Sustainability

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Open AccessArticle

Sustainability and Algorithmic Comparison of Segmented PVRP for Healthcare Waste Collection: A Brazilian Case Study

by Micaela Ines Castillo Ulloa, Diego Alexis Ramos Huarachi, Vinicius Moretti, Cleiton Hluszko, Fabio Neves Puglieri, Thalita Monteiro Obal and Antonio Carlos de Francisco

Sustainability 2025, 17(19), 8536; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17198536 (registering DOI) - 23 Sep 2025

Abstract

The safe and sustainable management of healthcare waste (HCW) is essential for minimizing environmental impacts and protecting public health, particularly in developing countries with limited logistical infrastructure. Despite the growing adoption of routing optimization in HCW logistics, few studies integrate waste generator segmentation [...] Read more.

The safe and sustainable management of healthcare waste (HCW) is essential for minimizing environmental impacts and protecting public health, particularly in developing countries with limited logistical infrastructure. Despite the growing adoption of routing optimization in HCW logistics, few studies integrate waste generator segmentation with algorithmic planning. This study proposes an optimization approach based on the Periodic Vehicle Routing Problem (PVRP), incorporating a segmentation of waste generators by volume. Two solution methods, the Clarke and Wright (CW) heuristic and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), are applied and compared through a real-world case study in Paraná, Brazil. Results show that PSO significantly outperforms CW in reducing travel distance and CO₂ emissions. For small generators, PSO achieves reductions of up to 41% in distance and 41.37% in emissions, compared to CW’s 35.42%. For large generators, PSO was reduced by 22% and 21.81%, respectively. The proposed method demonstrates the potential for scalable, data-efficient waste management strategies. This research contributes to sustainable urban logistics by bridging segmentation and routing optimization in resource-constrained settings, offering actionable insights for policymakers and planners. Full article

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

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Open AccessArticle

Perceptions and Attitudes Towards Cultural Heritage and Its Education Among Preschool Educators: A Convenience Sample from 11 Chinese Provinces

by Ran Zheng, Wei Zhang and Liangjing Guo

Sustainability 2025, 17(19), 8535; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17198535 (registering DOI) - 23 Sep 2025

Abstract

Cultural heritage education promotes sustainability by fostering children’s emerging identity with local heritage and internalizing shared cultural values. In early childhood settings, these formative processes are shaped by preschool educators’ perceptions and attitudes toward cultural heritage and its teaching. This study employs a [...] Read more.

Cultural heritage education promotes sustainability by fostering children’s emerging identity with local heritage and internalizing shared cultural values. In early childhood settings, these formative processes are shaped by preschool educators’ perceptions and attitudes toward cultural heritage and its teaching. This study employs a structured questionnaire to investigate preschool teachers’ cultural heritage literacy and their views on cultural heritage education, gathering data from a convenience sample of 64 valid responses from 11 provinces. Results indicate that teachers generally possess a superficial understanding of local cultural heritage and demonstrate limited emotional engagement, which affects their perceptions of the relevance and value of cultural heritage for young children. They often lack awareness in selecting meaningful content, experience contradictory expectations, and hold low expectations for fostering cultural identity. Notably, difficulty interpreting heritage meanings is associated with lower expectations. Over half of the teachers report challenges in “goal setting and evaluation” and in finding “appropriate methods to achieve goals”. Targeted training to enhance cultural heritage literacy and strengthen goal setting is therefore a priority. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Education for Sustainable Development and Science Teaching)

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Open AccessReview

A Review and Design of Semantic-Level Feature Spatial Representation and Resource Spatiotemporal Mapping for Socialized Service Resources in Rural Characteristic Industries

by Yuansheng Wang, Huarui Wu, Cheng Chen and Gongming Wang

Sustainability 2025, 17(19), 8534; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17198534 (registering DOI) - 23 Sep 2025

Abstract

Socialized services for rural characteristic industries are becoming a key support for promoting rural industries’ transformation and upgrading. They are permeating the development process of modern agricultural service technologies, achieving significant progress in specialized fields such as mechanized operations and plant-protection services. However, [...] Read more.

Socialized services for rural characteristic industries are becoming a key support for promoting rural industries’ transformation and upgrading. They are permeating the development process of modern agricultural service technologies, achieving significant progress in specialized fields such as mechanized operations and plant-protection services. However, challenges remain, including low efficiency in matching service resources and limited spatiotemporal coordination capabilities. With the deep integration of spatiotemporal information technology and knowledge graph technology, the enormous potential of semantic-level feature spatial representation in intelligent scheduling of service resources has been fully demonstrated, providing a new technical pathway to solve the above problem. This paper systematically analyzes the technological evolution trends of socialized services for rural characteristic industries and proposes a collaborative scheduling framework based on semantic feature space and spatiotemporal maps for characteristic industry service resources. At the technical architecture level, the paper aims to construct a spatiotemporal graph model integrating geographic knowledge graphs and temporal tree technology to achieve semantic-level feature matching between service demand and supply. Regarding implementation pathways, the model significantly improves the spatiotemporal allocation efficiency of service resources through cloud service platforms that integrate spatial semantic matching algorithms and dynamic optimization technologies. This paper conducts in-depth discussions and analyses on technical details such as agricultural semantic feature extraction, dynamic updates of rural service resources, and the collaboration of semantic matching and spatio-temporal matching of supply and demand relationships. It also presents relevant implementation methods to enhance technical integrity and logic, which is conducive to the engineering implementation of the proposed methods. The effectiveness of the proposed collaborative scheduling framework for service resources is proved by the synthesis of principal analysis, logical deduction and case comparison. We have proposed a practical “three-step” implementation path conducive to realizing the proposed method. Regarding application paradigms, this technical system will promote the transformation of rural industry services from traditional mechanical operations to an intelligent service model of “demand perception–intelligent matching–precise scheduling”. In the field of socialized services for rural characteristic industries, it is suggested that relevant institutions promote this technical framework and pay attention to the development trends of new technologies such as knowledge services, spatio-temporal services, the Internet of Things, and unmanned farms so as to promote the sustainable development of rural characteristic industries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Technological Applications in Agriculture for the Development of the Circular Bioeconomy)

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Open AccessReview

Valorization of Kitchen Waste into Functional Biochar: Progress in Synthesis, Characterization, and Water Remediation Potential

by Himanshi Soni, Anjali Verma, Subbulakshmi Ganesan, Thangaraj Anand, Shakti Prakash Jena, Mikhael Bechelany and Jagpreet Singh

Sustainability 2025, 17(19), 8533; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17198533 (registering DOI) - 23 Sep 2025

Abstract

The continuous increase in urbanization and global population has led to the generation of a substantial amount of kitchen waste, posing severe environmental and disposal challenges. The utilization of kitchen waste as organic biomass for biochar production offers a promising, sustainable, and cost-effective [...] Read more.

The continuous increase in urbanization and global population has led to the generation of a substantial amount of kitchen waste, posing severe environmental and disposal challenges. The utilization of kitchen waste as organic biomass for biochar production offers a promising, sustainable, and cost-effective solution. This review comprehensively analyzes the recent developments in the transformation of kitchen waste into biochar. Moreover, the current study involves various synthesis techniques, the physicochemical characteristics of biochar, and its applications in soil and water remediation. Afterwards, the experimental parameters and feedstock types are critically evaluated in terms of their key characteristics for biochar. Moreover, the current study highlights the effectiveness of kitchen waste-derived biochar (KWBC) in decomposing organic pollutants, heavy metals, and pharmaceutical pollutants from contaminated environments. Additionally, the mechanisms of adsorption, ion exchange, complexation, and redox interactions are thoroughly illustrated to evaluate the pollutant removal pathways. At the end of the study, experimental parameters such as pH, dosage, contact time, and initial pollutant concentration are discussed, which play the main role in enhancing the adsorption capacity of biochar. Finally, this review outlines current limitations and proposes future directions for optimizing biochar performance and promoting its large-scale application in sustainable environmental management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biochar as a Sustainable Solution for Water and Soil Pollution: Removal of Organic and Inorganic Contaminants)

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Open AccessArticle

Lean Accounting Tool Packages and Firm Typologies: Evidence from an Exploratory Factor Analysis in Manufacturing

by Anna Stronczek

Sustainability 2025, 17(19), 8532; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17198532 (registering DOI) - 23 Sep 2025

Abstract

This paper explores how Lean Accounting (LA) is implemented in manufacturing firms by identifying tool packages and the typologies of companies applying them. Despite growing interest in LA, prior research has focused primarily on individual tools or case studies, leaving the configuration of [...] Read more.

This paper explores how Lean Accounting (LA) is implemented in manufacturing firms by identifying tool packages and the typologies of companies applying them. Despite growing interest in LA, prior research has focused primarily on individual tools or case studies, leaving the configuration of management accounting practices across organizations underexplored. The study aims to identify coherent packages of Lean Accounting tools used in practice and to determine how these packages correspond to different levels of implementation among manufacturing firms. An online questionnaire was used to collect data from 128 enterprises. Exploratory factor analysis was applied to identify tool groupings, followed by clustering to classify firms by their LA adoption profiles. The analysis resulted in three tool packages and three types of firms that differ in the advancement of LA implementation. The results show that firms at higher stages of implementation report greater awareness of cultural and technical barriers to LA transformation. This paper contributes to the literature by empirically identifying Lean Accounting tool packages and by proposing a typology of firms based on their implementation profiles. The novelty of this study lies in combining factor- and cluster-based approaches to explore management accounting practice configurations within the Lean paradigm—an area previously dominated by case studies. The findings enrich current knowledge on how different firms adopt Lean Accounting and how they perceive the challenges of its implementation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lean Manufacturing and Sustainable Performance in Digital Era: Challenges and Opportunities)

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Open AccessArticle

Development of Real-Time IoT-Based Air Quality Forecasting System Using Machine Learning Approach

by Onem Yildiz and Hilmi Saygin Sucuoglu

Sustainability 2025, 17(19), 8531; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17198531 (registering DOI) - 23 Sep 2025

Abstract

Air quality monitoring and forecasting have become increasingly critical in urban environments due to rising pollution levels and their impact on public health. Recent advances in Internet of Things (IoT) technology and machine learning offer promising alternatives to traditional monitoring stations, which are [...] Read more.

Air quality monitoring and forecasting have become increasingly critical in urban environments due to rising pollution levels and their impact on public health. Recent advances in Internet of Things (IoT) technology and machine learning offer promising alternatives to traditional monitoring stations, which are limited by high costs and sparse deployment. This paper presents the development of a real-time, low-cost air quality forecasting system that integrates IoT-based sensing units with predictive machine learning algorithms. The proposed system employs low-cost gas sensors and microcontroller-based hardware to monitor pollutants such as particulate matter, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and volatile organic compounds. A fully functional prototype device was designed and manufactured using Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) with modular and scalable features. The data acquisition pipeline includes on-device adjustment, local smoothing, and cloud transfer for real-time storage and visualization. Advanced feature engineering and a multi-model training strategy were used to generate accurate short-term forecasts. Among the models tested, the GRU-based deep learning model yielded the highest performance, achieving

R^{2}

values above 0.93 and maintaining latency below 130 ms, suitable for real-time use. The system also achieved over 91% accuracy in health-based AQI category predictions and demonstrated stable performance without sensor saturation under high-pollution conditions. This study demonstrates that combining embedded hardware, real-time analytics, and ML-driven forecasting enables robust and scalable air quality management solutions, contributing directly to sustainable development goals through enhanced environmental monitoring and public health responsiveness. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Achieving Sustainability in New Product Development and Supply Chain)

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Open AccessArticle

The Role of Higher Education Institutions in Shaping Sustainability and Digital Ethics in the Era of Industry 5.0: Universities as Incubators of Future Skills

by Celina M. Olszak and Anna Sączewska-Piotrowska

Sustainability 2025, 17(19), 8530; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17198530 - 23 Sep 2025

Abstract

The transition toward human-centered innovation models, as reflected in Industry 5.0 frameworks, calls for the integration of sustainability and digital ethics into higher education. Despite the growing international discourse, little is known about how systematically these dimensions are embedded in curricula in Central [...] Read more.

The transition toward human-centered innovation models, as reflected in Industry 5.0 frameworks, calls for the integration of sustainability and digital ethics into higher education. Despite the growing international discourse, little is known about how systematically these dimensions are embedded in curricula in Central and Eastern Europe. This study addresses this gap by analyzing the extent to which Polish higher education institutions (HEIs) incorporate elements of sustainable development and digital ethics into their educational programs. Drawing on survey data from 187 Polish HEIs, we employed Cramér’s V and chi-square tests to explore bivariate associations, multiple correspondence analysis (MCA) to examine patterns among categorical variables, and ordinal logistic regression to identify key predictors of curricular integration. The results reveal that institutions offering Industry 5.0-oriented specializations and maintaining regular cooperation with enterprises are significantly more likely to achieve full integration of sustainability and ethics, whereas many others remain at a stage of only partial adoption. These findings underscore the uneven progress of curricular reforms and highlight the importance of institutional capacity and external partnerships. This study contributes to theory by extending institutional and resource-based perspectives to curriculum innovation, and it contributes to practice by recommending targeted accreditation standards, cross-sector partnerships, and interdisciplinary modules (e.g., “Artificial Intelligence and Society,” “Sustainable Technology Futures”) as concrete mechanisms for embedding ethical and sustainable innovation competencies in higher education. Implications for policy, institutional practice, and future research are discussed. Full article

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Open AccessSystematic Review

Protection of Personal Information Act in Practice: A Systematic Synthesis of Research Trends, Sectoral Applications, and Implementation Barriers in South Africa

by Gugu G. Sema, Pius A. Owolawi and Oludayo O. Olugbara

Sustainability 2025, 17(19), 8529; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17198529 (registering DOI) - 23 Sep 2025

Abstract

This study presents a systematic literature review of scholarly research on the implementation and compliance challenges associated with South Africa’s Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) between 2014 and 2024. In total, 41 of the 2069 initially retrieved studies that were found using [...] Read more.

This study presents a systematic literature review of scholarly research on the implementation and compliance challenges associated with South Africa’s Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) between 2014 and 2024. In total, 41 of the 2069 initially retrieved studies that were found using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) framework in Scopus and Google Scholar satisfied the requirements for inclusion in the in-depth analysis. This review explores thematic trends, methodological approaches, and sectoral applications of POPIA-focused research. This study provides a thorough evidence foundation to guide policy, practice, and future research regarding POPIA compliance in South Africa. Results indicate a gradual transition from theoretical discourse to empirical and sector-specific research, with qualitative approaches (e.g., interviews and case studies) being the most dominant. Proposed implementation tactics in the literature include staff training, risk assessment tools, and compliance with international data protection requirements, including the GDPR. This study provides a thorough evidence foundation to guide policy, practice, and future research regarding POPIA compliance in South Africa. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Economic Development and Business Management)

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Open AccessArticle

Spatiotemporal Evolution and Driving Mechanisms of Coupling Coordination Between Green Innovation Efficiency and Urban Ecological Resilience: Evidence from Yangtze River Delta, China

by Shu Yang

Sustainability 2025, 17(19), 8528; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17198528 (registering DOI) - 23 Sep 2025

Abstract

As a flagship low-carbon transition zone in China, the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) faces challenges in synergizing green innovation efficiency (GIE) and urban ecological resilience (UER). This study establishes a dual-system evaluation framework to quantify their coupling coordination degree (CCD) across the 41 [...] Read more.

As a flagship low-carbon transition zone in China, the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) faces challenges in synergizing green innovation efficiency (GIE) and urban ecological resilience (UER). This study establishes a dual-system evaluation framework to quantify their coupling coordination degree (CCD) across the 41 cities of the YRD from 2010 to 2023 using coupling coordination modeling, Geodetector, as well as Geographically and Temporally Weighted Regression (GTWR). Key findings reveal the following: (1) Temporally, GIE surged from 0.252 to 0.692, while UER rose steadily from 0.228 to 0.395. This joint improvement elevated the CCD from mildly discordant to primary coordination. (2) Spatially, an east–high, west–low gradient defined three regional typologies: coastal clusters with high coupling and intermediate coordination; the Yangtze River corridor with high coupling yet only primary coordination; and inter-provincial border zones with low coupling and low coordination. In these border zones, administrative fragmentation resulted in a CCD that was 10–23% lower than that of inland regions. (3) Mechanistically, the green innovation driving force and policy synergy degree were the dominant promoters. In contrast, urban expansion pressure and rigid ecological regulation exhibited spatially heterogeneous effects, with their overall inhibitory impacts most pronounced in highly urbanized coastal cores and inland industrial transition zones. The findings may serve as a practical case reference for tailoring governance strategies in global mega-city regions pursuing synergistic low-carbon transitions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Green Technology Innovation and Economic Growth)

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Open AccessArticle

Indeterminacy as a Framework for Sustainable Architecture: Lessons from Spens, a Socialist Megastructure

by Radmila Đurašinović, Miljana Zeković, Suzana Mitrović, Dragana Konstantinović, Sonja Pejić and Aleksandar Vemić

Sustainability 2025, 17(19), 8527; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17198527 - 23 Sep 2025

Abstract

In the second half of the twentieth century, the concept of indeterminacy in architecture emerged to address the realities of chance and change, with the megastructure representing a critical point of this ambition. As the aims of indeterminate architectural approaches align with current [...] Read more.

In the second half of the twentieth century, the concept of indeterminacy in architecture emerged to address the realities of chance and change, with the megastructure representing a critical point of this ambition. As the aims of indeterminate architectural approaches align with current sustainable development goals, this study hypothesises this design concept as the basis for the sustainability of structures built within its framework. Through a case study of Spens, a socialist megastructure in Novi Sad, Serbia, the paper explores the potentials of megastructures in relation to requirements for more sustainable cities. Firstly, it evaluates Spens’ current social sustainability through focus group discussions analysing sense of community, place, and wellbeing. Findings demonstrate a clear recognition of Spens’ spatial qualities among users. Secondly, the paper examines the future environmental sustainability of Spens, focusing on strategies that enhance user wellbeing and urban life as a point of overlap between social and environmental sustainability, using the Green Space Factor (GSF) and Urban Greening Factor (UFG). Results reveal the significant yet underutilised potential for greening. The paper highlights the long-term societal value of such structures and strategies for leveraging their concepts for their sustainable adaptation rather than replacement amid ongoing retrofit or replacement debates. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Social Interaction Across Urban Spaces—Contexts, Structures and Sustainability)

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Open AccessSystematic Review

A Systematic Review of AI-Based Classifications Used in Agricultural Monitoring in the Context of Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals

by Vasile Adrian Nan, Gheorghe Badea, Ana Cornelia Badea and Anca Patricia Grădinaru

Sustainability 2025, 17(19), 8526; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17198526 (registering DOI) - 23 Sep 2025

Abstract

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into remote sensing data classification has revolutionized agriculture and environmental monitoring. AI is one of the main technologies used in smart farming that enhances and optimizes the sustainability of agricultural production. The use of AI in agriculture [...] Read more.

The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into remote sensing data classification has revolutionized agriculture and environmental monitoring. AI is one of the main technologies used in smart farming that enhances and optimizes the sustainability of agricultural production. The use of AI in agriculture can involve land use mapping and crop detection, crop yield monitoring, flood-prone area detection, pest disease monitoring, droughts prediction, soil content analysis and soil production capacity detection, and for monitoring the evolution of forests and vegetation. This review examines recent advancements in AI-driven classification techniques for various applications regarding agriculture and environmental monitoring to answer the following research questions: (1) What are the main problems that can be solved through incorporating AI-driven classification techniques into the field of smart agriculture and environmental monitoring? (2) What are the main methods and strategies used in this technology? (3) What type of data can be used in this regard? For this study, a systematic literature review approach was adopted, analyzing publications from Scopus and WoS (Web of Science) between 1 January 2020 and 31 December 2024. By synthesizing recent developments, this review provides valuable insights for researchers, highlighting the current trends, challenges and future research directions, in the context of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Remote Sensing and Machine Learning in Sustainable Agriculture)

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Open AccessArticle

Ethical Integration of AI and STEAM Pedagogies in Higher Education: A Sustainable Learning Model for Society 5.0

by Alma Delia Torres-Rivera, Andrea Alejandra Rendón Peña, Sofía Teresa Díaz-Torres and Laura Alma Díaz-Torres

Sustainability 2025, 17(19), 8525; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17198525 - 23 Sep 2025

Abstract

In the face of environmental degradation, social inequality, and technological change—acknowledged as defining challenges of the 21st century—Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) lead educational innovation, integrate sustainability as a transformative axis, and act as key actors in global responses. This study develops and validates [...] Read more.

In the face of environmental degradation, social inequality, and technological change—acknowledged as defining challenges of the 21st century—Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) lead educational innovation, integrate sustainability as a transformative axis, and act as key actors in global responses. This study develops and validates a conceptual model that advances the goals of Society 5.0 through the integration of sustainability-oriented STEAM education and AI ethics as strategic drivers of a human-centered, socially inclusive, and technologically relevant learning ecosystem. The model rests on multidisciplinary and project-based learning and active engagement with society and industry. Its validation followed a Design Science Research approach supported by expert interviews, the Sustainable Classroom implementation, and international benchmarking with higher education cases from Indonesia, the United Kingdom, Australia, Uruguay, and the European Union. The combination of the constant comparison method of grounded theory with abductive reasoning ensured theoretical coherence and practical consistency. Triangulation across interviews, classroom implementation, and international cases reinforced robustness, while theoretical saturation, cross-validation, and reflexive safeguards strengthened credibility, controlled bias, and secured data management. Findings confirm that the ethical integration of advanced technologies strengthens citizenship, ecological literacy, and institutional innovation, and establishes a replicable and scalable framework that reorients higher education toward sustainability, ethics, and digital equity, positioning it as a cornerstone of education for Society 5.0 and as a global benchmark for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Towards Sustainable Futures: Innovations in Education)

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Open AccessArticle

Designing Environmentally Sustainable Product–Service Systems for Smart Mobile Devices: A Conceptual Framework and Archetypes

by Hang Su, Alessandra C. Canfield Petrecca and Carlo Vezzoli

Sustainability 2025, 17(19), 8524; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17198524 - 23 Sep 2025

Abstract

Smart Mobile Devices (SMD)—including hardware devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and wearables; the software systems that animate them; and the data-communication infrastructure that connects them—pose increasing sustainability challenges due to their short lifespans, high resource demands, and growing e-waste. While Sustainable Product–Service Systems [...] Read more.

Smart Mobile Devices (SMD)—including hardware devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and wearables; the software systems that animate them; and the data-communication infrastructure that connects them—pose increasing sustainability challenges due to their short lifespans, high resource demands, and growing e-waste. While Sustainable Product–Service Systems (S.PSS) have been applied in various sectors to support environmental goals, limited research has addressed their application in the context of SMD. This study aims to explore how S.PSS can be tailored to support sustainability in the SMD sector. For that, it combines a literature review with a multiple-case analysis of seventeen commercial offerings to develop a conceptual framework refined through six expert interviews. Cases were coded using the classical PSS typology and other sector-specific criteria and subsequently clustered in a polarity diagram to identify designable patterns, underpinning the conceptual framework. The study contributes an S.PSS-SMD framework comprising a sector-tailored classification and sixteen archetypal models, operationalized in an archetypal map with potential opportunities. Theoretically, the study offers a sector-grounded operationalization that extends S.PSS design theory to digital product–service ecosystems. It provides a strategic decision aid for designing business models, service bundles, stakeholder roles, and lifecycle responsibilities to pursue win–win environmental and economic sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Products and Services)

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Open AccessArticle

Utilization of Waste Marble Sludge in Self-Compacting Concrete: A Study on Partial Replacement of Cement and Fine Aggregates

by Hadi Bahmani, Hasan Mostafaei, Reza Mohamad Momeni and Sayyed Mehran Khoshoei

Sustainability 2025, 17(19), 8523; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17198523 - 23 Sep 2025

Abstract

This study presents a novel approach to the development of self-compacting concrete (SCC) by partially replacing both cement and fine aggregate (sand) with waste marble sludge (WMS), a byproduct of the marble industry. The research aims to evaluate the feasibility of incorporating this [...] Read more.

This study presents a novel approach to the development of self-compacting concrete (SCC) by partially replacing both cement and fine aggregate (sand) with waste marble sludge (WMS), a byproduct of the marble industry. The research aims to evaluate the feasibility of incorporating this industrial waste into SCC to enhance sustainability without compromising performance. To assess the fresh and hardened properties of the proposed mixtures, a comprehensive experimental program was conducted. Tests included slump flow, T₅₀, and V-funnel for evaluating workability, as well as measurements of specific gravity, compressive strength, flexural strength, Brazilian tensile strength, and water absorption at 28 days of curing. The results demonstrated that the mix containing 5% cement replacement and 20% sand replacement with marble sludge exhibited the highest mechanical performance, achieving a compressive strength of 48.2 MPa, tensile strength of 3.9 MPa, and flexural strength of 4.4 MPa. Furthermore, increasing the percentage of cement replacement led to enhanced flowability, as evidenced by an increase in slump flow diameter and a reduction in V-funnel flow time, indicating improved workability. Overall, the findings suggest that controlled incorporation of WMS can produce SCC with desirable mechanical and rheological properties, offering a promising pathway for sustainable concrete production. In addition to the technical performance, a carbon footprint analysis was conducted to examine the environmental benefits of marble sludge utilization. The mixture with 10% cement and 20% sand replacement exhibited the lowest carbon footprint, while the 7.5% replacement level provided the best balance between strength and sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) for Clean Energy)

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20 pages, 325 KB

Open AccessArticle

Integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Factors into the Investment Returns of American Companies

by Rachana Manoj Lunawat, Mahmoud Elmarzouky and Doaa Shohaieb

Sustainability 2025, 17(19), 8522; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17198522 - 23 Sep 2025

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors on the financial performance of publicly traded U.S. companies between 2013 and 2023. Using a balanced panel dataset of 386 S&P 500 firms and 4246 firm-year observations, the analysis applies panel [...] Read more.

This study investigates the influence of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors on the financial performance of publicly traded U.S. companies between 2013 and 2023. Using a balanced panel dataset of 386 S&P 500 firms and 4246 firm-year observations, the analysis applies panel data regression models with fixed effects to evaluate the association between ESG scores and two financial indicators: Return on Assets (ROA) and Tobin’s Q. The results reveal a modest association with ROA, but a significantly stronger link with Tobin’s Q, suggesting that while ESG practices may not substantially boost short-term profitability, they are positively perceived by investors and contribute to long-term market value. These findings are consistent with stakeholder and signalling theories, indicating that strong ESG performance reflects effective management and lower investment risk. The limited impact on ROA may stem from the initial costs of implementing ESG initiatives. This study highlights practical implications for corporate leaders and policy-makers, advocating for ESG integration as a long-term value driver. Future research should explore alternative ESG rating systems and consider sectoral dynamics and broader market influences. Full article

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

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Open AccessArticle

Circular Economy Indicators and Capital Structure Determinants of Small Agricultural Enterprises: Evidence from Serbia

by Dragana Novaković, Dragan Milić, Zoran Ilić, Tihomir Novaković, Bogdan Jocić, Vladislav Zekić and Mirela Tomaš Simin

Sustainability 2025, 17(19), 8521; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17198521 - 23 Sep 2025

Abstract

This study examines the determinants of capital structure in small agricultural enterprises in Serbia, with a particular emphasis on the external context shaped by circular economy (CE) indicators. Using a balanced panel of 254 firms between 2014 and 2022 (2286 firm-year observations), we [...] Read more.

This study examines the determinants of capital structure in small agricultural enterprises in Serbia, with a particular emphasis on the external context shaped by circular economy (CE) indicators. Using a balanced panel of 254 firms between 2014 and 2022 (2286 firm-year observations), we estimate random-effects models with panel-corrected standard errors. The dependent variable is financial leverage, while explanatory variables include internal firm characteristics (liquidity, debt ratio, profitability, and asset tangibility) and territory-level CE indicators (municipal waste generated per capita, municipal waste recycling rate, and greenhouse-gas emissions from production activities). The model is statistically significant (χ² = 82.49; p < 0.01) and explains 33.7% of leverage variation. The results show that debt ratio positively and strongly relates to leverage, whereas profitability exhibits a negative and significant association, consistent with the pecking-order theory. Regarding the CE context, higher waste generation and higher GHG emissions are associated with lower leverage, while a higher recycling rate has a positive, marginal effect, suggesting that improved circular performance may ease access to external finance by lowering perceived risk among creditors. These findings highlight that environmental performance and local circularity conditions matter for financing decisions in agriculture. Policy implications include promoting CE practices and local recycling capacities to support sustainable financing. Future research should test dynamic specifications and enterprise-level CE metrics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Agricultural Economics, Policies, and Rural Development for Sustainability)

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Open AccessArticle

Motivation, Satisfaction and Recommendation Behaviour Model in a Touristic Coastal Destination—Pre and During the COVID-19 Pandemic Compared

by Byron Alvarado-Vanegas, Lluís Coromina and Freddy Espinoza-Figueroa

Sustainability 2025, 17(19), 8520; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17198520 - 23 Sep 2025

Abstract

The growth of tourism in coastal destinations has attracted academic attention due to the link between tourists’ motivations and their likelihood of recommending the destination. This study explores changes in tourist motivations, satisfaction, and recommendation behaviours in a coastal destination during the summers [...] Read more.

The growth of tourism in coastal destinations has attracted academic attention due to the link between tourists’ motivations and their likelihood of recommending the destination. This study explores changes in tourist motivations, satisfaction, and recommendation behaviours in a coastal destination during the summers of 2019 (pre-COVID-19) and 2020 (during the pandemic). Employing quantitative analysis with Confirmatory Factor Analysis and Structural Equation Modelling, data from 394 pre-pandemic and 468 pandemic-period visitors were analysed. The findings reveal a shift in the tourist profile during the pandemic, with a predominance of younger visitors from nearby regions. Despite heightened uncertainty, satisfaction and the intention to recommend remained relatively high, albeit lower than pre-pandemic levels. The study underscores the importance of adapting marketing and management strategies to evolving tourist preferences, emphasising safety and sustainability in response to global crises. These results highlight the need for resilient policies to ensure positive visitor experiences and long-term growth in coastal tourism, contributing to the broader understanding of how external disruptions impact destination dynamics and tourist behaviour. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Achieving Sustainability in Destination Marketing and Tourism Management)

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28 pages, 2711 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Mirage of Drinking Water Security in Chilean Patagonia: A Socio-Ecological Perspective

by Cristián Frêne, Anna Astorga-Roine, Trace Gale, Benjamín Sotomayor, Andrea Báez-Montenegro, Juan P. Boisier, Camila Alvarez-Garreton and Brian L. Reid

Sustainability 2025, 17(18), 8519; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17188519 - 22 Sep 2025

Abstract

This study investigates the paradoxical water security challenges in western Chilean Patagonia, where the regional abundance of water resources masks significant vulnerabilities of drinking water systems. We conducted an integrated socio-hydrological analysis over rural (APR) and urban (APU) drinking water systems, which provide [...] Read more.

This study investigates the paradoxical water security challenges in western Chilean Patagonia, where the regional abundance of water resources masks significant vulnerabilities of drinking water systems. We conducted an integrated socio-hydrological analysis over rural (APR) and urban (APU) drinking water systems, which provide water to approximately 846,000 people. We georeferenced 343 drinking water intake points, from which 51.6% are sourced from groundwater, and 45.8% from surface waters (2.6% other sources). An eco-hydrological characterization was conducted on the 147 watersheds supplying water to the surface intake points. Watersheds were characterized by their main hydrological, morphological, and land cover features, as well as by their level of anthropization (AI) and water stress index (WSI). Social dimensions were captured through structured interviews with 117 APR directorate leaders regarding their perceptions of infrastructure, governance, climate change, and local water management challenges. Our findings suggest that water availability in Patagonia creates a mirage of water security. AI and WSI indicate high variability in the status of water sources, with 25% of watersheds showing high levels of anthropization and 33% with medium to high levels of water stress, making it relevant to explore the results through a combination of hydroclimatic, longitudinal, and latitudinal gradients. A novel analysis linking WSI and AI to governance perceptions was conducted, finding significant inverse correlations between WSI and both technical capacity and users’ participation. Despite the region’s evident abundance of water resources, rural communities consistently express concerns regarding supply sustainability, infrastructure deficiencies, insufficient technical support, and climate change risks to current and future water availability, all of which constrain water security in Chilean Patagonia. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Water Resource Availability and Pollution: Characterization, Future Scenarios and Solutions)

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20 pages, 1921 KB

Open AccessArticle

Fostering Student Engagement in Sustainability Through Strategic Sessions in Higher Education

by Aleksandra Mikhailidi and Giorgi Tskhvediani

Sustainability 2025, 17(18), 8518; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17188518 - 22 Sep 2025

Abstract

This study examines the effectiveness of the strategic session format in teaching sustainable development within a university ecology course, with a particular focus on fostering student engagement. A pedagogical experiment was conducted with first-year undergraduate students, who were divided into four stakeholder groups—Ecologists, [...] Read more.

This study examines the effectiveness of the strategic session format in teaching sustainable development within a university ecology course, with a particular focus on fostering student engagement. A pedagogical experiment was conducted with first-year undergraduate students, who were divided into four stakeholder groups—Ecologists, Developers, Residents, and Authorities—to work on the following question: “What should a sustainable city of the future be like?” Team roles were assigned based on a diagnostic survey assessing individual collaboration styles. The online session was structured in two stages, combining small-group discussions and plenary meetings, and was moderated by third-year students. The collaboration was supported by digital tools, including online boards and structured templates. Data collection involved student surveys, discussion transcripts, and moderator observations. The results indicate that students preferred the interactive strategic session format over conventional instruction methods. Participants demonstrated high levels of engagement, an ability to analyze complex sustainability issues, and a willingness to reconcile differing stakeholder perspectives. The findings also revealed areas for improvement, which informed further adjustments to the format. This paper offers a documented example of using the strategic session as an educational tool for sustainable development, aligning with active learning principles. It highlights the format’s potential for interdisciplinary learning and its adaptability through accessible digital platforms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Education and Sustainable Development: Practice and Challenges)

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