Sustainability

21 pages, 1077 KB

Open AccessArticle

Place Integration of Migrant Tourism Entrepreneurs in Rural Destinations: A Social Capital Perspective

by Yating Li, Chao Yuan, Xiaoyi Liu and Xiang Kong

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4562; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094562 (registering DOI) - 5 May 2026

Against the backdrop of the rapid expansion of rural tourism, an increasing number of migrant tourism entrepreneurs (MTEs) are moving from urban to rural areas. The integration of MTEs is crucial for both business sustainability and rural development. Using Hongcun village as a [...] Read more.

Against the backdrop of the rapid expansion of rural tourism, an increasing number of migrant tourism entrepreneurs (MTEs) are moving from urban to rural areas. The integration of MTEs is crucial for both business sustainability and rural development. Using Hongcun village as a case study, this study adopts qualitative methods, including participant observation and semi-structured interviews, to explore the dynamic process of MTEs’ place integration from a social capital perspective. The findings suggest that MTEs’ place integration is manifested through four dimensions, namely economic embeddedness, social interaction, cultural acceptance, and emotional integration. Moreover, place integration and social capital form a mutually reinforcing cycle: integration practices generate localized social capital, which in turn facilitates deeper integration. The study also identifies that selective interaction leads to network stratification, highlighting the potential “dark side” of social capital. These findings suggest that effective integration depends not only on the accumulation of social capital but also on maintaining a dynamic balance among different types of social relationships. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Tourism Development in Natural and Rural Areas: Stakeholders, Tourists and Destination Management)

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18 pages, 1559 KB

Open AccessArticle

Traffic-Related Heavy Metal Stress in the Medicinal Plant Plantago lanceolata L.

by Agata Bartkowiak and Joanna Lemanowicz

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4561; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094561 (registering DOI) - 5 May 2026

Abstract

Ensuring the safety of sustainably managed medicinal plants is closely linked to the quality of plant raw materials, including the presence of heavy metals within safe limits. Sustainable management in the context of herbal raw materials therefore entails responsible management of herbal plant [...] Read more.

Ensuring the safety of sustainably managed medicinal plants is closely linked to the quality of plant raw materials, including the presence of heavy metals within safe limits. Sustainable management in the context of herbal raw materials therefore entails responsible management of herbal plant resources, integrating environmental protection with ensuring long-term economic profitability. The aim of this study was to analyze selected biochemical parameters and to determine metal concentrations in soils and leaves of Plantago lanceolata L. collected from natural habitats at increasing distances from traffic routes. The content of Zn, Cu, Ni, and Pb was determined in the soils and leaves of Plantago lanceolata L. Assessing the content of these elements in plant raw materials allows for: the prevention of harmful substances in final products, adaptation of raw materials to applicable safety standards (avoiding toxicity), and protection of consumer health. This promotes sustainable development by building a safe supply chain. The leaves of Plantago lanceolata L. were also tested for biochemical enzymatic (catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD)) and non-enzymatic (chlorophyll a and b (Chl a and b), carotenoids (Car), ascorbic acid (AAC)), and mechanisms regulating the activity of reactive oxygen species (ROS) were determined in the leaves of Plantago lanceolata L. Based on the results of leaf pH, relative water content (RWC), ascorbic acid content, and total chlorophyll content, the air pollution tolerance index (APTI) was calculated. The distance from the road has a significant impact on the concentration of the heavy metals analyzed. The soils were found to be free of Zn, Cu, Pb, and Ni contamination. However, analysis of Plantago lanceolata L. leaves revealed exceedances of acceptable lead limits for herbal plants. The content of pigments, the ratio of Chl a/b, and Chl (a + b)/Car in the leaves of Plantago lanceolata L. was significantly dependent on the distance from the road. The activity of CAT and SOD in the leaves of Plantago lanceolata L. growing closest to the road was significantly higher compared to the others. APTI values suggest that Plantago lanceolata L. exhibits sensitivity to pollution, independent of its distance from the emission source. Full article

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19 pages, 685 KB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing the Social Carrying Capacity of Urban Tourism: Residents’ and Professionals’ Perceptions in the Municipality of Athens

by Sotirios Varelas, Georgios Tsoupros and Ioannis E. Anastasopoulos

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4560; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094560 (registering DOI) - 5 May 2026

Abstract

The rapid tourism development in the Municipality of Athens significantly impacts both the local economy and the daily lives of its residents. This study investigates the Social Carrying Capacity (SCC) of Athens by exploring the perceptions, experiences, and attitudes of local citizens and [...] Read more.

The rapid tourism development in the Municipality of Athens significantly impacts both the local economy and the daily lives of its residents. This study investigates the Social Carrying Capacity (SCC) of Athens by exploring the perceptions, experiences, and attitudes of local citizens and professionals towards the tourism phenomenon. A primary quantitative study was conducted between July and October 2024, utilising a structured online questionnaire based on a stratified random sampling method across the Municipal Communities of Athens, yielding 787 valid responses. The findings reveal a dichotomy in public perception: while the majority recognises the positive economic contributions of tourism—particularly in the catering and hospitality sectors—significant concerns are raised regarding negative socio-environmental impacts. The most severe consequence identified is the surge in housing costs and rent prices, predominantly driven by short-term rentals, followed by increased pressure on public infrastructure, cleanliness, and traffic congestion. Despite these challenges, a considerable portion of the respondents maintains a generally tolerant attitude towards visitors and believes there is still a margin for further tourism growth. The study concludes that to ensure sustainable urban tourism, policymakers must implement targeted strategies, including the regulation of short-term rentals and substantial investments in public infrastructure, thereby balancing economic benefits with residents’ quality of life. Full article

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25 pages, 1663 KB

Open AccessArticle

Coupling and Coordinated Development of Urbanization and Ecological Environment in China and Its Spatio-Temporal Characteristics

by Qingsong Pang and Yanan Sun

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4559; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094559 (registering DOI) - 5 May 2026

Abstract

The stability and health of the ecological environment are the premise of urbanization development, and promoting their coordinated advancement constitutes the goal of sustainable social development. This research employs panel data from 30 Chinese provinces and provincial-level municipalities over the period 2011–2023 to [...] Read more.

The stability and health of the ecological environment are the premise of urbanization development, and promoting their coordinated advancement constitutes the goal of sustainable social development. This research employs panel data from 30 Chinese provinces and provincial-level municipalities over the period 2011–2023 to construct a comprehensive evaluation index system for urbanization and ecological environment (U-EE). The coupling coordination degree (CCD) model is used to evaluate the coordinated development level of U-EE. Combining the Dagum–Gini index and decomposition (DGID), the spatial autocorrelation model (SAM) and trend surface analysis (TSA), the evolution characteristics and changing trends of the U-EE coordination degree (D-UEE) in both time and space are explored. It is found that, first of all, the CCD model results show that D-UEE is not high overall, yet exhibits a consistent year-on-year upward trend. Secondly, the DGID results show that the intra-group differences among the four regions—namely, the eastern, central, western and northeastern regions—are decreasing year by year, among which the eastern region has the largest difference and the northeastern region has the smallest difference. In terms of inter-group differences, the east–west disparity is the largest, whereas the central–northeast difference is the smallest. Thirdly, the global Moran’s index (GMI) results show that D-UEE presents significant spatial aggregation distribution characteristics and there is a positive correlation phenomenon. Fourthly, from the perspective of the local Moran’s index (LMI), most of the regions are concentrated in the first and third quadrants, corresponding to HH and LL types, exhibiting significant positive spatial autocorrelation and clustering patterns characterized by spatial homogeneity. Fifthly, the results of TSA show that the spatial distribution of D-UEE is high in the eastern and low in the western regions, and high in the southern and low in the northern regions. Through analysis of the results, it is evident that the intra-regional gap in the country is narrowing, but the east–west gap is still the most important reason for spatial differentiation. There are still some incoordination issues between the U-EE systems, but they are continuously improving and moving in a positive direction. Full article

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

31 pages, 6474 KB

Open AccessArticle

Waste 4.0: Blockchain-Enabled Peer-to-Peer Communication Among Medical Waste Stakeholders

by Nurul Hamizah Mohamed, Jayashri Goddanti, Samir Khan and Sandeep Jagtap

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4558; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094558 (registering DOI) - 5 May 2026

Abstract

Medical waste management has been receiving increasing attention in recent years. The National Health Service (NHS) of the United Kingdom has started planning its waste strategy to comply with its Net Zero Goals. Waste management does not only involve waste disposal; the process [...] Read more.

Medical waste management has been receiving increasing attention in recent years. The National Health Service (NHS) of the United Kingdom has started planning its waste strategy to comply with its Net Zero Goals. Waste management does not only involve waste disposal; the process includes segregation, collection, storage, and the transportation of waste from one point to another. Unusual characteristics of waste from the healthcare industry are that waste can be infectious and needs special storage conditions and specific transportation criteria to maintain the waste’s quality. However, entities working with the waste lack knowledge about the waste they receive and need assistance to verify the quality of the waste as well. Limited knowledge can lead to injuries, contamination, or the spread of pathogens. The global monitoring guidelines of medical waste are studied to understand the monitoring requirements and the stakeholders who are working with the waste. Application and research contributions to the digitisation of medical waste monitoring are scrutinised to look for the monitoring gaps. This paper proposes a digital system designed to connect all waste stakeholders within a blockchain environment, supported by automated data collection. A framework for stakeholder communication with data is designed. The data gathered from transporters is analysed before sending the status to the blockchain. Furthermore, the paper outlines a dashboard showcasing the digitisation of waste management, backed by a case study used for validation. A hypothetical case study in managing waste using existing manual waste monitoring in the United Kingdom is compared with monitoring using the system. By employing a proving method of all activities approach with blockchain technology, this method has achieved a 25.17% improvement in medical waste management time-taken efficiency and a 27.85% improvement while virtually eliminating the risk of fraudulent documentation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Enterprise Operation and Innovation Management Sustainability)

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26 pages, 1446 KB

Open AccessArticle

Land Governance and Urban Hierarchy in China: Local Land Allocation Under Centralized Land Regulation

by Xintian Yu, Hengjie Duan, Xin Wang, Chuanlei Qi, Xiaoyang Tang, Yuesong Liu and Mingliang Li

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4557; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094557 - 5 May 2026

Abstract

China’s urban size distribution has increasingly shifted toward concentration in large cities amid global urbanization and the restructuring of urban development patterns. This trend has intensified governance and spatial pressures in major cities while exposing weaker growth momentum in small and medium-sized cities [...] Read more.

China’s urban size distribution has increasingly shifted toward concentration in large cities amid global urbanization and the restructuring of urban development patterns. This trend has intensified governance and spatial pressures in major cities while exposing weaker growth momentum in small and medium-sized cities and reducing overall urban system coordination. Existing studies mainly explain this pattern through market forces such as agglomeration economies, housing prices, and migration, while others examine the consequences of local land practices from the perspectives of land finance, local competition, and institutional change. However, there is still no systematic explanation of why centrally imposed aggregate land constraints, operating through heterogeneous local land allocation, generate uneven urban outcomes. Against the background of the 2004 strict land management reform, this paper develops a theory-oriented conceptual framework linking central land constraints, local land allocation, and urban size structure. It clarifies how uniform central constraints may be translated into uneven urban outcomes through differentiated local land-allocation practices. Local land allocation is identified as the key transmission mechanism through which development opportunities are reshaped across cities and, under specific institutional conditions, the upper tiers of the urban hierarchy are reinforced. This paper therefore offers a bounded explanation of how central–local land governance shapes China’s urban size structure, while also underscoring the relevance of land governance to more balanced, resource-efficient, and sustainable urban development. Full article

21 pages, 1976 KB

Open AccessArticle

Dynamic Cultural Pathways to Sustainable Coastal Tourism: Community Co-Creation in Bang Saray, Pattaya, Thailand

by Duangrat Tandamrong and Jakkawat Laphet

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4556; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094556 - 5 May 2026

Abstract

Coastal communities increasingly face pressure to transform cultural resources into tourism experiences while preserving local identity and long-term sustainability. This study examined how community-driven cultural processes are associated with sustainable coastal tourism outcomes in Bang Saray, Pattaya, Thailand, using the proposed Dynamic Cultural [...] Read more.

Coastal communities increasingly face pressure to transform cultural resources into tourism experiences while preserving local identity and long-term sustainability. This study examined how community-driven cultural processes are associated with sustainable coastal tourism outcomes in Bang Saray, Pattaya, Thailand, using the proposed Dynamic Cultural Activation Framework for Sustainable Coastal Tourism. A cross-sectional survey of 300 residents and local stakeholders was analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The findings indicate that cultural heritage activation was positively associated with shared cultural meanings, tourism co-creation practices, and community empowerment. Shared cultural meanings were positively associated with tourism co-creation practices and community cultural learning, while tourism co-creation practices were positively associated with both learning and empowerment. In addition, community empowerment showed a significant positive association with sustainable coastal tourism outcomes, whereas community cultural learning did not demonstrate a statistically significant direct relationship. Overall, the results suggest that sustainable tourism is linked not only to heritage resources themselves, but also to interconnected community processes involving meaning-making, collaboration, learning, and local agency. The study extends prior sustainable tourism literature by presenting culture as a dynamic community resource rather than a static tourism asset. Practically, the findings highlight the value of participatory co-creation platforms, cultural learning mechanisms, and empowerment-oriented governance for inclusive and resilient coastal tourism development. Given the cross-sectional design, the findings should be interpreted as theoretically informed associations rather than definitive causal relationships. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Co-Creating Meaningful Futures: Cultural Heritage, Community Agency and Sustainable Tourism)

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25 pages, 4591 KB

Open AccessArticle

Life Cycle Carbon Emission Analysis of a Sludge Dewatering Facility: A South-to-North Water Diversion Case Study

by Cuimin Feng, Yihao Li, Sairui Guan, Ziyu Guo and Xueqing Jing

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4555; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094555 - 5 May 2026

Abstract

To mitigate the impact of global climate change, countries worldwide must take necessary measures to address this environmental issue. China’s goals of carbon peaking and carbon neutrality and the “1 + N” policy framework have provided guidance for various industries and enterprises in [...] Read more.

To mitigate the impact of global climate change, countries worldwide must take necessary measures to address this environmental issue. China’s goals of carbon peaking and carbon neutrality and the “1 + N” policy framework have provided guidance for various industries and enterprises in advancing carbon accounting, carbon reduction, and green transformation. This study focuses on the sludge dewatering facility of a typical water treatment plant, which uses water from the South-to-North Water Diversion Project as its water source. Based on its construction and operational data, the carbon emissions at different phases were calculated with the emission factor method in the study, and the composition of these emissions was analyzed. The results show that during the three-year construction period, the sludge dewatering facility emitted a total of 1385.57 tons of CO₂-eq, with materials being the main source of carbon emissions. While in the one-year operation period, the facility generated 19.38 tons of CO₂-eq only, with electricity consumption being the primary contributor, followed by chemicals consumption. In conclusion, both the short-term intensive emissions during the construction phase and the long-term cumulative emissions during the operation phase should be considered, so that an integrated mitigation effect can be achieved across the construction and operation stages. This highlights the necessity of adopting a life-cycle perspective in carbon reduction strategies within the defined system boundary, while also supporting the sustainable planning and management of water treatment infrastructure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Air, Climate Change and Sustainability)

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30 pages, 3697 KB

Open AccessArticle

Coordinating Industrial Restructuring and Population Dynamics for Sustainable Land–Sea Coupled Development: An Agent-Based Optimization Framework

by Cheng Liu, Yan Wang, Ping Wang, Shengkang Liang, Yanqun Yang, Ying Su, Keqiang Li, Yanbin Li and Xiulin Wang

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4554; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094554 - 5 May 2026

Abstract

Coordinating socio-economic development with coastal environmental recovery is a critical challenge in rapidly urbanizing coastal regions. Few studies quantitatively integrate industrial restructuring, population dynamics, and environmental outcomes within a unified optimization framework. This study develops an Agent-Based Optimization Model of Land–Sea Processes Coupled [...] Read more.

Coordinating socio-economic development with coastal environmental recovery is a critical challenge in rapidly urbanizing coastal regions. Few studies quantitatively integrate industrial restructuring, population dynamics, and environmental outcomes within a unified optimization framework. This study develops an Agent-Based Optimization Model of Land–Sea Processes Coupled with Socio-Economic Dynamics (ABO-LSED) within the Driver-Pressure-State-Impact-Response (DPSIR) structure to jointly optimize development drivers and regulatory responses for improved environmental outcomes. The model incorporates a pollution intensity (PI) structure as an allocation principle, deriving region-specific integrated indicators (IIs) to guide differentiated adjustments in PI reduction, sectoral growth, and population distribution across ten districts of Qingdao, China. Simulation results show that the optimization approach reduces the time required to achieve seawater quality targets from 26 to 13 years, while maintaining an average annual GDP growth rate of approximately 7%. Structural adjustments include a shift from higher to lower-intensity sectors and a moderated urbanization rate. These findings indicate that environmental recovery and economic growth can be achieved simultaneously when intensity reduction, structural transformation, and spatial redistribution are coordinated within the proposed framework. This study offers a quantitative basis for regionally differentiated policy design and provides a transferable strategy for other coastal regions. Full article

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43 pages, 6067 KB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Impact of ESG Ratings on Corporate Carbon Emissions in Korean Firms: Evidence from Machine Learning and Deep Learning Models

by Chang Gyu Kim and Hyung Jong Na

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4553; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094553 - 5 May 2026

Abstract

This study examines corporate carbon emissions of Korean firms from an ESG perspective and develops an AI-based screening framework to improve the identification of firms likely to exceed regulatory emission thresholds. As global climate policies and carbon pricing mechanisms expand, understanding the emission [...] Read more.

This study examines corporate carbon emissions of Korean firms from an ESG perspective and develops an AI-based screening framework to improve the identification of firms likely to exceed regulatory emission thresholds. As global climate policies and carbon pricing mechanisms expand, understanding the emission profiles of listed companies has become increasingly important for regulators, investors, and policymakers. Despite growing ESG disclosure, reliable firm-level screening tools for carbon emissions remain limited. Using a pooled annual panel of KOSPI-listed non-financial firms from 2019 to 2024, the study constructs a dataset of 552 firm-year observations. Firms are classified as high-emission when annual emissions exceed the Korean Emissions Trading Scheme (K-ETS) regulatory threshold of 125,000 tCO₂e. To evaluate predictive performance, the analysis compares multiple machine learning models (RF, SVM, XGBoost, LightGBM, and CatBoost) and deep learning models (CNN, RNN, GAN, LSTM, and Transformer). In addition, a hybrid ensemble combining CatBoost, GAN, and Transformer is proposed to enhance predictive reliability. The empirical results show that ESG-augmented models consistently outperform financial-only baselines across AUC and F1 metrics. Among individual models, the ESG-enhanced Transformer achieves the strongest discriminatory power, while the proposed hybrid ensemble delivers the best overall predictive performance. The findings contribute to the literature by demonstrating the incremental value of ESG information in predicting corporate carbon emissions and by presenting a practical AI-based framework for compliance-oriented screening under carbon regulation. From a policy and investment perspective, the model provides a useful decision support tool for anticipating potential inclusion in emissions trading schemes, assessing transition exposure, and supporting data-driven decarbonization strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Carbon Emissions, Carbon Pricing and Trading, and Carbon Neutrality)

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23 pages, 10168 KB

Open AccessArticle

Development and Validation of a Regionally Optimized Newmark Model for Coseismic Landslide Hazard Assessment in Southwest China

by Weixin Wang, Xiaoguang Cai, Da Peng, Xin Huang, Sihan Li and Honglu Xu

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4552; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094552 - 5 May 2026

Abstract

Regional coseismic landslide hazard assessment is important for disaster risk reduction and sustainable development in seismically active mountainous regions. Existing Newmark displacement prediction models exhibit systematic bias when applied to Southwest China due to the region’s distinctive seismotectonic and topographic characteristics. This study [...] Read more.

Regional coseismic landslide hazard assessment is important for disaster risk reduction and sustainable development in seismically active mountainous regions. Existing Newmark displacement prediction models exhibit systematic bias when applied to Southwest China due to the region’s distinctive seismotectonic and topographic characteristics. This study addresses this limitation by systematically evaluating and recalibrating seven established models using 591 horizontal strong-motion records from nine significant regional earthquakes (2007–2022). Among the recalibrated versions, the Yiğit2020 framework performed best but showed potential for further improvement. Analysis revealed a stable log-linear correlation between peak ground velocity (PGV) and Newmark displacement, with an average of 0.78 under different critical acceleration levels. By incorporating a log PGV term, a new model was developed, achieving improved performance with an R² of 0.92 and a standard deviation (σ) of 0.30. Validation results further showed that the new model reduced the mean relative error from 74.22% to 66.43% and the median relative error from 53.83% to 38.90%, compared with the recalibrated Yiğit2020 model. In a case study of the 2022 Luding Ms 6.8 earthquake, the proposed model yielded the highest landslide discrimination capability (AUC = 0.687), outperforming other models (AUC = 0.600–0.636). These results support more reliable regional hazard zoning and rapid post-earthquake risk identification, thereby contributing to sustainable land-use planning, infrastructure resilience, and disaster risk reduction in seismically active mountainous regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Hazards and Sustainability)

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28 pages, 3073 KB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Carbon Emission Reduction and Economic Benefits of Hydrogen Fuel Cells in the Building Sector

by Ruxue Zhang, Ying Xing, Wenhao Wu and Zhen Wang

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4551; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094551 - 5 May 2026

Abstract

The transition to a low-carbon building sector will be greatly aided by hydrogen fuel cells. This paper examines their carbon emission reduction and economic advantages via Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Levelized Cost of Hydrogen (LCOH), alongside multiple carbon pricing scenarios. When using [...] Read more.

The transition to a low-carbon building sector will be greatly aided by hydrogen fuel cells. This paper examines their carbon emission reduction and economic advantages via Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and Levelized Cost of Hydrogen (LCOH), alongside multiple carbon pricing scenarios. When using coal-produced hydrogen as a hydrogen source, hydrogen fuel cell applications have no carbon reduction effect. When hydrogen production from natural gas steam reforming is employed, the carbon reduction per unit of hydrogen in the HFC-CHP system ranges from 2.34 to 4.07 kgCO₂e, with a hydrogen cost per unit between 24.32 and 37.78 RMB/kg. When using blue hydrogen, the carbon reduction increases to 4.70–9.08 kgCO₂e, with costs ranging from 22.86 to 39.97 RMB/kg. Green hydrogen achieves the highest carbon reduction of up to 10.99 kgCO₂e, but costs rise to 47.51 RMB/kg under this pathway. The results revealed that pipeline transport outperforms trailer transport in carbon reduction and economic efficiency at the same distance. Simultaneously, solely incorporating the carbon market as a hydrogen subsidy measure is insufficient to close the cost disparity between hydrogen fuel cell energy supply and traditional energy supply methods. More types of subsidy measures are needed to enhance the competitiveness of hydrogen energy. Full article

26 pages, 4710 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Comprehensive Evaluation of GPM IMERG Satellite Rainfall Data Across Multiple Temporal and Spatial Scales for Sustainable Flood Risk Management in East Java, Indonesia

by Mohamad Bagus Ansori and I.D. Bagus JBS

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4550; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094550 - 5 May 2026

Abstract

Accurate extreme rainfall representation is critical for resilient hydrological design and sustainable water management in tropical regions. This study evaluates the GPM IMERG product across three diverse watersheds in East Java (Welang, Kedak, and Grindulu) using Extreme Value Theory (EVT). By employing Generalized [...] Read more.

Accurate extreme rainfall representation is critical for resilient hydrological design and sustainable water management in tropical regions. This study evaluates the GPM IMERG product across three diverse watersheds in East Java (Welang, Kedak, and Grindulu) using Extreme Value Theory (EVT). By employing Generalized Extreme Value (GEV) and Peaks Over Threshold (POT) methods, the research assesses the reliability of satellite estimates in characterizing the extreme events that safeguard community security and infrastructure longevity. Results indicate that while GPM IMERG excels at monthly scales, it lacks the daily precision required for effective flash flood mitigation, particularly in small basins. Crucially, GEV analysis reveals a structural mismatch: ground observations exhibit heavy-tailed (Fréchet) distributions, while GPM IMERG follows bounded (Weibull) distributions. Consequently, the satellite product underestimates high-magnitude events at long return periods, the exact events that define the design limits of adaptive hydraulic structures. Complementary POT analysis identifies scale-dependent biases across catchments. These findings suggest that while GPM IMERG is robust for regional monitoring, it requires distribution-specific bias correction to support disaster-resilient engineering. Addressing these gaps is essential for achieving climate-responsive sustainable development in data-scarce regions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Hydrology Under Climate Changes)

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56 pages, 2038 KB

Open AccessReview

Sustainability of the Fused Deposition Modelling Process—A Review

by Vlada Țisari, Andrei Marius Mihalache, Oana Dodun, Cosmin-Gabriel Grădinaru, Roxana-Gabriela Hobjâlă, Ana Ghimp and Laurențiu Slătineanu

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4549; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094549 - 5 May 2026

Abstract

The expansion of fused deposition modeling (FDM) usage for manufacturing parts through 3D printing has contributed to an intensification of researchers’ concerns regarding the sustainability of the mentioned process. In this regard, the aspects considered essential for defining the FDM process were first [...] Read more.

The expansion of fused deposition modeling (FDM) usage for manufacturing parts through 3D printing has contributed to an intensification of researchers’ concerns regarding the sustainability of the mentioned process. In this regard, the aspects considered essential for defining the FDM process were first highlighted. For a rigorous approach to the research results achieved so far in the field of FDM process sustainability, a systemic analysis was carried out, taking into consideration the sustainability of the FDM process as a system, and identifying the input factors and output parameters of such a system. The evolution of knowledge regarding the approach to sustainability aspects of the FDM process has allowed for a highlighting of the main research directions addressed up to now in a direction. The main solutions proposed by various researchers for improving the sustainability of the FDM process were succinctly presented. Highlighting the results of research on the influence exerted by different input factors on the values of output parameters specific to FDM process sustainability was considered to be of interest. Various proposed solutions for modeling and optimizing the output parameters usable for evaluating the sustainability of the FDM process were investigated. A brief presentation of the evolution trends in research regarding FDM process sustainability was made. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancing Sustainable Additive Manufacturing: Innovations in Technology and Environmental Impact Metrics)

29 pages, 925 KB

Open AccessArticle

Integrating Climate Change Adaptation, Disaster Risk Reduction, and Civil Protection for Sustainable Development: A Comparative Analysis of Central European Strategies

by Viktória Barna, Daniela Ridzoňová and Andrea Majlingová

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4548; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094548 - 5 May 2026

Abstract

Climate change is intensifying natural hazards across Central Europe, increasing pressure on national systems of climate change adaptation (CCA), disaster risk reduction (DRR), and civil protection. Although international and European policy frameworks promote coherence among these domains, their practical integration remains uneven. This [...] Read more.

Climate change is intensifying natural hazards across Central Europe, increasing pressure on national systems of climate change adaptation (CCA), disaster risk reduction (DRR), and civil protection. Although international and European policy frameworks promote coherence among these domains, their practical integration remains uneven. This study presents a comparative governance analysis of five Central European countries (Slovakia, Czechia, Hungary, Poland, and Austria), examining how CCA, DRR, and civil protection are integrated across strategic, institutional, operational, and financial dimensions. A structured qualitative assessment of national strategies, legal acts, and institutional arrangements was conducted using a standardized indicator-based framework. The results reveal systematic cross-dimensional asymmetries. Strategic alignment between CCA and DRR is relatively advanced across all countries, largely driven by international and EU policy frameworks. However, institutional coordination mechanisms, operational integration of climate risk information into preparedness planning, and dedicated financing for prevention and adaptation remain weak or fragmented in most cases. Civil protection systems continue to be predominantly response-oriented, with limited linkage to long-term climate risk governance. Based on these patterns, the study identifies distinct national integration typologies and highlights key governance gaps constraining sustainable climate risk management. The findings underline that effective integration depends not only on strategic commitments but on reinforcing linkages across institutions, operational practice, and financing. The study concludes by identifying concrete governance adjustments needed to strengthen cross-sectoral coordination, climate-informed preparedness, and stable financing mechanisms for resilience-building in Central Europe. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Climate Change Adaptation, Disaster Risk Reduction, and Sustainable Development)

20 pages, 437 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Literature-Based Exploratory Analysis of Overtourism Risks in South Africa

by Victoria-Ann Verkerk and Uwe P. Hermann

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4547; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094547 - 5 May 2026

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic brought global tourism to a near standstill, rapidly shifting many destinations from overtourism to a temporary state of non-tourism due to lockdowns and border closures. As travel resumed between 2021 and 2022, ‘revenge tourism’ emerged, characterised by a surge in [...] Read more.

The COVID-19 pandemic brought global tourism to a near standstill, rapidly shifting many destinations from overtourism to a temporary state of non-tourism due to lockdowns and border closures. As travel resumed between 2021 and 2022, ‘revenge tourism’ emerged, characterised by a surge in travel as people sought to compensate for lost experiences. This resurgence has reignited overtourism, a phenomenon marked by excessive tourist numbers and negative impacts on host communities, including environmental degradation, infrastructure strain and socio-cultural disruption. While overtourism has been extensively studied in the global North, its manifestations in the global South, particularly in South Africa, remain underexplored. This study addresses the existing gap by exploring the potential of digital technologies, namely, artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR) and social media platforms, as instruments for managing visitor flows and alleviating overtourism in selected hotspots throughout South Africa. Using a qualitative, literature-based design, this study evaluates the contextual relevance and multi-dimensional scalability of these technologies. The findings aim to advance discussions on overtourism and propose innovative, technology-driven strategies, as well as research opportunities tailored to the unique challenges of the global South. Full article

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55 pages, 6812 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Data-Driven Predictive Approach to Achieve Waste Management at the Local Scale: A Case Study in a University Cafeteria

by Alessandra Torrente Stabile, Miguel Chen Austin, Dafni Mora and Carmen Castaño

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4546; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094546 - 5 May 2026

Abstract

University cafeterias generate solid waste as a result of high user turnover and routine food service operations. While waste characterization studies are common in higher education institutions, data-driven predictive modeling remains limited, particularly in Latin American contexts. This study addresses this gap by [...] Read more.

University cafeterias generate solid waste as a result of high user turnover and routine food service operations. While waste characterization studies are common in higher education institutions, data-driven predictive modeling remains limited, particularly in Latin American contexts. This study addresses this gap by integrating physical waste generation with behavioral surveys to develop predictive tools for operational decision-making. The findings should be interpreted as a single-site operational demonstration; broader generalization requires replication and local recalibration in cafeterias with different operational and social characteristics. Waste generation was characterized in a Panamanian university cafeteria by shift over 20 consecutive working days, separating organic and inorganic fractions, and collecting 705 user surveys on consumption habits. Two complementary predictive approaches were developed: a rule-based classification model and a Monte Carlo simulation framework. Organic waste exhibited a stable pattern throughout the study period, with clear concentration during lunch hours and a strong dependence on user volume. In contrast, inorganic waste showed higher day-to-day variability and increased during evening service, reflecting changes in service practices rather than attendance alone. Statistical analysis indicated that waste generation was more closely associated with food type purchased and faculty affiliation than with self-reported environmental awareness. Overall, the results demonstrate that straightforward predictive approaches can support shift-level planning and operational waste management decisions in university cafeterias. Full article

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27 pages, 2751 KB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Environmental and Social Life Cycle Assessment of Mulching Films

by Domantė Lubytė, Daina Kliaugaitė, Visvaldas Varžinskas and Vidas Lekavičius

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4545; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094545 - 5 May 2026

Abstract

Sustainable agriculture requires careful evaluation of crop production materials, such as conventional mulching films, which improve yields and water efficiency but raise concerns related to waste, emissions, and supply chains. Assessing sustainable alternatives is therefore essential. This study compares the environmental life cycle [...] Read more.

Sustainable agriculture requires careful evaluation of crop production materials, such as conventional mulching films, which improve yields and water efficiency but raise concerns related to waste, emissions, and supply chains. Assessing sustainable alternatives is therefore essential. This study compares the environmental life cycle impacts (LCA) and social impacts (S-LCA) of three agricultural mulching films: PLA-based, PBAT-based, and conventional LDPE film. The environmental assessment reflects conditions relevant to Lithuania, while the social assessment considers production contexts in Lithuania, Poland, and China. Results show that the highest environmental impacts occur during plastic granulate production, with PBAT generating 7.3 kg CO₂^eq, compared to 1.9 kg CO₂^eq for LDPE and 1.8 kg CO₂^eq for PLA (IPCC 100a method). Social risk analysis indicates that the main risks are associated with petroleum-based materials and, in the case of PLA, corn cultivation. PBAT-based films show the highest overall environmental impact; however, their ability to degrade in soil reduces the need for collection and transport. In contrast, LDPE films require removal and waste management but may offer more favorable outcomes when managed efficiently. Overall, while bioplastics involve diverse raw materials and energy-intensive production, conventional plastics may still provide lower environmental impacts under certain conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Environmental Assessment, Life Cycle Analysis and Sustainability)

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22 pages, 5660 KB

Open AccessArticle

Water Quality Assessment and Pollution Control of Urban Road Stormwater Runoff in Arid Regions: A Case Study of Yinchuan, China

by Sisi Wang, Xinyue Wang, Wei Fu, Chao Fan, Yun Qu, Mengxi Qiao and Xiaoran Zhang

Sustainability 2026, 18(9), 4544; https://doi.org/10.3390/su18094544 - 5 May 2026

Abstract

To further investigate stormwater runoff patterns, pathogenic risks of pollutants on urban roads, and mitigation of urban non-point source pollution, road runoff monitoring and sampling were conducted in selected sections of central Yinchuan, a city in the arid region of northwestern China. Processed [...] Read more.

To further investigate stormwater runoff patterns, pathogenic risks of pollutants on urban roads, and mitigation of urban non-point source pollution, road runoff monitoring and sampling were conducted in selected sections of central Yinchuan, a city in the arid region of northwestern China. Processed data—including rainfall, flow rate, and water quality parameters (conventional five indicators and heavy metals)—were obtained from ten rainfall events in 2024. Through analyses of water quality characteristics, influencing factors, runoff flushing patterns, and stormwater control measures, the current status of road runoff pollution was clarified. The Nemerow pollution index method was applied to evaluate pollutant levels and assess human health risks. Results indicate that pollution levels in Yinchuan are relatively mild, with most pollutant concentrations below the Class IV surface water quality standard. Basic rainfall parameters—peak rainfall intensity (PRI), average rainfall intensity (ARI), and previous sunny days (PSD)—together with urban functional zones, significantly influence pollutants in rainfall runoff, with the antecedent dry period showing the most pronounced effect. Analysis of the runoff scouring effect reveals that scouring of the conventional five water quality indicators (SS, COD, TN, NH₃-N, and TP) is substantially more evident than that of heavy metals. The runoff control depth for roads in central Yinchuan ranges from 0.9 mm to 40 mm, sufficient to manage runoff pollution from small to medium-sized rainfall events. The Nemerow pollution index remains below 8.36, with no severely polluted areas identified, indicating relatively low pollution in Yinchuan’s urban core. Quantitative human health risk assessment suggests that health risks associated with heavy metals on roads are low, with no significant exposure risk, implying that stormwater runoff in Yinchuan poses no substantial threat to human health. This study provides a valuable reference for non-point source pollution control via stormwater runoff management in arid-region cities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Water Management)

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