Journal Description
Sustainability
Sustainability
is an international, cross-disciplinary, scholarly, peer-reviewed and open access journal of environmental, cultural, economic, and social sustainability of human beings. It provides an advanced forum for studies related to sustainability and sustainable development, and is published semimonthly online by MDPI. The Society for Urban Ecology (SURE), Canadian Urban Transit Research & Innovation Consortium (CUTRIC) and International Council for Research and Innovation in Building and Construction (CIB) are affiliated with Sustainability and their members receive discounts of the article processing charge.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE and SSCI (Web of Science), GEOBASE, GeoRef, Inspec, AGRIS, RePEc, CAPlus / SciFinder, and many other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Environmental Sciences) / CiteScore - Q1 (Geography, Planning and Development)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision provided to authors approximately 17.6 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 3.9 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2021).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Testimonials: See what our authors say about Sustainability.
- Companion journals for Sustainability include: World, Sustainable Chemistry, Conservation, Future Transportation, Architecture, Standards, Merits and Wind.
Impact Factor:
3.251 (2020)
;
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.473 (2020)
Latest Articles
The Environmental Patents, Changing Investment, Trade Landscape, and Factors Contributing to Sustainable GVCs Participation: Evidence from Emerging Market Countries
Sustainability 2022, 14(11), 6434; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14116434 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2022
Abstract
Over the last two decades, the global investment and trade landscape has been transformed to include emerging economies. Theoretical studies have shown that countries can benefit from various channels to participate/integrate into global value chains. However, little is known empirically about the factors
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Over the last two decades, the global investment and trade landscape has been transformed to include emerging economies. Theoretical studies have shown that countries can benefit from various channels to participate/integrate into global value chains. However, little is known empirically about the factors that determine the country-level and bilateral participation of emerging market countries in global value chains. We apply the generalized method of moments and fixed-effects approaches to the Eora-MRIO global value chains database to fill this research gap for twenty-three emerging market countries from 1995 to 2018. Key findings indicate that the most important determinants of country-level participation in global value chains are the country’s environmental patents and its level of economic development. Other indicators are positively associated with global value chain participation, if not determinative. The results of a gravity model for bilateral global value chains participation show that geographic proximity and policy and environmental measures are positively associated with value-added trade. These results provide insights and lessons for investors and emerging economies in creating or joining sustainable value chain activities.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Energy Transition, Sustainable Development, and Environmental Sustainability: Challenges and Opportunities for Energy Exporting and Importing economies in the era of SDGs-2030)
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Open AccessArticle
A Data Mining Study on House Price in Central Regions of Taiwan Using Education Categorical Data, Environmental Indicators, and House Features Data
Sustainability 2022, 14(11), 6433; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14116433 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2022
Abstract
This study takes the city of Taichung, Taiwan, as the research area, combines the survey results about the demand for residential houses for the next year, and uses relevant parameters and data of real price registration as the prediction results. In this study,
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This study takes the city of Taichung, Taiwan, as the research area, combines the survey results about the demand for residential houses for the next year, and uses relevant parameters and data of real price registration as the prediction results. In this study, eight types of school district features (such as teachers and students of secondary and elementary schools) and five types of air pollution features are selected and processed with a data mining method to discover the total transactions of real estate properties in various districts of Taichung. The results of K-means clustering and decision tree classification reveal that the four districts of the old Taichung City, namely, Beitun District, North District, Xitun District, and Nantun District, have houses meeting the conditions of egg yolk districts; houses in the old Taichung County have attributes of egg white districts. The results of decision tree classification show that the total price is the most important attribute influencing egg yolk and egg white districts.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable and Human-Centric E-Commerce)
Open AccessArticle
Use of Natural Sorbents in the Processes of Removing Biogenic Compounds from the Aquatic Environment
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Sustainability 2022, 14(11), 6432; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14116432 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2022
Abstract
This paper presents the results of the evaluation of the possibility of using a selected sorbent of natural origin, mineral (opoka rock), for the removal of biogenic compounds from aqueous solutions. The analyzed opoka rock contains approximately 70% calcium carbonate (CaCO3)
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This paper presents the results of the evaluation of the possibility of using a selected sorbent of natural origin, mineral (opoka rock), for the removal of biogenic compounds from aqueous solutions. The analyzed opoka rock contains approximately 70% calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and from 26 to 27% silicon dioxide (SiO2) and has been classified as heavy opoka rock. The experiment focused on the sorption of organic components, including phosphorus (P), nitrogen (N) and carbon (C). It was carried out for two treatment systems, column tests and batch tests, for three samples of water—water from a water supply system, water from a fish pond and water from a garden pond—located in the region of Silesia (Poland). The results showed that the P removal efficiency was equal to 96.6% for the fine-grained sorbent (grain size < 2 mm) and 90.8% for the coarse-grained sorbent (2–4 mm) in the batch tests, while lower effectiveness was observed for the column tests, reaching 67.8% and 54%, respectively. The efficiency of N (NH4+) removal was equal to 84% for both types of sorbents in the batch tests, while it was 47.7% for the fine-grained sorbent and 26.3% for the coarse-grained sorbent in the column tests. The efficiency of the removal of nitrate-nitrogen (NO3−) was higher for the fine-grained sorbent in all analyzed water samples. The use of materials of natural origin in industrial applications is a recommended direction, part of the green transition. The analyzed samples of opoka rock come from deposits, and opoka rock has so far not been analyzed in terms of its possible use in water and sewage treatment technology. Therefore, further research is recommended for this low-cost sorbent, which may be a competitive material for commercial products.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Strategies toward a Green Deal and Circular Economy)
Open AccessReview
Operational Resilience as a Key Determinant of Corporate Sustainable Longevity in the Indonesian Jamu Industry
Sustainability 2022, 14(11), 6431; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14116431 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2022
Abstract
The jamu (Indonesian traditional herbal drink) industry has grown in popularity because of people’s increased interest in the qualities of herbal remedies for bodily immunity. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected not only the market but also how businesses have managed their supply chains
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The jamu (Indonesian traditional herbal drink) industry has grown in popularity because of people’s increased interest in the qualities of herbal remedies for bodily immunity. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected not only the market but also how businesses have managed their supply chains and production. COVID-19 has been claimed to be a test of a company’s long-term viability. Sustainability refers to a company’s ability to last a long time (corporate longevity). The tug of war between economic prosperity, environmental quality, and social justice that guarantees enterprises are profitable and sustainable is the main issue for companies in developing governance. From a theoretical standpoint, longevity is an intriguing problem. There are two types of corporate longevity: corporate longevity (CL) and corporate sustainable longevity (CSL). Little research has specifically examined the internal aspects of CSL. It necessitates several specific characteristics that all play a role in CSL. This research intends to highlight operational resilience as a crucial predictor of CSL’s significance in the jamu business. Companies that have consistently produced and benefitted from their business operations, before, during, and after the pandemic, have faced challenges of sustainability or longevity. Predecessor independent variables, and moderating or mediating variables, can be used to enable the operational resilience stance. To achieve CSL, the company must know how much it will determine its position in numerous ways in company practice. This study contributes to exploring dimensions and indicators of operational resilience to determine CSL in its relevance to the jamu industry. Different roles for operational resilience in different industry practices are also feasible.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainability in Hospitality and Tourism Management)
Open AccessArticle
Social Progress beyond GDP: A Principal Component Analysis (PCA) of GDP and Twelve Alternative Indicators
by
and
Sustainability 2022, 14(11), 6430; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14116430 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2022
Abstract
What social progress is and how to measure it are seemingly plain but essentially intri-cate questions that have not been clarified to date, which has led to various social problems and development failures. Designed after the Great Depression in the 1930s, Gross Domestic
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What social progress is and how to measure it are seemingly plain but essentially intri-cate questions that have not been clarified to date, which has led to various social problems and development failures. Designed after the Great Depression in the 1930s, Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has been, on the one hand, regarded as the greatest invention of the 20th century and is widely accepted as the primary indicator for social progress, but on the other hand, it has been criticized as knowing the price of everything but the value of nothing. The Beyond GDP Movement that has been active since the 2010s has inspired global interest in designing indicators to replace or supplement GDP, but none of them stands out as GDP’s successor. We take 12 influential indicators that consider beyond GDP and carry out a Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to investigate their correlations. The results indicate that GDP per capita (GDPP) can explain 65.61% of the information in the first principal component (PC) and account for 51.10% of the information related to the total 13 indicators, indicating its major role in social progress. Most indicators have strong correlations with GDPP, not beyond, and only the Ecological Footprint per capita (EFP) and Happy Planet Index (HPI) that have negative and weak correlations with GDPP, respectively, can provide new perspectives and values beyond GDP. Social progress is based upon various public values, and the indicators are the measurements of these values. Although GDP and economic values play major roles during social development, other indicators and their potential public values cannot be ignored. Prioritizing these public values and monitoring their indicators are essential to achieving sustainable and comprehensive social progress.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Sustainable Public Administration)
Open AccessArticle
Innovativeness as the Key to MSMEs’ Performances
Sustainability 2022, 14(11), 6429; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14116429 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2022
Abstract
Research on Micro Small Medium Enterprises (MSME) has always been an exciting area of study because of its crucial role; however, it turns out that MSMEs have many problems. The problems, such as human resources and their abilities, are rarely discussed. MSMEs tend
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Research on Micro Small Medium Enterprises (MSME) has always been an exciting area of study because of its crucial role; however, it turns out that MSMEs have many problems. The problems, such as human resources and their abilities, are rarely discussed. MSMEs tend to be formed because of a compulsion to do so, whereas companies are created by opportunities; therefore, it is essential to include entrepreneur orientation and dynamic capability elements in making MSME performance models. This study used SEM analysis with 333 respondents spread across six provinces in Indonesia. The results showed that innovativeness, which is part of entrepreneur orientation, is critical in the formation of MSMEs’ performances. Moreover, based on the calculation of indirect effects, it revealed that innovativeness through marketing capabilities has a significant influence on the performance of MSMEs.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Open Innovation and Entrepreneurship)
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Open AccessSystematic Review
Digital Teaching Competence: A Systematic Review
by
, , , and
Sustainability 2022, 14(11), 6428; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14116428 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2022
Abstract
This systematic literature review aimed to discover how the concept of digital teaching competence (DTC) has been developed, how its dimensions have been defined, and how educational development models and models that evaluate teachers’ digital teaching competence have been constructed. Concurrently, this review
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This systematic literature review aimed to discover how the concept of digital teaching competence (DTC) has been developed, how its dimensions have been defined, and how educational development models and models that evaluate teachers’ digital teaching competence have been constructed. Concurrently, this review aimed to draw conclusions on the implementation processes of digital teaching competence in order to uncover its strengths and limitations, and to propose future lines of research to develop it further in initial teacher training programmes. A systematic literature review following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) methodology was proposed in order to achieve these aims. We chose the time frame of 2015 to the end of 2021 in an attempt to cover the appearance of the first scientific articles dealing with the subject, up until the present day. Thus, the inclusion criteria covered scientific research articles from the Web of Science (WoS) and Scopus databases, in English or Spanish, that focused on samples of teachers in primary education, secondary education, baccalaureates, and initial teacher training. The database searches, which will be detailed in depth later, initially provided a corpus of 127 articles, which was reduced to 26 articles after screening for duplicity and applying the inclusion criteria.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovation and Advances in Digital Technology-based Educational Design: Digital Competence of Students and Teachers)
Open AccessArticle
Exploring Implementation of Blockchain for the Supply Chain Resilience and Sustainability of the Construction Industry in Saudi Arabia
Sustainability 2022, 14(11), 6427; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14116427 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2022
Abstract
The construction industry plays an essential role in economic development since it is one of the largest industries all over the world. Blockchain has the potential to reshape the structure of all accessible networks in the future. Construction businesses are increasingly interested in
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The construction industry plays an essential role in economic development since it is one of the largest industries all over the world. Blockchain has the potential to reshape the structure of all accessible networks in the future. Construction businesses are increasingly interested in embracing blockchain technology to improve supply chain sustainability performance and supply chain resilience in times of globally increasing risks and volatility. This study evaluates the readiness of actors involved in the producing of concrete goods to emphasize the necessity to bring blockchain into the construction industry, as it may be a solution for supply chain resilience and long-term sustainable growth. Qualitative and quantitative research methods were used in collecting and analyzing the data and testing the hypotheses. Data were collected using an online questionnaire distributed to 300 employees who work within the biggest concrete producing companies in Saudi Arabia. 120 respondents completed the questionnaires. Additionally, confirmatory semi-structured interviews with experts in supply chain financing, IT departments, and procurement departments have been conducted; the study’s findings revealed a low level of blockchain knowledge within Saudi Arabia’s construction industry, since (90%) of respondents have not worked with Blockchain technology. Several technologists barely understand it, and the level of readiness is very low. However, there is a lot of potential, and it is worth investing in it combined with other technologies such as BIM technology. In this study, the authors have sought to provide a measure of Saudi professionals’ attitudes and understanding of blockchain technology solutions within the construction industry in Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, the study’s novelty aimed to provide a grasp of the conceptual, theoretical, and fundamental features of blockchain technology in the construction industry, as blockchain solutions could benefit the global economy by increasing levels of monitoring, tracing, and confidence in international supply chain resilience.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Robust and Resilient Structures for Sustainable Development)
Open AccessArticle
Nonviolence and Sustainability: An Indivisible Connection
Sustainability 2022, 14(11), 6426; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14116426 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2022
Abstract
Nonviolence is an important element of sustainability for three main reasons. One is that nonviolent actions, including Australia’s Franklin River campaign, anti-nuclear blockades at Roxby Downs and Jabiluka, northern NSW old-growth forest blockades, and climate actions against coal seam gas and coal extraction,
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Nonviolence is an important element of sustainability for three main reasons. One is that nonviolent actions, including Australia’s Franklin River campaign, anti-nuclear blockades at Roxby Downs and Jabiluka, northern NSW old-growth forest blockades, and climate actions against coal seam gas and coal extraction, have long been effectively used by environmentalists, conservationists, and preservationists to protect environments from damage and to advocate for more sustainable societies, institutions, systems, and processes. Nonviolent environmental action has also opposed militarism for a range of reasons, one of which is concern about the large environmental footprint of militarism. The third reason why nonviolence is important for sustainability is because it offers an alternative to militarism as a means of national and regional self-defence and the removal of dictatorships, genocidal regimes, and military juntas. This alternative has much lower environmental, economic, and social costs. The article begins with the introduction and methods sections, introduces the 2030 Agenda of the United Nations and ‘sustainability’ and defines ‘nonviolence’ and introduces its connection to sustainability. This is followed by the case studies and a discussion of how these nonviolent actions contributed to environmental sustainability. Militarism and its impacts on the environment are described, and nonviolent defence and regime change are presented as viable and less environmentally-damaging alternatives.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-violence and Sustainability: An Important Combination for Achieving the Objectives of the 2030 Agenda?)
Open AccessArticle
Organizational Well-Being of Italian Doctoral Students: Is Academia Sustainable When It Comes to Gender Equality?
Sustainability 2022, 14(11), 6425; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14116425 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2022
Abstract
Despite the fact that there are several researchers reporting the risks of doctoral students in terms of mental health, there is still a lack of studies exploring their well-being at an organizational level, looking at the difference between male and female PhD students.
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Despite the fact that there are several researchers reporting the risks of doctoral students in terms of mental health, there is still a lack of studies exploring their well-being at an organizational level, looking at the difference between male and female PhD students. This work aims at describing gender differences in the organizational well-being of doctoral students in an Italian context. A sample of 121 Italian PhD students filled an adaption of the ANAC questionnaire (National Authority for Anti-Corruption) for an organizational well-being assessment between June and July 2021. The results show that there are a number of well-being indicators for which female PhD students have statistically lower scores than men regarding: (1) the perception of health and safety at work; (2) career development; and (3) job autonomy. Practical suggestions to improve the academic system in terms of sustainability for preventing PhD students’ organizational malaise with a particular focus on gender equality are provided.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue When Are Organizations Sustainable? Well-Being and Discomfort in Working Contexts: Old and New Forms of Malaise)
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Open AccessArticle
Adding Knowledge to Virtual Teams in the New Normal: From Leader-Team Communication towards the Satisfaction with Teamwork
by
, , , and
Sustainability 2022, 14(11), 6424; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14116424 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2022
Abstract
The present paper sets out to investigate the relationships among several key constructs that cover the work patterns and processes in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Emphasis is laid on the leader-team communication, the fostering of a strong team culture, team performance
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The present paper sets out to investigate the relationships among several key constructs that cover the work patterns and processes in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Emphasis is laid on the leader-team communication, the fostering of a strong team culture, team performance and satisfaction with teamwork in the case of virtual teams. The scrutiny is intended to complement recent developments in the field which compared traditional and virtual teams at different levels by adding knowledge to virtual teams’ communication and interaction patterns and processes. In this vein, an online survey was conducted with 175 members from different virtual teams. The findings showed the advancement of a pertinent conceptual model, mostly displaying significant relationships among constructs. Four out of the five formulated hypotheses were validated, the highest influences being reported between leader-team communication and team culture, respectively, and between team performance and satisfaction with teamwork. Furthermore, the structural model explained over 50% of the variance in the satisfaction with teamwork, thus supporting the relevance of the inferred relationships.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Knowledge Management and Business Development)
Open AccessArticle
Evaluation of Land Use Adaptation by Sequential Extraction of Soil Trace Elements at an Abandoned Gold and Copper Refinery Site in Northern Taiwan
Sustainability 2022, 14(11), 6423; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14116423 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2022
Abstract
This study site is located at an abandoned factory of mining, smelting, and refining of gold and copper in north Taiwan for more than one hundred years. The present study used soil background investigation out of the site and the sequential extraction procedures
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This study site is located at an abandoned factory of mining, smelting, and refining of gold and copper in north Taiwan for more than one hundred years. The present study used soil background investigation out of the site and the sequential extraction procedures for arsenic and copper to assess the reutilization potential of brownfields at the site. The upper limit of background concentration out of the site was 300 mg/kg for arsenic and 700 mg/kg for copper. The soil arsenic within the site was mainly in the immobile fraction, such as forms fixed by layer silicates, that were very low risk for environmental releases. The soil copper in the abandoned sedimentation basin, gold refinery, and copper refinery was in the mobile fractions such as acid extractable, reducible, and oxidizable forms with higher release risk; therefore, except merely those three zones in the entire site with higher risk for environmental releases of copper, the release risks of trace elements are quite low in the rest of the areas, and land reuse without contact with soil or plant non-edible plants is possible. Therefore, in response to public demand for opening part of the site to promote local tourism development, appropriate control and isolation measures can be implemented to prevent the toxic elements from affecting human health through soil ingestion, skin contact, and other exposure pathways. In terms of pollution control, reducing dust inhalation is also an option to efficiently reduce health risks to an acceptable level and achieve the goal of sustainable land use at the contaminated site.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Frontiers of Sustainable Remediation and Risk Assessment in Contaminated Soil)
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Open AccessArticle
The Impact of Absorption Capability, Innovation Capability, and Branding Capability on Firm Performance—An Empirical Study on Vietnamese Retail Firms
Sustainability 2022, 14(11), 6422; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14116422 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2022
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This study aims to explore the impact of absorption capability, innovation capability, and branding capability on the performance of retailers. Using the resource-based view (RBV), this study proposes a research model on the direct impact of absorption capability, innovation capability, and branding capability
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This study aims to explore the impact of absorption capability, innovation capability, and branding capability on the performance of retailers. Using the resource-based view (RBV), this study proposes a research model on the direct impact of absorption capability, innovation capability, and branding capability on firm performance as well as the indirect impact of absorption capability on firm performance which is mediated by both innovation capability and branding capability. By surveying 201 middle and senior managers representing 201 Vietnamese retailers, PLS-SEM was used to test the hypotheses. The research results show the important role of developing innovation capability and branding capability in improving retailer performance. The findings also reveal the significant impact of absorption capability on retailers by an indirect mechanism through innovation capability and branding capability. Based on the findings, practical implications for Vietnamese retailer managers are suggested to improve their performance by strengthening and developing absorption capability, innovation capability, and branding capability.
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Open AccessArticle
Is Public–Private Partnership (PPP) a Preferred Strategy for Procuring Smart Infrastructure in Developed Countries: An Empirical Study of the Perceived Benefits, Barriers and Recommended Strategies
Sustainability 2022, 14(11), 6421; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14116421 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2022
Abstract
Attention to Smart Infrastructure (SI) has risen due to its advantages, including better access, increased quality of life, and simplified maintenance management. To develop SI, Public–Private Partnerships (PPPs) are identified as potentially beneficial procurement strategies, which boost capacities to manage risks by pooling
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Attention to Smart Infrastructure (SI) has risen due to its advantages, including better access, increased quality of life, and simplified maintenance management. To develop SI, Public–Private Partnerships (PPPs) are identified as potentially beneficial procurement strategies, which boost capacities to manage risks by pooling diverse resources. However, the applicability of PPP in SI developments in developed countries is scarcely researched. This may be due to underestimating the other potential benefits from PPP, although developed countries may have their own funding to develop SI. Hence, this research aims to evaluate the significant factors influencing the success of PPP in SI projects in developed countries based on public-sector satisfaction (S1), private-sector satisfaction (S2), and end-user satisfaction (S3). A comprehensive literature review was followed by expert interviews and an international survey, focusing on developed countries. The Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) technique was applied to map the connections amongst the influencing factors and S1, S2, and S3. The results reveal that legal and political-related factors significantly impact on S2 and S3, while social barriers significantly impact on S1. The effect of the constructs and factors on S1, S2, and S3 along with their rankings are unveiled in this research paper, providing a sound basis to increase success levels and minimize shortfalls in PPP to boost SI developments in developed countries.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Smart Cities, Connected Communities, and Environmental Sustainability)
Open AccessArticle
Optimal Design of Subway Train Cross-Line Operation Scheme Based on Passenger Smart Card Data
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and
Sustainability 2022, 14(11), 6420; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14116420 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2022
Abstract
The network operation of the subway can reduce the number of passenger transfers and improve subway operation efficiency. Based on the subway smart card data, this paper proposes an optimal design method for the cross-line operation scheme of subway trains. The method firstly
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The network operation of the subway can reduce the number of passenger transfers and improve subway operation efficiency. Based on the subway smart card data, this paper proposes an optimal design method for the cross-line operation scheme of subway trains. The method firstly calculates the OD matrix between subway stations, the passenger section flow, and the transfer flow according to the passenger smart card data. It then optimizes the design of the subway train cross-line operation plan, including determining the routing type of cross-line operation and the number of trains running. Finally, for the lines with cross-line operation conditions in the urban subway system, we design the cross-line operation schemes under all possible combinations. According to the volume of the cross-line passenger flow that the cross-line trains can carry, the top-ranked operation plans are preferably recommended. Taking the Chengdu subway network as an example, the research results show that, in the Chengdu subway network, the North Railway Station, Xibo City Station, and South Railway Station bear the highest transfer demand. The transfer demands that can be undertaken by cross-line trains are 23,934, 16,710, and 13,024 trips per hour, respectively. This shows that the proposed design method can accurately and reasonably screen out the transfer stations and lines with an urgent need for cross-line trains.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Sustainable Transportation)
Open AccessArticle
Sustainable Tourism, Social and Institutional Innovation—The Paradox of Dark Sky in Astrotourism
by
, , and
Sustainability 2022, 14(11), 6419; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14116419 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2022
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Astrotourism is an emerging type of sustainable tourism based on the observation of the dark sky, free of light pollution, and of all the experiences that have developed around it. The views and perceptions of the main social actors and their constellations and
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Astrotourism is an emerging type of sustainable tourism based on the observation of the dark sky, free of light pollution, and of all the experiences that have developed around it. The views and perceptions of the main social actors and their constellations and interactions are considered. Both the public decision-makers concerning astrotourism and the civil society involved were analysed in this research through a case study in Aragon, an inland Spanish region. New institutionalism in sociology based on the actors provides a coherent structural framework and explanation of the most relevant aspects in astrotourism in Aragon as well as help to understand the social and institutional innovation, in the sense that civil society has organised itself for many years to show and bring astronomy closer to the social majority; in light of this social reality, institutions have had to respond appropriately, taking and allowing for the participation of astronomical associations, in order to develop tourist experiences in relation to the appropriate dissemination of this science. Even more so, we studied the socioeconomic dynamics and territorial impacts. Thanks to the application of a qualitative method, specifically, semi-structured interviews with relevant informants in the territory, we discovered a hidden relevant social situation around astrotourism. Is the so called “paradox of dark sky” that emerges in communities where social welfare gains such as widespread access to artificial light are jeopardised by a new collective approach to artificial light control and light pollution that prevents high-impact emotional experiences around the dark sky, but takes into account that astrotourism is an opportunity for the endogenous and sustainable socioeconomic development of these forgotten areas.
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Open AccessArticle
Managing Sustainability Projects for Social Impact from a Corporate Social Responsibility Perspective
Sustainability 2022, 14(11), 6418; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14116418 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2022
Abstract
Initiatives in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) can contribute to many programs for sustainable development. The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is considered to have been slower to change in CSR than have other Western developed countries. The purpose of this research
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Initiatives in Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) can contribute to many programs for sustainable development. The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region is considered to have been slower to change in CSR than have other Western developed countries. The purpose of this research is to explore examples in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) of how project initiatives in CSR and sustainable development can facilitate heightened awareness, engagement, and execution of action for sustainability. This research utilizes qualitative case study methods analysing a United Nations (UN) supported annual youth engagement program focused on implementation of sustainable development projects in the UAE. The varying degrees of project complexity and “programmification” of sustainability activities in the UAE reveals a more systematic and mature stage of CSR and sustainable development projects and programs than is reported in the literature. The application of project management to organize, implement, align, and monitor sustainability-centred programs provides knowledge relevant to the UAE and other countries interested in the strategic management of change. The study demonstrates the application and value of project management for implementing sustainable development initiatives and highlights the collaborative contribution of corporate and governmental stakeholders to project management in organizations. An important area for future research on sustainable development in the MENA region is to study corporate and public sector partnerships in CSR projects and sustainability programs.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cost-Benefit Analysis for Economic Sustainability in Supply Chains)
Open AccessArticle
Biodiversity Enhancement for Improving the Sustainability of Broccoli (Brassica oleracea vr. italica Plenk) Organic Seed Production
by
, , , , and
Sustainability 2022, 14(11), 6417; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14116417 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2022
Abstract
The plant heritage of the Mediterranean basin, with its wide biodiversity, offers the best conditions to pursue the objectives of the EU Green Deal, and among it, we pointed our attention to the Brassica oleracea crops, thanks to the high number of landraces
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The plant heritage of the Mediterranean basin, with its wide biodiversity, offers the best conditions to pursue the objectives of the EU Green Deal, and among it, we pointed our attention to the Brassica oleracea crops, thanks to the high number of landraces and of its wild relative species widespread both in agro and ecosystems. In the framework of the European project BRESOV H2020 “Breeding for Resilient, Efficient and Sustainable Organic Vegetable Production”, we evaluated different organic growing conditions and plant characteristics to pursue a good yield and high quality of organic seed under different nutrition protocols. We took in attention the two landraces of sprouting broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica Plenk) Sparaceddu and Cavolo Riccio di Messina, which well express the traditional trait of broccoli Sicilian biodiversity that is often unfortunately underestimated. The results showed that the new tools for organic plant nutrition implement the plant characteristics and the related seed yield also by using a lower level of inputs, achieving economically sustainable production by the use of the nutrition protocols evaluated. There is, therefore, a strong need to affirm the concept of “minimum dose” in order to obtain a satisfactory result in terms of production and quality. The research also focused on the characteristics of brassicas crops, highlighting the main factors that render the use of biodiversity possible and profitable.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Breeding and Seed Sector Innovations for Organic Food Systems)
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Open AccessArticle
The Application of Visible and Near-Infrared Spectroscopy Combined with Chemometrics in Classification of Dried Herbs
Sustainability 2022, 14(11), 6416; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14116416 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2022
Abstract
The fast differentiation and classification of herb samples are complicated processes due to the presence of many various chemical compounds. Traditionally, separation techniques have been employed for the identification and quantification of compounds present in different plant matrices, but they are tedious, time-consuming
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The fast differentiation and classification of herb samples are complicated processes due to the presence of many various chemical compounds. Traditionally, separation techniques have been employed for the identification and quantification of compounds present in different plant matrices, but they are tedious, time-consuming and destructive. Thus, a non-targeted approach would be specifically advantageous for this purpose. In the present study, spectroscopy in the visible and near-infrared range and pattern recognition techniques, including the principal component analysis (PCA), linear discriminant analysis (LDA), quadratic discriminant analysis (QDA), regularized discriminant analysis (RDA), super k-nearest neighbor (SKNN) and support vector machine (SVM) techniques, were applied to develop classification models that enabled the discrimination of various commercial dried herbs, including mint, linden, nettle, sage and chamomile. The classification error rates in the validation data were below 10% for all the classification methods, except for SKNN. The results obtained confirm that spectroscopy and pattern recognition methods constitute a good non-destructive tool for the rapid identification of herb species that can be used in routine quality control by the pharmaceutical industry, as well as herbal suppliers, to avoid mislabeling.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Non-destructive Techniques for Sustainable Food Quality Evaluation)
Open AccessArticle
Assessment of Institutional Linkages and Information Flow within the Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation: Case of Dakahlia Governorate, Egypt
Sustainability 2022, 14(11), 6415; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14116415 (registering DOI) - 24 May 2022
Abstract
Institutional linkages and information flow between agricultural organizations play a critical role in addressing sustainability issues and promoting agrarian innovation. The aim of this study was to evaluate institutional relations and information between the various actors within the agricultural knowledge and information system
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Institutional linkages and information flow between agricultural organizations play a critical role in addressing sustainability issues and promoting agrarian innovation. The aim of this study was to evaluate institutional relations and information between the various actors within the agricultural knowledge and information system (AKIS). The study focused on eight actors within the AKIS in Dakahlia governorate of Egypt, namely policy, extension, research, agricultural cooperatives, higher education, secondary education, credit, and the private sector. Thus, the survey sample included 11 representatives of each actor with 88 respondents. Data were collected by a standardized questionnaire distributed online. The graph theoretical technique was used for the quantitative assessment of information flow and institutional linkages established among actors. The findings indicated that agricultural extension ranked first about their real cause and effect on the rest of the system, having a value of 7.95. Two critical information pathways within the AKIS sustained innovation outcomes: (1) higher education–extension–agricultural cooperatives, (2) research–extension–agricultural cooperatives. The results also revealed that agricultural cooperatives ranked second after the extension component on the extent of supplying information to other members in the AKIS, with a value of 4.8. In contrast, the highest component received information from other components (7.6). By analyzing institutional linkages and information flow, this article gives insights to policymakers on the mechanisms that still need to be strengthened and the information gaps between actors to address the challenges of sustainable rural development.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rural Policy, Governance and Sustainable Rural Development)

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