Review Reports
- Inna Ostapenko1,
- Elina Schneider2 and
- Lyazzat Nurkusheva3
- et al.
Reviewer 1: Jiazhen Zhang Reviewer 2: Bibhu Kalyan Nayak Reviewer 3: Sarah Shah Reviewer 4: Anonymous
Round 1
Reviewer 1 Report
Comments and Suggestions for AuthorsDear authors,
Firstly, I would like to thank you for your work in this field.
You did a good job!
After extensive reading, I only have a few comments for the current version, which are not many but essential.
For revision details, please see the following:
[1] The article covers multiple aspects such as education, gaming, agricultural science popularization, and sustainable design, but lacks a clear core research question. It is suggested that the author clearly state the core objective of this article in the introduction section;
[2] There is a lack of comprehensive reviews on research related to children's education architecture, container architecture, and agricultural theme design in the manuscript, and a lack of dialogue with existing academic achievements. Suggest expanding the review of international cases and theoretical frameworks to highlight the academic positioning of this article;
[3] The article mainly presents design concepts and renderings, but lacks scientific methods to support the design process, evaluation criteria for functional zoning, and analysis of spatial benefits. Suggest adding research methods for system design, such as user requirement surveys, functional simulations, or sustainable performance evaluations;
[4] At present, the paper mainly focuses on conceptual design and lacks field verification or simulation experiments. Suggest the author to increase demand research on potential users (children, educators, communities) or conduct small-scale pilot projects for validation;
[5] The results are biased towards showcasing spatial layout and design concepts, but lack quantitative or systematic analysis. Suggest adding evaluations on functional accessibility, space utilization, sustainability indicators, and other aspects to make the results more academic;
[6] The conclusion section repeats the design concept, but lacks discussion on the conditions, limitations, and improvement directions for future promotion. Suggest proposing specific implementation strategies and policy implications in the conclusion.
If my comments are properly considered and followed, I have no further comments on this manuscript.
Again, I have a high comment on your current contribution.
All my upon-revision recommendations are intended to help this manuscript be more readable for readers.
Author Response
REVIEW -1
Dear Reviewer,
Thank you very much for Your attention and valuable comments on our work. We have done our best to take Your recommendations into account and have made appropriate adjustments to the text. Our responses presented below.
Comments and Suggestions for Authors
Dear authors,
Firstly, I would like to thank you for your work in this field.
You did a good job!
After extensive reading, I only have a few comments for the current version, which are not many but essential.
For revision details, please see the following:
[1] The article covers multiple aspects such as education, gaming, agricultural science popularization, and sustainable design, but lacks a clear core research question. It is suggested that the author clearly state the core objective of this article in the introduction section;
Response:
At the end of the Introduction section, the purpose of the article is formulated as follows: The purpose of the presented study is to demonstrate the fundamental possibility of using modular sea containers to create collapsible children's educational and play complexes with agricultural themes.
At the next stage (this may be the topic of a separate study), the number of sea containers of various types is determined depending on the specific theme of the complex (general agricultural or narrowly focused), location, frequency of assembly/disassembly and movement assumed by the business plan. At this stage, the depreciation period of individual containers, the need for their phased replacement, etc. will be determined.
[2] There is a lack of comprehensive reviews on research related to children's education architecture, container architecture, and agricultural theme design in the manuscript, and a lack of dialogue with existing academic achievements. Suggest expanding the review of international cases and theoretical frameworks to highlight the academic positioning of this article;
Response:
Based on your recommendations, the review of various theoretical sources has been expanded:
On the issue of children's environmental education:
- Ardoin, N.M.; Bowers, A.W. Early childhood environmental education: A systematic review of the research literature. Educ Res Rev. 2020 Nov;31:100353. doi: 10.1016/j.edurev.2020.100353 – URL: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7348615/
- Mousavi, N.; Ahmadi, S.; Sani, M.S.; Irandoost,S.F.; Gharehghani, M.A.M.; Abdolhai, Z.
Identifying environmental education strategies for children with an emphasis on children under four years old: A qualitative study in Iran, Heliyon, 2024, Volume 10, Issue 17, e37161, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e37161 – URL: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2405844024131921
- Silo, N.; Mswela, N.; Seetso, G. Children’s Concepts of the Environment: An Opportunity for Environmental Education as a Tool for Sustainability in Botswana Preschools. Early Childhood Education Journal, 2025, 53, 1795–1804. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10643-023-01609-1 – URL: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10643-023-01609-1
- Grimberg, C.A.; Cortazar, A. (2022). Creating Early Childhood Education Environments That Promote Early Learning. Quality Early Learning: Nurturing Children's Potential, pp.165-200. DOI:10.1596/978-1-4648-1795-3_ch4 – URL: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/362009145_Creating_Early_Childhood_Education_Environments_That_Promote_Early_Learning
- Exploring the Benefits of Environmental Education for Children. Lloyd Center for the Environment, March 28, 2023. – URL: https://lloydcenter.org/exploring-the-benefits-of-environmental-education-for-children/
Stavreva Veselinovska, S. Why is environmental education important for children in the 21st century?. Journal of Educational Sciences Theory and Practice, 2022, 17. 27-33. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46763/ESPT22171027sv . – URL: https://js.ugd.edu.mk/index.php/vospitanie/article/view/4919
On the issue of reusing shipping containers, including agricultural production:
- Breaking Boundaries: The Endless Uses of Shipping Containers, Blog: Uses of Repurposed Shipping Containers, 08/05/2025 – URL: https://www.msc.com/en/lp/blog/shipping/shipping-containers-and-alternative-uses
- Cardoso, M. Environmental and sustainable benefits of reusing shipping containers, Boxxport.com – URL: https://blog.boxxport.com/reusing-shipping-containers/
- Cardoso, M. Container Architecture with Used Shipping Containers, Boxxport.com – URL: https://blog.boxxport.com/shipping-containers-architecture/
- Cardoso, M. New vs Used Shipping Containers: Solution to the Dilemma, Boxxport.com – URL: https://blog.boxxport.com/new-vs-used-shipping-containers/
- Cardoso, M. Modern Shipping Container Homes – A new lifestyle, Boxxport.com – URL: https://blog.boxxport.com/shipping-container-home/
- Cardoso, M. Steel Shipping Container’s Lifespan, Boxxport.com – URL: https://blog.boxxport.com/steel-shipping-containers-lifespan/
- Live Green: 3 Ways Re-Using Shipping Containers Encourages Sustainability, Get Simple Box.com, May 4, 2024 – URL: https://getsimplebox.com/shipping-container-sustainability/
- Kamel,W.A.; Fathallah, A.M.; Faheem,S.G., Reusing shipping containers as green building units in hot regions a case study: New-Assiut city school, Egypt, Journal of Green Building, Volume 20: Issue 2, Page Range: 291 – 308, Online Publication Date: 06 May 2025, DOI: 10.3992/jgb.20.2.291 -– URL: https://jgb.kglmeridian.com/view/journals/jgrb/20/2/article-p291.xml
- Industrial symbiosis - reuse of old shipping containers in construction, Interreg Europe – URL: https://www.interregeurope.eu/good-practices/industrial-symbiosis-reuse-of-old-shipping-containers-in-construction
- Islam, H.; Zhang, G.; Setunge,S.; Bhuiyan, M.A., Life cycle assessment of shipping container home: A sustainable construction, Energy and Buildings, Volume 128, 2016, Pages 673-685, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.enbuild.2016.07.002 – URL: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378778816305989
- Tavşan, F.; Bektaş, U. Recycling In Architectural Sustainability: Container Houses. Journal of Interior Design and Academy, 2021, 1(1), 34–48. – URL: https://doi.org/10.53463/inda.2021vol1iss1pp34-48
- Reusing shipping containers: Thinking outside the box, GREENCARRIER, October 4, 2018. – URL: https://blog.greencarrier.com/reusing-shipping-containers-thinking-outside-the-box/ : “Urban farming – growing crops inside shipping containers. Freight Farms has found a way to grow crops inside shipping containers. Their hydroponic farming system called The Leafy Green Machine uses hi-tech growing technology to transform discarded shipping containers into mobile farm units. Each farm can produce as much food as a two-acre plot of land on a much smaller plot than is required by traditional crops. As the outdoor climate has no impact on the conditions inside the container, food can be produced throughout the year and in any location. The project truly taps into the growing trend for urban farming and reduces the ecological footprint of food production.”
- Sustainable uses for shipping containers. By Philspace, 29 February 2024. – URL: https://www.philspace.co.uk/news/sustainable-uses-for-shipping-containers/ : “Urban Farming. As urban spaces become more crowded, finding room for traditional farming becomes a challenge. Shipping containers are perfect for converting into self-contained vertical farms or hydroponic systems. This would not only make an efficient use of space but also provide a local source of fresh produce, reducing the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation of food. The steel structure and sustainability of a shipping container make it ideal for maintaining controlled conditions necessary for such farming methods.”
- Circular economy from shipping containers: Houses, swimming pools, and industrial warehouses: Why shipping containers are the next step in the circular economy, Moeve global, Sustainable innovation, January 23, 2024. – URL: https://www.moeveglobal.com/en/planet-energy/sustainable-innovation/circular-economy-from-shipping-containers : “the choice of this construction system is directly based on what’s known as the blue economy, that is, the economy that’s linked to the sustainable development of the sea"
- The Environmental Impact of Reusing Shipping Containers. Anjer, 4 April 2025. – URL: https://anjerinc.com/containers/the-environmental-impact-of-reusing-shipping-containers/
- The Benefits of Container Re-use for Sustainable Logistics, Box on Wheel, October 31, 2024. – URL: https://boxonwheel.com/the-benefits-of-container-re-use-for-sustainable-logistics/
- Aktan, I. Reusing Shipping Containers: What are the Advantages and Challenges? More Than Shipping, October 9, 2017. – URL: https://www.morethanshipping.com/reusing-shipping-containers-advantages-challenges/
- - Are Shipping Containers Reused? 360connect. – URL: https://www.360connect.com/product-blog/are-shipping-containers-reused/
- Mohebbi, M.H. Environmental Impact of Recycling Shipping Containers for Modular Construction. June 25, 2025. – URL: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/environmental-impact-recycling-shipping-containers-modular-mohebbi-ii5ff
- Fariña, E.A.; Panait, M.; Lago-Cabo, J.M.; Fernández-González, R. Energy Analysis of Standardized Shipping Containers for Housing. Inventions 2024, 9, 106. https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions9050106
- Oviya, K.; Shobana; Amraotkar, S. Assessing the thermal performance of upcycled shipping container as a sustainable building material in a Warm humid climate, IOP Conf. Ser.: Earth Environ.2023, Sci. 1210 012008, DOI 10.1088/1755-1315/1210/1/012008 – URL: https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1755-1315/1210/1/012008
As benefits of reusing packaging:
Coelho,P.M.; Corona,B.; ten Klooster, R.; Worrell,E. Sustainability of reusable packaging–Current situation and trends,Resources, Conservation & Recycling: X, Volume 6, 2020, 100037, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rcrx.2020.100037 . – URL: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2590289X20300086
- Sustainable Solutions: The Environmental Benefits of Container Reuse. Green Box Container, June 12, 2025. – URL: https://greenboxtainer.com/container-reuse-environmental-benefits/
[3] The article mainly presents design concepts and renderings, but lacks scientific methods to support the design process, evaluation criteria for functional zoning, and analysis of spatial benefits. Suggest adding research methods for system design, such as user requirement surveys, functional simulations, or sustainable performance evaluations;
Response:
Sociological surveys on the topic of the study conducted by the article's co-authors during the research of individual aspects. References to these studies provided in the text.
- Ostapenko I.I. Arhitekturno–planirovochnaya struktura agroekoturistskih kompleksov na primere Yuzhnogo Kazahstana [Architectural and planning structure of agro ecotourism complexes on the example of Southern Kazakhstan]. Abstract of the dissertation for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in the educational program 8D07311 (6D042000) - "Architecture": - Almaty, 2023, pp. 1-24.
- Schneider E.V. Arhitekturnaya organizaciya detskih igrovyh ploshchadok v gorodskoj srede (na primere Kazahstana) [Architectural organization of children's playgrounds in the urban environment (on the example of Kazakhstan)]. Abstract of the dissertation for the degree of candidate of architecture (PhD) in the specialty 05.23.20 - "Theory and history of architecture, restoration and reconstruction of historical and architectural heritage": Bishkek, 2022, pp. 1-22.
[4] At present, the paper mainly focuses on conceptual design and lacks field verification or simulation experiments. Suggest the author to increase demand research on potential users (children, educators, communities) or conduct small-scale pilot projects for validation;
Response:
The analysis of demand for agritourism complexes, which forms the basis of this study, was conducted by the co-author of the article I. Ostapenko (Ostapenko I.I. Arhitekturno–planirovochnaya struktura agroekoturistskih kompleksov na primere Yuzhnogo Kazahstana [Architectural and planning structure of agro ecotourism complexes on the example of Southern Kazakhstan]. Abstract of the dissertation for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in the educational program 8D07311 (6D042000) - "Architecture": - Almaty, 2023, pp. 1-24).
The analysis of demand for children's play complexes, which forms the basis of this study, was conducted by the co-author of the article, E. Schneider (Schneider E.V. Arhitekturnaya organizaciya detskih igrovyh ploshchadok v gorodskoj srede (na primere Kazahstana) [Architectural organization of children's playgrounds in the urban environment (on the example of Kazakhstan)]. Abstract of the dissertation for the degree of candidate of architecture (PhD) in the specialty 05.23.20 - "Theory and history of architecture, restoration and reconstruction of historical and architectural heritage": Bishkek, 2022, pp. 1-22).
In the context of these studies, corresponding modeling experiments conducted. References to these studies provided in the text of the Article.
[5] The results are biased towards showcasing spatial layout and design concepts, but lack quantitative or systematic analysis. Suggest adding evaluations on functional accessibility, space utilization, sustainability indicators, and other aspects to make the results more academic;
Response:
In accordance with your recommendations, functional accessibility assessments added to the article, illustrated in Supplementary Figure 4. A note has been added to the text indicating that all proposed spatial solutions comply with current regulations and industry standards. These solutions ensure compliance with agricultural production technology, adequate display of production processes, sanitary and epidemiological control, and the safety of visitors and service personnel.
[6] The conclusion section repeats the design concept, but lacks discussion on the conditions, limitations, and improvement directions for future promotion. Suggest proposing specific implementation strategies and policy implications in the conclusion.
Response:
In accordance with your recommendation, the appropriate additions have been made to the text.
If my comments are properly considered and followed, I have no further comments on this manuscript.
Again, I have a high comment on your current contribution.
All my upon-revision recommendations are intended to help this manuscript be more readable for readers.
Submission Date
09 September 2025
Date of this review
17 Sep 2025 16:22:40
Thank Your again for Your attention and valuable suggestions for improving our article. All changes based on your and Your colleagues' recommendations highlighted in red in the new text.
Sincerely,
I.Ostapenko, E.Schneider, L.Nurkusheva, B.Kuspangaliev, K.Samoilov
01 October 2025
Author Response File: 
Author Response.pdf
Reviewer 2 Report
Comments and Suggestions for AuthorsDear Authors,
I appreciate the effort that went into this work and the innovative idea of combining container reuse with children’s agro-tourism education.
I believe your paper has potential, but it requires substantial revision before further consideration. At present, the manuscript reads more like a descriptive catalogue of container configurations than a focused research article.
To strengthen your paper, I would encourage you to focus on the following areas:
- Research Positioning and Contribution
Please clarify the novelty of your work within the existing literature on urban agriculture, children’s learning spaces, and container reuse. It would help if you explained why shipping containers are the most suitable solution and how your model improves on current practices. - Methodology
The methodology section needs to be expanded. Readers will want to know how you chose and designed your proposals and any empirical evidence (like surveys, case studies, or simulations) that backs them. - Results and Structure
The detailed descriptions of container “sets” overwhelm the paper. I suggest condensing these and, where appropriate, moving them to an appendix or supplementary material. In the main text, please focus on principles, insights, and broader implications rather than exhaustive inventories. - Language and Style
The manuscript needs careful editing for clarity and conciseness. Please simplify sentence structures, avoid repetition, and use consistent terminology (for example, “educational play complex” may be clearer than “gaming complex”). - Figures and References
Some of the schematic figures could be reduced, leaving only those essential to illustrate your innovation. Updating the reference list with more recent and relevant studies on container reuse, child-friendly design, and sustainability education would also strengthen the paper.
On this basis, my decision is major revision. I encourage you to revise the manuscript in line with these comments and resubmit. A detailed response letter addressing each point will be important for the next round of review.
I value the creativity in your proposal and believe that, with focused restructuring and clearer framing, your paper could make a meaningful contribution.
All the best.
Comments on the Quality of English LanguageThe manuscript requires moderate to major editing for grammar, style, and conciseness. Sentence structures should be simplified, technical terms should be standardised, and redundant expressions should be removed.
Author Response
REVIEW -2
Dear Reviewer,
Thank you very much for Your attention and valuable comments on our work. We have done our best to take Your recommendations into account and have made appropriate adjustments to the text. Our responses presented below.
Dear Authors,
I appreciate the effort that went into this work and the innovative idea of combining container reuse with children’s agro-tourism education.
I believe your paper has potential, but it requires substantial revision before further consideration. At present, the manuscript reads more like a descriptive catalogue of container configurations than a focused research article.
To strengthen your paper, I would encourage you to focus on the following areas:
- Research Positioning and Contribution
Please clarify the novelty of your work within the existing literature on urban agriculture, children’s learning spaces, and container reuse. It would help if you explained why shipping containers are the most suitable solution and how your model improves on current practices.
Response:
The novelty of this work lies in the fact that the use of sea containers to create agricultural-themed children's play and educational complexes has not yet been considered in the scientific literature or in real-world design practice.
This study builds on previous work by the article's co-authors on specific aspects:
- The use of sea containers for agricultural tourism complexes was first studied by the article's co-author, I.I. Ostapenko
(Ostapenko I.I. Arhitekturno–planirovochnaya struktura agroekoturistskih kompleksov na primere Yuzhnogo Kazahstana [Architectural and planning structure of agro ecotourism complexes on the example of Southern Kazakhstan]. Abstract of the dissertation for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in the educational program 8D07311 (6D042000) - "Architecture": - Almaty, 2023, pp. 1-24.).
- The features of modern children's play complexes were first studied by the co-author of the article E. Schneider (Schneider E.V. Arhitekturnaya organizaciya detskih igrovyh ploshchadok v gorodskoj srede (na primere Kazahstana) [Architectural organization of children's playgrounds in the urban environment (on the example of Kazakhstan)]. Abstract of the dissertation for the degree of candidate of architecture (PhD) in the specialty 05.23.20 - "Theory and history of architecture, restoration and reconstruction of historical and architectural heritage": Bishkek, 2022, pp. 1-22.).
The novelty of the concept presented in the article lies in the creation of an educational exhibition of certain agricultural production processes. The playful format of the exhibition and the opportunity for active participation in the production processes help raise children's awareness of environmentally sound economic practices.
Sea containers offer a solution to this problem in an environmentally and economically viable manner. Spatial rigidity, modularity, the ability to quickly assemble, and other features define the advantages of sea containers.
Some questions have been clarified by reference to relevant research, for example:
- Breaking Boundaries: The Endless Uses of Shipping Containers, Blog: Uses of Repurposed Shipping Containers, 08/05/2025 – URL: https://www.msc.com/en/lp/blog/shipping/shipping-containers-and-alternative-uses
- Cardoso, M. Environmental and sustainable benefits of reusing shipping containers, Boxxport.com – URL: https://blog.boxxport.com/reusing-shipping-containers/
- Cardoso, M. Container Architecture with Used Shipping Containers, Boxxport.com – URL: https://blog.boxxport.com/shipping-containers-architecture/
- Cardoso, M. New vs Used Shipping Containers: Solution to the Dilemma, Boxxport.com – URL: https://blog.boxxport.com/new-vs-used-shipping-containers/
- Cardoso, M. Modern Shipping Container Homes – A new lifestyle, Boxxport.com – URL: https://blog.boxxport.com/shipping-container-home/
- Cardoso, M. Steel Shipping Container’s Lifespan, Boxxport.com – URL: https://blog.boxxport.com/steel-shipping-containers-lifespan/
- Live Green: 3 Ways Re-Using Shipping Containers Encourages Sustainability, Get Simple Box.com, May 4, 2024 – URL: https://getsimplebox.com/shipping-container-sustainability/
- Kamel,W.A.; Fathallah, A.M.; Faheem,S.G., Reusing shipping containers as green building units in hot regions a case study: New-Assiut city school, Egypt, Journal of Green Building, Volume 20: Issue 2, Page Range: 291 – 308, Online Publication Date: 06 May 2025, DOI: 10.3992/jgb.20.2.291 -– URL: https://jgb.kglmeridian.com/view/journals/jgrb/20/2/article-p291.xml
- Industrial symbiosis - reuse of old shipping containers in construction, Interreg Europe – URL: https://www.interregeurope.eu/good-practices/industrial-symbiosis-reuse-of-old-shipping-containers-in-construction
- Islam, H.; Zhang, G.; Setunge,S.; Bhuiyan, M.A., Life cycle assessment of shipping container home: A sustainable construction, Energy and Buildings, Volume 128, 2016, Pages 673-685, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.enbuild.2016.07.002 – URL: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378778816305989
- Tavşan, F.; Bektaş, U. Recycling In Architectural Sustainability: Container Houses. Journal of Interior Design and Academy, 2021, 1(1), 34–48. – URL: https://doi.org/10.53463/inda.2021vol1iss1pp34-48
- Reusing shipping containers: Thinking outside the box, GREENCARRIER, October 4, 2018. – URL: https://blog.greencarrier.com/reusing-shipping-containers-thinking-outside-the-box/ : “Urban farming – growing crops inside shipping containers. Freight Farms has found a way to grow crops inside shipping containers. Their hydroponic farming system called The Leafy Green Machine uses hi-tech growing technology to transform discarded shipping containers into mobile farm units. Each farm can produce as much food as a two-acre plot of land on a much smaller plot than is required by traditional crops. As the outdoor climate has no impact on the conditions inside the container, food can be produced throughout the year and in any location. The project truly taps into the growing trend for urban farming and reduces the ecological footprint of food production.”
- Sustainable uses for shipping containers. By Philspace, 29 February 2024. – URL: https://www.philspace.co.uk/news/sustainable-uses-for-shipping-containers / : “Urban Farming. As urban spaces become more crowded, finding room for traditional farming becomes a challenge. Shipping containers are perfect for converting into self-contained vertical farms or hydroponic systems. This would not only make an efficient use of space but also provide a local source of fresh produce, reducing the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation of food. The steel structure and sustainability of a shipping container make it ideal for maintaining controlled conditions necessary for such farming methods.”
- Circular economy from shipping containers: Houses, swimming pools, and industrial warehouses: Why shipping containers are the next step in the circular economy, Moeve global, Sustainable innovation, January 23, 2024. – URL: https://www.moeveglobal.com/en/planet-energy/sustainable-innovation/circular-economy-from-shipping-containers : “the choice of this construction system is directly based on what’s known as the blue economy, that is, the economy that’s linked to the sustainable development of the sea"
- The Environmental Impact of Reusing Shipping Containers. Anjer, 4 April 2025. – URL: https://anjerinc.com/containers/the-environmental-impact-of-reusing-shipping-containers/
- The Benefits of Container Re-use for Sustainable Logistics, Box on Wheel, October 31, 2024. – URL: https://boxonwheel.com/the-benefits-of-container-re-use-for-sustainable-logistics/
- Aktan, I. Reusing Shipping Containers: What are the Advantages and Challenges? More Than Shipping, October 9, 2017. – URL: https://www.morethanshipping.com/reusing-shipping-containers-advantages-challenges/
- Are Shipping Containers Reused? 360connect. – URL: https://www.360connect.com/product-blog/are-shipping-containers-reused/
- Mohebbi, M.H. Environmental Impact of Recycling Shipping Containers for Modular Construction. June 25, 2025. – URL: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/environmental-impact-recycling-shipping-containers-modular-mohebbi-ii5ff
- Fariña, E.A.; Panait, M.; Lago-Cabo, J.M.; Fernández-González, R. Energy Analysis of Standardized Shipping Containers for Housing. Inventions 2024, 9, 106. https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions9050106
- Oviya, K.; Shobana; Amraotkar, S. Assessing the thermal performance of upcycled shipping container as a sustainable building material in a Warm humid climate, IOP Conf. Ser.: Earth Environ.2023, Sci. 1210 012008, DOI 10.1088/1755-1315/1210/1/012008 – URL: https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1755-1315/1210/1/012008
As an advantage of reusable packaging:
Coelho,P.M.; Corona,B.; ten Klooster, R.; Worrell,E. Sustainability of reusable packaging–Current situation and trends,Resources, Conservation & Recycling: X, Volume 6, 2020, 100037, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rcrx.2020.100037 . – URL: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2590289X20300086
- Sustainable Solutions: The Environmental Benefits of Container Reuse. Green Box Container, June 12, 2025. – URL: https://greenboxtainer.com/container-reuse-environmental-benefits/
These positions have been clarified in the corrected version of the text.
- Methodology
The methodology section needs to be expanded. Readers will want to know how you chose and designed your proposals and any empirical evidence (like surveys, case studies, or simulations) that backs them.
Response:
This study based on data obtained previously in thematic research conducted by co-authors I.Ostapenko (agricultural tourism complexes) and E.Schneider (children's play complexes). These studies included relevant sociological surveys, which demonstrated the relevance of developing agricultural tourism in general and educational play complexes in particular. These studies also included modeling, demonstrating the feasibility of implementing this idea.
- Results and Structure
The detailed descriptions of container “sets” overwhelm the paper. I suggest condensing these and, where appropriate, moving them to an appendix or supplementary material. In the main text, please focus on principles, insights, and broader implications rather than exhaustive inventories.
Response:
The purpose of this article is to specifically outline the possibilities for creating a multi-thematic agricultural exhibition with a full range of auxiliary facilities. Detailed descriptions of individual objects are necessary to substantiate the author's concept. These descriptions and drawings demonstrate the spatial organization of individual objects. Without these descriptions and corresponding drawings, the authors believe the article may lack the specificity that supports the author's idea. Therefore, the authors believe it is appropriate to retain the descriptions of spatial solutions.
In accordance with Your recommendation, additions have been made to the text regarding the principles and conclusions.
- Language and Style
The manuscript needs careful editing for clarity and conciseness. Please simplify sentence structures, avoid repetition, and use consistent terminology (for example, “educational play complex” may be clearer than “gaming complex”).
Response:
In accordance with Your recommendation, adjustments have been made to the text to ensure simplification of the sentence structure and consistency of terminology.
- Figures and References
Some of the schematic figures could be reduced, leaving only those essential to illustrate your innovation. Updating the reference list with more recent and relevant studies on container reuse, child-friendly design, and sustainability education would also strengthen the paper.
Response:
The presented diagrams demonstrate the entire set of objects necessary for the functioning of a children's educational play complex. In each specific case, a group of objects is selected from this set, corresponding to the specific location or thematic focus of the complex. For example, a suburban complex requires a full set of auxiliary facilities, including cottages for temporary accommodation of visitors and staff, repair shops, observation decks, checkpoints, etc. For an inner-city complex, only thematic agricultural objects are sufficient. Therefore, the authors of the article believe it is appropriate to preserve the entire representation of the image.
The studies cited in paragraph 1, detailing various aspects of the reuse of shipping containers, have been added to the reference list.
However, the analysis conducted so far has not identified any studies on the use of shipping containers for children's play complexes. This demonstrates the lack of development in this area and underscores the novelty of the presented research.
On this basis, my decision is major revision. I encourage you to revise the manuscript in line with these comments and resubmit. A detailed response letter addressing each point will be important for the next round of review.
I value the creativity in your proposal and believe that, with focused restructuring and clearer framing, your paper could make a meaningful contribution.
All the best.
Comments on the Quality of English Language
The manuscript requires moderate to major editing for grammar, style, and conciseness. Sentence structures should be simplified, technical terms should be standardised, and redundant expressions should be removed.
Submission Date
09 September 2025
Date of this review
17 Sep 2025 12:14:14
Thank Your again for Your attention and valuable suggestions for improving our article. All changes based on your and Your colleagues' recommendations highlighted in red in the new text.
Sincerely,
I.Ostapenko, E.Schneider, L.Nurkusheva, B.Kuspangaliev, K.Samoilov
01 October 2025
Author Response File: Author Response.pdf
Reviewer 3 Report
Comments and Suggestions for AuthorsStrengths
Originality: The integration of agro-tourism and children’s education through modular container complexes is novel and highly relevant for contemporary urban discourse.
Comprehensive Detailing: The sets of container-based modules are described with great precision, offering a wide typological spectrum (residential, recreational, agricultural, service-oriented).
Sustainability Aspect: The reuse of shipping containers aligns with circular economy principles, which are crucial for environmental sustainability and economic viability.
Practical Application: The proposed design systems could be adapted for urban and suburban contexts with real-world impact on education, leisure, and awareness-building.
Weaknesses
Lack of a Clear Research Question and Hypothesis: The manuscript does not articulate a guiding research problem. It directly starts with the topic without a clear definition of the research problem and specific questions. It shifts between discussing agro-tourism, modularity, container architecture, and children’s education without a unifying hypothesis.
Overly Descriptive, Limited Analytical Depth: Much of the text is dedicated to cataloguing container sets and possible uses. This risks reducing the paper to a technical manual rather than a critical scholarly contribution. Many times, the article seems a narrative of others' works with overly long quotes cited directly, without a critical reflection.
e.g., For example, H-Y.Chen, H-H.Lin and H-L.Hsu point out that “The transformation of container architecture which combined with new materials and new technologies is easy to create a poetic atmosphere for spatial users. It is easy to touch the public's sensory and experience. The kind of container architecture contains not only the existing meaning of containers, but also the ideas about the transformation of the catalyst of economic development. It can be seen not only as an assemblage of spatial material, but also as a course of sustainable development” [38]. (#134-140)
Theoretical Positioning: The literature review is also done at a superficial level; it just highlights others' works instead of presenting a critical review and pointing toward existing gaps. It cites tourism, modularity, and container architecture studies, but the connections are surface-level. Missing is a critical discussion of educational theory, play environments, or child-centered design frameworks.
e.g., As an example of the analysis of the environmental component, the work by P.Valentine [2] is indicative. (#66, 67)
e.g., H.A.Schänzel and I.Yeoman consider the features and prospects of family tourism [4]. (#74)
Methodology Section is Weak: The methodology claims to be based on "sequential multidimensional selection and analysis of sources," but no concrete research design, evaluation framework, or data is provided. The work remains conceptual, yet it is not framed explicitly as such.
Scale and Feasibility Questions: While the modular sets are technically detailed, the paper does not address: (1) cost implications; (2) construction logistics in urban vs. suburban contexts; (3) long-term maintenance and safety concerns for children; (4) cultural appropriateness of agro-tourism as an educational framework.
Structure: The flow is disrupted by excessive insertion of set-by-set container descriptions, which may be better suited for an appendix or supplementary material. This should not be in the main body, as it makes the article extremely lengthy, rather than a focused study.
Future scope or further research direction is explained in the introduction; it should have been proposed in the conclusions. Positioning it here raises the question of why not study it now?
e.g., "At the next stage (this may be the topic of a separate study), the number of sea con- 186
tainers of various types is determined depending on the specific theme of the complex 187
(general agricultural or narrowly focused), location, frequency of assembly/disassembly 188
and movement assumed by the business plan. At this stage, the depreciation period of 189
individual containers, the need for their phased replacement, etc. will be determined." (#186-190)
Quality of the English Language
The manuscript suffers from translation issues, awkward phrasing, and occasional grammatical errors. These hinder readability. Additionally, there is a need to improve sentence structure: make short sentences more meaningful; present very long sentences in alternative ways (such as, tables or bullets), to ensure better academic quality.
Some sentences are extremely short, e.g. The problem is very urgent. (#48); This formed a kind of “urban ranch”. (#53)
While some sentences are overly complex, e.g., This set allows you to create a Display unit for breeding horses, ponies, donkeys, mules, cows or camels. The Pavilion for the demonstration of horses, ponies, donkeys, cows or camels: four distribution areas of 6.0 sq.m each; a viewing gallery of 27.0 sq.m; a techno- logical gallery of 27.0 sq.m; three interlocked animal husbandry pavilions of 36.0 sq.m each, with a technologically sound height of 6.0 m and perimeter glazing on the second level; two feed preparation rooms of 4.5 sq.m each adjacent to an operational feed storage
room; a staff living room with a bathroom of 13.5 sq.m; an inventory storeroom of 4.5 sq.m; a milk temporary storage room of 13.5 sq.m; a waste storage room of 4.5 sq.m; a workwear storeroom of 9.0 sq.m; two 6.0 m by 4.5 m high rooms for ventilation equipment; two water treatment tanks of 25.0 cubic meters each. (#1054-1063)
Author Response
REVIEW -3
Dear Reviewer,
Thank you very much for Your attention and valuable comments on our work. We have done our best to take Your recommendations into account and have made appropriate adjustments to the text. Our responses presented below.
Comments and Suggestions for Authors
Strengths
Originality: The integration of agro-tourism and children’s education through modular container complexes is novel and highly relevant for contemporary urban discourse.
Comprehensive Detailing: The sets of container-based modules are described with great precision, offering a wide typological spectrum (residential, recreational, agricultural, service-oriented).
Sustainability Aspect: The reuse of shipping containers aligns with circular economy principles, which are crucial for environmental sustainability and economic viability.
Practical Application: The proposed design systems could be adapted for urban and suburban contexts with real-world impact on education, leisure, and awareness-building.
Weaknesses
Lack of a Clear Research Question and Hypothesis: The manuscript does not articulate a guiding research problem. It directly starts with the topic without a clear definition of the research problem and specific questions. It shifts between discussing agro-tourism, modularity, container architecture, and children’s education without a unifying hypothesis.
Response:
In accordance with Your recommendation, the main research problem is formulated in the Introduction. It is based on the findings of preliminary studies. These studies demonstrated the originality of the proposed concept.
“The purpose of the presented study is to demonstrate the fundamental possibility of using modular sea containers to create collapsible children's educational and play complexes with agricultural themes.”
Overly Descriptive, Limited Analytical Depth: Much of the text is dedicated to cataloguing container sets and possible uses. This risks reducing the paper to a technical manual rather than a critical scholarly contribution. Many times, the article seems a narrative of others' works with overly long quotes cited directly, without a critical reflection.
e.g., For example, H-Y.Chen, H-H.Lin and H-L.Hsu point out that “The transformation of container architecture which combined with new materials and new technologies is easy to create a poetic atmosphere for spatial users. It is easy to touch the public's sensory and experience. The kind of container architecture contains not only the existing meaning of containers, but also the ideas about the transformation of the catalyst of economic development. It can be seen not only as an assemblage of spatial material, but also as a course of sustainable development” [38]. (#134-140)
Response:
This article explores the conceptual feasibility of using shipping containers to create agricultural-themed children's educational play complexes. Therefore, a complete set of necessary objects is presented. Depending on specific urban planning conditions, the chosen thematic focus, and other parameters, the appropriate set of objects can be selected.
Most of the citations are intended to highlight a number of related issues that are relevant to the topic under consideration. Because the topic under study is scientifically novel, the authors deem it inappropriate to critically analyze related research. However, these studies are cited to emphasize their novelty. Furthermore, a more detailed analysis of previously conducted and published research would significantly increase the text length. This may prompt editorial comments.
Theoretical Positioning: The literature review is also done at a superficial level; it just highlights others' works instead of presenting a critical review and pointing toward existing gaps. It cites tourism, modularity, and container architecture studies, but the connections are surface-level.
Response:
Your rightly point out the brevity of the literature review. However, the authors' analysis revealed that the topic of children's educational play spaces with agricultural themes has rarely been the subject of dedicated research. Consequently, the problem addressed in the article possesses the quality of scientific novelty. Therefore, the detailed analysis of works unrelated to the topic under study is brief. However, taking your comments into account, we have expanded the list of references reviewed.
In accordance with your recommendation, several works on the design of play spaces for children have been added to the review:
Hart, R., Creating Playspaces by and for Children, Project for Public Spaces, 2008, Dec 31. - URL: https://www.pps.org/article/righttoplay-2
Elements of a Successful Playspace. Project for Public Spaces, 2008, Dec 31. – URL: https://www.pps.org/article/play-elements
Schipperijn, J., Madsen, C.D., Toftager, M., Johansen, D.N., Lousen, I., Amholt, T.T., Pawlowski, C.S. The role of playgrounds in promoting children's health - a scoping review. Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act. 2024 Jul 8;21(1):72. doi: 10.1186/s12966-024-01618-2 – URL: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11232259/
- Jansson, M., Children's perspectives on playground use as basis for children's participation in local play space management. Local Environment, 2015, 20. 165-179. https://doi.org/10.1080/13549839.2013.857646 - :URL: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/13549839.2013.857646
Burke, L., Jindal-Snape, D., Lindsay, A., Whyte, S., Wallace, M., Mercieca, D., McKenzie, M., Keatch, B. (2024). Spaces for play: listening to children’s voices. Education, 2024, 3-13, 1–24. https://doi.org/10.1080/03004279.2024.2318254
How to Create Play Spaces That Stimulate Learning, Miracle. - URL: https://www.miracle-recreation.com/blog/creating-playgrounds-that-stimulate-learning/?lang=can
The Importance of Playgrounds for Children and Their Communities, Little Tikes Commercial. - URL: https://littletikescommercial.com/blog/importance-of-playgrounds-for-children/?lang=can
Xu, S. (2023). Analysis and design of child-friendly play Spaces. Highlights in Science, Engineering and Technology, 2023, 75. 113-119. DOI: https://doi.org/10.54097/qj4aek17 - URL: https://drpress.org/ojs/index.php/HSET/article/view/15279
Wan Azlina, Zulkiflee A. S., A Pilot Study: The Impact of Outdoor Play Spaces on Kindergarten Children, Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences, 2012, Volume 38, 275-283, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sbspro.2012.03.349 - URL: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1877042812008282
Weir, H. Spaces for children’s play and travel close to home: the importance of threshold spaces. Children’s Geographies,2023, 21(6), 1071–1086. https://doi.org/10.1080/14733285.2023.2192338
Based on Your recommendations, the review of various theoretical sources has been expanded:
On the issue of children's environmental education:
- Ardoin, N.M.; Bowers, A.W. Early childhood environmental education: A systematic review of the research literature. Educ Res Rev. 2020 Nov;31:100353. doi: 10.1016/j.edurev.2020.100353 – URL: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7348615/
- Mousavi, N.; Ahmadi, S.; Sani, M.S.; Irandoost,S.F.; Gharehghani, M.A.M.; Abdolhai, Z.
Identifying environmental education strategies for children with an emphasis on children under four years old: A qualitative study in Iran, Heliyon, 2024, Volume 10, Issue 17, e37161, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e37161 – URL: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2405844024131921
- Silo, N.; Mswela, N.; Seetso, G. Children’s Concepts of the Environment: An Opportunity for Environmental Education as a Tool for Sustainability in Botswana Preschools. Early Childhood Education Journal, 2025, 53, 1795–1804. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10643-023-01609-1 – URL: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10643-023-01609-1
- Grimberg, C.A.; Cortazar, A. (2022). Creating Early Childhood Education Environments That Promote Early Learning. Quality Early Learning: Nurturing Children's Potential, pp.165-200. DOI:10.1596/978-1-4648-1795-3_ch4 – URL: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/362009145_Creating_Early_Childhood_Education_Environments_That_Promote_Early_Learning
- Exploring the Benefits of Environmental Education for Children. Lloyd Center for the Environment, March 28, 2023. – URL: https://lloydcenter.org/exploring-the-benefits-of-environmental-education-for-children/
Stavreva Veselinovska, S. Why is environmental education important for children in the 21st century?. Journal of Educational Sciences Theory and Practice, 2022, 17. 27-33. DOI: https://doi.org/10.46763/ESPT22171027sv . – URL: https://js.ugd.edu.mk/index.php/vospitanie/article/view/4919
On the issue of reusing shipping containers, including agricultural production:
- Breaking Boundaries: The Endless Uses of Shipping Containers, Blog: Uses of Repurposed Shipping Containers, 08/05/2025 – URL: https://www.msc.com/en/lp/blog/shipping/shipping-containers-and-alternative-uses
- Cardoso, M. Environmental and sustainable benefits of reusing shipping containers, Boxxport.com – URL: https://blog.boxxport.com/reusing-shipping-containers/
- Cardoso, M. Container Architecture with Used Shipping Containers, Boxxport.com – URL: https://blog.boxxport.com/shipping-containers-architecture/
- Cardoso, M. New vs Used Shipping Containers: Solution to the Dilemma, Boxxport.com – URL: https://blog.boxxport.com/new-vs-used-shipping-containers/
- Cardoso, M. Modern Shipping Container Homes – A new lifestyle, Boxxport.com – URL: https://blog.boxxport.com/shipping-container-home/
- Cardoso, M. Steel Shipping Container’s Lifespan, Boxxport.com – URL: https://blog.boxxport.com/steel-shipping-containers-lifespan/
- Live Green: 3 Ways Re-Using Shipping Containers Encourages Sustainability, Get Simple Box.com, May 4, 2024 – URL: https://getsimplebox.com/shipping-container-sustainability/
- Kamel,W.A.; Fathallah, A.M.; Faheem,S.G., Reusing shipping containers as green building units in hot regions a case study: New-Assiut city school, Egypt, Journal of Green Building, Volume 20: Issue 2, Page Range: 291 – 308, Online Publication Date: 06 May 2025, DOI: 10.3992/jgb.20.2.291 -– URL: https://jgb.kglmeridian.com/view/journals/jgrb/20/2/article-p291.xml
- Industrial symbiosis - reuse of old shipping containers in construction, Interreg Europe – URL: https://www.interregeurope.eu/good-practices/industrial-symbiosis-reuse-of-old-shipping-containers-in-construction
- Islam, H.; Zhang, G.; Setunge,S.; Bhuiyan, M.A., Life cycle assessment of shipping container home: A sustainable construction, Energy and Buildings, Volume 128, 2016, Pages 673-685, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.enbuild.2016.07.002 – URL: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378778816305989
- Tavşan, F.; Bektaş, U. Recycling In Architectural Sustainability: Container Houses. Journal of Interior Design and Academy, 2021, 1(1), 34–48. – URL: https://doi.org/10.53463/inda.2021vol1iss1pp34-48
- Reusing shipping containers: Thinking outside the box, GREENCARRIER, October 4, 2018. – URL: https://blog.greencarrier.com/reusing-shipping-containers-thinking-outside-the-box/ : “Urban farming – growing crops inside shipping containers. Freight Farms has found a way to grow crops inside shipping containers. Their hydroponic farming system called The Leafy Green Machine uses hi-tech growing technology to transform discarded shipping containers into mobile farm units. Each farm can produce as much food as a two-acre plot of land on a much smaller plot than is required by traditional crops. As the outdoor climate has no impact on the conditions inside the container, food can be produced throughout the year and in any location. The project truly taps into the growing trend for urban farming and reduces the ecological footprint of food production.”
- Sustainable uses for shipping containers. By Philspace, 29 February 2024. – URL: https://www.philspace.co.uk/news/sustainable-uses-for-shipping-containers/ : “Urban Farming. As urban spaces become more crowded, finding room for traditional farming becomes a challenge. Shipping containers are perfect for converting into self-contained vertical farms or hydroponic systems. This would not only make an efficient use of space but also provide a local source of fresh produce, reducing the carbon footprint associated with long-distance transportation of food. The steel structure and sustainability of a shipping container make it ideal for maintaining controlled conditions necessary for such farming methods.”
- Circular economy from shipping containers: Houses, swimming pools, and industrial warehouses: Why shipping containers are the next step in the circular economy, Moeve global, Sustainable innovation, January 23, 2024. – URL: https://www.moeveglobal.com/en/planet-energy/sustainable-innovation/circular-economy-from-shipping-containers : “the choice of this construction system is directly based on what’s known as the blue economy, that is, the economy that’s linked to the sustainable development of the sea"
- The Environmental Impact of Reusing Shipping Containers. Anjer, 4 April 2025. – URL: https://anjerinc.com/containers/the-environmental-impact-of-reusing-shipping-containers/
- The Benefits of Container Re-use for Sustainable Logistics, Box on Wheel, October 31, 2024. – URL: https://boxonwheel.com/the-benefits-of-container-re-use-for-sustainable-logistics/
- Aktan, I. Reusing Shipping Containers: What are the Advantages and Challenges? More Than Shipping, October 9, 2017. – URL: https://www.morethanshipping.com/reusing-shipping-containers-advantages-challenges/
- - Are Shipping Containers Reused? 360connect. – URL: https://www.360connect.com/product-blog/are-shipping-containers-reused/
- Mohebbi, M.H. Environmental Impact of Recycling Shipping Containers for Modular Construction. June 25, 2025. – URL: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/environmental-impact-recycling-shipping-containers-modular-mohebbi-ii5ff
- Fariña, E.A.; Panait, M.; Lago-Cabo, J.M.; Fernández-González, R. Energy Analysis of Standardized Shipping Containers for Housing. Inventions 2024, 9, 106. https://doi.org/10.3390/inventions9050106
- Oviya, K.; Shobana; Amraotkar, S. Assessing the thermal performance of upcycled shipping container as a sustainable building material in a Warm humid climate, IOP Conf. Ser.: Earth Environ.2023, Sci. 1210 012008, DOI 10.1088/1755-1315/1210/1/012008 – URL: https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1755-1315/1210/1/012008
As benefits of reusing packaging:
Coelho,P.M.; Corona,B.; ten Klooster, R.; Worrell,E. Sustainability of reusable packaging–Current situation and trends,Resources, Conservation & Recycling: X, Volume 6, 2020, 100037, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rcrx.2020.100037 . – URL: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2590289X20300086
- Sustainable Solutions: The Environmental Benefits of Container Reuse. Green Box Container, June 12, 2025. – URL: https://greenboxtainer.com/container-reuse-environmental-benefits/
Missing is a critical discussion of educational theory, play environments, or child-centered design frameworks.
e.g., As an example of the analysis of the environmental component, the work by P.Valentine [2] is indicative. (#66, 67)
e.g., H.A.Schänzel and I.Yeoman consider the features and prospects of family tourism [4]. (#74)
Response:
The problems of gaming environments and approaches are analyzed in detail in the study by the co-author of the article, E. Schneider (Schneider E.V. Arhitekturnaya organizaciya detskih igrovyh ploshchadok v gorodskoj srede (na primere Kazahstana) [Architectural organization of children's playgrounds in the urban environment (on the example of Kazakhstan)]. Abstract of the dissertation for the degree of candidate of architecture (PhD) in the specialty 05.23.20 - "Theory and history of architecture, restoration and reconstruction of historical and architectural heritage": Bishkek, 2022, pp. 1-22.). This work is mentioned several times in the presented article.
Methodology Section is Weak: The methodology claims to be based on "sequential multidimensional selection and analysis of sources," but no concrete research design, evaluation framework, or data is provided. The work remains conceptual, yet it is not framed explicitly as such.
Response:
As Your rightly noted, the presented work is conceptual. An analysis of the literature and project practice demonstrated the scientific novelty of the proposals put forward.
In accordance with Your recommendation, the corresponding addition has been made to the text.
Scale and Feasibility Questions: While the modular sets are technically detailed, the paper does not address: (1) cost implications; (2) construction logistics in urban vs. suburban contexts; (3) long-term maintenance and safety concerns for children;
Response:
Your rightly point out a number of significant associated issues: (1) financial implications; (2) construction logistics in urban and suburban settings; (3) long-term maintenance and child safety concerns. However, a detailed discussion of these issues is beyond the scope of this study. Sea containers have long been successfully used in urban and suburban development for buildings and structures for various purposes. Financial issues and construction logistics are also successfully addressed. Long-term maintenance issues are also not an issue. Child safety is addressed (as indicated in the description of each facility) by the mandatory presence of adults as instructors and maintenance personnel. Before visiting each facility, children are given a safety lesson. We deemed it inappropriate to focus on these issues. These issues are briefly discussed in the text.
(4) cultural appropriateness of agro-tourism as an educational framework.
Response:
The cultural feasibility of agritourism as an educational structure is examined in detail in the study by the co-author of the article, I. Ostapenko (Ostapenko I.I. Arhitekturno–planirovochnaya struktura agroekoturistskih kompleksov na primere Yuzhnogo Kazahstana [Architectural and planning structure of agro ecotourism complexes on the example of Southern Kazakhstan]. Abstract of the dissertation for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in the educational program 8D07311 (6D042000) - "Architecture": - Almaty, 2023, pp. 1-24.), which is mentioned repeatedly in the presented article.
Structure: The flow is disrupted by excessive insertion of set-by-set container descriptions, which may be better suited for an appendix or supplementary material. This should not be in the main body, as it makes the article extremely lengthy, rather than a focused study.
Response:
A detailed description of the spatial solutions for the container sets serves as proof of the feasibility of implementing various functions. Without this, we believe, the rationale for the proposed concept would be incomplete. Future research could reference this work when identifying specific groups of objects.
Future scope or further research direction is explained in the introduction; it should have been proposed in the conclusions. Positioning it here raises the question of why not study it now?
Response:
Based on Your recommendation, the description of the prospects for further research has been moved to the Conclusion. The article presents the result of the first stage of the comprehensive research conducted by the authors. At this stage, the fundamental possibility of using sea containers for the formation of children's educational and game complexes with agricultural themes was determined. The following stages of the research are related to the definition of the nomenclature of objects for children's educational and play complexes located in various urban contexts (courtyard of a group of residential buildings, school courtyard, urban park, suburban area, etc.). At this stage, it is assumed to determine the preferred thematic and scenic orientation of each complex located in a specific urban context (mono-thematic, polythematic, complex). Further study is expected to focus on specifying the spatial organization, furnishing, engineering, technical and technological equipment of each facility. At this stage, the material, commodity, food and energy resources necessary for functioning will be determined. This will make it possible to determine the preliminary cost of the facility and formulate proposals for the construction of children's educational and play complexes on specific urban and suburban sites. Naturally, the sequence and content of the stages can be adjusted during the research process. As each stage is completed, the results are expected to be published.
e.g., "At the next stage (this may be the topic of a separate study), the number of sea con- 186
tainers of various types is determined depending on the specific theme of the complex 187
(general agricultural or narrowly focused), location, frequency of assembly/disassembly 188
and movement assumed by the business plan. At this stage, the depreciation period of 189
individual containers, the need for their phased replacement, etc. will be determined." (#186-190)
Comments on the Quality of English Language
Quality of the English Language
The manuscript suffers from translation issues, awkward phrasing, and occasional grammatical errors. These hinder readability. Additionally, there is a need to improve sentence structure: make short sentences more meaningful; present very long sentences in alternative ways (such as, tables or bullets), to ensure better academic quality.
Some sentences are extremely short, e.g. The problem is very urgent. (#48); This formed a kind of “urban ranch”. (#53)
While some sentences are overly complex, e.g., This set allows you to create a Display unit for breeding horses, ponies, donkeys, mules, cows or camels. The Pavilion for the demonstration of horses, ponies, donkeys, cows or camels: four distribution areas of 6.0 sq.m each; a viewing gallery of 27.0 sq.m; a techno- logical gallery of 27.0 sq.m; three interlocked animal husbandry pavilions of 36.0 sq.m each, with a technologically sound height of 6.0 m and perimeter glazing on the second level; two feed preparation rooms of 4.5 sq.m each adjacent to an operational feed storage
room; a staff living room with a bathroom of 13.5 sq.m; an inventory storeroom of 4.5 sq.m; a milk temporary storage room of 13.5 sq.m; a waste storage room of 4.5 sq.m; a workwear storeroom of 9.0 sq.m; two 6.0 m by 4.5 m high rooms for ventilation equipment; two water treatment tanks of 25.0 cubic meters each. (#1054-1063)
Response:
In accordance with your recommendation, the authors consulted with several native English speakers and made appropriate adjustments to the text of the Article.
Submission Date
09 September 2025
Date of this review
18 Sep 2025 11:10:47
Thank Your again for Your attention and valuable suggestions for improving our article. All changes based on your and Your colleagues' recommendations highlighted in red in the new text.
Sincerely,
I.Ostapenko, E.Schneider, L.Nurkusheva, B.Kuspangaliev, K.Samoilov
01 October 2025
Author Response File: Author Response.pdf
Reviewer 4 Report
Comments and Suggestions for AuthorsI consider the issue addressed by the Authors to be of great importance and high potential. However, the manuscript submitted for publication requires thorough reconsideration, reorganization, supplementation, incorporation of a broader context, and reflection on multiple dimensions, and, above all, a clearer orientation of the design approach toward container-based architecture in light of global and diverse needs and expectations.
The subject under analysis is complex and relatively controversial. As the Authors themselves emphasize, it has not been comprehensively investigated. The use of shipping containers in architecture has both supporters and opponents. Therefore, it seems necessary to clearly indicate both the advantages and disadvantages of such solutions. When describing advantages, it would certainly be worth underlining modularity, durability, strength, and accessibility, which enable standardization and the rapid, cost-effective creation of usable spaces as an alternative to traditional construction (temporary facilities, e.g., exhibition pavilions, event and recreational architecture, outdoor installations, as well as adaptations of containers for educational purposes, particularly in remote areas or during humanitarian crises). Containers can also be employed in the expansion and modification of existing buildings, which makes them a flexible solution in contemporary architecture.
Among the disadvantages, it is necessary to highlight spatial and functional limitations, which complicate interior design and necessitate specific structural solutions. Other issues that must be addressed include the need for effective thermal and acoustic insulation, adequate ventilation systems, proper lighting, corrosion prevention, and regular maintenance. Aesthetic concerns may also pose a significant challenge—since containers are associated with industrial functions, they may be perceived as less visually appealing, which could affect their social acceptance.
I believe the Authors should address the above issues in their work, as this would clarify many aspects and simultaneously strengthen the persuasiveness of their research objective.
I also suggest that the Authors engage more deeply with the topic of transforming shipping containers into miniature hydroponic farms (urban agriculture, PodPonics, urban farm units, etc.) in order to demonstrate the potential for producing healthy food in recycled containers in virtually any location. In this way, the ecological dimension of such projects would not be limited merely to recycling containers and minimizing construction waste.
A reformulation of the article’s structure could significantly enhance both its scientific quality and its implications. It would be more valuable to present selected, characteristic modules and their configurations—particularly the most innovative and effectively applied combinations. A three-dimensional representation of modular arrangements is undoubtedly needed, including both schematic diagrams and more detailed depictions with furnishing elements. Such presentations would make the modularity, mobility, and transformability of created spaces more transparent. I also encourage the Authors to illustrate the functioning of such facilities as agricultural-themed educational and recreational complexes, e.g., through visualizations (axonometric views or perspectives). This would highlight their specific character and help evaluate whether they are genuinely attractive and engaging for young users.
The illustrations included in the manuscript do not sufficiently demonstrate whether the proposed solutions are indeed adapted to the needs of children of different ages—for example, with respect to ergonomics, range of motion, reach, or eye-level height. Most floor plans include bathrooms with fixtures—have the Authors considered equipment scaled appropriately for the youngest users, given that these facilities are intended for them?
It is difficult to imagine presenting modular container-based solutions without showing proportional relations between children’s silhouettes and the dimensions of different container types. Such scaled comparisons would be highly valuable.
At present, the manuscript lacks clarity—container combinations are difficult to trace. The descriptions only list functional purposes of particular zones and their surface areas. These general data do not adequately illustrate the potential applications of various container combinations for the purpose indicated in the title and introduction.
Additional remarks:
- Is the term “combinatory” appropriate as a keyword?
- The introduction should be divided into subsections. It currently addresses multiple threads, and such subdivision would introduce order and help categorize the issues raised.
- The content of the Discussion and Conclusions sections is overly general and focuses mainly on technical and technological matters. These sections require significant elaboration.
- The Authors should confirm their consent for the use of photographs shown in Figures 1, 2, and 3.
- The manuscript does not explain the difference in graphic representation on the tank-container plan (solid fill versus outline).
- A container marked as “RF” appears in the description but is missing from the list in Figure 3.
- Please prepare the manuscript (including the list of references) in accordance with the journal's guidelines.
Author Response
REVIEW -4
Dear Reviewer,
Thank you very much for Your attention and valuable comments on our work. We have done our best to take Your recommendations into account and have made appropriate adjustments to the text. Our responses presented below.
Comments and Suggestions for Authors
I consider the issue addressed by the Authors to be of great importance and high potential. However, the manuscript submitted for publication requires thorough reconsideration, reorganization, supplementation, incorporation of a broader context, and reflection on multiple dimensions, and, above all, a clearer orientation of the design approach toward container-based architecture in light of global and diverse needs and expectations.
The subject under analysis is complex and relatively controversial. As the Authors themselves emphasize, it has not been comprehensively investigated. The use of shipping containers in architecture has both supporters and opponents. Therefore, it seems necessary to clearly indicate both the advantages and disadvantages of such solutions. When describing advantages, it would certainly be worth underlining modularity, durability, strength, and accessibility, which enable standardization and the rapid, cost-effective creation of usable spaces as an alternative to traditional construction (temporary facilities, e.g., exhibition pavilions, event and recreational architecture, outdoor installations, as well as adaptations of containers for educational purposes, particularly in remote areas or during humanitarian crises). Containers can also be employed in the expansion and modification of existing buildings, which makes them a flexible solution in contemporary architecture.
Among the disadvantages, it is necessary to highlight spatial and functional limitations, which complicate interior design and necessitate specific structural solutions.
Response:
Modern practice in using shipping containers demonstrates the potential of interlocking multiple containers horizontally and vertically to form a single space. References to relevant studies provided in the text:
- Twist Lock Joiners. Shipping Container Connection Parts. Container Twistlocks, Engineeres Connections. Available online: https://twistlocks.com.au/twist-lock-joiners/ (accessed 10 August 2025)
- Morin, M. Connect Shipping Containers to Create a Large and Comfortable Space. Falcon Structures, Jun 23, 2020. Available online: https://www.falconstructures.com/blog/connect-shipping-containers (accessed 10 August 2025)
- J. Cooper, J. Kilmer, B. Wands Stacking Shipping Containers on Land for an Off-Axis Detector. Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory, Batavia, IL 60510. May 29, 2003. Available online: https://www.prefabcontainerhomes.org/2011/12/stacking-shipping-containers-on-land.html (accessed 10 August 2025)
- Shipping container patios. ROXBOX Containers. Available online: https://www.roxboxcontainers.com/products/patio/ (accessed 10 August 2025)
Other issues that must be addressed include the need for effective thermal and acoustic insulation, adequate ventilation systems, proper lighting, corrosion prevention, and regular maintenance.
Response:
The modern practice of reusing shipping containers demonstrates a successful solution to the challenges of effective thermal and sound insulation, as well as adequate ventilation systems for various facilities. The basic configuration of a shipping container ensures reliable protection against corrosion. Each container accepted for reuse must be inspected. If damage discovered upon receipt, it can be promptly repaired. The container can then be used at a new facility. Technical and technological maintenance is in most cases regulated by industry or state standards. These issues regarding the agricultural-themed children's educational play complex will be further elaborated in the next stages of the problem study (specific design proposals for construction).
Aesthetic concerns may also pose a significant challenge-since containers are associated with industrial functions, they may be perceived as less visually appealing, which could affect their social acceptance.
Response:
Modern weather-resistant paints allow for virtually any color scheme for a structure constructed from shipping containers. Global practice offers numerous interesting examples of such solutions. Accordingly, agricultural-themed children's educational play complexes can be designed to reflect the cultural and historical preferences of their users. Specific urban contexts can also be taken into account. This could be the subject of a separate study at a later stage of this research.
I believe the Authors should address the above issues in their work, as this would clarify many aspects and simultaneously strengthen the persuasiveness of their research objective.
I also suggest that the Authors engage more deeply with the topic of transforming shipping containers into miniature hydroponic farms (urban agriculture, PodPonics, urban farm units, etc.) in order to demonstrate the potential for producing healthy food in recycled containers in virtually any location. In this way, the ecological dimension of such projects would not be limited merely to recycling containers and minimizing construction waste.
Response:
During the study, the authors examined modern practices for growing organic produce on urban farms (plants, mushrooms, fish, shellfish, edible insects), including the PodPonics experience you mentioned. However, almost all of the examples examined excluded the possibility of displaying the production process. Displaying the environmentally friendly production process is crucial in fostering environmental awareness. And the more engaging the process is, the more significant the impact on developing environmental awareness in children. This formed the basis for our concept for a children's educational play complex.
A reformulation of the article’s structure could significantly enhance both its scientific quality and its implications. It would be more valuable to present selected, characteristic modules and their configurations—particularly the most innovative and effectively applied combinations. A three-dimensional representation of modular arrangements is undoubtedly needed, including both schematic diagrams and more detailed depictions with furnishing elements. Such presentations would make the modularity, mobility, and transformability of created spaces more transparent. I also encourage the Authors to illustrate the functioning of such facilities as agricultural-themed educational and recreational complexes, e.g., through visualizations (axonometric views or perspectives). This would highlight their specific character and help evaluate whether they are genuinely attractive and engaging for young users.
Response:
This is a very promising proposal. However, the authors of the article believe that creating an additional thirty-eight axonometric diagrams or perspectives reflecting the spatial features of all the objects would almost double the article's illustrations, turning it into a presentation. This format of presentation (in the authors' opinion) is appropriate for a report, not an article. A large number of illustrations may raise objections from the journal's editors. Furthermore, some of your fellow reviewers recommend reducing the number of illustrations. We plan to publish a presentation with relevant images later in the research process. To create these illustrations, we need to go through several more stages of refinement of the proposals. During these stages, the specific layout of each object, its technological and engineering equipment, furnishings, color scheme, etc., will be determined. Then, it will be possible to create realistic images.
The illustrations included in the manuscript do not sufficiently demonstrate whether the proposed solutions are indeed adapted to the needs of children of different ages—for example, with respect to ergonomics, range of motion, reach, or eye-level height. Most floor plans include bathrooms with fixtures—have the Authors considered equipment scaled appropriately for the youngest users, given that these facilities are intended for them?
Response:
The purpose of the presented diagrams is to demonstrate the fundamental possibilities of spatially organizing the display of specific agricultural production processes for children of different ages. Naturally, the exhibits, technical, technological, and sanitary equipment should be arranged in accordance with the ergonomic parameters of the users. This issue can be further explored in further research and design proposals when detailing the proposed spatial solutions.
It is difficult to imagine presenting modular container-based solutions without showing proportional relations between children’s silhouettes and the dimensions of different container types. Such scaled comparisons would be highly valuable.
Response:
Based on your recommendation, Figure 4 has been added to the text, showing longitudinal and cross-sectional views of the containers, along with silhouettes of children and accompanying adults (the dimensions include the interior finish of the containers). The dimensions of the shipping containers ensure convenient use in accordance with ergonomic criteria.
At present, the manuscript lacks clarity—container combinations are difficult to trace. The descriptions only list functional purposes of particular zones and their surface areas. These general data do not adequately illustrate the potential applications of various container combinations for the purpose indicated in the title and introduction.
Response:
This article presents the results of the first stage of a comprehensive study conducted by the authors. At this stage, the fundamental feasibility of using sea containers to create agricultural-themed children's educational play complexes was determined. The subsequent stages of the study involve defining the nomenclature of objects for children's educational play complexes located in various urban contexts (residential courtyards, school courtyards, city parks, suburban areas, etc.). This stage aims to determine the preferred thematic and scenario focus of each complex within a specific urban context (monothematic, polythematic, or complex). Further study is expected to focus on specifying the spatial organization, furnishings, engineering, and technological equipment for each facility. At this stage, the material, commodity, food, and energy resources necessary for the facility's operation will be determined. This will allow for a preliminary cost estimate for the project and the formulation of proposals for the construction of children's educational play complexes at specific urban and suburban sites. Naturally, the sequence and content of the stages may be adjusted during the research process. The results are expected to be published upon completion of each stage.
Additional remarks:
- Is the term “combinatory” appropriate as a keyword?
Response:
The authors of the article believe that the term “combinatory” is suitable as a keyword, since it reflects the specificity of creating objects for various purposes through a combination of different containers (different numbers of containers, different types of containers).
- The introduction should be divided into subsections. It currently addresses multiple threads, and such subdivision would introduce order and help categorize the issues raised.
Response:
A change has been made in accordance with Your recommendation.
- The content of the Discussionand Conclusions sections is overly general and focuses mainly on technical and technological matters. These sections require significant elaboration.
Response:
In accordance with Your recommendation, these sections have been supplemented.
- The Authors should confirm their consent for the use of photographs shown in Figures 1, 2, and 3.
Response:
The photographs shown in Figures 1, 2, and 3 are taken from open sources. These sources are referenced. No special terms or restrictions for the use of these photographs are specified in the original sources.
- The manuscript does not explain the difference in graphic representation on the tank-container plan (solid fill versus outline).
Response:
In accordance with Your recommendation, the following clarification has been added to the text: The 20TС tank-container in the diagrams indicated with a solid fill when the tank-container is located on the first level. The contour image in the diagram indicates the position of the tank-container on the second level. On the plans, the tank-container located on the first level shown as an outline. The tank-container located on the second level conventionally not shown on the plans.
- A container marked as “RF” appears in the description but is missing from the list in Figure 3.
Response:
In accordance with Your comment, an additional designation for the 40’RF refrigerated container has been added to Figure 3 (position 3), which is used in diagrams 12 and 23.
- Please prepare the manuscript (including the list of references) in accordance with the journal's guidelines.
Response:
In accordance with your recommendation, the manuscript has been reviewed for compliance with the journal's guidelines. The journal's recommended template was used for formatting the manuscript.
Submission Date
09 September 2025
Date of this review
21 Sep 2025 22:15:57
Thank Your again for Your attention and valuable suggestions for improving our article. All changes based on your and Your colleagues' recommendations highlighted in red in the new text.
Sincerely,
I.Ostapenko, E.Schneider, L.Nurkusheva, B.Kuspangaliev, K.Samoilov
01 October 2025
Author Response File: Author Response.pdf
Round 2
Reviewer 1 Report
Comments and Suggestions for Authorsno further comments.
Author Response
Thank you very much for Your valuable suggestions, which have significantly improved our article.
Author Response File: Author Response.pdf
Reviewer 2 Report
Comments and Suggestions for AuthorsDear Authors,
I can see that the revision has improved the organization and language of the paper, and that the sustainability and educational aspects have been better emphasized. However, after reviewing the new version, I believe the manuscript still requires substantial further revision before it can be considered for publication.
While the topic remains creative and socially relevant, the manuscript continues to read more like a design catalogue than a research article. To bring it up to the required academic standard, I encourage you to focus on the following key points.
- Research Positioning and Contribution
The introduction now includes broader context, but the paper still lacks a clear articulation of its research gap and originality. Please clarify how this work advances existing studies on modular architecture or children’s learning environments. A comparative summary of prior research could make this more evident. -
Methodology
The methodology section remains insufficiently detailed. Readers need to understand how and why specific design configurations were chosen, and whether any form of validation, such as expert review, stakeholder consultation, or pilot assessment, was conducted. -
Results and Analysis
Although the reorganization of “container sets” improves readability, the section is still too descriptive. Consider shifting focus toward analytical insights or a conceptual framework explaining the design logic (modularity, adaptability, or educational function). -
Discussion and Implications
The discussion would benefit from greater depth regarding feasibility, cost, safety, and contextual challenges in implementing these complexes in urban versus rural settings.
Given these continuing gaps, my decision is Major Revision. I encourage you to revise the manuscript once more with emphasis on methodological clarity, analytical strength, and concise presentation. A detailed response letter addressing each point raised will be essential for the next round of review.
I appreciate your ongoing commitment to this research and believe that, with a stronger structure and clearer evidence base, the paper can make a meaningful contribution to the field.
All the best.
Comments on the Quality of English LanguageWhile the writing has improved, the paper still requires professional language editing for grammar, clarity, and conciseness. Reducing repetitive phrasing and simplifying long sentences will make the paper more reader-friendly.
Author Response
Thank you very much for your attention to our work and your comments.
We have endeavored to take your recommendations into account.
The reply can be found in the attachment.
Author Response File: Author Response.pdf
Reviewer 3 Report
Comments and Suggestions for AuthorsThe authors have sufficiently responded to the comments of the previous review.
Author Response
Thank you very much for Your valuable suggestions, which have significantly improved our article.
Author Response File: Author Response.pdf
Reviewer 4 Report
Comments and Suggestions for AuthorsThe authors, unfortunately, did not address my remarks and comments regarding the previous version of the manuscript. Some of these were misunderstood, while others were treated evasively or superficially. The corrections that the authors claim to have implemented are not reflected in the revised manuscript version; for example, "in accordance with your comment, an additional designation for the 40’RF refrigerated container has been added to Figure 3 (position 3)", yet the figure still shows a 40'HC reefer-container.
The keyword "combinatory" is an adjective, making it unlikely to serve appropriately as a standalone keyword.
Most of the links contained in references 92–106, which pertain to illustrations of Figures 1, 2, and 3, are inaccessible (the pages could not be found).
The authors dismissed my request for axonometric views on the grounds of "excessive illustration overload in the article," yet they disregarded my prior comment recommending a reduction in the number of container configuration examples.
Figure 4 presents simplified diagrams that bear no relation to scientific principles of ergonomics.
In view of the above shortcomings, I must unfortunately return the paper for further revision.
Author Response
Thank You very much for Your attention to our work and Your comments.
We have endeavored to take Your recommendations into account.
The reply can be found in the attachment.
Author Response File: Author Response.pdf
Round 3
Reviewer 2 Report
Comments and Suggestions for AuthorsI carefully went through the updated version of the paper, and I can see the genuine effort and care that went into this revision. The improvements are clear, the expanded literature review, the sharper explanation of container modularity and adaptability, and the added discussion on feasibility and cost all show meaningful progress. The paper now reads more coherently and reflects your thoughtful engagement with the earlier feedback.
Several areas still require Major Revisions (2nd round) before the paper can be considered ready for publication. That said, I also know how painful and exhausting it can be to revise a paper again, especially after making such extensive changes. Please know that my intention is not to add burden but to help the work meet the standards it truly deserves. There are a few core elements that I simply cannot compromise on as a reviewer, because they form the foundation of a strong research contribution.
- Clarify the research focus – Please add a clear research question or hypothesis and briefly state how this study advances existing knowledge in modular architecture or educational design.
- Strengthen conceptual framing – Introduce a framework that links modularity, play-based learning, and sustainability to give theoretical grounding beyond description.
- Condense repetitive descriptions – The detailed enumeration of container sets (Sets 1–39) can be summarized in a table or moved to supplementary material. Highlight only representative examples in the main text.
- Enhance analytical depth – Move from descriptive presentation to comparative insights. Explain why these configurations matter and how they contribute to learning, sustainability, or cost-effectiveness.
- Clarify methodology – Specify whether any expert consultation, design modeling, or validation informed the proposed configurations. Define the study’s scope (conceptual, applied, or prototype).
- Improve readability and conciseness – Simplify long sentences, unify tense, and reduce repetitive phrasing (“the pavilion consists of…”). A final professional language edit is still recommended.
- Improve visuals – Group similar figures, ensure higher resolution, and integrate each visual meaningfully within the narrative.
This study contributes valuable insights into modular architecture and environmental education. A tighter structure and stronger analytical framing will help the manuscript meet the expectations for a research article in Buildings (MDPI).
Author Response
Dear Reviewer,
Thank You very much for Your attention to our work and Your comments.
We have endeavored to take Your recommendations into account.
The Comment:
- Clarify the research focus– Please add a clear research question or hypothesis and briefly state how this study advances existing knowledge in modular architecture or educational design.
Reply
Based on Your recommendation, the following addition is given in the “Introduction” section:
The analysis of the theory and practice of educating modern children of environmentally responsible behavior and raising children's awareness of environmental protection techniques revealed the following aspects:
- Children do not have enough information about the specifics of environmental protection activities and the formation of a healthy lifestyle;
- To compensate for this disadvantage, it is advisable to use gaming methods more widely;
- In order to improve gaming methods, it is necessary to increase the information saturation of gaming spaces in the aspect of agricultural production;
- In order to improve the understanding of the specifics of agricultural production, it is necessary to ensure the active involvement of children in the production processes;
- To ensure the solution of these tasks, it is advisable to form children's educational and gaming complexes for the exhibition of agricultural subjects;
- To ensure maximum accessibility, such children's complexes should be located in various areas of cities and suburbs (in the courtyards of apartment buildings, in the courtyards of kindergartens, in the courtyards of schools, in urban squares, in urban parks, in suburban recreation areas);
- To maintain constant interest, children's complexes should periodically change the theme of games;
- To change the theme, children's complexes must be prefabricated; - for the convenience of rapid construction and reconstruction, children's complexes should have modularity; - for the formation of children's complexes, it is advisable to use sea containers that are modular, durable and interchangeable.;
- The modern practice of reuse of shipping containers demonstrates the possibility of building buildings for various purposes;
- All the processes of modern agricultural production demonstrated in an educational and attractive way in buildings made of containers.
Based on this, the authors hypothesize that the improvement of modern methods of educating children of environmentally responsible behavior ensured by the construction of children's educational and play complexes with agricultural themes. The optimal architectural and constructive solution is the use of shipping containers. A conceptual solution for urban and suburban children's educational and play complexes with agricultural themes presented in this Article.
The Comment:
- Strengthen conceptual framing– Introduce a framework that links modularity, play-based learning, and sustainability to give theoretical grounding beyond description.
Reply
Based on Your recommendation, the following addition is given in the "Materials and Methods" section:
The proposed concept based on the following structure:
- fostering environmentally responsible behavior is an important aspect of working with modern children;
- The game is an effective way of learning and education;
- Themed games enhance educational activities;
- The variety and occasional change of game themes ensures constant interest and attractiveness;
- Agricultural production has a wide variety of processes that make it possible to form interesting expositions;
- The agricultural theme of the game shapes environmentally responsible behavior;
- Feasible participation in agricultural production improves the educational process;
- The creation of urban and suburban agricultural-themed play complexes ensures the education of environmentally responsible behavior of children;
- The optimal construction solution for urban and suburban children's complexes ensures the use of shipping containers.
The Comment:
- Condense repetitive descriptions– The detailed enumeration of container sets (Sets 1–39) can be summarized in a table or moved to supplementary material. Highlight only representative examples in the main text.
Reply
Thank you for Your recommendation, but on the our opinion the specifics of the proposed concept of an agricultural-themed children's educational and gaming complex imply a detailed description of each set of containers. This is what demonstrates the possibility of building such a complex.
The description of each set of containers makes it possible to determine the expediency of its use for various children's complexes. The specific range of kits allows you to build a children's complex in various areas - in the courtyard of an apartment building, in the courtyard of a school, in the courtyard of a kindergarten, in a city park, on a suburban territory, etc.
At the next stage of the study, we will try to specify the range of containers for various sites. Accordingly, based on the material presented in this article, tables with sets of containers for each type of site will be created. These tables can become the basis for specific projects.
In the presented article, the sets of containers are schematically presented in tabular form in Figure 41.
The Comment:
- Enhance analytical depth– Move from descriptive presentation to comparative insights. Explain why these configurations matter and how they contribute to learning, sustainability, or cost-effectiveness.
Reply
Based on Your recommendation, the following addition has been made in the "Results" section:
The presented planning and spatial solutions have been implemented in compliance with all regulatory requirements:
- For the organization of agricultural production processes;
- To ensure the gaming and exhibition attractiveness;
- Organization of an educational, methodically based and cognitive inspection of the exposition;
- To ensure the feasible participation of children in production processes;
- To ensure the convenience and safety of building operation;
- To ensure veterinary and sanitary-epidemiological standards of agricultural production.
The use of containers provides:
- Organizational and technological modularity;
- Transformability of exposure;
- The ability to quickly build and dismantle buildings;
- Ecological optimality of the processes of construction and operation of children's complexes;
- Economic efficiency of construction and operation of children's complexes.
Together, this makes a significant contribution to ensuring the sustainable development of urban and suburban areas.
The Comment:
- Clarify methodology– Specify whether any expert consultation, design modeling, or validation informed the proposed configurations. Define the study’s scope (conceptual, applied, or prototype).
Reply
Based on your recommendation in the "Methods" section, a clarification was made in the previous version of the text:
The determination of the need to create children's cognitive and gaming complexes carried out based on sociological research conducted in the previously mentioned studies by the co-authors of the article [72, 73]: I. Ostapenko (agricultural tourism complexes) and E. Schneider (children's play complexes). As part of this work, relevant sociological surveys were conducted, demonstrating the relevance of developing agricultural tourism in general and educational play complexes in particular.
Schoolteachers showed particular interest. In their opinion, the massive construction of children's educational and play complexes with agricultural themes in cities and suburbs will be of great educational importance. Children will acquire new knowledge and practical skills in the field of biology and environmentally responsible behavior.
As part of this research, corresponding modeling was conducted, demonstrating the feasibility of implementing this idea. These studies also included surveys of the organizational and spatial structure of several dozen existing agro-eco-tourism complexes and children's play complexes. The results of these studies are the context of the concept of a children's educational and game complex of agricultural subjects proposed in this work.
The Comment:
- Improve readability and conciseness– Simplify long sentences, unify tense, and reduce repetitive phrasing (“the pavilion consists of…”). A final professional language edit is still recommended.
Reply
Based on Your recommendation, the phrases "consists of ..." and "shown in the figure ..." have been shortened.
The Comment:
- Improve visuals– Group similar figures, ensure higher resolution, and integrate each visual meaningfully within the narrative.
Reply
Thank you for Your recommendation, but we can't group similar shapes: each set has an individual container composition, so there are practically no similar shapes. The exception is sets 34-39, which are grouped in a separate figure 40.
Thank Your again for Your attention and valuable suggestions for improving our article. All changes based on Your recommendations highlighted in red in the new text.
Once again, we apologize for any inaccuracies in our responses to Your comments.
Best regards,
Inna Ostapenko, Elina Shneider, Lyazzat Nurkusheva, Bolat Kuspangaliyev, Konstantin Samoilov
26.10.2025
Author Response File: Author Response.pdf
Reviewer 4 Report
Comments and Suggestions for AuthorsThank you for your message and for providing the materials. I have reviewed the manuscript once again. I would like to thank the Authors for incorporating the revisions and additions I requested. In my opinion, the inclusion of the issues I previously raised has significantly enhanced the scientific and practical (design) value of the manuscript. Therefore, I am submitting a recommendation to the Editorial Board to publish the article in its current form in Buildings.
Author Response
Comments and Suggestions for Authors
Thank you for your message and for providing the materials. I have reviewed the manuscript once again. I would like to thank the Authors for incorporating the revisions and additions I requested. In my opinion, the inclusion of the issues I previously raised has significantly enhanced the scientific and practical (design) value of the manuscript. Therefore, I am submitting a recommendation to the Editorial Board to publish the article in its current form in Buildings.
Submission Date
09 September 2025
Date of this review
07 Oct 2025 15:03:01
Dear Reviewer,
Thank you very much for Your valuable suggestions, which have significantly improved our article.
Best regards,
Inna Ostapenko, Elina Shneider, Lyazzat Nurkusheva, Bolat Kuspangaliyev, Konstantin Samoilov
26.10.2025
Author Response File: Author Response.pdf
Round 4
Reviewer 2 Report
Comments and Suggestions for AuthorsDear Authors,
Thank you again for your continued effort and thoughtful revisions.
After reviewing the current version, I believe the manuscript would benefit from a reframing to align better with the expectations of Buildings and to highlight the work’s true strength, its design and practical contribution. But it can’t be accepted as a research article. The current version reads primarily as a design-based case rather than a theoretical or experimental study. This is not a weakness; it simply means the paper should be positioned as a case description or case study, focusing on applied design insights rather than analytical modelling. This framing will make the paper both more authentic and more publishable.
I would suggest the following:
- Reframe the paper as a case description that documents and analyzes the design logic, educational value, and sustainability implications of the modular container approach.
- Add a short section titled “Case Description and Design Context”, and end with “Lessons Learned and Implications for Practice.”
- Simplify repetitive design descriptions; these can be summarized in a typology table or appendix.
- Clarify the contribution as design knowledge: what insights can future designers, educators, or planners take from this case?
- Adopt the following revised title (which will signal the correct positioning to both editors and readers).
“Designing Modular Educational Complexes from Reused Shipping Containers: A Case Description of Agro-Themed Learning Environments for Children”.
This title better captures the practical essence of your study, sets appropriate expectations for reviewers, and aligns neatly with the Buildings journal format.
Your work offers an imaginative and socially meaningful idea; connecting modular architecture, environmental education, and community sustainability. This final adjustment in framing and focus should position the manuscript for successful publication.
All the best.
Author Response
Thank you very much for Your valuable suggestions, which have significantly improved our article.
Author Response File: Author Response.pdf