Sustainability

19 pages, 751 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Stormwater Management: Examining the Role of Local Planning Capacity in Mitigating Peak Surface Runoff

by Hyun Woo Kim^* and Ming-Han Li

Department of Landscape Architecture and Urban Planning, Texas A&M University, 3137 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843-3137, USA

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 763; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090763 - 31 Aug 2016

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 5693

Abstract

The Chesapeake Bay, the largest estuary in the United States, is rich in natural resources. Its watershed has been impacted by excessive and degraded stormwater runoff from rapid urbanization. We used an empirical approach to investigate how local planning capacity in the Chesapeake [...] Read more.

The Chesapeake Bay, the largest estuary in the United States, is rich in natural resources. Its watershed has been impacted by excessive and degraded stormwater runoff from rapid urbanization. We used an empirical approach to investigate how local planning capacity in the Chesapeake Bay watershed affected stream flow. A multiple regression analysis was employed to examine to what extent that the planning factors and other contextual variables were associated with peak runoff. Counterintuitively, we found that sub-basins included in the sample jurisdictions with a relatively high plan quality score tend to generate higher volumes of peak runoff. Results further indicate that specific geographical, basin characteristic, and biophysical factors affected mean annual peak runoff significantly. Overall, our findings highlight the importance of local planning capacity and sustainable stormwater management concepts in mitigating excessive runoff. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nature-Based Solutions for Urban Challenges)

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11 pages, 4317 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Production of Biodiesel Using Immobilized Lipase and the Characterization of Different Co-Immobilizing Agents and Immobilization Methods

by Kang Zhao^1,2, Qinjian Di¹, Xi Cao¹, Meng Wang¹, Li Deng^1,3,* and Fang Wang^1,4

¹ Beijing Bioprocess Key Laboratory, College of Life Science and Technology, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China

² China National Publications Import & Export (Group) Corporation, Beijing 100020, China

³ Amoy—BUCT Industrial Bio-technovation Institute, Amoy 361022, China

⁴ State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing 100029, China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 764; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090764 - 24 Aug 2016

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 6441

Abstract

Lipase from Candida sp. 99–125 is widely employed to catalyzed transesterification and can be used for biodiesel production. In this study, the lipase was immobilized by combined adsorption and entrapment to catalyze biodiesel production from waste cooking oil (WCO) via transesterification, and investigating [...] Read more.

Lipase from Candida sp. 99–125 is widely employed to catalyzed transesterification and can be used for biodiesel production. In this study, the lipase was immobilized by combined adsorption and entrapment to catalyze biodiesel production from waste cooking oil (WCO) via transesterification, and investigating co-immobilizing agents as additives according to the enzyme activity. The addition of the mixed co-immobilizing agents has positive effects on the activities of the immobilized lipase. Three different immobilizing methods were compared by the conversion ratio of biodiesel and structured by Atom Force Microscopy (AFM) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), respectively. It was found that entrapment followed by adsorption was the best method. The effect of the co-immobilizing agent amount, lipase dosage, water content, and reuse ability of the immobilized lipase was investigated. By comparison with previous research, this immobilized lipase showed good reuse ability: the conversion ratio excesses 70% after 10 subsequent reactions, in particular, was better than Novozym435 and TLIM on waste cooking oil for one unit of lipase. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomass Energy Conversion)

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18 pages, 1029 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How Does the Environmental Load of Household Consumption Depend on Residential Location?

by Age Poom^*

and Rein Ahas

Institute of Ecology and Earth Sciences, University of Tartu, Vanemuise 46, Tartu 51014, Estonia

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 799; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090799 - 26 Aug 2016

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 7097

Abstract

Spatial planning aims to improve the socioeconomic and environmental sustainability of a region, yet, in the spatial planning framework, it is difficult to capture the environmental impacts of the lifestyle of residents as a whole. We use carbon load as an indicator for [...] Read more.

Spatial planning aims to improve the socioeconomic and environmental sustainability of a region, yet, in the spatial planning framework, it is difficult to capture the environmental impacts of the lifestyle of residents as a whole. We use carbon load as an indicator for environmental pressure and explore the spatial variations in carbon load from transport, domestic energy use, and the consumption of goods based on data obtained from the Household Budget Survey in Estonia, in an attempt to understand how residential location is related to the environmental load of household consumption. We use environmentally extended input-output computing for carbon accounting, multiple regression models for statistical analysis, and settlement hierarchy as an analytic tool for characterizing residential location. The results show that the capital region and other higher-level settlements provide favorable conditions for the consumption of leisure-related goods and services even when other socioeconomic variables are taken into account. Industrial cities dominated by apartment block housing are characterized by conservative consumption patterns of residents. For rural residents, a lower carbon load imposed from other consumption categories compensates for their higher dependency on cars. We conclude that there is a need for an integrated and balanced spatial planning policy that considers the entire consumption pattern of populations in different settlement types. Full article

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17 pages, 3702 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Underground Potential for Urban Sustainability: Mapping Resources and Their Interactions with the Deep City Method

by Michael R. Doyle^*, Philippe Thalmann

and Aurèle Parriaux

Laboratory of Environmental and Urban Economics (LEURE), École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Station 16, CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 830; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090830 - 25 Aug 2016

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 7254

Abstract

In the process of urban growth, the underground is often only addressed once all surface alternatives have been exhausted. Experience shows that this can lead to unforeseen conflicts (e.g., subsidence, groundwater pollution) and to lost opportunities (e.g., combined geothermal systems and building foundations [...] Read more.

In the process of urban growth, the underground is often only addressed once all surface alternatives have been exhausted. Experience shows that this can lead to unforeseen conflicts (e.g., subsidence, groundwater pollution) and to lost opportunities (e.g., combined geothermal systems and building foundations or recycling of excavation materials). One challenge is how the underground potentials are assessed by urban actors; data collection, analysis and visualization for the different resources are often conducted in separate disciplinary corners and administrative divisions. This paper presents a mapping method developed within the Deep City project at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL) and its application to San Antonio, Texas. San Antonio is interesting in its lack of major underground infrastructure and its few means and political support for short-term underground development. We will specifically look at the production of a series of interaction maps, an original mapping strategy that is complementary to the resource potential maps we have produced in prior work. After situating this research within larger theoretical and philosophical questions, we will show how mapping the combined potentiality of underground resources can serve as a compass for future interdisciplinary discussions that address the urban underground as a source of opportunity, rather than as an afterthought. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue A Contextual and Dynamic Understanding of Sustainable Urbanisation)

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12 pages, 762 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Significance of Consumer’s Awareness about Organic Food Products in the United Arab Emirates

by Safdar Muhammad, Eihab Fathelrahman^* and Rafi Ullah Tasbih Ullah

Department of Agribusiness and Consumer Sciences, College of Food and Agriculture, United Arab Emirates University, P.O. Box 15551 Al Ain, UAE

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 833; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090833 - 23 Aug 2016

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 12094

Abstract

Awareness about negative externalities generated by conventional farming is gaining momentum with consumers around the world, opting for alternatively, namely organically, produced food products. Information about consumers’ awareness is an essential element for farmers and marketing agencies to successfully plan production that can [...] Read more.

Awareness about negative externalities generated by conventional farming is gaining momentum with consumers around the world, opting for alternatively, namely organically, produced food products. Information about consumers’ awareness is an essential element for farmers and marketing agencies to successfully plan production that can capture a greater market share. This study discusses effective factors influencing consumers’ awareness about the benefits of organic food in the United Arab Emirates. Sample data and ordinary least square (OLS) regression techniques are applied to delineate factors influencing consumers’ awareness about organic food. The results from this regression analysis highlight the importance of specific socioeconomic determinants that change awareness about organic food products in United Arab Emirates (UAE) households. This study finds that awareness about organic food is influenced more effective factors such as gender, nationality, and education as well as income, occupation and age. These research findings apply to other economies and societies that have an increasing per capita spending on organic food, but also where people are highly sensitive to information provided about organic food. Therefore, these results are important to these research beneficiaries including food marketing planners, researchers, and agricultural and food policy makers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agriculture–Beyond Organic Farming)

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Graphical abstract

13 pages, 402 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Economic Value of the National Meteorological Service in the Korean Household Sector: A Contingent Valuation Study

by So-Yeon Park

, Seul-Ye Lim

and Seung-Hoon Yoo^*

Graduate School of Energy & Environment, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, 232 Gongreung-Ro, Nowon-Gu, Seoul 01811, Korea

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 834; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090834 - 23 Aug 2016

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 4927

Abstract

The meteorological service (MS) in Korea is provided by the Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA), a governmental organization. This study attempts to measure the economic value of the national MS in the Korean household sector. Economic theory indicates that the economic value of a [...] Read more.

The meteorological service (MS) in Korea is provided by the Korea Meteorological Administration (KMA), a governmental organization. This study attempts to measure the economic value of the national MS in the Korean household sector. Economic theory indicates that the economic value of a service is the area under the demand curve, which is the sum of the actual expenditure and the additional willingness to pay (WTP) for the service. The actual expenditure is well known, but the additional WTP is not. Thus, we assess the additional WTP for the national MS, conducting a contingent valuation survey of 1000 randomly selected households in Korea in 2014. We use a one-and-one-half-bound dichotomous choice question to derive the WTP responses and apply a spike model to deal with WTP responses of zero. The mean additional WTP per household is computed as KRW 860 (USD 0.75) per month and is statistically significant at the 1% level. Given that the monthly expenditure for the MS is KRW 1459 (USD 1.26) per household as of 2013, the economic value of the national MS is computed as KRW 2319 (USD 2.01) per household per month. Expanding the value to the national population gives us KRW 513.6 billion (USD 444.9 million) per year. Full article

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22 pages, 1982 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Contribution of Forest Restoration to Rural Livelihoods and Household Income in Indonesia

by Nayu Nuringdati Widianingsih^1,2,*, Ida Theilade²

and Mariève Pouliot²

¹ Burung Indonesia (BirdLife Affiliate), Jl. Dadali 32, PO. Box 310/Boo, Bogor 16161, West Java, Indonesia

² Department of Food and Resource Economics, Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen, Rolighedsvej 25, Frederiksberg C 1958, Denmark

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 835; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090835 - 24 Aug 2016

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 9597

Abstract

Forest resources remain vital to the survival of many rural communities, though the level of forest reliance varies across a range of sites and socio-economic settings. This article investigates variation in forest utilization across households in three ethnic groups living near a forest [...] Read more.

Forest resources remain vital to the survival of many rural communities, though the level of forest reliance varies across a range of sites and socio-economic settings. This article investigates variation in forest utilization across households in three ethnic groups living near a forest restoration area in Sumatra, Indonesia. Survey data were collected on 268 households, with a four-month recall period and three repeat visits to each selected household within a year. Random sampling was applied to select households in five villages and five Batin Sembilan (indigenous) semi-nomadic groups. Sampled households belonged to three ethnic groups: 15% were Batin Sembilan, 40% Local Malayan, and 45% Immigrant households. Indigenous households displayed the highest reliance on forests: 36% of their annual total income came from this source, as compared with 10% and 8% for Local and Immigrant households, respectively. Our findings showed that the livelihoods of indigenous groups were still intricately linked with forest resources, despite a rapid landscape-wide transition from natural forest to oil palm and timber plantations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Balancing Environmental Resources and Economic Welfare)

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15 pages, 1145 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Building a Sustainable Healthcare Model: A Cross-Country Analysis

by Daniela C. Momete

Department of Economic Engineering, Faculty of Entrepreneurship, Business Engineering and Management, University Politehnica of Bucharest, Splaiul Independentei, No. 313, S6, Bucharest RO-060042, Romania

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 836; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090836 - 23 Aug 2016

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 7842

Abstract

This paper aims to advocate for a sustainable healthcare system and the need for pursuing a new set of goals in designing it, given the current challenges in European Union (EU28). The EU28 member states are in different phases of economic integration, [...] Read more.

This paper aims to advocate for a sustainable healthcare system and the need for pursuing a new set of goals in designing it, given the current challenges in European Union (EU28). The EU28 member states are in different phases of economic integration, and yet far from an authentic integrated market. Despite the real gains in other domains, such as commercial and competition, public health is very different across the EU28 space and lacks a common integrated and sustainable approach. Herein a sustainable healthcare model is introduced and is based on four components, two for the inputs and two for the outputs of the healthcare system, each component being further categorized into two factors. The method consists of the assessment of a new and suggestive common index of sustainable healthcare (ISH). The methodology consists of five steps: data gathering, data validation, normalization of data by applying the utilities theory, aggregation of data, and construction of the ISH index. The methodology allows the assessment of a composite ISH which captures the complexity of the national healthcare systems. The ISH is then applied to specific circumstances from different countries and is used in a cross-country analysis to determine the progress towards a sustainable healthcare. Full article

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

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7 pages, 294 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dietary Administration of Olive Mill Wastewater Extract Reduces Campylobacter spp. Prevalence in Broiler Chickens

by Raffaella Branciari¹

, David Ranucci¹, Roberta Ortenzi², Rossana Roila², Massimo Trabalza-Marinucci^1,*

, Maurizio Servili³, Paola Papa², Roberta Galarini²

and Andrea Valiani²

¹ Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Via S. Costanzo 4, Perugia 06126, Italy

² Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell’Umbria e delle Marche, Via G. Salvemini 1, Perugia 06126, Italy

³ Department of Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences, University of Perugia, Borgo XX Giugno 74, Perugia 06121, Italy

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 837; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090837 - 24 Aug 2016

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 5714

Abstract

Food wastes are sources of compounds that can be used as natural additives in the food and feed industry. The olive oil industry produces two main wastes: aqueous waste (olive mill wastewater) and solid waste (pomace or olive cake). These by-products are rich [...] Read more.

Food wastes are sources of compounds that can be used as natural additives in the food and feed industry. The olive oil industry produces two main wastes: aqueous waste (olive mill wastewater) and solid waste (pomace or olive cake). These by-products are rich in phenols, which are antioxidant and antimicrobial compounds able to inhibit or delay the growth of several bacteria in vitro. The dietary effect of both olive mill wastewater polyphenolic extract (OMWPE) and dehydrated olive cake (DOC) on the prevalence of Campylobacter spp. in broiler chickens was investigated. A commercial basal diet was supplemented with either OMWPE- or DOC-enriched maize at two dosages (low: 16%; high: 33%). The prevalence of Campylobacter spp. shedding was evaluated at 21, 35, and 49 days of age. The prevalence of Campylobacter spp. differed among groups only at 49 days of age. Both OMWPE groups showed a lower (p < 0.05) prevalence compared to the control group. The odds ratio evaluation showed that the higher dose of OMWPE reduced the possibility of shedding 11-fold compared to the control group (p < 0.001). These results highlight the potential use of olive by-products against Campylobacter spp. in poultry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 16th CIRIAF National Congress – Sustainable Development, Environment and Human Health Protection)

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15 pages, 4595 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of the Air Pollution Level in the City of Rome (Italy)

by Gabriele Battista^*

, Tiziano Pagliaroli, Luca Mauri, Carmine Basilicata and Roberto De Lieto Vollaro

Department of Engineering, University of Roma TRE, via della Vasca Navale 79, Rome 00146, Italy

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 838; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090838 - 23 Aug 2016

Cited by 38 | Viewed by 9649

Abstract

Exposure to pollutants is usually higher in cities than in the countryside. Generally, in the urban areas pollution sources as traffic, power generator and domestic heating system are more intense and spatially distributed. The pollutants can be classified as a function of long-term [...] Read more.

Exposure to pollutants is usually higher in cities than in the countryside. Generally, in the urban areas pollution sources as traffic, power generator and domestic heating system are more intense and spatially distributed. The pollutants can be classified as a function of long-term toxicological effects due to an exposure and inhalation. In the present work, several kinds of pollutants concentration generated in Rome during 2015 have been analyzed applying different advanced post-processing technique. In particular, statistic and cross-statistic have been computed in time and phase space domain. As main result, it is observed, as expected, that all the pollutant concentrations increase during the winter season into a couple of time ranges despite of [O₃] that has high values in summer. It can be clearly concluded that Rome has a strongly unsteady behaviour in terms of a family of pollutant concentration, which fluctuate significantly. It is worth noticing that there is a strong linear dependence between [C₆H₆] and [NO] and a more complex interdependence of [O₃] and [C₆H₆]. Qualitatively is provided that, to a reduction of [C₆H₆] under a certain threshold level corresponds an increase of [O₃]. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 16th CIRIAF National Congress – Sustainable Development, Environment and Human Health Protection)

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16 pages, 3860 KiB

Open AccessArticle

ePedigree Traceability System for the Agricultural Food Supply Chain to Ensure Consumer Health

by Umar Farooq¹, Wu Tao¹, Ganjar Alfian²

, Yong-Shin Kang³ and Jongtae Rhee^1,*

¹ Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, Dongguk University, Seoul 100-715, Korea

² u-SCM Research Center, Nano Information Technology Academy, Dongguk University, Seoul 100-715, Korea

³ Department of Systems Management Engineering, SungKyunKwan University, Suwon 16419, Korea

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 839; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090839 - 24 Aug 2016

Cited by 40 | Viewed by 10235

Abstract

Sustainability relies on the environmental, social and economical systems: the three pillars of sustainability. The social sustainability mostly advocates the people’s welfare, health, safety, and quality of life. In the agricultural food industry, the aspects of social sustainability, such as consumer health and [...] Read more.

Sustainability relies on the environmental, social and economical systems: the three pillars of sustainability. The social sustainability mostly advocates the people’s welfare, health, safety, and quality of life. In the agricultural food industry, the aspects of social sustainability, such as consumer health and safety have gained substantial attention due to the frequent cases of food-borne diseases. The food-borne diseases due to the food degradation, chemical contamination and adulteration of food products pose a serious threat to the consumer’s health, safety, and quality of life. To ensure the consumer’s health and safety, it is essential to develop an efficient system which can address these critical social issues in the food distribution networks. This research proposes an ePedigree (electronic pedigree) traceability system based on the integration of RFID and sensor technology for real-time monitoring of the agricultural food to prevent the distribution of hazardous and adulterated food products. The different aspects regarding implementation of the proposed system in food chains are analyzed and a feasible integrated solution is proposed. The performance of the proposed system is evaluated and finally, a comprehensive analysis of the proposed ePedigree system’s impact on the social sustainability in terms of consumer health and safety is presented. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Supply Chain Management)

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12 pages, 2112 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis and Measures to Improve Waste Management in Schools

by Elena Cristina Rada^1,*

, Chiara Bresciani¹, Eleonora Girelli¹, Marco Ragazzi¹, Marco Schiavon¹ and Vincenzo Torretta²

¹ Department of Civil Environmental and Mechanical Engineering, University of Trento, via Mesiano 77, 38123 Trento, Italy

² Department of Biotechnologies and Life Sciences, Insubria University of Varese, via G.B. Vico 46, 21100 Varese, Italy

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 840; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090840 - 24 Aug 2016

Cited by 52 | Viewed by 40457

Abstract

Assessing waste production in schools highlights the contribution of school children and school staff to the total amount of waste generated in a region, as well as any poor practices of recycling (the so-called separate collection of waste) in schools by the students, [...] Read more.

Assessing waste production in schools highlights the contribution of school children and school staff to the total amount of waste generated in a region, as well as any poor practices of recycling (the so-called separate collection of waste) in schools by the students, which could be improved through educational activities. Educating young people regarding the importance of environmental issues is essential, since instilling the right behavior in school children is also beneficial to the behavior of their families. The way waste management was carried out in different schools in Trento (northern Italy) was analyzed: a primary school, a secondary school, and three high schools were taken as cases of study. The possible influence of the age of the students and of the various activities carried out within the schools on the different behaviors in separating waste was also evaluated. The results showed that the production of waste did not only depend on the size of the institutes and on the number of occupants, but, especially, on the type of activities carried out in addition to the ordinary classes and on the habits of both pupils and staff. In the light of the results obtained, some corrective measures were proposed to schools, aimed at increasing the awareness of the importance of the right behavior in waste management by students and the application of good practices of recycling. Full article

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

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21 pages, 435 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Improving Farming Practices for Sustainable Soil Use in the Humid Tropics and Rainforest Ecosystem Health

by Emanoel Gomes de Moura^1,*, Christoph Gehring¹, Heder Braun¹, Altamiro De Souza Lima Ferraz Junior¹, Fabricio De Oliveira Reis¹ and Alana Das Chagas Ferreira Aguiar²

¹ Programa de Pós-Graduação em Agroecologia, Universidade Estadual do Maranhão, São Luís 65054-970, Brazil

² Departamento de Biologia, Universidade Federal do Maranhão, São Luís 65080-805, Brazil

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 841; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090841 - 29 Aug 2016

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 11366

Abstract

Unsustainable farming practices such as shifting cultivation and slash-and-burn agriculture in the humid tropics threaten the preservation of the rainforest and the health of the local and global environment. In weathered soils prone to cohesion in humid tropic due to low Fe and [...] Read more.

Unsustainable farming practices such as shifting cultivation and slash-and-burn agriculture in the humid tropics threaten the preservation of the rainforest and the health of the local and global environment. In weathered soils prone to cohesion in humid tropic due to low Fe and carbon content and the enormous amounts of P that can be adsorbed, sustainable soil use is heavily dependent on the availability and efficient use of nutrients. This paper reviews the literature in the field and provides some insights about sustainable soil use in the humid tropics, mainly for the Brazilian Amazonia region. Careful management of organic matter and physical and chemical indicators is necessary to enhance root growth and nutrient uptake. To improve the rootability of the arable layer, a combination of gypsum with continuous mulching to increase the labile organic matter fraction responsible for the formation of a short-lived structure important for root growth is recommended, rather than tillage. Unlike mulching, mechanical disturbance via ploughing of Amazonian soils causes very rapid and permanent soil organic matter losses and often results in permanent recompaction and land degradation or anthropic savannization; thus, it should be avoided. Unlike in other regions, like southeast Brazil, saturating the soil solely with inorganic potassium and nitrogen soluble fertilizers is not recommended. Nutrient retention in the root zone can be enhanced if nutrients are added in a slow-release form and if biologically mediated processes are used for nutrient release, as occurs in green manure. Therefore, an alternative that favors using local resources to increase the supply of nutrients and offset processes that impair the efficiency of nutrient use must be pursued. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Critical Issues on Soil Management and Conservation)

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13 pages, 222 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Urban Heat Stress Vulnerability in the U.S. Southwest: The Role of Sociotechnical Systems

by Stephanie Pincetl^1,*, Mikhail Chester²

and David Eisenman^3,4

¹ Institute of the Environment and Sustainability, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA

² Civil, Environmental, and Sustainable Engineering, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ 85287, USA

³ Center for Public Health and Disasters, UCLA Fielding School of Public Health, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA

⁴ David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 842; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090842 - 25 Aug 2016

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 7154

Abstract

Heat vulnerability of urban populations is becoming a major issue of concern with climate change, particularly in the cities of the Southwest United States. In this article we discuss the importance of understanding coupled social and technical systems, how they constitute one another, [...] Read more.

Heat vulnerability of urban populations is becoming a major issue of concern with climate change, particularly in the cities of the Southwest United States. In this article we discuss the importance of understanding coupled social and technical systems, how they constitute one another, and how they form the conditions and circumstances in which people experience heat. We discuss the particular situation of Los Angeles and Maricopa Counties, their urban form and the electric grid. We show how vulnerable populations are created by virtue of the age and construction of buildings, the morphology of roads and distribution of buildings on the landscape. Further, the regulatory infrastructure of electricity generation and distribution also contributes to creating differential vulnerability. We contribute to a better understanding of the importance of sociotechnical systems. Social infrastructure includes codes, conventions, rules and regulations; technical systems are the hard systems of pipes, wires, buildings, roads, and power plants. These interact to create lock-in that is an obstacle to addressing issues such as urban heat stress in a novel and equitable manner. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Resilience and Urban Sustainability: From Research to Practice)

12 pages, 1154 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Research of Coalbed Methane Development Well-Type Optimization Method Based on Unit Technical Cost

by Shiqun Li^*

and Baosheng Zhang

School of Business Administration, China University of Petroleum (Beijing), Beijing 102249, China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 843; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090843 - 25 Aug 2016

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 5054

Abstract

Coalbed Methane (CBM) is a high-quality unconventional energy resource. The successful development and utilization of a CBM resource needs to consider technical feasibility and economic viability. These factors are also necessary for the improvement of production safety in coal mines, reducing carbon emission, [...] Read more.

Coalbed Methane (CBM) is a high-quality unconventional energy resource. The successful development and utilization of a CBM resource needs to consider technical feasibility and economic viability. These factors are also necessary for the improvement of production safety in coal mines, reducing carbon emission, and optimizing energy structure. Because of its unique resource characteristics, surface drilling is the prevailing development approach all over the world. Directional and horizontal wells are generally the two major well-types for CBM development. Development well-type is an important factor affecting CBM efficient development, as it is a key factor in the process of the economic and effective development of CBM resource. In this paper, a method based on Unit Technical Cost (UTC) will be constructed from the perspective of economic viability, and will be used for more simple and accurate optimization of CBM. This method is used for practical well-type optimization in two major CBM development basins in China, and the application results prove that this method is scientifically accurate and feasible. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Energy Sustainability)

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24 pages, 6248 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Avoiding Decline: Fostering Resilience and Sustainability in Midsize Cities

by Craig R. Allen^1,*, Hannah E. Birge², Shannon Bartelt-Hunt³, Rebecca A. Bevans², Jessica L. Burnett², Barbara A. Cosens⁴, Ximing Cai⁵, Ahjond S. Garmestani⁶, Igor Linkov⁷, Elizabeth A. Scott⁸, Mark D. Solomon⁹ and Daniel R. Uden²

¹ U.S. Geological Survey, Nebraska Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, School of Natural Resources, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68583, USA

² Nebraska Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, School of Natural Resources, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68583, USA

³ Department of Civil Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68583, USA

⁴ College of Law, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID 83844, USA

⁵ Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61801, USA

⁶ U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, National Risk Management Research Laboratory, Cincinnati, OH 45268, USA

⁷ United States Army Corps of Engineer, Engineer Research and Development Center, Concord, MA 01742, USA

⁸ Urban Design Center, University of Idaho, Boise, ID 83702, USA

⁹ Idaho Water Resources Research Institute, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID 83844, USA

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 844; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090844 - 26 Aug 2016

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 9145

Abstract

Eighty-five percent of United States citizens live in urban areas. However, research surrounding the resilience and sustainability of complex urban systems focuses largely on coastal megacities (>1 million people). Midsize cities differ from their larger counterparts due to tight urban-rural feedbacks with their [...] Read more.

Eighty-five percent of United States citizens live in urban areas. However, research surrounding the resilience and sustainability of complex urban systems focuses largely on coastal megacities (>1 million people). Midsize cities differ from their larger counterparts due to tight urban-rural feedbacks with their immediate natural environments that result from heavy reliance and close management of local ecosystem services. They also may be less path-dependent than larger cities due to shorter average connection length among system components, contributing to higher responsiveness among social, infrastructural, and ecological feedbacks. These distinct midsize city features call for a framework that organizes information and concepts concerning the sustainability of midsize cities specifically. We argue that an integrative approach is necessary to capture properties emergent from the complex interactions of the social, infrastructural, and ecological subsystems that comprise a city system. We suggest approaches to estimate the relative resilience of midsize cities, and include an example assessment to illustrate one such estimation approach. Resilience assessments of a midsize city can be used to examine why some cities end up on sustainable paths while others diverge to unsustainable paths, and which feedbacks may be partially responsible. They also provide insight into how city planners and decision makers can use information about the resilience of midsize cities undergoing growth or shrinkage relative to their larger and smaller counterparts, to transform them into long-term, sustainable social-ecological systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustaining the Shrinking City: Concepts, Dynamics and Management)

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15 pages, 455 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Transferring the Cost of Wage Rigidity to Subcontracting Firms: The Case of Korea

by Kwangho Woo¹ and Joonmo Cho^2,*

¹ Korea Economic Research Institute, Seoul 110-745, Korea

² School of Economics, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul 110-745, Korea

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 845; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090845 - 30 Aug 2016

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4557

Abstract

We select a Korean case with ample subcontracting practices and a rigid wage system. Workplaces with subcontract transactions would have reason to impute the additional wage incremental costs associated with the seniority-based wage system (Hobong in Korea) to subcontractors. Our empirical results identify [...] Read more.

We select a Korean case with ample subcontracting practices and a rigid wage system. Workplaces with subcontract transactions would have reason to impute the additional wage incremental costs associated with the seniority-based wage system (Hobong in Korea) to subcontractors. Our empirical results identify the cost-transferring mechanism under which the cost of wage rigidity for contractors is transferred to subcontracting firms and aggravates the wage inequality among workers in contracting and subcontracting firms. We analyze the industrial difference in the intensity of this transferring mechanism and probe policy directions considering the improvement of both the subcontracting structure and pay system simultaneously. For the sustainability of firms, they need to reform a seniority-based wage system, an incentive-based wage system or a job-based wage system and the exploited subcontracting structure for creating share value. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Competitive and Sustainable Manufacturing in the Age of Globalization)

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16 pages, 1108 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impacts of FDI Renewable Energy Technology Spillover on China’s Energy Industry Performance

by Weiwei Liu^1,2,*, Xiandong Xu³, Zhile Yang³

, Jianyu Zhao¹ and Jing Xing¹

¹ School of Economics and Management, Harbin Engineering University, Harbin 150001, China

² Management School, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 5EE, UK

³ School of Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 5AH, UK

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 846; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090846 - 29 Aug 2016

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 9213

Abstract

Environmental friendly renewable energy plays an indispensable role in energy industry development. Foreign direct investment (FDI) in advanced renewable energy technology spillover is promising to improve technological capability and promote China’s energy industry performance growth. In this paper, the impacts of FDI renewable [...] Read more.

Environmental friendly renewable energy plays an indispensable role in energy industry development. Foreign direct investment (FDI) in advanced renewable energy technology spillover is promising to improve technological capability and promote China’s energy industry performance growth. In this paper, the impacts of FDI renewable energy technology spillover on China’s energy industry performance are analyzed based on theoretical and empirical studies. Firstly, three hypotheses are proposed to illustrate the relationships between FDI renewable energy technology spillover and three energy industry performances including economic, environmental, and innovative performances. To verify the hypotheses, techniques including factor analysis and data envelopment analysis (DEA) are employed to quantify the FDI renewable energy technology spillover and the energy industry performance of China, respectively. Furthermore, a panel data regression model is proposed to measure the impacts of FDI renewable energy technology spillover on China’s energy industry performance. Finally, energy industries of 30 different provinces in China based on the yearbook data from 2005 to 2011 are comparatively analyzed for evaluating the impacts through the empirical research. The results demonstrate that FDI renewable energy technology spillover has positive impacts on China’s energy industry performance. It can also be found that the technology spillover effects are more obvious in economic and technological developed regions. Finally, four suggestions are provided to enhance energy industry performance and promote renewable energy technology spillover in China. Full article

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

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41 pages, 1783 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Presenting a Framework to Analyze Local Climate Policy and Action in Small and Medium-Sized Cities

by Thomas Hoppe^1,*

, Arjen Van der Vegt² and Peter Stegmaier²

¹ Policy, Organisation, Law and Gaming (POLG), Department of Multi-Actor Systems (MAS), Faculty of Technology, Policy and Management (TPM), Delft University of Technology, Jaffalaan 5, 2628 BX Delft, The Netherlands

² Department of Science, Technology, and Policy Studies (STəPS), Institute of Innovation and Governance Studies (IGS), Faculty of Behavioral, Management and Social Studies (BMS), University of Twente, P.O. Box 217, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 847; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090847 - 26 Aug 2016

Cited by 75 | Viewed by 24652

Abstract

Academic attention to local climate policy usually focuses on large-sized cities. Given the climate challenges ahead this seems unjustified. Small and medium-sized cities (SMCs) deserve scholarly attention as well. The main question is: What factors influence climate change policy and local climate actions [...] Read more.

Academic attention to local climate policy usually focuses on large-sized cities. Given the climate challenges ahead this seems unjustified. Small and medium-sized cities (SMCs) deserve scholarly attention as well. The main question is: What factors influence climate change policy and local climate actions in SMCs? In this article we present an analytical framework to analyze climate change policy and local climate actions of SMCs. The framework addresses different aspects: policy-input, -throughput, -output, -outcome, characteristics of the local environment, local action arenas, influence by higher government levels, and interaction with climate change issue networks. The framework is used to analyze and compare four case studies of SMCs in the Dutch region of Twente (two urban and two rural municipalities, and addresses both adaptation and mitigation). Results show that both ‘localist’, ‘multi-level’ and issue network membership factors influence local climate policy action. Governance modes discerned concern mostly ‘governing by authority’ and ‘self-governing’. When reflecting on the role of SMCs in climate action the study revealed the importance of local capacity building schemes issued by provincial government, inter-municipal network collaboration, and the potential for local governments to mobilize and organize citizen action. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Energy Sustainability)

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13 pages, 9358 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Living in Harmony with Disaster: Exploring Volcanic Hazard Vulnerability in Indonesia

by Sea Eun Cho¹, Sehyung Won¹ and Saehoon Kim^2,*

¹ Interdisciplinary Program in Landscape Architecture, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul 151-742, Korea

² Department of Landscape Architecture, Urban Design Concentration, Graduate School of Environmental Studies, Seoul National University, 1 Gwanak-ro, Gwanak-gu, Seoul 151-742, Korea

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 848; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090848 - 26 Aug 2016

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 7557

Abstract

This article illustrates the multi-faceted notion of hazard vulnerability and the complicated relations a community has with a hazardous area based on a joint urban planning and design studio between Seoul National University and Diponegoro University in 2014. The study focused on an [...] Read more.

This article illustrates the multi-faceted notion of hazard vulnerability and the complicated relations a community has with a hazardous area based on a joint urban planning and design studio between Seoul National University and Diponegoro University in 2014. The study focused on an area in Central Java, Indonesia, surrounded by four active volcanic mountains, and explored the economic, environmental and social vulnerability associated with the site. Although initially the study focused on drawing up and improving the relocation plan, it was soon discovered that eliminating environmental vulnerability by relocating residents to new sites may in fact increase their economic vulnerability. This led the study to embrace the concept of living in harmony with disaster. In conclusion, the results of the study are discussed in terms recognizing environmental hazards as a vehicle for understanding local perceptions, and utilizing these perceptions to suggest mitigation measures that are more responsive to the site at risk. Full article

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15 pages, 10851 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spatial Correlation between Type of Mountain Area and Land Use Degree in Guizhou Province, China

by Yuluan Zhao^1,2

and Xiubin Li^2,*

¹ School of Geographic and Environmental Sciences, Guizhou Normal University, Guiyang 550001, China

² Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 849; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090849 - 29 Aug 2016

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 7988

Abstract

A scientific definition of the type of mountain area and an exploration of the spatial correlation between different types of mountain areas and regional land use at the county level are important for reasonable land resource utilization and regional sustainable development. Here, a [...] Read more.

A scientific definition of the type of mountain area and an exploration of the spatial correlation between different types of mountain areas and regional land use at the county level are important for reasonable land resource utilization and regional sustainable development. Here, a geographic information system was used to analyze digital elevation model data and to define the extent of mountainous land and types of mountain areas in Guizhou province. Exploratory spatial data analysis was used to study the spatial coupling relation between the type of mountain area and land use degree in Guizhou province at the county level. The results were as follows: (1) Guizhou province has a high proportion of mountainous land, with a ratio of mountainous land to non-mountainous land of 88:11. The county-level administrative units in Guizhou province were exclusively mountainous, consisting of eight semi mountainous counties, nine quasi mountainous counties, 35 apparently mountainous counties, 13 type I completely mountainous counties, and 23 type II completely mountainous counties; (2) The land use degree at the county level in Guizhou province have remarkable spatial differentiation characteristics. Counties with a high cultivation coefficient are mainly located in the western area along the line between Yinjiang county and Anlong county in west Guizhou province. Counties with a large proportion of construction land or a high integrated index of land use degree are mainly distributed in the economically developed area of central Guizhou province, including parts of the counties (districts/cities) administrated by Guiyang, Zunyi, Liupanshui, Anshun, Duyun, and Kaili; (3) County-level administrative units with relatively flat topography and a low proportion of mountainous land have a large proportion of construction land and a large degree of regional land exploitation. However, the extent of cultivation of county-level administrative units under similar topography differs considerably; (4) The increase in urban land intensity and the decrease in cultivated land intensity are distinctive features of land system change in mountain areas, which is conducive to the sustainable development of mountain. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Methodologies and Tools for Measuring “Environmental Sustainability")

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18 pages, 3527 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Research of Interindividual Differences in Physiological Response under Hot-Dry and Warm-Wet Climates

by Shilei Lu^*, Linwei Sun, Huaiyu Peng and Liran Ji

School of Environment Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, 92 Weijin Road, Tianjin 300072, China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 850; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090850 - 26 Aug 2016

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 5529

Abstract

Somatotype and habitus parameters may affect physiological control system, so the changes of physiological parameters are not the same when various people work in hot-dry and warm-wet climates. In this paper, a chamber built in Tianjin University was used to simulate comfortable, hot-dry [...] Read more.

Somatotype and habitus parameters may affect physiological control system, so the changes of physiological parameters are not the same when various people work in hot-dry and warm-wet climates. In this paper, a chamber built in Tianjin University was used to simulate comfortable, hot-dry and warm-wet climates. Sixty healthy university students were selected as subjects who were divided into four groups based on somatotype and habitus differences. The subjects were asked to exercise on a treadmill at moderate and heavy work intensities. Physiological parameters (rectal temperature and heart rate) were measured after every 10-min work in the climate chamber. For different groups, the change trends of physiological parameters were different. With the enhancement of experimental conditions, the differences among four groups were weakened. Body surface area per unit of body mass (BSA/mass), percentage of body fat (%fat), and maximum oxygen consumption per unit of body mass (VO_2max/mass) were adopt to establish a revised body characteristic index (RBCI). RBCI was proved having significant correlation with physiological parameters, which means RBCI as the combined factors of somatotype and habitus parameters can be applied to evaluate the effect of individual characteristics on physiological systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impacts of Climate Changes: From Sustainability Perspectives)

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13 pages, 738 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Environmental Management and Sustainable Labels in the Ski Industry: A Critical Review

by Stefano Duglio^1,2,*

and Riccardo Beltramo^1,2

¹ Department of Management, University of Turin, 218 bis, Corso Unione Sovietica, 10134 Turin, Italy

² NatRisk—Research Centre on Natural Risks in Mountain and Hilly Environments, University of Turin, 218 bis, Corso Unione Sovietica, 10134 Turin, Italy

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 851; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090851 - 26 Aug 2016

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 20109

Abstract

Sustainability is increasing in importance in relation to the competitiveness of winter tourism, particularly when considering mountain destinations. Exploring in more detail winter tourism related to ski resorts, operators are especially concerned about environmental issues caused by climate change. Therefore, they have gradually [...] Read more.

Sustainability is increasing in importance in relation to the competitiveness of winter tourism, particularly when considering mountain destinations. Exploring in more detail winter tourism related to ski resorts, operators are especially concerned about environmental issues caused by climate change. Therefore, they have gradually become aware of the importance of finding adequate solutions to cope with such issues as well as being able to sensitize tourists. The main goal of this paper is to analyze the different sustainable tools that can be adopted by the ski industry. In this field there appear to be two main approaches. The first line is that of sustainable labels being applied to local ski resorts; whereas the second consists in operators—such as the managers of cable cars—making use of specific labels or management systems that are environmentally oriented. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quality and Innovation for a Circular Economy and a Sustainable Future)

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14 pages, 889 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Perception of Cabin Air Quality among Drivers and Passengers

by Doru Constantin^*, Crisanta-Alina Mazilescu

, Mihai Nagi, Anca Draghici

and Ana-Andreea Mihartescu

Teacher Training Department, Politehnica University Timisoara, Piata Victoriei nr 2, Timisoara 300003, Romania

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 852; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090852 - 29 Aug 2016

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 7713

Abstract

Air analysis inside vehicles is a problem that can be interpreted from several perspectives. This research is oriented towards the perception of air quality within a car, regarding a situation of cars in stationary traffic. Carbon dioxide measurements were made using a Trotec [...] Read more.

Air analysis inside vehicles is a problem that can be interpreted from several perspectives. This research is oriented towards the perception of air quality within a car, regarding a situation of cars in stationary traffic. Carbon dioxide measurements were made using a Trotec Data Logger Air Quality CO₂ BZ30 machine inside different standing vehicles with up to five occupants, with and without circulating air. The perception of the air quality was measured on a Likert-type scale with seven levels on a sample group of 60 students. The results highlight, on the one hand, the conditions under which the CO₂ in the cabin air can reach concentrations which are, according to new data, considered to influence the cognitive capacity of occupants in the car, and on the other hand, they present a global assessment of the air quality in the vehicle when critical values of CO₂ have been reached. If the air exchange rates inside a car are low, this degrades the air quality in such a way that it affects the concentration and reactions necessary for safe driving without perceiving any discomfort that would put the drivers or the passengers on alert. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Air Pollution Monitoring and Sustainable Development)

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21 pages, 2049 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Valuing Ecosystem Services and Disservices across Heterogeneous Green Spaces

by Christie Klimas^1,*

, Allison Williams¹, Megan Hoff¹, Beth Lawrence², Jennifer Thompson¹ and James Montgomery¹

¹ Environmental Science and Studies, DePaul University, 1110 W. Belden Ave, Chicago, IL 60614, USA

² Department of Natural Resources and the Environment, Center for Environmental Sciences and Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Mansfield, CT 06269, USA

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 853; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090853 - 29 Aug 2016

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 7464

Abstract

This study investigates small-scale variability in ecosystem services and disservices that is important for sustainable planning in urban areas (including suburbs surrounding the urban core). We quantified and valued natural capital (tree and soil carbon stocks) ecosystem services (annual tree carbon sequestration and [...] Read more.

This study investigates small-scale variability in ecosystem services and disservices that is important for sustainable planning in urban areas (including suburbs surrounding the urban core). We quantified and valued natural capital (tree and soil carbon stocks) ecosystem services (annual tree carbon sequestration and pollutant uptake, and stormwater runoff reduction) and disservices (greenhouse gas emissions and soil soluble reactive phosphorus) within a 30-hectare heterogeneous green space that included approximately 13% wetland, 13% prairie, 16% forest, and 55% subdivision. We found similar soil organic carbon across green space types, but spatial heterogeneity in other ecosystem services and disservices. The value of forest tree carbon stock was estimated at approximately $10,000 per hectare. Tree carbon sequestration, and pollutant uptake added benefits of $1000+ per hectare per year. Annual per hectare benefits from tree carbon stock and ecosystem services in the subdivision were each 63% of forest values. Total annual greenhouse gas emissions had significant spatial and temporal variation. Soil soluble reactive phosphorus was significantly higher in the wetland than in forest and prairie. Our results have implications for urban planning. Adding or improving ecosystem service provision on small (private or public) urban or suburban lots may benefit from careful consideration of small-scale variability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Maintaining Ecosystem Services to Support Urban Needs)

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14 pages, 1685 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Synergy and Transition of Recovery Efficiency of Nitrogen Fertilizer in Various Rice Genotypes under Organic Farming

by Lifen Huang^1,*, Jie Yang¹, Xiaoyi Cui¹, Huozhong Yang¹, Shouhong Wang² and Hengyang Zhuang^1,*

¹ Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Crop Genetics and Physiology/Co-Innovation Center for Modern Production Technology of Grain Crops, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225009, China

² Institute of Agricultural Sciences of Lixiahe Region in Jiangsu, Yangzhou 225007 China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 854; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090854 - 29 Aug 2016

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 5576

Abstract

Despite the growing demand for organic products, research on organic farming (OF) such as genotype screening, fertilizer application and nutrition uptake remains limited. This study focused on comparisons of the apparent recovery efficiency of nitrogen fertilizer (REN) in rice grown under OF and [...] Read more.

Despite the growing demand for organic products, research on organic farming (OF) such as genotype screening, fertilizer application and nutrition uptake remains limited. This study focused on comparisons of the apparent recovery efficiency of nitrogen fertilizer (REN) in rice grown under OF and conventional farming (CF). Thirty-two representative conventional Japonica rice varieties were field grown under five different treatments: control check (CK); organic farming with low, medium and high levels of organic fertilizer (LO, MO and HO, respectively); and CF. Comparisons of REN between OF and CF classified the 32 genotypes into four types: high REN under both OF and CF (type-A); high REN under OF and low REN under CF (type-B); low REN under OF and high REN under CF (type-C); and low REN under both OF and CF (type-D). Though the yield and REN of all the rice varieties were higher with CF than with OF, organic N efficient type-A and B were able to maintain relatively high grain yield under OF. Physiological activities in flag leaves of the four types from booting to maturity were subsequently investigated under OF and CF. Under OF, high values of soil and plant analyzer development (SPAD) and N were observed in type-B varieties, while in contrast, both indexes slowly decreased in type-C varieties under CF. Moreover, the decline in N content in type-C and D varieties was greater under OF than CF. The decrease in glutamine synthetase (GS), glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (GPT) and glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (GOT) activity in flag leaves was smaller under OF than CF in type-A and B varieties, while in contrast, type-C and D varieties showed an opposite trend. The findings suggest that OF slows the decline in key enzymes of N metabolism in organic N-efficient type rice, thus maintaining a relatively high capacity for N uptake and utilization and increasing yield during the late growth period. Accordingly, we were able to screen for varieties of rice with synergistically high REN and high grain yield under OF. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agriculture–Beyond Organic Farming)

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15 pages, 4585 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Natural Ventilation Building Design Approach in Mediterranean Regions—A Case Study at the Valencian Coastal Regional Scale (Spain)

by Miguel Mora-Pérez¹

, Ignacio Guillen-Guillamón², Gonzalo López-Patiño¹ and Petra Amparo López-Jiménez^1,*

¹ Hydraulic Engineering and Environment Department, Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 València, Spain

² Physic Department, Universitat Politècnica de València, Camino de Vera s/n, 46022 València, Spain

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 855; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090855 - 29 Aug 2016

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 7678

Abstract

Environmental awareness has led to an increased concern about low carbon technologies implementation. Among these technologies, the following research is focused on the natural ventilation effect evaluation in buildings prior to its construction. The aim is to select the most suitable architectural solution [...] Read more.

Environmental awareness has led to an increased concern about low carbon technologies implementation. Among these technologies, the following research is focused on the natural ventilation effect evaluation in buildings prior to its construction. The aim is to select the most suitable architectural solution to ensure comfortable indoor environment in the most efficient way in the early building design stage. The design approach takes into account the wind conditions in the region and the building surroundings to evaluate the façade opening distribution impact on natural ventilation performance. The design approach is based on computational fluid dynamics (CFD). In this article, a case study located in the Valencian Community (Spain) is depicted. The Valencian Community coastal climatic conditions are evaluated to assess the low carbon technology energy saving potential. Moreover, the main drivers and barriers involved in the design approach implementation in the region are discussed. The conclusions show that the natural ventilation design approach can improve up to 9.7% the building energy performance respect an initial building design, in which natural ventilation has not been considered. The results contribute to an assessment of the complete low carbon technology effect in the region. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart Energy Regions—Drivers and Barriers to the Implementation of Low Carbon Technologies at a Regional Scale)

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11 pages, 1015 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Biogenic Amines as Quality Marker in Organic and Fair-Trade Cocoa-Based Products

by Donatella Restuccia^*

, Umile Gianfranco Spizzirri

, Michele De Luca

, Ortensia Ilaria Parisi

and Nevio Picci

Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Via Pietro Bucci, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 856; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090856 - 29 Aug 2016

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 6414

Abstract

In this study, the quantitative determination of eight biogenic amines (cadaverine, serotonin, histamine, spermidine, spermine, tyramine, putrescine and β-phenylethylamine) by an liquid chromatography method with evaporative light scattering detection was performed. The analysis of several samples of conventional, organic and fair trade [...] Read more.

In this study, the quantitative determination of eight biogenic amines (cadaverine, serotonin, histamine, spermidine, spermine, tyramine, putrescine and β-phenylethylamine) by an liquid chromatography method with evaporative light scattering detection was performed. The analysis of several samples of conventional, organic and fair trade cocoa-derivatives showed that organic and fair trade samples always contain much lower amine concentrations in comparison with their conventional counterparts, supporting the idea that biogenic amines can be regarded as cocoa quality markers. Irrespective of the kind of sample, results also showed that the most abundant amines were histamine, tyramine, spermidine, putrescine and spermine while β-phenylethylamine, cadaverine and serotonine have been found more rarely, all the amines never reaching dangerous amounts for consumer health. With the aim to confirm the experimental results, clustering analysis was performed on samples and instrumental results using principal component analysis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Quality and Innovation for a Circular Economy and a Sustainable Future)

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16 pages, 1495 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Multilevel Index Decomposition of Energy-Related Carbon Emission and Its Decoupling with Economic Growth in USA

by Xue-Ting Jiang^1,2, Jie-Fang Dong^1,2,3,*

, Xing-Min Wang^1,2 and Rong-Rong Li⁴

¹ State Key Laboratory of Desert and Oasis Ecology, Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography, Urumqi 830011, China

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

³ Department of Economics and Management, Yuncheng University, Yuncheng 044000, China

⁴ The Research Centre on the Development of Enterprises in Xinjiang, Xinjiang University of Finance & Economics, Urumqi 830011, China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 857; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090857 - 31 Aug 2016

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 5564

Abstract

The United States of America is not only an important energy consuming country, but also in the dominant position of energy for many years. As one of the two largest emitters, the US has always been trying to register a decline in energy-related [...] Read more.

The United States of America is not only an important energy consuming country, but also in the dominant position of energy for many years. As one of the two largest emitters, the US has always been trying to register a decline in energy-related CO₂. In order to make a further analysis of the phenomenon, we choose a new decoupling analysis with the multilevel logarithmic mean Divisia index (LMDI) method. This study examined the contribution of factors influencing energy-related carbon emissions in the United States of America during 1990–2014, quantitatively analyzed decoupling indicators of economic development and environmental situations. As is indicated in the results, economy development and activities have a significant effect in increasing carbon emission, however, measures of energy optimization such as the improvement of energy efficiency has played a crucial role in inhibiting the carbon dioxide emission. Furthermore, as is indicated in decoupling relationship, “relative decoupling” and “no decoupling” are the main states during the examined period. In order to better investigate the long-run equilibrium relationship between total carbon dioxide emissions of each effect and the relationship between CO₂ emissions and economic growth, on the basis of a static decomposition analysis, we applied a dynamic analysis method-cointegration test. At last, recommendations and improvement measures aiming at the related issues were put forward. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Energy Sustainability)

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18 pages, 6841 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Underperformance of Planning for Peri-Urban Rural Sustainable Development: The Case of Mentougou District in Beijing

by Jing Lin^1,2,3

, Jianming Cai^1,2,3,*, Fei Han⁴, Yan Han^1,2,3 and Junping Liu⁵

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

² Key Laboratory of Regional Sustainable Development Modeling, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China

³ School of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China

⁴ Beijing Urban Development Research Institute, Beijing 100801, China

⁵ Beijing Rural Economic Research Center, Beijing 100192, China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 858; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090858 - 27 Aug 2016

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 8264

Abstract

As the basic cell of social structures and spatial units, rural settlement is now experiencing profound changes through the rapid urbanization process underway in China, particularly in peri-urban areas which serve as the main platform and battlefield for urban–rural integration in China’s latest [...] Read more.

As the basic cell of social structures and spatial units, rural settlement is now experiencing profound changes through the rapid urbanization process underway in China, particularly in peri-urban areas which serve as the main platform and battlefield for urban–rural integration in China’s latest round of new urbanization. Therefore, how to achieve better planning for rural settlement in peri-urban areas is becoming a pressing and paramount research agenda. This paper attempts to explore the possible reasons for the underperformance of planning practice for rural settlement in peri-urban areas of China by taking the Mentougou district of Beijing as a case study. Following a quick and comprehensive review of planning in Mentougou district, a systematic and critical evaluation is then conducted accordingly. It shows that the plans generally play a positive role in development orientation and implementation. Yet, there is still a lot of room for improvement, particularly in the following aspects: (1) lack of initiative and innovation at the local level; (2) lack of long-term vision and consistent implementation; (3) lack of rationale-oriented approach; (4) lack of scientific and in-depth research; (5) lack of multi-stakeholder participation. As a way forward, this paper thus proposes a revised planning scheme for local practice, including classification of typologies and the customized planning design for each typology. At last, this paper calls for more in-depth scientific research on some key topics in the planning field, domestically and internationally. Full article

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

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24 pages, 1028 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Use of Oral Histories to Identify Criteria for Future Scenarios of Sustainable Farming in the South Yangtze River, China

by Pingyang Liu¹, Juan M. Moreno^1,2, Peiying Song¹, Elona Hoover^1,2 and Marie K. Harder^2,3,*

¹ Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 20433, China

² Values and Sustainability Group, School of Computing, Engineering and Mathematics, University of Brighton, Brighton BN2 4GJ, UK

³ Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Fudan Tyndall Centre, Fudan University, Shanghai 20433, China

¹ Fudan University, Shanghai, China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 859; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090859 - 29 Aug 2016

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 5510

Abstract

Agricultural practices in Jiangnan water towns have historically been identified as maintaining a balance between human activity and the local environment, but are now a significant local source of water pollution. Using a multi-methods approach, this study deduces the environmental impact of traditional [...] Read more.

Agricultural practices in Jiangnan water towns have historically been identified as maintaining a balance between human activity and the local environment, but are now a significant local source of water pollution. Using a multi-methods approach, this study deduces the environmental impact of traditional practices, and the socially desired conditions for successfully reintroducing critical ones. Oral histories from 31 farmers in Tianshanzhuang village, South Yangtze River were in order to chart changes in farming practices over four historic periods, and used to estimate the nitrogen and phosphorus burdens per acre. Findings show that the use of Lan River Mud—dredged mud for fertilizer—was key in producing a positive impact, but abandoned after the 1980s. Four criteria hindering reintroduction of traditional practices were identified, and potentially useful but fragmented emerging local candidate practices are considered against these, as are recent practices in Japan. We propose that the cooperation of several stakeholders with various related government departments in China could lead to a portfolio of effective policy changes and should be studied further: to include new methods and uses of Lan River Mud; the integration of aquaculture, leisure and tourism industries with agriculture; and the production of organic produce with well-planned internet-linked sales, delivery and coordination mechanisms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Agriculture)

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12 pages, 211 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Thriving Organizational Sustainability through Innovation: Incivility Climate and Teamwork

by Jaewan Yang

College of Business, Hankuk University of Foreign Studies, 107 Imun-ro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02450, Korea

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 860; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090860 - 29 Aug 2016

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 5921

Abstract

The present study examines the association between team incivility climate and team members’ perceived support for innovation. To extend findings on the negative effects of incivility (which are low intensity deviant behaviors, such as rudeness) in studies focusing on the individual level, the [...] Read more.

The present study examines the association between team incivility climate and team members’ perceived support for innovation. To extend findings on the negative effects of incivility (which are low intensity deviant behaviors, such as rudeness) in studies focusing on the individual level, the effects of organizational incivility are examined at the work team level. Drawing on the spiral model of incivility and the literature on teams, this study suggests that team incivility climate has a negative impact on perceived support for innovation through team members’ teamwork behaviors. Using data collected from 411 subordinates on 62 work teams, the hypothesized mediation model is tested. The results show a negative effect of team incivility climate on teamwork and a positive effect of teamwork on perceived support for innovation, supporting the hypothesized negative indirect effect. Research and practical implications for organizational sustainability are discussed. Full article

38 pages, 2182 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Can We Improve Indicator Design for Complex Sustainable Development Goals? A Comparison of a Values-Based and Conventional Approach

by Gemma Burford^1,2, Peter Tamás³ and Marie K. Harder^1,4,*

¹ Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China

² Values and Sustainability Research Group, University of Brighton, Brighton BN2 4GJ, UK

³ Wageningen University and Research Centre, Wageningen 6700 HB, The Netherlands

⁴ Department of Environmental Science & Engineering, Fudan Tyndall Centre, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 861; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090861 - 30 Aug 2016

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 15748

Abstract

A conceptual framework was constructed for United Nations’ complex Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Target 4.7 focusing on education for sustainable development (ESD), and used to analyse the usefulness and character of indicators produced from a values-based approach called ESDinds, compared to a UN [...] Read more.

A conceptual framework was constructed for United Nations’ complex Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Target 4.7 focusing on education for sustainable development (ESD), and used to analyse the usefulness and character of indicators produced from a values-based approach called ESDinds, compared to a UN process. The analysis shows that the latter generated very few indicators concerning the wider aspects of knowledge such as ‘critical thinking’ or ‘learning to learn’. The values-based approach, created for a different purpose, produced complementary if not better coverage of Target 4.7, including finely-developed concepts for competencies and less tangible aspects. It is suggested that the UN process would benefit from ESDinds design elements such as intersubjective and slightly disruptive elements, purposeful contextualisation at group level, and a holistic and inductive consideration of values. The use of a reference ‘fuzzy framework’ of slightly generalised proto-indicators suited for deep contextualisation locally is recommended, rather than any rigid global-level indicator with unclear local value. It is recommended that ESD practitioners immediately develop localised interpretations of valid measures for whatever final Target 4.7 indicator is selected by the UN, as this localisation process will itself cause important learning towards local ESD achievements. Full article

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

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19 pages, 4437 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Quantifying the Spatiotemporal Patterns of Urbanization along Urban-Rural Gradient with a Roadscape Transect Approach: A Case Study in Shanghai, China

by Zhonghao Zhang^1,2,*, Yaojen Tu^1,* and Xin Li²

¹ Institute of urban studies, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai 200234, China

² Cold and Arid Regions Environmental and Engineering Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 862; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090862 - 27 Aug 2016

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 8351

Abstract

Quantifying the landscape pattern change can effectively demonstrate the ecological progresses and the consequences of urbanization. Based on remotely sensed land cover data in 1994, 2000, 2006 and a gradient analysis with landscape metrics at landscape- and class- level, we attempted to characterize [...] Read more.

Quantifying the landscape pattern change can effectively demonstrate the ecological progresses and the consequences of urbanization. Based on remotely sensed land cover data in 1994, 2000, 2006 and a gradient analysis with landscape metrics at landscape- and class- level, we attempted to characterize the individual and entire landscape patterns of Shanghai metropolitan during the rapid urbanization. We highlighted that a roadscape transect approach that combined the buffer zone method and the transect-based approach was introduced to describe the urban-rural patterns of agricultural, residential, green, industrial, and public facilities land along the railway route. Our results of landscape metrics showed significant spatiotemporal patterns and gradient variations along the transect. The urban growth pattern in two time spans conform to the hypothesis for diffusion–coalescence processes, implying that the railway is adaptive as a gradient element to analyze the landscape patterns with urbanization. As the natural landscape was replaced by urban landscape gradually, the desakota region expanded its extent widely. Suburb areas witnessed the continual transformation from the predominantly rural landscape to peri-urban landscape. Furthermore, the gap between urban and rural areas remained large especially in public service. More reasonable urban plans and land use policies should push to make more efforts to transition from the urban-rural separation to coordinated urban-rural development. This study is a meaningful trial in demonstrating a new form of urban–rural transects to study the landscape change of large cities. By combining gradient analysis with landscape metrics, we addressed the process of urbanization both spatially and temporally, and provided a more quantitative approach to urban studies. Full article

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14 pages, 1320 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Scenarios of Carbon Emissions from the Power Sector in Guangdong Province

by Zhong-Hua Tian^* and Ze-Liang Yang

School of Electric Power, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510641, China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 863; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090863 - 29 Aug 2016

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 5710

Abstract

The electricity power sector plays an important role in both CO₂ emissions as well as the target contribution of non-fossil energy. Although the target for the reduction of CO₂ emission intensity in Guangdong (GD) has not been released by the central [...] Read more.

The electricity power sector plays an important role in both CO₂ emissions as well as the target contribution of non-fossil energy. Although the target for the reduction of CO₂ emission intensity in Guangdong (GD) has not been released by the central government, GD has set a goal for increasing the share of non-fossil energy in total energy consumption to 25% in the provincial 13th Five-Year Plan. In this study, the CO₂ emissions from the electric power sector and the corresponding share of non-fossil fuels in total energy consumption between 2005 and 2014 were analyzed. The logarithmic mean Divisia index (LMDI) technique was applied for investigating the factors affecting the changes in CO₂ emissions. The main results are as follows: in 2014, the CO₂ emissions from the electric power sector were 286.54 Mt, of which the net purchased electricity accounted for 22.4%. Economic growth is the main contributor for the increase in CO₂ emissions from the electric power sector. Electricity intensity, thermal generation efficiency, CO₂ emission coefficient, and electricity supply mix slowed the growth of CO₂ emissions. Several energy scenarios were developed, and results showed that the provincial target for the share of non-fossil fuels by 2020 would be achieved by all of the scenarios. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Electric Power Systems Research)

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16 pages, 10477 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Reducing Simulation Performance Gap in Hemp-Lime Buildings Using Fourier Filtering †

by Ljubomir Jankovic

Zero Carbon Lab, Birmingham City University, Birmingham B5 5JU, UK

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 864; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090864 - 29 Aug 2016

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4844

Abstract

Mainstream dynamic simulation tools used by designers do not have a built-in capability to accurately simulate the effect of hemp-lime on building temperature and relative humidity. Due to the specific structure of hemp-lime, heat travels via a maze of solid branches whilst the [...] Read more.

Mainstream dynamic simulation tools used by designers do not have a built-in capability to accurately simulate the effect of hemp-lime on building temperature and relative humidity. Due to the specific structure of hemp-lime, heat travels via a maze of solid branches whilst the capillary tubes absorb and release moisture. The resultant heat and moisture transfer cannot be fully represented in mainstream simulation tools, causing a significant performance gap between the simulation and the actual performance. The author has developed an analysis method, based on a numerical procedure for digital signal filtering using Fourier series. The paper develops and experimentally validates transfer functions that enhance simulation results and enable accurate representation of behaviour of buildings built from hemp-lime material using the results of a post-occupancy research project. As a performance gap between design simulation and actual buildings occurs in relation to all buildings, this method has a wider scope of application in reducing the performance gap. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Post Occupancy Evaluation)

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17 pages, 240 KiB

Open AccessReview

Social Science Studies on European and African Agriculture Compared: Bringing Together Different Strands of Academic Debate on GM Crops

by Klara Fischer^*

and Camilla Eriksson

Department of Urban and Rural Development, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Box 7012, Uppsala 750 07, Sweden

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 865; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090865 - 29 Aug 2016

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 14801

Abstract

This study explored the social science-orientated literature on genetically modified (GM) crops in Europe and compared it with the corresponding literature on GM crops in African contexts, in order to determine the nature and extent of north-south cross-fertilisation in the literature. A total [...] Read more.

This study explored the social science-orientated literature on genetically modified (GM) crops in Europe and compared it with the corresponding literature on GM crops in African contexts, in order to determine the nature and extent of north-south cross-fertilisation in the literature. A total of 1625 papers on GM crops and agriculture falling within the ‘social science and humanities’ subject area in the Scopus abstract and citation database of peer-reviewed literature were analysed for major trends relating to geographical areas. More detailed analysis was performed on papers discussing African (56 papers) and European (127 papers) contexts. The analysis revealed that studies on policy and politics were common in both strands of the literature, frequently focusing on effects of the relatively restrictive European Union regulations on GM crops. There were also clear differences, however. For example, papers focusing on Africa frequently examined farm-level impacts and production, while this theme was almost non-existent in the Europe literature. It focused instead on policy impacts on trade and consumer attitudes to GM products. The lack of farm-level studies and of empirical studies in general in the European literature indicates a need for empirical research on GM crops in European farming. Social science research on GM crop production in Europe could draw lessons from the African literature. Full article

18 pages, 1437 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Grey Forecasting Approach for the Sustainability Performance of Logistics Companies

by Min-Chun Yu¹

, Chia-Nan Wang^2,*

and Nguyen-Nhu-Y Ho^2,*

¹ Department of Business Administration, National Kaohsiung University of Applied Sciences, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan

² Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, National Kaohsiung University of Applied Sciences, Kaohsiung 807, Taiwan

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 866; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090866 - 29 Aug 2016

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 7494

Abstract

Logistics plays an important role in globalized companies and contributes to the development of foreign trade. A large number of external conditions, such as recession and inflation, affect logistics. Therefore, managers should find ways to improve operational performance, enabling them to increase efficiency [...] Read more.

Logistics plays an important role in globalized companies and contributes to the development of foreign trade. A large number of external conditions, such as recession and inflation, affect logistics. Therefore, managers should find ways to improve operational performance, enabling them to increase efficiency while considering environmental sustainability due to the industry’s large scale of energy consumption. Based on data collected from the financial reports of top global logistics companies, this study uses a DEA model to calculate corporate efficiency by implementing a Grey forecasting approach to forecast future sustainability values. Consequently, the study addresses the problem of how to enhance operational performance while accounting for the impact of external conditions. This research can help logistics companies develop operation strategies in the future that will enhance their competitiveness vis-à-vis rivals in a time of global economic volatility. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Supply Chain Management)

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19 pages, 519 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Does Intellectual Capital Disclosure Matter for Audit Risk? Evidence from the UK and Italy

by Chiara Demartini¹ and Sara Trucco^2,*

¹ Department of Economics and Management, University of Pavia, Via San Felice 5, Pavia 27100, Italy

² Faculty of Economics, Rome University of International Studies, Via Cristoforo Colombo 200, Roma 00147, Italy

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 867; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090867 - 30 Aug 2016

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 8103

Abstract

Disclosure theory argues that better information quality reduces audit risk, by decreasing information asymmetry in the market and consequently, information risk for firms. Extant literature on voluntary disclosure analyzes the relationships between Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and audit risk, finding that auditors charge [...] Read more.

Disclosure theory argues that better information quality reduces audit risk, by decreasing information asymmetry in the market and consequently, information risk for firms. Extant literature on voluntary disclosure analyzes the relationships between Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and audit risk, finding that auditors charge lower fees and issue less going concern opinions to firms with good CSR performance. In this study, we test the relationship between intellectual capital disclosure (ICD) and audit risk and we assess the effect of ICD and audit risk on audit fees. To do so, we use data from the ESG Asset4 database (Thomson Reuters Datastream) on 166 UK and 27 Italian listed firms that issue stand-alone social and intellectual capital statements. The audit risk is measured from both a qualitative and a quantitative perspective. Panel data analysis on 2004–2011 years has been used to test our research hypotheses. Empirical findings from a sample of UK and Italian listed companies show that auditors estimate a lower qualitative risk, albeit a higher quantitative one, for those companies reporting higher ICD scores, compared to those ones with lower disclosure scores on the intellectual capital. Furthermore, we find that reputation risk contributes to the relationship between ICD and audit risk. Full article

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

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25 pages, 9351 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Spatial Determinants of Urban Land Expansion in Globalizing Nanjing, China

by Jianglong Chen¹, Jinlong Gao¹

, Feng Yuan¹ and Yehua Dennis Wei^2,3,*

¹ Key Laboratory of Watershed Geographic Sciences, Nanjing Institute of Geography and Limnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China

² Key Research Institute of Yellow River Civilization and Sustainable Development & Collaborative and Innovation Center on Yellow River Civilization of Henan Province, Henan University, Kaifeng 45001, China

³ Department of Geography, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112-9155, USA

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 868; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090868 - 29 Aug 2016

Cited by 31 | Viewed by 7160

Abstract

This paper proposes a cost-benefit framework to address the role of parcel and neighborhood conditions, as well as government policies, and investigates the spatial determinants of urban land expansion in Nanjing, one of the sub-centers of the Yangtze River Delta (YRD). Using spatial [...] Read more.

This paper proposes a cost-benefit framework to address the role of parcel and neighborhood conditions, as well as government policies, and investigates the spatial determinants of urban land expansion in Nanjing, one of the sub-centers of the Yangtze River Delta (YRD). Using spatial regression models, we find the significance of the economy of scale, agglomeration, accessibility, and government policies in Nanjing’s urban growth. In the earlier stage, urban expansion in Nanjing was mainly driven by the development of infrastructure. Since entering the 21st century, the emerging commercial and industrial sub-centers have become the major centers of growth, which has changed Nanjing’s spatial structure from compact monocentric to a polycentric one. We also highlight the importance of government policies that have been strengthened by various national strategies, including the “New-type Urbanization” and “Beautiful China” strategies. Different from cities in the Pearl River Delta, Nanjing has a more significant top-down process in its development, which indicates that the municipal government of Nanjing is playing a more important role in urban growth. Full article

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17 pages, 3422 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Urban Ecosystem Health Based on Entropy Weight Extension Decision Model in Urban Agglomeration

by Qian Yang^1,2

, Aiwen Lin^1,2,*, Zhenzhen Zhao^1,2

, Ling Zou^1,2

and Cheng Sun^1,2

¹ School of Resource and Environment Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China

² Key Laboratory of Geographic Information System, Ministry of Education, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430079, China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 869; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090869 - 29 Aug 2016

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 4699

Abstract

Urban ecosystem health evaluation can assist in sustainable ecological management at a regional level. This study examined urban agglomeration ecosystem health in the middle reaches of the Yangtze River with entropy weight and extension theories. The model overcomes information omissions and subjectivity problems [...] Read more.

Urban ecosystem health evaluation can assist in sustainable ecological management at a regional level. This study examined urban agglomeration ecosystem health in the middle reaches of the Yangtze River with entropy weight and extension theories. The model overcomes information omissions and subjectivity problems in the evaluation process of urban ecosystem health. Results showed that human capital and education, economic development level as well as urban infrastructure have a significant effect on the health states of urban agglomerations. The health status of the urban agglomeration’s ecosystem was not optimistic in 2013. The majority of the cities were unhealthy or verging on unhealthy, accounting for 64.52% of the total number of cities in the urban agglomeration. The regional differences of the 31 cities’ ecosystem health are significant. The cause originated from an imbalance in economic development and the policy guidance of city development. It is necessary to speed up the integration process to promote coordinated regional development. The present study will aid us in understanding and advancing the health situation of the urban ecosystem in the middle reaches of the Yangtze River and will provide an efficient urban ecosystem health evaluation method that can be used in other areas. Full article

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

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14 pages, 1001 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of Hybrid Model for Estimating Construction Waste for Multifamily Residential Buildings Using Artificial Neural Networks and Ant Colony Optimization

by Dongoun Lee¹, Seungho Kim² and Sangyong Kim^2,*

¹ Department of Architectural Engineering, Dongseo University, 47 Jurye-ro, Sasang-gu 47011, Busan, Korea

² School of Architecture, Yeungnam University, 280 Daehak-ro, Gyeongsan-si 38541, Gyeongbuk, Korea

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 870; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090870 - 1 Sep 2016

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 6928

Abstract

Due to the increasing costs of construction waste disposal, an accurate estimation of the amount of construction waste is a key factor in a project’s success. Korea has been burdened by increasing construction waste as a consequence of the growing number of construction [...] Read more.

Due to the increasing costs of construction waste disposal, an accurate estimation of the amount of construction waste is a key factor in a project’s success. Korea has been burdened by increasing construction waste as a consequence of the growing number of construction projects and a lack of construction waste management (CWM) strategies. One of the problems associated with predicting the amount of waste is that there are no suitable estimation strategies currently available. Therefore, we developed a hybrid estimation model to predict the quantity and cost of waste in the early stage of construction. The proposed approach can be used to address cost overruns and improve CWM in the subsequent stages of construction. The proposed hybrid model uses artificial neural networks (ANNs) and ant colony optimization (ACO). It is expected to provide an accurate waste estimate by applying historical data from multifamily residential buildings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Solid Waste Management)

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16 pages, 1557 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Coal Consumption Reduction in Shandong Province: A Dynamic Vector Autoregression Model

by Chun Deng^1,2 and Jie-Fang Dong^1,*

¹ Department of Economics and Management, Yuncheng University, Yuncheng 044000, China

² School of Economic & Management, Northwest University, Xi’an 710127, China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 871; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090871 - 31 Aug 2016

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4511

Abstract

Coal consumption and carbon dioxide emissions from coal combustion in China are attracting increasing attention worldwide. Between 1990 and 2013, the coal consumption in Shandong Province increased by approximately 5.29 times. Meanwhile, the proportion of coal consumption of Shandong Province to China rose [...] Read more.

Coal consumption and carbon dioxide emissions from coal combustion in China are attracting increasing attention worldwide. Between 1990 and 2013, the coal consumption in Shandong Province increased by approximately 5.29 times. Meanwhile, the proportion of coal consumption of Shandong Province to China rose from 7.6% to 10.8%, and to the world, it rose from 1.8% to 5.5%. Identifying the drivers of coal consumption in Shandong Province is vital for developing effective environmental policies. This paper uses the Vector Autoregression model to analyze the influencing factors of coal consumption in Shandong Province. The results show that industrialization plays a dominant role in increasing coal consumption. Conversely, coal efficiency is the key factor to curtailing coal consumption. Although there is a rebound effect of coal efficiency in the short term, from a long-term perspective, coal efficiency will reduce coal consumption gradually. Both economic growth and urbanization have a significant effect on coal consumption in Shandong Province. In addition, the substitution effect of oil to coal has not yet met expectations. These findings are important for relevant authorities in Shandong in developing appropriate policies to halt the growth of coal consumption. Full article

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

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16 pages, 2179 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) Measures on Active Living and Fear of Crime

by Jae Seung Lee¹, Sungjin Park^1,* and Sanghoon Jung^2,*

¹ Department of Urban Design and Planning, Hongik University, 94 Wausan-ro, Mapo-gu, Seoul 121-791, Korea

² Department of Urban Planning, Gachon University, Seongnamdaero 1342, Seongnam, Gyeonggi-do 461-701, Korea

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 872; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090872 - 31 Aug 2016

Cited by 66 | Viewed by 29512

Abstract

Crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED) has become a popular urban planning approach to preventing crime and mitigating fear of crime through the improvement of physical neighborhood environments. CPTED is widely used to improve deteriorated neighborhoods that suffer from crime. However, few studies [...] Read more.

Crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED) has become a popular urban planning approach to preventing crime and mitigating fear of crime through the improvement of physical neighborhood environments. CPTED is widely used to improve deteriorated neighborhoods that suffer from crime. However, few studies have empirically examined the complex relationships among CPTED, fear of crime, and active living. Our study, therefore, investigated the effects of CPTED measures on walking frequency and fear of crime, analyzing behavioral data of residents living in participatory neighborhood regeneration areas and matched neighborhoods. We analyzed survey data from 12 neighborhoods that implemented CPTED approaches and 12 matched neighborhoods in Seoul, Korea, using structural equation modeling, which could consistently estimate complex direct and indirect relationships between a latent variable (fear of crime) and observable variables (CPTED measures and walking frequency). We designed the survey instrument as a smartphone app. Participants were recruited from 102 locations within the 24 selected neighborhoods; in total, 623 individuals returned surveys. The results revealed that sufficient closed-circuit television, street lighting, and maintenance played a significant role in mitigating fear of crime. This study has implications for planning and policy issues related to CPTED, mental health, and active living. Full article

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

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44 pages, 3706 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Risk vs. Reward: A Methodology to Assess Investment in Marine Energy

by John Hutcheson, Adrián De Andrés^* and Henry Jeffrey

Institute for Energy Systems, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3JL, UK

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 873; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090873 - 31 Aug 2016

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 6433

Abstract

The majority of WEC (wave energy converter) projects are expensive and pose a large risk to a developer. Currently no developers have been successful in commercialising a WEC. So far, many wave energy feasibility studies have only considered the LCOE (levelised cost of [...] Read more.

The majority of WEC (wave energy converter) projects are expensive and pose a large risk to a developer. Currently no developers have been successful in commercialising a WEC. So far, many wave energy feasibility studies have only considered the LCOE (levelised cost of electricity), assessing investment in marine energy technologies from a purely financial point of view. No previous studies have, however, explicitly accounted for development risk as well as the LCOE to determine the feasibility of a project. This paper proposes a new methodology that can be used to account for both risk and the LCOE to give a clearer picture of the feasibility of a WEC development. By combining the LCOE and risk score for a particular development, the “value for risk” can be calculated, presented here as the “RR ratio” (“Risk/Reward ratio”). A number of case studies were chosen to test the model, investigating the RR ratio for a number of different WEC technologies and ranking them to suggest an optimal development path for the industry. Results showed that projects that combine many innovative technologies provide the best “value for risk”. These devices overall had the highest risk, suggesting that multiple developers are likely required to collaborate in order to reduce the risk down to acceptable levels for each. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wave Energy Converters)

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11 pages, 545 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Does Non-Fossil Energy Usage Lower CO₂ Emissions? Empirical Evidence from China

by Deshan Li^1,2,3 and Degang Yang^1,*

¹ Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Urumqi 830011, China

² University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China

³ Institute for the Economy of Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps, Urumqi 830002, China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 874; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090874 - 30 Aug 2016

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 4767

Abstract

This paper uses an autoregressive distributed lag model (ARDL) to examine the dynamic impact of non-fossil energy consumption on carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions in China for a given level of economic growth, trade openness, and energy usage between 1965 and 2014. [...] Read more.

This paper uses an autoregressive distributed lag model (ARDL) to examine the dynamic impact of non-fossil energy consumption on carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions in China for a given level of economic growth, trade openness, and energy usage between 1965 and 2014. The results suggest that the variables are in a long-run equilibrium. ARDL estimation indicates that consumption of non-fossil energy plays a crucial role in curbing CO₂ emissions in the long run but not in the short term. The results also suggest that, in both the long and short term, energy consumption and trade openness have a negative impact on the reduction of CO₂ emissions, while gross domestic product (GDP) per capita increases CO₂ emissions only in the short term. Finally, the Granger causality test indicates a bidirectional causality between CO₂ emissions and energy consumption. In addition, this study suggests that non-fossil energy is an effective solution to mitigate CO₂ emissions, providing useful information for policy-makers wishing to reduce atmospheric CO₂. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Energy Sustainability)

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20 pages, 3793 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Integrating Economic and Ecological Benchmarking for a Sustainable Development of Hydropower

by Philipp Emanuel Hirsch^1,2,*, Moritz Schillinger², Katharina Appoloni¹, Patricia Burkhardt-Holm^1,3 and Hannes Weigt²

¹ Program Man-Society-Environment, University of Basel, Vesalgasse 1, Basel Ch-4051, Switzerland

² Research Centre for Sustainable Energy and Water Supply (FoNEW), University of Basel, Basel Ch-4051, Switzerland

³ Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 875; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090875 - 31 Aug 2016

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 6995

Abstract

Hydropower reservoirs play an increasingly important role for the global electricity supply. Reservoirs are anthropogenically-dominated ecosystems because hydropower operations induce artificial water level fluctuations (WLF) that exceed natural fluctuations in frequency and amplitude. These WLF have detrimental ecological effects, which can be quantified [...] Read more.

Hydropower reservoirs play an increasingly important role for the global electricity supply. Reservoirs are anthropogenically-dominated ecosystems because hydropower operations induce artificial water level fluctuations (WLF) that exceed natural fluctuations in frequency and amplitude. These WLF have detrimental ecological effects, which can be quantified as losses to ecosystem primary production due to lake bottoms that fall dry. To allow for a sustainable development of hydropower, these “ecological costs” of WLF need to be weighed against the “economic benefits” of hydropower that can balance and store intermittent renewable energy. We designed an economic hydropower operation model to derive WLF in large and small reservoirs for three different future energy market scenarios and quantified the according losses in ecosystem primary production in semi-natural outdoor experiments. Our results show that variations in market conditions affect WLF differently in small and large hydropower reservoirs and that increasing price volatility magnified WLF and reduced primary production. Our model allows an assessment of the trade-off between the objectives of preserving environmental resources and economic development, which lies at the core of emerging sustainability issues. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Balancing Environmental Resources and Economic Welfare)

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17 pages, 3760 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable and Practical Firmware Upgrade for Wireless Access Point Using Password-Based Authentication

by Jaejin Jang and Im Y. Jung^*

School of Electronics Engineering, Kyungpook National University, Daegu 41566, Korea

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 876; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090876 - 31 Aug 2016

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 5291

Abstract

Wireless access points (WAPs) are devices that provide Internet connectivity to devices such as desktops, laptops, smartphones, and tablets. Hence, it is important to provide sufficient availability to devices and security for the traffic that is routed by a WAP. However, attackers can [...] Read more.

Wireless access points (WAPs) are devices that provide Internet connectivity to devices such as desktops, laptops, smartphones, and tablets. Hence, it is important to provide sufficient availability to devices and security for the traffic that is routed by a WAP. However, attackers can decrease the network bandwidth or obtain the traffic including private data such as search histories, login information, and device usage patterns by exploiting the vulnerabilities in firmware upgrades to install malicious firmware. To address this problem, we propose a sustainable and practical firmware upgrade for a WAP using password-based authentication. The proposed upgrade protocol ensures security by adding freshness to the firmware whenever a firmware upgrade occurs. This freshness is different for each event and each firmware; therefore, even if the freshness of one firmware is exposed, the others are secure. In addition, confidentiality, integrity, and authentication are ensured. Furthermore, the proposed protocol can be easily implemented and adapted to WAPs. Experiments are performed to evaluate the upgrade time, resource usage, and code size in wired and wireless connected environments by implementing a prototype and analyzing the security of the protocol. The results show that the proposed upgrade is secure and practical. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced IT based Future Sustainable Computing)

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12 pages, 7413 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Economic and Environmental Benefits of Optimized Hybrid Renewable Energy Generation Systems at Jeju National University, South Korea

by Eunil Park¹

, Taeil Han¹, Taehyeong Kim², Sang Jib Kwon^3,* and Angel P. Del Pobil^4,5,*

¹ Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology (KICT), Goyang, Gyeounggi-do 10223, Korea

² Project Management Division, Korea Construction Engineering Development Collaboratory Management Institute (KOCED CMI), Myongji-ro 116, Cheoin-gu, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do 17058, Korea

³ Department of Business Administration, Dongguk University, Gyeongju 04620, Korea

⁴ Robotic Intelligence Laboratory, University Jaume-I, Castellón de la Plana 12071, Spain

⁵ Department of Interaction Science, Sungkyunkwan University, Seoul 03063, Korea

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 877; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090877 - 2 Sep 2016

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 7209

Abstract

In order to minimize the social and environmental concerns arising from the use of traditional energy resources such as fossil fuels and nuclear energy, the South Korean government has attempted to develop alternative energy resources. In particular, the large educational institutes and islands [...] Read more.

In order to minimize the social and environmental concerns arising from the use of traditional energy resources such as fossil fuels and nuclear energy, the South Korean government has attempted to develop alternative energy resources. In particular, the large educational institutes and islands in South Korea—which have the motivation and potential to provide electrical services—are required to install renewable electricity generation facilities to reduce the burden on the local grid systems. With this trend, the current study investigates potential configurations of renewable electricity generation systems to supply the electrical demand of Jeju National University, located on the largest island in South Korea. The potential configurations suggested by the simulation results are evaluated by renewable fraction, cost of energy (COE), and total net present cost (NPC). The suggested configurations show a renewable fraction of 1.00 with COE of $0.356–$0.402 per kWh and NPC of $54,620,352–$51,795,040. Based on the results, both implications and limitations are examined. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Electric Power Systems Research)

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18 pages, 1151 KiB

Open AccessReview

Five Approaches to Social Sustainability and an Integrated Way Forward

by Robert H. W. Boyer^1,*

, Nicole D. Peterson², Poonam Arora³ and Kevin Caldwell¹

¹ Department of Geography & Earth Sciences, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, McEniry 324, 9201 University City Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28223, USA

² Department of Anthropology, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Barnard 217, 9201 University City Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28223, USA

³ Department of Management and Marketing, School of Business, Manhattan College, 518 De LaSalle, 4513 Manhattan College Parkway, Riverdale, NY 10471, USA

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 878; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090878 - 6 Sep 2016

Cited by 185 | Viewed by 30774

Abstract

Sustainability is often conceived of as an attempt to balance competing economic, environmental and social priorities. Over the course of three decades of scholarship, however, the meaning and appropriate application of the ‘social pillar’ continues to inspire confusion. In this paper, we posit [...] Read more.

Sustainability is often conceived of as an attempt to balance competing economic, environmental and social priorities. Over the course of three decades of scholarship, however, the meaning and appropriate application of the ‘social pillar’ continues to inspire confusion. In this paper, we posit that the inherent challenge of understanding social sustainability is its many legitimate meanings plus a lack of interdisciplinary scholarship. We draw from literature in multiple disciplines to illustrate five different ways that the concept of social sustainability has been applied in scholarship and professional practice, and highlighting the importance of applications that acknowledge placed-based, process-oriented perspectives that understand social, economic, and environmental imperatives as integrated concepts. Ironically, this framing forecloses on social sustainability as an entity distinct from environmental and economic sustainability. We believe that organizing the conversation around these five applications can help advocates of sustainability use the concept of social sustainability in clear and powerful ways while avoiding applications that relegate the social dimensions of sustainability to an afterthought. Full article

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12 pages, 1662 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Increasing Soil Organic Matter Enhances Inherent Soil Productivity while Offsetting Fertilization Effect under a Rice Cropping System

by Ya-Nan Zhao¹

, Xin-Hua He^1,2, Xing-Cheng Huang¹

, Yue-Qiang Zhang^1,3 and Xiao-Jun Shi^1,3,*

¹ College of Resources and Environment, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China

² School of Plant Biology, University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA 6009, Australia

³ National Monitoring Station of Soil Fertility and Fertilizer Efficiency on Purple Soils, Chongqing 400715, China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 879; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090879 - 1 Sep 2016

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 6245

Abstract

Understanding the role of soil organic matter (SOM) in soil quality and subsequent crop yield and input requirements is useful for agricultural sustainability. SOM is widely considered to affect a wide range of soil properties, however, great uncertainty still remains in identifying the [...] Read more.

Understanding the role of soil organic matter (SOM) in soil quality and subsequent crop yield and input requirements is useful for agricultural sustainability. SOM is widely considered to affect a wide range of soil properties, however, great uncertainty still remains in identifying the relationships between SOM and crop yield due to the difficulty in separating the effect of SOM from other yield-limiting factors. Based on 543 on-farm experiments, where paired treatments with and without NPK fertilizer were conducted during 2005–2009, we quantified the inherent soil productivity, fertilization effect, and their contribution to rice yield and further evaluated their relationships with SOM contents under a rice cropping system in the Sichuan Basin of China. The inherent soil productivity assessed by rice grain yield under no fertilization (Y-CK) was 5.8 t/ha, on average, and contributed 70% to the 8.3 t/ha of rice yield under NPK fertilization (Y-NPK) while the other 30% was from the fertilization effect (FE). No significant correlation between SOM content and Y-NPK was observed, however, SOM content positively related to Y-CK and its contribution to Y-NPK but negatively to FE and its contribution to Y-NPK, indicating an increased soil contribution but a decreased fertilizer contribution to rice yield with increasing SOM. There were significantly positive relationships between SOM and soil available N, P, and K, indicating the potential contribution of SOM to inherent soil productivity by supplying nutrients from mineralization. As a result, approaches for SOM accumulation are practical to improve the inherent soil productivity and thereafter maintain a high crop productivity with less dependence on chemical fertilizers, while fertilization recommendations need to be adjusted with the temporal and spatial SOM variation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Agriculture)

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1 pages, 142 KiB

Open AccessErratum

Erratum: Fang, C.; Pang, B.; Liu, H. Quantitative Study on the Dynamic Mechanism of Smart Low-Carbon City Development in China. Sustainability 2016, 8, 507

by Sustainability Editorial Office

MDPI AG, CH-4052 Basel, Switzerland; Tel.: +41-61-683-7734

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 880; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090880 - 1 Sep 2016

Viewed by 2983

Abstract

The authors wish to correct their afﬁliations in this paper [1] as follows:[...] Full article

15 pages, 5056 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Comprehensive Real-Time Indoor Air-Quality Level Indicator

by Jungho Kang¹ and Kwang-Il Hwang^2,*

¹ Department of Computer Science & Engineering, Soongsil University, Seoul 156-743, Korea

² Department of Embedded Systems Engineering, Incheon National University, Incheon 402-772, Korea

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 881; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090881 - 1 Sep 2016

Cited by 56 | Viewed by 11637

Abstract

The growing concern about Indoor Air-Quality has accelerated the development of small, low-cost air-quality monitoring systems. These systems are capable of monitoring various indoor air pollutants in real time, notifying users about the current air-quality status and gathering the information to the central [...] Read more.

The growing concern about Indoor Air-Quality has accelerated the development of small, low-cost air-quality monitoring systems. These systems are capable of monitoring various indoor air pollutants in real time, notifying users about the current air-quality status and gathering the information to the central server. However, most Internet of Things (IoT)-based air-quality monitoring systems numerically present the sensed value per pollutant, making it difficult for general users to identify how polluted the air is. Therefore, in this paper, we first introduce a tiny air-quality monitoring system that we developed and, based on the system, we also test the applicability of the comprehensive Air-Quality Index (AQI), which is widely used all over the world, in terms of its capacity for a comprehensive indoor air-quality indication. We also develop design considerations for an IoT-based air-quality monitoring system and propose a real-time comprehensive indoor air-quality level indication method, which effectively copes with dynamic changes and is efficient in terms of processing and memory overhead. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced IT based Future Sustainable Computing)

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12 pages, 2665 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Numerical Analysis of the Factors Influencing a Vertical U-Tube Ground Heat Exchanger

by Shangyuan Chen, Jinfeng Mao^*, Xu Han^*, Chaofeng Li

and Liyao Liu

Institute of Military Environmental Teaching and Research, PLA University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210007, China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 882; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090882 - 1 Sep 2016

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4667

Abstract

The development of a three-dimensional, unsteady state model, which couples heat transfer with groundwater seepage for a vertical U-tube ground heat exchanger (GHE) is presented. The influence of underground soil thermal properties, grout materials, inlet water temperature and velocity, and groundwater seepage on [...] Read more.

The development of a three-dimensional, unsteady state model, which couples heat transfer with groundwater seepage for a vertical U-tube ground heat exchanger (GHE) is presented. The influence of underground soil thermal properties, grout materials, inlet water temperature and velocity, and groundwater seepage on heat transfer in the GHE is examined. The results indicate that before the heat in the borehole is saturated, the heat flux in the GHE is directly proportional to the thermal conductivity coefficient of the grout materials. The radius of the thermal effect of the GHE and the recovery rate of the temperature in the soil are also proportional to the thermal diffusion coefficient of the soil. In cooling mode, the increase of the inlet water temperature of the GHE results in enhanced heat transfer. However, this may cause issues with heat buildup. The increase of the inlet water velocity in the GHE enhances heat convection in the tube. The effect of thermal-seepage coupling in groundwater can reduce the accumulated heat, thus resulting in the effective enhancement of the heat transfer in the GHE. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Energy Storage Applications for Renewable Generation Support)

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18 pages, 3345 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluating Thermal and Lighting Energy Performance of Shading Devices on Kinetic Façades

by Dong-Seok Lee¹, Sung-Han Koo², Yoon-Bok Seong^3,* and Jae-Hun Jo^1,*

¹ Department of Architectural Engineering, Inha University, Incheon 22212, Korea

² BRE Global, Bucknalls Lane, Garston, Watford WD25 9XX, UK

³ Construction & Energy Business Division, Korea Conformity Laboratories, Seoul 08503, Korea

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 883; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090883 - 1 Sep 2016

Cited by 36 | Viewed by 14211

Abstract

In order to evaluate the thermal and lighting energy performance of a kinetic façade using external movable shading devices, it is important to consider the operation of the shading devices since it can influence the performance significantly. This study proposes a calculation methodology [...] Read more.

In order to evaluate the thermal and lighting energy performance of a kinetic façade using external movable shading devices, it is important to consider the operation of the shading devices since it can influence the performance significantly. This study proposes a calculation methodology which assesses the performance of the movable shading devices with the consideration of the movements of the shading devices. Calculation methods were derived by which solar heat gain, lighting energy requirement, and the primary energy equivalent to heating and cooling energy requirement can be obtained. Using the calculation methods, the optimal operation scenario for the movable shading devices was presented which can minimize the solar heat gain and lighting energy requirement. A comparison case study was carried out to demonstrate the use of the control strategies for a building where a drop awning was installed. The results showed that the optimal operation scenario suggested in this study can potentially deliver effective energy performance. The limitation and applicability of the suggested method were also discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Energy Sustainability)

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19 pages, 804 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Eco-Labeled Seafood: Determinants for (Blue) Green Consumption

by Malin Jonell^1,2,*, Beatrice Crona^3,4, Kelsey Brown¹, Patrik Rönnbäck² and Max Troell^3,5

¹ Department of Ecology, Environment and Plant Sciences, Stockholm University, SE-106 91 Stockholm, Sweden

² Department of Earth Sciences, Uppsala University, Villav. 2, SE-752 36 Uppsala, Sweden

³ Stockholm Resilience Centre, Stockholm University, SE-106 91 Stockholm, Sweden

⁴ Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, Box 50005, SE-104 05 Stockholm, Sweden

⁵ Beijer Institute, Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences, Box 50005, SE-104 05 Stockholm, Sweden

¹ Norges Sjömatsråd, Stockholm, Sweden

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 884; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090884 - 2 Sep 2016

Cited by 62 | Viewed by 11757

Abstract

Eco-certification has become an increasingly popular market-based tool in the endeavor to reduce negative environmental impacts from fisheries and aquaculture. In this study, we aimed at investigating which psychological consumer characteristics influence demand for eco-labeled seafood by correlating consumers’ stated purchasing of eco-labeled [...] Read more.

Eco-certification has become an increasingly popular market-based tool in the endeavor to reduce negative environmental impacts from fisheries and aquaculture. In this study, we aimed at investigating which psychological consumer characteristics influence demand for eco-labeled seafood by correlating consumers’ stated purchasing of eco-labeled seafood to nine variables: environmental knowledge regarding seafood production, familiarity with eco-labels, subjective knowledge, pro-environmental self-identification, sense of personal responsibility, concern for negative environmental impacts from seafood production, perceived consumer effectiveness, gender and education. Questionnaires were distributed to consumers in Stockholm, Sweden, and the data were tested with multiple regression analysis using linear modeling and model averaging (n = 371). Two variables were the best predictors of stated purchasing of eco-labeled seafood: (i) recognition and understanding of eco-labels for seafood (Marine Stewardship Council, Fish for Life, Aquaculture Stewardship Council and KRAV); and (ii) concern for negative environmental impacts associated with seafood production. Meanwhile, consumer environmental knowledge was a weaker predictor. Results from this study suggest that strengthening the emotional component of consumer decision-making and improving the level of consumer familiarity with seafood eco-labels could stimulate more pro-environmental seafood consumption. Full article

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13 pages, 3060 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of the Urbanization of Wetlands on Microclimate: A Case Study of Xixi Wetland, Hangzhou, China

by Wei Zhang^1,*

, Yubi Zhu² and Jingang Jiang³

¹ School of Geographical Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China

² College of Economics and Management, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China

³ Ocean College, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 885; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090885 - 5 Sep 2016

Cited by 38 | Viewed by 8979

Abstract

Urbanization affects the microclimate and forms a unique urban climate environment. To deepen the understanding on the microclimate regulation function of an urban wetland, this study analyzed the influence of a suburb wetland’s urbanization process on the local climate through contrast observations of [...] Read more.

Urbanization affects the microclimate and forms a unique urban climate environment. To deepen the understanding on the microclimate regulation function of an urban wetland, this study analyzed the influence of a suburb wetland’s urbanization process on the local climate through contrast observations of the protected wetland area and the former wetland area in Xixi wetland. Results show that the urbanization of suburb wetlands has an impact on the local microclimate and decreases human comfort, and that wetlands can effectively regulate the microclimate. The fragmentation of urban wetlands caused by urban sprawl decreases their microclimate regulation function, a decrease that is particularly evident in summer. Additionally, wetlands stabilize the microclimate in all seasons. For every land cover type in wetlands, vegetation has a better stabilizing effect on temperature, whereas a water body has a better stabilizing effect on wind speed and humidity. Meteorological conditions also affect the microclimate regulation function of wetlands. Temperature, humidity, atmospheric pressure, and wind speed influence the cooling function of urban wetlands, while solar radiation modifies the humidifying function of urban wetlands. Full article

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

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11 pages, 2446 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How to Promote Sustainable Relationships between Heritage Conservation and Community, Based on a Survey

by Fang Han^1,*, Zhaoping Yang¹, Hui Shi¹

, Qun Liu^1,2 and Geoffrey Wall³

¹ Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Urumqi 830011, China

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

³ Department of Geography and Environmental Management, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 886; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090886 - 2 Sep 2016

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 8676

Abstract

Community residents have a strong stake in a local heritage site and may be an important force in its conservation, management and development. Positive relationships between the heritage site and community residents can promote its protection. A questionnaire survey was conducted with local [...] Read more.

Community residents have a strong stake in a local heritage site and may be an important force in its conservation, management and development. Positive relationships between the heritage site and community residents can promote its protection. A questionnaire survey was conducted with local residents of Bogda World Natural Heritage, Xinjiang, China, to assess their perceptions towards the World Natural Heritage, and their attitudes towards participation in heritage conservation. The local residents have made positive contributions to the conservation of heritage resource in the past several years. However, because of the asymmetry between responsibility for conservation and benefit sharing, the authors recommend that a “Community co-management framework” should be established to mobilize residents to participate in heritage conservation. Furthermore, participatory approaches and communication mechanisms are suggested to promote sustainable relationships between community development and heritage conservation. The empirical study can be used as an input to policy making and management for sustainable conservation, and the study contributes to the literature related to community participation at heritage sites. Full article

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

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8 pages, 1933 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Fertilization on Ramie (Boehmeria nivea L.) Growth, Yield and Fiber Quality

by Sana Ullah, Lijun Liu, Sumera Anwar, Xu Tuo, Shahbaz Khan, Bo Wang and Dingxiang Peng^*

MOA Key Laboratory of Crop Ecophysiology and Farming System in the Middle Reaches of the Yangtze River, College of Plant Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 887; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090887 - 2 Sep 2016

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 7364

Abstract

Ramie (Boehmeria nivea L.) is one of the most important sources of natural fiber. The yield and fiber quality of ramie are affected by mineral nutrients, particularly nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). In the present study, we aimed to quantify [...] Read more.

Ramie (Boehmeria nivea L.) is one of the most important sources of natural fiber. The yield and fiber quality of ramie are affected by mineral nutrients, particularly nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). In the present study, we aimed to quantify the influence of N, P, and K fertilizers on growth, yield, and fiber quality of ramie. To this end, ramie plants grown under different fertilizer treatments (no fertilizer, N, P, K, NP, NK, PK, and NPK) were evaluated for differences in plant height, stem diameter, stem fresh and dry weights, number of stems, fiber fresh and dry weights, fiber quality (breaking strength, elongation, and diameter), and total N and P content. Across all fertilizer treatments, NPK, followed by NK, had the greatest significant effect for increasing plant growth, yield, and fiber quality as compared with control plants, whereas P application had the least effect. Plants fertilized with NPK showed strong positive correlations among fiber yield and quality traits with morphological parameters such as plant height, biomass, stem diameter, and numbers of stem. The p correlation of fiber breaking strength with stem diameter (r² = 0.79), stem biomass (r² = 0.88), N contents (r² = 0.91) and P contents (r² = 0.83) indicated that the combined application of NPK (150, 75,150 kg·ha⁻¹) significantly enhances yield and fiber quality in ramie. Thus, it is suggested that optimum fertilization is important for sustainable ramie production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Agriculture)

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16 pages, 1407 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Potential and Pitfalls of Frugal Innovation in the Water Sector: Insights from Tanzania to Global Value Chains

by Anne Hyvärinen^*, Marko Keskinen and Olli Varis

Water & Development Research Group, Aalto University, P.O. Box 15200, FI-00076 Aalto, Finland

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 888; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090888 - 2 Sep 2016

Cited by 40 | Viewed by 10567

Abstract

Water is perhaps the most intertwined, and basic, resource on our planet. Nevertheless, billions face water-related challenges, varying from lack of water and sanitation services to hindrances on livelihoods and socio-economic activities. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) recognize the broad role that water [...] Read more.

Water is perhaps the most intertwined, and basic, resource on our planet. Nevertheless, billions face water-related challenges, varying from lack of water and sanitation services to hindrances on livelihoods and socio-economic activities. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) recognize the broad role that water has for development, and also call for the private sector to participate in solving these numerous development challenges. This study looks into the potential of frugal innovations as a means for the private sector to engage in water-related development challenges. Our findings, based on a case study and literature review, indicate that frugal innovations have potential in this front due to their focus on affordable, no-frills solutions. However, we also recognize pitfalls related to frugal innovations in the water sector. Although the innovations would, in principle, be sustainable, deficiencies related to scale and institutional structures may emerge. These deficiencies are linked to the importance of water in a variety of processes, both natural and manmade, as well as to the complexity of global production-consumption value chains. Increasing the innovations’ sustainability impact requires broader acknowledgement of the underlying value chains and their diverse links with water. A holistic view on water can mitigate water-related business risks while increasing wellbeing on an individual level. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Development Goals: A Call for Frugal Innovations for a Resource-Scarce World)

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10 pages, 4395 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Status of Nature Reserves in Inner Mongolia, China

by Wenjing Ma^1,2,†, Gang Feng^1,† and Qing Zhang^1,*

¹ Department of Ecology, College of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot 010021, China

² Grassland Research Institute of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hohhot 010010, China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 889; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090889 - 2 Sep 2016

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 7106

Abstract

Nature reserves are an important component of the strategy to halt biodiversity loss caused by habitat fragmentation and loss, climate change and other anthropogenic factors. In the past decades, 184 nature reserves were designed for biodiversity conservation in Inner Mongolia. However, no studies [...] Read more.

Nature reserves are an important component of the strategy to halt biodiversity loss caused by habitat fragmentation and loss, climate change and other anthropogenic factors. In the past decades, 184 nature reserves were designed for biodiversity conservation in Inner Mongolia. However, no studies have quantified the general condition of these reserves. In this paper, we summarized the history, distribution and effects of human interference on these reserves in Inner Mongolia. The results showed that: (1) The total area of nature reserves is 138,047 km² in Inner Mongolia. This constitutes 11.7% of its geographic area, which is lower than the national (14.9%), and the global average (13%). These reserves are mainly forest (68) and inland wetland (31) ecosystems. However, in terms of area, desert (40,948 km²), forest (26,141 km²) and inland wetland ecosystems (25,540 km²) are predominant; (2) nature reserves have increased rapidly in number and area since 1995, especially at the province, city, and county levels; (3) the evergreen coniferous (26.4%), wetland (20.2%) and deciduous needle-leaf forests (19.6%) were sufficiently protected according to the 2020 target of 17% set by the Convention on Biological Diversity, while the other eight natural vegetation types, i.e., evergreen broad-leaved forests (14.2%), shrubs (13.5%), meadow vegetation (12.5%), typical steppe (10.2%), open forests (8.9%), desert vegetation (6.2%), desert steppe (2.9%), and sand vegetation (1.6%) were insufficiently protected; (4) the effects of human activities on these vegetation types were different. Open forest, sand vegetation, shrub, typical steppe, meadow steppe, evergreen broad-leaved, and evergreen coniferous forest were more affected than other vegetation types. Our results indicated that a more scientific approach is needed to effectively manage nature reserves in Inner Mongolia. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Agriculture)

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15 pages, 705 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Public Pension on Household Consumption: Evidence from China’s Survey Data

by Qing Zhao^1,*

, Zhen Li¹ and Taichang Chen²

¹ School of Public Administration and Policy, Renmin University of China, Beijing 100872, China

² China Research Center on Aging, Beijing 100054, China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 890; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090890 - 3 Sep 2016

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 10694

Abstract

It is of vital importance to examine the relationship between pensions and household consumption/saving because this forms a link between social policy and economic development. Based on theories of absolute income, permanent income, and the life-cycle hypothesis, this paper constructs panel data models [...] Read more.

It is of vital importance to examine the relationship between pensions and household consumption/saving because this forms a link between social policy and economic development. Based on theories of absolute income, permanent income, and the life-cycle hypothesis, this paper constructs panel data models to investigate the effect of public pension participation and benefit level on household consumption. Evidence from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) 2011 and 2013 survey data shows that, compared with those not covered by any public pension program, individuals enrolled in the public pension system tend to consume more within respective income-quantile groups. Moreover, for the retired population, we found lower income groups have a higher marginal propensity to consume than higher income groups. In other words, lower income groups are likely to spend a higher proportion of any increase in pension benefit on consumption than higher income groups. To achieve a virtuous cycle between public pension, household consumption, and economic growth and, thus, a social-economically sustainable development, we suggest that China’s pension system should be extended to cover all in the lowest income group, and the benefit level should be increased gradually to secure a stable expectation for the future and motivate current consumption. Full article

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15 pages, 2703 KiB

Open AccessProject Report

Sustainable Digitalization of Cultural Heritage—Report on Initiatives and Projects in Brandenburg, Germany

by Ulf Preuss

University of Applied Sciences Potsdam, 14469 Potsdam, Germany

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 891; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090891 - 3 Sep 2016

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 11622

Abstract

While digitalization opens up new possibilities for cultural heritage and tourism it also brings new challenges. Initiatives such as “Europeana”, an internet portal for cultural heritage within the European Union, support institutions with the display of their collections. National initiatives complement these efforts. [...] Read more.

While digitalization opens up new possibilities for cultural heritage and tourism it also brings new challenges. Initiatives such as “Europeana”, an internet portal for cultural heritage within the European Union, support institutions with the display of their collections. National initiatives complement these efforts. This report describes initiatives and projects for generating and sustaining digital cultural heritage resources in the German state of Brandenburg. With the cultural heritage distributed throughout the state and managed by hundreds of institutions, the task of digitalization is a common challenge for all of these institutions. Digitalization and digital sustainability is limited by shortcomings in areas of human resources, knowledge and IT infrastructure. In light of these limitations, the cultural heritage community addresses challenges with an interdisciplinary approach. It is based on a collaborative model with four levels: (1) a statewide strategy of an interdisciplinary task force; (2) cooperative projects; (3) cooperative IT infrastructure; and (4) an overall coordination. The priorities are: (1) creating and displaying digital content; (2) establishing best practices and workflows; (3) developing cooperative infrastructures for sustainment. Since 2012, several projects have been implemented based on that collaborative model. More than 50 participating institutions benefited from cooperative planning, managing, digitizing and digital presentation. With regard to the third priority, the task force’s next step is finding solutions for digital preservation. Considering the lack of funding and resources in the cultural heritage sector, options for creating and sustaining digital resources are limited. Digital cultural heritage requires interdisciplinary thinking, cooperative initiatives, reliable IT infrastructures and additional funding. Full article

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

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17 pages, 1918 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Infrared Human Posture Recognition Method for Monitoring in Smart Homes Based on Hidden Markov Model

by Xingquan Cai^*, Yufeng Gao, Mengxuan Li and Wei Song^*

School of Computer Science, North China University of Technology, Beijing 100144, China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 892; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090892 - 3 Sep 2016

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 6212

Abstract

Smart homes are the most important sustainability technology of our future. In smart homes, intelligent monitoring is an important component. However, there is currently no effective method for human posture detection for monitoring in smart homes. So, in this paper, we provide an [...] Read more.

Smart homes are the most important sustainability technology of our future. In smart homes, intelligent monitoring is an important component. However, there is currently no effective method for human posture detection for monitoring in smart homes. So, in this paper, we provide an infrared human posture recognition method for monitoring in sustainable smart homes based on a Hidden Markov Model (HMM). We also trained the model parameters. Our model can be used to effectively classify human postures. Compared with the traditional HMM, this paper puts forward a method to solve the problem of human posture recognition. This paper tries to establish a model of training data according to the characteristics of human postures. Accordingly, this complex problem can be decomposed. Thereby, it can reduce computational complexity. In practical applications, it can improve system performance. Through experimentation in a real environment, the model can identify the different body movement postures by observing the human posture sequence, matching identification and classification process. The results show that the proposed method is feasible and effective for human posture recognition. In addition, for human movement target detection, this paper puts forward a human movement target detection method based on a Gaussian mixture model. For human object contour extraction, this paper puts forward a human object contour extraction method based on the Sobel edge detection operator. Here, we have presented an experiment for human posture recognition, and have also examined our cloud-based monitoring system for elderly people using our method. We have used our method in our actual projects, and the experimental results show that our method is feasible and effective. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced IT based Future Sustainable Computing)

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15 pages, 1853 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Is Sustainability Compatible with Profitability? An Empirical Analysis on Family Farming Activity

by Laura Piedra-Muñoz^*

, Emilio Galdeano-Gómez

and Juan C. Pérez-Mesa

Department of Economics and Business, University of Almería (Agrifood Campus of International Excellence, ceiA3), Ctra. Sacramento s/n, 04120 Almería, Spain

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 893; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090893 - 3 Sep 2016

Cited by 37 | Viewed by 7741

Abstract

Sustainability is a social concern and a new strategic factor for productive and economic viability. Nevertheless, research on this subject in a holistic approach is limited, and even to a lesser extent when dealing with family farms. This paper analyzes the impact of [...] Read more.

Sustainability is a social concern and a new strategic factor for productive and economic viability. Nevertheless, research on this subject in a holistic approach is limited, and even to a lesser extent when dealing with family farms. This paper analyzes the impact of different aspects of sustainability (socio-economic characteristics, environmentally respectful practices, and innovation) on profitability. The data collection instruments include a survey questionnaire on farming in Almería, a province in Southeast Spain, and the methodology followed involves a two-step regression model. The main results show how several socio-economic and environmental-innovation features of family farms have positive effects on their economic performance. Among others, profitability increases when there are better educated and younger family farm decision-makers; the farm is specialized and supported by more efficient cooperatives: and, particularly, when the family farm displays greater concern for environmental practices and better disposition towards agroecological innovation. Full article

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13 pages, 1723 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Battery’s Model Accuracy on Size Optimization Process of a Standalone Photovoltaic System

by Ibrahim Anwar Ibrahim¹, Tamer Khatib^2,* and Azah Mohamed¹

¹ Department of Electrical, Electronic and Systems Engineering, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Malaysia

² Energy Engineering and Environment Department, An-Najah National University, Nablus 97300, Palestine

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 894; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090894 - 3 Sep 2016

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4494

Abstract

This paper presents a comparative study between two proposed size optimization methods based on two battery’s models. Simple and complex battery models are utilized to optimally size a standalone photovoltaic system. Hourly meteorological data are used in this research for a specific site. [...] Read more.

This paper presents a comparative study between two proposed size optimization methods based on two battery’s models. Simple and complex battery models are utilized to optimally size a standalone photovoltaic system. Hourly meteorological data are used in this research for a specific site. Results show that by using the complex model of the battery, the cost of the system is reduced by 31%. In addition, by using the complex battery model, the sizes of the PV array and the battery are reduced by 5.6% and 30%, respectively, as compared to the case which is based on the simple battery model. This shows the importance of utilizing accurate battery models in sizing standalone photovoltaic systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Electric Power Systems Research)

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15 pages, 2510 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Temporal Effects of Environmental Characteristics on Urban Air Temperature: The Influence of the Sky View Factor

by Jaehyun Ha, Sugie Lee^*

and Cheolyeong Park

Department of Urban Planning and Engineering, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-ro, Seongdong-gu, Seoul 04763, Korea

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 895; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090895 - 5 Sep 2016

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 5426

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between air temperature and urban environment indices, mainly focusing on sky view factor (SVF) in Seoul, Korea. We use air temperature data observed from 295 automatic weather stations (AWS) during the day and night in Seoul. We conduct [...] Read more.

This study examines the relationship between air temperature and urban environment indices, mainly focusing on sky view factor (SVF) in Seoul, Korea. We use air temperature data observed from 295 automatic weather stations (AWS) during the day and night in Seoul. We conduct a spatial regression analysis to capture the effect of spatial autocorrelation in our data and identify changes in the effects of SVF on air temperature, while conducting the regression model for each dataset according to the floor area ratio (FAR). The findings of our study indicate that SVF negatively affects air temperature during both day and night when other effects are controlled through spatial regression models. Moreover, we address the environmental indices associated with day-time and night-time air temperatures and identify the changing effects of SVF on air temperature according to the areal floor area ratio of the analysis datasets. This study contributes to the literature on the relationship between SVF and air temperature in high-density cities and suggests policy implications for improving urban thermal environments with regard to urban design and planning. Full article

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

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20 pages, 5003 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Parametric Optimization Approach to Mitigating the Urban Heat Island Effect: A Case Study in Ancona, Italy

by Roberta Cocci Grifoni^*

, Rosalba D’Onofrio

, Massimo Sargolini

and Mariano Pierantozzi

School of Architecture and Design “E. Vittoria”, University of Camerino, Camerino 62032, Italy

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 896; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090896 - 6 Sep 2016

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 5584

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to identify a parameterization method that considers existing connections and relationships between traditional indicators of environmental sustainability as a step in combating climate change via urban strategies. A typical Mediterranean city (Ancona, Italy) is investigated with a [...] Read more.

The aim of this paper is to identify a parameterization method that considers existing connections and relationships between traditional indicators of environmental sustainability as a step in combating climate change via urban strategies. A typical Mediterranean city (Ancona, Italy) is investigated with a multi-objective optimization platform called modeFrontier, which uses Pareto optimality. This concept formalizes the trade-off between a given set of mutually contradicting objectives, such as high thermal comfort and low energy consumption, to identify a set of Pareto solutions. A solution is Pareto optimal when it is not possible to improve one objective without deteriorating at least one of the others. The optimization process employs given constraints (for example, meteorological scenarios with high temperature and low winds or morphological building parameters), custom procedural algorithms (recursive algorithms to generate the set of all non-dominated objective parameters), and genetic algorithms (inspired by the natural selection process) to examine a wide urban space and identify interesting relationships among relevant variables for typical summer scenarios. Multi-objective optimizers involve many evaluations of two objectives (i.e., energy consumption and thermal comfort in this study) while considering many analytical constraints. This approach entails a considerably more exhaustive search of environmental variables that can help the urban planning process to mitigate the urban heat island (UHI) effect. Three quantitative metrics related to urban morphology and local climate conditions, as well as a thermal comfort indicator (the predicted mean vote), are defined and applied to Ancona to examine the potential for new sustainability in urban design. The results show that two parameters examined—compacity and a building-scale energy indicator—can offer insight when designing comfortable cities, while a citywide energy indicator shows that it is more difficult to find optimal solutions when dealing with the city as a whole. The research serves as a proof-of-concept and the possibility of identifying some local strategies in order to combat the UHI is verified. Full article

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

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18 pages, 240 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Consumer Behavior and Sustainable Development in China: The Role of Behavioral Sciences in Environmental Policymaking

by Fernando Dias Simões^1,2

¹ Room 2022, Faculty of Law, University of Macau, E32, Avenida da Universidade, Taipa, Macau, China

² gLAWcal—Global Law Initiatives for Sustainable Development, 98 Hornchurch Road, Hornchurch, Essex RM11 1JS, UK

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 897; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090897 - 6 Sep 2016

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 9260

Abstract

China’s astonishing economic development over the last decades has produced a momentous impact on the country’s environmental equilibrium. Chinese officials are now confronted with the need to tackle environmental problems without disrupting the country’s development. The Chinese government seems keen on striking a [...] Read more.

China’s astonishing economic development over the last decades has produced a momentous impact on the country’s environmental equilibrium. Chinese officials are now confronted with the need to tackle environmental problems without disrupting the country’s development. The Chinese government seems keen on striking a balance between these two apparently contradictory goals by promoting the concept of “ecological civilization”, a notion that emphasizes the importance of individual behavior. Over the last few years, environmental policymaking worldwide has been giving a lower profile to the role of the State and placing increasing responsibility for many environmental issues on citizens/consumers. Individuals are increasingly perceived as agents for environmental change and their behaviors are subject to tighter scrutiny. Due to the emergence of a consumer society in China, individual behaviors are increasingly a source of environmental problems and a key component of efficient and long-lasting solutions. Accordingly, Chinese policymakers should recognize the environmental significance of individual behaviors and look beyond traditional policy tools. This article argues that Behavioral Sciences can offer important lessons and help in designing new strategies that can speak directly to the Chinese people as a source of environmental harm, thus reducing their impact on the environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Energy and Environmental Protection: The Role of Science in Society)

14 pages, 955 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Factors Promoting Environmental Responsibility in European SMEs: The Effect on Performance

by Francisco J. Sáez-Martínez

, Cristina Díaz-García^* and Ángela González-Moreno

Facultad de Ciencias Económicas y Empresariales, Plaza de la Universidad 1, Albacete 02071, Spain

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 898; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090898 - 5 Sep 2016

Cited by 88 | Viewed by 12584

Abstract

There is increasing social and political awareness of the importance of developing environmental responsibility at a corporate level. When focusing on issues of responsibility, large companies are frequently perceived to be more responsible for driving climate change and resource depletion. However, small and [...] Read more.

There is increasing social and political awareness of the importance of developing environmental responsibility at a corporate level. When focusing on issues of responsibility, large companies are frequently perceived to be more responsible for driving climate change and resource depletion. However, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) contribute significantly to the use of resources such as material and energy and produce approximately 64% of the pollution in Europe. Drawing on evidence from “The Eurobarometer 381 Survey on SMEs, Resource Efficiency and Green Markets”, we analyze the environmental responsibility of European SMEs, studying their compliance with environmental legislation and how several factors drive environmental orientation among SMEs. Our sample consists of 3647 SMEs operating in 38 countries. Only around a fifth of the firms go beyond environmental regulations, showing the highest levels of environmental responsibility. We conduct OLS regressions to analyze the factors that affect a positive environmental attitude among European SMEs (internal drivers being more significant than external ones) and then, to observe the positive effect of environmental responsibility and firm’s experience in offering green services/products on performance, although a conjoint effect was not found. Implications for practitioners, academics, and policy-makers are outlined. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Eco-innovation and Competitiveness)

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16 pages, 244 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Source Credibility on Consumer Acceptance of Genetically Modified Foods in China

by Mingyang Zhang¹

, Chao Chen^2,3, Wuyang Hu⁴, Lijun Chen² and Jintao Zhan^2,*

¹ School of Economics and Management, Nanjing University of Information Science & Technology, Nanjing 210044, China

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

³ Center of Agriculture’s Genetically Modified Organisms’ Safety Management and Policy Research Organization of Nanjing Agricultural University (AGGMO), Nanjing 210095, China

⁴ Department of Agricultural Economics, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506, USA

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 899; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090899 - 6 Sep 2016

Cited by 39 | Viewed by 7209

Abstract

This paper examines the reasoning mechanism behind the consumer acceptance of genetically modified foods (GMFs) in China, and investigates influence of source credibility on consumer acceptance of GMFs. Based on the original Persuasion Model—which was developed by Carl Hovland, an American psychologist and [...] Read more.

This paper examines the reasoning mechanism behind the consumer acceptance of genetically modified foods (GMFs) in China, and investigates influence of source credibility on consumer acceptance of GMFs. Based on the original Persuasion Model—which was developed by Carl Hovland, an American psychologist and pioneer in the study of communication and its effect on attitudes and beliefs—we conducted a survey using multistage sampling from 1167 urban residents, which were proportionally selected from six cities in three economic regions (south, central, and north) in the Jiangsu province through face to face interviews. Mixed-process regression that could correct endogeneity and ordered probit model were used to test the impact of source credibility on consumers’ acceptance of GMFs. Our major finding was that consumer acceptance of GMFs is affected by such factors as information source credibility, general attitudes, gender, and education levels. The reliability of biotechnology research institutes, government offices devoted to management of GM organisms (GMOs), and GMO technological experts have expedited urban consumer acceptance of GM soybean oil. However, public acceptance can also decrease as faith in the environmental organization. We also found that ignorance of the endogeneity of above mentioned source significantly undervalued its effect on consumers’ acceptance. Moreover, the remaining three sources (non-GMO experts, food companies, and anonymous information found on the Internet) had almost no effect on consumer acceptance. Surprisingly, the more educated people in our survey were more skeptical towards GMFs. Our results contribute to the behavioral literature on consumer attitudes toward GMFs by developing a reasoning mechanism determining consumer acceptance of GMFs. Particularly, this paper quantitatively studied the influence of different source credibility on consumer acceptance of GMFs by using mixed-process regression to correct endogeneity in information sources, while taking into consideration of information asymmetry and specific preference in the use of information sources. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Land and Food Policy)

13 pages, 255 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Public Willingness to Pay for Transforming Jogyesa Buddhist Temple in Seoul, Korea into a Cultural Tourism Resource

by Seul-Ye Lim

, Ho-Young 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 2016, 8(9), 900; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090900 - 6 Sep 2016

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 5867

Abstract

The Jogyesa Buddhist Temple (JBT), located in Seoul, Korea, is the chief temple of the Jogye Order, which represents Korean Buddhism. The Seoul government plans to transform the JBT into a cultural tourism resource and a historical site. This study attempts to analyze [...] Read more.

The Jogyesa Buddhist Temple (JBT), located in Seoul, Korea, is the chief temple of the Jogye Order, which represents Korean Buddhism. The Seoul government plans to transform the JBT into a cultural tourism resource and a historical site. This study attempts to analyze the willingness to pay (WTP) for implementing the transformation, which includes building a new shopping arcade for Buddhist culture and tourism, constructing a museum for the teaching of history and an experience center for Korean traditional culture in the precincts of JBT, and making an open space for domestic and/or foreign visitors. To this end, the study looks into the WTP for the implementation, reporting on a contingent valuation (CV) survey that was conducted with 500 Seoul households. The single-bounded dichotomous choice CV model and a spike model were applied to derive the WTP responses and analyze the WTP data with zero observations, respectively. The mean yearly WTP was computed to be KRW 7129 (USD 6.30) per household for the next five years, with the estimate being statistically significant at the 1% level. Expanding the value to the Seoul population gives us KRW 25.4 billion (USD 22.5 million) per year. The present value of the total WTP amounts to KRW 114.6 billion (USD 101.3 million) using a social discount rate of 5.5%. We can conclude that Seoul households are ready to shoulder some of the financial burden of implementing the transformation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Management in Tourism and Hospitality)

17 pages, 522 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Patent-Enhancing Strategies by Industry in Korea Using a Data Envelopment Analysis

by BangRae Lee^1,2

, DongKyu Won², Jun-Hwan Park², LeeNam Kwon², Young-Ho Moon² and Han-Joon Kim^1,*

¹ Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, The Graduate School of the University of Seoul, 163 Seoulsiripdaero, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02504, Korea

² Korea Institute of Science and Technology Information, 66 Hoegiro, Dongdaemun-gu, Seoul 02456, Korea

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 901; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090901 - 6 Sep 2016

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 6844

Abstract

Global competition has increased the importance of patents as a means to protect and strengthen technology and competitiveness. The purposes of our study were to identify what industries in South Korea are strong or weak in terms of patent applications and to identify [...] Read more.

Global competition has increased the importance of patents as a means to protect and strengthen technology and competitiveness. The purposes of our study were to identify what industries in South Korea are strong or weak in terms of patent applications and to identify some strategies to enable weak industries to become strong. For this, we gathered statistics on seven variables as follows: number of businesses, number of employees, research and development investment, number of full-time equivalent researchers, number of research institutions, domestic market size, and number of patent applications. Especially, to compare the ratio of patent applications and the ratio of domestic market size across industries, the industries were classified into the following three categories: strong-, weak-, and no-patent. Furthermore, data envelopment analysis (DEA) suggested some strategies to strengthen patent applications for each industry. In the DEA analysis, the number of patent applications was used as the output variable and the other six variables were used as input variables. Our study will particularly assist industries where protection by patents is an important aspect of their businesses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability and Open Innovation Capabilities of Firms for Value Chain Development)

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15 pages, 564 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of the Post-Olympics Driving Restrictions on Air Quality in Beijing

by Hua Ma^1,2,* and Guizhen He³

¹ State key laboratory of petroleum resources and prospecting, China University of Petroleum, Beijing 102249, China

² Department of Geochemistry and Environmental Sciences, China University of Petroleum, Beijing 102249, China

³ State Key Laboratory of Urban and Regional Ecology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 902; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090902 - 6 Sep 2016

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 7507

Abstract

To reduce congestion and air pollution, 20% driving restriction, a license plate-based traffic control measure, has been implemented in Beijing since October 2008. While the long-term impacts of this policy remain controversial, it is important to understand how and why the policy effects [...] Read more.

To reduce congestion and air pollution, 20% driving restriction, a license plate-based traffic control measure, has been implemented in Beijing since October 2008. While the long-term impacts of this policy remain controversial, it is important to understand how and why the policy effects of driving restrictions change over time. In this paper, the short- and long-run effects of the 20% driving restrictions in Beijing and the key factors shaping the effects are analyzed using daily PM₁₀ pollution data. The results showed that in the short run, 20% driving restriction could effectively reduce ambient PM₁₀ levels. However, this positive effect rapidly faded away within a year due to long-term behavioral responses of residents. A modified 20% restriction, designed to replace the original 20% restriction system since April 2009, which is less stringent and provides more possibility for intertemporal driving substitution, has shown some positive influence on air quality over the long run comparing with that under the original policy design. Temporarily, the more stringent the driving restriction was, the better effects it would have on air quality. In the long-run, however, the policy was likely to cause a vicious circle, and more stringent policy might induce stronger negative incentives which would result in even worse policy effects. Lessons learned from study of the effects of driving restrictions in Beijing will help other major cities in China and abroad to use driving restrictions more prudently and effectively in the future. Decision-makers should carefully consider the pros and cons of a transport policy and conduct the ex-ante and ex-post evaluations on it. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Air Pollution Monitoring and Sustainable Development)

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16 pages, 1858 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Integrated Land Governance for Eco-Urbanization

by Zhan Wang^1,2,3, Xiangzheng Deng^2,3,* and Cecilia Wong⁴

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

² Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China

³ Center for Chinese Agricultural Policy, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China

⁴ Centre for Urban Policy Studies, School of Environment, Education and Development, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 903; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090903 - 7 Sep 2016

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 6556

Abstract

“Eco-urbanization” emphasizes the importance of the ecological and environmental aspects of urbanization, which is to approach a balanced and healthy ecosystem through paying attention to the ecological intercorrelation of many factors. This involves balancing the stocks and utilization of multi-resources and balancing the [...] Read more.

“Eco-urbanization” emphasizes the importance of the ecological and environmental aspects of urbanization, which is to approach a balanced and healthy ecosystem through paying attention to the ecological intercorrelation of many factors. This involves balancing the stocks and utilization of multi-resources and balancing the efficiency and equality of multi-resources allocation to improve the quality of life for both urban and rural areas. In this dynamic process, resource allocations are carried out at different administrative levels, which have posed challenges of developing an integrated approach for eco-urbanization. Due to interaction and intersection of ecological activities among adjacent regions, a complex ecosystem tends to be in a fluid catchment area with dynamic flows of activities that transcend rigid administrative boundaries. The management of ecosystem sensitively impinges on the effectiveness of having an integrated approach of land governance in a comprehensive planning of urban–rural development. This will require scientific findings to support a policy-oriented management approach, which can take account of land use/cover changes (LUCC), ecosystem services and functions, interactive impacts of socio-economic transformation and climatic variations for optimum land use allocation to achieve the objective of ecosystem conservation and socio-economic development for both urban and rural area in a sustainable approach. Three aspects of development are identified as the importance of achieving advanced land governance for eco-urbanization. This paper aims to discuss these in turn: first, to find the adaptive measures in response to the uncertainty of climatic variation; second, to understand and research the scale and level of sustainable consumption for balancing resource saving and consumption; and third, to study ecological intercorrelation among multiple factors. We, therefore, argue that the far insight of “economic growth” via an ecologically-centered approach based on scientific solutions of all three aspects and intergovernmental consultations is important to support land governance for eco-urbanization and to strike a balance between environmental conservation and economic development. Full article

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10 pages, 210 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Technology for Production Scheduling of Jobs for Open Innovation and Sustainability with Fixed Processing Property on Parallel Machines

by Sang-Oh Shim¹

and KyungBae Park^2,*

¹ Department of Business Administration and Accounting, Hanbat National University, 16-1 Deokmyung-Dong, Yuseong-Gu, Daejeon 34158, Korea

² Department of Business Administration, Sangji University, 660 Woosan-Dong, Wonju-Si, Kangwon 26339, Korea

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 904; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090904 - 7 Sep 2016

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 4756

Abstract

In this paper, a technology for production scheduling is addressed for the sustainability and open innovation in a manufacturing business. Methodologies for scheduling jobs on parallel machines with the fixed processing property are devised. The fixed processing property, in which a group of [...] Read more.

In this paper, a technology for production scheduling is addressed for the sustainability and open innovation in a manufacturing business. Methodologies for scheduling jobs on parallel machines with the fixed processing property are devised. The fixed processing property, in which a group of specific jobs can be processed on the predetermined machine, can be found in most manufacturing systems due to the quality issues. Usually, even though parallel machines can process various types of jobs, the fixed processing is preferred as to not deteriorate products’ quality in real manufacturing systems. To minimize makespan of jobs, which is defined as the final completion time of all jobs, technology for production scheduling is developed. Several heuristic algorithms are devised for solving the problem and to evaluate performance of the suggested algorithms, a series of computational experiments is performed. Results show that better solutions are obtained by the suggested algorithms in a reasonable amount of computation time. That is, if the proposed technology is applied to the production scheduling system of a real manufacturing business, it can be expected that quantity and quality of the product will be enhanced since they are influenced by the production scheduling. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability and Open Innovation Capabilities of Firms for Value Chain Development)

21 pages, 2155 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Unpacking Resilience for Adaptation: Incorporating Practitioners’ Experiences through a Transdisciplinary Approach to the Case of Drought in Chile

by Paulina Aldunce^1,2,*

, Roxana Bórquez^1,3

, Carolina Adler⁴, Gustavo Blanco^1,5

and René Garreaud^1,6

¹ Center for Climate and Resilience Research, CR2, Blanco Encalada 2002, 4° Piso, Santiago 8370449, Región Metropolitana, Chile

² Department of Environmental Science and Natural Resources, University of Chile, Av. Santa Rosa 11.315, La Pintana, Santiago 8820808, Región Metropolitana, Chile

³ Department of Geography, King’s College London, Room K4.10, Fourth Floor, Strand Campus, London WC2R 2LS, UK

⁴ Institute for Environmental Decisions & Transdisciplinarity Lab, ETH Zurich, Universitätstrasse 22, Zurich 8092, Switzerland

⁵ Instituto de Historia y Ciencias Sociales, Campus Isla Teja, Universidad Austral de Chile, Casilla 567, Valdivia, Chile

⁶ Departamento de Geofísica, Universidad de Chile, Blanco Encalada 2002, 4° Piso, Santiago 8370449, Región Metropolitana, Chile

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 905; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090905 - 6 Sep 2016

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 8283

Abstract

Current debate on the implementation of resilience in addressing climatic impacts calls for more pragmatic means of reducing losses. In this study we aimed to generate context-specific knowledge about resilience factors for addressing the impacts of drought, with the expectation that bringing forth [...] Read more.

Current debate on the implementation of resilience in addressing climatic impacts calls for more pragmatic means of reducing losses. In this study we aimed to generate context-specific knowledge about resilience factors for addressing the impacts of drought, with the expectation that bringing forth experiential knowledge on how impacts were addressed in the past would shed light on what constitutes key resilience factors for practitioners working in urban contexts. The study was carried in three of the largest cities in Chile: Santiago, Concepción, and Valdivia. The analytical framework consists of urban and regional resilience incorporating transdisciplinary approaches applying the Resilience-Wheel tool, combined with participatory methods for the co-production of knowledge and qualitative content analysis of documents and workshops. Results show that key determinants of building resilience to drought were: improving education and access to information, enhancing preparedness, promoting technology transfer, reinforcing organizational linkages and collaboration, decentralizing governance, and encouraging citizen participation. The Resilience-Wheel was useful for navigating the conceptual complexity and diversity of perspectives inherent among social actors. The transdisciplinary approach allowed us to co-produce key knowledge that can be applied to build resilience in future, through a bottom-up approach that bridges the science–policy interface. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Resilience and Urban Sustainability: From Research to Practice)

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14 pages, 633 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Relationships between Earthworms and Soil Abiotic and Biotic Factors as a Tool in Sustainable Agricultural

by Radoslava Kanianska^1,*, Jana Jaďuďová¹, Jarmila Makovníková² and Miriam Kizeková³

¹ Faculty of Natural Sciences, Matej Bel University, Tajovského 40, Banská Bystrica 97401, Slovakia

² National Agricultural and Food Centre—Soil Science and Conservation Research Institute Bratislava, Regional Station Banská Bystrica, Mládežnícka 36, Banská Bystrica 97421, Slovakia

³ National Agricultural and Food Centre—Grassland and Mountain Agriculture Research Institute, Mládežnícka 36, Banská Bystrica 97421, Slovakia

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 906; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090906 - 7 Sep 2016

Cited by 47 | Viewed by 9726

Abstract

Earthworms are a major component of soil fauna communities. They influence soil chemical, biological, and physical processes and vice versa, their abundance and diversity are influenced by natural characteristics or land management practices. There is need to establish their characteristics and relations. In [...] Read more.

Earthworms are a major component of soil fauna communities. They influence soil chemical, biological, and physical processes and vice versa, their abundance and diversity are influenced by natural characteristics or land management practices. There is need to establish their characteristics and relations. In this study earthworm density (ED), body biomass (EB), and diversity in relation to land use (arable land—AL, permanent grasslands—PG), management, and selected abiotic (soil chemical, physical, climate related) and biotic (arthropod density and biomass, ground beetle density, carabid density) indicators were analysed at seven different study sites in Slovakia. On average, the density of earthworms was nearly twice as high in PG compared to AL. Among five soil types used as arable land, Fluvisols created the most suitable conditions for earthworm abundance and biomass. We recorded a significant correlation between ED, EB and soil moisture in arable land. In permanent grasslands, the main climate related factor was soil temperature. Relationships between earthworms and some chemical properties (pH, available nutrients) were observed only in arable land. Our findings indicate trophic interaction between earthworms and carabids in organically managed arable land. Comprehensive assessment of observed relationships can help in earthworm management to achieve sustainable agricultural systems. Full article

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10 pages, 1111 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Various Energy-Saving Approaches to a TFT-LCD Panel Fab

by Cheng-Kuang Chang¹, Tee Lin¹, Shih-Cheng Hu^1,*, Ben-Ran Fu^2,* and Jung-Sheng Hsu¹

¹ Department of Energy and Refrigerating Air-conditioning Engineering, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei 10608, Taiwan

² Department of Mechanical Engineering, Ming Chi University of Technology, New Taipei City 24301, Taiwan

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 907; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090907 - 7 Sep 2016

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 7172

Abstract

This study employs the developed simulation software for the energy use of the high-tech fabrication plant (hereafter referred as a fab) to examine six energy-saving approaches for the make-up air unit (MAU) of a TFT-LCD (thin-film transistor liquid-crystal display) fab. The studied approaches [...] Read more.

This study employs the developed simulation software for the energy use of the high-tech fabrication plant (hereafter referred as a fab) to examine six energy-saving approaches for the make-up air unit (MAU) of a TFT-LCD (thin-film transistor liquid-crystal display) fab. The studied approaches include: (1) Approach 1: adjust the set point of dry bulb temperature and relative humidity in the cleanroom; (2) Approach 2: lower the flow rate of supply air volume in the MAU; (3) Approach 3: use a draw-through type instead of push through type MAU; (4) Approach 4: combine the two stage cooling coils in MAU to a single stage coil; (5) Approach 5: reduce the original MAU exit temperature from 16.5 °C to 14.5 °C; and (6) Approach 6: avoid an excessive increase in pressure drop over the filter by replacing the HEPA filter more frequently. The simulated results are further compared to the measured data of the studied TFT-LCD fab in Taiwan. The simulated results showed that Approach 1 exhibits more significant influence on annual power consumption than the other approaches. The advantage/disadvantage of each approach is elaborated. The impact of the six approaches on the annual power consumption of the fab is also discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Energy Sustainability)

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16 pages, 933 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Determinants of Tourist Use of Public Transport at the Destination

by Aaron Gutiérrez^1,*

and Daniel Miravet^2,3

¹ Department of Geography, Rovira i Virgili University, Vila-seca 43480, Spain

² Department of Economics, Rovira i Virgili University, Reus 43204, Spain

³ Consortium of Public Transport of Camp de Tarragona, Tarragona 43004, Spain

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 908; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090908 - 7 Sep 2016

Cited by 82 | Viewed by 11978

Abstract

Of all the activities associated with tourism, transport is the one that creates most pollution. However, the mobility of tourists at their destination is an activity that has so far received very little attention from researchers in comparison with that afforded to the [...] Read more.

Of all the activities associated with tourism, transport is the one that creates most pollution. However, the mobility of tourists at their destination is an activity that has so far received very little attention from researchers in comparison with that afforded to the transport mode used to travel from their point of origin to their destination. This paper provides new evidence about the use of public transport by tourists at their final destination. The study is based on data obtained from a survey conducted with tourists (N = 4336) on the Costa Daurada (Catalonia), a Mediterranean sun and beach resort. The empirical analysis is based on estimations made using a multinomial model of the transport mode chosen by tourists to travel to the Costa Daurada combined with another model that estimated the probability of them using public transport during their stay. The results show that the tourists who arrived by private car were the ones who least used public transport at the destination. This was despite the fact that these tourists had the profile that made them most likely to use this type of transportation. On the other hand, although the tourists who arrived by plane had the profile that made them least likely to use public transport, they were the ones who used it most. It is, therefore, possible to conclude that, in addition to tourist profile, another key factor in deciding whether tourists will use public transport at their destination is whether they will take their own car. Full article

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

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17 pages, 7836 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development and Application of a Planning Support System for Regional Spatial Functional Zoning Based on GIS

by Xiaorui Zhang^1,2,*, Qian Hua¹ and Linya Zhang¹

¹ Department of Urban Planning, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China

² Laboratory of Digital Human Habitat Studies, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 909; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090909 - 7 Sep 2016

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 6738

Abstract

Regional spatial functional zoning in China is a large-scale strategic planning and requires very advanced planning decision support technology. With respect to spatial functional zoning, the planning support system (PSS) is introduced as one of the most popular computer aided planning systems at [...] Read more.

Regional spatial functional zoning in China is a large-scale strategic planning and requires very advanced planning decision support technology. With respect to spatial functional zoning, the planning support system (PSS) is introduced as one of the most popular computer aided planning systems at the present time in this paper, and is further explained with the example of the latest regional main functional area (RMFA) planning in China. On the Visual Studio.NET visualization development platform, the planning decision model, planning decision method, and GIS are organically integrated and customized by using the component-type secondary development technology of the ArcGIS Engine with the development language VB.NET. Hence, a highly efficient and flexible planning support system of regional main functional areas (RMFA-PSS) is established. It was adopted in the research of the Beijing–Tianjin area in China and accordingly two types of main functional area planning are acquired. The RMFA-PSS offers an efficient and flexible decision support with regard to RMFA planning. The research can provide a reference for further PSS development and applications related to other types of spatial functional zoning. Full article

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

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16 pages, 2715 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Novel Approach for Assessing the Performance of Sustainable Urbanization Based on Structural Equation Modeling: A China Case Study

by Liudan Jiao^1,2,*, Liyin Shen^1,2, Chenyang Shuai^1,2 and Bei He^1,2

¹ School of Construction Management and Real Estate, Chongqing University, Chongqing 40045, China

² International Research Center for Sustainable Built Environment, Chongqing University, Chongqing 40045, China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 910; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090910 - 7 Sep 2016

Cited by 36 | Viewed by 10260

Abstract

The rapid urbanization process has brought problems to China, such as traffic congestion, air pollution, water pollution and resources scarcity. Sustainable urbanization is commonly appreciated as an effective way to promote the sustainable development. The proper understanding of the sustainable urbanization performance is [...] Read more.

The rapid urbanization process has brought problems to China, such as traffic congestion, air pollution, water pollution and resources scarcity. Sustainable urbanization is commonly appreciated as an effective way to promote the sustainable development. The proper understanding of the sustainable urbanization performance is critical to provide governments with support in making urban development strategies and policies for guiding the sustainable development. This paper utilizes the method of Structural equation modeling (SEM) to establish an assessment model for measuring sustainable urbanization performance. Four unobserved endogenous variables, economic variable, social variable, environment variable and resource variable, and 21 observed endogenous variables comprise the SEM model. A case study of the 31 provinces in China demonstrates the validity of the SEM model and the analysis results indicated that the assessment model could help make more effective policies and strategies for improving urban sustainability by recognizing the statue of sustainable urbanization. Full article

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

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9 pages, 1215 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

Sustainability for Shrinking Cities

by Dustin L. Herrmann^1,*

, William D. Shuster²

, Audrey L. Mayer³

and Ahjond S. Garmestani²

¹ Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education Research Participant Program, United States Environmental Protection Agency, Cincinnati, OH 45268, USA

² National Risk Management Research Laboratory, United States Environmental Protection Agency, Cincinnati, OH 45268, USA

³ Department of Social Sciences & School of Forest Resources and Environmental Sciences, Michigan Technological University, Houghton, MI 49931, USA

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 911; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090911 - 7 Sep 2016

Cited by 57 | Viewed by 10461

Abstract

Shrinking cities are widespread throughout the world despite the rapidly increasing global urban population. These cities are attempting to transition to sustainable trajectories to improve the health and well-being of urban residents, to build their capacity to adapt to changing conditions and to [...] Read more.

Shrinking cities are widespread throughout the world despite the rapidly increasing global urban population. These cities are attempting to transition to sustainable trajectories to improve the health and well-being of urban residents, to build their capacity to adapt to changing conditions and to cope with major events. The dynamics of shrinking cities are different than the dynamics of growing cities, and therefore intentional research and planning around creating sustainable cities is needed for shrinking cities. We propose research that can be applied to shrinking cities by identifying parallel challenges in growing cities and translating urban research and planning that is specific to each city’s dynamics. In addition, we offer applications of panarchy concepts to this problem. The contributions to this Special Issue take on this forward-looking planning task through drawing lessons for urban sustainability from shrinking cities, or translating general lessons from urban research to the context of shrinking cities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustaining the Shrinking City: Concepts, Dynamics and Management)

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23 pages, 3942 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Analysis of Hydraulic Fracturing Wastewater Practices in Unconventional Shale Development: Newspaper Coverage of Stakeholder Concerns and Social License to Operate

by Joel Gehman^1,*

, Dara Y. Thompson², Daniel S. Alessi³, Diana M. Allen⁴

and Greg G. Goss⁵

¹ Department of Strategic Management and Organization, Alberta School of Business, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R6, Canada

² Department of Resource Economics and Environmental Sociology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H1, Canada

³ Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E3, Canada

⁴ Department of Earth Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6, Canada

⁵ Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E9, Canada

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 912; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090912 - 8 Sep 2016

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 7583

Abstract

In this article we review prior literature regarding the concept of social license to operate, and related concepts, including corporate social responsibility, sustainable development, stakeholder management and cumulative effects. Informed by these concepts, we search for newspaper articles published in North American provinces [...] Read more.

In this article we review prior literature regarding the concept of social license to operate, and related concepts, including corporate social responsibility, sustainable development, stakeholder management and cumulative effects. Informed by these concepts, we search for newspaper articles published in North American provinces and states where the Barnett, Duvernay, Marcellus and Montney shale plays are located. Using these data, we tabulate coverage of stakeholder concerns related to hydraulic fracturing and wastewater practices, and compare the extent to which these concerns vary over place and time. Our vocabulary analyses identify differences in the types and quantities of newspaper coverage devoted to concerns regarding hydraulic fracturing activities in general and wastewater practices in particular. We interpret these differences as suggesting that obtaining a social license to operate is likely not a one size fits all proposition. By understanding which stakeholder concerns are most salient in particular places and times, oil and gas operators and regulators can better tailor their strategies and policies to address local concerns. In other words, the findings from this study indicate that conventional understandings of risk as a technical or economic problem may not be adequate for dealing with unconventional resource challenges such as hydraulic fracturing. Operators and regulators may also need to manage social and cultural risks. Full article

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

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15 pages, 1564 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Implementing Coordinative Contracts between Manufacturer and Retailer in a Reverse Supply Chain

by Sung Wook Yoon and Suk Jae Jeong^*

Business School, Kwangwoon University, 26 Kwangwoon-gil (447-1, Wolgye-dong), Nowon-Gu, Seoul 139-701, Korea

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 913; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090913 - 9 Sep 2016

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 6045

Abstract

There is an increasing need for company awareness of environmental problems and sustainable business practices. As a post-consumption activity, the reverse supply chain aims to extract value from products at the end of their lifecycle; it offers a means of pursuing sustainability through [...] Read more.

There is an increasing need for company awareness of environmental problems and sustainable business practices. As a post-consumption activity, the reverse supply chain aims to extract value from products at the end of their lifecycle; it offers a means of pursuing sustainability through recycling, remanufacturing, refurbishing, and reusing. This study develops a series of procedures for implementing contracts between manufacturers and retailers to maximize individual profits and total profits through the reverse supply chain. To analyze the effects of the decision strategies made by parties acting on non-coordinative (decentralized) and coordinative contracts, we model a two-echelon reverse supply chain environment using a system dynamics approach. In this study, we examine three cooperative contracts with differing shares of cost and profit between the two parties. Each contract is analyzed according to the following three contract processes. First, the manufacturer proposes a set of contracts that can be considered by the retailer. Second, the retailer evaluates the proposed contracts and chooses the one that is expected to maximize profits. Finally, the retailer and manufacturer adjust the parameters of the best contract to achieve the mutual goal of the supply chain. Using the experimental results, we discuss the best coordinative strategy between manufacturer and retailer for maximizing profits in the reverse supply chain. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Supply Chain Management)

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23 pages, 6431 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Environmental Critique: Impact of Socialist Ideology on the Ecological and Cultural Sensitivity of Belgrade’s Large-Scale Residential Settlements

by Vladan Djokić, Jelena Ristić Trajković^*

and Verica Krstić

Faculty of Architecture, University of Belgrade, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 914; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090914 - 9 Sep 2016

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 6663

Abstract

This paper advocates the stance that sustainable approaches in architecture, although usually associated to contemporary practice, have a very complex relationship with the history of architecture and urbanism. By adopting an interpretative framework, the paper highlights the environmental aspects of the architectural practice [...] Read more.

This paper advocates the stance that sustainable approaches in architecture, although usually associated to contemporary practice, have a very complex relationship with the history of architecture and urbanism. By adopting an interpretative framework, the paper highlights the environmental aspects of the architectural practice of Belgrade’s large-scale residential settlements created under the cultural influences of socialist ideology. The socialist system enabled systematic implementation of the principles of the Congrès International d’Architecture Moderne (CIAM) on a large urban scale, in contrast to capitalist countries where these principles were applied on a smaller scale. The paper starts with the premise that these cultural influences, together with the integration of the principles of modernism, caused the rejection and the loss of traditional and ambience values in architecture. Research has shown that these values play a very important role in meeting the needs of ecological and cultural sensitivity in architecture. In its final consequences, the results of research have revealed that, although widely criticized for its break with tradition and the loss of ambience values, residential architecture in Belgrade during the socialist era included significant aspirations of the architectural practice directed at the improvement of aspects of sustainability, and especially aspects of ecological and cultural sensitivity. Full article

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13 pages, 344 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Sustainability of Global Chain Governance: Network Structures and Local Supplier Upgrading in Thailand

by Sungchul Cho¹ and Up Lim^2,*

¹ Korea Environment Institute, 370 Sicheong-daero, Sejong 30147, Korea

² Department of Urban Planning and Engineering, Yonsei University, 50 Yonsei-ro, Seodamun-gu, Seoul 03722, Korea

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 915; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090915 - 8 Sep 2016

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4810

Abstract

Although it has been widely accepted that insertion into global production networks may play a critical role in fostering local supplier upgrading, scholars have yet to fully incorporate heterogeneous configurations of buyer-supplier relationships within networks into empirical testing. Using a representative sample of [...] Read more.

Although it has been widely accepted that insertion into global production networks may play a critical role in fostering local supplier upgrading, scholars have yet to fully incorporate heterogeneous configurations of buyer-supplier relationships within networks into empirical testing. Using a representative sample of manufacturing firms in Thailand, we propose a more nuanced empirical framework that asks which features of buyer-supplier relationships are related to which aspects of local supplier upgrading. Our findings, derived from latent class analysis, show that the ways value chains are governed can exert varying effects on different types of technological upgrading. Being a multinational corporation (MNC) supplier was found to have positive effects on process and minor product upgrading, irrespective of the types of buyer-supplier networks. However, we found a more radical type of upgrading (i.e., the development of own brands) to be negatively related to insertion into ‘quasi-hierarchical’ or ‘buyer-driven relationships’, whilst involvement in ‘cooperative networks’ was associated with a significantly higher tendency of product and brand upgrading. Understanding this inherent relationality provides a crucial balance to previous firm-level findings, suggesting that the sustainability of participation in global value chains depends on the relational structures in which local manufacturers are embedded. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Competitive and Sustainable Manufacturing in the Age of Globalization)

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14 pages, 2823 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Economic and Social Sustainability through Organic Agriculture: Study of the Restructuring of the Citrus Sector in the “Bajo Andarax” District (Spain)

by Juan Torres^1,2, Diego L. Valera^1,*

, Luis J. Belmonte¹

and Carlos Herrero-Sánchez¹

¹ Research Centre CIAIMBITAL, University of Almería, Ctra. De Sacramento s/n, E04120 Almería, Spain

² Cítricos del Andarax SAT, Paraje Llano Ron s/n, E04560 Gádor, Spain

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 918; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090918 - 12 Sep 2016

Cited by 47 | Viewed by 11385

Abstract

Over 1000 hectares of citrus fruits crops are grown in the Bajo Andarax district in Almeria (Spain). The withdrawal of EU subsidies for conventional production led to a drastic loss of economic profitability of the holdings and, consequently, the abandonment of most of [...] Read more.

Over 1000 hectares of citrus fruits crops are grown in the Bajo Andarax district in Almeria (Spain). The withdrawal of EU subsidies for conventional production led to a drastic loss of economic profitability of the holdings and, consequently, the abandonment of most of the conventionally managed farms of the district. In this context, a restructuring of the citrus sector from conventional to organic farming was implemented as a strategic measure to achieve the long-term sustainable development of the holdings. This study examines the citrus sector of the district and performs a comprehensive evaluation of the economic sustainability of this shift from conventional to organic production. In addition, the impact of the restructuring of the sector on the social sustainability both at the farm level and at the municipality level is studied. The results of the study are of interest to other agricultural areas of compromised profitability in which a shift towards organic production can represent a viable alternative for the economic and social sustainability of the holdings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agriculture–Beyond Organic Farming)

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26 pages, 2261 KiB

Open AccessArticle

FS-OpenSecurity: A Taxonomic Modeling of Security Threats in SDN for Future Sustainable Computing

by Yunsick Sung¹, Pradip Kumar Sharma², Erik Miranda Lopez² and Jong Hyuk Park^2,*

¹ Faculty of Computer Engineering, Keimyung University, Daegu 42601, Korea

² Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, Seoul 139-743, Korea

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 919; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090919 - 9 Sep 2016

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 10642

Abstract

Software Defined Networking (SDN) has brought many changes in terms of the interaction processes between systems and humans. It has become the key enabler of software defined architecture, which allows enterprises to build a highly agile Information Technology (IT) infrastructure. For Future Sustainability [...] Read more.

Software Defined Networking (SDN) has brought many changes in terms of the interaction processes between systems and humans. It has become the key enabler of software defined architecture, which allows enterprises to build a highly agile Information Technology (IT) infrastructure. For Future Sustainability Computing (FSC), SDN needs to deliver on many information technology commitments—more automation, simplified design, increased agility, policy-based management, and network management bond to more liberal IT workflow systems. To address the sustainability problems, SDN needs to provide greater collaboration and tighter integration with networks, servers, and security teams that will have an impact on how enterprises design, plan, deploy and manage networks. In this paper, we propose FS-OpenSecurity, which is a new and pragmatic security architecture model. It consists of two novel methodologies, Software Defined Orchestrator (SDO) and SQUEAK, which offer a robust and secure architecture. The secure architecture is required for protection from diverse threats. Usually, security administrators need to handle each threat individually. However, handling threats automatically by adapting to the threat landscape is a critical demand. Therefore, the architecture must handle defensive processes automatically that are collaboratively based on intelligent external and internal information. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced IT based Future Sustainable Computing)

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12 pages, 233 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Modeling Urban Expansion and Agricultural Land Conversion in Henan Province, China: An Integration of Land Use and Socioeconomic Data

by Li Jiang and Yonghui Zhang^*

School of Economics, Renmin University of China, 59 Zhongguancun Street, Beijing 100872, China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 920; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090920 - 9 Sep 2016

Cited by 37 | Viewed by 5400

Abstract

China has experienced rapid urban expansion and agricultural land loss, and the land conversion has accelerated in central provinces since the mid-1990s. The goal of this paper is to examine the relative importance of socioeconomic and policy factors on the urban conversion of [...] Read more.

China has experienced rapid urban expansion and agricultural land loss, and the land conversion has accelerated in central provinces since the mid-1990s. The goal of this paper is to examine the relative importance of socioeconomic and policy factors on the urban conversion of agricultural land in Henan Province, China. Using panel econometric models, we examine how socioeconomic and policy factors affect agricultural land conversion at the county level across three time periods, 1995–2000, 2000–2005, and 2005–2010. The results show that both urban land rent and urban wages are essential factors that positively contribute to the conversion of agricultural land. It is also found that per capita GDP is correlated with more urban development and agricultural land loss. Consistent with expectations, agricultural financial support is negatively correlated with agricultural land conversion, suggesting a policy success. Finally, the decomposition analysis illustrates that urban wages are the most influential positive factor and agricultural financial support is the most influential negative factor affecting the urban conversion of agricultural land. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Decipher the Present to Shape the Future- Rethinking the Urban–Rural Nexus)

22 pages, 8556 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Land Use and Land Cover of Geotagged Social-Sensing Images Using Naive Bayes Classifier

by Asamaporn Sitthi^1,*, Masahiko Nagai¹, Matthew Dailey² and Sarawut Ninsawat¹

¹ Remote Sensing and GIS, School of Engineering and Technology, Asian Institute of Technology, P.O. Box 4, Klong Luang, Pathumthani 12120, Thailand

² Computer Science and Information Management, School of Engineering and Technology, Asian Institute of Technology, P.O. Box 4, Klong Luang, Pathumthani 12120, Thailand

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 921; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090921 - 9 Sep 2016

Cited by 54 | Viewed by 8953

Abstract

Online social media crowdsourced photos contain a vast amount of visual information about the physical properties and characteristics of the earth’s surface. Flickr is an important online social media platform for users seeking this information. Each day, users generate crowdsourced geotagged digital imagery [...] Read more.

Online social media crowdsourced photos contain a vast amount of visual information about the physical properties and characteristics of the earth’s surface. Flickr is an important online social media platform for users seeking this information. Each day, users generate crowdsourced geotagged digital imagery containing an immense amount of information. In this paper, geotagged Flickr images are used for automatic extraction of low-level land use/land cover (LULC) features. The proposed method uses a naive Bayes classifier with color, shape, and color index descriptors. The classified images are mapped using a majority filtering approach. The classifier performance in overall accuracy, kappa coefficient, precision, recall, and f-measure was 87.94%, 82.89%, 88.20%, 87.90%, and 88%, respectively. Labeled-crowdsourced images were filtered into a spatial tile of a 30 m × 30 m resolution using the majority voting method to reduce geolocation uncertainty from the crowdsourced data. These tile datasets were used as training and validation samples to classify Landsat TM5 images. The supervised maximum likelihood method was used for the LULC classification. The results show that the geotagged Flickr images can classify LULC types with reasonable accuracy and that the proposed approach improves LULC classification efficiency if a sufficient spatial distribution of crowdsourced data exists. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Ecosystems and Society in the Context of Big and New Data)

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31 pages, 753 KiB

Open AccessArticle

City-as-a-Platform: The Rise of Participatory Innovation Platforms in Finnish Cities

by Ari-Veikko Anttiroiko¹

¹ School of Management, University of Tampere, Tampere 33014, Finland

¹ Head of City Competitiveness Development Unit, Helsinki, Finland

¹ Chief Advisor, Helsinki City Executive Officer, Economic Development, City Competitiveness Unit, Helsinki, Finland

¹ Project Coordinator, Environment Centre, Helsinki, Finland

¹ Development Manager, INKA Program, Tampere, Finland

¹ Tampere, Finland

¹ Development Manager of Local Democracy, Tampere, Finland

¹ Project Manager, Open Innovation Platforms (Oma Tesoma Project), Tampere, Finland

¹ Project Planner, 6Aika Open Participation and Customership, Tampere, Finland

¹ Development Manager, Tampere Region Economic Development Agency Tredea, Tampere, Finland

¹ Development Manager, Smart City, Tampere Region Economic Development Agency Tredea, Tampere, Finland

¹ Project Manager, 6Aika Open Innovation Platforms, BusinessOulu, Oulu, Finland

¹ Director of OULLabs, Center for Internet Excellence, University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland

¹ Chief Audit Executive (former Development Manager), Oulu, Finland

¹ City Planning Architect, Oulu, Finland

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Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 922; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090922 - 10 Sep 2016

Cited by 148 | Viewed by 17511

Abstract

This article discusses the idea of city as a platform. The analysis focuses on the forms and implications of citizen involvement in publicly-supported participatory innovation platforms that facilitate urban economic development in the welfare society context. The discussion opens with a review of [...] Read more.

This article discusses the idea of city as a platform. The analysis focuses on the forms and implications of citizen involvement in publicly-supported participatory innovation platforms that facilitate urban economic development in the welfare society context. The discussion opens with a review of the smart city discourse, which in the context of economic development policy translates into cities’ need to support innovativeness by creating smart environments. Participatory innovation platform is a prime example of such an environment. The empirical section discusses three cases, those of the Finnish cities of Helsinki, Tampere, and Oulu. The analysis shows that platformization in the first half of the 2010s became a strategic focal area supported by national and EU programs. Platforms are used to support both urban revitalization and economic development, of which the former is based on representative and the latter on instrumental modes of participation. Platforms are well integrated with city governments, even though they vary greatly in terms of organizational forms and scopes. Democratic culture, welfarism, and redistributive policy provide contextual support for platformization by strengthening social inclusion, taming the growth machine, and easing the tensions between pro-growth and anti-growth coalitions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Intelligent Environments and Planning for Urban Renewal)

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10 pages, 1098 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Predicting the Evolution of CO₂ Emissions in Bahrain with Automated Forecasting Methods

by Cristiana Tudor

International Business and Economics Department, Bucharest University of Economics, Bucharest 010374, Romania

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 923; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090923 - 9 Sep 2016

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 9388

Abstract

The 2012 Doha meeting established the continuation of the Kyoto protocol, the legally-binding global agreement under which signatory countries had agreed to reduce their carbon emissions. Contrary to this assumed obligation, all G20 countries with the exception of France and the UK saw [...] Read more.

The 2012 Doha meeting established the continuation of the Kyoto protocol, the legally-binding global agreement under which signatory countries had agreed to reduce their carbon emissions. Contrary to this assumed obligation, all G20 countries with the exception of France and the UK saw significant increases in their CO₂ emissions over the last 25 years, surpassing 300% in the case of China. This paper attempts to forecast the evolution of carbon dioxide emissions in Bahrain over the 2012–2021 decade by employing seven Automated Forecasting Methods, including the exponential smoothing state space model (ETS), the Holt–Winters Model, the BATS/TBATS model, ARIMA, the structural time series model (STS), the naive model, and the neural network time series forecasting method (NNAR). Results indicate a reversal of the current decreasing trend of pollution in the country, with a point estimate of 2309 metric tons per capita at the end of 2020 and 2317 at the end of 2021, as compared to the 1934 level achieved in 2010. The country’s baseline level corresponding to year 1990 (as specified by the Doha amendment of the Kyoto protocol) is approximately 25.54 metric tons per capita, which implies a maximum level of 20.96 metric tons per capita for the year 2020 (corresponding to a decrease of 18% relative to the baseline level) in order for Bahrain to comply with the protocol. Our results therefore suggest that Bahrain cannot meet its assumed target. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Air Pollution Monitoring and Sustainable Development)

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15 pages, 3914 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mechanical Strength Properties of RCA Concrete Made by a Modified EMV Method

by Namho Kim¹, Jeonghyeon Kim¹

and Sungchul Yang^2,*

¹ Department of Architectural Engineering, Korea University of Technology, 1600 Chungjeol-ro, Byeongcheon-myeon Cheonan-si, Chungcheongnam-do 31253, Korea

² School of Architectural Engineering, Hongik University, 2639 Sejong-ro, Jochiwon, Sejong 30016, Korea

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 924; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090924 - 10 Sep 2016

Cited by 42 | Viewed by 5892

Abstract

This study used two types of Recycled Concrete Aggregates (RCAs) with the same original virgin aggregate, but with different amounts of residual mortars. To verify that the mechanical properties of the concrete were affected by changing the unit volume of residual mortar, fresh [...] Read more.

This study used two types of Recycled Concrete Aggregates (RCAs) with the same original virgin aggregate, but with different amounts of residual mortars. To verify that the mechanical properties of the concrete were affected by changing the unit volume of residual mortar, fresh mortar, and total mortar of the concrete, a series of paving concrete mixes were made using a modified equivalent mortar volume (EMV) mix design, along with a conventional American Concrete Institute (ACI) mix design. The test results showed that the RCA concrete with the conventional mix design, which led to a prominent decrease in compressive strength and elastic modulus at each age, had 10% greater total mortar volume than that with the modified EMV mix design. As for the conventional ACI mix, it appears that the replacement ratio of RCA and the volume of the residual mortar in RCA directly affect the modulus of elasticity as well as the compressive strength of concrete. However, for the modified EMV mix, the modulus of elasticity of the concrete may be increased to be equivalent to the companion concrete with natural aggregate by controlling the new mortar volume so that the total mortar volume remains the same regardless of the RCA replacement ratio. It was observed that the smaller new volume requirement makes the RCA paving concrete more environmentally friendly and economically profitable. Full article

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

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18 pages, 252 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analyzing Forces to the Financial Contribution of Local Governments to Sustainable Development

by Manuel Pedro Rodríguez Bolívar^*

, Andrés Navarro Galera, Laura Alcaide Muñoz and María Deseada López Subires

Department of Accounting and Finance, University of Granada, Campus Universitario de Cartuja, s/n, 18071 Granada, Spain

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 925; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090925 - 10 Sep 2016

Cited by 34 | Viewed by 6051

Abstract

In many countries, the economic crisis brought high volumes of deficit and debt in public entities, which jeopardized the ability of governments to continue providing public services and caused considerable imbalances of economic growth in different regions. In this context, from the recognition [...] Read more.

In many countries, the economic crisis brought high volumes of deficit and debt in public entities, which jeopardized the ability of governments to continue providing public services and caused considerable imbalances of economic growth in different regions. In this context, from the recognition of the linkage between economic development and efficiency in public management, previous research indicates that local governments are called to play a key role in promoting sustainable development through environment, economic and social policies based on financial sustainability of the public services. This paper aims to identify influencing factors on the financial sustainability of local governments, as an indicator of their capacity to maintain the delivery of public services over time. Based on a sample of 139 Spanish municipalities with large population for the period 2006–2014, our findings reveal the influence of variables such as the unemployment rate by sector, the dependent population, the immigrant population and the level of education of the population, on the financial sustainability in local governments, providing new useful knowledge to managers, policymakers, researchers and others stakeholders interested in the sustainability of public services. Full article

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

19 pages, 3074 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A New Design of High-Performance Large-Scale GIS Computing at a Finer Spatial Granularity: A Case Study of Spatial Join with Spark for Sustainability

by Feng Zhang^1,2

, Jingwei Zhou², Renyi Liu¹, Zhenhong Du^1,2,* and Xinyue Ye^3,*

¹ Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Geographic Information Science, Department of Earth Sciences, Zhejiang University, 148 Tianmushan Road, Hangzhou 310028, China

² School of the Earth Sciences, Zhejiang University, 38 Zheda Road, Hangzhou 310027, China

³ Department of Geography, Kent State University, Kent, OH 44240, USA

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 926; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090926 - 10 Sep 2016

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 5949

Abstract

Sustainability research faces many challenges as respective environmental, urban and regional contexts are experiencing rapid changes at an unprecedented spatial granularity level, which involves growing massive data and the need for spatial relationship detection at a faster pace. Spatial join is a fundamental [...] Read more.

Sustainability research faces many challenges as respective environmental, urban and regional contexts are experiencing rapid changes at an unprecedented spatial granularity level, which involves growing massive data and the need for spatial relationship detection at a faster pace. Spatial join is a fundamental method for making data more informative with respect to spatial relations. The dramatic growth of data volumes has led to increased focus on high-performance large-scale spatial join. In this paper, we present Spatial Join with Spark (SJS), a proposed high-performance algorithm, that uses a simple, but efficient, uniform spatial grid to partition datasets and joins the partitions with the built-in join transformation of Spark. SJS utilizes the distributed in-memory iterative computation of Spark, then introduces a calculation-evaluating model and in-memory spatial repartition technology, which optimize the initial partition by evaluating the calculation amount of local join algorithms without any disk access. We compare four in-memory spatial join algorithms in SJS for further performance improvement. Based on extensive experiments with real-world data, we conclude that SJS outperforms the Spark and MapReduce implementations of earlier spatial join approaches. This study demonstrates that it is promising to leverage high-performance computing for large-scale spatial join analysis. The availability of large-sized geo-referenced datasets along with the high-performance computing technology can raise great opportunities for sustainability research on whether and how these new trends in data and technology can be utilized to help detect the associated trends and patterns in the human-environment dynamics. Full article

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16 pages, 1316 KiB

Open AccessArticle

China’s Input-Output Efficiency of Water-Energy-Food Nexus Based on the Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) Model

by Guijun Li, Daohan Huang and Yulong Li^*

School of Management Science and Engineering, Central University of Finance and Economics, Beijing 100081, China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 927; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090927 - 12 Sep 2016

Cited by 86 | Viewed by 9414

Abstract

An explanation and quantification of the water-energy-food nexus (WEF-Nexus) is important to advance our understanding of regional resource management, which is presently in its infant stage. Evaluation of the current states, interconnections, and trends of WEF-Nexus, in cities, has largely been ignored due [...] Read more.

An explanation and quantification of the water-energy-food nexus (WEF-Nexus) is important to advance our understanding of regional resource management, which is presently in its infant stage. Evaluation of the current states, interconnections, and trends of WEF-Nexus, in cities, has largely been ignored due to quantification hurdles and the lack of available data. Based on the interaction of WEF-Nexus with population system, economic system, and environmental system, this paper builds the input output index system at the city level. Using the input output index system, we evaluate the WEF-Nexus input-output efficiency with the data envelopment analysis (DEA) model. We regard the decision making unit as a “black box”, to explore the states and trends of WEF-Nexus. In the empirical study based on data from China, we compare the input-output efficiency of WEF-Nexus in 30 provinces across China, from 2005 to 2014, to better understand their statues and trends of the input-output efficiency holistically. Together with the Malmquist index, factors leading to regional differences in the fluctuation of input-output efficiency are explored. Finally, we conclude that the DEA model indicates the regional consumption of WEF resources in the horizontal dimension and the trends in vertical dimension, together with the Malmquist index, to explain the variations for proposing specific implications. Full article

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

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17 pages, 1688 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Progressive Time-Weighted Dynamic Energy Efficiency, Energy Decoupling Rate, and Decarbonization: An Empirical Study on G7 and BRICS

by Chia-Jung Tu¹, Ming-Chung Chang^2,* and Chiang-Ping Chen³

¹ Department of Banking and Finance, Kainan University, No. 1 Kainan Rd., Luchu, Taoyuan City 33857, Taiwan

² Department of Marketing, Kainan University, No. 1 Kainan Rd., Luchu, Taoyuan City 33857, Taiwan

³ Department of Hotel Management, Taiwan Shoufu University, No. 168, Nanshi Li, Madou District, Tainan City 72153, Taiwan

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 928; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090928 - 11 Sep 2016

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4157

Abstract

Energy is a critical factor of economic growth, but the overuse of it results in global warming and climate change. Hence, energy efficiency improvement can help mitigate climate change and prevent economic losses or even ecological extinction. The data envelopment analysis (DEA) approach [...] Read more.

Energy is a critical factor of economic growth, but the overuse of it results in global warming and climate change. Hence, energy efficiency improvement can help mitigate climate change and prevent economic losses or even ecological extinction. The data envelopment analysis (DEA) approach has been extensively applied for energy efficiency estimation, but past studies of this estimation employ a static mode that does not consider consecutive periods and the carry-over effect. This study estimates energy efficiency under a weight-restricted dynamic DEA (WrD-DEA) model, creates a weight-restricted dynamic energy efficiency (WrD-EE) indicator, and discusses issues concerning the energy decoupling rate and decarbonization. We utilize members in the Group of Seven (G7) and BRICS (Brazil, China, India, Russia, and South Africa) for our experimental observations. The main results herein are: (1) BRICS has larger room for improvement to achieve the standard ratio of the energy decoupling rate than the G7; (2) the G7 and BRICS do not converge to decarbonization; and (3) BRICS exhibits more rapid improvement on energy efficiency than the G7. Full article

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21 pages, 2813 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fostering Residential Demand Response through Dynamic Pricing Schemes: A Behavioural Review of Smart Grid Pilots in Europe

by Kris Kessels¹, Carolien Kraan², Ludwig Karg³, Simone Maggiore⁴, Pieter Valkering¹ and Erik Laes^1,*

¹ VITO (Vlaamse Instelling voor Technologisch Onderzoek)/Energyville, Boeretang 200, 2400 Mol, Belgium

² ECN (Energieonderzoek Centrum Nederland), Westerduinweg 3, 1755 ZG Petten, The Netherlands

³ BAUM Consult GmbH, Gotzinger Straße 48/50, 81371 München, Germany

⁴ RSE SpA, Via Rubattino 54, 20134 Milan, Italy

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 929; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090929 - 11 Sep 2016

Cited by 51 | Viewed by 7442

Abstract

Many smart grid projects make use of dynamic pricing schemes aimed to motivate consumers to shift and/or decrease energy use. Based upon existing literature and analyses of current smart grid projects, this survey paper presents key lessons on how to encourage households to [...] Read more.

Many smart grid projects make use of dynamic pricing schemes aimed to motivate consumers to shift and/or decrease energy use. Based upon existing literature and analyses of current smart grid projects, this survey paper presents key lessons on how to encourage households to adjust energy end use by means of dynamic tariffs. The paper identifies four key hypotheses related to fostering demand response through dynamic tariff schemes and examines whether these hypotheses can be accepted or rejected based on a review of published findings from a range of European pilot projects. We conclude that dynamic pricing schemes have the power to adjust energy consumption behavior within households. In order to work effectively, the dynamic tariff should be simple to understand for the end users, with timely notifications of price changes, a considerable effect on their energy bill and, if the tariff is more complex, the burden for the consumer could be eased by introducing automated control. Although sometimes the mere introduction of a dynamic tariff has proven to be effective, often the success of the pricing scheme depends also on other factors influencing the behavior of end users. An important condition to make dynamic tariffs work is that the end users should be engaged with them. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart Grid)

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11 pages, 191 KiB

Open AccessArticle

What Can Rural Communities Do to Be Sustained?

by Rachel J. C. Chen

Center for Sustainable Business and Development, the University of Tennessee, 311 Conference Center Building, Knoxville, TN 37996-4134, USA

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 930; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090930 - 12 Sep 2016

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4048

Abstract

Since the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) was founded in 1965, various reports have been presented to summarize the progress in terms of economic development, strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats among studied communities in the Appalachian region. The purposes of this study were to [...] Read more.

Since the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) was founded in 1965, various reports have been presented to summarize the progress in terms of economic development, strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats among studied communities in the Appalachian region. The purposes of this study were to investigate (1) the condition and usage of facilities and services in the studied communities; (2) what factors contribute to local growth in improving areas; and (3) what barriers deter growth in the studied communities based on the perceptions of study participants. Ten studied counties were categorized based on their topography, demographics, and economics. Each sub-region has two selected counties (non-distressed and distressed) to represent and compare their similar topography and various stages of demographic opportunities and economic development and challenges. Location is recognized as one of the significant factors that affect communities’ development. Counties perform better when they are adjacent to urban areas, own major transportation corridors, and have more supplies of natural resources than those located in more rural areas with fewer resources. This study noted the need to improve communication infrastructure (such as Internet access, broadband, and mobile communications) that impact local development opportunities and public safety. Full article

16 pages, 1402 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mandatory Targets and Environmental Performance: An Analysis Based on Regression Discontinuity Design

by Xiao Tang^1,†, Zhengwen Liu^2,†

and Hongtao Yi^3,*

¹ School of Public Policy and Management, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China

² School of Economics and Management, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China

³ John Glenn College of Public Affairs, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 931; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090931 - 13 Sep 2016

Cited by 36 | Viewed by 9300

Abstract

It is a critical question for environmental governance to examine whether the administrative award and punishment measures are effective in promoting environmental governance performance. Choosing the implementation of a mandatory target system (MTS) as the subject, this paper employs a fixed-effect panel data [...] Read more.

It is a critical question for environmental governance to examine whether the administrative award and punishment measures are effective in promoting environmental governance performance. Choosing the implementation of a mandatory target system (MTS) as the subject, this paper employs a fixed-effect panel data model and regression discontinuity design to test whether the MTS has improved the environmental governance performance of local governments in China. The results of this research demonstrate that the MTS has a positive effect on environmental performance, however the regression discontinuity design illustrates that the reward and punishment measures in the MTS have no significant effects on the provincial environmental performance. The results of this research provide a reasonable explanation to the existing gaps among the studies on the effectiveness of the MTS. This study has profound policy implications for the design and implementation of the environmental governance system in China. Full article

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

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14 pages, 7012 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Estimating Air Particulate Matter Using MODIS Data and Analyzing Its Spatial and Temporal Pattern over the Yangtze Delta Region

by Jianhui Xu^1,2,3,*

, Hong Jiang^2,*, Zhongyong Xiao^4,*, Bin Wang⁵, Jian Wu^1,3 and Xin Lv^1,3

¹ School of Geographic Information and Tourism, Chuzhou University, Chuzhou 293000, China

² International Institute of Earth System Science, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210093, China

³ Anhui Center for Collaborative Innovation in Geographical Information Integration and Application, Chuzhou 239000, China

⁴ School of Sciences, Jimei University, Xiamen 361021, China

⁵ Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Carbon Cycling in Forest Ecosystems and Carbon Sequestration, Zhejiang A&F University, Lin’an 311300, China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 932; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090932 - 13 Sep 2016

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4943

Abstract

The deteriorating air quality in the Yangtze delta region is attracting growing public concern. In this paper, seasonal estimation models of the surface particulate matter (PM) were established by using aerosol optical thickness (AOT) retrievals from the moderate resolution imaging spectro-radiometer (MODIS) on [...] Read more.

The deteriorating air quality in the Yangtze delta region is attracting growing public concern. In this paper, seasonal estimation models of the surface particulate matter (PM) were established by using aerosol optical thickness (AOT) retrievals from the moderate resolution imaging spectro-radiometer (MODIS) on board NASA’s Terra satellite. The change of the regional distribution of the atmospheric mixed layer, relative humidity and meteorological elements have been taken into account in these models. We also used PM mass concentrations of ground measurements to evaluate the estimation accuracy of those models. The results show that model estimation of PM_2.5 and PM₁₀ mass concentrations were in good agreement with the ground-based observation of PM mass concentrations (p < 0.01, the R² value of the PM_2.5 concentrations experimental model for four seasons are 0.48, 0.62, 0.61 and 0.52 respectively. The R² value of PM₁₀ concentrations experimental model for four seasons are 0.57, 0.56, 0.64 and 0.68 respectively). At the same time, spatial and temporal variations of PM_2.5 and PM₁₀ mass concentrations were analysed over the Yangtze delta region from 2000 to 2013. The results show that PM_2.5 and PM₁₀ show a trend of increase in the Yangtze delta region from 2000 to 2013 and change periodically. The maximum mass concentration of PM_2.5 and PM₁₀ was in January–February, and the minimum was in July–August. The highest values of PM_2.5 and PM₁₀ mass concentration are in the region of urban agglomeration which is grouped to a delta-shaped region by Shanghai, Hangzhou and Nanjing, while the low values are in the forest far away from the city. PM mass concentration over main cities and rural areas increased gradually year by year, and were increasing more quickly in urban areas than in rural areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Air Pollution Monitoring and Sustainable Development)

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17 pages, 2136 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Changes in Cropland Status and Their Driving Factors in the Koshi River Basin of the Central Himalayas, Nepal

by Basanta Paudel^1,2

, Jungang Gao¹, Yili Zhang^1,2,3,*, Xue Wu^1,2, Shicheng Li^1,2

and Jianzhong Yan⁴

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 CAS Center for Excellence in Tibetan Plateau Earth Sciences, Beijing 100101, China

⁴ College of Resources and Environment, Southwest University, Chongqing 400716, China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 933; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090933 - 13 Sep 2016

Cited by 53 | Viewed by 8220

Abstract

In recent decades, human activities have significantly transformed land use and land cover (LULC) and the environment of the Central Himalayas region. LULC is a major component of environmental and climatic research. The aim of this study was to determine the changes in [...] Read more.

In recent decades, human activities have significantly transformed land use and land cover (LULC) and the environment of the Central Himalayas region. LULC is a major component of environmental and climatic research. The aim of this study was to determine the changes in cropland status and its drivers in the Koshi River Basin (KRB) of the Central Himalayas region of Nepal between 1978 and 2010. The cropland status in 1978 was obtained from the Land Resources Mapping Project (LRMP) datasets. The cropland status in 1992 and 2010 was determined on the basis of satellite imagery, with an object-oriented classification method, together with field investigations. Advanced geographical tools were used for data processing and binary logistic regression models were used for the statistical analysis of potential driving factors of cropland change. A noticeable overall change in cropland area was found, with rapid increases from 1978 onward at differing rates and to different extents. The cropland area covered 7165 km² in 1978. It peaked at 7867.49 km² in 1992, and had reduced slightly (by 90 km²) to 7776.66 km² by 2010. The change in cropland area was mainly related to four potential driving factors: topography (elevation, slope, and soil types), socioeconomics (population and foreign labor migration), climate (annual mean temperature and precipitation), and neighborhood factors (roads, rivers, and settlements). However, the effects of the different variables have occurred over various stages and at different rates. An understanding of long-term changes in cropland status in the KRB would be useful, and this could be extended to spatial reconstructions with the help of historical data, including cropland and climatic archives. Full article

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22 pages, 3555 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Research on the Synergy Degree of Aboveground and Underground Space along Urban Rail Transit from the Perspective of Urban Sustainable Development

by Zhilong Chen^1,2, Lichang Su^1,* and Cheng Zhang^1,3

¹ Research Center of Underground Space, PLA University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210007, China

² State Key Laboratory of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation of Explosion and Impact, PLA University of Science and Technology, Nanjing 210007, China

³ Joint Staff, PLA Southern War Zone, Guangzhou 510000, China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 934; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090934 - 13 Sep 2016

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 6226

Abstract

Aboveground and underground spaces along the urban rail transit (AUSURT) are integral parts of the urban space. Collaborative planning of AUSURT can help to improve the efficiency of urban space use and boost urban sustainable development (USD). This paper attempts to conduct a [...] Read more.

Aboveground and underground spaces along the urban rail transit (AUSURT) are integral parts of the urban space. Collaborative planning of AUSURT can help to improve the efficiency of urban space use and boost urban sustainable development (USD). This paper attempts to conduct a study of the synergetic degree of AUSURT on the spatial level. From the perspective of USD, a synergy system of AUSURT is created firstly, which consists of four sub-systems: land use, traffic condition, population effect and underground space. Then, taking the Phase-I Project of Shenzhen Rail Transit as the example, this paper uses a sequential synergy degree model to calculate the order degrees of the sub-systems in 1999, 2005 and 2015. The system’s synergy degrees from 1999 to 2005, from 1999 to 2015 and from 2005 to 2015 are obtained next. The study shows that the order degrees of the sub-systems increase at varying speeds, and all develop to an ordered state, while the system’s synergy degree rises to 0.505 in 2015 from 0.179 in 2005, which will boost USD. Above all, the results of the study can reflect the laws of the synergetic evolution of AUSURT, providing scientific judgment and rational decision-making references for the collaborative planning. Full article

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

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17 pages, 859 KiB

Open AccessReview

Advancing Empirical Approaches to the Concept of Resilience: A Critical Examination of Panarchy, Ecological Information, and Statistical Evidence

by Ali Kharrazi^1,2,*

, Brian D. Fath^1,3 and Harald Katzmair⁴

¹ Advanced Systems Analysis Program, International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA), Laxenburg A-2361, Austria

² Graduate School of Public Policy, University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan

³ Department of Biological Sciences, Towson University, Towson, MD 21252, USA

⁴ FAS Research, Vienna 1090, Austria

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 935; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090935 - 13 Sep 2016

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 9163

Abstract

Despite its ambiguities, the concept of resilience is of critical importance to researchers, practitioners, and policy-makers in dealing with dynamic socio-ecological systems. In this paper, we critically examine the three empirical approaches of (i) panarchy; (ii) ecological information-based network analysis; and (iii) statistical [...] Read more.

Despite its ambiguities, the concept of resilience is of critical importance to researchers, practitioners, and policy-makers in dealing with dynamic socio-ecological systems. In this paper, we critically examine the three empirical approaches of (i) panarchy; (ii) ecological information-based network analysis; and (iii) statistical evidence of resilience to three criteria determined for achieving a comprehensive understanding and application of this concept. These criteria are the ability: (1) to reflect a system’s adaptability to shocks; (2) to integrate social and environmental dimensions; and (3) to evaluate system-level trade-offs. Our findings show that none of the three currently applied approaches are strong in handling all three criteria. Panarchy is strong in the first two criteria but has difficulty with normative trade-offs. The ecological information-based approach is strongest in evaluating trade-offs but relies on common dimensions that lead to over-simplifications in integrating the social and environmental dimensions. Statistical evidence provides suggestions that are simplest and easiest to act upon but are generally weak in all three criteria. This analysis confirms the value of these approaches in specific instances but also the need for further research in advancing empirical approaches to the concept of resilience. Full article

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

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16 pages, 1117 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Ecological Criteria of Biofuel Certification in Germany

by Kirsten Selbmann^1,2,* and Lydia Pforte³

¹ Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK), Jägerallee 15, 14469 Potsdam, Germany

² Environmental Policy Research Centre (FFU), Freie Universität Berlin, Freie Ihnestrasse 22, D-14195 Berlin, Germany

³ Meo Carbon Solutions, Hohenzollernring 72, D-50672 Köln, Germany

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 936; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090936 - 13 Sep 2016

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 5351

Abstract

The share of biofuels has increased significantly over the last decade, which has lead to several negative impacts on the environment. As a solution, several governments worldwide have promoted the use of certification systems, which have been implemented and in some cases have [...] Read more.

The share of biofuels has increased significantly over the last decade, which has lead to several negative impacts on the environment. As a solution, several governments worldwide have promoted the use of certification systems, which have been implemented and in some cases have even been established as mandatory regulations. Due to the focus of the public debate, standard-setting has mainly been limited to developing and newly industrializing countries. Hence, the issues of environmental impacts as a consequence of agricultural intensification in Germany has been given little attention, and the question whether existing biofuel certification systems sufficiently cover ecological issues remains. In order to answer this question, this study performs a benchmarking analysis of selected certification systems, whereby their ability to ensure ecological sustainability is evaluated and compared. The assessment reveals that the currently existing national ordinances, like Cross Compliance, are in many aspects insufficient to ensure sustainability. Contrarily, they often deter necessary discussions to tackle these issues. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomass Energy Conversion)

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15 pages, 1517 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Conceptual Framework for Circular Design

by Mariale Moreno, Carolina De los Rios, Zoe Rowe and Fiona Charnley^*

Centre for Competitive Creative Design (C4D), Cranfield University, College Road, Cranfield MK43 0AL, UK

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 937; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090937 - 13 Sep 2016

Cited by 407 | Viewed by 38710

Abstract

Design has been recognised in the literature as a catalyst to move away from the traditional model of take-make-dispose to achieve a more restorative, regenerative and circular economy. As such, for a circular economy to thrive, products need to be designed for closed [...] Read more.

Design has been recognised in the literature as a catalyst to move away from the traditional model of take-make-dispose to achieve a more restorative, regenerative and circular economy. As such, for a circular economy to thrive, products need to be designed for closed loops, as well as be adapted to generate revenues. This should not only be at the point of purchase, but also during use, and be supported by low-cost return chains and reprocessing structures, as well as effective policy and regulation. To date, most academic and grey literature on the circular economy has focused primarily on the development of new business models, with some of the latter studies addressing design strategies for a circular economy, specifically in the area of resource cycles and design for product life extension. However, these studies primarily consider a limited spectrum of the technical and biological cycles where materials are recovered and restored and nutrients (e.g., materials, energy, water) are regenerated. This provides little guidance or clarity for designers wishing to design for new circular business models in practice. As such, this paper aims to address this gap by systematically analysing previous literature on Design for Sustainability (DfX) (e.g., design for resource conservation, design for slowing resource loops and whole systems design) and links these approaches to the current literature on circular business models. A conceptual framework is developed for circular economy design strategies. From this conceptual framework, recommendations are made to enable designers to fully consider the holistic implications for design within a circular economy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Circular Economy)

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26 pages, 695 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Reporting on Long-Term Value Creation—The Example of Public Canadian Energy and Mining Companies

by Petra F. A. Dilling

New York Institute of Technology, School of Management, Vancouver campus, Vancouver, BC V7Y 1K8, Canada

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 938; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090938 - 14 Sep 2016

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 10691

Abstract

This study empirically analyzes reporting on long-term value creation for Canadian public mining and energy companies. It represents an important first step in determining the quality of reporting and its determinants for large public companies. In this exploratory empirical study, a reporting quality [...] Read more.

This study empirically analyzes reporting on long-term value creation for Canadian public mining and energy companies. It represents an important first step in determining the quality of reporting and its determinants for large public companies. In this exploratory empirical study, a reporting quality scoring index was developed to measure disclosure quality of long-term value creation reporting. Content analysis was used to examine financial and sustainability reports for a sample of twenty Canadian public mining and energy companies. Corporate disclosure quality scores were then calculated by assessing the quality of reporting in four main categories. The findings suggest that overall disclosure quality on long-term value creation is still low. Companies disclosing higher quality information on long-term value creation are of bigger size, operate in the basic materials sector, have an independent board, are listed in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index, experience higher stock volatility and use more words related to long-term value creation in their annual financial and non-financial reports. In order to increase and restore stakeholder trust and credibility as well as a tool to maintain stability, it is strongly recommended to introduce adequate mandatory standardization resulting in a set of internationally recognized reporting standards as well as a requirement for external assurance of reports. Full article

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

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14 pages, 1944 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Extended FMEA for Sustainable Manufacturing: An Empirical Study in the Non-Woven Fabrics Industry

by Thanh-Lam Nguyen^1,*

, Ming-Hung Shu² and Bi-Min Hsu³

¹ Office of Scientific Research, Lac Hong University, Dong Nai, Vietnam

² Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, National Kaohsiung University of Applied Sciences, Kaohsiung City 80778, Taiwan

³ Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, Cheng Shiu University, Kaohsiung City 83347, Taiwan

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 939; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090939 - 13 Sep 2016

Cited by 43 | Viewed by 9344

Abstract

Failure modes and effects analysis (

F M E A

) substantially facilitates the efforts of industrial manufacturers in prioritizing failures that require corrective actions to continuously improve product quality. However, the conventional approach fails to provide satisfactory explanation of the aggregate effects [...] Read more.

Failure modes and effects analysis (

F M E A

) substantially facilitates the efforts of industrial manufacturers in prioritizing failures that require corrective actions to continuously improve product quality. However, the conventional approach fails to provide satisfactory explanation of the aggregate effects of a failure from different perspectives such as technical severity, economic severity, and production capacity in some practical applications. To fulfill the existing gap in the

F M E A

literature, this paper proposes an extension by considering associated quality cost and the capability of failure detection system as additional determinants to signify the priority level for each failure mode. The quality cost and capacity are considered as key factors for sustainable survival and development of an industrial manufacturer in the fierce competition market these days. The performance of the extended scheme was tested in an empirical case at a non-woven fabrics manufacturer. Analytical results indicate that the proposed approach outperforms the traditional one and remarkably reduces the percentage of defective fabrics from about 2.41% before the trial period to 1.13%,thus significantly reducing wastes and increasing operation efficiency, thereby providing valuable advantages to improve organizational competition power for their sustainable growth. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Competitive and Sustainable Manufacturing in the Age of Globalization)

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20 pages, 2738 KiB

Open AccessReview

Impact and Mitigation of Nutrient Pollution and Overland Water Flow Change on the Florida Everglades, USA

by Kristin Schade-Poole

and Gregory Möller^*

Environmental Science Program, College of Agricultural and Life Sciences, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID 83844, USA

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 940; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090940 - 14 Sep 2016

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 26649

Abstract

A subtropical watershed and wetland covering nearly 47,000 km² in the southeastern United States, the Florida Everglades is a degraded, human-dominated environment. As a unique and important ecosystem, the Everglades provide a variety of important environmental services for society and nature. Over [...] Read more.

A subtropical watershed and wetland covering nearly 47,000 km² in the southeastern United States, the Florida Everglades is a degraded, human-dominated environment. As a unique and important ecosystem, the Everglades provide a variety of important environmental services for society and nature. Over the past century and a half, anthropogenic actions have severely impacted the Everglades by disrupting the natural water flow and causing water pollution. As a result, the native flora and fauna have been displaced, important habitats have been lost, invasive species have become prevalent, and water contaminant concentrations have increased. Accelerating efforts are being made towards preserving the Everglades ecosystem by restoring water flow and improving water quality. To explore this complex and important aquatic ecosystem, we critically review the relevant environmental history, major terrestrial and aquatic characteristics and dynamics, engineered changes to water flow, major sources and impacts of nutrient pollution, trends in system response to pollution and mitigation actions, and recent regulatory efforts driving restoration. Full article

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

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12 pages, 232 KiB

Open AccessArticle

System Establishment and Method Application for Quantitatively Evaluating the Green Degree of the Products in Green Public Procurement

by Shengguo Xu, Chunli Chu^*, Meiting Ju and Chaofeng Shao

College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 941; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090941 - 14 Sep 2016

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 5925

Abstract

The government green purchase is widely considered to be an effective means of promoting sustainable consumption. However, how to identify the greener product is the biggest obstacle of government green purchase and it has not been well solved. A quantitative evaluation method is [...] Read more.

The government green purchase is widely considered to be an effective means of promoting sustainable consumption. However, how to identify the greener product is the biggest obstacle of government green purchase and it has not been well solved. A quantitative evaluation method is provided to measure the green degree of different products of the same use function with an indicator system established, which includes fundamental indicators, general indicators, and leading indicators. It can clearly show the products’ green extent by rating the scores of different products, which provides the government a tool to compare the green degree of different products and select greener ones. A comprehensive evaluation case of a project purchasing 1635 desk computers in Tianjin government procurement center is conducted using the green degree evaluation system. The environmental performance of the products were assessed quantitatively, and the evaluation price, which was the bid price minus the discount (the discount rate was according to the total scores attained by their environmental performance), and the final evaluation price ranking from low to high in turn is supplier C, D, E, A, and B. The winner, supplier C, was not the lowest bid price or the best environmental performance, but it performed well at both bid price and environmental performance so it deserved the project. It shows that the green extent evaluation system can help classify the different products by evaluating their environment performance including structure and connection technology, selection of materials and marks, prolonged use, hazardous substances, energy consumption, recyclability rate, etc. and price, so that it could help to choose the greener products. Full article

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

21 pages, 7027 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimal Solar Power System for Remote Telecommunication Base Stations: A Case Study Based on the Characteristics of South Korea’s Solar Radiation Exposure

by Mohammed H. Alsharif^*

and Jeong Kim

Department of Electrical Engineering, College of Electronics and Information Engineering, Sejong University, 209 Neungdong-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul 05006, Korea

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 942; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090942 - 15 Sep 2016

Cited by 44 | Viewed by 11444

Abstract

This paper aims to address both the sustainability and environmental issues for cellular base stations in off-grid sites. For cellular network operators, decreasing the operational expenditures of the network and maintaining profitability are important issues. Hence, this study addresses the feasibility of a [...] Read more.

This paper aims to address both the sustainability and environmental issues for cellular base stations in off-grid sites. For cellular network operators, decreasing the operational expenditures of the network and maintaining profitability are important issues. Hence, this study addresses the feasibility of a solar power system based on the characteristics of South Korean solar radiation exposure to supply the required energy to a remote cellular base station. The HOMER is used to determine the optimum size of the system components, to perform an energy production analysis, and to analyse the cost details of the project. The simulation results show that the proposed solar power system can achieve total operational expenditure savings of up to 48.6% by using sustainable and clean energy. This result means a significant long-term benefit can be achieved for cellular network operators. Full article

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16 pages, 680 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Research on the Green Purchase Intentions from the Perspective of Product Knowledge

by Kai Chen^*

and Ting Deng

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

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 943; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090943 - 15 Sep 2016

Cited by 110 | Viewed by 17122

Abstract

Based on the theory of planned behavior, the moderating effects of product knowledge on the relationships between three independent variables and green purchase intentions were explored. Independent variables included green purchase attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavior control. After that, the difference of [...] Read more.

Based on the theory of planned behavior, the moderating effects of product knowledge on the relationships between three independent variables and green purchase intentions were explored. Independent variables included green purchase attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavior control. After that, the difference of moderating effects of product knowledge between convenience goods and shopping goods was further analyzed. The scales of the study passed the test of reliability and validity through confirmatory factor analysis, and 306 valid questionnaires were collected. The hypotheses were tested by stepwise regression analysis. The results of the study showed that product knowledge had a significant moderating effect on the relationship between three independent variables and green purchase intentions, and the explanatory power of three independent variables would decrease in the context of high product knowledge. Interesting conclusions were reached from the perspective of product classification. This study contributes to the literature by treating product knowledge as a moderating variable in the theory of planned behavior in the field of green purchase behavior and exploring from a new research angle—the perspective of product classification. Full article

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17 pages, 32954 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Financial Risk Factor Analysis for Facility Gas Leakages of H₂ and NG

by In-Bok Lee¹ and Chang Geun Song^2,*

¹ Department of Safety Engineering, Incheon National University, Incheon 22012, Korea

² Department of Safety Engineering, Fire Disaster Prevention Research Center, Incheon National University, Incheon 22012, Korea

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 944; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090944 - 18 Sep 2016

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 4510

Abstract

Fuel cells may be the key to a more environmentally-friendly future because they emit low carbon dioxide per unit of energy supplied. However, little work has investigated the potential financial risks pertaining to fuel cell systems. Often used in the analysis of the [...] Read more.

Fuel cells may be the key to a more environmentally-friendly future because they emit low carbon dioxide per unit of energy supplied. However, little work has investigated the potential financial risks pertaining to fuel cell systems. Often used in the analysis of the safety of systems involving flammable or hazardous materials, risk factor analysis has recently been used to analyze the potential financial losses that may occur from industrial hazards. Therefore, this work undertakes a financial risk factor analysis to determine the costs of leakages of hydrogen and natural gas, which are used in fuel cell systems. Total leakage was calculated from an analysis of several leakage rates and modes. The impact of applying appropriate detection and prevention systems was also investigated. The findings were then used to analyze the consequences for various sections of the system and to calculate the overall cost based on facility outage or damage, and the cost of taking safety precautions. This provides a basis for comparison among proposed potential reactionary measures. Full article

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

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0 pages, 468 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Measuring Corporate Sustainability and Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance Value Added

by Alena Kocmanová¹, Marie Pavláková Dočekalová^1,*, Stanislav Škapa¹ and Lenka Širáňová²

¹ Department of Economics, Faculty of Business and Management, Brno University of Technology, Kolejní 4, Brno 61200, Czech Republic

² Department of Informatics, Faculty of Business and Management, Brno University of Technology, Kolejní 4, Brno 61200, Czech Republic

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 945; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090945 - 15 Sep 2016

Cited by 39 | Viewed by 9991

Abstract

The aim of the paper is to propose a model for measuring sustainable value which would complexly assess environmental, social, and corporate governance contribution to value creation. In the paper the concept of the Sustainable Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance Value Added is [...] Read more.

The aim of the paper is to propose a model for measuring sustainable value which would complexly assess environmental, social, and corporate governance contribution to value creation. In the paper the concept of the Sustainable Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance Value Added is presented. The Sustainable Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance Value Added is based on the Sustainable Value Added model and combines weighted environmental, social, and corporate governance indicators with their benchmarks determined by Data Envelopment Analysis. Benchmark values of indicators were set for each company separately and determine the optimal combination of environmental, social, and corporate governance inputs to economic outcomes. The Sustainable Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance Value Added methodology is applied on real-life corporate data and presented through a case study. The value added of most of the selected companies was negative, even though economic indicators of all of them are positive. The Sustainable Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance Value Added is intended to help owners, investors, and other stakeholders in their decision-making and sustainability assessment. The use of environmental, social, and corporate governance factors helps identify the company’s strengths and weaknesses, and provides a more sophisticated insight into it than the one-dimensional methods based on economic performance alone. Full article

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

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17 pages, 241 KiB

Open AccessConcept Paper

The More, the Merrier: Why and How Employee-Driven Eco-Innovation Enhances Environmental and Competitive Advantage

by Anke Buhl^*, Susanne Blazejewski and Franziska Dittmer

Faculty of Economics, Alanus University, Villestrasse 3, 53347 Alfter (Bonn), Germany

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 946; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090946 - 16 Sep 2016

Cited by 51 | Viewed by 9622

Abstract

Innovative solutions are often conjured as a key factor for companies to come closer to the goal of ecological sustainability. Furthermore, proactive eco-innovation activities can encompass competitive advantages. Companies are therefore well advised to tap any available source of innovation. However, although employees’ [...] Read more.

Innovative solutions are often conjured as a key factor for companies to come closer to the goal of ecological sustainability. Furthermore, proactive eco-innovation activities can encompass competitive advantages. Companies are therefore well advised to tap any available source of innovation. However, although employees’ innovative capacity has often been described, to date, their manifold potentials for eco-innovation processes have hardly been examined in detail. The overarching research questions guiding this conceptual paper are why and how employee participation in eco-innovation processes can entail environmental and competitive advantages for companies. The authors introduce the concept of employee-driven eco-innovation (EDEI), defined here as ordinary employees’ voluntary engagement in innovation activities within an organizational context that, intentionally or not, lead to environmental improvements. This paper complements previous literature on employee-driven innovation (EDI) by applying it to the specific case of eco-innovation. In this context, employees’ comprehensive environmental competences resulting from “tacit knowledge”, “private consumer experience” and “green identity” are taken into account. In addition, we delineate critical intra-organizational factors for EDEI activities and illustrate green employees’ specific requirements in this regard. Full article

21 pages, 3335 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Green Economy Performance and Green Productivity Growth in China’s Cities: Measures and Policy Implication

by Jianglong Li¹ and Boqiang Lin^2,*

¹ School of Economics and Finance, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710061, China

² Collaborative Innovation Center for Energy Economics and Energy Policy, China Institute for Studies in Energy Policy, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 947; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090947 - 16 Sep 2016

Cited by 51 | Viewed by 9004

Abstract

Resource depletion and environmental degradation have become serious challenges for China’s sustainable development. This paper constructs indicators to assess China’s green economy performance and green productivity growth, in which economic expansion, resource conservation and environmental protection need to be incorporated simultaneously. For this [...] Read more.

Resource depletion and environmental degradation have become serious challenges for China’s sustainable development. This paper constructs indicators to assess China’s green economy performance and green productivity growth, in which economic expansion, resource conservation and environmental protection need to be incorporated simultaneously. For this purpose, we combine non-radial directional distance function and meta-frontier Malmquist productivity to develop the indicators. The methodology also allows for the decomposition of driving forces of China’s green economy. Moreover, the dataset employed in this paper allows for the evaluation of 275 cities in China during the period 2003–2012. The main findings are as follows. First, most of China’s cities did not perform efficiently in terms of the green economy, with an average score of only 0.233. Second, the growth rate of green productivity is slower than real GDP, and the green productivity growth in China is only moderate. Third, innovation is the main driving force of China’s green productivity growth, but the central region lags behind when it comes to green innovation. Fourth, artificial local protectionism and transport limitations impede the progress of cities that perform ineffectively in the green economy. Based on our empirical findings, we provide policy implications and suggestions for enhancing China’s green economy performance and productivity growth. Full article

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

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18 pages, 13041 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Flash Flood Hazard Susceptibility Mapping Using Frequency Ratio and Statistical Index Methods in Coalmine Subsidence Areas

by Chen Cao^1,†

, Peihua Xu^1,†, Yihong Wang², Jianping Chen^1,*, Lianjing Zheng¹ and Cencen Niu¹

¹ College of Construction Engineering of Jilin University, Changchun 130026, Jilin, China

² Beijing Institute of Geology, Beijing 100120, China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 948; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090948 - 19 Sep 2016

Cited by 220 | Viewed by 13267

Abstract

This study focused on producing flash flood hazard susceptibility maps (FFHSM) using frequency ratio (FR) and statistical index (SI) models in the Xiqu Gully (XQG) of Beijing, China. First, a total of 85 flash flood hazard locations (n = 85) were surveyed [...] Read more.

This study focused on producing flash flood hazard susceptibility maps (FFHSM) using frequency ratio (FR) and statistical index (SI) models in the Xiqu Gully (XQG) of Beijing, China. First, a total of 85 flash flood hazard locations (n = 85) were surveyed in the field and plotted using geographic information system (GIS) software. Based on the flash flood hazard locations, a flood hazard inventory map was built. Seventy percent (n = 60) of the flooding hazard locations were randomly selected for building the models. The remaining 30% (n = 25) of the flooded hazard locations were used for validation. Considering that the XQG used to be a coal mining area, coalmine caves and subsidence caused by coal mining exist in this catchment, as well as many ground fissures. Thus, this study took the subsidence risk level into consideration for FFHSM. The ten conditioning parameters were elevation, slope, curvature, land use, geology, soil texture, subsidence risk area, stream power index (SPI), topographic wetness index (TWI), and short-term heavy rain. This study also tested different classification schemes for the values for each conditional parameter and checked their impacts on the results. The accuracy of the FFHSM was validated using area under the curve (AUC) analysis. Classification accuracies were 86.61%, 83.35%, and 78.52% using frequency ratio (FR)-natural breaks, statistical index (SI)-natural breaks and FR-manual classification schemes, respectively. Associated prediction accuracies were 83.69%, 81.22%, and 74.23%, respectively. It was found that FR modeling using a natural breaks classification method was more appropriate for generating FFHSM for the Xiqu Gully. Full article

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16 pages, 669 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Communicating Sustainability: An Operational Model for Evaluating Corporate Websites

by Alfonso Siano, Francesca Conte^*, Sara Amabile, Agostino Vollero

and Paolo Piciocchi

Department of Social, Political and Communication Sciences, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, Fisciano 84084, Italy

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 950; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090950 - 21 Sep 2016

Cited by 74 | Viewed by 14854

Abstract

The interest in corporate sustainability has increased rapidly in recent years and has encouraged organizations to adopt appropriate digital communication strategies, in which the corporate website plays a key role. Despite this growing attention in both the academic and business communities, models for [...] Read more.

The interest in corporate sustainability has increased rapidly in recent years and has encouraged organizations to adopt appropriate digital communication strategies, in which the corporate website plays a key role. Despite this growing attention in both the academic and business communities, models for the analysis and evaluation of online sustainability communication have not been developed to date. This paper aims to develop an operational model to identify and assess the requirements of sustainability communication in corporate websites. It has been developed from a literature review on corporate sustainability and digital communication and the analysis of the websites of the organizations included in the “Global CSR RepTrak 2015” by the Reputation Institute. The model identifies the core dimensions of online sustainability communication (orientation, structure, ergonomics, content—OSEC), sub-dimensions, such as stakeholder engagement and governance tools, communication principles, and measurable items (e.g., presence of the materiality matrix, interactive graphs). A pilot study on the websites of the energy and utilities companies included in the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index 2015 confirms the applicability of the OSEC framework. Thus, the model can provide managers and digital communication consultants with an operational tool that is useful for developing an industry ranking and assessing the best practices. The model can also help practitioners to identify corrective actions in the critical areas of digital sustainability communication and avoid greenwashing. Full article

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

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17 pages, 244 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Determining the Sustainability Factors and Performance of a Tourism Destination from the Stakeholders’ Perspective

by Manuel Rodríguez Díaz^*

and Tomás F. Espino Rodríguez

Department of Business and Management, Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria 35017, Spain

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 951; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090951 - 19 Sep 2016

Cited by 68 | Viewed by 10586

Abstract

The competitiveness of a tourism destination depends on the sustainability of its economic and environmental resources. The aim of this paper is to determine the key factors in achieving the sustainability of a tourism destination in relation to the performance obtained. A methodology [...] Read more.

The competitiveness of a tourism destination depends on the sustainability of its economic and environmental resources. The aim of this paper is to determine the key factors in achieving the sustainability of a tourism destination in relation to the performance obtained. A methodology based on the opinions of stakeholders is developed to determine the sustainability factors and performance in the tourism destination of Gran Canaria. The variables used in the study are related to the environmental resources, the principal agents in the tourism supply chain, the governance of the destination, and the complementary characteristics that improve the competitiveness of the tourism destination, as well as the dimensions that determine security. Performance is measured by stakeholders from two perspectives, the destination and the customers, in order to establish the main variables that will influence the destination’s sustainability. The key sustainability factors were identified, and a regression analysis determined that there was a positive influence on long-term performance. The results showed that the key factors that have a direct and significant relationship with performance are the key resources and supply chain, security, alternative leisure, and governance. Full article

17 pages, 1046 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Hesitant Trapezoidal Fuzzy QUALIFLEX Method and Its Application in the Evaluation of Green Supply Chain Initiatives

by Xiaolu Zhang¹

, Zeshui Xu^2,*

and Manfeng Liu¹

¹ The Collaborative Innovation Center, Jiangxi University of Finance and Economics, Nanchang 330013, China

² Business School, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 952; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090952 - 20 Sep 2016

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 5284

Abstract

This paper explores how to handle multiple criteria decision-making (MCDM) problems in which the criteria values of alternatives take the form of comparative linguistic expressions. Firstly, the new concept of hesitant trapezoidal fuzzy numbers (HTrFNs) is provided to model the semantics of the [...] Read more.

This paper explores how to handle multiple criteria decision-making (MCDM) problems in which the criteria values of alternatives take the form of comparative linguistic expressions. Firstly, the new concept of hesitant trapezoidal fuzzy numbers (HTrFNs) is provided to model the semantics of the comparative linguistic expressions. Then, the operational laws and the distance measures of HTrFNs are presented. Afterwards, a useful outranking method, the hesitant trapezoidal fuzzy QUALIFLEX method, is developed to handle the MCDM problems with hierarchical structure in the environment of HTrFN. At length, the proposed method is applied to evaluating green supply chain initiatives in order to achieve sustainable economic and environmental performance, and a case study concerned with a fashion retail chain is presented to demonstrate its feasibility and applicability, also, a comparative analysis with other relevant approaches is conducted to validate the effectiveness of the proposed method. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Energy Sustainability)

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13 pages, 1127 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Voluntary Certification of Agricultural Products in Competitive Markets: The Consideration of Boundedly Rational Consumers

by Xujin Pu^* and Huanzhen Zhang

Business School, Jiangnan University, 1800 Lihu Avenue, Wuxi 214122, China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 953; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090953 - 20 Sep 2016

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 4217

Abstract

Market competition creates strategic incentives for firms to communicate private information about their own product quality through certification. Although voluntary certification has recently gained importance in the agricultural industry, information asymmetry is not always completely addressed. This study analyzes how the relative proportion [...] Read more.

Market competition creates strategic incentives for firms to communicate private information about their own product quality through certification. Although voluntary certification has recently gained importance in the agricultural industry, information asymmetry is not always completely addressed. This study analyzes how the relative proportion of boundedly rational consumers in the market influences the effectiveness of voluntary certification mechanisms by using a duopoly game model of high- and low-quality firms. The presented results show that a change in the proportion of boundedly rational consumers leads to different certification behaviors and a different market equilibrium. We also find that the existence of boundedly rational consumers is an important factor in the failure of voluntary certification. Indeed, when the relative proportion of such consumers is very high, voluntary certification is ineffective at improving market efficiency. Full article

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27 pages, 2231 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Strategic Transport Management Models—The Case Study of an Oil Industry

by Srđan Dimić¹, Dragan Pamučar²

, Srđan Ljubojević^2,* and Boban Đorović²

¹ Strategic Planning Department, Ministry of Defence, Belgrade 11000, Serbia

² Department of Logistics, University of Defence, Belgrade 11000, Serbia

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 954; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090954 - 21 Sep 2016

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 12844

Abstract

The awareness of the need to preserve the environment and establish sustainable development evolved as the result of the development of the world economy and society. Transport plays a very important role in this process. It is recognized as one of the main [...] Read more.

The awareness of the need to preserve the environment and establish sustainable development evolved as the result of the development of the world economy and society. Transport plays a very important role in this process. It is recognized as one of the main factors in sustainable development strategy. Strategic transport management model is presented in this paper. It represents a comprehensive and complete strategic management process, beginning from the strategic analysis, then strategy formulation and its implementation to strategic control. What makes this model specific is the development of its phases using contemporary strategic management methods and MCDM (Multicriteria Decision Making) techniques. In this way, subjectivity is avoided and the decision-making process is impartial. To formulate sustainable transport strategy, the authors use a SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) and the fuzzy Delphi method as the basis to evaluate impact factors. Fuzzy SWOT analysis is applied to formulate strategic options and the selection of optimal option is realized through DEMATEL (Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory)-based ANP (Analytic Network Process). The strategic transport management model is applied to Serbian Oil Industry (NIS) as a company engaged in the production and transport of oil and oil derivatives. The results presented in this paper have shown that this model can be successfully implemented in profit organizations. It also can be used to formulate strategies on the basis of scientific principles and create conditions for successful sustainable strategies implementation. Full article

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

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20 pages, 3216 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Moving from Adaptive to Transformative Capacity: Building Foundations for Inclusive, Thriving, and Regenerative Urban Settlements

by Gina Ziervogel^1,*, Anna Cowen² and John Ziniades²

¹ Department of Environmental and Geographical Science, and African Climate and Development Initiative, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7700, South Africa

² Meshfield, P.O. Box 12698, Mill Street, Cape Town 8010, South Africa

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 955; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090955 - 20 Sep 2016

Cited by 122 | Viewed by 20541

Abstract

The commitment to understanding the implications of a 1.5 °C global temperature warming limit has contributed to a growing realisation that transformative adaptation is necessary to avoid catastrophic environmental and social consequences. This is particularly the case in urban settlements where disconnection from [...] Read more.

The commitment to understanding the implications of a 1.5 °C global temperature warming limit has contributed to a growing realisation that transformative adaptation is necessary to avoid catastrophic environmental and social consequences. This is particularly the case in urban settlements where disconnection from the systems that support life is pervasive and injustice and inequality play out daily. This paper argues that in order to transform towards thriving social-ecological systems, transformative capacity needs to be strengthened. The paper builds on the rich literature of adaptive capacity, alongside concepts of transformation that are drawn from resilience theory, organisational change, and developmental psychology. Reconnection to life-support systems, agency, and social cohesion are put forward as three foundational aspects of transformative capacity. A transdisciplinary case study of the FLOW programme in the Bergrivier Municipality, South Africa, is used to explore how transformative capacity has been built in practice. The case study explores an innovative programme that works with unemployed urban youth, alongside the exploration and introduction of a community currency in the informal business sector, and strengthening cross-scalar interaction between the local municipality and youth. The paper suggests that working across sectors and scales in a transdisciplinary manner is a challenging endeavour but necessary for building inclusive, thriving, and regenerative urban settlements. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Resilience and Urban Sustainability: From Research to Practice)

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15 pages, 3428 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Social-Ecological Framework for Urban Stewardship Network Research to Promote Sustainable and Resilient Cities

by Michele Romolini^1,*, R. Patrick Bixler² and J. Morgan Grove³

¹ Center for Urban Resilience, Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles, CA 90045, USA

² RGK Center for Philanthropy and Community Service, LBJ School of Public Affairs, University of Texas, Austin, TX 78712, USA

³ Northern Research Station, USDA Forest Service, Baltimore, MD 21228, USA

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 956; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090956 - 20 Sep 2016

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 10091

Abstract

To realize more sustainable and resilient urban social-ecological systems, there is great need for active engagement from diverse public agencies, non-profit organizations, businesses, natural resource managers, scientists, and other actors. Cities present unique challenges and opportunities for sustainability and resilience, as issues and [...] Read more.

To realize more sustainable and resilient urban social-ecological systems, there is great need for active engagement from diverse public agencies, non-profit organizations, businesses, natural resource managers, scientists, and other actors. Cities present unique challenges and opportunities for sustainability and resilience, as issues and organizations are frequently intertwined in networks of relations. Understanding and leveraging the range of knowledge types, motivations, skills, and goals of diverse participants and their networks is fundamental to sustainable and resilient cities. As efforts to examine and understand urban stewardship networks continue to emerge, it is increasingly clear that there are no structured or systematic frameworks to guide the integration of social and ecological phenomena. Such a framework could facilitate planning new urban stewardship network research, and provide a basis for comparisons among cities and their urban stewardship networks. In this paper, we develop and present a social-ecological framework for examining and understanding urban stewardship networks. To illustrate this framework and provide examples of its prospective and evaluative utility, we use examples from the U.S. Forest Service’s Stewardship Mapping (STEW-MAP) network in the United States from Baltimore, MD, USA, New York City, NY, USA, San Juan, Puerto Rico, USA, and Seattle, WA, USA. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Resilience and Urban Sustainability: From Research to Practice)

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20 pages, 1098 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing the Sustainability Performance of Organic Farms in Denmark

by Evelien M. De Olde^1,2,*

, Frank W. Oudshoorn^1,3, Eddie A. M. Bokkers²

, Anke Stubsgaard³, Claus A. G. Sørensen¹

and Imke J. M. De Boer²

¹ Department of Engineering, Aarhus University, Inge Lehmanns Gade 10, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark

² Animal Production Systems Group, Wageningen University, P.O. Box 338, 6700 AH Wageningen, The Netherlands

³ SEGES, Agro Food Park 15, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 957; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090957 - 21 Sep 2016

Cited by 38 | Viewed by 10915

Abstract

The growth of organic agriculture in Denmark raises the interest of both producers and consumers in the sustainability performance of organic production. The aim of this study was to examine the sustainability performance of farms in four agricultural sectors (vegetable, dairy, pig and [...] Read more.

The growth of organic agriculture in Denmark raises the interest of both producers and consumers in the sustainability performance of organic production. The aim of this study was to examine the sustainability performance of farms in four agricultural sectors (vegetable, dairy, pig and poultry) using the sustainability assessment tool RISE 2.0. Thirty seven organic farms were assessed on 10 themes, including 51 subthemes. For one theme (water use) and 17 subthemes, a difference between sectors was found. Using the thresholds of RISE, the vegetable, dairy and pig sector performed positively for seven themes and the poultry sector for eight themes. The performance on the nutrient flows and energy and climate themes, however, was critical for all sectors. Moreover, the performance on the economic viability theme was critical for vegetable, dairy and pig farms. The development of a tool, including decisions, such as the selection of themes and indicators, reference values, weights and aggregation methods, influences the assessment results. This emphasizes the need for transparency and reflection on decisions made in sustainability assessment tools. The results of RISE present a starting point to discuss sustainability at the farm-level and contribute to an increase in awareness and learning about sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Agriculture–Beyond Organic Farming)

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19 pages, 2251 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Development in China’s Coastal Area: Based on the Driver-Pressure-State-Welfare-Response Framework and the Data Envelopment Analysis Model

by Song Wang¹, Caizhi Sun^1,*, Xin Li¹ and Wei Zou^1,2

¹ Center for Studies of Marine Economy and Sustainable Development, Liaoning Normal University, 850 Huanghe Road, Dalian 116029, China

² School of Foreign Languages, Liaoning Normal University, 850 Huanghe Road, Dalian 116029, China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 958; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090958 - 21 Sep 2016

Cited by 40 | Viewed by 6933

Abstract

The economic development of China’s coastal areas is being constrained by resources and the environment, with sustainable development being the key to solving these problems. The data envelopment analysis (DEA) model is widely used to assess sustainable development. However, indicators used in the [...] Read more.

The economic development of China’s coastal areas is being constrained by resources and the environment, with sustainable development being the key to solving these problems. The data envelopment analysis (DEA) model is widely used to assess sustainable development. However, indicators used in the DEA model are not selected in a scientific and comprehensive manner, which may lead to unrepresentative results. Here, we use the driver-pressure-state-welfare-response (DPSWR) framework to select more scientific and comprehensive indicators for a more accurate analysis of efficiency in China’s coastal area. The results show that the efficiencies of most provinces and cities in China’s coastal area have a stable trend. In the time dimension, efficiency was rising before 2008, after which it decreased. In the spatial dimension, China’s coastal provinces and cities are divided into three categories: high efficiency, low efficiency, and greater changes in efficiency. By combining DPSWR and DEA, we produce reliable values for measuring efficiency, with the benefit of avoiding the incomplete selection of DEA indicators. Full article

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

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15 pages, 12265 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Sea-Level Rise and Land Subsidence: Impacts on Flood Projections for the Mekong Delta’s Largest City

by Hiroshi Takagi^1,*

, Nguyen Danh Thao² and Le Tuan Anh¹

¹ Tokyo Institute of Technology, School of Environment and Society, 2-12-1 Ookayama, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 152-8550, Japan

² Faculty of Civil Engineering, Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology, 268 Ly Thuong Kiet St., Dist.10, Ho Chi Minh City 700000, Vietnam

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 959; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090959 - 21 Sep 2016

Cited by 31 | Viewed by 13117

Abstract

The present paper demonstrates that inundation levels in the Mekong Delta’s largest city, Can Tho, are predominantly determined by ocean tides, sea-level rise, and land subsidence. Our analysis of inundation patterns projects that the duration of inundation at an important road in the [...] Read more.

The present paper demonstrates that inundation levels in the Mekong Delta’s largest city, Can Tho, are predominantly determined by ocean tides, sea-level rise, and land subsidence. Our analysis of inundation patterns projects that the duration of inundation at an important road in the city will continue to rise from the current total of 72 inundated days per year to 270 days by 2030 and 365 days by 2050. This is attributed to the combined influence of sea-level rise and land subsidence, which causes relative water level rises at a rate of 22.3 mm·yr⁻¹. People in the Mekong Delta have traditionally lived with floods, and thus there is certain resilience among residents in coping with small floods. At present, daily maximum inundation depth, which is generally shallower than 10 cm on the road, seems to be still manageable; however, our analysis indicates that this will start drastically increasing in the coming decades and reach an average depth of 70 cm by 2050. Effective and well-planned actions to mitigate the effects of land subsidence and sea-level rise are urgently required, otherwise, local inhabitants will encounter an unmanageable increase in inundation depth and duration in the coming decades. This study, which considers both sea-level rise and land subsidence, suggests that inundation depth and duration are projected to rise much faster than those indicated by previous studies, which only consider sea-level rise. Full article

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

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15 pages, 8184 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Assessment of Productivity Patterns of Grass-Dominated Rangelands in the Hindu Kush Karakoram Region, Pakistan

by Faisal Mueen Qamer^1,2,5,*, Chen Xi^1,5,*, Sawaid Abbas³

, Manchiraju S. R. Murthy²

, Wu Ning^2,4,5 and Bao Anming¹

¹ State Key Laboratory of Desert and Oasis Ecology, Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Urumqi 830011, Xinjiang, China

² International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD), Kathmandu 44700, Nepal

³ Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China

⁴ Chengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Chengdu 610000, Sichuan, China

⁵ University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 961; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090961 - 22 Sep 2016

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 5890

Abstract

Rangelands in the Hindu Kush Karakoram region provide a resource base for nomadic livestock grazing, which is one of the major traditional livelihood practices in the area. The present study assessed the spatiotemporal patterns and trends of rangelands using satellite remote-sensing time-series data. [...] Read more.

Rangelands in the Hindu Kush Karakoram region provide a resource base for nomadic livestock grazing, which is one of the major traditional livelihood practices in the area. The present study assessed the spatiotemporal patterns and trends of rangelands using satellite remote-sensing time-series data. Moderate resolution imaging spectroradiometer (MODIS)-based normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) data, collected at fortnightly intervals over 12 years (2001–2012), were used as a proxy for the vegetation conditions of the grasslands. The analysis revealed that rangeland productivity increased with increasing elevation up to the sub-alpine zone, which had a higher productivity than the moist temperate zone and humid sub-tropical zone. The high sub-alpine productivity was attributed to seasonal amplitude and the extended length of the growing season in the phenological cycle. In the temporal analysis of productivity, the majority of the area exhibited improvements in vegetation conditions, which were strongest in the humid sub-tropical zones and weakest in the alpine zones. The sub-alpine grasslands were found to be the most productive and heterogeneous habitat; however, the relatively strong negative temporal trend in productivity in this zone indicates ongoing degradation in these rangelands. Thus, special attention is needed for the sustainable management of rangelands in the sub-alpine zones of the Hindu Kush Karakoram region. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in the Mountains Region)

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24 pages, 601 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Optimistic Analysis of the Means of Implementation for Sustainable Development Goals: Thinking about Goals as Means

by Mark Elder^*

, Magnus Bengtsson and Lewis Akenji

Institute for Global Environmental Strategies, Hayama 240-0115, Japan

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 962; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090962 - 21 Sep 2016

Cited by 68 | Viewed by 19331

Abstract

A key but contentious aspect of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is the means of implementation (MOI). Many developing countries emphasize the importance of international assistance while developed countries focus more on domestic financing and the private sector. The text of the SDGs includes [...] Read more.

A key but contentious aspect of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is the means of implementation (MOI). Many developing countries emphasize the importance of international assistance while developed countries focus more on domestic financing and the private sector. The text of the SDGs includes a broad range of MOI. However, a discussion has arisen about whether countries should prioritize some goals over others due partly to concerns that MOI may be insufficient. In contrast, this article argues for a more optimistic outlook concerning MOI and the feasibility of achieving the SDGs. First, most SDGs and targets are themselves means—or intermediate goals—contributing to the achievement of other goals. The structure of the SDGs blurs the fact that different goals have different functions, such as providing resources or enabling environments. Greater focus on the interlinkages and synergies among goals could enhance the effectiveness of implementation and reduce costs. Second, integrated planning and implementation, needed for leveraging synergies among goals, will require enhanced capacity, particularly for governance and coordination. We argue that the strengthening of such capacity is a central MOI that requires more attention since it is a precondition for the effective mobilization and deployment of other MOI. Third, although upfront investments may seem high in absolute terms, financial feasibility is realistic when considering existing global financial stocks and flows and the expected benefits. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 5th World Sustainability Forum - Selected Papers)

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16 pages, 1064 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Influence of Multiple Specializations on Economic Performance in U.S. Metropolitan Areas

by Saheum Hong^1,* and Yu Xiao²

¹ Korea Research Institute for Human Settlements, 254 Simin-daero, Anyang-si 431-712, Korea

² Department of Landscape Architecture and Urban Planning, Texas A&M University, 3137 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843-3137, USA

Sustainability 2016, 8(9), 963; https://doi.org/10.3390/su8090963 - 21 Sep 2016

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 5025

Abstract

Scholars have recently been debating how economic structure affects regional economic performance. Regional economic structure typically indicates how the industries in regions are organized. The attribute of industrial organization in regions is typically measured by how the employment in a region is distributed [...] Read more.

Scholars have recently been debating how economic structure affects regional economic performance. Regional economic structure typically indicates how the industries in regions are organized. The attribute of industrial organization in regions is typically measured by how the employment in a region is distributed among various sectors. If the employment in a region is highly concentrated on a limited number of sectors, that region is industrially specialized. On the contrary, when the employment is more evenly distributed among various industries, that region is highly diversified in its industrial organization. In this context, some researchers recognized that diversity and specialization are not opposite concepts. Instead, they can coexist, for example in the form of diversified specializations. In this study, this body of literature was extended by formulating an indicator to measure the extent of multiple specializations in regional economies and by examining the effect of multiple specializations on regional economic performance. Empirical analysis showed that specializing in multiple industrial pursuits helped regions to achieve both faster and more stable economic growth. Full article

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

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