autonomous Vehicles: Roundabouts Design and Safety Performance Evaluation

by Aleksandra Deluka Tibljaš¹, Tullio Giuffrè^2,*

, Sanja Surdonja¹

and Salvatore Trubia²

¹ Faculty of Civil Engineering, University of Rijeka, Radmile Matejčić 3, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia

² Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, University of Enna Kore, Viale delle Olimpiadi, 94100 Enna, Italy

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1060; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041060 - 3 Apr 2018

Cited by 126 | Viewed by 10253

Abstract

Driving experiences provided by the introduction of new vehicle technologies are directly impacting the criteria for road network design. New criteria should be taken into consideration by designers, researchers and car owners in order to assure traffic safety in changed conditions that will [...] Read more.

Driving experiences provided by the introduction of new vehicle technologies are directly impacting the criteria for road network design. New criteria should be taken into consideration by designers, researchers and car owners in order to assure traffic safety in changed conditions that will appear with, for example, introduction of Autonomous Vehicles (AVs) in everyday traffic. In this paper, roundabout safety level is analysed on the originally developed microsimulation model in circumstances where different numbers of AVs vehicles are mixed with Conventional Vehicles (CVs). Field data about speed and traffic volumes from existing roundabouts in Croatia were used for development of the model. The simulations done with the Surrogate Safety Assessment Model (SSAM) give some relevant highlights on how the introduction of AVs could change both operational and safety parameters at roundabouts. To further explore the effects on safety of roundabouts with the introduction of different shares of AVs, hypothetical safety treatments could be tested to explore whether their effects may change, leading to the estimation of a new set of Crash Modification Factors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Transportation)

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20 pages, 6963 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Closed-Loop Supply Chain Planning Model of Rare Metals

by Dongmin Son, Songi Kim

, Hyungbin Park and Bongju Jeong^*

Department of Industrial Engineering, Yonsei University, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03722, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1061; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041061 - 3 Apr 2018

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 5259

Abstract

Rare metals (RMs) are becoming increasingly important in high-tech industries associated with the Fourth Industrial Revolution, such as the electric vehicle (EV) and 3D printer industries. As the growth of these industries accelerates in the near future, manufacturers will also face greater RM [...] Read more.

Rare metals (RMs) are becoming increasingly important in high-tech industries associated with the Fourth Industrial Revolution, such as the electric vehicle (EV) and 3D printer industries. As the growth of these industries accelerates in the near future, manufacturers will also face greater RM supply risks. For this reason, many countries are putting considerable effort into securing the RM supply. For example, countries including Japan, Korea, and the USA have adopted two major policies: the stockpile system and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). Therefore, it is necessary for the manufacturers with RMs to establish a suitable supply chain plan that reflects this situation. In this study, the RM classification matrix is created based on the stockpile and recycling level in Korea. Accordingly, three different types of supply chain are designed in order to develop the closed-loop supply chain (CLSC) planning model of RM, and the CLSC planning models of RM are validated through experimental analysis. The results show that the stockpiling and the EPR recycling obligation increase the amount of recycled flow and reduce the total cost of the part manufacturing, which means that these two factors are significant for obtaining sustainability of the RMs’ CLSC. In addition, the government needs to set an appropriate sharing cost for promoting the manufacturer’s recycling. Also, from the manufacturer’s perspective, it is better to increase the return rate by making a contract with the collectors to guarantee the collection of used products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Supply Chain System Design and Optimization)

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14 pages, 2596 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Shortcut Biological Nitrogen Removal (SBNR) in an MFC Anode Chamber under Microaerobic Conditions: The Effect of C/N Ratio and Kinetic Study

by Irene Bavasso

, Daniele Montanaro, Elisabetta Petrucci and Luca Di Palma^*

Department of Chemical Engineering Materials & Environment, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Eudossiana 18, 00184 Rome, Italy

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1062; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041062 - 3 Apr 2018

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4738

Abstract

In this work, the feasibility of the Shortcut Biological Nitrogen Removal (SBNR) in the anodic chamber of a Microbial Fuel Cell (MFC) was investigated. Thirty day experiments were carried out using synthetic wastewaters with a Total Organic Carbon vs. nitrogen ratio (TOC/N) ranging [...] Read more.

In this work, the feasibility of the Shortcut Biological Nitrogen Removal (SBNR) in the anodic chamber of a Microbial Fuel Cell (MFC) was investigated. Thirty day experiments were carried out using synthetic wastewaters with a Total Organic Carbon vs. nitrogen ratio (TOC/N) ranging from 0.1 to 1. Ammonium, nitrite, nitrate, pH, and TOC were daily monitored. Results showed that microaerobic conditions in the anodic chamber favored the development of nitritation reaction, due to oxygen transfer from the cathodic chamber through the membrane. Nitritation was found to depend on TOC/N ratio: at TOC/N equal to 0.1 an ammonium removal efficiency of up to 76% was observed. Once the oxygen supply to the cathodic chamber was stopped, denitritation occurred, favored by an increase of the TOC/N ratio: a nitrite removal of 80.3% was achieved at TOC/N equal to 0.75. The presence of nitrogen species strongly affected the potential of the electrochemical system: in the nitritation step, the Open Circuit Voltage (OCV) decreased from 180 mV to 21 mV with the decrease of the TOC/N ratio in the investigated range. Lower OCV values were observed in the denitritation steps since the organic carbon acted as the energy source for the conversion of nitrite to nitrogen gas. A kinetic analysis was also performed. Monod and Blackman models described the ammonium and the organic carbon removal processes well during the nitritation step, respectively, while Blackman-Blackman fitted experimental results of the denitritation step better. Full article

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26 pages, 12825 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Health Resorts and Multi-Textured Perceptions of International Health Tourists

by Salman Majeed^1,*, Changbao Lu^1,*, Mahwash Majeed² and Muahmmad Naeem Shahid³

¹ School of Economics and Management, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350002, China

² Department of Applied Psychology, GC University, Faisalabad, Punjab 38000, Pakistan

³ School of Management Studies, The University of Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Punjab 38000, Pakistan

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1063; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041063 - 3 Apr 2018

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 8566

Abstract

Health and medical tourism is considered one of the fastest growing segments of the tourism industry. Recently, research on health resorts has been gaining academic attention in tandem with the positive contribution of the health and medical segments to the tourism industry. The [...] Read more.

Health and medical tourism is considered one of the fastest growing segments of the tourism industry. Recently, research on health resorts has been gaining academic attention in tandem with the positive contribution of the health and medical segments to the tourism industry. The purpose of this study is to better conceptualize how the behavioral intentions of health tourists are shaped in the emerging context of the health resort. This study illuminates the likely perceptions of prospective tourists about the attractions of health resorts, and endeavors to examine the response of health tourists using data from 359 international health tourists/travelers, comprising of Thai, Indian, and Chinese nationalities. The study also uses the partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) technique in order to analyze the responses of international tourists gathered at two international airports in China. The present study shows that tourists’ expectations and their behavioral intentions are generally associated indicators of perceived health resort attractions. Expectations play a significant mediating role, while culture impacts the overall phenomenon of proposed associations in a moderating way. Moreover, sustainable tourism attractions also play a significant role in shaping Thai travelers’ behavioral responses, while medical facilities and risk levels are considered significant in determining Indian and Chinese travelers’ behaviors. By developing theoretical and empirical grounds, this study offers implications for further research and development in health resorts and other niches of health tourism. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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20 pages, 3630 KiB

Open AccessArticle

R&D Cooperation and Knowledge Spillover Effects for Sustainable Business Innovation in the Chemical Industry

by Petr Hájek

and Jan Stejskal^*

Faculty of Economics and Administration, University of Pardubice, CZ53210 Pardubice, Czech Republic

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1064; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041064 - 3 Apr 2018

Cited by 65 | Viewed by 8466

Abstract

This paper investigates the influence of research and development (R&D) cooperation on the creation of spillover effects for sustainable firms in the chemical industry. We explore the evidence for the origin of knowledge spillovers derived from cooperation amongst firms and universities and R&D [...] Read more.

This paper investigates the influence of research and development (R&D) cooperation on the creation of spillover effects for sustainable firms in the chemical industry. We explore the evidence for the origin of knowledge spillovers derived from cooperation amongst firms and universities and R&D organizations as well as to test the influence of internal/external financial support on these effects. The results confirm that when firms acquire knowledge from internal sources, this leads to increased innovation and sustainable performance. We have proved that internal expenditure results in increased internal knowledge spillovers. These findings may be specific for Central and Eastern (CEE) transition countries, indicating their efforts to build path-dependent structures based on knowledge institutions and businesses as well as knowledge networks. However, this study also provides a more “global” contribution to the knowledge spillover effect theory. It shows that a firm’s cooperation both with universities and with other firms promotes different types of knowledge spillovers and can affect diverse modes of sustainable activities in innovation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Economic Geography: Location, Innovation and Sustainable Development)

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16 pages, 30078 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Role of Law, Position of Actor and Linkage of Policy in China’s National Environmental Governance System, 1972–2016

by Rui Mu

Department of Public Administration and Law, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1065; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041065 - 3 Apr 2018

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3325

Abstract

China is struggling between accelerating environmental protection and accelerating environmental damage. Although the central government is investing extensively in environmental laws and policies, China’s annual environmental goals have hardly been achieved. What is often poorly recognized by top decision-makers is that the environmental [...] Read more.

China is struggling between accelerating environmental protection and accelerating environmental damage. Although the central government is investing extensively in environmental laws and policies, China’s annual environmental goals have hardly been achieved. What is often poorly recognized by top decision-makers is that the environmental governance system is so complex that multiple elements, including laws, policy items, actors and issues, have become intentionally or emergently entangled. Without knowing the roles, positions and interconnections of the system elements, it is difficult for people to find the critical points for further improvements. Taking this challenge, this research conducts a retrospective analysis on the developmental trajectory of China’s environmental governance. The analysis helps us to pinpoint the role of law, the position of actor, and the linkage of policy that promote or prevent environmental protection; it can also question or reaffirm the effectiveness of the environmental laws and policies, and thereby aid China’s future prognosis and some recommendations. Full article

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25 pages, 2850 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Supplier Risk Assessment Based on Best-Worst Method and K-Means Clustering: A Case Study

by Merve Er Kara^*

and Seniye Ümit Oktay Fırat

Department of Industrial Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Marmara University, 34722 Istanbul, Turkey

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1066; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041066 - 4 Apr 2018

Cited by 62 | Viewed by 14153

Abstract

Supplier evaluation and selection is one of the most critical strategic decisions for developing a competitive and sustainable organization. Companies have to consider supplier related risks and threats in their purchasing decisions. In today’s competitive and risky business environment, it is very important [...] Read more.

Supplier evaluation and selection is one of the most critical strategic decisions for developing a competitive and sustainable organization. Companies have to consider supplier related risks and threats in their purchasing decisions. In today’s competitive and risky business environment, it is very important to work with reliable suppliers. This study proposes a clustering based approach to group suppliers based on their risk profile. Suppliers of a company in the heavy-machinery sector are assessed based on 17 qualitative and quantitative risk types. The weights of the criteria are determined by using the Best-Worst method. Four factors are extracted by applying Factor Analysis to the supplier risk data. Then k-means clustering algorithm is applied to group core suppliers of the company based on the four risk factors. Three clusters are created with different risk exposure levels. The interpretation of the results provides insights for risk management actions and supplier development programs to mitigate supplier risk. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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17 pages, 7990 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Understanding Shanghai Residents’ Perception of Leisure Impact and Experience Satisfaction of Urban Community Parks: An Integrated and IPA Method

by Bingqin Yu^1,*, Shengquan Che¹, Changkun Xie¹ and Shu Tian²

¹ Department of Landscape Architecture, School of Design, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China

² Shanghai Songjiang Industrial Investment Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201613, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1067; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041067 - 4 Apr 2018

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 5909

Abstract

This exploratory study employed an integrated methodological approach to examine the relationship among several factors for residents in Shanghai when it came to the use of urban park spaces. The study was conducted using two sample groups of 1200 residents each, and around [...] Read more.

This exploratory study employed an integrated methodological approach to examine the relationship among several factors for residents in Shanghai when it came to the use of urban park spaces. The study was conducted using two sample groups of 1200 residents each, and around three community parks that contained a variety of recreation-related impacts. Open-ended and closed-ended questionnaires and correspondence analysis were used to reflect residents’ basic attitudes, recreational perception, and satisfaction evaluation by Importance Performance Analysis (IPA) method, and mirrored preferences for future development of community parks. The results suggest that for residents, high levels of satisfaction with landscape and environment were advantages, but recreation space and facility were critical for the perception of the community parks. In comparison, management was found to be an opportunity factor to improve leisure satisfaction. The findings emphasized landscape, environment, space, facility, and management as elements that enhance recreational perception and avoid passive interference. Full article

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18 pages, 29239 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Profiling Human-Induced Vegetation Change in the Horqin Sandy Land of China Using Time Series Datasets

by Lili Xu^1,2

, Zhenfa Tu^1,2,*, Yuke Zhou³ and Guangming Yu^1,2

¹ Key Laboratory for Geographical Process Analysis & Simulation of Hubei Province, Wuhan 430079, China

² College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, China

³ Key Laboratory of Ecosystem Network Observation and Modeling, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1068; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041068 - 4 Apr 2018

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 4054

Abstract

Discriminating the significant human-induced vegetation changes over the past 15 years could help local governments review the effects of eco-programs and develop sustainable land use policies in arid/semi-arid ecosystems. We used the residual trends method (RESTREND) to estimate the human-induced and climate-induced vegetation [...] Read more.

Discriminating the significant human-induced vegetation changes over the past 15 years could help local governments review the effects of eco-programs and develop sustainable land use policies in arid/semi-arid ecosystems. We used the residual trends method (RESTREND) to estimate the human-induced and climate-induced vegetation changes. Two typical regions in the Horqin Sandy Land of China were selected as study areas. We first detected vegetation dynamics between 2000–2014 using Sen’s slope estimation and the Mann–Kendall test detection method (SMK) based on the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) time series, then used RESTREND to profile human modifications in areas of significant vegetation change. RESTREND was optimized using statistical and trajectory analysis to automatically identify flexible spatially homogeneous neighborhoods, which were essential for determining the reference areas. The results indicated the following. (1) Obvious vegetation increases happened in both regions, but Naiman (64.1%) increased more than Ar Horqin (16.8%). (2) Climate and human drivers both contributed to significant changes. The two factors contributed equally to vegetation change in Ar Horqin, while human drivers contributed more in Naiman. (3) Human factors had a stronger influence on ecosystems, and were more responsible for vegetation decreases in both regions. Further evidences showed that the primary human drivers varied in regions. Grassland eco-management was the key driver in Ar Horqin, while farming was the key factor for vegetation change in Naiman. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Long-Term Perspective of Human Impact on Landscape for Environmental Change and Sustainability)

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17 pages, 31588 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Measurement and Spatial Differentiation Characteristics of Transit Equity: A Case Study of Guangzhou, China

by Xiaoshu Cao^1,2,*, Huiling Chen¹, Feiwen Liang¹ and Wulin Wang³

¹ School of Geography and Planning, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China

² Institute of Transport Geography and Spatial Planning, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi’an 710119, China

³ College of Environment and Resources, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350116, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1069; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041069 - 3 Apr 2018

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 5961

Abstract

Urban public transit is an important solution for narrowing the mobility gap between captive riders and choice riders and to address issues of social equity. An equitable transit system essentially could meet the needs of transit dependents and maximize the scope of public [...] Read more.

Urban public transit is an important solution for narrowing the mobility gap between captive riders and choice riders and to address issues of social equity. An equitable transit system essentially could meet the needs of transit dependents and maximize the scope of public transit services. To acquire a better understanding of transit equity, we use Lorenz curves and the GINI coefficient to measure the relative supply of public transit to the population and employ the spatial overlay method to analyze the matching degree of transit supply and demand in Guangzhou, China. The findings show that there are obvious and unequal differences between the levels of transit service in the internal zones. The spatial coverage rate and number of stop services of the outer city are significantly less than that of the inner and middle city. Eighty percent of the population shares only 36.7% of the public transit supply in Guangzhou. Most communities of low-supply and high-need public transit are distributed contiguously in the eastern Baiyun and southern Huadu districts. This distribution pattern is beneficial to the transit agency, which could improve the supply in these areas to avoid the risk caused when a large number of residents lack access to public transit services. The results could serve as an excellent foundation for planning the handling of spatial gaps in the Guangzhou public transit supply. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Travel Behaviour and Sustainable Transport of the Future)

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10 pages, 634 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Flame Retardant Contamination and Seafood Sustainability

by Andrea J. Noziglia^1,*

, Joshua K. Abbott², Beth Polidoro³ and Leah R. Gerber¹

¹ School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA

² School of Sustainability, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85281, USA

³ School of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Arizona State University, Glendale, AZ 85306, USA

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1070; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041070 - 4 Apr 2018

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4915

Abstract

A growing body of evidence for chemical contamination in seafood has raised concerns about the safety of seafood consumption. Available data also indicate that some fishery stocks that are overharvested are also the most laden with certain contaminants. Flame retardant chemicals, used in [...] Read more.

A growing body of evidence for chemical contamination in seafood has raised concerns about the safety of seafood consumption. Available data also indicate that some fishery stocks that are overharvested are also the most laden with certain contaminants. Flame retardant chemicals, used in textiles, plastics, and other products are a class of these seafood contaminants that are particularly concerning as they are linked to cancer and endocrine disruption. To investigate the potentially useful relationship between fishery sustainability and flame retardant concentration in seafood, we used polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) as a case study to assess how fishery status and species vulnerability coincide with levels of brominated flame retardants found in the tissue of popularly consumed fish. While none of our metrics of sustainability showed strong relationships to PBDE contamination rates, our results suggest that the same intrinsic biological and ecological traits, which facilitate the uptake of chemicals, also contribute to how species respond to fishing pressures. Given the dual challenges of ensuring seafood sustainability and protecting human health, we then explored the implications of bundling the public good of conservation with the private good of health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Seafood Sustainability - Series I)

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16 pages, 44355 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Long-Term Impacts of China’s New Commercial Harvest Exclusion Policy on Ecosystem Services and Biodiversity in the Temperate Forests of Northeast China

by Kai Liu^1,2, Yu Liang³, Hong S. He^1,4,*, Wen J. Wang^2,*, Chao Huang³

, Shengwei Zong¹, Lei Wang², Jiangtao Xiao⁵ and Haibo Du¹

¹ School of Geographical Sciences, Northeast Normal University, Changchun 130024, China

² Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130102, China

³ CAS Key Laboratory of Forest and Soil Ecology, Institute of Applied Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang 110016, China

⁴ School of Natural Resources, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA

⁵ Key Lab of Land Resources Evaluation and Monitoring in Southwest China, Ministry of Education, Sichuan Normal University, Chengdu 610066, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1071; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041071 - 4 Apr 2018

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 4469

Abstract

Temperate forests in Northeast China have been severely exploited by timber harvesting in the last century. To reverse this trend, China implemented the Classified Forest Management policy in the Natural Forest Conservation Program in 1998 to protect forests from excessive harvesting. However, the [...] Read more.

Temperate forests in Northeast China have been severely exploited by timber harvesting in the last century. To reverse this trend, China implemented the Classified Forest Management policy in the Natural Forest Conservation Program in 1998 to protect forests from excessive harvesting. However, the policy was unable to meet the 2020 commitment of increasing growing stock (set in the Kyoto Protocol) because of high-intensity harvesting. Accordingly, China banned all commercial harvesting in Northeast China in 2014. In this study, we investigated the long-term impacts of the no commercial harvest (NCH) policy on ecosystem services and biodiversity using a forest landscape model, LANDIS PRO 7.0, in the temperate forests of the Small Khingan Mountains, Northeast China. We designed three management scenarios: The H scenario (the Classified Forest Management policy used in the past), the NCH scenario (the current Commercial Harvest Exclusion policy), and the LT scenario (mitigation management, i.e., light thinning). We compared total aboveground forest biomass, biomass by tree species, abundance of old-growth forests, and diversity of tree species and age class in three scenarios from 2010 to 2100. We found that compared with the H scenario, the NCH scenario increased aboveground forest biomass, abundance of old-growth forests, and biomass of most timber species over time; however, it decreased the biomass of rare and protected tree species and biodiversity. We found that the LT scenario increased the biomass of rare and protected tree species and biodiversity in comparison with the NCH scenario, while it maintained aboveground forest biomass and abundance of old-growth forests at a high level (slightly less than the NCH scenario). We concluded there was trade-off between carbon storage and biodiversity. We also concluded that light thinning treatment was able to regulate the trade-off and alleviate the negative effects associated with the NCH policy. Our results highlighted limitations of the NCH policy and provided new insights into sustainable forest management and the interdependence between human society and the forest ecosystem. Full article

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22 pages, 63094 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Building Damage Risk by Natural Disasters in South Korea Using Decision Tree Analysis

by KeumJi Kim

and SeongHwan Yoon^*

Department of Architecture, Pusan National University, Pusan 46241, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1072; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041072 - 4 Apr 2018

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 7849

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to identify the relationship between weather variables and buildings damaged in natural disasters. We used four datasets on building damage history and 33 weather datasets from 230 regions in South Korea in a decision tree analysis to [...] Read more.

The purpose of this study is to identify the relationship between weather variables and buildings damaged in natural disasters. We used four datasets on building damage history and 33 weather datasets from 230 regions in South Korea in a decision tree analysis to evaluate the risk of building damage. We generated the decision tree model to determine the risk of rain, gale, and typhoon (excluding gale with less damage). Using the weight and limit values of the weather variables derived using the decision tree model, the risk of building damage was assessed for 230 regions in South Korea until 2100. The number of regions at risk of rain damage increased by more than 30% on average. Conversely, regions at risk of damage from snowfall decreased by more than 90%. The regions at risk of typhoons decreased by 57.5% on average, while those at high risk of the same increased by up to 62.5% under RCP 8.5. The results of this study are highly fluid since they are based on the uncertainty of future climate change. However, the study is meaningful because it suggests a new method for assessing disaster risk using weather indices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Disasters, Crisis, Hazards, Emergencies and Sustainable Development)

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20 pages, 15192 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Research on the Topological Properties of Air Quality Index Based on a Complex Network

by Yongli Zhang^1,2

and Sanggyun Na^2,*

¹ School of Management Science and Engineering, Hebei GEO University, Shijiazhuang 050031, Hebei, China

² College of Business Administration, Wonkwang University, 460 Iksandae-ro, Iksan 54538, Jeonbuk, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1073; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041073 - 4 Apr 2018

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3876

Abstract

To analyze the dynamic characteristics of air quality for enforcing effective measures to prevent and evade air pollution harm, air quality index (AQI) time series data was selected and transformed into a symbol sequence consisting of characters (H, M, L [...] Read more.

To analyze the dynamic characteristics of air quality for enforcing effective measures to prevent and evade air pollution harm, air quality index (AQI) time series data was selected and transformed into a symbol sequence consisting of characters (H, M, L) through the coarse graining process; then each 6-symbols series was treated as one vertex by time sequence to construct the AQI directed-weighted network; finally the centrality, clusterability, and ranking of the AQI network were analyzed. The results indicated that vertex strength and cumulative strength distribution, vertex strength and strength rank presented power law distributions, and the AQI network is a scale-free network. Only 17 vertices possessed a higher weighted clustering coefficient; meanwhile weighted clustering coefficient and vertex strength didn’t show a strong correlation. The AQI network did not have an obvious central tendency towards intermediaries in general, but 20.55% of vertices accounted for nearly 1/2 of the intermediaries, and the varieties still existed. The mean distance of 68.4932% of vertices was 6.120–9.973, the AQI network did not have obvious small-world phenomena, the conversion of AQI patterns presented the characteristics of periodicity and regularity, and 20.2055% of vertices had high proximity prestige. The vertices fell into six islands, the AQI pattern indicating heavy or serious air pollution lasting six days always lingered for a long time. The number of triads 2-012 was the largest, and the AQI network followed the transitivity model. The study has instructional significance in understanding time change regulation of air quality in Beijing, opening a new way for time series prediction research. Additionally, the factors causing the change of topological properties should be analyzed in the future research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Sustainability and Applications)

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13 pages, 11667 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Virtual Reality Learning Activities for Multimedia Students to Enhance Spatial Ability

by Rafael Molina-Carmona¹, María Luisa Pertegal-Felices^2,*

, Antonio Jimeno-Morenilla³

and Higinio Mora-Mora³

¹ Department of Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence, University of Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain

² Developmental and Educational Psychology Department, University of Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain

³ Computer Technology and Computation Department, University of Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1074; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041074 - 4 Apr 2018

Cited by 90 | Viewed by 9743

Abstract

Virtual Reality is an incipient technology that is proving very useful for training different skills. Our hypothesis is that it is possible to design virtual reality learning activities that can help students to develop their spatial ability. To prove the hypothesis, we have [...] Read more.

Virtual Reality is an incipient technology that is proving very useful for training different skills. Our hypothesis is that it is possible to design virtual reality learning activities that can help students to develop their spatial ability. To prove the hypothesis, we have conducted an experiment consisting of training the students using an on-purpose learning activity based on a virtual reality application and assessing the possible improvement of the students’ spatial ability through a widely accepted spatial visualization test. The learning activity consists of a virtual environment where some simple polyhedral shapes are shown and manipulated by moving, rotating and scaling them. The students participating in the experiment are divided into a control and an experimental group, carrying out the same learning activity with the only difference of the device used for the interaction: a traditional computer with screen, keyboard and mouse for the control group, and virtual reality goggles with a smartphone for the experimental group. To assess the experience, all the students have completed a spatial visualization test twice: just before performing the activities and four weeks later, once all the activities were performed. Specifically, we have used the well-known and widely used Purdue Spatial Visualization Test—Rotation (PSVT-R), designed to test rotational visualization ability. The results of the test show that there is an improvement in the test results for both groups, but the improvement is significantly higher in the case of the experimental group. The conclusion is that the virtual reality learning activities have shown to improve the spatial ability of the experimental group. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart Sustainable Education: Innovative Digital Transformation for Innovation and Entrepreneurship)

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18 pages, 276 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Rethinking Rural–Urban Migration and Women’s Empowerment in the Era of the SDGs: Lessons from Ghana

by Lynda Pickbourn

School of Critical Social Inquiry, Hampshire College, 893 West Street, Amherst, MA 01002, USA

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1075; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041075 - 4 Apr 2018

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 8705

Abstract

Women who migrate within national borders in Africa have been largely ignored in contemporary conversations about migration. This is partly due to the fact that internal migration, and in particular, rural–urban migration, has been viewed in a negative light in development theory and [...] Read more.

Women who migrate within national borders in Africa have been largely ignored in contemporary conversations about migration. This is partly due to the fact that internal migration, and in particular, rural–urban migration, has been viewed in a negative light in development theory and praxis. This leads to the perception that women who migrate within national borders are worse-off than they would have been otherwise and to a policy stance that seeks to discourage their migration. Drawing on field research in Ghana, I argue that while rural–urban migration gives women access to an independent source of income, the emancipatory potential of migration for women is limited by the official stance towards rural–urban migration and informality. Nevertheless, the decision by women to migrate represents an attempt to improve their life outcomes as well as those of their families, in the face of severely constrained options for doing so. Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG5)—promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment—requires a different approach to women’s internal migration. Rather than seeking to constrain women’s mobility, policy and program interventions should be geared towards expanding women’s freedom to choose whether or not to migrate—by expanding the options available to women who stay at home as well as improving migration outcomes for those who migrate. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development at the Crossroads of Capital Flows and Migration: Leaving no One Behind?)

14 pages, 33343 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimal Locating of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations by Application of Genetic Algorithm

by Milad Akbari

, Morris Brenna

and Michela Longo^*

Politecnico di Milano, Department of Energy, Via La Masa, 34, 20156 Milano (MI), Italy

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1076; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041076 - 4 Apr 2018

Cited by 63 | Viewed by 9869

Abstract

The advent of alternative vehicle technologies such as Electrical Vehicles (EVs) is an efficient effort to reduce the emission of carbon oxides and nitrogen oxides. Ironically, EVs poses concerns related to vehicle recharging and management. Due to the significance of charging station infrastructure, [...] Read more.

The advent of alternative vehicle technologies such as Electrical Vehicles (EVs) is an efficient effort to reduce the emission of carbon oxides and nitrogen oxides. Ironically, EVs poses concerns related to vehicle recharging and management. Due to the significance of charging station infrastructure, electric vehicles’ charging stations deployment is investigated in this work. Its aim is to consider several limitations such as the power of charging station, the average time needed for each recharge, and traveling distance per day. Initially, a mathematical formulation of the problem is framed. Then, this problem is optimized by application of Genetic Algorithm (GA), with the objective to calculate the necessary number of charging stations then finding the best positions to locate them to satisfy the clients demand. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Power System and Sustainability)

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17 pages, 5077 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

System Dynamic Analysis of Impacts of Government Charges on Disposal of Construction and Demolition Waste: A Hong Kong Case Study

by Lai Sheung Au¹, Seungjun Ahn²

and Tae Wan Kim^3,*

¹ Arcadis Hong Kong Limited, 38/F AIA Kowloon Tower, 100 How Ming Street, Kwun Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China

² School of Natural and Built Environments, University of South Australia, BJ Bld, City East Campus, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia

³ Division of Architecture and Urban Design, Incheon National University, 119 Academy-ro, Yeonsu-gu, Incheon 22012, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1077; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041077 - 4 Apr 2018

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 6946

Abstract

With the purpose of reducing the amount of construction and demolition (C&D) waste disposed to landfills, many countries and municipalities have introduced increasingly stringent C&D waste disposal charges (CDWDC) but the level of CDWDC is often determined without a clear understanding of its [...] Read more.

With the purpose of reducing the amount of construction and demolition (C&D) waste disposed to landfills, many countries and municipalities have introduced increasingly stringent C&D waste disposal charges (CDWDC) but the level of CDWDC is often determined without a clear understanding of its broad and complex impacts. Against this background, this paper aims to propose a system dynamics (SD) model that can help predict CDWDC’s environmental implications as well as its financial implications. Specifically, the proposed model explains complex causal relationships between variables such as the level of CDWDC, the amount of C&D waste disposed to landfills, the government’s revenues from CDWDC as well as the costs of supplying and operating landfills over time. For a case study, the developed model is customized and calibrated with actual data from Hong Kong, where the remaining capacities of existing landfills are limited and the need for supplying more landfills is imminent. The simulation analysis with the model predicts that the current charging levels may not be high enough to effectively control the amount of C&D waste disposed to landfills or to compensate for the costs to the government of supplying additional landfills. The analysis also predicts how much illegal dumping may increase as the level of CDWDC increases. This case study illustrates that the proposed SD model can help policy makers to see the potential impacts of increased CDWDC on the amount of C&D waste disposed to landfills, government costs and the amount of illegal dumping of C&D waste; and can therefore help them to determine the most appropriate level of CDWDC. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Trends in Municipal Solid Waste Management)

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17 pages, 323 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Making Conventional Agriculture Environmentally Friendly: Moving beyond the Glorification of Organic Agriculture and the Demonization of Conventional Agriculture

by Alon Tal

Department of Public Policy, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1078; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041078 - 4 Apr 2018

Cited by 102 | Viewed by 23391

Abstract

The article reviews the most recent research surrounding the potential role of organic agriculture in providing food for the planet. It challenges the claims of organic agriculture’s environmental superiority compared to well-managed, conventional agriculture. The relative advantages of these contrasting approaches to farming [...] Read more.

The article reviews the most recent research surrounding the potential role of organic agriculture in providing food for the planet. It challenges the claims of organic agriculture’s environmental superiority compared to well-managed, conventional agriculture. The relative advantages of these contrasting approaches to farming in areas such as aggregate land requirements, biodiversity/habitat loss, water quality, land degradation and climate change are considered. Legitimate concerns about conventional agriculture’s adverse environmental and health impacts need to be addressed and many harmful practices transformed. Nonetheless, careful, sustainably-run, conventional operations can avoid many of the pitfalls and hazards which are often associated with high-input agriculture. The higher yields provided by conventional agriculture offer a more sustainable strategy than a chemical-free agricultural system at the global level for meeting the needs of burgeoning populations and reducing agriculture’s aggregate environmental impact. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agriculture: The State of the Great Debates)

16 pages, 65389 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Minabe-Tanabe Ume System: Linkage of Landscape Units by Locals

by Yuji Hara^1,*, Yuki Sampei¹ and Hirotaka Tanaka²

¹ Faculty of Systems Engineering, Wakayama University, Wakayama-city 640-8510, Japan

² Sakai City Hall, Sakai-city 590-0078, Japan

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1079; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041079 - 4 Apr 2018

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 6456

Abstract

This paper focuses on the Minabe-Tanabe Ume system, which was designated as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) in December of 2015. Because landholdings reflect historical social connections among various landscape units, we quantitatively examined the landscape characteristics of the system by [...] Read more.

This paper focuses on the Minabe-Tanabe Ume system, which was designated as a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) in December of 2015. Because landholdings reflect historical social connections among various landscape units, we quantitatively examined the landscape characteristics of the system by preparing digitized spatial data and performing geographic information system analysis. We also examined the consensus building process among different stakeholders toward GIAHS recognition, as well as the emergent local spatial structure of the stakeholder network through interviews with key stakeholders and participatory monitoring. Our spatial analysis of the landscape generally supported the traditional knowledge of the area as a watershed-based mosaic of coppice forests on ridges, Ume orchards on sloped areas, and villages with rice paddies and dry fields in the plains. Our stakeholder network visualization identified several key persons as important nodes that could connect different types of land use now and may have done so in the past. Moreover, because our GIAHS site has compact agglomerations of watersheds with ranges within a ~30-min drive, most stakeholders, who turned out to have graduated from the same local school, are able to maximize their social capital to reorganize the remaining nodes among different land uses, thereby contributing to the formation of the land-use system and its further promotion through dynamic conservation measures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Promoting the Sustainability of Agricultural Heritage Systems through Dynamic Conservation)

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17 pages, 3046 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Estimating the Efficiency and Impacts of Petroleum Product Pricing Reforms in China

by Chuxiong Deng¹, Zhujun Jiang^2,* and Chuanwang Sun^3,*

¹ College of Resources and Environmental Sciences, Hunan Normal University, Changsha 410081, Hunan, China

² Institute of Finance and Economics Research, School of Urban and Regional Science, Shanghai University of Finance and Economics, Shanghai 200433, China

³ China Center for Energy Economics Research, School of Economics, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, Fujian, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1080; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041080 - 4 Apr 2018

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4586

Abstract

The efficiency and effects analysis of a new pricing mechanism would have significant policy implications for the further design of a pricing mechanism in an emerging market. Unlike most of the existing literature, which focuses on the impacts to the macro-economy, this paper [...] Read more.

The efficiency and effects analysis of a new pricing mechanism would have significant policy implications for the further design of a pricing mechanism in an emerging market. Unlike most of the existing literature, which focuses on the impacts to the macro-economy, this paper firstly uses an econometrics model to discuss the efficiency of the new pricing mechanism, and then establishes an augmented Phillips curve to estimate the impact of pricing reform on inflation in China. The results show that: (1) the new pricing mechanism would strengthen the linkage between Chinese oil prices and international oil prices; (2) oil price adjustments are still inadequate in China. (3) The lag in inflation is the most important factor that affects inflation, while the impact of the Chinese government’s price adjustments on inflation is limited and insignificant. In order to improve the efficiency of the petroleum products pricing mechanism and shorten lags, government should shorten the adjustment period and diminish the fluctuation threshold. Full article

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19 pages, 4974 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fine-Scale Evaluation of Giant Panda Habitats and Countermeasures against the Future Impacts of Climate Change and Human Disturbance (2015–2050): A Case Study in Ya’an, China

by Jing Zhen^1,2, Xinyuan Wang¹, Qingkai Meng³, Jingwei Song⁴, Ying Liao⁵, Bo Xiang¹, Huadong Guo¹, Chuansheng Liu¹, Ruixia Yang^1,* and Lei Luo^1,*

¹ Institute of Remote Sensing and Digital Earth, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100094, China

² College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China

³ State Key Laboratory of Plateau Ecology and Agriculture, Qinghai University, Xining 810016, China

⁴ Centre for Autonomous Systems, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia

⁵ Technology and Engineering Center for Space Utilization, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100094, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1081; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041081 - 4 Apr 2018

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 6750

Abstract

The accelerating impact of climate change on giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) habitats have become an international research topic. Recently, many studies have also focused on medium-sized mountain ranges or entire giant panda habitats to predict how habitats will change as the [...] Read more.

The accelerating impact of climate change on giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) habitats have become an international research topic. Recently, many studies have also focused on medium-sized mountain ranges or entire giant panda habitats to predict how habitats will change as the climate warms, but few say in detail what to do or where to focus efforts. To fill this gap, this paper presents a new method to take comprehensive, fine-scale evaluations incorporating climate change, human disturbance, and current conservation networks and translate them into practical countermeasures in order to help decision-makers set priority regions for conservation. This study looked at the core area of the Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuaries United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) World Natural Heritage site, namely Ya’an Prefecture, as a case study. The research employs the Maximum Entropy (MaxEnt) modeling algorithm to analyze how climate change will affect the habitats by 2050 under two scenarios: only considering the influence of climate change, and thinking about the coupled influence of climate change and human disturbance together. The results showed the following: (1) only considering climate change, the overall habitat that can be used by giant pandas in this region will increase, which differs from most of the previous results showing a decrease; (2) the new suitable habitat will shift westward, northward and eastward in this region; (3) conversely, the suitable habitat will be significantly reduced (about 58.56%) and fragmentized when taking into account human disturbance factors; (4) at present, the three small nature reserves are far from each other and cannot cover the present habitat well nor protect the potentially suitable habitats. Based on the comprehensive analysis of habitat shifts and our two field investigations, we suggest two regions that can be expanded into the conservation network to contain more potentially suitable habitats in the future. Furthermore, we used a geographical information system to incorporate high-resolution remote-sensing images from the GF-1 satellite, land-cover maps, and a digital elevation model (DEM) to verify the possibility of our two suggested regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Tourism, Culture, and Heritage)

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16 pages, 35431 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects on Public Health of Heat Waves to Improve the Urban Quality of Life

by Vito Telesca^1,2,*

, Aime Lay-Ekuakille³

, Maria Ragosta¹, Giuseppina Anna Giorgio¹ and Boniface Lumpungu⁴

¹ School of Engineering, University of Basilicata, 85100 Potenza, Italy

² CMCC—Euro-Mediterranean Center on Climate Change, 73100 Lecce, Italy

³ Department of Innovation Engineering, University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy

⁴ Department of Environment, ISTA University, Kinshasa, Congo

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1082; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041082 - 4 Apr 2018

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 5466

Abstract

Life satisfaction has been widely used in recent studies to evaluate the effect of environmental factors on individuals’ well-being. In the last few years, many studies have shown that the potential impact of climate change on cities depends on a variety of social, [...] Read more.

Life satisfaction has been widely used in recent studies to evaluate the effect of environmental factors on individuals’ well-being. In the last few years, many studies have shown that the potential impact of climate change on cities depends on a variety of social, economic, and environmental determinants. In particular, extreme events, such as flood and heat waves, may cause more severe impacts and induce a relatively higher level of vulnerability in populations that live in urban areas. Therefore, the impact of climate change and related extreme events certainly influences the economy and quality of life in affected cities. Heat wave frequency, intensity, and duration are increasing in global and local climate change scenarios. The association between high temperatures and morbidity is well-documented, but few studies have examined the role of meteo-climatic variables on hospital admissions. This study investigates the effects of temperature, relative humidity, and barometric pressure on health by linking daily access to a Matera (Italy) hospital with meteorological conditions in summer 2012. Extreme heat wave episodes that affected most of the city from 1 June to 31 August 2012 (among the selected years 2003, 2012, and 2017) were analyzed. Results were compared with heat waves from other years included in the base period (1971–2000) and the number of emergency hospital admissions on each day was considered. The meteorological data used in this study were collected from two weather stations in Matera. In order to detect correlations between the daily emergency admissions and the extreme health events, a combined methodology based on a heat wave identification technique, multivariate analysis (PCA), and regression analysis was applied. The results highlight that the role of relative humidity decreases as the severity level of heat waves increases. Moreover, the combination of temperatures and daily barometric pressure range (DPR) has been identified as a precursor for a surveillance system of risk factors in hospital admissions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Walkable living environments)

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15 pages, 26931 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Use of a Decision Support System for Sustainable Urbanization and Thermal Comfort in Adaptation to Climate Change Actions—The Case of the Wrocław Larger Urban Zone (Poland)

by Jan K. Kazak

Department of Spatial Economy, Faculty of Environmental Engineering and Geodesy, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, ul. Grunwaldzka 55, 50-357 Wrocław, Poland

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1083; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041083 - 4 Apr 2018

Cited by 80 | Viewed by 7678

Abstract

The increasing level of antropopression has a negative impact on environmental resources and has reached the level of our planetary boundaries. One limitation is land use change caused by urbanization. Global policies prove the need to undertake action in order to develop more [...] Read more.

The increasing level of antropopression has a negative impact on environmental resources and has reached the level of our planetary boundaries. One limitation is land use change caused by urbanization. Global policies prove the need to undertake action in order to develop more sustainable human settlements, which would be adapted better to potential future climate change effects. Among such changes are the increase of average temperatures and extreme events like heat waves. Those changes are more severe in urban areas due to land use development, and result in the urban heat island effect (UHI), which has a negative impact on the thermal comfort of citizens. The paper presents a decision support system that can be used for the assessment of areas to the potential exposure to the UHI effect. The system integrates scenario analysis, land use modelling in cellular automata (Metronamica), and an indicator-based assessment in a geographic information system (ArcGIS). The applicability of the model is illustrated through developing scenarios for the future land use allocation of the Wrocław Larger Urban Zone (Poland). The results of the calculations show which scenario is the least vulnerable to UHI effects. Moreover, for each scenario, cores of urban areas were identified, in which certain urban design patterns accounting for adaptation to climate change could be implemented. The study provides a guideline for local authorities on where to focus actions in order to create more sustainable urban structures and to better adapt to climate change and environmental extremes. Full article

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18 pages, 600 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Social Sustainability through Social Interaction—A National Survey on Community Gardens in Germany

by Nicole Rogge^1,2,*, Insa Theesfeld¹

and Carola Strassner²

¹ Department of Agricultural, Environmental and Food Policy, Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, 06120 Halle, Germany

² Department of Food Nutrition Facilities, Münster University of Applied Sciences, 48149 Münster, Germany

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1085; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041085 - 5 Apr 2018

Cited by 54 | Viewed by 12285

Abstract

Community gardening has become a growing movement in cities all over the world, where these diverse collectively managed spaces provide various economic, ecological, and social benefits for urban residents. Particularly in developed countries such as Germany, social benefits are the motivation to participate [...] Read more.

Community gardening has become a growing movement in cities all over the world, where these diverse collectively managed spaces provide various economic, ecological, and social benefits for urban residents. Particularly in developed countries such as Germany, social benefits are the motivation to participate in community gardens more so than the harvests. Although research on community gardens has grown, including the question of their benefits to a sustainable development, there is little literature studying the social importance and social sustainability of community gardens. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to examine social interaction, participation, and perceived success as a concept to assess social sustainability. The paper further aims to examine the conditions influencing social sustainability within community gardens. With the help of an online survey, we collect data from 123 community gardens throughout Germany, with which we assess diverse degrees of social sustainability. Causalities of gardens’ social sustainability are analyzed with a multiple linear regression model. Results indicate that there is no significant relationship between size of community and social sustainability, rather aspects of trust and management have a strong effect on social sustainability. Findings like these lead to a better understanding of social interaction in urban communities that contribute to more social sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assessing the Sustainability of Urban Agriculture: Methodological Advances and Case Studies)

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18 pages, 799 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Performance, Economics and Potential Impact of Perennial Rice PR23 Relative to Annual Rice Cultivars at Multiple Locations in Yunnan Province of China

by Guangfu Huang^1,†, Shiwen Qin^1,†, Shilai Zhang^1,†, Xiaolin Cai², Shukang Wu², Jinrong Dao², Jing Zhang¹, Liyu Huang¹, Dome Harnpichitvitaya³, Len J. Wade^4,* and Fengyi Hu^1,*

¹ State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Bio-Resources in Yunnan, Research Center of Perennial Rice Engineering and Technology in Yunnan, School of Agriculture, Yunnan University, Kunming 650500, China

² Yunnan Agricultural Technology Extension Centre, Gaoxinqu District, Kunming 650106, China

³ Department of Agronomy, Ubon Ratchathani Rajabhat University, Ubon Ratchathani 34000, Thailand

⁴ School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia

^† These authors contributed equally to this paper.

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1086; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041086 - 5 Apr 2018

Cited by 44 | Viewed by 9606

Abstract

Perennial grain crops hold the promise of stabilizing fragile lands, while contributing grain and grazing in mixed farming systems. Recently, perennial rice was reported to successfully survive, regrow, and yield across a diverse range of environments in Southern China and Laos, with perennial [...] Read more.

Perennial grain crops hold the promise of stabilizing fragile lands, while contributing grain and grazing in mixed farming systems. Recently, perennial rice was reported to successfully survive, regrow, and yield across a diverse range of environments in Southern China and Laos, with perennial rice PR23 being identified as a prime candidate for release to farmers. This paper reports the evaluation of PR23 for release, by (1) comparing its survival, regrowth, performance, and adaptation with preferred annual rices across nine ecological regions in southern Yunnan Province of China; (2) examining the economic costs and benefits of perennial versus annual rice there; and (3) discussing the evidence for the release of PR23 as a broadly adapted and acceptable cultivar for farmers. Overall, the grain yield of PR23 was similar to those of the preferred annual rice cultivars RD23 and HXR7, but the economic analysis indicated substantial labour savings for farmers by growing the perennial instead of the annual. PR23 was comparable to the annuals in phenology, plant height, grain yield, and grain size, and was acceptable in grain and cooking quality. Farmers were keen to grow it because of reduced costs and especially savings in labour. PR23 is proposed for release to farmers because of its comparable grain yields to annual rices, its acceptable grain and milling quality, its cost and labour savings, and the likely benefits to soil stability and ecological sustainability, along with more flexible farming systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Strategies, Advances and Challenges of Breeding Perennial Grain Crops)

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18 pages, 21472 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Phosphorus Supply Chain—Scientific, Technical, and Economic Foundations: A Transdisciplinary Orientation

by Michael C. Mew^1,2, Gerald Steiner¹

and Bernhard Geissler^1,3,*

¹ Department of Knowledge and Communication Management, Danube University Krems, Dr. Karl-Dorrek-Straße 30, 3500 Krems, Austria

² Phosphates, CRU International, Chancery House, 53-64 Chancery Lane, London WC2A 1QS, UK

³ Faculty of Geosciences, University of Resources TU Bergakademie Freiberg, Geoengineering and Mining, Akademiestraße 6, 09599 Freiberg, Germany

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1087; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041087 - 5 Apr 2018

Cited by 37 | Viewed by 12465

Abstract

Natural mineral resources, such as phosphates, represent global assets of tremendous economic value to stakeholders. Given its special characteristics and its essentiality for all life on Earth, phosphorus (P) bears additional value to society as it is both indispensable and not substitutable. Most [...] Read more.

Natural mineral resources, such as phosphates, represent global assets of tremendous economic value to stakeholders. Given its special characteristics and its essentiality for all life on Earth, phosphorus (P) bears additional value to society as it is both indispensable and not substitutable. Most peers in the field, as well as those coming to phosphorus research, are aware of the complex underlying system dynamics of the P supply chain. In view of the manifold problems involved, scientists from various disciplines as well as practice need to find (new) ways to generate, utilize, transfer, and integrate knowledge. This manuscript serves as a best-practice example as it originates from a long-lasting science/practice collaboration and is the result of a mutual learning process. As a cornerstone of the special issue on “Phosphorus Circular Economy: Closing Loops through Sustainable Innovation” we provide state-of-the-art scientific knowledge as well as practical expert insights from the perspectives of geology, technology, economics, and policy making. This manuscript shall help scientific peers, the public, respective companies, and policymakers to address the issue of sustainable phosphorus management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phosphorus Circular Economy: Closing Loops through Sustainable Innovation)

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17 pages, 39682 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Characterization of Fine Particulate Matter in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates Using Complementary Experimental Techniques

by Nasser M. Hamdan^1,2,*

, Hussain Alawadhi²

, Najeh Jisrawi²

and Mohamed Shameer²

¹ Physics Department, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah 26666, UAE

² Center for Advanced Materials Research, Research Institute of Sciences and Engineering, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, UAE

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1088; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041088 - 5 Apr 2018

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 6733

Abstract

Airborne particulate matter (PM) pollutants were sampled from an urban background site in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. The fine fraction (PM_2.5) (particulates with aerodynamic diameters of less than 2.5 μm) was collected on 47-mm Teflon filters and analyzed using a combined [...] Read more.

Airborne particulate matter (PM) pollutants were sampled from an urban background site in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. The fine fraction (PM_2.5) (particulates with aerodynamic diameters of less than 2.5 μm) was collected on 47-mm Teflon filters and analyzed using a combined set of non-destructive techniques in order to provide better understanding of the sources of pollutants and their interaction during transport in the atmosphere. These techniques included gravimetric analysis, equivalent black carbon (EBC), X-ray fluorescence, scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction. Generally, the PM_2.5 concentrations are within the limits set by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United States (US) Environmental Protection Agency. The EBC content is in the range of 10–12% of the total PM concentration (2–4 µg m⁻³), while S (as ammonium sulfate), Ca (as calcite, gypsum, and calcium carbonate), Si (as quartz), Fe, and Al were the major sources of PM pollution. EBC, ammonium sulfate, Zn, V, and Mn originate from anthropogenic sources such as fossil fuel burning, traffic, and industrial emissions. Natural elements such as Ca, Fe, Al, Si, and Ti are due to natural sources such as crustal materials (enhanced during dust episodes) and sea salts. The average contribution of natural sources in the total PM_2.5 mass concentration over the sampling period is about 40%, and the contribution of the secondary inorganic compounds is about 27% (mainly ammonium sulfate in our case). The remaining 22% is assumed to be secondary organic compounds. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Dust Events in the Environment)

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15 pages, 13048 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study on the Improvement of Expected Energy Savings and Actual Energy Savings in Apartments

by Won-Jun Park

and Hye-Mi Kim^*

Department of Architectural Engineering, Kangwon National University, Jungang-ro, Samcheok-si, Kangwon-do 24341, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1089; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041089 - 5 Apr 2018

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2900

Abstract

Regulating energy consumption can reduce both greenhouse gas emissions and expenditures. In order to maximize efficiency, appropriate energy protocols for buildings must be devised and implemented. This study examines predicted and real energy savings, the differences between them, and the methods which might [...] Read more.

Regulating energy consumption can reduce both greenhouse gas emissions and expenditures. In order to maximize efficiency, appropriate energy protocols for buildings must be devised and implemented. This study examines predicted and real energy savings, the differences between them, and the methods which might reduce these discrepancies. Analyses for 195 high-efficiency apartment units (certified based on the energy efficiency rating system in use in Korea) indicated an average difference of 23% between predicted and real energy savings. This was found to be due to the fact that predictions failed to take variables such as Heating Type, Corridor Type, and Climate into account. By accounting for these factors, an appropriate calculation formula may be established. Using the revised calculation formula to reevaluate the predicted energy savings of 13 apartment units resulted in a reduction of 7% in the aforementioned discrepancy between predicted and real energy savings. Using the proposed formula to predict energy savings in buildings could improve accuracy, thus facilitating the setting of appropriate standards for restrictions on greenhouse gas emissions of buildings. Full article

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23 pages, 7993 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Building Coalitions for a Diversified and Sustainable Tourism: Two Case Studies from Hungary

by Zoltán Lakner¹, Anna Kiss¹, Ivan Merlet¹, Judit Oláh^2,*

, Domicián Máté³

, Janusz Grabara⁴ and József Popp⁵

¹ Faculty of Food Science, Szent István University, 1114 Budapest, Hungary

² Institute of Applied Informatics and Logistics, Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary

³ Institute of Accounting and Finance, Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary

⁴ The Management Faculty, Czestochowa University of Technology, 42201 Czestochowa, Poland

⁵ Institute of Sectoral Economics and Methodology, Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Debrecen, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1090; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041090 - 5 Apr 2018

Cited by 44 | Viewed by 7069

Abstract

The development of the tourism sector has been a question of strategic importance for Hungary, a small, open economy with limited natural resources. At the same time, these efforts often generate considerable environmental conflicts, decreasing the sustainability of the environment. To understand the [...] Read more.

The development of the tourism sector has been a question of strategic importance for Hungary, a small, open economy with limited natural resources. At the same time, these efforts often generate considerable environmental conflicts, decreasing the sustainability of the environment. To understand the potential methods of sustainable tourism development, and to develop the optimal policy, it is essential to clarify the actors, their systems of interest and the potential ways of forging coalitions between them. The article presents an analysis of two case studies of rural tourism development: the “softening” of tourism at the most important touristic attraction in Hungary, Lake Balaton; and the conflicts arising from wine tourism development. Based on institutional economics, principle–agent theory and strategic management, and applying the MACTOR method, the authors identify the key actors, present the network of their mutual influences and goals, determine the most important conflicts and highlight the potential coalitions between them from the point of view of sustainable rural tourism development, as well as ways to further develop the regulatory environment. Based on this analysis, the article proves: (1) the importance of the modernization and re-organization of the public administration structure, focusing on optimal utilization of resources, as opposed to attaching to traditions; (2) the importance of forming clusters of different partners; (3) the strengthening of the knowledge base of decisions concerning sustainable tourism management; and (4) increasing conscious planning, based on the inclusion of different interest groups and long-term prognoses in local decision making, minimises the environmental burden of tourism. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rural Tourism, Rural Development and Rural Resilience)

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17 pages, 739 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of China’s New Circular Collective Forest Tenure Reform on Household Non-Timber Forest Product Production in Natural Forest Protection Project Regions

by Yang Ren¹, Jari Kuuluvainen²

, Anne Toppinen²

, Shunbo Yao^1,*

, Sami Berghäll², Heimo Karppinen²

, Caixia Xue¹ and Liu Yang¹

¹ Research Center for Resource Economics and Environment Management, College of Economics and Management, Northwest A&F University, No. 3 Taicheng Road, Yangling 712100, China

² Department of Forest Sciences, University of Helsinki, P.O. Box 27, Helsinki 00014, Finland

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1091; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041091 - 5 Apr 2018

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 3470

Abstract

The implementation of China’s natural forest protection project (Protection Project) in 1998 changed households’ forestry production modes in project regions, and China’s new circular collective forest tenure reform (Tenure Reform) has been implemented since 2003 with the goal of motivating household forestry production [...] Read more.

The implementation of China’s natural forest protection project (Protection Project) in 1998 changed households’ forestry production modes in project regions, and China’s new circular collective forest tenure reform (Tenure Reform) has been implemented since 2003 with the goal of motivating household forestry production and increasing household income from forests. Policymakers expect that Tenure Reform could also stimulate households to engage in non-timber forest products (NTFPs) production in Protection Project regions. However, only a few studies have investigated the effect of Tenure Reform on household NTFP production in Protection Project regions. To fill this gap, we built an integrative conceptual framework and estimated a corresponding structural equation model (SEM) using survey data from 932 households in Protection Project regions in southwestern China. In our research framework, there are four factors, including household characteristics, labour and social capital, forestland characteristics, and the Tenure Reform, affecting household NTFP production. The results substantiate that Tenure Reform has had a significant positive effect on household NTFP production. Additionally, household and forestland characteristics have promoted household NTFP production, but quantitatively less than Tenure Reform. This report can be used to inform the government that future investment in Tenure Reform still needs to be enhanced, and policy enforcement still needs to be strengthened. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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16 pages, 1977 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Benefit and Risk Perceptions of Controversial Facilities: A Comparison between Local Officials and the Public in China

by Qingduo Mao¹, Manli Zhang¹ and Ben Ma^1,2,*

¹ Political Science and Public Administration School, Shandong University, Qingdao 266000, China

² Center for Crisis Management Research (Sponsored by Beijing Planning Office of Philosophy & Social Science), School of Public Policy & Management, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1092; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041092 - 5 Apr 2018

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3558

Abstract

This article investigates the perception biases of local government officials and the general public by comparing their benefit and risk perceptions towards controversial facilities. The analysis framework of Social Judgement Theory (SJT)—i.e., (a) economic benefits, (b) environmental health, and (c) social and political [...] Read more.

This article investigates the perception biases of local government officials and the general public by comparing their benefit and risk perceptions towards controversial facilities. The analysis framework of Social Judgement Theory (SJT)—i.e., (a) economic benefits, (b) environmental health, and (c) social and political factors—was used to design the research. SJT is a widely recognized theoretical framework that includes experimental approaches to the study of cognitive conflicts. An experimental survey was conducted to collect data in order to make a comparison of the weight of different elements. Results demonstrate that there are perception differences between the general public and local officials on controversial facilities. Local officials responsible for endorsing and supervising plants attach more significance to environmental factors than the public, while the public focuses more on social and political factors than officials. There is no significant difference in the cognition of economic benefits. Factors such as demolition compensation and legitimacy may provoke these perception gaps. This paper enriches the current understanding of SJT and policy making for controversial facilities by investigating the perception gaps between officials and the general public. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Disasters, Crisis, Hazards, Emergencies and Sustainable Development)

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19 pages, 2497 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Influence of Interactive Learning Materials on Self-Regulated Learning and Learning Satisfaction of Primary School Teachers in Mongolia

by Shengru Li^1,*

, Shinobu Yamaguchi² and Jun-ichi Takada³

¹ Department of International Development Engineering, Graduate School of Science and Engineering, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Tokyo 152-8550, Japan

² Global Scientific and Computing Center, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Tokyo 152-8550, Japan

³ Department of Transdisciplinary Science and Engineering, School of Environment and Society, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Tokyo 152-8550, Japan

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1093; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041093 - 5 Apr 2018

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 6722

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of interactive learning materials on learners’ self-regulated learning processes and learning satisfaction. A two-group experimental design was employed for 285 primary school teachers involved in teacher training. Teachers in the experimental group utilised [...] Read more.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of interactive learning materials on learners’ self-regulated learning processes and learning satisfaction. A two-group experimental design was employed for 285 primary school teachers involved in teacher training. Teachers in the experimental group utilised interactive learning materials along with training videos and guidelines for their self-development at the school level. Teachers in the control group conducted self-development only with training videos and guidelines. The result was analysed using self-regulated learning theory explaining how one’s self-regulation processes affect learning satisfaction. Five self-regulation processes were identified in this study: internal motivation, motivation for better assessment, planning and organizing skills, critical and positive thinking skills, and effort regulation. The analysis was conducted in two steps. First, t-test analysis was used to identify the significant differences between the experimental group and the control group. The analysis revealed: (1) teachers conducting self-development with interactive learning materials were highly motivated to achieve better teacher assessment, (2) teachers with interactive learning materials had higher learning satisfaction. Second, the study further investigated the effect of interactive materials on the relationship between self-regulation processes and learning satisfaction, using moderation analysis. The results showed that interactive materials significantly affect the relationship between motivation for better assessment and learning satisfaction, as well as the relationship between internal motivation and learning satisfaction. These results were complemented by qualitative analysis including interviews and focus group discussions with teachers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Education and Approaches)

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27 pages, 1499 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Internal Social Network, Absorptive Capacity and Innovation: Evidence from New Ventures in China

by Wei Shan^1,2, Chu Zhang^1,* and Jingyi Wang¹

¹ School of Economics and Management, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China

² Key Laboratory of Complex System Analysis and Management Decision, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1094; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041094 - 5 Apr 2018

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 5665

Abstract

This research investigates the impact of the internal social network on new venture’s innovation by building a comprehensive structural equation modeling (SEM) that integrates three streams of research: internal social network, innovation, and absorptive capacity. Based on a sample of 279 new ventures [...] Read more.

This research investigates the impact of the internal social network on new venture’s innovation by building a comprehensive structural equation modeling (SEM) that integrates three streams of research: internal social network, innovation, and absorptive capacity. Based on a sample of 279 new ventures from China, the current study’s results show that absorptive capacity plays a full mediating effect in the relationship of the internal social network and innovation. Particularly, among the skill set of absorptive capacity, a mere skill of knowledge acquisition does not guarantee an enhancement of new venture’s innovation. For new ventures to better utilize the social capital generated by the internal network in the process of innovation, they must focus more on the skills of knowledge digestion and knowledge application. The authors further separate the new ventures into two different sub-samples: the new venture supported by mature enterprises (M-type) and the independent new venture (I-type). This study’s findings indicate that the effect of the social network on innovation through knowledge digestion is greater in the M-type sample than in the I-type sample; internal social network heterogeneity in general plays a less important role in improving a new venture’s innovation than internal social network density, for both M-type and I-type new ventures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Knowledge Management, Innovation and Big Data: Implications for Sustainability, Policy Making and Competitiveness)

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17 pages, 4219 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Structure and Diversity of Bacterial Communities in Differently Managed Soils Studied by Molecular Fingerprinting Methods

by Katarína Ondreičková^1,*

, Michaela Piliarová², Rastislav Bušo¹, Roman Hašana¹, Ľudovít Schreiber^3,4, Jozef Gubiš¹ and Ján Kraic^1,2

¹ National Agricultural and Food Centre—Research Institute of Plant Production, Bratislavská cesta 122, 921 68 Piešťany, Slovakia

² Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Ss. Cyril and Methodius, Námestie J. Herdu 2, 917 01 Trnava, Slovakia

³ Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University in Bratislava, Mlynská dolina, Ilkovičova 6, 842 15 Bratislava 4, Slovakia

⁴ Hermes LabSystems, s. r. o., Púchovská 12, 831 06 Bratislava, Slovakia

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1095; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041095 - 5 Apr 2018

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3581

Abstract

The soil bacterial community structure is sensitive to different agricultural management practices and changes in the soil community composition can affect ecosystem sustainability and ecosystem stability. The basic idea of reduced and conservation soil tillage technologies is to preserve favorable soil parameters and [...] Read more.

The soil bacterial community structure is sensitive to different agricultural management practices and changes in the soil community composition can affect ecosystem sustainability and ecosystem stability. The basic idea of reduced and conservation soil tillage technologies is to preserve favorable soil parameters and also to enhance soil fertility and to reduce the negative impacts on the soil. Four soil tillage treatments—conventional, reduced, mulch-till, and no-till—were studied for their bacterial communities at a soil depth of 10 cm in September 2013 and April 2014 using the automated ribosomal intergenic spacer analysis (ARISA) and the terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism (T-RFLP) methods. The total microbial biomass was statistically higher in April 2014 than in September 2013 in all tillage treatments. On the other hand, no statistical differences were detected in the bacterial richness between the sampling dates in all tillage treatments. Only one statistical difference regarding the bacterial richness was detected between the conventional and reduced tillage in September 2013 by using ARISA. Bacterial genetic diversity measured by the Gini–Simpson, Shannon, and Pielou indices did not indicate differences among the four types of soil management systems. Additionally, no substantial variation in the composition of bacterial communities under different treatments was observed based on the principal component analysis and cluster analysis. Additionally, the changes in bacterial community composition between both sampling dates have not occurred overall or within the individual agricultural management systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Sustainability and Applications)

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23 pages, 333 KiB

Open AccessArticle

“Slowing” and “Narrowing” the Flow of Metals for Consumer Goods: Evaluating Opportunities and Barriers

by Elsa Dominish¹, Monique Retamal¹, Samantha Sharpe¹, Ruth Lane²

, Muhammad Akbar Rhamdhani³

, Glen Corder⁴, Damien Giurco¹

and Nick Florin^1,*

¹ Institute for Sustainable Futures, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia

² School of Social Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia

³ Mechanical and Product Design Engineering, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, VIC 3122, Australia

⁴ Sustainable Minerals Institute, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1096; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041096 - 5 Apr 2018

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 7123

Abstract

Metal resources are essential materials for many consumer products, including vehicles and a wide array of electrical and electronic goods. These metal resources often cause adverse social and environmental impacts from their extraction, supply and disposal, and it is therefore important to increase [...] Read more.

Metal resources are essential materials for many consumer products, including vehicles and a wide array of electrical and electronic goods. These metal resources often cause adverse social and environmental impacts from their extraction, supply and disposal, and it is therefore important to increase the sustainability of their production and use. A broad range of strategies and actions to improve the sustainability of resources are increasingly being discussed within the evolving concept of the circular economy. This paper uses this lens to evaluate the opportunities and barriers to improve the sustainability of metals in consumer products in Australia, with a focus on strategies that “slow” and “narrow” material flow loops. We have drawn on Allwood’s characterisation of material efficiency strategies, as they have the potential to reduce the total demand for metals. These strategies target the distribution, sale, and use of products, which have received less research attention compared to the sustainability of mining, production, and recycling, yet it is vitally important for changing patterns of consumption in a circular economy. Specifically, we have considered the strategies of product longevity (life extension, intensity of use, repair, and resale), remanufacturing, component reuse, and using less material for the same product or service (digitisation, servicisation, and light-weighting). Within the Australian context, this paper identifies the strategies that have the greatest opportunity to increase material efficiency for metal-containing products (such as mobility, household appliances, and personal electronics), by evaluating current implementation of these strategies and identifying the material, economic, and social barriers to and opportunities for expanding these strategies. We find that many of these strategies have been successfully implemented for mobility, while applying these strategies to personal electronics remains the biggest challenge. Product longevity emerged as the strategy with the most significant opportunity for further implementation in Australia, as it is the most broadly applicable across product types and has significant potential for material efficiency benefits. The barriers to material efficiency strategies highlight the need for policies that broaden the focus beyond closing the loop to “slowing” and “narrowing” material loops. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in the Mining, Minerals and Energy Industries)

13 pages, 7345 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Coexistence of Multiple Worldviews in Livestock Farming Drives Agroecological Transition. A Case Study in French Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) Cheese Mountain Areas

by Patrice Cayre^1,*, Audrey Michaud², Jean-Pierre Theau³ and Cyrille Rigolot⁴

¹ Agriculture Ministry, Reserach and teaching general direction, AgroParisTech, 9 avenue Blaise Pascal, 63171 Aubiere, France

² Université Clermont Auvergne, INRA, VetAgro Sup, UMR Herbivores, F63122 Saint Genès Champanelle, France

³ AGIR, Université de Toulouse, INRA, F-31326 Castanet-Tolosan, France

⁴ Université Clermont Auvergne, INRA, VetAgro Sup, UMR Territoires, F63122 Saint Genès Champanelle, France

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1097; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041097 - 6 Apr 2018

Cited by 37 | Viewed by 6054

Abstract

Livestock systems contribute significantly to environmental issues and need to undergo an agroecological transition. This transition is not only technical, but also involves an evolution of farmers’ ways of seeing and interpreting the world, i.e., worldviews. We investigate livestock farmers’ worldviews and their [...] Read more.

Livestock systems contribute significantly to environmental issues and need to undergo an agroecological transition. This transition is not only technical, but also involves an evolution of farmers’ ways of seeing and interpreting the world, i.e., worldviews. We investigate livestock farmers’ worldviews and their relationships with farming practices (grazing and mowing management) in three Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) cheese areas in the French mountains. The study is based on quantitative and comprehensive qualitative surveys in 37 farms. We identify entities typically considered by farmers and the kind of relations they have with these entities, as well as the ontological background, sources of knowledge, and worlds of justifications. Four ideal-typical worldviews emerge: Modern; Traditional; Ecological Intensive; Holist. These four worldviews coexist in each area and also at the farm scale. Three selected farmer monographs illustrate this complexity in detail. The four worldviews are consistent with other typologies in literature. Both Ecological Intensive and Holist worldviews can be considered as “agroecological”; however, they correspond to very different conceptions of agroecology. Different worldviews imply different sustainability indicators and pathways, as well as alternative knowledge-management systems. Finally, the coexistence of multiple worldviews is a key driver of the agroecological transition, which can be enhanced by facilitating confrontation and exchanges between worldviews. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mapping Agroecology in Europe. New Developments and Applications)

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16 pages, 1222 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Aesthetic Experience as an Essential Factor to Trigger Positive Environmental Consciousness

by Po-Ching Wang¹ and Chi-Ying Yu^2,*

¹ Department of Landscape Architecture, National Chiayi University, 300 Syuefu Road, Chiayi City 60004, Taiwan

² Department of Arts and Design, National Tsing Hua University, 521 Nan-Da Road, Hsinchu City 30014, Taiwan

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1098; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041098 - 6 Apr 2018

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 7994

Abstract

The current environmental attitude models are primarily composed of environmental knowledge, value, and intention. However, environmental aestheticians have maintained that aesthetic experience triggered by nature is the cornerstone of promoting environmental ethics. To verify this belief, this study proposes a new framework, which [...] Read more.

The current environmental attitude models are primarily composed of environmental knowledge, value, and intention. However, environmental aestheticians have maintained that aesthetic experience triggered by nature is the cornerstone of promoting environmental ethics. To verify this belief, this study proposes a new framework, which integrates the rational and emotional approaches, to describe the environmental attitudes of the public. Questionnaires are used to collect data from college students in Taiwan, and a total of 275 valid responses are received. The collected data are analyzed using structural equation modeling. The results support the proposed hypotheses. In addition to reconfirming the importance of environmental knowledge in the traditional models, this study confirms that aesthetic experience is also a determining dimension. The findings show that rational cognition and aesthetic perception complement and interact with each other and can strengthen environmental ethics, thereby enhancing the intention of pro-environmental behavior. The results of this study can serve as a reference for environmental protection or environmental education practice. Full article

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12 pages, 440 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Surface Acting and Job-Related Affective Wellbeing: Preventing Resource Loss Spiral and Resource Loss Cycle for Sustainable Workplaces

by Seongwook Ha

Division of Management, Hansung University, 116 Samseongyo-ro 16gil, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02876, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1099; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041099 - 6 Apr 2018

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3655

Abstract

This study empirically examines the synergistic negative effect of two kinds of job demand on job-related affective wellbeing (JAW) and the accelerating effects of cynicism in the negative relationships between job demands and JAW using a sample of 299 employees in the Chinese [...] Read more.

This study empirically examines the synergistic negative effect of two kinds of job demand on job-related affective wellbeing (JAW) and the accelerating effects of cynicism in the negative relationships between job demands and JAW using a sample of 299 employees in the Chinese banking industry. Job demands include quantitative role overload and surface acting to represent the quantitative and qualitative aspects of job demands. Cynicism is introduced as a state where one’s energy resource is lost. The results of this study show that surface acting has a negative relationship with JAW, but quantitative role overload has no relationship with JAW. High levels of quantitative role overload exacerbate the negative relationship between surface acting and JAW. Cynicism also exacerbates the negative relationship between surface acting and JAW but does not have any moderating effect in the relationship between quantitative role overload and JAW. These results are consistent with the relationships predicted by resource loss spiral and resource loss cycle. The resource loss spiral means that resource loss, caused by handling with a quantitative role overload, lessens the employee’s ability to cope with surface acting. The resource loss cycle represents a vicious circle that amplifies the resource loss caused by surface acting. Surface acting reduces the level of one’s resources. Furthermore, surface acting reduces JAW and resources more strongly when an individual has low levels of previous energy resources than it reduces JAW and resources when he or she has high levels of previous energy resources. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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20 pages, 39731 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Study of the Large Deformation Mechanism and Control Techniques for Deep Soft Rock Roadways

by Xiaojie Yang^1,2,†, Eryu Wang^1,2,*,†, Yajun Wang^1,2

, Yubing Gao^1,2 and Pu Wang^3,4,*

¹ State Key Laboratory of Geomechanics & Deep Underground Engineering, China University of Mining & Technology, Beijing 100083, China

² School of Mechanics and Civil Engineering, China University of Mining & Technology, Beijing 100083, China

³ State Key Laboratory of Mining Disaster Prevention and Control Co-founded by Shandong Province and the Ministry of Science and Technology, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266590, China

⁴ Department of Resources and Civil Engineering, Shandong University of Science and Technology, Tai’an 271000, China

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1100; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041100 - 6 Apr 2018

Cited by 52 | Viewed by 5089

Abstract

Large deformation control of deep soft rock roadways has been a major problem in mining activities worldwide. This paper considers the supporting problem related to large deformation of a deep soft rock roadway in Chao’hua coal mine. The discrete element simulation method (UDEC [...] Read more.

Large deformation control of deep soft rock roadways has been a major problem in mining activities worldwide. This paper considers the supporting problem related to large deformation of a deep soft rock roadway in Chao’hua coal mine. The discrete element simulation method (UDEC software) is adopted to simulate a tailgate of panel 31041 in Chao’hua coal mine. The failure patterns of unsupported and primary supported roadway are simulated, and these reveal the characteristics of deformation, stress and crack propagation. The excavation of roadway leads to high deviator stress, which exceeds the peak strength of shallow surrounding rock and causes it to enter the post-failure stage. Tensile failures then initiate and develop around the roadway, which causes the fragmentation, dilation and separation of shallow surrounding rock. The compressive capacity of the primary support system is low, which results in serious contraction in the full section of the roadway. An improved control scheme is put forward for the support of a tailgate. The underground test results confirm that the improved support system effectively controlled large deformation of the surrounding rocks, which can provide references for support in the design of roadways excavated in deep soft stratum. Full article

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17 pages, 69374 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study of the Cooling Effects of Urban Green Space in Harbin in Terms of Reducing the Heat Island Effect

by Meng Huang, Peng Cui^* and Xin He

School of Architecture, Harbin Institute of Technology, Heilongjiang Cold Region Architectural Science Key Laboratory, No. 66 Xidazhi Street, Nangang District, Harbin 15001, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1101; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041101 - 6 Apr 2018

Cited by 72 | Viewed by 8557

Abstract

The urban heat island (UHI) effect might cause extreme weather, which would seriously affect people’s health, increase energy consumption and cause other negative impacts. To construct urban green spaces is a feasible strategy to effectively weaken the UHI effect. In this study, the [...] Read more.

The urban heat island (UHI) effect might cause extreme weather, which would seriously affect people’s health, increase energy consumption and cause other negative impacts. To construct urban green spaces is a feasible strategy to effectively weaken the UHI effect. In this study, the cooling effect of green spaces on the UHI effect was carefully investigated in summer and winter in Harbin city. Specifically, the vegetation index and surface temperature information were extracted by the grid method, and based on this data, the relationship between the urban green space and the UHI effect was analyzed quantitatively. In summer, the cooling effect is more significant. The average cooling extent reached 1.65 °C, the average maximum temperature change was 7.5 °C, and the cooling range was mainly 120 m. The cooling effect can be improved by adjusting the green space area, perimeter and shape. Increasing the green area (within 37 ha) or the green circumference (within 5300 m) can most economically improve its cooling effect. The shape factor would significantly affect the cooling effect within 0.03. The simpler the green space shape, the more obvious the cooling effect. In contrast, in winter the green spaces had a certain cooling effect when there was no snow cover or little snow cover, although this was still less significant compared with the situation in summer. The average cooling extent reached 0.48 °C, the average maximum temperature change was 4.25 °C, and the cooling range was mainly 90 m. However, there is no correlation between urban green space and the UHI effect in areas mainly covered by ice and snow. This work could provide protocols for urban green space design to effectively control the UHI effect of sub-frigid cities. Full article

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13 pages, 8643 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Low-Cost Immersive Virtual Reality System for Teaching Robotic Manipulators Programming

by Vicente Román-Ibáñez^1,*

, Francisco A. Pujol-López¹

, Higinio Mora-Mora¹

, Maria Luisa Pertegal-Felices²

and Antonio Jimeno-Morenilla¹

¹ Computer Technology and Computation Department, University of Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain

² Developmental and Educational Psychology Department, University of Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1102; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041102 - 7 Apr 2018

Cited by 74 | Viewed by 8595

Abstract

Laboratory tasks are a powerful pedagogical strategy for developing competences in science and engineering degrees, making students understand in a practical way the theoretical topics explained in the classroom. However, performing experiments in real conditions is usually expensive in terms of time, money [...] Read more.

Laboratory tasks are a powerful pedagogical strategy for developing competences in science and engineering degrees, making students understand in a practical way the theoretical topics explained in the classroom. However, performing experiments in real conditions is usually expensive in terms of time, money and energy, as it requires expensive infrastructures that are generally difficult to maintain in good conditions. To overcome this problem, virtual reality has proven to be a powerful tool to achieve sustainability, making it easy to update laboratories without the need to acquire new equipment. Moreover, the ability to introduce practical knowledge into classrooms without leaving them, makes virtual laboratories capable of simulating typical operating environments as well as extreme situations in the operation of different devices. A typical subject in which students can benefit from the use of virtual laboratories is robotics. In this work we will develop an immersive virtual reality (VR) pedagogical simulator of industrial robotic arms for engineering students. With the proposed system, students will know the effects of their own designed trajectories on several different robotic arms and cell environments without having to buy all of them and being safe of damaging the cell components. The simulation will be checking for collisions of the elements in the scene and alert the student when they happen. This can be achieved with a robotic simulator, but the integration with immersive VR is intended to help students better understand robotics. Moreover, even having a real robotic arm available for students, with this proposed VR method, all the students have the opportunity to manage and learn his own version of the robotic cell, without waiting times generated by having less robotic arms than students in classroom. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart Sustainable Education: Innovative Digital Transformation for Innovation and Entrepreneurship)

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14 pages, 25329 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of Asymmetric Diurnal Warming on Vegetation Growth of the Tibetan Plateau over the Past Three Decades

by Haoming Xia¹

, Ainong Li², Gary Feng³

, Yang Li¹, Yaochen Qin^1,*, Guangbin Lei²

and Yaoping Cui¹

¹ College of Environment and Planning, Key Laboratory of Geospatial Technology for Middle and Lower Yellow River Regions, Henan Collaborative Innovation Center of Urban-Rural Coordinated Development, Henan University, Kaifeng 475004, China

² Research Center for Digital Mountain and Remote Sensing Application, Institute of Mountain Hazards and Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chengdu 610041, China

³ United States Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service, Genetics and Sustainable Agriculture Research Unit; Mississippi State, MS 39762, USA

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1103; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041103 - 7 Apr 2018

Cited by 44 | Viewed by 4829

Abstract

Temperatures over the past three decades have exhibited an asymmetric warming pattern between night and day throughout the Tibetan Plateau. However, the implications of such diurnally heterogeneous warming on vegetation growth is still poorly understood. In this paper, we evaluate how vegetation growth [...] Read more.

Temperatures over the past three decades have exhibited an asymmetric warming pattern between night and day throughout the Tibetan Plateau. However, the implications of such diurnally heterogeneous warming on vegetation growth is still poorly understood. In this paper, we evaluate how vegetation growth has responded to daytime and night-time warming at the regional, biome, and pixel scales based on normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) and meteorological data from 1982 to 2015. We found a persistent increase in the growing seasonal minimum temperature (T_min) and maximum temperature (T_max) over the Tibetan Plateau between 1982–2015, whereas the rate of increase of T_min was 1.7 times that of T_max. After removing the correlations between T_min, precipitation, and solar radiation, we found that the partial correlation between T_max and NDVI was positive in wetter and colder areas and negative in semi-arid and arid regions. In contrast, the partial correlation between T_min and NDVI was positive in high-cold steppe and meadow steppe and negative in montane steppe or wet forest. We also found diverse responses of vegetation type to daytime and night-time warming across the Tibetan Plateau. Our results provide a demonstration for studying regional responses of vegetation to climate extremes under global climate change. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impacts of Climate Changes: From Sustainability Perspectives)

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18 pages, 2429 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Relational Benefit on Satisfaction and Durability in Strategic Corporate Social Responsibility

by Minseok Kim

, Boyoung Kim^*

and Sungho Oh

Seoul School of Integrated Technologies and Sciences, Seoul 03767, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1104; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041104 - 7 Apr 2018

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 5727

Abstract

These days, companies are moving from Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities for short-term profit generation to the ones for achieving economic and social long-term goals. This phenomenon results from the idea that CSR is not a mere cost but can be used as [...] Read more.

These days, companies are moving from Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities for short-term profit generation to the ones for achieving economic and social long-term goals. This phenomenon results from the idea that CSR is not a mere cost but can be used as a source of opportunity, innovation and competitive advantage. Deemed as a great business strategy, strategic CSR activities are being emphasized by various stakeholders in the global market. The purpose of this study is to present specific implications and to empirically research the relations among relational benefits, commitment, and authenticity. It identifies the main factors of relationship management in expanding the stakeholder pool and forming relationships for strategic CSR activities. To this end, we conducted a questionnaire survey of 113 CSR practitioners in Korea and analyzed how social, psychological, and economic benefits affect the satisfaction and durability of strategic CSR activities through relational commitment and authenticity. Consequently, social, psychological, and economic benefits have an impact on relationships and, by extension, have a positive effect on relational satisfaction and durability. However, economic benefits affect relational authenticity, but social and psychological benefits do not. As a result, relational benefits cannot affect satisfaction through relationships. Therefore, relational benefits and commitment are more important variables for the satisfaction and durability of strategic CSR activities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in Developing Countries: Current Trends and Development)

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19 pages, 5992 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Blockchain Enhanced Emission Trading Framework in Fashion Apparel Manufacturing Industry

by Bailu Fu¹, Zhan Shu^2,*

and Xiaogang Liu¹

¹ Fashion and Design College, Donghua University, Shanghai 200051, China

² Department of Structural Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1105; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041105 - 7 Apr 2018

Cited by 175 | Viewed by 19641

Abstract

Motivated by the recent blockchain technology originally built for bitcoin transactions, various industries are exploring the opportunities to redefine their existing operational systems. In this study, an innovative environmentally sustainable solution is proposed for the fashion apparel manufacturing industry (FAMI), which is energized [...] Read more.

Motivated by the recent blockchain technology originally built for bitcoin transactions, various industries are exploring the opportunities to redefine their existing operational systems. In this study, an innovative environmentally sustainable solution is proposed for the fashion apparel manufacturing industry (FAMI), which is energized by blockchain. Incorporating the Emission Trading Scheme (ETS), and a novel “emission link” system, the proposed framework exposes carbon emission to the public and establishes a feature to reduce the emissions for all key steps of clothing making. Fully compatible with Industry 4.0, blockchain provides decentralization, transparency, automation, and immutability characteristics to the proposed framework. Specifically, the blockchain supported ETS framework, the carbon emissions of clothing manufacturing life cycle, and the emission link powered procedures are introduced in detail. A case study is provided to demonstrate the carbon emission evaluation procedure. Finally, a multi-criteria evaluation is performed to demonstrate the benefits and drawbacks of the proposed system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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18 pages, 51251 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Analysis of Housing Structures’ Earthquake Vulnerability in Two Parts of Dhaka City

by Md Sohel Ahmed^*

and Hiroshi Morita

Graduate School of Information Science and Technology, Osaka University, Osaka 565-0871, Japan

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1106; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041106 - 7 Apr 2018

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 11008

Abstract

The damage done in earthquake disasters is correlated to the types of housing structures that are present. In the last two decades of urbanization in Dhaka, rapid growth without proper planning has been a major concern. This study evaluates the performance of the [...] Read more.

The damage done in earthquake disasters is correlated to the types of housing structures that are present. In the last two decades of urbanization in Dhaka, rapid growth without proper planning has been a major concern. This study evaluates the performance of the decision tree and random forest techniques to predict structures’ vulnerability factors for buildings as a step towards improving earthquake disaster preparedness. Applying the decision tree algorithm to locations (wards) in Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) and Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC), we observed some important predictors of earthquake damage. Decision tree analysis reveals that the most important predictor for structures that fare well in earthquakes is the use of reinforced concrete, and a common factor among the most vulnerable structures is the soft story building style in the DNCC and DSCC areas. The random forest technique also showed reinforced concrete as being the most important factor for lowering the risk for housing structures, with the model having a 24.19% out-of-bag (OOB) error. As for vulnerability, soft story construction was a significant factor in estimating earthquake susceptibility (40.32% OOB error). The findings reveal that building materials in the DNCC are stronger than those in the DSCC but soft story buildings are more common in the DNCC, which make it one of the weakest parts of the area and point to the need to make plans to seismically retrofit soft story buildings. Full article

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16 pages, 22846 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Landfill Site Selection Using a Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Method: A Case Study of the Salafcheghan Special Economic Zone, Iran

by Hossein Yousefi¹

, Zahra Javadzadeh¹, Younes Noorollahi¹

and Amin Yousefi-Sahzabi^2,3,*

¹ Department of Renewable Energies and Environmental Engineering, Faculty of New Sciences and Technologies, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran

² Department for Management of Science and Technology Development, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

³ Faculty of Environment and Labour Safety, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1107; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041107 - 8 Apr 2018

Cited by 37 | Viewed by 7707

Abstract

Sustainable waste management, particularly in industrial areas, is one of the major challenges of developing countries. Among the important issues in the overall process of industrial wastes management is the necessity of suitable site selection for waste disposal. Considering the effects that the [...] Read more.

Sustainable waste management, particularly in industrial areas, is one of the major challenges of developing countries. Among the important issues in the overall process of industrial wastes management is the necessity of suitable site selection for waste disposal. Considering the effects that the disposal sites exert on their surrounding ecosystem and environment, these sites should be located in places with the minimum destructive effects and the lowest environmental impacts. The aim of this research is to outline important criteria for industrial zone waste disposal site selection and to select optimal and proper disposal sites in the Salafchegan special economic zone. This region, as one of the most important industrial areas and closest to the country’s political–economic center, enjoys a privileged and unique position for producing, exporting, and transiting goods and products. There are various parameters involved in the optimal selection of suitable industrial waste disposal sites. In this case study, issues such as the depth of groundwater, distance from surface- and groundwater, access routes, residential areas, industries, power transmission lines, flood-proneness, faults, slope, and distance from gardens and agricultural lands were taken into account. Following selection and preparation of the maps related to the influential parameters, assigning weights was done through the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) and using expert comments. At this stage, the maps and weights related to them were introduced into an index overlay model to obtain new maps from combining the influential parameters. Thereafter, the areas with the first and second priorities were selected and out of each one, four sites were suggested for disposing of industrial wastes. The sites with the first and second priorities were specified as A1, A2, A3, and A4 and B1, B2, B3, and B4, respectively. The area, groundwater depth, distance from residential areas, distance from the Salafchegan special economic zone, the direction of the predominant wind, and the land use of the selected sites were also investigated. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Sustainability and Applications)

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14 pages, 20052 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Potential Trade-Offs between the Sustainable Development Goals in Coastal Bangladesh

by Craig W. Hutton^1,*

, Robert J. Nicholls², Attila N. Lázár²

, Alex Chapman², Marije Schaafsma² and Mashfiqus Salehin³

¹ Geography and Environment Academic Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK

² Engineering and the Environment, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK

³ Institute of Water and Flood Management, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET), Dhaka-1000, Bangladesh

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1108; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041108 - 8 Apr 2018

Cited by 55 | Viewed by 15259

Abstract

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are offered as a comprehensive strategy to guide and encourage sustainable development at multiple scales both nationally and internationally. Furthermore, through the development of indicators associated with each goal and sub-goal, the SDGs support the notion of monitoring, [...] Read more.

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are offered as a comprehensive strategy to guide and encourage sustainable development at multiple scales both nationally and internationally. Furthermore, through the development of indicators associated with each goal and sub-goal, the SDGs support the notion of monitoring, evaluation and adaptive management, underpinned by the aspirations of social justice, equity and transparency. As such, the ethical intention of the SDGs is well founded. However, possible conflicts and trade-offs between individual SDGs have received little attention. For example, SDGs relating to poverty (SDG 1), inequality (SDG 10), food security (SDG2), economic development (SDG 8) and life in water and on land (SDGs 14 and 15), are potentially competing in many circumstances. In a social–ecological context, policy support and formulation are increasingly adopting systems approaches, which analyse the complex interactions of system elements. Adopting such an approach in this work, the above SDGs are analysed for coastal Bangladesh. This demonstrates multiple potential trade-offs between the SDGs, including agricultural farming approaches in the light of poverty reduction, and between economic growth and environmental integrity as well as equity. To develop coherent and policy relevant socio-ecological strategies, appropriate decision frameworks need to be co-developed across the range of stakeholders and decision-makers. Integrated models have great potential to support such a process. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability and Ethics: Reflections on the UN Sustainable Development Goals)

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18 pages, 17591 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Co-Benefits of CO₂ Mitigation for NO_X Emission Reduction: A Research Based on the DICE Model

by Xi Xie^1,2, Yuwei Weng^3,4,* and Wenjia Cai^3,4

¹ School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China

² The Administrative Center for China’s Agenda 21, Beijing 100875, China

³ Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Earth System Modeling, Department of Earth System Science, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China

⁴ Joint Center for Global Change Studies, Beijing 100875, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1109; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041109 - 8 Apr 2018

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 5589

Abstract

Actions to reduce carbon emissions often entail co-benefits for environmental protection, like air pollutants reduction. Previous studies made contributions to estimate these co-benefits, but few considered the feedbacks from the socioeconomic system and the natural system. This paper extends the Dynamic Integrated model [...] Read more.

Actions to reduce carbon emissions often entail co-benefits for environmental protection, like air pollutants reduction. Previous studies made contributions to estimate these co-benefits, but few considered the feedbacks from the socioeconomic system and the natural system. This paper extends the Dynamic Integrated model of Climate and the Economy (DICE) model, a classical Integrated Assessment model (IAM), into the Dynamic Integrated model of Climate, Air pollution and the Economy (DICAE) model. Through the hard link between a new air pollution module and the other modules in the original DICE, this paper quantifies the co-benefits of mitigating CO₂ emissions for NO_X emission reduction, and compares the predicted climate change, economic output and social utility under seven mixed policy scenarios. In addition, uncertainty analysis based on Monte Carlo simulation is carried out to verify the robustness of the DICAE model. The results indicate that the NO_X emissions co-emitted with CO₂ emissions would be over 0.6 Gt/year in a no-policy scenario. In policy scenarios, mitigating CO₂ emissions can simultaneously reduce at least 15% of the NO_X emissions, and the more severe the climate mitigation target is, the more obvious co-benefits for NO_X emission reduction. Although these co-benefits can offset some mitigation costs, it will not be cost-effective when NO_X emission reduction is achieved completely depending on ambitious carbon mitigation, so the end-of-pipe technology for NO_X emission is also indispensable. For policymakers, they should recognize the co-benefits of climate policies, actively taking mitigation actions. Moreover, they are encouraged to combine CO₂ mitigation with NO_X emission reduction and coordinate their policy intensities to make wise use of the co-benefits. Full article

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16 pages, 3977 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation and Improvement of Lighting Efficiency in Working Spaces

by Ana Castillo-Martinez^1,*

, Jose-Amelio Medina-Merodio¹

, Jose-Maria Gutierrez-Martinez¹

, Juan Aguado-Delgado¹, Carmen De-Pablos-Heredero²

and Salvador Otón¹

¹ Department of Computer Sciences, Polytechnic School, University of Alcala, 28871 Alcalá de Henares, Spain

² Faculty of Law and Social Sciences, University Rey Juan Carlos, Paseo de los Artilleros, s/n, 28032 Madrid, Spain

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1110; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041110 - 8 Apr 2018

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 6950

Abstract

Lighting is an essential element for modern life, promoting a sense of wellbeing for users. However, bad illumination may produce health problems such as headaches and fatigue, among other vision problems. For that reason, this paper proposes the development of a smartphone-based application [...] Read more.

Lighting is an essential element for modern life, promoting a sense of wellbeing for users. However, bad illumination may produce health problems such as headaches and fatigue, among other vision problems. For that reason, this paper proposes the development of a smartphone-based application to help in lighting evaluation to guarantee the compliance of illumination regulations and to help increase illuminance efficiency, reducing its energy consumption. To perform this evaluation, the smartphone can be used as a lighting measurement tool, evaluating those measurements through an intelligent agent based in rules capable of guiding the decision-making process. As a result, this tool allows the evaluation of the real working environment to guarantee lighting requirements, helping in the prevention of health problems derived from bad illumination and improving the lighting efficiency at the same time. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Lighting and Energy Saving)

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10 pages, 8937 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Development of Regional Power Systems and the Consumption of Electric Energy

by Evgeny Lisin^1,*,†, Daria Shuvalova^1,†, Irina Volkova^2,† and Wadim Strielkowski^3,†

¹ Department of Economics in Power Engineering and Industry, National Research University Moscow Power Engineering Institute, Krasnokazarmennaya st. 14, Moscow 111250, Russia

² Department of General and Strategic Management, National Research University Higher School of Economics (HSE), Myasnitskaya st. 20, Moscow 101000, Russia

³ Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics, University of California, Berkeley, 303 Giannini Hall, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1111; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041111 - 8 Apr 2018

Cited by 53 | Viewed by 4465

Abstract

Nowadays, one of the most imminent problems facing power systems in post-industrial countries is the sustainable development of power systems under conditions of increasing power consumption irregularity due to the reduction of the industry’s share in consumers’ demand for electric power. In today’s [...] Read more.

Nowadays, one of the most imminent problems facing power systems in post-industrial countries is the sustainable development of power systems under conditions of increasing power consumption irregularity due to the reduction of the industry’s share in consumers’ demand for electric power. In today’s Russia, this issue is becoming very acute due to the significant share of electric power and heat co-generation that is demonstrating low manoeuvrability and poor adaptation to operations in the daily variation of electric power demand. This paper considers the problem of improving the power system steady-state through the optimization of the production structure of thermal power plants. We propose a combinatorial algorithm that improves the planning of the structural and technological modernization of the power equipment configuration, with a glance at the forecast of the increasing irregularity of power consumption. Full article

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21 pages, 3722 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Facilitation of a Sustainable Power System: A Practice from Data-Driven Enhanced Boiler Control

by Zhenlong Wu¹, Ting He¹, Li Sun²

, Donghai Li^1,* and Yali Xue¹

¹ State Key Lab of Power Systems, Department of Energy and Power Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China

² Key Lab of Energy Thermal Conversion and Control of Ministry of Education, Southeast University, Nanjing 210096, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1112; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041112 - 8 Apr 2018

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4063

Abstract

An increasing penetration of renewable energy may bring significant challenges to a power system due to its inherent intermittency. To achieve a sustainable future for renewable energy, a conventional power plant is required to be able to change its power output rapidly for [...] Read more.

An increasing penetration of renewable energy may bring significant challenges to a power system due to its inherent intermittency. To achieve a sustainable future for renewable energy, a conventional power plant is required to be able to change its power output rapidly for a grid balance purpose. However, the rapid power change may result in the boiler operating in a dangerous manner. To this end, this paper aims to improve boiler control performance via a data-driven control strategy, namely Active Disturbance Rejection Control (ADRC). For practical implementation, a tuning method is developed for ADRC controller parameters to maximize its potential in controlling a boiler operating in different conditions. Based on a Monte Carlo simulation, a Probabilistic Robustness (PR) index is subsequently formulated to represent the controller’s sensitivity to the varying conditions. The stability region of the ADRC controller is depicted to provide the search space in which the optimal group of parameters is searched for based on the PR index. Illustrative simulations are performed to verify the efficacy of the proposed method. Finally, the proposed method is experimentally applied to a boiler’s secondary air control system successfully. The results of the field application show that the proposed ADRC based on PR can ensure the expected control performance even though it works in a wider range of operating conditions. The field application depicts a promising future for the ADRC controller as an alternative solution in the power industry to integrate more renewable energy into the power grid. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Energy Systems: From Primary to End-Use)

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12 pages, 7788 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Health Risk Assessment of Heavy Metals in Surface Water near a Uranium Tailing Pond in Jiangxi Province, South China

by Liu He^1,2, Bai Gao^1,*, Xin Luo^2,*, Jimmy Jiao², Huanhuan Qin¹, Chunyan Zhang¹ and Yihui Dong¹

¹ College of Water Resources and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Technology, Nanchang 330013, China

² Department of Earth Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, 999077, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1113; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041113 - 8 Apr 2018

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 4856

Abstract

This study was performed in the Linshui River Watershed to explore the contents of heavy metals in river water, their species, and health risks. The test results show that the contents of arsenic (As), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), uranium (U), and thorium (Th) [...] Read more.

This study was performed in the Linshui River Watershed to explore the contents of heavy metals in river water, their species, and health risks. The test results show that the contents of arsenic (As), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), uranium (U), and thorium (Th) are relatively low and below the limit of class III of the environmental quality standards for surface water. According to the analysis through PHREEQC (version 2.18), the main species of As, Cr, Cu, U, and Th are H₂AsO₄⁻ and HAsO₄²⁻, HCrO₄⁻, Cr₂O₇²⁻ and CrO₄²⁻, Cu²⁺, CuSO₄ and CuCO₃, UO₂CO₃, (UO₂)₂CO₃(OH)₃⁻, and UO₂(CO₃)₂²⁻, Th(OH)₄, Th(OH)₂²⁺, and Th(OH)₃⁺, respectively. Health risk assessment demonstrates that the average total risk value is 5.68 × 10⁻⁵ year⁻¹, which is higher than the maximum acceptable level of 5.05 × 10⁻⁵ year⁻¹ recommended by International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP). Moreover, the average of total radionuclide risk (U and Th) is calculated to be 7.85 × 10⁻⁹ year⁻¹, which is five orders of magnitude lower than the standard value of 5.0 × 10⁻⁴ year⁻¹. The health risk of chemical non-carcinogenic (Cu) is lower than that of chemical carcinogenic (As and Cr). Human health risk values descend in the order of Cr, As, U, Th, and Cu. Therefore, As and Cr in the study area are labeled as the priority pollutants. Full article

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20 pages, 6665 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Racial Residential Segregation: Measuring Location Choice Attributes of Environmental Quality and Self-Segregation

by Zhaohua Zhang^1,*, Derrick Robinson² and Diane Hite³

¹ College of Economics and Management, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai’an271018, China

² Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of California, San Diego, CA 92123, USA

³ Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Sociology, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849, USA

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1114; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041114 - 9 Apr 2018

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3469

Abstract

Both sorting on public goods and tastes for segregation contribute to the persistence of segregation in America. Incorporating Schelling’s (1969, 1971) concept of “neighborhood tipping” into a two-stage equilibrium sorting model, in which both neighborhood demographic composition and public goods (e.g., environmental quality) [...] Read more.

Both sorting on public goods and tastes for segregation contribute to the persistence of segregation in America. Incorporating Schelling’s (1969, 1971) concept of “neighborhood tipping” into a two-stage equilibrium sorting model, in which both neighborhood demographic composition and public goods (e.g., environmental quality) affect households’ residential location choice, this study investigates how preferences for neighborhood demographic composition could obscure the role of exogenous public goods on segregation. The results reveal that non-white households face higher level of exposure to air pollution, suggesting the presence of environmental injustice in Franklin County, OH. Using a counterfactual scenario of switching off heterogeneous taste for environmental quality, this study identifies that sorting on Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) emissions drives little correlations between emissions and demographics. However, when taste parameters of the interactions between neighborhood demographic composition and household race are eliminated, segregation (as measured by over-exposure to households of the same race) of black and white households decreases by 7.63% and 16.36%, respectively, and own-race neighbor preferences contribute to segregation differently according to household income. These results may help explain some recent puzzles in the relationship between environmental quality and demographics. Full article

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12 pages, 10983 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Contrary to Common Observations in the West, Urban Park Access Is Only Weakly Related to Neighborhood Socioeconomic Conditions in Beijing, China

by Xingyue Tu^1,2

, Ganlin Huang^1,2,* and Jianguo Wu^1,3

¹ State Key Laboratory of Earth Surface Processes and Resource Ecology (ESPRE), Center for Human-Environment System Sustainability (CHESS), Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China

² School of Natural Resources, Faculty of Geographical Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China

³ School of Life Sciences and School of Sustainability, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1115; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041115 - 9 Apr 2018

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 4450

Abstract

Parks provide critical ecosystem services to urban residents. Park access critically determines how parks are used by residents. Many existing studies, which mostly have been conducted in developed countries, reported that park access disproportionately benefits the socioeconomically advantaged groups. To test if this [...] Read more.

Parks provide critical ecosystem services to urban residents. Park access critically determines how parks are used by residents. Many existing studies, which mostly have been conducted in developed countries, reported that park access disproportionately benefits the socioeconomically advantaged groups. To test if this observation also holds true in developing countries, we examined the park access and its relationship with socioeconomic conditions in Beijing, China. We used a buffering method and a road network-based analysis to calculate the park access of 130 neighborhoods, and applied the Pearson correlation to examine how neighborhood park access is related to socioeconomic conditions. Our results showed that (1) the park access decreased from 76% in the downtown areas to 24% in the suburbs; (2) the correlation coefficients (r) between socioeconomic conditions and park access were all smaller than 0.3 (p < 0.05)—that is, explaining less than 8% of the variability. Our study indicated that neighborhood socioeconomic conditions were only weakly associated with park access in Beijing and did not support the common phenomenon in western countries. Such a contradiction might be explained by the fact that park planning in Beijing is funded and administered by the city government and influenced by the central government’s policy, whereas in most developed countries market sectors play a critical role in park planning. Our research suggested that urban planning funded by governments, when aimed at improving the wellbeing of all urban residents, may effectively reduce potential environmental inequalities. Full article

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16 pages, 9910 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluating the Fires and Oxygen Deficiency Risks Caused by Stored Agricultural Waste

by Naoharu Murasawa^1,2,*, Hiroshi Koseki³, Yusaku Iwata³ and Takabumi Sakamoto⁴

¹ Faculty of Risk and Crisis Management, Chiba Institute of Science, 3 Shiomi-Cho, Choshi, Chiba 288-0025, Japan

² Fukushima Prefectural Center for Environmental Creation, 10-2 Fukasaku, Miharu-machi, Fukushima 963-7700, Japan

³ National Research Institute of Fire and Disaster, 4-35-3, Jindaiji-Higashimachi, Chofu, Tokyo 182-8508, Japan

⁴ College of Risk and Crisis Management, Kurashiki University of Science and the Arts, 2640 Nishinoura, Turajimacho, Kuraashiki, Okayama 712-8505, Japan

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1116; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041116 - 9 Apr 2018

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2850

Abstract

In the Japanese agricultural industry, efforts are being made to recycle waste produced in order to use resources more efficiently. However, in some cases, when stored for long periods of time these materials generate heat through fermentation, which can eventually result in spontaneous [...] Read more.

In the Japanese agricultural industry, efforts are being made to recycle waste produced in order to use resources more efficiently. However, in some cases, when stored for long periods of time these materials generate heat through fermentation, which can eventually result in spontaneous ignition or oxygen deficiency in storage areas, resulting in the deaths of workers. In this study, we conducted a series of experiments on several types of agricultural waste (organic waste generated by agricultural production activities in Japan) frequently stored for recycling, using combinations of various thermal- and gas-analysers, in order to identify the risk factors related to spontaneous ignition and oxygen deficiency accidents. The aim of this research was to understand the circumstances leading to spontaneous ignition and oxygen deficiency accidents in storage facilities and to recommend safety measures to prevent such occurrences. Our results suggest that fermentation is likely responsible for the generation of heat and production of carbon dioxide at temperatures up to approximately 50 °C, where microbial activity diminishes. At temperatures beyond 50 °C, a transition into heat generation by the oxidation of fatty acid esters occurs. Additionally, when the barrier of heat absorption is overcome at around 100 °C due to the evaporation of water, there is a transition to thermal cracking that could lead to fire. Accidents due to oxygen deficiency may occur when a storage facility is well sealed and the amount of oxygen circulation is minimal. However, when the amount of oxygen is sufficient; the substance is stored in large deposits; and the facility is well insulated, fermentation can cause the temperature to increase. Therefore, it is desirable to periodically measure the temperature of stored materials and monitor the generated gases. Full article

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19 pages, 4729 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Energy Cost Optimization for Water Distribution Networks Using Demand Pattern and Storage Facilities

by Yungyu Chang¹, Gyewoon Choi², Juhwan Kim³ and Seongjoon Byeon^4,*

¹ Seohae Environmental Science Institute, Jeonbuk 54817, Korea

² Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Incheon National University, Incheon 22012, Korea

³ K-Water Institute, Water Research Center, Daejeon 34045, Korea

⁴ International Center for Urban Water Hydroinformatics Research & Innovation, Incheon 21999, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1118; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041118 - 9 Apr 2018

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 4256

Abstract

Energy consumption in water supply systems is closely connected with the demand for water, since energy is mostly consumed in the process of water transport and distribution, in addition to the energy that might be needed to pump the water from its sources. [...] Read more.

Energy consumption in water supply systems is closely connected with the demand for water, since energy is mostly consumed in the process of water transport and distribution, in addition to the energy that might be needed to pump the water from its sources. Existing studies have been carried out on optimizing the pump operations to attain appropriate pressure and on controlling the water level of storage facilities to transfer the required demand and to reduce the energy cost. The idea is to reduce the amount of the water being supplied when the unit price of energy is high and to increase the supply when the unit price is low. To realize this scheme, the energy consumption of water supply systems, the amount of water transfer, the organization of energy cost structure, the utilization of water tanks, and so forth are investigated and analyzed to establish a model of optimized water demand management based on the application of water tanks in supplied areas. In this study, with the assumption that energy cost can be reduced by the redistribution of a demand pattern, a numerical analysis is conducted on transferring water demand at storage facilities from the peak energy cost hours to the lower energy cost hours. This study was applied at the Bupyeong 2 reservoir catchment, Incheon, Korea. Full article

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21 pages, 8400 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Joint Decisions on Emission Reduction and Inventory Replenishment with Overconfidence and Low-Carbon Preference

by Shoufeng Ji^*, Dan Zhao^* and Xiaoshuai Peng

School of Business Administration, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110167, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1119; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041119 - 9 Apr 2018

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3568

Abstract

This paper presents a game-theoretical analysis of joint decisions on carbon emission reduction and inventory replenishment with overconfidence and consumer’s low-carbon preference for key supply chain players when facing effort-dependent demand. We consider respectively the overconfidence of a supplier who overestimates the impacts [...] Read more.

This paper presents a game-theoretical analysis of joint decisions on carbon emission reduction and inventory replenishment with overconfidence and consumer’s low-carbon preference for key supply chain players when facing effort-dependent demand. We consider respectively the overconfidence of a supplier who overestimates the impacts of his emission reduction efforts on product demand and the overconfidence of a retailer who underestimates the variability of the stochastic demand. We find, surprisingly, that the supplier’s overconfidence can mitigate “double marginalization” but hurt self-profit, while the retailer’s overconfidence can be an irrelevant factor for self-profit. The retailer aiming at short-term trading should actively seek an overconfident supplier, while the supplier should actively seek a rational retailer for whom the critical fractile is more than 0.5, whereas for an overconfident retailer, the critical fractile is less than or equal to 0.5. The study also underlines the effect of regulation parameters as an important contextual factor influencing low-carbon operations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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25 pages, 83443 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Heating and Cooling Loads of Electrochromic Glazing in High-Rise Residential Buildings in South Korea

by Myunghwan Oh¹, Sungho Tae^2,* and Sangkun Hwang³

¹ Sustainable Building Research Center, Hanyang University, 55 Hanyangdaehak-ro, Sangrok-gu, Ansan-si 15588, Gyeonggi-do, Korea

² School of Architecture & Architectural Engineering, Hanyang University, 55 Hanyangdaehak-ro, Sangrok-gu, Ansan-si 15588, Gyeonggi-do, Korea

³ Research Center of Technology, ALU ENC Co., 10, Baekjegobun-ro 9-gil, Songpa-gu 05562, Seoul, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1121; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041121 - 9 Apr 2018

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 5829

Abstract

This study compares the impact of the recently developed electrochromic glazing technology on load reduction by comparing it with the double-glazing and shading devices that are sold commercially for high-rise residential buildings in Korea. These buildings are similar to large office buildings in [...] Read more.

This study compares the impact of the recently developed electrochromic glazing technology on load reduction by comparing it with the double-glazing and shading devices that are sold commercially for high-rise residential buildings in Korea. These buildings are similar to large office buildings in terms of their high window-to-wall ratio. The energy consumption of such buildings was simulated using an analytical model of a high-rise residential building. The patterns between the heating and cooling loads were found to be similar to that of office buildings, in that the cooling load was considerably higher than the heating load. This study hypothesizes that the load reduction performance of electrochromic glazing with variable solar control and high solar radiation rejection is superior to that of existing double-glazing products and shading devices. This hypothesis was tested by analyzing the cooling and heating loads of buildings with different types of double glazings. Bleached electrochromic glazing exhibited lower transmittance than colored glass double glazing, low-e double glazing, and double glazing with a shading device, and is thus not effective in reducing heating load. Colored electrochromic glazing provided higher solar radiation rejection than colored glass double glazing and low-e double glazing, and thus is effective in reducing cooling load. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Innovative Solutions for Final Design in Terms of Energy Sustainability of Nearly/Net Zero Energy Buildings (nZEB))

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14 pages, 17650 KiB

Open AccessArticle

EAF Slag Aggregate in Roller-Compacted Concrete Pavement: Effects of Delay in Compaction

by My Ngoc-Tra Lam^1,2,*, Saravut Jaritngam¹ and Duc-Hien Le³

¹ Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, Songkhla 90112, Thailand

² Faculty of Civil Engineering, Ho Chi Minh City Open University, 97 Vo Van Tan, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam

³ Sustainable Developments in Civil Engineering Research Group, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Ton Duc Thang University, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1122; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041122 - 9 Apr 2018

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 5401

Abstract

This study investigates the effect of delay in compaction on the optimum moisture content and the mechanical propertie s (i.e., compressive strength, ultrasonic pulse velocity, splitting tensile strength, and modulus of elasticity) of roller-compacted concrete pavement (RCCP) made of electric arc furnace (EAF) [...] Read more.

This study investigates the effect of delay in compaction on the optimum moisture content and the mechanical propertie s (i.e., compressive strength, ultrasonic pulse velocity, splitting tensile strength, and modulus of elasticity) of roller-compacted concrete pavement (RCCP) made of electric arc furnace (EAF) slag aggregate. EAF slag with size in the range of 4.75–19 mm was used to replace natural coarse aggregate in RCCP mixtures. A new mixing method was proposed for RCCP using EAF slag aggregate. The optimum moisture content of RCCP mixtures in this study was determined by a soil compaction method. The Proctor test assessed the optimum moisture content of mixtures at various time after mixing completion (i.e., 0, 15, 30, 60, and 90 min). Then, the effect of delay in compaction on the mechanical properties of RCCP mixtures at 28 days of age containing EAF slag aggregate was studied. The results presented that the negative effect on water content in the mixture caused by the higher water absorption characteristic of EAF slag was mitigated by the new mixing method. The optimum water content and maximum dry density of RCCP experience almost no effect from the delay in compaction. The compressive strength and splitting tensile strength of RCCP using EAF slag aggregate fulfilled the strength requirements for pavement with 90 min of delay in compaction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Civil Engineering: from Sustainable Materials to Sustainable Cities)

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16 pages, 97957 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of an Ultraviolet Reactor on the Improvement of Air Quality Leaving a Direct Evaporative Cooler

by Wonjun Kim¹, Hye-Won Dong¹, Junseok Park¹, Minki Sung²

and Jae-Weon Jeong^1,*

¹ Department of Architectural Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Korea

² Department of Architectural Engineering, Sejong University, Seoul 05006, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1123; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041123 - 9 Apr 2018

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 5165

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to improve microbial air quality by improving water quality, particularly concerning microbiological aspects, by applying an ultraviolet water purifier system to a direct evaporative cooling (DEC) system. A direct evaporative cooler is an air cooling technique that [...] Read more.

The purpose of this study is to improve microbial air quality by improving water quality, particularly concerning microbiological aspects, by applying an ultraviolet water purifier system to a direct evaporative cooling (DEC) system. A direct evaporative cooler is an air cooling technique that uses the evaporation of water. Most DECs recirculate water to reduce water use. Evaporative cooling pads and water are biologically contaminated by recirculating water. This contamination can develop into air contamination and cause respiratory illnesses in occupants. It is necessary to use sterilized water in a DEC to prevent respiratory diseases and maintain air quality. In this study, we examine whether improvements in water quality in a DEC affect air quality by dividing experiments into a control group (Control) and a treated group (UV-treated). In the control group, the degree of contamination was measured when a DEC operated for four weeks without ultraviolet water treatment. In UV-treated, the degree of contamination was measured when UV water treatment was applied to a DEC for four weeks. In both Control and UV-treated, microbes were sampled from the water, the evaporative cooling pad surface, and the DEC inlet and outlet air samples in order to compare the levels of contamination. The surface was measured once at four points, and the air was measured four times at two points. A comparison of the two experiments indicated that the degree of microbial contamination of water and air was significantly reduced in the UV-treated group when compared to that in the control group. When the pollution degree of the evaporative cooling pad was compared to the degree of air pollution, it was difficult to obtain a correlation between the two factors, although the results confirmed that the contamination of the evaporative cooling pad caused water pollution. Therefore, it is necessary to operate a water treatment system to maintain the clean air in DECs. Full article

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28 pages, 12633 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Performance of Early-Generation Perennial Winter Cereals at 21 Sites across Four Continents

by Richard C. Hayes^1,*

, Shuwen Wang², Matthew T. Newell³, Kathryn Turner^2,4, Jamie Larsen⁵, Laura Gazza⁶

, James A. Anderson⁴

, Lindsay W. Bell⁷

, Douglas J. Cattani⁸

, Katherine Frels⁴, Elena Galassi⁶

, Alexey I. Morgounov⁹

, Clinton K. Revell¹⁰, Dhruba B. Thapa¹¹, Erik J. Sacks¹², Mohammad Sameri¹³, Len J. Wade¹⁴, Anna Westerbergh¹³, Vladimir Shamanin¹⁵, Amir Amanov¹⁶ and Guangdi D. Li¹

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¹ NSW Department of Primary Industries, Wagga Wagga Agricultural Institute, PMB, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2650, Australia

² The Land Institute, 2440 E. Water Well Rd., Salina, KS 67401, USA

³ NSW Department of Primary Industries, Cowra Research and Advisory Station, Binni Creek Rd., Cowra, NSW 2795, Australia

⁴ Department of Agronomy and Plant Genetics, University of Minnesota, 1991 Upper Buford Cir, St. Paul, MN 55108, USA

⁵ Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Lethbridge Research and Development Centre, 5403 1st Avenue South, Lethbridge, AB T1J 4B1, Canada

⁶ CREA Research Centre for Engineering and Agro-Food Processing, Via Manziana, 30, 00189 Rome, Italy

⁷ CSIRO Agriculture and Food, PO Box 102, Toowoomba, QLD 4350, Australia

⁸ Department of Plant Science, Room 222 Agriculture, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2, Canada

⁹ International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT), P.O. Box 39 Emek, Ankara 06511, Turkey

¹⁰ Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (Western Australia), 3 Baron-Hay Court, South Perth, WA 6151, Australia

¹¹ Agriculture Botany Division, National Agriculture Research Institute, Nepal Agricultural Research Council, Khumaltar, Lalitpur 44700, Nepal

¹² Department of Crop Sciences, University of Illinois, 1201 W. Gregory Dr., Urbana, IL 61801, USA

¹³ Department of Plant Biology, Uppsala BioCenter, Linnean Centre for Plant Biology in Uppsala, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, SE-75007 Uppsala, Sweden

¹⁴ School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia

¹⁵ Omsk State Agrarian University Named after P.A. Stolypin, 1 Institutskaya Square, 644008 Omsk, Russia

¹⁶ Research Institute of Plant Industry, VIR, Botanika, Kibray District, Tashkent Region 111202, Uzbekistan

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Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1124; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041124 - 9 Apr 2018

Cited by 47 | Viewed by 10365

Abstract

A network of 21 experiments was established across nine countries on four continents and spanning both hemispheres, to evaluate the relative performance of early generation perennial cereal material derived from wheat, rye, and barley and to inform future breeding strategies. The experimental lines [...] Read more.

A network of 21 experiments was established across nine countries on four continents and spanning both hemispheres, to evaluate the relative performance of early generation perennial cereal material derived from wheat, rye, and barley and to inform future breeding strategies. The experimental lines were grown in replicated single rows, and first year production and phenology characteristics as well as yield and persistence for up to three years were monitored. The study showed that the existing experimental material is all relatively short-lived (≤3 years), with environments that are milder in summer and winter generally conferring greater longevity. No pedigree was superior across this diverse network of sites although better performing lines at the higher latitude sites were generally derived from Thinopyrum intermedium. By contrast, at lower latitudes the superior lines were generally derived from Th. ponticum and Th. elongatum parentage. The study observed a poor relationship between year 1 performance and productivity in later years, highlighting the need for perennial cereal material with greater longevity to underpin future experimental evaluation, and the importance for breeding programs to emphasize post-year 1 performance in their selections. Hybrid lines derived from the tetraploid durum wheat generally showed greater longevity than derivatives of hexaploid wheat, highlighting potential for greater use of Triticum turgidum in perennial wheat breeding. We advocate a model in future breeding initiatives that develops perennial cereal genotypes for specific target environments rather than a generic product for one global market. These products may include a diversity of cultivars derived from locally adapted annual and perennial parents. In this scenario the breeding program may have access to only a limited range of adapted perennial grass parents. In other situations, such as at very high latitude environments, perennial crops derived from barley or rye may have a better chance of success than those derived from wheat. In either case, development and selection of the perennial parent for adaptation to local environments would seem fundamental to success. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Strategies, Advances and Challenges of Breeding Perennial Grain Crops)

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29 pages, 11153 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Governing Transactions and Interdependences between Linked Value Chains in a Circular Economy: The Case of Wastewater Reuse in Braunschweig (Germany)

by Oliver Maaß^1,2,* and Philipp Grundmann^1,3

¹ Leibniz Institute for Agricultural Engineering and Bioeconomy, Department of Technology Assessment and Substance Cycles, Max-Eyth-Allee 100, 14469 Potsdam, Germany

² Faculty of Life Sciences, Albrecht Daniel Thaer-Institute of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Division of Horticultural Economics, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Unter den Linden 6, 10099 Berlin, Germany

³ Faculty of Life Sciences, Albrecht Daniel Thaer-Institute of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Resource Economics Group, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Unter den Linden 6, 10099 Berlin, Germany

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1125; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041125 - 9 Apr 2018

Cited by 46 | Viewed by 7380

Abstract

Reusing wastewater in agriculture has attracted increasing attention as a strategy to support the transition towards the circular economy in the water and agriculture sector. As a consequence, there is great interest in solutions for governing the transactions and interdependences between the associated [...] Read more.

Reusing wastewater in agriculture has attracted increasing attention as a strategy to support the transition towards the circular economy in the water and agriculture sector. As a consequence, there is great interest in solutions for governing the transactions and interdependences between the associated value chains. This paper explores the institutions and governance structures for coordinating transactions and interdependences between actors in linked value chains of wastewater treatment and crop production. It aims to analyze how transactions and interdependences shape the governance structures for reusing wastewater at the local level. A transaction costs analysis based on data from semi-structured interviews and a questionnaire is applied to the agricultural wastewater reuse scheme of the Wastewater Association Braunschweig (Germany). The results show that different governance structures are needed to match with the different properties and requirements of the transactions and activities between linked value chains of wastewater treatment and crop production. Interdependences resulting from transactions between wastewater providers and farmers increase the need for hybrid and hierarchical elements in the governance structures for wastewater reuse. The authors conclude that aligning governance structures with transactions and interdependences is key to efficiently governing transactions and interdependences between linked value chains in a circular economy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Sustainability and Applications)

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20 pages, 32294 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Variation in Ecosystem Service Values in an Agroforestry Dominated Landscape in Ethiopia: Implications for Land Use and Conservation Policy

by Habtamu Temesgen^1,2

, Wei Wu^1,3,*

, Xiaoping Shi^1,4, Eshetu Yirsaw^1,2

, Belewu Bekele^1,5

and Mengistie Kindu⁶

¹ College of Land Management, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China

² Department of Natural Resources Management, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Dilla University, Dilla 419, Ethiopia

³ National and Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Rural Land Resources Use and Consolidation, Nanjing 210095, China

⁴ College of Public Administration, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China

⁵ Department of Natural Resources Management, Assosa ATVET Collage, Assosa 242, Ethiopia

⁶ Remote Sensing Working Group, Technical University of Munich, 85354 Freising, Germany

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1126; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041126 - 9 Apr 2018

Cited by 68 | Viewed by 6261

Abstract

Human pressure on a rugged and fragile landscape can cause land use/cover changes that significantly alter the provision of ecosystem services. Estimating the multiple services, particularly those obtained from agroforestry systems, is seldom attempted. A combined approach of geospatial technology, cross-sectional field investigations, [...] Read more.

Human pressure on a rugged and fragile landscape can cause land use/cover changes that significantly alter the provision of ecosystem services. Estimating the multiple services, particularly those obtained from agroforestry systems, is seldom attempted. A combined approach of geospatial technology, cross-sectional field investigations, and economic valuation of natural capital was used to develop an ecosystem service valuation (ESV) model to estimate changes in ESV between 1986 and 2015 in southern Ethiopia. Over 120 values were sourced, mainly from an ecosystem service valuation database and allied sources, to establish value coefficients via benefit transfer method. Our 1848 km² study landscape, with eight land use categories, yielded an annual total ESV of $129 × 10⁶ in 1986 and $147 × 10⁶ in 2015, a 14.2% ($18.3 million) increase in three decades, showing its relative resilience. Yet we observed losses of natural vegetation classes whose area and/or value coefficients were too small to offset their increased value from expanding agroforestry and wetland/marshes, which have the largest cover share and highest economic value, respectively. Appreciating the unique features of agroforests, we strongly recommend that their economic value is studied as a separate ecosystem for further valuation accuracy improvement. Full article

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15 pages, 17419 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Hyperspectral Estimation of the Chlorophyll Content in Short-Term and Long-Term Restorations of Mangrove in Quanzhou Bay Estuary, China

by Zhiguo Dou^1,2,3

, Lijuan Cui^1,2,3, Jing Li^1,2,3, Yinuo Zhu^1,2,3, Changjun Gao⁴, Xu Pan^1,2,3, Yinru Lei^1,2,3

, Manyin Zhang^1,2,3, Xinsheng Zhao^1,2,3 and Wei Li^1,2,3,*

¹ Institute of Wetland Research, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing 100091, China

² Beijing Key Laboratory of Wetland Services and Restoration, Beijing 100091, China

³ Beijing Hanshiqiao National Wetland, Ecosystem Research Station, Beijing 101399, China

⁴ Guangdong Academy of Forestry, Guangzhou 510520, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1127; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041127 - 9 Apr 2018

Cited by 42 | Viewed by 6105

Abstract

The chlorophyll content can indicate the general health of vegetation, and can be estimated from hyperspectral data. The aim of this study is to estimate the chlorophyll content of mangroves at different stages of restoration in a coastal wetland in Quanzhou, China, using [...] Read more.

The chlorophyll content can indicate the general health of vegetation, and can be estimated from hyperspectral data. The aim of this study is to estimate the chlorophyll content of mangroves at different stages of restoration in a coastal wetland in Quanzhou, China, using proximal hyperspectral remote sensing techniques. We determine the hyperspectral reflectance of leaves from two mangrove species, Kandelia candel and Aegiceras corniculatum, from short-term and long-term restoration areas with a portable spectroradiometer. We also measure the leaf chlorophyll content (SPAD value). We use partial-least-squares stepwise regression to determine the relationships between the spectral reflectance and the chlorophyll content of the leaves, and establish two models, a full-wave-band spectrum model and a red-edge position regression model, to estimate the chlorophyll content of the mangroves. The coefficients of determination for the red-edge position model and the full-wave-band model exceed 0.72 and 0.82, respectively. The inverted chlorophyll contents are estimated more accurately for the long-term restoration mangroves than for the short-term restoration mangroves. Our results indicate that hyperspectral data can be used to estimate the chlorophyll content of mangroves at different stages of restoration, and could possibly be adapted to estimate biochemical constituents in leaves. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Coastal Ecosystems: Monitoring, Management, Restoration, Preservation, and Valuation)

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11 pages, 350 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Maslow Portfolio Selection for Individuals with Low Financial Sustainability

by Zongxin Li¹, Xinge Li¹, Yongchang Hui^1,* and Wing-Keung Wong^2,3,4

¹ School of Mathematics and Statistics, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China

² Department of Finance, Fintech Center, and Big Data Research Center, Asia University, Taichung City 413, Taiwan

³ Department of Economics and Finance, Hang Seng Management College, Hong Kong, China

⁴ Department of Economics, Lingnan University, Hong Kong, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1128; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041128 - 9 Apr 2018

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 4857

Abstract

In this paper, we extend Maslow’s need hierarchy theory and the two-level optimization approach by developing the framework of the Maslow portfolio selection model (MPSM) by solving the two optimization problems to meet the need of individuals with low financial sustainability who prefer [...] Read more.

In this paper, we extend Maslow’s need hierarchy theory and the two-level optimization approach by developing the framework of the Maslow portfolio selection model (MPSM) by solving the two optimization problems to meet the need of individuals with low financial sustainability who prefer to satisfy their lower-level (safety) need first, and, thereafter, look for higher-level (self-actualization) need to maximize the optimal return. We illustrate our proposed model with real American stock data from the S&P index and conduct the out-of-sample analysis to compare the performance of our proposed Variance-CVaR (conditional value-at-risk) MPSM with both traditional mean-variance and mean-CVaR models. Our empirical analysis shows that our proposed Variance-CVaR MPSM is not only sustainable, but also obtains the best out-of-sample performance in the sense that the optimal portfolios obtained by using our proposed Variance-CVaR MPSM obtain the highest cumulative returns in the out-of-sample period among the models used in our paper. We note that our proposed model is not only suitable to individuals with low financial sustainability, but also suitable to institutions or investors with high financial sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Risk Measures with Applications in Finance and Economics)

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27 pages, 69349 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Solar Energy Resource Analysis and Evaluation of Photovoltaic System Performance in Various Regions of Saudi Arabia

by Ahmed Bilal Awan^1,*

, Muhammad Zubair¹, Praveen R. P.¹

and Ahmed G. Abokhalil^1,2

¹ Department of Electrical Engineering, College of Engineering, Majmaah University, Al Majmaah 11952, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

² Electrical Engineering Department, Assiut University, Assiut 71515, Egypt

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1129; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041129 - 10 Apr 2018

Cited by 61 | Viewed by 11738

Abstract

According to Vision 2030, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (K.S.A) plans to harness 9.5 GW of energy from renewable energy sources, which includes a major part of solar PV generation. This massive implementation of solar projects requires an accurate assessment and analysis of [...] Read more.

According to Vision 2030, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (K.S.A) plans to harness 9.5 GW of energy from renewable energy sources, which includes a major part of solar PV generation. This massive implementation of solar projects requires an accurate assessment and analysis of solar resource data and PV site selection. This paper presents a detailed analysis of one-year solar radiation data and energy output of 100 kW PV systems at 44 different locations across the K.S.A. Coastal areas have a lower amount of global horizontal irradiance (GHI) as compared to inland areas. Najran University station gives the highest annual electrical output of 172,083 kWh, yield factor of 1721, and capacity utilization factor of 19.6%. Sharurah and Timma TVTC are second and third best with respect to annual PV performance. Similarly, during high load summer season (April–October), Tabuk station is the best location for a PV power plant with an electrical output of 110,250 kWh, yield factor of 1102, and capacity utilization factor of 21.46%. Overall, the northern province of Tabuk is the most feasible region for a solar PV plant. The basic approach presented in this research study compares solar resource pattern and solar PV system output pattern with the load profile of the country. The site selected based on this criterion is recommended to be economically most feasible which can reduce the stress on electricity companies during high load seasons by clipping the peak load during daytime in the hot summer period. Full article

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19 pages, 59073 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Viability of Green Roofs as a Flood Mitigation Element in the Central Region of Chile

by Daniel Mora-Melià^1,*

, Carlos S. López-Aburto¹, Pablo Ballesteros-Pérez² and Pedro Muñoz-Velasco³

¹ Departamento de Ingeniería y Gestión de la Construcción, Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad de Talca, Talca 3340000, Chile

² School of Architecture, Building and Civil Engineering, Loughborough University, Loughborough LE11 3TU, UK

³ Grupo de Investigación SCOEM, Escuela Superior de Ingeniería y Tecnología, Universidad Internacional de La Rioja, Logroño 26002, Spain

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1130; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041130 - 10 Apr 2018

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 8933

Abstract

Population increase and urban development over the last 20 years in Chile have outgrown most rainwater drainage and evacuation systems. Many cities located in the central region suffer from frequent floods in some of their sectors during winter rainfall events. In addition, the [...] Read more.

Population increase and urban development over the last 20 years in Chile have outgrown most rainwater drainage and evacuation systems. Many cities located in the central region suffer from frequent floods in some of their sectors during winter rainfall events. In addition, the lack of green spaces in these cities leads to biodiversity loss, increasing temperatures, greater energy demands, etc. Green roofs offer a solution that can mitigate climate change by reducing the runoff in cities with extensive, highly impermeable areas. This work analyses the installation of green roofs as a potential solution to the sectorial floods suffered by many cities in central Chile. The methodology includes the identification of conflictive sectors in the city of Curicó, hydrological modelling with the Storm Water Management Model (SWMM) software, the consideration of different distributions and types of green roof surfaces, and computational simulations to determine the feasibility of green roofs for preventing floods. The results show that, for moderate rainfall events, all studied sectors could avoid flooding if at least 50% of the surrounding area had green roofs (irrespective of the type of green roof). In contrast, in the presence of strong rainfall events, only some semi-extensive and extensive green roofs covering 60% to 95% of the surrounding area, respectively, could prevent flooding. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Sustainable Built Environment)

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14 pages, 30875 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Carbon Footprints of Urban Residential Buildings: A Household Survey-Based Approach

by Xiaomei Yan^1,2,3, Shenghui Cui^1,3,*, Lilai Xu^1,3, Jianyi Lin^1,3 and Ghaffar Ali^1,3

¹ Key Lab of Urban Environment and Health, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1799, Jimei Road, Xiamen 361021, China

² University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China

³ Xiamen Key Lab of Urban Metabolism, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1131; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041131 - 10 Apr 2018

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 6283

Abstract

With China’s rapid urbanization process, massive and extensive construction materials are aggregated as stock in urban areas. Understanding the carbon footprints of residential buildings is crucial for achieving the goal of low-carbon cities. In this study, to reveal the emission characteristics of residential [...] Read more.

With China’s rapid urbanization process, massive and extensive construction materials are aggregated as stock in urban areas. Understanding the carbon footprints of residential buildings is crucial for achieving the goal of low-carbon cities. In this study, to reveal the emission characteristics of residential buildings regarding carbon footprint, stratified random sampling was developed, and a face-to-face questionnaire was conducted, to obtain critical information on residential buildings and the socio-economic status of 1092 families from 46 communities in Xiamen City, China. The community buildings’ structures were identified, and carbon emissions from the residential buildings were quantified based on analysis of the entire building life cycle. The building life cycle can be divided into six stages: extraction and production; transportation; construction; operation; demolition; and recycling. The household carbon footprints ranged from 0.37 tCO₂/year to 22.45 tCO₂/year; the per capita carbon footprints ranged from 0.19 tCO₂/year to 11.23 tCO₂/year. Overall, for the 46 surveyed communities, the average household and per capita carbon footprints were 4.11 tCO₂/year and 1.4 tCO₂/year, respectively. The total carbon footprints of urban residential buildings were 4.86 MtCO₂/year. Analysis of the extraction and production stage revealed that steel recycling could avoid almost 0.05 MtCO₂/year. No significant correlations were found between energy use awareness and energy use. The findings can be used by Chinese energy policymakers to understand the views of various energy users, and to re-attune the efforts against these opinions and interests. However, we consider this study a start and not an end to the importance of gauging opinions on energy security from the population of energy users. Nonetheless, awareness campaigns through print and electronic media could be another tool for life cycle emissions reduction in building sector. Full article

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18 pages, 775 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Operational Decisions on Remanufacturing Outsourcing Involved with Corporate Environmental and Social Responsibility—A Sustainable Perspective

by Wei Yan^1,†, Junwu Chai^1,2,*,†, Zhifeng Qian^1,*,†

, Sang-Bing Tsai^3,*,†

, Hong Chen¹ and Yu Xiong^4,*

¹ School of Management and Economics, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611731, China

² Center for West African Studies of University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 611731, China

³ Zhongshan Institute, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Zhongshan 528400, China

⁴ Newcastle Business School, Northumbria University, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE1 8ST, UK

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1132; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041132 - 10 Apr 2018

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 3933

Abstract

Due to increasing consciousness of sustainability and pressure from legislation, numerous studies and managers have sought to integrate traditional operations management with green environment and social responsibility. One such effort is remanufacturing, which has emerged as a growing topic. Although outsourcing remanufacturing operations [...] Read more.

Due to increasing consciousness of sustainability and pressure from legislation, numerous studies and managers have sought to integrate traditional operations management with green environment and social responsibility. One such effort is remanufacturing, which has emerged as a growing topic. Although outsourcing remanufacturing operations to third-party remanufacturers (TPRs) has been well studied in the literature, the research has paid little attention to the fact that original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) have the flexibility of outsourcing to other agents but not TPRs. In practice, besides TPRs, many brand-name OEMs have outsourced remanufacturing operations to their suppliers. The question this raises is: TPR vs. supplier, which remanufacturer is better for the economic, environment and social responsibility? To understand this fundamental question, in this paper, we develop two models that allow an OEM to have potential flexibility to (1) outsource remanufacturing operations to a TPR (Model T) or (2) outsource remanufacturing operations to a supplier (Model S). Among other results, we find that, although the Model T creates more potentially sustainable economic, social, and environmental situations, this strategy is not supported by the supplier because it always leaves the supplier worse off. In order to achieve a “win-win-win” outcome that meets economic, social, and environmental requirements for all parties, a revenue-sharing contract is proposed and incorporated into Model T. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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14 pages, 4879 KiB

Open AccessArticle

What You Sow Is What You Reap? (Dis-)Incentives for Adaptation Intentions in Farming

by Franca Buelow and Nicholas Cradock-Henry^*

Governance & Policy, Manaaki Whenua Landcare Research, Lincoln 7640, New Zealand

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1133; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041133 - 10 Apr 2018

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 4692

Abstract

Adaptation by farmers and other land managers responsible for climate-sensitive activities is central to ensuring resilience in the face of ongoing climate variability and change. However, there remains an adaptation deficit among agricultural producers: action to reduce vulnerability to the impacts of climate [...] Read more.

Adaptation by farmers and other land managers responsible for climate-sensitive activities is central to ensuring resilience in the face of ongoing climate variability and change. However, there remains an adaptation deficit among agricultural producers: action to reduce vulnerability to the impacts of climate change is insufficient. To motivate adaptation, diverse incentives are in place most notably through the European Union’s Common Agricultural Policy which offers financial incentives to farmers. However, the effect of incentives on behaviour appears to be low. To better understand adaptation intentions, we report on the results of a survey experiment assessing framing effects on German farmers. Four framings of adaptation motifs—financial, norms, risk awareness, and technological innovation—are tested against a socio-cognitive model based on Protection Motivation Theory (PMT). According to PMT, adaptation intentions are a function of an individual’s risk and coping appraisal. Results show that, contrary to assumptions of profit maximizing individuals, economic incentives trigger fewer overall change intentions. Economic rewards do act on risk perception, but are less likely to trigger coping perception, while other treatments do. As coping perception is one of two socio-cognitive reactions to climate change, financial incentive structures fail to act on about half the factors leading to adaptation intentions. These effects dependent on subgroups, farm structures, and are mediated by climate experience. To support transitions towards robust adaptation, adaptation incentives must move beyond financial framings alone, and leverage on farmers’ recent experiences with adverse climate impacts, understandings of climate change, and the influence of social norms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Governance for Climate Smart Agriculture)

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20 pages, 10578 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A New Framework to Evaluate Urban Design Using Urban Microclimatic Modeling in Future Climatic Conditions

by Dasaraden Mauree^1,*

, Silvia Coccolo¹, Amarasinghage Tharindu Dasun Perera¹

, Vahid Nik^2,3

, Jean-Louis Scartezzini¹ and Emanuele Naboni⁴

¹ Solar Energy and Building Physics Laboratory, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, 1015 Lausanne, Switzerland

² Division of Building Physics, Department of Building and Environmental Technology, Lund University, SE 223 63 Lund, Sweden

³ Division of Building Technology, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Chalmers University of Technology, 41258 Gothenburg, Sweden

⁴ Institute of Architecture and Technology, The Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, Schools of Architecture, Design and Conservation,1425 Copenhagen, Denmark

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1134; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041134 - 10 Apr 2018

Cited by 55 | Viewed by 9061

Abstract

Building more energy-efficient and sustainable urban areas that will both mitigate the effects of climate change and anticipate living conditions in future climate scenarios requires the development of new tools and methods that can help urban planners, architects and communities achieve this goal. [...] Read more.

Building more energy-efficient and sustainable urban areas that will both mitigate the effects of climate change and anticipate living conditions in future climate scenarios requires the development of new tools and methods that can help urban planners, architects and communities achieve this goal. In the current study, we designed a workflow that links different methodologies developed separately, to derive the energy consumption of a university school campus for the future. Three different scenarios for typical future years (2039, 2069, 2099) were run, as well as a renovation scenario (Minergie-P). We analyzed the impact of climate change on the heating and cooling demand of buildings and determined the relevance of taking into account the local climate in this particular context. The results from the simulations confirmed that in the future, there will be a constant decrease in the heating demand, while the cooling demand will substantially increase. Significantly, it was further demonstrated that when the local urban climate was taken into account, there was an even higher rise in the cooling demand, but also that a set of proposed Minergie-P renovations were not sufficient to achieve resilient buildings. We discuss the implication of this work for the simulation of building energy consumption at the neighborhood scale and the impact of future local climate on energy system design. We finally give a few perspectives regarding improved urban design and possible pathways for future urban areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Climate Resilient Urban Development)

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17 pages, 33814 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Quantifying Surface Coal-Mining Patterns to Promote Regional Sustainability in Ordos, Inner Mongolia

by Xiaoji Zeng^1,2, Zhifeng Liu^1,2,*, Chunyang He^1,2, Qun Ma^1,2 and Jianguo Wu^1,3

¹ Center for Human-Environment System Sustainability (CHESS), State Key Laboratory of Earth Surface Processes and Resource Ecology (ESPRE), Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China

² Faculty of Geographical Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China

³ School of Life Sciences and School of Sustainability, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1135; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041135 - 10 Apr 2018

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 5022

Abstract

Ordos became the new “coal capital” of China within a few decades since the country’s economic reform in 1978, as large-scale surface coal mining dramatically propelled its per capita GDP from being one of the lowest to one of the highest in China, [...] Read more.

Ordos became the new “coal capital” of China within a few decades since the country’s economic reform in 1978, as large-scale surface coal mining dramatically propelled its per capita GDP from being one of the lowest to one of the highest in China, exceeding Hong Kong in 2009. Surface coal-mining areas (SCMAs) have continued to expand in this region during recent decades, resulting in serious environmental and socioeconomic consequences. To understand these impacts and promote regional sustainability, quantifying the spatiotemporal patterns of SCMAs is urgently needed. Thus, the main objectives of this study were to quantify the spatiotemporal patterns of SCMAs in the Ordos region from 1990 to 2015, and to examine some of the major environmental and socioeconomic impacts in the study region. We extracted the SCMAs using remote-sensing data, and then quantified their spatiotemporal patterns using landscape metrics. The loss of natural habitat and several socioeconomic indicators were examined in relation to surface coal mining. Our results show that the area of SCMAs increased from 7.12 km² to 355.95 km², an increase of nearly 49 times from 1990 to 2015 in the Ordos region. The number of SCMAs in this region increased from 82 to 651, a nearly seven-fold increase. In particular, Zhungeer banner (an administrative division), Yijinhuoluo banner, Dongsheng District and Dalate banner in the north-eastern part of the Ordos region had higher growth rates of SCMAs. The income gap between urban and rural residents increased along with the growth in SCMAs, undermining social equity in the Ordos region. Moreover, the rapid increase in SCMAs resulted in natural habitat loss (including grasslands, forests, and deserts) across this region. Thus, we suggest that regional sustainability in Ordos needs to emphasize effective measures to curb large-scale surface coal mining in order to reduce the urban–rural income gap, and to restore degraded natural ecosystems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Defining and Assessing Landscape and Urban Sustainability: Linking Spatial Patterns, Ecosystems Services, and Human Wellbeing)

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15 pages, 7709 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Addressing the Modelling Precision in Evaluating the Ecosystem Services of Coastal Wetlands

by Baodi Sun^1,2,3,†, Yinru Lei^1,2,3,†

, Lijuan Cui^1,2,3,*, Wei Li^1,2,3

, Xiaoming Kang^1,2,3 and Manyin Zhang^1,2,3

¹ The Institute of Wetland Research, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing 100091, China

² Beijing Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecological Function and Restoration, Beijing 100091, China

³ Beijing Hanshiqiao National Wetland Ecosystem Research Station, Beijing 101399, China

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1136; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041136 - 10 Apr 2018

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3616

Abstract

Wetlands are one of the world’s most productive ecosystems, and therefore it is crucial that management decisions regarding wetlands incorporate awareness of accurate assessments of the value of their respective ecosystem services. In this paper, we seek to improve the modelling precision in [...] Read more.

Wetlands are one of the world’s most productive ecosystems, and therefore it is crucial that management decisions regarding wetlands incorporate awareness of accurate assessments of the value of their respective ecosystem services. In this paper, we seek to improve the modelling precision in the scale transform process of ecosystem service evaluation. Firstly, we selected eight services as the criteria to calculate wetland ecosystem values: substance production, flood control, carbon sequestration, gas regulation, climate regulation, wave reduction, adding new lands, recreation and education. Then, six coastal wetlands of Liaoning province were chosen as the case study areas, and their ecosystem values were calculated by empirical method. Next, we simulated ecosystem values of the six cases by two spatial-scales transform methods named meta-analysis and wavelet transform. Finally, we compared the two groups of simulated values with the empirical measured values to examine their evaluation precisions. The results indicated that the total precision of the wavelet transform model (0.968) was higher than that of meta-analysis (0.712). In addition, the simulated values of single services such as substance production, flood control, carbon sequestration, gas regulation, and climate regulation were closer to the measured values using wavelet transform model. This research contributes to identifying an evaluation model with higher precision for evaluating wetland ecosystem services in the process of scale transform. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Coastal Ecosystems: Monitoring, Management, Restoration, Preservation, and Valuation)

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16 pages, 3322 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing the Disaster Resilience of Megacities: The Case of Hong Kong

by Timothy Sim¹, Dongming Wang² and Ziqiang Han^1,3,*

¹ Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China

² National Disaster Reduction Centre of China, Ministry of Civil Affairs, Beijing 100124, China

³ Institute for Disaster Management and Reconstruction, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610207, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1137; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041137 - 10 Apr 2018

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 9297

Abstract

Many megacities are facing potential threats from various disasters, especially in the face of climate change. However, evaluating the resilience of megacities is not well established in both the academia and practice field. Using Hong Kong, which is a megacity ranked as the [...] Read more.

Many megacities are facing potential threats from various disasters, especially in the face of climate change. However, evaluating the resilience of megacities is not well established in both the academia and practice field. Using Hong Kong, which is a megacity ranked as the city in Asia with the highest risk for natural disasters, as a case study, we demonstrated the effort of assessing the resilience of a megacity. The Sendai Framework Local Urban Indicators Tools that was developed by the United Nation Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNISDR) was adopted as the main tool in this study, and a mixed bottom-up participatory and top-down method was utilized in the evaluation process. This is an innovative and participatory approach that is not commonly adopted in assessing the resilience of cities. The study found that Hong Kong is disaster resilient in that it mainstreams disaster risk in its development and that it dedicates sufficient financial resources. However, Hong Kong may improve on its disaster governance and encourage cooperation between the government and society to identify disaster risk and share information, particularly in the face of climate change and calls for more sustainable development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Disasters, Crisis, Hazards, Emergencies and Sustainable Development)

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20 pages, 52600 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Seismic and Energy Retrofit of the Historic Urban Fabric of Enna (Italy)

by Tiziana Basiricò^1,* and Daniele Enea²

¹ Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, University of Enna Kore, via delle Olimpiadi 4, 94100 Enna, Italy

² S.P.I.C. Engineering Ltd., via Croce Rossa, 90146 Palermo, Italy

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1138; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041138 - 10 Apr 2018

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 4829

Abstract

This paper exemplifies several methods for retrofitting existing housing through four case studies, representative of the historical centre of Enna, a small town in Sicily, according to the requirements of static safety, typological adaptation and indoor comfort. These buildings were mostly built in [...] Read more.

This paper exemplifies several methods for retrofitting existing housing through four case studies, representative of the historical centre of Enna, a small town in Sicily, according to the requirements of static safety, typological adaptation and indoor comfort. These buildings were mostly built in the nineteenth century, up to three floors based on load-bearing masonry, iron joists and hollow tile floors and wooden roofs. A typological and construction analysis of these buildings was carried out to identify the stratigraphy of the different technical elements. Static and energy audits had been previously undertaken to understand the gap between the current state of the buildings and Italian standards and to develop appropriate interventions taking into account the site characteristics and the energy and seismic risk class pre- and post-retrofit intervention. The analyses and the retrofit interventions were performed in compliance with Italian standards and laws and strove to reach the minimum level. The study supports the planning of structural and energy retrofit interventions designed for historic load-bearing masonry buildings. Finally, the study simulates a strategy of action to provide subsidies and tax relief related to effective seismic and/or energy improvement that could be relevant for owners/builders as well as for local authorities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy and Seismic Renovation Strategies for Sustainable Cities)

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15 pages, 22638 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Role of Scirpus mariqueter on Methane Emission from an Intertidal Saltmarsh of Yangtze Estuary

by Yangjie Li^1,2, Dongqi Wang^2,*

, Zhenlou Chen², Haiyan Jin¹, Hong Hu², Jianfang Chen¹ and Zhi Yang¹

¹ Key Laboratory of Marine Ecosystem and Biogeochemistry of State Ocean Administration, Second Institute of Oceanography, State Ocean Administration, Hangzhou 310012, China

² School of Geographic Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1139; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041139 - 10 Apr 2018

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4013

Abstract

The role of wetland plant (Scirpus mariqueter) on methane (CH₄) emissions from a subtropical tidal saltmarsh of Yangtze estuary was investigated over a year. Monthly CH₄ flux and pore-water CH₄ concentration were characterized using static closed chamber [...] Read more.

The role of wetland plant (Scirpus mariqueter) on methane (CH₄) emissions from a subtropical tidal saltmarsh of Yangtze estuary was investigated over a year. Monthly CH₄ flux and pore-water CH₄ concentration were characterized using static closed chamber technique and pore-water extraction. Measured chamber CH₄ fluxes indicated that saltmarsh of the Yangtze estuary acted as a net source of atmospheric CH₄ with annual average flux of 24.0 mgCH₄·m⁻²·day⁻¹. The maximum chamber CH₄ flux was in August (91.2 mgCH₄·m⁻²·day⁻¹), whereas the minimum was observed in March (2.30 mgCH₄·m⁻²·day⁻¹). Calculated diffusion CH₄ fluxes were generally less than 6% of the chamber fluxes. Significant correlations were observed between the chamber CH₄ flux and rhizospheric pore-water CH₄ concentration (11–15 cm: p < 0.05, R = 0.732; 16–20 cm: p < 0.05, R = 0.777). In addition, chamber CH₄ fluxes from July to September constituted more than 80% of the total annual emission and were closely correlated with aboveground biomass yield of S. mariqueter. The results indicated that S. mariqueter transportation was the dominant CH₄ emission pathway and it provided an efficient route for the belowground CH₄ to escape into the atmosphere while avoiding oxidation, leading to CH₄ emissions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Carbon Cycles)

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13 pages, 302 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Eco-Innovation in Circular Agri-Business

by Dong-Her Shih¹

, Chia-Ming Lu^1,*, Chia-Hao Lee², Sin-Ye Cai³, Kuo-Jui Wu^4,*

and Ming-Lang Tseng^5,*

¹ Department of Information Management, National Yunlin University of Science and Technology, Douliu 64002, Taiwan

² Department of Finance, MingDao University, Changhua County 52345, Taiwan

³ Department of Information Management, Lunghwa University of Science & Technology, Taoyuan 33306, Taiwan

⁴ School of Business, Dalian University of Technology, Panjing 124221, China

⁵ Institute of Innovation and Circular Economy, Asia University, Taichung 41354, Taiwan

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1140; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041140 - 10 Apr 2018

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 4929

Abstract

This study constructs a theory of eco-innovation in circular agri-business. Although previous studies have discussed eco-innovation in circular agri-business, they did not address eco-innovation from the perspective of a closed-loop sustainable supply chain. Hence, this study applied the fuzzy TOPSIS method to conduct [...] Read more.

This study constructs a theory of eco-innovation in circular agri-business. Although previous studies have discussed eco-innovation in circular agri-business, they did not address eco-innovation from the perspective of a closed-loop sustainable supply chain. Hence, this study applied the fuzzy TOPSIS method to conduct the analysis and determine the interrelationship between eco-innovation and the closed-loop concept. The results are consistent with the theory and a significant improvement in terms of the decisive attributes. The findings suggest that improving water management, relationships with suppliers, knowledge sharing, environmental management systems, and new product and service development are the most effective and efficient ways to build eco-innovation in circular agri-business. The managerial and theoretical implications are discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agribusiness Decision making model in Belt and Road Green Development)

15 pages, 2187 KiB

Open AccessArticle

We Don’t Want to Be Officially Certified! Reasons and Implications of the Participatory Guarantee Systems

by Mamen Cuéllar-Padilla^1,*

and Ernesto Ganuza-Fernandez²

¹ Agroecology, Food Sovereignty and Commons Research Group, Cordoba University, Sociology Unit, C5 Building, Campus Universitario Rabanales, Universidad de Cordoba, 14080 Cordoba, Spain

² IESA/CSIC-JA, Campo Santo de los Mártires 7, 14004 Cordoba, Spain

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1142; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041142 - 10 Apr 2018

Cited by 54 | Viewed by 6524

Abstract

Official organic regulation in Europe is based on the third-party certification system to guarantee organic products. Many critics and dissatisfactions have motivated the emergence of other guarantee systems, based on an intense implication of producers and, in some cases, consumers and other local [...] Read more.

Official organic regulation in Europe is based on the third-party certification system to guarantee organic products. Many critics and dissatisfactions have motivated the emergence of other guarantee systems, based on an intense implication of producers and, in some cases, consumers and other local actors, involved in localised agri-food systems. They are called Participatory Guarantee Systems (PGS), and are not recognised as valid guarantee systems by the official organic regulation. In the present paper, we analyse the main differences between the PGS and the third party certification system, deepening on their differentiated social and political implications. We conclude that the procedures behind PGS generate numerous positive impacts in the territories related to local producers (and consumers) empowerment and localised agri-food systems drive, while their implications make them not considered as a substitute to third party certification system, unless certain conditions of social consolidated groups and agroecological and food sovereignty perspective of food system take place. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mapping Agroecology in Europe. New Developments and Applications)

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19 pages, 412 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Supply Chain Management in Small and Medium Enterprises

by Sebastian Kot^1,2

¹ The Management Faculty, Czestochowa University of Technology, Armii Krajowej 19B, 42-201 Częstochowa, Poland

² Faculty of Economic Sciences and IT, North-West University, Vaal Triangle Campus, P.O. Box 1174, Vanderbijlpark 1900, South Africa

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1143; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041143 - 11 Apr 2018

Cited by 157 | Viewed by 23273

Abstract

The sector of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) plays a key role in the economies of all of the countries in the world. These entities constitute the basis for the development of the national and global economies. In a contemporary complex and competitive [...] Read more.

The sector of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) plays a key role in the economies of all of the countries in the world. These entities constitute the basis for the development of the national and global economies. In a contemporary complex and competitive business environment, the adaptation of appropriate strategies is a particularly important effort to furthering the development of companies from the SMEs sector. In this context, the application of the concept of sustainable supply chain management (SCM) in the operation strategy of SMEs seems to be a very important function. This supply chain also covers all three aspects of sustainable development: business, environmental, and social. The purpose of this article is to present the current state of the research in sustainable development in relation to managing the supply chain of SMEs, as well as the empirical findings in this area. The results found that all of the sustainability areas were very important in the supply chain management practices of the studied SMEs, despite the imbalance described in the literature. The study also presents the most important elements in the particular sustainability areas of SCM and SMEs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Alliances and Network Organizations for Sustainable Development)

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14 pages, 4924 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Public Value of Enforcing the PM_2.5 Concentration Reduction Policy in South Korean Urban Areas

by Ju-Hee Kim, Hyo-Jin Kim and Seung-Hoon Yoo^*

Department of Energy Policy, Graduate School of Energy & Environment, Seoul National University of Science & Technology, 232 Gongreung-Ro, Nowon-Gu, Seoul 01811, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1144; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041144 - 11 Apr 2018

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 4001

Abstract

As the number of cars and the electricity produced from coal-fired generation has been increasing, PM_2.5, particles smaller than 2.5 μm in diameter, has become a serious problem in South Korean urban areas. This is especially notable, given that the PM [...] Read more.

As the number of cars and the electricity produced from coal-fired generation has been increasing, PM_2.5, particles smaller than 2.5 μm in diameter, has become a serious problem in South Korean urban areas. This is especially notable, given that the PM_2.5 warning was issued 89 times during 2016. Because of this, the South Korean government is seeking to enforce a policy of reducing the number of PM_2.5 warnings by half using various policy instruments from now until 2022. This article tries to obtain information about the public value of the enforcement. For this purpose, household willingness to pay (WTP) for the enforcement is investigated, applying the contingent valuation (CV) approach. A survey of 1000 households was carried out in South Korean urban areas. The data on the WTP were gathered using a dichotomous choice question and analyzed employing the spike model. The mean WTP estimate is obtained as KRW 5591 (USD 4.97) per household per year, which is statistically significant. The total public value expanded to the population amounts to KRW 98.9 billion (USD 87.8 million) per year. The information can be utilized in policy-making and decision-making about the reduction of the PM_2.5 concentration. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Characteristics, Health Risk Assessment and Sustainable Management of Air Pollutants in Asia)

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10 pages, 840 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bike Sharing and the Economy, the Environment, and Health-Related Externalities

by Lu-Yi Qiu¹ and Ling-Yun He^2,3,4,*

¹ College of Economics and Management, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China

² School of Economics, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China

³ Institute of Resource, Environment & Sustainable Development Research, Jinan University, Guangzhou 510632, China

⁴ School of Business, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, Nanjing 210044, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1145; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041145 - 11 Apr 2018

Cited by 146 | Viewed by 17488

Abstract

In recent years, bike-sharing has experienced rapid development; however, controversies about the externalities of bike-sharing programs have arisen as well. While bike-sharing programs have impacts on traffic, the environment, and public health, the social impacts, the management, and sustainable development of bike-sharing has [...] Read more.

In recent years, bike-sharing has experienced rapid development; however, controversies about the externalities of bike-sharing programs have arisen as well. While bike-sharing programs have impacts on traffic, the environment, and public health, the social impacts, the management, and sustainable development of bike-sharing has also been of interest. The debate regards whether there are externalities, as well as whether and how such externalities can be determined. Based on the rapidly diffused bike-sharing in China, this paper quantitatively explores bike-sharing externalities. Specifically, this paper estimates the impacts of bike-sharing on the economy, energy use, the environment, and public health. The empirical results show that bike-sharing programs have significant positive externalities. The bike-sharing systems can provide urban residents with a convenient and time-saving travel mode. We find that the bike-sharing dramatically decreases traffic, reduces energy consumption, decreasing harmful gas emissions, improves public health generally, and promotes economic growth. This study contributes to a better comprehension of the externalities of bike-sharing and provides empirical evidence of the impacts of bike-sharing. Findings suggest that bike-sharing can play a critical role in the process of urban transportation development and provide information useful for urban transportation policies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Transportation)

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14 pages, 13411 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Three Types of Exogenous Organic Carbon on Soil Organic Matter and Physical Properties of a Sandy Technosol

by Paul Robin^1,*

, Camille Morel^1,2, Franck Vial², Brigitte Landrain³, Aurore Toudic³, Yinsheng Li⁴ and Nouraya Akkal-Corfini¹

¹ UMR SAS, INRA, AGROCAMPUS OUEST, 35000 Rennes, France

² Groupement d’Intérêt Économique, SILEBAN (Société d’Investissement LEgumière et maraîchère de BAsse Normandie), 19 Route de Cherbourg, 50760 Gatteville-le-Phare, France

³ Chambre d’Agriculture de Bretagne, Rond-point Maurice Le Lannou, 35042 Rennes, France

⁴ School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1146; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041146 - 11 Apr 2018

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4649

Abstract

Technosols made by covering agricultural soils with coastal sediments need additional organic matter (OM) to be suitable for agricultural use. Climate change will likely increase the frequency and intensity of droughts in several areas. The choice of the nature and quantity of OM [...] Read more.

Technosols made by covering agricultural soils with coastal sediments need additional organic matter (OM) to be suitable for agricultural use. Climate change will likely increase the frequency and intensity of droughts in several areas. The choice of the nature and quantity of OM to add depends on dose-response curves for soil quality. This study quantifies the influence of three contrasting organic materials (vermicompost (VF), green waste compost (GWC) and dairy manure (DM)) on four soil properties: soil organic carbon, evaporation rate, bulk density and structural stability. Soil was sampled in April and May 2014 in an artificial crop field of the vegetable production basin of Mont Saint-Michel (France) made with sediments from the bay of Mont Saint-Michel in 2013. Increasing the dose of OM increased soil organic carbon from 10 to 45 g C kg⁻¹ dry soil and increased the porosity and the structural stability, thus decreasing compaction. Increasing the dose of OM also decreased the evaporation rate. VF and DM had similar effects, while those of GWC were weaker. Compared to DM, VF had greater biological stability. Therefore, high OM inputs along with soil decompaction can increase drought resistance by increasing rooting depth and water retention. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Organic Waste Management)

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16 pages, 2732 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Electric Road Systems: Strategic Stepping Stone on the Way towards Sustainable Freight Transport?

by Jesko Schulte^*

and Henrik Ny

Department of Strategic Sustainable Development, Blekinge Institute of Technology, SE-37179 Karlskrona, Sweden

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1148; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041148 - 11 Apr 2018

Cited by 46 | Viewed by 8190

Abstract

Electrification of the transport sector has been pointed out as a key factor for tackling some of today’s main challenges, such as global warming, air pollution, and eco-system degradation. While numerous studies have investigated the potential of electrifying passenger transport, less focus has [...] Read more.

Electrification of the transport sector has been pointed out as a key factor for tackling some of today’s main challenges, such as global warming, air pollution, and eco-system degradation. While numerous studies have investigated the potential of electrifying passenger transport, less focus has been on how road freight transport could be powered in a sustainable future. This study looks at Electric Road Systems (ERS) in comparison to the current diesel system. The Framework for Strategic Sustainable Development was used to assess whether ERS could be a stepping stone on the way towards sustainability. Strategic life-cycle assessment was applied, scanning each life-cycle phase for violations against basic sustainability principles. Resulting sustainability “hot spots” were quantified with traditional life-cycle assessment. The results show that, if powered by renewable energy, ERS have a potential to decrease the environmental impact of freight transport considerably. Environmental payback times of less than five years are achievable if freight traffic volumes are sufficiently high. However, some severe violations against sustainability principles were identified. Still, ERS could prove to be a valuable part of the solution, as they drastically decrease the need for large batteries with high cost and sustainability impact, thereby catalyzing electrification and the transition towards sustainable freight transport. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Freight Transport)

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17 pages, 4672 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Formalization of Informal Waste Pickers’ Cooperatives in Blantyre, Malawi: A Feasibility Assessment

by Cidrick Kasinja¹ and Elizabeth Tilley^1,2,3,*

¹ Department of Physics and Biochemical Sciences, University of Malawi, The Polytechnic, Private Bag 303, Chichiri, Blantyre 3, Malawi

² Department of Environmental Health, University of Malawi, The Polytechnic, Private Bag 303, Chichiri, Blantyre 3, Malawi

³ Eawag: Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, Ueberlandstrasse 133, Duebendorf 8600, Switzerland

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1149; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041149 - 11 Apr 2018

Cited by 47 | Viewed by 12548

Abstract

Poor road networks, inadequate financial resources and low levels of political will mean that many developing countries, especially their unplanned settlements, struggle with solid waste management. Recently, Informal Waste Pickers (IWPs) have been incorporated into waste management cooperatives by formalizing their operations as [...] Read more.

Poor road networks, inadequate financial resources and low levels of political will mean that many developing countries, especially their unplanned settlements, struggle with solid waste management. Recently, Informal Waste Pickers (IWPs) have been incorporated into waste management cooperatives by formalizing their operations as a strategy to improve the quality and efficiency of waste management in such areas. This study was conducted in Zingwangwa, an unplanned settlement in Blantyre, Malawi, to understand whether the formalization of IWPs into cooperatives could be effective and/or accepted as a way of managing Municipal Solid Waste in unplanned urban settlements in Malawi. Thirty-four IWPs in Zingwangwa were identified and interviewed using a structured questionnaire; personnel from the Blantyre City Council and middlemen were interviewed as key informants. We determined that IWPs experience challenges in all dimensions of their lives: low material prices with exploitative price fluctuations, negative public perception and a lack of transportation are a few of their struggles. Furthermore, a fear of decreased income, conflicts during proceeds sharing, free riding behaviors and an attachment to their independence mean that IWPs are unlikely to form a cooperative on their own though some would be willing to join if a third party initiated the formalization process. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Trends in Municipal Solid Waste Management)

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18 pages, 10931 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The System Dynamics (SD) Analysis of the Government and Power Producers’ Evolutionary Game Strategies Based on Carbon Trading (CT) Mechanism: A Case of China

by Xin-gang Zhao^1,2 and Yu-zhuo Zhang^1,2,*

¹ School of Economics and Management, North China Electric Power University, Beijing 102206, China

² Beijing Key Laboratory of New Energy and Low-Carbon Development (North China Electric Power University), Beijing 102206, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1150; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041150 - 11 Apr 2018

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 5149

Abstract

Climate warming caused by carbon emissions is one of the most serious problems faced by human beings, and the carbon trading (CT) mechanism is an effective way to promote carbon emission reduction and achieve green and low-carbon development. Scholars have mainly studied the [...] Read more.

Climate warming caused by carbon emissions is one of the most serious problems faced by human beings, and the carbon trading (CT) mechanism is an effective way to promote carbon emission reduction and achieve green and low-carbon development. Scholars have mainly studied the impact of CT on the energy economy system, and few scholars studied the game process and behavior strategies of government and power producers in the implementation of a CT mechanism. This paper will fill this gap. This paper firstly constructs the evolutionary game model of government and power producers based on CT, and then simulates the evolutionary process of game behavior strategies by establishing a system dynamics (SD) model, and finally studies the influence of government controllable key factors on system stability. The combination of evolutionary game and SD in our study not only clearly reveals the complex and dynamic evolution process of game models under bounded rationality, but also provides a qualitative and quantitative simulation platform for analyzing the dynamic game process between government and power producers. The results show that: (1) There is no evolutionarily stable strategy (ESS) in the game system between government and power producers under CT, and the system evolution is characterized by periodicity; (2) When the government implements dynamic subsidies or punitive measures, the mixed strategy of the game system has ESS; (3) Reducing the unit subsidy and raising the unit fine can both promote the participation of power producers in CT, but the former increases the probability of government supervision; thus, it is best to increase the fines when the government makes strategic adjustments, followed by reducing subsidies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Energy Policy and Policy Implications—Good Examples and Critical Reflections)

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16 pages, 1070 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Determinants of Customer Satisfaction and Loyalty in Vietnamese Life-Insurance Setting

by Ha Thu Nguyen^1,*, Hoang Nguyen², Nhan Duc Nguyen³ and Anh Chi Phan¹

¹ School of Business Administration, University of Economics and Business, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, 144 Xuan Thuy, Cau Giay, Hanoi 10000, Vietnam

² Faculty of International Training, Thuongmai University, 79 Ho Tung Mau, Cau Giay, Hanoi 10000, Vietnam

³ Faculty of Accounting and Auditing, Foreign Trade University of Hanoi, 91 Chua Lang, Dong Da, Hanoi 10000, Vietnam

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1151; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041151 - 11 Apr 2018

Cited by 65 | Viewed by 21343

Abstract

Sustainable services are often regarded as sustainable strategies and operations producing goods and services that satisfy customer needs and significantly improve social and environmental performance. To be sustainable, service providers must satisfy consumers’ needs or otherwise they will become redundant and economically irrelevant. [...] Read more.

Sustainable services are often regarded as sustainable strategies and operations producing goods and services that satisfy customer needs and significantly improve social and environmental performance. To be sustainable, service providers must satisfy consumers’ needs or otherwise they will become redundant and economically irrelevant. This paper presents the results of an empirical study on the determinants of customer satisfaction and loyalty in life-insurance services in Vietnam based on a database collected through a questionnaire survey of 1476 customers during 2017. A path analysis technique is applied to test the proposed framework on the direct and indirect relationship between variables. The results of statistical analysis indicate that customer satisfaction in life-insurance services is significantly explained by such factors as corporate image, service quality and perceived value. Our findings suggest that a life-insurance service provider should focus on enhancing service quality and corporate image in order to obtain customer satisfaction that leads to customer loyalty. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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34 pages, 68429 KiB

Open AccessArticle

First Approach to a Holistic Tool for Assessing RES Investment Feasibility

by José María Flores-Arias^1,*

, Lucio Ciabattoni²

, Andrea Monteriù²

, Francisco José Bellido-Outeiriño¹, Antonio Escribano¹ and Emilio José Palacios-Garcia³

¹ R&D Group ‘Instrumentation and Industrial Electronics, TIC-240’, Universidad de Córdoba, E-14071 Córdoba, Spain

² Department of Information Engineering, Università Politecnica delle Marche, 60131 Ancona, Italy

³ Department of Energy Technology, Aalborg University, 9220 Aalborg East, Denmark

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1153; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041153 - 11 Apr 2018

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4596

Abstract

Combining availability, viability, sustainability, technical options, and environmental impact in an energy-planning project is a difficult job itself for the today’s engineers. This becomes harder if the potential investors also need to be persuaded. Moreover, the problem increases even more if various consumptions [...] Read more.

Combining availability, viability, sustainability, technical options, and environmental impact in an energy-planning project is a difficult job itself for the today’s engineers. This becomes harder if the potential investors also need to be persuaded. Moreover, the problem increases even more if various consumptions are considered, as their patterns depend to a large extent on the type of facility and the activity. It is therefore essential to develop tools to assess the balance between generation and demand in a given installation. In this paper, a valuable tool is developed for the seamless calculation of the integration possibilities of renewable energies and the assessment of derived technical, financial and environmental impacts. Furthermore, it also considers their interaction with the power grid or other networks, raising awareness of the polluting emissions responsible for global warming. Through a series of Structured Query Language databases and a dynamic data parameterization, the software is provided with sufficient information to encode, calculate, simulate and graphically display information on the generation and demand of electric, thermal and transport energy, all in a user-friendly environment, finally providing an evaluation and feasibility report. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development of Electrical Energy Storage Technologies in Energy Production)

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17 pages, 13295 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Disruptive Innovation Patterns Driven by Mega-Projects: A Sustainable Development Pattern Case of China’s High-Speed Rail

by Bingxiu Gui¹

, Yun Liu^2,*, Yanbing Ju¹ and Xuanting Ye^1,*

¹ School of Management and Economics, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China

² School of Public Policy and Management, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1154; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041154 - 12 Apr 2018

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 6757

Abstract

Sustainable development of mega-projects has drawn many concerns around the world. The theory of disruptive innovation in mega-projects is a typical sustainable development pattern but still lacks systematic understanding. This article takes China’s high-speed rail (CHSR) project as an example to analyze the [...] Read more.

Sustainable development of mega-projects has drawn many concerns around the world. The theory of disruptive innovation in mega-projects is a typical sustainable development pattern but still lacks systematic understanding. This article takes China’s high-speed rail (CHSR) project as an example to analyze the disruptive innovation pattern of mega-projects. First, this paper systematically traces the theories of disruptive innovation and summarizes the connotations of disruptive innovation. Simultaneously, from the historical development of several typical mega-projects in China, this paper summarizes the connotations of mega-projects. Based on two connotations, this paper summarizes the theoretical basis of disruptive innovation in mega-projects. Second, this paper takes the CHSR project as a case to analyze its innovation pattern from the analysis of the development process, operation mechanism and influence in sustainability; the disruptive innovation pattern is put forward afterward. Third, the discussion is drawn from the perspectives of the characteristics, scope of application and innovation environment of the disruptive innovation of CHSR. Last, the conclusions of this article are summarized. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development and Management of Mega Projects)

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14 pages, 20595 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exercise on Transdisciplinarity: Lessons from a Field-Based Course on Rural Sustainability in an Aging Society

by Shogo Kudo^1,*

, Huma Mursaleen¹, Barry Ness² and Masafumi Nagao³

¹ Graduate Program in Sustainability Science—Global Leadership Initiative (GPSS-GLI), Graduate School of Frontier Sciences (GSFS), The University of Tokyo, Kashiwa 277-8563, Japan

² Lund University Centre for Sustainability Studies (LUCSUS), Lund University, SE-222 70 Lund, Sweden

³ United Nations University—Institute for the Advanced Study of Sustainability (UNU-IAS), United Nations University, Tokyo 150-8925, Japan

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1155; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041155 - 12 Apr 2018

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4643

Abstract

Sustainability science emerged as a new academic field to address complex sustainability challenges. To train sustainability experts, sustainability science programs and sustainability-focused courses are offered in higher education, especially at the graduate level. Given the diverse topics and the complex structures of sustainability [...] Read more.

Sustainability science emerged as a new academic field to address complex sustainability challenges. To train sustainability experts, sustainability science programs and sustainability-focused courses are offered in higher education, especially at the graduate level. Given the diverse topics and the complex structures of sustainability challenges, what are the required knowledge and skills needed for sustainability experts? Although the earlier literature identified key features and competencies, empirical studies on how educational programs in sustainability science provide the necessary training are still scarce. This study addresses this gap by illustrating how a field-based course can contribute in developing core skills for fostering sustainability experts through a case study of field-based course called Global Field Exercise (GFE) in the Graduate Program in Sustainability Science-Global Leadership Initiative (GPSS-GLI) at The University of Tokyo. Literature review on the competencies in sustainability science suggests a three-way typology of descriptive-analytical skills, solution-oriented skills, and attitudinal skills. A group of students joined a GFE unit in Akita, Japan, and set “local food and place attachment” as the topic for their fieldwork. The participants conducted semi-structured interviews to three generational groups to illustrate the different perceptions of local food and places. The alternative mechanism of knowledge transmission across generations by local festivals and school events was found. The authors observed the implemented field-based course provided unique learning opportunities to acquire: (i) the ability to perform key competencies collectively instead of individually; (ii) an interdisciplinary-mindset to acknowledge multiple views to topics during group discussions among researchers; (iii) a transdisciplinary-mindset to communicate research outputs with local residents in a communicable way; (iv) the ability to be empathetic to people’s experiences when addressing normative dimensions of sustainability. Although different sets of competencies and approaches for fostering sustainability experts have been studied widely, the field-based approach plays an important role in developing transdisciplinary, interpersonal, and normative competences. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Education and Approaches)

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34 pages, 919 KiB

Open AccessArticle

International Migrant Remittances in the Context of Economic and Social Sustainable Development. A Comparative Study of Romania-Bulgaria

by Alina Petronela Haller¹

, Rodica Cristina Butnaru² and Gina Ionela Butnaru^3,*

¹ Department of Economics, Romanian Academy Branch of Iaşi + ICES, Gh. Zane, Codrescu 2, 700488 Iaşi, Romania

² Strategy Social and Environmental Responsibility Department, School of Management Sciences, University of Quebec at Montreal, PO Box 8888, Downtown Branch Montreal, QC H3C 3P8, Canada

³ Department of Management, Marketing and Business Administration, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iaşi, Bulevardul Carol I 11, 700506 Iaşi, Romania

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1156; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041156 - 12 Apr 2018

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 7065

Abstract

The economic stability is the main goal of every country’s administration, contributing to the decrease of uncertainty, creating an attractive business environment, attracting foreign direct investment and contributing to economic growth, which increases the standard of living, reduces income inequalities, represents a sustainable [...] Read more.

The economic stability is the main goal of every country’s administration, contributing to the decrease of uncertainty, creating an attractive business environment, attracting foreign direct investment and contributing to economic growth, which increases the standard of living, reduces income inequalities, represents a sustainable development for the country and puts an end to the migration process. Migration flows lower the demographic resources of the states going through this process and consequently they compromise the possibility for future generations to support a sustainable economic growth. Migration is a process with an aggressive and alarming manifestation in Romania and Bulgaria, raising the problem of the future capacity of these countries to ensure long-term economic and social sustainability and requiring an analysis framework from a scientific perspective. The current study proposes a comparative study to identify the important determinants of international migration in the EU28 and analyses the impact of remittances on economic growth/stability and income inequality in Romania and Bulgaria—Central and Eastern Europe countries—for the period between 1990 and 2015. The main contribution of the present study consists in emphasising the common determinants of the two countries regarding the migration process and at the same time providing solutions to improve government policies to contribute to the economic and social sustainability. The authors employed a multiple regression model and the correlation analysis, and tested 8 hypotheses for Romania and Bulgaria. The results indicated that the main determinants of the migration process in Romania and Bulgaria are the inflation rate, the income inequality and household consumption expenditure. Furthermore, the results indicated that there is not a direct relationship between the remittances received/capita and GDP/capita growth rate in Romania and Bulgaria. In addition, there is a direct relationship (negative and with average intensity) between the remittances received/capita and price inflation rate in Romania but not in Bulgaria. In the case of Romania and Bulgaria, the results indicate that there is a direct relationship with a similar intensity between the remittances received/capita and the unemployment rate, the household final consumption and income inequality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Migration Management, ICTs' enhanced Responses and Policy Making: Towards Human Centric Migration Management Systems)

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18 pages, 1684 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Scientific Coverage in Community-Based Tourism: Sustainable Tourism and Strategy for Social Development

by José Álvarez-García¹

, Amador Durán-Sánchez² and María De la Cruz Del Río-Rama^3,*

¹ Financial Economy and Accounting Department, Faculty of Finance, Business and Tourism, University of Extremadura, 10071 Cáceres, Spain

² PhD Research Program in the area of Public Law, University of Extremadura, 10071 Cáceres, Spain

³ Business Organisation and Marketing Department, Faculty of Business Administration and Tourism, University of Vigo, 32004 Ourense, Spain

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1158; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041158 - 12 Apr 2018

Cited by 52 | Viewed by 10442

Abstract

In the last decades in developing countries, the tourism sector has been immersed in an intense process of strengthening the participation of local communities through the so-called community tourism initiatives, whose main objective is to improve the quality of life of the inhabitants [...] Read more.

In the last decades in developing countries, the tourism sector has been immersed in an intense process of strengthening the participation of local communities through the so-called community tourism initiatives, whose main objective is to improve the quality of life of the inhabitants of host communities, ensuring the subsistence of traditional culture. Its growing momentum as a means for sustainable tourism and a strategy for social development has generated a large amount of academic literature, and it is necessary to analyze its presence in the main multidisciplinary databases. Thus, the main purpose of our article is to show the current state of scientific production on community tourism through a bibliometric comparative study of the documents indexed in the WoS and Scopus databases, dealing with aspects such as their coverage, correlation between both bases, overlapping of documents and journals, growth, dispersion or concentration of articles, among others. For this purpose, and by means of an advanced search by terms, a representative set of 115 articles in WoS and 185 in Scopus were selected, with the time limit set in 2017. These form the ad-hoc basis of the analysis. In view of the results, it is concluded that, although WoS and Scopus databases differ in terms of scope, volume of data, and coverage policies, both information systems are complementary but not exclusive. Although the documents and the results of their analysis are in many aspects similar, Scopus has a better coverage in the specific area of community tourism due to collecting a greater number of articles, journals and signatures, and its articles receiving a greater number of citations. Full article

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17 pages, 3572 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Rural Districts between Urbanization and Land Abandonment: Undermining Long-Term Changes in Mediterranean Landscapes

by Ilaria Zambon¹

, Agostino Ferrara²

, Rosanna Salvia³

, Enrico Maria Mosconi⁴

, Luigi Fici⁴, Rosario Turco⁵ and Luca Salvati^5,*

¹ Department of Agricultural and Forestry Sciences (DAFNE), Tuscia University, Via San Camillo de Lellis, I-01100 Viterbo, Italy

² School of Agricultural, Forest, Food and Environmental Sciences, University of Basilicata, Via dell’Ateneo Lucano 10, I-85100 Potenza, Italy

³ MEDES, Foundation for Sustainable Development of the Mediterranean, C/da San Licandro 1, Sicignano degli Alburni, I-84029 Salerno, Italy

⁴ Department of Economics, Engineering, Society and Business Organization, Tuscia University, Via del Paradiso 47, I-01100 Viterbo, Italy

⁵ Council of Agricultural Research and Economics (CREA), Viale S. Margherita 80, I-52100 Arezzo, Italy

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1159; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041159 - 12 Apr 2018

Cited by 39 | Viewed by 5206

Abstract

The present study investigates changes in the rural landscapes of a Mediterranean country (Greece) over a long time period (1970–2015) encompassing economic expansions and recessions. Using a spatial distribution of 5 basic agricultural land-use classes (arable land, garden crop, vineyards, tree crop and [...] Read more.

The present study investigates changes in the rural landscapes of a Mediterranean country (Greece) over a long time period (1970–2015) encompassing economic expansions and recessions. Using a spatial distribution of 5 basic agricultural land-use classes (arable land, garden crop, vineyards, tree crop and fallow land) derived from official statistics at 6 years (1970, 1979, 1988, 1997, 2006, 2015), a quantitative analysis based on correlation and multivariate techniques was carried out to identify recent changes in the Greek agricultural landscape at prefectural level during different economic waves. Empirical results evidenced both intuitive and counter-intuitive landscape transformations, including: (i) a progressive, spatially-homogeneous reduction of cropland; (ii) a (more or less) rapid decrease in the surface of high-input crops, including arable land, horticulture and vineyards; (iii) a parallel increase in the surface of tree crops, especially olive; (iv) a spatially-heterogeneous decrease of fallow land concentrated in metropolitan and tourism districts, especially in the last decade; and, finally, (v) increasingly diversified landscapes in rural, accessible areas close to the sea coast. Based on a correlation analysis with background socioeconomic indicators, our findings reflect the multiple impacts of urbanization and land abandonment on the composition and diversity of rural landscapes. Changes in agricultural land-use were moulded by multiple drivers depending on latent transformations in rural systems and inherent conflicts with expanding urban regions. Together with market conditions and the Common Agricultural Policy subsidy regime, social contexts and the economic cycle are important when identifying long-term changes in agricultural landscapes, especially in transitional socio-ecological systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Small-Scale Energy Conversion of Agro-Forestry Residues for Local Benefits and European Competitiveness)

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17 pages, 8419 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Rapid Excavation and Stability Control of Deep Roadways for an Underground Coal Mine with High Production in Inner Mongolia

by Zhengzheng Xie¹, Nong Zhang^1,*

, Deyu Qian^1,*

, Changliang Han¹, Yanpei An¹ and Yang Wang^1,2

¹ Key Laboratory of Deep Coal Resource Mining, Ministry of Education of China, School of Mines, China University of Mining and Technology, Xuzhou 221116, China

² School of Public Policy and Urban Affairs, College of Social Sciences and Humanities, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115, USA

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1160; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041160 - 12 Apr 2018

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 5898

Abstract

For large underground coal mines producing 10 million tons a year, rapid excavation and stability of deep roadways are pivotal to ensure sustainable, safe, and efficient production. This paper provides a case study of Hulusu Coal Mine in Inner Mongolia, where roadway excavation [...] Read more.

For large underground coal mines producing 10 million tons a year, rapid excavation and stability of deep roadways are pivotal to ensure sustainable, safe, and efficient production. This paper provides a case study of Hulusu Coal Mine in Inner Mongolia, where roadway excavation speed was insufficient to meet production needs. Moreover, deformation in the roofs of the roadways was severe. To achieve rapid excavation and control the stability of deep roadways, a new support system was proposed and constructed in a roadway at a depth of 640 m. The system consisted of long flexible bolts pretensioned to high levels and spaced at large intervals. Roadway excavation and construction of a support system were conducted simultaneously. Field measurements indicated that the new support system effectively controlled deformation and fracture development during excavation and mining. Maximum displacements of the roof during excavation and mining were 10 and 30 mm, respectively. The axial load on bolts surged during excavation as a result of slight deformations caused by excavation operations. This active response of the bolts is beneficial to the prevention of roof deformation during excavation and mining. During mining, fissures propagated up to only a depth of 1.4 m into the surrounding rock mass. The new support system formed a thick reinforced anchorage zone, which greatly improved the bearing capacity of the roof. Compared with the previous support system, the new system allowed the maximum excavation speed (31.5 m/day) to increase by 85.3%. This successful case provides a practical reference for similar roadway projects. Full article

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19 pages, 1867 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluating Economic Alternatives for Wood Energy Supply Based on Stochastic Simulation

by Ulises Flores Hernández^1,*

, Dirk Jaeger² and Jorge Islas Samperio³

¹ Chair of Forest Operations, University of Freiburg, 79085 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany

² Department of Forest Work Science and Engineering, University of Göttingen, 37077 Göttingen, Germany

³ Instituto de Energías Renovables, Universidad Autónoma de México, Temixco Morelos 62580, Mexico

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1161; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041161 - 12 Apr 2018

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3785

Abstract

Productive forests, as a major source of biomass, represent an important pre-requisite for the development of a bio-economy. In this respect, assessments of biomass availability, efficiency of forest management, forest operations, and economic feasibility are essential. This is certainly the case for Mexico, [...] Read more.

Productive forests, as a major source of biomass, represent an important pre-requisite for the development of a bio-economy. In this respect, assessments of biomass availability, efficiency of forest management, forest operations, and economic feasibility are essential. This is certainly the case for Mexico, a country with an increasing energy demand and a considerable potential for sustainable forest utilization. Hence, this paper focuses on analyzing economic alternatives for the Mexican bioenergy supply based on the costs and revenues of utilizing woody biomass residues. With a regional spatial approach, harvesting and transportation costs of utilizing selected biomass residues were stochastically calculated using Monte Carlo simulations. A sensitivity analysis of percentage variation of the most probable estimate in relation to the parameters price and cost for one alternative using net future analysis was conducted. Based on the results for the northern region, a 10% reduction of the transportation cost would reduce overall supply cost, resulting in a total revenue of 13.69 USD/m³ and 0.75 USD/m³ for harvesting residues and non-extracted stand residues, respectively. For the central south region, it is estimated that a contribution of 16.53 USD/m³ from 2013 and a total revenue of 33.00 USD/m³ in 2030 from sawmill residues will improve the value chain. The given approach and outputs provide the basis for the decision-making process regarding forest utilization towards energy generation based on economic indicators. Full article

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20 pages, 373 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ensuring More Sustainable Reporting in Europe Using Non-Financial Disclosure—De Facto and De Jure Evidence

by Francesca Manes-Rossi^1,*

, Adriana Tiron-Tudor²

, Giuseppe Nicolò¹

and Gianluca Zanellato²

¹ Department of Management and Innovation Systems, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, 132, 84084 Fisciano (SA), Italy

² Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, Babes-Bolyai University, Strada Teodor Mihali, Nr. 58-60, Campus FSEGA, 400591 Cluj-Napoca, Romania

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1162; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041162 - 13 Apr 2018

Cited by 179 | Viewed by 15330

Abstract

Non-financial disclosure has become increasingly popular, as it can satisfy the information needs of a growing range of stakeholders. Because traditional financial reports cannot provide comprehensive accountability, several frameworks and guidelines for facilitating non-financial information disclosure have been developed. Recently, the European Union [...] Read more.

Non-financial disclosure has become increasingly popular, as it can satisfy the information needs of a growing range of stakeholders. Because traditional financial reports cannot provide comprehensive accountability, several frameworks and guidelines for facilitating non-financial information disclosure have been developed. Recently, the European Union issued Directive 2014/95/EU (EU Directive) and subsequent guidelines (EU Guidelines 2017/C215/01 [EUG]) to mandate European entities of public interest to convey non-financial information to improve such organizations’ accountability toward their stakeholders. This paper studies the European stage of non-financial reporting from a regulatory and practical point of view. To this end, the first research objective is to analyze the elements that the EUG have in common with the IIRF and the GRI 4 guidelines. Second, the paper proposes a first analysis to assess the compliance to the EUG by performing a content analysis on a sample of annual reports and integrated reports (IR) drafted by the 50 biggest European companies. The results highlight that the content elements required by the Directive exceed the requirements of the two frameworks and that there is already a high level of compliance by European big companies with the EUG. More specifically, particular attention is devoted to Social, Employee and Environmental Matters. Accordingly, the companies demonstrated a common awareness of the necessity to provide an exhaustive amount of social and environmental disclosure in order to maintain legitimacy. Also the disclosure on Principal Risks and Their Management is widespread to meet investors’ and stakeholders’ requirements in recent years with respect to the general level of risk disclosure provided by companies. Full article

16 pages, 434 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Identification and Prediction of Latent Classes of Hikers Based on Specialization and Place Attachment

by Hwasung Song¹, Alan R. Graefe², Kyungmin Kim³

and Chanyul Park^4,*

¹ Department of Finance and Economy, Suwon Research Institute, Suwon 16829, Korea

² Department of Recreation, Park, and Tourism Management, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA

³ Department of Gerontology, University of Massachusetts Boston, Boston, MA 02125, USA

⁴ Department of Economics, Hankuk University of Foreign Studies, Seoul 02540, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1163; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041163 - 13 Apr 2018

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3439

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to extend previous research by combining the specialization and place attachment concepts. Applying a latent profile analysis (LPA) to data from hikers on the Olle Trail of Jeju Island in South Korea (N = 428), we [...] Read more.

The purpose of this study is to extend previous research by combining the specialization and place attachment concepts. Applying a latent profile analysis (LPA) to data from hikers on the Olle Trail of Jeju Island in South Korea (N = 428), we classified hikers who share similar profiles based on multiple dimensions of specialization and place attachment, and examined correlates of the derived typologies for drawing managerial implications. We also explored associations between these typologies and outcome variables of hikers. LPA identified three subgroups: “novice” (38%), “affection-driven” (40%), and “expert” (22%). The findings indicated that these groups differed in their past experience and socio-demographic characteristics, such that the “affection-driven” and “expert” groups have more experience in the setting than the “novice” group. These typologies also showed significant associations with hikers’ satisfaction and revisit intention; thus, “novice” hikers tended to be less satisfied with their hiking and the setting. Furthermore, the “novice” group reported lower intention to revisit the setting. Our findings reveal that LPA can be a useful tool for identifying subgroups of individuals who have engaged in particular sets of strategies by incorporating multiple activity-place dimensions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Tourism in Sensitive Environments: Mountains, Islands, Coastal and Polar Regions)

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20 pages, 8057 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Worrying about ‘Vertical Landscapes’: Terraced Olive Groves and Ecosystem Services in Marginal Land in Central Italy

by Elena Brunori¹, Luca Salvati², Angela Antogiovanni¹ and Rita Biasi^1,*

¹ Department for Innovation in Biological, Agro-Food and Forest Systems, Tuscia University, via San Camillo de Lellis snc, 01100 Viterbo, Italy

² CREA, Research Centre for Forestry and Wood, Viale S. Margherita 80, I-52100 Arezzo, Italy

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1164; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041164 - 13 Apr 2018

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 5645

Abstract

Terraced Mediterranean areas are distinctive man-made landscapes with historical and cultural relevance. Terraced land abandonment driven by physical and economic constraints had important ecological consequences. This study focuses on a marginal agricultural district in southern Latium, central Italy, where terracing dated back to [...] Read more.

Terraced Mediterranean areas are distinctive man-made landscapes with historical and cultural relevance. Terraced land abandonment driven by physical and economic constraints had important ecological consequences. This study focuses on a marginal agricultural district in southern Latium, central Italy, where terracing dated back to the Roman period and olive groves are the main agricultural use. A diachronic assessment of land-use transformations was carried out to identify landscape dynamics and drivers of change around terraced land. Terraced landscape systems (TLS), derived from spatial aggregation of neighboring terraced patches, have been analyzed for landscape transformations considering slope as the main stratification variable. Structural and functional characteristics of TLS were analyzed using a landscape ecology approach. Soil bio-chemical indicators were finally assessed to study the impact of terraced olive agro-ecosystems on soil-related ecosystems services. The empirical findings outlined that TLS in central Italy are sensitive to urbanization and land abandonment. Cultivated terraces prevailed up to gentle-medium slope land, uncultivated and wooded areas dominated terraces on steep slopes. In this context, poly-cultural olive groves proved to be a cropping system particularly resilient to global change, irrespective of land slope. Terraced systems and extensive poly-cultural olive groves play a role in preserving ecosystem integrity, landscape quality, soil functionality and, therefore, environmental sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Small-Scale Energy Conversion of Agro-Forestry Residues for Local Benefits and European Competitiveness)

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16 pages, 689 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Perceptions of Cyclone Preparedness: Assessing the Role of Individual Adaptive Capacity and Social Capital in the Wet Tropics, Australia

by Anushka Sandanam¹

, Amy Diedrich¹, Georgina G. Gurney²

and Tristam D. Richardson^1,*

¹ Division of Tropical Environments and Societies, College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, Townsville QLD 4811, Australia

² Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies, James Cook University, Townsville QLD 481, Australia

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1165; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041165 - 13 Apr 2018

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 8827

Abstract

Given projections of future climate-related disasters, understanding the conditions that facilitate disaster preparedness is critical to achieving sustainable development. Here, we studied communities within the Wet Tropics bioregion, Australia to explore whether people’s perceived preparedness for a future cyclone relates to their: (1) [...] Read more.

Given projections of future climate-related disasters, understanding the conditions that facilitate disaster preparedness is critical to achieving sustainable development. Here, we studied communities within the Wet Tropics bioregion, Australia to explore whether people’s perceived preparedness for a future cyclone relates to their: (1) perceived individual adaptive capacity (in terms of flexibility and capacity to plan and learn); and (2) structural and cognitive social capital. We found that people’s perceived cyclone preparedness was only related to their perceived individual flexibility in the face of change. Given that people’s perceived cyclone preparedness was related to individualistic factors, it is plausible that individualism-collectivism orientations influence people’s perceptions at an individual level. These results suggest that in the Wet Tropics region, enhancing people’s psychological flexibility may be an important step when preparing for future cyclones. Our study highlights the need to tailor disaster preparedness initiatives to the region in question, and thus our results may inform disaster risk management and sustainable development policies. Full article

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14 pages, 5379 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Corporate Social Media Marketing Based on Message Structural Features: Firm Size Plays a Significant Role as a Moderator

by Moon Young Kang and Byungho Park^*

KAIST College of Business, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology(KAIST), 85 Hoegi-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 130-722, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1167; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041167 - 13 Apr 2018

Cited by 34 | Viewed by 7967

Abstract

Social media has been receiving attention as a cost-effective tool to build corporate brand image and to enrich customer relationships. This phenomenon calls for more attention to developing a model that measures the impact of structural features, used in corporate social media messages. [...] Read more.

Social media has been receiving attention as a cost-effective tool to build corporate brand image and to enrich customer relationships. This phenomenon calls for more attention to developing a model that measures the impact of structural features, used in corporate social media messages. Based on communication science, this study proposes a model to measure the impact of three essential message structural features (interactivity, formality, and immediacy) in corporate social media on customers’ purchase intentions, mediated by brand attitude and corporate trust. Especially, social media platforms are believed to provide a good marketing platform for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) by providing access to huge audiences at a very low cost. The findings from this study based on a structural equation model suggest that brand attitude and corporate trust have larger impacts on purchase intention for SMEs than large firms. This implies that SMEs with little to no presence in the market should pay more attention to building corporate trust and brand attitude for their sustainable growth. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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8 pages, 5839 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of the Safe Fall Programme on Children’s Health and Safety: Dealing Proactively with Backward Falls in Physical Education Classes

by Luis Toronjo-Hornillo^1,*, Óscar DelCastillo-Andrés¹

, María Del Carmen Campos-Mesa¹, Víctor Manuel Díaz Bernier¹ and María Luisa Zagalaz Sánchez²

¹ Facultad de Ciencias de la Educación, Universidad de Sevilla, 41013 Sevilla, Spain

² Faculty of Humanities and Education Sciences, University of Jaén, 23071 Jaén, Spain

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1168; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041168 - 13 Apr 2018

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 5105

Abstract

The aim of this study is to show that the implementation of the Safe Fall programme in physical education classes can help to reduce the negative effects of unintentional backward falls in the adolescent population, by teaching them how to protect themselves when [...] Read more.

The aim of this study is to show that the implementation of the Safe Fall programme in physical education classes can help to reduce the negative effects of unintentional backward falls in the adolescent population, by teaching them how to protect themselves when falling. A quasi-experimental research design was applied in a sample of 120 children (M = 15.1 years, SD = 2.45), attending a secondary school in Seville (Spain). Data was collected on an ad hoc observation scale INFOSECA (which records five basic elements during a backward fall: position of the neck, the hands, the trunk, the hips, and the knees), applying descriptive, correlational, and contrast statistics. The criteria for considering statistical significance was p < 0.05 in McNemar’s test. The data indicates that learning safe and protected ways of falling backward is possible through the implementation of the Safe Fall programme, and no differences were found in terms of gender. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physical Activity as a Means of Culture, Leisure and Free Time)

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18 pages, 772 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable and Traditional Product Innovation without Scale and Experience, but Only for KIBS!

by Esteban Lafuente^1,*

, Yancy Vaillant^2,3 and Juan Carlos Leiva⁴

¹ Department of Management, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Barcelona 08034, Spain

² Department of Strategy, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Toulouse Business School (TBS) 1 Place Alphonse Jourdain, 31068 Toulouse CEDEX 7, France

³ Departamento de Gestión Organizacional, Universidad de la Costa, Calle No. 58, 55-66 Barranquilla, Colombia

⁴ Business School, Costa Rica Institute of Technology (ITCR), 15th Street, 14th Avenue, Cartago 30101, Costa Rica

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1169; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041169 - 13 Apr 2018

Cited by 36 | Viewed by 5626

Abstract

This study analyzes the ideal strategic trajectory for sustainable and traditional product innovation. Using a sample of 74 Costa Rican high-performance businesses for 2016, we employ fuzzy set analysis (qualitative comparative analysis) to evaluate how the development of sustainable and traditional product innovation [...] Read more.

This study analyzes the ideal strategic trajectory for sustainable and traditional product innovation. Using a sample of 74 Costa Rican high-performance businesses for 2016, we employ fuzzy set analysis (qualitative comparative analysis) to evaluate how the development of sustainable and traditional product innovation strategies is conditioned by the business’ learning capabilities and entrepreneurial orientation in knowledge-intensive (KIBS) and non-knowledge-intensive businesses. The results indicate two ideal strategic configurations of product innovation. The first strategic configuration to reach maximum product innovation requires the presence of KIBS firms that have both an entrepreneurial and learning orientation, while the second configuration is specific to non-KIBS firms with greater firm size and age along with entrepreneurial and learning orientation. KIBS firms are found to leverage the knowledge-based and customer orientations that characterize their business model in order to compensate for the shortage of important organizational characteristics—which we link to liabilities or smallness and newness—required to achieve optimal sustainable and traditional product innovation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Leveraging Digitalization for Advanced Service Business Models: Challenges and Opportunities for Circular Economy)

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15 pages, 2428 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Information in Shoe Purchase Decisions: Relevance of Data Based on Source

by Bélgica Pacheco-Blanco^1,*

, Mónica Martínez-Gómez², Daniel Collado-Ruiz³ and Salvador F. Capuz-Rizo¹

¹ Grupo de Investigación de Diseño y Dirección de Proyectos, Departamento de Proyectos de Ingeniería, Universitat Politècnica de València, 46022 València, Spain

² Centre for Quality and Change Management, Department of Statistics Operation Research Applied and Quality, Universitat Politècnica de València, 46022 València, Spain

³ Nestholma, Eteläranta 10, 00130 Helsinki, Finland

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1170; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041170 - 13 Apr 2018

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 6010

Abstract

The aim of this work was to analyse consumers’ attitudes to economic, environmental, and social information on shoe labels, in particular on sustainable consumption, and also to examine the importance of the source of the information. Three steps were followed to develop an [...] Read more.

The aim of this work was to analyse consumers’ attitudes to economic, environmental, and social information on shoe labels, in particular on sustainable consumption, and also to examine the importance of the source of the information. Three steps were followed to develop an appropriate method of extracting, analysing, and interpreting the information contained in the questionnaire used in the survey: an Exploratory Factorial Analysis (EFA) to evaluate the reliability and dimensionality of the questionnaire; a Cluster Analysis (CA) and an Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) to test the ability of the questionnaire to identify different customer categories and the main purchase characteristics included in the questionnaire to characterize each homogeneous group; and a tree classification method using the Chi-Squared Automatic Interaction Detector (CHAID) to characterize the hypothetical scenario of the purchase selection. The results show that consumers, especially those aged between 21 and 30, are concerned about elements related to economic, environmental, and social dimensions on shoe labels. The most important variable in the purchase process was the presence of Environmental Management Systems (e.g., ISO 14001, EMAS). These results could help to optimize the information on shoe labels and would add value by including variables other than environment and price. Full article

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24 pages, 1198 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Improving Design Performance by Alliance between Contractors and Designers in International Hydropower EPC Projects from the Perspective of Chinese Construction Companies

by Qingzhen Zhang¹, Wenzhe Tang^1,*, Jersey Liu¹, Colin F. Duffiel², Felix Kin Peng Hui², Lihai Zhang²

and Xuteng Zhang¹

¹ Department of Hydraulic Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Hydroscience and Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China

² Department of Infrastructure Engineering, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1171; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041171 - 13 Apr 2018

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 5786

Abstract

Extant literature lacks a systematic framework addressing the mechanisms of the alliance functional process and its impacts on management activities together with performance in delivering Engineering–procurement–construction (EPC) projects. This study quantitatively investigates the cause–effect relationships among these themes by building and validating a [...] Read more.

Extant literature lacks a systematic framework addressing the mechanisms of the alliance functional process and its impacts on management activities together with performance in delivering Engineering–procurement–construction (EPC) projects. This study quantitatively investigates the cause–effect relationships among these themes by building and validating a conceptual model of contractor–designer alliance in international hydropower EPC projects. With the support of data collected from an industry survey, the results reveal the key design problems, application of contractor–designer alliance, design management level and performance, which form a sound basis for design management emphasis in EPC activities, e.g., sufficiently considering sustainability of hydropower projects by incorporating environmental, social, and economic factors into designs. The path analysis indicates that the contractor–designer alliance can not only improve design performance by enhancing design management, but also directly promote design performance. This research has significant contributions to the body of knowledge by building interdisciplinary linkages between the areas of alliance, design management, and performance, theoretically demonstrating the mechanism of how interfirm cooperation functions to achieve superior design outcomes of hydropower EPC projects. Understanding these causal relationships will be crucial for contractors and designers to optimally allocate their complementary resources for seeking better design solutions in dealing with both technical issues and sustainability factors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Energy Development under Climate Change)

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12 pages, 392 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Public Value of Reducing the Incidence of Oil Spill Accidents in Korean Rivers

by Hye-Jeong Lee, Hyo-Jin Kim and Seung-Hoon Yoo^*

Department of Energy Policy, Graduate School of Energy & Environment, Seoul National University of Science & Technology, 232 Gongreung-Ro, Nowon-Gu, Seoul 01811, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1172; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041172 - 13 Apr 2018

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2975

Abstract

Oil spill accidents involving cars or boats for transport in rivers can contaminate drinking water sources. During the past ten years, an annual average of forty-six cases of oil spill accidents have occurred in Korean rivers. Because of this, the Korean government is [...] Read more.

Oil spill accidents involving cars or boats for transport in rivers can contaminate drinking water sources. During the past ten years, an annual average of forty-six cases of oil spill accidents have occurred in Korean rivers. Because of this, the Korean government is seeking to reduce the incidence of oil spill accidents in rivers by half. This article aims to evaluate the public value of the reduction. Household willingness to pay (WTP) for the reduction was investigated, applying the contingent valuation approach. A survey of 1000 households was carried out in Korea. The data on the WTP were gathered using a dichotomous choice question and analyzed employing the spike model. The mean WTP estimate is obtained as KRW 6188 (USD 5.28) per household per annum, which is statistically meaningful. The total public value expanded to the population amounts to KRW 120.8 billion (USD 103.0 million) per year. The information can be utilized in policy-making and decision-making about the reduction of the incidence of oil spill accidents in rivers by half. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Urban and Rural Development)

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20 pages, 1052 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Improving the Green Building Evaluation System in China Based on the DANP Method

by Qi-Gan Shao^1,3, James J. H. Liou^2,*

, Sung-Shun Weng³ and Yen-Ching Chuang²

¹ School of Economics & Management, Xiamen University of Technology, Xiamen 361024, China

² Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei 10608, Taiwan

³ Department of Information and Finance Management, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei 10608, Taiwan

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1173; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041173 - 13 Apr 2018

Cited by 46 | Viewed by 6856

Abstract

Against the background of sustainable development, green building practices could be part of the strategy for solving environmental and energy problems in developing countries. The aim of this paper is to explore a system for the assessment of green buildings in China that [...] Read more.

Against the background of sustainable development, green building practices could be part of the strategy for solving environmental and energy problems in developing countries. The aim of this paper is to explore a system for the assessment of green buildings in China that provides the government and stakeholders with ways to improve their strategies for green building development. We apply a hybrid model, developed by integrating the Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory and Analytical Network Process (called DANP) method, to build an influential network relationship map (INRM) between assessment systems and to derive the criterion weights. The INRM and derived weights can help us to understand this complex assessment system and to set improvement priorities for green building development. The results demonstrate that indoor environment, materials, and smart facilities are the top three critical factors for green building evaluation. Finally, we discuss some management implications based on an actual case study with solutions provided using this model. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Construction Engineering)

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10 pages, 7324 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Assessment of Direct Dissolved Inorganic Carbon Injection to the Coastal Region: A Model Result

by Wei-Jen Huang^1,*, Kai-Jung Kao¹, Li-Lian Liu¹, Chi-Wen Liao² and Yin-Lung Han²

¹ Department of Oceanography, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung 80424, Taiwan

² Green Energy and Environment Research Laboratories, Industrial Technology Research Institute, Hsinchu 31040, Taiwan

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1174; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041174 - 13 Apr 2018

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3637

Abstract

The amount of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in the atmosphere has increased in the past 60 years and the technology of carbon capture and storage (CCS) has recently been extensively studied. One of the strategies of CCS is to directly inject a [...] Read more.

The amount of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in the atmosphere has increased in the past 60 years and the technology of carbon capture and storage (CCS) has recently been extensively studied. One of the strategies of CCS is to directly inject a high dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) concentration (or high partial pressure of carbon dioxide, pCO₂) solution into the ocean. However, the carbonate dynamics and air-sea gas exchange are usually neglected in a CCS strategy. This study assesses the effect of a DIC-solution injection by using a simple two end-member model to simulate the variation of pH, DIC, total alkalinity (TA) and pCO₂ between the river and sea mixing process for the Danshuei River estuary and Hoping River in Taiwan. We observed that the DIC-solution injection can contribute to ocean acidification and can also lead the pCO₂ value to change from being undersaturated to oversaturated (with respect to the atmospheric CO₂ level). Our model result also showed that the maximum Revelle factors (Δ[CO₂]/[CO₂])/(Δ[DIC]/[DIC]) among varied pH values (6–9) and DIC concentrations (0.5–3.5 mmol kg⁻¹) were between pH 8.3 and 8.5 in fresh water and were between 7.3 and 7.5 in waters with a salinity of 35, reflecting the changing efficiency of dissolving CO₂ gas into the DIC solution and the varying stability of this desired DIC solution. Finally, we suggest this uncoupled Revelle factor between fresh and salty water should be considered in the (anthropogenic) carbonate chemical weathering on a decade to century scale. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Carbon Cycles)

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15 pages, 14780 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of Zoning Regulations along Fault Zone Areas on Land Development and Property Values after the 921 Chi-Chi Earthquake in Taiwan

by Tzu-Ling Chen^1,* and Hsueh-Sheng Chang²

¹ Department of Urban Development, University of Taipei, Taipei 11153, Taiwan

² Department of Urban Planning, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan 70101, Taiwan

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1175; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041175 - 13 Apr 2018

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 7132

Abstract

Earthquakes are widely recognized as unpredictable and infrequent disasters that result in serious impacts on human settlements. Land use planning is one non-structural measure used to eliminate disaster risk by steering future development away from the existing built environment and enforcing particular structural [...] Read more.

Earthquakes are widely recognized as unpredictable and infrequent disasters that result in serious impacts on human settlements. Land use planning is one non-structural measure used to eliminate disaster risk by steering future development away from the existing built environment and enforcing particular structural engineering measures according to the disaster risk. However, arguments have arisen about applying land use planning to earthquake risk areas, as this serves as a type of disaster risk information disclosure that might impact the willingness to develop land or property value. Therefore, this study uses the spatial autocorrelation coefficient to examine the impact of land use planning on both land use and property transactions in the Chelungpu fault zone area (15 m from each side of the fault line) in Taiwan. The overall impacts with and without zoning regulation in the fault zone area are explored. The results demonstrate that parcels that changed to building use in the earlier time period (1995–2008) are located distant from those maintaining the same building use, whereas, later, building use (2008–2014) is located on or nearby the fault zone area. In addition, the most recently constructed buildings are located in or close to the fault zone area and have a relatively higher property price. The legal zoning regulation along the fault zone for building use requires lower height and less intensive building, which might help mitigate the potential impact of future earthquakes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances and Applications in Measuring, Representing, and Comparing Spatial Landscape Patterns)

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19 pages, 4024 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Exploratory Study of Swedish Charities to Develop a Model for the Reuse-Based Clothing Value Chain

by Manoj Kumar Paras^1,2,3

, Daniel Ekwall^2,4, Rudrajeet Pal²

, Antonela Curteza³, Yan Chen¹ and Lichuan Wang^1,*

¹ College of Textile and Clothing Engineering, Soochow University, Suzhou 215006 China

² Faculty of Textiles, Engineering and Business, University of Borås, Allégatan 1, 501 90 Borås, Sweden

³ Faculty of Textile, Leather and Industrial Management, “Gheorghe Asachi” Technical University of Iași, 700050 Iași, Romania

⁴ Supply Chain Management and Social Responsibility, Hanken School of Economics, Arkadiankatu 22, 00100 Helsinki, Finland

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1176; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041176 - 13 Apr 2018

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 6912

Abstract

The present paper aims to explore the current clothes reuse business in order to develop a charity-driven model for the reuse-based clothing value chain. An exploratory study was carried out in Sweden to understand the business flow of clothes reuse. This study builds [...] Read more.

The present paper aims to explore the current clothes reuse business in order to develop a charity-driven model for the reuse-based clothing value chain. An exploratory study was carried out in Sweden to understand the business flow of clothes reuse. This study builds on the insights gained from the multiple charities involved in the reuse-based clothing value chain. Semi-structured interviews along with direct and participatory observation were used for data collection. In the current study of Swedish charities, the founders and senior managers of the organizations were interviewed. This paper provides several insights in the form of propositions and a model related to different drivers of the reuse-based clothing value chain. In this model, business factors (system, legislation, and awareness), product factors (design, quality, and price), and consumer attitude as donor/buyer are found to be key drivers. Product design, quality, and price depend upon clothes brand, construction, and material, which are collectively important for the sale of used products. In the future, researchers are encouraged to test the present set of propositions and the proposed model across different cultural settings. The model can serve as a framework for practitioners and will be helpful for designing business strategies based on the different factors identified in this study. Full article

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14 pages, 5084 KiB

Open AccessArticle

First and Second Law Analyses of Trans-critical N₂O Refrigeration Cycle Using an Ejector

by Damoon Aghazadeh Dokandari¹

, S. M. S. Mahmoudi^2,*, M. Bidi¹, Ramin Haghighi Khoshkhoo¹ and Marc A. Rosen³

¹ Faculty of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, Shahid Beheshti University, A.C., Tehran 16765-1719, Iran

² Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Tabriz University, Tabriz 51666-14766, Iran

³ Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Ontario Institute of Technology, 2000 Simcoe Street North, Oshawa, Ontario L1H 7K4, Canada

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1177; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041177 - 13 Apr 2018

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3449

Abstract

An ejector-expansion refrigeration cycle using nitrous oxide was assessed. Thermodynamic analyses, including energy and exergy analyses, were carried out to investigate the effects on performance of several key factors in the system. The results show that the ejector-expansion refrigeration cycle (EERC) has a [...] Read more.

An ejector-expansion refrigeration cycle using nitrous oxide was assessed. Thermodynamic analyses, including energy and exergy analyses, were carried out to investigate the effects on performance of several key factors in the system. The results show that the ejector-expansion refrigeration cycle (EERC) has a higher maximum coefficient of performance and exergy efficiency than the internal heat exchanger cycle (IHEC), by 12% and 15%, respectively. The maximum coefficient of performance and exergy efficiency are 14% and 16.5% higher than the corresponding values for the vapor-compression refrigeration cycle (VCRC), respectively. The total exergy destruction for the N₂O ejector-expansion cycle is 63% and 53% less than for IHEC and VCRC, respectively. Furthermore, the highest COPs for the vapor-compression refrigeration, the internal heat exchanger and the ejector-expansion refrigeration cycles correspond to a high side pressure of 7.3 MPa, and the highest COPs for the three types of CO₂ refrigeration cycles correspond to a high side pressure of 8.5 MPa. Consequently, these lead to a lower electrical power consumption by the compressor. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Energy Sustainability)

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22 pages, 2454 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Multi-Criterion Two-Sided Matching of Public–Private Partnership Infrastructure Projects: Criteria and Methods

by Ru Liang¹, Changzhi Wu^2,*, Zhaohan Sheng¹ and Xiangyu Wang^3,4

¹ School of Management and Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China

² Australasian Joint Research Centre for Building Information Modelling, School of Built Environment, Curtin University, Bentley, WA 6102, Australia

³ School of Built Environment, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6102, Australia

⁴ Department of Housing and Interior Design, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 130701, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1178; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041178 - 13 Apr 2018

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 4030

Abstract

Two kinds of evaluative criteria are associated with Public–Private Partnership (PPP) infrastructure projects, i.e., private evaluative criteria and public evaluative criteria. These evaluative criteria are inversely related, that is, the higher the public benefits; the lower the private surplus. To balance evaluative criteria [...] Read more.

Two kinds of evaluative criteria are associated with Public–Private Partnership (PPP) infrastructure projects, i.e., private evaluative criteria and public evaluative criteria. These evaluative criteria are inversely related, that is, the higher the public benefits; the lower the private surplus. To balance evaluative criteria in the Two-Sided Matching (TSM) decision, this paper develops a quantitative matching decision model to select an optimal matching scheme for PPP infrastructure projects based on the Hesitant Fuzzy Set (HFS) under unknown evaluative criterion weights. In the model, HFS is introduced to describe values of the evaluative criteria and multi-criterion information is fully considered given by groups. The optimal model is built and solved by maximizing the whole deviation of each criterion so that the evaluative criterion weights are determined objectively. Then, the match-degree of the two sides is calculated and a multi-objective optimization model is introduced to select an optimal matching scheme via a min-max approach. The results provide new insights and implications of the influence on evaluative criteria in the TSM decision. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development and Management of Mega Projects)

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20 pages, 31607 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation and Utilization of Thermal Environment Associated with Policy: A Case Study of Daegu Metropolitan City in South Korea

by Jeong-Hee Eum^1,*, Kwon Kim²

, Eung-Ho Jung³ and Paikho Rho³

¹ Department of Landscape Architecture, Keimyung University, 1095 Dalgubeol-daero, Daegu 42601, Korea

² Department of Architecture, Graduate School, Keimyung University, 1095 Dalgubeol-daero, Daegu 42601, Korea

³ Department of Environmental Planning, Keimyung University, 1095 Dalgubeol-daero, Daegu 42601, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1179; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041179 - 13 Apr 2018

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 6449

Abstract

This study aimed to propose a way to utilize vulnerability assessment effectively in policy-making by conducting policy-related assessment of the thermal environment. For this purpose, a variety of indices concerning thermal vulnerability assessment were reviewed, and finally, 15 indices were selected. In addition, [...] Read more.

This study aimed to propose a way to utilize vulnerability assessment effectively in policy-making by conducting policy-related assessment of the thermal environment. For this purpose, a variety of indices concerning thermal vulnerability assessment were reviewed, and finally, 15 indices were selected. In addition, adaptation policies for climate change applied to Korean cities were synthesized and examined to establish policies for improving thermal environments which correspond to 15 indices. Finally, a framework consisting of five areas (improvement of the atmospheric environment, expansion of eco-friendly buildings, management of the surface, cool spot creation and revitalization of communities), 15 indices and 25 policies was proposed. As a result, 15 vulnerability maps based on the standardized indices and a comprehensive map with four classes were established for Daegu Metropolitan City in South Korea. Based on the maps, Guji-myeon and Ansim-1-dong were found to be the most vulnerable areas. Hence, the causes of the thermal environment vulnerability and the policies for improving urban thermal environment were analyzed in these two areas using the proposed framework. Guji-myeon was necessary to more actively implement policies regarding the improvement of the atmospheric environment, management of the surface, and revitalization of communities. To improve the thermal environment of Ansim-1-dong, active policy implementation was required in all five areas. The results of this study are expected to contribute to the effective establishment of thermal environment policies by policy-makers. Full article

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16 pages, 1580 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Management of Unsold Food in Outdoor Market Areas: Food Operators’ Behaviour and Attitudes

by Giovanni Peira^1,2

, Luigi Bollani³, Chiara Giachino¹ and Alessandro Bonadonna^1,2,*

¹ Department of Management, University of Turin, Corso Unione Sovietica 218 bis, 10134 Turin, Italy

² NatRisk—Research Centre on Natural Risks in Mountain and Hilly Environments, University of Torino, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, Grugliasco, 10095 Turin, Italy

³ ESOMAS Department, University of Turin, Corso Unione Sovietica 218 bis, 10134 Turin, Italy

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1180; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041180 - 14 Apr 2018

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 8265

Abstract

Food wastage has been widely discussed and investigated from different perspectives in literature. The EU-28 produces about 88 million tonnes of food wastage every year, making the awareness of this phenomenon a vital matter. This paper focuses on the outdoor-market operators’ perception and [...] Read more.

Food wastage has been widely discussed and investigated from different perspectives in literature. The EU-28 produces about 88 million tonnes of food wastage every year, making the awareness of this phenomenon a vital matter. This paper focuses on the outdoor-market operators’ perception and behaviour towards the food waste phenomenon in a particular phase of the agro-food supply chain. It assesses the different approaches used to manage unsold produce and its destination. A sample of 214 market retailers in the Greater Torino market areas of Italy were identified, to whom a questionnaire was administered by interview to analyze the main actors involved in the food-wastage process and profile them according to their perception, behaviour, and attitude. The results show that there are three distinct kinds of market operators, i.e., farmers, peddlers, and hybrids. Their attitudes and behaviour towards unsold food differ, as does their inclination towards a sustainable approach, which depends on their personal experience and role in the supply chain. Moreover, the results provide some relevant elements that may contribute to improving the management of the food-waste phenomenon. Moreover, they bring some useful evidence to light that could lay the basis of more effective tools to be put at the disposal of various institutions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agribusiness and Food Supply Chain)

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19 pages, 3655 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Systematic Literature Mining of Sponge City: Trends, Foci and Challenges Standing Ahead

by Zongmin Li

, Shuyan Xu and Liming Yao^*

Business School, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1182; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041182 - 14 Apr 2018

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 8279

Abstract

Sponge City research has been attracting extensive attention both in practical and theoretical research field, as the increased threat of flood risk and environmental safety due to urbanization. Varies names of Sponge City prevalent in different countries, which leads to disconnection of literature [...] Read more.

Sponge City research has been attracting extensive attention both in practical and theoretical research field, as the increased threat of flood risk and environmental safety due to urbanization. Varies names of Sponge City prevalent in different countries, which leads to disconnection of literature in the same field of Sponge City. In this paper, a systematic literature mining of Sponge City is presented. A literature analysis system is created, which includes literature export from Web of Sciences and systematic analysis via NoteExpress and CiteSpace. Based on the final document storage which contains 962 articles, general trends are identified. Literature is classified into 9 theme types. Research foci of Sponge City are detected by citation and keywords burst detection. Further, some future research directions of Sponge City are anticipated, including trans-disciplinary approaches, a comprehensive design framework, application of information technology, and case studies of Sponge City in more parts of the world. The significance of this paper lies in summarizing past research, identifying research types, foci and anticipating some future research directions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Water Management)

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18 pages, 2820 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Conservation Payments, Off-Farm Labor, and Ethnic Minorities: Participation and Impact of the Grain for Green Program in China

by Lunyu Xie¹, Bohan Zeng¹, Li Jiang^1,* and Jintao Xu²

¹ School of Economics, Renmin University of China, 59 Zhongguancun Street, Beijing 100872, China

² National School of Development, Peking University, 5 Yiheyuan Road, Beijing 100871, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1183; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041183 - 14 Apr 2018

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3791

Abstract

The Grain for Green program in China, a nationwide cropland set-aside program aimed at soil erosion prevention and poverty alleviation, was begun in 1999 and quickly expanded to 25 provinces, covering 32 million households. Its effects on participating households are well studied, but [...] Read more.

The Grain for Green program in China, a nationwide cropland set-aside program aimed at soil erosion prevention and poverty alleviation, was begun in 1999 and quickly expanded to 25 provinces, covering 32 million households. Its effects on participating households are well studied, but the role of ethnic characteristics is less well investigated. Given the overlap of areas covered by Grain for Green and areas inhabited by ethnic minorities, where development is a long-unresolved problem, it is important to determine how ethnic minorities react to, and benefit from, the Grain for Green program. This study investigates participation in the program by ethnic minorities and estimates its impact on their off-farm labor supply, compared with that of the ethnic majority, Han. We find that ethnic minorities were more likely to participate in the program, but enrolled similar area of land per household. However, ethnic minorities did not increase off-farm labor supply after participation in Grain for Green, while Han participants increased their off-farm labor supply significantly. These findings raise concerns that Grain for Green may have widened the income gap between Han and ethnic minorities. This study also provides important policy implications on sustainable land management for less-developed regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Degradation and Sustainable Management of Land)

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16 pages, 2617 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Responsible Mining—The Impact of the Mining Industry in Poland on the Quality of Atmospheric Air

by Justyna Woźniak^*

and Katarzyna Pactwa

Faculty of Geoengineering, Mining and Geology, Industrial and GeoEconomics Division, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, Na Grobli 15, 50-421 Wroclaw, Poland

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1184; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041184 - 14 Apr 2018

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 4735

Abstract

This article addresses issues of air pollutant emissions by Polish mining industry leaders in the light of corporate social responsibility policy: Kombinat Górniczo-Hutniczy Miedzi Polska Miedź S.A. (KGHM), Polska Grupa Energetyczna S.A. (PGE). The Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative regulates business activities at [...] Read more.

This article addresses issues of air pollutant emissions by Polish mining industry leaders in the light of corporate social responsibility policy: Kombinat Górniczo-Hutniczy Miedzi Polska Miedź S.A. (KGHM), Polska Grupa Energetyczna S.A. (PGE). The Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative regulates business activities at the level of environmental and social responsibility. Given the location of the “emission activities”, the level of pollutants (SO_x, NO_x, PM_x) generated by selected entities in the capital group over the years has been analysed. The aim of the article is to disclose relevant data on the emission reduction of entities as an expression of the actions of taking care of the environment and social protection. Evaluation of the extractive industry in the context of only interventions in the environment without emphasizing the economic and social significance is biased. Therefore, the level of emissivity of the whole economy has been verified against the background of the European Union. The article highlights the importance of coal power in two contexts: the production of electricity based on that fuel in controlled industrial installations and the uncontrolled use of coal in the municipal economy as a problem with a greater nuisance and impact on the quality of inhaled air. Analyses have shown that the widely understood mining industry is still a source of pollution, but power plants and processing plants have significantly reduced the volume of emissions over the years. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Sustainability and Applications)

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14 pages, 829 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Quality Attributes on Visiting Consumers’ Patronage Intentions of Green Restaurants

by Yi Shan Yu¹, Min Luo^2,* and Dong Hong Zhu³

¹ School of Economics, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan 430074, China

² School of Intellectual Property, Nanjing University of Science & Technology, Nanjing 210094, China

³ School of Management, Huazhong University of Science & Technology, Wuhan 430074, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1187; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041187 - 15 Apr 2018

Cited by 47 | Viewed by 9049

Abstract

Green consumption has become increasingly popular. More and more green restaurants are entering the market. The development of mobile Internet and the application of location-based services leads customers to easily visit several restaurants before making choice. Retaining a visiting customer is very important [...] Read more.

Green consumption has become increasingly popular. More and more green restaurants are entering the market. The development of mobile Internet and the application of location-based services leads customers to easily visit several restaurants before making choice. Retaining a visiting customer is very important to green restaurants in the mobile Internet era. This paper develops a theoretical model to explore how the food-related, service-related and ambiance-related attributes of green restaurants influence the confirmation of expectations regarding restaurant quality and subsequent patronage intentions of visiting consumers in the context of location-based recommendations. The theoretical model is tested using the partial least squares method. The results show that the confirmation of expectations of food quality is determined by food presentation, variety and freshness; the confirmation of expectations of service quality is determined by employees and service; and the confirmation of expectations of ambiance quality is determined by cleanliness, design and décor, in terms of a positive effect on the patronage intention of visiting consumers of green restaurants making use of location-based recommendations. Finally, theoretical and practical implications are discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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14 pages, 2251 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Estimating Emissions from Regional Freight Delivery under Different Urban Development Scenarios

by Sungwon Lee¹ and Taesung Hwang^2,*

¹ Smart and Green City Research Center, Urban Research Division, Korea Research Institute for Human Settlements, Sejong 30147, Korea

² Asia Pacific School of Logistics, Inha University, Incheon 22212, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1188; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041188 - 15 Apr 2018

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3935

Abstract

This study aims to develop a regional freight-shipment model to forecast freight movement within freight-delivery regions and examine the relationship between regional freight-shipment activities and the related environmental problems such as air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. A methodology for freight distribution and [...] Read more.

This study aims to develop a regional freight-shipment model to forecast freight movement within freight-delivery regions and examine the relationship between regional freight-shipment activities and the related environmental problems such as air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. A methodology for freight distribution and collection within geographical regions is proposed, in which a significantly large number of freight demand or supply points needs to be served. This problem can be considered as a large-scale vehicle routing problem and solved by an asymptotic approximation method. A set of closed-form formulas is constructed to obtain a near-optimal total travel distance of a fleet of trucks from multiple distribution centers. A case study is conducted to forecast regional freight-delivery cost in the selected metropolitan areas in the United States. Numerical results under three urban development scenarios show that the proposed methodology can be used to estimate the total cost and related vehicle emissions effectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Pathways: Transition towards Low-Carbon, Sustainable Cities in Emerging Economies)

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20 pages, 3979 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Identifying Habitat Type Conservation Priorities under the Habitats Directive: Application to Two Italian Biogeographical Regions

by Thomas Campagnaro^*

, Giovanni Trentanovi

and Tommaso Sitzia

Department of Land, Environment, Agriculture and Forestry, Università degli Studi di Padova, 35020 Legnaro, PD, Italy

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1189; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041189 - 15 Apr 2018

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 5165

Abstract

The ongoing biodiversity crisis necessitates greater efforts to ensure the adequate conservation of critical habitat types. Even though the identification of protected areas is still required in Europe, conservation efforts are now focusing on management requirements for protected areas and habitat types. Establishing [...] Read more.

The ongoing biodiversity crisis necessitates greater efforts to ensure the adequate conservation of critical habitat types. Even though the identification of protected areas is still required in Europe, conservation efforts are now focusing on management requirements for protected areas and habitat types. Establishing effective management approaches is important for the conservation of the natural and semi-natural habitat types that are identified under the Habitats Directive framework. In this study, we propose a methodology for determining priorities in the conservation management of habitat types based on readily available data. This method relies on four simple criteria to rank habitat types, which includes: conservation condition, biodiversity value, pressure factor, and the cover relevance of habitat types (indicating regional responsibility in terms of area covered). After ranking the habitat types based on the sum of the scores given to all of the criteria, the 25% top-ranking habitat types were prioritized. The pressure factors are analyzed using cluster analysis to better convey information regarding the management needs of groups of habitat types. This prioritization method was tested in habitat types occurring within the Italian Alpine and Continental biogeographical regions. From this analysis, forests, bogs and fens, and dry grasslands were identified as conservation priorities for the Alpine region; meanwhile, a wider variety of habitat types were identified for the Continental region. Important pressure factors were identified (e.g., roads and motorways) for these two biogeographical regions of Italy, which could be used to suggest specific conservation measures. The proposed approach represents a transparent and reliable method for outlining habitat-type priorities based on conservation, biodiversity, pressure, and cover factors, which can be applied to identifying conservation measures that can help achieve biodiversity targets. Full article

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28 pages, 48198 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Numerical Study of the Temperature Reduction by Water Spray Systems within Urban Street Canyons

by Ying-Chen Lee, Tsang-Jung Chang and Cheng-I Hsieh^*

Department of Bioenvironmental Systems Engineering, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1190; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041190 - 15 Apr 2018

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4458

Abstract

To reduce energy demand (both fossil fuel and renewable energy) for cooling the urban heat island environment, some solutions have been studied. Among these methods, the water spray system is considered more flexible due to its dynamic controls. This study investigated the cooling [...] Read more.

To reduce energy demand (both fossil fuel and renewable energy) for cooling the urban heat island environment, some solutions have been studied. Among these methods, the water spray system is considered more flexible due to its dynamic controls. This study investigated the cooling effect of water spray systems in the street canyon under different aspect ratios and high relative humidity environments using a computational fluid dynamics model. This model was validated with water channel and wind tunnel experiments. The results showed that the most effective cooling area was the area just under the spray nozzles. However, in a narrow street canyon, people in the middle of the street may feel the cooling effect because of the dispersion and accumulation of the cooled air. Our simulations demonstrated that air under the nozzles was saturated and this revealed that under drier conditions the water spray systems will have higher cooling performance. We also found that using large water droplets created a wider cooling area in the middle of the street canyon, and this phenomenon was not changed much if the nozzle height was increased from 2.5 m to 3.5 m. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Energy Development under Climate Change)

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14 pages, 828 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Total Economic Value of Sport Tourism in Belt and Road Development—An Environmental Perspective

by Chun-Chu Yeh^1,2, Cheng-Shen Lin³ and Chin-Huang Huang^4,*

¹ Department of Tourism and Hospitality, Transworld University, No.1221, Zhennan Rd., Douliu City, Yunlin County 640, Taiwan

² Graduate School of Technological and Vocational Education, National Yunlin University of Science and Technology, No.123, Section 3, University Road, Douliou, Yunlin 640, Taiwan

³ Department of Finance, Mingdao University, No. 369, Wen-Hua Rd. Peetow, ChangHua 523, Taiwan

⁴ Department of Sport Management, National Taiwan University of Sport, No. 16, Section 1, Shuang-Shih Road, Taichung 404, Taiwan

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1191; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041191 - 15 Apr 2018

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 6753

Abstract

The development of the belt and road region leads cities to significantly increase the amount of public expenditure on the new construction of facilities and infrastructure. Mass construction not only relies on many environmental resources, but might also destroy the local natural environment. [...] Read more.

The development of the belt and road region leads cities to significantly increase the amount of public expenditure on the new construction of facilities and infrastructure. Mass construction not only relies on many environmental resources, but might also destroy the local natural environment. In order to reveal the importance of the natural environment, this study explores the economic value of the natural landscape for sport tourism in Taiwan. While the concept of total economic value (TEV) is applied to the Sun–Moon Lake Swimming Carnival Event, the travel cost method (TCM) is adopted to estimate the use value for participants, and the double-bounded dichotomous contingent valuation method (CVM) and survival analysis are performed to evaluate the non-use value for the residents. The use value is on average NT$ 5668 for one participant. The median willingness to pay for the option value, existence value and bequest value of every resident is NT$433, NT$411 and NT$274, respectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agribusiness Decision making model in Belt and Road Green Development)

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18 pages, 580 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing Climate Finance Readiness in the Asia-Pacific Region

by Jale Samuwai^1,*

and Jeremy Maxwell Hills²

¹ Pacific Center for Environment & Sustainable Development, The University of the South Pacific, Laucala Campus, Private Mail Bag, Suva, Fiji

² Institute of Marine Resources, The University of the South Pacific, Laucala Campus, Private Mail Bag, Suva, Fiji

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1192; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041192 - 14 Apr 2018

Cited by 34 | Viewed by 8104

Abstract

Readiness is the current mantra in the climate finance discourse and is a key determinant for accessing climate finance. This study develops and applies an analytical 3-dimensional framework to appraise climate finance readiness in selected Asia-Pacific countries. Three dimensions of readiness are identified: [...] Read more.

Readiness is the current mantra in the climate finance discourse and is a key determinant for accessing climate finance. This study develops and applies an analytical 3-dimensional framework to appraise climate finance readiness in selected Asia-Pacific countries. Three dimensions of readiness are identified: (1) Policies and Institutions, (2) Knowledge Management and Learning, and (3) Fiscal Policy Environment. Using the Climate Public Expenditure and Institutional Review as the basis for such framework, the study uncovers a massive readiness gap between countries in the Asian sub-region and those in the Pacific sub-region. The study also found that readiness has a predictable, yet small, impact on the magnitude of climate finance accessed. This suggests that improving readiness alone is not sufficient to unlock climate finance, as access to climate finance is to a larger extent determined by other factors; this is critical to shaping readiness endeavors for the Pacific Small Island Developing States (PSIDS), as well as for donors. This study argues for a re-think in the PSIDS current readiness approach, reducing emphasis on multilateral and private flows and diversifying through practical and uncomplicated bilateral and remittance sources. These two sources of finances have a good track record of consistently mobilizing external finance to PSIDS despite their climate finance readiness status. Broadening readiness efforts towards these two alternative funding sources extends the feasibility of the current readiness approach. The present direction of climate finance readiness offers a continuing access dilemma to many of the PSIDS, especially the poorest and most vulnerable. Full article

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13 pages, 11052 KiB

Open AccessArticle

In Situ Earthworm Breeding to Improve Soil Aggregation, Chemical Properties, and Enzyme Activity in Papayas

by Huimin Xiang^1,2,3, Lei Guo^1,2,3, Jiaen Zhang^1,2,3,*, Benliang Zhao^1,2,3 and Hui Wei^1,2,3

¹ Department of Ecology, College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agriculture University, Guangzhou 510642, China

² Key Laboratory of Agro-Environment in the Tropics, Ministry of Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China

³ Guangdong Engineering Research Center for Modern Eco-agriculture and Circular Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1193; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041193 - 16 Apr 2018

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3969

Abstract

The long-term use of mineral fertilizers has decreased the soil fertility in papaya (Carica papaya L.) orchards in South China. In situ earthworm breeding is a new sustainable practice for improving soil fertility. A field experiment was conducted to compare the effects [...] Read more.

The long-term use of mineral fertilizers has decreased the soil fertility in papaya (Carica papaya L.) orchards in South China. In situ earthworm breeding is a new sustainable practice for improving soil fertility. A field experiment was conducted to compare the effects of four treatments consisting of the control (C), chemical fertilizer (F), compost (O), and in situ earthworm breeding (E) on soil physico-chemical properties and soil enzyme activity in a papaya orchard. The results showed that soil chemical properties, such as pH, soil organic matter (SOM), total nitrogen (TN), available nitrogen (AN), and total phosphorus (TP) were significantly improved with the E treatment but declined with the F treatment. On 31 October 2008, the SOM and TN with the O and E treatments were increased by 26.3% and 15.1%, respectively, and by 32.5% and 20.6% compared with the F treatment. Furthermore, the O and E treatments significantly increased the activity of soil urease and sucrase. Over the whole growing season, soil urease activity was 34.4%~40.4% and 51.1%~58.7% higher with the O and E treatments, respectively, than that with the C treatment. Additionally, the activity of soil sucrase with the E treatment was always the greatest of the four treatments, whereas the F treatment decreased soil catalase activity. On 11 June 2008 and 3 July 2008, the activity of soil catalase with the F treatment was decreased by 19.4% and 32.0% compared with C. Soil bulk density with the four treatments was in the order of O ≤ E < F < C. The O- and E-treated soil bulk density was significantly lower than that of the F-treated soil. Soil porosity was in the order of C < F < E < O. Soil porosity with the O and E treatments was 6.0% and 4.7% higher, respectively, than that with the F treatment. Meanwhile, the chemical fertilizer applications significantly influenced the mean weight diameter (MWD) of the aggregate and proportion of different size aggregate fractions. The E treatment significantly increased the MWD, but the F treatment decreased it. The MWD with the E treatment was 14.5% higher than that with the F treatment. The proportion of >2 mm size aggregates in the O and E treatments was vastly improved. In conclusion, in situ earthworm breeding in orchards performed better than traditional compost and chemical fertilizer in improving soil aggregation, chemical properties, and enzyme activity. This is a new, organic fertilizer application for improving soil structure, chemical properties, and soil enzymes due to the activities of the earthworms and the production of vermicomposting. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Agriculture)

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20 pages, 491 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Inclusive Finance, Human Capital and Regional Economic Growth in China

by Guangyou Zhou^1,†

, Kuangxiong Gong^1,2,†, Sumei Luo^3,† and Guohu Xu^4,*,†

¹ School of Economics, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China

² Chongqing Dajiang Sub-branch, Agricultural Bank of China, Chongqing 401320, China

³ School of Finance, Shanghai University of Finance and Economics, Shanghai 200433, China

⁴ School of Business Administration, Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, Wuhan 430073, China

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1194; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041194 - 16 Apr 2018

Cited by 43 | Viewed by 7281

Abstract

Inclusive finance is an important financial development strategy in the world. The promoting effect of the human capital on economic growth has also gained theoretical and empirical support. This paper attempts to deeply examine the interaction among inclusive finance, human capital and regional [...] Read more.

Inclusive finance is an important financial development strategy in the world. The promoting effect of the human capital on economic growth has also gained theoretical and empirical support. This paper attempts to deeply examine the interaction among inclusive finance, human capital and regional economic growth as well as their mutual influence mechanism. To the end, data of 31 provinces and cities from 2005 to 2015 were chosen to build a corresponding panel data template. Meanwhile, the fixed effect model was adopted for an empirical test. Results suggest the following. (1) Inclusive finance and human capital can exert a significantly positive promoting effect on regional economic growth. The influence of inclusive finance on regional economic growth is more obvious, while the nonlinear influence of human capital is more significant; (2) Inclusive finance is observed to have a significantly negative influence on economic growth of China’s central region (mainly referring to eight provinces, including Shanxi). The positive promoting effect of inclusive finance on economic growth of China’s west region (mainly referring to 12 provinces and cities, including Chongqing) is found to be the most significant. Differently, human capital exerts the most significantly promoting effect on China’s central region. The economic development level differs in different regions of China. As an increasing number of talent resources gather in the central and western region of China and the financial system is built in the two regions, resource optimization has become a necessity, which is the linchpin to China’s sustainable economic development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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14 pages, 744 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Instant Social Networking with Startup Time Minimization Based on Mobile Cloud Computing

by Lien-Wu Chen^1,*

, Yu-Fan Ho¹ and Ming-Fong Tsai²

¹ Department of Information Engineering and Computer Science, Feng Chia University, Taichung 407, Taiwan

² Department of Electronic Engineering, National United University, Miaoli 360, Taiwan

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1195; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041195 - 16 Apr 2018

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3806

Abstract

Mobile communication and handheld devices are currently extremely popular, and provide people with convenient and instant platforms for social networking. However, existing social networking services cannot offer efficient human-machine interfaces or intuitive user experiences. Mobile users must manually input account information and find [...] Read more.

Mobile communication and handheld devices are currently extremely popular, and provide people with convenient and instant platforms for social networking. However, existing social networking services cannot offer efficient human-machine interfaces or intuitive user experiences. Mobile users must manually input account information and find targets from search results when attempting to add someone to their friend list on social networking sites, such as Facebook and Twitter. Additionally, mobile users may not be able to identify correct targets because some usernames are identical. Typos may occur during the input process due to unfamiliar identifiers, further increasing the total operation time. To encourage social initiation between mobile users, we design an instant social networking framework, called SocialYou, to minimize the startup time based on mobile cloud computing. SocialYou proposes an efficient architecture and innovative human-machine interfaces to alleviate the complexity and difficulty for mobile users using handheld devices. In particular, we implement an Android-based prototype to verify the feasibility and superiority of SocialYou. The experimental results show that SocialYou outperforms the existing methods and saves substantial amounts of operation time for mobile social networking. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Autonomous and Sustainable Computing for preparing the Internet of Things Environment)

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11 pages, 283 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Public Willingness to Pay for Increasing Photovoltaic Power Generation: The Case of Korea

by Min-Kyu Lee¹, Ju-Hee Kim² and Seung-Hoon Yoo^2,*

¹ Graduate School of Management of Technology, Pukyong National University, 365 Sinseon-Ro, Nam-Gu, Busan 48547, Korea

² Department of Energy Policy, Graduate School of Energy & Environment, Seoul National University of Science & Technology, 232 Gongreung-Ro, Nowon-Gu, Seoul 01811, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1196; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041196 - 16 Apr 2018

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3883

Abstract

Renewable energy receives particular attention in Korea because of concerns about climate change and scarce traditional energy resources. The government plans to enhance photovoltaic (PV) power’s share of total power generation from 0.5% in 2014 to 10.1% in 2029. The present study tries [...] Read more.

Renewable energy receives particular attention in Korea because of concerns about climate change and scarce traditional energy resources. The government plans to enhance photovoltaic (PV) power’s share of total power generation from 0.5% in 2014 to 10.1% in 2029. The present study tries to look into the public willingness to pay (WTP) for increasing PV power generation, applying the contingent valuation approach. A survey of 1000 interviewees was carried out in Korea. The observations of the WTP responses were gathered using a dichotomous choice question and analyzed employing the mixture model. The mean household WTP estimate is obtained as KRW 2183 (USD 1.9) per month, which possesses statistical significance. The total yearly WTP expanded to the population is worth KRW 476.9 billion (USD 423.1 million). These values can provide a useful basis for policy-making and decision-making about the economic feasibility of increasing PV power generation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Power System and Sustainability)

21 pages, 18757 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development Framework for Agro-Based Industries in Secondary Cities of Sindh Province, Pakistan: SWOT Analysis of Ten-Year Perspective and Medium-Term Development Framework Plans

by Saima Kalwar^1,2,*, Melasutra Md Dali^2,* and Norhaslina Hassan³

¹ Department of City and Regional planning, Mehran University of Engineering and Technology, Jamshoro 76062, Pakistan

² Faculty of Built Environment, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia

³ Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1197; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041197 - 16 Apr 2018

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 8387

Abstract

The study intended to explore planning strategies gaps in ten-year perspective and medium-term development framework plans for agro-based industrial development in secondary cities of Sindh Province, Pakistan. Document review and key informant interviews survey techniques were used for data collection. A total of [...] Read more.

The study intended to explore planning strategies gaps in ten-year perspective and medium-term development framework plans for agro-based industrial development in secondary cities of Sindh Province, Pakistan. Document review and key informant interviews survey techniques were used for data collection. A total of 30 interviews were conducted from agro-based officials. The SWOT analysis technique was applied for data analysis. The results revealed the weaknesses of high priority for textile and sugar industries, lack of planning strategies for agro-based development in secondary cities, dependency on federal government for development funds and absence of finances to implement plans. The threats were unavailability of strategic agro-based infrastructure facilities in secondary cities, centralized planning system, cross border threats such as the war in Afghanistan and migration of Afghan refugees, weak law and order situation and diversion of development budget for defense activities. The study suggests decentralization of powers and robust planning strategies in the development plans to strengthen secondary cities of Sindh Province economically. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Urban and Rural Development)

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20 pages, 17696 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Land-Use Competition or Compatibility between Nature Conservation and Agriculture? The Impact of Protected Areas on German Standard Farmland Values

by Friederike Lehn^*,†

and Enno Bahrs

¹ Institute of Farm Management, University of Hohenheim, Schwerzstraße 44, 70599 Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany

^† Current address: University of Hohenheim, Institute of Farm Management, Schwerzstraße 44, 70599 Stuttgart, Baden-Württemberg, Germany.

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1198; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041198 - 16 Apr 2018

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 5228

Abstract

Agricultural land provides many different services resulting in a high competition between agricultural production, residential purposes and nature conservation. To give more insight into the competition between nature conservation and agriculture, this study empirically analyzes the impact of nature conservation on German standard [...] Read more.

Agricultural land provides many different services resulting in a high competition between agricultural production, residential purposes and nature conservation. To give more insight into the competition between nature conservation and agriculture, this study empirically analyzes the impact of nature conservation on German standard farmland values by including the shares of different protected areas in a spatiotemporal regression model. The results indicate that nature conservation can influence standard farmland values, but the magnitude and direction of the effect differ depending on the type of protected area, the type of land use and by region. While there is evidence that protected areas can have a price-decreasing impact on arable land, standard farmland values for grassland tend to be mainly affected positively in the study area. Thus, the results suggest that there is not only land-use competition, but also compatibility between agricultural production and nature conservation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Land-Use Competition)

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11 pages, 2600 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Agricultural Commodities and Crude Oil Prices: An Empirical Investigation of Their Relationship

by Eleni Zafeiriou^1,*, Garyfallos Arabatzis², Paraskevi Karanikola², Stilianos Tampakis²

and Stavros Tsiantikoudis²

¹ Department of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Xanthi 671 00, Greece

² Department of Forestry and Management of the Environment and Natural Resources, Democritus University of Thrace, Xanthi 671 00, Greece

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1199; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041199 - 16 Apr 2018

Cited by 55 | Viewed by 6268

Abstract

Within the last few decades, the extended use of biodiesel and bioethanol has established interlinkages between energy markets and agricultural commodity markets. The present work examines the bivariate relationships of crude oil–corn and crude oil–soybean futures prices with the assistance of the ARDL [...] Read more.

Within the last few decades, the extended use of biodiesel and bioethanol has established interlinkages between energy markets and agricultural commodity markets. The present work examines the bivariate relationships of crude oil–corn and crude oil–soybean futures prices with the assistance of the ARDL cointegration approach. Our findings confirm that crude oil prices affect the prices of agricultural products used in the production of biodiesel, as well as of ethanol, validating the interaction of energy and agricultural commodity markets. The practical value of the present work is that the findings provide policy makers with insight into the interlinkages between agricultural and energy markets to promote biodiesel or bioethanol by affecting crude oil prices. The novelty of the present work stands on the use of futures prices that incorporate all available information and thus are more appropriate to identify supply and demand shocks and price spillovers than real prices. Finally, the period of study includes extremely low, as well as extremely high, crude oil prices and the results illustrate that biofuels cannot be substituted for crude oil and protect economies from energy volatility. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development of Electrical Energy Storage Technologies in Energy Production)

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16 pages, 915 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Is the Development of China’s Financial Inclusion Sustainable? Evidence from a Perspective of Balance

by Bao Zhu¹, Shiting Zhai² and Jing He^1,*

¹ College of Finance and Statistics, Hunan University, Changsha 410079, China

² Educational Science Research Institute, Hunan University, Changsha 410006, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1200; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041200 - 16 Apr 2018

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 5558

Abstract

Balance plays an important role in the sustainable development of China’s financial inclusion. First, this paper reports the entropy weight method used to construct a financial inclusion index (FII) and measure the level of development of financial inclusion in China’s regions. [...] Read more.

Balance plays an important role in the sustainable development of China’s financial inclusion. First, this paper reports the entropy weight method used to construct a financial inclusion index (FII) and measure the level of development of financial inclusion in China’s regions. Second, the concept of the Gini coefficient of financial inclusion is proposed and the structural balance of China’s financial inclusion is shown, as calculated by using this Gini coefficient. Third, we report the use of a dynamic shift-share model to further discuss the development balance of the financial inclusion of China’s regions. The results show that there is an imbalance in the development of financial inclusion in China’s regions. For 2006–2016, the Gini coefficient and the structural balance of China’s financial inclusion show a significant downward trend. The gap of the financial inclusion development between regions is narrowing and the structure of China’s financial inclusion tends to be reasonable. The penetration dimension is at a structural disadvantage. Availability and usage dimension are at a structural advantage, which can effectively promote the development of China’s financial inclusion. In the future, the government should establish a more balanced financial inclusion development mechanism, making full use of structural advantages of the availability and usage of financial services to promote the sustainable development of China’s financial inclusion. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Finance)

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15 pages, 11803 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Self-Scrutinized Backoff Mechanism for IEEE 802.11ax in 5G Unlicensed Networks

by Rashid Ali¹

, Nurullah Shahin¹

, Rojeena Bajracharya¹

, Byung-Seo Kim²

and Sung Won Kim^1,*

¹ Department of Information and Communication Engineering, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, Korea

² Department of Computer and Information Communication Engineering, Hongik University, Seoul 04066, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1201; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041201 - 16 Apr 2018

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 6599

Abstract

The IEEE 802.11ax high-efficiency wireless local area network (HEW) is promising as a foundation for evolving the fifth-generation (5G) radio access network on unlicensed bands (5G-U). 5G-U is a continued effort toward rich ubiquitous communication infrastructures, promising faster and reliable services for the [...] Read more.

The IEEE 802.11ax high-efficiency wireless local area network (HEW) is promising as a foundation for evolving the fifth-generation (5G) radio access network on unlicensed bands (5G-U). 5G-U is a continued effort toward rich ubiquitous communication infrastructures, promising faster and reliable services for the end user. HEW is likely to provide four times higher network efficiency even in highly dense network deployments. However, the current wireless local area network (WLAN) itself faces huge challenge of efficient radio access due to its contention-based nature. WLAN uses a carrier sense multiple access with collision avoidance (CSMA/CA) procedure in medium access control (MAC) protocols, which is based on a binary exponential backoff (BEB) mechanism. Blind increase and decrease of the contention window in BEB limits the performance of WLAN to a limited number of contenders, thus affecting end-user quality of experience. In this paper, we identify future use cases of HEW proposed for 5G-U networks. We use a self-scrutinized channel observation-based scaled backoff (COSB) mechanism to handle the high-density contention challenges. Furthermore, a recursive discrete-time Markov chain model (R-DTMC) is formulated to analyze the performance efficiency of the proposed solution. The analytical and simulation results show that the proposed mechanism can improve user experience in 5G-U networks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 5G Mobile Services and Scenarios: Challenges and Solutions)

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18 pages, 13153 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dynamic Analysis of Ecological Environment Quality Combined with Water Conservation Changes in National Key Ecological Function Areas in China

by Jie Xu^1,2

, Gaodi Xie^1,2,*, Yu Xiao^1,2, Na Li³, Fuqin Yu^1,2, Sha Pei⁴ and Yuan Jiang⁵

¹ Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China

² College of Resources and Environment, University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China

³ China Aerospace Science & Industry Academy of Information Technology, Beijing 100070, China

⁴ Beijing Municipal Research Institute of Environmental Protection, Beijing 100037, China

⁵ Faculty of Geographical Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1202; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041202 - 16 Apr 2018

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 4882 | Correction

Abstract

The shortage of water resources is a key factor limiting the sustainability of the economy and society. Most of the 25 National Key Ecological Function Areas (NKEFAs) in China serve as a source and supplementation for numerous rivers and playing an important role [...] Read more.

The shortage of water resources is a key factor limiting the sustainability of the economy and society. Most of the 25 National Key Ecological Function Areas (NKEFAs) in China serve as a source and supplementation for numerous rivers and playing an important role in water resource conservation. Based on the analysis of eco-environmental quality changes in NKEFAs, this study analyzed the spatial pattern of water conservation services in 2000 and 2010 by using a water balance equation. The results indicate that the land cover type of NKEFAs was dominated by grassland, and the proportion of ecological land conversion to non-ecological land (0.3%) was higher than that of non-ecological land conversion to ecological land (0.21%). The fractional vegetation coverage (FVC) and biomass density of NKEFAs gradually decreased from southeast to northwest. The FVC of the Changbai Mountain Forest Function Area (CBS) was the highest, while the biomass density and total biomass were highest in mountain areas in the Middle of Hai’nan Island (HND) and in the Great Khingan and Lesser Khingan Mountains (XAL) respectively. The FVC and biomass of NKEFAs mostly increased in 2000–2010. Water conservation amounts of NKEFAs decreased from southeast to northwest. The average water conservation and total water conservation amount of Nanling Mountain (NL), Guangxi-Guizhou-Yunnan (GQD), and the Wuling Mountain Function Area (WLS) were the highest, while the Yinshan Mountain (YS), Alkin Grassland (AEJ), and the Qilian Mountain Function Area (QLS) had the lowest values. In 2000–2010, the water conservation service of 60% of NKEFAs decreased. Spatial and temporal differences in water conservation services are the result of a combination of ecological environment quality and meteorological conditions. Protection of the ecological environment and vegetation coverage improvement should be strengthened to enhance the function of water conservation. Full article

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24 pages, 4470 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Research on Digital Forensic Readiness Design in a Cloud Computing-Based Smart Work Environment

by Sangho Park¹, Yanghoon Kim²

, Gwangmin Park³, Onechul Na¹ and Hangbae Chang^4,*

¹ Department of Security Convergence, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Korea

² Department of Industrial Security, Far East University, Chungbuk 27601, Korea

³ Forensics Center, Douzone ICT Group, Seoul 06193, Korea

⁴ Department of Industrial Security, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1203; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041203 - 16 Apr 2018

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 6660

Abstract

Recently, the work environments of organizations have been in the process of transitioning into smart work environments by applying cloud computing technology in the existing work environment. The smart work environment has the characteristic of being able to access information assets inside the [...] Read more.

Recently, the work environments of organizations have been in the process of transitioning into smart work environments by applying cloud computing technology in the existing work environment. The smart work environment has the characteristic of being able to access information assets inside the company from outside the company through cloud computing technology, share information without restrictions on location by using mobile terminals, and provide a work environment where work can be conducted effectively in various locations and mobile environments. Thus, in the cloud computing-based smart work environment, changes are occurring in terms of security risks, such as an increase in the leakage risk of an organization’s information assets through mobile terminals which have a high risk of loss and theft and increase the hacking risk of wireless networks in mobile environments. According to these changes in security risk, the reactive digital forensic method, which investigates digital evidence after the occurrence of security incidents, appears to have a limit which has led to a rise in the necessity of proactive digital forensic approaches wherein security incidents can be addressed preemptively. Accordingly, in this research, we design a digital forensic readiness model at the level of preemptive prevention by considering changes in the cloud computing-based smart work environment. Firstly, we investigate previous research related to the cloud computing-based smart work environment and digital forensic readiness and analyze a total of 50 components of digital forensic readiness. In addition, through the analysis of the corresponding preceding research, we design seven detailed areas, namely, outside the organization environment, within the organization guideline, system information, terminal information, user information, usage information, and additional function. Then, we design a draft of the digital forensic readiness model in the cloud computing-based smart work environment by mapping the components of digital forensic readiness to each area. To verify the draft of the designed model, we create a survey targeting digital forensic field-related professionals, analyze their validity, and deduce a digital forensic readiness model of the cloud computing-based smart work environment consisting of seven detailed areas and 44 components. Finally, through an analytic hierarchy process analysis, we deduce the areas that should be emphasized compared to the existing work environment to heighten the forensic readiness in the cloud computing-based smart work environment. As a result, the weightings of the terminal information Universal Subscriber Identity Module(USIM) card, collect/gain virtual machine image, etc.), user information (user account information analysis, analysis of user’s used service, etc.), and usage information (mobile OS artifact timeline analysis, action analysis through timeline, etc.) appear to be higher than those of the existing work environment. This is analyzed for each organization to preemptively prepare for the components of digital forensic readiness in the corresponding areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cloud Platform Sustainability Technologies for Industrial Internet of Things)

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22 pages, 2749 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Venture Capital Investments: An Enabler Investigation

by Elena Antarciuc^1,*

, Qinghua Zhu^2,*

, Jaber Almarri¹, Senlin Zhao³

, Yunting Feng² and Martin Agyemang¹

¹ Faculty of Management and Economics, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, Dalian 116024, China

² Antai College of Economics and Management, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 1954 Huashan Road, Shanghai 200030, China

³ School of Economics and Management, Shanghai Maritime University, 1550 Haigang Ave, Shanghai 201306, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1204; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041204 - 16 Apr 2018

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 9256

Abstract

Investing in sustainable projects can help tackle the current sustainability challenges. Venture capital investments can contribute significantly to the growth of sustainable start-ups. Sustainable venture capital (SVC) research is just emerging. This paper identifies enablers for sustainable venture capital investments in Saudi Arabia [...] Read more.

Investing in sustainable projects can help tackle the current sustainability challenges. Venture capital investments can contribute significantly to the growth of sustainable start-ups. Sustainable venture capital (SVC) research is just emerging. This paper identifies enablers for sustainable venture capital investments in Saudi Arabia taking into account different stakeholders and firm’s tangible and intangible resources. Using perspectives from venture capital experts in Saudi Arabia and the grey-based Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) method, this study pinpoints the most critical enablers and investigates their causal and effect interconnections. The methodological process consists of reviewing the SVC literature and consulting the experts to identify the SVC enablers, creating a questionnaire, acquiring the answers from four experts, analyzing the data with grey-based DEMATEL and performing a sensitivity analysis. The government use of international standards, policies and regulations for sustainable investments, the commitment of the venture capitalists to sustainability and their deep understanding of sustainable business models are the most influential enablers. The paper concludes with implications for different actors, limitations and prospective directions for the sustainable venture capital research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Entrepreneurship and Business Cases for a Sustainable Accounting and Financial System)

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20 pages, 609 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Identifying Effective Fugitive Dust Control Measures for Construction Projects in Korea

by Hyun-jun Noh¹, Seul-ki Lee² and Jung-ho Yu^1,*

¹ Department of Architecture Engineering, Kwangwoon University, Seoul 01897, Korea

² Institute of Construction and Environmental Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1206; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041206 - 17 Apr 2018

Cited by 38 | Viewed by 6907

Abstract

In recent years, the awareness of the seriousness of the damage caused by fugitive dust and the need to manage it have increased. In particular, construction sites comprise 84% of business places that have reported fugitive dust generation, and they are required to [...] Read more.

In recent years, the awareness of the seriousness of the damage caused by fugitive dust and the need to manage it have increased. In particular, construction sites comprise 84% of business places that have reported fugitive dust generation, and they are required to have inspection and management to prevent the occurrence of fugitive dust at construction sites. However, the number of complaints in the construction industry due to fugitive dust has increased. The reason for this increase is the fact that existing control measures are defined based on emission processes rather than construction work types, which makes it difficult to apply fugitive dust control measures to construction sites. Therefore, this research evaluated the effectiveness of fugitive dust control measures for construction sites in Korea through a Delphi study. This Delphi study was conducted in two rounds with 12 experts in an on-site panel, and the factors that were determined to be effective control measures were convergence, the content validity ratio (CVR), and stability. This study’s results will be utilized to direct the establishment of future guidelines for fugitive dust control measures based on types of construction work. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Civil Engineering: from Sustainable Materials to Sustainable Cities)

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16 pages, 26469 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of a Weekly Comingled Kerbside Collection Service on Household Recycling in a Gated Community in Pretoria, South Africa

by Jacques Du Toit^1,*

and Claire Wagner²

¹ Department of Town and Regional Planning, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Hatfield 0028, South Africa

² Department of Psychology, University of Pretoria, Private Bag X20, Hatfield 0028, South Africa

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1207; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041207 - 17 Apr 2018

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4148

Abstract

Gated communities is a growing phenomenon in South Africa and abroad. The enclosed and private nature of gated communities poses certain challenges to recycling. Using the Theory of Planned Behaviour, we examine the effect of a weekly comingled kerbside collection service on household [...] Read more.

Gated communities is a growing phenomenon in South Africa and abroad. The enclosed and private nature of gated communities poses certain challenges to recycling. Using the Theory of Planned Behaviour, we examine the effect of a weekly comingled kerbside collection service on household recycling in a gated community. We used an ex post facto design and surveyed and compared recycling behaviour across two separate, but comparable communities; Boardwalk Meander, with no service, and Silver Lakes, with a service. Factor analyses validated the construct ‘perceived behavioural control’ in both settings. Households in Silver Lakes were more than three times likely to recycle in comparison to Boardwalk Meander. Multivariate Analysis of Variance suggests that the service had an overall significant effect on attitude, subjective norm and control. Post hoc tests suggest that recyclers in Silver Lakes felt equally positive, but more pressured and able to recycle, as compared to recyclers in Boardwalk Meander. Significantly more recyclers and non-recyclers in Silver Lakes felt they had enough space to recycle, as compared to their counterparts in Boardwalk Meander, even though house and yard sizes were the same across the two settings. We conclude with policy, planning and design recommendations for facilitating comingled kerbside collection in gated communities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Waste, Space, and Place)

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16 pages, 9016 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Spanish Turn against Renewable Energy Development

by Daniel Gabaldón-Estevan^1,*

, Elisa Peñalvo-López² and David Alfonso Solar²

¹ Department of Sociology and Social Anthropology, University of Valencia, 46010 València, Spain

² Instituto Universitario de Investigación de Ingeniería Energética, Universitat Politècnica de València, 46022 València, Spain

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1208; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041208 - 17 Apr 2018

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 9463

Abstract

In this study, we focus on the case of Spanish energy policy and its implications for sustainable energy development. In recent years, Spanish legislation has changed dramatically in its approach to sustainable energy sources. This change is despite EU and international efforts to [...] Read more.

In this study, we focus on the case of Spanish energy policy and its implications for sustainable energy development. In recent years, Spanish legislation has changed dramatically in its approach to sustainable energy sources. This change is despite EU and international efforts to increase energy efficiency, and to accelerate the transition to renewable energy sources (RES) in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Based on the socio-technical transitions literature, this paper assesses the role of the new legislation in this altered scenario, and analyzes the evolution of energy production in Spain in the EU context. The results are triangulated with two expert assessments. We find that Spanish energy policy is responding to the energy lobby’s demands for protection for both their investment and their dominant position. This has resulted in a reduction in the number of investors combined with a lack of trust in both local and foreign investors in the sustainable energy sector, affecting also social innovations in energy transitions. We conclude that Spain is a particular case of concomitance between the energy sector and political power which raises concern about the viability of a higher level of energy sovereignty and the achievement of international commitments regarding climate change. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Social Innovations in the Energy Transition)

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28 pages, 1806 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Carbon Emission Reduction with Regard to Retailer’s Fairness Concern and Subsidies

by Linghong Zhang^1,*, Bowen Xue² and Xiyu Liu²

¹ Management Science and Engineering Postdoctoral Mobile Station, Shandong Normal University, Ji’nan 250014, China

² School of Management Science and Engineering, Shandong Normal University, Ji’nan 250014, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1209; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041209 - 17 Apr 2018

Cited by 54 | Viewed by 5262

Abstract

This paper considers the impact of consumer environmental awareness (CEA), retailer’s fairness concern, and government subsidies on the two echelon supply chain with one manufacturer and one retailer. The manufacturer produces green products with carbon emission reduction. The government provides two types of [...] Read more.

This paper considers the impact of consumer environmental awareness (CEA), retailer’s fairness concern, and government subsidies on the two echelon supply chain with one manufacturer and one retailer. The manufacturer produces green products with carbon emission reduction. The government provides two types of alternative subsidies: a fixed subsidy (referred to as an F-type subsidy) or a discount subsidy (referred to as a D-type subsidy) to encourage the manufacturer to produce a product with a high carbon emission reduction rate. We aim to provide optimal solutions to the manufacturer and the retailer with regard to the retailer’s fairness concern and government subsidies; thus we discuss four decision scenarios: the benchmark model without the fairness concern and subsidy, the model with the retailer’s fairness concern, the model with fairness concern and the F-type subsidy, and the model with fairness concern and the D-type subsidy. We provide explicit solutions and numerical examples of the optimal carbon emission reduction rate, wholesale price, and retail price. Our study has four main findings: firstly, high consumer environmental awareness will benefit both the manufacturer and the retailer in the above four scenarios; secondly, the fairness concern and subsidy have a counter effect on the optimal strategies (the subsidy could alleviate the negative influence caused by retailer’s fairness concern); thirdly, the government could subsidize the retailer when there is unfairness in the supply chain so that the manufacturer could produce a product with lower carbon emission; finally, using the subsidy related to the environmental quality will be more helpful for improving environment quality, especially when the government has a budget constraint. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Advanced Methodologies for Sustainability Assessment: Theory and Practice)

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13 pages, 6810 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impacts of Changing Forest Management Areas on Forest Landscapes and Habitat Patterns in Northeastern China

by Wen Wu^1,2,*

, Yuehui Li², Yuanman Hu², Chunliang Xiu¹ and Xiaolu Yan³

¹ Jangho Architecture College, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819, China

² Key Laboratory of Forest Ecology and Management, Institute of Applied Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang 110016, China

³ Center for Studies of Marine Economy and Sustainable Development, Liaoning Normal University, Dalian 116029, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1211; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041211 - 17 Apr 2018

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3422

Abstract

The management of multi-use forests often drives forest fragmentation, which leads to decreased habitat areas and quality. We explored suitable habitat distributions of cervids to evaluate the conflict between small-scale human management and large-scale habitat conservation in human-disturbed forest landscapes. We estimated the [...] Read more.

The management of multi-use forests often drives forest fragmentation, which leads to decreased habitat areas and quality. We explored suitable habitat distributions of cervids to evaluate the conflict between small-scale human management and large-scale habitat conservation in human-disturbed forest landscapes. We estimated the potential habitat of roe deer (Capreolus pygargus) and determined the contribution of multiple environmental factors to habitat distribution using the presence of roe deer (N = 106) in a maximum entropy (MaxEnt) model. We simulated changes in the suitable habitat and characteristics of landscape patterns based on three forest management area scenarios. The results showed that the potential suitable habitat for roe deer was located mainly in the east. The variables affecting habitat suitability were similar in different scenarios, and included distance to farmland, settlements, rivers and management areas, and elevation. Distance to the management area was found to affect habitat suitability with a contribution probability from 4% to 6%. With an increase in the management area, the suitable habitat decreased. Landscape indexes showed that habitat quality decreased with management area expansion, but patch fragmentation was not aggravated. The expansion of the management area increased the range of human disturbance and had a negative impact on habitat area and quality, which adversely affected the environmental suitability for roe deer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Sustainability and Applications)

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23 pages, 649 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Practitioners Recycling Attitude and Behaviour in the Australian Construction Industry

by Vivian W. Y. Tam^1,2,*

, Khoa N. Le¹, J. Y. Wang² and I. M. Chethana S. Illankoon¹

¹ School of Computing, Engineering and Mathematics, Western Sydney University, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, NSW 2751, Australia

² College of Civil Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1212; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041212 - 17 Apr 2018

Cited by 37 | Viewed by 6585

Abstract

Construction waste management and recycling is widely discussed. However, at present there is still a significant amount of waste generated during the construction process. Considering this fact, this research aims to analyse the recycling attitudes and behaviours in the Australian construction industry. This [...] Read more.

Construction waste management and recycling is widely discussed. However, at present there is still a significant amount of waste generated during the construction process. Considering this fact, this research aims to analyse the recycling attitudes and behaviours in the Australian construction industry. This paper investigates attitudes and behaviour towards recycling habits in construction; understands how recycling is viewed and carried out by practitioners in the industry; explains the causes of these states of mind; and formulates techniques that could be utilized to improve waste management and recycling acceptance within the industry and improve its effectiveness. Initially, the required data was collected through a questionnaire survey. Afterwards, a statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS software. It was found that the practitioners’ attitude towards recycling habits are positive; however, their behaviour is not as strong as it should be. This means that the industry is aware and concerned about recycling in construction and willing to improve the environment by developing recycling habits. Recommendations to improve attitudes and behaviour towards recycling habits are also suggested, such as legislation and market driven developments, improvements of waste management methods, provisions in work method statements, sharing research and applications in sub-industries and developing communication. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Engineering and Science)

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18 pages, 29678 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Study on the Development and Application of Spatial-TDR Sensor for the Management of Groundwater at Riverside

by Mincheol Park

Kumoh National Institute of Technology, Gumi-si 39177, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1213; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041213 - 17 Apr 2018

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3298

Abstract

For sustainable use of water and land, efficient management of river water and groundwater at riverside is required for development. For this purpose, both the groundwater as well as the unsaturated areas should be measured and managed. However, existing point-type sensors have physical [...] Read more.

For sustainable use of water and land, efficient management of river water and groundwater at riverside is required for development. For this purpose, both the groundwater as well as the unsaturated areas should be measured and managed. However, existing point-type sensors have physical limitations. In this study, we developed a spatial-TDR (Time-Domain reflectometer) sensor and calibration algorithm for efficient management of riverside groundwater and conducted laboratory and field experiments on whether groundwater level and the unsaturated area can be measured. The rod-type probe shown in ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) D 6780-05 was modified into a steel wire-type sensing line so that it could be penetrated into the boring hole. The developed sensing line with steel wire is superior in transport and construction to make observations on the groundwater level, but it requires a separate filtering and calibration procedure because it contains a relatively large amount of noise. The raw data of the electric waveform is filtered by applying the moving-average method and the discrete Fourier transform (DFT). The calibration equation for the voltage of electric pulse and degree of saturation of soil calculated in laboratory experiments can be used to calculate the groundwater level and the unsaturated area of the real embankment. The spatial-TDR sensor developed in this study can measure both the groundwater level and the unsaturated area by improving the physical limit of the existing point-TDR sensor of probe-type. Therefore, it can greatly help efficient management of groundwater at riverside. It is necessary to put them into practical use through continuous improvement and experimental verification. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Water Management)

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18 pages, 291 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Agroecology in Europe: Research, Education, Collective Action Networks, and Alternative Food Systems

by Alexander Wezel^*

, Julia Goette, Elisabeth Lagneaux, Gloria Passuello, Erica Reisman, Christophe Rodier and Grégoire Turpin

ISARA Lyon, Department of Agroecology and Environment, 23 rue Jean Baldassini, 69364 Lyon, France

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1214; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041214 - 17 Apr 2018

Cited by 76 | Viewed by 13522

Abstract

Agroecology is considered with different focus and weight in different parts of the world as a social and political movement, as science, and as practice. Despite its multitude of definitions, agroecology has begun in Europe to develop in different regional, national and continental [...] Read more.

Agroecology is considered with different focus and weight in different parts of the world as a social and political movement, as science, and as practice. Despite its multitude of definitions, agroecology has begun in Europe to develop in different regional, national and continental networks of researchers, practitioners, advocates and movements. However, there is a lack of a comprehensive overview about these different developments and networks. Therefore, this paper attempts to document and provide a mapping of the development of European agroecology in its diverse forms. Through a literature review, interviews, active conference participation, and an extensive internet search we have collected information about the current state and development of agroecology in Europe. Agroecological research and higher education exist more in western and northern Europe, but farm schools and farmer-to-farmer training are also present in other regions. Today a large variety of topics are studied at research institutions. There is an increasing number of bottom-up agroecological initiatives and national or continental networks and movements. Important movements are around food sovereignty, access to land and seeds. Except for France, there are very few concrete policies for agroecology in Europe. Agroecology is increasingly linked to different fields of agri-food systems. This includes Community Supported Agriculture systems, but also agroecological territories, and some examples of labelling products. To amplify agroecology in Europe in the coming years, policy development will be crucial and proponents of agroecology must join forces and work hand-in-hand with the many stakeholders engaged in initiatives to develop more sustainable agriculture and food systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mapping Agroecology in Europe. New Developments and Applications)

15 pages, 23625 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of ERV Filter Degradation on Indoor CO₂ Levels of a Classroom

by Jae-Sol Choi¹, Jae-Hyuk Lee² and Eui-Jong Kim^1,*

¹ Department of Architectural Engineering, Inha University, Incheon 22212, Korea

² Air Solution B2B Sales Engineering Team, LG Electronics, Seoul 07336, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1215; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041215 - 17 Apr 2018

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4576

Abstract

Energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) are widely used to reduce energy losses caused by ventilation and improve indoor air quality for recently-constructed buildings. It is important for spaces with high occupancy density and longer residence times, such as classrooms. In classrooms, the ERV size [...] Read more.

Energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) are widely used to reduce energy losses caused by ventilation and improve indoor air quality for recently-constructed buildings. It is important for spaces with high occupancy density and longer residence times, such as classrooms. In classrooms, the ERV size is typically estimated by the target number of students in the design phase, but the design air volume flow rates (m³/h) of the ERV can decrease over time owing to filter degradation such as increased dust loading. In this study, field tests are conducted in a classroom to investigate filter degradation through a visual inspection and by measuring the air volume flow rates at the diffusers connected to the ERV. In addition, variations in carbon dioxide (CO₂) concentrations are also measured to verify the effects of filter degradation on the indoor CO₂ levels over the entire test period, which includes filter replacement, as well. As the tests are conducted during classes, several adjusting methodologies are proposed to match the different test conditions. The results show that the total air volume flow rate of the ERV increases after the filter replacement (546 to 766 m³/h), but it again decreases as time elapses (659 m³/h). Accordingly, the indoor CO₂ concentration decreases after the filter replacement by more than 300 ppm (1404 to 1085 ppm), clearly showing the effect of filter degradation. However, this CO₂ concentration remains similar for four months after the replacement, and the total air volume rate decreases again. An interpretation is made using computational fluid dynamics analysis that the measured CO₂ concentrations are affected by airflow patterns. The airflow in the cooling system may dilute CO₂ concentrations at the measuring location. Thus, periodic filter replacement and management are important to ensure the desired ERV air volume rates and consequently the desired indoor CO₂ concentrations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Engineering and Science)

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21 pages, 1091 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Energy and Exergy Analyses of Different Aluminum Reduction Technologies

by Mazin Obaidat¹, Ahmed Al-Ghandoor¹, Patrick Phelan², Rene Villalobos² and Ammar Alkhalidi^3,*

¹ Department of Industrial Engineering, The Hashemite University, Az-Zarqa 13133, Jordan

² Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA

³ Energy Engineering Department, German Jordanian University, Amman 11180, Jordan

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1216; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041216 - 17 Apr 2018

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 9025

Abstract

This paper examines and compares different aluminum reduction technologies found in the literature as alternatives to the current Hall–Heroult technology. The main inefficiencies in the current Hall–Heroult technology were identified and the advantages of the different proposed technologies over the Hall–Heroult technology were [...] Read more.

This paper examines and compares different aluminum reduction technologies found in the literature as alternatives to the current Hall–Heroult technology. The main inefficiencies in the current Hall–Heroult technology were identified and the advantages of the different proposed technologies over the Hall–Heroult technology were determined. The comparison between the different technologies, namely Hall–Heroult, wetted drained cathode, inert anode, and carbothermic, was based on energy and material requirements, and environmental impact. In order to combine all of the evaluation criteria into one numerical value, the exergy concept was utilized as a decision tool. The results emphasize that in order to analyze any conversion system, the exergy of energy, material, environmental impact, and their associated chain production should be taken into consideration. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Energy Sustainability)

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14 pages, 35950 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Potentials of ICT Tools for Human-Centric Regenerative Design

by Giulia Sonetti^1,*

, Emanuele Naboni² and Martin Brown³

¹ Interuniversity Department of Regional & Urban Studies and Planning, Politecnico di Torino and Università di Torino, 10124 Turin, Italy

² Institute of Architecture and Technology, School of Architecture, Design and Conservation, Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts, 1435 Copenhagen, Denmark

³ Fairsnape, Lancashire, Preston PR3 2LE, UK

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1217; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041217 - 17 Apr 2018

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 7142

Abstract

Aiming for sustainable buildings and cities is critical to achieving a future that is socially just, ecologically regenerative, culturally rich, and economically viable. However, our current concepts of sustainability often exclude the essential domains of data, information, and the knowledge relating to the [...] Read more.

Aiming for sustainable buildings and cities is critical to achieving a future that is socially just, ecologically regenerative, culturally rich, and economically viable. However, our current concepts of sustainability often exclude the essential domains of data, information, and the knowledge relating to the relationship between buildings and people that inhabit them. Thus, the research questions at the core of this paper have been as follows: Can technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) be used to create systems that enhance relationships between buildings and inhabitants? Can social networks and natural interactions support further research relating to human-centric design tools for the built environment? The Human Observation Meta-Environment (HOME) project was developed to address this question. The ICT architecture has been tested to observe and collect human behaviour data within a sentient room at the Politecnico di Torino (IT), where the inhabitants were strategically aware of their behaviours. Methods of analysis included technologies related to the domain of AI (such as Natural Language Analysis, Computer Vision, Machine Learning and Deep Learning) that have been used in social network analysis in connection with the word ‘comfort’, and definitions resonate strongly with the realm of regenerative design. Results were used to further research the role of users that could serve as leverages to design (both spaces and related smart systems) according to actual user needs. People from very different disciplinary backgrounds interacted with the prototype in a workshop and provided stimuli for further considerations regarding the possible technological, psychological, cognitive, cultural, social, political, and aesthetical impacts of the use of these technologies inside sentient buildings. The paper enriches the discourse on how ICT data can be organised and read in a human-centric regenerative design process perspective. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Transition towards Low-Impact and Regenerative Human Settlements)

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13 pages, 12879 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exceptional Drought and Unconventional Energy Production

by Reid B. Stevens^1,* and Gregory L. Torell^1,2

¹ Department of Agriculture Economics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA

² Texas A&M AgriLife Research Center, El Paso, TX 79927, USA

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1218; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041218 - 17 Apr 2018

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3358

Abstract

The hydraulic fracturing boom in Texas required massive water flows. Beginning in the summer of 2011, water became scarce as a prolonged heat wave and subsequent severe drought spread across the state. Oil and gas producers working in drought areas needed to purchase [...] Read more.

The hydraulic fracturing boom in Texas required massive water flows. Beginning in the summer of 2011, water became scarce as a prolonged heat wave and subsequent severe drought spread across the state. Oil and gas producers working in drought areas needed to purchase expensive local water or transport water from a non-drought county far from the drill site. In response to decreased water availability in drought areas, these producers completed fewer wells and completed wells that used less water. This decrease in well-level water use had a measurable effect on the amount of oil and gas produced by wells completed during exceptional conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Energy Sustainability)

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20 pages, 1338 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Inward Greenfield FDI and Patterns of Job Polarization

by Sara Amoroso^* and Pietro Moncada-Paternò-Castello

European Commission, Joint Research Centre, 41092 Seville, Spain

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1219; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041219 - 17 Apr 2018

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 5941

Abstract

The unprecedented growth in foreign direct investment in the last few decades has caused drastic changes in the labor markets of the host countries. The major part of FDI takes place in low-tech industries, where the wages and skills are low, or in [...] Read more.

The unprecedented growth in foreign direct investment in the last few decades has caused drastic changes in the labor markets of the host countries. The major part of FDI takes place in low-tech industries, where the wages and skills are low, or in high-tech, where they offer a wage premium for the highly skilled workers. This mechanism may increase the polarization of employment into high-wage and low-wage jobs, at the expense of middle-skill jobs. This paper looks at the effects of two types of FDI inflows, namely foreign investment in high-skill and low-skill activities, on job polarization. We match data on greenfield FDI aggregated by country and sector with data on employment by occupational skill to investigate the extent to which different types of greenfield FDI are responsible for skill polarization. Our results show that low-skill foreign investment shifts employment from high- to medium- and low-skill jobs, while skill-intensive FDI generally leads to skill upgrading. Only FDI in information and communication technology (ICT) is associated with job polarization, but only when accounting for the plurality of job polarization patterns across European sectors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of Technological Change on Employment, Skills and Earnings)

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17 pages, 22664 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Determination of Initial Stiffness of Timber–Steel Composite (TSC) Beams Based on Experiment and Simulation Modeling

by Meng-Ting Tsai^* and Truong Di Ha Le

Department of Architecture, National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Taipei 10607, Taiwan

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1220; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041220 - 17 Apr 2018

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 16711

Abstract

Due to improvements in the use of recyclable materials in construction, timber–steel composite (TSC) beams demonstrate high potential for future construction. In this study, a proposed simulation modeling, which was adopted from the simulation modeling of a timber I-shape composite, was applied to [...] Read more.

Due to improvements in the use of recyclable materials in construction, timber–steel composite (TSC) beams demonstrate high potential for future construction. In this study, a proposed simulation modeling, which was adopted from the simulation modeling of a timber I-shape composite, was applied to estimate the initial stiffness of TSC beams. The strength of each beam could be determined once the initial stiffness was estimated. In addition, a series of experiments were performed to examine the accuracy of the proposed simulation modeling, including the effects of different shapes of steel members, fasteners, and applying and not applying a dowel connection. The results indicated that the simulation modeling could adequately determine strength at a deflection of 1/360 of the span. The ratio of difference between the experimental results and the simulation modeling results was less than 10% if a dowel connection at the web was applied. However, the ratio of difference reached 26% and 24% in the TSC beams without a dowel connection at the web that were fastened with screws and nails at the flange, respectively, revealing the importance of applying a dowel connection at the web. Moreover, the strength of the TSC beams with a dowel connection at the web that were fastened by screws was approximately 15% higher than that of TSC beams without screw fasteners. In conclusion, the proposed simulation modeling can provide designers with a method for estimating the initial stiffness and strength of TSC beams within a deflection of 1/360 of the span, supporting the future application of TSC beams in construction. Full article

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16 pages, 2082 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Empirical Study of How Traffic Intensity Detector Parameters Influence Dynamic Street Lighting Energy Consumption: A Case Study in Krakow, Poland

by Igor Wojnicki^*

and Leszek Kotulski

Department of Applied Computer Science, AGH University of Science and Technology, Al.Mickiewicza 30, 30-059 Kraków, Poland

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1221; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041221 - 17 Apr 2018

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 4134

Abstract

The deployment of dynamic street lighting, which adjusts lighting levels to fulfill particular needs, leads to energy savings. These savings contribute to the overall lighting infrastructure maintenance cost. Yet another contribution is the cost of traffic intensity data. The data is read directly [...] Read more.

The deployment of dynamic street lighting, which adjusts lighting levels to fulfill particular needs, leads to energy savings. These savings contribute to the overall lighting infrastructure maintenance cost. Yet another contribution is the cost of traffic intensity data. The data is read directly from sensor systems or intelligent transportation systems (ITSs). The more frequent the readings are, the more costly they become, because of hardware capabilities, data transfer and software license costs, among others. The paper investigates a relationship between the frequency of readings, in particular the averaging window size and step, and achieved energy savings. It is based on a simulation, taking into account a representative part of a city and traffic intensity data, which span over a period of one year. While the energy consumption reduction is simulated, all data, including each luminaire power setting, induction loop locations and street characteristics, come from a representative sample of the city of Krakow, Poland. Controlling the power settings complies with the lighting standard CEN/TR 13201. Analysis of the outcomes indicates that the shorter the window size or step are, the more energy saving that is available. In particular, for the previous standard CEN/TR 13201 2004, having the window size and step at 15 min results in 26.75% of energy saving, while reducing these values to 6 min provides 27%. Savings are more profound for the current standard (CEN/TR 13201 2014), assuming a 15 min size and step results in 47.43%, while having a 6 min size and step provides 47.69%. The results can serve as a guideline for identifying the economic viability of dynamic lighting control systems. Additionally, it can be observed that the current lighting standard provides far greater potential for dynamic control then the previous standard. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Urban and Rural Development)

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26 pages, 6214 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Investigating Stakeholder Perceptions of Fish Decline: Making Sense of Multiple Mental Models

by Jeremy Horowitz^1,*

, Robert L. Pressey¹, Georgina G. Gurney¹

, Amelia S. Wenger^1,2 and Kristina A. Pahang³

¹ Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia

² School of Earth and Environmental Science, University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia

³ College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4811, Australia

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1222; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041222 - 17 Apr 2018

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 5613

Abstract

Stakeholders have different educational backgrounds, personal experiences and priorities that contribute to different perceptions about what causes natural resource decline and how to sustain a resource. Yet stakeholders have a common interest, which is to keep the resource of interest from declining. Effective [...] Read more.

Stakeholders have different educational backgrounds, personal experiences and priorities that contribute to different perceptions about what causes natural resource decline and how to sustain a resource. Yet stakeholders have a common interest, which is to keep the resource of interest from declining. Effective co-management requires sharing of perceptions pertaining to the sustainability of a resource and making decisions that benefit all stakeholders. Therefore, this study used modified causal networks, referred to here as mental models, to elicit and compare stakeholder perceptions about fish decline in the Danajon Bank, Philippines. Perceptions were elicited from three types of stakeholders, each composed of two or three elicitation groups: fishers, local government and environmental organizations. Data were also elicited through semi-structured discussions to investigate why perceptions differed and how stakeholders communicated with one another. Hierarchical clustering revealed two broad clusters of similar perceptions about drivers of fish decline: one being environmental groups and the second being local government and fisher groups. Stakeholder communication patterns revealed that communication was weakest between environmental groups and fishers. A likely contributing factor for the lack of shared perceptions was that knowledge-sharing was constrained by the small number of environmental personnel available to exchange information effectively with the much larger number of fishers and local government personnel. To better co-manage fish populations in Danajon Bank, we suggest modifications to the governance framework to improve knowledge-sharing and social and ecological outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Social Ecology and Sustainability)

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15 pages, 9747 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Toward a Stakeholder Perspective on Social Stability Risk of Large Hydraulic Engineering Projects in China: A Social Network Analysis

by Zhengqi He^1,2, Dechun Huang^1,2, Changzheng Zhang^1,2,* and Junmin Fang^1,2

¹ Department of Finance, Business School of Hohai University, Nanjing 211100, China

² Jiangsu Provincial Collaborative Innovation Center of World Water Valley and Water Ecological Civilization, Nanjing 211100, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1223; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041223 - 17 Apr 2018

Cited by 39 | Viewed by 8459

Abstract

In China, large hydraulic engineering projects have made a great contribution to social economic development; at the same time, they also lead to social risks that affect social stability. The pluralism of stakeholders in large hydraulic engineering projects and the complex interrelationship among [...] Read more.

In China, large hydraulic engineering projects have made a great contribution to social economic development; at the same time, they also lead to social risks that affect social stability. The pluralism of stakeholders in large hydraulic engineering projects and the complex interrelationship among stakeholders are the important factors affecting social stability risk. Previous studies of social stability risk have mainly focused on risk identification and risk assessment, without considering the relationships among stakeholders and their linkages of risks. For large hydraulic engineering projects, this paper investigated the relevant risk factors and their interrelationships through a literature review and interviews that represented stakeholder perspectives. The key social stability risk factors were identified based on social network analysis. A multi-channel project financial system, a perfect interest compensation mechanism, an efficient prevention mechanism of group events, and a complete project schedule control system were proposed to mitigate the social stability risks. This study combined stakeholder management with risk management by using social network analysis, providing reference for the social stability risk management of large engineering projects in China. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Project Management and Sustainable Development)

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27 pages, 25826 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Power Quality and Rooftop-Photovoltaic Households: An Examination of Measured Data at Point of Customer Connection

by Wendy Miller^1,*

, Aaron Liu²

, Zakaria Amin³ and Andreas Wagner⁴

¹ School of Chemistry, Physics and Mechanical Engineering, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia

² School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia

³ Independent Scholar, Brisbane, QLD 4000, Australia

⁴ Faculty of Architecture, Karlsruher Institute of Technology, 76131 Karlsruhe, Germany

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1224; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041224 - 17 Apr 2018

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 11709

Abstract

Photovoltaics (PVs) have been widely reported as causing power quality problems for electricity distribution networks. Much of this literature gives the impression that networks, particularly low voltage networks, were effectively and proficiently managed and operated before the rise of PVs and that this [...] Read more.

Photovoltaics (PVs) have been widely reported as causing power quality problems for electricity distribution networks. Much of this literature gives the impression that networks, particularly low voltage networks, were effectively and proficiently managed and operated before the rise of PVs and that this new technology is causing problems that did not previously exist and would not currently exist if there were no rooftop PV systems. The purpose of this paper is to examine measured data of power quality at the customer service point of four random households in four different distribution networks in Australia. This is the first report of power quality examination from the perspective of the end-user (solar households). The results show that the low voltage distribution networks reported in this study do not have networks that meet required power quality standards—and this cannot be attributed to the rooftop PV systems reported here. The paper proposes that power quality failures in these low voltage networks could be attributed to poor historical management, missed opportunities to embrace PVs as a means of better network management, lack of acknowledgement of the emergence of the prosumer and lack of total quality management and systems thinking. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Sustainable Built Environment)

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24 pages, 85334 KiB

Open AccessArticle

From Julius Caesar to Sustainable Composite Materials: A Passage through Port Caisson Technology

by Eduardo Cejuela^1,*

, Vicente Negro¹, María Dolores Esteban¹, José Santos López-Gutiérrez¹

and José Marcos Ortega²

¹ Department of Civil Engineering: Hydraulics, Energy and Environment, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain

² Departamento de Ingeniería Civil, Universidad de Alicante, Ap. Correos 99, 03080 Alicante, Spain

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1225; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041225 - 17 Apr 2018

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 7554

Abstract

The breakwater construction technique using floating concrete caissons is well-known nowadays as a widespread system. Yet do we really know its origin? Since Julius Caesar used this technology in Brindisi (Italy) up to the Normandy landings in June 1944, not only has this [...] Read more.

The breakwater construction technique using floating concrete caissons is well-known nowadays as a widespread system. Yet do we really know its origin? Since Julius Caesar used this technology in Brindisi (Italy) up to the Normandy landings in June 1944, not only has this technology been developed, but it has been a key item in several moments in history. Its development has almost always been driven by military requirements. The greatest changes have not been conceptual but point occurring, backed by the materials used. Parallelisms can be clearly seen in each new stage: timber, opus caementitium (Roman concrete), iron and concrete… However, nowadays, achieving a more sustainable world constitutes a major challenge, to which the construction of caissons breakwaters must contribute as a field of application of new eco-friendly materials. This research work provides a general overview from the origins of caissons until our time. It will make better known the changes that took place in the system and their adaptation to new materials, and will help in clarifying the future in developing technology towards composite sustainable materials and special concrete. If we understand the past, it will be easier to define the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Cementitious Materials for the Construction Industry)

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22 pages, 864 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Study on Green Supplier Selection in Dynamic Environment

by Wei Song¹, Zhiya Chen², Aijun Liu^1,3,*, Qiuyun Zhu¹, Wei Zhao¹, Sang-Bing Tsai^4,5,6,*

and Hui Lu⁷

¹ School of Economics and Management, Xidian University, No. 2 Taibai South Street, Xi’an 710071, China

² School of Traffic and Transportation Engineering, Central South University, No. 932, Lushan South Road, Changsha 410083, China

³ State Key Laboratory for Manufacturing Systems Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, China

⁴ Zhongshan Institute, University of Electronic Science and Technology, Zhongshan 528400, China

⁵ Economics and Management College, Civil Aviation University of China, Tianjin 300300, China

⁶ Business and Law School, Foshan University, Foshan 528000, China

⁷ Tianhua College, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai 201815, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1226; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041226 - 17 Apr 2018

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 4084

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to provide a method for selecting a green supplier in a dynamic environment, while considering the psychological behavior and the time factors of the decision maker from the manufacturer’s perspective. The supply selection method that is based [...] Read more.

The aim of this paper is to provide a method for selecting a green supplier in a dynamic environment, while considering the psychological behavior and the time factors of the decision maker from the manufacturer’s perspective. The supply selection method that is based on the Third Generation Prospect Theory (PT3) is proposed and an optimal ordinal number is obtained. First, the green supplier selection index system is established. Then, the indicators that are given by the manufacturer are used as reference points, and the income and loss matrices are established by calculating the gains and losses of the index values in the interval number relative to the reference points. Next, considering the time factor and calculating the variable weight based on the Gray correlation coefficient method and the time weight of the penalty mechanism method, the suppliers are chosen based on the comprehensive prospect value. Finally, the validity and the feasibility of the method are proven through a case analysis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue How does Outsourcing Affect the Economy and its Sustainability?)

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25 pages, 2110 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Supply Chain Coordination Mechanism with Cost Sharing of Corporate Social Responsibility

by Yong Liu^*, Bing-ting Quan^*, Jiao Li and Jeffrey Yi-Lin Forrest

School of Business, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1227; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041227 - 17 Apr 2018

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 4542

Abstract

The competition of modern enterprises has shifted from brand competition among enterprises of the past to that of supply chains; and considering corporate social responsibility (CSR) within supply chain management has become an inevitable requirement for improving the competitiveness of enterprises and conforms [...] Read more.

The competition of modern enterprises has shifted from brand competition among enterprises of the past to that of supply chains; and considering corporate social responsibility (CSR) within supply chain management has become an inevitable requirement for improving the competitiveness of enterprises and conforms to the trend of standardization of social responsibility guidelines. This paper deals with channel coordination and decision-making in a CSR supply chain that is comprised of a dominant retailer and n homogeneous suppliers. The Stackelberg game is employed to analyze the optimal decision-making of this supply chain under either decentralized or centralized decision-making processes. After that, the thought and method of super conflict equilibrium are used to design the coordination decision-making mechanism of this supply chain based on the cost sharing of CSR to solve channel conflict and to optimize the decision. The results show that the proposed mechanism based on the cost sharing of CSR is better than those with only either the retailer or the suppliers being CSR; and it can well describe the relationship between the retailer and the suppliers, and increase the eagerness of the retailer and suppliers to carry out their CSR under various circumstances without having the profits adversely affected. As a matter of fact, this mechanism maximizes the profits of the entire supply chain system and also enhances the competitiveness of the chain. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Transition from China-Made to China-Innovation )

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29 pages, 6546 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Towards Comprehensive Policy Integration for the Sustainability of Small Islands: A Landscape-Scale Planning Approach for the Galápagos Islands

by Andrés Pazmiño^1,*, Silvia Serrao-Neumann^1,2 and Darryl Low Choy¹

¹ Cities Research Institute, Griffith University, Brisbane 4111, Australia

² Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, The University of Waikato, Hamilton 3216, New Zealand

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1228; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041228 - 17 Apr 2018

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 5492

Abstract

Accomplishing and implementing sustainable development goals in the context of insular socio-ecological systems requires effective policy integration—i.e., the integration of policy actors across multiple sectors and levels of government to improve policy outcomes. However, achieving policy integration entails significant challenges because it is [...] Read more.

Accomplishing and implementing sustainable development goals in the context of insular socio-ecological systems requires effective policy integration—i.e., the integration of policy actors across multiple sectors and levels of government to improve policy outcomes. However, achieving policy integration entails significant challenges because it is highly context-dependent. This study investigates policy integration within the complex socio-ecological context of the Galápagos Islands in Ecuador. The paper analyses Galápagos legal and planning documents to evaluate the extent to which they support comprehensive policy integration. The analysis found that recently adopted institutional arrangements have strengthened government institutions at the provincial level, and started to consider concepts relating to socio-ecological and land–sea management. Nevertheless, key policy actors and pressing issues remain unattended, due to policy inconsistencies, institutional arrangements limitations, and fragmented approaches to conservation and development control between provincial and local governments. Insights are presented to improve the comprehensiveness of policy integration in Galápagos based on a landscape-scale planning approach. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Urban and Rural Development)

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28 pages, 522 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Inter-Basin Water Transfer Green Supply Chain Equilibrium and Coordination under Social Welfare Maximization

by Zhisong Chen¹

and Lingling Pei^2,*

¹ Business School, Nanjing Normal University, Qixia District, Nanjing 210023, China

² School of Business Administration, Zhejiang University of Finance and Economics, Hangzhou 310018, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1229; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041229 - 17 Apr 2018

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3896

Abstract

The inter-basin water transfer (IBWT) projects have quasi-public-welfare characteristics, whose operations should take into account the water green level (WGL) and social welfare maximization (SWM). This paper explores the interactions between multiple stakeholders of an IBWT green supply chain through the game-theoretic and [...] Read more.

The inter-basin water transfer (IBWT) projects have quasi-public-welfare characteristics, whose operations should take into account the water green level (WGL) and social welfare maximization (SWM). This paper explores the interactions between multiple stakeholders of an IBWT green supply chain through the game-theoretic and coordination research approaches considering the government’s subsidy to the WGL improvement under the SWM. The study and its findings complement the IBWT literature in the area of the green supply chain and social welfare maximization modeling. The analytical modeling results with and without considering the SWM are compared. A numerical analysis for a hypothetical IBWT green supply chain is conducted to draw strategic insights from this study. The research results indicate that (1) If the SWM is not considered, coordination strategy could effectively improve the operations performances of the IBWT supply chain and its members, the consumers’ surplus, and the social welfare when compared with the equilibrium strategy; (2) If the SWM is considered, the IBWT green supply chain and its members have a strong intention to adopt the equilibrium strategy to gain more profits, while the government has a strong intention to encourage the IBWT green supply chain and its members to adopt the coordination strategy to maximize social welfare with a smaller public subsidy; (3) The government’s subsidy policy should be designed and provided to encourage the IBWT green supply chain and its members to improve WGL and pursue the SWM, and a subsidy threshold policy can be designed to maximize social welfare with a lower subsidy budget: only when the IBWT green supply chain and its members adopt the coordination strategy can they get a subsidy from the government. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Conflict Analysis and Sustainable Management of Water Resources)

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22 pages, 6445 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Transport Choice Modeling for the Evaluation of New Transport Policies

by Ander Pijoan^1,2,*

, Oihane Kamara-Esteban^1,2, Ainhoa Alonso-Vicario^1,2 and Cruz E. Borges^1,2

¹ DeustoTech-Fundación Deusto, Avda. Universidades, 24, 48007 Bilbao, Spain

² Facultad Ingeniería, Universidad de Deusto, Avda. Universidades, 24, 48007 Bilbao, Spain

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1230; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041230 - 17 Apr 2018

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 4962

Abstract

Quantifying the impact of the application of sustainable transport policies is essential in order to mitigate effects of greenhouse gas emissions produced by the transport sector. One of the most common approaches used for this purpose is that of traffic modelling and simulation, [...] Read more.

Quantifying the impact of the application of sustainable transport policies is essential in order to mitigate effects of greenhouse gas emissions produced by the transport sector. One of the most common approaches used for this purpose is that of traffic modelling and simulation, which consists of emulating the operation of an entire road network. This article presents the results of fitting 8 well known data science methods for transport choice modelling, the area in which more research is needed. The models have been trained with information from Biscay province in Spain in order to match as many of its commuters as possible. Results show that the best models correctly forecast more than 51% of the trips recorded. Finally, the results have been validated with a second data set from the Silesian Voivodeship in Poland, showing that all models indeed maintain their forecasting ability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Transportation)

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10 pages, 28954 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Rainfall Runoff Mitigation by Retrofitted Permeable Pavement in an Urban Area

by Muhammad Shafique^1,2

, Reeho Kim^1,2,* and Kwon Kyung-Ho³

¹ Department of Smart City and Construction Engineering, Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology, University of Science and Technology (UST), 217, Gajeong-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon 34113, Korea

² Environmental & Plant Engineering Research Institute, Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology, 83, Goyangdae-ro, Ilsanseo-gu, Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do 10223, Korea

³ Urban Water Cycle Research Center, Korea Institute of Safe Drinking Water Research, Anyang si, Gyeonggi-do 14059, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1231; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041231 - 18 Apr 2018

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 9639

Abstract

Permeable pavement is an effective low impact development (LID) practice that can play an important role in reducing rainfall runoff amount in urban areas. Permeable interlocking concrete pavement (PICP) was retrofitted in a tremendously developed area of Seoul, Korea and the data was [...] Read more.

Permeable pavement is an effective low impact development (LID) practice that can play an important role in reducing rainfall runoff amount in urban areas. Permeable interlocking concrete pavement (PICP) was retrofitted in a tremendously developed area of Seoul, Korea and the data was monitored to evaluate its effect on the hydrology and stormwater quality performance for four months. Rainfall runoff was first absorbed by different layers of the PICP system and then contributed to the sewage system. This not only helps to reduce the runoff volume, but also increase the time of concentration. In this experiment, different real rain events were observed and the field results were investigated to check the effectiveness of the PICP system for controlling the rainfall runoff in Songpa, Korea. From the analysis of data, results showed that the PCIP system was very effective in controlling rainfall runoff. Overall runoff reduction performance from the PCIP was found to be around 30–65% during various storm events. In addition, PICP significantly reduced peak flows in different storm events which is very helpful in reducing the chances of water-logging in an urbanized area. Research results also allow us to sum up that retrofitted PICP is a very effective approach for rainfall runoff management in urban areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Stormwater Infrastructure for Sustainable Urban and Rural Development)

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19 pages, 18688 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Multilevel Analysis of International Scientific Collaboration Network in the Influenza Virus Vaccine Field: 2006–2013

by Yun Liu¹, Yijie Cheng², Zhe Yan² and Xuanting Ye^2,3,*

¹ School of Public Policy and Management, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China

² School of Management and Economics, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China

³ Sustainable Development Research Institute for Economy and Society of Beijing, Beijing 100081, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1232; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041232 - 18 Apr 2018

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4455

Abstract

Influenza virus vaccine plays an important role in preventing influenza and protecting people’s health. The international collaboration in influenza virus vaccine field is related to the sustainability of healthcare. To understand the elaborate characteristics of multiform international collaboration in the influenza virus vaccine [...] Read more.

Influenza virus vaccine plays an important role in preventing influenza and protecting people’s health. The international collaboration in influenza virus vaccine field is related to the sustainability of healthcare. To understand the elaborate characteristics of multiform international collaboration in the influenza virus vaccine field, this paper constructs a multilayered analytical framework (at the country, city and institution levels) of international scientific collaboration to examine the regional distribution, dynamic changes and common themes of collaboration. A total of 1878 international collaboration papers of the influenza virus vaccine field published from 2006 to 2013 were collected from the Web of Science database. Based on this dataset, the paper utilizes bibliometrics and social network analysis approaches to explore international publication trends and collaboration performance in the influenza virus vaccine field. Results show that: (1) the three kinds of collaboration networks (country, city and institution levels) all present dynamic structures, strong core-periphery characteristics, and their degree centrality distributions follows segmented Zifp-Pareto distribution; and (2) although it is known that there exist corresponding relationships among countries, cities and institutions in the geographical position, most of their associated categories, network locations and changing trends are all non-conformal. These findings suggest that multilayered analysis enables a more comprehensive understanding of international scientific collaboration in the influenza virus vaccine field. In general, detailed conclusions can help different levels of governments to draw policy implications for promoting further international collaboration research to enhance the ability on preventing the disease. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability for Healthcare)

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14 pages, 11204 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Overview of Problems and Solutions for Urban Freight Transport in Brazilian Cities

by Leise K. Oliveira^1,*

, Betty Barraza², Bruno V. Bertocini³

, Cassiano A. Isler⁴

, Dannúbia R. Pires⁵, Ellen C. N. Madalon¹, Jéssica Lima⁶, José G. V. Vieira⁷

, Leonardo H. Meira⁵

, Lilian S. F. P. Bracarense², Renata A. Bandeira⁸, Renata L. M. Oliveira⁹

and Suellem Ferreira⁹

¹ Department of Transportation and Geotechnical Engineering, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 31270-901, Brazil

² Civil Engineering Course, Federal University of Tocantins, Palmas 77001-090, Brazil

³ Department of Transport Engineering, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60440-554, Brazil

⁴ Mobility Engineering Department, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Joinville 89219-600, Brazil

⁵ Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife 50740-550, Brazil

⁶ Department of Civil Engineering, Federal University of Alagoas, Maceió 57010-100, Brazil

⁷ Department of Production Engineering, Federal University of São Carlos, Sorocaba 18052-780, Brazil

⁸ Postgraduate Program in Transport Engineering, Military Institute of Engineering, Rio de Janeiro 22290-900, Brazil

⁹ Departament of Transportation Engineering, Federal Center for Technological Education of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte 30360-560, Brazil

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1233; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041233 - 18 Apr 2018

Cited by 46 | Viewed by 5782

Abstract

Urban freight transport is a challenge for Brazilian cities due to the lack of adequate planning for freight flow movement. Public managers also show negligence and a lack of awareness when dealing with urban logistics. Decision-support data on urban freight transport are still [...] Read more.

Urban freight transport is a challenge for Brazilian cities due to the lack of adequate planning for freight flow movement. Public managers also show negligence and a lack of awareness when dealing with urban logistics. Decision-support data on urban freight transport are still scarce, despite being of fundamental value to economic development. With this in mind, this paper presents problems and solutions regarding urban freight transport in Brazilian cities. Data were obtained through a survey conducted in nine cities and analysed by means of descriptive statistics and the successive intervals method. Additionally, a cluster analysis was performed to identify patterns regarding the typical characteristics of each city in order to compare and generalise the perception of retailers regarding problems and solutions at the national level. The results indicate divergent opinions among retailers from different cities, even from cities with similar socioeconomic profiles and urban dynamics. The municipalities which demonstrated the most similarities were (i) Betim and Niteroi, in the Southeast of Brazil; (ii) Palmas and Quixada, in the North and Northeast, respectively; and (iii) Palmas and Caruaru, also in the North and Northeast. The results reinforce the importance of studying the local context and involving stakeholders in the process of planning urban logistics solutions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Operationalizing the Circular City Model for Metropolitan and Port Cities Regeneration: Multiple Approaches, Tools and Evaluations)

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16 pages, 8417 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Concerns and Opportunities around Cultural Heritage in East Asian Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS)

by Hiroyuki Kajihara¹, Su Zhang^2,*, Wonhee You³ and Qingwen Min^2,*

¹ Mount Aso Ecomusée, Kumamoto 8691505, Japan

² Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China

³ Research Institute for Regional Government and Economy, Jeju 63139, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1235; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041235 - 18 Apr 2018

Cited by 42 | Viewed by 7238

Abstract

Fifteen years have passed since Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) launched the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) project in 2002. In this time, participation from East Asian countries has been increasing rapidly with interest flowing over into several related subjects and disciplines. [...] Read more.

Fifteen years have passed since Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) launched the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) project in 2002. In this time, participation from East Asian countries has been increasing rapidly with interest flowing over into several related subjects and disciplines. Culture is one of the selection criteria that has to be satisfied to become a GIAHS site, and equally culture plays an important role in the development of tourism to a destination. However, few scientists or GIAHS members have discussed directly how to apply cultural features in GIAHS. Therefore, the purposes of this paper are firstly to recognize the importance and contribution of culture in GIAHS. Then, through detailing the current forms of cultural management in the GIAHS located in Japan, Korea, and China, we identify some of the key cultural problems and prospects in those sites. Two social surveys conducted in Japan show that culture is a prime motivation for tourist visitation, as well as being a core GIAHS selection criteria. These surveys further highlight that GIAHS needs to incorporate culture more effectively into their management strategies. Detailed descriptions of the three countries analyzed in this paper outline each has to engage with particular cultural management challenges: Japan has a well-arranged list of cultural assets, but is unclear how to move forward with that information and data. Korea has just begun to generate a strategy on how to manage cultural heritage features in GIAHS with the use of approaches such as Agrostories or Gil tourism, in recognition of the gradual changes that are occurring in local identity. China has the longest history of engagement with GIAHS in the East Asia region. However, the utilization of the model here has recognized further issues of change in cultural identity not least through commercialization. This paper therefore identifies, discusses and arranges eight problems and prospects for collaborative research on aspects of cultural management amongst the GIAHS in East Asia. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Promoting the Sustainability of Agricultural Heritage Systems through Dynamic Conservation)

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21 pages, 6924 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spatiotemporal Patterns of Extreme Temperature across the Huai River Basin, China, during 1961–2014, and Regional Responses to Global Changes

by Peng Sun^1,2,3

, Qiang Zhang^2,4,5,*, Rui Yao^1,3, Vijay P Singh⁶ and Changqing Song^2,4,5,*

¹ College of Geography and Tourism, Anhui Normal University, Anhui 241002, China

² Key Laboratory of Environmental Change and Natural Disaster, Ministry of Education, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China

³ Anhui Key Laboratory of Natural Disaster Process and Prevention, Wuhu 241002, China

⁴ Faculty of Geographical Science, Academy of Disaster Reduction and Emergency Management, Ministry of Education/Ministry of Civil Affairs, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China

⁵ State Key Laboratory of Earth Surface Processes and Resource Ecology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China

⁶ Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering and Zachry Department of Civil Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1236; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041236 - 18 Apr 2018

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3729

Abstract

Global warming and its relevant effects have aroused increasing human concerns in recent decades. These anomalies are likely influencing vegetation dynamics and ecosystem stability. This paper aims to dissect extreme temperature variations in both space and time, and related regional responses to global [...] Read more.

Global warming and its relevant effects have aroused increasing human concerns in recent decades. These anomalies are likely influencing vegetation dynamics and ecosystem stability. This paper aims to dissect extreme temperature variations in both space and time, and related regional responses to global warming in the Huai River Basin. Using the daily maximum and minimum air temperature at 153 stations across the Huai River Basin, China, covering the period of 1961–2014, trends and relations amongst extreme air temperature indices were analyzed, and regional responses of the Huai River Basin to global warming process were also investigated. The results indicated that: (1) widespread increasing trends can be observed in maximum and minimum air temperature, with the largest increasing magnitude of 0.4 °C per decade and 1.3 °C per decade, respectively. The minimum air temperature regimes have a larger increasing magnitude than the maximum air temperatures. (2) There is an increasing trend in the extreme maximum temperature indices, and the increasing rates of TN90p and TR20 are greater than those of the other extreme maximum temperature indices. However, the extreme minimum temperature indices, except for consecutive icy days (CID), show significant decreasing trends. The growing season length (GSL) would increase due to the joint action of (i) an increase in maximum temperature indices, and (ii) a decrease in minimum temperatures indices. Although increases in the GSL would be beneficial for increasing the growing time of crops, a decreased extreme minimum temperature and increased extreme maximum temperature may reduce the winter wheat yield. (3) Extreme low temperature indices show a larger changing magnitude than the extreme high temperature indices. Temporally, a larger changing magnitude can be identified for temperature indices during night-time than during daytime. Moreover, a larger changing magnitude and higher significance of trends of extreme temperature indices can be observed in the eastern Huai River Basin than in the western Huai River Basin. Particularly, we detect an even higher changing rate of extreme temperature indices in the southeastern Huai River Basin. These findings can be well explained by urban heat island effects resulting from urban aggregation across the Yangtze Delta. (4) The correlation between the extreme low temperature indices is slightly higher than that of the extreme high temperature indices. The changing trends of the most extreme temperature indices are closely related to latitude and altitude. Trends in the main extreme temperature indices of the Huai River Basin are essentially similar to those in other regions around the world, implying consistent spatial patterns of extreme temperature indices across the globe. Full article

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20 pages, 16219 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Proposed Analytic Framework for Student Relationship Management based on a Systematic Review of CRM Systems Literature

by Hamed Gholami^1,*

, Muhamad Zameri Mat Saman¹, Abbas Mardani², Dalia Streimikiene^3,*

, Safian Sharif¹ and Norhayati Zakuan²

¹ Department of Manufacturing & Industrial Engineering, Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), Johor 81310, Malaysia

² Faculty of Management, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), Johor 81310, Malaysia

³ Kaunas Faculty, Vilnius University, Muitines 8, LT-44280 Kaunas, Lithuania

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1237; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041237 - 18 Apr 2018

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 6350

Abstract

Notwithstanding the research attention given to the importance and capability of the student relationship management strategy in higher education sustainability, there is no any systematic framework for implementation. This research as one of the preliminary studies has been undertaken to provide a structural [...] Read more.

Notwithstanding the research attention given to the importance and capability of the student relationship management strategy in higher education sustainability, there is no any systematic framework for implementation. This research as one of the preliminary studies has been undertaken to provide a structural framework of strategic practices for positioning this strategy at an operational level. In doing so, a methodological approach was implemented in two tiers. Firstly, a systematic review of the leading-edge literature on the customer relationship management systems was performed owing to the lack of significant research on the topic, as well as the structure and nature of the concept. Then, the principal components factor analysis with varimax rotation, which is a method of exploratory factor analysis was used to finalize the research. The findings revealed an articulated structural framework with five hypotheses, which may partially or fully be applied to narrow the major gap in the current knowledge. The measurement scale has also been developed for simplification in implementation of the application. Limitations and directions for future research were accordingly discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Education and Approaches)

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17 pages, 795 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pricing and Low-Carbon Investment Decisions in an Emission Dependent Supply Chain under a Carbon Labelling Scheme

by Yonghong Cheng¹, Hui Sun², Fu Jia^3,4,* and Lenny Koh²

¹ School of Management Engineering, Anhui Polytechnic University, Wuhu 241000, China

² Management School, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 1FL, UK

³ Ocean College, Minjiang University, Fuzhou 350108, China

⁴ School of Economics, Finance and Management, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TH, UK

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1238; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041238 - 18 Apr 2018

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3768

Abstract

A low-carbon policy attracts the interests of businesses, consumers, and policy makers. The purpose of this paper is to investigate how a carbon labelling scheme could be integrated into operational decision-making for manufacturers and retailers. Three game theoretic models of a supply chain [...] Read more.

A low-carbon policy attracts the interests of businesses, consumers, and policy makers. The purpose of this paper is to investigate how a carbon labelling scheme could be integrated into operational decision-making for manufacturers and retailers. Three game theoretic models of a supply chain with one manufacturer and one retailer are built to investigate a manufacturer and retailer’s pricing and investment decision for products with different initial carbon footprints considering consumer environmental awareness. Through a systematic comparison and numerical analysis, the results show that a carbon labelling scheme can significantly reduce the overall carbon emission supply chain and have an initially negative impact on the manufacturer and retailer’s profits. However, in the medium–long run, manufacturers and retailers could yet achieve profitability through continuously investing in low-carbon technology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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7 pages, 700 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Anti-Hail Protection—Assessment of Financial Effects on the Territory of Belgrade

by Gordana Vukelić¹, Olga Cvetković², Ivan Gržetić³, Miloš Simić⁴, Zoran Miodragović⁴, Lazar Lazić⁵

, Miroljub Zarić⁶, Aleksandar Pešić⁶ and Predrag Vulić^7,*

¹ Belgrade Banking Academy, Faculty of banking, insurance and finance, University Union Belgrade, Zmaj Jovina 12, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia

² Center of Chemistry, Scientific Institution Institute of Chemistry, Technology and Metallurgy, University of Belgrade, Studentski Trg 14-16, 11000 Gordana Vukelić Belgrade, Serbia

³ Faculty of Chemistry, University of Belgrade, Studentski Trg 14-16, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia

⁴ Center of New Technologies, Bojanska 26, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia

⁵ Faculty of Physics, University of Belgrade, Dobračina 16, P.O. Box 44, 11001 Belgrade, Serbia

⁶ Republic Hydrometeorological Service of Serbia, Kneza Višeslava 66, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia

⁷ Faculty of Mining and Geology, University of Belgrade, Đušina 7, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1239; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041239 - 18 Apr 2018

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3768

Abstract

The aim of this work is to assess damage to the City of Belgrade caused by the unfavorable weather condition of hail due to the absence of anti-hail defense of the city, and to argumentatively point out the necessity of introducing new technical-technological [...] Read more.

The aim of this work is to assess damage to the City of Belgrade caused by the unfavorable weather condition of hail due to the absence of anti-hail defense of the city, and to argumentatively point out the necessity of introducing new technical-technological systems for preventing the effects of adverse weather conditions. The results are based on the direct correlation-analyses of two real unfavorable weather events and the estimated financial damage caused by these events. The overall calculation also takes into account financial investments (new financial model) necessary to establish two essentially different systems for anti-hail protection. The damage caused by the hail on the territory of the City of Belgrade and the financial investment in anti-hail protection to reduce it are empirically established for the first time. It is shown how the damage could be transformed to profit, as the financial investment in anti-hail protection is lower than the damage that hail can cause. Full article

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17 pages, 16102 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Public Participation in Designing the Recycling Bins to Encourage Recycling

by Kiriaki M. Keramitsoglou^*

and Konstantinos P. Tsagarakis

Business and Environmental Technology Economics Laboratory (BETECO), Department of Environmental Engineering, Democritus University of Thrace, 67100 Xanthi, Greece

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1240; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041240 - 18 Apr 2018

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 23338

Abstract

Recycling bin design has been shown to be important in guiding and changing waste management practices. The top-down imposition of recycling scheme components, the various colour signage, the different types of recycling bins per material even in the same city, and in light [...] Read more.

Recycling bin design has been shown to be important in guiding and changing waste management practices. The top-down imposition of recycling scheme components, the various colour signage, the different types of recycling bins per material even in the same city, and in light of the limitations cited in the relevant literature, our contribution examines the citizens’ involvement in designing recycling bins. Analyzing the responses of 757 participants randomly selected, we initially defined design variables, i.e., shape, colour, and type of lid and insert slot. The next step was to design six bins per recyclable and non-recyclable material, which were printed in a card in a random order. In total, 12 cards were evaluated by 430 residents of a typical Greek town without previous experience in recycling; personal interviews were conducted and citizens gave a score on a scale from one to six. The results highlight the public preference for specific lids and insert slots, and a rectangular shape for all the materials apart from glass and compostables for engaging in recycling. In addition, the results suggest that a connection might exist between the colour of the recyclable material and the colour of the bin. When there is no particular bin colour preference for a material such as plastic or packages, various hues of orange, yellow, or purple dominate. A reward phrase or environmental message printed on the bins could encourage recycling. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Trends in Municipal Solid Waste Management)

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18 pages, 410 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Transdisciplinarity in Research about Agrifood Systems Transitions: A Pragmatist Approach to Processes of Attachment

by Claire Lamine

INRA-SAD Ecodeveloppement, 84914 Avignon, France

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1241; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041241 - 18 Apr 2018

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 3944

Abstract

The much-needed transformations of agrifood systems call for novel approaches that are able to bring together a diversity of actors’ and institutions’ knowledge and visions. While within the literature about participatory research and transdisciplinarity, many articles have discussed the issue of actor involvement, [...] Read more.

The much-needed transformations of agrifood systems call for novel approaches that are able to bring together a diversity of actors’ and institutions’ knowledge and visions. While within the literature about participatory research and transdisciplinarity, many articles have discussed the issue of actor involvement, few have addressed it regarding agrifood system transitions, which are the focus of this paper. Inspired by recent work suggesting a pragmatist approach to stakeholder involvement and collective processes of problem framing and solving, this study (based on a reflexive analysis of six different projects involving different approaches to stakeholder involvement) developed an actor-oriented approach focused on what the motivations to enroll actors and for them to be enrolled are, and on the analysis of the diverse visions and controversies at play. The main outcome of this analysis is that a key issue regarding stakeholder involvement appears to be whether the diverse stakeholders and researchers involved share the sense of being part of a “community of fate” that makes them feel individually “affected” but also collectively “attached” to a shared problem and possibly to a shared future. This is not fixed and stable but can be reinforced through the research–action process itself, which should produce this collective attachment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Engineering and Science)

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13 pages, 5717 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Performance of a RBSN under the RCP Scenarios: A Case Study in South Korea

by Youjeong Kwon, Junshik Hwang and Yongwon Seo^*

Department of Civil Engineering, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1242; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041242 - 18 Apr 2018

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3845

Abstract

According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s (IPCC) Fifth Assessment Report, the amount of precipitation in South Korea would increase regardless of the reduction of Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions. However, at the same time, it is expected that the temporal and spatial [...] Read more.

According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change’s (IPCC) Fifth Assessment Report, the amount of precipitation in South Korea would increase regardless of the reduction of Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions. However, at the same time, it is expected that the temporal and spatial rainfall variation would also increase. Due to the impact from typhoons, 90% of the annual precipitation in Korea occurs in July, August, and September. Moreover, the Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP) scenario projected that the average precipitation in this period is expected to increase markedly, especially over the next 100 years. These predictions imply an increased variability of available water resources. In this study, we assessed a RBSN (rain barrel sharing network) as an efficient way to respond to the future climate change projections under the RCP scenarios when compared to the historical data. We proposed an evaluation procedure for the reliability, resilience, and vulnerability of RBSN based on a storage-reliability-yield (SRY) relationship. The result shows that the reliability and resiliency of a RBSN will improve but be more vulnerable compared to the results from the historical rainfall data. However, even in the climate change condition, the results showed that a RBSN still contributes to reduce vulnerability. The results of this study imply that a RBSN is an effective and alternative measure that can deal with the impacts of climate change in the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Impacts of Climate Change on Hydrology, Water Quality and Ecology)

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16 pages, 2928 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Spatial Analysis of Regional Innovation Performance and Industry-University-Research Institution Collaborative Innovation—An Empirical Study of Chinese Provincial Data

by Xu Wang¹, Hong Fang^1,*, Fang Zhang¹ and Siran Fang²

¹ School of Economics and Management, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China

² School of Engineering, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210031, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1243; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041243 - 18 Apr 2018

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 4524

Abstract

Previous studies have pointed out that Industry-University-Research Institution (IUR) collaborative innovation is an important means to ensure the sustainable development of regional innovation, and there may be spillover effects among different regional innovation systems. However, the impact of regional spatial correlation and IUR [...] Read more.

Previous studies have pointed out that Industry-University-Research Institution (IUR) collaborative innovation is an important means to ensure the sustainable development of regional innovation, and there may be spillover effects among different regional innovation systems. However, the impact of regional spatial correlation and IUR collaborative innovation synergy degree on regional innovation performance is not that clear. Based on the panel data of 31 regions in China from 2006 to 2015, we construct static and dynamic spatial econometrics models to analysis the relationships among regional innovation performance, IUR collaborative innovation and spatial correlation. The research results show that there are significant positive spillover effects among different regions, indicating that the dynamic flows of innovation elements among regions is conducive to improve the regional innovation performance. In addition, IUR collaboration innovation also has a positive impact on regional innovation performance: the current period of IUR synergy degree has a negative impact, while the lagged one has a positive impact. It means that it will take a while for IUR collaborative innovation to be effective and it will have far-reaching contributions to long-term improvements rather than short-term benefits in social development. The results are significant for both static and dynamic spatial econometrics models. The conclusions of this paper have important policy significance to fully understand the coordination of innovative elements and promote the sustainable development of regional innovation systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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14 pages, 1485 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Better Understanding the Characteristics and Influential Factors of Different Travel Patterns in Free-Floating Bike Sharing: Evidence from Nanjing, China

by Mingyang Du and Lin Cheng^*

School of Transportation, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1244; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041244 - 18 Apr 2018

Cited by 155 | Viewed by 8117

Abstract

In recent years, free-floating bike sharing (FFBS) has become a significant travel mode to satisfy urban residents’ travel demands in China. This paper was designed to better understand the characteristics and influential factors of different travel patterns in FFBS. Firstly, travel patterns were [...] Read more.

In recent years, free-floating bike sharing (FFBS) has become a significant travel mode to satisfy urban residents’ travel demands in China. This paper was designed to better understand the characteristics and influential factors of different travel patterns in FFBS. Firstly, travel patterns were divided into three categories: Origin to Destination Pattern (ODP), Travel Cycle Pattern (TCP) and Transfer Pattern (TP). Then, the characteristics of these patterns were analyzed based on a survey of 4939 valid questionnaires in Nanjing, China. A multinomial logit (MNL) model was established to explore the influential factors associated with the three patterns. The results showed the following. (1) Employees and students were more inclined to choose TP and ODP, and the selection probability of employees was larger than that of students. (2) The evening peak was more significant than the morning peak. (3) Residents with short travel distances were more likely to choose TCP and ODP, and when the travel distance reached 4 km, there was a significant transfer to TP. (4) Price had an impact on residents’ travel patterns, with residents showing an inclination toward FFBS when making short distance trips, if they were quickly found. Malfunctioning bicycles were an important factor restricting FFBS development. Several policy recommendations are proposed based on these results, for government and FFBS businesses to improve their management of FFBS systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Transportation)

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21 pages, 1099 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Towards Efficient Energy Management and Power Trading in a Residential Area via Integrating a Grid-Connected Microgrid

by Sheraz Aslam¹, Nadeem Javaid^1,*

, Farman Ali Khan², Atif Alamri³

, Ahmad Almogren³

and Wadood Abdul³

¹ COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan

² COMSATS Institute of Information Technology, Attock 43730, Pakistan

³ Research Chair of Pervasive and Mobile Computing, College of Computer and Information Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11633, Saudi Arabia

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1245; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041245 - 18 Apr 2018

Cited by 70 | Viewed by 5301

Abstract

Demand side management (DSM) is one of the most challenging areas in smart grids, which provides multiple opportunities for residents to minimize electricity cost. In this work, we propose a DSM scheme for electricity expenses and peak to average ratio (PAR) reduction using [...] Read more.

Demand side management (DSM) is one of the most challenging areas in smart grids, which provides multiple opportunities for residents to minimize electricity cost. In this work, we propose a DSM scheme for electricity expenses and peak to average ratio (PAR) reduction using two well-known heuristic approaches: the cuckoo search algorithm (CSA) and strawberry algorithm (SA). In our proposed scheme, a smart home decides to buy or sell electricity from/to the commercial grid for minimizing electricity costs and PAR with earning maximization. It makes a decision on the basis of electricity prices, demand and generation from its own microgrid. The microgrid consists of a wind turbine and solar panel. Electricity generation from the solar panel and wind turbine is intermittent in nature. Therefore, an energy storage system (ESS) is also considered for stable and reliable power system operation. We test our proposed scheme on a set of different case studies. The simulation results affirm our proposed scheme in terms of electricity cost and PAR reduction with profit maximization. Furthermore, a comparative analysis is also performed to show the legitimacy and productiveness of CSA and SA. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart Power Grid for Sustainable Energy Transition)

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15 pages, 515 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder and Social Isolation among North Korean Refugee Women in South Korea: The Moderating Role of Formal and Informal Support

by Wonjung Ryu¹ and Sun Won Park^2,*

¹ School of Social Welfare, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Korea

² Social Welfare Policy, Yonsei University Graduate School, Seoul 03722, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1246; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041246 - 18 Apr 2018

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 6781

Abstract

While there is abundant literature on the positive correlation between refugee post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and social isolation, few studies have examined the moderating effects of formal and informal interpersonal support. This study on 154 refugee women from North Korea examines the moderating [...] Read more.

While there is abundant literature on the positive correlation between refugee post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and social isolation, few studies have examined the moderating effects of formal and informal interpersonal support. This study on 154 refugee women from North Korea examines the moderating effects of formal and informal interpersonal support on the relationship between PTSD and social isolation. Data from the 2012 survey of the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family in South Korea Study on Support for Independent Living Tailored to North Korean Refugee Women Exposed to Violence were included in the present study. The study results confirmed the positive correlation between PTSD and social isolation and verified the protective effects of formal support. These findings will contribute to policy changes and early proactive interventions to reduce the social isolation of North Korean refugee women in South Korea. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Migration Management, ICTs' enhanced Responses and Policy Making: Towards Human Centric Migration Management Systems)

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14 pages, 3259 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Temporal and Spatial Ecosystem Services in Dalian, China: Implications for Urban Planning

by Zhuohang Xin¹, Chao Li¹

, Haixing Liu^1,*, Hua Shang², Lei Ye¹, Yu Li¹ and Chi Zhang¹

¹ School of Hydraulic Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China

² Faculty of Management and Economics, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1247; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041247 - 18 Apr 2018

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3964

Abstract

The valuation of ecosystem services is critical to understand the current status of ecosystems and to develop an effective planning strategy for ecosystem protection. This study aims to analyse the spatio-temporal changes in ecosystem services driven by land use changes from 1984 to [...] Read more.

The valuation of ecosystem services is critical to understand the current status of ecosystems and to develop an effective planning strategy for ecosystem protection. This study aims to analyse the spatio-temporal changes in ecosystem services driven by land use changes from 1984 to 2013 in Dalian, China. The land use changes are characterized using remote sensing data and then ecosystem service values (ESVs) are assessed using the equivalent factor method, i.e., assigning value coefficients to different land use categories. The total ESV of Dalian reduced significantly by 44.3% from 1984 to 2013, primarily due to the reduction of forests, water and wetlands. Water and climate regulations are the two largest service functions, contributing about 43.6% of the total ESV on average. In addition, ESVs show a spatial variation in different administrative regions, with the central city area having the maximum decreasing rate. Further, ESV changes and distributions are found to have a strong link with city development policies. This study provides an enhanced understanding of the implications of urban policies on ecosystem services, which is essential for sustaining the provision of ecosystem services and achieving sustainable development goals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Urban and Rural Development)

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12 pages, 913 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Short and Long-Term Temporal Changes in Air Quality in a Seoul Urban Area: The Weekday/Sunday Effect

by Jan E. Szulejko¹, Adedeji A. Adelodun², Ki-Hyun Kim^1,*

, J. W. Seo¹, Kowsalya Vellingiri³

, Eui-Chan Jeon⁴

, Jongki Hong⁵

and Richard J. C. Brown⁶

¹ Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-Ro, Seoul 04763, Korea

² Department of Marine Science and Technology, The Federal University of Technology, P.M.B. 704, Akure, Nigeria

³ Environmental and Water Resources Engineering Division, Department of Civil Engineering, IIT Madras, Chennai 600 036, India

⁴ Department of Environment & Energy, Sejong University, Seoul 05006, Korea

⁵ College of Pharmacy, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea

⁶ Chemical, Medical and Environmental Science Department, National Physical Laboratory, Teddington, Middlesex TW11 0LW, UK

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1248; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041248 - 19 Apr 2018

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3320

Abstract

We present evidence on the short-term differences in airborne pollution levels in terms of weekday/weekend (WD/WN) and weekday/Sunday (WD/Sun) intervals. To this end, we analyzed the hourly data of important pollutants (nitric oxide (NO), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), ozone (O₃) [...] Read more.

We present evidence on the short-term differences in airborne pollution levels in terms of weekday/weekend (WD/WN) and weekday/Sunday (WD/Sun) intervals. To this end, we analyzed the hourly data of important pollutants (nitric oxide (NO), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), ozone (O₃) and carbon monoxide (CO)) using the data acquired in the Yong-San district of Seoul, Korea from 2009 to 2013. For each week, the pollutant ratio (R_w) was estimated through either WD/WN or WD/Sun. Here, a week is defined as Sunday through Saturday, WD as Monday through Friday and WN as Sunday and Saturday. The WD/Sun R_w geometric means (and range) were 2.02 (0.27–15.5) for NO, 1.29 (0.49–5.7) for NO₂ and 0.89 (0.17–7.2) for O₃ while the fraction of R_w (WD/Sun) > 1 were 81, 71 and 38%, respectively. NO and CO levels were much higher in October through March (during Autumn and Winter) than April through September (during Spring and Summer), reflecting the potential effect of fuel consumption (e.g., in terms of use patterns of nationwide city natural gas). Thus, we provide a broader interpretation on the occurrence patterns of the major pollutants (e.g., NO, NO₂, O₃ and CO) in relation to temporal changes in man-made activities. Full article

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21 pages, 4158 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Urban Sustainability through Public Architecture

by Soomi Kim^1,*

and Hyun-ah Kwon^2,*

¹ School of Architecture, Soongsil University, Seoul 156743, Korea

² Department of Architecture, Mokpo National University, Jeollanam-do 58554, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1249; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041249 - 19 Apr 2018

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 10691

Abstract

As the sustainability of contemporary cities has gained emphasis, interest in architecture has increased, due to its social and public responsibility. Since sustainability is linked to public values, research on sustainable public spaces is an important way to secure sustainability in cities. Based [...] Read more.

As the sustainability of contemporary cities has gained emphasis, interest in architecture has increased, due to its social and public responsibility. Since sustainability is linked to public values, research on sustainable public spaces is an important way to secure sustainability in cities. Based on this, we analyzed the sustainability of European cities by examining the design methods of public architecture according to the region. The aim of the study is to derive architectural methodology corresponding to local characteristics, and to suggest issues to consider in public architecture design to promote urban sustainability based on this. First, regarding the environmental aspect, it can be observed that there is an effort to secure sustainability. Second, in terms of social sustainability, historical value remains as a trace of architectural place, so that it continues in people’s memory. In addition, public architecture provides public places where citizens can gather and enjoy programs, while the architectural methods showed differences influenced by cultural conditions. Third, in economic sustainability, it was shown that energy saving was achieved through cost reduction through recycling of materials, facilities, or environmental factors. In conclusion, the issues to be considered in public architectural design are the voiding of urban space through architectural devices in the construction method. In other words, the intention is to form “ground” that attempts to be part of the city, and thereby create better places. Since skin and material have a deep relationship with the environment, they should have the durability and an outer skin that are suitable for the regional environment. Finally, sustainability is to be utilized through the influx of programs that meet local and environmental characteristics. Design research into public architecture that is oriented towards urban sustainability will be a task to be carried out by the present generation for the millennial generation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Sustainable Built Environment)

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15 pages, 4689 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Thinning on the Spatial Structure of Larix principis-rupprechtii Plantation

by Shengxing Ye^1,2, Zhirong Zheng², Zhaoyan Diao², Guodong Ding¹, Yanfeng Bao³, Yundong Liu¹ and Guanglei Gao^1,*

¹ College of Soil and Water Conservation, Beijing Forestry University, Beijing 100083, China

² State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Regional Eco-process and Function Assessment, State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China

³ Chinese Academy of Forestry, Institute of Desertification Studies, Beijing 100091, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1250; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041250 - 19 Apr 2018

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 4208

Abstract

Structure-based forest management is a scientific and easy-to-operate method for sustainable forest management. We analyzed the stand spatial structure of Larix principis-rupprechtii plantation under five reserve densities. The results indicated that with the decrease of densities after thinning, the average mingling degree and [...] Read more.

Structure-based forest management is a scientific and easy-to-operate method for sustainable forest management. We analyzed the stand spatial structure of Larix principis-rupprechtii plantation under five reserve densities. The results indicated that with the decrease of densities after thinning, the average mingling degree and uniform angle index had an increasing tendency, but the amplitude was small. Most of the trees were in zero mix, and a few of them were in moderate, strong, and relatively strong mix; the horizontal distribution patterns were uniform or near-uniform random. The distribution of neighborhood comparison and opening degree changed with a fluctuant pattern, but thinning decreased the competitive intensities to some extent. A composite structure index (Ci) was established, based on the relative importance of the above four indicators, to evaluate the overall effect of thinning on stand structure characteristics. The findings showed that Ci increased with the increase of thinning intensity, that is, the stand spatial structure became more complex. This indicated that Ci may be a simple and rapid indicator to evaluate the overall effect of thinning on stand spatial structure within densities after thinning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Ecology and Forest Management)

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22 pages, 13319 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Distance Diffusion of Home Bias for Crowdfunding Campaigns between Categories: Insights from Data Analytics

by Lihuan Guo^1,2, Dongqiang Guo¹, Wei Wang¹, Hongwei Wang³

and Yenchun Jim Wu^4,*

¹ College of Business Administration, Huaqiao University, Quanzhou 362021, China

² College of Chen Shouren Business and Information, Quanzhou Normal University, Quanzhou 362000, China

³ School of Economics and Management, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China

⁴ Graduate Institute of Global Business and Strategy, National Taiwan Normal University, Taipei 10645, Taiwan

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1251; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041251 - 19 Apr 2018

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 5789

Abstract

As the information communication and investment of crowdfunding campaigns are usually accomplished online, online crowdfunding theoretically breaks the limitation of space. However, investors’ behaviors still show significant home bias; furthermore, from a dynamic view, the changes in home bias during the funding duration [...] Read more.

As the information communication and investment of crowdfunding campaigns are usually accomplished online, online crowdfunding theoretically breaks the limitation of space. However, investors’ behaviors still show significant home bias; furthermore, from a dynamic view, the changes in home bias during the funding duration reflect the investment preference. This paper studies the dynamics of home bias in crowdfunding investment as well as the distance diffusion of home bias in the crowdfunding market through data mining and econometric models. The distance between investors and founders gradually increases from 3605 km to 4229 km as the funding progresses, and home bias shows different diffusion patterns between categories. For most of the campaigns, the distance between backers and founders of the successful campaigns is always greater than that of the failed ones; thus, the distance diffusion impacts the pledge results. However, the study also finds that for some categories, home bias does not play a positive role in investment or that it even shows negative impacts, among which food and technology are two extreme categories. The study provides a theoretical basis from the perspective of user behavior to analyze online investment and to improve the promotion of crowdfunding campaigns. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Smart Cities and Smart Villages Research)

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20 pages, 4091 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Value Direction: Moving Crafts toward Sustainability in the Yangtze River Delta, China

by Xiaofang Zhan^*

and Stuart Walker

Imagination Lancaster Design Research Centre, Lancaster University, Lancaster LA1 4YW, UK

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1252; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041252 - 19 Apr 2018

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 7437

Abstract

The paper presents ongoing research on craft and design for sustainability in the Yangtze River Delta (YRD), China. Based on previous research into the relationship between craft and design for sustainability, and literature on value, a typology of five values pertaining to craft [...] Read more.

The paper presents ongoing research on craft and design for sustainability in the Yangtze River Delta (YRD), China. Based on previous research into the relationship between craft and design for sustainability, and literature on value, a typology of five values pertaining to craft is defined. This research investigates values and craft practices in the YRD through identifying the direction of craftwork development in the region and evaluating them against the defined five values. It is found that some crafts in the YRD are commercialized and strongly influenced by cosmopolitanism and consumerism, while some crafts with high intrinsic values are still in decline and need specific interventions. However, these interventions need more context-based consideration and evaluation. What might be regarded as “excessive” intervention in commercial promotion and mass-production could potentially homogenize local crafts, thereby undermining their distinctiveness and their intrinsic values. The aim of this paper is to (a) identify the direction of different craftworks categories in the YRD; and (b) evaluate them with the defined five values in order to inform future design intervention. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cultural Heritage Conservation and Sustainability)

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16 pages, 561 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study of the Competitiveness of Quanzhou Port on the Belt and Road in China Based on a Fuzzy-AHP and ELECTRE III Model

by Tielin Gao¹, Sanggyun Na^1,*

, Xiaohan Dang¹ and Yongli Zhang^1,2

¹ School of Business Administration, Wonkwang University, 460 Iksandae-ro, Iksan, Jeonbuk 54538, Korea

² School of Management Science and Engineering, Hebei GEO University, Shijiazhuang 050031, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1253; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041253 - 19 Apr 2018

Cited by 34 | Viewed by 5700

Abstract

With the establishment of the Belt and Road national strategy, Quanzhou Port is a significant development opportunity. Quanzhou Port is the origin of the 21st century Maritime Silk Road and part of the Belt and Road, but as a pioneer project of the [...] Read more.

With the establishment of the Belt and Road national strategy, Quanzhou Port is a significant development opportunity. Quanzhou Port is the origin of the 21st century Maritime Silk Road and part of the Belt and Road, but as a pioneer project of the Maritime Silk Road and the main port in the Belt and Road strategy, its development has encountered some challenges and problems. Hence, this paper aims to evaluate the competitiveness of Quanzhou Port based on the criteria selected by experts and corresponding improvement suggestions are put forward for its weaknesses. Using fuzzy-AHP and ELECTRE III, port competitiveness is evaluated according to the total weights obtained based on the different criteria used. The key criteria consist of six factors (port size, port location, hinterland economy, port costs, operations management and growth potential) that are divided into 18 sub-criteria. Five competing ports were selected with respect to geographical proximity. The order of ranking according to ELECTRE III are as follows: Kaohsiung Port, Xiamen Port, Fuzhou Port, Taichug Port and Quanzhou Port. The findings show that the port of Quanzhou appears last in the ordering sequence, resulting in a need for integrative approaches to promote its competitiveness. Compared with competitive ports, Quanzhou Port has relatively weak overall infrastructure and relatively high port costs, which leads to a lack of obvious flow of port materials and a decrease in professional unloading services. Particularly in hinterland port economies, the industrial structure is extensive and backward. Hence, the question of how to achieve a green transformation of the manufacturing industry will be important for Quanzhou Port. This paper points out directions for the future development of Quanzhou Port and applies comprehensive evaluation methods, namely fuzzy-AHP and ELECTRE III. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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17 pages, 3337 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Social Considerations of Large River Sanctuaries: A Case Study from the Hilsa Shad Fishery in Bangladesh

by Mohammad Mahmudul Islam^1,*

, Rumana Aktar²

, Md. Nahiduzzaman²

, Benoy Kumar Barman² and Md. Abdul Wahab²

¹ Department of Coastal and Marine Fisheries, Sylhet Agricultural University, Sylhet 3100, Bangladesh

² WorldFish, Bangladesh and South Asia Office, House# 22B, Road# 07, Block-F, Banani, Dhaka 1213, Bangladesh

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1254; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041254 - 19 Apr 2018

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 6383

Abstract

The establishment of a sanctuary is often suggested as an effective strategy for ecological restoration, though social aspects of such attempts are often overlooked. This study analyzed the socioeconomic status of 248 fishing households who are dependent on hilsa shad (Tenualosa ilisha [...] Read more.

The establishment of a sanctuary is often suggested as an effective strategy for ecological restoration, though social aspects of such attempts are often overlooked. This study analyzed the socioeconomic status of 248 fishing households who are dependent on hilsa shad (Tenualosa ilisha) sanctuaries in southern Bangladesh. Also, the fishers’ perceptions were investigated to assess the status of ecological restoration, level of participation in the hilsa sanctuary management, their livelihoods constraints, and coping strategies during crises. Based on the fishers’ perceptions and fishery catch data of the government, it appears that the establishment of the hilsa sanctuary in the Bangladesh waters helped to restore the hilsa fishery and also enhanced the fishers’ income. However, a large section of hilsa fishers were found to be poor in terms of socioeconomic capital such as monthly income, housing conditions, and assets ownership. Particularly, these households suffer seasonal food insecurity during the banned period of fishing in the sanctuaries. The government’s compensation scheme is a good example of payment of ecosystem services in an open water fishery; however, this scheme does not include all the affected fishers. Food and income insecurity during ban period often force fishers to use illegal fishing as a livelihood strategy that undermines the success of sanctuaries as an ecological restoration strategy. The findings reflected that sanctuaries and other similar management strategies have social impacts on stakeholders and human societies, and these social impacts can have surprising feedbacks that influence management success. Thus, the success of ecological restoration relies on understanding the human dimensions of the system and that ecological and social restoration must go together. To address this goal, we call for developing fisheries policy that will facilitate engagement of resource users and other local stakeholders in sanctuary comanagement, which will ultimately strengthen fishers’ livelihoods and sustain the benefit from ecological restoration. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Social-Ecological Restoration for Coastal Sustainability)

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23 pages, 10758 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A hybrid Decision Support System for Generation of Holistic Renovation Scenarios—Cases of Energy Consumption, Investment Cost, and Thermal Indoor Comfort

by Aliakbar Kamari^*, Stefan Jensen, Maria Leonhard Christensen, Steffen Petersen and Poul Henning Kirkegaard

Department of Engineering, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1255; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041255 - 19 Apr 2018

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 5011

Abstract

Future building renovations must rely on a holistic perspective in relation to sustainability. This paper presents a Decision Support Systems (DSS) that can be used by architects and engineering consultants to generate and evaluate the sustainability of renovation scenarios in a holistic manner [...] Read more.

Future building renovations must rely on a holistic perspective in relation to sustainability. This paper presents a Decision Support Systems (DSS) that can be used by architects and engineering consultants to generate and evaluate the sustainability of renovation scenarios in a holistic manner during the early design stage of renovation projects. Firstly, this paper discusses both the notion of a sustainable renovation, together with various renovation approaches, towards the appreciation of the developing DSS for the generation of holistic scenarios. Secondly, it provides details about the mechanism and types of Multiple Criteria Decision Making methods to be exploited in the main body of the DSS. As such, a hybrid approach including a search algorithm with the Genetic Algorithm is used to combine and develop countless optimal scenarios. The performance of the generated scenarios is simulated and evaluated in terms criteria for Energy Consumption, Investment Cost, and Thermal Indoor Comfort. The trade-off between the criteria is addressed using the Pareto-front approach, and subsequently, the optimal scenarios are determined and selected using MCDM-based rating methods. The outcome is verified discussing a case study about an actual [recently] renovated dwelling and the top ranked generated scenarios using the DSS in this paper. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Building Renovation)

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24 pages, 39556 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Understanding the Dynamics of the Pick-Up and Drop-Off Locations of Taxicabs in the Context of a Subsidy War among E-Hailing Apps

by Rongxiang Su¹

, Zhixiang Fang^1,2,*

, Ningxin Luo¹ and Jingwei Zhu¹

¹ State Key Laboratory of Information Engineering in Surveying, Mapping and Remote Sensing (LIESMARS), Wuhan University, Luoyu Road 129, Wuhan 430079, China

² Collaborative Innovation Center of Geospatial Technology, 129 Luoyu Road, Wuhan 430079, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1256; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041256 - 19 Apr 2018

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 6172

Abstract

The locations where taxicabs pick up and drop off passengers are crucial to understanding the dynamics of taxi trip demand. Investigating their spatial distribution and derived dynamic features is still a key task in the fields of urban geography and transportation. Such investigations [...] Read more.

The locations where taxicabs pick up and drop off passengers are crucial to understanding the dynamics of taxi trip demand. Investigating their spatial distribution and derived dynamic features is still a key task in the fields of urban geography and transportation. Such investigations are urgently needed, considering the competition created by new communication technology services, specifically e-hailing apps such as Uber, Didi and Kuaidi. For example, a subsidy war between two e-hailing apps occurred in China in 2014. However, how the pick-up and drop-off locations of taxicabs change during subsidy wars is still an open question. This paper introduces a methodological framework that can be used to derive the pick-up and drop-off dynamics of taxicabs. It also proposes three indexes that can be used to assess the dynamics of the pick-up and drop-off locations at the city and sub-district scales, namely the numbers of daily pick ups and drop offs per taxi, average transfer distance per unit area of weighted mean centers of pick-up and drop-off locations, and degree of dispersion in the spatial distribution of pick-up and drop-off locations. This paper employs data from taxicabs in the city of Shenzhen to uncover the dynamics of their pick-up and drop-off locations. The results show that the methodological framework and the indexes introduced are powerful tools for uncovering the dynamics of the pick-up and drop-off locations of taxicabs in urban environments. Full article

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17 pages, 2056 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Systems Analysis of Factors Influencing Household Solar PV Adoption in Santiago, Chile

by Jeffrey Walters^1,*

, Jessica Kaminsky²

and Lawrence Gottschamer³

¹ Civil Engineering Department, Universidad Diego Portales, Santiago 8370191, Chile

² Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA

³ Civil and Environmental Engineering Department, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL 33620, USA

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1257; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041257 - 19 Apr 2018

Cited by 43 | Viewed by 7302

Abstract

Societal uptake of household solar photovoltaic (PV) technology is the result of a complex and interdependent array of technical, social, political and economic factors. This novel study employs a systems lens to examine both technical and non-technical barriers to renewables, with a focus [...] Read more.

Societal uptake of household solar photovoltaic (PV) technology is the result of a complex and interdependent array of technical, social, political and economic factors. This novel study employs a systems lens to examine both technical and non-technical barriers to renewables, with a focus on interactions that are empirically influential on PV uptake. Using local solar expert stakeholder input into a participatory systems approach, this study provides a structural analysis of factors influencing household solar adoption. The approach is applied and assessed for household solar PV systems in Santiago, Chile, to gain insight into the interconnected factors driving technology adoption. Barriers and motivations to adoption identified in a recent Delphi study for Santiago were used to create a list of factors thought by local experts to impact future adoption. These factors and their pairwise interactions were modeled using the impact matrix multiplication applied to classification (MICMAC) technique and analyzed within a four-hour workshop with eight solar experts in Santiago. Results from the analysis regarding factor influence, dependence and evolutionary trajectories were presented to experts and discussed at length. Salient discussion points focused on the need for attractive financial incentives, knowledge diffusion among potential consumers, and a maturing market that incites a cultural shift towards customers who desire energy independence. Intuitive and insightful programmatic areas were illuminated for policy and action in Santiago based on a systems-focused interpretation of factors in the form of short- and long-term strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Solar Photovoltaic Electricity)

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17 pages, 12393 KiB

Open AccessArticle

5G-Based Transmission Power Control Mechanism in Fog Computing for Internet of Things Devices

by Ali Hassan Sodhro^1,2,†

, Sandeep Pirbhulal^3,4,†

, Arun Kumar Sangaiah⁵

, Sonia Lohano⁶, Gul Hassan Sodhro⁷ and Zongwei Luo^8,*

¹ Electrical Engineering Department, Sukkur IBA University, Sukkur 65200, Pakistan

² Decision and Information System for Production System LAB, University Lumiere Lyon2, 69500 Bron, France

³ CAS Key Laboratory of Human-Machine Intelligence-Synergy Systems, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology (SIAT), Shenzhen 518055, China

⁴ Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, SIAT, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shenzhen 518055, China

⁵ School of Computing Science and Engineering, VIT University, Vellore 632014, India

⁶ Department of English, University of Sindh, Jamshoro 71000, Pakistan

⁷ Department of Physics, Shah Abdul Latif University, Khairpur Mirs 66111, Pakistan

⁸ Department of the Computer Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1258; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041258 - 19 Apr 2018

Cited by 45 | Viewed by 7547

Abstract

Fog computing has become the revolutionary paradigm and one of the intelligent services of the 5th Generation (5G) emerging network, while Internet of Things (IoT) lies under its main umbrella. Enhancing and optimizing the quality of service (QoS) in Fog computing networks is [...] Read more.

Fog computing has become the revolutionary paradigm and one of the intelligent services of the 5th Generation (5G) emerging network, while Internet of Things (IoT) lies under its main umbrella. Enhancing and optimizing the quality of service (QoS) in Fog computing networks is one of the critical challenges of the present. In the meantime, strong links between the Fog, IoT devices and the supporting back-end servers is done through large scale cloud data centers and with the linear exponential trend of IoT devices and voluminous generated data. Fog computing is one of the vital and potential solutions for IoT in close connection with things and end users with less latency but due to high computational complexity, less storage capacity and more power drain in the cloud it is inappropriate choice. So, to remedy this issue, we propose transmission power control (TPC) based QoS optimization algorithm named (QoS-TPC) in the Fog computing. Besides, we propose the Fog-IoT-TPC-QoS architecture and establish the connection between TPC and Fog computing by considering static and dynamic conditions of wireless channel. Experimental results examine that proposed QoS-TPC optimizes the QoS in terms of maximum throughput, less delay, less jitter and minimum energy drain as compared to the conventional that is, ATPC, SKims and constant TPC methods. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 5G Mobile Services and Scenarios: Challenges and Solutions)

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16 pages, 317 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Risk Profile Indicators and Spanish Banks’ Probability of Default from a Regulatory Approach

by Pilar Gómez-Fernández-Aguado

, Purificación Parrado-Martínez

and Antonio Partal-Ureña^*

Department of Financial Economics and Accounting, University of Jaén, 23071 Jaén, Spain

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1259; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041259 - 19 Apr 2018

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3704

Abstract

This paper analyses the relationships between the traditional bank risk profile indicators and a new measure of banks’ probability of default that considers the Basel regulatory framework. First, based on the SYstemic Model of Bank Originated Losses (SYMBOL), we calculated the individual probabilities [...] Read more.

This paper analyses the relationships between the traditional bank risk profile indicators and a new measure of banks’ probability of default that considers the Basel regulatory framework. First, based on the SYstemic Model of Bank Originated Losses (SYMBOL), we calculated the individual probabilities of default (PD) of a representative sample of Spanish credit institutions during the period of 2008–2016. Then, panel data regressions were estimated to explore the influence of the risk indicators on the PD. Our findings on the Spanish banking system could be important to regulatory and supervisory authorities. First, the PD based on the SYMBOL model could be used to analyse bank risk from a regulatory approach. Second, the results might be useful for designing new regulations focused on the key factors that affect the banks’ probability of default. Third, our findings reveal that the emphasis on regulation and supervision should differ by type of entity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Risk Measures with Applications in Finance and Economics)

16 pages, 4087 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Incentive Mechanism of Prefabrication in Mega Projects with Reputational Concerns

by Qianqian Shi¹

, Jianbo Zhu^1,*, Marcel Hertogh²

and Zhaohan Sheng¹

¹ School of Management and Engineering, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China

² Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences, Delft University of Technology, Stevinweg 1, 2628 CN Delft, The Netherlands

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1260; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041260 - 19 Apr 2018

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 4209

Abstract

As one of the most important sustainability project management practices, prefabrication has been drawing increasing attention to project construction practitioners. However, due to the needs of high technology and large capital investment, there is a great challenge for suppliers to adopt prefabrication in [...] Read more.

As one of the most important sustainability project management practices, prefabrication has been drawing increasing attention to project construction practitioners. However, due to the needs of high technology and large capital investment, there is a great challenge for suppliers to adopt prefabrication in mega project construction. Therefore, designing an adequate incentive mechanism has become a daunting task for the project owner, which aims to ensure a socially and environmentally friendly project delivery. In this study, an incentive model with reputational concerns from the perspective of the project owner was established and how this incentive affects supplier’s effort and project owner’s profit was investigated. By contrasting to the incentive model without reputational concerns, when the reputation incentive is considered in the incentive contract, both supplier’s effort and project owner’s profit increase. In addition, adding reputation incentive implies more expenses, thus the project owner may not want to take this strategy due to the potential expense increase. Therefore, the study also considered an incentive mechanism with constant total incentive intensity. By comparison, the result shows that this strategy is also useful which can improve supplier’s effort and project owner’s profit. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development and Management of Mega Projects)

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35 pages, 5972 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Comprehensive Assessment and Spatial Analysis of Vulnerability of China’s Provincial Economies

by Chongqiang Ren^1,2,*, Guofang Zhai^3,*, Shutian Zhou³, Wei Chen¹ and Shasha Li⁴

¹ School of Geographic and Oceanographic Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China

² College of Economics, Northwest Minzu University, Lanzhou 730030, China

³ School of Architecture and Urban Planning, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China

⁴ College of Jianghe Architecture, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110169, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1261; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041261 - 19 Apr 2018

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4127

Abstract

Vulnerability theory is a fundamental scientific knowledge system in sustainable development, and vulnerability assessment is important in vulnerability studies. Economic vulnerability affects economic growth sustainability. Comprehensive assessment of economic vulnerability in the process of economic growth under the theoretical framework of vulnerability will [...] Read more.

Vulnerability theory is a fundamental scientific knowledge system in sustainable development, and vulnerability assessment is important in vulnerability studies. Economic vulnerability affects economic growth sustainability. Comprehensive assessment of economic vulnerability in the process of economic growth under the theoretical framework of vulnerability will provide a new perspective for vulnerability studies. Based on a vulnerability scoping diagram assessment model, this study selected 22 economic sensitivity indexes and 25 economic adaptability indexes from the economic, social, and nature–resource–environmental subsystems to comprehensively assess and spatially analyse the vulnerability of China’s provincial economies since the year 2000, while applying the entropy method, multilevel extension assessment, spatial measurement method, and geographic information system technology. The results showed the following: (1) There are great differences in the vulnerability of China’s provincial economies. Western China’s vulnerability is higher and the fluctuation range of economic vulnerability is larger. The vulnerability increased significantly based on spatial differential features; (2) Regional differences in economic vulnerability, mainly caused by differences within a region, increased gradually. Eastern and Western China showed the spatial pattern characteristics of prominent and reinforcing regional imbalance, while Central and Northeast China showed declining regional imbalance. The spatial structure evolution of economic vulnerability is characterized by a volatility curve, and regional separation and divergence are strengthened; (3) Growth of China’s provincial economies and economic vulnerability are related negatively. In Eastern, Central, and Northeast China, vulnerability of the provincial economies has a negative spillover effect on neighbouring provinces’ economic growth, while in Western China it has a slight positive spillover effect. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Economic Geography: Location, Innovation and Sustainable Development)

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17 pages, 1576 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Empirical Examination of Users’ Adoption of the Sharing Economy in China Using an Expanded Technology Acceptance Model

by Yupeng Liu^* and Yutao Yang

School of Economics and Management, Harbin Institute of Technology, Weihai 264209, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1262; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041262 - 19 Apr 2018

Cited by 75 | Viewed by 11443

Abstract

With the popularity of sharing-based applications such as bicycle and car sharing, the sharing economy has attracted considerable global attention. The factors that affect users’ adoption of the sharing economy must be identified to facilitate the promotion of low-carbon lifestyles and help enterprises [...] Read more.

With the popularity of sharing-based applications such as bicycle and car sharing, the sharing economy has attracted considerable global attention. The factors that affect users’ adoption of the sharing economy must be identified to facilitate the promotion of low-carbon lifestyles and help enterprises attract more active users. By employing the technology acceptance model (TAM) and herd behavior, this study implemented an expanded TAM and identified several factors affecting behavioral intention (BI) toward the sharing economy. A questionnaire was used to obtain the data, which were analyzed through structural equation modeling. The results revealed that perceived usefulness (PU) and perceived ease of use (PEOU) are the main factors affecting BI. Moreover, trust (TRU) was identified as a mediator of subjective norm (SN) and PEOU. Imitating others (IMI) affects BI, and SN affects TRU, PU, and PEOU. Gender moderates SN and IMI. This paper indicates that to improve users’ BI, enterprises should enhance PU, PEOU, and TRU; cooperate with organizations to enhance SN; and guide potential users to imitate others. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sharing Economy and Its Role in Fostering Sustainability: How Trust and Regulation Shape Relations of Providers and Consumers)

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15 pages, 3435 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Korean Experimentation of Knowledge and Technology Transfer to Address Climate Change in Developing Countries

by Taewook Huh^1,*

and Hyung-Ju Kim²

¹ Moon Soul Graduate School of Future Strategy, KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science & Technology), Daejeon 34141, Korea

² Policy Research Division, Green Technology Center, Seoul 04554, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1263; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041263 - 19 Apr 2018

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 6155

Abstract

This paper explores two Korean cases of Knowledge and Technology Transfer (KTT) to address climate change in developing countries. The target technologies were carbon capture and utilization (CCU) in a project in Bantayan Island, Philippines, and waste-to-energy (WTE) technology in Santiago, Dominican Republic. [...] Read more.

This paper explores two Korean cases of Knowledge and Technology Transfer (KTT) to address climate change in developing countries. The target technologies were carbon capture and utilization (CCU) in a project in Bantayan Island, Philippines, and waste-to-energy (WTE) technology in Santiago, Dominican Republic. These projects were conducted by the Republic of Korea’s Green Technology Center. The study analyses the rationale of KTT (“international environment” and “motives”), its objects (technology types) and activities (“informational contacts”, “research activities”, “consulting” and “education and training”). It concludes that the KTT efforts of these two case studies can be characterized as “uninformed transfer”, given a lack of information on situational factors. In particular, these projects faced cooperation problems between national and local governments in the target countries due to different levels of commitment among different stakeholder groups. In conclusion, this study identifies the implications of an acceptability gap between national and local actors in renewable energy projects of KTT. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Opportunities and Roles of Experimentation in Addressing Climate Change)

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16 pages, 906 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Role of Mimicry Isomorphism in Sustainable Development Operationalisation by SMEs in South Africa

by Reginald Masocha^*

and Olawale Fatoki

School of Economics and Management, University of Limpopo, Sovenga 0727, South Africa

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1264; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041264 - 20 Apr 2018

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 7348

Abstract

The study surveyed 222 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) from the Limpopo province of South Africa on the impact of mimicry isomorphism in making sustainable development operational. The research made use of self-administered questionnaires which were distributed, and the convenience sampling technique was [...] Read more.

The study surveyed 222 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) from the Limpopo province of South Africa on the impact of mimicry isomorphism in making sustainable development operational. The research made use of self-administered questionnaires which were distributed, and the convenience sampling technique was used. Data analysis primarily comprised of exploratory factor analysis (EFA) through SPSS software version 24 confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and structural equation modelling (SEM) through AMOS software version 24. The SEM results revealed that all three measured dimensions of sustainable development—namely, economic, environmental, and social—were significantly influenced by mimicry isomorphism. As such, the implications of the study are that strong evidence exists pertaining to the operationalisation of sustainable development due to mimetic isomorphism. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Economic Geography: Location, Innovation and Sustainable Development)

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21 pages, 3198 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Green Infrastructure and Ecological Corridors: A Regional Study Concerning Sardinia

by Ignazio Cannas

, Sabrina Lai

, Federica Leone^* and Corrado Zoppi

Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Architecture, University of Cagliari, Via Marengo 2, 09123 Cagliari, Italy

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1265; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041265 - 20 Apr 2018

Cited by 47 | Viewed by 6231

Abstract

We propose a methodological approach to identify a multifunctional green infrastructure (GI) on the basis of four values (conservation value, natural value, recreation value and anthropic heritage) that represent many functions (biodiversity conservation, supply of ecosystem services, recreation, identity building) performed by the [...] Read more.

We propose a methodological approach to identify a multifunctional green infrastructure (GI) on the basis of four values (conservation value, natural value, recreation value and anthropic heritage) that represent many functions (biodiversity conservation, supply of ecosystem services, recreation, identity building) performed by the landscape. By taking the Italian region of Sardinia as a case study, we argue that the methodology can support the making of landscape plans as understood in the European Landscape Convention. Moreover, we propose and implement a methodology to identify ecological corridors (ECs) connecting Natura 2000 sites (N2Ss), based on the prioritization of functional land patches related to their suitability to ecosystem services delivery, paying particular attention to biodiversity maintenance and enhancement, and taking Sardinia as spatial regional context. The methodology consists of two steps: (i) identifying the most suitable patches to be included in ECs on the basis of their connectivity, that is, on their negative attitude towards contributing to landscape fragmentation; (ii) assessing, through a discrete-choice-model, the suitability of these ECs to be included in a regional GI, starting from the territorial taxonomy based on biodiversity characteristics related to N2Ss, habitat suitability, and recreational and landscape potentials. Full article

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16 pages, 2588 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Estimations of Nitrogen Concentration in Sugarcane Using Hyperspectral Imagery

by Poonsak Miphokasap^1,* and Wasinee Wannasiri²

¹ Department of Geography, Faculty of Social Science, Kasetsart University, 50 Ngam Wong Wan Rd, Ladyaow, Chatuchak, Bangkok 10900, Thailand

² Geography Field of Study, Faculty of Liberal Arts, Thammasat University, 99 Moo 18, Klong Luang, Rangsit, Pathumthani 12121, Thailand

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1266; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041266 - 20 Apr 2018

Cited by 38 | Viewed by 4535

Abstract

This study aims to estimate the spatial variation of sugarcane Canopy Nitrogen Concentration (CNC) using spectral data, which were measured from a spaceborne hyperspectral image. Stepwise Multiple Linear Regression (SMLR) and Support Vector Regression (SVR) were applied to calibrate and validate the CNC [...] Read more.

This study aims to estimate the spatial variation of sugarcane Canopy Nitrogen Concentration (CNC) using spectral data, which were measured from a spaceborne hyperspectral image. Stepwise Multiple Linear Regression (SMLR) and Support Vector Regression (SVR) were applied to calibrate and validate the CNC estimation models. The raw spectral reflectance was transformed into a First-Derivative Spectrum (FDS) and absorption features to remove the spectral noise and finally used as input variables. The results indicate that the estimation models developed by non-linear SVR based Radial Basis Function (RBF) kernel yield the higher correlation coefficient with CNC compared with the models computed by SMLR. The best model shows the coefficient of determination value of 0.78 and Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) value of 0.035% nitrogen. The narrow sensitive spectral wavelengths for quantifying nitrogen content in the combined cultivar environments existed mainly in the electromagnetic spectrum of the visible-red, longer portion of red edge, shortwave infrared regions and far-near infrared. The most important conclusion from this experiment is that spectral signals from the space hyperspectral data contain the meaningful information for quantifying sugarcane CNC across larger geographic areas. The nutrient deficient areas could be corrected by applying suitable farm management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Agriculture)

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19 pages, 568 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Is Green Regulation Effective or a Failure: Comparative Analysis between Bangladesh Bank (BB) Green Guidelines and Global Reporting Initiative Guidelines

by Md. Abdul Kaium Masud^1,2

, Mohammad Sharif Hossain³

and Jong Dae Kim^4,*

¹ Department of Sustainability Management, Inha University, Incheon 22212, Korea

² Department of Business Administration, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali 3814, Bangladesh

³ School of Business, Uttara University, Dhaka 1230, Bangladesh

⁴ College of Business Administration, Inha University, Incheon 22212, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1267; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041267 - 20 Apr 2018

Cited by 45 | Viewed by 8664

Abstract

Green reporting and green regulation have been commonly used in the sustainability movement. This study evaluates Bangladesh Bank’s (BB’s) green regulation by considering the global reporting initiative (GRI) of environmental regulation along with self-determined content to justify BB’s institutional effort in the banking [...] Read more.

Green reporting and green regulation have been commonly used in the sustainability movement. This study evaluates Bangladesh Bank’s (BB’s) green regulation by considering the global reporting initiative (GRI) of environmental regulation along with self-determined content to justify BB’s institutional effort in the banking sector. The analytical study has considered secondary data of all listed banks on the Dhaka Stock Exchange between 2013 to 2016. A multi-theoretical framework has been adopted in which the research is comprised of institutional, stakeholder, and legitimacy theories. Considering the analytical research, we have drawn-up a green reporting score and undertaken SWOT analysis. The results of the study have identified the narrow coverage of BB’s regulation and strategic limitations. Moreover, the findings of the study show that banking companies disclosed more green information in line with BB’s regulation. Furthermore, our analysis has found the lack of transparency of green reporting in terms of absent global reporting as well as external verification. Additionally, we have documented that BB’s regulation falls into a legitimacy threat owing to political, corporate, and social responsibility. Therefore, we concluded that for BB to overcome all possible weaknesses and threats, it should consider all possible opportunities for a holistic international reporting framework while taking into account a transparent financial sector. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in Developing Countries: Current Trends and Development)

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31 pages, 6917 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Can ISO-Defined Urban Sustainability Indicators Be Derived from Remote Sensing: An Expert Weighting Approach

by Arthur Lehner^1,2,*

, Christoph Erlacher^2,3, Matthias Schlögl^4,5

, Jacob Wegerer¹, Thomas Blaschke²

and Klaus Steinnocher¹

¹ Center for Energy, Austrian Institute of Technology, Vienna 1210, Austria

² Department of Geoinformatics, University of Salzburg, Salzburg 5020, Austria

³ Department of Geoinformation and Environmental Technologies, Carinthia University of Applied Sciences, Villach 9500, Austria

⁴ Transportation Infrastructure Technologies, Austrian Institute of Technology, Vienna 1210, Austria

⁵ Institute of Applied Statistics and Computing, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna 1190, Austria

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1268; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041268 - 20 Apr 2018

Cited by 31 | Viewed by 6694

Abstract

In the context of the United Nations’ “Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development” and the presented Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the process of developing and agreeing on indicators to monitor the SDGs implementation becomes fundamental. In this paper, we identify indicators for the sustainable [...] Read more.

In the context of the United Nations’ “Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development” and the presented Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the process of developing and agreeing on indicators to monitor the SDGs implementation becomes fundamental. In this paper, we identify indicators for the sustainable development of cities that have the greatest potential for their underlying data to be measured by means of remote sensing. We first identified existing indicators, which are derived from the International Standard ISO 37120, “Indicators for city services and quality of life”, as being partly or fully measured by the use of remote sensing, and then presented these indicators to remote sensing experts in an assessment procedure. We then investigated Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) weighting methods to identify the most relevant quality of life indicators that can be captured by means of remote sensing techniques. We assess the remote sensing experts’ knowledge in the context of Decision Support Systems (DSS), and by means of both a questionnaire-based approach and a pairwise comparison approach. The approaches are compared with each other regarding their complexity, their potentials and limitations, and the respectively identified remote sensing based indicators. We identified three indicators related to surface characteristics as having the highest remote sensing potential. When contrasted to the results of the pairwise comparison, the questionnaire-based approach revealed high usability and confirmability. In the end, this approach enables cities’ administrations to decide which indicators they want to cover by means of remote sensing, depending on the capacities of their departments. Full article

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16 pages, 275 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Heterogeneous Age-Friendly Environments among Age-Cohort Groups

by Sojung Park¹ and Sangchul Lee^2,*

¹ School of Social Work, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA

² Department of Senior Welfare, Dong Seoul University, Seongnam-si 13117, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1269; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041269 - 20 Apr 2018

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3139

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the underlying structures of age-friendly environmental characteristics and examine how they may vary across age-cohort groups based on life satisfaction. We used regionally representative data in South Korea. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis were conducted for age-friendly environmental [...] Read more.

This study aimed to identify the underlying structures of age-friendly environmental characteristics and examine how they may vary across age-cohort groups based on life satisfaction. We used regionally representative data in South Korea. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis were conducted for age-friendly environmental indicators in three age-cohort groups. Regression models examined the association between the environmental factors and life satisfaction in the three age-cohort groups. Across all age groups, three factors converged: neighborhood problems, access to public services and programs, and community engagement. Regression analyses showed the three convergent environmental factors were all significantly associated with life satisfaction across all age-groups, but the association varies across the age-groups. The age-cohort based factor structures and differential patterns of association with well-being provide important background information on designing age-friendly communities. Full article

16 pages, 4045 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Potential Impacts of China 2030 High-Speed Rail Network on Ground Transportation Accessibility

by Lvhua Wang^1,2

, Yongxue Liu^1,3,4,*

, Liang Mao² and Chao Sun^1,3

¹ Department of Geographic and Oceanographic Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China

² Department of Geography, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA

³ Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Geographic Information Science and Technology, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China

⁴ Jiangsu Center for Collaborative Innovation in Geographical Information Resource Development and Application, Nanjing 210023, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1270; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041270 - 20 Apr 2018

Cited by 37 | Viewed by 7454

Abstract

China has proposed an ambitious high-speed rail (HSR) program by 2030 to connect all provincial capitals (excluding Lhasa) and large cities with more than half million people. Little attention has been paid to evaluate its potential impacts on ground transportation accessibility. To answer [...] Read more.

China has proposed an ambitious high-speed rail (HSR) program by 2030 to connect all provincial capitals (excluding Lhasa) and large cities with more than half million people. Little attention has been paid to evaluate its potential impacts on ground transportation accessibility. To answer this question, we adopted a door-to-door approach to calculate two indicators: the weighted average travel time and daily accessibility. The results show that the HSR network follows the same spatial patterns of population size and regional development, thus preferentially serving eastern China. The two accessibility indicators suggest that the large-scale construction of HSR network by 2030 will substantially improve accessibility and alter the spatial disparities of accessibility. On average, accessibility of all cities will increase by 61.7%. Geographically, cities with higher accessibility are located in the quadrilateral area of ‘Wuhan-Zhengzhou-Jinan-Nanjing’ on the southeastern section of the ‘Hu Line.’ While the least accessible cities are distributed in peripheral areas. Although the HSR development can benefit accessibility throughout the country, the disparities of accessibility would widen slightly among regions, provinces and cities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Transport Policy)

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22 pages, 1014 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Member Heterogeneity in Agricultural Cooperatives: A Systems-Theoretic Perspective

by Constantine Iliopoulos^1,*

and Vladislav Valentinov^2,3

¹ Agricultural Economics Research Institute (AGRERI), Nik. Chlorou 1, Athens 115 28, Greece

² Leibniz Institute of Agricultural Development in Transition Economies (IAMO), and Interdisciplinary Research Unit on Cooperative Studies, Große Steinstrasse 73, 06099 Halle, Germany

³ Faculty of Law and Economics, Martin Luther University, Halle 06108, Germany

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1271; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041271 - 20 Apr 2018

Cited by 40 | Viewed by 6815

Abstract

All over the globe, cooperatives are plagued by pervasive member heterogeneity problems that are induced by the radical and dynamic changes in the business environment. Most current solutions to these problems emphasize strengthening member loyalty and commitment. Yet, many of these solutions are [...] Read more.

All over the globe, cooperatives are plagued by pervasive member heterogeneity problems that are induced by the radical and dynamic changes in the business environment. Most current solutions to these problems emphasize strengthening member loyalty and commitment. Yet, many of these solutions are symptomatic rather than fundamental. Searching for fundamental solutions, this paper draws on the Luhmannian system-environment paradigm. Bringing this paradigm to bear on the cooperative scholarship, the paper views cooperatives as operationally closed systems maintaining a precarious relationship to their outer environment, which includes cooperative members. In view of their operational closure, cooperatives tend to overstrain the carrying capacity of their environment by being active in the areas marked by a limited extent of the true commonness of member interests. This overstraining results in a host of problems associated with member heterogeneity. The fundamental solutions following from the system-environment paradigm require the adjustment of cooperative boundaries and goals in light of the evolving range of the true common interests of members. In terms of methodology, we review the extant literature, synthesize the main elements of the system-environment approach and conduct a meta-analysis of case studies and other empirical research to highlight our theoretical arguments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cooperative Longevity: Why are So Many Cooperatives So Successful?)

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17 pages, 1639 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Integrated Approach to Evaluate Urban Adaptive Capacity to Climate Change

by Qiangsheng Hu and Xiaorong He^*

Tourism College of Hunan Normal University, No.36, Lushan Road, Changsha 410081, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1272; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041272 - 20 Apr 2018

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 5893

Abstract

Climate change and accelerated urbanization have posed severe challenges to urban development, resulting in a growing series of climate and environmental problems that have a significant impact on industrial production and urban life. In a developing country such as China, more than 57% [...] Read more.

Climate change and accelerated urbanization have posed severe challenges to urban development, resulting in a growing series of climate and environmental problems that have a significant impact on industrial production and urban life. In a developing country such as China, more than 57% of the population lives in urban areas. It is vital for these cities to adapt to climate-induced risks. A better understanding of how to improve adaptive capacity could enhance the ability to achieve a desirable state when the city experiences stress. This paper used an integrated approach for evaluating the urban adaptive capacity to climate change. It developed the evaluation index system of urban adaptive capacity (UAC) based on the driver–pressure–state–impact–response model (DPSIR), and adopted grey relational analysis (GRA) and the entropy method to analyze the level of UAC in Changsha, the capital city of Hunan Province, from 2006 to 2015. The results revealed that the UAC of Changsha showed a significant increase from 2006 to 2015. Among the five first-grade indicators, the response dimension had the greatest influence on the improvement of UAC. The study may provide suggestions for adaptive capacity building and sustainable development in other urban areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Urban and Rural Development)

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16 pages, 1567 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Assessment of Regional Sustainability through Quality Labels for Small Farmers’ Products: A Slovak Case Study

by Jana Jaďuďová¹, Iveta Marková¹

, Emília Hroncová^1,* and Jana Hroncová Vicianová²

¹ Department of Environmental Management, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Matej Bel University in Banská Bystrica, Tajovského 40, 974 01 Banská Bystrica, Slovakia

² Department of Corporate Economics and Management, Faculty of Economics, Matej Bel University in Banská Bystrica, Tajovského 10, 975 90 Banská Bystrica, Slovakia

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1273; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041273 - 20 Apr 2018

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 3827

Abstract

Regional product labelling can help develop regional business activities, especially with traditional regional products. Their general popularity is a significant source of income for less-developed regions. The Gemer-Malohont region is an economically underdeveloped area with a high unemployment rate. The subject of the [...] Read more.

Regional product labelling can help develop regional business activities, especially with traditional regional products. Their general popularity is a significant source of income for less-developed regions. The Gemer-Malohont region is an economically underdeveloped area with a high unemployment rate. The subject of the survey was focused on regional food products that are made by small farmers. The analysis was carried out using data from a questionnaire survey on the period April–July 2017 in each of the region’s districts. The results obtained by the questionnaire survey were processed with the use of statistical methods (two-step cluster analysis, radar chart, box-plots, regression analysis) using Microsoft Excel and the IBM SPSS Statistics 23 software. We divided consumers into two groups—knowledgeable regional food purchasers and priced-oriented consumers—based on their preference for regional food and through cluster analysis. We show that the more developed regions (Rimavská Sobota and Rožňava) show a higher rate of purchase of regional foods. Less-developed regions (Poltár, Revúca) are represented by lower-income consumers for whom the food price is the decisive criterion. Local residents of backward regions should pay attention to domestic food and local small farmers who are tools for the creation of local capital and local development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Environmental Sustainability and Applications)

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11 pages, 286 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Corporate Websites and Their Influence on the Performance of Olive Oil Companies

by Enrique Bernal Jurado¹, Adoración Mozas Moral²

, Miguel Jesús Medina Viruel^3,*

and Domingo Fernández Uclés⁴

¹ Department of Economics, Campus Lagunillas, Building D-3, Office 266, University of Jaen, 23071 Jaen, Spain

² Department of Business Organization, Marketing and Sociology, Campus Lagunillas, Building D-3, Office 146, University of Jaen, 23071 Jaen, Spain

³ Department of Statistics, Econometrics, Operational Research, Business Organization and Applied Economics, Puerta nueva, s/n, Applied Economics Office, University of Cordoba, 14071 Cordoba, Spain

⁴ Department of Business Organization, Marketing and Sociology, Campus Lagunillas, Building D-3, Office 107, University of Jaen, 23071 Jaen, Spain

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1274; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041274 - 20 Apr 2018

Cited by 38 | Viewed by 5344

Abstract

Spain is among the largest producers of organic olive in the world. Yet the Spanish organic olive oil sector faces a major commercial problem due to an internal demand that is too small to match the volume of supply. Factors that explain this [...] Read more.

Spain is among the largest producers of organic olive in the world. Yet the Spanish organic olive oil sector faces a major commercial problem due to an internal demand that is too small to match the volume of supply. Factors that explain this problem include the scarcity and scattered nature of points of sale, the lack of information available to consumers, and the very large gulf in the price between organic and nonorganic olive oil. To address these problems, the literature highlights the key commercial role of information and communication technologies (ICTs). The corporate website is a core element around which the company’s e-commerce activity revolves. The goal of this study is to confirm the relationship between business efficiency, measured using data envelopment analysis (DEA), and the quality of the corporate website, measured using the extended Model of Internet Commerce Adoption (eMICA). Although this analysis did not identify a direct relationship between these two variables, fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) revealed that combinations of elements related to corporate website quality (interactivity and processing), organizational, and structural factors (size of firm and outsourcing of ICT management) can have a direct effect on organizational performance, measured in terms of economic efficiency. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Entrepreneurship and Business Cases for a Sustainable Accounting and Financial System)

13 pages, 2589 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Scenario Aggregation-Based Grid-Connected Photovoltaic Plant Design

by Ahmad Abuelrub^1,*

, Osama Saadeh² and Hussein M. K. Al-Masri³

¹ Department of Electrical Engineering, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan

² Department of Energy Engineering, German Jordanian University, Amman 11180, Jordan

³ Department of Electrical Power Engineering, Yarmouk University, Irbid 21163, Jordan

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1275; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041275 - 20 Apr 2018

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 4500

Abstract

As the global population continues to increase and living standards in developing countries continue to improve, the demand for energy is surging. This is also coupled with technological advances, which are leading to the increased electrification of transportation, manufacturing, and home appliance. Classical [...] Read more.

As the global population continues to increase and living standards in developing countries continue to improve, the demand for energy is surging. This is also coupled with technological advances, which are leading to the increased electrification of transportation, manufacturing, and home appliance. Classical fossil fuel-based energy generation is unsustainable and a significant cause of air pollution. Therefore, clean, local, and sustainable sources of energy, such as solar energy, have recently been receiving more attention. In this paper, a complete design approach for grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) plants is developed. Jordan University of Science and Technology (JUST) is presented as a case study. The design is formulated as an optimization problem to find the optimal PV plant size needed to minimize the system cost and meet the design constraints. The uncertainties of solar radiation and temperature are considered using appropriate stochastic models. The optimization problem is solved using the Scenario Aggregation technique. The results show the financial and environmental feasibility of the proposed system. The optimal PV plant size which meets the annual demand of JUST is found and the financial and environmental benefits derived from executing the proposed system are emphasized. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Energy Sustainability)

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11 pages, 833 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Entrepreneurial Factors Affecting the Sustainable Growth and Success of a South African Construction Company

by Abimbola Windapo

Department of Construction Economics and Management, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7700, South Africa

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1276; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041276 - 21 Apr 2018

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 6366

Abstract

The study examines a case of how the South African construction industry nurtured an entrepreneur and a large successful entrepreneurial construction company, even though the founder had no formal education and the company was founded during the Apartheid era. The question of whether [...] Read more.

The study examines a case of how the South African construction industry nurtured an entrepreneur and a large successful entrepreneurial construction company, even though the founder had no formal education and the company was founded during the Apartheid era. The question of whether entrepreneurs are born or are made is based on the age-old question of nurture or nature. The paper presents the narratives of the successful entrepreneur Mr. Sam Lubbe and the business strategy he used in growing a sustainable business. The information presented is collected through a case study research approach. The data collected suggests that although Sam does not have any formal education, he succeeded based on the nurturing given to him when he had the opportunity to work for a large South African construction company, his innate characteristics of self-confidence, task–result orientation, and originality, as well as his planning for the future and the use of a unique business model which helped him access international construction work opportunities. The study of this particular individual and his unique company is significant because it further validates previous research undertaken in other contexts and sectors on the traits of entrepreneurs and the success of companies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Entrepreneurial Sustainability: New Innovative Knowledge)

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15 pages, 2750 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Future Climate Change on Wheat Production: A Simulated Case for China’s Wheat System

by Dengpan Xiao¹

, Huizi Bai^1,* and De Li Liu^2,3,*

¹ Engineering Technology Research Center, Geographic Information Development and Application of Hebei, Institute of Geographical Sciences, Hebei Academy of Sciences, Shijiazhuang 050011, China

² NSW Department of Primary Industries, Wagga Wagga Agricultural Institute, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2650, Australia

³ Climate Change Research Centre and ARC Centre of Excellence for Climate Extremes, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1277; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041277 - 21 Apr 2018

Cited by 65 | Viewed by 8394

Abstract

With regard to global climate change due to increasing concentration in greenhouse gases, particularly carbon dioxide (CO₂), it is important to examine its potential impact on crop development and production. We used statistically-downscaled climate data from 28 Global Climate Models (GCMs) [...] Read more.

With regard to global climate change due to increasing concentration in greenhouse gases, particularly carbon dioxide (CO₂), it is important to examine its potential impact on crop development and production. We used statistically-downscaled climate data from 28 Global Climate Models (GCMs) and the Agricultural Production Systems sIMulator (APSIM)–Wheat model to simulate the impact of future climate change on wheat production. Two future scenarios (RCP4.5 and RCP8.5) were used for atmospheric greenhouse gas concentrations during two different future periods (2031–2060 referred to as 40S and 2071–2100 referred to as 80S). Relative to the baseline period (1981–2010), the trends in mean daily temperature and radiation significantly increased across all stations under the future scenarios. Furthermore, the trends in precipitation increased under future climate scenarios. Due to climate change, the trend in wheat phenology significantly advanced. The early flowering and maturity dates shortened both the vegetative growth stage (VGP) and the whole growth period (WGP). As the advance in the days of maturity was more than that in flowering, the length of the reproductive growth stage (RGP) of spring wheat was shortened. However, as the advance in the date of maturity was less than that of flowering, the RGP of winter wheat was extended. When the increase in CO₂ concentration under future climate scenarios was not considered, the trend in change in wheat production for the baseline declined. In contrast, under increased CO₂ concentration, the trend in wheat yield increased for most of the stations (except for Nangong station) under future climatic conditions. Winter wheat and spring wheat evapotranspiration (ET) decreased across all stations under the two future climate scenarios. As wheat yield increased with decreasing water consumption (as ET) under the future climatic conditions, water use efficiency (WUE) significantly improved in the future period. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Agriculture)

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16 pages, 598 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Digitalization and Environmental Aims in Municipalities

by Tina Ringenson^1,*, Mattias Höjer¹, Anna Kramers¹

and Anna Viggedal²

¹ Strategic Sustainability Studies, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, 114 28 Stockholm, Sweden

² Ericsson, Stockholm 115 41, Sweden

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1278; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041278 - 21 Apr 2018

Cited by 41 | Viewed by 7689

Abstract

Many municipalities express a wish to use digital technologies to achieve environmental aims. However, there is still a need for a better understanding of how this should practically be done, both among municipalities and among ICT developers. We have used workshops and literature [...] Read more.

Many municipalities express a wish to use digital technologies to achieve environmental aims. However, there is still a need for a better understanding of how this should practically be done, both among municipalities and among ICT developers. We have used workshops and literature studies to formulate technological abilities of digitalization. We use two EU directives that are relevant for municipal environmental goals and combine the activities that these directives indicate with technological abilities of digitalization, in order to formulate practical implementations of digital technology to help these activities and reach the directives’ goals. We suggest that this method can be used for any municipal goal, as follows: (1) Identify the objective (in our case set by the EU-directives); (2) Identify what activities these points will require or generate; (3a) From a municipal viewpoint: Based on the results of 1 and 2, formulate and structure ideas of how digitalization can support the objectives and how those ideas can be implemented; (3b) From a provider’s viewpoint: Investigate what digital solutions supporting 1 and 2 exist, or how existing services can be tweaked to support the objectives and explore how new digital solutions supporting 1 and 2 can be developed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Smart Cities and Smart Villages Research)

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16 pages, 278 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Is Innovation Destroying Jobs? Firm-Level Evidence from the EU

by Mariacristina Piva¹

and Marco Vivarelli^2,3,4,*

¹ Department of Economic Policy , Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 29122 Piacenza, Italy

² Department of Economic Policy, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, 20123 Milano, Italy

³ UNU-MERIT, 6211 Maastricht, The Netherlands

⁴ IZA, 53113 Bonn, Germany

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1279; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041279 - 21 Apr 2018

Cited by 36 | Viewed by 6915

Abstract

Using a unique firm-level database comprising the top European R&D investors over the period 2002–2013 and running LSDVC estimates, this study finds a significant labor-friendly impact of R&D expenditures. However, this positive employment effect appears limited in magnitude and entirely due to the [...] Read more.

Using a unique firm-level database comprising the top European R&D investors over the period 2002–2013 and running LSDVC estimates, this study finds a significant labor-friendly impact of R&D expenditures. However, this positive employment effect appears limited in magnitude and entirely due to the medium- and high-tech sectors, while no effect can be detected in the low-tech industries. From a policy point of view, this outcome supports the EU2020 strategy but—taking into account that most European economies are specialized in low-tech activities—is also worrying in terms of future perspectives of the European labor market. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of Technological Change on Employment, Skills and Earnings)

17 pages, 9017 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Electricity Price Forecasting Model by Hybrid Structured Deep Neural Networks

by Ping-Huan Kuo¹

and Chiou-Jye Huang^2,*

¹ Computer and Intelligent Robot Program for Bachelor Degree, National Pingtung University, Pingtung 90004, Taiwan

² School of Electrical Engineering and Automation, Jiangxi University of Science and Technology, Ganzhou 341000, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1280; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041280 - 21 Apr 2018

Cited by 161 | Viewed by 12279

Abstract

Electricity price is a key influencer in the electricity market. Electricity market trades by each participant are based on electricity price. The electricity price adjusted with the change in supply and demand relationship can reflect the real value of electricity in the transaction [...] Read more.

Electricity price is a key influencer in the electricity market. Electricity market trades by each participant are based on electricity price. The electricity price adjusted with the change in supply and demand relationship can reflect the real value of electricity in the transaction process. However, for the power generating party, bidding strategy determines the level of profit, and the accurate prediction of electricity price could make it possible to determine a more accurate bidding price. This cannot only reduce transaction risk, but also seize opportunities in the electricity market. In order to effectively estimate electricity price, this paper proposes an electricity price forecasting system based on the combination of 2 deep neural networks, the Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) and the Long Short Term Memory (LSTM). In order to compare the overall performance of each algorithm, the Mean Absolute Error (MAE) and Root-Mean-Square error (RMSE) evaluating measures were applied in the experiments of this paper. Experiment results show that compared with other traditional machine learning methods, the prediction performance of the estimating model proposed in this paper is proven to be the best. By combining the CNN and LSTM models, the feasibility and practicality of electricity price prediction is also confirmed in this paper. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Power System and Sustainability)

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16 pages, 320 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Acceptance of Food Technologies, Perceived Values and Consumers’ Expectations towards Bread. A Survey among Polish Sample

by Marta Sajdakowska¹

, Maria Królak¹, Witold Zychowicz² and Marzena Jeżewska-Zychowicz^1,*

¹ Department of Organization and Consumption Economics, Faculty of Human Nutrition and Consumer Sciences, Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW-WULS), 159 C Nowoursynowska Street, 02-766 Warsaw, Poland

² Department of Agricultural and Forest Machinery, Faculty of Production Engineering, Warsaw University of Life Sciences (WULS-SGGW), 166 Nowoursynowska Street, 02-787 Warsaw, Poland

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1281; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041281 - 21 Apr 2018

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 5373

Abstract

The aims of the study were to identify the perceptions about the technologies that are used to increase the nutritional value of cereal products, and to evaluate relations between consumers’ perceptions of them, expected changes to bread, and the perceived values. Quantitative data [...] Read more.

The aims of the study were to identify the perceptions about the technologies that are used to increase the nutritional value of cereal products, and to evaluate relations between consumers’ perceptions of them, expected changes to bread, and the perceived values. Quantitative data was collected through computer-assisted personal interviews (CAPI) within a sample of 1000 Polish adults. Clustering method was used to identify homogeneous groups based on opinions on the technologies used in the production of cereals and cereal products. Neutral attitudes towards technologies were presented in the sample with relatively greater acceptance of traditional crossbreeding of varieties and enrichment processes. Nevertheless, three homogeneous clusters were identified: technological sceptics (33.6%), technological traditionalists (15.0%) and technological enthusiasts (51.4%). Technological traditionalists appreciated the naturalness of food, tradition, natural environment, quality of life and health more than the other clusters. Perceiving themselves as a person valuing tradition and quality of life was associated with belonging to the technological sceptics. Both sceptics and traditionalists declared greater fears resulting from the application of new technologies in food production, including threats to the environment, health, naturalness of food and quality of life. Technological enthusiasts were anticipating more changes in bread. The differences among the clusters, including perceived values, require communication that is adapted to the profile of the consumers. The results can be useful for bread manufacturers to predict the demand and deliver against it and for marketers who are responsible for the process of effective product labelling and communication in order to meet the consumer needs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Food Innovation)

14 pages, 293 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Efficiency and Risk in Sustaining China’s Food Production and Security: Evidence from Micro-Level Panel Data Analysis of Japonica Rice Production

by Chengjun Wang^1,2,*, Zhaoyong Zhang^3,* and Ximin Fei²

¹ Faculty of Economics and Management, Zhejiang A&F University, Lin’an, Zhejiang 311300, China

² Faculty of Management, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310082, China

³ School of Business & Law, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup WA6027, Australia

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1282; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041282 - 21 Apr 2018

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4015

Abstract

Sustainable food production and food security are always challenging issues in China. This paper constructs a multi-element two-level constant-elasticity-of-substitution (CES) model to assess technological progress in, and its contribution to, japonica rice production in China. The results show that the speed of technological [...] Read more.

Sustainable food production and food security are always challenging issues in China. This paper constructs a multi-element two-level constant-elasticity-of-substitution (CES) model to assess technological progress in, and its contribution to, japonica rice production in China. The results show that the speed of technological progress in the production of japonica rice on average was 0.44% per annum in 1985–2013, and technological progress has contributed significantly to the growth of japonica rice production in China. Robustness checks show that the results appear to be sensitive to which sub-sample is used. Labour and some other inputs are found to be significant but negative, especially during the middle sampling period of 1994–2006 and in eastern and western regions. This has important policy implications on the impact of rural-to-urban migration and farmers’ human development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Risk Measures with Applications in Finance and Economics)

18 pages, 1284 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Tourist Satisfaction, Image, and Loyalty from an Interregional Perspective: An Analysis of Neighboring Areas with Distinct Characteristics

by Tae-Hyoung Tommy Gim

Graduate School of Environmental Studies, Interdisciplinary Program in Landscape Architecture, and Environmental Planning Institute, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1283; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041283 - 21 Apr 2018

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 5637

Abstract

A comparison is made among the three areas of the Korean Capital Region to investigate the effects of their different tourism resources on attribute satisfaction and the relationships that attribute satisfaction has with overall satisfaction, country image, and tourist loyalty. Three partial least [...] Read more.

A comparison is made among the three areas of the Korean Capital Region to investigate the effects of their different tourism resources on attribute satisfaction and the relationships that attribute satisfaction has with overall satisfaction, country image, and tourist loyalty. Three partial least squares structural equation models find that costs, lodging, and communication are consistently unimportant, but the most important variable differs by area. In Seoul (an international shopping center), shopping is paramount; food is most important in Incheon (where its local cuisines have been well publicized); and satisfaction with tourism administration services is highly valued in Gyeonggi (which lacks facilities for foreign tourists). At the construct level, overall happiness exerts a stronger direct effect on image than on loyalty, but if its indirect effect is considered, the total effect on loyalty surpasses that on image. This is particularly true in Gyeonggi, where tourism resources are less exploited. Full article

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26 pages, 1548 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Manufacturer’s Decision as Consumers’ Low-Carbon Preference Grows

by Lei Yang^1,*

, Meng Chen², Yiji Cai¹ and Sang-Bing Tsai^3,4,*

¹ School of Economics and Commerce, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510006, China

² School of Management, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China

³ Zhongshan Institute, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Guangzhou 528400, China

⁴ Economics and Management College, Civil Aviation University of China, Tianjin 300300, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1284; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041284 - 21 Apr 2018

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4594

Abstract

This paper investigates five channel structures for manufacturers including three single channels and two dual channels. Consumers’ low-carbon preference is considered to explore how market demands and channel selections will change as it remains stable and grows. To compare performances of the five [...] Read more.

This paper investigates five channel structures for manufacturers including three single channels and two dual channels. Consumers’ low-carbon preference is considered to explore how market demands and channel selections will change as it remains stable and grows. To compare performances of the five channel structures, we further get the critical points consisting of construction cost of a platform, revenue proportion through a third-party platform, and offline proportion of total demands. The findings show that, when the construction cost is low, a self-owned platform performs better than a retail channel and a third-party platform. If the offline proportion is high, manufacturers would adopt or add a retail channel. When the manufacturers’ revenue proportion is high, a third-party platform is more profitable. If the consumers’ low-carbon preference grows, dual channels can be chosen to satisfy the increasing online and offline demands. The critical revenue proportion and offline proportion become smaller while the construction cost becomes larger. In addition, numerical analysis is provided to show profit changes and robustness of channel structure. Our findings can provide useful insights for decision-makers to implement low-carbon sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development and Management of Mega Projects)

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18 pages, 2314 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Land Cover Based Landscape Pattern Dynamics of Anhui Province Using GlobCover and MCD12Q1 Global Land Cover Products

by Jinling Zhao¹, Jie Wang², Yu Jin², Lingling Fan², Chao Xu¹, Dong Liang¹ and Linsheng Huang^1,*

¹ National Joint Engineering Research Center for Analysis and Application of Agro-Ecological Big Data, Anhui University, Hefei 230601, China

² Key Laboratory of Intelligent Computing & Signal Processing, Ministry of Education, Anhui University, Hefei 230039, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1285; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041285 - 22 Apr 2018

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4411

Abstract

The development and free distribution of global land cover (GLC) products have greatly assisted in the evolution and analysis of relationships between land cover and landscape pattern. In this study, GlobCover and MCD12Q1 GLC datasets of 2005 and 2009 were comparatively used to [...] Read more.

The development and free distribution of global land cover (GLC) products have greatly assisted in the evolution and analysis of relationships between land cover and landscape pattern. In this study, GlobCover and MCD12Q1 GLC datasets of 2005 and 2009 were comparatively used to analyze the variation of land cover in Anhui Province, China at both the class and landscape scale. The land cover classification schemes of both datasets were firstly reclassified to six types of forestland, grassland, wetland, cropland, artificial area, and others, and then FRAGSTATS was used to calculate the landscape indices. The results showed that from 2005 to 2009, the area density of ‘cropland’ landscape decreased, and it increased for ‘wetland’ and ‘artificial area’. The landscape fragmentation of ‘forestland’ and ‘grassland’ were larger. Moreover, over the same period, the class edge (CE) of ‘cropland’ was diminished; while the CE of ‘wetland’ was enhanced and the aggregation became larger. Conversely, the aggregation and shape complexity of ‘artificial area’ remained the same. The clumpiness index (CLUMPY) of ‘cropland’ varied from 0.8995 to 0.9050, indicating a higher aggregation and more concentrated distribution. The heterogeneity index (HT) value of MCD12Q1 and GlobCover datasets varied, respectively, from 0.9642 to 0.9053 and from 0.8867 to 0.8751, demonstrating that the landscape heterogeneity of Anhui Province was reduced from 2005 to 2009. Driving force analysis (DFA) was just performed for ‘artificial area’, ‘cropland’, and ‘wetland’ according to the 2005–2009 statistical yearbook data, because they were apt to be affected by human activities over a relatively short period of time. Full article

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15 pages, 284 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Infrastructures as Catalysts: Precipitating Uneven Patterns of Development from Large-Scale Infrastructure Investments

by Crelis Rammelt

Institute for Interdisciplinary Studies, Faculty of Science, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam 1090 GE, The Netherlands

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1286; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041286 - 22 Apr 2018

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4741

Abstract

While infrastructure investments in developing regions may bring about aggregate benefits, the distribution of those benefits cannot be ignored. The present paper examines such distributional effects based on two illustrations: rural roads in Ethiopia and flood control systems in Bangladesh. In both cases, [...] Read more.

While infrastructure investments in developing regions may bring about aggregate benefits, the distribution of those benefits cannot be ignored. The present paper examines such distributional effects based on two illustrations: rural roads in Ethiopia and flood control systems in Bangladesh. In both cases, the infrastructures promote particular development patterns towards market-economic transformations and integration. We liken the introduction of these infrastructures to the addition of a catalyst in a chemical reaction. Rural roads, for example, catalyse existing flows of agricultural labour, while flood control catalyses agricultural productivity. Taking the analogy a step further, the effects of a catalyst are known to vary due to the presence of so-called inhibitors and promoters. Applying this to the two cases, the paper reveals that, among other factors, the ownership (or lack thereof) of modes of transportation in Ethiopia and land resources in Bangladesh represent significant promoters (or inhibitors) that can help to explain the unequal distribution of benefits. This question is by no means new; past technical assistance programmes were already fiercely criticized for exacerbating inequalities. Today, commercial and political interests are again intensifying infrastructural investments in developing regions with profound impacts on local economies and livelihoods. Revisiting the question of distribution is, therefore, as relevant as ever. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development at the Crossroads of Capital Flows and Migration: Leaving no One Behind?)

18 pages, 575 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Patent Keyword Extraction for Sustainable Technology Management

by Jongchan Kim¹, Jaehyun Choi², Sangsung Park^3,* and Dongsik Jang¹

¹ Department of Industrial Management Engineering, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Korea

² Daejeon Center for Creative Economy & Innovation, Daejeon 34141, Korea

³ Graduate School of Management of Technology, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1287; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041287 - 22 Apr 2018

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 5379

Abstract

Recently, sustainable growth and development has become an important issue for governments and corporations. However, maintaining sustainable development is very difficult. These difficulties can be attributed to sociocultural and political backgrounds that change over time [¹]. Because of these changes, the [...] Read more.

Recently, sustainable growth and development has become an important issue for governments and corporations. However, maintaining sustainable development is very difficult. These difficulties can be attributed to sociocultural and political backgrounds that change over time [¹]. Because of these changes, the technologies for sustainability also change, so governments and companies attempt to predict and manage technology using patent analyses, but it is very difficult to predict the rapidly changing technology markets. The best way to achieve insight into technology management in this rapidly changing market is to build a technology management direction and strategy that is flexible and adaptable to the volatile market environment through continuous monitoring and analysis. Quantitative patent analysis using text mining is an effective method for sustainable technology management. There have been many studies that have used text mining and word-based patent analyses to extract keywords and remove noise words. Because the extracted keywords are considered to have a significant effect on the further analysis, researchers need to carefully check out whether they are valid or not. However, most prior studies assume that the extracted keywords are appropriate, without evaluating their validity. Therefore, the criteria used to extract keywords needs to change. Until now, these criteria have focused on how well a patent can be classified according to its technical characteristics in the collected patent data set, typically using term frequency–inverse document frequency weights that are calculated by comparing the words in patents. However, this is not suitable when analyzing a single patent. Therefore, we need keyword selection criteria and an extraction method capable of representing the technical characteristics of a single patent without comparing them with other patents. In this study, we proposed a methodology to extract valid keywords from single patent documents using relevant papers and their authors’ keywords. We evaluated the validity of the proposed method and its practical performance using a statistical verification experiment. First, by comparing the document similarity between papers and patents containing the same search terms in their titles, we verified the validity of the proposed method of extracting patent keywords using authors’ keywords and the paper. We also confirmed that the proposed method improves the precision by about 17.4% over the existing method. It is expected that the outcome of this study will contribute to increasing the reliability and the validity of the research on patent analyses based on text mining and improving the quality of such studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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14 pages, 2308 KiB

Open AccessArticle

One-Dimensional Analytical Modeling of Pressure- Retarded Osmosis in a Parallel Flow Configuration for the Desalination Industry in the State of Kuwait

by Bader S. Al-Anzi^*

and Ashly Thomas

Department of Environmental Technology Management, College of Life Sciences, Kuwait University, P.O. Box 5969, Safat 13060, Kuwait

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1288; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041288 - 22 Apr 2018

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3949

Abstract

The present study deals with the application of one-dimensional (1D) analytical expressions for a parallel flow configuration in pressure-retarded osmosis (PRO) exchangers by using actual brine and feed salinity values from the Kuwait desalination industry. The 1D expressions are inspired by the effectiveness-number [...] Read more.

The present study deals with the application of one-dimensional (1D) analytical expressions for a parallel flow configuration in pressure-retarded osmosis (PRO) exchangers by using actual brine and feed salinity values from the Kuwait desalination industry. The 1D expressions are inspired by the effectiveness-number of transfer unit (ε-NTU) method used in heat exchanger analysis and has been developed to “size” an osmotically-driven membrane process (ODMP) mass exchanger given the operating conditions and desired performance. The driving potentials in these mass exchangers are the salinity differences between feed and draw solution. These 1D model equations are employed to determine mass transfer units (MTU) as a function of different dimensionless groups such as mass flowrate ratio (MR), recovery ratio (RR), concentration factors (CF) and effectiveness (ε). The introduction of new dimensionless groups such as the dilution rate ratio (DRR) and dilution rate (DR) would be used to relate the actual water permeation to the brine draw stream. The results show that a maximum power of 0.28 and 2.6 kJ can be produced by the PRO system using seawater or treated wastewater effluent (TWE) as the feed solution, respectively, which might be able to reduce the power consumption of the desalination industry in Kuwait. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Wastewater Treatment Systems)

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15 pages, 270 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Reaching Sustainable Financial Health: Gender Differences in Risk-Taking Patterns of Financially Excluded People

by Eunmi Kim¹, Sejoong Lee^2,*

and Joonwhan David Lee²

¹ Department of Economics, Ewha Womans University, 52 Ewhayeodae-gil, Seodaemun-gu, Seoul 03760, Korea

² College of Business Administration, Hongik University, 94 Wausan-ro, Mapogu, Seoul 04066, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1289; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041289 - 22 Apr 2018

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3452

Abstract

Providing sufficient financial accessibility to low-income individuals is considered a way to decrease income inequality and could be a key factor in sustainable economic growth. To make the financial accessibility policy more effective, analyses of individuals’ understanding of financial risk within low-income groups [...] Read more.

Providing sufficient financial accessibility to low-income individuals is considered a way to decrease income inequality and could be a key factor in sustainable economic growth. To make the financial accessibility policy more effective, analyses of individuals’ understanding of financial risk within low-income groups need to be conducted. The current authors investigated individuals’ attitudes towards loan financial risk in terms of gender difference. Using South Korean survey data, we examined the relationship between gender and attitude towards loan financial risk with a regression analysis. We found that within a low-income group, males were more willing to pay higher interest rates than females. In addition, males’ willingness to pay high interest rates became stronger when their current financial costs were high. The results indicate that males are less careful with the risks that high interest rates can bring. Thus, the results imply that interventions, such as more substantial financial education, are required for males to make financial accessibility polices more effective. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

18 pages, 11415 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Efficient Protection of Android Applications through User Authentication Using Peripheral Devices

by Jinseong Kim and Im Y. Jung^*

School of Electronics Engineering, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1290; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041290 - 22 Apr 2018

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 5278

Abstract

Android applications store large amounts of sensitive information that may be exposed and exploited. To prevent this security risk, some applications such as Syrup and KakaoTalk use physical device values to authenticate or encrypt application data. However, by manipulating these physical device values, [...] Read more.

Android applications store large amounts of sensitive information that may be exposed and exploited. To prevent this security risk, some applications such as Syrup and KakaoTalk use physical device values to authenticate or encrypt application data. However, by manipulating these physical device values, an attacker can circumvent the authentication by executing a Same Identifier Attack and obtain the same application privileges as the user. In our work, WhatsApp, KakaoTalk, Facebook, Amazon, and Syrup were subjected to the Same Identifier Attack, and it was found that an attacker could gain the same privileges as the user, in all five applications. To solve such a problem, we propose a technical scheme—User Authentication using Peripheral Devices. We applied the proposed scheme to a Nexus 5X smartphone running Android version 7.1 and confirmed that the average execution time was 0.005 s, which does not affect the other applications’ execution significantly. We also describe the security aspects of the proposed scheme and its compatibility with the Android platform and other applications. The proposed scheme is practical and efficient in terms of resource usage; therefore, it will be useful for Android users to improve Android application security. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Autonomous and Sustainable Computing for preparing the Internet of Things Environment)

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16 pages, 311 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Green Logistic Provider Selection with a Hesitant Fuzzy Linguistic Thermodynamic Method Integrating Cumulative Prospect Theory and PROMETHEE

by Huchang Liao^1,2, Di Wu¹, Yulong Huang¹, Peijia Ren¹, Zeshui Xu^1,* and Mohit Verma³

¹ Business School, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China

² Department of Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence, University of Granada, E-18071 Granada, Spain

³ CSIR-Structural Engineering Research Centre, Chennai 600113, India

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1291; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041291 - 22 Apr 2018

Cited by 63 | Viewed by 5452

Abstract

In the process of evaluating the green levels of cold-chain logistics providers, experts may hesitate between several linguistic terms rather than give precise values over the alternatives. Due to the potential profit and risk of business decisions, decision-making information is often based on [...] Read more.

In the process of evaluating the green levels of cold-chain logistics providers, experts may hesitate between several linguistic terms rather than give precise values over the alternatives. Due to the potential profit and risk of business decisions, decision-making information is often based on experts’ expectations of programs and is expressed as hesitant fuzzy linguistic terms. The consistency of evaluation information of an alternative can reflect the clarity of the alternative in the mind of experts and its own controversy. This paper proposes a method to use the value transfer function in the cumulative prospect theory to convert the original hesitant fuzzy linguistic terms into evaluation information based on reference points. We also introduce the parameters related to the disorder of the system in the hesitant fuzzy thermodynamic method to describe the quantity and quality characteristics of the alternatives. In these kinds of multi-criteria decision-making problems, the weights of criteria are of great importance for decision-making results. Considering the conflicting cases among criteria, the weights were obtained by utilizing the PROMETHEE method. An illustrative example concerning green logistics provider selection was operated to show the practicability of the proposed method. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

22 pages, 1293 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Measurements and Factors That Influence the Carbon Capability of Urban Residents in China

by Qianwen Li

, Ruyin Long^* and Hong Chen^*

School of Management, China University of Mining and Technology, Da Xue Road 1, Xuzhou 221116, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1292; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041292 - 23 Apr 2018

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3962

Abstract

Due to the rapid growth in residential energy consumption, there is an urgent need to reduce carbon emissions from the consumer side, which requires improvements in the carbon capability of urban residents. In this study, previous investigations of carbon capability were analyzed and [...] Read more.

Due to the rapid growth in residential energy consumption, there is an urgent need to reduce carbon emissions from the consumer side, which requires improvements in the carbon capability of urban residents. In this study, previous investigations of carbon capability were analyzed and classified into four dimensions: carbon knowledge capability, carbon motivation capability, carbon behavior capability, and carbon management capability. According to grounded theory, a quantitative research model was constructed of the carbon capability of urban residents in Jiangsu, which was used to conduct a questionnaire survey. SPSS 19.0 and LatentGOLD were employed to process the questionnaire data and the carbon capability of the residents was evaluated. The results showed that the residents of Jiangsu Province could be divided into six groups based on their different carbon capabilities, where these six major groups accounted for 28.19%, 21.21%, 18.33%, 15.84%, 9.88%, and 6.55% of the total sample. Gender, age, occupation, and educational level had significant effects on the carbon capabilities of residents, whereas the annual household income and household population had no significant effects. According to the characteristics of each cluster based on the four carbon capability dimensions, the six clusters were designated as “balanced steady cluster”, “self-restraint cluster”, “fully backward cluster”, “comprehensive leading cluster”, “slightly cognitive cluster”, and “restrain others cluster”. Quantitative analysis showed that 61.93% of the residents of Jiangsu reached the qualified rate for the carbon capability but the excellent rate was only 15.84%. Relevant policy implications are suggested based on these conclusions. Full article

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16 pages, 2865 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Simulating and Predicting the Impacts of Light Rail Transit Systems on Urban Land Use by Using Cellular Automata: A Case Study of Dongguan, China

by Jinyao Lin^1,*, Tongli Chen² and Qiazi Han^3,4

¹ School of Geographical Sciences, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China

² Dongguan Geographic Information and Urban Planning Researching Center, Dongguan 523129, China

³ Baiyun District Planning and Resources Information Management Center, Guangzhou 510405, China

⁴ School of Geography and Planning, Guangdong Key Laboratory for Urbanization and Geo-simulation, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510275, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1293; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041293 - 23 Apr 2018

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 6139

Abstract

The emergence of Light Rail Transit systems (LRTs) could exert considerable impacts on sustainable urban development. It is crucial to predict the potential land use changes since LRTs are being increasingly built throughout the world. While various land use and land cover change [...] Read more.

The emergence of Light Rail Transit systems (LRTs) could exert considerable impacts on sustainable urban development. It is crucial to predict the potential land use changes since LRTs are being increasingly built throughout the world. While various land use and land cover change (LUCC) models have been developed during the past two decades, the basic assumption for LUCC prediction is the continuation of present trends in land use development. It is therefore unreasonable to predict potential urban land use changes associated with LRTs simply based on earlier trends because the impacts of LRT investment may vary greatly over time. To tackle this challenge, our study aims to share the experiences from previous lines with newly planned lines. Dongguan, whose government decided to build LRTs around 2008, was selected as the study area. First, we assessed the impacts of this city’s first LRT (Line R2) on three urban land use types (i.e., industrial development, commercial and residential development, and rural development) at different periods. The results indicate that Line R2 exerted a negative impact on industrial development and rural development, but a positive impact on commercial and residential development during the planning stage of this line. Second, such spatial impacts (the consequent land use changes) during this stage were simulated by using artificial neural network cellular automata. More importantly, we further predicted the potential impacts of Line R1, which is assumed to be a newly planned line, based on the above calibrated model and a traditional method respectively. The comparisons between them demonstrate the effectiveness of our method, which can easily take advantage of the experiences from other LRTs. The proposed method is expected to provide technical support for sustainable urban and transportation planning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Transportation)

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16 pages, 1249 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Government Incentives for Energy from Waste in Colombia

by Santiago Alzate-Arias¹

, Álvaro Jaramillo-Duque^2,*

, Fernando Villada²

and Bonie Restrepo-Cuestas¹

¹ Research Group in Advanced Materials and Energy (MATyER), Instituto Tecnológico Metropolitano, Calle 54A No. 30-01, Medellín 050013, Colombia

² Research Group in Efficient Energy Management (GIMEL), Faculty of Engineering, Department of Electrical Engineering, Universidad de Antioquia, Calle 67 No. 53-108, Medellín 050110, Colombia

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1294; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041294 - 23 Apr 2018

Cited by 50 | Viewed by 7092

Abstract

This work evaluates the prefeasibility of energy from waste projects in Colombia under the guidelines of Law 1715. That piece of legislation proposes tax incentives for non-conventional energy initiatives, such as deductions of up to 50% on the investment through income tax, VAT [...] Read more.

This work evaluates the prefeasibility of energy from waste projects in Colombia under the guidelines of Law 1715. That piece of legislation proposes tax incentives for non-conventional energy initiatives, such as deductions of up to 50% on the investment through income tax, VAT exemption, tariff exemption, and accelerated depreciation of assets. Pasto, Colombia, was selected as the case study. Subsequently, incineration, gasification, anaerobic digestion, and landfill gas technologies were evaluated. The potential of electric power generation from municipal solid waste (MSW) of each conversion technology was estimated with mathematical models. Additionally, the economic evaluation considered five cases that combine loan options, accelerated depreciation, and income deductions. Finally, the prefeasibility analysis of each case and technology was based on the internal rate of return (IRR) and levelized cost of electricity (LCOE). The results reveal that only anaerobic digestion and landfill gas technologies constitute viable projects in case of traditional investment with and without loans, because they present IRRs greater than the discount rate, of 6.8%. However, by including the incentives in Law 1715 in the economic evaluation, IRRs of 11.18%, 7.96%, 14.27%, and 13.59% were obtained for incineration, gasification, anaerobic digestion, and landfill gas, respectively. These results make all four technologies feasible in this context. Full article

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15 pages, 608 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Sustainable Closed-Loop Supply Chain Decision Mechanism in the Electronic Sector

by Jiafu Su¹, Chi Li², Sang-Bing Tsai^3,4,*

, Hui Lu^5,*, Aijun Liu^6,7 and Quan Chen^3,*

¹ Chongqing Key Laboratory of Electronic Commerce & Supply Chain System, Chongqing Technology and Business University, Chongqing 400067, China

² The State Key Laboratory of Mechanical Transmission, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400032, China

³ Zhongshan Institute, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, No. 1, Xueyuan Road, Zhongshan 528400, Guangdong, China

⁴ Research Center for Environment and Sustainable Development of China Civil Aviation, Civil Aviation University of China, Tianjin 300300, China

⁵ Tianhua College, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai 201815, China

⁶ Department of Management Engineering, School of Economics & Management, Xidian University, Xi’an 710071, Shaanxi, China

⁷ State Key Laboratory for Manufacturing Systems Engineering, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710049, Shaanxi, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1295; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041295 - 23 Apr 2018

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 4255

Abstract

In a closed-loop supply chain for electronic products, the manufacturer’s priority is to enhance the residual value of the collected end-of-use product and decide whether to outsource this business to a retailer, a third-party service, or retain it exclusively. In this paper, we [...] Read more.

In a closed-loop supply chain for electronic products, the manufacturer’s priority is to enhance the residual value of the collected end-of-use product and decide whether to outsource this business to a retailer, a third-party service, or retain it exclusively. In this paper, we constructed three models to study the decision mechanism in a closed-loop supply chain, with different players selected to collect the used product. By comparing the three models, we characterized the conditions under which the manufacturer will benefit most, and we then aimed to determine the best choice for the manufacturer. Our findings show that, when the retailer and the third-party service provider provide equal performance in collecting the used product, the manufacturer will give priority to the third-party service provider if they choose to outsource this business. If the reverse flows managed by the retailer result in a higher payoff for the manufacturer, then the manufacturer will choose to outsource this business to the retailer who will also benefit. Full article

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24 pages, 4278 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Constructing Differentiated Educational Materials Using Semantic Annotation for Sustainable Education in IoT Environments

by Yongsung Kim

, Jihoon Moon

and Eenjun Hwang^*

School of Electrical Engineering, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1296; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041296 - 23 Apr 2018

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 5083

Abstract

Recently, Internet of Things (IoT) technology has become a hot trend and is used in a wide variety of fields. For instance, in education, this technology contributes to improving learning efficiency in the class by enabling learners to interact with physical devices and [...] Read more.

Recently, Internet of Things (IoT) technology has become a hot trend and is used in a wide variety of fields. For instance, in education, this technology contributes to improving learning efficiency in the class by enabling learners to interact with physical devices and providing appropriate learning content based on this interaction. Such interaction data can be collected through the physical devices to define personal data. In the meanwhile, multimedia contents in this environment usually have a wide variety of formats and standards, making it difficult for computers to understand their meaning and reuse them. This could be a serious obstacle to the effective use or sustainable management of educational contents in IoT-based educational systems. In order to solve this problem, in this paper, we propose a semantic annotation scheme for sustainable computing in the IoT environment. More specifically, we first show how to collect appropriate multimedia contents and interaction data. Next, we calculate the readability of learning materials and define the user readability level to provide appropriate contents to the learners. Finally, we describe our semantic annotation scheme and show how to annotate collected data using our scheme. We implement a prototype system and show that our scheme can achieve efficient management of various learning materials in the IoT-based educational system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Autonomous and Sustainable Computing for preparing the Internet of Things Environment)

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10 pages, 1617 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Financing Target and Resale Pricing in Reward-Based Crowdfunding

by Lei Xu^1,2, Qingxia Wu¹, Peng Du^1,*, Xiaojiao Qiao¹, Sang-Bing Tsai³

and Dahui Li⁴

¹ School of Management, Tianjin University of Technology, Tianjin 300384, China

² Business School, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China

³ Zhongshan Institute, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Zhongshan 528402, China

⁴ Labovitz School of Business and Economics, University of Minnesota Duluth, Duluth, MN 55812-2496, USA

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1297; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041297 - 23 Apr 2018

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4240

Abstract

Resale is an effective tool for reward-based crowdfunding creators to make more profit after crowdfunding successfully. On the one hand, funds raised during the crowdfunding affect the resale pricing as a capital constraint; on the other hand, backers’ strategic purchasing behavior in the [...] Read more.

Resale is an effective tool for reward-based crowdfunding creators to make more profit after crowdfunding successfully. On the one hand, funds raised during the crowdfunding affect the resale pricing as a capital constraint; on the other hand, backers’ strategic purchasing behavior in the resale stage can also disturb the creator’s financing target decision-making through affecting resale pricing. In view of this, this paper builds a two-stage crowdfunding model to examine the interaction between the financing target and resale pricing in the presence of strategic backers. The results show that a lower financing amount leads to higher prices in the resale stage due to the rationing effect, and suppresses price volatility due to strategic purchasing behavior. In contrast, a higher financing amount enables the creator to build a large capacity, which does not restrict the resale prices and profit. Besides, in the context of high unit production cost or high backer patience level, there is no need for the creator to set a high financing target at the risk of crowdfunding failure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Air, Climate Change and Sustainability)

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17 pages, 307 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Walled Buildings, Sustainability, and Housing Prices: An Artificial Neural Network Approach

by Rita Yi Man Li^1,*

, Ka Yi Cheng¹ and Muhammad Shoaib²

¹ Sustainable Real Estate Research Center/HKSYU Real Estate and Economics Research Lab, Department of Economics and Finance, Hong Kong Shue Yan University, Hong Kong, China

² Department of Construction Engineering and Management, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, National University of Science and Technology, Islamabad 44000, Pakistan

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1298; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041298 - 23 Apr 2018

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 7091

Abstract

Various researchers have explored the adverse effects of walled buildings on human health. However, few of them have examined the relationship between walled buildings and private housing estates in Hong Kong. This study endeavors to fill the research gap by exploring the connections [...] Read more.

Various researchers have explored the adverse effects of walled buildings on human health. However, few of them have examined the relationship between walled buildings and private housing estates in Hong Kong. This study endeavors to fill the research gap by exploring the connections among walled-building effects, housing features, macroeconomic factors, and housing prices in private housing estates. Specifically, it reveals the relationship between walled buildings and housing prices. Eight privately owned housing estates are selected with a total of 11,365 observations. Results are analyzed to study the factors that affect the housing price. Firstly, unit root tests are carried out to evaluate if the time series variables follow the unit root process. Secondly, the relationship between walled buildings and housing price is examined by conducting an artificial neural network. We assumed that the housing price reduces due to walled-building effects, given that previous literature showed that heat island effect, and blockage of natural light and views, are common in walled-building districts. Moreover, we assume that housing price can also be affected by macroeconomic factors and housing features, and these effects vary among private housing estates. We also study these impacts by using the two models. Recommendations and possible solutions are suggested at the end of the research paper. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Sustainable Built Environment)

18 pages, 2916 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Simulating Spatial-Temporal Changes of Land-Use Based on Ecological Redline Restrictions and Landscape Driving Factors: A Case Study in Beijing

by Zimu Jia¹, Bingran Ma¹, Jing Zhang^1,2 and Weihua Zeng^1,*

¹ State Key Joint Laboratory of Environmental Simulation and Pollution Control, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China

² Chinese Academy for Environmental Planning, Ministry of Environmental Protection, Beijing 100012, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1299; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041299 - 23 Apr 2018

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 5785

Abstract

A change in the usage of land is influenced by a variety of driving factors and policies on spatial constraints. On the basis of considering the conventional natural and socio-economic indicators, the landscape pattern indicators were considered as new driving forces in the [...] Read more.

A change in the usage of land is influenced by a variety of driving factors and policies on spatial constraints. On the basis of considering the conventional natural and socio-economic indicators, the landscape pattern indicators were considered as new driving forces in the conversion of land use and its effects at small regional extent (CLUE-S) model to simulate spatial and temporal changes of land-use in Beijing. Compared with traditional spatial restrictions characterized by small and isolated areas, such as forest parks and natural reserves, the ecological redline areas increase the spatial integrity and connectivity of ecological and environmental functions at a regional scale, which were used to analyze the distribution patterns and behaviors of land use conversion in the CLUE-S model. The observed results indicate that each simulation scenario has a Kappa coefficient of more than 0.76 beyond the threshold value of 0.6 and represents high agreements between the actual and simulated land use maps. The simulation scenarios including landscape pattern indicators are more accurate than those without consideration of these new driving forces. The simulation results from using ecological redline areas as space constraints have the highest precision compared with the unrestricted and traditionally restricted scenarios. Therefore, the CLUE-S model based on the restriction of ecological redline and the consideration of landscape pattern factors has shown better effectiveness in simulating the future land use change. The conversion of land use types mainly occurred between construction land and cropland during the period from 2010 to 2020. Meanwhile, a large number of grasslands are being changed to construction lands in the mountain towns of northwest Beijing and large quantities of water bodies have disappeared and been replaced by construction lands due to rapid urbanization in the eastern and southern plains. To improve the sustainable use of land resources, it is necessary to adopt the construction and development mode of satellite towns rather than encouraging a disorderly expansion of downtown areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Land Uses and Rural Governance)

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26 pages, 5181 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Results from On-The-Ground Efforts to Promote Sustainable Cattle Ranching in the Brazilian Amazon

by Erasmus K.H.J. Zu Ermgassen^1,*

, Melquesedek Pereira de Alcântara², Andrew Balmford¹, Luis Barioni³, Francisco Beduschi Neto^4,5, Murilo M. F. Bettarello⁶, Genivaldo De Brito⁷, Gabriel C. Carrero^2,8, Eduardo De A.S. Florence⁴

, Edenise Garcia⁷

, Eduardo Trevisan Gonçalves⁹, Casio Trajano Da Luz⁹, Giovanni M. Mallman⁷, Bernardo B.N. Strassburg^10,11, Judson F. Valentim¹²

and Agnieszka Latawiec^10,11,13,14

¹ Conservation Science Group, Department of Zoology, University of Cambridge, David Attenborough Building, Pembroke Street, Cambridge CB2 3EQ, UK

² Institute for Conservation and Sustainable Development of the Amazon, Rua Barão de Solimões 12, Manaus, AM 69058-250, Brazil

³ Embrapa Agriculture Informatics, Av. André Tosello, nº 209, Campus da Unicamp, Campinas, SP 13083-886, Brazil

⁴ Instituto Centro de Vida, Av. Ariosto da Riva, 3473- St E, Alta Floresta, MT 78580-000, Brazil

⁵ Grupo de Trabalho da Pecuária Sustentável, Av. Paulista 1754 -Cj. 146, Bela Vista, SP 01310-920, Brazil

⁶ Via Verde Consultoria Agropecuária em Sistemas Tropicais, Rua Mariana Amaral 138, São Sebastião do Paraíso, MG 37950-000, Brazil

⁷ The Nature Conservancy, Belém, PA 66035-115, Brazil

⁸ Department of Geography, University of Florida, 3141Turlington Hall, Gainesville, FL 32611-7315, USA

⁹ Instituto de Manejo e Certificação Florestal e Agrícola, Estrada Chico Mendes 185, Piracicaba, SP 13426-420, Brazil

¹⁰ International Institute for Sustainability, Estrada Dona Castorina 124, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 22460-320, Brazil

¹¹ Rio Conservation and Sustainability Science Centre, Department of Geography and the Environment, Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 22453-900, Brazil

¹² Embrapa Acre. Rodovia BR-364, km 14, Caixa Postal 321., Rio Branco, SC 69908-970, Brazil

¹³ School of Environmental Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich NR4 7TJ, UK

¹⁴ Institute of Agricultural Engineering and Informatics, Faculty of Production and Power Engineering, University of Agriculture in Krakow, Balicka 116B, 30-149 Krakow, Poland

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Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1301; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041301 - 23 Apr 2018

Cited by 60 | Viewed by 14611

Abstract

Agriculture in Brazil is booming. Brazil has the world’s second largest cattle herd and is the second largest producer of soybeans, with the production of beef, soybeans, and bioethanol forecast to increase further. Questions remain, however, about how Brazil can reconcile increases in [...] Read more.

Agriculture in Brazil is booming. Brazil has the world’s second largest cattle herd and is the second largest producer of soybeans, with the production of beef, soybeans, and bioethanol forecast to increase further. Questions remain, however, about how Brazil can reconcile increases in agricultural production with protection of its remaining natural vegetation. While high hopes have been placed on the potential for intensification of low-productivity cattle ranching to spare land for other agricultural uses, cattle productivity in the Amazon biome (29% of the Brazilian cattle herd) remains stubbornly low, and it is not clear how to realize theoretical productivity gains in practice. We provide results from six initiatives in the Brazilian Amazon, which are successfully improving cattle productivity in beef and dairy production on more than 500,000 hectares of pastureland, while supporting compliance with the Brazilian Forest Code. Spread across diverse geographies, and using a wide range of technologies, participating farms have improved productivity by 30–490%. High-productivity cattle ranching requires some initial investment (R$1300–6900/ha or US$410–2180/ha), with average pay-back times of 2.5–8.5 years. We conclude by reflecting on the challenges that must be overcome to scale up these young initiatives, avoid rebound increases in deforestation, and mainstream sustainable cattle ranching in the Amazon. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmentally Sustainable Livestock Production)

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11 pages, 508 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Hybrid Electric Vehicles: Some Theoretical Considerations on Consumption Behaviour

by Fabio Carlucci^1,*

, Andrea Cirà²

and Giuseppe Lanza²

¹ Department of Economics and Statistics, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II 132, Fisciano 84084, Italy

² Department of Economics, University of Messina, Piazza Pugliatti 1, Messina 98122, Italy

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1302; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041302 - 23 Apr 2018

Cited by 39 | Viewed by 10613

Abstract

Solving the problem of the lack of environmental sustainability in transport activities requires the involvement of new technologies, particularly in populated cities where mobility activities play a major role in generating externalities. The move from cars powered by conventional internal combustion engines to [...] Read more.

Solving the problem of the lack of environmental sustainability in transport activities requires the involvement of new technologies, particularly in populated cities where mobility activities play a major role in generating externalities. The move from cars powered by conventional internal combustion engines to cars powered by alternative energies can make an important contribution to reducing emissions and achieving a more sustainable transport system. Unfortunately, green car market development still remains uncertain because of the higher production costs of batteries and engines. In this context, surprisingly little attention has been devoted to analysing the economic factors affecting consumers’ behaviour in the choice of hybrid electric vehicles. To fill this gap, the diffusion process of hybrid technology as well as intrinsic and extrinsic motivations and the crowding-out effect on consumers’ purchasing decisions are taken under consideration. Finally, some policy recommendations are provided. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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19 pages, 518 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Simplicity and Sustainability: Pointers from Ethics and Science

by Mehrdad Massoudi^1,* and Ashwin Vaidya²

¹ Center for Nonlinear Analysis, Department of Mathematical Sciences, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA 15213-3890, USA

² Department of Mathematical Sciences, Montclair State University, Montclair, NJ 07043, USA

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1303; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041303 - 23 Apr 2018

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 7760

Abstract

In this paper, we explore the notion of simplicity. We use definitions of simplicity proposed by philosophers, scientists, and economists. In an age when the rapidly growing human population faces an equally rapidly declining energy/material resources, there is an urgent need to consider [...] Read more.

In this paper, we explore the notion of simplicity. We use definitions of simplicity proposed by philosophers, scientists, and economists. In an age when the rapidly growing human population faces an equally rapidly declining energy/material resources, there is an urgent need to consider various notions of simplicity, collective and individual, which we believe to be a sensible path to restore our planet to a reasonable state of health. Following the logic of mathematicians and physicists, we suggest that simplicity can be related to sustainability. Our efforts must therefore not be spent so much in pursuit of growth but in achieving a sustainable life. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability and Ethics: Reflections on the UN Sustainable Development Goals)

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18 pages, 784 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of Diversification Activities on the Technical Efficiency of Organic Farms in Switzerland, Austria, and Southern Germany

by Sebastian Lakner^1,*

, Stefan Kirchweger², Daniel Hoop³, Bernhard Brümmer¹ and Jochen Kantelhardt²

¹ Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development, University of Göttingen, Platz der Göttinger Sieben 5, 37073 Göttingen, Germany

² Institute of Agricultural and Forestry Economics, Department of Economics and Social Sciences, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Feistmantelstraße 4, 1180 Vienna, Austria

³ Division for Competitiveness and System Evaluation, Agroscope, Tänikon 1, 8356 Ettenhausen, Switzerland

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1304; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041304 - 23 Apr 2018

Cited by 31 | Viewed by 8188

Abstract

The diversification of farms can be a result of multifunctional farming, however, in some cases at the cost of lower farm efficiency. In our paper we investigate the influence of para-agricultural diversification on productivity and the technical efficiency of organic farms in Austria, [...] Read more.

The diversification of farms can be a result of multifunctional farming, however, in some cases at the cost of lower farm efficiency. In our paper we investigate the influence of para-agricultural diversification on productivity and the technical efficiency of organic farms in Austria, Switzerland, and Southern Germany. We show the benefits and drawbacks of diversification for organic farms, which go beyond the core agricultural production (para-agriculture). We do this by estimating a Stochastic Frontier (SF) combined with a metafrontier model. The data-set consists of bookkeeping data with 1704 observations in the years 2003 to 2005. Para-agricultural diversification activities have a significant effect on both productivity and technical efficiency of organic farms: The farm output in Austria and Switzerland is positively influenced by diversification, whereas we observe a rather small effect in Southern Germany. On the other hand, diversification can reduce farms’ technical efficiency, as it is the case in Switzerland and Germany. Furthermore, our study confirms previous results that agricultural subsidies significantly influence the technical efficiency of organic farms. We also show expected changes of input use driven by increased farm diversification. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Agroecology: Principles and Application for Efficient and Sustainable Agricultural Production)

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12 pages, 289 KiB

Open AccessReview

A Review of the European Union Landing Obligation Focusing on Its Implications for Fisheries and the Environment

by Jordi Guillen^*

, Steven J. Holmes

, Natacha Carvalho, John Casey, Hendrik Dörner, Maurizio Gibin, Alessandro Mannini, Paraskevas Vasilakopoulos and Antonella Zanzi

European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Unit D.02 Water and Marine Resources, Sustainable Resources Directorate, Via E. Fermi 2749, 21027 Ispra, Italy

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 900; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040900 - 21 Mar 2018

Cited by 66 | Viewed by 9293

Abstract

Discarding is a common practice in fisheries. Total discards are estimated to be about 30 million tons, representing around 23% of worldwide catches. Discarding is an undesirable practice, not only because of the waste of resources, but also because of its contribution to [...] Read more.

Discarding is a common practice in fisheries. Total discards are estimated to be about 30 million tons, representing around 23% of worldwide catches. Discarding is an undesirable practice, not only because of the waste of resources, but also because of its contribution to the overexploitation of fish stocks. Several countries have already established discard bans, to different extents (e.g., Norway, Iceland, Chile, New Zealand). The EU’s landing obligation (discard ban) is a major measure of the latest reform of the Common Fisheries Policy for EU fisheries. It aims to reduce unwanted catches in EU fisheries, by incentivizing improved selectivity and restoring fish stocks to levels that can sustain the maximum production over time without harming the biodiversity and the capacity of future generations to obtain fish. However, banning discards will inevitably induce diverse short- and long-term ecological, economic, and social impacts, which may determine whether the landing obligation’s objectives will be achieved. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Reducing Agricultural and Food Waste: Implications for Biodiversity and the Environment)

24 pages, 861 KiB

Open AccessReview

Systematic Review of Research Trends in Robotics Education for Young Children

by Sung Eun Jung^1,* and Eun-sok Won²

¹ Department of Educational Theory and Practice, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA

² Department of Liberal Arts Education, Mokwon University, Daejeon 35349, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 905; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040905 - 21 Mar 2018

Cited by 202 | Viewed by 25070

Abstract

This study conducted a systematic and thematic review on existing literature in robotics education using robotics kits (not social robots) for young children (Pre-K and kindergarten through 5th grade). This study investigated: (1) the definition of robotics education; (2) thematic patterns of key [...] Read more.

This study conducted a systematic and thematic review on existing literature in robotics education using robotics kits (not social robots) for young children (Pre-K and kindergarten through 5th grade). This study investigated: (1) the definition of robotics education; (2) thematic patterns of key findings; and (3) theoretical and methodological traits. The results of the review present a limitation of previous research in that it has focused on robotics education only as an instrumental means to support other subjects or STEM education. This study identifies that the findings of the existing research are weighted toward outcome-focused research. Lastly, this study addresses the fact that most of the existing studies used constructivist and constructionist frameworks not only to design and implement robotics curricula but also to analyze young children’s engagement in robotics education. Relying on the findings of the review, this study suggests clarifying and specifying robotics-intensified knowledge, skills, and attitudes in defining robotics education in connection to computer science education. In addition, this study concludes that research agendas need to be diversified and the diversity of research participants needs to be broadened. To do this, this study suggests employing social and cultural theoretical frameworks and critical analytical lenses by considering children’s historical, cultural, social, and institutional contexts in understanding young children’s engagement in robotics education. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart Sustainable Education: Innovative Digital Transformation for Innovation and Entrepreneurship)

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34 pages, 807 KiB

Open AccessReview

Revisiting the Factors Shaping Outcomes for Forest and Landscape Restoration in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Way Forward for Policy, Practice and Research

by Ida Nadia S. Djenontin^1,2,*

, Samson Foli³ and Leo C. Zulu¹

¹ Department of Geography, Environment, and Spatial Sciences (GESS), Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA

² Environmental Science and Policy Program (ESPP), Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA

³ Department of Geography, Planning and International Development Studies and Centre for Sustainable Development Studies, University of Amsterdam, P.O. Box 15629 Amsterdam, 1001 NC, The Netherlands

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 906; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040906 - 21 Mar 2018

Cited by 51 | Viewed by 8055

Abstract

A lack of systematic understanding of the elements that determine the success of forest and landscape restoration (FLR) investments leads to the inability to clearly articulate strategic and practical approaches to support natural resource restoration endeavors across Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). This review examines [...] Read more.

A lack of systematic understanding of the elements that determine the success of forest and landscape restoration (FLR) investments leads to the inability to clearly articulate strategic and practical approaches to support natural resource restoration endeavors across Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). This review examines the different challenges and opportunities for effective restoration interventions. Using a structured literature review, we draw evidence from a broad range of scholarly works on natural resource conservation and governance to investigate the early dynamics of FLR in SSA. We first engage in a contextual clarification of FLR concepts and then provide a synthesis of the factors that influence the results of FLR interventions at the social and institutional level to inform relevant restoration stakeholders—policy makers, investors, and practitioners. The review finds that several interacting factors shape the outcomes of FLR interventions. We classified them into three categories based on their features, intensity, and scale of occurrence: (1) micro-scale factors that enable or limit individual engagement in FLR and sustainable management practices; (2) project/program-level factors, including the design and implementation stages; and (3) institutional, policy, and governance factors, and issues of inequity that operate at the local or national government scale. The review goes beyond underscoring funding constraints as a major challenge to the up- and out-scaling of restoration interventions and FLR success. The findings also set out a premise for future research to guide the design and implementation of successful FLR models in SSA. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Degradation and Sustainable Management of Land)

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23 pages, 375 KiB

Open AccessReview

Can Strategic Spatial Planning Contribute to Land Degradation Reduction in Urban Regions? State of the Art and Future Research

by Eduardo Oliveira^*

, Silvia Tobias

and Anna M. Hersperger

Swiss Federal Institute for Forest, Snow and Landscape Research WSL, Landscape Dynamics Research Unit, Zürcherstrasse 111, CH-8903 Birmensdorf, Switzerland

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 949; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040949 - 24 Mar 2018

Cited by 56 | Viewed by 10198

Abstract

Land degradation is becoming a serious environmental issue threatening fertile agricultural soils and other natural resources. There are many driving forces behind land degradation. The expansion of artificial surfaces due to various economic activities, such as housing, industry, and transport infrastructure, known as [...] Read more.

Land degradation is becoming a serious environmental issue threatening fertile agricultural soils and other natural resources. There are many driving forces behind land degradation. The expansion of artificial surfaces due to various economic activities, such as housing, industry, and transport infrastructure, known as soil sealing, constitutes one of the most intensive forms of land degradation in urban regions. Measures to halt and reverse land degradation require both strong land-use management policies, as well as effective spatial planning mechanisms. In this regard, strategic spatial planning has been increasingly practised in many urban regions worldwide, as a means to achieve sustainable land-use patterns and to guide the location of development and physical infrastructures. It is reasonable, therefore, to expect that strategic spatial planning can counteract the outlined undesired land degradation effects, specifically those resulting from soil sealing. In this paper, we review strategic spatial planning literature published between 1992 and 2017. The focus is on the phenomena causing land degradation that are addressed by strategic spatial planning literature, as well as on the mechanisms describing the role of strategic spatial planning in land degradation reduction. Results show that sustainable development and environmental concerns have become core objectives of strategic planning in recent years, yet references to the drivers of land degradation are rare. The mechanisms that exist are mainly intended to address environmental issues in general, and are not aimed at reducing particular forms of land degradation. The paper concludes by sketching future research directions, intended to support strategic spatial planning and land-use policymaking related to coping with the global phenomenon of land degradation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Degradation and Sustainable Management of Land)

20 pages, 317 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Critical Review of the Effects of Glyphosate Exposure to the Environment and Humans through the Food Supply Chain

by Vincenzo Torretta¹

, Ioannis A. Katsoyiannis^2,*, Paolo Viotti³

and Elena Cristina Rada¹

¹ Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, University of Insubria, 46 Via G.B. Vico, I-21100 Varese, Italy

² Laboratory of Chemical and Environmental Technology, Department of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki GR-54124, Greece

³ Department of Civil, Building and Environmental Engineering, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Eudossiana 18, I-00184 Rome, Italy

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 950; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040950 - 24 Mar 2018

Cited by 103 | Viewed by 26889

Abstract

Glyphosate is a synthesis product and chemical substance that entered in the global market during the 70s. In the beginning, the molecule was used as an active principle in a wide range of herbicides, with great success. This was mainly due to its [...] Read more.

Glyphosate is a synthesis product and chemical substance that entered in the global market during the 70s. In the beginning, the molecule was used as an active principle in a wide range of herbicides, with great success. This was mainly due to its systemic and non-selective action against vegetable organisms and also to the spread of Genetically Modified Organism (GMO) crops, which over the years were specifically created with a resistance to glyphosate. To date, the product is, for these reasons, the most sprayed and most used herbicide in the world. Because of its widespread diffusion into the environment, it was not long before glyphosate found itself at the center of an important scientific debate about its adverse effects on health and environment. In fact, in 2015 the IARC (International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France), an organization referred to as the specialized cancer agency of the World Health Organization (WHO, Geneva, Switzerland), classified the substance as “likely carcinogenic” to humans. This triggered an immediate and negative reaction from the producer, who accused the Agency and claimed that they had failed to carry out their studies properly and that these conclusions were largely contradictory to published research. Additionally, in 2015, just a few months after the IARC monography published on glyphosate, the EFSA (European Food Safety Authority, Parma, Italy), another WHO related organization, declared that it was “unlikely” that the molecule could be carcinogenic to humans or that it could cause any type of risk to human health. The conflict between the two organizations of the World Health Organization triggered many doubts, and for this reason, a series of independent studies were launched to better understand what glyphosate’s danger to humans and the environment really was. The results have brought to light how massive use of the herbicide has created over time a real global contamination that has not only affected the soil, surface and groundwater as well as the atmosphere, but even food and commonly used objects, such as diapers, medical gauze, and absorbent for female intimate hygiene. How human health is compromised as a result of glyphosate exposure is a topic that is still very debatable and still unclear and unambiguous. This paper is a review of the results of the main independent recent scientific studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Risk Assessment and Management)

18 pages, 22506 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Sustainability Narrative in Contemporary Architecture: Falling Short of Building a Sustainable Future

by Igor Martek¹, M. Reza Hosseini^1,*

, Asheem Shrestha¹

, Edmundas Kazimieras Zavadskas²

and Stewart Seaton¹

¹ School of Architecture and Built Environment, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria 3220, Australia

² Institute of Sustainable Construction, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Vilnius Gediminas Technical University, Sauletekio Ave. 11, Vilnius LT-10223, Lithuania

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 981; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040981 - 27 Mar 2018

Cited by 40 | Viewed by 13317

Abstract

Sustainability has emerged, arguably, as the premiere mission of contemporary architecture. Green assessment tools abound, consultancy services flourish, buildings are marketed on the basis of sustainability performance, and government, media, and corporations seem preoccupied with assessing the quality of the built environment through [...] Read more.

Sustainability has emerged, arguably, as the premiere mission of contemporary architecture. Green assessment tools abound, consultancy services flourish, buildings are marketed on the basis of sustainability performance, and government, media, and corporations seem preoccupied with assessing the quality of the built environment through a green lens. Yet for all the effort, and indeed for all the progress made, fundamental issues resistant to the structural change that is essential for genuine sustainability remain. This paper reviews the state of play of sustainability across the urban landscape. It considers the road travelled so far, and points out some of the major challenges that lie ahead. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Construction Engineering)

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14 pages, 229 KiB

Open AccessReview

Eco-Dimensionality as a Religious Foundation for Sustainability

by Susan Power Bratton

Department of Environmental Science, P.O. Box 97266, Baylor University, Waco, TX 76798, USA

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1021; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041021 - 30 Mar 2018

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 5383

Abstract

Academics have critiqued the Abrahamic faiths, particularly Christianity, as inadequate to respond to today’s environmental dilemmas due to abstract theological qualities like the concept of a unified or transcendent God. Christianity and Islam are the earth’s most populous religions, however, and they are [...] Read more.

Academics have critiqued the Abrahamic faiths, particularly Christianity, as inadequate to respond to today’s environmental dilemmas due to abstract theological qualities like the concept of a unified or transcendent God. Christianity and Islam are the earth’s most populous religions, however, and they are growing in the global south. A literature review finds that both indigenous and world religions develop strategies for environmental sustainability. Examples include: Amazonian fisheries, Islamic gardens, monastic forest management, Baptist LEED certified buildings, and Christian agrarian stewardship. These cases share a characteristic termed eco-dimensionality, defined as the integrative expression of environmental values, caretaking norms and sustainable practices in all aspects of religion, that recognizes and specifically adapts to keystone environmental processes and ecosystemic or geo-physical diversity. Religious eco-dimensionality incorporates: inventorying biota and ecosystems, recognizing environmental spatial and temporal dynamics at multiple scales, understanding communitarian and anti-communitarian human behaviors, structuring social networks, adopting sustainable technologies, and developing an integrative repertoire of religious symbols, aesthetic endeavors and ceremonies. Eco-dimensionality can evolve to address new issues. Negatively stereotyping faith traditions can inhibit constructive conversations concerning environmental issues and development of religious symbols and practices enhancing eco-dimensionality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enhancing Environmental and Sustainability Policy: Assessing the Past and charting a Course for the Future)

11 pages, 1155 KiB

Open AccessReview

Usefulness of Technological Capacity Evaluation for Brazilian Farmer Stakeholders: A Bibliometric Analysis

by Mônica Cristine Scherer Vaz^1,*

, Luciano Medina Macedo¹

, Dimas Soares Junior²

and Juliana Vitória Messias Bittencourt¹

¹ Department of Production Engineering, Federal University of Technology of Paraná (UTFPR), Av. Monteiro Lobato, s/n. Jardim Carvalho, Ponta Grossa, PR 84016-210, Brazil

² Agronomic Institute of Paraná (IAPAR), Rod. Celso Garcia Cid, 375., Londrina, PR 86047-902, Brazil

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1036; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041036 - 31 Mar 2018

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3920

Abstract

The use of technology in agriculture plays an important role in the production chain cycle, as well as in the improvement of processes and productivity. To develop a model for measuring the technological capacity of family agriculture systems, it is necessary to assess [...] Read more.

The use of technology in agriculture plays an important role in the production chain cycle, as well as in the improvement of processes and productivity. To develop a model for measuring the technological capacity of family agriculture systems, it is necessary to assess the gaps related to indicators and the technological potentialities of these farmer groups, which are often not considered when they require financial support and do not get enough. Thus, the aim of this study is to identify the indicators used to evaluate the technological capacity of farm systems and agriculture. A bibliometric analysis between 2005 and 2017 was carried out on five scientific databases, identifying a first set of 233 scientific articles, which, after an in-depth reading, led to outlining an article portfolio of 33 studies. The H-index results estimated over databases verified that Springer is the most important regarding the topic Technological Capability in Agriculture Systems. The Technological Capacity Systems evolution is important in that technologies are in constant development and the use of indicators provides a quantitative evaluation to compare different agricultural properties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agribusiness and Agri-food Prospects)

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19 pages, 48303 KiB

Open AccessReview

Adapting Chinese Forest Operations to Socio-Economic Developments: What is the Potential of Plantations for Strengthening Domestic Wood Supply?

by Stephan Hoffmann^1,*

, Dirk Jaeger¹ and Wu Shuirong²

¹ Department of Forest Work Science and Engineering, University of Goettingen, Buesgenweg 4, 37077 Goettingen, Germany

² Research Institute of Forestry Policy and Information, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Wanshoushan, Haidian District, Beijing 100091, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1042; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041042 - 1 Apr 2018

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 6415

Abstract

Over recent decades, China’s forestry sector went through a transition phase characterized by a management and institutional reform process, with a constant rethinking of the ecological and societal role of forests within a unique political system. Nevertheless, despite impressive achievements in forest restoration [...] Read more.

Over recent decades, China’s forestry sector went through a transition phase characterized by a management and institutional reform process, with a constant rethinking of the ecological and societal role of forests within a unique political system. Nevertheless, despite impressive achievements in forest restoration and conservation efforts, the enhancement of ecosystem services and forest area expansion through plantation development, China was not able to improve its domestic timber supply capacities according to its demands. Consequently, the continually growing wood processing industry is facing a severe demand-and-supply gap, causing high dependencies on timber imports. Outdated forest operations practices, dominated by manual labour, are not able to meet supply demands or to implement new silvicultural strategies for enhancing forest quality and productivity and are a widely unnoted disruption of a sustainable development. Therefore, this review presents the status quo of China’s forest operations sector, how it is shaped by forest policy reforms and recent socio-economic developments. In addition, suggestions are developed how the sector can progress through policy adaptations in order to develop sustainable timber supply capacities based on a domestic plantation sector. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Timber Consumption)

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18 pages, 43782 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Sustainable Water Use in Agriculture: A Review of Worldwide Research

by Juan F. Velasco-Muñoz¹

, José A. Aznar-Sánchez^1,*

, Luis J. Belmonte-Ureña¹

and Isabel M. Román-Sánchez^1,2

¹ Department of Economics and Business, Research Centre CIAIMBITAL and CAESCG, University of Almería, 04120 Almería, Spain

² Solar Energy Research Centre (CIESOL), Joint Centre University of Almería-CIEMAT, 04120 Almería, Spain

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1084; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041084 - 5 Apr 2018

Cited by 147 | Viewed by 21736

Abstract

Sustainability of water use in agriculture is a line of research that has gained in importance worldwide. The present study reviewed 25 years of international research on sustainable water use in agriculture. A bibliometric analysis was developed to sample 2084 articles. Results indicate [...] Read more.

Sustainability of water use in agriculture is a line of research that has gained in importance worldwide. The present study reviewed 25 years of international research on sustainable water use in agriculture. A bibliometric analysis was developed to sample 2084 articles. Results indicate exponential growth in the number of articles published per year, with research in this field having acquired a global scale. Environmental Science and Agricultural and Biological Sciences are the main categories. Three journals—Agricultural Water Management, Water Resources Management and Nongye Gongcheng Xuebao Agricultural Engineering—published the most of the articles. China, the U.S., Australia, India and Germany produced the most research. The three institutions that published the most articles were all Chinese (Chinese Academy of Sciences, China Agricultural University and Northwest A&F University). The most cited authors were Ridoutt, Hoekstra and Zhang. The keywords most frequently used include: water-use, irrigation, water-management, water-supply, and sustainability. A network map shows three clusters that focus on the environmental, agronomic and management aspects. The findings of this study can assist researchers in this field by providing an overview of research on the sustainability of hydric resources. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Irrigation for the Future: Addressing the Challenges to Improved Water Use Efficiency)

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27 pages, 3859 KiB

Open AccessReview

Hospitality and Tourism Online Review Research: A Systematic Analysis and Heuristic-Systematic Model

by Sunyoung Hlee, Hanna Lee and Chulmo Koo^*

College of Hotel and Tourism Management, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1141; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041141 - 10 Apr 2018

Cited by 83 | Viewed by 34019

Abstract

With tremendous growth and potential of online consumer reviews, online reviews of hospitality and tourism are now playing a significant role in consumer attitude and buying behaviors. This study reviewed and analyzed hospitality and tourism related articles published in academic journals. The systematic [...] Read more.

With tremendous growth and potential of online consumer reviews, online reviews of hospitality and tourism are now playing a significant role in consumer attitude and buying behaviors. This study reviewed and analyzed hospitality and tourism related articles published in academic journals. The systematic approach was used to analyze 55 research articles between January 2008 and December 2017. This study presented a brief synthesis of research by investigating content-related characteristics of hospitality and tourism online reviews (HTORs) in different market segments. Two research questions were addressed. Building upon our literature analysis, we used the heuristic-systematic model (HSM) to summarize and classify the characteristics affecting consumer perception in previous HTOR studies. We believe that the framework helps researchers to identify the research topic in extended HTORs literature and to point out possible direction for future studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mobile Technology and Smart Tourism Development)

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27 pages, 824 KiB

Open AccessReview

Driving Behaviour and Sustainable Mobility—Policies and Approaches Revisited

by Ali Keyvanfar^1,2,3,4

, Arezou Shafaghat^3,4,*, Nasiru Zakari Muhammad⁵ and M. Salim Ferwati^6,*

¹ Center for Energy Research, Jacobs School of Engineering, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA

² Facultad de Arquitectura y Urbanismo, Universidad Tecnológica Equinoccial, Calle Rumipamba s/n y Bourgeois, Quito 170508, Ecuador

³ Department of Landscape Architecture, Faculty of Built Environment, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai 81310, Johor, Malaysia

⁴ MIT-UTM MSCP Program, Institute Sultan Iskandar, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai 81310, Malaysia

⁵ Faculty of Engineering, Kano University of Science and Technology Wudil, PMB 3244, Kano 20027, Nigeria

⁶ Department of Architecture and Urban Planning, College of Engineering, Qatar University, Doha P.O.Box 2713, Qatar

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1152; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041152 - 11 Apr 2018

Cited by 44 | Viewed by 7728

Abstract

Climate change is receiving increasing attention in recent years. The transportation sector contributes substantially to increased fuel consumption, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and poor air quality, which imposes a serious respiratory health hazard. Road transport has made a significant contribution to this effect. [...] Read more.

Climate change is receiving increasing attention in recent years. The transportation sector contributes substantially to increased fuel consumption, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and poor air quality, which imposes a serious respiratory health hazard. Road transport has made a significant contribution to this effect. Consequently, many countries have attempted to mitigate climate change using various strategies. This study analysed and compared the number of policies and other approaches necessary to achieve reduced fuel consumption and carbon emission. Frequency aggregation indicates that the mitigation policies associated with driving behaviours adopted to curtail this consumption and decrease hazardous emissions, as well as a safety enhancement. Furthermore, car-sharing/carpooling was the least investigated approach to establish its influence on mitigation of climate change. Additionally, the influence of such driving behaviours as acceleration/deceleration and the compliance to speed limits on each approach was discussed. Other driving behaviours, such as gear shifting, compliance to traffic laws, choice of route, and idling and braking style, were also discussed. Likewise, the influence of aggression, anxiety, and motivation on driving behaviour of motorists was highlighted. The research determined that driving behaviours can lead to new adaptive driving behaviours and, thus, cause a significant decrease of vehicle fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Transportation)

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21 pages, 57237 KiB

Open AccessReview

Proposing a Definition and a Framework of Organisational Sustainability: A Review of Efforts and a Survey of Approaches to Change

by Rodrigo Lozano^1,2

¹ Department of Engineering and Sustainable Development, University of Gavle, 80176 Gavle, Sweden

² Organisational Sustainability, Ltd., Cardiff CF116EQ, UK

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1157; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041157 - 12 Apr 2018

Cited by 80 | Viewed by 18691

Abstract

Organisations (civil society, companies, and public-sector organisations (PSOs)) have been instrumental in driving sustainability. In the last five years, there has been an increasing interest in organisational sustainability, where the importance of sustainability’s dimensions depends on an organisation’s nature and purpose. A large [...] Read more.

Organisations (civil society, companies, and public-sector organisations (PSOs)) have been instrumental in driving sustainability. In the last five years, there has been an increasing interest in organisational sustainability, where the importance of sustainability’s dimensions depends on an organisation’s nature and purpose. A large body of literature on organisational sustainability has focused on companies, followed by education institutions, in particular higher education. Limited, yet increasing, attention has been directed to PSOs and other civil society organisations. Although there have been some attempts to define a sustainable organisation, there is still a need to define and establish the principles of how organisations can address and contribute to sustainability. The sustainability efforts in the different types of organisations were reviewed and then analysed in this paper by using hermeneutics. This was complemented with a survey on sustainability changes. The survey was sent to a database of 1574 contacts from different organisations. In addition, 106 anonymous links were sent out. From the total list of emails, 118 full responses were obtained, with 39 from civil society (37 from higher education and 2 NGOs), 66 corporations, and 13 PSOs. This research distils the key system elements of the efforts in each of the organisations in order to synthesise and propose a definition and a conceptual framework of organisational sustainability. These can help organisations understand where their efforts are and how they could better embed sustainability into their systems, thus contributing to the well-being of societies and the environment for this generation and future ones. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Economic and Business Aspects of Sustainability)

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18 pages, 593 KiB

Open AccessReview

Fertilizer Effect of Phosphorus Recycling Products

by Wilhelm Römer and Bernd Steingrobe^*

Department of Crop Sciences, Section Plant Nutrition and Crop Physiology, Georg-August-University Göttingen, Carl-Sprengel-Weg 1, 37075 Göttingen, Germany

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1166; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041166 - 13 Apr 2018

Cited by 48 | Viewed by 6895

Abstract

Between 2004 and 2011 the German Government funded 17 different projects to develop techniques of phosphorus recycling from wastewater, sewage sludges, and sewage sludge ashes. Several procedures had been tested, such as precipitation, adsorption, crystallization, nano-filtration, electro-dialysis, wet oxidation, pyrolysis, ion exchange, or [...] Read more.

Between 2004 and 2011 the German Government funded 17 different projects to develop techniques of phosphorus recycling from wastewater, sewage sludges, and sewage sludge ashes. Several procedures had been tested, such as precipitation, adsorption, crystallization, nano-filtration, electro-dialysis, wet oxidation, pyrolysis, ion exchange, or bioleaching. From these techniques, 32 recycling products were tested by five different institutes for their agronomic efficiency, that is, their plant availability, mainly in pot experiments. This manuscript summarizes and compares these results to evaluate the suitability of different technical approaches to recycle P from wastes into applicable fertilizers. In total, 17 products of recycled sewage sludge ashes (SSA), one meat and bone meal ash, one sinter product of meat and bone meal, one cupola furnace slag, nine Ca phosphates from crystallization or from precipitation, Seaborne-Ca-phosphates, Seaborne-Mg-phosphate, and 3 different struvites were tested in comparison to controls with water soluble P, that is, either single super phosphate (SSP) or triple super phosphate (TSP). Sandy and loamy soils (pH: 4.7–6.8; CAL-P: 33–49 ppm) were used. The dominant test plant was maize. Phosphorus uptake from fertilizer was calculated by the P content of fertilized plants minus P content of unfertilized plants. Calculated uptake from all products was set in relation to uptake from water soluble P fertilizers (SSP or TSP) as a reference value (=100%). The following results were found: (1) plants took up less than 25% P in 65% of all SSA (15 products); (2) 6 products (26%) resulted in P uptake of 25 and 50% relatively to water soluble P. Only one Mg-P product resulted in an uptake of 67%. With cupola furnace slag, 24% P uptake was reached on sandy soil and nearly the same value as TSP on loamy soil. The uptake results of Ca phosphates were between 0 and 50%. Mg-P products from precipitation processes consistently showed a better P supply in relation to comparable Ca-P compounds. With struvite the same P uptake as for water soluble P was reached. The fertilizer effect of the tested P recycling products can clearly be differentiated: TSP = struvite > Mg-P = sinter-P > Ca-P, cupola-slag > thermally treated sewage sludge ashes > meat-and-bone meal ash = Fe-P. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phosphorus Circular Economy: Closing Loops through Sustainable Innovation)

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15 pages, 1893 KiB

Open AccessReview

Operational Water Withdrawal and Consumption Factors for Electricity Generation Technology in China—A Literature Review

by Jinjing Gao¹, Peng Zhao^1,*

, Hongwei Zhang^1,2, Guozhu Mao¹ and Yuan Wang¹

¹ School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China

² School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Tianjin Polytechnic University, Tianjin 300287, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1181; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041181 - 14 Apr 2018

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 5365

Abstract

As two indispensable resources for human development, energy and water are closely related. China, as the world’s largest consumer of electricity, is also experiencing very serious water shortages. Understanding the water consumption intensity in various types of electric power production technologies according to [...] Read more.

As two indispensable resources for human development, energy and water are closely related. China, as the world’s largest consumer of electricity, is also experiencing very serious water shortages. Understanding the water consumption intensity in various types of electric power production technologies according to China’s national conditions is a prerequisite for understanding the potential impact of electrical power production on water resources. Therefore, following the steps of a meta-analysis, this paper provides a literature review on operational water withdrawal and consumption factors for electricity generation technology in China. We observed that 50% of water consumption for electricity generation was for coal power, whereas there was no research on the water consumption intensity of natural gas power generation, and a shortage of studies on water intake during electrical power production. The average water consumption intensity of hydropower is the largest. The results indicate that compared with other fuel types, hydropower is not a sustainable energy with respect to water conservation, and the study of hydropower applications should be improved in China. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Electric Power Systems Research)

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20 pages, 498 KiB

Open AccessReview

Travel Mode and Travel Route Choice Behavior Based on Random Regret Minimization: A Systematic Review

by Peng Jing^*, Mengxuan Zhao, Meiling He

and Long Chen

School of Automobile and Traffic Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1185; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041185 - 14 Apr 2018

Cited by 40 | Viewed by 6481

Abstract

In recent years, traffic congestion has become increasingly serious and the urban environment has deteriorated, posing a challenge to the modern sustainable transportation system. Sustainable travel behavior is a solution that many scholars recognize as being an important aspect in the development of [...] Read more.

In recent years, traffic congestion has become increasingly serious and the urban environment has deteriorated, posing a challenge to the modern sustainable transportation system. Sustainable travel behavior is a solution that many scholars recognize as being an important aspect in the development of socially, environmentally, and economically sustainable communities. Increasing numbers of studies analyzed the travel choice behavior based on Random Regret-Minimization (RRM) model. RRM considers multiple attribute compromises to capture the traveler’s choice behavior based on minimizing the perceived regret decision criteria. Travel route choice and travel mode choice are interrelated and mutual restraint when a traveler makes a travel decision. To our knowledge, there are limited literatures that overall considered travel mode and travel route choice behavior based on RRM at present. This paper aims to fill this gap and presents a literature review for the application of RRM on sustainable travel mode and travel route choice behavior from empirical issues, influencing factors, theories and methods to evaluate RRM’s potential and limitations as a discrete model of travel choice behavior. The results will provide reference for researchers to study this field and develop novel strategies to promote the sustainable traffic system in the future. Full article

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63 pages, 24956 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Efficacy of the Vermicomposts of Different Organic Wastes as “Clean” Fertilizers: State-of-the-Art

by Naseer Hussain

and Shahid A. Abbasi^*

Centre for Pollution Control & Environmental Engineering, Pondicherry University, Chinnakalapet, Puducherry 605014, India

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1205; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041205 - 16 Apr 2018

Cited by 80 | Viewed by 20546

Abstract

Vermicomposting is a process in which earthworms are utilized to convert biodegradable organic waste into humus-like vermicast. Past work, mainly on vermicomposting of animal droppings, has shown that vermicompost is an excellent organic fertilizer and is also imbibed with pest-repellent properties. However, there [...] Read more.

Vermicomposting is a process in which earthworms are utilized to convert biodegradable organic waste into humus-like vermicast. Past work, mainly on vermicomposting of animal droppings, has shown that vermicompost is an excellent organic fertilizer and is also imbibed with pest-repellent properties. However, there is no clarity whether vermicomposts of organic wastes other than animal droppings are as plant-friendly as the manure-based vermicomposts are believed to be. It is also not clear as to whether the action of a vermicompost as a fertilizer depends on the species of plants being fertilized by it. This raises questions whether vermicomposts are beneficial (or harmful) at all levels of application or if there is a duality in their action which is a function of their rate of application. The present work is an attempt to seek answers to these questions. To that end, all hitherto published reports on the action of vermicomposts of different substrates on different species of plants have been assessed. The study reveals that, in general, vermicomposts of all animal/plant based organic wastes are highly potent fertilizers. They also possess some ability to repel plant pests. The factors that shape these properties have been assessed and the knowledge gaps that need to be bridged have been identified. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Organic Waste Management)

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23 pages, 5732 KiB

Open AccessReview

Development of the Concept of Agroecology in Europe: A Review

by Felipe Gallardo-López^1,*

, Mario Alejandro Hernández-Chontal¹

, Pedro Cisneros-Saguilán²

and Ariadna Linares-Gabriel¹

¹ Postgrado en Agroecosistemas Tropicales, Colegio de Postgraduados, Campus Veracruz, Veracruz 91700, Mexico

² Departamento de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Instituto Tecnológico de Pinotepa, Tecnologico Nacional de México, Oaxaca 71600, Mexico

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1210; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041210 - 17 Apr 2018

Cited by 60 | Viewed by 13149

Abstract

The concept of Agroecology is still not widely discussed in European countries. Therefore, the aim of this review is to present a qualitative and quantitative mixed analysis of this conceptualization based on research papers to provide initial answers to the following questions: How [...] Read more.

The concept of Agroecology is still not widely discussed in European countries. Therefore, the aim of this review is to present a qualitative and quantitative mixed analysis of this conceptualization based on research papers to provide initial answers to the following questions: How has the agroecology been used in terms of social movement, science and agricultural practice in the European countries? At which scales has it been applied? Which factors have influenced its application? Speech analysis and multivariable techniques are applied to systematized information. According to found results, the concept of agroecology is mainly conceived as science, then as practice and to a lesser degree as a social movement. There is a predominance of studies at plot level, with a tendency to include physical-biological factors; and at agroecosystem, regional and agri-food system levels, including designers, landscapes and consumers. There is a conceptual evolution in extensive quantitative and intensive qualitative standings when the agroecology incorporates more factors, such as economic, social, and, to a lesser extent, cultural and political, and becomes more transdisciplinary as a response to more complex phenomena that support the genesis and development of this concept. In this regard, a greater balance between its conceptions (science, practice and social movement) is recommended to achieve a better dialogue between abstract and empirical levels. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mapping Agroecology in Europe. New Developments and Applications)

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23 pages, 1840 KiB

Open AccessReview

What Is Going on with Stakeholder Theory in Project Management Literature? A Symbiotic Relationship for Sustainability

by Diego F. Uribe^*

, Isabel Ortiz-Marcos

and Ángel Uruburu

Department of Engineering of Organization, Business Administration and Statistics, Higher Technical School of Industrial Engineering, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, 28006 Madrid, Spain

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1300; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041300 - 23 Apr 2018

Cited by 48 | Viewed by 17604

Abstract

Nowadays the advance towards sustainability poses a global challenge for modern society as well as for companies. Professionals and academics continually redefine business processes and design management mechanisms in a more appropriate way in order to allow companies to balance economic activity with [...] Read more.

Nowadays the advance towards sustainability poses a global challenge for modern society as well as for companies. Professionals and academics continually redefine business processes and design management mechanisms in a more appropriate way in order to allow companies to balance economic activity with the environmental and social impact that they generate. Under this complex and dynamic scenario, creating a product, providing a service, or achieving a given result requires a different interpretation of the efficiency paradigm and an adequate socio-environmental intelligence. In the context of project management, sustainability-related knowledge, skills, and suitable tools are necessary to face this challenge. Moreover, its close relationship with stakeholder theory presents an alternative to approach that purpose. This article attempts a systematic review of the literature on stakeholder theory in project management during the past nine years, with the aim of providing a comprehensive view of this relationship, revealing its impact and influence on sustainability, and finding new research paths. We highlight the potential benefits derived from this relationship, either as an instrument for the promotion of corporate social responsibility and inclusive policies, as a means for the generation of shared value and technological innovation, or as a key factor in the strategy and business management of a given project. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Project Management and Sustainable Development)

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Jump to: Research, Review

2 pages, 149 KiB

Open AccessErratum

Erratum: Crews, T.E.; Rumsey, B.E. What Agriculture Can Learn from Native Ecosystems in Building Soil Organic Matter: A Review. Sustainability 2017, 9, 578

by Timothy E. Crews^1,* and Brian E. Rumsey²

¹ The Land Institute, 2440 E. Water Well Rd., Salina, KS 67401, USA

² Environmental History, University of Kansas, 3650 Wescoe Hall, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 915; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040915 - 22 Mar 2018

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2511

Abstract

The authors would like to correct the reference[...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Critical Issues on Soil Management and Conservation)

18 pages, 1682 KiB

Open AccessConcept Paper

Resilience of Agricultural Value Chains in Developing Country Contexts: A Framework and Assessment Approach

by Ryan Vroegindewey^* and Jennifer Hodbod

Department of Community Sustainability, Michigan State University, 480 Wilson Rd, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 916; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040916 - 22 Mar 2018

Cited by 67 | Viewed by 16215

Abstract

Although agricultural value chain resilience is a crucial component to food security and sustainable food systems in developing countries, it has received little attention. This paper synthesizes knowledge from the social-ecological systems (SES), supply chain management, and value chain development literature to make [...] Read more.

Although agricultural value chain resilience is a crucial component to food security and sustainable food systems in developing countries, it has received little attention. This paper synthesizes knowledge from the social-ecological systems (SES), supply chain management, and value chain development literature to make three contributions to this research gap. First, we conceptualize agricultural value chain resilience and relate it to overall food system resilience. Second, we identify seven principles that are hypothesized to contribute to SES resilience, relate them to supply chain management theory, and discuss their application in agricultural value chains. A key insight is that the appropriateness of these principles are important to assess on a case-by-case basis, and depend in part on trade-offs between resilience and other dimensions of value chain performance. Third, we integrate two common tools, the Resilience Alliance’s assessment framework and value chain analysis techniques, to outline an adaptable participatory approach for assessing the resilience of agricultural value chains in developing countries. The objectives of the approach are to cultivate a chain-wide awareness for past and potential disturbances that could affect food security and other essential services provided by the value chain, and to identify upgrades that can build resilience against these key disturbances. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agribusiness and Food Supply Chain)

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13 pages, 12788 KiB

Open AccessOpinion

Green Roofs and Green Walls for Biodiversity Conservation: A Contribution to Urban Connectivity?

by Flavie Mayrand and Philippe Clergeau^*

Centre d’Ecologie et des Sciences de la Conservation, Sorbonne Université/MNHN/CNRS, 75005 Paris, France

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 985; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10040985 - 27 Mar 2018

Cited by 147 | Viewed by 24466

Abstract

Green roofs and walls have recently emerged as conservation tools, and they offer promising additional opportunities to enhance biodiversity in cities. However, their ecological conditions remain poorly considered when planning wildlife corridors. To discuss the role of vegetated buildings in landscape connectivity, we [...] Read more.

Green roofs and walls have recently emerged as conservation tools, and they offer promising additional opportunities to enhance biodiversity in cities. However, their ecological conditions remain poorly considered when planning wildlife corridors. To discuss the role of vegetated buildings in landscape connectivity, we reviewed the ecological and technical specificities of green walls and green roofs in light of the key factors concerning urban wildlife (patch size, quality, abundance, and isolation). Green roofs and walls show limited patch sizes, distinct habitat quality at the building scale, and limited redundancy of patch quality within the landscape. We also highlight that the abundance of roof and wall patches is often low. Future research is needed to establish if walls can be vertical corridors for wildlife, thereby reducing the isolation of green roofs. We argue that creating 3D ecological connectivity within the city requires substantial modifications of the design and maintenance of existing green building systems. We suggest that research is needed to integrate the biotic and abiotic characteristics of green buildings to make them more closely resemble those of open green spaces. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biocultural Diversity and Sustainability)

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3 pages, 185 KiB

Open AccessOpinion

Perspectives of Geological CO₂ Storage in South Korea to Cope with Climate Change

by Heejung Kim

School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-747, Korea

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1117; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041117 - 9 Apr 2018

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2305

Abstract

Rapid industrialization and urbanization in the 20th century have led to increasing volumes of carbon dioxide being released into the atmosphere[...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Energy Sustainability)

5 pages, 196 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperOpinion

Pessimism on the Food Front

by Paul R. Ehrlich^1,* and John Harte²

¹ Department of Biology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA

² Energy and Resources Group, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1120; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041120 - 9 Apr 2018

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 7520

Abstract

Virtually all trends, biophysical and socioeconomic, suggest that levels of hunger, already high, will only increase as the human population grows and its life-support systems are degraded. Steps that might ameliorate the situation are, unhappily, nowhere in sight. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agriculture: The State of the Great Debates)

15 pages, 12045 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Sustainable Municipal Solid Waste Disposal in the Belt and Road Initiative: A Preliminary Proposal for Chengdu City

by Junhan Huang¹, Rui Zhao^1,2, Tao Huang¹, Xiaoqian Wang¹ and Ming-Lang Tseng^3,*

¹ Faculty of Geosciences and Environmental Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 611756, China

² Sichuan Province Cyclic Economy Research Centre, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang 621010, China

³ Institute of Innovation and Circular Economy, Asia University, Taiwan 413, China

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1147; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041147 - 11 Apr 2018

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 5480

Abstract

The Chinese green Belt and Road initiative is promoted. This study takes Chengdu as a key hub under the Belt and Road initiative. The municipal solid waste disposal is the point to control pollution and move toward sustainability. Hence, sustainable municipal solid waste [...] Read more.

The Chinese green Belt and Road initiative is promoted. This study takes Chengdu as a key hub under the Belt and Road initiative. The municipal solid waste disposal is the point to control pollution and move toward sustainability. Hence, sustainable municipal solid waste disposal needs to be studied. The prior studies are absent in the planning scenarios analysis. This study proposes a case study to propose three planning scenarios for waste disposal to enhance its sustainability. Scenario 1 represents the current waste disposal mode in Chengdu; Scenario 2 considers all the wastes being incinerated; and Scenario 3 focuses on the incorporation of three disposal methods, i.e., anaerobic digestion, incineration, and landfilling. These three scenarios are assessed based on their greenhouse gas emissions, costs, and public acceptance, to determine the optimality for future managerial practice. Results indicated that Scenario 3 has the highest overall efficiency, yet is challenging in terms of economic feasibility. The limitations of the study are also discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agribusiness Decision making model in Belt and Road Green Development)

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24 pages, 10406 KiB

Open AccessConcept Paper

Assessment of the Technological Changes Impact on the Sustainability of State Security System of Ukraine

by Olexandr Yemelyanov¹, Anastasiya Symak¹

, Tetyana Petrushka¹, Roman Lesyk²

and Lilia Lesyk^1,*

¹ Institute of Economics and Management, Department of Business Economics and Investment, Lviv Polytechnic National University, 5 Metropolian Andrey str., Building 4, Lviv 79005, Ukraine

² Pharmaceutical, Organic and Boorganic Chemistry, Department of Pharmaceutical, Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University, Pekarska 69, 79010 Lviv-10, Ukraine

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1186; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041186 - 14 Apr 2018

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 7296

Abstract

Currently, the governments of many countries are facing with a lack of funds for financing programs for social protection of population. Among the causes of this problem, we can indicate the high unemployment rate, which, among other things, is due to implementation of [...] Read more.

Currently, the governments of many countries are facing with a lack of funds for financing programs for social protection of population. Among the causes of this problem, we can indicate the high unemployment rate, which, among other things, is due to implementation of labor-saving technologies. The purpose of this work is to study the impact of technological changes on the sustainability of the state social security system in Ukraine. The general approaches to the assessment of the stability of the state social security system are described. The simulation of the effect of economically efficient technological changes on the company’s income and expenses was carried out. Some patterns of such changes are established. The group of productive technological changes types is presented. The model is developed, and an indicator of the impact estimation of efficiently effective technological changes on the stability of the state social security system is proposed. The analysis of the main indicators of the state social security system functioning of Ukraine is carried out. The dynamics of indicators characterizing the labor market of Ukraine is analyzed. The influence of changes in labor productivity on costs and profits by industries of Ukraine is estimated. The evaluation of the impact of economically efficient technological changes in the industries of Ukraine on the stability of its state social security system is carried out. The different state authorities can use the obtained results for developing measures to manage the sustainability of the state social security system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of Technological Change on Employment, Skills and Earnings)

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15 pages, 10921 KiB

Open AccessPerspective

Challenges for Sustainable Use of the Fish Resources from Lake Balkhash, a Fragile Lake in an Arid Ecosystem

by Steven G. Pueppke^1,*

, Margulan K. Iklasov², Volker Beckmann³

, Sabir T. Nurtazin²

, Niels Thevs⁴, Sayat Sharakhmetov² and Buho Hoshino⁵

¹ Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences, Center for Global Change and Earth Observations, and Center for European, Russian and Eurasian Studies, Michigan State University, 1066 Bogue Street, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA

² Department of Biodiversity and Bioresources, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, 71 Al-Farabi Avenue, 050040 Almaty, Kazakhstan

³ Faculty of Law and Economics & Institute of Botany and Landscape Ecology, University of Greifswald, Soldmannstr 15, 17489 Greifswald, Germany

⁴ World Agroforestry Centre, Central Asia Office, 138 Toktogol Street, 720001 Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

⁵ Department of Environmental and Symbiotic Science, Rakuno Gakuen University, 069-6501 Ebetsu, Japan

Sustainability 2018, 10(4), 1234; https://doi.org/10.3390/su10041234 - 18 Apr 2018

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 6181

Abstract

Lake Balkhash is the largest water body in Central Asia. More than three-quarters of its inflow comes from the Ili River, which is under increasing strain due to the diversion of water for energy and food production. Commercial fishing in Lake Balkhash began [...] Read more.

Lake Balkhash is the largest water body in Central Asia. More than three-quarters of its inflow comes from the Ili River, which is under increasing strain due to the diversion of water for energy and food production. Commercial fishing in Lake Balkhash began in 1929 and is currently in a state of crisis. The construction of the Balkhash dam and reservoir in the late 1960s reduced Ili River flows into the lake and upset the natural cycle of spring floods, which greatly reduced spawning and feeding areas for carp (Cyprinus carpio). Carp populations were consequently reduced by more than 90% during the filling of the reservoir and have not recovered, even though the lake’s level subsequently rose. Catches of carp and freshwater bream (Abramis brama orientalis) have shown an inverse relationship since the 1960s, and the age structure of freshwater bream is changing. Historically, most captured fish of this species were 4- to 7-years-old, but smaller, 3- to 5-year-old fish have dominated recent catches. The total fish harvest from Lake Balkhash is currently at near historical lows, not just because of environmental factors, but also because of structural changes triggered by the collapse of the Soviet Union. Poaching, government disinterest, lack of enforcement of fishing regulations, and the economic challenges faced by today’s small fishing enterprises all contribute to the problem. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Agriculture)

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