Sustainability, Volume 15, Issue 19 (October-1 2023) – 618 articles

The urbanization process over the past decades has resulted in increasing attention being paid to atmospheric pollution by researchers, especially changes in PM_2.5 concentration. This study attempted to explore the spatiotemporal changes in PM_2.5 concentration in China from 2000 to 2021, as well as their interaction patterns and intensities with temperature, precipitation, vegetation coverage, and land use types. This was carried out by analyzing monthly average PM_2.5 concentration data and various meteorological and geographical factors. Suggestions have also been made to reduce PM_2.5 concentration and improve air quality. The results show that in the past 22 years, the overall concentration of PM_2.5 in China has shown a downward trend, with an average annual rate of 1.42 μg/m³ from 2013 to 2021, accompanied by a clear spatial pattern and significant seasonal changes. The high pollution areas are mainly concentrated in the Tarim Basin, Sichuan Basin, North China Plain, and the Middle and Lower Yangtze Valley Plain, where the PM_2.5 concentration in autumn and winter is significantly higher than that in spring and summer. In addition, based on the national spatial scale, PM_2.5 concentration is negatively correlated with precipitation and vegetation coverage, while it is significantly positively correlated with arable land and impervious surfaces. Strengthening the control of farmland pollution, accelerating urban greening construction, further expanding the scale of forests and grasslands, and enriching vegetation types will help reduce PM_2.5 concentration and improve air quality. Full article

The city’s built environment and functionality play a crucial role in shaping individual mobility patterns, impacting the overall health and quality of life of its population. Understanding these influences is an important research topic, making it a central focus of this paper. This study aims to identify the factors responsible for promoting healthy mobility behavior. To address this comprehensively, a multidisciplinary empirical survey was developed based on the “Triad”—a model consisting of the built environment, mobility(-behavior), and public health. In addition to the evaluation of socio-demographic factors and activity radius mapping, statistical analyses like multiple linear regression were used. These statistical analyses allow the assessment of the impact of various independent variables on the promotion of healthy mobility behavior within urban settings. The multiple regression shows that the satisfaction with the accessibility of public transport and the sense of safety as a cyclist contribute to explaining the variation of healthy mobility. Furthermore, the satisfaction with walking in the neighborhood and the inhalation of exhaust fumes while walking also seem to have an impact. The results show the link between the Triad and make it clear that mobility planning and urban planning must take a more integrated approach to promote health and simultaneously protect the climate. Full article

Urban infrastructure is an important part of supporting the daily operation of a city. The stability of infrastructure is subject to various deformations related to disasters, engineering activities, and loadings. Regular monitoring of such deformations is critical to identify potential risks to infrastructure and take timely remedial actions. Among the advanced geodetic technologies available, radar interferometry has been widely used for infrastructure stability monitoring due to its extensive coverage, high spatial resolution, and accurate deformation measurements. Specifically, spaceborne InSAR and ground-based radar interferometry have become increasingly utilized in this field. This paper presents a comprehensive review of both technologies for monitoring urban infrastructures. The review begins by introducing the principles and their technical development. Then, a bibliometric analysis and the major advancements and applications of urban infrastructure monitoring are introduced. Finally, the paper identifies several challenges associated with those two radar interferometry technologies for monitoring urban infrastructure. These challenges include the inconsistent in the distribution of selected measurements from different methods, obstacles arising from rapid urbanization and geometric distortion, specialized monitoring techniques for distinct urban features, long-term deformation monitoring, and accurate interpretation of deformation. It is important to carry out further research to tackle these challenges effectively. Full article

Recycling steel slag into asphalt concrete is an important way to save natural resources and protect the environment. The high asphalt absorption and adsorption and the sensitivity of steel slag aggregate (SSA) to the combined damage of temperature and moisture (volume expansion and poor durability under freeze-thaw cycle damage) still pose risks for the use of SSA in asphalt concrete. It is urgent to develop new utilization methods of steel slag. With this in mind, the material properties of steel slag powder (SSP) and performance characteristics of asphalt concrete incorporating SSP filler were evaluated in this research. The SSP was prepared in the laboratory by grinding steel slag with a particle size of 2.36–4.75 mm. Firstly, the material properties of SSP including the specific surface area, particle gradation, apparent density, chemical compositions, and thermal stability were analyzed. Steel slag (2.36–4.75 mm) and common limestone powder (LP) filler were used as control groups. The grindability of steel slag and the advantages of using SSP as a filler in asphalt concrete were preliminarily analyzed based on the test results of material properties. Then, the Superpave method was used to design asphalt concrete incorporating SSP and LP. Considering that steel slag is sensitive to the combined damage of temperature and moisture, the main engineering performance of asphalt concrete after the combined damage of temperature and moisture was evaluated to further reveal the feasibility of using SSP as a filler. Two combined damage modes, namely hot water damage and freeze-thaw cycle damage, were applied. Results suggest that although the steel slag is more difficult to grind compared to limestone particles, grinding steel slag into SSP has improved the uniformity of its material properties. Good uniformity of material properties, high alkalinity, and excellent thermal stability of SSP give it some advantages in its application in asphalt concrete. Although the freeze-thaw cycle damage has a slightly more significant effect on the engineering performance of asphalt concrete than hot water damage, compared to the asphalt concrete with LP filler, even after freeze-thaw cycle damage for three cycles asphalt concrete incorporating SSP still possesses comparable or better volume stability, mechanical performance, high-temperature deformation resistance, low-temperature crack resistance, fatigue crack resistance, and fatigue durability. Full article

The construction sector in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is expanding substantially due to many variables, including strong economic growth, a swiftly growing population, and continuous modernization endeavors. As a result, the development of the construction industry is leading to adverse impacts on energy consumption and environmental conditions. The UAE government and policymakers have implemented significant initiatives to advance sustainable infrastructure, promote clean energy utilization, effectively manage construction and demolition waste (CDW), and foster green building development. These measures follow the nation’s dedication to the Paris Agreement, which aims to decrease greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The article comprehensively examines the policies and practices implemented in this industrialized nation concerning sustainable construction. Moreover, the primary objective of this study is to evaluate the performance of the UAE in comparison to other countries within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) concerning their accomplishments in sustainability. Additionally, the study seeks to integrate insights from the global community regarding sustainability policies, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the effective management of CDW, and the implementation of green regulations that govern environmentally conscious construction practices. A comprehensive analysis of information sources from official websites, particularly those of the ministry and key government agencies, is conducted to better understand the current sustainability policies and treatment methods related to the management of CDW and green building regulations. Full article

The transportation sector has significantly contributed to greenhouse gas and air pollutant emissions. Consequently, there is an urgent need to investigate strategies to synergize the reduction in CO₂ and pollutant emissions in this sector. Using panel data from 30 provinces in China over the period from 2005 to 2018, this study employs spatial econometric models and mediation effect models to investigate the synergistic effects of carbon markets and environmental regulations on carbon reduction and pollution control in the transportation sector, along with the underlying transmission mechanisms. The results are as follows: (1) Carbon markets can achieve synergistic reduction effects in both CO₂ emissions and pollutant emissions, whereas environmental regulations can reduce pollutant emissions alone in the transportation sector. (2) The synergistic reduction effects of carbon markets and environmental regulations in the transportation sector exhibit regional heterogeneity. The central region can realize synergistic reductions, while the western and eastern regions may experience an increase in CO₂ and pollutant emissions and cross-regional transfers. (3) Carbon markets can achieve synergistic reduction effects in the transportation sector by influencing the industrial structure at the provincial level, transportation supply and demand at the sectoral level, and green willingness at the individual level. Full article

Enhancing the productivity and bioactivity of high-functional foods holds great significance. Carbon nanoparticles (CNPs) have a recognized capacity for boosting both plant growth and the efficacy of primary and secondary metabolites. Furthermore, while salinity diminishes plant growth, it concurrently amplifies the production of phytomolecules. To ensure the robust and sustainable production of nutritious food, it becomes essential to elevate biomolecule yield without compromising plant growth. Here, we assessed the CNPs priming on plant performance and metabolites of the glycophyte amaranth (Amaranthus hypochondriacus) sprouts at the threshold salinity (25 mM NaCl; i.e., salinity that does not reduce growth but enhances the metabolites of that plant). We measured growth parameters, pigment levels, and primary (carbohydrates, amino acids, organic acids, fatty acids) and secondary metabolites (phenolics, flavonoids, tocopherols). CNP priming significantly improved biomass accumulation (fresh and dry weight) and primary and secondary metabolites of amaranth sprouts. Increased photosynthetic pigments can explain these increases in photosynthesis. Enhanced photosynthesis induced carbohydrate production, providing a C source for producing bioactive primary and secondary metabolites. The priming effect of CNPs further enhanced the accumulation of essential amino acids, organic acids, unsaturated fatty acids, tocopherols, and phenolics at threshold salinity. The increase in bioactive metabolites under threshold salinity can explain the CNP priming impact on boosting the antioxidant activities (FRAP, DPPH, anti-lipid peroxidation, superoxide-anion-scavenger, hydroxyl-radical-scavenger, Fe-chelating and chain-breaking activity in aqueous and lipid phases) and antimicrobial activities against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and fungi. Overall, this study suggested that threshold salinity and CNP priming could be useful for enhancing amaranth sprouts’ growth and nutritional quality. Full article

Climate change is widely acknowledged as the paramount global challenge of the 21st century, bringing economic, social, and environmental impacts due to rising global temperatures, more frequent extreme weather events, and ecosystem disturbances. To combat this, many countries target net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, reshaping both the financial system and consumption patterns. This transition has sharpened the financial sector’s focus on climate-related risks, making the carbon footprint, environmental benefits of investments, and sustainability of financial products critical to investors’ decisions. However, conventional risk prediction methods may not fully capture these climate-associated risks in a carbon-neutral setting. Emerging from this context is the need for innovative predictive tools. Recently, Long Short-Term Memory networks (LSTM) have gained prominence for their efficacy in time-series forecasting. Singular Spectrum Analysis (SSA), effective for extracting time series patterns, combined with LSTM as SSA-LSTM, offers a potentially superior approach to financial risk prediction. Our study, focusing on a case study of the wind energy sector in China, situates itself within the growing body of research focusing on the integration of environmental sustainability and financial risk management. Leveraging the capabilities of SSA-LSTM, we aim to bridge the gap in the current literature by offering a nuanced approach to financial risk prediction in the carbon-neutral landscape. This research not only reveals the superiority of the SSA-LSTM model over traditional methods but also contributes a robust framework to the existing discourse, facilitating a more comprehensive understanding and management of financial risks in the evolving carbon-neutral global trend. Full article

Human settlements are areas closely related to human production and life, and their quality directly affects people’s physical health and quality of life. However, with air pollution continuing to worsen, people are becoming increasingly concerned about the exposure to air pollution in their residential regions. In addition, many studies ignore the long-term impact of environmental factors on the evolution of human settlement quality (HSQ). This study aims to assess the HSQ in the Mid-Spine Belt of Beautiful China (MSBBC) from 2000 to 2020 and to analyze the changes in its driving forces during different time periods. We divided the HSQ into five dimensions: terrain conditions, climate conditions, hydrological conditions, ground cover conditions, and air pollution exposure. The Entropy-TOPSIS and grey relational degree model were used to assess the HSQ in the MSBBC. To analyze the driving forces of HSQ, the optimal-parameters-based geographic detector model was utilized. The results show the following: (1) Within the study area, the degree of the population exposure risk to PM_2.5 and its change trend were significantly different on both sides of the Hu Line, with the east showing higher levels than the west. (2) The HSQ of the MSBBC decreased from east to west. Moreover, the HSQ in the metropolitan area of the urban agglomeration was characterized from low to high. The HSQ underwent three phases, consisting of an increase (2000–2010), a decrease (2010–2015), and an increase again (2015–2020). (3) Among the driving factors, the impact of PM_2.5 on the HSQ weakened year by year. The driving force of meteorological parameters on the HSQ was the strongest. Furthermore, the interactions of each factor could enhance the HSQ. The results of this study not only provide a strong reference for creating livable areas and promoting sustainability in the MSBBC but also contribute to addressing challenges such as pollution and climate change. Full article

Understanding the substitution effect and creation effect of digital transformation on the manufacturing industry is crucial to safeguarding employment stability and advancing manufacturing sophistication in China’s contemporary context. In this study, a bilateral stochastic frontier model is used to examine the aforementioned effects drawing on provincial panel data of China spanning 2011 to 2020. The study reveals that: Firstly, the substitution effect of digital economy development on manufacturing employment outweighs the creation effect, culminating in a 7.80% decrease below the frontier benchmark, contrasted by a 4.15% increase attributed to the creation effect. The two effects possess an inverse relationship, collectively inducing a 3.66% decline in manufacturing employment as compared to the frontier. Secondly, the prevailing influence of the digital economy upon manufacturing employment is predominantly characterized by the substitution effect. However, projected medium to long term trajectories intimate a diminishing potency of this substitution effect and the creation effect will become more pronounced. Thirdly, in terms of geographical areas, the weakening of the employment-substitution effect due to the digital economy is most evident in the central region, followed by the western, and then the eastern regions. Conclusively, the impact of the digital economy on manufacturing employment exhibits variances contingent upon distinct economic maturation and disparate human capital stratification. Full article

To tackle the challenges of the sustainable development of entrepreneurship education in China and bridge the gaps between academic research and practices for Goal 4 of the SDGs, this design science research aims to create an educational artifact for the incubation of entrepreneurship from students’ tacit knowledge and evaluate whether it performs well. First, the incubation process of the educational artifact is summarized, including the functions and tools of its supporting software. An Extended Triple Diamond model with design principles in the knowledge creation process is proposed in this research. Then, the educational artifact is evaluated based on the data from in-depth interviews conducted with 15 university teacher and student users. Through the evaluation, functions of the supporting software and some organizational arrangements of the activity are iterated. This design science research of the educational artifact contributes empirically to the body of design knowledge. In terms of practice, the educational artifact with extremely low entry barriers is expected to alleviate the inherent contradictions between personalization (the inherent characteristics of innovation and entrepreneurship) and large-scale development (to be carried out in a sustainable manner), thus contributing to the Sustainable Development Goal of inclusive and equitable quality education. Full article

This paper mainly studies the dynamic characteristics of production and sales of distributed photovoltaic power. This is beneficial for the construction and development of a green power system, and it promotes the sustainable development of the social economy. First, the production and sales laws of the photovoltaic power are analyzed, and the trade process between photovoltaic power producers (PVPs) and photovoltaic power demanders (PVDs) is modeled as a game. Different from the existing relevant literature, two kinds of payoff bimatrices are provided, which correspond to the PVD market and PVP market, respectively. Then, the dynamic characteristics of the model are revealed by using the semitensor product method. The results present a more reliable theoretical basis for the sustainable development of the green electricity market. Finally, through an illustrative example, it can be seen that the strategies of all participants are constantly changing to obtain more profits rather than stable at a traditional Nash equilibrium point. It is worth pointing out that the method and results are applicable to other distributed low-carbon energies, contributing to the development of sustainable energy systems. Full article

The uncertainty in the concrete compressive strength is one of the most challenging issues in safety checking of existing reinforced concrete (RC) buildings. The concrete compressive strength used in the assessment can highly influence the vulnerability results and thus the retrofit strategies. The need to use less expensive and less invasive in situ measurements such as the non-destructive tests should be balanced with a careful check of their structural reliability. The compressive concrete strength is characterized herein based on a large database of both in situ destructive and non-destructive results measured on the same structural members. The data are obtained from existing RC buildings mainly located in the Campania region, Southern Italy. Probabilistic linear and multilinear regression models are developed for calculating the compressive concrete strength based on non-destructive tests. Furthermore, the implementation of the concrete strength based on ultrasonic test results are investigated together with the relative measurement error through a fully probabilistic workflow. Accordingly, the relative weights of non-destructive data for calculating concrete compressive strength are estimated and compared with those recommended by the Italian national code. The results demonstrate that the effective weights of the non-destructive data are very close to the code-based recommendation. Full article

Plant roots aid the growth and functions of several kinds of microorganisms such as plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria, mycorrhizal fungi, endophytic bacteria, actinomycetes, nematodes, protozoans which may impart significant impacts on plant health and growth. Plant soil–microbe interaction is an intricate, continuous, and dynamic process that occurs in a distinct zone known as the rhizosphere. Plants interact with these soil microbes in a variety of ways, including competitive, exploitative, neutral, commensal, and symbiotic relationships. Both plant and soil types were found to have an impact on the community diversity and structure of the rhizosphere, or vice versa. The diversity of microorganisms in soil is thought to be essential for the management of soil health and quality because it has different plant growth-promoting or biocontrol effects that could be very advantageous for the host plant and alter plant physiology and nutrition. The composition of microbial community is influenced by soil and plant type. Besides these beneficial microbes, the soil also harbors microorganisms that are detrimental to plants, competing for nutrients and space, and causing diseases. Numerous microorganisms have antagonistic activity and the ability to defend plants from soil-borne diseases. The study of the soil microbiome is essential for formulating strategies for transforming the rhizosphere to the benefit of the plants. This review pays special emphasis on the types of microbial populations in the soil and how they influence plant growth, nutrient acquisition, inter-relationships between soil microbes and plants, stress resistance, carbon sequestration, and phytoremediation. Full article

This paper investigated the effects of carbon emissions and board gender diversity on firm performance using quantile regression. This approach explores the heterogeneity of the effect of carbon emissions on the performance of firms and overcomes some of the drawbacks of OLS regression. This research aimed to identify whether carbon emissions significantly impact firm performance using accounting- and market-based performance measures and how this impact varies according to a company’s size. Another objective was to determine how females on a board of directors could impact such a relationship. The data used were a sample of 1382 companies in emerging markets from 2008 to 2021. The findings show that carbon emissions negatively affect small-size companies consisting of both high-performing and low-performing companies; however, as the size of the companies increases, the effect of carbon emissions becomes positive regardless of whether they are high- or low-performing companies. The presence of females on a board has a minimally significant negative effect on a firm’s performance, irrespective of whether it is conditioned on size. This research contributes to the literature on the impact of carbon emissions on company performance, both conditional and unconditional on size. Furthermore, the results show that the relationship between carbon emissions and performance depends on size, as revealed using the novel econometrics model developed in this study. This study also shows the importance of the presence of females on a board of directors. Full article

Assessing the occupational health and safety (OHS) factors in the welding process is necessary to determine the workers’ perception of what contributes to their safety and health in the workplace. This would provide insight for stakeholders to aid them in their occupational safety and health programs. The non-probability sample technique utilized in this study is purposive sampling using an online survey. Welders in Singapore are the intended participants. The self-administered online survey was conducted using Google Forms. The hypothesis test’s beta coefficient and R² results were used to evaluate the model using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The study’s results revealed that safety culture has the highest association with top management attitudes toward safety and health in the workplace. Similarly, safety training was also found to have a strong association with employees’ attitudes towards safety. Finally, factors such as compliance with safe working conditions, safety programs, and the absence of and lack of exposure to harmful agents were also proven to have a significant association with safety and health in the workplace. This study benefits not only those businesses conducting the welding process but also employees to better understand the factors contributing to their overall safety at work. Full article

The aim of this study was to characterize the municipal solid waste (MSW) in Nablus city in Palestine, while focusing on the plastic waste fraction. The plastic fraction—an environmentally problematic waste stream—was further characterized into the different polymer types and formats with the aim of suggesting feasible recovery and recycling solutions. Locally generated studies lack data about the recyclable fractions in the MSW and a thorough characterization of the plastic waste stream, although there is global action to minimize and optimally treat this waste fraction. The composition analysis was conducted by collecting 60 samples from five districts with different characteristics (e.g., income, density, level of education, building formats). The fraction of bio- and organic waste is significant in the collected MSW in Nablus, representing about 68% of the total MSW. The recyclables (paper and cardboard, glass, metals and plastics) amount to 27.4% of the generated MSW in the city. The plastic fraction (10.1%) is mainly composed of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) films (39.8%), polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles (21.9%), high-density polyethylene (HDPE) rigids (19.0%), and polypropylene (PP) rigids (11.5%), all of which are technologically recyclable. The polymer types and container formats indicated that the collected plastics originate mostly from packaging. The outcomes of this research indicate the need to implement a separate collection system for the organic waste fraction, which could be used to produce compost for the agricultural activities in the region. By having such a system, the dry recyclables (including plastics) can be easily recovered with less degree of contamination for recycling, helping the local recyclers to access cleaner materials. Furthermore, the state of Palestine lacks strict regulations for the end-of-life treatment of the different waste fractions; therefore, having clear guidelines and incentive systems will result in the minimization of the generated waste as well as better achievement of recovery and recycling targets. In addition, expertise, funding, public awareness, facilities, equipment and other provisions are currently lacking or inappropriate. In future, these factors must be addressed to enhance sustainable solid waste management. Full article

The world in which we live is changing at a much faster and more uncontrolled rate. This situation brings with it both negative and positive changes. The textile industry is also part of this rapid change. The growth of the world’s population and the alterations in consumer habits that this change has brought with it also affect the textile industry. In particular, polluting dyehouses and the synthetic dyes used in them are harming the world. This situation is unsustainable. For this reason, the use of natural dyes instead of synthetic dyes in the coloring of textile products is increasing rapidly. In this study, a blend of 80% cotton and 20% wool was dyed with cinnamon, and its fastness and mechanical performance were tested. In addition, the dyeing results were analyzed using a spectral method, FTIR, and SEM. In this study, natural fiber blends with two different chemical structures were dyed with cinnamon in one bath. The fastness values obtained as a result of the dyeing process were very good. The grey scale value of saliva fastness determined through evaluation was 5. The observed strength increase of approximately 24% in the yarn after dyeing was also remarkable. In conclusion, environmentally friendly dyeing was carried out in this study, and a contribution was made to a sustainable world. Full article

This manuscript focuses on the sustainable utilization of municipal waste incineration ashes in construction, taking into account their substantial concentration of beneficial elements and the potential environmental pollution caused by the leaching of toxic elements due to naturally occurring processes. To assess heavy metal mobility in ashes, a sequential extraction method based on the European Community Bureau of Reference (BCR) was applied. It enables the determination of heavy metal fractions and provides valuable insights into their potential environmental impact and bioavailability. More than 80% of Cd, and Zn, and over 75% of Cu, exhibited strong associations with the most mobile exchangeable fraction, while over 60% of Al and Fe were predominantly bound to reducible. The distribution of As and Cr was relatively balanced between exchangeable and oxidizable fractions, whereas 100% of Pb was exclusively associated with oxidizable fractions, indicating immobilization of this element in the ash. The calculated Risk Assessment Codes and Individual Contamination Factors indicated a quite high to very high risk level for the element’s mobility and environmental contamination. For elements like Pb, Cd, Cu, and Zn, higher concentrations in the samples are associated with higher overall environmental risk. For elements like As and Cr, higher concentrations in the samples are associated with lower overall environmental risk. Studied ash exhibits potential as a resource, but equally it demands rigorous environmental management to ensure responsible utilization. The observed metal mobilization underscores the necessity for stringent containment and treatment measures to mitigate the risk of environmental contamination. Full article

In recent years, both industry professionals and scholars have shown increased interest in the ability of big data management capabilities (BDMCs) to drive green innovation, emphasizing their potential in fostering environmentally sustainable practices. While many studies highlight the positive influence of big data technology on green innovation, there is a notable gap in understanding the managerial process required for such innovation. Moreover, the roles of green dynamic capabilities and environmental turbulence in this context are underexplored. This study aims to contribute to the existing literature by examining the mechanisms and boundary conditions of the relationship between BDMCs and green innovation. We gathered data from 266 Chinese manufacturing enterprises using questionnaires and analyzed the results using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). Our findings indicate that, despite the inherent qualities of BDMCs such as rarity, applicability, nonreplicability, and non-substitutability, their influence on green innovation is reduced in the absence of effective green dynamic capabilities. Furthermore, our study suggests that environmental turbulence does not weaken the influence of BDMCs on green dynamic capabilities; rather, it amplifies the effects of BDMCs on green dynamic capabilities and their impact on two types of green innovation. This study provides new insights for manufacturing enterprises aiming to achieve green transformation. We also discuss the theoretical and practical implications of the research, along with its limitations. Full article

This two-stage sequential mixed-methods study explores the contextual configuration of perceived high-performance work systems (HPWSs) and its association with psychological empowerment (PE), trust in immediate managers (ET), affective commitment (AC) and employee performance (EP) in two Bangladeshi private commercial banks (PCBLs). In the first stage, qualitative data were collected through interviews with 15 industry experts. Based on the qualitative findings, a HPWS framework has been hypothesised and tested using the survey data from 436 employees in the two selected PCBLs in Bangladesh. The findings demonstrated that ET and PE both mediated the perceived HPWS–EP link and that perceived HPWS positively influences AC. However, AC does not mediate the HPWS–EP link. In line with the social exchange theory, perceived HPWS can positively predict attitudinal outcomes and employee performance, provided it is configured to the specific institutional context. Implications are drawn for HPWS theory, sustainable HR development and performance, and future international human resource management research. Full article

In the face of rampant urbanization, industrialization, and continuous advancements in construction technology, sustainable development in the construction industry becomes increasingly imperative. A promising avenue toward this sustainability is through the adoption of Recycled Construction Materials (RCMs), yet their widespread use remains complex and filled with numerous barriers, signifying an urgent need for the systematic investigation of these obstacles. This study uniquely employs a qualitative PEST (Political, Economic, Social, and Technological) analysis to illuminate the intricate impediments to the adoption and promotion of RCMs. Data for this study were collected through in-depth, semi-structured interviews with a variety of experts in the field. The research identifies substantial barriers within each PEST category. Political factors include regulatory biases and limited funding for RCM research, while economic factors involve the higher costs and limited availability of RCMs. Social aspects revolve around public awareness, safety concerns, and resistance to change within the industry. Technological issues focus on the development, performance, and compatibility of RCMs, the slow innovation pace, and the absence of standardized guidelines. Additionally, this study stands out by suggesting strategic, context-specific recommendations aimed at surmounting these obstacles and further fostering the adoption of RCMs. The solutions proposed are intimately linked to the challenges identified, highlighting the practical value and relevance of this study for guiding future research and policy development in the face of ongoing advancements in construction technology. Full article

Piston damage is a frequent problem of engine durability and plays an important role in an engine’s performance design. Recently, a large amount of piston erosion has occurred in a series of heavy-duty diesel engines. To investigate the reason for the piston erosion, a study of the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) of the combustion process in the cylinder and finite element analysis (FEA) of piston was carried out under different initial temperatures. The results show that when the initial temperature decreases from 380 K to 307 K, the mass of wall-wetting increases by 73%, and the maximum combustion pressure increases from 8.1 MPa to 11 MPa; when the initial temperature decreases from 350 K to 328 K, the highest temperature at the throat of the valve pocket increases by nearly 100 K, doubling the temperature fluctuation; and in the case of 328 K, areas exceeding 700 K are concentrated on the top surface of the piston, and the temperature gradient in the depth direction of the throat position decays rapidly. Full article

Integrated transport and land-use planning and reduced car dependency proffers a pathway to mobility justice and reduced transport poverty, whilst providing opportunities for potential health benefits and reducing carbon emissions. In spite of this, smaller cities and towns face opposition to the reallocation of road space away from the private car. Traditionally, transport measures have been responsive to growing car-use. To accelerate a behavioural shift to sustainable modes, an evidence-based, transformative approach is required that is consultative in nature, and inclusive of all relevant stakeholders and nurtures innovation. The study aims to achieve this by co-creating a theory of change, with a broad group of stakeholders and the community. Systems science and co-creation techniques were utilised to enable informed decision-making and foster shared learning, resulting in a theory of change formulated by stakeholders with a shared vision. Sixteen objectives were identified under five broad categories, create sustainable systems; design healthy built environments; engage society; empower people and prioritise road safety, informed by the systems-based framework Global Action Plan on Physical Activity. Assumptions, risks and key performance indicators were key elements of the theory of change. Risks identified for successful implementation of the plan were lack of funding and human resources to deliver actions, political challenges, lengthy planning processes, entrenched social norms and resistance from the community. This process, which was adopted, synthesises scientific evidence, a participatory systems approach, informed decision making and the practical application of the embedded researcher, resulting in a pragmatic theory of change to reduce car-dependency and create a shift to sustainable travel modes. The process highlights the importance of stakeholder and community engagement, from participatory mapping of the system to the development of the theory of change to generate local solutions to identified challenges. The resulting theory of change will form the basis of a Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan for Kilkenny City. The theory of change can be adapted to new settings by the participatory processes outlined. Full article

This paper investigates the role of pilot free trade zones (FTZs) as a policy testing terrace for achieving the sustainable development goals in China. Using a sample of data from Chinese companies that were listed in Shanghai and Shenzhen A stocks, from 2009 to 2021, a difference-in-difference model is employed to assess the impact of FTZ establishment on sustainable development. The findings indicate that establishing FTZs significantly enhances a company’s sustainability performance, particularly in terms of environmental and social responsibility performance. They also foster an innovation-friendly environment, facilitating sustainable development goals in both institutional and innovation domains. Furthermore, the policy effects of FTZs exhibit a mixed picture, involving both a curse effect of political resources and a reinforcement effect of environmental protection goals. Additionally, the Matthew effect and spillover effect are observed in FTZs. Finally, this paper explores the linkages between FTZ construction and China’s “dual circulation” development pattern, revealing the effective role of FTZs in conjunction with new energy model cities for enhancing sustainable development. However, the linkage between FTZs and the Belt and Road Initiative is currently limited in terms of positively impacting a company’s sustainability performance. Full article

Current requirements of employers in the construction industry are aimed at strengthening the link between schools and the manufacturing sector. It is desirable that the students are during their studies already involved in the investment construction process, at least as part-time workers. At the Faculty of Civil Engineering in Brno, Czech Republic, this is being ensured by the accredited course Professional Practical Training. The aim of this contribution is to evaluate and analyze the inclusion of this student internship as a mandatory part of the study to present how many students worked for which construction companies during a period of 10 years, indicating the number of successfully completed internships for individual academic years. At the same time, the boundary conditions for this practice are described. The hypothesis to be confirmed is that the conditions are set in such a way as to be a prerequisite for successful fulfillment. Descriptive statistics are based on a sample of 92 employers involved in the system of securing professional practices for the period 2010 to 2020. The analysis showed that each year about 70–75% of students stay with the same company for their further part-time work during the remainder of their studies, and they may also stay for subsequent graduate employment. A total of 507 students started and finished their internship. Moreover, in the following years of practice, some of the graduates of the field became responsible for the tutoring of other student’s work experience on the construction site. Having previously gone through the same educational scheme, it allows them to lead and evaluate students with an optimal degree of constructive criticism. Full article

In Mexico, it is estimated that millions of people are affected by the presence of fluoride in groundwater. In wells in the Guadiana Valley in Durango, Mexico, the presence of fluoride has been identified, exceeding the maximum allowable limit established by Mexican regulations (1.5 mg/L). The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the non-carcinogenic risk to the health of the adult population due to fluoride contamination of water, using a Monte Carlo simulation. To this end, the wells were monitored, fluoride concentrations were analyzed according to Mexican regulations and possible concentrations in the vicinity of the sampling zones were determined by applying the ordinary Kriging geospatial tool. Crystal Ball software was used for the simulation, also using data collected through surveys. In terms of dental fluorosis, around 30% of the population mentioned through surveys as having some characteristic of this disease. Of the 70 wells and 2 tanks that were sampled, 90% of them were found to exceed the levels allowed by the regulations. In more than 70% of the wells, the adult population had a non-cancer hazard quotient (HQ) greater than 1. Overall, the HQ for ingestion exceeded 1.8 at the 95th percentile, indicating a significant risk of fluoride-related health problems for the population. Full article

The amendment or removal of superfluous government support policies is typically difficult, yet in the ever more important debate on low-carbon (i.e., clean) marine energy policy under the international law of climate action, the law of the sea, and international investment protection, there are additional dimensions of legal or economic peril. Coastal states enact policies subsidising clean energy investments, such as offshore wind energy generation, in their exclusive economic zones or continental shelves. Investors are attracted to the prospect that policies granting subsidies for ostensibly new industries are sufficiently durable. Are such subsidy policies salient or stale? In principle, the purpose of regulatory policy is the promotion of social welfare, and hence, there is an optimal incidence, magnitude, and duration of the subsidy, in essence, an ideal strategy for starting, altering, or exiting such policy. We aim to introduce the concept of optimisation to the design and implementation of regulatory policy in this context. Our contribution is to offer three maxims of optimal clean marine energy law and policy: the efficiency and equity of alternative regulatory arrangements; the continuous optimisation of such arrangements; and the recognition of linguistic entanglements in the law. We test these maxims against the case of clean marine energy policy on offshore wind energy generation. One legal implication for international investment protection is that coastal states should establish a policy exit clause in their investment contracts. Our analysis of policy optimisation is generalisable across policies supporting the transition to sustainable energy forms. Full article

In response to the problem of low forecasting accuracy in wind and solar power outputs, this study proposes a joint forecasting method for wind and solar power outputs by using their spatiotemporal correlation. First, autocorrelation analysis and causal testing are used to screen the forecasting factors. Then, a convolutional neural network–long short-term memory (CNN-LSTM) is constructed and trained to extract features effectively. Finally, the independent, ensemble, and joint forecasting effects are compared, using a certain clean energy base as the research object. Results show that the forecasting accuracy of the ensemble wind and solar power outputs is better than that of independent forecasting. The joint forecasting method can improve the forecasting accuracy of wind power by 20% but slightly affects the forecasting accuracy of solar power. Full article

The liquid lead-bismuth eutectic (LBE) is the coolant of the heat exchanger in China initiative Accelerator Driven System, which may have a risk of structural failure due to the washout of the coolant in the inlet of the heat exchanger. It is necessary to study the mechanical properties of the heat exchanger bundles of CiADS, especially the fatigue life of the bundle structure in the transverse flow of the LBE. The numerical simulation is the Lattice Boltzmann method combined with the large eddy simulation by Python codes. The velocity distribution of the flow field and the time domain characteristics of the heat exchanger bundles’ force are calculated, and the frequency domain characteristics of the heat exchanger bundles’ vibration are obtained by Fourier transform. The bundles vibrate at high cycle fatigue in turbulent flow at high Reynolds number. The transverse flow of LBE does not affect the fatigue life of the bundle. No structural failure occurs in the CiADS heat exchanger due to the transverse flow of LBE. Full article